February 2012

The Blue and Gold http://maldenblueandgold.com/

Malden High School Volume 97 Edition 5

Our 97th Year February 2012

In This Issue:

Malden Celebrates Chinese New Year

Megaupload Page 6 Cruise Liner Page 7 Counseling Blog page 9 Field of Dreams Page 11 ELL Spread Pages 12 -13 Business Classes Page 14 Lifestyle PAge 18

Above there are photos from the Lunar New Year Event, displaying a traditional dragon dance, fashion show, and musical preformance. All photos taken by Casey Lyons and Lesley Ta. Photo collage by Casey Lyons. See article on page 18.

Poetry Out Loud

A Nation Caught in War

H

ours of practice, constant recitation of poems, and much needed peer encouragement is only a few of the very vital steps in preparing for the school wide competition of Poetry Out Loud. The second and last round of the poetry recitation contest took place on Jan. 25, 2012 where all of the period winners competed against each other for a place in advancing to the next level of competition.

The week before winter vacation, Malden High School held the first round of the competition.The period winners recited their poems in front of over 500 people including staff and students. The 14 students reciting their poems represent-

I

t is the war that we all know about.

It is the war that makes Taliban, Afghanistan and suicide bombers everyday words in the American residents’ vocabulary for the past ten years. It is the war that marked my classmates childhood, bringing us out of naivety to what is happening in the world around us and how deadly it can be. Now after the marking of the ten year anniversary of the US’s entrance into Afghanistan (October 2001- 2011) Afghani president Hamid Karzai claims that peace talks between members will occur with the now defunct Taliban government, and these talks will continued on page 6

Basketball Pages 19-20

continued on page 11

Check out our Exclusive interview with the Poetry Out Loud winner, junior Ashly Brun. Visit our website: www.maldenblueandgold.com

Junior Ashly Brun won the Poetry Out Loud competition. Photo by Kayla Bramante

Girls Track

Cheerleading Boys Track pg 22

pg 24

pg 23

Sophomore Justine Rose

Gymnastics pg 21

Senior Haley DeFilippis

Senior Yusuf Mohamed Senior Karina Hong

2

Editorials

The Blue and Gold February 2012

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

“I’ll Do It Tomorrow.”

Malden High School

The Blue and Gold 77 Salem St. Malden, MA 02148

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Print: Cristina Peters Print: Dan Holmqvist Online: Omar Khoshafa MANAGING EDITORS Brittany McFeeley Paige Yurek HEAD COPY EDITOR Joel Stevenson HEAD LOCAL NEWS WRITER Print: Lauren Benoit Online: Catherine Poirier HEAD WORLD NEWS WRITER Megan Kelly HEAD ENTERTAINMENT WRITER Rebecca Broomstein HEAD SPORTS WRITER Print: Sharon Lee Online: Joshua Kummins HEAD OF BUSINESS Lesley Ta HEADS OF PHOTOGRAPHY Kayla Bramante Natalie Fallano HEAD OF SURVEYS Johanna Lai

S

enioritis: (noun) a tragic epidemic affecting seniors across the nation. What is this “Senioritis” disease one may ask? Well, I’ll explain it to you tomorrow.

Highly contagious and deadly are just a few ways to describe such a devastating epidemic.

Deadly though? Oh, most certainly deadly to the poor grade point averages of the infected students; so seniors, beware. Scientists have not found a cure for such a huge problem, even though its cause is obvious: college.

Have no fear, this “Seniortis” is not something you can catch by walking onto your dream college’s campus or even talking to those who are fortunate enough to go there, but instead it arrives in the form of a big or small envelope — (insert drum roll here) the decision.

After narrowing a college list from 20 schools to a more reasonable 5-10 schools it comes time to apply. However, around this time of year seniors have either, a.) heard back from their schools, or b.) anxiously waiting for the decision to come in April. Ultimately, all decisions can cause Senioritis. Students who have already been accepted to college are doomed, going through the rest of the year with the skewed mentality, “I already got into a college, so I don’t need to prove anything anymore” or “they didn’t just choose me for my grades, so it’s okay if they drop.” Sound like you? Probably.

The students who got rejected from their dream school, like myself, know the feeling of disappointment like the back of their hands.

These are the students who think, “I’m not going to get into a college,” and pathetically believe “my life is officially over.” Even though this may feel very true, (again, I know the feeling) the reality is that we will get into a college one day or another, believe it or not.

Seniors, I’m sorry to inform you that Senioritis may already be knocking at your door, that’s if you haven’t already invited it in yet. There is

VIDEO EDITOR Timothee Pierre COPY EDITORS Amalia Quesada Nylen Jacob Martino Amanda Rosatone Kristen Leonard Vicki Ngan REPORTERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Haley Dowdie Jason Drapinski Amanda Moraes Sumya Mohiuddin Casey Lyons Grace Stathos Jessica Lynn DePaula P.J. Montezuma Alan Shooteech Kerry Ngan Ariana Langston ADVISOR Ryan Gallagher Established in 1915 Check out our online edition: http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

no set date when Senioritis officially sets in for seniors. It could range anywhere from the first college acceptance (or rejection) in December to the final decision in April.

Teachers, you can save the grades of the victims at the first signs of the outbreak. It all starts with the first “missing” homework, followed by the two day late project, and ultimately no project at all. As teachers, let’s face it, you probably have no control over the spread of the disease throughout the entire senior student body, however, you can provide them with the threat of the college withdrawing their acceptance, because apparently, I’ve heard that really happens.

From experience, I can say that underclassmen procrastination and Senioritis are not one in the same. Procrastination is but a derivative of laziness, and Senioritis originates from experienced seniors who have endured three years of tedious high school work and are awaiting graduation. Procrastination is not Senioritis, but Senioritis can be procrastination.

Now that I have completely exhausted my point about Senioritis, and said Senioritis twelve times too many in this article, I will continue to tell you about Senioritis to fill up the rest of this column. This, my fellow readers, is Senioritis at its peak.

Have you ever wondered why seniors take no standardized tests such as MCAS, SAT, and ACT and you’re forced to take them freshman, sophomore, and junior year? Here is a reason why: I, Brittany McFeeley, refuse to take ten seconds out of my life to spell the names of the tests out for you (even though I’m really supposed too). That is why.

The only time seniors will no longer suffer from Senioritis is (sorry teachers and principals) after graduation. Seniors could try to find a cure for their Senioritis, but let us be honest, we just really do not care.

Brittany McFeeley Managing Editor

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.

The Blue and Gold c/o Malden High School 77 Salem Street Malden, MA 02148

Corrections:

Page 13-In Poetry Out Loud article, the school wide competition was on Jan. 25, 2012 Page 13-Wyler Giordani’s name is spelled incorrectly Page 13-Lucas Silva’s name is spelled incorrectly Page 18-Boys’ Basketball article continued Page 21- Swimming article continued Page 21- Sammantha Dorazio’s name is spelled incorrectly

The Blue and Gold February 2012

Opinion http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

3

Class of 2012: It’s Not Over Yet A

s the seniors entered the Jenkins auditorium on Jan. 25, 2012, very few realized that this was the third to last assembly of our high school career.

To start the assembly, Holland House principal Marilyn Slattery asked the students to participate in an exercise by having them stand if a statement applied to them. First she had the students who were venturing the selective services stand, then students going to City Year, and finally students that would be attending college in the fall. Nearly everyone in the auditorium was standing.

There was a rumble of noise that passed through the auditorium as the senior class realized how real all of it was. They realized that the end was close, as stated by senior Eliezer Hernandez, “It took me by surprise, I had no idea that time would fly by this fast.”

After Slattery’s presentation, computer programming teacher, as well as senior class advisor, Paul Marques, quieted down the crowd by asking them to do one thing that

However expensive the pricing is, there is only one way it can go down.

The pricey cost of the prom tickets is due to the lack of seniors participating in fundraisers set up by their own class, something completely out of the control of the officers and advisors.

As the year began, the officers have worked hard to come up with events that could raise m o n e y.

T h e s e included fundraisers at John Brewers, Dockside, as well as in school fundraisers including Yankee Candles and See’s Candy. The officers have worked with hard to put together all ideas as of these events. However, the seniors through despite their hard work, displayed their disapproval of the cost. As stated by “I very few people participated. For the had no idea that prom tickets would few who did participate, for example be over 80 dollars I’m outraged.” those who sold candy for the See’s they seldom do: buy one thing from a class fundraiser. He then told the class that the prom tickets remain at 99 dollars and the only way for them to go down is if everyone to purchases one thing.

Once again the auditorium filled

The Trials of a Freshman

Candy sale, the senior class made a profit of a few thousand dollars, and that was from less than 10 students.

Imagine the profits possible if 20, 50, or 100 seniors participated.

There is no one to blame except ourselves. Since freshman year, Marques has been quoted for a few of his catch-phrases, one of them being just “Buy one thing.” If every senior bought one item, then the price of a prom ticket would drastically lower to a price much more affordable and reasonable for us.

The class of 2012 would like to invite you to come support their annual Spring DodgeBall Tournament on Mar. 10, 2012. This will be the Class of 2012’s second year hosting the event. For those seniors that feel that they are graduating with the regret of not participating in anything class related, it is not too late.

As stated by historian Paula Suarez, “Come and support the Dodgeball Tournament. Make sure you can walk across that stage knowing you did something for our class.”

For those seeking out more information or just want to suggest an idea for a successful fundraiser come by MaryAnn Seager’s room H307, her door is always open. It is not too late to make a change.

4

WORLD NEWS

The Blue and Gold February 2012

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

1978 Armed revolt is started, Soviet Army intervenes in 1979.

Prop up communist regime.

1980 1980-Soviet troops install Babrak Karmal as leader, anti-regime resistance mujahideen fighter groups attack Soviet forces. US, Pakistan, China, Iran and Saudi Arabia supply money and arms.

Afghanistan:

A Nation Caught in War

1978-2012 1985

1985- Mujahideen from alliance in Pakistan agaisnt Soviets. Half of the population of Afghanistan have taken refuge in either Pakistan or Iran.

1986- US begins to supply Mujahideen fighters with Stinger missiles to attack Soviet helicopters.

Rumors of peace talks between the Taliban, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the Unites States come from Afghani President Hamid Karzai.

1988 - Afghanistan, USSR, the US and Pakistan sign peace accords and Soviet Union begins pulling out troops.

1989- Last of Soviet troops leave, civil war contines between communist regime and Mujahideen.

1990 1992 - Najibullah’s government toppled, leading to civil war.

continued from page 1

1995 1996 - Taliban seize control of Kabul and introduce hard Islamic laws that ban woman from working as well as having severe repercussions for breaking of the new laws.

1997 - Taliban recognised as legitimate rulers by Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

1998 - US launches missile strikes at suspected bases of militant Osama bin Laden, who planned attacks on US embassies in Africa.

