Pharcyde, 45.4

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PHARCYDE @thepharcyde_tbs

THE BENJAMIN SCHOOL NEWSPAPER

4875 Grandiflora Road, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418

30 January 2024

@thepharcyde_tbs

Volume 45

Issue 04

Academic Dean Announces Departure From Upper School Finley Strauss Staff Writer After five-years as a member of the Benjamin School community, Upper School Academic Dean Mrs. Caroline Guzman is set to embark on a new chapter. When she departs South Florida and returns closer to her roots in Massachusetts this summer, she’ll be leaving behind a lasting impact on students, colleagues, and the school community.

It was not long ago that, on a whim, while teaching civics at Indian River Middle School, Guzman decided to email requesting an interview for an open social studies position at Benjamin. Within an hour she heard back, and soon after began her tenured time at Benjamin as a world history teacher.

When Mr. Didsbury announced his retirement a year later, Head of Upper School Mr. Fletcher Carr and a faculty committee tapped Mrs. Guzman to become the Upper School’s Academic Dean.

She remembers her time at Benjamin fondly, grateful for her role as Academic Dean and the noticeable accomplishments she has made. Her time in the classroom was ultimately her favorite part of teaching at Benjamin.

“When I first came to Benjamin I worked in the history department and there was no AP World History because freshmen started in APHUG (Human Geography). I am most proud of implementing AP World into the curriculum and teaching a majority of the AP history courses,” said Guzman.

Students oft remember the captivating lessons and enthusiasm Mrs Guzman brings to her classes.

“She was a great history teacher and I truly learned a lot. She helped me do way better than I thought I could have done on my AP exam,” shared sophomore London Allen.

Freshman Sierra McKinney is very sad to see Mrs. Guzman leave.

“I’ve only had her for a semester but she is truly an amazing person and teacher. I appreciate how much she does for each and every student and I am going to miss her a lot,” said McKinney Colleagues fondly look on Mrs. Guzman as not just an administrator, but as a mentor who readily lends a listening ear and offers guidance.

Mrs. Rizzitano, the Upper School Learning Specialist, has already started to think about the departure of Mrs. Guzman. Mrs. Rizzitano noted the palpable changes Mrs. Guzman has made as Dean.

“I really like the direction she’s brought into my department and the rest of the Upper School. She is terrific with kids, parents, teachers, and everyone in between. She is never ruffled; she is always calm, listens, and then thinks about the best way to solve problems for all parties involved. She is very fair in her decision-making,” said Mrs. Rizzitano.

Mrs. Guzman plans to continue working in education, possibly at a boarding school in the northeast.

“I love working directly with my students and really getting to know them. I feel like at a boarding school I’d get to develop more personal relationships with students like I have here at Benjamin,” said Mrs. Guzman.

Mrs. Guzman’s departure will likely require a search for a social studies teacher who can teach Introduction to Law and AP World History, a Mock Trial advisor, Life Skills club sponsor, and a JV soccer coach.

“I feel that everyone in the social studies department is capable of teaching the AP World class, and Ms. Franzen and Ms. Misselhorn will continue coaching JV soccer. We are looking for a Mock Trial coach and possible Introduction to Law teacher, and have high hopes for an outstanding Dean,” explained Guzman.

Mrs. Guzman smiles for a picture on graduation day. (Photo by Mrs. Guzman)

BREAKING NEWS:

FL House Passes Ban on Social Media For Those Under 16

The Florida legislature passed the bill on Wed. Jan 24. The State Senate is taking up the bipartison legislative effort now. The Pharcyde will have more information posted on ThePharcyte.com as the story develops.

(Photo by NYT)

Should You Apply ED? AP Class Goes Organic: Matthew Marasco Editor-in Chief What is ED?- Choosing to apply through Early Decision (ED) is a popular option for students entering the college application process. This method allows applicants to demonstrate their commitment to a particular institution. At Benjamin, a mix of outcomes has emerged from students who opted for Early Decision this fall. ED is a binding contract between the student and the school which locks them into going to the school if they were to get in.

Who should ED/Why ED?- Director of College Counseling, Ms. Anna Wright, sheds light on the strategic approach to selecting an Early Decision school.

“We recommend Early Decision based on a student’s likelihood of admission. While the statistics often favor applicants who choose this route, we never encourage a student to apply to a school they are uncertain about,” Ms. Wright explains.

Senior Adam Mahmoud, who applied ED to the University of Virginia, shares his perspective on the process’s benefits.

“Applying Early Decision definitely improved my chances. While I wasn’t entirely sure if UVA was my top choice, it made sense for me as I believed I had a good shot,” reflected Mahmoud.

Adding to Adam’s insight, the primary draw of Early Decision lies in the notable increase in acceptance rates. Many highly selective schools that offer ED witness a significant boost in admission chances for early applicants. For instance, UVA’s acceptance rate doubles from regular decision to Early Decision. Additionally, students benefit from an accel-

erated timeline, often receiving decisions before the deadlines for most other applications.

Ms. Wright emphasizes that colleges make Early Decision decisions with the understanding that these students are committed to attending their university. The early commitment also allows colleges to shape their incoming class statistics. However, it’s crucial to note that students opting for Early Decision are often not in need of financial aid.- Pitfalls of ED Early Decision has its significant advantages but also comes with a few pitfalls. Locking yourself to one school can make a student unable to shop for financial aid, or compare tuition prices. Also, you are not able to get out of your binding contract with the school if you somehow get into one of your reaches that you never believed you could. These reasons make the early decision process much more beneficial for the schools than the students.- ED at Benjamin: A Secret Surprise or A Hidden Shame However, it’s important to recognize that the Early Decision path is not without its stressors for the applicants, and outcomes can be unpredictable. While being denied from a dream school is a tough reality for some, the celebratory posts of acceptance on platforms like the TBS Decisions Instagram are a common sight. The secretive nature of denials raises questions about the overall stress imposed on students during the Early Decision phase. Some wonder whether sharing all decisions, including denials, could provide a more realistic view of the challenges students face. Despite this, Mrs. Wright explains that all decisions including acceptances, deferrals, and denials are anonymously available on the Ciaflo scattergrams.

Environmental Scientists Visit Local Farm

Students took a tour around the farm on a tractor. (Photo by Mrs. Ballard)

Reid Waxman Sports Editor On Friday, Jan. 17th, AP Environmental Science students traveled to Bednar Strawberry Farms in Boynton Beach.

AP Environmental Science, also known as APES, is a class that students often take when they are juniors and seniors.

Upper School Science teacher Mrs. Solomon teaches one of the AP Environment classes. She looks forward to going to Bednars and explains what the class does at the farm.

“Students got to ride in a tractor-trailer and tour the farm. They got to see all the different produce that’s grown and hear about some of the history of the farm as well as some environmental issues such as the overuse of pesticides that is killing honey bees. Afterward, we got to pick our own strawberries and bring them home with us! Strawberry picking was followed by lunch and some shopping at their on-site produce market,” Solomon stated.

Mrs. Ballard has been teaching APES for many years and believes

taking students on this trip is vital to the course. Furthermore, hands-on experiences in our environment occur often in her class including testing the lake water for the senior jump at the end of the year.

“The current unit is on Agriculture where students learn about different farming techniques. Having first-hand experience is extremely helpful in the learning process and many techniques could be seen at the Bedner farm. I feel it is also import-

ant for us as citizens to explore, learn, and appreciate where and how our local food is grown,” Ballard remarked.

Junior Wes LaBanz is taking APES, and he went on this trip. Labanz believes that experiences such as these take learning to the next level.

“This trip was cool, since we learned how crops were efficiently irrigated through drip irrigation. We are learning about this in class, and actually seeing and looking at it helps me understand it way more,” Labanz said passionately.

The main attraction of Bednar Farm was the class’s ability to pick their own strawberries and either eat them there or take them home. Junior Bella Marx enjoyed picking strawberries.

“My favorite thing about the trip was how we got to be independent and walk around the fields and pick strawberries. It was also fun because a lot of my friends were there,” Marx remarked.

Mrs. Ballard poses with her freshly cut strawberries. (Photo by Mrs. Ballard)

Page 2

The Pharcyde

30 January 2024

First Rate! Teacher and Alumna Debate Team Shines Earns Doctorate in Education Ryan Chait Breaking News Director

Dr. Pierman’s sister sent her this cup as a present for getting her doctorate.

(Photo courtesy of Dr. Pierman)

Reid Waxman and Lila Brodner Sports Editor and Staff Writer You may have heard of the EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony), but have you also heard of the STEAM (Science, Technology, Arts, Mathematics) It’s a familiar acronym to find in schools, yet a rarity to be mastered by a single individual.

Alumna and faculty member Amanda Pierman, moved one step closer to the STEAM club when she recently earned her doctorate in educational technology. Having begun her career as an assistant in the arts department before shepherding countless through chemistry, biology, and HSB science classes, she needs now to only teach a math course to complete the pedagogical pentagon known as the STEAM. A teacher and leader who impacts young student’s minds daily, Dr. Pierman currently teaches chemistry and human systems biology, is the advisor for HOSA, serves as ninth-grade dean, and helps with tech Tuesdays.

“Just over five years ago, I was having a chat with Mr. Carr, and he suggested that I pursue a Master’s degree,” Pierman explained. “I got my Master’s degree in Chemistry and educational leadership, and I enjoyed myself so much that when it ended, I was sad.”

With her Master’s degree ending, she wanted more of a challenge.

“I decided to continue and get my doctorate in another area that I am passionate and thoroughly interested in, educational technology,” Pierman stated passionately.

Becoming a doctor is an honor in many ways, “It is an honor to be considered Dr. I feel very special to be amongst a small group of people who have put forth so much energy, passion, and effort in completing their doctorate. I was always in awe and amazed by those who held the title of “Dr,” but I feel even more in awe because I now know how much work goes into obtaining this academic degree level,” says Pierman.

Being considered a doctor is more than a title.

“I have always wanted ‘Dr.’ in front of my name!” Pierman said. “It took me two years to get my Master’s, and then another three years to get my Doctorate, so a total of 5 years I’ve been with the American College of Education. I feel more confident in myself and my abilities and more knowledgeable about educational technology.”

“It has allowed me to become the Educational Technology Integrationist for the school, a position that I have wanted for a long time and will allow me to bring various ed-tech pieces to the school for the benefit of

Finley Strauss, Class of 2027

teachers and students alike. I received my Ed.D (Educational Doctorate) in Instructional Technology from the American College of Education.”

