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Volume 67, Issue 5
Non Profit Org. Non Profit Org. U.S. Postage Permit U.S. Postage Permit#58555 #58555 Boston, MAMA Boston, PAIDPAID
A Student Publication of the Belmont Hill School
December 13, 2018
ENERGIZED ENTREPRENEUR Page 3
Look Inside The Panel
News 4
Jack McNamara '09 Named "Alumnus of the Issue"
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Inside 3 Alumnus News of the Issue 3
One Year Out: Mr. Duarte 3 Doc Fast Writes Book 4 Dr. Davis Writes textbook 4
5 Athlete Sports of the Issue 5
Football Team Comparison 5 Trying New Sports 6
7 Affirmative Opinions Action 7
Varsity Managers 7 Debate of the Issue 8 Moral Dilemma 8 Good Chapels 9 Prioritizing Seniors 9
10Artist Arts of the Issue 10
Arts Participation 11 Playlist of the Issue 11
belmont hill Summary
In Brief
Football Team Comparison
What Makes a Good Chapel
After a bowl-winning season for the varsity Halfway through the 2018-2019 academic football team, the Panel analyzes the similari- year, junior Jack Weldon reflects on this year’s ties and differences between the 2016 and 2018 chapels to date. Jack also elaborates on the makAlumnus of the Issue teams. While the 2016 squad was characterized ings of a quality chapel and which factors cause a After playing professional hockey overseas, by intense competition, the 2018 squad enjoyed a chapel to come up short. Jack McNamara (‘09) has found entrepreneurial more amicable atmosphere. success developing his energy drink, Tru Energy. Seniors in Varsity Tryouts Seniors Branching Out Jackson Riffe (‘20) discusses the try-out One Year Out Will LaFarge (‘19) urges Seniors to try out process for varsity teams, focusing on whether Charlie Booth (‘20) checks in with Mr. Du- new sports in their final year on the Hill instead Seniors should be offered preferential treatment arte after one year on the Hill. Already a cornerof taking the easy route in weight training. over underclassmen. stone of the Arts Department, Mr. Duarte has quickly made himself a familiar face. Affirmative Action and Harvard Artist of the Issue As Early Action decisions roll in, Julian Liam Durbin (‘19) reflects on his time in Doc Fast Writes Compendium Wambach (‘19) reflects on the current lawsuit Belmont Hill’s woodworking program. Liam disAfter 30 years of teaching English at Belmont levied against Harvard Admissions. cusses a number of his favorite projects, offers an Hill, Doc Fast has put his expertise into practice. update on his involvement, and projects where he A Shakespeare enthusiast, Doc has crafted his Sorry Managers will go from here. own Shakespeare compendium. While both managers and athletes receive Declining Participations in Arts varsity letters, Matthew Smith questions if both Andrew Lee (‘20) meets with Mr. Kaplan Dr. Davis Revamps History Course deserve commensurate recognition for their conand Brother Patterson to analyze declining parAfter playing professional hockey overseas, tributions. ticipation in Belmont Hill’s Arts Department and Jack McNamara (‘09) has found entrepreneurial what will be done moving forward. success, developing his own energy drink, Tru EnDebate of the Issue ergy. Jack has also stayed connected to Belmont As the Holidays near, Kevin O’Neill (‘19) Hill, coaching the JV Tennis team in recent years. and Josh Fairman (‘19) debate the merits of timePlaylist of the Issue “Smoot ‘n’ Goot” (Matt Smith (‘19) and Matt less classics Home Alone and Elf. Athlete of the Issue Goguen (‘19)), with help from guest contributors, Entering his fourth year on the varsity Moral Dilemma Seniors Nick Daley and Kevin O’Neill, lay out wrestling team, senior Luca Pontone anticipates Reflecting on the California wildfires, Char- their favorite tunes, featuring everything from a banner season and looks ahead to a wrestling lie Booth (‘20) comments on Pascal’s wager in this current rap songs to a 1970s hit and some Christcareer at Princeton University. issue’s moral dilemma. mas classics.
Campus Candids Photos by Abe Tolkoff ‘21
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Alumnus of the Issue: Jack McNamara ‘09
After graduating in 2009, Jack traveled to tasting, nutritional solutions to everyday driving his company towards greatness. Sweden, where he played in the country’s needs. To begin the process, Jack moved Through mid-2018, Jack has developed top junior league for two years. Two of to New York City where he participated Tru using a budget of only ~$120k from Born in 1990, Jack McNamara ‘09 his teammates ended up competing in the in two startup accelerators, Startup52 and investment, an outstanding achievehas led a rich and eventful life fea- NHL. Back in the States, he played colle- Food-X, and received his first investment. ment in the industry. Across those three turing professional hockey, coach- giate hockey at Colgate for two years, leav- Jack knew starting his company would years, Jack refused to pay himself in an ing tennis, and most importantly, the ing (with just a backpack and his hockey be extremely difficult, especially since effort to aid the company, as he babysat founding and management of a burand coached tennis to support himself. geoning functional beverage brand, Tru. Tru’s story has been featured in Forbes, Jack joined Belmont Hill as a 7th grader Fortune, HuffPost, Bevnet, and Entrein 2003 and graduated with 3 years of preneur, among other notable publicaVarsity hockey under his belt in 2009. In tions. By 2018, this product has landed hindsight, Jack recounts his time at Belin 750 stores and ~250 vending machines mont Hill as one of the most profound across the nation. Tru has ended the year in his life so far. Although he still claims closing a $567,000 seed round from 26 that the Form I workload was harder than investors, many of them being Belmont college, Jack believes that the life lessons Hill alumni. Jack brought on a Chief Ophe learned on the Hill have aided him erating Officer and is in the process of in all his ambitions since. His time in launching 5 new functional beverages. school taught him that life rewards those While Jack spent the last three years fowho work hard and refuse shortcuts. cusing on TruEnergy, he has learned the Furthermore, Jack believes that Belmont industry inside and out. These new Stock Hill holds the greatest network of Alums Keeping Units, or products, will be Focus, in Boston. After starting his company, Jack Detox, Sleep, Power, and CBD. With these sent numerous hand-written letters to his 5 new products in the pipeline, Tru is at fellow alums and not once was he denied. a tipping point. Jack believes, rightfully Belmont Hill alumni remain a family, so, that once these products are released, whether you graduated in 1970 or 2014, Belmont Hill Alumni Jack McNamara ‘09 promotes his beverage brand “Tru” Tru will take the industry by storm. Jack and this family cares for each other, with equipment) to pursue his hockey career in 5-Hour Energy, a billion dollar company, is also currently editing a ten-part docua sense of togetherness, unlike any other Denmark, where he joined a professional held a monopoly over most of the market. mentary which reveals the process behind school. As Jack reminisces about his time team. While competing at the profes- However, Jack persevered: “I have always developing a company. Overall, Jack attrion the Hill, he asserted “To this day, my sional level, Jack found time to attend the believed that if you work smart and avoid butes much of his success to his groundbest friends were made on the Hill while Copenhagen School of Entrepreneurship. distractions while driving towards a pas- ed and motivated work ethic, which he its business network continues to pay Here he began working on a beverage bot- sion, then success is the only outcome”. learned at Belmont Hill. Jack genuinely massive dividends.” Although Jack went tle concept called Kickstick, which later After incorporating Tru Inc. in September believes in the phrase Carpe Diem (Seize on to play professional hockey across Eu- became Tru. From 2012-14, Jack played of 2015, Jack moved into a gym where he the Day) as he aims to grasp every oprope, he asserts that the group of Belmont in the top leagues of Denmark, Slovakia, built Tru with a limited budget. On May portunity that comes his way. Whether Hill guys he competed with during his and Norway while also earning his col- 9th, 2018, Jack pitched “Tru” to a group it was leaving his college scholarship to sophomore year were the greatest of his lege degree. He had transferred to Boston of investors, including former NASCAR pursue his dream or living in a gym to career. Featuring immense camaraderie, College, where he was able to complete driver Danica Patrick, on a show called build his company, Jack’s entire essence extremely skilled individuals, and a sense his college education over the summers. Elevator Entrepreneur Pitch. On the ex- is determined to succeed. In his closing of unity, this team won the ISL and made it While playing professionally, Jack realized perience, Jack stated, “Despite getting remarks, Jack spoke on this unmatched to New England finals. According to Jack: that sugary sports drinks and unhealthy shut down by a world-famous athlete on resolve: “I do not look in the past, nor do “Some would say that it was just lucky to energy shots had flooded locker-rooms. a video that got over 1M views, the pitch I look in the future. I put my head down have a group of guys so close willing to Grasping the magnitude of this issue, Jack is something I am extremely proud that and grind so that I can go to bed and sleep do anything for one another; however, I planned to solve it: “Instead of waiting for I attempted.” In 2015, Jack initiated Tru’s easy... then I wake up and do it again.” ☐ know Belmont Hill breeds this mentality the solution to come, I decided to build Kickstarter campaign, which established and that, in my opinion, is what makes it myself.” Jack’s ultimate goal is to be- a genuine proof of concept for the comit the greatest high school in America.” come the world’s leading provider of great pany and motivated Jack to continue By Chetan Shukla ‘ Panel Staff