1999 - UN imposes an air embargo and financial sanctions to force Afghanistan to hand over Osama bin Laden for trial.

also include the United States.

The US’s war in Afghanistan is the longest running conflict that the US has been involved with since the end of the Vietnam War (technically conflicts, as War was never formally declared), this being the result of AlQaeda’s attacks on the World Trade Center in New York City on Sept. 11, 2001.

Though the US’s invasion of the country was not because the nation was the mastermind behind the attacks, now deceased Al-Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden has claimed responsibility for his group’s actions, though the Taliban was a major supporter of the jihadist group.

Modern history of Afghanistan is one dotted with revolts, invasion and civil war. The history that leads up to the US’s invasion of Afghanistan after September 11th starts with the 1978 coup that pushes and kills claimed General Mohammed Daud out of power. A year later, 1979, the

Soviet Union invaded and installed a communist puppet state with power being given to Babrak Karmal. The Soviet Union which is the predecessor of the Russian Federation that exists today, had supported Daud after he had claimed power from the Afghani monarchy in 1964, with his death their control over the region loosened.

With the Soviet’s presence for the next six years freedom fighters known specifically in the area as Afghan Mujahideen fought to push back the Red Army, unofficially these fighters were supported with money and arms from the United States, the United Kingdom, Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and China.

By 1985 over half of the population of Afghanistan had been forced to leave the country due to the war, they sought refuge in the neighboring the states of Iran and Pakistan.

In 1986 with the push of Congressmen Charlie Wilson, a Texan politician who had visited Afghan

refugee camps in Pakistan, the US officially supplies the mujahideen with Stinger missiles which were used by the fighters to gun down Soviet helicopters; as well as other supplying other munitions that could not be traced back to the US, such as soviet weapons. The fighters now given stronger artillery to fight more effectively against Soviet troops, with the help of the crumbling socioeconomic and political situation in the Soviet Union was able to have the USSR leave with peace accords. These accords were signed also by the United States as well as Pakistan.

The following decade of the nineties brought a six year long civil war with the remaining communist government and Taliban regime, many of the veteran mujahideen fighters working along with the Taliban.

In 1996 the Taliban seized control of Kabul (the capital city of Afghanistan) and introduced Sharia,

The Blue and Gold February 2012

5

World News http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

2000

Mujahideen in Asmar,Panjsheer Valley, Afghanistan. Courtesy of the Wikimedia Foundation. Background Image: Abdul Rahman’s Mosque in Kabul, Afghanistan. Photos courtesy of the Wikimedia Foundation.

2005

States touches ground on Oct. 7, 2001, beginning of the US’s “War on Terror” as claimed by President George W. Bush. Between now and then a US supported government of the new Islamic Republic of Afghanistan has had Kazai guiding it since his official Afghani presidential election in 2004, though before in 2001 after a Afghani council met in Germany he was chosen to lead the interim government after the US broke the Taliban’s regime.

Kazai’s claims to peace talks with Taliban leaders, who since 2001 now only have control of twenty to thirty villages in the Eastern region of the country, where they still enforce the Sharia codes. The Taliban, since the announcement of the future removal of US troops from the region in 2014, has been confidently stating that once the foreign troops leave that they will take control of Afghanistan again.

Though as reported by several news agencies (the British Broad-

casting Company, the Reuters news company as well as the Washington Post) they are not making plans to talk with Afghani Republic officials or US officials, even though they have opened a political office in Saudi Arabia.

Peace talks are not officially off the table though, top Pakistani diplomat Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar has supported the idea of the talks between the US, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Taliban members.

Talks which could involve prisoner exchange of three US citizens, one being a soldier and an aid worker while US exchanges will be five insurgents who have been held in the infamous US Naval Base Guantanamo Bay. Even though a conclusion to over a decade of war would be a happy ending to many US and Afghani children’s’ childhoods the likely hood of peace finally settling in the country of Afghanistan is highly unlikely.

2002- Loya Jirga, or grand council, elects Hamid Karzai as interim head of state. Karzai picks members of his administration which is to serve until 2004.

2003- Nato takes control of security in Kabul.

2004- New constitution is adopted which provides for strong presidency. Presidential elections. Hamid Karzai is declared winner.

2005- Afghans vote in first parliamentary elections in more than 30 years. Parliament opens with warlords and strongmen in most of the seats.

2006- Nato assumes responsibility for security across the whole of Afghanistan, taking command in the east from a US-led coalition force.

2007- Opium production has soared to a record high, the UN reports.

2008- September - US President George Bush sends an extra 4,500 US troops to Afghanistan, in a move he described as a “quiet surge”.

Timeline Sources: British Broadcasting Company

traditional Islamic social law that has strict codes of conduct. Various laws included harsh punishments which varied from the maiming of one’s limb to execution by stoning, one of the most worldwide publicized law is the forced all body covering of women as well as their confinement to their homes.

Taliban controlled Afghanistan became a training ground for terrorists, mainly those who belonged to the Al-Qaeda terror network.

Al-Qaeda from its conception until May 2, 2011 was led by Osama Bin Laden, a veteran mujahideen fighter (though he is not of Afghan nationality, rather being an exiled citizen of Saudi Arabia and disowned member of the Bin Laden family).

After Bin Laden planned attacks on US embassies in Tanzania and Kenya in 1998 Afghanistan was told by the United Nations to hand over Bin Laden who had taken refuge in Afghanistan several years earlier.

Three years later the United

2001- US-led bombing of Afghanistan begins following the September 11 attacks on the United States. AntiTaliban Northern Alliance forces enter Kabul shortly afterwards. Afghan groups agree deal in Bonn, Germany for interim government.

Hamid Karzai is sworn in as head of an interim power-sharing government.

2010

2009- US President Barack Obama unveils new strategy for Afghanistan and Pakistan to combat an increasingly ‘’perilous situation’’. Karzai declared winner of August presidential election.

Obama decides to boost US troop numbers in Afghanistan by 30,000, bringing total to 100,000.

2010- Voting for parliament is delayed due to Taliban attacks at poll stations.

2011- Osama Bin Laden is killed by US special forces on May 2, 2011.

World News

6

The Blue and Gold February 2012

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Photo courtesy of Google, photo edited by Megan Kelly.

New privacy policies allow Google to personalize your internet searches and ads that are presented to you.

U

nless you live under a rock or for some bizarre reason are still using your ‘hotmail” account, you received the “Changes to Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service” like everyone else. On March 1, 2012 Google will finally start to get to know you, literally. With its new policy, Google will connect itself to services like YouTube and Gmail chat. Everything a person types on the Internet, while logged into their google account, will be used as data.

With this data Google will “combine the information you submit under your account with information from other Google services or third parties in order to provide you with a better experience and to improve the quality of our services.”

Google will be accessing search history including what Wikipedia pages you look up, what YouTube

videos you watch, and what you say to your friends on Gmail chat. As a result Google will be able to tailor one’s search results and remind people about appointments and traffic.

Sooner or later, Google will know you better than your own wife.

Google claims that this will make its users’ lives easier, from helping spell friends names right to remembering an aunt’s birthday. Even the advertisements will change. Your ads will show products for which you show interest including commercials on the Internet. Although this sounds helpful some people are afraid for their privacy. Google is assuring its users and Congress that this information will only be used to make their searcher’s experience simpler.

There is no opting out of this new policy, but there are also alter-

natives to sharing your information.

Nothing you type while logged out of your account will be used as data.

Also you can edit and delete your search history. You can have chats off the record and use “incognito” mode on Google Chrome. Google is also giving you a chance to transfer all your data to another site or email if you do not wish to take part in Google any longer.

On the down side, Google will turn into a personally customized site. Some people use their Google accounts for both their personal and professional lives. It will be harder to find sources because search results will be tailored differently for people. Google claims searches will become more relative but this could possibly hold people back in research and and in browsing. It will be surprising to see if the most

popular search engine on the Internet will scare people off, resulting in the invention of Yahoo Docs or Yahoo Mail.

Coincidentally, Facebook will be making “Timeline” which will merge together a users’ profile and wall into what is being called a “visual blog and online scrapbook” which will show users’ Facebook lives in reverse chronological order.

There is no opt out but users will have a seven days trial to delete any information they do not wish to share when “Timeline” becomes open to friends. Facebook and Google are the two highest grossing and used sites on the Internet.These changes will not be fought unless a user leaves the sites altogether.

Megaupload Founder Arrested A

digital pirate and the founder of the online file-sharing site Megaupload.com, Kim Dotcom had it all, living his luxurious and extravagant lifestyle on possibly most expensive property in New Zealand, a 23,000 square miles estate in Coatesville, until Jan. 20, 2011, where he was arrested at his home by 70 New Zealand police with the permission of the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation. Accused of being the mastermind behind a group that netted $175 million by copying and sharing music, movies, and other copyrighted content without authorization since 2005 and costing copyright holders $500 million in lost revenue, Dotcom, 38, denies the charges.

Shocking and understandable at the same time is Dotcom’s decadent lifestyle, renting his place for more than $24,000 a month, according to Reuters, a news agency, which included a 565 square miles mansion and swimming pool—which is reportedly filled with imported spring water. Authorities have also confiscated 18 luxury cars, including a 1959 pink Cadillac and a Rolls Royce Phantom, worth $4.8 million

and expensive artwork and electronics. An entire wall of his mansion is said to be laced with seven 60 inch high definition screens, every one of them having its own Xbox 360 consol and Lazyboy recliner, according to Yahoo, This is unsurprising, considering the fact that Dotcom was— before slipping to number two from being in custody—the number one Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 player in the world. Proving to be a hardcore game player, he was under the title MEGARACER and reached the top on New Year’s Eve. Dotcom is born in Germany as Kim Schmitz and is also known as Kim Tim Vestor, He holds Finnish and German citizenship, and his lawyers said that he will challenge the extradition and attempt to confront the accusations by justifying that his company offered online storage. Because of the rights of appeal and procedural reviews on both sides, this case can become long and complex. There must be, under New Zealand’s extradition law, enough evidence that would strengthen the accusations against Dotcom and his accomplices by the persecution.

The problem lies to whether U.S.

has a solid case against Dotcom, or if Dotcom has a good enough defense.

Cooperating with the U.S. however is Prime Minister John Kim Dotcom or Kim Kimble, Megaupload. Taken in SeptemKey, who ber 1996 in Kim’s loft in Munich-Giesing. Photo courtesy of on TV3, a Wikimedia Foundation. broadcasting site, stated “this is the largest, three names. But although Dotcom most significant case in Internet was also a former hacker, a selfpiracy so New Zealand is certainly proclaimed “criminal neighbor,” going to work with the United and more, he joked about his crimiStates authorities to allow them to nal past with his neighbors in New extradite Kim Dotcom.”