Finally, Dr. Pierman would like to say thank you to the administration at Benjamin: “I want to thank Mr. Carr for encouraging me to continue my education. I think everyone should challenge themselves and further their knowledge. You are never too old or young to try something new, broaden your horizons, or do something challenging because you never know until you try. I also want to thank my family for being so supportive these past five years. Although I did the hard work of going to school, I couldn’t have managed without their support. And finally, I want to thank my colleagues at TBS who volunteered to be a part of my study so I could complete my doctorate!”

Earning a doctorate is more than a title, it shows determination, focus, and motivation. Students and peers look up to Dr. Amanda Pierman in many ways.

Dr. Pierman’s family posing for a photo before she got her doctorate.

(Photo courtesy of Dr. Pierman)

The Benjamin School offers many clubs that students can join. One of those clubs is the speech and debate team, which is very popular and successful. The speech and debate team competes against other schools across Palm Beach County and Martin County on a couple of Saturdays a month depending on what school and league are hosting the tournament.

The Benjamin School competes in three leagues: the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA), the Palm Beach Catholic Forensic League (PBCFL), and the Southeast Florida Civics and Debate Initiative (SEFCDI). In most years, they are also a member of the Florida Forensics League (FFL).

“I’d say we do fairly well at tournaments. A lot of students on our team have had many top three finishes this year, especially first place,” said faculty advisor and coach Dr. John Peruggia.

Team members can earn national honors for their efforts. Once students earn 25 points they earn a merit degree from the NSDA and students get one strength point for their team.

With every degree a student earns they receive one strength point for their team. There are eight degrees of honor that students can earn from the NDSA, ranging from merit (25 points) to premier distinction (1500 points). If you win a debate round, you receive 6 points and if you lose you get 3 points. You can become a member of the NSDA once you receive 25 points. Dev Maharaj has the most points on the current Benjamin team with 209 points.

“Being president/captain of the team is a huge honor for me. The

“I “I looked looked at at aa lot lot of of high high schools schools but but II ended ended up up deciding deciding on on Benjamin Benjamin for for many many reasons. reasons. For For one, one, II liked liked that that itit has has aa competitive competitive but but friendly friendly nature.. nature.. Another Another reason reason II chose chose Benjamin Benjamin is is II enjoyed enjoyed the the home-life home-life balance balance Benjamin Benjamin provided. provided. II am am in in debate, debate, mock mock trial trial as as an an attorney, attorney, in in the the Honor Honor Council, Council, JSA JSA as as an an internal internal affairs affairs director director for for the the southeast, southeast, and and Pharcyde Pharcyde as as aa staff staff writer. writer. One One of of my my favorite favorite parts parts of of Benjamin Benjamin is is the the debate debate team. team.

II have have gotten gotten first first in in all all my my varsity varsity debate debate competitions competitions at at Benjamin Benjamin so so far. far.

II also also love love helping helping other other members members with with their their cases. cases. For For aa different different club, club, II was was selected selected to to be be the the director director of of JSA’s JSA’s southeast southeast chapter chapter of of internal internal affairs affairs helping helping to to represent represent Benjamin Benjamin on on aa national national scale. scale. In In my my free free time, time, II enjoy enjoy reading reading mystery mystery books, books, working working out, out, going going on on long long runs, runs, hanging hanging out out with with my my friends, friends, and and competing competing in in debate debate tournaments. tournaments. Landon, Landon, my my twin twin brother, brother, also also goes goes to to Benjamin Benjamin but but we we have have different different interests. interests. My My brother brother and and II both both used used to to do do track track and and cross cross country, country, but but II am am trying trying out out tennis tennis this this year. year. II am am so so excited excited for for the the rest rest of of my my time time at at the the Benjamin Benjamin school school and and see see what what clubs clubs II grow grow in!” in!”

Humans of

T h e B e nj a m i n U p p e r S c h o o l

Members of the Debate team pose with thier medals after a win.

(Photo courtesy of Dr. Peruggia)

MLK Assembly Features New Speakers and Vital Lessons

Dr. Lockhart shares his perspective on Martin Luther King day in Benjamin Hall.

(Photo by Caroline Groffman) Finley with her brother, Landon.

(Photo courtesy of Finley Strauss)

team is a very diverse group of people from our school that go out to each debate and everyone gets along and works their hardest,” said sophomore captain Dev Maharaj. “We have been relatively successful, mainly at the smaller tournaments.”

The Benjamin School has had very successful students on the speech and debate team. Michael Scellato, ‘21 has probably been the most successful student of all time on Benjamin’s team because he was an All-American in 2021 and he qualified for nationals in 2020 and 2021.

Additionally, 109 other Bucs have earned at least a merit degree since 2014, and several students have qualified for States. Most notably, the Benjamin squad earned its NSDA Charter.

According to the NSDA’s profile of the Class of 2020, students have a five times greater chance of going to a top 25 college by participating in speech and debate.

“I highly recommend joining the debate team at Benjamin. It looks good on your college application, it helps your public speaking skills and you become a part of a new community,” said Dr. Peruggia.

Caroline Groffman Associate Editor On Jan. 12, the Upper School had an assembly to honor Dr. Martin Luther King. The event featured multiple speakers such as members of the Diversity Council, Mr. Carr, and Dr. George Lockhart.

As the keynote speaker for the day, Dr. Lockhart shared important messages about relationships and what everyone can take from the life of Dr. King.

“One message that I took away from the speech is the point to invest in people. People connect our lives and allow new ideas and opportunities and everyone should keep in mind how truly strong Martin Luther King was. We should lead by example in our everyday lives to demonstrate perseverance and courage,” says sophomore Ava Seested.

The speaker explained that his experience with fraternities was very different than most people of other races. Joining his fraternity, Alpha Phi Alpha, they valued academics above all and it was essentially a group of top Black students who

wanted to be part of a larger community. An interesting fact about this is that Martin Luther King was also in this fraternity in his own time.

The importance of having some type of remembrance for Dr. King every year should not be overlooked.

While the obvious goal is to not forget about the activist himself, keeping his memory alive allows others to share their experiences and continue the conversation on equality.

“Our hope for the assembly is to honor the memory of Dr. King, and we want to touch on one of his different philosophies every year. What I remember on MLK day is how you should always stand by what you think. In everyday life, I appreciate his works in civil rights as a Black woman,” explains junior Victoria Powell.

After Dr. Lockhart spoke, Mr. Carr shared a personal story about Dr. King. When Mr. Carr’s father was in college, he got the privilege to meet and show Dr. King around his college campus. Mr. Carr explained to the audience that this is something that his family is very proud of and his father gained more perspective on life from the experience.

This year’s Martin Luther King Day assembly was a large success and had students and faculty thinking about their own lives and how to honor Dr. King.

Dr. Lockhart used slideshows to aid his presentation. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is for remembering what he went through to fight racism. (Photo by Caroline Groffman)

The Pharcyde

30 January 2024

Page 3

Diplomacy, Pizza, and the Occasional Snowball Fight: Model UN Delegation Brings Warmth to Yale, Frigid New Haven Finley Strauss Staff Writer Twenty-seven Upper School students and two faculty members traveled to New Haven, Conn. to attend the annual Yale Model United Nations (YMUN) conference. Taking place from Thursday, January 18, to Sunday, January 21, the conference challenged students with a mixture of fellowship and foreign affairs, and a snowstorm.

This trip was led by club advisors and social studies teachers Ms. Misselhorn and Mrs.Guzman. Ms. Misslehorn clarified that YMUN doesn’t have a single president. Instead, it is overseen by three senior delegates – Olivia Wells-Funk, Cory Voskanian, and Jacqueline Pare.

This year’s YMUN group of 27 included 9 delegates who worked in the fast-paced, advanced Specialized and Crisis committees. Through 15 hours of committee sessions, the groups were all able to produce ex-

tensive resolutions to issues ranging from the transportation of dangerous goods to the 2024 Presidential Election.

Pare’s committee personally had a great time rewriting history to make Japan the winners of the 2022 World Cup in an entertaining committee meeting.

Pare and the other delegates expressed their pride in “every single delegate for their intense preparations and for pushing themselves to practice public speaking and teamwork among some of the brightest and most eloquent students from around the globe.”

Contrary to conventional student trips, YMUN was not just a learning experience but a dynamic competition where Benjamin students had the opportunity to shine individually in committees.

General assemblies, or GAs, are the largest committees at YMUN and some of the most intense that Benjamin students attended. This year’s

All of the delegates line up and pose for a picture before their first committee meetings. (Photo by Ms. Misselhorn)

in-person committees returned to their large size and came the closest to simulating a real United Nations committee. The GAs covered a broad range of real-world topics, requiring delegates to conduct thorough research, advocate for their ideas, and work effectively with many other delegates from across the globe.

During meetings at the YMUN conference, students are challenged to assume the roles of different countries, fostering a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and governments. Pare also emphasized the international aspect of YMUN, noting that it goes beyond merely studying other countries but that this year’s conference had a large emphasis on collaboration.

Dev Maharaj, a sophomore, loved attending these GAs, but this year was in a crisis committee, which is a more specialized and small committee because he said it takes a lot more skill. “I loved going to these committees and assemblies and really using what I know. As a bonus, I also liked being in the cold weather because it’s too hot in Florida and I’m from Boston,” said Maharaj.

The conference provided a unique opportunity for Benjamin students to interact with peers from around the globe. These interactions extended beyond the conference, with some delegates forming lasting friendships and maintaining connections with students they meet in their committees.

As Betsy Farmer put it “This year’s YMUN conference gave me the opportunity to connect with people from around the world who had similar and different ideas and back-

Students enjoyed a break from long committee meetings and had a snowball fight. (Photo by Ms. Misselhorn)

grounds than I do. At the conference I also had the chance to hear about world-wide problems, such as world health and drug addictions through meaningful discourse with members.

I’ve met friends from around the world and gained friendships I would not have had if I hadn’t come on this trip. Seeing the Yale campus also gave me a good idea of what I want to do in the future”.

Benjamin students sometimes stayed in committees until 11pm, their days filled with events.

Pare shared some of her favorite parts of the trip, explaining that “outside of committee sessions, our delegation had a lot of time to bond while exploring New Haven. We were able to see the historic Yale Library and explore the rest of the campus, which was absolutely stunning, especially

while covered in snow. We were also able to experience some great food atypical of our usual Florida scope, namely some incredible Asian restaurants! My favorite memory was having a 15-person snowball fight in the New Haven Green.”

Students even visited the Gutenberg Bible at Yale’s Beinecke Library, which was Mrs. Guzman’s favorite part of the trip.

The Benjamin School’s participation in YMUN not only enriched the educational experience for its students but also reinforced the school’s commitment to nurturing informed, engaged, and globally aware citizens.

Delegates and teachers engaged in thought-provoking debates, collaborative problem-solving, and cultural exchange at the conference.

