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A Student Publication of the Belmont Hill and Winsor Schools
Volume 67, Issue 4
November 19, 2018
Groundbreaking Midterms Usher in Diversity By Ellisya Lindsey ‘19 and Katie Tsai ‘19 Panel staff
These past midterm elections have been a hot-button issue since candidates were initially announced. Many people anticipated these midterms as they wanted to see which of the two main political parties, Democrat or Republican, would have the majority in the Senate and the House of Representatives. In the end, the Republicans maintained control of the Senate while the Democrats secured the House. The election results highlight not only the clear divide between Democrats and Republicans but also America’s desire to increase diversity in its government. Last week, we saw many “firsts” in the representation of racial and religious minorities, women, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. After these previous elections, there will be more representation of marginalized groups in the government than ever before. The past midterm election results demonstrate that the people want a diverse set of representatives. Deb Haaland, representative for New Mexico, and Sharice Davids, representative for Kansas, will both serve in the House as the first Native American congresswomen. As a lesbian, Davids will be also be the first openly LGBTQ congressperson to represent her state. Additionally, Ayanna Pressley and Jahana Hayes will the first black women to represent Massachusetts and Connecticut, respectively, in Congress. Similarly, Veronica Escobar and Sylvia Garcia will be Texas’ first Latina congresswomen. Also groundbreaking
are Ilhan Omar, representing Minnesota, and Rashida Tlaib, representing Michigan, who are the first Muslim women to have been elected to Congress. Omar will also be the first Somali American congressperson. Last week’s elections also had impressive results for women. For the first time in history, more than 100 women will have seats in the House. At age 29, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, representing New York, is the youngest woman to have been elected to Congress. Marsha Blackburn will be Tennessee’s first female senator. On the state level, both Maine and South Dakota Business Insider UK elected their first female governors, Janet Mills and Kristi Noem, respectively. Additionally, Lourdes “Lou” Leon Guerrero will serve as Guam’s first female governor. Clare Westerman ’19, one of the heads of SAGE (Students Advocating Gender Equality), shared her opinion on the importance of these recently-elected women: “I think the past few months have been a difficult time for many groups in the U.S., women included … While the results of this election cannot erase recent events, any shift toward equal representation is a win for women in America. Furthermore, I’m especially thrilled to see the success of women of varying cultural identities! It’s a huge step forward for intersectional feminism, and though we still have plenty of room to develop, I hope that this result will be a catalyst for female political empowerment— and, ultimately, for a better reflection in our government of the diverse people and views that make up the United States.” Washington Post Continued on page 3. Elected congresswomen Pearl Kim, Lauren Underwood, and Debra Haaland.
Op-Ed: Belmont Hill Needs to Crack Down on Mass Mediocrity of Clubs By Matt Smith ’19 Panel Staff
In November 2017, Seth Israel ‘18 and I wrote an opinion piece on extracurriculars at Belmont Hill. We argued that all clubs should be approved annually by the Student Senate to receive funding or special equipment. Now, I’m back to double down on my stance. Belmont Hill extracurriculars, for the most
disbanded) and, while some of these are very important and impactful like Student Senate, Peer Leaders, and Sustainability Club, a lot have little to no reason to exist. So, how can Belmont Hill fix its club crisis? In addition to severely re-
stricting the creation and existence of clubs (requirements should include meeting every week for a full period, actual plans for the content of meetings and the purpose of the club, and structures in place to prevent lax participation), Belmont Hill must require stu-
dents to participate in extracurriculars (just like sports) and limit the number of clubs in which they can join. Not only would this provide much-needed participants to clubs like The Panel, which is forced to spread twenty or more articles per month across far fewer writers, but it would also prevent students from joining a bunch of clubs in name but never actually attending or contributing. I think, ideally, the school would require every student to participate in at least one but not more than three. This way, students would have room to explore multiple passions while being prevented from casting too wide a net. When I was younger, I felt the need to jump into a lot of activities, far more than I should have. I was absolutely not alone in this perception and, as far as I can tell, it has not diminished from the minds of middle schoolers in the past few years. Looking back on my experiences, I now know that devoting significant time to meaningful clubs is far more important, both for the college process and for the development of life skills and passions. I strongly urge the Belmont Hill administration and the Student Senate to consider adopting this policy if they want Belmont Hill clubs to be more than words on an application. ☐
Costs of ISL Dining Page 11
Playlist of the Issue Page 19
“Belmont Hill extracurriculars, for the most part, are an absolute joke.” part, are an absolute joke. Very few students regularly participate in clubs and, when they do, they usually contribute the bare minimum to justify its place on their Common Application. If students are still struggling to find activities to pad their resume, don’t worry. They can very easily create their own club (bonus points since they are now a founder and head) that serves little to no purpose and hardly ever meets. There are currently forty-seven extracurriculars listed on the Belmont Hill Student Portal (although I’m pretty sure there are at least Illustration by Elias Hyde ‘20 eight have no student leaders or have
The Harvard Lawsuit Page 5 ABC Action News
The Hate U Give Page 8 TheLily.com
Winsor OpinioN
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T he Panel
Current Events at Winsor: Supreme Court Assembly time we spent talking about how we should per School forum after the whole-school Assemblies like this one, at Winsor there is talk about it, rather than actually talking assembly. Petra Sarkisian ’23 said that she rarely a consensus among students. There’s a lot going on in our current about it.” Even Ms. Pelmas noted that “per- thinks “that Class IV could have definitely On October 10, the entire Winsor haps the open mic was not as successful as been there… we can definitely handle things political climate, and our administration is school gathered to discuss the controversy it could have been because we weren’t in the like that.” Ms. Pelmas noted that the deci- painfully aware of it, even if we don’t see surrounding the confirmation of now-Su- middle of trying to decide what we thought sion was a calculated one: “We went around action right away. Between yearly, planned preme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. Four about the hearings or Kavanaugh as a nom- and around trying to figure out if that was a assemblies and guest speakers and activities Class VI students concerned about the lack inee because it was already over.” good idea or not a good idea. We thought of in homeroom, there is rarely free time that of formal discussion at Winsor around the However, some students at Winsor every permutation. The range of awareness coincides with the need for a discussion. subject approached Ms. Pelmas to discuss thought that this discussion about how we of current events throughout the school is Ms. Pelmas commented also on the “week having a forum on the subject. Their hopes approach controversial topics in our school quite vast. We wanted to let everyone enter of hate where the massacre happened at the were realized, and the forum happened. Ms. environment was actually more helpful than into the discussion at a level that felt good synagogue, and there was a shooting in KenPelmas mentioned that she and others in discussing the facts would have been. As to them. For sure there were some Lower tucky, and the pipe bombs. That was a pretty charge of planning assemblies felt that the an anonymous Upper School student said, School students who more than wanted to intense week for a lot of people. We know SCOTUS confirmation hearing of Brett Ka- “As someone who is generally conservative, participate in it, though.” the ideal thing would be immediately figure vanaugh was something “we needed to talk I felt a lot of dissension around the ConfirMs. Pelmas talked about how she, Mr. out how to talk about that stuff. Unfortuabout as a whole community. We knew that mation Hearing. I personally don’t support Braxton, Ms. Markenson, and Ms. Phinney, nately, there isn’t always the time or space a lot of students were interested in it and Kavanaugh, but I felt like the assembly made among those who regularly plan assemblies, or ability to do that. We don’t know how to worried about it, and then simultaneously, me feel a bit more comfortable about ex- thought that the structure of the forum was solve that, we just worry about it a lot.” I got an email from a bunch of sophomores pressing my beliefs.” their “best guess. It’s hard. The difference Despite the fact that the Assembly was saying, ‘We need to meet with you and talk The assembly was a good starting sometimes between Class I and Class VIII not exactly what everyone wanted, I feel that about this.’ That was a really good impetus point in terms of creating a welcoming en- can be very narrow and sometimes very we made great strides in coming together as that confirmed that we really should talk vironment for all beliefs, but that it cannot wide.” I’ve found that no matter what the is- a community to discuss polarizing issues about it,” the Head of School continued. be the end of discussion about how Win- sue is, from Buddy Advisory to Pasta Day to that affect us all. ☐ However, many students felt that the sor handles contentious events. Maya Bodassembly meant to allow students to voice ick ’21 “liked it because we started talking their opinions about the hearings didn’t do less about the Kavanaugh stuff itself, and quite what it was meant to. Lillian Gibson more about how we discuss political issues ’21 felt that the assembly was supposed to at Winsor. I think there were some things be “a safe space, but people had to stand said that people wanted to be said. But now up in front of a microphone in front of all there’s a confusion of how we get to a place their peers.” Gibson felt that “small group where we want to be.” Ms. Pelmas also noted discussions would be a better way for peo- that “the biggest question is how do we have ple to hear others’ opinions.” Charlotte Fries conversations about important things when ’19 added, “it was a really good idea, and I there are almost 600 people in this building.” thought what everyone said was really imAnother issue that came up was the portant and true, but I don’t think it at all structure of the assembly. Some Lower Newsday achieved what it was meant to. The entire School students felt excluded from the Up- Senate Judiciary Committee. By Annie Adams ’21 Panel Staff
Lack of Reliability in Boston’s Public Transit System available to those who live and go to school in Boston. “The Commuter Rail is really expensive,” said Lee, who takes the Commuter Rail Winsor is an urban school; we all enjoy into Boston each morning. “It’s very unaffordour close proximity to various restaurants and able for students… the [student passes purcafés, cultural institutions such as the Mu- chased through Winsor] only bring us to Zone seum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart 2 and my house is past Zone 2, so I would have Gardner, and other iconic locales, including to pay even more… So I have to get dropped Fenway Park, which was particularly conve- off at [another] stop when there’s a Commuter nient with the recent Red Sox victory parade. Rail station five minutes from my house that I Yet parts of the city still remain out of reach or can’t go to.” require a car because of the Massachusett Bay Over this past summer, I worked as an Transportation Authority’s (MBTA) failure to intern in the office of Boston City Councilor provide efficient and reliable public transpor- Michelle Wu, and one of my main projects was tation. collecting information on how teenagers in The MBTA is a department within Massachusetts’ state government – although it is managed by French-Canadian company Keolis – and was established in 1964. From 1943 until 1964, it was known as the Metropolitan Transit Authority, or MTA, and before 1943, public transit in Boston was privately owned and operated. The Tremont Street Subway, now home to the Green Line from the Boylston Street to Park Street stations, was constructed in 1897 and is the oldest subway tunnel in North America. Yet, despite our innovative history, Boston transportation is now lagging behind the world and other parts of the country. Trains arrive late without warning or stop on the tracks because of unspecified “signal issues.” Green Line carriages break down en route and release clouds of smoke. Commuter Rail trips are canceled because of scheduling issues that leave trains without engineers. The station platforms are grimy and dark; the subway seats are filthy. “The MBTA is so dirty,” said Emma Specht ’19. “The fabric Map of MBTA services. [on the subway seats] is definitely unable to be Boston felt about the MBTA. Along with other washed and never washed.” “The Orange Line interns and the graduate student who devised catches on fire,” added Kayla Lee ’19. the project, I led focus groups and gave out The service is also inadequate in its surveys at various youth job sites and commuscope. “I like it, but I wish there was [a station] nity organizations across the city. The results closer to my house because I have to take the were overwhelmingly negative; the teenagers bus to the train or I have to get driven to the with whom we spoke were frustrated with the train,” said Caroline Bonnevie ’19. Fares can MBTA’s lack of transparency about delays and also be an issue, especially for teenagers and route information, explained how expensive students who do not receive the free passes fares in the summer when school-year passes By Teresa Lawlor ’19 Panel Staff
expired limited them, and recounted occasionally troubling stories of their interactions with MBTA personnel. At the end of each focus group session, we asked the teenagers what their ideal mode of transportation would be. Almost no one chose public transportation. These issues are particularly detrimental to low-income communities and communities of color in the city, as those are the neighborhoods of the city that are most underserved by the MBTA. Low-income residents rely heavily on public transportation, as owning their own car or using ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft are prohibitively expensive; if that transportation is unreliable
MBTA
or inadequate, their ability to participate in the city is restricted. Does it have to be this way? Looking at transportation systems in other cities, both in the United States and around the world, the answer is clearly no. In 2017, a transportation agency in Japan actually apologized for one of their trains leaving twenty seconds late; in Boston, such timing can be cause for celebration. So what’s wrong with the MBTA?
The main issue is funding. According to an internal report from 2009, the agency was “born broke” – the MBTA currently has $5.0 billion in outstanding debt. In 2000, state legislators passed a measure known as “Forward Funding,” which established a one-cent sale tax in Massachusetts to fund the agency. However, “Forward Funding” also transferred $3.3 billion of state debt to the MBTA, half of which stems from the famous “Big Dig” tunnel project, and the tax simply does not provide enough money. The percentage of money that comes from the state or local level for the MBTA is about two-thirds less than the local/ state percentage of the budget of New York City’s Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA). Unfortunately, Massachusetts’ governors and state legislators have not prioritized the MBTA. Recently re-elected Governor Charlie Baker is content to blame Boston’s transit problems on “protocol issues” and to explain his plans for the agency’s future as “making it work” – without any explanation as to how he plans to do so. “That stuff will eventually happen,” said Baker in a debate with Jay Gonzalez this fall. But “that stuff ” – the development of a reliable, convenient public transportation service – needs to happen now. Cars are killing Boston and the world; more than a fourth of Boston’s carbon emissions in 2016 came from transportation, and the city’s total emissions have actually been increasing in recent years. Cities that are walkable and have great public transportation are greener, healthier, more vibrant, and happier. We cannot continue to rely on our private cars for all of our trips; it’s incredibly selfish to drive just because we can. I understand the attraction; I have taken the train to school every day since I started at Winsor, and for the first few years, I begged my parents to drive me whenever possible. However, it’s clear that we cannot continue with our current lifestyle if we do not want our planet to suffer the consequences. Something has to give if we want to save the environment. Transportation is something that can give for many of us, and advocating for a better MBTA is a good place to start. ☐
Novemb er 1 9 , 2018
Winsor Opinion
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K-Pop in America: Racial Progression or Regression?