Zealand and wrote “in all seriousDue to a potential flight risk, ness: my wife, two kids, and myself Dotcom is denied bail on Jan. 25, love New Zealand and ‘We come in 2011 and will wait for his pending peace.’” Currently held in custody extradition sought by the U.S. De- in Auckland, another six men are partment of Justice—a hearing to charged of partnering with Dotcom be held on Feb 22. Dotcom himself in his scheme by the U.S. authorities, pleaded innocence and said he has four of them currently in custody none, though it is difficult for some and another two still on the run. to believe, since he has a passport and wealthy bank accounts under

The Blue and Gold February 2012

7

World News http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Cruise Line Disaster At Sea O

n Jan. 13, 2012 the luxury cruise liner Costa Concordia left the port Civitavecchia, just outside Rome in Italy. Just two and a half hours after departure, the ship ran aground on the coast of the Italian island Giglio, off the coast of the Tuscan city of Grosetto. The hit caused a massive gash in the hull.

After the impact, Francesco Schettino, the captain, continued to sail the ship for a half hour. Then Schettino turned the ship to attempt at docking at the port on the island of Giglio. At this time the crew told the passenger that everything is under control and to return to their cabins.

As the ship kept taking water throughout the hole in the hull, the ship began to lean. Passengers started to abandon ship, but the life boats were so difficult to use because the ship was leaning at such an angle, making it harder to climb into a lifeboat and lowering down to the water. Eventually, the ship was completely on it’s right side.

Despite the many passengers in need of rescue, Schettino jumped into a lifeboat and went ashore. He

has made multiple excuses as to why, including “‘I only left because I fell into lifeboat when ship listed suddenly as I was trying to help.” Many believe Captain Schettino is a coward. The Coast Guard even called him over the phone to “get back on board, damn it” in a traced phone call.

Many people have been reported missing.

Rescue efforts were sent into the shipwreck to search for survivors and As the hundredth anniversary to the mega-steam cruiser Titanic’s sinking apthe dead. Currently, the proaches, an Italian cruise liner the Costa Concordia ran aground off of the total of known deaths Tuscan island of Giglio on Januarary 13, 2012. MCT 2012 is 17, but there is still 16 missing. the cruise ship operators on sev- of the Costa Concordia, Francesco Surviving passengers of the eral crimes, including “maritime Schettino, is under arrest and in trial wrecked Costa Concordia filed a negligence,” “gross negligence,” for charges of manslaughter, shiplawsuit against the Carnival Cruise “intentional infliction of emotional wreck and abandoning ship.

Line, the parent company to the distress” and “negligent retention.”

Schettino has admitted to the Costa Concordia.

Costa had reported it was ren- public that he made a “mistake” in The lawsuit filed called for dering each of about 3,200 passen- setting the ship aground. a jury trial and requested service gers a total of 11,000 euros ($14,400), The removal of the ship has from Costa cruises and the Carni- for their loss of property and emo- been postponed due to weather and val Cruise Line. The suit was filed tional distress, as well as a refund of rough seas. The search continues for in Florida, where Carnival Cruise costs. survivors.

Line is headquartered. It blames Meanwhile, in Italy, the captain

Iran’s Nuclear Program Visited

J

an. 29, 2012 was the day when The Top International Atomic Energy Agency (I.A.E.A.) officials made their arrival in Iran. The Head of the United Nations expressed his concern and his knowledge of the Islamic republic attempting to develop nuclear weapons.

The announcement was made out a decent amount of time after the European Union declared a series of sanctions on Iran. The idea of doing so, was to eliminate the funds that were being provided towards the country’s nuclear program.

The minister of Tehran had showed much optimism towards the planned search of the I.A.E.A. The three-day inspection tour by the team from the I.A.E.A., the Viennabased United Nations nuclear monitor, comes during rising tension over Iran’s Nuclear Program. The West tightened sanctions this month to try to force Iran to slow or halt the program, prompting Iran to threaten to close the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil passage, in retaliation.

The minister Ali Akbar Salehi, on his visit to Ethiopia, had appeared to be trying to make an ap-

peal out of the situation and even expressed that, “[They] are very optimistic about the mission and the outcome.” All he had given out was optimism in reaction to the inspection and even continued his speech on to Iran’s news agency saying “We’ve always tried to put transparency as a principle in our cooperation with I.A.E.A. During this visit, the delegation has questions and the necessary answers will be given.”

America wishes to keep its reign over the Iranian’s ability to enrich uranium, although along with its allies fears that Iran could produce very powerful, and destructive weaponry. Iran has slowly come to a halt in abandoning their machinery and enrichment labs, and propose that they are only fueling them once again in the purpose to obtain energy and medical research.

The United States and its allies struggle to figure out truly if Iran has developed a secret supply of nuclear weapons in order to be able to put an end to the production and prevent any warfare from possibly occurring in the future.

Head Found in the Hollywood Hills

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia

W

hen most people hear the word “Hollywood” they immediately think of movie stars, red carpets and beaches, not severed heads. On Tuesday Jan. 17, 2012, two women were hiking in Bronson Canyon when they received the shock of their lives. The two women found what appeared to be the head of a human male wrapped in a plastic bag under the iconic letters in the Hollywood Hills. Los Angeles police officer Andrew Smith stated that “one of the dogs ran into the brush and came out carrying a plastic grocery bag. As the dogs shook the plastic grocery bag the severed human head fell out of the bag and onto the ground.” They immediately notified park rangers who then proceeded to call the police.

The next day two feet and two

hands were also found near the spot where the head had been located.

Police believed that the murder of the body had occurred elsewhere and parts of the body has been transported and dumped.

Friday the victim was finally identified as 66 year old Hervey Coronado Medellin. Medellin was a former Mexicana Airlines employee who lived near the trail. Los Angeles County officials said that they were able to identify Medellin by the fingerprints on the hands, which were still well preserved. Friends of Medellin say that the hiking trail where his body was found was one of his favorite spots. His neighbor, Andrew Hill said that he heard an “angry late night scuffle” in the apartment of the victim a little over three weeks ago.

8

The Blue and Gold February 2012

LOCAL news http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

What’s happening?

Pink Out Basketball Game Feb. 8, BHCC Gymnasium @ 6 P.M. Pink Out dance - Feb. 10, Cafe B @ 7 P.M. Valentine’s Day - Feb. 14 MHS Swim-A-Thon Feb. 15, MHS Pool Area @ 2:45 P.M. Feb. Vacation - feb. 20 - 24 MHS Choral Art Society Alumni ChoirFeb. 27, 6 P.M- 8 P.M. Passion Plunge- Mar. 3, Revere Beach @ 10 A.M

Valentine Shout outs To: Jasmine Senem Coutinho From: Keith Allen-Farris I have no clue what to say so yeah... Happy Valentine’s Day! :)

To: Ryan Gallagher From: Dan Holmqvist Thanks for being our advisor Mr.G! Happy Valentine’s Day!

To: Sandy Huang From: Your baby ;) Will you be my Valentine? I will always love you with all my heart! <3

To: Keith Farris From: Pikachu Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you!

To: Catherine Poirier From: Caitlin Cala

To: Glen Coco From: Santa Four for you, Glen Coco, you go Glen Coco!

Joey Voices Fundraiser Concert Sponsored by the MHS Alumni Association

Join us for the Joey Voices Fundraiser Concert on Saturday, March 31 at 7:30 pm in the Jenkins Auditorium!

Tickets can be purchased for $25 by emailing maldenhighschoolalumni@yahoo.com, or by calling 781-397-6051. They will also be available at the door.

There will be door prizes and raffles. Proceeds from the concert will go to help MHS students.

Tickets can be purchased for $25 The Malden High School Alumni Association is an organization dedicated to preserving the history of Malden High School, reconnecting MHS alumni, and supporting current MHS students through scholarships and other aid programs.

The Blue and Gold February 2012

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Local News http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

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ith the recent launch of counseling blogs in Burlington High School and Melrose High School, Malden High School has officially created their own blog site as well. MHS has published a counseling blog, which will allow MHS parents and students to post public information if they wish to seek out guidance information of the school.

As MHS is beginning to use the internet much more, such as having a greater selection of available online courses in Virtual High School, creating Wikispaces, and using Google Docs, Manjula Karamcheti, Director of Guidance for Malden Public Schools, felt as though it would be a great idea for guidance to begin to transition online as well.

Together, Freshman Guidance Counselor for Holland and Boyle House, Alison Fornash, and Freshman Guidance Counselor for Jenkins and Brunelli House, Matthew Sadowski, volunteered to complete the project of creating the blog. Fornash had previous experience in designing and developing blogs, as she has one

documenting her personal experience with fitness. Both counselors have interned for Boyle House Guidance Counselor, Erin Craven, last year, and began working on the blog site earlier this school year.

Karamcheti stated that the “blog is our way of telling students what they can take advantage of. It’s one of our many vehicles of communication, and one that we really want students to use.” Since so many students are constantly using the internet, whether they are using it for Google, Facebook, or Twitter, the Guidance Department “felt that it was best if [they] did something online as well,” Karamcheti added.

The blog will contain “information for all grades,” she commented, which will be “available to both students and parents.”

With the blog up and running, the Guidance Department really hopes that “all 1,800 students … go on the website and subscribe, [because] it’s really easy to do.” The major goal of the website is “for students and parents to stay informed, because the website has all the resources necessary, whether it’s about academics, careers, or college [information],” Karamcheti concluded.

School Counseling Department Staff, 2011-2012 Holland House Heather Northrop hnorthrop@malden.mecedu Boyle House Erin Craven ecraven@malden.mec.edu Jenkins House Ann O’Connor aoconnor@malden.mec.edu Brunelli House Susan Lessard slessard@malden.mec.edu 9th Grade (Interim Holland and Boyle House) Alison Fornash afornash@malden.mec.edu 9th Grade (Jenkins and Brunelli House) Matthew Sadowski msadowski@malden.mec.edu Director of Guidance, Testing and Academic Support Manjula Karamcheti mkaramcheti@malden.mec.edu Graduation, Promotion, Success (GPS) Grant Navigator Caitlin Delesky cdelesky@malden.mec.edu

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Local News

The Blue and Gold February 2012

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Huge Changes Ahead For The MBTA Malden residents are furious over a recent proposal to raise mbta fairs and cut a high number of popular bus routes.

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he Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority recently proposed a severe round of bus route eliminations, fair hikes, and other service cuts that have been met with much criticism. The MBTA contends that changes to service are necessary to close their 130 million dollar budget deficit this year. These changes would, in both of two proposed scenarios, directly impact citizens of Malden, especially Malden High School students taking the bus into school every day.

The first scenario would include a 43 percent fair hike, from $1.25 to $1.75 with a CharlieCard, $1.70 to $2.40 with a Rapid Transit Charlie Card, and abolish between nine percent and 13 percent of transit customers. The second scenario would include a 35 percent fair hike, from $1.25 to $1.50 with a CharlieCard, $1.50 to $2.25 with a Rapid Transit Charlie Card, and eliminate a large percentage of Malden bus routes. Both plans would also harshly raise the fairs by 50 percent for the RIDE (Reduced Impaired

Driving Everywhere), a transportation service primarily geared towards Massachusetts residents with disabilities, and the local commuter rail services during weekends in Malden would disappear.

