The Blue and Gold maldenblueandgold.com
Malden High School Volume 98 Edition 3
spirit week
Our 98th Year December 2012
In This Issue: Editorial Page 3 Opinion Page 8 World page 10 Local Page 13 Entertainment Page 18 Lifestyle Page 27 Sports Page 28
Nedlam and senior Simon Rogers showing their Malden spirit at the pep rally. Read more about Spirit Week on pages 14 and 15.
pl ay pro
125th ANNUAL Thanksgiving Game
Play Production cast members performing the opening number to their fall musical, 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Photo by Grace Stathos
The MHS football team huddling before the next pplay during the 125th Annual Thanksgiving Day Game agaisnt Medford. Photo by Johanna Lai.
Amanda De Moraes Reporter
Grace Stathos Reporter
Arefin Mohiuddin Reporter
as they do, hard work and dedication is a must. This year, the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee came to MHS on Nov. 16, 2012 and Nov. 17, 2012. The play, which takes place completely during the bee, comically features the struggles and hardships of various characters,
Utter domination best describes the way the Malden High School football team ended their season this past Thanksgiving, with a 32-6 a romp over the rival Medford Mustangs, marking a 3-8 record for the Golden Tornadoes for the entire year, while also dropping their
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edication: noun. A devoting or setting aside for a particular purpose. Such is the case of Malden High School’s Play Production class, who, three times a year, performs their plays for all of MHS and Malden to marvel at. But of course, in order to produce a product as stellar
continued on pages 16-17
rivals to 0-10 on the year. This year also marked the 125th year in this vaunted rivalry, and gave Malden an all-time 61-54-10 record in the second longest high school rivalry in the entire nation. The game features various scores from senior Rodney Blaise and junior Raymond Sainriscontinued on page 28
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Editorials
The Blue and Gold December 2012
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Malden High School
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Editors-in-Chief: Print: LAUREN BENOIT ‘13 Online: JOSHUA KUMMINS ‘13 Print: SHARON LEE ‘13 Online: CATHERINE POIRIER ‘13 Managing Editors: Online: KAYLA BRAMANTE ‘13 Print: NATALIE FALLANO ‘13 Social Media: MEGAN KELLY ‘13 Head Copy Editor: AMALIA QUESADA NYLEN ‘13 Head of Local: VICKI NGAN ‘14 AMANDA ROSATONE ‘14 Head of Sports: KRISTEN LEONARD ‘14 Head of World: MEGAN KELLY ‘13 Head of Entertainment, Style, and Lifestyle: HALEY DOWDIE ‘13 Head of Business: JOHANNA LAI ‘13 _____________ Reporters: NICHOLAS BRAMANTE ‘16 EMMA CEPLINSKAS ‘16 CARMELLITE J CHAMBLIN ‘14 ANDREW COGLIANO ‘16 AMANDA DE MORAES ‘15 JONATHAN DECICCO ‘15 JESSICA LYNN DEPAULA ‘15 CHAIMAE EL ADLOUNI ‘16 JULIE LAM ‘15 ASHLEY LEUNG ‘16 PATRICIA LUONG ‘16 CASEY LYONS ‘15 JAMES MAZARAKIS ‘15 AREFIN MOHIUDDIN ‘13 SUMYA MOHIUDDIN ‘15 PHILLIP MONTEZUMA ‘15 MYLE NGUYEN ‘15 LUCIA QUESADA NYLEN ‘16 GRACE STATHOS ‘15 MANALE ZOUHIR ‘16 Advisor: Ryan Gallagher Established in 1915 Check out our online edition:
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“It’s The End Of The World As We Know It (And I Feel Fine)”
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o, I am not talking about the catchy song by R.E.M. that is currently stuck in my head -- I am talking about the actual, and maybe not so actual, end of the existing world, as we know it. I am sure you have seen the TV shows, short films, and feature lengths films depicting all sorts of tragic happenings, but anticipation and chaos about the endless possibilities of what could happen on Dec. 21, 2012 have dwindled down surprisingly in recent months, considering the date is now only a few short weeks away. Why does does no one seem to be worried or scared about the uncertainty surrounding this day anymore? Shouldn’t panic and confusion be increasing as the unknown event grows closer? This day marks the end of the 5,125 year long count of the Mesoamerican calendar. Used by many civilizations, but it is typically known as the Mayan Calendar. However, there has been no legitimate and reliable agreement that this day marks anything other than the end of another cycle on the calendar. The 2012 phenomenon is most likely going to be nothing at all, or it could be one of many theories: we all undergo a positive spiritual transformation, a new era begins, or some catastrophe where Earth collides into another planet named Nibiru. The only correlation between the end of the calendar and some significant event occurring would be based off the fact that the Mayan civilization had some extensive
Editorial Policy The Blue and Gold is an open forum for student expression. It is produced by students for the school and the community. The views presented in this paper are not necessarily those of the advisor or the school administration. The views presented in the editorials are those of the editors-in-chief or guests. The goal of The Blue and Gold is to inform and entertain students as well as the community regarding issues that we feel are important. We strongly encourage readers to respond to material printed in the form of signed letters to the editors. No libelous, malicious, defamatory, obscene, or unsigned material will be printed. The Blue and Gold reserves the right to edit the letters. Names may be withheld upon request. Not all letters will be printed. Although The Blue and Gold appreciates the support of advertisers, we may refuse any advertisement that violates the above policy or that promotes products questionable to student use. Any correspondence concerning this publication should be directed to Mr. Ryan Gallagher’s room in J387 or to his mailbox in the main office.
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otherworldly premonitions for thousands of years into the future. But the way I look at it, and I wish more people saw it this way, is that the Mayan people planned this calendar for 5,125 years... I mean, maybe they just got tired. Maybe one Mayan said to the other “Hey, we sure have been making this calendar for a while. Should we stop this cycle on Dec. 21, 2012?” and the other guy said “Wow! That sounds like a great idea.” The conversation could have also said “Woah, I just had a premonition that on Dec. 21, 2012 there will be a spiritual revolution around the world.” Either way, there are too many “what ifs” revolving around the day, and this is another part of the reason why it is not a topic of conversation anymore. Instead of spending time wondering what is going to happen, spend time with loved ones, “YOLO” all you want, and procrastinate all Christmas shopping until Dec. 22, 2012. Until the new calendar cycle or our next edition, whichever comes first, this is The Blue and Gold signing off. Happy Holidays everyone!
Catherine Poirier Editor-in-Chief
Corrections: page 26 - Ilyass Hattal’s first name is spelled incorrectly. page 28 - Julie Lam wrote the senior profile on Norma Borque-Pimental.
The Blue and Gold December 2012
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Opinion maldenblueandgold.com
Supporting Students, Evoking Entrepreneurs, and Building our Future Letter to the Editor submitted by Lisa DeLacey
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n order for Mrs. Debra Buckley’s 2012-2013 Entrepreneurship class to continue the annual tradition of NFTE’s New York City buying trip and student selling event, transportation funding was imperative, and graciously provided by local businesses around Malden. Paul Murphy, owner of Paul T. Murphy Insurance Agency, was a key financial contributor. Murphy helped to secure Mrs. Buckley’s Entrepreneurship class a day trip to New York City where they learned the basic principles of supply, demand, marketing and selling. Malden’s Chamber of Commerce executive director, Ted Coates and Tony’s Auto Body owner, Tony Bartolo also contributed financially to make this the sixth year Malden High students have partaken in this tradition. Funding for transportation of the class field trip to New York City was cut from the school budget this year despite the educational opportunity NFTE (the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship) offers. In addition to learning NFTE’s curriculum inside of the classroom, Entrepreneurship: Owning Your Future, Mrs. Buckley’s students have the opportunity to take a fieldtrip to a “wholesale district or warehouse club, which they then reprice and sell for a profit.” This fieldtrip is an experiential activity furthering their
entrepreneurial education. Without financial support of outside sources, the entrepreneurship class would not have been able to take advantage of NFTE’s offer. The New York trip is always a highlight of Malden High’s Entrepreneurship class - a learning experience and chance for students to be exposed to real world business situations. The involvement spans school wide and into the community at large. Owner of Paul T. Murphy Insurance Agency, Paul Murphy, relates his act of philanthropy to the potential of Mrs. Buckley’s Entrepreneurship students. Mr. Murphy gave his donation in the memory of Jim Duffy, a retired Assistant Principal of MHS that recently passed away. Mr. Murphy is an alumnus of the high school. Students journeyed to New York’s wholesale district early December 6 and returned later that day. A selling event will take place during the lunch period of the students and faculty, Friday December 14 of the following week. The remainder of items will be sold by students on their own time. Thanks to Mr. Murphy, Mr. Ted Coates of Malden Chamber of Commerce and Mr. Tony Bartolo of Tony’s Auto Body for supporting Malden’s students and their education!
Learn more about these contributors at: Paul T. Murphy Insurance Agency www.paulmurphyinsurance.com 628 Broadway Malden, MA 02148 (781) 321-9700 Ted Coates, Executive Director Malden Chamber of Commerce www.maldenchamber.org (781) 322- 4500 Tony Bartolo, Owner Tony’s Auto Body www.tonysautobodyllc.com 34 Sharon Street Malden, MA 02148 (781) 321-0032
Submit a Letterto-the Editor to be published in our next edition! Email out staff at theblueandgold@ gmail.com
In This Issue: Editorial Page 3 Summer Search Page 4 Obamacare Page 8 Teen Enrichment Center page 10 Powderpuff Game Page 13 Spirit Week Pages 14-15 Christmas Wish List Page 18 Boys & Girls Basketball Page 25 MHS Hockey Page 27 Thanksgiving Game Page 28
Spirit Week Instagram contest winners
Pajama Day
Wacky Tacky Day
Blue & Gold Day
Thanksgiving Day
Instagram Contest: Submit your holiday photos to The Blue & Gold for a chance to be published in our next edition. Tag #theblueandgold via instagram to submit your photo!
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The Blue and Gold December 2012
Opinion maldenblueandgold.com
BECOME A SUMMER SEARCHER!
Check out an album of past Summer Trips on our facebook page!
What is Summer Search?
Summer Search is a non-profit organization that sponsors students that come from low income families, to experience two, once in a lifetime summer trips. Through mentoring, Summer Searchers are prepared to overcome adversity, and guided through high school, and the challenges they face. The mission of Summer Search is to inspire high schoolers to become the responsible, and altruistic leaders of the future. Summer Search is a National Leadership Developmental Program, that has seven locations across the country.