One Year Out: Mr. Duarte, Belmont Hill’s Prized Photographer By: Charlie Booth ‘ Panel Staff It is a testament to Mr. Duarte’s influence on the Belmont Hill Community that no one can believe that he has only been at Belmont Hill for a year. For the very few that don’t know him, he is a leading figure in Belmont Hill Arts with a special gift for photography. You can almost always find him in the arts building developing film or offering his expertise to his Photography and Digital Video classes. Naturally, I asked Mr. Duarte how he felt about his first year at Belmont Hill and what were the best and worst things. He especially enjoys encouraging the boys to take risks and to “think outside the box.” Students easily forget that faculty members derive great satisfaction from engaging with students willing to stretch themselves artistically and intellectually. Mr. Duarte likes nothing better than to enjoy the “look on a boy’s face when a print emerges from the developing tray.” Like so many others, Mr. Duarte chooses to punt the question of the worst thing at Belmont Hill. I think teachers declining to answer this question should be rewarded with a fictitious answer of the Panel’s choosing. So, Mr Duarte - “What is the most surprising thing about your first year at Belmont Hill”? “The most surprising element of my experience boils down to risk. I’ve enjoyed getting to know some great boys so far and what so many of them have in common is their willingness to take a risk The risk in how they define themselves is an ef-
fort to recognize the importance of being ment and misplaced self-confidence he felt “If given the opportunity what a multifaceted individual. I’ve enjoyed strapping on pads. Sixty minutes of hock- would you change about the school”? watching members of my Form III hockey ey preceded six days of limping to class. “As many of the boys on campus know team act in a play, throw clay blindfolded, “How did your expectations I am a pretty passionate golfer. I’ve had and capture an amazing photograph of for Belmont Hill compare to reality”? numerous conversations with students retheir grandfather and the power in gifting “I had the privilege of knowing a former garding their love of the game and their him a print of that memory. Belmont Hill faculty member, Whitey Morange, who willingness to put the effort forward to strengthen their skills. I’d like to see the game expanded here at school with either a middle school or JV team offered as a means of providing students with the experience of competitive golf in order to better prepare those with varsity level aspirations.” Mr Duarte is a nice guy – boys like him and it is easy to see why. I hope he stays here on the Hill for many years to come and even though Mr. Duarte compeltely absorbed in his passion for photography as he examines film (Photo by Abe Tolkoff ‘21) many describe him boys fight the urge to define themselves played a huge role in my life as a teacher as “chill”, he takes his job very seriously. in a single box and that’s simply amazing”. and as a photographer. He spoke so pas- Mr. Duarte’s teaching ability breaks down As with many one-on-one interactions sionately about his time with the boys the wall between work and play, showing with faculty, it is revealing how much fun here and I was elated that I would contin- his students and everyone at Belmont Hill they have hanging out with a bunch of ue the tradition of analog darkroom pho- that you can do both simultaneously. ☐ teenage boys. Mr. Duarte recalls with some tography at Belmont Hill. Given all of our hilarity the misguided belief that at thirty- conversations regarding the school, I am something, he would be able to hang with pleased that my expectations of the school the JV Hockey team. He recalls the excite- and its many traditions were happily met”.
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Doc Fast Writes Compendium of Materials for Teaching Shakespeare
books. He’d show us around for a few hours cation in Shakespeare as well, twice attend- in my head and make sure I didn’t forget to and Jutzi would explain everything. They ing the University of Cambridge’s Summer address or add anything, or do something had a special binary to repair old texts. That Shakespeare School in 1996 and 1998, as I had already done a previous day,” he said. This past summer, Belmont Hill’s library has the largest collection of Corto- well as studying at Exeter College, Oxford. At this point, the compendium was 744 Doc Fast embarked on the ambitious project editions of Shakespeare on the planet. This In the past, Doc has designed a num- pages and was broken into two volumes. of creating a compendium of materials for guy Huntington had made money on real ber of courses, including the “Faulkner Doc’s passion for reading, studying, teaching a number of Shakespeare’s plays. estate in the early [19]20s and sent his man and the Southern Tradition” course for and teaching Shakespeare have been apparThis work, which marks the culmination in England to buy up private libraries from juniors, and “The Search for Faith” for se- ent throughout the time I have spent with of 47 years and counting teaching Shake- lords who were strapped for cash. They got a niors, and for each he has created com- him. His excitement for the material comspeare courses, spans over 700 pages and lot of really rare books from that,” Doc says. pendiums. Therefore, the decision to do pelled Doc to labor for upwards of 10 hours two volumes. This compendium reflects After 15 years at the Webb School, the same for the Shakespeare course was each day for about a month, and throughout Doc’s impressive background in the subject; Doc moved East to begin a new job as the a natural one. Ever since the introduction the process, Doc inserted some of his own arShakespeare studies have been a journey of eas of interest into the compendium. “There their own for him throughout his life. A is a great cohesiveness in a play like Macbeth graduate of Oberlin College, Doc took only that I find fascinating. In the beginning, the one formal course on Shakespeare during witches say, ‘fair is foul and foul is fair,’ and his undergraduate years, suggesting that then later on Macbeth himself comes and the majority of his extensive knowledge on says, ‘so foul and fair a day I have not seen.’ the subject has been self taught. Following He did not hear the witches say that, they are college, he joined the Peace Corps, which his own thoughts, yet the language is cohetook him to Aquinas University in Legazpi sive with regard to the description which is City, in the Philippines. There, he taught a by design on Shakespeare’s part. Allusions Shakespeare course to 55 young adults, one and reality are always blurred, too, in Shakeof whom, he recounts, was a Jesuit Priest. In speare, which is fun to discuss. Also, there the ensuing years, he completed a Masters’ are fun questions I always ask the guys. For Degree Program in Toronto, and, afterwards, example, I have often asked ‘is Lady Maca PhD in Stratford, England at the ShakeBeth an alcoholic?’ I don’t think she is, but speare Institute. “I have always regarded the language may suggests it, for example the Shakespeare Institute as the ‘Mecca’ for when she says to Macbeth, ‘Hie thee hither Shakespeare studies,” Doc says. While there, that I may pour my spirits in thine ear and he studied alongside many of the more prechastise with the valor of my tongue.’ It aleminent scholars of the subject in the enways gets a fun reaction,” Doc explained. tire world. His supervisor, Stanley Wells, The Cover of Doc Fast’s Compendium, Entitled Shakespeare Backstory (Abe Tolkoff ‘21) Upon completion of the current version of edited The Oxford Shakespeare, a number English Department Chair at Belmont Hill. of computers at the school, Doc had been the compendium, Doc turned it into a PDF of editions of Shakespeare compiled by the Here, he started his Shakespeare course compiling documents and files for teach- file and shared it with his colleagues in the Oxford University Press. Doc also struck a again, this time teaching a semester-long ing and reading each specific play. Every English department. So far he has gotten friendship with T.J.B. Spenser, the program’s elective for seniors. Throughout his 31 years year, when teaching, he undoubtedly would positive feedback from them as well as othdirector and the general editor of the New teaching here, Doc has reworked the course come across something new and interest- ers. Doc’s friend Charles Mosley, who he Penguin Shakespeare Series. Throughout a number of times. The material has evolved ing he wanted to address in the following met at the Cambridge Summer School and his work there, Doc frequently met with to meet the specific needs and interests of who twice came to Belmont Hill as a visiting these esteemed scholars who guided him in each class, as have some of the major points “By the time we get there, the lecturer for a week, suggested Doc attempt his dissertation writing process. During my of focus. Doc explained, “Over the years to get his amazing work published. Ever the sit down with him, Doc opened the cover things change. I kept building my reper- guys have the resources. They perfectionist, Doc explained that this is his of an edition of Henry IV and pointed to a toire of things to do and plays to address and know how to think, and how to ultimate goal, however he thinks it needs approach the play.” number of editors’ names contained within. ideas about how to teach the course. That more revising before he reaches that stage. “One way or another, all these editors were has changed a lot. In the last 10 or 15 years “Even this semester I keep thinking of things connected to the Shakespeare Institute,” he I’ve changed the way in which I’ve taught the year, and he dutifully added them to a table I want to add or amend as I’m teaching,” said with his trademark excitement. Upon course, specifically the order of address. I de- in his computer. Over the years, the table he said. “Somehow or other I’d like to get completion of his PhD, Doc traveled to cided that I liked so many bits and pieces and expanded tremendously. “This past sum- it published, and things with Shakespeare’s California to begin his teaching career. didn’t want to give up any plays. My solution: mer I was on what’s called a summer sab- name on the cover tend to get published and “Upon return from England, I I culled the ‘juicy bits’ out of many different batical, during which you are expected to do well, but I’m not sure when I’m going to landed in an independent school, The Webb plays and used those to start the course each do something related to the courses you be able to sit down and work for extended School, in Claremont, CA, where I started new semester. Regarding these bits, I used teach. I spoke to Dr. Melvoin last spring periods of time again. Maybe next summer, teaching a full-year honors designation each as an example of a different device, tool, and proposed the idea of doing something but I’m not sure,” he said. Whatever he ends Shakespeare course to seniors. Over 15 or element. With each one it’s like putting with Shakespeare, but I had no idea what,” up doing, his compendium is a magnificent years there, I taught the course almost every yet another tool in our toolbox, and after Doc explained. “When I finally sat down to achievement, which will undoubtedly help year. I had the luxury of teaching what was we finish three or four weeks looking at ‘bit work on it this summer, I just started writ- students and teachers alike to better underan ‘honors level’ course and had some auton- pieces’, we enter our first full length examina- ing. I culled from my ever-expanding table stand and enjoy the complex world of Shakeomy regarding content,” Doc remembers. tion of a play. By the time we get there, the and poked around through thousands and speare’s works. We thank Doc for his dedi“I used to take my classes every year to the guys have the resources. They know how to thousands of folders and files. Some days cation, passion, and tireless work on behalf Huntington Library in San Marino. There, I think, and how to approach the play.” Over I worked for 10 hours straight, because I of his students and the subject he loves. ☐ met a man named Alan Jutzi, a curator of rare the years, Doc has continued his own edu- wanted to keep the information organized By charlie donahue ‘ Panel Staff
Dr. Davis Takes Lead in the Revamping of History I Course By Charlie donahue ‘ Panel Staff Here at Belmont Hill, we are extraordinarily blessed with passionate teachers and a rigorous curriculum. In that spirit, our own Dr. Davis took the lead this summer in writing a new text for History 1, a class he has taught for a few years now. A talented classicist and historian, he realized that the text that has been used for many years did not address some of the broader needs of the class and the history department. Additionally, some criticisms were born out of the school’s NEASC, New England Association of Schools and Colleges, review three years ago. For these reasons, he began to supplement the class-text with some handouts and materials of his own last year. Building from that, he zealously wrote a new text this summer, (around 100 pages thus far in length) which he is beta testing with his class this year. The text shores up many of the holes of the old book and encourages students to think more broadly about historical con-
cepts. “It’s very History I skill-based,” he explained, “and I highlighted a number of important themes such as military science, for exDr. T. Davis ample, in parts of the chapters I called ‘Spotlights’.” Additionally, he designed the curriculum in such a way that it can serve, “as an interdisciplinary nexus point between different departments: Latin obviously, art to some degree, and the Eng- The cover of Dr. Davis’ textbook
lish department become a more permanent text specific to which empha- Belmont Hill and the desired class. I also do sizes mythology not want it to become part of my own ‘cultin the seventh of-personality’ so to speak, therefore I want grade.” He is it to be a text from which anyone can teach, quick to point and perhaps I won’t even be involved with out, however, the class as a teacher looking further down that this is not a the road.” He also underscores that his goal solo project. “It is not to publish this work, but to continue to is my hope that tailor it in conjunction with the department this will serve as for Belmont Hill’s students. “In addition to a draft to which promoting an appreciation for the origins of my colleagues Western Civilization, my intent is to promote who teach the the study of history generally and to create a class can add set of useful history skills that later teachers c o m m e n t a r y can use and build upon,” he said. Overall, we and edit as they congratulate Dr. Davis and the entire history see fit. It is not department on this endeavor, and appreciate finished yet; it’s the faculty at-large as they constantly strive what I’d call a for excellence on our behalf as students. ☐ well-polished draft, however, I fully expect this to be a joint effort that will
Vol. 67, Is su e 5
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Athlete of The Issue: Luca Pontone ‘19
es on my wrestling career. The Harvard coach Within the context of the sport itself, has also done a great amount for me. He is very Luca knows not every aspect of wrestling is knowledgeable and has taught me much.” While equally exciting, and he identified drilling coaching and adult leadership have proven in- and cutting weight as particularly difficult: A vital contributor to Belmont Hill’s valuable to Luca’s development, his teammates “The thing I enjoy least about wrestling is varsity team since the Third Form, Luca Pon- have served as an equally significant resource. drilling moves. It can be tedious but it is retone ‘19 developed a passion for wrestling One Belmont Hill teammate made a particu- ally necessary. Cutting weight is also never at an early age. In fact, Luca first began wres- larly positive impact on Luca: “DJ Demetri was fun. There have been some hungry weeks.” tling in kindergarten at the age of five, and he credits his father with his initial introduction to the sport: “My dad was a wrestler at Plymouth State and Reading High School, so he got me into it originally, and then I just really loved it, so I decided to keep doing it.” Indeed, Luca stuck with wrestling for the next thirBy Thomas McEvoy ‘ Panel Staff
“Coach Leo has done a tremendous amount of teaching. He has definitely been one of the greatest inf luences on my wrestling career. The Harvard coach has also done a great amount for me. He is very knowledgeable and has taught me much.” teen years and is now poised to continue his career at Princeton University next winter. Luca Pontone takes down Roxbury Latin wrestler. In addition to early help from his father, Luca has benefited from the guidance of a great influence on me. He showed me quite a Even so, perseverance through tougher a number of other mentors: “Coach Leo has bit about school and team spirit. He taught me a stretches has prepared Luca for tremendous done a tremendous amount of teaching. He lot about how to be a leader as well. I can credit success. When asked about his favorite elehas definitely been one of the greatest influenc- so much of my captaining abilities to him.” ment of wrestling, his eyes lit up, declaring
“My dad was a wrestler at Plymouth State and Reading High School, so he got me into it originally, and then I just really loved it, so I decided to keep doing it.”