These might seem like just numbers and statistics, however, for the many MHS students and Malden residents who rely on the MBTA to get to and from work, this will be pose a major issue. Four of the bus routes up are for reduction and, possibly elimination, are the only four buses that go down Salem Street and right by the high school every day, which would force students to find another way to get to school each day. The second scenario would be that the 106 and 108 would be cut completely; the 411 route would be demoted to weekdays only, and finally, the 430 route would run only on Sundays. This leaves only the 411 bus to transport students, via Malden Center, to the high school, every day.

As well as affecting high schoolers, the MBTA cuts will also

take a major mode of transportation away from senior citizens. They are the biggest age group that rely on these four bus routes, particularly the highly popular 108 bus.

Newly elected Mayor Gary Christenson has sent a letter concerning the bus eliminations, citing the needs of seniors and students as a good cause to reconsider these drastic cuts. “With only four different bus routes providing service to the entire east side of our city, via the Salem Street corridor, there are many senior citizens as well as high school students who will be left with very few transportation options under the proposed cuts,” he wrote to Jonathan Davis, Acting General Manager of the MBTA. Christenson particularly cites the lack of transit resources that seniors will be left with in his letter: “Many of those residents no longer drive, making this MBTA service crucial to maintaining their independence.”

However, there are many citizens who agree with Christenson’s views, and have taken steps to make

their voices and opinions heard.

Some have taken Christenson’s lead and wrote formal letters of indignation to the MBTA. The city of Malden has schedueled a town meeting in order to discuss the cuts on Feb. 16, 2012. Others have made phone calls to their local city hall, demanding something to be done about the proposals. A very organized group of about 20 Somerville residents met and have begun to discuss various ways to fight the cuts. They call their movement “Occupy the T.” MBTA officials have spoken up, defending the proposals. “These aren’t statistics and money, these are people. They’re customers who rely heavily on the MBTA to get to home, school, hospitals and we are very aware of that,” Transportation Secretaty Richard Davey said in a statement following the announcement.

A final plan on these cuts is scheduled to take place sometime this March, and a board vote is projected to be counted April 15, 2012.

Student Thoughts on the Proposed MBTA Cuts Malden High School students weigh in on the effect of the proposed bus fair cuts and hikes “It’s supposed to be affordable for kids to get to school every single day. That amount of money adds up.”

-Freshman Angelica Carberry

“The service is terrible! I was waiting for the 108 bus and it drove right by! I wouldn’t pay that much money.”

-Freshman Amber Smith

“I think it’s really unfair. It’s hard enough to get to school on time as it is. Raising bus fairs won’t help students, either, we need money for lunch, too. It’s not fair to raise prices.”

-Junior Kassandra Toppi

The bus routes up for possible elimination, the 106 and the 108, are two of the most popular routes in Malden and the only routes that service the east side of the city. Photo by Jessica Lynn DePaula

The Blue and Gold February 2012

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Local News http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Poetry Out Loud Competition continued from page 1 ed all four grades.

Halfway through the hour and a half competition the crowd was given a treat; seven teachers came on stage to take a crack at what they had been watching students do.

English teacher, Natalia Santiago said that she volunteered to recite her poem because she had watched her students put in “so much work,” and that she thought it was only fair for her to endure as much as they all had. However, one of the challenges she faced was actually going up and reciting her poem. Santiago said that she was “really nervous.”

She said that she completed the well known SOAPSTONE chart in her head and had a clear understanding of her poem but actually going up on stage was an experience being a teacher did not prepare her for.

One of the competitors, freshman Sebastian Patino, was really nervous for both competitions. He also comments that he was sur-

prised when he found out he had moved on from the period competition, however, he was happy to be able to “represent the freshman class.” Although it was not his initial intention to move so far, Patino was “honored” to be able to compete with so many “amazing and talented” people. To many, one of the hardest parts of the competitions would be memorizing the two poems, but surprisingly enough, Patino found that to be quite easy, because of his previous engagement in plays and his love of music.

The overall school winner was junior Ashly Brun, who said that even though initially, she did not expect to come so far it “felt good” and that she “really likes poetry.”

Like Patino, Brun comments that because of her love of poetry, it was “not hard” for her to memorize the two poems she needed to recite for the competition. Brun enjoys poetry so much because she believes that poetry “helps people bring out their voices.” Like Santiago, Brun felt she needed “a lot of courage” to go up on stage and recite her poem in front of so many people. She prepared with the help of her English teacher Margaret Pettit who was “very involved.” Brun also prepared by reciting in front of everyone she could

Poetry Out Loud finalists Lucas Inez, Suzanne Hismeh, Sebastian Patino, and Eddie Lee. All photos by Kayla Bramante and Amanda Rosatone and reading the poem to herself any opportunity she got.

Visit our Website, maldenblueandgold. com, to see an

interview with the Poetry Out Loud winner Junior Ashly Brun and other POL pictures!

Malden’s Field of Dreams

An artists rendition of a proposed baseball stadium in Malden. Photo courtesy of www.greaterbostonballpark.com.

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or baseball fans, the cost of seeing a Red Sox game at Fenway Park is through the roof but imagine what it would be like to have an independent professional team right here in Malden.

Boston Baseball Field of Dreams (BFOD), led by Boston businessman and lifelong Red Sox fan Alexander Bok, is trying to make that imagination a reality. His group has searched all across the Greater Boston area for a perfect location and believes that the best option is the soon-to-be-vacated National Grid land parcel on the corner of Route 60 and Commercial Street.

On Jan. 12, 2012, the group made its first pitch to Malden residents during a meeting in the City Hall council chambers and the

renderings of the proposed park are quite astonishing for a team that would be placed in the independent Atlantic League.

The league is currently comprised of eight teams from as close as Bridgeport, Conn. and as far away as Sugar Land, Texas. In the past, a team was housed in nearby Nashua, N.H. and the Pride, as they were known, achieved great success on and off the field, including one league championship. During their time in the league, former Red Sox player Butch Hobson served as the manager of the team.

Since being founded in 1998, the Atlantic League has strived to “bring a high level of professional baseball and affordable family entertainment to selected communities not presently being served by Major League or Minor League teams.”

Teams play 140 games each season, so the future team would play 70 home games each year from late

April to mid-September.

It is evident that the quality of baseball the Atlantic League provides is outstanding, but would a franchise in the league work in Malden? After years of searching, Bok and BFOD feel that the answer is a resounding yes.

Even with the failed North Shore Spirit franchise in people’s minds, a team could surely see success in a brand new park, which would be built steps away from the commuter rail. The Spirit played at Lynn’s 70-year-old Fraser Field, which is hidden away on a busy Western Avenue for people who have never been.

The proposed plan calls for a 6,000-seat, state-of-the-art ballpark that includes 16 private boxes, a “Kids Zone” play area and a familyoriented grass picnic seating area.

BFOD is modeling their stadium after the 2005 BaseballParks.com Ballpark of the Year—Hammons Field

in Springfield, Missouri, which was built to the same architects that were hired for the Malden project.

A stadium of this magnitude would be a “home run” for the community as Malden High School’s baseball team would play home games there and other school events could be held. It would also help local organizations, such as youth sports leagues, raise money through in-stadium events and merchandise sales.

The stadium would create a great community atmosphere, which includes the fact that over 100 part-time jobs would be created during the season and community members would get priority in those positions.

Only time will tell if the dream becomes reality, but one can only hope that things will go as planned.

BFOD estimates construction to begin in winter of 2013, while the first game would be held in April 2014.

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LOCAL News

The Blue and Gold February 2012

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

A Look into the Diversity at MHS Sumya Mohiuddin Reporter

Behind the Teaching Getting to know the stories of each individual that has moved to America under personal conditions makes it is easier for Michal Berdugo to relate to this “more sensitive” issue. Berdugo’s father is an immigrant from Morocco, allowing her to relate well to her students’ transitions.

Realizing that teaching ELL students was what she wanted to do, she started her first year at Watertown. Berdugo worked with adults who payed for private lessons, and she definitely saw the difference between teaching adults and students because it is law that these students come to school. She knew that there was a “high need” to teach these immigrants who come every year.

Berdugo strives to do her best to get these students to reach their goals. “To navigate and be productive outside of the school walls in the community and to go on to college and higher education” are some major goals for her students specifically. It is much harder for these students to stick with those goals because they all have that one extra mile to go: learning English.

Four language skills, speaking, listening, reading, and writing, are required to teach to these students. Group work and oral pieces, which are listening practices, are used. Berdugo includes “a lot of visuals” to help the students further.

If anything, ELL classes “build on backgrounds,” as Berdugo simply stated. These students are proud of where they came from, and are not afraid to share their stories.

ELL Class Student Profiles When James Lafortune came to this country he “[felt] like [he] was born a baby once again” because he had to learn a new language and adapt to a new lifestyle.

-James Lafortune, Haiti

A year and a half ago Ihab Abu-Al Racheb came to the U.S from Jordan with his family to get a “better education” and an “opportunity to go to college.”

-Ihab Abu-Al Racheb, Jordan

Coming to America has placed many difficulties on Yannon Xie. It is hard to understand the language and she is “afraid to be wrong” when she is talking to other people.

-Yannon Xie, China

Joao Sequeira enjoys the diversity from his country, and will miss the “cachupa,” which is “a mixture of corn and beans with fish or meat.”

-Joao Sequeira, Cape Verde Photos by Kristen Leonard and Sumya Mohiuddin

Patricia Rodriguez

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oming from a strict and violent country has made Patricia Rodriguez Ayala anything but hopeless.

From first glance, it is hard to imagine the struggles she overcame and still has to endure.

Malden High School definitely impacted Ayala’s life in a positive way. Fellow ELL students have been understanding towards everything she is going through. “My friends are nice, and they help me,” stated Ayala appreciatively. Although her friends in her ELL classes do not have the same classes as her, she has found many ways to make her high school experience a good one. She has learned that violence is never the answer, and there are people out there that want to help.

Back in El Salvador, violence was so common that she eventually got used to it. Interestingly, it is common for students to carry drugs and weapons. The logic of the situation is that the students pay for school so it is considered acceptable for the students to carry around anything they want; if a principal tries to interfere with a situation like this, students may attempt to kill him.

Shockingly, Ayala kept her calm demeanor, she explained how it was “scary,” but she got used to it.

“Police officers were useless; [they] were one to hundreds, [and stood no chance].” As religion is a major component in the lives of most El Salvadorians, Ayala expresses her school “want[ing] more Catholics,” as they felt this would help rid some of the violence.

Although violence occurred around every corner, education in El Salvador was very strict. Uniforms and ties were demanded, and attendance was strict.

Additionally, Ayala explains how “understanding the reading and grammar and conversations [in English is] difficult,” therefore she is working her hardest to learn the language, and has definitely come a long way.