Only 50% of lowincome students graduate high school
99% of Summer
Searchers graduate high school BENEFITIS: Senior Students:
.. I have become a much more welcoming person who embraces diversity and empathizes with other human beings. My growth in my perception and character attributes to my weekly reflection with my mentor as well as my two summer trips which all have taught me to take initiative in giving back to my community and empowering others to become leaders in their lives. -Iris Feng Summer Search introduced me to an entire different world. It showed me that there was more to just Malden, Massachusetts and pushed me to have high standards when it came to school and high goals for myself. My two trips changed me completely, especially my trip to Mexico, which made me realize how thankful I truly am to have such an amazing life. If I did not join Summer Search, I know i’d regret it for the rest of my life. -Devon Moran
Junior Students: Summer Search has taught me to self reflect and solve problems on my own. With weekly mentoring, to exciting trips, I learned to step out from my comfort zone and explore the world outside the confined city of Malden. Summer Search gives you a chance to work on the skills you have trouble on. Sending you on trips, or working on community service will change the way you see the world, you will be able to build character along with great leadership skills.
-John Dovan
Summer Search has helped me settle down and focus on a set goal... My trip to Wyoming was hard but it taught a valuable lesson in life: to always persevere, which is why I am glad I joined. -Allan La Summer search has shaped me to become a more determined and open minded person. It gave me the opportunity to face challenges I initially believed to be outrageous and impossible... I took on the challenge and succeeded in pushing past my limits. Now, I no longer have any set boundaries. Because of Summer Search, anything is possible.
-Elizabeth Tran
ONLY SOPHOMORES ARE ELIGIBLE TO SIGN UP IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE, GO TO WWW.SUMMERSEARCH.ORG
-Two Full Scholarships to many different summer opportunities (NOLS, Outward Bound, Where There Be Dragons, Amigos, are to name a few! -Year-Round Mentoring; which helps students navigate through their challenges -A Summer Search Network that will last a lifetime -College Advising during your Senior year with Bottom Line -Many opportunities to get you prepared for the “real world”, such as mock interviews, shadowing in major law firms, and score internships
The Blue and Gold December 2012
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Bread of Life Can Drive EAST MEETS WEST CULTURAL DIALOGUE When: Sunday, Dec 16, 2012 from 2-4 PM Where: old Emerson School auditorium at 238 Highland Ave., Malden. This event is an open dialogue. This week’s topic is “Social Etiquette.” It will talk about the “Do’s and Don’t’s,” a comparison of social mores between the east and west.
Chinese Culture Connection Offers:
Sticking to tradition, Malden High School’s National Honor Society hosted the annual Bread of Life can drive. The four separate classes held a competition to see who could raise the most cans. The seniors came out on top, followed by the juniors, and the freshmen and sophomores tied. In this photo are two Bread of Life volunteers, along with NHS Secretary Lisa DeLacey, Vice President Catherine Poirier, President Iris Feng, member Amalia Quesada Nylen, and advisor Paul Marques, who all helped transfer the cans to the Bread of Life organization. Photo submitted by NHS advisor Paul Marques.
After school program is for kids, age from K through grade 6. It offers a Chinese immersion experience, with homework and math support, as well as Chinese language and rich cultural activities. Cultural Education include Chinese chess games Paper folding (origami), dough figure making, and more! Saturday Class is for kids from K through 5th grade. It includes the study of Mandarin, Math, English, Creative Arts, Chinese Dance, Music, Gongfu and Chinese classics, from 8 – 4 PM on Saturdays during the school year. Summer Camp for kids from K to 6th grades. The program highlights a Chinese immersion experience with intensive Mandarin classes, practical math, English drilling, as well as science and other rich cultural and art activities, such as Chinese brush painting, gongfu, dance, music, Chinese chess and others.
Registration starts now!! For more info please contact us at: 781-321-6316 mei@chinesecultureconnection.org.
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The Blue and Gold December 2012
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Malala’s Recovery Ashley Leung Reporter
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alala Yousufzai, a teen activist working towards equal rights and education for females in her home country of Pakistan, was shot in the head on Oct. 9, 2012 in an assassination attempt by local members of the Islamic extremist group the Taliban on her bus ride home from school. The shot that hit Yousufzai went through her head, neck and ended in her shoulder was cause for her to be airlifted from her home in the Swat Valley of Pakistan to a military hospital in Peshawar, Pakistan. Later on Oct. 15th, Yousufzai was flown out to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, England for further treatment after a panel of Pakistani and British doctors deemed her condition needed further treatment in a better equipped hospital. Now a month later, Yousufzai has gone from critical condition to being able to read and write again. At the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Yousufzai received Recognition of Yousufzai’s work has also grown as the news of the former BBC blogger (Yousufzai had worked as a correspondent for the BBC during the
occupation of her home region by the Taliban) was covered by major news networks across the globe. The United Nations had even dedicated Nov. 10 to be “Malala Day,” to honor Yousufzai and other girls all over the world who are unable to receive an education. On Monday, December 3, 2012, Yousufzai expressed her thanks towards supporters. She thanked everybody for their help and praised girls who are still going to school in Pakistan despite death threats. A video of her father was released, where he also thanked everyone for supporting his daughter and showed him teaching Yousafzai from textbooks, as well as the many cards sent in from supporters the world over wishing her to get well soon. Currently, she is reading textbooks and studying in the hospital for the exams that she will have to take when she returns back to her local school.
Top photo is the banner of Malala Yousufzai’s official facebook page at www. facebook.com/malalayousafzaiofficial. The bottom photo is of Yousufzai recovering in the hospital after her attack.
Investigation into indian woman’s death in ireland on its way Savita Halappanavar, an Indian woman living in Ireland died of miscarriage complications on October 28th, 2012 after according to her husband Praveen being denied an abortion due to Ireland being an “Catholic country.”
Enda Kenny, Leader of Fine Gael and Prime Minister of Ireland, at the European People’s Party Summit on 18 June 2009. Courtesy of Wikipedia.
Manale Zouhir Reporter
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avita Halappanavar, a woman who was in her second trimester of pregnancy and originally from India had moved to Ireland with her husband Praveen. On Oct. 21st 2012 Savita began experiencing severe back pain and while in la-
bor began to miscarry. Her family who had taken her to University Hospital Galway, in Galway County, Ireland requested an abortion several times, they claim though that Halappanavar was not given one though
due to the fact that she was a Hindi woman living in a Catholic majority country, (though the nation of Ireland does not recognize it’s sole religion as Catholicism). Halappanavar ended up dying on Oct. 28 due to the complications
of blood poisoning and organ failure, several days after the remains of the fetus were removed on Oct. 24th. When asked if he thought his wife would have lived if she were allowed an abortion, her husband said, “Of course, no doubt about it.” According to an article released by bbc.co.uk, “Asked if the Irish government would carry out an external inquiry into the death, Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Enda Kenny said: ‘It would be very appropriate that we don’t rule anything out here, but there are two reports and investigations going on at the moment.’” Also, Dr Muiris Houston who is a health analyst said that not all of the information has been told. He stated that it is a “rare situation” which is “deeply shocking, but I think as responsible people we have to remember that you do need to hear all sides of the story before you
make any definitive comment.” Thousands of protesters were outside Irish parliament fighting for the Republic’s abortion laws to be reformed, and there was a moment of silence for the death of Halappanavar. There was also a smaller group of around 40 people protesting outside of the Irish embassy in London the capital of the United Kingdom; where as many as 4,000 women from Ireland travel to the UK to have legal abortions. There are currently several investigations (both independent and Irish governments) into Halappanavar’s death and the apparent denial of abortion due to religious differences. Halappanavar’s husband after her death returned to India.
The Blue and Gold December 2012
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The National Coalition of Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces sends Ambassador to France Patricia Luong Reporter
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haos, Destruction, and war has ravaged Syria for over a year and a half. Recently, the National Coalition for Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces has decided to send an ambassador to France. A major political goal for the Coalition now is to appeal to the U.S. in hopes that they will give more than public support to their fight agaisnt President Bashar al-Asaad. French President Francois Hollande met with leader of the Syrian coalition Ahmed Moaz al-Khatib, on Saturday Nov. 17th to discuss the credibility and legitimacy of the coalition and their efforts to become recognized. France along with Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey and Spain accepted the NCSROF as the sole representative of the Syrian People in early November. More recently on Dec. 9th 2012 Norway, Denmark, the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium
Banner courtesy of etilaf.org the official website of the National Coalition of Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces. Found and alterated by Megan Kelly. and Luxembourg also accepted the coalition as the sole representative. Syria has been in endless mayhem for the last 20 months. Children have been killed and injured, families have been separated, and a civil war has been raging within the country after being sparked by the Arab Spring back in 2010. 11-yearold Abdulrahman is an example of a result of the unfortunate events that have taken place in Syria. In late July of this year, his leg was amputated after being hit by a rocket in an air raid. Because of the severity of the injury now Abdulrahman and his older brother are looking for funding to afford a prosthetic leg. Another event that has taken place in Syria is the attack on a Syrian funeral on Tuesday Oct. 24th. Fourteen men gathered to honor a man who died after had he spoken out against the government. Their grieving was interrupted by a car
bomb that killed one of the mourners killed and at least thirteen people near the scene killed and left over a hundred wounded. The bombing is only one of many that has taken placed during the civil war. The death toll at the moment is around 37,000, the highest death tolls being found in the cities of Homs (located in mid western Syria) 6,992 and 6,750 in Damascus (in south western Syria). President Obama made comments regarding the NCSROF, saying they are a “legitimate representative of the aspirations of the Syrian people.” Although he considers them to be a legitimate representative, he is wary to supply the coalition with weaponry-fearing they may abuse it and it may fall into the hand of extremists or terrorists. Al-Khatib expects the U.S. to contribute more to the cause, he says “We expect[ed] more... sup-
port. [The] people in Syria, they have nothing more to lose.” Though the Obama administration has made it clear that they have plans to, while providing nonlethal assistance, take the first steps into recognizing the newly formed coalition. Over time, progress will be made and hopefully, the coalition will be recognized for the sake of Syria and its people.
For more on the Syrian Revolution scan this QR code into your phone!
Check out our World News Section online to find coverage on
Typhoon Bopha
The Gaza-Israel Conflict
Patricia Luong Reporter
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n the southern Philippines, concentrated around the island of A map from Wikipedia.com showing the loMindanao, a panic has cation of New Bataan in Compostela Valley, arisen over the recent the Philipines. super-typhoon Bopha. With wind gusts up to 315 kph (110 year Typhoon Pablo ravaged the mph), the storm has killed at least Philippines and killed 1,500 people. 93 people and has affected 213,000 Linda Mazo, a Philippines disaster people, major damages include official, made a comment regarddemolished housing and power ing Typhoon Bopha saying “We outages throughout the island. Cur- were expecting the worst, because rently over 179,000 people are in lo- it’s a super typhoon but we were cal evacuation centers in Mindanao. more prepared this time.” Officials Not only were the natives of had supplies at the ready and were Mindao and other nearby Phillipino prepared for evacuation shelters to island’s affected but also vacation- possibly fill up to 100,000 people. ing tourists. An estimated 5,000 Major after effects of Bopha intourists have been stranded due to clude landslides, in one recent case the storm’s interruption of ferry ser- a highway was completely washed vices off of the islands. close to the out. Philippines affected, but also tourThe region is left with the afterists. 5,000 tourists were stranded math of super typhoon Bopha but on the island because the storm had learning from past disaster, officials disrupted ferry services. are taking action to fix the damages This is not the most recent made, rebuild homes, and house the storm that has hit the region, last recently homeless.