“Competing has been what I most enjoy about wrestling. I get to wrestle and inflict my will.” Reflecting on his wrestling career to date, Luca understands that he has endured his share of adversity: “In sophomore year, it was tough when I got a concussion and tore up my shoulder. That was definitely a real low.” Nevertheless, he’s also achieved a number of highlights, earning All-American honors in his junior year, placing third in the nation at 170 pounds. Equally impressive, Luca represented Belmont Hill at the Junior National Freestyle Tournament, the largest high school tournament in the world, finishing an impressive eighth. As he begins his final season on the Hill and sets his sights on his upcoming Princeton career, Luca strives to balance future goals with a focus on the present, saying, “I’m trying to focus on this year, but to get All-American at some point in my collegiate career would be a goal of mine. It is something all kids aspire to,” and concluding, “To be a Division I All-American would be perhaps the crowning jewel on my wrestling career,” a feat Mr. Leonardis accomplished during his collegiate career. ☐
How This Year’s Football Team Stacks up against the 2016 Team By Yazeed Dahleh ‘ & Tyler Forg ‘ cause of their competitiveness, the Bel- 2016; the environment was inclusive, happy, you gotta win to have fun.” Well, the football mont Hill team hit harder than their oppo- and enjoyable. It was the first year where it team definitely had a lot of fun this season. Panel Staff nents and came out on top in close battles. looked like everyone wanted to be on the When Belmont Hill returns next Where do you start when compar- Standout players such as Jake Bobo ‘18 team. Owen Chicos, a sophomore, said, “the year, they will boast an experienced roster ing two dominant Bowl-winning foot- and Justin O’Neil-Riley ‘19 distinguished captains were great this year, which is what with many returning junior and sophoball teams that contrast immensely from the team from previous years. But the made the season a lot of fun.” Similarly to the more players, led by future captains Isaiah each other in terms of culture and ros- 2016 team lacked this year’s squad’s depth 2016 season, the practices were both intense Gomes ‘20, Jack McHugh ‘20 and Max Peter? What made those two teams great? on offense and, as a result, they could not and extremely productive. According to Mr. terson ‘20. As to the skills of these returnThe 2016 team came into the season match the types of packages run this year. Butler, “both teams competed well Monday ing athletes? Shane declared “Their techas underdogs after losing seven games the The 2018 team expected themselves through Friday.” During these practices, nique is borderline perfect.” With a roster previous year. Shane Rockett ‘19 described to win the ISL and capture a New Eng- they got to enjoy music, which they had of veterans and hard working coaches, the the tense, harsh mentality the team had ad- land Championship. They knew that their not done in years past. The captains had a team is well poised to repeat the ISL chamopted, “it was rigid. If you screwed up you team was more well rounded on all sides motto: “football is all about having fun, but pionship and go on to a bowl game. ☐ were yelled at. Everybody held each other of the ball; as Shane explained, “we had 22 accountable.” The team, at times, was too solid players who could play.” Jaylen Baiintense: during a late-season practice, the ley agreed, saying, “the team was so strong coaches decided to end early at Belmont because the guys on the bench could come High School because they were afraid the in and play as well as the starters.” This kids would end up killing each other. Be- year the philosophy was a lot different than
The football team celebrates its second bowl game win in the last three years.
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In Case You Missed It... Nov. 10, 2018
Belmont Hill’s Model UN Club traveled to an overnight conference at Brown University
Nov. 13, 2018
Mr. Sherman conducted another edition of the Math Contest, where two first formers, Lawrence Tang and Kevin Jiang, extended their streak of perfect scores to two
Nov. 30, 2018
Dec. 1, 2018
Dec. 4, 2018
The wrestling team traveled to Germantown Academy in Pennsylvania to compete in the Germantown Invitational
Alumnus Chet Homer ‘69 and his family donated a new Zamboni to Belmont Hill’s hockey rink
Dec. 3, 2018
Dec. 7, 2018
Mr. Sam Kennedy, President of the Boston Red Sox, brought the four world series trophies to Belmont Hill for a special school meeting
Belmont Hill’s annual Winter Concert was a rousing success, with performances from the B-Flats, the Jazz Band, and the Orchestra
Belmont Hill’s Coffee House included a number of excellent performances by students and even Mr. Schneider
A group of experienced skiers from the Nordic Ski team traveled north to Dublin School in New Hampshire for their first on-snow workout
Dec. 1, 2018
The Case for Seniors Trying New Sports
By Will LaFarge ‘ Panel Staff At Belmont Hill, athletes are often reluctant to stray from their “main sports,” which they have usually played since they were knee-high to a grasshopper. There are plenty of Belmont Hill kids who end up playing the same sports every year, regardless of whether or not they enjoy or excel at it. Just as often, athletes will dump one sport in favor for weight training, which they assume will help them with their best sport, although for some powerlifters it is the art of crossing off your name that is the true feat of strength. The one option that few consider is trying a new sport. In each season, there are multiple sports that require no previous experience: cross country and JVB soccer in the fall, Nordic skiing and wrestling in the winter, and track and crew in the spring. Despite the breadth of choices, Will LaFarge waxes his skis with care. (Photo by Abe Tolkoff ‘21) Belmont Hill athletes seldom take advan- missed out on a year of improvement; tak- sport may even be good for your health tage of their chances to play a new sport. ing a new sport senior year is entirely risk- and your success at other sports. Studies All Belmont Hill athletes should free. In addition, senior year is, in many in- show that playing multiple sports reduces think about doing a new sport, but senior year stances, the last time you will be able to play the chances of serious injury and many is the perfect time to take that leap. Firstly, a new sport competitively on a team. After who go on to become professional athletes seniors, with the exception of the fall season, high school, it will be harder to learn new play more than one sport in high school, generally have more free time and carry less sports and find teams that welcome new- including 90% of the 2017 NFL draft class. stress. Additionally, if a senior does not end comers while still competing at a high level Belmont Hill athletes who pick up up liking his new sport, he will not be forced against other teams. If you are adding a new a new sport typically have positive things to go back to his old sport a year later having sport to your former off-season, the new to say about their experience. I am doing
Nordic skiing this winter, with no prior experience. So far I’m confident that I made a good choice; the workouts are getting me in great shape for tennis in the spring and learning how to ski has been a joyful experience. Nordic skiing has also put me outside of my comfort zone, since I’ve never skied before, and I believe that it’s valuable to be exposed to new things before heading off to college. Senior Nick Daley also decided to do cross country skiing this year instead of managing or weight training. So far, Nick is happy with his choice to join Nordic skiing: “It’s a lot more fun to experience the camaraderie of a team than to go into the weight room and get chirped for struggling through a pushup. You can always work out, but there aren’t many opportunities to learn to ski,” he said. “It’s really fun to be a novice and see yourself improve every day.” Nick also encourages other athletes to give a new sport a chance, noting that “a lot of people come into Belmont Hill thinking they will be good at one sport, but they end up finding something they are good at and love by trying something else.” I hope that every Belmont Hill athlete will think about trying a new sport, at least for one season. ☐
Vol. 6 7 , Issu e 5
Belmont Hill Opinions
Pa ge 7
Affirmative Action, Harvard, and Asian-Americans. It’s Complicated.
