February 2010

Track on page 24

Stimulus Update page 8

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

Malden High School Volume 95 Edition 5

Our 95th Year January 2010

The Devastation of Haiti

Malden is Pretty in Pink Kalya Bramante Reporter

O

Bottom photo is Bernard Clemps laying Louis Valdery on a cot in an outdoor tent at the Clinique Lambert in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Monday, January 25, 2010. Photo by Charles Trainor Jr. To the left, Rescue team members from Greece (red) and France (dark blue) carrying Wismond Exantus from a building on Saturday, January 23, 2010. Photo by Pedro Portal. To the right, A store burns in downtown Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on Friday, January 22, 2010. Photo by Al Diaz. Photo Collage by Lynn Tran

Go To Pages 10 and 11 For Complete Haiti Coverage & Page 5 For Updates On Americans Arrested For Trafficking

Malden Gymnastics Dismounts to Victory

In This Issue: Progressive Scholars page 12 + 13 Nobel Laurete Page 14 Poetry Out Loud Page 17 Valentine’s Day page 18 Oscar Predicitions page 19

Sophmore Mary Stathos on the beam against Lowell Catholic and Medford.

Photo by Joel Stevenson.

Joshua Kummins

Swimming Page 21

Reporter

T

he Malden High gymnastics team is hitting the tail end of a strong 2010 season, which saw them compile a 4-3 record, head-

Nick Jonas’ Solo Project Page 20

ing into the Greater Boston League Meet.

The team’s four victories came against two teams, Cambridge and Continued on page 22

Wrestling Page 22 Indoor Track Page 24

ne in eight women is diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States. In 2009, 40,170 women were expected to die from Breast Cancer and more than one in four cancer cases are in fact breast cancer.

Here at Malden High School, Pink Out Basketball games help to raise money. MHS also has a breast cancer awareness club and does fundraisers like the Pink Out Games to help the people in need. The club itself helps to plan out the games and club members help out with the tables you find in the gym, such as the raffle table.

Upon entering the gym, fans are greeted by a group of people waiting to give a pink ticket to hold students pay three dollars and adults pay five dollars. Then peoplhurry to the bleachers to grab a seat with your friends and family. After fans look back to where people first came in to see if the rest of your group is approaching and to the right and there are breast cancer shirts on sale that also help to raise money for the club. At the other end of the gym there are raffle baskets, Pisa Pizza and refreshments. The game starts intensely and next to the concession stand there are the pink and white basketballs that the players on the team use, how coincidental considering the main color to represent breast cancer is pink.

Some teams also get pink laces for their shoes.

The games are an excellent way to raise money and awareness about Breast Cancer at both MHS and in the Malden Community. We originally set a goal of raising $1500 by the end of the year, now our goal has risen to $2000," stated president of the Breast Cancer Awareness Club Continued on page 22

Opinion p.3 World p. 8 Local p. 11 Entertainment p. 19 Sports p. 21

2

Editorials

The Blue and Gold January 2010

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Palin being palin Malden High School

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

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF David Riemer Ayoub Kourikchi MANAGING AND DESIGN EDITOR Lynn Tran COPY EDITING DIRECTOR An Holmqvist ONLINE EDITOR Alexandra Mathieu HEAD LOCAL NEWS WRITER Nidale Zouhir HEAD WORLD NEWS WRITER João Nascimento HEAD ENTERTAINMENT/ OPINION Brittany Foley HEAD SPORTS WRITER Alfonse Femino HEAD OF BUSINESS Haley DeFilippis COPY EDITORS Dan Holmqvist Omar Khoshafa Xavier Leo Brittany McFeeley REPORTERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Amanda Adams Lauren Benoit Kayla Bramante Christopher Brown Freddie DiPhillipo Natalie Fallano Alexander Gennigiorgis Megan Kelly Joshua Kummins Johanna Lai Sharon Lee Cristina Peters Catherine Poirier Brendan Provitola Reginah Sanyu Joel Stevenson Alicia Young Paige Yurek ADVISOR Ryan Gallagher Established in 1915 Check out our online edition: http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Taking the valiant initiative to bridge the gap between high school biology exams and nationally aired political broadcasts, Palin was caught reading handwritten notes from her palm during the Tea Party convention.

Whether or not she wrote the notes herself remains unclear.

No stranger to controversy or humor, Palin has found herself in yet another awkward jam, sparing herself no irony after calling Obama a “charismatic guy with a teleprompter.” Foregoing all conventional forms of visual aid in her attempt to emphasize her remark, Palin made the questionable decision of writing down vague and elementary political goals on her hand as she spoke at the Tea Party convention on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010. On her laundry list of agendas: “Energy,” “Tax,” and most unmemorable of all “lift American spirits.” “Budget cuts” must have been nixed after a hasty review, however, since the words appeared with a rudimentary strikethrough.

Living up to her sterling honest reputation, it would seem as though Palin never learned a valuable lesson: if you are going to cheat, at least take steps to hide it. This would include limiting expressive hand gestures while speaking and writing legibly enough to see the epidermis-assisted cheat sheet without needing it bring it to your face.

Perhaps the situation would be less humorous were it less avoidable. During discussions such as this one, notes, outlines, and index cards are all commonplace additions to one’s extemporaneous speaking prowess. No one would have chuckled half as heartily had she been squinting to read a note card rather than her hand, and perhaps the public would have been more endeared to her efforts had the information so crudely stored been more complex and intricate than “Tax.” At the very least, a fashion statement could have been made by tying colored ribbons to her fingers to aid in jogging her memory. As this takes

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 A103 or to his mailbox in the main office.

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

considerably more mnemonic ability, however, it is only logical to revert to sophomoric chicken scratch.

Of course this embarrassment is but another manifestation of a chronic issue with Palin—her inability to prepare adequately for major speaking events. Needless to say that in some regards the audience, paying upwards of $300 to hear her speak, got their money’s worth of deep political insight (abbreviated colloquially, albeit messily, on her hand). Thanks to Palin’s unique affinity for media attention, it is well known that she has repeatedly struggled to cite relevant and credible sources of information for her arguments and opinions, often opting to quote an intangible holy mission and an equally intangible deity as evidence. Where religion falls short of her desperate need for justification, she draws stinging quips from her reservoir of not-quite-legitimate phrases like “hopey-changey thing.” Supreme Court case precedents? Who needs them when one possesses such acute powers of circumlocution? On second thought, maybe the use of some tired political jargon could begin to build a base of actual credibility for Palin, but maverick-hood on her level simply does not call for any hint of orthodoxy—or sense.

What can be said of Palin, in spite of all her blaringly unprofessional blunders accumulated since she was thrust into the limelight as John McCain’s pick for Vice President, is that she undoubtedly breathes new life into an ever more depressing and bleak political scene. Indeed Palin’s shenanigans demonstrate that in the world of politics, not every debate or discussion holds the fate of the country in the balance, but rather that a comical faux pas such as this does not necessarily spell doom for the world.

As if it were not clear enough already, typical ethics do not endorse Palin’s methods—text messages are much more effective, provided you keep the phone on silent.

David Riemer Co-Editor-in-Chief

Corrections: The heading on page 5 should have been Opinion, not World.

Copy Editor Omar Khoshafa is a sophomore, not a junior on page 8.

Arlene Ceppetelli’s name was misspelled in a caption on page 12.

The Badminton Club is not yet recognized as a team on page 12.

The band actually played “Oh Holy Night,” not “Sleigh Ride” in the article on page 13.

Bridget Furlong’s name was not spelled correctly in the caption on page 16.

Photo credits to Brittney McFeeley should have gone to Catherine Poirier and vice versa on page 16.

Gymnastics photos on the top of page 17 were taken by Sharon Lee. Jessica Katherine Fox’s full name was missing at the bottom of page 17.