(Top) Relatives of wounded Palestinians stand in al-Shifa hospital after an Israeli air strike in Gaza city on Monday, November 19, 2012. Israeli air strikes on Sunday killed 31 Palestinians in the bloodiest day so far of its air campaign on the Gaza Strip, as diplomatic efforts to broker a truce intensified. (Ezz Al-Zanoon/APA Images/Zuma Press/MCT) (Bottom) Smoke rises after an Israeli airstrike Monday, November 19, 2012, in Rafah in southern Gaza Strip. (Eyad Al Baba/APA Images/Zuma Press/MCT)
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The Blue and Gold December 2012
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Now that the time is coming near for state’s to make their final decisions on which direction they will take with the Obamacare act, more formally known as “The Patient and Affordable Care Act” of 2010, it’s time we heard what really is happening with this new law.
OBamacare Update changes Miss. from likely state-run to staterun and Ala. from likely federal to federally-run U.S. map shows how states are setting up health exchanges as part of the Affordable Care Act. States must notify the federal government by Nov. 16 to indicate what their plans are. MCT 2012
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e were promised a new health care system in 2008 by President Barack Obama, and on March 23, 2010 we got one. It’s long, still in the process of being put into place and titled ‘‘Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act’. And by long I mean long, like the first ten or twelve pages are actually just a list of the contents of the actual act itself. Like most people I’ve never actually looked inside a piece of legislation. And like a sane person I won’t ever look at a piece of legislation on my spare time ever again. It’s not that the “Obamacare Act” is bad, it’s just complicated. And long, really long. The complicated jargon of the written act itself made it difficult to even begin to think that it was going to change anything, but after reviewing an approved and official summary of the document I think I’ve got the just of what the bill is working towards. The first section of act explains that working class citizens, especially those who are supporting families and are employed by small businesses will be given the opportunity to find a health care provider that in layman’s terms is competing with other providers to give them service. Two important factors of the Act are introduced in this title, the first being that an insurance company will have no right to deny a person insurance due to a pre-existing health condition and second that American’s are not being forced to take insurance from this pool of competing providers, if they have coverage that they like and can afford, they get to keep it.
The major change from how the health care system works now to the Obamacare system is that because providers are not allowed to segregate who can and cannot get coverage, every citizen of the US is eligible no matter what their past or current health is like (a huge part of how the system worked previously was that companies would deny those shopping for insurance due to pre existing conditions and health factors). There is also a change in how you shop for your health care; citizens looking for insurance will be able to visit either a federally sponsored or state sponsored site, which are called Health Care Exchanges, which taking the form of a bargain travel site is where different insurance plans being offered are listed and then can be chosen for the one that best suits a customer’s needs and budget. The second section explains that each state will be given the option to implement their own “health care exchange” statewide or to opt out to have the federal government take over and provide the tools for their citizens to compare and find affordable insurance. An important date coming up for Obamacare is December 14th, 2012 which is the final date for state’s opting to run their own health care exchange to submit their Blueprint application. A month earlier on November 16th, 2012 state’s choosing their own individualized health care system had to submit a declaration letter. The blueprints submitted and possibly approved on January 1, 2013 by the Department of Health
Megan Kelly Head of World
A diagram of how the new Obamacare system will work, courtesy of the Obamacarefacts.com and Human Services are a much more in depth explanation of how the states will run their exchanges. The final dates for both the declaration letter and blueprints are February 15th, 2013, after this date it will be final that the state’s that have not submitted their letters are opting to have the federal government run their exchanges. It is also explained in the act that Medicare will not be cut, a misunderstanding that many conservative news networks have been repeating since the signing of Obamacare. What will happen is that because there will be more preventive health care options (such as immunizations, cancer screenings and expanded school health centers) available to the upcoming generation of senior citizens the cost of medicare will go down due to those who would have required more services from Medicare will now be healthier. In no way whatsoever will Medicare or Medicaid be cut, in fact the Act actually works to have better communication between the federal and state agencies that work with Medicare patients. There are also pushes in the act that will offer more scholarships and better loan repayment plans for those going into higher education in order to become health care providers, (students planning to have a medical career usually rack up the highest amount of student loans). Now making a medical education more easier to access there will be more Doctors, Nurses and healthcare specialists to work within the new health care system. Patients in the new health care
system will be able to have more control not only over how much they pay for their health care coverage but the decisions being made for their treatment. They will now have more time to consult and work with their Doctors on which treatment plans will be best suited for them. There will also be reduced cost on medication, an issue that has affected many members of the older generation, and more access for hospitals and Doctors to work with generic versions of medications (generic version of drugs are made of the same chemical composition but are just sold under a different name). The act ends with the explanation of how the new health care system will bring about the largest middle class tax cut in the history of the US, which again in layman’s terms will be brought about by families being granted tax credits which will reduce their premium costs. There is also a modernization of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act, which improve the health care system that covers American Indians and Native Alaskans. Like I said before, it’s complicated, but complicated in a good way. It hits all the major issues that have been affecting middle class Americans for years and makes changes for the better. Now not only will there be affordable options for health care that everyone can choose from but also an expansion of our health care services by allowing more students to enter in the medical field and by clarifying the confusion of communication between the vast number of health care providers.
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Teacher Profile: Shannon Votaw Amanda Rosatone Head of Local
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occer playing, murder-mystery novel reading junkie, and AP Biology teacher Shannon Votaw is not the average science teacher. After working for five years at Malden High School, Votaw finds the most rewarding part of her job to be, “meeting new teachers at MHS and getting to know students and seeing how they progress overtime.” This is definitely something Votaw enjoys observing. Due to the fact that Votaw has taught Honors Biology, most of the freshman she has taught have then taken AP Biology in their senior year so she can see her students and how they mature and progress. Votaw’s life before becoming a teacher at MHS consisted of attending college at Purdue University where she received her undergraduate degree and then she attended the University of New Hampshire where she received her Master’s degree. During this time, Votaw ended up changing her major four times; first majoring in pre-veterinary then switching to nursing, from here majoring in biology, and finally majoring in sociology. Throughout
switching all of her majors at some point in her college career, Votaw came to the conclusion that she has always enjoyed the life sciences which is what essentially motivated her to take some time majoring in nursing. She found the majors she took to be interesting because, “[Votaw] was never a big fan of math.” She also found her majors to be appealing because Votaw likes looking at and studying living organisms. Coming right out of college after receiving her masters degree, Votaw went right to education as she could not see herself, “working in a lab all of the time.” Votaw also found education and teaching in general to be appealing because she has always enjoyed, “interacting with students and sharing [her] own knowledge of different concepts and personal experiences.” Along with this, Votaw enjoys helping students understand the connection between the curriculum and the world as she likes, “relating subjects to real life.” Due to Votaw’s love for teaching and education she teaches a variety of classes as she teaches pathology Honors and CP, AP Biology, and
AP Biology teacher, Shannon Votaw posing for a picture in her classroom. Photo by Amanda Rosatone Bunker Hill Intoduction to Biology classes at night. Votaw expressed that the classes are easy to manage because, “ most of the content is similar between the Bunker Hill Biology class and the AP Biology class and the AP material might be more
challenging.” Regardless of the class or the level at which is is taught at, Votaw enjoys teaching evolution the best as she finds, “the connection between science and history to be fascinating.”
malden teen enrichment center Nicholas Bramante Reporter
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he Malden Teen Center--a safe, fun environment where teens can go and do whatever they need to do. The city of Malden has been itching for such a place for years. Recent violence in the city has worried students and parents alike, and so it would seem the need for a building like a teen center is at an all time high. Finally, this place has come into existence, just a street away from Malden High School, and very promising. Ever since Counselor Gary Christenson became Mayor Christenson, the push for a teen center became stronger. It was part of Christenson’s campaign--to try and make Malden a more teen-friendly city. The solution to fulfill his promise, it seemed, was to create a Malden Teen Center. In layman’s terms, a place where teens could go, when they have nowhere else to go, and just hang out. Without the worry of being in danger, or being caught in the cold, or the worry of not having the money to get in, the teen center fits the theory quite nicely. As far as activities go, the center has a wide variety of helpful and fun experiences that might actually appeal to teens. During the center’s open house, tour guides explained a selection of different activities, a
few of them being videogame competitions, tutoring sessions, open use of computers for research, and possibly even group self defence classes. While all these activities may not appeal to all teens, there is a good chance that there will be at least something to interest everyone. Broken down into different areas, the center contains a main room, a quiet room (used for homework and studying), a music and art room, a kitchen, bathroom facilities, and even a library with a solid metal vault door, fit for a bank, for protecting its contents. This is a relatively small size for a center, but good things come in small packages. All that is required of teens to join is that they fill out a simple, single page registration form. No fine print, no stress, and no hassle. Possibly the best selling point of the center is that teens can join for the low, low, cost of nothing. All the services and goods in the center, are paid completely by the government. The main emphasis put on the center by coordinator Cathy Macmullin and her team is to have a safe, clean environment for teens whenever they need it, so they can go and have fun. “[The teens] didn’t want it to be boring and they didn’t want it to be [a controlling environment], and they didn’t want it to be empty. They wanted, a true “teen center.”
Teen center kitchen and computer rooms. Photo by Nicholas Bramante
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The Future Artists of Malden High School Sumya Mohiuddin Reporter
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s memories from her past surfaced through the eyes of the younger preschoolers in Malden High School, the dedicated art teacher Maryann Seager was happy to welcome them to her room for a small artist reception. On Nov. 26, 2012, she formally invited the preschoolers from downstairs for some snacks with all her seniors in the Advanced Placement art class for the first time. Her intentions of hosting a reception started when the kids visited her, each with a piece of their own artwork. After she kindly hung them up right outside her room, she saw the need to celebrate. Seager saw much potential in these children, and she wanted them to know that “there cannot be a beautiful world without art.” One of her favorite memories as a child was when she was nine years old, and she received a 64pack of crayons. She saw the same excitement through these children, and she describes the feeling as “feeding the future.” She was glad that she got to know the students on a more personal level. Although the children
were shy, their excitement was evident. Future events are planning to unfold on a yearly basis.
Middle photo: Malden High School Literary Society’s displayed artwork. An art collection painted by MHS preschoolers. To view a slideshow of the art, visit maldenblueandgold.com. Photos and collage by Sumya Mohiuddin
dren and their parents. In the past four years, Marquez has seen more and more students getting involved in the event, wanting to volunteer at the event again after being in it the previous year. There were so many students who had wanted to help out this year that “[she] had to turn some of them down.” Not only did the volunteers want to help out on the Malden ride, but they wanted to help with the Melrose and Reading rides. “[She] really appreciates how students want to help, even in cities they don’t live in.” Members of the Literary Society volunteered to help decorate the MBTA’s Commuter Rail and dress up as elves or other famous characters during the ride. The windows of the train were decorated with snowflake stickers, and the top shelves were wrapped in garlands. Elves greeted passengers as they went inside the train car, and walked up and down the aisle to entertain. The Polar Express song was also played when the train first started moving to make their experience more like the real train. The elves helped create a lively atmosphere by encouraging everybody to sing to the popular Christmas songs, such as Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, and Jingle Bell Rock.