first Korean band ever to make it to the top success in the music industry, is the diverse and it was just an awesome show. The of the Billboard Top 200 twice and is the crowd that K-pop attracts. After going to a members are so talented, and even though “First Pop Act Since 2014 With Two No. BTS concert earlier in October, I person- I can’t understand Korean at all, I underKorean Pop (K-pop) is a music genre 1 Albums in Less Than a Year.” Addition- ally witnessed the diversity of K-pop fans. stood all of the emotions they expressed.” that has dominated the music industry the ally, BTS ranked number one on the 2018 K-pop in America extends beyond the The emergence of K-pop has done last couple of years. Bands like BTS, Black- Billboard’s Artist 100 charts, beating out Asian community. wonders for the Asian American commupink, and EXO have, within recent years, Drake, Travis Scott, Ariana Grande, and Standing in general admission at a nity. Angela Su ’19 stated “K-pop is a great become more accepted into mainstream Post Malone. K-pop as a music genre has BTS concert, I saw people with different way to spread awareness of Asian culture! American media and popular culture. songs that are in all Korean with some En- racial, socioeconomic, and geographi- I feel so proud to see people that look like K-pop has certainly had many positive ef- glish words scattered around occasionally, cal backgrounds. I saw kids aged seven me on screens across the globe!” Seeing fects in America, but it is also important to so one can argue that this aspect of K-pop through adults in their forties. I was sur- Asians in the spotlight has allowed many recognize the possible negative effects of is an example of racial progress in the Unit- rounded by mostly white, black, and Latinx Asian-Americans to become more confithe music genre. ed States because people who don’t speak- communities. In fact, as an Asian Amer- dent in their identity. The beginnings of what we now Though K-pop definitely demonknow as K-pop in America started in 2012 strates racial progression for the Asian with Psy’s “Gangnam Style.” With 3.2 bilAmerican community, it has undeniably lion views, “Gangnam Style” was for a long created some racial regression to a certime known to be one of the most watched tain extent. The popularization of KoreYoutube videos in the world. “Gangnam an pop culture has also revealed people’s Style” re-introduced and “popularized” Kointernal prejudices against Asians. When rean pop culture in America. Although his BTS performed at the BBMAs, there was funky and somewhat catchy tune seemed an influx of racist tweets pointed towards to capture the attention of the entire world, the group. Tweets stating “Idek who those his hit song and goofy persona made it difAsians [are]. I don’t wanna know. I’m bafficult for K-pop to really take off as a serifled. I didn’t understand what they said” ous music industry in the States. or “How did these Asians wearing makeFlash forward to now, and K-pop is up beat ACTUAL FAMOUS PEOPLE?” becoming a worldwide sensation. It’s very These implicit biases have now intensified likely that if you were to walk down the with the emergence of K-pop in America. street and ask someone whether he or she Despite these instances of racism Kpopmap towards Asians, K-pop has allowed for a has heard of BTS, or of K-pop in general, The South Korean group Bangtan Sonyeondan, known as BTS. that person would say yes. K-pop has done Korean are appreciating music and lyrics ican in the crowd, I was ironically in the large amount of racial progress in Amerwonders for the Asian American commu- that they don’t necessarily understand. In minority. People of all genders flew in from ica, at least with regard to society’s view nity. Recognition in the media and in the this way, K-pop has helped America begin Washington, from London, and from other of the Asian American community. Bemusic industry has finally shattered long- to stray away from its relatively mono- places in the world, and we all collective- ing recognized as legitimate bands and standing stereotypes that have plagued the lingual music industry. In fact, this past ly congregated together for a single band. winning titles on American award shows Asian American community for decades. month, Dua Lipa and the Kpop girl group K-pop has a way of joining people regard- has finally given Asians the spotlight that Whitewashing in movies and TV shows Black Pink released their fully bilingual less of race, class, and gender in a way that they deserve. Most importantly, however, have enforced stereotypical Asian roles in song “Kiss and Make Up,” which signifies not many other things in America have. In the diverse community of fans that K-pop the media. However, K-pop is redefining a huge step forward for both the American regards to the concert, Teresa Lawlor ’19 attracts creates a microcosm of harmony what it means to be Asian in America. and Korean music industry. stated “The BTS concert was a really cool that I hope will one day be reflected in soBTS, for example, has become the More important, though, than this experience. We were so close to the stage, cieties all over the world. ☐ By Kayla Lee ’19 Contributing Writer
What Midterm Elections Mean for the United States
salary as a member of Congress. Since most ing diversity of races, religions, genders, and toward equality that we, the next generamembers of our government are wealthy, it’s sexual identities to represent all Americans tion of voters, must continue. It’s up to the expected that congresspeople can purchase a accurately is something everyone should people to ensure that every American feels second home in DC. As Ms. Ocasio-Cortez want and strive to obtain. These past mid- adequately represented within the governContinued from page 1. tweeted, ‘There are many little ways in which term elections are the start of a movement ment. ☐ Members of the LGBTQ communi- our electoral system isn’t even designed (nor ty celebrated many victories regarding in- prepared) for working-class people to lead. creased representation in the government This is one of them (don’t worry btw [by the as well. As Ariela Rosenzweig ’19, one of way] - we’re working it out!).’” Gaining repthe heads of Spectrum, commented, “In this resentation of marginalized groups proves election we have definitely seen a ‘rainbow that politicians do not have to be wealthy, wave’ with record number of LGBT candi- straight, white males. Karen Torres ’19, who dates being elected. Representation in gov- wants to pursue a career in politics, added, ernment is definitely important for queer “Representation is key right now, for our people, especially on a state level because country is [at] this current moment shutting the majority of anti-LGBTQ legislation orig- down the voices of so many groups of peoinates in state legislatures.” As for those who ple. To see Latina women in our government are part of the “rainbow wave,” Angie Craig gives me hope for the future. It is important and Chris Pappas, representing Minnesota to have people representing us because it and New Hampshire, respectively, will be also gives us hope for a future where I, as a their states’ first openly gay congresspeo- Latina woman, can take an active role in my ple. Teri Johnston will be Florida’s first les- government.” However, just because we have bian mayor, while Jared Polis, of Colorado, increased representation doesn’t mean we Leech Lake News will be the U.S.’s first gay man to be gover- should be satisfied. “I’m very glad about the nor. Brandon Woodard and Susan Ruiz will way the midterms turned out; however, I’m be Kansas’s state legislature’s first LGBTQ really disappointed that it took our country members, and Malcolm Kenyatta will be this long to get to this point,” said Ifeanyi Pennsylvania’s state legislature’s first LGBTQ Umunna ’20. “I’m glad that people voted, member of color. Representing New Hamp- but it’s about more than just voting. Don’t shire in the House, Gerri Cannon and Lisa you think it’s crazy that in AMERICA we’re Bunker, both transgender women, will now just now having the first [women] Native be two of only three openly trans people to AMERICANS [in Congress]? That boggles hold positions in any U.S. state legislature. my mind, but at least it finally happened.” The importance of this increased rep- While it is certainly important to celebrate resentation is clear. Having more diverse the successes of all of the elected candidates representation on all levels of government above, it’s also necessary to continue to work will add different opinions and ideas on toward getting more representation in the how to run our communities. In addition, as government. We don’t want to wait severRosenzweig stated, “This election has done al years before another Native American a lot with challenging ideas of who tradi- or Muslim congresswoman, for example, tionally is a politician and who should be in is elected. We should aim for a time when government… It’s really exposing flaws in electing a person of color, a female, or an our system; for example, Alexandria Oca- LGBTQ candidate isn’t a grand feat. Washington Times Sharice Davids sio-Cortez… cannot afford an apartment in Ultimately, this issue of representation Kansas Representative Sharice Davids. Minnesota Representative Ilhan Omar. Washington before she starts receiving her isn’t about which party you support. IncreasBy Ellisya Lindsey ’19 and Katie Tsai ’19 Panel Staff
Winsor News
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T he Panel
Winsor Attends W.E.B. Du Bois Medal Ceremony Knee” movement; Florence Ladd, a novelist and accomplished educator; Kehinde Wiley, a portrait artist known for his naturalistic On October 11, six seniors from SIS- depictions of black and brown men, includTERS, Winsor’s black affinity group, along ing Barack Obama’s portrait for the National with Mr. Braxton, Winsor’s Director of Portrait Gallery; Pamela Joyner, a philanCommunity and Multicultural Affairs, and thropist and collector and patron of black Head of School Ms. Pelmas, had the oppor- art; Kenneth I. Chenault, a business executunity to attend the W.E.B. Du Bois Medal tive and the third black CEO of a Fortune Awards Ceremony at Harvard University. 500 company; and Dave Chappelle, a comeSince 2013, the Hutchins Center for African dian, actor, writer, and producer known for & African American Research has awarded his commentary on American politics, race the W.E.B. Du Bois Medal to individuals relations, and current events. The vastly different career paths and who have made outstanding contributions to black history and culture; this year, Win- areas of interest represented among the sor students witnessed eight exceptional honorees was of particular importance to honorees receive this distinguished acco- the students who attended. Toni Gomes ’19 Good Black News reflected, “I felt a sense of empowerment Honorees at the ceremony. lade. Among the evening’s laureates were when I noticed that they were all successful commitment to social justice, advocacy, and with mostly other black people to celebrate Bryan Stevenson, social justice activist, ex- in such vastly different aspects.” Monique equity. In particular, remarks made by the other black people in a predominantly white ecutive director of the Equal Justice Initia- Singletary ’19 added, “to witness the rec- honorees themselves and by other speak- institution like Harvard was an interesting tive, and author of the bestselling memoir ognition of black excellence in a variety of ers underlined the importance of active, and empowering experience,” she shared. “I Just Mercy; Shirley Ann Jackson, a physicist realms was very special to me.” outspoken engagement in effecting change felt a sense of community among the crowd Beyond the award recipients’ in- across a variety of spaces and in today’s so- listening to the honorees and those who inand the first black woman to earn a doctorate from MIT and to win the National Med- credible individual accomplishments and cial and political contexts. troduced them.” al of Science; Colin Kaepernick, an athlete contributions to his or her respective field, Monique Singletary ’19 appreciated The program’s illumination of the adand activist at the forefront of the “Take a each honoree also displayed an unwavering this particular emphasis, sharing, “I was vocacy, courage, and persistence of each rereally able to see up close that people like cipient certainly inspired student and faculeach of the honorees still exist in this world ty attendees alike. Upon receiving his medal, and are fighting for what they’re passionate Colin Kaepernick closed the ceremony with about, staying hopeful, and succeeding in a powerful observation: “It’s...all our respontheir activism, despite the current state of sibilities -- as people that are in positions of the world. It was incredibly empowering privilege, in positions of power -- to conand inspiring.” Araybia Goodlow ’19 reflect- tinue to fight for [marginalized populations ed, “One honoree, Bryan Stevenson, struck facing discrimination], and uplift them, emme, as he had a very moving speech about power them...if we don’t, we become comthe struggle of being black in America, and plicit in the problem,” he reflected. the job we have not yet finished to be upliftIn considering the active role that ed as a people.” many Winsor students take in advocating Furthermore, all of Winsor’s attendees for causes in which they believe, Kaeperseemed to be in agreement that the event nick’s words, along with the remarkable fostered a particular sense of community, efforts of each honoree, serve as incredible excitement, and inspiration. Victoria Ca- examples from which the broader Winsor dostin ’19 highlighted the event’s uniquely community can continue to draw inspiraMembers of Winsor affinity group SISTERS go to Harvard. Mr. Braxton energizing ambience. “Being at a ceremony tion in our own endeavors. ☐ By Jamila O’Hara ’19 Panel Staff
Threats of Global Warming Increase in New Report
Chair of IPCC Working Group II, believes, mains unproven. Debra Roberts, Co-Chair that ambitious climate action is “a key to un“Every extra bit of warming matters, espe- of IPCC Working Group II, affirms, “The locking inclusive economic growth, creating cially since warming of 1.5 C or higher in- decisions we make today are critical in en- more jobs, and advancing women’s economThis October, the Intergovernmental creases the risk associated with long-lasting suring a safe and sustainable world for ev- ic place in the world.” Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released or irreversible changes, such as the loss of eryone, both now and in the future.” Regardless of the U.S. government’s the “Special Report on Global Warming of some ecosystems.” To prevent irreversible In December 2015, 195 nations adopt- stance on climate change, the efforts of in1.5ºC.” In response to an invitation from the damage, the reports’ authors call for imme- ed the Paris Agreement, which aims to re- dividuals have an immense impact on the United Nations Framework Convention on diate, drastic action. duce the threat of climate change by “pursu- health of the environment. Teresa Lawlor Climate Change (UNFCCC), 91 scientists Although this action plan requires a ing efforts to limit the temperature increase ’19 and Annie Kaplan ’19, co-heads of COW from 40 countries collaborated to create this large amount of effort on the part of world to 1.5 C above pre-industrial levels.” In June (Conserve Our World) Club, believe public report. The report describes the effects of leaders, taking steps to reduce carbon emis- 2017, President Donald Trump withdrew transportation, diet, and clothing are major climate change that we already see, includ- sions can “reduce challenging impacts on the U.S. from the agreement, stating that areas where an individual can reduce their ing more extreme weather, rising sea levels ecosystems, human health, and well-being.” it would “undermine [the U.S.] economy” environmental footprint. Although being and diminishing Arctic sea ice, while also Exceeding an increase in global temperature and “put [the U.S.] at a permanent disad- environmentally-friendly can be expensive, explaining the benefits of limiting global of 1.5 C means a greater reliance on tech- vantage.” Trump believes that reducing eating more organic and locally-sourced warming to 1.5 C, rather than the projected niques that remove carbon dioxide from the carbon emissions would cost “millions and vegetarian diets can greatly decrease your 2 C tipping point. Hans-Otto Pörtner, Co- air, but the effectiveness of such devices re- millions” of dollars and jobs. Others argue carbon emissions. As for the fashion industry, Annie Kaplan urged, “Don’t buy trendy stuff from places like Forever 21 and H&M that is going to fall apart after one season of wearing it” because fast fashion is an extremely destructive industry for the environment. Furthermore, instead of using your own car everyday, consider biking, taking public transportation, or carpooling. With the aim of motivating Winsor students to take action in their own communities, COW is currently “starting a hydroponic garden to teach Winsor students about organic gardening and indoor farming,” and the club hopes to “make a petition…asking the city of Boston to make restaurant straws upon request only.” Dr. Seuss’ character, the Lorax, said it best: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” In order to prevent the global temperature from continuing to increase, individuals must not only urge their leaders to bring about change, but also actively take Global News steps to combat climate change. ☐ By Caitlin Smith ’21 Panel Staff
Winsor News
Novemb er 1 9 , 2018
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Harvard Lawsuit Sparks Affirmative Action Debate By Crystal Yang ’20 Panel Staff
Nowadays, as our political climate heightens, we hear fervent debate over a multitude of important issues, such as gun control, climate change, abortion rights, and more. However, another equally contentious but perhaps lesser-known issue has recently risen to the forefront of American politics: affirmative action. Stemming from the aftermath of the Civil Rights Movement, affirmative action is a legal policy intended to rectify historic inequalities. Initially, the policy was introduced to target discrimination minorities faced when seeking employment in government offices but quickly expanded to include other sectors, such as education. Affirmative action in education “refers to admission policies that provide equal access to education for those who have been historically underrepresented” (National Conference of State Legislatures). Back in November 2014, an anti-affirmative action organization called Students for Fair Admissions (SFA) filed a lawsuit against both Harvard and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, alleging that both universities are engaging in unfair discrimination by utilizing racial balancing to shape their classes. In particular, the SFA claims that Harvard is violating the federal law that universities cannot discriminate on the basis of “race, color, or national origin;” Harvard uses a rating system in their admissions process that has been consistently ranking Asian-American applicants lower in “personality” than other applicants. However, Harvard denies these allegations and claims that their admissions process is fair to all, regardless of race, but that they cannot pursue a race-blind admissions process in the future because of the need to “enroll a student body that is diverse across all dimensions.” Spearheaded by Edward Blum, a conservative with a long history of civil rights activism against racial preference laws, the lawsuit against Harvard recently gained traction when the Justice Department released a statement
Protests at Harvard.