Dress Code to Desk Code When The Road Diverges: From Dean Jacobsen Returns to Classroom

Class Options Abound for Sophomores Joey Tomassetti Editor-in-Chief Students have a wide variety of classes. The sophomores’ class choices are mostly level-based, with an advanced class offered in most core subjects.

For history, students can take APUSH (AP US History) or regular US History. For English, students can take Honors American Literature or regular American Literature. For science, students can take Honors Chemistry or regular Chemistry.

Non-sophomores can take these classes as well, but that is only if they are coming from a different school or spent a semester somewhere else.

Sophomore Sarah Napier is in AP US History and Honors English. She is enjoying both of these classes.

“I’ve learned a lot and don’t regret taking these classes. Especially APUSH, I feel it’s important to learn the skills required for an AP course,” said Napier.

Napier explains the difference between regular English and Honors English.

“I think that Honors English is somewhat similar to regular English, except the essays are graded higher.

I also think that Honors English requires deeper critical thinking skills and the class overall goes at a faster pace,” said Napier.

English teacher Mrs. Shannon Anderson, who teaches regular and Honors English, gave her take on the difference in the classes.

“We have extra books in Honors English and we are certainly writing a few more essays. The biggest difference though is the level of analysis that I expect from my students. I

do expect my honors students to be performing at a higher level and analyzing on a deeper level,” said Mrs. Anderson.

Napier describes what she thinks is different between regular US History and APUSH. “I think APUSH is completely different from regular US History. AP classes move at a way faster pace, even more than honors classes.

The learning is more book-focused and the tests are formatted completely differently. I think there are more skills required to succeed in the AP curriculum,” added Napier.

Sophomore Caroline Smith, who does not take APUSH or Honors English, feels the material between the classes is similar.

“If there is a difference between the two, it is how quickly you move through the material during the year and that the honors classes go deeper into the material than some regular classes do,” said Smith.

Smith does not regret taking regular classes. “I think I will get better grades in the regular classes and I think they are still challenging cours-

es,” said Smith.

Napier recommends that upcoming sophomores challenge themselves by taking some accelerated classes.

“I think Honors English is a good class to move up to the honors status because it’s not very different from regular because it’s just slightly faster and more challenging. APUSH is a challenging and time-consuming course, but I think it’s a good class to take if you’re ready for the challenge,” explained Napier.

Sophomore Ryan Munder, who takes Honors Chemistry, believes the honors class goes more in-depth.

“I feel like Honors Chemistry covers a lot more information, while regular Chemistry just covers the surface of what we are learning. I don’t regret taking honors because I like chemistry and even though it is hard, the material makes sense to me,” explained Munder.

No matter what level of classes students take there are a plethora of options to choose from. Each course will challenge students to learn the material and work hard.

APUSH, along with the other accelerated courses, requires a lot of note-taking and can be time-consuming.

(Photo by Joey Tomassetti)

Haley Roth Associate Editor While many students know Mr. Kevin Jacobsen as the US Dean of Students who gives advice and detentions, this semester has changed that as he began his role as a teacher. Mr. Jacobsen, who used to teach before he was Dean, is now educating students on current issues. His class may be small, with only twelve students, but it focuses on many interesting and important topics that are often not discussed in a normal social studies class.

This Current Issues class is very different from every other Social Studies class the Benjamin Upper School offers. It focuses entirely on student interests regarding current events. Throughout this semester, the class will delve into all realms of the present, keeping students informed and educated.

“It is a unique class in that the study is based on current events, and what interests our students. So, there are twelve students in the class and I gave them a list of ten subjects. We’re going in order of what they are most interested in,” shared Mr. Jacobsen.

“We talked about the fentanyl crisis, and right now we are getting into money and sports, for example, the PGA LIV merger, NIL for college athletes, and then sports gambling.”

He also noted the class’s day-today schedule, “Every day, we talk about the current events in the world, whether locally in the United States with the upcoming elections. We also dive into international things, like the war in Ukraine as well as the conflict between Israel and Hamas.”

The students in the class appreciate getting to see Mr. Jacobsen as more than just the Dean of Students.

Jacobsen teaching an unorthodox and exciting class helps them get to know him better as a person while also offering more clarity on less talked about topics.

Senior JP Walsh is one student in this class who agrees, “The current events class allows us to see Mr. Jacobsen most days of the week, instead of just seeing him in the hallways. We also learn about lots of topics that are not discussed in our normal classes.”

“As the Dean of Students, it’s beneficial for students to see me in a different light than just that. It’s been great so far,” shared Mr. Jacobsen Last year, this class was taught by Mr. Carr, who is also in administration as Head of the Upper School. He wanted another member of the Upper School Administration to get to experience seeing and talking to students every day, and Mr. Jacobsen was eventually chosen for this position.

Mr. Jacobsen explains how he was chosen, “I was approached by Mrs. Guzman, Ms. Misselhorn, and Mr. Carr to teach the semester course.

I taught for many years before I became an administrator, and it’s something that I enjoy a lot. From 2007 to 2015 I taught freshman history which was world history at Gonzaga College High School in Washington D.C. as well as sophomore English.”

Mr. Jacobsen’s students enjoy this Current Issues class for various reasons. Each topic offers different discussions on social, political, and environmental events.

“My favorite part of the class has been learning about NIL, or money and sports in general, through documentaries. Learning about these topics has increased my knowledge of things that are happening currently,” shared Walsh.

Page 4

Student Voices

30 January 2024

The Pharcyde

Editorial

Learning Can Happen Outside of the Classroom Since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, each grade in the Upper School has gone on a class trip.

This “Orientation Day” has occurred within the first two weeks of the new school year for the last two years. Except for field trips for certain classes, there are no other class trips for the remainder of the school year. There should be more grade-level trips throughout the school year to assist in the bonding of the students.

The purpose of the initial class trips at the beginning of the year is to introduce the students to their classmates for that upcoming year. Because the trip takes place in the first few weeks of school, students are still learning who are in their classes.

Having a trip at the middle and end of the school year would allow the students to develop their friendships during the school days in between.

Students would never know to hang

out with someone outside of school if they never had the chance to meet them in school.

For example, if a student hangs out with someone on “Orientation Day” and ends up making a new friend, then they can further grow their friendship throughout the school year, even if they do not have classes together. Without any more class trips for the rest of the year, it becomes harder for a student to make friends with people who are not in their classes. The great part about Benjamin’s smaller class sizes is that it allows students to become close to one another. Scheduling more class trips would help promote the bonding of each grade level. Everyone in each grade likes each other for the most part, so why not nurture this growth?

Seniors are the one class that gets the proper bonding time. Along with being together for three-plus years,

they have a plethora of activities and events planned for them. Scheduling more events for the other three classes could make their senior years even more enjoyable. But who says these class trips cannot be educational?

Though it may be fun to have trips to fun places planned, there are avenues to making these fun and a productive learning experience.

Not every trip has to go to a water park or trampoline park. Field trips to a museum or a park can be enjoyable as well. If students are learning about the Civil War, going to a former Civil War base could be an interesting way for students to visualize what they are learning. Similar to the St. Augustine and Keys trip that the Middle School gets to go on, educational trips for the Upper School can be just as beneficial. Students can have an enjoyable experience while also learning along the way.

The U.S. Travel Association conducted a study with 400 adults–half of whom had taken a learning trip in their youth, the other half had not– to determine the importance of field trips in an educational setting. The study found that regardless of gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, children who take school trips have better grades (59%), higher graduation rates from college (63%), and greater income (12% higher annually).

Additionally, 89% said educational trips had a positive, lasting impact on their education and career because enriching field trips made them more engaged, intellectually curious, and interested in and out of school.

Roger Dow, the president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, explains the importance of field trips for students.

“My parents said the 3 Rs (reading, writing and arithmetic) were important. But for my kids, I made ‘roaming’ the fourth R. We live in a global society, and if you don’t see outside the neighborhood you grow up in, the world will pass you by. Traveling has opened my kids’ eyes. It’s made them more confident and inspired them to reach outside their normal environment to learn and obtain skills to bring them to the next level,” said Dow. As can be seen, the Upper School should schedule more field trips for each grade level. The added benefits of class bonding and an enhanced educational experience make the time and expenses worth it. *This editorial is the opinion of The Pharcyde and therefore is not attributed to one singular person.

Oppression against Hispanic arrivals in America In the shadows cast by prejudice, whispers weave, A tale of struggles, hopes that often grieve.

In the land of dreams, diversity denied, Hispanic hearts, resilient, cannot hide.

In silent streets when children creep, The echo of a gunshot breaks the night, A mother's cry, a father's weep, As another soul takes its flight.

From lines crossed to dreams pursued, A story etched in faces, courage imbued.

Yet, stereotypes persist, a heavy chain, Oppressions weight, never to refrain.

In classrooms where the young hearts beat, Fear lingers in the air like a haunting song, Innocence crushed beneath the heat, Of bullets that don't belong.

In the dance of cultures, let understanding sway, Break the chains of bias, let empathy hold its way.

United we stand, a fusion so rich, Each story cherished, a meaningful pitch.

On city blocks where dreams collide, The sound of sirens pierces through the air, Families shattered, grief worldwide, As violence leaves its mark unfair.

Raise your voice against the injustice tides, For in unity, there’s strength to confide.

Through empathy’s lens, let freedom ring, A harmonious America, where all voices sing.

Yet in the midst of pain and strife, We seek a path to heal and mend, With every voice, we forge a life, Where gun violence finds its end. ~Nathan Duranza

~Chancellor Reddick

~Riley McCaughey

the

PHARCYDE

Founded in 1980 as The Spectator 30 January 2024

Volume 45, Issue 4

The Benjamin School 4875 Grandiflora Road Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33418 Contact Information Phone: 561-472-5998, ext. 2119 Fax: 561-691-8823 Advisor Dr. John Peruggia john.peruggia@thebenjaminschool.org Advisor Emeritus Mr. Kendall Didsbury Media Consultants Mr. and Mrs. Tim Burke

EDITORIAL BOARD Matthew Marasco Editor-in-Chief, The Pharcyde Joey Tomassetti Editor-in-Chief, The Pharcyte

Caroline Groffman Club President, Associate Editor Haley Roth Associate Editor Chase Zur Associate Editor Reid Waxman Sports Editor

STAFF WRITERS Lila Brodner Ryan Chait Breaking News Director Amanda Duguay Stella Liberman Finley Strauss

GENERAL

The Pharcyde, the Upper School newspaper of The Benjamin School, is published seven times a year. 1,200 copies of The Pharcyde are distributed to 398 students and 57 faculty members and are available in the Upper School office.