Ayala’s transition from El Salvador to America has been difficult, but she is thankful to no longer be studying in her home country. At a glimpse, freshmen are required to take 16 classes, 20 classes for the next three years, and school starts at 6:00 a.m. to 5 p.m., with about a two hour break for lunch. Although many people attend high school in El Salvador, Ayala states how MHS is “bigger than an El Salvadorian college,” which is something that she is very thankful for, as there is much more opportunities for her in America than back in her home country.

Currently, Ayala lives with her parents, and her younger sister, who attends Salemwood, with an older sister back in El Salvador.

By far, her ELL classes help her “feel more comfortable here,” at MHS. Speech and communication played important factors in her high school life, and she improved greatly as English is “not easy” and “completely new,” for Ayala. She exemplifies a student who can overcome her challenges and truly excell. Looking back on her experience, Ayla stated “if you are motivated and you really want to learn [English], you can do it,” as she had done herself.

The Blue and Gold February 2012

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local News http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

A Day in the Life of an ELL Student B

eing an English Language Learner (ELL) student at Malden High School does not hold back sophomore Patricia Rodriguez Ayala from fitting at Malden High School. Her classes are the same classes other MHS students take, except for her English class, which is an ELL class.

When the schedule falls to a day four at MHS, Rodriguez can be found in her English class with teacher Michal Berdugo. In this class Rodriguez is surrounded by other ELL students who are just like her, and who were born in a different country and moved to America for more opportunites. The main goal for these students is to be able to learn and communicate in English fluently. Rodriguez happens to be in ELL three, which is one of the higher levels of the ELL classes.

Once the bell rang after the first period of the day Rodriguez headed off to her period five Biology class taught by Diem Ho. When Diem asked the class for answers Rodriguez’s hand shot up and she answered the question with ease.

Then the whole class also got the oppurtunity go to the computer loft to explore some websites about the subject they were currently working on: Mitosis and Meiosis.

After Biology was over, it was on to Rodriguez’s period six class: US History I. Once again Rodriguez provided aid to another student who was struggling with the material. Not only is Rodriguez helpful, but is also friendly to other students without being disruptive. The topics the class explored that day were the Bill of Rights and other amendments of the Constitution.

When long block rolled around Rodriguez was faced with a test in her period seven class: Geometry.

The test was on special right triangles and Rodriguez felt that the test was easy. Math seems to be rodriguez’s strongest subject since she had already learned that material in El Salvador.

Then it was time for Rodriguez’s period one class: Italian I. Rodriguez showed her confidence by raising her hand and writing her answers to the Do Now up on the board. The fear of getting the answers wrong did not seem to phase

Michal Berdugo’s ELL students come from around the world to learn English at MHS. Photo by Kristen Leonard Rodriguez. This seemed to be a pattern throughout the day.

For her last class of the day Rodriguez headed off to her period two class: Health, taught by Kathleen Devito. During this 45-minute block, the class watched a movie about teen dating violence called “No One Would Tell.”

The class that did not fall on this day due to the rotation was Rodriguez’s period three class,

which is her other ELL class with Berdugo. Once you spend time with an ELL student and see what their day is like at MHS, you realize that ELL students are no different than anyone else. They attend the same classes, do the same work, and walk in the same hallways as any other student at MHS. The only difference is, these students have had an incredible journey from their home country to here, in the United States.

Where were MHS Students Born?

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ave you ever wondered where Malden High School students are from? Here is a map that represents where students currently attending the school were born. Visit maldenblueandgold.com or scan the QR code to see this interactive map.

Note: This information was extracted from X2.

Above: Each red marking on this map shows the location of where a current Malden High School student was born. Map by Omar Khoshafa Below: Patricia Rodriguez at different points during her school day. Photos by Kristen Leonard and Sumya Mohiuddin

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The Blue and Gold February 2012

LOCAL News http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Power Tools For Life & Business

MHS Student Copes with Fire

Other offered courses:

Accounting I, II, III Business Law Business Management and Entrepeneaurship AP Economics -VHS Entrepeneurship Integrated Business Application Multimedia/Web Design Oral Communications Personal Finance Beth Horwitz Hospitality and Tourism class with a guest speaker Patty Kelly, a travel agent. Photo courtesy of Beth Horwitz.

International Business

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Technology Management and Career Preparation

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Hospitality and Tourism

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ike to travel? Want to know escribing her international hinking about what to do afmore about restaurants, hotels, business class, business teacher ter high school? Have enough or transportation? Malden High Karen Razzino stated, “The world knowledge about the real world is getting smaller.” With global to succeed? Taking the technology School’s Hospitality and Tourism populations increasing and busi- management and career prepara- course is a course for just that. In this nesses getting larger, the economy tion course is great for planning class, students will “get acquainted is constantly changing. In this for the future by learning how to with and meet people in the indusprogram, students can learn about research careers, how to conduct a try,” as stated by MHS Business what business is and and where it resume, and learn skills for ace-ing teacher, Beth Horowitz. Ever wonis conducted. One might also find interviews. For the planning of get- der what the impact of tourism has out about the fascinating cultures of ting a job any time soon, one might on our environment? This course other countries along with the do’s consider taking this class for an extra focuses on everything from discovand dont’s of making business in boost at success. The skills taught in ering a vacation getaway and the acother countries.“ Climate, culture, this class can be applied to real life tivities involved in staying abroad, and a little bit about the environ- situations, and help one explore the and creating projects online using ment,” are also a major section in the work field. Aside from job prepera- Wikispaces and Web 2.0 tools like course stated Razzino. “The multi- tion, other helpful lessons taught in Glogster, Sliderocket, and Animoto. cultural classroom is a learning ex- the course are basics in Microsoft This year’s Hospitality and Tourism perience,” itself Razzino mentioned. Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, which class got to experience hands-on Aside from the amazing classroom can be used anywhere, whether at activities in the MHS cafeteria. The class also learned about what being environment, this class will also work, home or school. a travel agent is all about by getting give you the experience outside of an inside look at Boston hotels, such the classroom. Last as the Radisson year, the class had and the Boston taken a trip to the Park Plaza. This Boston port to exfield trip included perience how the behind-the-scene imports and exlooks at the inner ports coming and workings of hotels, leaving from Bosthe Ballroom and ton work. Along Presidential suites. with this trip, This is a great class they experienced for aspiring travel a tour of the Asahi agents.

America company located right in Malden. This class would be helpful to take if one might plan on studying abroad in college or to grasp a better understanding Beth Horwitz’ Hospitality and Toursim class on a field trip to Park Plaza in about businesses Boston. Photo courtesy of Beth Horwitz. around the world.

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or many, a fire can be an experience that is absolutely devastating. Nevertheless, Malden High School junior Timothy Desmond, whose house on Boylston Street sustained heavy damage from a fire this month, is taking his unfortunate circumstances in stride.

Fire crews from both Malden and Medford reportedly had to fend off “intense smoke” from Desmond’s residence on Jan. 17. As a result of the fire, all the residents living in the three family building have been temporarily displaced. Weeks earlier, another house on the same street was damaged by a separate fire incident.

For Desmond, the most important thing was that no one was harmed. “The smoke alarms worked and did their job. They were the reason that everyone got out.”

Luckily for Desmond, his own room only suffered from smoke damage and was not affected by fire damage, meaning that many of his own personal belongings were recovered.

Desmond explained, “At the end of the day, it’s only a house – not a person.”

Still, Desmond temporarily had to relocate to an apartment in Woburn with his father. While living in Woburn, he went to school with the North Reading Transport along with other students living in temporary housing. The commute took upwards of 40 minutes because the transportation service had to make stops at other schools before reaching MHS. The transportation service also left from MHS immediately after school, meaning it was hard to Desmond to participate in other extracurricular activities. On days that Desmond had after school meetings, his father would give him a ride on the way home from work.

Desmond is now living in an apartment on the Malden-Everett border. It will likely take months before he is able to return to his home on Boylston Street.

The following is a press release from the City of Malden: If you are a property owner and you can provide emergency placement for a displaced family, please contact Chris Webb, Board of Health Director at BOH@cityofmalden. org or call: 781-397-7053. To make a donation, please make your check payable to the City of Malden and note “Boylston St. Fire Victims” on your memo. Please send checks to: City of Malden c/o Charles Ranaghan, Controller 200 Pleasant Street Malden, MA 02148

The Blue and Gold February 2012

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LOCAL News http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Lunar New Year Celebration

The traditional Lunar New Year celebration included performances by spirited singers like the ones above. 2012 is the year of the dragon. Photo by Casey Lyons

To see a slideshow of more images from the event visit our website maldenblueandgold.com

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very year, an important traditional Asian holiday comes around known as the Lunar New Year, in which everyone can celebrate the excitement of a new beginning. For good luck one may receive a red envelope that consists of money and depending on the culture, different traditional foods are served. People tend to wear red and write poems on red paper because the color red symbolizes fire and according to legend, it drives away any kind of bad luck. This holiday allows families to come together and celebrate all of the luck and happiness to come.

The Malden Asian Pacific American Coalition (MAPAC)

created an event that invites all families to come watch a variety of performances done by students from Malden High School and people from outside the high school.

MACPAC collaborated with MHS’s Asian American Club and with the Chinese Culture Connection (CCC), which is a non profit organization that helps connect American and Chinese people through programs and arts. “There are multiple organizations coming together such as Bread of Life, Chinese Cultural Connection, and a lot of the MHS clubs, to celebrate the New Year, relax, and have fun,” stated volunteer Mary Nguyen.

This year was the 15th annual

celebration. All of the performances were held in the Jenkins auditorium at MHS and had some relation to Lunar New Year. Teacher and class of 2013 advisor, Phuong Ho said that the event is important to her because “[she’s] Vietnamese and [she] likes how it connects to modern culture.”

The show began with a traditional lion dance. There was also a musical performance, fan dance, kungfu performance, and much more. To the crowd’s surprise, Mayor Gary Christenson came on stage with a trench coat and then revealed that he was wearing traditional Chinese attire underneath; the crowd responded in shock and laughter.

There were also many other

performances that included students from MHS. Out of all the years that the event has been going on, this year had the most students involved in the performances. All students got a chance to show off their talent and connect to the holiday themselves. Sophomore and volunteer Han Pham said that she thought that the performances were phenomenal, “[the] way the show represented the cultural connection that Malden High and the CCC presented through their performances.”

The audience got to experience a lot of performances that connected them to the Lunar New Year.

MHS Goes “Green” and Installs New Solar Panels

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assachusetts has recently ranked the highest on the annual state by state energy efficiency scorecard. According to the American Council for an Energy- Efficient Economy (ACEEE), “Massachusetts now has the most aggressive energy efficiency targets in the nation.”

Among this, Massachusetts energy efficiency success is Malden High School, which recently had photovoltaic solar power panels installed in the school.