The New York Times
ized by hard-working qualities or academic of affirmative action will not erase those stebacking the SFA in August of this year. As the trial currently unfolds in Bos- excellence; rather, we should be seen as indi- reotypes that hinder the perception of Asian ton, many are split on their opinion—both viduals, and our accomplishments should be Americans in the United States.” The debate over affirmative action, on the case itself and more broadly on affir- seen as a result of individual characteristics. We must simultaneously support affirmative like many other political debates, is a commative action policies. “I think … the standards for academ- action because of the diversity and represen- plex one. While the outcome of the Haric and extracurricular achievement for any tation it promotes while also fighting against vard trial and the implications it will have Asian American applicant at many univer- the stereotypes that Asian-Americans are on affirmative action policies in the future cannot be predicted right now, as the case sities are much higher than those for other subjected to.” “I felt like I had a stake in both sides of is likely heading toward the Supreme Court races,” one Winsor student said. She does not understand the justification behind the argument,” said Mr. Sit, a Lower School regardless of the Boston trial, the final dehigher standards for Asians only, wonder- science teacher. “I feel resentment when cision will set a broad ruling for the role ing, “Why must we score several hundred I hear that it takes an average score of 200 of race in admissions at every level, from points higher on the SAT to be considered points higher on the SAT in order for us to graduate programs to select preschools. It at the same level? Why is it in any way okay be considered as having the same academic will change the face of admissions and racial to invalidate our accomplishments, our standing as our peers… [but] I also under- diversity in education, as this case will help achievements, and our hard work simply stand the need for affirmative action because to clarify past Supreme Court rulings about because of our race?… I don’t think it’s fair.” of how it can bring equity to underrepre- affirmative action. Previous commentary on However, others are more broadly sented minorities in terms of access to high- the role of race in admissions has been inconcerned about the implications that this er education.” Remarking specifically on the tentionally vague and brief, stating that race trial may have on affirmative action as a Harvard case, he went on to add, “The low is a “plus factor” or “a factor of a factor of general policy. “I support affirmative action ‘personality rating’ scores Asian Americans a factor” (Grutter v. Bollinger). As our time but feel like the Harvard trial is a regression,” are receiving are not because of affirmative at Winsor comes to an end and many of us stated Mikayla Chen ’19. “The stereotype of action itself; the drivers of these low scores inevitably begin applying to colleges, it may the ‘model minority,’ which is problematic are perpetuated by the harmful stereotypes be well worth it to keep an eye on this case as and false, is perpetuated through the admis- of Asian Americans that exist in society and it develops further. ☐ sions process… We shouldn’t be character- those that believe in them, and getting rid
Jamal Khashoggi’s Death Highlights the Dangers of Journalism death, though they did launch an investiga- and investments in this country, which I tion into what had happened. During the appreciate.” week following Khashoggi’s disappearance, On October 20, Saudi Arabia On October 2, 2018, journalist Jamal President Trump initially stood behind the changed their stance on the incident and Khashoggi walked into the Saudi Arabian Saudi investigation, however, by October 18 acknowledged that Khashoggi had been consulate in Turkey to pick up a marriage he expressed his belief that Khashoggi was murdered, but claimed that it had been a document. That was the last anyone saw of indeed dead and recognized the role that part of a “rogue operation” despite the fact him. Khashoggi’s disappearance shocked high level Saudi agents likely played in his that five of the suspects either have connecthe world and sparked much debate over assassination. Nonetheless, the President tions to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad what had happened to him. Turkish officials was careful to maintain an amicable rela- bin Salman or serve in high-level governaccurately claimed that he had been killed tionship with Saudi Arabia and commented, ment positions. Turkey claims that all the and dismembered by 15 Saudi agents. Con- “They’ve been a very good ally and they’ve suspects are Saudi officials and intelligence versely, Saudi Arabia continually denied his bought massive amounts of various things officers. In a notable shift, President Trump said on October 23 that the Saudi response to Khashoggi’s death was “the worst cover-up ever.” His administration has said that it plans to revoke the visas of identified suspects and potentially impose additional sanctions against those specific individuals. One of the reasons this particular event has garnered so much international attention is that the victim, Jamal Khashoggi, was a journalist. Khashoggi is notable for having been extremely close with the Saudi royal family, even serving as a government advisor. However, he more recently became critical of the lack of free speech in Saudi Arabia under the new Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He fell out of favor with the royal family and moved to the United States, where he became a columnist for the Washington Post. His death was not only a shockingly gruesome event but also an example of the KTLA Crown Prince’s lack of toleration for free Mourners hold posters of Jamal Khashoggi. By Danya Dubrow-Compaine ’20 Contributing Writer
speech, the exact issue Khashoggi had criticized in his work as a journalist. The impact of Khashoggi’s death reaches far beyond Saudi Arabia alone. It threatens the role of journalists and newspapers worldwide, including Winsor’s very own Panel. The Panel’s Editor-in-Chief, Teresa Lawlor ’19, found that it was “extremely troubling to see that a peaceful, moderate journalist could be murdered as he was.” She believes that “the world must have space for commentary and criticism without vilification or dismissal as ‘fake news,’” and that “in an ideal world, issues would be debated freely and openly, without tolerating or entertaining hate or vitriol.” That certainly sounds ideal, and how the international community continues to respond to Khashoggi’s death will be one of the deciding factors as to whether or not it becomes a reality. This intolerance of dissent is also indicative of the Crown Prince’s values at large. Although Mohammad bin Salman has previously garnered support from the United States for his reform in Saudi Arabia, such as allowing women to drive for the first time, his progressive policies protected him from criticism for other actions he took. For example, the United States refrained from commenting on the Saudi-led airstrikes against the Houthi rebels in Yemen. Now that the contradiction between his policies and his actions is in spotlight, it will be up to President Trump to decide how the United States responds, as well as the future of free speech across the world. ☐
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T he Panel
Winsor Sports Updates Varsity Field Hockey JV Field Hockey Captains: Sadie Golen ’20, Sophie Yates ’20, Lizzie Ross ’21 Record: 6-4-1 Team Mascot: shesus Athlete highlight: Golde Umlas ’22 hit a ball from the air into the goal and won us a game. She’s always working hard and is a great addition to the team.
Captains: Talia Ward ’19, Nancy Kaneb ’19 Record: 11-3 Team Mascot: Ms. Hazard’s feet Athlete highlight: Amanda Fogarty ‘19 has led this team on the offensive end. She’s a great leader and pushes the team to be better while putting in 110% of her effort every single day. The team wouldn’t be this great without her! Playoff Outcome: Finished second at the EIL Championship.
Crew
Kristie Rae Gillooly
Captains: Lettie Cabot ’19, Mikayla Chen ’19, Berneece Tam ’19 Record: n/a Team Mascot: Jessica Athlete highlight: Lulu Ansari ’20 has been an incredible athlete both on and off the water. She is always pushing herself and others to perform their best, and her efforts are a constant inspiration to the team. Playoff Outcome: Finished 8th in the Youth Varsity 4+ and 65th in the Youth Varsity 8+ at HOCR. Ellen Harasimowicz
Ellen Harasimowicz
Varsity Soccer
JV Soccer
Captains: Sarah Stier ’19, Caroline Green ’19, Julia Contini ’19 Record: 6-8 Team Mascot: juicy dirt Athlete highlight: Elizabeth Martin ’20, WVS’s primary goalkeeper, steps onto the field each day giving 110% effort. Her dedication, hard work, and positivity encourages the team to play its best, and she has contributed greatly to WVS’s success this season. Playoff Outcome: Finished fourth at the EIL Championship.
Captains: Ellisya Lindsey ’19, Julia Monaco ’19, Julie Wilson ’19 Record: 8-1-3 Team Mascot: Chief Athlete highlight: Andie Morelli ’22 has been a great member of this team both on and off the field. Even though she has been injured twice this season, she has been sure to give her all when playing and to participate in team activities as much as she could.
Kristie Rae Gillooly
Cross Country
Winsor Fan
Captains: Annie Kaplan ’19, Clare Quinn ’19, Chloe Duval ’19 Record: Undefeated! Team Mascot: Smokey Athlete highlight: Maggie Furlong ’20 has continued to be her rock-star self and a spirited team member despite an injury that kept her from running and has displayed a wide range of skills in different positions! Playoff Outcome: Won EILs, finished second at NEPSTAs Cross Country Championship.
Varsity Volleyball
Kristie Rae Gillooly
JV Volleyball
Captains: Samantha Chin ’19 and Kaylee Chang ’19 Record:10-5 Team Mascot: Septapus Athlete highlight: Allison Chang ’22 was one of the new freshman to varsity volleyball this year! Her strong contributions, positive attitude, and incredible sportsmanship on and off the court have encouraged everyone on the team to always play their best and to be supportive of one another. Playoff Outcome: Finished third at the EIL Championship.
Captains: Charlotte Fries ’19 and Kayla Springer ’22 Record: 4-10 Team Mascot: Porcupine Athlete highlight: Katherine Torres ’22 played the libero this season and always displayed good sportsmanship, hardwork and great communication skills on the court! Later in the season, she tried playing the outside position as well and has displayed a wide range of skills in different positions! Kristie Rae Gillooly
Sophia Blyth, Varsity Volleyball Lettie Cabot, Varsity Crew Victoria Cadostin, JV Soccer Kaylee Chang, Varsity Volleyball Mikayla Chen, Varsity Crew Samantha Chin, Varsity Volleyball Julia Contini, Varsity Soccer Sophie de Castro, Varsity Soccer Fiona Dunn, Varsity Field Hockey Chloe Duval, Varsity Cross Country Amanda Fogarty, Varsity Field Hockey
Fall Sports Seniors Charlotte Fries, JV Volleyball Abby Golden, Varsity Volleyball Sam Goldenson, Varsity Volleyball Toni Gomes, JV Soccer Araybia Goodlow, Varsity Volleyball Caroline Green, Varsity Soccer Nancy Kaneb, Varsity Field Hockey Annie Kaplan, Varsity Cross Country Avantika Kothari, Varsity Crew Rebecca Lin, Varsity Field Hockey Ellisya Lindsey, JV Soccer
Julia Monaco, JV Soccer Serena Pollard, Varsity Field Hockey Clare Quinn, Varsity Cross Country Monique Singletary, Varsity Field Hockey Sarah Stier, Varsity Soccer Angela Su, Varsity Crew Berneece Tam, Varsity Crew Karen Torres, Varsity Volleyball Talia Ward, Varsity Field Hockey Clare Westerman, Varsity Crew Julie Wilson, JV Soccer
Winsor Sp orts
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1 Down, 3 to Go: Boston Sports 2018 Fencing Wins The return of Marcus Morris, Al HorBy Rani Balakrishna ’21 The New England Patriots, however, ford, and Jaylen Brown and stellar playing Panel Staff started off a little slow this season. As the by Jayson Tatum has propelled the Celtics to You may not know that Emily VerIn the sports mecca that is Boston, we Pats’ season continues, we should expect an excellent start to a exciting season. Curare spoiled by the incredible run of success of more production out of both sides of the rently, they stand third in the conference af- meule, a Winsor junior you have seen in our sports teams. It is hard to imagine that in line with more wins than losses, as Brady ter five wins. Gordon Hayward’s return after the hallway, has traveled around the world the past 16 years, Boston has had 11 victory increases his comfort level with the receivers last year’s gruesome leg injury, as well as a to fence at the Junior Olympics and World and the return or addition of more running healthy Kyrie Irving makes for a tremendous Championships, and medaled! A junior parades. The most recent was on October 31, as backs. The defensive side of the ball will need season for the Celtics. Only 74 more games olympian at Winsor is an amazing feat to accomplish, one that Emily said she “definitely the Red Sox brought back yet another World to figure out what works best for them, in- to see if they are championship caliber! The Bruins are off to a shaky start with did not expect to ever be competing at.” EmSeries trophy to add to the three others won cluding moving key players to more strategic over the past 14 years. This year, the Red Sox positions to stop the run game or eliminate seven wins and five losses. A familiar face in ily started fencing at age 10 “because [she] had an amazing run with 108 regular season the passing frenzy that is very popular now. Tuukka Rask and a new addition in Jaroslav really enjoyed the sport, and while [she] Currently, the Patriots are number one Halak makes for exciting times at net. The always dreamed of achieving certain goals, wins, the most in Red Sox history. As the presumed underdogs going into the post-season in their conference, again with little push regulars, David Pasternak, Patrice Bergeron, [she] never truly believed [she] would ever match-up against the feared New York Yan- back. After seeing the Patriots triumph year Brad Marchand, Zdeno Chara, David Krejci, qualify for World Championships, let alone kees, the Red Sox cruised past their foes to after year, however, you can’t help but think and many others are definitely the makings Youth Olympics.” The World Championships took place clinch the American League Division series. that this year’s Patriots do not have the same for a winning caliber team. There are 83 more The Sox came away victorious with a series quality of players and cohesiveness of team games to play, giving us plenty of ice time to in Verona Italy, in April 2018, and to qualify for them, Emily had to be in the top three of that launched them to five Super Bowl wins. root for another Stanley Cup. win to move onto the World Series. Sophia Copeman ’20, one of the cap- women’s epee (a type of fencing) in the U17 The Red Sox lost a single game to the Rather, this year may be a slow death spiDodgers in an unprecedented 18 inning ral and swan song for both the GOAT Tom tains of Winsor’s varsity hockey team, ex- age group in the United States. To do this, pressed her excitement: “This year more than she had to gather points by competing and loss. Annie Kaplan ’19 stayed up that night Brady and Guru Coach Bill Belichick. “I think that after watching the “Bat- ever, the Bruins have a strong bond that will winning in World Cups, six in Europe and to watch the game. “It was amazing,” she eight in North America, and she then qualsaid, “to see the Sox’s mental tenacity as they tle of the GOATS” matchup between Brady hopefully get them far!” Eleven championships in 16 years ified by placing third in the US. Emily then entered into hour 7 in that game!” The Sox and Aaron Rodgers, Brady is the GOAT. He would come back the next two nights with rallies the loyalty of his teammates, many of seems almost mystical, but Boston fans have went on to place second at World Champs, the same fervor that had epitomized their whom claim they would only play for him. been truly blessed to have such a phenome- earned the silver medal, and placed first out team throughout their season, winning by Rodgers cannot band his team together, nal run of victorious teams. We should watch the United States team. Her placement quallarge margins and closing the chapter on the which I believe is half of the QB’s job,” shared games, cheer, and enjoy it while it lasts. Go ified her for the Youth Olympics, in ArgenSox, Pats, Celts, Bruins! ☐ tina. World Series and any hope for the LA Dodg- Dora Friedman ’20. Emily said that her favorite experience at the World Championships was “definitely getting the silver medal and having the opportunity to fence in the semifinals and finals with such strong fencers.” On the Championships, she said, “I was even surprised that I qualified for the World Championship team, I certainly never expected to medal, so that experience was really incredible.” She added that her favorite experience from the Youth Olympics was “meeting an amazing group of young athletes.” She then elaborated by saying, “Over the two weeks I spent in Argentina, I became very close to a variety of incredible people. It was truly a unique experience to meet so make so many friends who have dedicated so much to their individual sports, and one I will never forget.” If you see Emily in the hallway, don’t forget to congratulate her! ☐ By Haley Kwoun ’20 Panel Staff
ers.
Kristie Rae Gillooly
Curling: The Unknown Winter Sport at Winsor
The lingo: sheet of ice with a brightly-colored bullseye By Haley Kwoun ’20 and Crystal Yang Stone - the 44 pound granite rocks that we at each end. Two teams, each with four play- How do you even win? ’20 ers, take turns throwing stones across the ice Per end, only one team can score sweep and throw Panel Staff in an attempt to get as many stones as close points—it’s all or nothing. That team is de- Hack - similar to the starting blocks on a A couple of weeks ago, students may to the button as possible. Each player throws termined by which team throws the stone track - a grip on the ice to launch out of have noticed an email from Ms. Quacken- two stones, but they all have their own spe- that is closest to the button. Each stone they Hog line - the line that marks the latest bos referring to the existence of Winsor’s cialized roles within the team. While it may have in the house is worth one point, and point at which you must release the stone Curling Club, and then an even more mys- seem easy to simply slide stones across ice, they continue to gain a point for each stone Hammer - the final stone thrown in the terious follow-up about this so-called “Curl- there is quite a bit of strategy and teamwork that is closer to the button than the other game, given to the team that won the coin team’s stones. Then, the point accumulation toss or lost the previous end (see end) ing Club” being full! What even is curling? involved in order to rack up points. stops, and however many stones they had is Bonspiel - A curling bracket championship Why is it so popular? Believe it or not, this Wait, so you guys actually sweep the ice? Yep! The four players split into their the total number of points for the end. How- End - one “inning” of a curling game elusive sport, often overlooked in the Winter Olympics in favor of flashier events like designated roles when playing, and two play- ever, sometimes it’s hard to tell which team’s points are collected after 16 stones are figure skating and skeleton, also has a place ers at a time are sweepers, using specialized stone is closer. In that case, an independent thrown, signaling the end of an end among Winsor’s winter team rosters, right brooms to sweep the ice. The sweeping helps official comes over to measure each stone’s Button - the very center of the house: the alongside Varsity Swimming, basketball, to reduce friction underneath the stone and distance to the button using a special device landing spot of a “perfectly thrown” stone hockey, and Squash! However, curling ad- can cause it to slide faster or change direc- that pivots around the center of the button. Takeout - when the player throwing the stone is told to throw quickly and forcefully mittedly does not seem to hold the appeal tion. Sweeping takes place under the guiddirectly at another stone with the intention that the ice hockey team’s games do, and ance of the skip, the player who stands at the Final Thoughts? While curling may not be a conven- of removing it from play more often than not, students don’t know other end of the ice and directs both where what the sport is in the first place. Our team the stone is going to go and when the sweep- tional sport, it’s still lots of fun, and we hope Guard - a stone thrown lightly to block the line of the opposing team’s stone intended spends their Tuesdays and Thursdays prac- ers sweep. The remaining player throws the to have a good season this year! to take yours out ticing at The Country Club in Brookline in stone according to the skip’s instructions. Pebble - a technique to reduce surface preparation for the tournament at the end of tension between the stone and the ice. The the season, in which we play against teams ice is sprayed with a thin layer of droplets from other schools including Brookline and then frozen High School and Brimmer and May. CurSheet - the ice track/playing field rent curling team member Sadie Golen ’20 Skip - the team captain who provides the says, “It’s a lot of fun, and we hope more peostrategy, target, and final stone throwing ple will consider joining in future years!” HARD!! - what is yelled by the skip when the sweepers must sweep diligently to enWhat exactly is curling? sure proper line and/or speed of the stone is Nicknamed “chess on ice,” this cenKristie Rae Gillooly maintained. ☐ turies-old sport is played on a long, narrow
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T he Panel
The Hate U Give: A Realistic View of Race Around Us By Katherine Loose ’20 Panel Staff
“THUG LIFE. The Hate U Give Little Infants F***s Everybody.” This phrase was coined by 2pac in 2010, but in 2017 it inspired Angie Thomas’s popular novel The Hate U Give. Thomas’s story follows a teenage girl, Starr Carter, who lives in a predominantly black neighborhood but attends a predominantly white high school. Starr’s life takes a dramatic turn when she witnesses a police officer shoot her unarmed black friend, Khalil Harris. Angry, afraid, and feeling like an outsider in both of her communities, Starr struggles to find her voice and take a stand against racism and police brutality. The Hate U Give is an empowering story of loss, protest, and identity. The 2017 novel evoked some conflicting responses: while many readers praised it for bringing attention to an important issue, schools across the country banned it from their shelves for vulgarity and racial language. The recent 2018 film adaptation of The Hate U Give received some criticism as well, mainly sparked by the decision to cast Amandla Stenberg as Starr. Critics pointed out that Amandla has lighter skin than the girl illustrated on the cover of the novel, to which Thomas responded that although the “lightening of stories” is a problem in Hollywood, Amandla embodies her vision of Starr. The Hate U Give, in theaters today, has received an overwhelmingly positive response from viewers who commend it for telling a story that needed to be told. The Hate U Give proves that Hollywood doesn’t need an alternate reality or a fantasy world to present a story of intense struggle. In fact, the movie tackles issues that are embedded in our society. What makes the story so powerful is that it does not follow the common structure of presenting problems and then solving them.