The Pharcyde encourages submission of Letters to the Editor. Send your feedback, criticism, or outside opinions in 150 words or fewer to matthew.marasco24@thebenjaminschool.org The Pharcyde reserves the right to edit all letters for length, grammar, and clarity.

MISSION STATEMENT

ADVERTISEMENTS

The price of a quarter-page advertisement is $30/issue. The price of a business card advertisement is $15/issue.

If you or anyone you know would like to place an advertisement in The Pharcyde, please contact Haley Roth, Haley.Roth26@ thebenjaminschool.org.

OPINION

The opinion articles in this paper are the opinion of the writer or the majority opinion of The Pharcyde Editorial Board. They are not the opinion of The Benjamin School or our advertisers.

The Pharcyde is a student newspaper produced to foster an open dialogue about topics that relate to The Benjamin School. The issues that appear throughout our pages may be light-hearted or serious, but regardless we aim to reflect the diversity of opinion within our school that we value so deeply.

QUOTATION POLICY

Anyone interviewed by The Pharcyde will have the chance to correct and edit their quotations before the paper goes to press. If they would like to change their interview before the quote confirmations get sent out, they can contact the student who interviewed them and ask to redo the interview.

MEMBERSHIP

The Pharcyde is a member of the Florida Scholastic Press Association, American Scholastic Press Association, Columbia Scholastic Press Association and the National Scholastic Press Association.

Student Voices

The Pharcyde

30 January 2024

Page 5

Editor Reviews Local Gyms Near Benjamin Matt Marasco Editor-in-Chief Every year, many New Year’s resolutions are to get in shape, often including going to the gym. Benjamin students are lucky to have multiple nice gyms in our area to choose from. These gyms include Lifetime, Palm Beach Sports Club, Planet Fitness, L.A fitness, and Busy Body.

Lifetime: Located in Downtown Palm Beach Gardens, Lifetime is the most expensive gym that students have memberships at. This cost, $270 a month for someone under 26, is inherently steep but comes with its benefits. Lifetime is the only gym that has its own pickleball courts. The gym also has state-of-the-art locker rooms that are easily accessible to go workout and take a shower after without feeling grossed out. Also included are cold plunges and saunas which make recovery much easier.

The actual weightlifting portion of the gym has all the machines needed and plenty of free weights. Overall, Lifetime is my personal favorite gym, except for the price.

Senior J.P Walsh has been going to Lifetime for a little over a year and believes it exceeds expectations.

“I think Lifetime has amazing amenities and a good weightlifting space. I take full advantage of the cold plunge and saunas. I have a family plan so the price is not as bad as it looks,” said Walsh.

Palm Beach Sports Club: Located in Palm Beach Gardens and on Indiantown rd off of US1 Palm Beach Sports Club has a much more reasonable membership cost of about $95 a month. Just like Lifetime,

PBSC has a sauna and cold plunge in its spa area. They offer programs to do yoga and other types of training with their experts. The gym is very clean and always has the weights reracked and ready to go. The machines offered meet the needs of anyone seriously into weightlifting or just trying to stay in shape. The locker rooms feel very new and are kept clean with a fresh smell. PBSC is a great budget-friendly alternative to Lifetime.

Planet Fitness: Located in Palm Beach Gardens off of A1A, in Jupiter off of Military and on Indiantown, Planet Fitness is the least expensive gym in the area even offering free memberships to high school students during the summer. Their normal membership costs only $10 a month. This gym is more cardio-based with more than enough treadmills and stair masters. A knock on this gym is there are only Smith machines and no free-weight barbell benches. The locker rooms were less tidy than the aforementioned gyms and the overall sense of cleanliness in the gym was much worse. Overall, you can definitely get a good workout done in Planet Fitness, and for the price, it’s an amazing budget-friendly option.

L.A Fitness: The closest commercial gym to Benjamin, L. A fitness is located in Alton and on Northlake, this gym comes in at a price of $40 a month with a $75 initiation fee. The most busy gym of the ones I visited, L.A fitness has a very nice turf area for warming up and various types of cardio. The weightlifting session almost always has a weight for a bench or a squat rack. The gym features plenty

of cardio equipment such as bikes and treadmills. The closeness to campus gives students a chance to go after school and even walk there.

Busy Body: Busy Body, located on Northlake, is more geared toward bodybuilding than any of the other gyms I have reviewed. The price for a membership is $60 a month. This gym was the dirtiest of the ones I visited with the locker rooms being unkempt. The machines were fairly old but were exactly what you need to put on serious muscle. They had many back-focused machines and had a decently sized weightlifting area. The gym also had a lighting room which many people use to check out their pump after a workout. Busy Body would be a decent gym for someone living south from school.

One of Planet Fitness’ most annoying features, the lunk alarm, goes off whenever someone drops a weight on the flooor. Other than that, Planet Fitness has good spacing between their machines which makes for accesible workouts.

(Photo by Matt Marasco)

Overall, all the gyms I visited were easily accessible and each had their various pros and cons. In my opinion, other than the monetary aspect, Lifetime is the best option for a gym in the area. The best budget option would be Planet Fitness and the gym that is most avoidable would be Busy Body.

If you are unable to get a gym membership for some reason, the school gym is open throughout the week for students to workout at.

Just try to avoid the in season sports teams!

My Rankings: Lifetime PBSC L.A Fitness Planet Fitness Busy Body

One of Lifetime’s best features is their state-of-the-art machines which are always ready to use.

(Photo by Matt Marasco)

Years Later, Editor Revises Opinion: Blue Carpets Have “HSB Course Should Be Required” Required” Many Feeling Green Joey Tomassetti Editor-in-Chief, The Pharcyte

A few years ago, I wrote an article on why HSB should not be a requirement at the Upper School, remarking, “No one is saying that HSB is a ‘bad’ class, but if students are not enjoying the class and would rather do another class that interests them, than keeping it as a requirement seems pointless.”

After taking the class this past semester, I would like to change my opinion. HSB should remain a requirement at the Upper School.

HSB remains a semester class that is offered both during the school year and in the summer. As I previously noted, HSB is a class that falls under the Science department at Benjamin.

It goes in-depth on the anatomy and physiology of the human body and much more.

The class, still taught by Dr. Amanda Pierman, is one from which you will only get as much out as you put in. Dr. Pierman schedules each assignment and lab according to what you are learning in class. For example, each week you must read an article and answer questions on it. If you are learning about the digestive system in class, your article for that week will be on the digestive system.

HSB may be a lot of work, but completing this work will allow you to fully understand the concepts that are taught in class. If you don’t do the weekly articles or pre-lab writeups, it becomes very difficult to take away the importance of what you are learning.

HSB is not all weekly articles and notes, though. There are many fun and creative projects that you get to work on throughout the semester.

Some of my favorites were the Sing

Your Anatomy project and the Taste and Smell lab. Dr. Pierman makes sure that you get the full learning experience. She understands how difficult it is to learn this much information in such a limited amount of time.

Having a teacher like this makes everything easier.

In my first piece, I asked why students should have to take a class that seems to not interest them. Having now taken the class, I can attest that whether it is understanding the eleven human systems or knowing the formula for cellular respiration, everything you learn in HSB is important.

Dr. Pierman frequently gives this example: if you wake up one morning with a stomach ache and go to the doctor, how are they going to be able to help you when all you tell them is, “My stomach hurts.” Being able to at least have an idea of what is wrong with you makes it that much easier for the doctor to give you the care you deserve.

Aside from the biology part of

HSB, you also learn about insurance, the dangers of smoking, and how much it costs to have a baby. You don’t have to take care of an egg, as I previously commented, though there is AP Psychology for that nowadays.

After taking HSB, I walked away with some important concepts that I had never really thought about before. The broader life lessons of how to keep your body safe and time management are a few of the added benefits of the HSB experience.

Despite my experience and change of opinion, there will always be people who believe HSB should be a true elective. While it remains that nationally, students who did not take a Human Systems Biology or “Anatomy” class at their school were able to become successful doctors, and our HSB program is not a national standard, I do think HSB should remain a requirement here at the Upper School. Not everyone may be destined for medical school, but everyone should have a functional understanding of how they, literally, work.

Sophomore Alyssa Saraqi dissects a pig kidney in her Human Systems Biology Class.

(Photo by Dr. Pierman)

Stella Liberman Staff Writer Since returning from break, students and teachers have been confronted with a strong smell in the English and math hallway. As the semester continues, some are upset and complaining about this issue, hoping for relief from the acrid air.

“It smells really [strong] of harsh chemicals and glue…it can be hard to focus in class because of how strong the [odor] is,” Freshman Katelyn Webster said.

As escapes from the environment via quick walks outside increase, the facilities staff has come to the conclusion that there might be a reason for this odd smell filling building five.

“We came to the conclusion that the material is brand new and it’s [going to] take some time for the odor to dissipate. We have had this experience in building three before and [in] the beginning it was our first time, we didn't know how long it would take [to fix this matter],” Mr Douglas Molina said.

This weird smell has also come to the attention of teachers as well when entering the English and math building.

The carpets were installed as a means of upgrading the aesthetics of campus. Indeed, they look good, but

the smell is making it tough for some to appreciate them fully.

“The carpets themselves are good for the school, but having the smell [right] after winter break did not help our students or teachers a whole lot.

We have a very busy schedule [where all the classrooms are being used] every period of the day, [meaning the maintenance crew can only do real work when school isn't in session],”Upper School Dean of Students Mr Jacobsen said Others continue to face the smell not just on the first floor, but also second. Some describe the smell to be of body odor and just as worse as it is on the first floor. “[I have noticed it is] also up on the second floor [in building five] too, [and] it’s just a bit worse. It just smells like mild body odorant, that's about it,” said Freshman Ian Kaufamn.

The influence of the smell has continued to leave students unable to focus in class and learn. As students look out on the certain smell roaming in building five, some come up with an idea to help prevent an end to the odor from continuing. “[I think] the [the maintenance crew] could purchase an air scrubber to clean the air, which would help get rid of the smell, [and solve the problem],” Webster said.

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30 January 2024

The Bigger

igital D SAT 2024 is the latest number to be given new importance by the College Board, as the new year marks the start of a new era, that of the Digital SAT. Beginning this March, the paper-and-pencil gives way to keyboards and touch screens, as the college admissions process takes its latest step forward into the technological unknown.

Bring Your Own Device

New Format

The Digital SAT is taken on your own device, for most test-takers, using the CollegeBoard’s proprietary “Bluebook” app (which should be familiar to those who took the PSAT this fall). Unfortunately, the app will not work on personal Chromebooks or mobile phones. While the lack of support on phones is understandable (the screens are very small), the decision to not have the test available on the most economical computing devices on the market (chromebooks) seems counter to the CollegeBoard’s initiatives regarding economic justice. Ironically, the app can be installed on test-center owned or school-managed Chromebooks. For those without access to their own laptop, iPad, tablet, or school-issued Chromebook, the CollegeBoard offers a device borrowing program during test-registration.