In photovoltaic power panels, light is directly converted into electricity at the atomic level.

For the many chemists at MHS this may sound pretty rudimentary, however the installation of these solar power panels is a tedious process, which took approximately four months.

MHS applied for a federal government grant which they received and had the panels installed. As with any large building, electricity is a necessity for the functioning of a school of this size. The solar powered panels are going to provide “some electricity relief for the school” stated Principal Dana Brown. The use of these panels have the potential to save $50,000 to $75,000 yearly on electricity. Though the panels do not provide the school with its entire

electricity supply, they do accumulate a fair amount.

MHS is rapidly becoming a modernized school, filled with new technology, including the new solar power panels. Technology definitely captures the interests of this nation’s youth. Principal Brown feels “students are curious about technology and it is good to have in a school.”

MHS is putting forth great effort to incorporate technology in the student’s daily school lives. The school has installed a television screen which will soon transmit information about the weather, wind, and temperature, as well as the generated electricity from the panels.

As the school advances in the 21

century technologically, the school indirectly “goes green.” The environment is a topic referenced often in the classrooms of MHS. AP Environmental Science teacher Shauna Campbell feels the installations of solar powered panels are adding to the betterment of the school and the environment stating “It [is] cool that they [have] installed technology that in the long run will save energy and money.” The panels, located along the top of the high school, “[allow] for the public to see how we are trying to utilize solar energy.” With luck, the high school and the rest of the city will follow suit and continue to use more sustainable technology for the benefit of our planet.

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Style

The Blue and Gold February 2012

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Find Stizz Lifestyle on Facebook: Stizz Lifestyle or on Twitter: @Stizz_Clothing

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unior Samir Chibane launched his very first clothing line, Stizz Lifestyle Clothing, in September of last year, hoping to make an impact as a young “go-getter” in the fashion business. His ambitious strive in entrepreneurship is inspiring to his supportive classmates, many of whom can be seen sporting his gear around the halls of Malden High School.

“Stizz” has an unseen, yet cleverly relevant meaning of “style with ease.” (One would think the name “Steez” makes more sense, but Samir argued that ‘Stizz’ rolls off the tongue more fluently.) His line is filled with clean designs; it strays away from bright colors for a more “sharp” approach. Colors you can expect to see on his clothes are light blues, grays, navies, maroons, and blacks, chosen specifically to make the style “easy to understand,” explained Chibane.

Stizz Clothing offers three different crewneck sweaters, three different tee shirts, and a flat-bill baseball cap with the store’s logo on it. On each of the articles of clothing, one would find a graphic that reads “Character Over Reputation,” a music note of the names of popular hip hop artists, and a Stizz emblem (as shown to the left).

Chibane has always been motivated to start his own business and when his interest in style became a prominent factor in his

life, he decided to take action. Thus, the bith of Stizz. The whole ordeal began with a custon-design tee shirt generator. After he got the jist of his design ideas, Chibane put them to sale. He got the designs manufactured and put up on his website, www.StizzLifestyle.bigcartel.com, for sales to begin.

The clothing line is targeted to attract hustlers and grinders. “My clothes are for people who are reaching for success,” (much like Chibane himself), he said of his targeted customers. Chibane wants those who wear his clothes to feel as though they are united to something big. Stizz Clothing entails a sense of pride for its customers, making them feel like they are supporting something potentially momentous.

Chibane said that those who wear

the gear are a part of an “ambitious group” that is “supportive and united.”

A lot of Stizz’s essense is influenced by Chibane’s one and only style icon, Pharrell. Pharrell holds the many career titles of a music artist, record producer, composer, and fashion designer. Chibane admires his clean approach to style and business.

When asked if he plans on pursuing his line in the future, Chibane replied, “Definitely. If I start something, I might as well take it seriously and make it big.” The line is coming out with new designs that are expected to hit the website later on this month. Stay tuned into Stizz and keep an eye out for upcoming designs.

Junior Samir Chibane sporting his own disign, a part of his clothing line: Stizz Lifestyle. All photos by Rebecca Broomstein and Lesley Ta

One of the graphics found in the Stizz line. The emblem means “respect” (the eye), “money” (the dollar sign) and “power” (the crown).

You can purchase these items on the Stizz Lifestyle website: www.StizzLifestyle.bigcartel.com

The Blue and Gold February 2012

ENTERTAINMENT http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

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84th Academy Awards predictions Best Picture

Natalie: The Descendants

The Descendants has a modern day story line with another brilliance performance by George Clooney.

Shailene Woodley made her way into the spotlight with her first big time movie. But the Academy is known look past good modern day movies, and rewards films about the past which is why the artistically done black and white silent film, The Artist will be its greatest competition.

Amalia: The Descendants

The Descendants touches upon the complexities of life, as death and family tensions challenge George Clooney’s character when he is challenged with his wife’s recent accident which left her in coma. The film is truly both tragic and heart warming. With phenomenal performances throughout the cast, including a breakout performance

by ABC Family’s The Secret Life of the American Teenager starlet Shailene Woodley, the film is undeniably picking up nods for Best Picture.

Best Actor in a Leading Role

Natalie: George Clooney in The Descendants

In The Descendants, George Clooney plays Matt King, an average husband/father, different from most of his past roles. Clooney’s performance brings light to this tragic and journey of his family. He makes the audience believe his tears, regrets, and uncanny smiles. Winning the Oscar will make up for his loss last year in Up in The Air. But Brad Pitt takes home the win I won’t be surprised. Clooney and Pitt both gave remarkable performances.

The only difference is Pitt is an amazing actor who got a great role in Moneyball which was bound to be a hit, while Clooney is an amazing actor who took an average role, and made it memorable.

Amalia: George Clooney in The Descendants

It seems to be a rare occasion when George Clooney fails to bring life to the roles he plays. His role as Matt King in The Descendants, a typical modern-day father/husband struggling to cope when his wife falls into a coma, could possibly outshine any other extravagant characters he has ever played, as he portrays to his audience the true meaning of loss, love, and life. The simplest things are often the truest, and Clooney does just that.

Best Actress in a Leading Role Natalie: Meryl Streep in The Iron Lady

What can I say. The Academy loves Meryl Streep, and who can blame them? In The Iron Lady, she plays Margaret Thatcher, the first female Prime Minister of Great Britain. Streep is a strong actress playing a strong women.

She humanizes Thatcher so that people visualize this politician as a mother, wife and a real person. But it would great to see a fresh face like Michelle Williams to snag Streep who is running on her 14th best actress nomination.

Amalia: Michelle Willams in My Week With Marilyn

Everyone in this category should be considered a winner. Rooney Mara’s breakout performance in The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo has already earned her lots of attention and praise, and while an Oscar would be the icing on the cake, it is not so sure she is going to take it. Kudos go out to Glenn Close for dressing as a man for almost a whole movie as the cross-dresssing, gender confused, Albert Nobbs. And although Meryl Streep has earned more Oscar nominations than she has won, and Viola Davis fierce and strong performance as Abileen Clark in The Help was fantastic, the Oscar should go to Michelle Williams for her role as the timeless Marilyn Monroe in My Week With Marilyn.

Best Actor in a Supporting Role

Natalie: Christopher Plummer in “The Beginners”

Christopher Plummer as Hal in The Beginners reminds the Academy of how much they enjoyed Milk. Although dead during the movie, his son Hal reflects on his life with his father after his mother’s death. Plummer openly admits that he is gay to his son and starts dating Andy. He brings funny and charming and sad to the screen with one of the most interesting roles of the year.His riveting performance dominates the screen and lets be honest, It is hard to make a romantic comedy-drama this memorable and at 81 years old, give this Sound of Music veteran deserves it.

Amalia: Jonah Hill in “Moneyball”

Of all the actors in the running for the Academy Awards this year, the one who is most gobsmacked to find himself in the thick of consideration has got to be Moneyball star Jonah Hill. As the numbers cruncher who convinces Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane (Brad Pitt) to adopt a radical new system of recruiting lowvalued players, Hill gives a subtle and muted performance that fans of his vulgar characters in Knocked Up, Superbad, and The Sitter wouldn’t recognize. His performance could be his home run from a corny comedian, into recognition as an actor in the big leagues.

Best Actress in a Supporting Role Natalie: Octavia Spencer in “The Help”

First off, Shailene Woodley deserves a nod. Not a win, but a nomination, The academy hates teenagers and modern teenager roles. Janet McTeer deserves a nod for well done impersonation of man in Albert Nobbs. But the stand out this year was Octavia Spencer as Minny in The Help. The Help is considered the “inspirational” movie of the year, and her costars Jessica Chastain and Viola Davis have also been nominated. Spencer plays an African American maid who speaks out about what life is being “the help” during the Civil Rights movement. Spencer offers a multi-faceted performance, and fully takes on her character of the most turbulent times of US history.

Amalia: Octavia Spencer in “The Help”

For audiences of The Help, Octavia Spencer is one of the most memorable actresses in the film adaptation. Spencer plays the feisty, defiant and zealous Minny Jackson. She is one of the AfricanAmerican domestics persuaded by a young white woman to secretly work with her on a book about their lives in service to white families in Jackson, Miss., in the early 1960s. Spencer fully takes on her role, moving every individual in her audience to tears and hope with her inspirational story.

LIFESTYLE

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The Blue and Gold February 2012

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

The Skaters of Malden

Scan this with your smart phone to watch a video of the Sanita skate team members Casas, Belmonte, and Parsons skateboard in Malden.

Bringing students together Northeast Metropolitan Reigonal Vocational School freshman Nick Casas skating at Courtomole Park in Malden. Photo collage by Grace Stathos

M

alden Skatepark, one of the few skateparks in local Massachusetts, attracts skateboarders near and far with one thing to bring them together, their passion for skateboarding. Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational School student Nick Casas describes skateboarding as “the only reason to wake up every morning.” At NMRVS, Casas, Sam Kelley, Nick Belmonte, and Andrew Parsons created a skate team called Sanita, and they are currently working on their first skate video. The video is still “a work in progress,” said Casas, but should be well on its way once spring starts. According to Casas, “without Malden Skatepark, having a skate team would be impossible. People are always telling us where we can or can not skate, so I love having a place where I can skate without worrying I’ll get in trouble for it.”

Snapshots from the Skateboarding in Malden video linked through the QR code.

One Shot is All You Need!

Why do you skate?

“Because [it is] really fun! Also because... [it is] an escape from the real world.”

-Devin Fitzpatrick MHS Sophomore “I get to spend time with my friends, and [it is] really fun!”

-Nick Casas NMRVS Freshman

Get the latest fashions here: Champion Sweats, Sneakers/Boots, Snapbacks, Videos, Entertainment, Thermals, Exclusive Tees, Phone Accessories.

SPORTS

The Blue and Gold February 2012

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A Basketball Brotherhood

From top left to bottom right: Bryan Mitchell being carried off the court by teammates after being injured. A filmstrip with continous photos of Bryan Mitchell doing a lay up. Dante Steene shooting a three pointer. All photots by PJ Montezuma

Dante Steene

A Photo courtesy of James Valente Q: How long have you been playing basketball?