slowly even the name itself has taken on a care, household chores or even wage earn- scores. It accuses Harvard of maintaining a new identity. Originally built to compen- ing. Is it reasonable to conclude that those max quota of Asian-American acceptance, sate for prejudice, opponents of Affirma- with higher scores due to intense tutoring and also of holding them to a higher stanFor the purposes of this ar- tive Action have attacked it as welfare state and a robust support system are more de- dard than applicants of other races. Asianticle, reference to Asian Ameri- policies that confer “unearned advantage.” serving of higher education than a student Americans are divided over the issue, with cans includes those of primarily East And yet, if two people live very dif- who has lacked a support system and car- some believing that they are victims of Asian and Southeast Asian descent. ferent lives, then it is reasonable to assume ried a heavier burden of responsibilities? racially profiled admission practices, and What is Affirmative Action? Ac- that they cannot be accurately judged by Does Affirmative Action serve as a tool many others, including myself, feeling that cording to the Merriam-Webster diction- the same metrics, just as you can’t compare to offset these inequalities? If the tool is Asian-Americans are being unfairly used ary, it is the “active effort to improve the the times of two runners finishing a race proven not to function to perfection, is the “in a brazen attempt to abolish affirmaemployment or educational opportunities when one has run a sprint and the other solution to destroy the tool or to adjust it? tive action” by “Students for Fair Admisof members of minority groups and wom- a marathon. If, for example, a child from The Harvard Case is unique in sions,” an organization run by Edward en.” Historically, minority groups have a high-income family may enjoy access that the lawsuit takes a new approach to Blum the same man behind the Fisher v. often been deprived of what is viewed as to extracurriculars, tutoring, and a strong challenge race-based admissions policies. University of Texas case in 2016. Prudence the rights of the majority. Many elders in support system, and is more likely to come Rather than arguing that Harvard is dis- Carter, a sociologist at Berkeley, told The the United States grew up in a time where from a family that is more likely to take advantaging whites through minority ad- New Yorker: “I feel that the Asian-Amereverything from where you were born for granted what is often an inevitability mission, the lawsuit instead claims that the ican student population and community to where you could be buried was deter- in higher education. A student from a low school is benefitting whites and minority is being used as a pawn in a chess game.” mined by your skin color, including where income family may instead be burdened groups while punishing Asian-American Ultimately, I think that Affirmayou could legally walk, eat, work, and with significant responsibilities for sibling applicants with unfairly low “personality” tive Action, no matter the results of this learn. Minorities, and in particular blacks, case, should stand. It provides a pathway were systematically deprived of opportufor underprivileged and long-disadvannities to improve their socio-economic taged communities to be admitted to status. Affirmative Action was meant to college and the workforce. Without Afchange that, ensuring equal hiring opfirmative Action, it is likely that many portunities based on merit and qualificaof those who are handicapped by factors tions, and creating systems that would beyond their control, whether race, ethprovide historically disadvantaged groups nicity, religion or socioeconomic status, with equal access to education as well. will have fewer opportunities to achieve So why bother with a law that has their dreams. Affirmative Action helps created so much conflict, so much struggle, combat inequality and promotes opporand so much disagreement? Simply put, tunity for those who may not otherwise because the goal of equal opportunity rehave access to pathways for upward momains far from realized. Hiring discriminability. The Harvard lawsuit is serving to tion has persisted into the twenty-first cenraise awareness of ethnic bias and racial tury, racial wealth gaps have failed to close, profiling and provides evidence that “race and black students still have the lowest issues” still exist. Affirmative Action recollege attendance rates among non-native mains a contentious topic, one that necesethnic groups. Half a century of legal chalsitates discussion and dialog if it is to one lenges have placed many restrictions on day fulfill its mission of ending and corAffirmative Action’s implementation, and Harvard admissions is the subject of the latest lawsuit targeting affirmative action recting the effects of discrimination. ☐ By Julian Wambach ‘ Staff Writer
Sorry Managers: Varsity Letters Need To Be More Selective tion to sports. Whether intentionally or hard work and ability, so that individu- business of praising everyone for evnot, we currently achieve this through als not taking the sport seriously aren’t erything. Belmont Hill should expect our triannual sports awards chapels. rewarded. And, as in the latter two cas- excellence and effort from its students. Sports are one of the cornerstones After every season, the entire Belmont es, managers shouldn’t receive letters. That’s what Belmont Hill advertises in of Belmont Hill. They help determine Hill community comes together to celSome might argue that the system admissions. That’s how I viewed Belhow students spend their time, who ebrate (and thus endorse) nearly every which I am proposing fails to recog- mont Hill when I first arrived. But their friends are, and which teachers aspect of sports; athletes receive awards nize the contributions of managers, but I guess making that a reality is a lot become their mentors. They provide a for improvement (most improved tro- I would like to remind them that man- harder than blissful ignorance. If we resource of pride and communal bond- phies), contribution (MVP trophies), agers still receive keychains for their ally care about the ideals which we are ing, both in victory and defeat. And, achievement (All-League, All-New induction into the Red and Blue Key promoting in our students, we should most importantly, they instill discipline, England, and All-American honors), Society. And if you’re still complain- start to show it by tightening up who hard work, and sportsmanship, shaping sportsmanship (Henry B. Sawyer sports- ing that those keychains don’t matter, I gets a varsity letter. I know it may seem boys into young men of character. But, manship award), and, most commonly, might suggest that we make them matter insignificant, but it sends a meaningfor every student, the way in which they ability and hard work in the form of by only awarding them to managers who ful message that could have positive engage with sports and the resulting im- varsity letters. As it stands, however, actually do their job and help their team. implications for the future of Belmont pact it has on their life can vary widely. varsity letters, the main means of inBelmont Hill shouldn’t be in the Hill boys and Belmont Hill athletics. ☐ Some play three seasons of varsity sports centivization, are flawed. Along with varsity athletes, managers and JV ath“Belmont Hill shouldn’t be in letes on joint teams, such as wrestling, the business of praising every- often earn letters. This indiscriminate and careless awarding of varsity letters one for everything.” diminishes their importance and power throughout the upper school; others of incentivization. On top of that, we choose to play JVB soccer and weight also induct managers into the Red and train. Some dive at the international lev- Blue Key Society at Prize Day. More el year round; others opt to join the play. awards for less work. That’s ridiculous. Some serve as managers for a varsity In what world should managers be more team. And that’s okay. Not everyone is decorated than actual varsity athletes? going to be great at sports or enjoy them. To correct our skewed incentivizaBut we have sports requirements so that, tion system, we need to look more closeat some point in their BH career, every ly at who should receive varsity letters. student must at least give sports a try. For sports with separate varsity and JV Even though the sports require- teams, like basketball, only the athletes ments are flexible (at least for upper who made the varsity should receive letschoolers), Belmont Hill still values the ters; managers and JV athletes should student-athlete model for all the rea- not. For ladder sports, like squash, athsons mentioned above. So how do we letes should be required to compete on encourage students to join teams if we the varsity team a minimum number can’t strictly enforce it? For the most of times to receive a letter, but managpart, we can’t. People come to the school ers should still not be letter-eligible. with predispositions towards or against For combined teams, where the lines sports which will drive whether they will between varsity and JV blur, like footplay them in the future. But what we do ball, a more subjective criteria should Illustration by Elias Hyde ‘20 determine is how we incentivize dedica- be applied, which takes into account By Matthew Smith ‘ Panel Staff
Belmont Hill Opinions
Pa g e 8
D e c emb er 1 3 , 2 0 1 8
Debate of the Issue: Elf or Home Alone?