Junior Julie Bourgea and Elmo assisting at the annual Polar Express. Photo by Ashley Leung After a while, a reading of the by the end, when the children were Polar Express was done by one of starting to get restless, they handed the elves, where everyone stayed out a small, silver bell to all of the silent to listen to the famous story. small children, much like the one From there, many famous charac- that the main character in the movie ters came through each car, such receives as his first present of Christas Elmo, Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, mas. Everybody also received a and, of course, Santa Claus himself. small gift bag with holiday goodies Cookies and milk were also handed inside of it, and returned to Malden out in the middle of the ride, and Station at the time planned.
all aboard the polar express
Ashley Leung Reporter
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hoo choo! All aboard the Polar Express! Malden High School’s Literary Society participated in a nonprofit program that is run by Reading Gymnastics Academy and Creative Arts of Reading to recreate the famous train ride in the children’s Christmas story, “The Polar Express.” This event helps raise money for the two companies, who have helped children recognize their talents everyday. The Literary Society’s yearly collection of work that they produce, called “The Oracle,” which is funded by the Creative Arts group, so this helps raise money to make the books. The main purpose of this remains, however, “to recreate the story itself to the children.” Volunteers from Malden, Melrose, and Reading come together to help make this event become more special for everyone who participates. The advisor of the Literary Society, English teacher Yahaira Marquez, has been involved in the Holiday Polar Express in her four years of advising the club. However, the event itself started over fifteen years ago, when the Visiting Nurses of Boston took over the original event, which was from a greeting at a Melrose train station to raise money for their program. Since then, it has grown popular among young chil-
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Local news
The Blue and Gold December 2012
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Play Production Takes a Turn with Creative Writing Julie Lam Reporter Jonathan DeCicco Reporter
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fter recently performing the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, the play production class was given the opportunity to have a professional playwright, John Kuntz, come to Malden High School on Monday, Dec. 3 2012. Kuntz gave advice that will benefit the students as they write their own ten minute plays that will be submitted to the Massachusetts Young Playwright Project (MYPP). By submitting their plays, the students will have an opportunity to have professional actors from Boston Playwright Theatre perform their play. This will be the sixth year that MHS has had a visiting playwright. Kuntz shared his experiences as a playwright and professional actor. Kuntz expressed, “my favorite part [about teaching playwright] is meeting the students.” Kuntz finds it interesting to learn the variety of ideas that all the students have. During the presentation, Kuntz also had the students do writing exercises that stimulated their thoughts about creating characters.
John Kuntz talks about his expereience with playwright while play production students listen. Photo by Jonathan Decicco The students were able have an intimate experience with the playwright and what it is like to be a playwright in the world. This presentation was intended to have the students focus on the specific 10 minute plays, which they aren’t particularly familiar with. Play production advisor and English teacher Sean Walsh stated that “it was very engaging how [Kuntz] talked about
his own experiences in playwriting.” Walsh also enjoyed the writing activity that Kuntz had the students do because he thought it was a great way to help them start thinking about characters. Senior play production student Jonathan Drapinski expressed that “[the presentation] gave [him] a new perspective about writing and being in a play.”
The play production students plan on taking about two months to create the 10 minute play scripts and will have John Kuntz visit MHS again to help finalize their plays. For the time being, the play production students are working hard on their plays in the hopes that they will get the chance to have their creations professionally performed.
Bread of Life Hosts Another Successful Thanksgiving Catherine Poirier Editor-In-Chief Online
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olunteers and members at Bread of Life kicked off their Thanksgiving celebrations by giving back to others. For the 20th consecutive year in a row, the organization hosted a Thanksgiving dinner. Bread of Life is a non-profit organization made up of hard working volunteers who are dedicated to helping those in need and has been around for over 35 years. Among the many helpful and enthusiastic volunteers in attendance was Bread of Life Board President and Mayor of Malden, Gary Christenson. Christenson has been president of the organization since 2008, and a volunteer long before then. He believes that the non-profit organization “represents the true meaning of life and that is to help people during
their time of need,” and Bread of the Life certainly does that, with over 900 meals prepared this Thanksgiving alone. Bread of Life not only supplied sit-down dinners at MHS, but made and delivered to-go meals for the elderly. The breakdown of these 900 meals served is about as follows: 300 for senior delivery, 200 for homeless family delivery, and 400 for sit-down dinner. Bread of Life Special Projects Coordinator, Gabriella Snyder Stelmack said “dozens of the members of the Knights of Columbus, Immaculate Conception Council 13966, coordinated by Gene Pinkham, delivered [senior citizens’] meals personally to each household.” Meals to homeless families were served to “3 local motels in Malden, Melrose and Saugus. The Knights of Columbus raised the money to buy the food for these meals, prepared all the food, and took it to the motels to serve it directly,” added Snyder Stelmack. These preparations came long before turkey day, however. Starting on Nov. 21, 2012 from 4-7 PM, food and hall prep took
place. During this time, people from all around the community dropped off and donated hundreds of pounds of delicious turkey, and some even stayed to help carve their donations. A detailed list on the cork board in Café DiSano (Café A) had a plan mapped out for volunteers. In order to successfully pull off this night, turkeys, utensils, desserts, decorations, coffee, dinners, etc. needed to be wrapped, bagged, carved, and deboned all before the big day rolled around. Snyder Stelmack added “in addition to Bread of Life and Malden High School, the meal was made possible by donations from Anthony’s of Malden, Forestdale Community Church, Salemwood School staff, Marty’s Catering of Stoneham, the Malden Mayor’s Office, the Malden Lions Club, Hoff’s Bakery in Medford and Italimports in Malden.” Events like those Bread of Life put on are becoming more and more integral to cities like Malden. With economic stability so out of reach for some, dinners like this are sometimes the only guarantees of people finding a meal. Mayor Christenson believes that due to the “uncertainty surrounding the economy,” Bread of life “will grow.” If numbers continue to grow, more and more volunteers are going to be needed to support non-profits, and giving back – like volunteering, or attending a fundraiser to support
local organizations – is what communities need most. Keeping in mind the future of Malden, and those served by Bread of Life, the organization is looking forward to their own future. This past year, the group moved from St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, to a new location on 54 Eastern Avenue Rear. Mayor Christenson added that he will be working with them “on their long-range goals such as securing a permanent home for them.” Snyder Stelmack commented that the new location has caused “more efficient operations,” with an “expanded food pantry and office space.”
Left: A table ready for a Thanksgiving feast. Decorations and untensils were put together by volunteers. Right: A decorative turkey set up in the cafeteria for the dinner. Photos by Catherine Poirier
The Blue and Gold December 2012
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Local news maldenblueandgold.com
Powderpuff Girls Pack a Punch Jonathan DeCicco Reporter Julie Lam Reporter
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rom wacky tacky day to the pep rally, spirit week holds a lot of activities for the students at Malden High School, and one of the most anticipated events is the annual powderpuff game. With the start of Thanksgiving break, all of the students are excited, so what better way to start it off other than a girls football game? The powderpuff game is held every year, the day before Thanksgiving, as a way to get players from the MHS football team ready for their big game the day after. In this game, the senior and junior girls from MHS go head to head in an intense game of two hand touch football. But be aware, this is not just some boring game where the girls do not know what they are doing. Through hard practices and talk from both teams, the girls have shown how determined they are to win the game. With limited time, the senior girls worked hard and were able to pick up the rules right away during practices. The seniors also won the previous game from last year, as
Seniors Anita Caceda, Devon Moran, Elyse Valente and Yanet Villanueva. Photo by Catherine Poirier. juniors against the seniors. Senior coach Devin Naylor expressed, “The girls have done well during the practices. They were all very focused and wanted to take part.” Coaching the senior team were MHS senior football members, Jacob Martino, Devin Naylor, Paul Kiernan, Jean Sylvain, and Cruz Desrochers. Throughout the practices, the senior coaches were very impressed with the how much improvement the girls were making. It surely showed during the game against the juniors. The seniors dominated the juniors with a score of 8-0, scoring one touchdown and receiving a two
point conversion. Coming to the game with no specific strategy and wishing for an extension time for practice, the girls played exceptionally well. The coaches had faith in the girls and they were very proud with outcome of the game. Although the junior girls were unsuccessful in their attempt to take away the seniors’ victory, they were able to show that they were no easy team to defeat. This being their first year playing the powderpuff game and for many even actually playing football, their MHS football member and coach Jensen Ayuk was very proud. Ayuk commented, “from
day one they made progress and were very cooperative, making [the experience] very fun.” Being the only coach you could imagine the struggle it was to coach a group of teenage girls but through their hard work in practices, Ayuk felt that they were prepared for the game. The seniors showed that they were prepared as well, hungry for a win in their last year at MHS. Even though the juniors did not score, they did an excellent job of holding the seniors back, making their goal a lot harder. Players that stood out from the juniors included Jacqueline Bouley, Keirra Sexton, and Regeane Exume. Bouley tells us that, “It was an unforgettable experience and I can’t wait till next year,” junior Jacqueline Bouley tell us. This loss has not stopped the girls yet have made them even more anxious to win in their senior year. The powderpuff game was a great experience for both classes. The coaches had a great time assisting them, while the players had a great time learning and playing the sport. The outcome of the powder puff game was a great way to close the last spirit week for the senior class. As for the juniors, they are expected to be prepared for the next powderpuff game.
View a video of the game on our website: maldenblueandgold.com
Above: Highlights of the MHS powderpuff game that took place on Nov. 21, 2012. All photos by Julie Lam. Collage by Jonathan DeCicco.