Corrections to the editor can be submitted to theblueandgold@gmail.com

The Blue and Gold January 2010

3

Opinion http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Do Corporations have the same Rights As ordinary Citizens?

An Holmqvist Copy Editing Director What would you think if General Motors or Wal-Mart had the opportunity to buy as large a share of our government as companies and shareholders do in stocks? What would you think if Microsoft or McDonalds could buy an American president? Of course, I am skipping a few steps here; but wouldn’t you draw that conclusion too if a corporation all of a sudden could spend as much money as they wanted on any given political candidate? That means corporations have been given the same liberties as ordinary American citizens. That also means that Corporate America has suddenly been given Democratic America’s head on a plate.

This is the decision that was made roughly one month ago by the Supreme Court on Jan. 21, 2010, known in formal terms as Citizens United V. FEC. The ruling struck down a provision of the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (also known as the McCain-Feingold) of 2002, which had banned corporate spending on political campaigns in the advertising sector 6 months before election month. Moreover, this landmark 5-4 Supreme Court decision finalized the option to allow unlimited corporate spending in political campaign finances. The justices argued on two different angles, one side taking the view that unlimited spending would corrupt our government structure, the other defending the decision by claiming that capped spending (or putting a limit on how much money an individual or organization can donate to a political candidate) is a violation of First Amendment rights, namely, the freedom of expression. By freedom of expression here, we mean that individuals should have a right to donate money to political constituents as their own personal expression of their political views.

Behind the scenes of this messy situation is a non-profit conservative organization by the name of Citizens United. Citizens United was founded in 1988, and has since participated actively in the American political arena. Most notably, they were barred from advertising their documentary, Hillary: The Movie, prior to the 2008 Democratic primaries. This decision, done under the McCain-Feingold Act (which explicitly bans so-called “electioneering” advertising campaigns) caused a huge uproar on the part of conservative supporters. They argued at the time that the law severely limited their right to freedom of speech.

In this decision that was made over the course of many months, Citizens continued on page 4

Letters to the Editors

By Falonne Henry

L

eaving my native country, Haiti, was one of the hardest things I have had to do in my life.

People always say that “Home is where your heart is” All immigrants come to the United States in order to have a better life. America is the land of the free, we all could achieve great things in our life if we absolutely put our hearts into it. I was also aware that I would be facing many challenges throughout my journey in the United States, but at the same time I knew that many doors would be wide open to me. When I received the acceptance letter from the American Embassy, I was so happy that my heart was beating so fast because I knew then that my journey was about to start where I wanted it to be.

The day before I left, I went to say goodbye to my friends in school, they were all crying. I told them “Un jour je viendrai vous voir mes amis” / “yon jou mwen gen pou mwen vini we nou” which means “One day I will come back to see you guys.” One of them said to me: “Falonne, I know you are a good student, you can do it, and you can handle it. Just believe in yourself and you will achieve your goals.” I was comforted by those words, I wiped my tears away and I squeezed my friends tightly as we hugged each other to say goodbye.

On January 12, 2010 Haiti has faced a tragic event that nobody believed could affect the entire world. When I learned about this catastrophe, I felt down and depressed. The earthquake left a lot of damages such as many schools collapsed, the Palace, churches, banks, houses, hospitals, apartments and other places. Many people died during this tragedy and the worst thing they couldn’t find their corpses for funeral. A lot of students my age or younger than me are no longer alive. They didn’t have any chance to return home.

Haiti is in sorrow now. There are so many people who don’t have anymore members of their families alive, they are all gone away. I can feel their pain; it won’t be easy for them to get back where they used to be, to have a happy life.

Losing a member of your family is very hard. I know this because I am one of the victims. I lost my sister.

I will never forget about her. She will always stay in my heart because she was an important person to me. I will keep her in my prayers.

I would like to thank all of the people who donated to take care of all the survivers and every nation all over the world who volunteered to come in Haiti to offer their support, supplies, food, water, medicines etc…

After all of their contributions that they are offering, may they come back safe and alive. What they are doing now is not easy to accomplish. RIP for all of the victims. May their souls go straight where they belong.

mhs on midterms

“They’re helpful in the sense that they show me if I’ve understood the first half of year and where I need to improve, but I don’t like how they impact the final grade rather than the quarter.”

- Jeraldine Scibelli “Having midterms wasn’t that suprising really. We had them in 8th grade, but I don’t really think they’re that necessary in middle school, although [midterms] in high school don’t exactly seem that bad.”

- Hung Truong

“It doesn’t help us at all, it just stresses us out.”

- Thais Segundo “They stress me out but I know they’re necessary. They help keep the year organized in terms of remembering information.”

- Jenna Delaney “[Test-taking] is a skill that is better developed as soon as possible.”

- Chemistry Teacher Nancy Green

“Sometimes midterms can’t be a fair measurement of your progress because they’re written not by the teacher, but by the department.”

- Daniel Rendon “It was the worst thing to give us especially In the middle of the year” - Catherine Phamduy “They were easy and I enjoyed coming in late. I barely had any tests to take.”

- Diana Gonzalez

4

Opinion

The Blue and Gold January 2010

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Community Bulletin

continued from page 3

United petitioned the Federal Election Commission (FEC) to overturn the provisions of McCain-Feingold.

However, the question had also come up: how much money is any given organization allowed to adway o r B contribute to a political campaign?

5 6 e: 6 Townlin , MA 02148 Should American corporations Malden 2010 @ 4:00 h t 8 (even harmless non-profit political om y1 Februar event in B27 fr r fo groups) be allowed the same rights p u Sign /10 2/3 to 2 rson for 1.5 as that of the ordinary American /pe is $6.00 g n li w citizen?

Bo hours 4.00 tion is $ s a n Over the course of the months o d m t Minimu e sponsor shee between March of last year and last r a There January, the Supreme Court discussed the different implications of the case set before them. The case set before them originally started with a complaint that the constraints of the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act severely attacked the universal right to freedom of speech. However, when the question was raised regarding financing, the justices were split evenly down the middle.

This was also the first case that was seen by a still relatively new Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor, a more intensely liberal voice in the group.

But Sotomayor’s judgment was clearly clouded over by the more experienced conservative-leaning justices.

Now that the controversial decision has already been made, there is little possibility that the decision can be overturned by any other means, although a few attempts have been made. From Florida Representative Alan Grayson’s (D) has been outlining an online petition with a fiery statement: “Unlimited corporate spending on campaigns means the government is up for sale and that the law itself will be bought and sold. It would be political bribery on the largest scale imaginable. This issue transcends partisan political arguments.

We cannot have a government that is bought and paid for by huge multinational corporations. You must stop this.” Then again, you could not cap spending entirely. Any time money is controlled by the government, conservatives tend to cry out in terror. Let’s not forget that the case originally started with the question of whether Citizens United would be allowed to show a simple film. As stated by Citizens United’s own president, David M. Bossie, “Today’s U.S. Supreme Court decision allowing Citizens United to air its documentary films and advertisements is a tremendous victory, not only for Citizens United but for every American who desires to participate in the political process.”

The decision was a complicated one, to say the least. It involved an unforeseen dispute on the most basic right given to an American citizen: the 1st Amendment implying both the freedom of speech and freedom of expression. Understandably, it could be argued that McCain-Feingold was a direct violation of the freedom of speech.