In what is arguably the most significant change to the SAT, the Digital exam is shorter-- in terms of questions, length, and amount of reading.

The digital SAT is made up of two sections of two-modules.

The Reading and Writing section challenges students with 54 total questions; the Math section poses 44 tasks.

Timing Allowing about 1.3 minutes per question, the digital SAT is shorter, coming in at just over 2 hours (134 minutes) not including breaks. Both sections will feature mandatory breaks between modules.

Students who have approved accommodations for timing will receive extra timing on both the question sections and receive extra breaks. Students may also be approved for extended timing on only one section.

Section

Time

Number of Questions

Reading and Writing

64 (two 32-minute modules)

54

Math

70 (two 35-minute modules)

44

Total

134

98

Additional Practice and Tutoring As the digital SAT is new, it is somewhat challenging to find many resources for preparation at this time. The CollegeBoard has made available four, full-length practice exams through the Bluebook application that offers students the best insight on testing conditions, question types, and scoring. Those wanting more questions to practice with may find that PSAT practice books are helpful, as the exam has already been digital and test-prep companies have adapted their materials for the new format. It may be good to wait, if possible, until early in the fall before purchasing prep material, as companies are just beginning to learn about formatting and scoring.

In terms of tutoring for the test, the College Board continues its partnership with Khan Academy to provide ample amounts of quality free resources. With the adaptive nature of the test, traditional tutors will have to undergo some training or study to be able to accurately determine a student’s testing pathway.

With that said, the best preparation one has is actual knowledge.

Time spent developing math, grammar, and close reading skills is always time well-spent.

There is an additional ten-minute break between sections

Scoring The digital SAT is an adaptive test whereon performance determines one’s questions, not just one’s scores. What does this look like? In each section, all test takers are presented with the same questions during module one. Then, the computer determines which questions to ask during module two; the better one performed on module one, the tougher the questions (and higher the reward) are on module two. This format allows students to skip and go back to questions within modules (not within sections).

Module TWO HIGH Module ONE

Module TWO MEDIUM Module TWO LOW

30 January 2024

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Picture English Questions/Tips The digital SAT combines the two English and Reading sections of the SAT into one. The unified section is very different from the old SAT in terms of format. Long passages have been replaced with short paragraphs, and the concepts being tested have shifted slightly to best reflect curricular guidelines and college readiness.

In terms of numbers, 13-15 questions will test “Craft and Structure”; these questions look at vocabulary, text structure and purpose, and cross-textual connections. 12-14 questions examine “Information and Ideas”, a passage’s “central ideas, details, command of evidence, and inferences. 11-15 questions focus on “Standard English Conventions,” also known as grammar. The last bulk of questions, about 20% of the section, focuses on “Expression of Ideas,” exploring rhetorical synthesis and transitions.

Math Questions/Tips The Math section of the digital SAT covers content students may encounter in classes up through pre-calculus. 1315 questions cover “Algebra,” 13-15 “Advanced Math,” 5-7 “Problem Solving and Data Analysis,” and 5-7 “Geometry and Trigonometry.”

The College Board further defines its sections for test-takers. Algebra includes the following types of questions: linear equations in 1 variable, linear equations in 2 variables, linear functions, systems of 2 linear equations in 2 variables, and linear inequalities in 1 or 2 variables; in each case, the question measures a student’s ability to analyze, fluently solve, and create equations and/or inequalities. The Advanced Math questions tackle application of math to STEM fields by exploring an understanding of absolute value, quadratic, exponential, polynomial, rational, radical, and other nonlinear equations. Problem-Solving and Data Analysis measures the ability to apply quantitative reasoning about ratios, rates, and proportional relationships; understand and apply unit rate; and analyze and interpret one- and two-variable data. Finally, the Geometry and Trigonometry include questions about area and volume, angles, lines, and triangles, right triangles and trigonometry, and circles.

A calculator is allowed to be used during the entire Math section, with a built-in calculator can be accessed via the BlueBook app for those who may not have access to a graphing calculator.

Colleges The College Board is releasing the digital SAT in a time of transition for college admissions. With the Supreme Court tackling questions about admissions criteria and schools attempting to attract diverse sets of students, more than 80% of colleges and universities have become test optional. Will the new test change this?

With the pandemic over, some schools are returning to testing as a means of assessing a student’s readiness. MIT, for example, shifted back to testing in 2022 stating that “a requirement is more equitable and transparent than a test optional policy.”

There has been research indicating that SAT and ACT scores accurately predict academic success in college —findings that support test requirements for applicants. In addition, there is growing concern about an overemphasis on a student’s grades--and what they may be reflecting--, in the absence of other metrics such as a standardized test score.

Janet Godwin, CEO of the ACT, argues that standardized test scores are more important than ever post-pandemic.

“ACT has always believed that the score is just one measure of student success—in the face of systemic, persistent grade inflation, it’s an increasingly critical one,” said Godwin.

John Friedman, of Harvard’s Opportunity Insights, echoes Godwin, urging that college applicants should err on the side of caution and take the test, because those without scores will have a harder time getting into highly selective institutions, regardless of their testing policies—and that colleges are taking an even closer look at scores after a few years of widespread high school grade inflation post-pandemic.

“I think it’s becoming increasingly difficult to pretend like there’s no data in the omission of a score,” said Friedman.

With its shorter time, new question format, adaptive scoring, and partnership with Khan Academy, the College Board hopes the Digital SAT ushers in a new era in college admissions and that its road leads many more to success in higher education.

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The Pharcyde

30 January 2024

One-Act Festival Shifts Format to Staged Reading

Finley Strauss Staff Writer January is the theater department’s time to shine through its most expansive project: The One Act Play Festival. The Festival, more commonly referred to as “The One Acts,” is the most flexible and unique production at the Upper School. The curtain rises on this year’s show-- a staged reading-- at 1:00 PM in Benjamin Hall on January 27th.

Mostly student-run, these One Acts are a great opportunity for students who are interested in theater but often don’t have the time to commit to one of the big productions.

Drama Club president Xan Blount explains that this year the One Acts are being presented as a readthrough. There will still be actors reading the lines, and a narrator reading stage directions, but there will be no directed motion. “This change allows for us to still give a voice to the incredible work the playwrights did while also aligning with the amount of actors we had available,” shared Blount.

The One Acts are more available to students than typical performances because of the minimal amount of rehearsal and the individual freedoms students enjoy through the process of creating their own pieces. The One Acts are student written, directed, and acted. “Students will develop important skills along the way in terms of time management, leadership, and responsibility,” explained Mr.Peck.

The One Acts are also a chance for students who have never acted to take the stage. For example, it is freshman Natalie Bain’s first time participating in an Upper School production. She is directing the play House of Cards, which was written by senior Tyler Kelly.

Bain ended up deciding to act in her play in addition to directing because “ I was amazed because the cast that has been put together are all such wonderful people and I’m excited to not just direct it, but to be immersed in Tyler’s creation alongside them. I’m playing a small part: Lily.”

This is similar to sophomore Betsy Farmer. who is making her acting debut in House of Cards.

Like Bain, Blount is pulling double-duty this year. In the past, Xan has only had one role as an actor, but

since the One Acts are being conducted as a read-through this year the opportunity for her was slightly different being an actor and a director within this new format. Blount explained how “I am excited to try directing because it will put me in a different pair of shoes on the stage than I am used to, as I am normally an actor.”

Love for the One Acts runs deep within the Benjamin Theatre department. “I have been involved in the One Acts since my freshman year. I have always loved acting in the student-written plays as it is fun to bring your friends’ productions to life. The plays themselves often have interesting plots and more modern dialogue, than say some of the formal plays we produce, which gives every actor the chance to dabble in something different and new,” explained Blount.

Teachers also play a valuable role in The One Acts, such as substitute instructor Ms. Marina Gasparini, who has been involved with the One Act Festival for six years. She appreciates how flexible the project is and the shorter length of rehearsals, so more students can get involved. Theater educator Mr. Peck also appreciates the dedication of students and flexible rehearsal schedule. He loves seeing each student - new or old - thrive in the creative freedoms provided to them through the One Acts.

This year, seven plays will be read, four of which were listed as semi-finalists for the Palm Beach DramaWorks Young Playwright Festival, including Ava Schulties’ Dissimulare, which actually won the competition. Good luck to all the playwrights competing this year.

Sophomore Darrow Becker alongside junior Rebekkah Merkel read through Ava Schulties play. Mr. Peck worked as the narrator and lead them through the play.

(Photo by Matt Marasco)

Senior Evelyn Peyovich (right) joins in on the play during Saturdays readthrough of the One Acts. (Photo by Matt Marasco)

Best Taylor Swift Movie Review: Anyone But You Tour Yet? Powell and Sweeney Revive the Rom-Com Lila Brodner Staff Writer On March 17, 2023, Taylor Swift, a country and pop artist, started her international era tour. This tour is over three hours long, including songs from each album, surprise songs, and surprise artists.

“I went to the Taylor Swift concert in Tampa, on April 15,” says sophomore Emma Markin, “I went with two of my friends, Isabel and Lila”. Benjamin’s students went to concerts all over America. “I went to three concerts, Tampa and Los Angeles twice,” says freshman Mackenzie Bryan.

One fun thing that Swifties do is dress up as different albums for the concert, also called eras. “I dressed up as Speak Now, I wore a purple dress and put purple gems on my shoes and face,” says Markin. Dressing up as the different eras is a part of the atmosphere of the Era’s Tour, including friendship bracelets. “My friends and I made friendship bracelets and traded them among each other,” says sophomore Kate Quinlivan.

Freshman, Mackenzie Bryan on Night 5 in SoFi stadium in LA on August 10, 2023. (Photo courtesty of Mackenzie Bryan)

Sophomores Lila Brodner and Emma Markin on Night 2 of Tampa on April 15, 2023. (Photo by Lila Brodner)

Dressing up for the Eras Tour does not mean dressing up as your favorite album. “For the tour, I dressed up as Midnights, but I love her album 1989,” says Quinlivan. Albums have meaning to people, each album shows a different time in Taylor Swift’s life.

“I love Reputation because it shows her in her rebel era and it is a different aspect of Taylor Swift,” says Markin.

Taylor Swift is known for her performances, but even more known for her lyrics. Each song has a different meaning to Taylor and her fans, “My favorite songs are Last Kiss and You Are In Love because the lyrics are so well throughout and truly show a story,” says Quinlivan.

Taylor Swift is an actress, songwriter, and singer. She has performed many shows and the Era’s tour is one that Benjamin’s students loved. Can not wait to see the rest of her shows during this tour!