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Local news
The Blue and Gold December 2012
maldenblueandgold.com
Spirit Sumya Mohiuddin Reporter
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Kayla Bramante Managing Editor
raditions are taken very seriously at Malden High School, the most prominent of them being the Malden vs Medford Thanksgiving Day game. This year marked the 125th anniversary of the prestigious event, and the school participated in the annual spirit week to help encourage the football players to play their best. Their efforts were acknowledged when the MHS football team defeated Medford for the sixth time in a row, with a score of 32-6. Spirit week is a memorable time for the students at MHS: pajamas, wacky tacky outfits, and plenty of school spirit fill the halls. But what is it that drives students to have such an abundance of school spirit? The pep rally for the Thanksgiving Day football game, the competition, and the bonding found within the classes may all be respectable answers. Whatever the reason behind it may be, each year students look forward to this one particular week. Monday: pajamas, robes, slippers, and comfort. The students, and even spirited teachers, came into school dressing in their favorite sleepwear. Senior Darrian DaSilva believes spirit week “is awesome! It is a time in the year where not only the students participate in showing their school pride, but the staff as well.” Tuesday: wacky tacky outfits of the most hilarious variety. Students were seen wearing mismatched colored, long socks, and silly glasses, dressing away from the norm. It is evident that MHS students have high school spirit when they are wearing outfits not fit for the runway into school. Wednesday: blue and gold day, and the famous pep rally where all MHS students cheer on the football team for their 125th annual game. DaSilva explained how the best part of the pep rally “for [him], is when the seniors on the football team are being called out in the pep rally, despite [their] record; just hearing the crowd scream and chant gives not only [himself], but everyone on the team a huge boost of confidence.” DaSilva also explains that “since [it is] [his] senior year, this spirit week was the best [and he] had the most fun.” Senior class advisor Meaghann Galdos explained that “the spirit team and [senior] class really rallied together. The only event [that was disappointing] was the tug of war. Other than that, the team’s spirits were high [and she] was glad [they] collected so many cans to donate” to the Bread of Life. Although the day circled back to the seniors on the football team and cheerleading squad, many other members of the school had something to offer. The band and chorus started off the pep rally, followed by the break dancers and step team. The pure talent in MHS was demonstrated throughout the whole
The Blue and Gold December 2012
Local news maldenblueandgold.com
Week day. Senior step team member Regine Cenatus was most excited about the crowd: “their cheers gave [her] more confidence. [The step team] spent hours practicing for this event, and it was worth it.” Senior Project B-Boy member, Valentine Banor, expressed that the pep rally “gives [them] a chance to display the type of performance [they] will be doing for [Junior Varieties]. [They] try to have new dances and change things up a bit.” Sophomore class president Ashmael Brun believes spirit week is that “time of the year where everyone comes together. [So] much positive energy is felt around the school. [It is] also one of those important moments in high school that will never be forgotten.” Banners also contributed to the larger components of spirit week. Each of the four banners depicted the MHS football team crushing Medford in the Thanksgiving Day football game in its own creative way. Sophomores received recognition for their banner due to its clear message that Medford has no chance of winning. This dedication shown by the school to the football team proves that unity is key to motivation. Although, Banor felt “as though not everyone got to see [the banners].” Perhaps we could take Galdos’ suggestion and “consider how to draw more attention to them.” It is clear that school bonding all together is another factor that gets students excited for the pep rally. Brenden Maney, an English teacher and the host for this year’s pep rally, enjoys “the unique way in which so much of the student body comes together to create a special environment.” It is not everyday that the school interacts with each other in such a way. One thing that he always notices every year is “the pride [he feels] working in a school that has such a dynamic student body.” The unity and respect shown in this week exceeds all the rest during the year. While the football team was racking up their pride, Maney continued to host the competitive events. Human pyramids and tug of war were some of the most competitive events of the spirit teams this year. At the end, after much enthusiasm and laughter, seniors were deemed the winners of spirit week. Their well deserved victory was the result of this specific event being the last one they ever experience in high school, so winning was out of the question. Banor explained how this year’s pep rally was “bittersweet for all seniors because it is [their] last and senior year is the best year for [them].” Although the ending has come for another successful spirit week, MHS spirit continues to thrive always.
Layout and design by Lauren Benoit and Catherine Poirier. Photos by Catherine Poirier, Lauren Benoit, Johanna Lai, Kayla Bramante, and Myle Nguyen.
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Local news
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The Blue and Gold December 2012
maldenblueandgold.com
Sacn the QR code to watch a a a video documentary of the 25th annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.
Amanda De Moraes Reporter
Grace Stathos Reporter
continued from page 1 which for various reasons have ended up at the bee, viciously competing with one another for the $200 dollar cash prize. The main characters were played by senior Jonathan Drapinski and junior Jessie Memmolo, who are the last contestants of the bee and must fight their budding attraction for each other in order to be successful and win the bee. An innovative and creative part of the play, one which was very
memorable for many of those who went to see the play, was the audience participation. At the beginning of the play, Ms. Paretti, played by senior Christy Ringdhal, called up audience members who “had not yet checked in” to the bee. On opening night, audience members who participated included Mayor Gary Christenson, math teacher Christopher Giordano, sophomore Jessica D’Esposito, and sophomore Victo-
ria Hannafin. Before being called on stage, they were given instructions in order to keep the play running smoothly. According to senior Will Lombard, who plays Chip, a spelling bee contestant, “on the first day of class, [Play Pro director Sean Walsh] tells [the class] when auditions are… and then we have vocal auditions and singing auditions, and shortly after that, [Walsh] casts the play.”
Rehearsals after school were from Monday to Friday until 3 PM in the afternoon and almost all Saturdays, usually from 8 AM to 12 PM Sophomore Angelica Carberry stated that “[she does not] like getting up on Saturdays” but since the choreographer came on Saturdays, missing rehearsals was “not an option.” Two weeks before the show however, rehearsals were every day, with the exception of Sundays, and Saturday
The Blue and Gold December 2012
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Opposite page from left to right: Mayor Gary Christenson, and seniors Jonathan Drapinski and Simon Rogers spelling during the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Above from left to right: sophomore Samantha French, junior Karen Ramirez, sophomore Meghan Brown, junior Cori Malone, senior Crystal Araiza, junior Jessi Memmolo, senior Christy Ringdahl, senior Simon Rogers, senior Will Lombard, senior Jonathan Drapinski, sophomore Angelica Carberry, junior Sarah Zeiberg, and sophomore Alana Smith. practices were from 8 AM to 9 PM at night. Sophomore Michelle Foley shares similar sentiments, and said that “the show came out great,” but not without some moments of “minor panic,” according to Foley. At one point, the microphones were malfunctioning, which interfered with the sound, and made it difficult for the audience to hear, and “the props also had to be in the correct place at the correct time to ensure
that everybody would have access to the props when they needed them,” explained Foley. Of course, with all of this time and effort put into the result, it was worrisome to many when tickets were not selling during lunches, as they had expected. Junior Jason Drapinski stated that “[they] all began to think of creative ways to sell the tickets,” such as wheeling the sign, which had previously been on
display in the main office, through the cafeteria in hopes of attracting students. As stated by Senior Simon Rogers who plays Leaf Coneybear, another speller, performing in the musical is “the same feeling you have… with sports… and our play would be like a game, where we just go out there and perform for everybody, and in the end, [it is] all really rewarding.”
Layout and design by Amanda De Moraes. All photos by Grace Stathos and Amanda De Moraes
Preparations for the second play have already begun, and the class has already started brainstorming for the original play, which they will write. This play, unlike the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, will not be a musical. The class will also be preparing for Drama Fest, in the hopes of making it as far as they did last year by making it to finals, and hopefully bringing home a victorious title.
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ENTERTAINMENT
The Blue and Gold December 2012
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The Christmas List Casey Lyons Reporter
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oming up with a list for “Santa” is easy; Buying gifts for friends and relatives is the real challenge. Here’s a list of 2013 most desirable gifts this Christmas season for friends, family, or yourself. All items have great ratings and vary in price. If you are willing to splurge this Christmas there are many gifts that you can choose from, for example maybe a new iPod to replace the old one you have had for years or maybe tickets to the Taylor Swift concert in July. If you want to save and purchase something more affordable, a new wallet or iphone accessories could do the trick. Use the different collages as guides for what you want to give and get for Christmas this year.
Electronics: iPod Nano $149, Dr. Dre’s Beats $199, iPad $499, Kindle $199, iPad Mini $329, New iPod Touch $299
Accessories: Alex and Ani Bracelets $18+, UO southwest wallet $10 in stores $24 online, H&M, Forever21, Urban Outfitters, Scarves/Hats, $10+ Pandora Bracelet $65, Pandora Charms $25+
Video Games: Cal of Duty: Black Ops 2 $60, Assassin’s Creed 3 $59.99 Xbox $249.99, 2k13 $39.99, PS3 $249.99
Perfume: Lady Gaga’s Fame $55, Rihanna’s Nude $49, Justin Bieber’s Someday $45 and Girlfriend $45, Coach’s Poppy $65, Taylor Swift’s Wonderstruck Enchanted $59.99, Nicki Minaj’s Pink Friday $49.99,Juuicy Couture Viva La Juicy $52
Visit our website at www.maldenblueandgold. com for a tutorial about gift wrapping!
Shoes: Toms $40+, Vans $40+, Sperrys $60+, Uggs $140+
The Blue and Gold December 2012
ENTERTAINMENT maldenblueandgold.com
19 Winter Activities Frog Pond Ice Skating
Boston Common, Boston MA Sunday to Thursday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Christmas Eve 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Open New Year’s Eve 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Open New Year’s Day 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m. Regular admission fee: $5 for ages 14 and over Free for ages 13 and unde
Amalia Quesada Nylen Head Copy Editor
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or the past four years, stars Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner graced film screens everywhere to bring author Stephenie Meyer’s love story based off a dream she experienced one night, to life. That story has finally come to an end. The final film in the mega hit franchise is centered on Bella (Stewart) and Edward’s (Pattinson) half human half vampire child, Renesmee (portrayed by Mackenzie Foy), who is “imprinted”-- the involuntary mechanism by which the Quileute wolves find their soul mates-- on by Jacob (Lautner). Bella reacts furiously and violently upon hearing this news, which provides some humor in the first few minutes of the film. One day Bella, Jacob and Renesmee are outside catching snowflakes when vampire, Irina (portrayed by Maggie Grace) spots them and reports to the Volturi, the most powerful coven of vampires, claiming that Renesmee is an immortal child; a forbidden and destructive creation in the vampire world. Bella, Edward and the rest of the vampires and werewolves are then forced to
Skate Rentals: $5 for children 13 and under, $9 for 14 and over devise a plan to convince the Volturi that Renesmee is not harmful to the outside world, and is a mortal child. The question whether the Cullens can save their newest kin against the powerful and strong Volturi lingers throughout the movie. The suspense keeps audiences at the edges of their seats, especially during the epic battle scene at the end, with a surprising twist that is a pleasant underestimation coming from the screenwriters and directors. The action is completely over the top, warming up with some arm wrestling and rock climbing, then going full-force with the head-ripping, body-burning battle between the Cullen clan and their traveling relatives and friends, against the Volturi, led by Aro (Michael Sheen), who is as devilish as ever and steals the show with an over-the-top nutty performance. You’ll be grateful that vampires don’t bleed as countless of them are brutally killed during the battle. The dialogue still remains spotty and cheesy, the effects are not the greatest, but “Twilight’s” popularity has proven that even when it falls short, it doesn’t seem to matter.