Instead, it presents problems and then leaves the audience to struggle with them. Take Khalil Harris’s murder for example. The police officer that shoots him is never indicted. Angie Thomas could have ended the story by putting the officer in jail, and then we would have left the theaters feeling content that justice had been served. Instead, we leave feeling frustrated, which is exactly the feeling a story about police brutality should evoke, because many perpetrators are not held responsible for their actions. The real world doesn’t always have a happy ending, and neither does The Hate U Give. But the purpose of this realistic ending is not to depress the audience; it is to inspire us to take action. Starr makes a difference in her community by speaking up about racism and police brutality, and she gives the audience the responsibility of continuing that activism. Not only is Starr Carter an activist, but Amandla Stenberg is too, which makes her perfect for the role. Since she came into the public eye in 2012, Amandla has been very outspoken about gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, the #MeToo movement, and as highlighted in The Hate U Give, the Black Lives Matter movement. In 2014, her Youtube video “Don’t Cash Crop on my Cornrows” went viral for calling out cultural appropriation in pop culture. More recently, she made Time magazine’s annual list of “30 Most Influential Teens” (not once, but twice!), co-authored the comic book Niobe: She is Death about a young black girl, and wrote an op-ed for Teen Vogue in response to Christine Blasey Ford’s testimony. Evidently, Amandla is an inspiring woman and someone the Winsor
ing process of the The Hate U Give than cast members typically are. She explained the importance of her contribution to this process by saying, “I wanted to ensure that her language was authentic to her, that there were words being put in her mouth that were legit.” The Hate U Give is just as necessary as it is powerful. Not only does the story tackle major issues in our society, but also smaller issues that we should all think about. One such issue that stood out to me was the use of tragedies for purposes such as missing school. When word of Khalil’s murder spreads, Starr’s classmates take advantage of the opportunity to cut class and pretend to be concerned about the injustice. This aspect of the movie is relevant to Winsor, being a school that participated in the March for Our Lives last spring. Although Winsor students are politically aware and do genuinely care about imdb.com injustice, the message still stands: when we participate in something, community should keep an eye on in the fu- we need to think about why we care. The ture. But what makes the role of Starr even Hate U Give is also relevant to Winsor bemore fitting for her is that she has a very cause, as Caitlin Smith ’21 notes, “Starr goes to a preppy private school, which comes personal connection to Starr’s story. Amandla grew up in a predominant- with many privileges, but she hides her ly black neighborhood in Los Angeles and identity as a person of color when she’s at attended a more privileged, predominant- school. This made me think about whether ly white school. In The Hate U Give, Starr people at Winsor are facing this same strugstruggles with the pressure to present her- gle.” These are just a few examples of how self differently at home and at school in or- The Hate U Give generates self-reflection in der to preserve a certain image, a practice viewers along with inspiration for change. known as “code-switching.” Amandla can Because it is thought-provoking, because it relate to this struggle and commented, “I is increasingly relevant in our society, and learned how to be very intentional of how I because it stars someone who is just as inpresented myself in order to fit in.” Because spiring as her character, The Hate U Give is she feels this connection to Starr, Amandla a movie every Winsor student should watch was much more involved in the screenwrit- and have conversations about. ☐
Annual Fall Concert Entertains the Winsor Community By Jamila O’Hara ’19 Panel Staff
On Tuesday, October 16, students and faculty gathered in the theater to celebrate and to honor the fall season with a selection of exceptional performances from some of Winsor’s many performing arts groups. The Upper School Percussion Ensemble kicked off the concert with a lively rendering of the jazz piece “Blue Monk” by Thelonious Monk. Following the Percussion Ensemble, Upper School Orchestra continued the instrumental portion of the concert with a rousing performance of an excerpt of “Dance Macabre.” The Lower School Drum, Strum & More class delighted the audience with a performance of the beloved ballad “This is Me” from movie musical The Greatest Showman. Upper School Chorale was up next with two exciting selections. The first was a powerful rendition of a traditional spiritual entitled “Keep Your Lamps,” and the second was an incredibly upbeat performance of the classic anthem “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi. Following Chorale, Small Chorus took the stage, first delivering a dynamic performance of the gospel ballad “Stand Upon the Rock!” by Rollo Dilworth followed by a rendition of “Summer is Over,” an intermezzo from the opera Cavalleria Rusticana. Small Chorus closed their performance with an exciting and engaging a-cappella mashup of the Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back” and MKTO’s “Classic,” arranged by Ryan Hutcherson. On this piece, Small Chorus director Ms. Taillacq reflected, “During my annual summer research
for music that will best suit the particular group of singers that we have, I was especially excited to find [this new arrangement]… It really fit the bill of some great a cappella writing with lots of opportunities for solos.” Indeed, many soloists featured on this rendition were greeted with vigorous cheering and applause from energetic audience members. One member of Small Chorus remarked, “[despite the difficulty of the piece], when Winsor Upper School Chorale. Winsor Instagram we got in front of an audience, we suddenly became inexplicably in sync with each other...it was like the whole atmosphere of the group had changed; I think we could sense the enthusiasm in the audience.” Finally, this year’s Senior Small made a superb debut with a stirring a-cappella arrangement of “Kaleidoscope Heart” by Sara Bareilles. On Senior Small’s first performance, Senior Small president Julie Wilson ’19 reflected, “I am so proud of Senior Small for tackling such a challenging piece! Looking back, I think we had a great first performance...senior small is also really excited about performing in the near future at SLAMP and the holiday concert -- we have some really fun songs planned!” The vast array of musical styles and genres featured in the show certainly Upper School Percussion Ensemble. engaged the audience in a dynamic, exciting
celebration of the fall season while enjoying a deliberate variety of selections. Ms. Taillacq notes, “It was really fun for our singers to do a range of pieces from classical opera to inspirational spiritual and Gospel to Michael Jackson/MKTO and Bon Jovi! For me personally, it's always a treat to see how well our students can embrace and adapt to so many different styles and to do them well!” Students and faculty alike can look forward to the next showcase of the musical talent of Winsor’s many ensembles at the Holiday Concert, which will take place on Sunday, December 9 at 3 P.M. According to Ms. Taillacq, the Holiday Concert will feature “seasonal and holiday favorites along with inspirational pieces, excerpts from classical masterworks, newly arranged works and other treats that focus on the joy of the season and the desire for peace and hope in our world” and, like the fall concert, “will [be] sure to please a wide variety of musical tastes!” Nearly all of Winsor’s performing art groups, including the Lower School Chorus, Lower School Orchestra, Upper School Percussion Ensemble, Upper School Chamber Orchestra, Upper School Chorale, Small Chorus, and Senior Small, as well as the Intergenerational Chorus and Orchestra composed of parents, students, faculty, and staff, will perform at the Winsor Instagram event. ☐
Winsor Arts
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No More Pumpkin Pie: Original Thanksgiving Recipes By Ellen O’Hare ’20 Panel Staff
sandwich bread ½ cup (1 stick) butter, divided 6 ounces diced pancetta 1 large onion, chopped 1 large crisp apple, peeled and chopped 1 cup pecan pieces ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley 4 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme 4 teaspoons dried rubbed sage 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 4 large eggs, beaten 2 cups low-salt chicken broth
Thanksgiving–everyone’s favorite holiday to get together with family, maybe watch some football, and go into a food coma before 4 p.m.–is right around the corner! Families across the country will prepare an abundance of delicious food to celebrate. However, some of these “classic” Thanksgiving recipes can get a little old (especially if you are forced to eat leftover turkey sandwiches until Christmas!). So, The Panel is here to provide you with some Directions new, updated, and innovative recipes to try 1. Cut and lay bread cubes out the day before to dry (or dry them out in the oven for out this year! 5 minutes before starting.) Preheat oven to Cornbread Stuffing Muffins with Apple 350 degrees F. 2. Put the bread cubes in a large bowl. and Pancetta (Recipe and picture courtesy of A Spicy 3. Melt 4 tablespoons butter in large skillet over medium heat. Add the pancetta and Perspective.) sauté until brown. Then add the onions and cook to soften—2-3 minutes. Add the Makes 12 servings apples and soften another 3-5 minutes. Fi20 minutes Prep Time nally, add the herbs and pecans. Toss and 35 minutes Cooking Time remove from heat. 4. Add 1 teaspoon coarse salt, and 1 teaIngredients 7 cups ¾ inch cubes cornbread (store- spoon pepper; stir to blend. Add vegetable mixture to bread and toss. bought is fine) 7 cups ¾ inch cubes crustless firm white 5. Whisk the eggs and broth together and pour over the bread mixture. Toss and let it stand 5 minutes. 6. Generously butter 12 nonstick muffin cups. Spoon ½ cup of stuffing mixture into each muffin cup. Press to compact. Mound another ½ cup of remaining stuffing mixture over stuffing in each muffin cup, pressing to hold shape. Bake muffins until golden, about 22-25 minutes. Cool in pan 15 minutes. Using small knife, loosen muffins and pop out of pan. *Can be made one day ahead. Rewarm uncovered in microwave in 30-second intervals, A Spicy Perspective Cornbread Stuffing Muffins. or covered loosely with foil in
350 F oven, about 15 minutes. Loosen from 3. Open bag and add honey, oil, cinnamon, optional salt and pepper to taste, optional muffin pan with a butter knife. seasonings to taste, seal bag, and toss potaHoney Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Hon- toes to coat. Really manipulate the potatoes around inside the bag, pushing the ones ey Cinnamon Dip (Recipe and pictures courtesy of Averie on the top to the bottom and vice versa, to equally distribute the honey, oil, and spices. Cooks.) 4. Using your hands, transfer potatoes from bag onto baking tray because excess mariMakes about 4 servings nade will get onto baking tray and it will be 10 minutes Prep Time prone to burning. Save any remaining mar40-45 minutes cooking time inade in Ziplock bag to be added halfway through baking. Ingredients 5. Bake for about 20 - 25 minutes, remove Sweet Potatoes 2 - 3 medium/large sweet potatoes, washed, from oven, and flip potatoes over using tongs. peeled, and trimmed into 1-inch chunks 6. If desired and if there’s extra marinade, 3 - 4 tablespoons honey lightly and even3 - 4 tablely drizzle potatoes spoons cocowith what remains nut oil in liqfrom Ziplock bag. uid state (or 7. Return tray to another oil, i.e. oven and bake for olive, vegetaabout 15 - 20 more ble, canola) minutes, or until 1 tablespoon fork-tender and cinnamon done. Keep a close A pinch of salt, eye on potatoes in pepper, pumpthe final moments kin pie spice, of baking so they nutmeg, gindon’t burn. Bakger, allspice (all ing times will vary to taste) based on oven variances, the potaCreamy Hontoes and how thick ey-Cinnamon they’re cut, how full Dip the tray is, and how ⅓ cup plain or well done you like vanilla Greek them. Optionally yogurt or sour (but recommendcream Averie Cooks Honey Roasted Sweet Potatoes. ed), serve potatoes 2 - 3 tablewith dip or your spoons honey favorite condiments as soon as they’re cool 1 teaspoon cinnamon enough to eat. While potatoes finish baking, make the dip. Directions 1. Preheat oven to 400F. Spray a baking 8. Creamy Honey-Cinnamon Dip – Add all dip ingredients to a small bowl and whisk sheet with cooking spray; set aside. 2. Sweet Potatoes – Slice potatoes into until smooth and combined. Transfer to ra1-inch chunks and put into a gallon-sized mekin if desired for serving. Dip will keep airtight in the fridge for up to one week. ☐ Ziplock.
Artists of the Issue: A Conversation With SAFA What does SAFA do in club meet-
per School. Not a lot of people knew about SAFA last year, so we’re trying to increase It depends on what SAFA activities the club’s presence in the community. We’ve The Student Association of Fine Arts are coming up. In past meetings, we have already run two new activities this year, and (SAFA) is a student organization that en- planned activities SAFA would be hosting we’re excited for more! courages involvement in the arts, ranging and talked about our favorite artists or art What is your favorite thing about from the visual to the performing to the pieces. We’re currently planning SLAMP SAFA? literary, at Winsor. SAFA hosts events for for November 16, and we’re planning to My favorite thing about SAFA is how both the artistically the club allows a inclined and inexgroup of students perienced throughto come together out the school year. thanks to a mutual One such event is interest in art and SLAMP, an openhas no artistic exmic night that gives pectations. SAFA students a platform isn’t exclusive to to express themonly “artists” or selves through mustudents who are sic, poetry, prose, “good at art” – it’s and more. open to everyone. This year’s fall To someone SLAMP will be held unsure about joinon November 16 ing the club, what at 6:30 P.M. in the would you say? Black Box Theater. You should SAFA has also hostdefinitely come to ed pumpkin paintour lunch meeting, visits from ings, especially if Becca Lin guest artists, and you’re interested in Emma Specht ’19 and Teresa Lawlor ’19 at a SAFA-hosted pumpkin painting event. a splatter painting helping to plan the competition so far activities SAFA has buy coloring books for some fun meetings! been running and the edition of Lamp that this year, and plan to host more. What are some of SAFA’s goals this we’re publishing in the spring. You don’t The following questions were answered year? have to have experience with art to join the This year, SAFA is trying especially club. We’re open to lots of new ideas, and by SAFA heads Kaylee Chang ’19, Becca Lin hard to make art more accessible to the Up- we’d love to have your input. ☐ ’19, and Hannah Park ’19. By Elly Pickette ’21 Panel Staff
ings?
Book Recommendations Courtesy of Winsor Upper School Book Club Cheaper by the Dozen by Frank B. Gilbreth Jr., Ernestine Gilbreth Carey A memoir penned by two siblings that has since been made into two movies, Cheaper by the Dozen tells the story of the 12 Gilbreth siblings as they grow up in a crowded home. Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine After being cursed to always be obedient by a fairy at birth, Ella tries to find the fairy who cursed her in order to undo it. Girls Burn Brighter by Shobha Rao Poornima and Savitha are best friends before Savitha disappears from the village in a horrible crime. Poornima dedicates her life to finding her friend, taking her on a journey around the world that ends in Seattle. The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson Rory begins boarding school in London just as murders in the style of Jack the Ripper begin. Hope seems lost until Rory spots the prime suspect and discovers an unknown ability to see ghosts. Akata Witch by Nnedi Okorafor Albino teen Sunny moves to Nigeria from New York City, where she meets Orlu, Sasha, and Chichi. They introduce her to the magical world of the Leopard People, where one’s weaknesses become one’s strengths. The teens form an Oha Coven to find a man who kills and maims children.