However, capped spending on campaigns would not have a direct connection to the freedom of expression. Going back to our basic principles as individuals living in a larger society, we each need to realize that giving away our rights to large corporations with mounds of money will not do us a favor; in fact, it would hurt our society all the more. The opposition argues that by limiting corporate spending, the government is violating the 1st amendment. Granted, all of this should not bar an individual from donating some money to a politician’s campaign/cause. However, we need to draw the line where spending can become outrageous, especially in a world where largescale corporations hold money at a scale that could easily turn the tables of any political campaign. One of humanity’s worst flaws comes in the form of greed. We do not need a large-scale manifestation of this otherwise minor defect in the form of excessive and dangerous corporate spending. It may hold true that lobbyists have already successfully influenced our government to get legislation done their way, but if there is any way we can limit this, it would have to start with this court case now. The public may not realize it now, but this Supreme Court decision will follow us, and could likely haunt us for many years, if not decades to come.

By Alison Nguyen

The Blue and Gold January 2010

5

Opinion http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

10 Americans charged Child/Trafficking Paige Yurek Reporter

J

an. 12th was a devastating day for Haitians all over the world, when an enormous earthquake with a magnitude of seven hit the country of Haiti, wiping out thousands of lives, destroying homes and even demolishing the Haitian presidential palace. Fortunately and unsurprisingly, Americans arrived on the spot to lend a hand as much as possible. Everyone wants to help the cause. Involvements such as The American Red Cross, a variety of phone companies and television shows, and various schools across the nation are reaching out to donate money, food and clothing to the victims of the disaster.

Only to add to the gloom of the tragedy, ten Americans from a Baptist congregation in Idaho were arrested for the abduction of 30 Haitian children during the week of Jan. 30th. Pleading innocent, the group stated they were going to take the children to an orphanage they would have built for them in the Dominican Republic, but they violated the law when they tried to take the children without proper certification. Ironically, not all of the children were

orphans, some still had parents alive and presented. Laura Silsby, leader of the Baptist organization, did try to make her message clear to child protection officials, human rights experts and Dominican authorities that her purpose was only to help the children find shelter and homes in a “loving Christian homelike environment.” However, there was no official documentation that stated the group had rights to take the children away; therefore they are now being charged with kidnapping, and possible child trafficking.

It is a disgrace that when disaster strikes, there are people there to take advantage of the weak, but hopefully this is not the case, and the Americans’ intentions were in fact harmless. Looking at both sides of the story, it seems as though they really wanted to assist the unfortunate children, but alternatively, they did not take the time to fill out proper documentation, which appears suspicious. Due to their failure to keep official documents, they now sit in a Port-Au-Prince jail, and await their sentence. Each member could face up to 15 years in jail.

The Haitian government is corrupted and dysfunctional by itself. Why don’t they realize that arresting Americans is not doing

Young boys eat breakfast, February 3, 2010, at the Good Shepherd orphanage in the Delmas neighborhood of Port-au-Prince, Haiti. (Peter Andrew Bosch/ Miami Herald/MCT) them any favors? When the Baptist congregation came in taking the poverty stricken children away to an orphanage, their only intent was to assist them, not to hurt them. By putting these people under arrest, it is like shunning the help that they actually need to survive.

In the Port-Au-Prince jail, the Baptist group sits, awaiting their fate. On Feb. 6th, the group secretly handed an NBC news journalist

a note, stating, “Please you must listen. We have No Way to Call.

Court will not let us have a say with anything about trust for US. We only came as volunteers. We had nothing to do with any documents and have been lied to.” It is ironic that these American citizens who entered Haiti as volunteers to the needy have been arrested for those who they came to help out.

Illinois Senate Seat Up For Grabs Amanda Adams Reporter

If Democrats do not stay on watch, Barack Obama could lose yet another supporter for liberal reform.

There was a concern raised in the Illinois senate about losing a democratic position in the state. Because the Democrats hold a majority caucus in the senate losing yet another seat can mean a lot for the Democrats on Capitol Hill and the Obama administration. Alexi Giannoulias was one of the democratic politicians running for the seat, which Obama held in the past.

It is important to note that President Obama originally came from Illinois. How did this happen; how did the Republicans get their hands on the President’s home state?

Scott Lee Cohen, the nominee for Illinois lieutenant governor had decided to pull himself out of the race due to a leak of information about his past. He allegedly abused his wife and threatened his former girlfriend. With his reputation tarnished, Cohen dropped out of the race leaving the Democrats struggling to find another candidate. Luckily, the Democrats found new hope in the Illinois treasurer Alexi Giannoulias 39 percent of the democrats supported Giannoulias.

Republicans had lost 61 percent of the vote. About 7.5 million people who can vote are registered Democrats in Illinois. Giannoulias, of the Democratic Party ultimately won this seat in the senate – but only because Illinois is stubbornly Demo-

cratic. What if the same thing happened in Illinois as what happened in Massachusetts last month? In the beginning of the race, the Republicans came off strong and confident to win the seat in the senate. Apparently, they were proven wrong, but that does not give the Democrats reason to stop staying on guard.

The Democrats need to be more vigilant about keeping their congregation together. If they lose just one seat, healthcare reform will go down the drain, as shown by recently elected MA Senator Scott Brown who has said that he is not in favor of healthcare reform: “Why would we want to… dumb down the medical services and medical insurance in Massachusetts to provide for [the public option]? … I’m not in favor of it.”

If there are more Republicans in the senate, all of Obama’s plans will become shattered and everyone would have to live with the consequences. Most of us do not want to see what happened during the Bush era happen again. Obama has many plans to change American government. Millions of Americans will be left without health care. In addition, gays and lesbians will not be able to live their lives peacefully without a liberal leaning Senate.

Illinois State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias addresses supporters after winning the Democratic primary for Illinois’s U.S. Senate seat on Tuesday, February 2, 2010, in Chicago, Illinois. This fall, Giannoulias is looking to claim the seat once held by President Barack Obama.

(Phil Velasquez/Chicago Tribune/MCT)

6

Opinion

The Blue and Gold January 2010

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Uganda Exterminates Civil Rights Reginah Sanyu Reporter

U

ganda is commonly known as the pearl of Africa because of its green nature and peacefulness despite its dictatorship lead by former president Idi Amin Dada during the 1970, but on Oct. 13, 2009 something worse than the Ugandan space program became an issue.

Member of the Ugandan Parliament David Bahati proposed the idea of legislatiing a bill that would impose the death penalty on gay Ugandans, and land their families and friends in jail for up to seven years if they refused to report any gays to the authorities. Even making physical contact with a gay person could potentially lead to incarceration.

What ever hapened to "love your neighbor as yourself?"

When senior Henry Jovel of Malden High School was asked about his reaction to this bill, he said: “Sexuality is based on your early surroundings as a kid, and no political government or organization has the right to limit you from being who you really are.” As for the seven year punishment, Jovel could express his sentiments with another question. “What if one of your kids, nephews or any family member of yours was gay? Would you be capable of ruining their lives just like you do with the others?”

In the tumult of all the epidemics that Uganda faces, including Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and Human Immu-

People of Uganda protesting against the new harsh laws against homosexuals now in vigour in the country. nodeficiency Virus (HIV), violence in the North, and impoverished, homeless childrening on the streets, one's sexuality should not be a political issue. Although South Africa is the only African country to recognize gay marriage, other countries like Nigeria, Rwanda and Burundi are anti-homosexual. Uganda has over- stepped its boundaries with this new bill. The following is a part of the bill: “Anyone who ‘‘aids, counsels or procures another to engage of acts of homosexuality’’ faces seven years in prison if convicted. Landlords who rent rooms or homes to homosexuals could also get seven years and everyone with ‘religious, political, economic or social authority’’ who fails to report anyone violating the act faces three years.

This is an indirect act of dictatorship. Why do the lower class peo-

ple get more years of imprisonment than politicians or clergy, who only get three years? Anti-gay supporters of the bill claim that homosexuality is condemned by God, but what this bill suggests is hypocritical. since killing is also wrong in the eyes of God. Nick Dileo, a junior at MHS does not believe that the bill is fair, stating ”this is really messed up; I would fight if they really had to take any of my friends away.”