There are a few amusing parts in the film, including the usual comic relief in the series, Bella’s father, Dec. 26 2012 :The Roots Charlie Swan (Billy Burke), who this Jan. 23, 2013: Ellie Goulding time gets to see Jacob in his underwear in one of the funniest parts of all the films. Another hilarious moment is when Bella forgets how to appear human, just three days after The Nutcracker becoming a vampire. The rapidlyThe Strand Theater, 543 growing CGI baby Renesmee takes the cake, with her unblinking creepy Columbia Road, Dorchester, MA Dec. 22-24 eyes, the complete masterpiece of a special effects failure. That being said, Breaking Dawn: Part Two is the perfect conCultural Survival Bazaar: clusion to the world-famous series. A Festival of Native Arts In the credit sequence at the end of the film, every single character that and Cultures appeared throughout the series-Dec. 21, 22, & 23 whether it was for five minutes or The Shops at Prudential Center the entire franchise-- is credited, Belvidere Arcade which was sentimental. The Twi800 Boylston Street light Saga is finally over, but it will Boston, MA 02199 live on, with its fans satisfied that Edward and Bella continue to love each other for all eternity and that First Night Boston finally, yes finally, Jacob has also New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31st found love. A happy story that all of noon to just past midnight the saps in us desire. Where: Central Boston neighborhoods: Downtown, Back Bay, Fenway, South Boston Waterfront, West End How it works: Purchase a button for $18, wear it, and receive free general admission to all events
House of Blues
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LIFESTYLE
The Blue and Gold December 2012
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Beat the Winter Blues It’s the most wonderful time of the year, however the cold, dry weather and lack of sunlight can leave us feeling down. Maintaining our health physically and mentally during the harsh weather is crucial for our wellbeing. Don’t let the winter blues get you down this season. Haley Dowdie Head of Entertainment
Soak Up the Sun
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itamin D, the vitamin of the sun, benefits our immune systems, brains, bones, and many other bodily functions. During the summertime there is an abundance of sunlight naturally sending Vitamin D to our bodies. During the wintertime however, the sun goes down earlier and humans, like many other mammals, seem to “hibernate” in the warmth of the indoors. Ultimately, our lack of outdoor activity during the winter gloom prevents us from soaking up all the sun’s Vitamin D (not to mention the inevitable seasonally reduced sunlight exposure). In order to maintain healthy levels of Vitamin D it is crucial to spend time outdoors. Yes, that means throwing on the puffy winter jackets and an extra pair of socks. Light and fresh air naturally have mood boosting effects and what better time than winter to go ice skating, take a walk through a snowy park, or have a snowball fight with friends. Regardless of how you decide to spend your time it is important to get outdoors, and bask in as much of the brief sunlight offered this winter.
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‘Tis the Season to Feel Groggy
t’s supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year, so why is it we feel so lousy? Well between the stresses at school, work, home and all the holiday festivities, it is natural to feel physically worn out. Waking up in the dark does not benefit our health either; studies have shown that waking up to sunlight enhances not only our mood but also help us feel energized. Stress and lack of sleep negatively impact our well beings throughout the year, particularly in the winter. To ward off these symptoms of the winter blues remember to pamper ourselves, sleep, and exercise. Stress impacts us mentally and physically so spending some time just relaxing either at home or a spa day would definitely help unwind a bit. All the excitement of this time of the year can really leave us exhausted. Though getting eight hours of sleeps seems impossible, for our own good, we need to get to bed earlier. Our bodies need time to rest and not getting enough of it can lower metabolism and weaken our immune systems. During the winter we are already more prone to sickness from all the social contact and being indoors so a weakened immune system from lack of sleep will only add fuel to the fire. Exercise among other remedies improves our health physically and mentally. Even though we’d rather spend time catching up on the latest shows snuggled under a blanket, it is important to be active. Activities such as yoga are beneficial for all ages and can also relieve stress. A simple walk or a run will do the trick as well. Relaxation, sleep and exercise are necessities for beating the winter blues.
Holly Jolly Hair & Skin
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hen old man winter comes knocking at our doors he brings with him his dry, cold winds. The cold, dry winter winds take away a great amount of moisture from our skin and hair, leaving it flaky, coarse and brittle. This means, our skin and hair requires extra amounts of moisture just to sustain natural levels, especially after being outdoors often. Extra lotion and condition always help, but for our skin, it is important to exfoliate as well. Dead skin cells build up and clog our pores and leave our skin feeling over dried or excessively oily, which catalyzes breakouts. Using a face and skin scrub will exfoliate dead skin allowing our skin to glow and feel refreshed. Taking vitamins also improves our skin and nails. Vitamin A can prevent dryness, wrinkles, and flakiness. Vitamin B contains biotin which is one the most important vitamins for healthy skin. Vitamin C regulates skin coloration. Vitamin E not only restores moisture in our skin, it also slows aging of skin cells. A healthy diet or a multivitamin once a day can add these beneficial vitamins to your body, to naturally combat the harsh winter environment.
The Blue and Gold December 2012
LIFESTYLE maldenblueandgold.com
Shine Bright Like a Diamond
Myle Nguyen Reporter
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intertime is the best time of year to unwind and pamper yourself. It’s filled with warm and fuzzy sweaters, steaming mugs of hot chocolate, and bundling up by the fireplace. But, the harsh wintry weather is very damaging to your skin. Due to the freezing temperature, high-speed winds, and indoor heating, your skin is stripped of its moisture, becoming very dull and dry. Facials are a great way to restore your skin’s moisture and brighten up your complexion. The moisturizing mask contains avocado, yogurt, honey, and lemon juice. Avocado is great for your skin because it contains many fatty acids to moisturize the skin and create a barrier to help seal in your skin’s moisture. Yogurt contains many anti-bacterial properties to help sooth irritation, clarify pores, and soften the skin. Honey, great for adding moisture and a rich flavor for cakes, is also composed of antioxidants that are very beneficial to the skin. The last ingredient for the mask is lemon juice, which contains citric acid to help cleanse the skin and combat against acne. The brightening mask composed of egg whites, extra virgin olive oil, and instant oatmeal works as both a mask and a scrub to help give an instant brightening effect to the skin. Since egg whites are very high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, it works to encourage skin to become tighter and firmer. Extra virgin olive oil, which is normally used in everyday cooking, is very beneficial to one’s skin because it helps to lock in moisture, prevent damage, and soothe and replenish the skin. Instant oatmeal, usually eaten for breakfast, is very effective in soothing the skin, exfoliating dead skin cells, and also cleansing the skin. These two do-it-yourself facials are quick, easy, and very inexpensive. Most of these ingredients are probably already lying around your cupboard or refrigerator. But if not, you will not need to break the bank by going to a spa for facials. You can beat the winter blues and achieve a beautiful complexion from the comfort and ease of your own home.
Brightening Mask
Ingredients 1 egg white 1 teaspoon of olive oil 2 teaspoons of instant oatmeal Directions 1. Place ingredients in a bowl. 2. Mix until you get a paste-like consistency. 3. Immediately apply to face and leave for 10-15 minutes. 4. Add cucumbers on top of eyes for softening and soothing them 5. Go to sink and gently scrub mask into skin. 6. Rinse with lukewarm water. 7. Rinse again, with cool water. 8. Pat skin dry with towel.
Moisturizing Mask
Ingredients 2 tablespoons of fresh avocado 1 teaspoon of honey 1 teaspoon of plain yogurt 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice Any type of tea (avoid black tea because of staining) Directions 1. Mash avocados and combine all the ingredients in a bowl 2. Refrigerate for 30 minutes 3. Smear a thin layer of the mask onto your face and leave it on for 10-15 minutes 4. Rinse with lukewarm water 5. Splash face with cooled tea 6. Rinse with lukewarm water again 7. Pat skin dry with towel
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The Blue and Gold December 2012
sports maldenblueandgold.com
All I want for Christmas is...
Red Sox Build for 2013 Joshua Kummins Editor-In-Chief Online
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Key Accounts to Follow on Twitter for day to day updates on the status of the lockout:
@ESPN_NHL @NHL @Real_ESPNLeBrun
The Greatest Hockey Fight this Season! Lauren Benoit Editor-In-Chief Print
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he NHL lockout is nearing its 90th day anniversary of the lockout. And what has it accomplished so far? Nothing besides angry hockey fans. As of December 14th, a whopping 422 regularseason games have been called off. On Day 86 of the lockout, 104 more were added to the list, bringing the grand total to 526. Discussion after discussion, the owners and players of the NHL have yet to reach an agreement regarding the payment of the parties. It is hard to comprehend why the lockout has lasted so long. Things were looking bright when there were supposedly true rumors that the first game would be held on Christmas, bringing a Christmas miracle to all hockey lovers. But unfortunately, a turn of events was in schedule, and more games have been canceled. All parties involved are holding steady with their differing positions, which is strange since they are both losing massive amounts of revenue. During this period of almost 100 days, the NHL has lost approximately 19.4% of their individual paycheck. Typically, teams play around 1,230 games in a regular season, meaning, if one game is canceled approximately $975,000 is lost due to ticket sales. Cancelling 82 games is $80 million dollars down the drain, now multiply that by about six and that is the staggering amount that the NHL has lost so far. As for the players, the loss of 82 games is approximately $113 million dollars collectively. This is not a win-win for any of those involved. Thus, so far the lockout has cost the NHL almost $200 million dollars, just because the stubborn owners and players cannot come to an agreement. How big of a loss are they willing to take before they all go completely bankrupt?
This is not the first time for the NHL to endure a lockout. In the year 1995 there was also a lockout revolving around paychecks. After months of discussing, and cancelling more and more regular season games, the lockout ended on January 11th. The season began nine days after, and lasted until May 3rd, which is the first time that an NHL season has been stretched until May. Each team had 48 games on their schedule, and each fan soaked up every moment of game time. For our sake, let’s hope that Gary Bettman and his friends follow this same route. Lucky news reporters who get inside access to the negotiations report that the gap between the “wants” and “needs” of both sides are slowly, but surely coming together, and all involved agree that too much is on the line to cancel the season in its entirety. Some talk is emerging about the season starting on January 1st, a few weeks earlier than that of the lockout of ‘95. “If we start January 1st and end the regular season on April 15, we would have a 105-day regular season... That’s 15 weeks. That would mean playing three games a week, and four games every five weeks. The two sides would have to get a deal done over the next 10 days to start on Jan. 1,” stated Kevin Allen, a reporter reporter from USA Today. The status of the NHL lockout is constantly changing. At times fans think that it is on the verge of being solved, but the next thing we know, 100 more games are being cancelled. Here is my advice to the ones stressing over their next fat paycheck: you are already millionaires, negotiate something quick , and let’s play some hockey!
he 2012 season for the Boston Red Sox did not go exactly as planned with manager Bobby Valentine at the helm, as the team finished with a losing record for the first time since 1997. However, the “Hot Stove season” has been very busy for general manager Ben Cherington and his staff as the team made several acquisitions to help strengthen the roster for the upcoming season, which begins in just about two months when the first players report to Fort Myers, Florida for Spring Training. Valentine’s replacement was first on the agenda and a familiar name was hired to take his post on Oct. 21, 2012. Former Red Sox pitching coach John Farrell was named the 46th skipper in team history, returning to Boston after a couple years managing up north with the rival Toronto Blue Jays. A familiarity to the system through previous experience certainly helps when hiring a new coach or manager, so Red Sox Nation is holding its collective breath that their third manager in the last three seasons will bring success and a playoff run next October. With a new manager comes a change in the rest of the staff and two of the top “assistants” are also familiar names and very good additions to Boston’s Major League staff. First base coach Arnie Beyeler was promoted from Triple-A Pawtucket, where he led the PawSox to the International League Governor’s Cup title this past season. Bench coach Torey Lovullo joins Farrell from his Toronto staff and was also a previous PawSox manager - a fan favorite with the fans in Rhode Island during his one season in 2010. The beginning of December saw the baseball focus shift to the annual Winter Meetings in Nashville, Tennessee and the Red Sox were able to sign a pair of pieces that will instantly contribute to the starting line-up - outfielder Shane Victorino from Philadelphia and catcher/first baseman Mike Napoli from Texas. Victorino’s defense in right field will be a major asset for Boston as the position has struggled to find consistency over the past several seasons, while Napoli’s offensive capabilities, combined with those of designated hitter David Ortiz, could create a lethal combination for fans to see at Fenway in the future. With the offensive side pretty well settled for the time being, the search begins for more help in the starting pitching department. The pitching staff combined to post a 4.70 earned run average last season, which was fourth-worst in all of Major League Baseball. On Dec. 6, 2012, the Red Sox added reliever Koji Uehara to the bullpen, who also spent last season with Texas, but became a free agent at the end of the season. Spring Training is officially set to commence in just about two months (Feb. 12, 2013), so the team will look to have all the pieces in place to make 2013 a successful season, with hopes of bringing a World Series title back to Boston.