Winsor Arts
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T he Panel
Being Black at Winsor: How It Feels and What It Means
someone asking me what black people usually ate. This constant curiosity and examination was unnerving to me, and I felt like The surprise. The uninhibited, almost a specimen under exhibit. I was so tired intrusive curiosity is what I remember most. of being observed, so I tried to tone down When I came to Winsor in sixth grade, it my differences: blow dry my hair, wear the was not as if I had never been around white same clothes, even speak with the same people before. Despite coming from a pre- “like” after every four words in my sentencBy Araybia Ahmad-Goodlow ’19 Panel Staff
Kristie Rae Gillooly Senior leaders of SISTERS, Winsor’s black affinity group. am while still getting the most out of my ty in terms of numbers, but it can someschool environment. I can say now that times be just as isolating as a school with being black at Winsor is not much differ- a 15% diversity.” Victoria Cadostin ’19 also ent from being any other student. I am the expressed that she felt the need to assimisame Araybia at school as I am at home. late when she came to Winsor: “I felt like After reflecting on my own experi- I was tailoring my life to be like a typical ence, I wondered how other people of col- Winsor student. Certain aspects of my life or felt at Winsor. Surely I was not the only and my identity felt like they didn’t fit into voice that had something to share. In order that mold. I wanted to normalize my expeAraybia Ahmad-Goodlow to get different perspectives, I sought out riences to other Winsor students. Coming Araybia Ahmad-Goodlow ’19 as a child and now. dominantly black public school, I had been es. I even stopped wearing my Jordans to those of my peers. What I found was that from an immigrant family, I remember although we can all relate to each other in other students inviting me to sleepovers, around different cultures, races, ethnicities, school for a while—a real low point. and yet I had never felt as uncomfortable as For a while it felt natural, until I re- some ways, we also have our own unique which my parents did not allow me to go I did when I came to Winsor. The culture alized that I had forgotten what natural experiences. We each have a background to. A common immigrant parent thing, or shock was awkward. It felt as if my class- really was. I was reminded by my mother that is not identical. However, one com- at least at my house, sleepovers were not mates had never that natural is been around a who you really sharing a space shar black person beare, with no adfore. I am sure ditional addiing a classroom and they must have tives, derivatives, seen or spoken artificial colorsharing a team made my to someone like ing, or flavors. me, but sharing She reminded me classmates feel like a space, sharing that when you a classroom, and go into a room they could ask any sharing a team where everyone made them feel is talking, if you thing that they had like our interacclose your eyes, tions provided a the people in the ever wanted to know platform to ask room should not anything that all sound the about a black person no they have ever same, and if they wanted to know do, that means matter how offensive about a black that the majority person, no matter how offensive. Just to of them have lost their voice - for we are give a glimpse, they would ask how I got not all meant to sound the same, or be the my hair to look the way it did, they’d ask same, and we don’t have to explain who we if Dorchester was dangerous and why my are; we can just be. Ever since I pressed remom was so strict, and I even remember set, I have focused on maintaining who I
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Kristie Rae Gillooly
Chloe Duval ’19 leading Class I out of Assembly on the first day of school.
Victoria Cadostin ’19 at UTL.
Kristie Rae Gillooly
monality among us was our feeling that allowed. But I would make up excuses to people assumed we were all the same just my friends about why I couldn’t do certain because we share the same brown skin tone. things. They wouldn’t understand.” One of my peers, Chloe Duval ’19, Even though we are just a few voictold me that her experience coming to es representing the black experience at Winsor was a little different. “I came from Winsor, we echo many common feelings an even more white school with only 15% and understandings that other black of their students being nonwhite. I came students may have experienced at some from a school on the North Shore. I was point during their time here. Even after the only Latin person in the entire school I’ve adjusted to Winsor, I am sometimes and there were only five other black people reminded of that feeling of not being in the entire school. I was excited to come understood. But, by being myself, I have to Winsor because I thought it would be found comfort. By talking to other girls different, but I still felt singled out. I re- who understand and can relate to me, I member in class, a Winsor teacher singled don’t feel alone. I want younger girls who me out and asked me what it was like to may be experiencing a similar bumpy be a black person. She thought I could add transition into Winsor to feel safe and to a different perspective to the class discus- know that they are not alone. The urge to sion, but it made me feel uncomfortable assimilate will lessen and eventually disand alone. Winsor is better with diversi- sipate as one lets one’s own light shine. ☐
Vol. 67, Is su e 4
BELMONT HILL Center Spread
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A Detailed Dive Into the Finances of the BH Food Service In examining the data from Rox- the meals served at both schools on dishes need to be refilled, and inevitably bury Latin, it is evident that Belmont Thursday, November 1st (tater tots and there is some leftover food once lunch Hill spends relatively competitively when grilled cheese at BH; bowtie pasta with comes to a close. At a first glance, it may we control for all other factors. Like turkey meatballs at Winsor), the par- seem that Belmont Hill pays too much For years, Belmont Hill’s lunch Belmont Hill, Roxbury Latin is an all- ent scored the overall quality of the BH on food since Winsor’s cost is almost a program has been a hot topic among stu- boys, private school with family-style meal at 4.5/10 (2/10 for health and 7/10 dollar less, but there are an array of facdents. Many students have strong feel- dining and a slightly smaller student for taste) and the overall quality of the tors, some of which we can change in our ings about the quality of our lunches. body of three hundred students. Rox- Winsor meal at 7.5/10 (7/10 for health favor and others that we can’t, that exRecently, there has been reform initi- bury Latin’s per meal cost is also only and 8/10 for taste). The parent’s main plain our spending relative to Winsor’s. ated by students and the school alike; as $.13 greater than Belmont Hill’s per criticisms of the BH food were the use of Running a private school dincovered in last May’s issue of The Paning program is a complex task, and a el, School President Shane Rockett ‘19 task that Belmont Hill does well, all has been trying to eliminate unpopular things considered. However, we, as a meals with his weekly lunch surveys, school, can always improve. Currently, the Belmont Hill administration has exour cost per meal sits at a respectable panded the Dining Hall into the library, rate, similar to Roxbury Latin’s cost, and they’ve hired a new Head Chef. In but there are other ways to limit exthis article, The Panel continues its expense on dining and we should explore amination of the root cause of dissatisthose options, both by looking at other faction with school lunches as it sets out schools who have found a way to pay to quantify the cost efficiency of Belless than Belmont Hill, and by coming mont Hill’s lunch program and to find up with innovative ways to reduce cost. out if we can learn from other schools One crucial decision we face is to provide cheaper and better meals. whether to keep, modify, or end our exWith generous help from Mr. Bounpensive tradition of family-style lunches. ty, Belmont Hill’s Chief Financial Officer, Once again, Belmont Hill is challenged to we were able to collect reliable data on balance traditional with forward thinkdining spending of several ISL schools, ing and practicality; can a little extra on including Roxbury Latin, Nobles, Rivthe food bill be justified by the preservaers, Winsor, and Middlesex. The most tion of a cherished tradition? Probably, important data points, which were combut that doesn’t mean we can’t think up parable across almost all schools, were meal cost of $7.41, even though they “white bread” and that “the cheese was ways to keep our tradition while saving the cost per meal and the breakdown be- purchase food through a different pro- unrecognizable.” While this trial does money and being more sustainable (just tween the cost of food and cost of labor vider, Sage. Therefore, it is safe to say, clear up the effect of student bias against ask Colin Braun). One possible solution per meal. For these metrics, the numbers that barring any other changes, Belmont their own school’s food (which increases is to keep sit-down lunches as they are, from the six schools fall within a some- Hill won’t be able to get better, cheaper with regular, long term consumption) its except that students take their plates up what small range, but there are some dis- food by abandoning Sodexo for Sage. sample of one is inconclusive. A more themselves to get seconds on food. This tinctions. This variance in cost can be The comparison between Belmont comprehensive study into the quality of would cut down on food waste resulting expected because the six schools differ Hill and Winsor is perhaps the most food from both schools would surely be when someone refills the food, which from one another in several ways, from shocking. Winsor spends nearly a full beneficial in informing further judge- does not get completely eaten by the end the demographics of the student body, to dollar less than Belmont Hill per meal at a ments about their lunch programs. of lunch. We would still have waiters and the quality and the provider of the food, cost of $6.45. There are a number of posThe most probable reason for Bel- faculty serving meals, which are integral to the number of dormers, to whether or sible explanations for this discrepancy in mont Hill (and Roxbury Latin) spend- the tradition so near and dear to Belmont not the school has family-style dining. cost between Belmont Hill and Winsor. ing more per meal than Winsor is due Hill, but we would also waste less food. The most useful comparisons are Firstly, Winsor’s student population is to our family-style tradition. Sadly, famNo matter what action we take, those from Belmont Hill to Roxbury Latin quite different from Belmont Hill’s. Obvi- ily-style dining leads to food waste and we should, as always, take the time and and Winsor, since those schools are most ously, all of Winsor’s students are female, economic inefficiencies that most likely thoroughly consider what would be best similar to our own, but some conclusions and boys, especially boys who play 2-3 account for the difference in costs per for our school; but would anyone really can also be drawn by contrasting Bel- sports a year, do eat more than girls: one meal between Winsor, and Belmont Hill be mad if they had to scrap the kill-itmont Hill’s stats to those of Nobles, Riv- study finds that the average mid-teen boy and RL. During sit-down lunches, food fill-it rule and get their own food in exers, and Middlesex. Of these four schools eats almost 2,000 calories at lunch, while is more liable to be wasted since serving change for a couple filet mignons? ☐ (including Belmont Hill), Rivers spends girls eat no more than about 1,300 calories the most per meal, primarily because of per lunch during adolescence. Also, Winits unusually high cost of labor per meal sor starts in fifth grade, so the students of $5.22, $.70 above Belmont Hill’s cost are on average younger than Belmont of labor, the next highest. This data indi- Hill students. Fifth and sixth graders at Editors-In-Chief cates very little about Belmont Hill’s din- Winsor probably eat less than the average Nicholas Daley ‘19 Faculty Advisors Photo Editors ing program, but may suggest that Rivers seventh to twelfth grade Winsor student, Matthew Smith ‘19 David Hegarty Abe Tolkoff ‘21 is getting overcharged, or hiring five-star and this would drive down average food Teresa Lawlor ‘19 Juliette Zener chefs. Middlesex is by far the cheapest at consumption per meal. Another factor Veronica Plata $6.15 per meal, but this is probably be- that raises costs for Belmont Hill is the Executive Editors Meghan Hazard Arts Editors cause they are a boarding school, which boarding program and growing breakEllisya Lindsey ‘19 Andrew Jonghyun Lee ‘20 allows them to serve more meals per day fast program, both of which Winsor does Katie Tsai ‘19 Jamila O’Hara ‘19 for around the same labor. As shown in not have. Belmont Hill serves dinner to Thomas McEvoy ‘19 News Editors the data, Middlesex spends roughly the about 30 boarders every night and even Haley Kwoun ‘20 same on food as the other schools listed, more students and faculty in the mornCopy Editors Charlie Booth ‘20 Sports Editors but its labor cost per meal is much low- ing. The inefficiencies of serving such Matthew Goguen ‘19 Mikayla Chen ‘19 er because the dining staff cooks three a small number of people drives up the Sindhu Krishnamurthy ‘19 John Gaudian ‘19 meals a day, as compared to one for day dining program’s overall cost per meal. Opinion Editors schools, without working three times Belmont Hill’s costs could also be higher Assistant Editors Chetan Shukla ‘20 the hours in the kitchen. Surprisingly, than Winsor’s because our dining service, Graphics Editors William Lafarge ‘19 Qirrat Anwar ‘19 Nobles spends less than Belmont Hill per Sodexo, might charge more than WinElias Hyde ‘20 Tyler Forg ‘21 Lillian Gibson ‘21 meal, although they have a reputation for sor’s dining service, Flik (a plausible exStreetej Digumarthi ‘21 top-notch food. Their food provider, Flik planation considering its aforementioned Henry Moses ‘21 Yazeed Dahleh ‘21 Dining, may help drive down their costs. association with lower cost schools). Back Page Editors Online Editors Charlie Mullaney ‘20 Flik provides food for the three schools The most important difference Lawson Morris ‘19 Caitlin Smith ‘21 Annie Adams ‘21 with the lowest dining costs, Middlesex, in dining between the two schools, at Sam Goldenson ‘19 Jack Weldon ‘20 Rani Balakrishna ‘21 Nobles, and Winsor. Perhaps Belmont least to some, is food quality. Does BelJulie Wilson ‘19 Crystal Yang ‘20 Hill can learn from how Nobles runs mont Hill’s food cost more because it is Elly Pickette ‘21 their dining program since they seem to better quality? Some Belmont Hill stumaintain a high level of student satisfac- dents might scoff at this notion, but it The Panel, founded in 1953, is the official school newspaper of the Belmont Hill and Winsor tion with food while keeping per meal is possible. The dining staff takes pride schools. The Panel is the voice of the student body. We publish articles that are of consecosts relatively low. It should be noted in always using fresh food and making quence to the students, as well as the school communities. The views expressed in The Panel however that other factors, such as cafe- as much food as possible from scratch, belong solely to the authors and editors and do not necessarily represent the student body, teria style dining and serving more meals both of which could account for Belmont faculty or administration of either school. Any comment about the content should be adper day, may contribute to their cost ef- Hill’s cost of food per meal of $2.89, dressed directly to the editors. The Panel encourages responsible opinion in the form of Letficiency. We could not delve deeper compared to $2.25 for Winsor. The reters to the Editor. We reserve the right to edit all submissions for length and content. Copyinto the details Nobles’ dining program sults from a cursory taste test, however, right © 2017 The Panel. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in since we were unable to attain a break- suggest otherwise. When the parent of a any form without prior written permission of the Editor-in-Chief. Published by the Belmont Printing Co., Belmont, MA 02478. down of their costs for food and labor. Belmont Hill and Winsor student tried
By Matt Smith ‘19 and Will LaFarge ‘19 Panel Staff
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T he Panel
New Definition of Gender Threatens Trans Rights
rently afforded to individuals who identify as a gender other than the one conventionally associated with their sex at birth. This is the most extreme and broad Recently, The New York Times broke the story that the Trump administration measure yet to emerge from the Trump adis considering changing the governmental ministration; however, ever since he took ofdefinitions of gender and sex to being bi- fice in 2017, President Trump’s government ologically determined by one’s genitals at has been attacking and undermining transbirth. This definition would be exclusively gender rights. In February 2017, the Departeither male or female and unchangeable. ment of Education and the Department of “Sex means a person’s status as male or fe- Justice announced that the Obama adminmale based on immutable biological traits istration’s directive to schools that allowed identifiable by or before birth,” said the students to use the bathroom of their choice proposal. “The sex listed on a person’s birth had been rescinded. Similar actions were certificate, as originally issued, shall consti- taken by the Justice Department regarding tute definitive proof of a person’s sex unless bathrooms and housing for inmates. While several other countries have rerebutted by reliable genetic evidence.” This change would be part of a plan cently allowed gender neutral or third gento roll back transgender rights and protec- der markers on government identification, tions granted under the Obama adminis- the proposed changes to the United States tration through a series of decisions that government gender policy would explicitly loosened the legal definition of gender. The disallow similar steps. This memo comes Obama-era policy prompted disputes over on the heels of a national “Intersex Rights” bathrooms, dorms, locker rooms, and other campaign which highlights those who are traditionally single-sex spaces. Republicans, neither “biologically male” nor “biologicalparticularly evangelical Christians, vehe- ly female”: in other words, those born with mently opposed a more fluid definition of variations in sex characteristics, including chromosomes, sex hormones, gonads, or gender. The proposed definition, which first genitals. The recent Intersex rights awareness circulated in a memo from the Department of Health and Human Services last spring, campaign has focused on surgeries perwould revoke any federal recognition cur- formed on infants with “variant” but funcBy Ariela Rosenzweig ’19 Contributing Writer
ABC News
American Atheists
Gavin Grimm, whose case regarding school bathroom rights went to the Supreme Court.
U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Alex Azar.