The debate over the Ugandan bill reportedly started when a conference in Kampala, Uganda's capital city earlier of 2009 was attended by American activists Scott Lively, Rick Warren and Caleb Lee Brundidge. They consider samesex relationships sinful and believe that homosexuality can be "cured" through prayer and counseling.

Jason Asciola, the GSA advisor at MHS commented ‘if sexuality was a

choice, why would anybody choose to be gay especially in a country where you could lose your life for being gay? It is a hard life and obviously not a choice." Jovel agreed, adding “I think that those people who say that gay is a disease then to look around and figure out the reason they are not infected.”

The bill's madates also include Ugandans who are homosexuals outside the country, proposing that they be extradited back to Uganda for punishment. "It’s completely inhuman to take those actions; it is not right, and something needs to be done," Jovel stated. The big surprise came from Uganda’s president, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who openly expressed his support for the bill, stating “we used to say Mr. and Mrs, but now it is Mr. and Mr. What is it now?”

Western nations have vowed to cut their financial aid to Uganda if the bill is passed. Uganda's Minister of Ethics and Integrity James Nsaba Buturo, in an act of compromise, said during a press conference that Uganda would revise the bill to drop the death penalty in favor of life imprisonment for homosexuals.

Better? Homosexuality is not a disease that can be relieved with a pill.

It is not a choice, and world governments should be working to solve more pertinent, threatening issues like terrorism, economic crises, and wars. The Ugandan anti-homosexual bill should be looked at with pity, because it publicizes an increasingly antiquated ignorance. The Ugandan parliament will enter discussions about passing the bill in late Feb. or March of 2010.

The Blue and Gold January 2010

Life without the Internet?

Brittany McFeeley

Opinion http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Apple’s iPad

Copy Editor

T

he world’s most popular search engine, Google, has been withdrawn from China due to people hacking into the website. What if the United States was to do the same as the Chinese government? What would we do without Google? Not only has the Chinese government taken Google away, but they have censored social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace. Could America’s people live without these silly cravings we have to Tweet or to Facebook creep? This major dilemma has brought to the people’s attention that there could be a chance of living without an Internet.

These social networking sites are a major form of communication for nearly all who use it. Without them, these people would actually have to talk on the phone or even talk in person! Oh the horror!

People are relying on these sites to do the talking for them, so when they actually step out in public, they do not have the basic social skills they need to survive in the modern world. But if the Internet is gone, then how will anyone survive?

We are too dependent on the Internet for everything, like homework, socialization, and work in general.

How could we all do chemistry teacher Martin Berryman’s Web assigns? Or how could we check our SnapGrades?

Could the Malden High School alumni and students cope without the Internet?

Junior Brandon Knight stated, “Completely honesltly, no. I don’t think I could.” Sophomore Tamisha Claude agreed and said, “Absolutely not.” Sophomore Olivia Giang on the other hand explained how “[she] could always do something else.”

While some may be able to handle the transition back into the 1800s, it seems others may not be able to cope with the major change in our everyday lives.

The Blue & Gold would not even be able to print a newspaper in the amount of time we do if we did not have Google. We use Google to the fullest extent; we use it for editing articles, planning layout, uploading pictures, communicating, and more. We do a large amount of our interviews via email and Facebook.

Can anyone really picture a life without internet? People may be less distracted from the urge to go on Facebook to check Farmville to see if their grapes are ready to be harvested, or if someone has jumped higher than you in Icy Tower. There are pros and cons to the situation but most people think it would be a tragedy.

So maybe this Google hack was a reality check. We are MUCH too dependent on our Internet to do the work for us. This could be a sign for when this day happens in America, that by that time, we can use alternatives.

Omar Khoshafa Copy Editor

O

n Jan. 28, Steve Jobs unveiled a new gadget that that seemed to catch almost everyone’s attention; an oversized iPod touch with an enormous 9.7 inch display that was supposed to “revolutionize the technological world.”

Named the iPad, Apple’s new “magical” device is basically a tablet PC without the PC. The iPad’s most basic model was placed at the starting price of $500, and with that comes 16 GB of space and internal Wi-fi. Unfortunately, all of these technological specifications are also available in the far more portable iPod Touch.

So why buy the iPad? The iPad’s LED-Backlit IPS Display, a much more complicated term for its front display, is definitely “crispier” and more vivid than previous models of Apple products, and this can be mainly attributed to the high quality A4 chip running inside. Its efficiency and performance gives the iPad a 10 hour battery life on a single charge, which is impressive for such a power consuming device. The iPad’s $500 price tag relatively inexpensive when put into proportion with this gadget’s appealing features, and from there the customers will have the choice of whether or not to upgrade to the 3G model via a contract with AT&T, which grants the user Internet access anytime and anyplace (maybe).

Despite all of these “magical” features, we cannot remain oblivious to the iPad’s shortcomings and limitations. The iPad is unable to multitask, the main attribute of a laptop computer. If you want to listen to music while using facebook, we’re sorry. You want to surf the web then immediately check the map app, then we’re sorry. The iPad also does not have a camera and lacks the Flash capability, meaning that it is also unable to access Flash content online, which makes up large portion of the modern-day web.

This will then in turn hinder the web experience that Apple has promised to revolutionize and recreate.

The iPad, as mentioned, is nothing close to a computer, but at the same time more competent as average phone. It is more of an intermediary stage between the two, for those who cannot purchase a laptop and yet want a device slightly more than capable than the iPod touch.

Whether is will find a viable market in today’s complex economic climate is only a question of time (and advertising.)

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

Hazard: keep Away from children Cristina Peters Reporter

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ince 2007, tainted jewelry with the carcinogen cadmium has been on the rise, increasing significantly during the new year. Cadmium is inexpensive, shiny, and easy to shape, making it an ideal resource for Chinese jewelry makers. Reports of high levels of cadmium used in children’s jewelry this year, led to a US Consumer Product Safety Commission to investigate this issue more in depth. The organization protects against any risks of injuries associated with consumer products and has been attempting to stop the spread of cadmium in jewelry.

Although states such as California and Massachusetts have laws which regulate levels of lead in jewelry, there is no set law protecting the amount of cadmium in any of it.

China’s low-cost jewelry makers have continued using cadmium for years, oblivious to its health hazards as the cheap cost surpassed the thought of investigating what exactly was being used to protect

the jewelry. Concerns about the safety of the US selling goods from China sky-rocketed even more the week of January 13,2010, after an investigation by reporters Alexa Olesen and Eugene Hoshiko, who found that 12 of 103 pieces of mainly Chinese-made jewelry bought in the US contained at least 10 percent cadmium, some in the 80-90 percent range.

The huge fear about cadmium being a health hazard to children is its danger towards their bodies, which rely on absorbing substances to become fully developed; cadmium accumulates in the kidneys for decades, not allowing the body to properly filter waste, and develop. As reported in a health article by Justin Pritchard of Health News, Harvard University Professor Robert O. Wright stated, “Just small amounts of chemicals may radically alter [children’s] development. I can’t even fathom why anyone would allow for even a small amount to be

accessible,” His research towards concern over the harmful effects of cadmium showed that not only can it cause cancer, but high exposure to it can cause children to develop learning disabilities.

The items that have been detected for excessive levels of cadmium most recently are the pendants for several The Princess and the Frog necklaces bought at Wal-Mart, which ranged from 25 to 35 percent cadmium, the charms on The Best Friends bracelets bought at Claire’s stores, which contained 89 and 91 percent cadmium and the charms from two Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer bracelets sold at Dollar N’ More store in Rochester, N.Y., which contained 82 and 91 percent cadmium.