Taylor Swift is coming back to Florida on October 18 and 19, 2024 and she had a movie released in honor of the Era’s Tour on October 13, 2023.

Chase Zur Associate Editor On December 22 of 2023, Will Gluck’s Anyone But You made its much anticipated debut, welcoming back to the big screen the studio romantic comedy. With an incredible cast and interesting storyline, the film has quickly been embraced by audiences who have been craving laughs, love, and lusty leading couples.

One unique aspect of Anyone But You is that it is based on Shakespeare’s play, Much Ado About Nothing. The film follows the same general course as the play, with Ben (Glen Powell) and Bea (Sydney Sweeney) starting as enemies and eventually confessing their love for each other just as Count Claudio and Hero do in Shakespeare’s play.

Spoiler Alert: Plot Summary Ahead Skip To “The Success of the Movie” to keep the suspense.

Ben and Bea first meet in a coffee shop and find an instant connection.

The two enjoy a wonderful first date passionately talking, eating grilled cheese, and sharing parts of themselves that they have never revealed before.

The following day, Bea wakes up on Ben’s couch, panics at their promising connection, and leaves without a word. Regretting her mistake almost immediately, she decides to go back to Ben’s apartment. However, she overhears a conversation of a heartbroken Ben with his best friend Pete (Gata), in which he shares that Bea was no different than any other girl he has met.

Distraught herself, Bea quickly leaves and never contacts Ben again. A few months later, Bea and Ben cross paths because Pete’s sister, Claudia (Alexandra Shipp) starts to date Bea’s sister Halle (Hadley Robinson), and a year later they are both invited to their wedding in Australia.

With their constant quarreling, Ben and Bea make such a mess of the festivities that the main guests plot to get them together to ensure that the wedding will run smoothly.

The poorly executed ruse does not fool Ben or Bea, but the two decide to play along with it for their mutual benefit. Bea wants her parents to stop trying to get her back together with Jonathan (Darren Barnet), her ex-fiance, and Ben wants to make his ex, Margaret (Charlee Fraser), jealous.

Early efforts to sell their relationship remain unsuccessful, until a party on a boat in which the two reenact the famous scene from the Titanic.

Bea ends up falling into the water and

Ben jumps in to save her. While sitting on a buoy waiting for rescue, the two have an honest, raw conversation in which they discuss their deepest fears and hopes for the future including a date at the Opera House. Their witty relationship helps foster an incredible chemistry and attraction between them, further elevating the film above the typical romance movie.

The two end up spending the night together but in the morning, Ben slips out of the bedroom, angering Bea and breaking her heart.

Despite Bea’s growing anger, she decides to put it to the side because Claudia and Halle’s wedding is the next day. The two are civil, but after seeing Ben kiss his ex-girlfriend, Margaret, she runs away crying.

After the kiss, Ben realizes that he loves Bea and can not live without her. The wedding party convinces Ben to run after Bea, and so he jumps into the harbor, convinces a rescue helicopter to fly him to the Opera House, and then shares his true feelings with Bea. She ultimately forgives him and the two return to the wedding together as a happy couple.

The main publicity of the movie on social media is through Natasha Bedingfield’s pop anthem “Unwritten.” This was sang most importantly as Ben’s “serenity song.” In addition to the music, the innate chemistry between Ben and Bea is another aspect of the movie that is enjoyed by the audience. This is shown through Gluck’s brilliant cinematography as he uses a wide variety of medium and close-up shots. He perfectly demonstrates the fire between the two characters and brings their need for each other to center stage.

The Pharcyde

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30 January 2024

Golden Globes Fashion: Celebrities Show Off Their Stunning Styles on the Red Carpet Haley Roth Associate Editor On Jan. 7, the eighty-first annual Golden Globe ceremony was held at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California. Comedian Jo Koy hosted the event. The Golden Globes, which celebrate achievements in both film and television, have also served as a runway for the season’s chic looks.

This year’s ceremony continued the trend.

Fashion has been an integral part of the prestige and excitement of the Golden Globes, with new and unorthodox looks being shown off annually on the red carpet. The history of Golden Globe fashion has been filled with famous designer’s works, bold colors, and expensive jewelry. The 2024 Golden Globe looks were full of sparkles, Barbie pink, cherry red, satin, and lots of bold jewelry. Take a look at ten of the best looks below.

Margot Robbie, star of the highly celebrated film, Barbie, combined sparkle and Barbie-pink by wearing a gorgeous, form-fitting Giorgio Armani gown with a tulle boa. This look was also an homage to the 1977 Superstar Barbie doll.

(Photo by Vogue)

Jeremy Allen White, former star of Shameless and lead character in The Bear, wore an all-black look.

He sported a plain black suit with a sheer shirt under it. This outfit was designed by Calvin Klein, for whom White was recently in a commercial.

2024 popular shades.

Barry Keoghan, who recently star red in Amazon’s buzz-inducing Saltburn, wore a Louis Vuitton look.

This checkered suit, in a dark red, used mismatched checkered patterns to create an interesting and unconventional look. He wore pearl jewelry that matched the look wonderfully.

Billie Eilish showed off her knowledge of recent trends, with an oversized thrift-store-inspired look. It was completed with a sock and heel combination. She wore a Willy Chavarria blazer, a khaki skirt, and Mary Janes. The boxy look was a departure from the singer’s casual attire while continuing her love of baggy clothing.

tasteful. This look was completed with silver jewelry and a sparkly makeup look.

Timothée Chalamet, who recently starred in the film Wonka, wore a sparkly, black Celine Homme blazer. This blazer was the star of his look, with the rest of it being relatively simple. The sparkles he sported were perfect for the Golden Globes.

Taylor Swift, who was in attendance as her Era’s Tour film was nominated for a Golden Globe, channeled her “reputation era” by wearing a shimmery chartreuse Gucci gown.

Combined with clean makeup and statement earrings, this look was understated yet still very elegant.

(Photo by Vogue)

Issa Rae, another star of the Barbie film, wore a long, golden Pamella Roland dress that fit the Golden Globes perfectly. Her simple gold jewelry and low, slicked-back hairstyle completed the look in an understated way that highlighted the gown.

Florence Pugh, a presenter at the event and star of Oppenheimer, which won eight Golden Globe awards, wore a sheer, red Valentino gown featuring floral details. This look was complemented by a chunky statement necklace and an unusual updo (a sort of blonde mohawk/mullet). The bold red color of the dress is perfectly on trend with 2023 and

(Photo by Vogue) (Photo by Vogue)

(Photo by Vogue)

Oprah was also in attendance at the Golden Globes as an executive producer of The Color Purple. She wore a purple, off-the-shoulder Louis Vuitton gown that was both bold and

The Saltburn actress, Rosamund Pike, wore a black tea-length Dior gown that combined floral appliques and shimmer to make a classy, slightly morbid vibe. The look was tied together with a pair of black heels and a special lace veil covering her face. The apparatus was designed to offer support for Pike’s recent skiing injuries. Overall, her look was one of the most unique ones seen on the red carpet at the Golden Globes.

After the disbandment of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association last year, this Golden Globe was the first to be hosted by the Golden Globe Foundation, a foundation made up of Elridge Industries and Dick Clark Productions. The Globes’ red carpet is one of many that celebrities will walk this Awards season, which runs through the Oscars on Mar. 10th.

Golden Globes Awards Recap Diverse Talents, One Stage: Variety Show Spotlights Students Ryan Chait Breaking News Director

The 81st Golden Globe Awards occurred Sunday, January 7th at The Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California. The Golden Globes is an award show for movies, television series, and actors. Jo Key hosted this year’s awards.

The Hollywood Foreign Press Association a group of around 300 international journalists chose, nominated, and voted on this year’s Golden Globes. The awards got moved to be televised on NBC after it used to

be held on CBS in the past previous years.

The Golden Globes are commonly known for the speeches that the actors and actresses give after they win an award. They always mention politics based on what’s going on in the world, but this year a lot of actors and actresses addressed the war going on between Hamas and Israel.

The movie, Oppenheimer and the television series, Succession took home the most awards. Barbie was the most nominated film which was nine despite only winning two awards.

This year there were two new awards added, the cinematic and box achievement award which was awarded to the movie, Barbie. The other new category was the best performance by a stand-up comic which Ricky Gervais won. Lily Gladstone was the first Indigenous person to win the best actress in a drama film.

Every year there is at least one surprise award winner that nobody really had predicted. This year that award was the best screenplay which was awarded to Anatomy of a Fall, although two dozen award handicappers had predicted Barbie to win.

Amanda Duguay Staff Writer Students and Faculty were able to feel the love at the 28th Annual Benjamin School Variety which took place in Benjamin Hall at the Upper School last Saturday at 1:30 pm and 7 pm. The theme of this musical celebration was “To Benjamin, With Love,” as all performers incorporated aspects of compassion and affection into their acts.

The Variety Show was directed by Performing Arts Depart-

ment Chair, Mrs. Sara Salivar, and Upper School Music Director Ms. Kirkland Austin and allowed students, teachers, parents, and alumni to showcase their talents to the Benjamin Community. The show was about two and a half hours in length and was divided into two acts with a fifteen-minute intermission in between. The show had a great turnout with many seats taken and the audience seemed to be filled with excitement with roars of applause after each act.

Upper School Faculty (From left to rightMr. Juan Alvarez, Mr. Dave Bailey, and Mr. Matthew Haughn) perfom during the show.

(Photo by Mr. Ferris)

The Dazzlers put on a stunning performance as always. (Photo by Mr. Ferris)

Page 10

The Pharcyde

30 January 2024

Junior Amaree Williams Australian Open Preview Reclasses to the 2024 Class Reid Waxman Sports Editor

Ryan Chait Breaking News Director There are around one million high school football players on sixteen thousand teams across the United States and only a few are considered the best in the nation. Amaree Williams, a senior, is one of these few. He is a top high school football recruit who recently announced that he is reclassifying to the class of 2024 from the class of 2025.

Williams is a high four-star recruit and the #5 ranked athlete in the nation according to 247 Sports Composite Ranking. He has been getting national attention from media sources, college recruiters, and the entire Benjamin community due to his level of talent.

“I like getting all the national attention, but in my opinion, I have

been very humble about it. I find it very cool that I am reclassing but it is a lot of work because I have to take a lot of classes. I think I am the first person to ever reclass at Benjamin in my case scenario,” said Williams.

He has narrowed down his college commitment to thirteen schools; the University of Georgia, the University of Florida, the University of Miami, the University of Michigan, the University of Alabama, the University of Tennesse, the University of Oregon, the University of South Carolina, University of Southern California, Florida State University, University of Kentucky, Penn State University, and the University of Texas.