A: I’ve been playing since fifth grade.

Q: Do you plan on playing in college?

A: Nah, I mean I love basketball but there are other things I plan on doing then.

Q: Have you reached your personal goals this season? If not, what do you still hope to accomplish?

A: No, we’re 7-7 but we want to make the tournament.

Q: What are you going to miss most about high school? Basketball?

A: How pure it is and the crowds.

Q: What were you’re favorite sports?

A: Basketball and Baseball are my favorite sports.

Q: Where do you see yourself four years from now?

A: In California making a living.

Q: What do you do when you are not playing basketball?

A: I like hanging with some friends doing the usual.

Q: Anything you want to tell your fellow seniors and underclassman?

A: Live hard but laugh harder and stay on top of your grades.

Q: What will you miss the most about high school?

A: I’ll miss the games but I’ll miss the people and all the memories that come with the lifestyle. And I’ll miss Jake Martino.

s the season comes to an end, Malden High School’s varsity basketball team is standing with a record of 7-7. The team needs to win three of the four games they have left to assure a place in the state tournament. Malden struggled for a while against some strong teams.

On Jan. 31, 2012 Malden lost to Everett 56-43. Malden also lost the first game against Everett on Jan. 13, 2012 by 22 points with the score being 85-63. Malden beat Medford the first time they faced on Jan. 6, 2012 by four points, the score being 64-60. However, they seemed to struggle the second time they faced, by losing to Medford by 17 points with the score of 54-37. The team beat Minuteman on Feb. 1, 2012 by 13 points.

When junior Tommy Steele was asked what he thought the team might achieve, he replied, “I think our team can win the Greater Boston League, we have the talent and the athleticism to do it. [We are]probably one of the most athletic teams in the GBL. It all depends on if we play together.” There has been some adversity periodically throughout the season as in ”the beginning of the season it was more like an individual team, now [it is] like a family,” commented Steele. Some players have really been standing out lately. “[Junior] Jason Surpris is one of the most hard working kids we have, he has stepped up tremendously and is at his peak right now,” said junior captain Rodney Morton. Surpris even was one of the starting five against Everett on Jan. 31, 2012.

“Also our [freshman] Anthony Gilardi has matured and played a significant role on our team.” stated Morton. Despite all their hard work, Steele revealed, “From what I see, nobody has achieved their goals yet, including me.”

A new addition to the team is MHS junior varsity starter, freshman Dennis Bailer.

There are certainly some crowd favorites, seeing the crowd go crazy when one player comes off the bench Hoping to end the season well, the team looks forward to its next few games.

“This is the final stretch and we won’t be able to get this back,” commented Morton. With Just three remaining games against Westfield, Minuteman, and Dracut, the season is winding down to an end.

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SPORTS

The Blue and Gold February 2012

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Teamwork Overlooks Losses

Commie Ayuk

Q: How long have you been playing basketball? What made you want to join?

A: I have been playing basketball for about 9 years now! And I started playing because my older brother, Bryan, introduced me and taught me how to play and it was a ton of fun.

After Senior captain, Rebecca Krigman, takes a penalty shot, the girls expectantly wait for the ball to drop. Malden tries to evade the opponent and get the ball into the hoop. Photo by Sumya Mohiuddin.

A

s winter finds its closure, the girls basketball team says farewell to another well played season.

Although the girls lost many games, they will never forget the hard work and persistance they put into all the games they played. They did their best this season and will do even better next season now that they know what their strengths and weaknesses are.

Although they did not reach their goal of winning 10 games to qualify for the state tournament, they did become closer as a team.

Coach Wayne Bartolucci emphasizes the importance of “[working] together as a cohesive unit,” and the girls have come a long way by reaching that.

Bartolucci explains how it is also important “that each player gets better from the first day of tryouts to the last day of the season.”

Judging by the effort put into everything they do, it is easy to say that they have achieved their goal.

Working together made the team stronger and more prepared before each game. As a team they all put in a 100 percent and made the most of the season. But not only did they become a stronger team but a family. If one member shines on the court, the rest of the team has the same effect.

Next season the returning basketball players will be even more prepared for the season. They have learned from their mistakes and are ready to begin fresh. Although they will be gone, the team will not forget the senior captains that helped them along the way.

One of the four captains is Commie Ayuk who says that “being a captain to [her] is definitely and most importantly being a positive

role model not just in the sport but out of it also and someone a teammate can rely on or go to.” The other three captains are seniors Kiara Amos, Rebecca Krigman and junior Bridget Furlong. The member on the team have learned so much from their captains and its saddening to say good-bye to three of them.

Bartolucci, happy with his choices for captain, says that all three have “leadership” qualities, and they are “someone that [he] would want [his] two young daughters to be able to look up to as role models.”

The team’s relationship on the court is remarkable; the truth in their motives help to create a familiar and comfortable atmosphere for the entire team. They might lose, but at the end of each game, they become stronger than they were before.

Learning the ways of basketball helped Ayuk to adjust to real life situations. One major lesson she took from playing basketball ever since started when she was nine is to “give everything all your effort, 100 percent all of the time because that’s the only way you’ll earn what you deserve in life.”

The girls basketball team is mentally and physically prepared for the seasons ahead.

Freshman Michaela Ilebode and junior Norma Bourque Pimental block a Medford High Shool basketball player from shooting. Photo by Sumya Mohiuddin.

Q: What do you want to major in?

What college are you planning to attend?

A: In college I intend on majoring in either kinesiology or something that has to do with anatomy. I’m hoping to either attend University of Hartford or Westfield State University this coming fall!

Q: What does being captain mean to you?

A: Being a captain to me is definitely and most importantly being a positive role model not just in the sport but out of it also and someone a teammate can rely on or go to.

Q: What do you wish for your team to improve on for the next season?

A: I’m hoping the team keeps a flow of energy on the court right from the start when they play because the talent is all there it’s just keeping a high constancy level and it all starts with our confidence!

Q: How does it feel leaving Malden High and your team behind?

A: It’s really sad leaving, because I really like these group of girls; they’re awesome teammates and it’s going to be hard leaving but at least I know they will be just fine when us seniors leave!

Q: What is one major lesson you can take away from your experience in playing basketball?

A: One major lesson I’ve learned? It would probably be to never settle. Give everything all your effort, 100% all of the time because that’s the only way you’ll earn what you deserve in life.

Q: Who are your role models?

A: Haha, this question is funny and hard to explain, because I look at the people I see daily, like my friends, as role models with certain qualities. But if I had to name people I would say my mom and Hayley Williams.

For the full interview, visit our website www.maldenblueandgold.com.

The Blue and Gold February 2012

SPORTS http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Rebuilding the Season

Junior Joshua Gaviola swimming during warm up. Photo by Johanna Lai

E

nding with a good season, the Malden High School swim team looks forward to their goals next year. Being a team full of relatively new members, they look forwards to their improvement. Some of the underclassmen of the swim team have developed some impressive talent just after a short time of joining the team. Their focus circles around the idea of teamwork, function and prosperity of the team as they develop their skills throughout their practices and meets.

Assistant coach Jessica Bis-

son, the Special Education teacher and consulting at the MHS, expects “them to do very well and wants to see improvement from their time.”

The swim team also has many strengths such as the captains senior captain Eddie Lee, and junior captains Amalia Quesada Nylen, Caitlin Cala, and Catherine Poirer are working hard to get the team together.

The coaches have helped develop a very well organized and hard-working team to support in the meets. A weakness for now is

that the team has many new swimmers and their not getting as much yardage in but are expecting to see improvement in the next few years.

Their toughest meet so far was against the opposing and challenging team, Cambridge. Their team consisted mostly upon upper class-men and a very deep team with many capable athletes. Cambridge beat MHS, but in the second meet against them it was evident that they had improved. The swim team was able to “take on the challenge” states Bisson. “We could improve technique-wise, although its amazing to see the improvement.”

Bisson found this to be an auspicious year due to having such a vast amount of new people in the swim team and she considered it to be a reconstructing year. Having some valuable swimmers lost the previous year, Bisson considers this nonetheless to be an opportunity for the younger swimmers to show their talent and potential.

Overall, “the swim season was successful because many new swimmers learned how to swim as the season went on,” concluded freshman Kelvin Nguyen.

OVERCOMING INJURIES, ACHIEVING SUCCESS

Freshman Molly Jaynes competing on uneven bars. Photo by Joel Stevenson

A

fter a season of many challenges, the Malden High School gymnastics team has come out victorious. Over the past 11 years, the team has not been able to call themselves GBL champs, but all of that has changed with the addition of coach Vanessa James who, according to senior captain Alana Casey has “devoted her time and heart” to the team.

The team has won two GBL titles, including the one from this year. The last time they won was when James was a senior on the gymnastics team. James says that in her opinion it is “just a coincidence” that all of the times the team has won, she has somehow been involved but also says that to her it’s “pretty cool.” James also says that it “feels great” to be the coach that fi-

nally led the team out of it’s rut and back to success.

Senior captain Alana Casey, who has been a gymnast her whole life stated “after 11 years [the team] finally [gets] a ‘2012’ banner in the gym.” The team’s final meet was against Malden’s fiercest rival, Medford High School. The final score of the meet was 117.95 to 117.45, which, in the words of Casey, is “ridiculously close.”

On the way to becoming GBL champs, the team faced many challenges. Early on in the season James had to make the difficult decision of cutting members from the team because she did not have an assistant coach, which she feels would have been difficult to manage and a danger to the team. Along with the cuts, the team also had to overcome several injuries, which Casey jokingly says she would get a “10.0” in.

On the second day of practice Casey injured her heel and had to be in crutches for a week and with a week left in the season, she broke a joint in her finger which kept her out of the final meet. Senior captain Jonathan Silva was also unable to compete because he injured his ankles. Silva stated that he is “so proud of [the team] for trying so hard even when both the captains...were hurt and couldn’t compete.” Although the injuries really hurt the team this year, they “were not enough to hold [the team] back,” James stated. He also commented “that the team is “pretty solid all around” and despite the fact that she had to take out some of the top competitors because of injuries, she was “confident about [their] backups.”

The season is now over and James says that she plans to “keep doing what [she’s] doing” to maintain the title of GBL champions and that she was “honored” to coach the team and that it feels “awesome to be able to give back and be a part of a team [she] once competed for.”

The ending of every sport’s season is something that can only be described as “bittersweet,” commented Casey. However, both she and Silva are proud of the team for always trying hard, which is all anyone can ever ask; for competitors to put their “heart and soul into what [they] do.” And of course, the sense of victory and accomplishment from achieving the title of GBL champs doesn’t hurt either.

21 Eddie Lee

Q: How long have you swam for?

A: I learned how to swim at 7, and began swimming competitively at 10 or 11 Q: What you will miss most about the team/the season?