In this issue of The Panel, we continue our featured debate series between two students with opposing beliefs. This debate revolves around a question affecting the holiday season. Is Elf or Home Alone the better holiday-themed movie? The following articles choose a side on this debate and argue their case. Kevin O’ Neill ‘19 and Joshua Fairman ‘19 will serve as regular writers for “The Debate of the Issue.”
Pro-Elf
Pro-Home Alone
Whether it’s a simple quote from with the prospect of a boy being left alone By Joshua Fairman ‘ Buddy like “Good news! I saw a dog tofor a week and some incredible scenes Panel Staff day!” or his reaction to when he hears come out of it. From Kevin eating popNot only is Elf better at incorporat- Santa is coming to the mall, his lovable Google “best Christmas movie”. corn while jumping on his bed to combing ing the topic of Christmas into the movie, goofiness never fail to amuse. If comedy No, I’m serious, do it. I’ll wait… What his hair and spraying on cologne, we are but it also has a less repetitive storyline based on pain is your thing, then by all you are currently seeing is Home Alone able to witness the range of activities that and well-thought-out humor that is more means, Home Alone is the movie for you. ranked #1 and Elf ranked #8. I would have Kevin elects to do while his parents are layered than the simple slapstick comedy However, if you desire a film that has all to agree with Google’s billion-dollar algo- away. This movie is also just a great family found in Home Alone. To start, the prem- the humor of Kevin McCallister’s experi- rithm, considering the classic that is Home movie for the Christmas holidays because ise of the story is entirely unique and un- ence supplemented with a love story, a Alone. Everyone can sympathize with be- of its Christmas themes of love and famlike any other Christmas movie. Home new-found family, and a tale of redemp- ing a child and wanting to be free of their ily. At the beginning of the movie, Kevin Alone just happens to occur at Christmas tion, Elf is definitely the right choice. ☐ parents’ tyrannical rule. This movie toys has a temper tantrum and wishes for his time when Kevin is accidentally left at family to disappear. After he is left alone, home - the story could just as easily take however, he realizes that the Christmas place over summer vacation or at some other time. The simple fact that the story Google “best Christmas movis occurring during Christmas provides no ie. No, I’m serious, do it. I’ll substance to the story other than a few holwait...I would have to agree iday-themed jokes and an excuse for the with Google’s billion-dollar main problem of the story. If you take the whole Christmas theme out, you can tweak algorithm :there is a reason a few details and still end up with the same Home Alone is ranked #1 on story, which cannot be said about Elf. Google; it is a classic movie Will Ferrell, a much more loved and with comedy for all age groups respected figure than Macaulay Culkin, that perfectly meshes with any portrays an abnormally large elf who finds himself leaving the North Pole for the first family’s Christmas festivities. time in search of his birth family. Buddy, Ferrell’s character, has one main problem, holiday wouldn’t be the same without his however: society is full of people, places, loving, although sometimes annoying, and things he does not quite understand. family. Contrary to what my Elf-loving We see Buddy’s struggle with the escalacounterpart suggests, Home Alone would tor, an iconic scene that has been recreated be a completely different movie without numerous times, his lack of culinary skills the holiday setting because Christmas pro(save the four main food groups: candy, vides the perfect backdrop for the main candy cane, candy corn, and syrup and, of lesson in the movie: loving those around course, spaghetti), and his misunderstandus and appreciating what we have. There ing of personal boundaries and the meaning is a reason Home Alone is ranked #1 on of “for that special someone.” His childish Google; it is a classic movie with comedy demeanor and passion for family ultimatefor all age groups that perfectly meshes ly create a lovable and entertaining charwith any family’s Christmas festivities. ☐ acter with many different dynamics, while Kevin and the two robbers have seemingly one-dimensional personalities. Elf simply incorporates love and joy into the storyline associated with the spirit of Christmas, Illustration by Elias Hyde something Home Alone does not address. By Kevin O’ Neill ‘ Staff Writer
Moral Dilemma: How Pascal’s Wager Impacts the Community
est management, etc.-- are consid- ternatively, to live your life not be- McKinsey & Company, a highly reered mostly to blame for the fires. lieving in God, only to discover that spected consulting firm, offers a If you lived in California, you might He or She exists may expose you to Pascal-type wager, proposing that if We have all seen the horrific be forgiven for thinking “I don’t care eternal damnation – a heavy price to we spend just 1-2% of GDP on rescenes from the California fires and which it is, why can’t we behave as if pay! “Pascal’s Wager,” as it became newables like solar farms and wind wondered what could have been done it is all of the above instead of behav- known in the 17th centur y, has il- turbines we can curb climate change. to avoid the loss of approximately ing as if it is none of the above”? And luminated game and decision theor y If, alternatively, it turns out that the 100 lives, 2 million acres of land, and yet government routinely chooses but not apparently the empty heads planet cools naturally -- that global property damage of 3.5 billion dol- to do nothing as if over whelmed of our fearless leaders, who appear warming was just part of a 1,000-year lars. We perhaps think that govern- by fear of being proved wrong. to be waiting on the sidelines for the c ycle -- we will have inf licted a cerments should do more – that the priA seventeenth-centur y French climate to demonstrate beyond doubt tain amount of financial hardship to mar y role of government is to keep p h i l o s o p h e r that the end named Blaise of civilization We can only hope that there is Pascal disis imminent. still time for our generation to Pascal’s Wager has illuminated cussed the T h e game and decision theory but u n c e r t a i n t y apply Pascal’s work to matters costs of clinot apparently the empty heads of the exisas significant as climate change mate change of our fearless leaders, who ap- tence of god are undeni- and forestry management, for ably high. pear to be waiting on the side- arguing that the cost of being wrong and you should If climate lines for the climate to demoninactive is growing. your life change scienstrate beyond doubt that the live as though you tists are corend of civilization is imminent. believed in rect and the ward off a nonexistent catastrophe . god because if world warms We can only hope that there is its people safe from just such events. you turn out by 4°C, it will still time for our generation to apply A little research quickly reveals the to be wrong, cause wide- Pascal’s work to matters as signifibasic conundrum facing us all, not the cost is spread fam- cant as climate change and forestr y just governments, when dealing with fairly small. ine, property management, for the cost of being uncertainty. Should we only act on The cost of damage, so- wrong and inactive is growing. ☐ definitive information? Should we believing in cial unrest, act in a partial, probability-weight- God is perand possibly ed manner? It is debated that climate haps the loss the eradicachange or something else -- con- of hedonistic tion of the struction near high-risk zones, for- pleasures. Al- Blaise Pascal (1623-1662) human race. By Charlie Booth‘ Panel Staff
Pa g e 647 , Issu e 5 Vol.