“I have a general idea of where I want to go and I am going to make my decision on February 3rd. My big goal is to make the NFL at the end of the day,” Williams mentioned.

Amaree Williams poses for a photo on his unofficial visit to USC on November 4th, 2023. USC is one of Williams top 13 schools including Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Michigan, Miami, Tennessee, Oregon, South Carolina, Florida State, Kentucky, Penn State, and Texas. (Photo Courtesy via Barstool USC)

After taking his first official visit on December 15th, many people started to think that Williams would join the Florida State Seminoles in the fall of 2024, following in the footsteps of Benjamin alum, Jordan Travis ‘18, who declared for the 2024 NFL Draft. Steve Wiltfong, the Director of Football Recruiting for 247 Sports, and Zach Blostein, a contributor for Noles 247, predicted that Williams would sign with the Florida State Seminoles for the fall of 2024.

It is very rare for students at The Benjamin School to reclass, Mr. Fletcher Carr, Head of the Upper School stated.

He also shared, “In my eight years of working here, Amaree is the only student to reclass. We had a feeling that Chauncey Bowens ‘24 was going to graduate a semester early so we were prepared. Kaiir Elam ‘19 left school after the senior’s last day,” said Carr.

“It is very rare to have a student reclass. I think that there are a couple of students at Benjamin that are sophomores that could possibly reclass,” Williams added.

Williams clearly has shown that he is ready to go to college academically and athletically. It took a lot of work from him and The Benjamin School community, but he is going to be graduating as a senior this upcoming May. The Pharcyde wishes Williams the best of luck making his decision on where to attend college.

The ATP Tour kicks off with the Australian Open (Jan. 14-28). With the anxiety, heated conditions, and competitiveness, the players will compete for the year’s first major.

Defending champion Novak Djokovic returns to Melbourne seeking his 25th major win. He also looks to retain his world number-one ranking, as others--notably Carlos Alcaraz, Daniil Medvedev, Jannik Sinner, and Stefanos Tsitipas--look to take over that prestigious spot.

The Pharcyde’s picks for each Quarter of the men’s side follow.

Quarter 1: Winner: Djokovic over Shelton 6-4, 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 Quarter 2: Winner: De Minaur over Sinner 7-5, 3-6, 2-6, 7-5, 6-3 Quarter 3: Winner: Medvedev over Rune 6-4, 7-5, 6-1 Quarter 4: Winner: Alcaraz over Zverev 6-1, 6-4, 6-3 Semi-Finals: De Minaur over Djokovic 5-7, 6-7, 6-3, 6-7, 7-5 Alcaraz over Medvedev 6-4, 6-3, 6-7, 6-4 Finals: Alcaraz over De Minaur 6-1, 6-4, 6-3 Moving on to the women’s side of the tournament, this trophy has many more competitors.

The tournament’s favorites are Coco Gauff, Aryna Sabalenka, and Iga Swiatek. Senior Andrew Lappin

is a massive fan of Coco Gauff. She is the US Open champion, and Lappin believes she can continue running on another hard-court major.

The Pharcyde’s picks for each Quarter of the women’s side follow.

Quarter 1: Winner: Swiatek over Navarro 6-1, 6-4 Quarter 2: Winner: Pegula over Rybakina 7-5, 4-6, 6-2 Quarter 3: Winner: Gauff over Hadaad Maia 6-2, 6-4 Quarter 4: Winner: Sabalenka over Krejcikova: 6-4, 6-7, 6-2 Semifinals: Swiatek over Pegula 6-3, 6-4 Sabalenka over Gauff 6-3, 6-7, 6-4 Finals: Swiatek over Sabalenka 6-4, 7-6.

It may be cold in the US in January, but it is the hottest time of the year in Melbourne, Australia. Temperatures will go up to 90°F, with the humidity likely to heavily affect the players on the court.

The first major of the year always lives up to the hype. Although it is on the other side of the globe, some of us may have to switch our sleep schedules to watch it. Make sure to tune in to the fun! *For a more complete preview of the Australian Open, visit https:// thepharcyte.com/4827/sports/firstgrand-slam-of-the-year-australianopen-kicks-off-in-melbourne/

Game, Set, Match: Benjamin Tennis Seasons Ready to Serve up Excitement Chase Zur Associate Editor With appearances at the state tournament and winning records last season, the girls and boys tennis teams are excited to get back on the court and serve up some serious competition. Each team has ten total spots with eight players who will participate in the matches and two alternates.

The girls and boys tennis teams have a new coach this season, Leon Olivier. A formal player on the ATP tour, Coach Olivier transitioned to coaching due to his passion for instructing players and teaching the tactical side of tennis. He was previously a grad-assistant at Arizona Christian University and is looking forward to a very successful season for both teams.

“My goals for the season are pretty high but I think we have a good enough team to achieve them and I have a lot of confidence in our players. I’m really hoping that we can win a state championship for either the girls or the boys. Of course, we would love to win both trophies but the main goal is to come away with one state championship this year,” said Coach Olivier.

Coach Olivier is thrilled to be joining Benjamin athletics and has lots of ways that he wants to impact the tennis program and his players.

“Tennis is a varsity sport. We have great facilities here at Benjamin and so I think the level of seriousness this season is going to increase a lot. I want to take an intense schedule with the practices, possibly even doing some in the morning where everyone will play a lot of points and get a lot of guidance. We play 8-game pro-sets

and so I think starting strong and trying to get the lead early will be key to winning matches this season,” Coach Olivier said.

With four seniors graduating last year, the boys tennis team faces the challenge of filling the leadership void this year. Nevertheless, the Bucs are eager to embrace this opportunity for growth and development. Sophomore Ishe Makoni is pumped for the season and hopes to drive the team far into the postseason and step into a more pivotal role.

“The seniors leaving really took a hit to our team because they made up 3 out of our top 5, but we have a fresh start this year. Everybody has to really step up this year and give 110% in both practice and matches to make up for the amazing seniors that left. We still have an incredible new lineup though, with people excited to finally play this year so that will add the extra motivation we need to succeed,” Makoni expressed.

While the boys tennis team has welcomed a significant number of new players this season, the girls team has similarly expanded its roster with fresh, young talent. Freshman Maria Navarro, a new addition to the team, is ranked third in her age group in Florida and can’t wait for the session to get in full swing.

“I have been training on a daily basis and playing some USTA (United States Tennis Association) tournaments during the weekends to prepare. I have also been playing soccer, which has helped my preparation because it allows me to stay in shape and get my cardio conditioning up to where it is supposed to be. I feel like we are going to do great this season and am very excited about our new

coach. He has a lot of experience and brings the intensity needed to improve,” Navarro said.

Captain of the girls tennis team, junior Madeline Taub, feels that this team is the strongest one Benjamin has seen in years and can’t wait to see what they can accomplish together.

“We have some amazing new girls who are experienced tournament players and very hard workers.

While it is still early in the season, it is already clear that all of our players are mentally tough, physically fit, and eager to play. Their enthusiastic and competitive spirit will help us win our upcoming matches and prepare us for the rest of the season. The team’s determination and skill will guide us towards the postseason competition,” Taub explained.

As the team’s gear up for the season, both the girls and boys are eager to face familiar rivals and test their skills against formidable opponents.

“I’m really excited to play St. Andrews. They have always been really tough competition in the past, and I’m hoping this year we can finally beat them. It’s always great practice playing them and usually shows us what we need to improve on both individually and as a team going forward in matches,” Freshman Chase Atkins said.

Overall, the Benjamin girls and boys tennis teams seem to be poised for extraordinary seasons, fueled by a combination of new talent, different coaching approaches, and emerging leadership.

Sophomore Reid Waxman warms up his tennis swing with his serve at the start of practice.

(Photo by Chase Zur)

Freshman Chase Atkins gets ready to serve the tennis ball. Atkins is one of four freshman on Varsity.

(Photo by Reid Waxman)

Freshman Maria Navarro plays in the USTA Orange Bowl Tournament to better prepare for the high school season and improve her tennis experience.

(Photo courtesy of Maria Navarro)

The Pharcyde

30 January 2024

Page 11

Lady Bucs Dominate Palm Strength. Fitness. Saunders.

League Championship Coach, Alumnus Assumes PE Teaching Duties Chase Zur and Stella Liberman Associate Editor and Staff Writer

Haley Roth Associate Editor On Thursday, Jan. 11, the girls’ varsity soccer team (11-0-0) faced off against the Ransom Everglades Raiders (9-3-2) in the Palm League Championship. The Bucs, ranked number one in Florida by MaxPreps, defeated Ransom Everglades with a final score of 4-0.

Senior Lily White, who is committed to playing women’s soccer at the University of Pennsylvania (or UPenn), scored the game’s first goal.

This goal set the tone for the game as the Bucs continued to stay strong throughout the whole first half. With help from sophomore Sofia Balestreri, forward Vanessa Zito also scored against the Raider’s goalkeeper, Ella Crowley.

White was determined to help her team in this Palm League Championship game: “Our goal was to perform to the best of our ability and to come out with a win. It felt great to score the first goal knowing I could relieve our team of some of the pressure that comes with being tied.”

Toward the end of the first half, sophomore Kenna Kujawa and eighth-grader Fiona Foster were subbed in, continuing the motivated and energetic goal attempts. While Ransom Everglades tried to score multiple times, all of their attempts were blocked by the Buc’s keeper, junior Emily Simon.

Although the Raider’s senior captain Sofi Rua attempted to lead her team to a goal, they were never able to connect enough to defeat the Bucs’

defensive players, including sophomore Caroline Welke.

“I think the defense is so strong because of the individual quality of the players. For example, Sam Woods is amazing and so is Ella Egizio, who is only a freshman. Gabriela and Kenna are also such good players. We work really well together and are always talking and vocal on the field,” explained Caroline Welke.

At halftime, the Benjamin Girls’ Soccer Team was far ahead of the Raiders. After a strategizing meeting, the Bucs were back for the second half, and more aggressive than before. Hoping to win this Palm League Champion title, the girl’s soccer team maintained both possession and control, unlike the Raiders.

After Ransom Everglade missed a goal, Lily White took a corner kick that led to Maria Navarro being able to score a goal. With seven minutes left in the game, freshman Maria Navarro scored the final goal of the game, with the Raiders never actually making any of their shots.

Navarro shared how she felt when scoring, “It honestly felt really

good not only because I scored but because of the environment and my teammates who were there to celebrate and support me.”

The Bucs continued to show just how strong of a team they are in this pressure-filled Palm League Championship, taking home yet another trophy for the Benjamin Soccer program.

The Benjamin crowd at this game, while small, showed their support cheering on their children, siblings, and classmates. Mr. Franzen, with his punny announcements and updates, made sure that the Benjamin community was informed and laughing.