NPR
What’s Happening at Winsor this November and December? November 16 & 17 at 7:30 p.m.: Winsor/RL US Fall Play It Can’t Happen Here @ RL November 19 & 20 at 3:30 p.m. - 6 p.m.: Auditions for US Student Directed Play Milk Like Sugar in the Black Box November 21 - 25: Thanksgiving Break November 22: Thanksgiving Day November 26, 27, & 28 at 4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m.: Winsor/RL Junior Play Peter and the Starcatcher Auditions @ RL ✳✳✳ December 1 at 7 p.m.: US Semi-Formal December 2 - 10: Hanukkah December 8: Food Bank December 9 at 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.: Holiday Concert
tioning genitals. 1.7% of people are born der ID. Most recently, New York City joined with variant genitalia, which is less than Oregon, Washington state, Maine, Washingthe percentage of the population with green ton DC and California. While these states all eyes (2%). These surgeries have no purpose allow “X” markers for nonbinary genders on other than cosmetic and may often result in birth certificates and driver’s licenses, they reduced function. They result from the same require the resident who wants to make the impulse to stick to the outdated idea of both change to be over the age of 18. No states gender and sex as fixed and either male or allow X markers for intersex babies. female that the Trump administration is California is the only state to declinging to in this revision of policy. nounce intersex surgeries, stating, “Intersex Many at Winsor are familiar with children should be free to choose whether to the narrative of transgender being defined undergo life-altering surgeries that irreversas being born in the wrong body, or be- ibly — and sometimes irreparably — cause ing born with “female” genitals and desir- harm,” and “a baby cannot consent.” ing male ones. However, there is so much The changes made and threatened by more biologically to sex and gender. It isn’t the Trump administration are dangerous as black and white as we have been led to and unacceptable. Winsor students must believe. And other countries are starting to stand alongside those who face misunderrecognize this. We have to understand what standing, discrimination, hate, and violence. makes genitals male or female, why not have Spectrum urges those who are cis-gendered a male vagina? Neutral anything? and in positions of power to use their influWhile it may seem that all is lost, many ence to protect those who are more vulnerstates have passed bills allowing neutral gen- able. ☐
A Word from Our Politicians...
Collect has been hard at work this month! Here is a summary of what they’ve been up to and what they’re planning to address next. Since the last update, COLLECT has worked on... COLLECT-o-ween. Coming up next, COLLECT is planning... COLLECT Forum in December And rethinking the Winsor Honor Code as a community.
Club Announcements! Single-Parent Family Outreach: Come to the SPFO’s meeting on Saturday, November 17 from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. to volunteer to make Thanksgiving baskets for single-parent families. Transportation to and from Winsor will be provided. Debate: Congratulations to Kayla Lee ’19, Haley Kwoun ’20, and Annie Kaplan ’19 for their 2nd place American Team finish at Debate Internationals in Toronto! All three also placed in the Top 15 American Speakers!
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Novemb er 1 9 , 2018
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Starbucks vs. Dunkin’ Donuts: The Final Showdown
By Avery Gardner ’21 Q: What do you get for frappucciand Danya Dubrow-Compaine ’20 nos? Panel Staff and Contributing Writers
In the history of the world, there have A: A grande because a venti would been many great debates: the pronunciation hurt my tummy. of caramel, iPhone vs. Android, whether the dress is blue and black or gold and white. Q: How loyal of a customer would These debates force us to reflect deeply on you consider yourself to Starbucks? Have our values. They may even tear apart friend- you always been loyal to Starbucks? If not, ships. But no matter how divisive these dis- what prompted you to cross over to the putes are, there has been no debate more other side? heated, more controversial, than Dunkin’ vs. Starbucks. A: I’ve been loyal to Starbucks since We wanted to end this controversy sixth grade because my mom started giving once and for all, so we set out to interview me coffee in sixth grade because I didn’t sleep Winsor students about their positions. With very much. I was really tired and grumpy in MB Ice Arena both stores within walking distance of the the morning, so you gotta do what you gotta school, we were sure we would find strong do. If it’s my choice, it’s always Starbucks. Boston heritage is honored. I walk in, and I opinions. Boy, were we right! By analyzing Q: First off, what is your go-to or- just feel at home no matter which Dunkin’ rigorous criteria spanning between atmoDonuts it is. Q: What aspects of the experience der? sphere, character, food, and beverages, we at Starbucks are better than those at have obtained the official and ultimate run- Dunkin’? A: Iced coffee with cream and sugar. Q: How do you justify the lack of down on these two enemy stores. My go to snick-snack is a chocolate glazed high quality specialty drinks at Dunkin’? A: Well it tastes better. It doesn’t taste donut and a bacon egg and cheese on a plain Doesn’t Starbucks have a better selection than Dunkin’ does? like dirt. That’s really a nice thing. And the bagel. app just makes it so convenient. I know Q: How loyal of a customer would A: Yeah, but they are over priced, and Dunkin’ has an app, but, like, no. And then I like how the drinks don’t just taste like weird you consider yourself to Dunkin’? Why? they taste like chemicals. sugar, they just actually taste like something. Have you always been loyal to Dunkin’? If Q: Are there any advantages StarAnd yeah, the people tend to be friendly. not, what prompted you to cross over to bucks has over Dunkin’? And everyone at all the Starbucks knows the other side? me. And they know my drinks. A: So loyal, oh my god. I dedicate my A: The increased amount of things Q: How do you justify paying, on av- life to Dunkin’ Donuts. I go every single they sell is nice. But when it comes down to erage, $1.00 more per cup of coffee than at day at least once. I have been loyal for two being a real person who wants a coffee, Staror three years now. Apparently I used to go bucks can’t give that to you. Dunkin’? every single day when I was little, and they used to give me free munchkins because I Q: Do you have any other thoughts A: I think it’s like $2.50 more. But anyMentoring.org ways -- it just tastes so much better. Dunkin’ was a cute baby. I tried the Starbucks life- that you want to share on the subject? Meet Maggie Furlong ’20, future Star- is more of a waste of money than buying an style, and I realized that Starbucks life is for bucks CEO and Patriots cheerleader: A: *breathes in aggressively* I don’t expensive coffee because I don’t like it that posers. Their iced coffee is bad, overpriced, and it’s just obnoxious. The whole concept of actually judge people who go to Starbucks, much, you know? Q: First off, what is your go-to orStarbucks is obnoxious. And annoying. and I understand it’s the norm, and I accept der? you for who you are. I just don’t support that Q: Do you have any other thoughts Q: What aspects of the experience choice. I’m not actually that judgemental. that you want to share on the subject? A: It depends on my mood. If I’m reat Dunkin’ are better than those at Starally tired and it’s just a normal school day, So there you have it. As for which one A: My goal in life is to be a higher-up bucks? I’d probably get a venti iced latte, but if I’m in their business just ‘cause I love their comis better? We guess you’ll just have to argue feeling spontaneous, I’ll get caramel mac- pany. I research it and love what they stand A: Just, like, everything. I feel my true it out for yourself. ☐ chiato. If it’s after practice, I’ll get a mocha for. And also I really recommend the sugar frappuccino or a salted caramel mocha frap- cookies. They look kinda weird, but they’re puccino, and sometimes on Friday, when really good. I had the raccoon one the other I’m really tired I’ll get a vanilla sweet cream day... so cute! cold brew ‘cause it has a little extra caffeine and it’s really good. Always a venti, except On the other side is Dunkin’ aficionafor frappuccinos. do and absolute queen, Anna Rose Read ’19:
1912 Pike
Dunkin’ Donuts
SELECTIONS FROM THE WORLD OF WINSOR
Kristie Rae Gillooly
Machinal Stuns Audiences! Winsor’s fall play Machinal by Winsor students are exposed to Disease! In preparation Women in uniform. In honor of the centennial of WWI, Sophie Treadwell performed November 9 and 10. Audifor January’s Global Forum, epidemiologist Dr. Natasha Elizabeth Samet ’87, a professor of English at West Point ences expressed appreciation for the complex themes and Hochberg ’92 spoke to the student body about her work on and author of the critically-acclaimed Soldier’s Heart, prepowerful staging. infectious diseases. sented on the role of women in combat throughout history.
Pag e 14
belmont hill sp orts
Athlete of the Issue: Justin O’Neil-Riley
Novemb er 1 9 , 2 0 1 8
BELMONT HILL VARSITY SCOREBOARD TEAM
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LEAGUE PLACEMENT
CROSS COUNTRY
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SOCCER
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Censorship of Loop Brings Controversy By John Gaudian ‘19 and William LaFarge ‘19 Panel Staff
Holland ‘19, will need to get creative with inventing new chants to energize fans and athletes. And, if they run out of ideas, they can always look to the past. The following
Chants have long been a staple of attending Belmont Hill sporting events. “Where the Loop once gleefully Whether in the stands of the Fritz gym or behind the end zone in the fall, chants shouted hostile chants targetfrom the Loop symbolize Belmont Hill’s ing an opposing team or player, unity and school spirit. According to Loop their chants are now largely inJustin O’Neil Riley celebrates reception against Milton Academy (Photo by Jalen Walker ‘21) leader Lawson Morris ‘19, they are now nocuous. “Let’s go, Belmont!” is being “censored.” Where the Loop once yelled repeatedly and “You can’t but the year after that we ended up going 7-2 gleefully shouted hostile chants targeting do that” is “borderline,” says and winning a championship, which honest- an opposing team or player, their chants By Thomas McEvoy ‘19 Morris.” ly was unexpected, but we worked hard that are now largely innocuous. “Let’s go, BelPanel Staff summer. Even the year before that, we didn’t mont!” is yelled repeatedly and “You can’t Now in his fourth season with Bel- really know where we were going to go as a do that” is “borderline,” says Morris. The chant from a video produced by former mont Hill’s varsity football team, Senior Jus- team, in terms of what we were capable of.” recent ban eliminates a number of iconic, Loop leaders, Callen Morris ‘16 and David tin O’Neil-Riley has proven himself a cruSince joining varsity football, Justin past chants from the Loop’s repertoire, Perdoni ‘16, stands out as prime material: cial contributor to the team’s great season. including: “Safety school!” and “Num- “Don’t you know! Pump it up! Come on and In truth though, Justin’s career began some “Honestly, I can say that being ber fourteen wears socks in the pool!” pump it up!” The banning of controversial thirteen years ago, at the age of five: “I startof these types of chants chants shouldn’t impede the Loop, as long a returner is most comfortable claim Proponents ed playing organized football when I was that they illustrate Belmont Hill’s as its leaders can come up with new and five years old. My mom had a friend named to me, because once you get the athletic fervor and sense of humor, but interesting ways to pump up a crowd. ☐ ball, you’re free and you just clearly the school won’t budge on its proClinton, and he coached for the Dorchester Eagles.” Reflecting on his career to date, Jushibition of chants which they deem ofgo.” tin believes that, in addition to Clinton, he fensive. To adjust to the new rule, current has benefited from the advice of a number has carved out a role for himself in three Loop leaders Lawson Morris and Andrew of other role models, saying, “I grew up be- separate positions, a testament to his vering coached by a man named Chuck Farrell. satility, flexibility, and team-first mentality. He’s still pretty close. He’s a close person to Whether he’s eluding defenders as a shifty me and a very important figure in my life. In receiver, picking off QB Mike Piazza in practerms of being a role model, he was certain- tice as a defensive back, or returning a punt ly one of those people, as well as my older for a touchdown in the homecoming game brother.” Within the Belmont Hill commu- against Milton as a return specialist, #17 is nity, Justin has high praise for the football sure to catch the crowd’s eye. Ultimately, team’s coaching staff, observing, “honestly, while Justin enjoys all the ways in which he I have to give props to Coach Butler, Mr. contributes to the team’s success, he does Curran, Mr. Sullivan, Coach Glor, Coach have a certain affinity for the return game: Anam, and all of the coaches that have “Honestly, I can say that being a returner is helped me. Those guys put in a lot of work most comfortable to me, because once you with our skills players. Everything that get the ball, you’re free and you just go.” they do, and that they teach, all throughLooking ahead to next year and his out the years has stuck with the team.” career beyond Belmont Hill, Justin eagerly Beyond his work on the football field, anticipates his opportunity to play football at Justin has played for Belmont Hill’s basket- Trinity College. Justin aims to bring the same ball team, where he can be seen working as determination and commitment that have a manager, and running track in the Spring, come to characterize his play in recent years, taking part in the 100 meters, 200 meters, 4 explaining, “my top goal is to be an impact x 100 meters, and long jump events. Despite player as soon as I get there. I’ve been in conhis remarkable success as a high school ath- tact with the coach, just trying to make sure lete, Justin’s highlight, at least with regard to we’re on the same page, and letting him know the football team, was what most would con- that I’m going to be there for four years, sider a clear failure: “I can honestly say that working hard. Regardless of the outcome, I the highlight within my high school career just want to be a part of that team. I think The Loop shows up in full force to support the varsity football team (Photo by Jalen Walker was definitely going 1-7. It sounds weird, it’s a pretty cool experience up there.” ☐ ‘21)
Vol. 67, Is su e 4
Belmont hill sp orts/NEWS
Pa ge 1 5
An Uncertain Future: XC Reflects On a Season of Seniors er with hugs and expressions of gratitude for the endure pain for less than 20 minutes. Team experiences they shared during their careers. dinners, playing heads up on bus rides, They had seen a lot in their time, from the listening to music on a homemade speakAs the weary-legged seniors cleared elation of the school’s fourth Cross Country ISL er: I’ll miss every little detail that makes out their lockers and removed their sin- Championship in 2016 to painful injuries and Belmont Hill Cross Country so special.” Other than Freshman James Doglets for the final time, the boisterous at- stinging losses, from triumphant final sprints mosphere that had filled the bus on the ride to runners collapsing in the last straightaway. nahue, who was Belmont Hill’s top runback from Avon Old Farms in ConnectiFor many on the team, the sport that ner before being hobbled by injury down cut was replaced by bittersweet reflection. originally seemed a far cry from their first the stretch, the Varsity team was built Retrieved from the lockers were choice became an integral part of their lives. almost entirely of seniors, whose leadmemories of extra reps in workouts with “Six years later, I can’t imagine my life without ership throughout the year set the tone burning lungs and leaden feet, inside jokes it,” says team Captain Matt Smith ’19. “In my for the rest of the group. Captains Matt curated on rainy long runs and in the hours time on the team, I have witnessed ISL cham- Smith and Matt Goguen inspired the spent stretching after practice, and of live- pionships go from a pipe dream to something team in practices and pre-race speeches ly team dinners going late into the night. that is expected. But more significantly, the and consistently posted fast times. John Just hours before, the runners had sport has given me a family. In no other sport, High, despite initially considering takpushed across the finish line at the New Eng- will you see such a diverse spread of personali- ing the season off, brought toughness to land Championships and supported each oth- ties all bonded by the grit and perseverance to each race and once crossed the finish line By Nicholas Daley ‘19 Panel Staff
barefoot and bleeding from his legs. James Eysenbach ran his best race when the team needed him to pull out a big win over Groton. Colin Braun battled chronic shin issues to finish his season strong at Nobles and New England’s. Ben Awtrey joined the team’s first run on a whim and never looked back, becoming a varsity contributor. With these runners leaving for college next year, the team will look to existing team members to step up and fill their voids, as well as boys from this year’s middle school team, which placed second at the Roxbury Latin Invitational. But with the number of cross country runners who begin their Belmont Hill careers in other sports, the team never knows where its next major contributor may be waiting. ☐
Lessons from the McGregor Fight
there are several lessons that should be taken away. For one, players should be respectful of their opponent when they win. As a result of his aggression, Khabib was denied At this point, everyone either the victory belt in the ring and could be watched it live, saw the highlights, or potentially stripped of his lightweight title. merely heard of the finale between Conor Khabib’s hard work for months leading up to Mcgregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov. the fight and his incredible ability to ignore For those that haven’t, during the main hateful comments leading up to the fight reevent of UFC 229, McGregor and Khabib sulted in him winning the mental battle besquared off in a heated brawl. Tensions fore the fight. His unprecedented success in had reached a peak between the two the UFC thus far and dominant performance men as they had both provoked each against McGregor no longer matter because other with insults during press confer- of a bad decision in the heat of the moment. ences and snide remarks in interviews. This can be a learning moment for McGregor even attacked Khabib’s bus, all Belmont Hill students: don’t make splitwhich was even used to advertise the fight. second decisions without thinking them After roughly two and a half rounds through. While for Khabib, none of the of excruciating grappling, Khabib finished build-up to the fight was a game, and he took off McGregor with a choke hold. Khabib every comment personally, he still should had to be ripped off of McGregor by an offi- have thought about the repercussions of his cial, and he began yelling indistinguishable actions before jumping out of the octagon. yet noticeably angry words in the direction As a result of his poor behavior in this crucial of his opponent. Khabib then jumped out moment, media sources primarily depicted of the ring and attacked one of McGregor’s Khabib as a menace, largely ignoring the fact jiu-jitsu coaches. One of Khabib’s coach- that he won the fight in dominant fashion. ing staff climbed into the cage and swung Although McGregor may have at an exhausted McGregor, although vid- made some snide remarks beforeeo showed that McGregor swung first. hand, it was ultimately the end of the The whole fight itself was shadowed fight that resonated with viewers. ☐ by Khabib’s unconventional behavior, and By Ben St. Peters ‘19 and Jack Vander Vort ‘19 Panel Staff
The varsity cross country team huddles before the ISL championship race
Ms. Lyman’s Worldly Adventures on The High Seas was still in effect, making it illegal. After which she had gotten to know over the down the Brazilian shoreline, the trip spending two months sailing through the previous year. She then sailed through reached its destination in Illa Bella, a Caribbean, Ms. Lyman had grown accus- Asia, visiting Singapore, Malaysia, and stunning archipelago in Southeastern tomed to the boat life and decided to stay. Thailand. While sailing through Asia, Brazil, the boat’s home port. Over two Many of you may know Ms. Lyman However, she needed to switch boats. She a local volcano exploded, prompting a and a half years, Ms. Lyman lived on as a teacher, a mentor, or even just as a spent ten months on this new boat, which black ash to layer the boat for days. As three boats, visiting a myriad of ecosysnew face around campus. However, few featured a family with two kids. While on the boat’s next stop was the Mediterra- tems and communities across 19 counknow that she spent three years circum- this next leg of her trip, she homeschooled nean sea, it was sent by cargo ship to tries. She appreciated the simplicity of navigating the globe by sailboat: a jour- the two boys, sparking her interest in teach- Turkey where it would be met by the life on a boat, enjoying the “isolated and ney that has had a profound effect on ing. If not for this valuable and enriching crew. They were unable to sail through disconnected atmosphere”. Though melher life. Ms. Lyman grew up sailing and experience, she may have never ended up at the Red Sea due to regional piracy and low, life on board was anything but borwhile at Harvard, she raced competitive- Belmont Hill. After leaving the Galapagos, the Saudi-Yemen conflict. Ms. Lyman ing. When not working on boat upkeep ly for the Varsity Sailing team, securing she spent three weeks traveling through then traveled along Turkey’s coast, on and repairs, Ms. Lyman read, played a national championship all four years. the Pacific, mostly without seeing another to Greece, Sicily, Sardinia, Mallorca, games with her fellow sailor, and, when So, after recently quitting work in boat, before finally arriving at the Marque- Spain, and through the Aegean Sea. close to land, explored, swam and hiked. corporate law, Ms. Lyman sought a new sas Islands. This beautiful recluse, uncor- While the boat traveled across the At- Overall, Ms. Lyman’s journey is one few challenge which eventually led her to rupted by tourism, was Ms. Lyman’s favor- lantic, she returned home and met the will ever experience: a great adventure Blue Planet Odyssey. While dining with ite place of her whole trip due to its natural boat on the tip of Brazil. After sailing that should be an inspiration to us all. ☐ family friends, who were planning to sail beauty and amazing marine wildlife. After around the world, she was informed of that, Ms. Lyman traveled to the Cook Isthis company, Blue Planet Odyssey, which lands, where she spent time among the vilprovides the logistics and organized ac- lagers in rustic and isolated towns, gaintivities for trips of this nature. Immedi- ing important new skills such as catching, ately interested, Ms. Lyman met with the plucking, roasting, and eating sea duck. couple along with their hired captain and She traveled on to Tonga, crossing signed on for a two-month adventure. In the International Date Line, meaning that the winter of 2015, the boat left Key West, she actually skipped a day; “It was nice Florida and traveled to the Galapagos. because we skipped Monday, a day which While sailing, Ms. Lyman’s boat everyone hates -- even on boats, where was accompanied by many other thrill- days don’t really matter”, Ms. Lyman said. seekers who had also signed on with Blue She went to Fiji, Ouatu, Australia, and Planet Odyssey. On the way, they sailed then took a brief hiatus, traveling back through the Panama Canal after stopping home for a few weeks. After returning to at Jamaica and the San Blas Islands. She the group of sea-goers, she switched boats didn’t dare visit Cuba, as the embargo again to a Brazilian ship, the owner of Ms. Lyman pictured above on the ship in Brazil By Chetan Shukla ‘20 Panel Staff
B elmont HIll opinions
Pa g e 1 6
Novemb er 1 9 , 2 0 1 8
Debate of the Issue: Horror vs. Comedy Movies In this issue of The Panel, we are continuing our feature debate between two students in with opposing beliefs. 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 debate--horror vs. comedy movies.