Belmont Hill Opinions
Th ePa Pan ge el 9
What Makes a “Good Chapel”?
By jack Weldon ‘ Panel Staff For Belmont Hill students wandering into study hall or advisory in the early hours of the morning, one of the most common questions asked between peers is the simple “do we have chapel this morning?” Depending on the day, a “yes” or a “no” might be more favorable to any given student. Perhaps they were hoping to do some last minute review for that math test during A-Block, or would rather not make the trek across campus only to return fifteen minutes later. Thus, a chapel speaker faces an inherent challenge. On its own, taking hold of an audience and driving home a message is a daunting task for a public speaker; an audience of tired and distractible young boys increases the trial tenfold. For a chapel to be effective, it has to achieve two basic principles. Firstly, the speaker/speakers have to recognize who their audience is, in this case, a crowd of sleepy middle and high school boys, and what topic will interest them and allow for the engagement required to speak effectively for an extended period. Secondly, the speaker has to find a way to resonate and engage with the students, either through well-executed humor or emotional vulnerability. This year’s Veterans’ Day Chapel embodied the pinnacle of what constitutes a great chapel. To honor the national
holiday, speaker Mark Dube ‘07, a G3 Air recent Thanksgiving talk of gratitude both a miscalculation approach to the audiOfficer in the Army, currently Pilot-in- accomplished the two requirements of a ence, such as using humor designed for Command and Air Mission Commander, “good chapel” by lacing a pertinent topic a younger age group (see: Darth Vapor), focused on the effect Belmont Hill had with humor and emotional vulnerabil- and a utilization of basic scare-tactics. on his path to West Point and service in ity while providing thoughtful introspecWhile a speaker needs to achieve the military. As a Belmont Hill alum, Mr. tive looks at two of Belmont Hill’s faculty both hallmarks of a great chapel to succeed, Dube offered a viewpoint in which any members. Other chapels this year have only one fatal flaw, whether it be forced student in the audience could easily place stumbled where some have succeeded; humor, lack of emotion, or a dry topic, is themselves, and his speech about choos- For example, Dr. Hartman’s speech on needed to leave a bad taste in the audience’s ing a military path took hold of the crowd juuling and vaping, while focusing on an mouth. As a result, whether or not the of young boys who will soon make similar important topic of discussion, may not speaker demonstrated both basic princichoices about their paths in life. Mr. Dube’s have resonated with the audience as well ples will govern school opinion on whether speech, supported by relatable humor and as was hoped. After a promising opening, or not that morning had a “good chapel”. ☐ concluding with an emotional thank you the chapel ultimately mostly failed due to to his family, received an unprecedented resounding mid-speech standing ovation. Mr. Kenney then took the podium and spoke of his son, the late Charlie Kenney ‘06, and how his life was shaped by a passion for service and his love of military history. Speaking about the establishment of the Charles F. Kenney memorial trip, Mr. Kenney not only recognized his audience’s interest in the life of an honored alum but also in the trip to Europe and its impact on the boys who had experienced it. With subtle humor, a solemn remembrance of his son, and a professionally produced video to conclude his speech, Mr. Kenney rounded out the impactful morning and like Mr. Dube, accomplished both principles that make up a successful chapel. This is just one example of several excellent chapels that have taken place so far this year. Mr. Schneider’s talk on hu- Following the Kenney Chapel, Mr. and Mrs. Kenney pose with last year’s travellers along mility in late August and Ms. O’Connor’s with Mr. Schneider (Photo by Abe Tolkoff ‘21)
Should Varsity Coaches Prioritize Seniors when Constructing Their Rosters? By jackson Riffe ‘ Panel Staff Nearly every student at Belmont Hill has aspirations to play a varsity sport. Whether you are a seventh grader who dreams of playing in front of the Loop, or a senior looking to finish off your athletic career with your peers, everyone desires to play on a varsity team. Therefore, varsity tryouts are often highly competitive, filled with numerous talented boys vying for limited roster spots. After evaluating all the boys who are trying out, varsity coaches are left with many difficult decisions. A common predicament relates to seniors who are trying out for the team. Should varsity coaches prioritize seniors over other qualified athletes? Should coaches prioritize the needs of their teams or fulfill some students’ lifelong dream of playing a varsity sport? Af-
ter consideration, varsity coaches should gain valuable experience leading a team. strike a balance between prioritizing seConversely, a varsity coach needs niors and building their team for success. to prepare their team for future success. If seniors have developed their If a young athlete shows extreme promskills by diligently practicing both on their ise during tryouts, they should play on own and on JV teams, their hard work the varsity team. When a younger student should be rewarded with a spot on a varsity excels at a certain sport, they should be team. Often, seniors and younger classmen are competing for one of the last spots on . However, if a senior is willing the team. In numerous sports, the last man to work hard and fill a role for on the team has a very small contribution the team, they should be on the during games. However, if a senior is willvarsity team; even if they aren’t ing to work hard and fill a role for the team, they should be on the varsity team; even if going to score the most points they aren’t going to score the most points or or net the most goals, seniors net the most goals, seniors can bring a ma- can bring a maturity and leadturity and leadership whose benefits can’t ership whose benefits can’t be be quantified. Younger classmen should quantified. be given the opportunity to improve their skills and competitively play against others on a JV team. Rather than being a prac- playing at the highest level to better their tice player for varsity, younger athletes skills. Additionally, playing on a varsity
team can help a younger boy become more accustomed to expectations and roles on the team, thus preparing the team for success in the future. If a young student can be immediately valuable to the success of the varsity program, they should be given the opportunity to play. Should varsity coaches prioritize seniors? Coaches need to remember to build their teams for success, but also to reward hard-working seniors. Seniors should not get a free pass; if a freshman or sophomore is an emerging star, they should be playing varsity. But if the decision is close, a dedicated senior should be prioritized. Seniors have given countless hours to their specific sport and deserve the opportunity to experience the comradery of a varsity team. Playing varsity sports during your senior year in high school is an invaluable opportunity that as many students as possible deserve to experience. ☐
Belmont Hill Arts
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Artist of the Issue: Liam Durbin ‘19