Jackson Zentner, a sophomore and viewer of the game stated, “I heard they were playing a good team so a couple of friends and I went. Everyone was getting excited when the team made a good play, especially after the goals.”

The girls’ soccer team not only won this game but also did not allow Ransom Everglades to have major possession or shot attempts, reflecting the communication and determination of the team as a whole.

The Bucs celebrate Maria Navarro’s goal against Ransom Everglades with highfives and hugs.

(Photo by Haley Roth)

Students taking the strength and fitness class can expect to see a new face in the Upper School weight room. Starting this semester, Head Track and Field Coach Barrett Saunders is taking over the class from varsity football coach, Eric Kresser.

“I am doing some other football-related activities in the mornings.I will still be at school everyday but Coach Saunders will take over the weight room classes. He is very knowledgeable in that role, and I have no doubt that he will do great in the new position,” Kresser said.

Although stepping down, Kresser has made a long-lasting impact on the physical education program at Benjamin and the students as well. His influence is shown in the newly-renovated workout gym and new equipment students now have access to.

“When Coach Kresser came in, he helped us make the transition from the typical program of dodgeball, kickball, and capture the flag, to fitness classes and strength and conditioning. When we renovated the gym, he was a huge part of the design process and selected lots of the equipment that he felt would be most beneficial to the students,” Upper School Athletic Director Ryan Smith explained.

Commenting on his motivations for taking the position, Saunders noted that he hopes to improve Benjamin student-athletes’ well-being.

“As a Benjamin alumnus, I wanted to help the students and student-athletes become more well-rounded by being able to learn how to lift and demonstrate proper weight room etiquette, so they can

become better overall athletes. I am hoping to improve the P.E. program, [the goal] is to build a culture of everybody wanting to come in and be excited to work out and get the work in,” Saunders said.

In his new role, Saunders is focused on using physical education to develop the whole student.

“My biggest goal is to have each kid figure out what their potential is in the weight room so they can become better well-rounded athletes and people in general,” Saunders noted.

Stemming from this desire to improve student-athletes as people, Saunders is looking forward to connecting with Benjamin students beyond the track team.

“I have been around for a while coaching, so I know a lot of Benjamin students, but I’m most excited about meeting the kids I haven’t met […] and spend[ing] more time [with them],” Saunders stated.

Smith is excited about Saunders’s values, credentials, and what he will bring to the program in the future.

“First and foremost, Coach Saunders is just a great person–just an A plus person. He’s a kid-first coach and teacher. He has a knowledge base that is outstanding: 15 plus years working in the fitness [and] strength training area. His expertise is invaluable,” Smith explained.

Students as well as teachers and administrators are looking forward to seeing Coach Saunders in the gym.

“I really enjoy the aspect of working out at school. I find it interesting how we have set workouts [everyday], so people who don’t know how to work out are learning inside and outside of school,” freshman Sloane Tuohey said.

Super Bowl LVIII Late-Season Rebound Joey Tomassetti Editor-in-Chief

The “Big Game” is finally set.

Super Bowl 55 will be between the defending champions Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers.

This matchup will take place in Las Vegas on Sun., Feb. 11 at 6:30 p.m.

After beating the Baltimore Ravens 17-10 in the AFC Championship, the Chiefs have now been in four of the last five Super Bowls.

With another win this year, quarterback Patrick Mahomes will be another step closer to becoming the GOAT (greatest of all time).

Mahomes had another stellar performance, passing for over 240 yards and a touchdown while completing 77% of his passes. Mahomes’ partner-in-crime, tight end Travis Kelce, had eleven catches for 116 yards and a touchdown. Kelce also broke the record for most all-time playoff receptions.

The Chiefs came into this game having found success in their running game. Averaging over 140 yards on the ground in their last two outings, Kansas City had to change the game plan against a stout Ravens defense.

It was not pretty in the second half, but they got the job done.

Besides the excellence of Mahomes and Kelce, the Chiefs’ second-ranked defense was the reason they were able to advance to their second straight Super Bowl. Cornerbacks L’Jarius Sneed and Trent McDuffie added to their case as the league’s best cornerback duo. Defensive tackle Chris Jones was wreaking havoc on the inside, while also getting help from fellow defensive linemen George Karlaftis and Charles Omenihu.

The 49ers will be the Chiefs op-

ponent in this year’s final game. After a heartbreaking loss to Mahomes and these same Chiefs in 2020, the Niners are seeking revenge. This time, though, the Niners will be led back by second-year quarterback and former “Mr. Irrelevant” Brock Purdy.

Purdy put together another solid performance against the Detroit Lions in the NFC Championship, passing for over 260 yards and a touchdown. San Fran was down 24-7 at halftime but was able to put it together in the third quarter to tie the game.

Then, they dominated the fourth quarter except for a late touchdown by the Lions.

Christian McCaffrey had another dominant performance, rushing and receiving for over 140 scrimmage yards and two touchdowns. Deebo Samuel also had a nice game, racking in almost 90 yards receiving on eight catches. Brandon Aiyuk may have had the play of the night to go along with his 68 receiving yards, catching a 51-yard pass off the helmet of a Lions defender.

Then, there is the always fierce Niners defense. Led by linebacker Fred Warner and edge Nick Bosa, this side of the ball is filled with game wreckers. Cornerback Charvarius Ward, a former Chief, has been one of the best at his position all season. They will have a tough matchup against Mahomes and Kelce, but they are certainly built for this tall task.

The coaching matchup between these clubs will also be entertaining.

Both Andy Reid and Kyle Shannahan are offensive masterminds, so this game is destined to be a chess match.

This may not even end up mattering, as the real x-factor is Chiefs superfan Taylor Swift (kidding).

The Pharcyde’s PredictionChiefs 27, 49ers 24.

Girls’ Basketball Set to Bounce Back Chase Zur Associate Editor Facing a tough season marked by a 3-11-0 record and grappling with several injuries, the girls’ basketball team continues to fight with resilience and determination. With only three games left in the regular season, the team hopes to improve their record and their position in the District tournament.

After just the fifth game of the season, senior and captain Nandini Patel experienced a crushing ACL injury that sidelined her for the rest of the season. Patel was also out last season due to an ACL injury, so losing her and her strong presence on the court has been challenging for the team. However, despite her season ending abruptly, Patel has decided to focus on the positive moments and be the best leader she can be for the rest of her teammates.

“Although I haven’t been able to play for the majority of the season,

I have still traveled to each of the games because I really just want to help the team in any way I can. I am so grateful that I was able to play the first five games because I had been injured for most of the season before.

Playing basketball is my favorite thing to do, so I was overwhelmed with joy when I was able to be back on the court again. In my first game, I performed past my expectations with 25 points and it was so great to be playing with the team again,” Patel expressed.

In addition to Patel, senior Hannah Beam also suffered a concussion early on in the season. Yet, the players who have been on the court have showcased remarkable spirit that goes beyond the win-loss record.

Junior Victoria Powell, one of these players, feels proud of the way she has improved her game this year and hopes to continue to get better in the postseason.

“I have really tried to work on my offense this year and be a better

The Girls’ Basketball Team poses for their team photo at the beginning of the season.

(Photo by Jeremy Ferris)

teammate overall. This year has been especially hard but I am so proud of the way that everyone has continued to work hard in every game no matter what the score may be. We all work for each other and I think we just need to work better together and communicate more in order to pull out those wins,” Powell noted.

Sophomore Marlee Schwab agrees with Powell and hopes to win as much as possible for the rest of the season while also improving her individual game.

“Even though we aren’t exactly where we wanted to be at this point in the season, I feel like I am getting better every game and practice. The team works really hard every time we step onto the court so I feel like I am always playing against really good competition whether in games or practice. I have been working on my shooting the most because I really want to score as much for the team as I can. Overall though, I’m just hoping that we can win as many games as possible and make it as far as we can into the postseason,” Schwab expressed.

As the girls’ basketball team gears up for the final stretch of the regular season, they prepare for the crucial matchups against Gulliver Prep on January 22nd, St. Edward’s on January 26th, and American Heritage High School on January 30th.

The team’s schedule has been a mix of tough challenges and hardfought battles, playing good teams such as Somerset Prep, Palm Beach Gardens High School, and Berean Christian High School. Don’t forget to mark your calendars for the next girls’ basketball game to support the Lady Bucs!

the

PHLIPCYDE

Horoscopes

Aries - Many of your values and beliefs will change this month, bringing new people with them.

Taurus - This month will see you redefining your present and future self.

Gemini - Both your guidance and wisdom will improve this month, expect fresh perspectives.

Cancer - This month you will evaluate what is no longer positive in your life.

Leo - Your important relationships will shift and transform this month.

Virgo - Look where you are not appreciated enough, as this month you will fix your priorities.

Libra - This month you will no longer avoid what makes you joyful.

Scorpio - This month you will look at past experiences and reframe current ones.

Sagittarius - This month you will ground yourself in daily-routines as a source of happiness.

Capricorn - Focus on your sense of stability this month, and be present in your life.

Aquarius - This month sees you in an intense state, focus on your own wellbeing.

Pisces - This month allows a reset through creativity and solitude.

Palm Beach Ice Works As spring approaches, be sure to get in a few more winter activities. One of these enjoyable activities is ice skating, and Palm Beach Ice Works is the perfect place to go. This rink has many activities, including public skating times, ice hockey games, and lessons.

Ice skating is a perfect pastime to do with friends and family, no matter a person’s skill level. Palm Beach Ice Works offers some well-needed cold to help Floridians truly get all of the winter feels. The next public skate date is Sunday, February 4 from 1:30 to 3:30. Palm Beach Ice Works is great for a fun and out-of-the-ordinary activity this winter season. Go check it out!

1590 N Florida Mango Rd, West Palm Beach, FL 33409 (561) 656-4046

January’s Top Hits

10 Things to Do Before Valentine’s Day Buy flowers and chocolate

Get ready for rejection

Ask someone to be your valentine

Make dinner reservations

Brush your teeth

Watch lots of rom-coms

Go to Doc for help writing love letters

Perfect a Valntine’s Day Outift

Plan a Galentine’s Party

Prepare your heartbreak playlist

Hot Chocolate Recipe 4 cups milk (preferably whole or 2%) ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder ¼ cup granulated sugar ½ cup bittersweet or semisweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bar ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract Place milk, cocoa powder and sugar in a small saucepan. Heat over medium/medium-low heat, whisking frequently, until warm (but not boiling).

Add chocolate chips and whisk constantly until the chocolate chips melt and distribute evenly into the milk. Whisk in vanilla extract, serve immediately.

Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or any other desired toppings.