Pro Horror By Kevin O’neill ‘19 Panel Staff Comedy movies are becoming the goto flicks in our society, and while I am all for the easiness and comfort they entail, we need to get out of our comfort zone more often and experience more than just hilarity in the movie theater. Scary movies are like roller coasters: the increasing suspense leads to the moment when all emotions come out, making the whole process worth it. Watching a horror movie is a healthy way of experiencing catharsis, allowing your inner fears to leave the confines of one’s mind, freeing it from worry. Comedies are fairly one-dimensional; sure, there are classics that always induce a good laugh, but there are very few that implement metaphorical cinematic elements the way a movie like Get Out does. The deeper meaning behind each and every detail has significance, whereas, in comedies, there’s often dull plot moments that do not fulfil the goal of the film. Watching a scary movie with others, whether it is in theatres or at home, is an experience that sticks around longer than viewing a comedy does. Witnessing the face or hearing the scream your friend makes after a jump scare will remain with you and maybe even give you a reason to tease them. However, if jump scares aren’t for you, there are still plenty of horror movies to choose from that utilize psychological components that evoke fright just the same, such as The Silence of the Lambs. Next time you and your friends are trying to decide on a movie to watch,
instead of watching Anchorman or Superbad, try Insidious or The Purge. The inexplicable excitement that arises in the midst of the most terrifying moments is a feeling unlike any other in regards to film. If you’re scared of trying something new, turn on the lights, watch in broad daylight, and keep a pet nearby. If you simply prefer comedy, try switching things up instead of watching Mean Girls for the twelfth time- you won’t regret it. ☐
Pro Comedy By Josh Fairman ‘19 Panel Staff To the sensible movie watcher, comedy movies are obviously better than horror movies. For starters, comedy movies make you laugh, and allow all involved to have a good time ( I know … it’s a hot take), while horror movies make you scared. It doesn’t take a genius to realize that laughter is enjoyable and being in a constant sense of
fear, especially while being mocked by one’s peers, simply is not. If I am having a bad week, I am far more likely to watch a comedy on the weekend than a horror movie, just on the basis that the comedy will cheer me up, and a struggling through a horror film risks putting me in an even worse state of mind. In addition, comedy movies are family friendly, free for all to enjoy, and parents are not afraid to take their kids, so long as the rating isn’t too high, to enjoy a theatre showing. On the other hand, any good par-
“It doesn’t take a genius to realize that laughter is enjoyable and being in a constant sense of fear simply is not.” ent is not going to take their infant son or daughter to a horror movie for the simple reason that they don’t want to scar them for life, and rightfully so. Lastly, comedy movies are much better at creating a community than horror movies. I still hear people quoting The Other Guys to this day, and that movie came out in 2010! People don’t just mention that they’ve watched horror movies in casual conversation. No, that is a dark secret that you tell only the people close to you. There is a reason horror movies divide society; you’re a psycho if you want to spend two hours scared out of your pants. ☐
Illustration by Elias Hyde ‘20
Moral Dilemma: Should Ex-cons be Required to Report their Status to Potential Employers? By Charlie Booth ‘20 Panel Staff According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, “An estimated 5.1% of all people in the United States will be confined in a State or Federal prison during their lifetime – 28% of black males.” With such a high incarceration rate, large numbers of Americans leave prison and attempt to re-enter the workforce. As an “ex-con”, they face an unemployment rate of over 27%, seven times the average. A leading reason for this is the requirement that convicted criminals disclose their status to potential employers. This raises two important questions: first, should former prisoners have to report their criminal status to prospective employers and second, should that status play a role in their place in society? These questions stem from another: What is the purpose of prison? There are four widely accepted answers: retribution, incapacity, rehabilitation, and deterrence. Retribution denotes the idea that the state and the victims of a crime can exact revenge on the person who has wronged them. It is simply ‘an eye for an eye’ – you do something wrong and receive a punishment for that action simply because that is the right of the wronged. Whether or not former prisoners have to report their criminal status is up to how you view the retribution. Does your right to retaliate against someone who has done something wrong to you include hurting their future job prospects, or
is the incarceration period itself the entire of a criminal past works directly against the period of retribution? rehabilitation objective. Incapacity simply says that if Deterrence denotes the idea that someone is a criminal, they should be sep- people will be unwilling to commit crimes arated from society so that they can no lon- if they know that a harsh punishment may ger harm others. The period after a prisoner result. By punishing those who commit is released is completely unrelated to the crimes harshly, the government is showing sentence, and one can assume therefore that that such behavior will not be tolerated, and incapacity is not advanced by reporting a so when a would-be criminal is weighing up criminal’s past. the costs and benefits of undertaking an ilRehabilitation is often seen in legal activity, it is more likely that the costs conjunction with incapacity. Incarcerating far outweigh the benefits. In this view, the offenders prodeterrent objecvides the state tive is most cerwith an opportainly advanced tunity to eduas the prospect cate criminals in of the life-long behaviors most disadvantage of likely to allow unemployment the “ex-con” weighs heavito be integratly on the mind ed successfulof the would be ly into society. criminal. Whether or not Of course, American pristhere is no anons do this is swer, because as perhaps debatwith many moral able as reflected dilemmas it rests in high rates of with each perre-offense (reson to decide for cidivism). What themselves what is beyond questhey choose to tion is the fact value. Prisons that the requireserve a complex ment to alert a role in society, future employer Illustration by Elias Hyde ‘20 and that role
can range from revenge for deeds done to helping ‘cure’ individuals of their abhorrent behavior. When thinking through one’s position, one would do well to think about how unemployment is linked to criminal behavior. The idea that you can reduce crime while lessening a convict’s job opportunities is hard to reconcile. With recidivism rates so high, can it be reasonably assumed that, all else being equal, a former prisoner is less likely to be a good employee? Or is it the difficulty in gaining employment that leads to recidivism? Which came first, the chicken or the egg? Either way, should an employer be deprived of information that may lead to a safer and more productive workplace for everyone? Knowing that minority groups are incarcerated at much higher rates, does potentially harming their future job prospects put their children at risk of growing up with fewer opportunities and continuing a cycle of poverty among minority groups? Alternatively, can a case be made that the characteristics of unemployed people and criminals overlap to such an extent - drug addiction, minimal education, unwillingness to work hard over an extended period - that revealing such information would not appreciably change employment opportunities? ☐
Vol. 6 7 , Is su e 4
Be lmont Hill Opinions/A rts
PaPanel ge 17 T he
Assessing Appalling Adolescent Sleep Schedules By Preston Adams ‘20 and Charlie Donahue ‘20 Staff Writers Every morning, Belmont Hill students are painfully reminded of their lack of sleep as they groggily turn off their alarms and look out their window to the night sky. Doctors recommend nine hours of sleep per night on average for high schoolers. This means students need to be asleep between 10 and 10:30pm each night in order to reach the desired amount of time asleep. As most students know, getting to sleep by 10:30pm can be virtually impossible with so many interferences like sports, homework, and family time. For example, a student could get home from school at 5:30-6:00pm, which leaves them about five hours to finish all required tasks. First they may eat dinner and shower which means they wouldn’t begin the homework until close to 7:00pm. With the vast Belmont Hill workload, it is likely they would have a few hours of work which could last until 9:30pm. If this student went to bed immediately after he finished his work then he would be able to get a complete nine hours, but that seems unlikely as most people like to decompress by watching Netflix, Youtube, or whatever sports games are playing. Students tend to shut off the light clos-
er to 11:00pm on most school nights which cuts their sleep time down to 7.5 hours. Over the course of five days, students would be getting less than 7.5 hours of sleep per night, much less than the doctors’ recommendation. If school started later students wouldn’t have to lose this sleep and would be able to perform significantly better in school. Just an hour extra of sleep per night for students would go a long way to improving the school environment. But while starting school later may sound like a good idea on the surface, many problems would arise, and not much sleep would be gained. For one, traffic is considerably worse on Thursday morning (late start), because more drivers are on the road commuting to their jobs, which often start around 9am. Many Thursdays, I do not leave my house much later than I would on any other day, often very frustrated with traffic. Second, students that do not have their license, which is about 75% of the school, rely on their parents to get them to school, and many parents of Belmont Hill students work a 9-5 job. Before I got my license, my dad would drop me off at 7:45, and drive twenty-five minutes to work, arriving there in plenty of time. However, in this new system, my dad would have dropped me off at 8:45am, causing him to show up late to work every day. He would need to drop me
off about 30 minutes before school started every day, just to barely get to work on time. Although this next issue would only arise in the fall, it is still a possible downside. Assuming school started one hour later, we would finish one hour later, subsequently pushing practices one hour later. Therefore, the practice time of the Varsity Football team would be limited greatly by daylight. And if you cut out 2:15, fewer clubs will be able to meet, and students would have more work when they get home. Speaking from experience, I think I can stay up much later
on Wednesday nights, and not be tired, because it is late start. If I had that mentality every night, I would constantly be up later than I should be. And the next morning I would not get as much sleep to accommodate for my dad’s work schedule, or for the brutal traffic. Furthermore, as many know it is very depressing driving home every night in the pitch black. As much as students pine for later starts, there are only so many hours in the day, and any time we gain in the morning we inevitably lose in the night. ☐
Sleep-deprived student rests after strenuous day of studies (Photo By Abe Tolkoff ‘21)
The Panel Crossword: November 2018 The Panel Crossword includes hints whose answers can be found in Belmont Hill articles across the issue. Belmont Hill students should fill out the crossword on a paper copy. The first boy to complete the crossword will receive a gift card.