Malden local, Kelly Marcella elaborated,“If they’re going to put

Image Collage by Cristina Peters. Photos by Cristina Peters.

“moving you forward” whether you like it or not Brittany McFeeley Copy Editor

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oyota Motor Sales have recently been affected by two major defects in their most recent models. The first issue is “floor mat entrapment,” and the second is the pedal.

The floor mat entrapment is when the driver’s floor mat interferes with the causing it to get stuck in the wide open position, which is when the gas pedal is pushed all the way to the floor. About 3.8 million cars from Toyota are being recalled just to switch out the floor mat. The cars that are affected by this recall is the 2007 to 2010 Camry, 2005 to 2010 Avalon, 2004 to 2009 Prius, 2005 to 2010 Tacoma, 2007 to 2010 Tundra, 2007 to 2010 Lexus ES 350, 2006 to 2010 Lexus IS 250, and the 2006 to 2010 Lexus IS 350. Toyota plans to reshape the gas pedal to avoid this happening again. This recall will not affect the company’s business because they have put together a recall fund of 5.6 million dollars from which they will take.

They are hoping to come out with a new design by April.

The second issue is the pedal.

This is when the gas pedal gets stuck in the depressed motion and does not release, or returns very slowly to the right position. This recall affected 2.6 million Toyota cars, some of which are also affected by the other issue. The cars

Toyota technician Edgar Mandujano uses a computer to check his work on a gas pedal repair at Central Toyota in Los Angeles, California, on Thursday, February 4, 2010.

Gas pedal problems have sparked a spate of recalls for Toyota. (Francine Orr/Los Angeles Times/MCT) affected by the second recall are the, 2009 to 2010 RAV4, the 2009 to 2010 Corolla, the 2009 to 2010 Matrix, the 2005 to 2010 Avalon, the 2007 to 2010 Camry, the 2010 Highlander, the 2007 to 2010 Tundra, and the 2008 to 2010 Sequoia.

In addition to these recalls, Toyota has recalled 110,000 Tundra Pickup because the spare tires could possibly fall off the cars while they are driving, which could cause major traffic problems.

Toyota has halted all production of these cars in North America to avoid any more of these incidents.

For example in Boca Raton, Florida, a driver of one of the recalled models slammed into a palm tree when the car accelerated on its own. Another incident was when a costumer was in a Toyota RAV4 with a salesman,

when the car drove accelerated by itself, however they were able to make it back safely.

These are just two of the thousands of incidents that have occurred due to the defects with the gas pedals.

T h i s dilemma is a

dangerous issue because Toyota is not only putting the driver of the car in danger, but it is putting other drivers in danger of being seriously injured or even getting killed. Also Toyota is letting their completion companies such as Honda and Ford prosper while they fix millions of recalled cars.

Even though they have a recall fund and they say that this will not have any effect on their company, it will. There is a big chance that these costumers will not go back to their old cars because of the danger that Toyota had just put them in. So Toyota needs to fix these cars fast before they lose their customers.

bad things in baby formula who’s to say that they wouldn’t do the same for toys and jewelry. If we’re going to have trade with China, they need to follow the same regulations that we follow. You have to wonder, is what they’re making really safe anymore?”

Hillary Small Rowley local People have been using "cheap" jewelry for years and I haven't seen how it can harm a little kid. I sometimes buy myself jewelry from Wal-Mart and dollar stores and I haven't noticed any kind of defects from it. The most that has happened is my finger or neck or wrist will turn green from the jewelry. I mean there is always the possibility of lead poisoning from the jewelry but I haven't heard any stories of that happening.

Stimulus Plan to Relieve Middle Class Xavier Leo Copy Editor

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resident Barack Obama has proposed a new round of stimulus spending in 2010, focused on middle class families struggling to pay bills and care for their families. The initiatives in the new stimulus package are a product of a middle class task force headed by Vice President Joe Biden, and will also be included in Obama’s budget request due to be submitted to Congress next week. Biden defined middle class as a family of four with an annual income of about $85,000. Some of the initiatives proposed include the doubling of the child care tax credit for families earning under $85,000.

This is equivalent to increasing the current deduction limit from twenty percent to thirty five percent. Families making under $115,000 would also see at least some increase in their tax credit as well. Secondly, A $1.6 billion increase in federal funding for child care programs to help working parents pay for child care in fiscal 2011, which begins Oct. 1, to benefit an additional 235,000 children. Thirdly, the plan will cap student’s federal loan payments at ten percent of income above a basic living allowance, to make payments more affordable. The president also proposed forgiving all remaining debt after 10 years of payment for those in public service work - and 20 years for all others. Finally, the proposal will expand tax credits continued to page 9

The Blue and Gold January 2010

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continued from page 8

Obama looking to create more jobs

President Barack Obama gives his first State of the Union address to Congress on Capitol Hill, Wednesday, January 27, 2010 in Washington, D.C. (Robert Giroux/MCT) to match retirement savings. This But how do you know you proposal would also require many qualify for this generalized federal employers to provide the option of a tax deduction that is part of the govworkplace-based 401(k) retirement ernment’s stimulus package and savings plan. Employers who don’t how should you go about receiving offer 401(k) retirement plans to offer what the government is offering direct-deposit IRAs for their em- you, like a 2010 stimulus check ? ployees (unless they opt out), with According to The Huffington Post, in exemptions for the smallest firms. order to qualify you must be paying The cost to employers would be off- social security; this means you have set by new tax credits. to be employed (or self-employed),

i.e. you must be working and paying taxes. You must also make sure that your income does not exceeded the amount of $95,000 per year, or, if you are married and wish to submit a joint stimulus consideration request, then the joint income of the two applicants mustn’t exceed $190,000 per year. You must also keep in mind that certain restrictions to the federal tax cut the stimulus will grant you apply if your annual intake exceeds $75,000 or if you and your spouse’s joint annual income exceeds $150,000.

The federal tax deduction comprised in the stimulus will put in (or rather, not take out of) your pocket the sum of $400 (or for a joint application a total of $800). This is money the government normally would have taken out of your salary that you are now allowed to keep. It’s the same amount you received in 2009, only divided along 12 months instead of 9. This, in case you meet all the requirements and benefit from the full tax deduction.

The amount of the deduction will be smaller depending on where you stand on the annual income chart.

You will not be receiving a check in the mail or a check from your employer to mark the stimulus tax cut, but rather, you will be receiving an extra few dollars every month on top of what you’ve been earning so far. Those with maximum benefits from the stimulus will cash an extra $33 every month for the duration of the 2010 stimulus check thanks to the stimulus plan. That means that if you are filing for the federal tax de-

duction with someone else, together you will receive $66 every month.

If you are working two jobs and qualify for the federal tax cut, you will probably need to be extra careful. As it turns out, you stand to get a tax deduction on both paychecks, which means that you that you have double benefits, which unfortunately isn’t possible. Even if you are working two jobs, you only qualify for one share of the stimulus plan, which means that if you receive the something extra on your paychecks from both jobs, you will either have to notify one of your employers instructing them to desist, or you will be required to return the extra money after the end of the fiscal year.

The President recently said in The New York Times that creating new jobs and reducing unemployment is the “single-most important thing we can do to rebuild the middle class.

We also need to reverse the overall erosion in middle-class security, so that when this economy does come back, working Americans are free to pursue their dreams again.”

The White House says the new proposals are aimed at just that - the “sandwich generation” that is now struggling to care for both children and parents. The theme fits into the planned economic message of Obama’s prime-time address to the nation on Wednesday, which promises to provide a sharper focus on jobs and is likely to cover financial regulations, energy, education, immigration and a push to change the political tone in Washington.