A: I will absolutely miss most the people and the sense of camaraderie that comes with swimming with so many different people Q: What are your plans for after high school?

A: I plan to go to a 4-year college, and (maybe) major in chemical engineering Q:What advice would you give to the underclassmen?

A: Don’t be afraid to go after what you dream about, whether it be to qualify for sectionals, states, or even just winning an event during a meet; work your hardest before you graduate, and if all else fails, be confident that you’ve worked and tried your hardest to get there - it’s the journey that counts the most

Andres Torres

Q: How long have you done gymnastics?

A: I joined up my sophomore year after some persuading from my friends already in it. It was my 1st time doing anything gymnasticslike so it was very new Q: What event do you compete in?

A: I compete in the bars event. It was the most appealing event to me since I’m not really much of a flipper. It’s really fun but just like the other events, it gets tough.

Q: What you will miss most about the team/the season?

A: Definitely the team itself. It’s a fun sport but what kept me coming everyday was the fun I had with my teammates. A win is only so nice if you can’t share it with someone.

Q: What are your plans for after high school?

A: I plan to go to college after high school.

Hopefully I may still practice gymnastics sometimes.

Q: Who(at MHS) has had a big impact on your life? & why?

A: Every single one of my teachers at MHS, I thank you. They’ve always been kind enough to try and steer me on the right path and it means a lot to me.

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SPORTS http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

MHS Cheerleading: A Team Worth Cheering For

The Blue and Gold February 2012

Karina Hong

M

alden High School’s winter sports season is coming to a close, and as the season has progressed, the basketball cheerleading team has grown into a larger, more experienced group of girls who have been honing their skills to prepare for next fall’s competitive season. The cheerleading team is composed of members from all four grades, and they help each other immensely. “All the girls have been working well together and improving their skills as a team. We have some girls who are new to the sport who have been able to learn the basic skills and we have veterans who have been building on their existing abilities,” stated coach Diana Buon-

The cheerleaders cheering on the boy’s varsity basketball team.

All photos by Grace Stathos

opane, an eighth grade math teacher at the Linden Middle School.

As the school year’s end looms, the cheerleaders, like all MHS sports, will be losing members. So they decided to make the best of the time they have remaining. During the winter season, since there was a lack of competitions, the MHS cheerleaders were present at each boys basketball game. The crowd enjoys the enthusiam that the cheerleaders bring to the game. “They enjoy the basketball games and supporting the basketball players,” stated Buonopane.

With so many new faces, the entire team quickly learned that the bigger the team, the bigger the need for Sophomores Erin McInnis and Kaitlyn total and complete cooperaThomas.

tion. Teamwork is key, according to Coleman who stated “some things we had to work on was helping others when needed. There’s not one girl who doesn’t help another. We also worked on helping new girls learn old dances from [the previous] winter season.”

“The biggest obstacle we overcame is getting along and acting more than a team...I’d call it a ‘sisterhood,’” Coleman described.

Use your smartphone to watch the cheerleaders performing.

Struggling Through the Season

Q: What are your plans for after high school?

A: After high school, I hope to attend college for a dual major in business administration and civil engineering. My future isn’t set in stone but that’s where I’m heading!

Q: How long have you been cheerleading? On the MHS team?

Why did you decide to get into the sport?

A: I started my cheerleading experience for Malden Pop Warner in 2007. That was also the same year that I stopped cheerleading for a while, or rather a long time!

Last year, I decided to join the winter season for cheerleading because I simply miss being a part of a cheering team and I also love watching basketball!

To read the rest of Karina’s interview, and to see a video of the team cheering, go to www.maldenblueandgold.com

Tiffany Rodriguez

F

or the past few weeks in the winter season, the Malden High School’s wrestling team is getting ready for its last couple of meets together as a team. The individual part of the season and the state championship qualification are approaching quickly. The individual part is what English teacher and head coach Jeremiah Smith is looking forward to since the team usually does better in the individual season than they do in the team season.

As the team prepares for sectionals Smith stated, “the season will depend on how well they do during sectionals and it will determine to see if their individual season has ended or can qualify for the state tournament. “ One of the main highlights in this season was a win against Everett on Jan. 19, 2012. This win was coming from their final meet as a team with a close score of 3735. The winners on that day were sophomore Jean Gedeon, freshman Jean Janvier, and sophomore Phillip West, junior Rufus Arraheffege, and senior captains Robert Stocker and Mario Sforza. Another main highlight came from the team itself when it comes to not having every weight class to be filled up. As Sforza stated “we didn’t have all 14 weight

Q: What you will miss most about the team/the season?

A: I am going to miss my family, we all got along and the fact that I’m a senior, I could have done it earlier.

Left: Junior Ryan Stocker wrestling againist sophomore Jean Gedeon during practice. Right: Senior Tiffany Rodrigeuz. All photos by Johanna Lai classes.” Smith was also impressed on how well Stocker and Arraheffege had improved throughout the season.

Recently, the team had an away meet against Tewksbury on Jan. 25, 2012. Tewksbury was an opponent that the team struggled with. This was the case when the team lost to Tewksbury with a score of 60-9, however, they received wins from Sforza and Arraheffege. Arraheffege won by a score of 5-2 while Sforza’s match against a Tewksbury player was a forfeit since the Tewksbury team did not have an opponent.

The lack of filling the weight classes at MHS made it hard for the

team to make this season successful, leaving currently with a 3-16 record.

The last two wins came from their last away meet which took place on Jan. 28, 2012. These wins were from their last away meet against Malden Catholic and Belmont High School.

Next year will be filled with new goals, a new season, and also a new start for the MHS wrestling team. Smith stated he wants “improvements on the conditioning, hand placement, and stands.” Making these improvements will create a major impact on the team next season if they continue to improve on those types of techniques.

Q: What are your plans for after high school?

A: After high school, in general, I plan on going going to Salem State University.

I don’t know if I am still going to do volleyball and lacrosse.

Q: What advice would you give to the underclassmen?

A: Honestly, don’t give up, fight through it, it’s a really fun sport once you get in it and it makes you stronger.

Q: Who(at MHS) has had a big impact on your life? & why?

A: Mrs.Scibelli , the Assistant Athletics Director, has had a big impact on my life.

She was huge impact because she said “once you put your mind to something, keep going at it.You’ll never know what the outcome might be.”

The Blue and Gold February 2012

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Boys Track: Looking Ahead to Gbls

Malden High School Boys Track team getting for upcoming meets. This year the team has alot more fresh runners who can keep up with the team. Photo by Jason Drapinski

T

he Malden High School boys track team has many good qualities, including a desire to win.

This season, they faced strong teams in the Greater Boston League (GBL) like as Cambridge and Somerville.

With last year’s indoor track record of 4-1, the boys track team has a current record of 2-1. Unfortunately, this year’s MHS boys track team did not secure the GBL championship title because of a loss to Cambridge, but some individual members of the team were able to qualify for the state meet.

For runners, the indoor track season begins before winter. Head coach David Londino explained, “We work early in the season to build strength and endurance. Now

we are tapering to become as quick as possible.”

The large number of departing seniors on the track team means it is now as important as ever to develop talent for the coming seasons. Head coach Jamie Green, who is always trying to recruit new athletes, explained, “We try to speak to athletes from other sports and we use our current athletes to help them understand that there are many events available that appeal to all types of athletes. We also rely on our record of success and hope that more athletes want to share in our success.”

With this in mind the boys track will try to finish their season strong with a great performance at the GBL championship meet.

Check out senior O’Shane McCreath’s profile online. Photo by Dan Holmqvist Senior Yusuf Mohamed running down a street during practice. Photo

by Jason Drapinski

Members of the boys indoor track team practicing outside on a warm winter afternoon. Photo by Jason Drapinski

Seniors, don’t forget to order your yearbook! Contact Mr. Valente in Room B231 for more information.

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SPORTS

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http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Girls Track: Preparing For Victory

Kelly Nguyen

Q:How long have you played this sport?

A:I have done indoor track ever since I was a freshmen until senior year.

Q:What you will miss most about the team/the season?

Senior Haley DeFilippis and junior Blue and Gold member Haley Dowdie leading the team in a workout. Photo by Jason Drapinski

T

he indoor track season is always a tough season for runners. The transition from cross country to indoor track is very quick and a challenge. In cross country the distances are longer and slower, in indoor track, on the other hand, they are

Junior Iris Feng running at a track practice. Photo by Jason Drapinski

shorter and faster. Sophomore member Jacqueline Bouley said “once the team adjusted to the ‘feel’ of track again, [the team was] on [their] way to competing and training the best [they] possibly could.”

This season has been a struggle for the girls indoor track team, with two losses against Cambridge Rindge and Latin and Somerville.

The “Cambridge [Rindge and Latin] and Somerville [teams] were really tough meets, but [the team] expected that” stated senior member Haley DeFilippis. Despite their hardships, the team looks forward to be participating in the Greater Boston League Championship(GBL) meet. These losses are encouraging the team to try even harder at the GBL meet.

As the GBL meet approaches the team continues to practice hard.

To prepare for GBL’s the team practices like they regularly would, long and strong workouts. Everybody is required to put in their best to contribute to a successful season.

According to DeFilippis the difference in approaching the GBL meet is “going in there more aggressive.”

Sophomore member Cristina DiScipio believes if “you practice with your team and do the right things, like eat right and hydrate, you can achieve your goals.” According to Coach Dave Londino the team will prepare for the GBL meet by “making sure [the team places] athletes in the events they’ll perform best in.

This year [the team lacks] top level depth, so proper event placement is critical to assure the highest score possible.”

The team continues to strive for the GBL title and also for athletes with states qualifying times.

DeFilippis, Bouley and juniors and Blue and Gold members Haley Dowdie and Lauren Benoit have qualified for the 4x800. Bouley states she is “excited to compete in Division stated, and to see her teammates qualify and compete as well.”

The team will be competing for the GBL championship title on Feb. 11, 2012 at the Reggie Lewis Center in Boston. The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association meet will be held on Feb. 24, 2012.

A:What I am going to miss the most is the coaches, they are just so wonderful, and the whole atmosphere of the Salemwood gym because I have made so many memories in that gym.

Q:What are your plans for after high school?

A:I’m hoping to get into MassArt. I would like to study graphic design and later maybe later on double major in interior design. I’ve always loved art and just being able to express myself.

Q:-What advice would you give to the underclassmen?

A:My advice to the underclassmen is to focus on school and do well, but also live life and go out and have fun.

Q:Who(at MHS) has had a big impact on your life? & why?

A: The person who has impacted my life the most at Malden High would be my former coach, coach Abbatessa. He has pushed me so hard in track and built my confidence so much, that it made me a more confidence person in the things I do. He also taught me to try my best in everything I do.

Full article on the Malden Park on page 11. Use your smartphone to scan the QR code below for more information on the new Malden Park and for more photos.