The Blue and Gold December 2012
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Gymnastics team makes A Leap I t has been a while since the gymnastics team has met, and this time they must take the early part of the season in a slightly different way. With a large number of new athletes joining the team, they have taken some time in learning the various equipments that are used from high school to Olympic gymnastics: the uneven bars, balance beams, and vault. It takes several gymnasts alone to set up the high bars before usage, making the first week on the team a learning experience for all. With their first competition more than a month away, the team is still independently trying each activity out, feeling the inches-wide bar under their feet and the chalk and bars under their fingers. For a sport where there are often many returning members, the more experienced gymnasts will have to take the many less-experienced ones under their wings, and with the help of their coach Vanessa James, this will inevitably be accomplished.
From top square, clockwise: junior Justine Rose and sophomore Molly Jaynes setting up and testing the uneven bars. Freshman Jessica Munroe practices the balance beam. The team warms up before the practice. Rose on the balance beam. Sophomore Noelle Bellmer on the uneven bars. All photos by Jessica DePaula. Collage by Jessica DePaula.
Jessica Lynn DePaula James Mazarakis Reporter Reporter
let’s get ready to rumble Chaimae El Adlouni Reporter
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he wrestling team was not well known through the high school, but they have won numerous Individual trophies. They strive to get new recruits. Their goal right now is to gain more people that may be interested in wrestling. It is a fun sport if you know what it is about. The numbers of pins you have are the number of points you have too. Pins are when you get your opponent on his back while the ref exceeds counting after three. The ref starts the count and if you
can hold the opponent down on the floor then you will most likely win. Wrestling is an individual sport which requires a person to be physically and mentally prepared. The two oldest members who have been there for three consecutive years are juniors Nidal Hishmeh and Jean Gedeon. They have gained a few recruits. Many returning members such as junior Phillip West. They are expanding on their list of players. Their coach is Jeremiah Smith an English teacher at Malden High School. The coach is hopeful for his team. Smith does not yet know how
Senior Daniel Vo and junior Kelly Jean practicing a technique. Photo by Sharon Lee
the season may go but he is sure there are “individuals who will be successful in placing”. Smith’s goals are to fill the 14 weight classes, last year only 9 or 10 were filled. Monday the 26th will be their first practice as a team. This year the coach wants to focus on weight training, and physical fitness. Two players have placed in sectionals and one in states; junior Jean Gedeon placed 45th in sectionals, Senior Rufus Arrah Effege placed 150th in sectionals and 57th in states. Hopefully there will be more added to that list. Hishmeh says that “the older kids on the team need to step up and
show leadership”. Hishmeh and all the other players seem to want to improve this year more than the last and place at sectionals or even states. In their meet on Dec. 8, 2012, the wrestling team had a three match, they lost the three but players Hishmeh, Gedeon , and Arrah played very well according to Coach Smith. The first match against Billerica the score was 34-16 home, the second match was against Shawsheen 45-3 home, the next match was against the Minutemen 42-40. The next game is Dec. 11, 2012 against Cambridge.
Senior Eliel Lau and Kelly Jean wrestling at practice. Photo by Sharon Lee
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The Blue and Gold December 2012
maldenblueandgold.com
girls track: from the woods to the gym Andrew Cogliano Reporter
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nergy and excitement fill the air of the Malden High School gymnasium as the indoor track season begins. A mammoth turnout for the first practice of the year promised a good season. Coach David Londino led the practice, discussing cuts, returning players, and practice requirements. As the practice came to a close, both players and coach were buzzing with excitement. “I feel like we have a really good team [this year] because everyone worked hard all season and it paid off,” said returning sophomore Victoria Hannafin on her feelings of the team this year. Londino also made a good prediction based on the cross country team’s efforts, saying that “the distance team is coming from a strong cross country season, [but there are also] some strong sprinters, jumpers, and throwers as well.” Both the team and the coach believes that their cross country season will power them to victory. The team has acquired a new coach, Jayson Payeur. Jacqueline Bouley, a junior who is returning for her third indoor season, com-
mented, “He’s going to be a good addition because he knows what he’s doing,” stated Bouley. In response to being asked about the strengths and weaknesses of the girls team this year, she says that “The distance team is pretty strong, and we’ve always had key sprinters.” Bouley added lastly that she thinks “the more who become trained the better,” addressing the large number of freshmen. Also contributing to the increased morale is the size of Junior Jacqueline Bouley, senior Lauren Benoit, and junior Joviana Morin exchange the team in general. thoughts with Coach Londino. Photo by Andrew Cogliano. The crowd definitely provoked positive reactions, and team, hopefully for the better. Menatallah Hassan, a sophomore. gave a good start to the upcoming On the flipside, they have Also, the season’s first meet this season. Sophomore Theresa Woo many new additions to the team. Wednesday at Salemwood against was quoted as saying “it’s a big They made up the girth of the pack, Everett will be a great chance for team. It was much smaller than but the spark in their eyes showed the team to show their skills. With this last year...and I hope this team promising determination and grit. an equal balance of both fresh blood will be decent,” with a smile and a “[There are] a lot of newcomers [and and veteran members, MHSs Girls laugh. Of course, this allows for the the crowd] looks really big, so I’m Indoor Track has set the bar, and new talent to be integrated into the really excited for this season.” said their standards, very high.
Commitment Leads to Success Carmellite J Chamblin Reporter
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he sound of repetitive sneakers squeaking on the polished floors of the Salemwood School gymnasium, the encouraging voices of long distance coach David Londino, new coming sprinting, jumping and hurdling coach Jayson Payeur, and shotput coach Thomas Collins, also assisting Payeur signals one thing: indoor track has begun. This year has started with yet another great season for the boys. Attendance has been remarkable, and Payeur, who is also a gym teacher at Malden High School states that “so far in the season [he is] happy”, and they’re off to a strong start. Despite the remarkable beginning, the staggering number of 172 students running on the floors of Salemwood’s gymnasium trying out for the team, has been overwhelming, and made the decision of cutting people a very difficult one.“[We are] able to keep about [92] to [100] people” states Londino. “The fact that about one tenth of the high school showed up [just on the first weeks of practice], is insane! Every year the numbers grow..[and it is the] first time in eight years [we] had to make cuts”. According to Londino, this disappoints the coaches because “[they would] like to keep everybody, but [they’re] in a middle school gym, so [they would] like to
keep the numbers at a manageable [range].” Payeur, who is a long time veteran of the sport, states that “track has always been a passion of [his],” so he has some high goals for the team this season. He hopes to give his runners “knowledge about running as much as [he] can”, and encourage and help get them “faster, eat healthy and properly, [and] generate energy.” He wants to “make them the best athletes as possible.” Londino has a different goal for the team: to “come into practice focused and give [100] percent effort for the full two hours.” He states that “[the team] often [talks] about commitment to team and work ethic. These are direct indicators of a person’s character.” With the Greater Boston League championship title last year underneath their belt, the boys’ team is focused on winning another title, led by senior captain Franklin Huynh, who has been part of the team since his freshman year. As captain of the team, Huynh’s goal is,“to win [another]GBL undefeated, and try to get as many people to people to state as possible.” Huynh was chosen as captain because of his “leadership qualities and experience,” Payeur states. Londino added that when choosing qualified members for captains, “[the coaches] look for students that are good athletes
and [also] good students.” Overall, the boys team this year “[has] more balance, [they are] going to have strengths in all of the events,” Londino stated. The boys that are participating this year all
have similar abilities and talents, which create “competitive practices,” forcing members to push themselves, creating a healthy and strong environment for their team.
Senior Jean Sylvain and Junior Isaiah Villarson sprinting, during practice. Photo by Carmellite J. Chamblin.
The Blue and Gold December 2012
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SHOOTING FOR BASKETS OF HOPE Emma Ceplinskas Reporter
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he season of winter athletics has arrived and that means girls basketball is back at Malden High School. Seniors Lisa DeLacey, Bridget Furlong and Norma BourquePimental were selected to take on the role as varsity captains. John Furlong, who was previously the junior varsity coach at MHS, has taken over as the head varsity coach in time for the new season. He is joined by freshman coach Paul Joyce. The team’s newest coach is no stranger to the school as Lydia Coverdale has dribbled her way back to MHS as the new junior varsity coach. After 10 years, Coverdale continues to hold the record of top female scorer at MHS for girls basketball. Since graduating from MHS in 2002, Coverdale also graduated from University of MassachusettsBoston and continued playing basketball while she attended. She has also been involved in basketball camps and clinics. Some may wonder her reasons for returning and the answer is from her “pride in Malden.” A tough past has made this sea-
Left to right: Senior captain Lisa DeLacey dribbling down the court. Senior captain Bridget Furlong shooting a free throw. Senior captain Norma Bourque-Pimental shooting a three pointer. Photos by Emma Ceplinskas son one to look forward to because of all the goals that, with high hopes, will be achieved. John Furlong advises to “set the bar high and make achievable goals,” and that is just what he has done. He says he “set[s] this goal all the time” which is “to never let the girls down and give them the attitude to never give up”. Other goals of his include winning all games and the GBL and to qualify for the state tournament. Coverdale mentions her “biggest goal is to help the young ladies to grow into young adults.” Similarly, BourquePimental, DeLacey and Bridget
Furlong’s goal for the team is to win and “to see [the] team improve over the season” stated DeLacey. As for personal goals, Bridget Furlong’s “is to be the best role model[she] can be for [the] team, the high school, and younger girls who hope to one day play,” where as Bourque-Pimental’s is to “work on developing better ball handling skills.” DeLacey concludes that she wishes to “maximize [her] potential [and] to leave it all out on the court because it is [her] last year of high school basketball.” During tryouts, John Furlong looks for the “little things” players
do and coach Coverdale looks for “effort, initiative, leadership [and] attitude.” To coach Coverdale, “everyone has potential and [her] job is to...unleash [it].” The focus for this season is “running, pressing and shooting as much as [the girls] can,” says John Furlong. Coverdale adds that her focus is on defense and rebounding because “it is important to have the fundamentals down before the games start.” She will not budge on sharing the coaching strategy because “it is a secret,” she whispers. Basketball is “a way of life,” expressed John Furlong and there are many things to take from the sport to apply in life. He hopes to give the players the “attitude to never give up.” Coverdale refers back to basketball for “everything” and wants the players “to understand how to compete and always give their all.” Bridget Furlong confirms that the sport has taught her many lessons, such as “[to] never look down on [herself]...keep [her] head up... [and] work as a team.” DeLacey and Bourque-Pimental in addition hope as captains that the players will “apply leadership in life beyond sports [and, from basketball,] to carry on the motivation and...hard work into their everyday lives.”