Brown Wins Over Massachusetts Omar Khoshafa Copy Editor

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assachusetts, the legendary Democratic stronghold in terms of politics, fell to Republican forces as Republican candidate Scott Brown won the special election over Martha Coakley for the Massachusetts senate seat recently vacated by the deceased Edward Kennedy.

This special election was held on Jan. 19, 2010 throughout all of Massachusetts, and naturally, most people again expected an obvious Democratic victory. Unfortunately for those Democrats, a Republican victory was carried out and created a nationwide wave which shook all the members of both parties alike in unexpected ways.

Martha Coakley was the Democratic candidate for the vacant Massachusetts senate seat. Prior to running for the senate seat, Coakley served as the Middlesex District Attorney for 9 years. During her campaign, Coakley took on major issues such as supporting health care reform and removing US soldiers from Afghanistan. Unfortunately, Coakley in the last week of the campaign seemed to “lose touch”

with the people. Several PR blunders made her seem as if she was an “outsider” to the people of the Massachusetts. Benjamin Max, a US history teacher at MHS also believes that both Coakley and Obama were to blame. Obama, having launched one of the most successful campaigns in American history in 2008, should have aided Coakley earlier in her campaign, seeing that this election would have a tremendous effect on the Senate balance. These factors combined with, what MHS

senior Jack Tat stated, “Her inability to connect with the voters” was probably what turned the election results in favor of Brown.

Scott Brown was little known by the general public before these special elections, but during his campaign, his charisma appeared to overshadow that of Coakley’s.

Brown campaign, in short, consisted of the rejection of the current senate Heath Bill, anti-abortion and antiimmigration laws. Brown, with a significantly less amount of capital

for campaigning, still managed to appear in a TV advertisement first, in which he drove around in a pickup truck, appealing to the “average Joe.” Numerous factors helped turn Brown’s campaign to victory, and the most prominent was his statement during a Massachusetts Senate debate, in which he said, ““With all due respect, it’s not the Kennedy’s seat, it’s not the Democrats’ seat, it’s the people’s seat.” These words really caught the public attention, especially the Independent faction, which holds a majority of the electorate in Massachusetts.

The election of a Republican senator in the liberal Massachusetts set a warning for Democrats across the nation. The center stage is now focused on the current senate health care bill, which according to Max, “…is now going to undoubtedly change from where it was before.”

Now with 41 Republicans in the Senate chamber, the Republican faction is now able to prevent legislature from being passed. Max now thinks that with Scott Brown in the Senate, “there is a chance that no reform to health care will be passed.”

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The Blue and Gold January 2010

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

The Devastation of Haiti Natalie Fallano Reporter

Megan Kelly Reporter

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Haitians sleep in the street in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Sunday, January 24, 2010. The majority of Haitians are sleeping outside nearly two weeks after the earthquake. They are either too afraid to go back in their homes or their homes have been destroyed. (Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times/MCT)

Haitians fight with each other in a warehouse district in downtown Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Sunday, January 24, 2010. The downtown area of the city has become a target for people to scavenge goods from the abandon stores. (Al Diaz/Miami Herald/MCT)

s the afternoon sun began to sink on Jan. 12, 2010, Haiti’s capital of Portau-Prince and the surrounding areas were hit by a 7.0 magnitude earthquake. The aftermath of the disaster has left Port-au-Prince in ruin with an ever-increasing death toll. On Jan. 24, 2010, the United Nations confirmed an estimated 150,000 dead. The number was given to the Haitian government by the Center for Naval Engineering (CNE), a company from the United States aiding Haiti. Victims’ corpses were buried en masse in huge graves dug outside of Port-au-Prince and the nearby wasteland of Titanyen.

The quake was caused by the North American and Caribbean tectonic plates – which had been fused together since the last earthquake in 1751 – finally ripping apart and releasing energy that had been building up for over 300 years. The major damage of the earthquake was due to the fact that the focal point of the earthquake was only 10 miles southwest of Port-au-Prince, allowing the released energy to travel faster to Port-au-Prince. Though the depth of the quake was another major factor of how the earthquake would affect the surrounding area. The earthquake on Jan. 12, 2010, was only 6.2 miles beneath the surface which, compared to earthquakes in areas like the South Pacific, is relatively shallow; earthquakes felt in this area usually take place hundreds of miles below the surface, and the plates are not moving from side to side; rather one of the plates is going deeper into the earth while the other is moving higher up.

The effects of the earthquake on the Haitian people and their country were disastrous. When it struck, almost every building in Port-au-Prince collapsed, including schools, houses, the Presidential Palace, the Port-au-Prince Cathedral, hospitals, and the main jail. People were all inside these buildings when the earthquake struck, and tens of thousands of people were crushed and killed. With 3 million people affected by the earthquake, the death toll in the capital alone was 150,000, an estimated 250,000 people sustained injuries, and as many as one million Haitians were left homeless. Among the dead were many public government figures, famous musicians, and athletes. Many Haitians are in need of serious medical attention, food, and water. Rescue teams were sent out to look for survivors under the collapsed building a day after the disaster occurred.

Haiti is the poorest country in the western hemisphere, and will need help from several countries throughout the world to begin recovery. The first to help was their neighboring country, the Dominican Republic, who opened their borders to all the refugees in need of help from Haiti. Next, the US and Canada sent medical supplies, rescue workers, water, and food. The UN also sent supplies and rescue workers. Soon doctors and rescue teams from organizations and countries from all over the world arrived ready to help. Countries all over the world also began raising money through donations; the US held a telethon called, “Hope for Haiti” broadcasting stories of Haitians affected by the catastrophe and performances of many well known singers. In total $57 million was raised by donors over phones. Countries including the US, Canada, Italy, the United Kingdom, France, and Brazil promised hundreds of millions of dollars all together. Among these, the US announced a large relief fund effort for Haiti. President Obama said the US would give $100 million to the aid effort, pledging that the people of Haiti “will not be forgotten.” Haiti’s already corrupt government, economy, and country will take years to recover, but the people affected will surely get the help they need and will not be left to fend for themselves.

Malden High School Students’ Comments On the Earthquake in Haiti • “I felt disbelief when I heard it happened. I felt that [the earthquake] happened in the worst place it could have happened.”

- Junior Karl Denis •

“I was scared and I cried when I heard the news, because I immediately thought of my dad.”

-Anonymous

For more pictures on Haiti and to get contact information to aid Haiti, go to the online edition: www.maldenblueandgold.com

Lawson Joseph, 11, stands near the shoreline in the city of Petit Goave, Haiti, Monday, January 25, 2010. (Al Diaz/Miami Herald/MCT)

The Blue and Gold January 2010

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Malden unites in the wake of an earthquake Alexandra Mathieu Online Editor

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he US Census Bureau, in its three year estimate, approximates that out of the 1,844,415 residents in the Middlesex county, 14, 466 of them are of Haitian descent, making Haitians the largest population in the Middlesex county from the West Indies.

The earthquake that devastated Haiti and its equally destructive aftershock were not just felt in the Caribbean country.

They were felt in the hearts and minds of millions Americans, including many Malden residents.

Malden High School principal Dana Brown understood that there is a large Haitian population at MHS, and addressed the situation formally to students, Haitian Club members, and faculty alike one week after the tragedy. He indicated that Mayor Richard Howard spoke to Governor Deval Patrick, both coming to a consensus that Massachusetts will look for funds to donate to the American Red Cross (ARC) in order to supply earthquake victims in Haiti with food, water, first aid, and other necessities.