Likewise, I’ve always had fun entering my tration of setbacks: “My greatest lows are while. That can be tough to deal with, but projects into competitions and winning a whenever I make a mistake that sets me it builds character.” On a project to project few prizes here and there.” The highlights back a couple weeks or a couple days. basis, furthermore, Liam finds the most joy Not long after entering Belmont Hill however, seldom come without hardships, One missed cut or flawed chisel stroke in “working with the actual wood itself,” in the first form, senior Liam Durbin be- and Liam is all too familiar with the frus- here or there and you’re set back a little and he least enjoys “the design process and gan to experiment with woodworking and, figuring out what to begin working on.” after developing an early passion for the Most recently, Liam has worked on a craft, has pursued it ever since. Liam cites number of longer-term projects, including his family as one reason he grew interested a boat, a shed, and a box, but notes that the in the field but also notes that over time, length of any piece of work “just depends his own interest in the field helped him reon the difficulty of the project that you main deeply invested in woodworking. “I take on and the complexity of whatever it got into woodworking because my brother, is you’re building.” Liam’s bed project, for Cole, who graduated in 2014, was very inexample, “took over a year and required terested in woodworking,” he elaborated, work multiple times each week.” He elabo“I was inspired by him, and then I also just rated: “Over the course of the past year developed my own general interest in the and into this year, I’ve been building and craft.” Besides his brother, Liam cites Mr. completing my bed that I’ve been working Kaplan as a mentor of sorts, appreciating on. This year, I’ll be doing an independent his “consistent support for woodworking.” study again, and I’ll be building a bedMuch like any other craft, woodside table for my bed, as a matching set.” working has its ups and downs. To Liam, After six years of woodworking the sense of satisfaction he achieves after success in Belmont Hill’s Arts Departfinishing a difficult project is among the ment, Liam still insists that “the bigmost rewarding parts of woodworking: gest goal is to always be getting better “Some of my favorite moments come just and to hone the craft,” and he anticipates after finishing a lengthy project. It’s always many rewarding projects yet to come. ☐ Liam Durbin ‘19 sitting upon his newly-created bed frame (Photo by Abe Tolkoff ‘21) nice to enjoy that feeling of fulfillment. By Thomas McEvoy ‘ Panel Staff
Declining Participation in the Arts and Music Departments
an extra point. In terms of scheduling, there are certain areas of flexibility. What if a theater production or musical program A variety of different art and mucould substitute the seasonal sports resic programs are offered at Belmont Hill. quirements? Also, Brother Patterson has Art and music programs vary from vocal been exploring ways to improve scheduland musical groups, such as the Orchestra, ing within the school day, which would alB-Flats or Jazz Band, to theatrical opporlow for interested students, with previously tunities, often produced jointly with sister obstructed schedules, to join the B-Flats. schools. In addition to music and theSimilarly, Mr. Kaplan and the Art Departater, students can choose from Art classes, ment have been discussing ideas to “give such as Music Appreciation and Advanced students an easier path in their interested Woodworking. The options for art and musubjects,” through fixing scheduling probsic programs are plentiful yet, due to the lems, whether it be woodworking or potsmall number of students at Belmont Hill, tery. “The Arts department is currently always consist of seemingly underwhelming reviewing and hopefully presenting some attendance. From art classes to performing An empty Kraft Theater (Photo by Abe Tolkoff ‘21) changes that can increase participation in arts, there has been a noticeable decline Middle School. In comparison to the Up- been offered an extra point towards their the future.” Mr. Kaplan also suggested the in participation over the last few years at per School, the Middle School is far more overall GPA in the B-Flats program to possibility of new courses that would inactive in the art community, mainly due help compensate for their lost free block. troduce artistic or musical elements into “Brother Patterson further empha- to certain arts requirements and more One option could be to expand this idea the classroom. Although there has been a sized that the vigorous academic manageable school schedules. Notably, of an extra point to all other extracurricu- decline in previous years, with promising the glee club and art classes consist of an lars, namely the theater program, there- changes, the school will again be able to schedule was hindering participa- abundant number of students from the fore, allowing all art and music students flourish in its art and music community. ☐ tion, ‘scheduling and hurdles need to First Form to the Third Form. As Mr. to balance their lost academic time with be addressed towards some resolu- Kaplan described, participation fluctuates depending on the year as the senior class tions’” departs and a new First Form enters. Evidently, the departure of the famed class of Belmont Hill. The theater department, in 2018 remains a huge loss for all art and particular, has suffered from a severe drop music departments. Of the 2018 class, key Executive Editor Editors-in-Chief in interest. Unable to compensate for the participants, many of whom participated Faculty Advisors Thomas McEvoy ‘19 Nicholas Daley ‘19 loss of key participants in previous years, in the theater program, had sustained David Hegarty Matthew Smith‘19 the theater department has struggled to many art and music programs at Belmont Arts Editor Juliette Zener find inspired actors. Overall, as evidenced Andrew Jonghyun Lee ‘20 “When asked of the reasons for News Editor by the dwindling participation in many Copy Editor Sports Editor Charlie Booth ‘20 art and music programs, Belmont Hill has declining participation, Mr. KaMatt Goguen ‘19 John Gaudian ‘19 been struggled to replace the praised mu- plan immediately responded that Opinion Editor Assistant Editors Photo Editor sicians and artists of the graduated classes; Chetan Shukla ‘20 time is to blame. Time is killer.” William LaFarge ‘19 Abe Tolkoff ‘21 nevertheless, not all departments have exTyler Forg ‘21 perienced a heavy loss in numbers. For - Mr. Kaplan Back Page Editors Online Editor Streetej Digumarthi ‘21 example, the B-Flats, Belmont Hill’s vocal Lawson Morris ‘19 Jack Weldon ‘20 Henry Moses ‘21 singing group, have an impressive total of Hill. With their departure, there has been Leighton Dolan ‘19 Jackson Riffe ‘20 17 members. Moreover, independent art a gaping hole in the art and music comGraphics Editor Layout Editor Renny Gong ‘20 courses, such as Advanced Woodworking munity, which the student body has so Elias Hyde ‘20 Charlie Donahue ‘20 Yazeed Dahleh ‘21 and Ceramics, have sustained a relatively far failed to replace. Brother Patterson, Jalen Walker ‘21 consistent number of participants. Al- the head of the B-Flats, further emphathough participation varies depending on sized that the vigorous academic schedThe Panel, founded in 1953, is the official school newspaper of the Belmont Hill the activity, involvement has generally di- ule was hindering participation. Both minished among art and music programs. Mr. Kaplan and Brother Patterson elabo- and Winsor schools. The Panel is the voice of the student body. We publish articles When asked of the reasons for de- rated on why art and music participation that are of consequence to the students, as well as the school communities. The views clining participation, Mr. Kaplan, Head of fluctuates yearly and hope that changes expressed in The Panel belong solely to the authors and editors and do not necessarithe Arts Department immediately respond- can come to prevent such inconstancy. ly represent the student body, faculty or administration of either school. Any comment Looking towards the future, one about the content should be addressed directly to the editors. The Panel encourages reed that time is to blame. He explained how student’s interests in the arts are often ob- topic to be considered is how art and sponsible opinion in the form of Letters to the Editor. We reserve the right to edit all structed by their vigorous school sched- music programs can be incentivized. A submissions for length and content. Copyright 2013 The Panel. All rights reserved. No ules. The time restraint becomes evident few hypothetical ideas are already being part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permiswhen comparing the Upper School and the considered. For example, students have sion of the Editor-in-Chief. Published by the Belmont Printing Co., Belmont, MA 02478. By Andrew Jonghyun Lee ‘ Panel Staff
Vol. 6 7 , Issu e 5
Belmont Hill Arts
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Articles A
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t Never Wri tten: - Varsity fo o New Englan tball presents pa Athletic c d Championship trorticipation receive thehapel, one of 100 te phy at ams to prestigious honor - Turkey dr turkey dinn ive 2050: BH will pr ers for th ovide commonwea e lth of Mas entire sachusett s - Royal bl and fluoreue narrowly defeats Morse, clascent purple for signneon green ss of 2018 behind color blindn being tested ess for - Students opportunity excited for new st Garbage Pat aboard the North udy abroad Pacific opportunity ch; they will get th to the real to apply compost e ing skills world
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October 19, 2018, 8:42 AM
Belmont Hill paid Lester Hartman - $20.57 October 19, 2018, 8:41 AM
Thanks, crisis averted Dr. Michael Thompson and William Slotnick liked this.