Crossing Over Last Year’s Experience Phillip Montezuma Reporter
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s the last buzzer went off during the previous season, this marked the beginning of a new era for the Malden High School boys basketball team. This year’s team is now being led by seven seniors two of which are the captains, Rodney Morton and Tommy Steele. Head coach Don Nally is returning for his 12th year as a basketball coach for MHS, ninth year as varsity and three years for JV. Nally sees last season’s team as a group of students who were able to accomplish some goals they had set. That team had fallen short of winning the Greater Boston League but had made the state tournament, suffering a sad final loss for some seniors against Methuen High School. Nally feels that the team would have done better if the players had more experience in the varsity level. Steele and Morton were nominated and chosen as captains due to their leadership skills alongside their display of consistent hard work. Nally did not chose them, the team had picked them to be their captains for the same reason. The other five seniors on the team include Willy Mentellus, Jason Surpris, Terrance Massineuve, Ljay
Long, and Michael Astaw. The seven said that in order for the team to total of 43 points in just one game. seniors are a close group of friends. qualify for state tournaments, “they Nally agreed that support from “They know how to encourage and need to keep working hard every- the student body helps the team push each other and to still continue day, [and] winning will follow that.” succeed throughout the year. “Abgreatly like they have,” stated Nally. The team is entering this season with solutely, home games are terrific. New additions to the team in- a “winning attitude,” added Nally. The crowd and cheering gives us a clude juniors Lovenge Francois, SteNally sees Morton, junior huge advantage.” After playing two phen Leon, and Kevin Noel. During Bryan Mitchell and sophomore scrimmages, the team is looking forthe off-season the team bonded at Anthony Gilardi as the main con- ward to their first game on Dec. 11, several basketball team camps and tributors to the season due to their 2012 against Winthrop. weight room conditioning practices. extraordinary performances last The team plans on working hard to season. He also expects input from face their competitors in the GBL: Massineuve because he was team’s Everett, Medford, Cambridge, and highest scorer last season: scoring a Somerville. N a l l y ’s goal for the season is to qualify for the state tournament like last season however, he alsowants the team to become GBL champs. MHS has qualified for the state tournament five times in the last eight years and now sets a goal of returning there for the sixth time in nine years. Nally Sophomore Anthony Gilardi going for a lay up during practice. Photo by Phillip Montezuma
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The Blue and Gold December 2012
maldenblueandgold.com
Just Keep Swimming, Just Keep Swimming... Nicholas Bramante Reporter
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“If there’s anything I have learned from my now 8 year swimming career, it’s that seconds count, in and out of the pool.” - Senior Captain Amalia Quesada Nylen
s always, Malden High School’s swim team is training as hardcore as it can get, and they are determined to not only do their best, but be their best. With a large group of talented incoming freshmen, even senior captain and Blue and Gold, Amalia Quesada Nylen agrees that “the MHS swim team has always been talented, but it is true that this year we have a lot more younger talent coming up than in the last couple of years.” As a flood of “fresh faces” storms the team, returning veterans and potential talent comes together to form a strong team. While many may not believe swimming to be an intense sport, the swim team dedicates hours upon hours of intense practice full of physically demanding techniques involving breathing, efficient stokes, diving and flip turn specifics, and more. “The most common misconception about swimming is definitely that people see it as a lackadaisical sport”, said senior captain Blue and Gold member, Catherine Poirier, a returning veteran to the team. Along with Poirier and Quesada Nylen, the other two captains are senior Caitlin Cala and junior Bestine Cong. This is Poirier, Quesada Nylen, and Cala’s second year as captains of the team. As a long-time competitive swimmer, Poirier explained that “sometimes people, even athletes, do not realize how difficult and grueling this sport can be.” However, whatever obstacles the team may face, they remain dedicated and determined to their training. Stakes are high, as the team nears their first meet on Dec. 17, 2012, against their “biggest rival in the league,” Cambridge. Quesada Nylen explained that “whether we win or lose determines if we come in second place in the GBL or tie with them when we face them again in January.” As always, coaches Paul Devincentis and Jessica Bisson are encouraging the team to give that extra effort that makes such a big difference. Concerning the intensity of her training during the season, Quesada Nylen explained that “ 95% of the time I want nothing more than to glare at [the coaches] when they’re pushing me to make one more set, swim that one lap faster, take one less breath... but when I do really well at a meet, that is the 5% that reminds me that they were right all along and only push me because they see the potential.” As MHS’s swim team inches closer and closer to their first eventful meet, the team continues to push themselves to achieve their goal.
Counter-clockwise from top: Junior Bestine Cong swims freestyle during a practice. Captains Blue and Gold members Amalia Quesada Nylen, Catherine Poirier, and junior Bestine Cong swimming backstroke during a 200 yard individual medley (IM) set. This event includes two laps of each of the four strokes; butterfly, backstroke, breaststroke, and freestyle. Freshman Ryan Luu swimming backstroke during a practice. All photos by Sharon Lee
The Blue and Gold December 2012
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HOCKEY: BACK AT MHS
The MHS and Pope John hockey team played their first game last Saturday, December 8th, at a jamboree in Somerville. All photos by Catherine Poirier.
Lucia Quesada Nylen Reporter
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his season MHS and Pope John XXIII High School are joining together to create a combined hockey team. Pope John plays in Division 3 North, even though MHS played in Division 1 North. In addition to the mix of players, there is also a female on the team, MHS sophomore Alyssa Giordano, who stated that “all the boys are supporting [her].” Giordano wants to “see what it is like playing on an all boys team.” It will be “a new experience [for her] from playing on a girls team.” Giordano hopes “[she] can improve [her] hockey skills by playing with the guys and pushing [herself] to try to play like they do.” Playing with a different school means playing with new people, something that is difficult to adjust to. When asked how he felt about playing with a different school, freshman Liam Elliott explained how “[they are] one team. [They are] not divided because [they are] from different schools.” The team only had two weeks of practice before their first game against Somerville on Dec. 8, 2012. The team as a whole is working extremely hard to learn to play with each other
and become one. The team practices at Porrazzo Rink located in East Boston. They practice six days a week, Monday through Saturday. Coached by Joe DeReove, the team is looking solid for having only two weeks of practice so far. “[DeReove] is a great guy, he pushes us to [do] our best,” explains Giordano. The team calls themselves the Mighty Ducks. “[We are] a bunch of kids that love the game and are put together on the team and we need to work together to get better at the game.” Giordano explains. The team are ‘underdogs’ since they were all thrown into a team full of other students that they have never played with. Giordano believes that “[they] have some work cut out for [them] but [they] keep getting better every practice.” The team had their first game Dec. 8, 2012. They had a 1-5 loss against Cambridge Rindge and Latin at a two period jamboree in Somerville. The game had to be ended early due to a serious injury attained by sophomore Mark Santrella. Their next game is Dec. 15, 2012 in Marian. The team has high hopes to bring home a win.
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The Blue and Gold December 2012
maldenblueandgold.com
Turkey Trophy Stays Where It Belongs
Above: The MHS footBall team is prepared to face the Medford Mustangs during the second quarter of the game. Bottom left: Malden lines up to defend Medford deep in their own zone. Bottom right: Senior co-captain Paul Kiernan, junior Frailin Medrano , senior Maurice Vance and senior co-captain Jacob Martino playing on offense. All photos by Johanna Lai continued from page 1 til, and a great performance from senior quarterback Jacob Martino. This was the club’s most complete effort to date, and it showed as they handled the Mustangs, and rarely showed any let down all day long. It was perfect football weather on Thanksgiving, as the weather was cool and sunny throughout the day. It was by far the largest crowd at MacDonald Stadium all year, as they all came to see the 125th iteration of this long-standing rivalry. Both teams came into the game with less than stellar records, but this rivalry precedes all of that. It doesn’t matter what happened before these two teams see each other. It is something that the MHS players look forward to every year. “It’s special to be a part of something like this,” shared junior linemen Rene Rivera, when asked why he looked forward to playing Medford every year. The rivalry has been very lopsided in recent years though, as this win gave
Malden five straight in the series, with the Tornadoes outscoring the Mustangs 121-19 in that span, a margin that would be impressive in any context. This game just added to that span of domination, as the Tornadoes offense lit up the Medford defense, while Malden’s defense smothered and stymied Medford’s offense all day. Blaise and Sainristil, along with Martino, led the charge for the Malden offense. Malden scored four touchdowns on the day, and able to pull of a two point conversion on each score as well. Sainristil scored on a one-yard run in the 1st quarter, with a two-point conversion on a catch by senior captain Paul Kiernan, making it 8-0. Blaise was able to extend it to 16-0 on a three-yard run, with another two-point conversion on a catch by junior Patrick Provitola. This ensured a 16-0 lead for the Tornadoes at the half. Halftime featured a ceremony for last year’s varsity softball team, which which
finished with an incredible 24-1 record, including an Eastern Mass Championship, and they were rewarded for it with rings, similar to what NBA or NHL players would get after winning a championship. The MHS Marching Band also performed their show, ‘’Let there be Light’’ at halftime. After the half, Malden went back to dissecting the Medford defense, as Blaise found the end zone again on a five-yard run, with Provitola running in for another two-point conversion. Medford also scored on a 54-yard run early in the quarter, the only blip by an otherwise perfect performance from Malden’s defense. With Malden leading 24-6 entering the 4th quarter, Sainristil put the game out of reach, with another five-yard touchdown run, and this time Martino running in himself for the extra two points. This put an exclamation point on this latest win over the Mustangs, and ensured that the trophy was coming back to Malden for the
125th anniversary. Though Malden ended their year on a 3-8 record, they finished in electric fashion, as they brought home the trophy for a fifth straight year, and put another “W” in the win/loss column in this special rivalry. They were able to play on both sides of the ball, and in every phase of the game to ensure this victory. Though they now move on to next year, and are losing a cherished group of seniors, they can take solace in the fact that they have a great group of juniors and other underclassmen coming up to fill in those roles. “It will be great to us to not only elevate our game, but be able to take on more of a leadership role for next year,” stated Rivera. Until then, they can soak in the fact that they were able to keep the Thanksgiving Day Trophy where it belongs, right here in Malden.