Brown suggested that donations are best given to the ARC and Salvation Army since 90 percent of the donation will be sent to the cause; the other percentage is used to pay for employees, fuel, supplies, etc. He also emphasized that MHS should fundraise for Haiti as a school and not separately so one large check could be given to the ARC rather than sending multiple smaller Pastor Samuel Jerome and Reverand Martha checks. A member of the Haitian Club, senior Sandy Joseph exDominy hosted the vigil in which many Malden pressed how she hopes “we can all work together to bring in the residents joined together to acknowledge the dev- money.” astating earthquake in Haiti. Photo by Alexandra This sense of unity did not end with MHS, though. On Jan. Mathieu 21, 2010, the city of Malden held a vigil to support the Haitian community at the Malden Senior Center, sponsored by the state, the Cambridge Health Alliance, and surrounding schools. Many were in attendance such as Brown, Superintendent Sidney Smith, City Councillor Gary Christensen, and representatives from both ARC and the Haitian Consulate.

Despite not being in attendance, Governor Patrick sent Richard Chacón, his Director of Policy and Cabinet Affairs.

MCs for the vigil were Pastor Samuel Jerome of the Philadelphie Seventh Day Adventist Church of Malden and Reverend Martha Dominy of the First Baptist Church of Malden.

After a quick introduction and an opening prayer, the vigil began with updates on the situation in Haiti.

One of the biggest issues in sending supplies to Haiti was that the only way of getting the goods to Haiti was by ship, and even then the port of Port-au-Prince was closed. However, it was confirmed that the port was stabilized enough for a reopen, making it that much easier to get medical attention, food, clothes, and other supplies to Haiti.

The city of Malden is known for its diversity, however the quick response both from the city and the state will make Malden also known for its compassion, its care for its residents, and its unanimity. This earthquake has greatly wounded the Malden community, however like most wounds, this will heal, leaving Malden stronger and more united than it ever was.

The following numbers and links are provided to show ways to aid Haiti, locate a loved one in Haiti, additional information and assistance.

To locate family members in Haiti: The State Department Operations Center - 1-888-407-4747 (Press 0 to speak to a customer service representative) International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Family Links - www.icrc.org/familylinks Ways to Help: Mass 2-1-1 Office - Dial 211 or 1-8777-211-MASS (available 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week) To obtain a list of credible organizations to donate money - www.interaction.org Additional Information: Congressman Ed Markey’s Medford Office - 781-396-2900 Haitian Consulate - 617-266-3660 (Open on weekends as well) Massachusetts Haitian Support and Information page -http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Massachusetts-Haitian-Earthquake-SupportInformation/279550361479?ref=mf Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency - www.mass.gov/mema - Twitter: http://twitter.com/MassEMA - Facebook: Search Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency - FOR LOCAL OR STATE ELECTED OFFICIALS: call either 1-508-820-2006 or 1-508-820-2075 Additional Assistance: A newly opened Referral and Support Center at the SEIU Local 1199 Bayside Office Center - 150 Mt. Vernon St., Dorchester, MA. Open from 9 AM to 9 PM on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays If you are affiliated with a community or faith based organization and wish to connect people with mental health services - Contact the Department of Mental Health (617-626-9272 if you are in the Boston area or 508-977-3160 if you are in the Southeast region)

Alex Mathieu’s Personal Account W

hen I got home from track practice, I expected a lot to happen. I expected that my mom would be home, either cooking food or doing the laundry. I expected neither of my brothers to be home, since they both work late. I expected to hop on the computer, waste a good two hours on Facebook before starting any of my homework.

I didn’t expect my mom to be gripping our house phone, with her eyes permanently glued onto the television as pictures of Haiti were continuously shown. Images of helpless Haitians in pain, crying for their loved ones, trying to save those stuck under the rubble, were etched in my retinas.

There was a part of me that was totally removed from the situation. I didn’t feel, didn’t speak, and didn’t really comprehend the gravity of the situation. For a few minutes I didn’t know what to make of the CNN anchors talking solemnly about the tragedy in Haiti. Looking back at it now, I suppose I was in a mild state of shock, not wanting to believe that such a thing could happen to Haiti, to my people, to my family.

“I can’t get through,” my mom said to me. I looked at her and felt her horror, her agony. “I can’t get through to Haiti.”

Throughout the night, calls from worried relatives, concerned friends, and sympathetic advisors congested my phone lines. The whole world was now watching Haiti during its time of need.

After an especially long phone call, my mother reported to me that one of our close family friends had a son in Haiti. He was there to practice medicine and to help the country he came from. Over the next couple of days, we learned that he became a casualty.

My pain was accompanied by an overwhelming sense of helplessness. It wasn’t as if I could go to Haiti at that very moment and become a hero, pulling people out of buildings and distributing supplies to families.

I wanted to help, but I didn’t know how to.

Although it has been almost a month since the earthquake occurred, it still lingers in the minds of many. I was proud to see that during Super Bowl XLIV there was an advertisement to donate money to Haiti and aid those who need it. I know that this earthquake will go down in the history books, but I also know that it will remain with me for the rest of my life, forever changing my values and my appreciation of what I have.

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Local News

The Blue and Gold January 2010

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

The Colby Sawyer Progressive Scholars are students that are connected to their school community, academically talented, and unique. The ideal symbiotic relationship between college and pupil is epitomized in this scholarship program that offers a student a full ride to their institution and in return, receives a diverse and active student.

Progressive Scholars Joao Nascimento

Haley DeFillipis

Chris Brown

Head of World News

Head of Business

Reporter

Ray Roland

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alden High School senior Ray Roland has gone through many challenges throughout his high school career, and now the work has paid off, as he is one of this year’s Colby-Sawyer Scholarship winners. When Roland received the phone call telling him that he won the scholarship he felt “simply astonished and happy.” Roland admits winning the scholarship was not all luck, he had to work for it and it got the point where he claimed that he was “in a critical moment where I was pretty overwhelmed for the fact that I had to work on my college stuff and school at the same time.”

Roland is originally from Haiti and speaks English, Creole, French, and a proficient amount of Spanish. He felt he had to move to the United States because his “father lives here and also because I wanted to go to a good college where I could be better off studying what I have always wanted to which is medical science.” Roland believes his biggest challenges coming to the United States were getting used to English, the American people and learning how the government, laws and culture is similar and different from Haiti.

Roland’s plans to study medical science and bring more diversity to the college. After college, Roland wishes to “live a peaceful life with enough money to afford to get what I need, get married [to the] woman I love and have some kids.”

Winning the scholarship was not something Roland did, or

could have done all by himself. He needed great encouragement, guidance and assistance along the way.

Roland stated that he could not have won the scholarship without his US History teacher Ben Max, his English Language Learner (ELL) teacher Charlotte Dumont, C-House guidance councilor Ann O’Connor, who “believed in me and referred me to the program even though I didn’t know about,” A-House guidance councilor Victoria Lipinski, the Colby-Sawyer Progressive Scholarship members, all of his teacher at MHS and his friends. Roland seems to be ready for a great college career at Colby-Sawyer with the outstanding amount of support that he has achieved from everyone at MHS.

Tenzin Tsephel

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enzin Tsephel’s family originated from Tibet, however, when the Chinese government annexed the region, her grandparents and parents had to move to a new location, which at first was India, then Nepal. In Nepal, Tsephel relied on other people, such as her parents, often, which was one of the main reasons she left her 18-year life in Nepal to begin anew in the United States of America. “I just wanted to be more independent and the United States is the perfect country to be independent and to live on my own,” Tsephel stated. She was particularly thrilled when she found out that she won the scholarship because it paid full tuition so she could live on her own on the New Hampshire campus. “I was really excited when I

found out that I won because I could finally live on my own. I still have to buy books and food but the scholarship is really helpful financially,” Tsephel explained.