Across
1. Nobles Dining Service 5. State which held the Cross Country New England Championships 6. Sport Mr. Duarte is "passionate" about 7. Position Justin O'Neil-Riley is most comfortable with 9. Third club named as impactful by Matt Smith
Down
2. Where Ms. Lyman's boat left from 3. ISL School that spends money most per meal 4. Justification for prison that calls for an Eye for an Eye 5. Name of islands where Ms. Lyman ate sea duck 8. XC runner who finished a race barefoot
Artist of the Issue: Andrew Herrera ’19 By Jack Weldon ‘20 Panel Staff Andrew Herrera, a current senior at Belmont Hill, has pursued a passion for music since the fourth grade. When his elementary school hosted a showcase of string instruments, Andrew picked up the cello and learned to play. The next year, Andrew decided to leave the strings behind and began to learn the Alto Saxophone, which he practiced until arriving at Belmont Hill. Today, Andrew serves as both a Baritone Saxophonist and the President of the Upper School Jazz Ensemble. As one of his class periods is designated to jazz, Andrew practices for 40 minutes three days of the week, and 75 minutes one day per week. On the weekends, Andrew usually practices for around fifteen minutes, but the bulk of his practice takes place at school. As for what drives him, Andrew enjoys the satisfaction that comes with being able to juggle sports, ac-
ademics, and the saxophone all at the same time. Furthermore, Andrew finds playing the saxophone a relaxing experience and a welcome opportunity after a stressful day at school. Surrounded by his friends in the band, Andrew enjoys “releasing all [his] stress and thoughts through the horn.” He loves performing at Belmont Hill, as they always draw a supportive audience, and they are led by a great teacher in Mr. Fiori. As for his future plans, Andrew does not believe that he will play in a professional band in college. Despite this, he plans to keep up with his playing either through a club or his own practice. Playing jazz has drawn out a newfound appreciation for music and its artists, and Andrew is interested in a deeper study of both. Andrew firmly believes that music and playing instruments have been a valuable part of his life, and, knowing that he could have easily quit before arriving at Belmont Hill, he is glad that he has stuck with it and conAndrew Herrera ’19 has played the saxophone since fourth grade (Photo by Abe Tolkoff) tinues to play today. ☐
Belmont Hill Arts
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Novemb er 1 9 , 2 0 1 8
Album Review: Tha Carter V
“Why do I look up and see my feet? Am I rising? But why do my peak look like it’s out of my reach?” These lines imply that As most of you know, Lil Wayne his legal tribulations have resulted in an dropped his long-awaited album Tha Carter apparent downfall, but also, on a more V on Friday, September 28th. In 2015, the auspicious note, that he does not believe rapper sued Cash Money Records for $51 he has reached the pinnacle of his career million on the grounds that they violated yet. In fact, the song title mentions the their contract with him by continually de- mourning Lil Wayne is in need of Vilaying the release of Tha Carter V, and he sine eye drops, for he simply cannot behas battled them in court ever since. In ear- lieve the eyes through which he witnesses ly June 2018, though, Wayne and his label all the mayhem occurring around him. settled their dispute, thus allowing him to Later in the song, he sings, “Cut off the move on with his project. Five years after his wings now I’m soaring,” which makes you last album, the unimpeded Dwayne Michael question his mental health, for it seems Carter Jr. successfully released Tha Carter V. counter-intuitive at first glance, but he Throughout this arduous path, Lil may actually be referencing Birdman, the Wayne inevitably lost some attention in co-founder of Cash Money Records, in the ever-changing rap game. He surfaced an oppressive light. The two famous rapin several features of popular songs, most pers have been personal and professional notably on Chance the Rapper’s No Prob- friends for many years, but this amiabillem in 2016 and Kodak Black’s Codeine ity quickly faded once Wayne revealed Dreaming in 2017, but, in the end, he still that Birdman greatly contributed to his played second fiddle. However, in early poor relations with the label. Although 2018, Dwayne gave us a strong, but unfor- “Vizine” never came close to portraying tunately overlooked, reminder of his pres- Dwayne as having liberated himself from ence: a number of remixes compiled into his restrictive parent organization, the his Dedication 6 album and “Vizine”, a sin- song still served as a comforting indicagle on the clothing brand Ethika’s mixtape. tion that he has retained the ability to creI especially loved the latter, in which Wayne ate great music. The single only increased opened up about personal issues in beauti- the already brimming excitement for Tha fully refined verses. A great example of this Carter V and Lil Wayne finally answered appears in a portion of the chorus, reading: his fans’ prayers on September 28th. ☐ By Jake Pappo ‘20 Staff Writer
Best Feature: Kendrick Lamar on “Mona Lisa”
Best Song: “Let It All Work Out”
I first listened to Tha Carter V while duced the lyrics from a place hidden deep I drove to school, and Lil Wayne nearly within him. Lil Wayne deliberately conbrought me to tears every time his trade- trasts the first and last verses through paralmark lighter-flick blessed my ears. I quick- lelism at their beginnings. The first lines of This should not come as a surprise cious background. Towards the end of the ly favored a handful of songs over others, the introductory verse read, “Tunechi, you a since Kendrick Lamar has already earned verse, Kendrick completely transitions to yet “Let It All Work Out” was not among genius/Looked in the mirror said ‘Don’t let his place at the top of the rap game and the role of the swindled man and begins them. Humbly placed in the twenty-third the money come between us’”, while those continues to bring great verses whether to grow skeptical of his girlfriend’s rela- spot of the twenty-three track album, this of the last verse read, “Tunechi, you a monin his own songs or as a feature. “Mona tion with Lil Wayne. Her refusal to budge song did not stand out at first. After going ster/Looked in the mirror but you wasn’t Lisa” tells a well-written story, performed drowns him in sadness, emphasized by through Tha Carter V several more times, there, I couldn’t find ya.” The former reflects by two of the best “storytellers”. Lil Wayne Kendrick’s changing voice, and the song though, I realized that Wayne transcended his optimistic view of his great success over guides the listener through a stick-up tac- ends with his suicide. Notably, at 3:40 his facades of materialism and machismo, the years and shows that he tries to remain tic, presumably led by him, in which a girl he sings, “In a minute he gon’ be admit- which have defined the rap genre since humble despite his affluent life. On the makes the acquaintance of a man then tin’ that he love her on his mother”, then its inception, in arguably his most emo- contrary, the latter verse holds a more peslets her co-conspirators into his house to exactly one minute later at 4:40 he sings, tional song to date: “Let It All Work Out”. simistic, and perhaps realistic, view on the steal valuables. Kendrick Lamar comes in “Tell me who love you I bet I love harder.” Lil Wayne proves that he needs detrimental effects of Wayne’s rise to fame. abruptly and proceeds to rap the begin- Not only does Kendrick deliver fantastic no bass-boosted beat or popularly fea- He seems to believe that some of his characning of his verse in an appealing choppy lines, but his incredibly subtle attention tured artist to make a sensational and ter has indeed been drowned by the stacks flow as he describes the relationship at the to detail only reinforces his greatness. ☐ powerful track. In fact, by stripping away of green paper and that he has lost himsurface without acknowledging the malifrom as many auxiliary aspects as possible, self in his obtainment of celebrity status. he let the flow of his words take control, The last part of the final verse resulting in a more genuine experience. serves as the direct source of Dwayne’s raw The uplifting rhythm of the piano quickly emotion, for he reveals the truth behind In “Uproar”, Swizz Beatz produced takes a vintage beat and adds some mod- captures the listener’s attention and sets the enigmatic self-inflicted gunshot wound a catchy remix of G-Dep’s “Special Deliv- ern touches to it, such as the amplified the tone, then completely gives way to an of his childhood. It is well known that he ery” (2001), and Lil Wayne developed the bass and sporadic pauses that compli- equally simple type beat that facilitates almost died at 12 years old after finding a rhythm through his lyrics. The “Uproar ment Lil Wayne’s flow. The song itself, the beginning of Wayne’s verse. He men- handgun in his house; however, the speChallenge” rose to popularity for a reason: along with “Used 2”, serves as a reminder tions the retainment of his independence cific details have been purposefully kept it’s a good beat. Zaytoven’s iconic style can that Dwayne can still take it back to his despite critics, singing “I feel like I got ten secret. In “Used 2”, even Dwayne’s mother be recognized in “Problems”, but it cannot hardcore rap roots with expertise. ☐ middle fingers”, and notes his superior admitted, “I still don’t know today- Was quite match up to that of “Uproar”, which authenticity in comparison to other rap- he playing with the gun or was it an accipers. Nevertheless, he acknowledges the dent?” Aside from subtle and inconclusive humbling effect of his long career: “Had to hints given throughout his many songs swallow my pride, though, swear it tastes over the years, Lil Wayne has remained Tha Carter V stands out among Lil Although rappers such as Lil Pump, Lil like spearmint.” As the song title implies, silent about the topic to virtually everyWayne’s other albums because of all the Xan, Lil Skies, and Lil Uzi indeed emulate Lil Wayne heeds the advice of taking a one up until now. He recalls the traumatic emotion packed into it. For the most part, Lil Wayne, they do not compare in re- more passive approach to problems in his event in “Let It All Work Out” with such his smoother and calmer flow greatly com- gards to lyricism and subject matter. Ad- life as opposed to dismally dwelling on precision that one might think it happened pliments his sincere lyrics. Though he could mittedly, Lil Wayne often sings about the them. The second verse continues the pos- very recently. Dwayne paints a beautifully not release it for years, the amount of time numerous ways in which he experiences itive mood of the first, with Wayne reflect- dreadful picture with his paintbrush of lyriand effort that went into his work is clearly women or drugs; however, his style and ing on his prosperous life. As a veteran cism and strokes of genius. evident. Lil Wayne has been credited by content have grown with him through- in the rap game, he gives a series of short This encapsulates the distinguishable many for birthing the era of “Soundcloud out his career, to the point where most pieces of advice, including “beat odds, characteristics of Tha Carter V, for Wayne rappers” since they followed his lead by “Soundcloud rappers” cannot remotely never beat women”. Though this may seem dives into disturbing parts of his childhood inking their faces and mimicking his music. relate. This does not mean that he has glaringly obvious, unfortunately, a num- that hold great meaning to him, an uncomWhether through a direct admiration for turned completely sentimental, for the al- ber of younger rappers have been accused mon theme in rap, yet incredibly powerful him or through the impact he had on the bum also reflects his ability to successfully of domestic violence, and they would nonetheless. In the last two lines, he claims rap scene as a whole, Lil Wayne undeniably write a diverse group of songs. The versa- take much from following his sound that God made him both a “prophet”, a messhaped the future of the rap genre. In fact, tile subject matter changes from violent morals, not just the sound of his music. senger of his divine word, and also a “profhis song “Dedicate” addresses his effect on and boastful to romantic and thoughtful In the third and final verse, it”, by investing in the 12-year-old’s survival younger peers, and even Eminem, one of to sad and confused, yet his ever poetic Dwayne Carter opens up to the world and successful future. Lil Wayne draws hope the greatest and most influential hip-hop language binds these meaningful themes with a heartfelt ballad of despair and from the dregs of his anguish, while masterartists of all time, noted the precedent set together into a masterly crafted album. ☐ hope. For this perfect conclusion to the fully making use of the double entendre. ☐ by Dwayne in Eminem’s album Kamikaze. song, and to the entire album, he pro-
Best Beat: “Uproar”
Overall Review
Belmont Hill Arts
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Playlist of the Issue: November 2018 Get the full playlist on Spotify - @bhpanel
Playlist of the Issue:
November 2018
Since its first appearance in The Panel almost two years ago, “The Playlist of the Issue” has become a customary article for the print publication. Not only does it provide a great opportunity for Panel staffers to write about their favorite songs, but it also exposes Belmont Hill students to new music genres. For those reading The Panel for the first time, “The Playlist of the Issue” features two authors who each pick five songs which they feel deserve recognition and write about them. For the 2018-2019 school year, Matt ‘Goot’ Goguen ‘19 and Matt ‘Smoot’ Smith ‘19 will continue to curate “The Playlist of the Issue.”
SMOOT
GOOT
"Higher" - Social House
"Saturday Nights" - Khalid
After the viral popularity of their first song, “Magic In The Hamptons,” many may have expected that the recentlyformed duo Social House were destined to be one-hit wonders. The release of “Higher” shattered those expectations and showed the world that Social House isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Though the success of the new hit is still dwarfed by its predecessor, it has the makings of an equally upbeat party anthem. “Higher” also expands Social House’s repertoire with a grunge feel that contrasts with “Magic In The Hamptons”s playful vibes, a change which may attract new fans to the up and coming artists’ base.
About two weeks ago Khalid dropped Suncity Vertigo, an EP that was anticipated to be on the same level as American Teen. Although the song choices on his album were suspect and a few of the better songs were previously released as singles, Khalid continues his R&B/Soul dominance with “Saturday Nights.” His angel-like voice echoes throughout this song as Khalid, once again, drops an emotional track that leaves us all weeping.
"You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch" - Tyler, The Creator
"REEL IT IN" - Aminé
Say hello to the new and improved “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch.” I know it's probably only been a couple days since you put those fake spiders in the attic and brought your rotting pumpkin to the dump, but I can’t contain my excitement for Tyler, the Creator’s take on the Christmas classic. Tyler produced the song for the 2018 remake of Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch, set to release on November 9. Mixing hiphop with classic lyrics, the rapper hits the mark and delivers much-needed variety to the cheery overdose of holiday music that’ll surely dominate the radio waves once Thanksgiving rolls around.
"Written In The Stars"- John Legend, WENDY “Written In The Stars” will pull at your heartstrings. A collab between John Legend and K-pop star WENDY, the love ballad blends their extraordinary vocals in perfect harmony. Focusing primarily on destined love and love at first sight, it includes such touching lyrics as “I know there is no limit where we’ll go” and “First time we met, but I remembered you.” The romantic mood which the song sets is further strengthened by the soothing guitar accompaniment in the background.
"We Built This City" - Starship “We Built This City” topped music magazine Blender’s “50 Most Awesomely Bad Songs Ever” list in 2004 and Rolling Stone readers voted it the worst song of the ‘80s by a landslide. But the haters won’t stop me from loving its buoyant beats and nonsensical lyrics (my personal favorite is “hoopla”). Genius’ Behind the Lyrics on Spotify states, “It takes real bravery to admit liking ‘We Built This City.’” I’ll take that as a compliment, because I’m proud to say that every time the chorus roars on my car radio, I’m screaming “broken bones” right along with it.
To be honest, I’m not the biggest fan of Aminé. While he has some very good songs, his other tracks are pretty bland and don’t offer that emotional appeal some listeners look for. However, this song currently is on my hot list as the beat simply slaps. Aminé is a gifted rapper who has the ability to release unequivocally good beats and sometimes offer an emotional piece to his songs. Although “REEL IT IN” doesn’t offer as much emotion, the song is still heat.
"Balenciaga Challenge" - 6LACK 6LACK recently released his latest album, East Atlanta Love Letter, in Fall 2018, and the album does not disappoint whatsoever. I currently have this album on repeat; 6LACK is on the rise and one of the more underrated artists today. With Offset’s feature which offers a different beat, “Balenciaga Challenge” combines 6LACK’s R&B talent with Offset’s rap beats and creates one of the hottest R&B songs of 2018.
"Only the Good Die Young" - Billy Joel Talk about a throwback. Released in 1977, “Only the Good Die Young” is one of the handful of classics that legend Billy Joel has created during his storied career. Joel’s talent on the piano combined with his soothing New York voice will go down as one of the more iconic combinations in musical history. “Only the Good Die Young” can be used in any situation; it’s an uplifting song, a sad song, or a song to listen to while doing homework. Billy Joel has a soft spot in my heart, and this song is definitely in my top 5 all-time.
"Famous" - Lil Wayne, Reginae Carter
"Astronauts" - Juice WRLD and Future
It’s finally here. After five years since his last album release, a period which was marked by personal and professional turmoil, Lil Wayne is back to remind why he is one of the greats. In “Famous,” he celebrates his success over the past two decades with the help of his daughter Reginae Carter. The song evokes mixed emotions for listeners, both a joy to hear another verse from Wayne and a yearning for the rapper’s prime, which has long since passed. Weezy sums it up best: “You probably thought my career be short and sweet….Superstars don’t sparkle. We shine deep.”
I am a huge fan of Juice WRLD’s work, but I don’t love Future’s albums. However, Future & Juice WRLD’s World on Drugs is one of my favorite albums of 2018. I try to stray away from this style of music, but “Astronauts” is a very good song where Future’s talent surprises me. Juice WRLD is solid as always, and this combination could appear again down the road. Juice WRLD is taking the musical world by storm and is quietly becoming one of my favorite artists.
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Fake Sox Fans Emerge By Julie Wilson ‘19 Panel Staff
It’s the Monday morning after the 2018 World Series, and you roll out of the house in the Red Sox hoodie you stole from your brother’s closet, hoping to look at least a little patriotic during the parade later that day. Honestly, you’re only going to that parade in the first place because your friends said they wanted to go or because you wanted to skip class. It’s not that you aren’t excited about the Red Sox win; you could just go without the inevitable entrapment within a gelatinous throng of drunk white adults. But, regardless, you step off campus around 10:25, following the endless line of Winsor girls through the perpetual traffic of the Fenway neighborhood. As you blend in with the crowd, and your eyes adjust to the sea of blue and red, you start wondering (rather hypocritically) how many of these people are actually Red Sox fans. Even your own friends seem more interested in taking pictures with each other than watching the floats go by–not that you can blame them; you can’t really see the floats from your angle, anyway. That night, on your commute home, You shut off your phone, not suryou open up Instagram and start to click through people’s stories, hoping to see prised, not mad, just disappointed. Indeed, something–anything–interesting. But in- on occasion, you imagine not being from stead, all you see is the same three gifs of Boston. You imagine living somewhere Mookie Betts superimposed atop a Google where people don’t pretend to like sports image of Fenway Park. Hopes irreparably because it’s cool and trendy. You imagine dashed, you sigh and move onto the Insta- seeing an Instagram that isn’t five miles’ gram posts themselves, expecting further worth of the same content. But deep down, boredom and discontent. Alas, your expec- you know those are dreams that will never tation is correct. No matter how far down come to fruition. With a sigh of resignation, you zip up you scroll, no matter how much you force yourself to drag your thumb across the in- your Red Sox hoodie so that everyone on creasingly hot screen, you see a variation of the T can see where your affinity lies–if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. ☐ these two posts:
www.cookandsonbats.com
T he Panel
UTL Teacher Tweets
Although we believe that these tweets are true to the inner spirits of the teachers, we regret to inform our readers that the following were composed by the Backpage Editors.
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