Adjusting to life in the US was a challenge for Tsephel and her family because her father went from being a principal in Nepal to being a part time worker in America and her mother found work as a housekeeper. However, English was not an obstacle for Tsephel because she had been previously studying the language in Nepal, adding a fourth language to her repertoire, the other three including Nepali, Tibetan and Hindi. The overload of new culture and religion was a shock to Tsephel, who remembers having been exposed to only the Nepali and Tibetan cultures and the Buddhist religion back home, and being forced to pray twice a day. “The Untied States culture was really difficult to get used to, Americans seem very frank to me, where the Nepali are more reserved,” Tsephel explained.

Tsephel is looking forward to life in Colby-Sawyer mostly because of living independently and studying nursing, something she has wanted to do since she was a child. Tsephel is not at all nervous about living on campus, away from her family. She has an advantage over other high school seniors because she has already lived at school back in Nepal.

“In my old country, we stayed at school away from our parents and had to live under strict rules, if we tried to escape, we were punished,” Tsephel recalls. However, it was not

completely a bad thing for Tsephel.

“It was kind of fun to live with my friends instead of parents, we would always be able to talk to our friends and play games,” Tsephel stated.

Some of Tsephel’s favorite things at Malden High School are her Biology class and club and all of her teachers especially Eun Han and Beth Kershner, two English Second Language (ESL) teachers who recommended Tsephel for the scholarship. “All of the teachers at MHS are really friendly, helpful and even funny,” Tsephel said of her instructors. Tsephel’s favorite class would have to be Biology as she is a member of the club, which, according to Tsephel, is “very interesting because we learn about different living creatures.” It is no doubt that Tsephel, who wants to be a nurse, would find Biology interesting!. Tsephel seems well on her way to a formative four years at college.

Patricia Exilus On Aug. 5, 2008, Patricia Exilus received a monumental birthday present: she was moving to the United States. Since living in Haiti, Exilus has always been a passionate, hardworking student, and is now proud to call herself a Progressive Scholar.

Exilus moved from Haiti to the US due to economic reasons, and states that “in Haiti, no matter what, you have to pay for college.” Since arriving in the country, Exilus has been working towards a scholarship that would relieve the financial burdens of college from her family.

The Blue and Gold January 2010

local news

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http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

from left to right: Andy Lucien, Jillian Dervishian, Patricia Exilus, Tenzin tsephel, Ray roland, kervin Louis.

“Here, if you try, the schools can help you.”

Exilus came across the Colby Sawyer scholarship in a very unconventional way. When the representatives of the colleges visited the Malden High School campus, Exilus was attending a University of New Hampshire talk, but guidance counselor Victoria Lipinski suggested that she should go listen to the Colby Sawyer representatives, saying that “that’s where [she] should be.”

Although Exilus credits Lipinski as the primary helper during the scholarship process, the 18 year old student has an extensive list of activities and accomplishments. A member of the Biology Club, her schedule is packed with Honors courses in which she earns exemplary grades. Exilus sees high school as a preparation for college, and hopes to go into pre-medicine, citing “her wish to help people in need” as her main incentive in pursuing the career.

When asked about the effects the 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Haiti had on the family, Exilus states that although she did not lose anyone from her family, the destruction in her homeland severely impacted her emotionally, and she states that “she will be happy to help Haiti soon in the future.”

Ashley Lazarre

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shley Lazarre never expected to win the Colby Sawyer scholarship, but after taking a look at her resume*ACCENT, her win is hardly a surprise. Deeply involved in school activities (GSA, Key Club, and Hai-

tian Club to name a few) Lazarre is also academically talented and driven. She believes that “[she] worked really hard for the past three years” but the scholarship was an unexpected blessing.

On early September, Lazarre visited Colby Sawyer with a close friend and admired the campus size and location, but “didn’t know much about it.” Her interest for the school grew due to Victoria Lipinski’s persistence in having her apply for the scholarship.

Upon further research, Lazarre fell in love with Colby Sawyer’s study abroad program and the opportunity to travel outside of the country is just one of the many factors that pushed Lazarre to accept the scholarship. “I wanted to leave home, have a new experience, I wanted to move away from home and Colby Sawyer has the perfect location!”

Lazarre describes the scholarship as a “new year’s gift.” After she was not one of the four students selected for the Posse scholarship, she started to worry about the financial obstacles of college. Even though she works three jobs, Lazarre admits that without financial aid or a scholarship she would never be able to afford the average five-figure college price tag. “I have seen a lot of friends who did not go to college because they couldn’t afford it,” says Lazarre “and I was very afraid I would never get financial aid.”

With her eyes set on a business degree, Lazarre is excited to begin her college experience at Colby Sawyer and “pursue a better future through education.”

Anne

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DeOliveira

nne DeOliveira’s strive to succeed throughout her four years at Malden High School has paid off as she won a scholarship to ColbySawyer College.

DeOliveira realized her urge to win the scholarship when she found out they offered a nursing program and require doing an internship as well as study aboard programs that are offered. She adds, “Everything that I was informed from ColbySawyer from the clubs to the classes offered made me want to go to this school even more.”

Colby-Sawyer’s woodsy New Hampshire campus itself led DeOliveira to fall in love, “the location is completely different from what I am used to.”

DeOliveira started her college process over the summer in which she attended a campus tour and received more information about the college. She even started her college essay last summer and she “literally did 15 drafts of it and was always asking Mrs. Lipinski questions of ways that [she] could complete the process.” While many seniors do not come to realize what they want to pursue in their college education, DeOliveira is certain she wants to become a pediatric nurse.

She was raised and brought up from a Christian Brazilian family. Coming from a family that came to the U.S. in search of a better life has always pushed DeOliveira to try harder for the things she wishes to accomplish. Gratefully, DeOliveira says “My family has always been very supportive and without the

support and love from my family I would not be where I am.” DeOliveira also believes she could not have received the Colby-Sawyer scholarship without her family at her side.

A s for her future, it has changed her entire life. The scholarship has helped her strive harder to accomplish her dream of becoming a nurse and “making a difference in someone’s life.”

Without hesitation, DeOliveira states, “I am absolutely positive Colby-Sawyer College is right for me.”

Jillian Dervishian

J

illian Dervishian’s hard work and leadership qualities over the past four years have led her to win one of the Colby-Sawyer scholarships.

Having been interested in ColbySawyer since she first saw the school in her junior year, she saw it as a great opportunity to pursue further education.

Dervishian expresses to win a scholarship, “It’s about leadership. You need to show leadership throughout high school. When you accept the scholarship and get to the school, you need to attend meetings and do things around the campus that show your leadership.”

Dervishian has certainly proved her leadership throughout her four years at Malden High School. She was captain of MHS’s field hockey team, as well as president of the Captain’s Council.

Dervishian comes from a hard working successful background. She also believes the scholarship has taken a financial burden off her and her family’s back because she can now attend “a good school at a low cost.”

As for her future, she is still undecided about the many choices she could make. Dervishian is also looking at other schools, hoping in the end that it will all come down to a school that is exactly right for her.

“I plan on excelling in college and moving on from there.”

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local news

The Blue and Gold January 2010

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Nobel Laureate Dudley Herschbach Visits Malden High Johanna Lai Reporter

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he opportunity to listen to an esteemed Nobel Prize Winner is not an everyday occurrence, but some Malden High School chemistry students were lucky enough to spend some time with Nobel Laureate Dudley Hershbach on Jan. 27, 2010. Herschbach spent two hours with both Honors and AP Chemistry students discussing molecular kinetics – the field in which he won a Nobel Prize twenty-four years ago.

The Nobel Prize, an exclusive award given annually to accomplished individuals who have made extraordinary breakthroughs in their respective fields, carries with it a great deal of reputation. Indeed, it is an honor for MHS students to receive someone as famous as Herschbach. In 1986, Herschbach received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, together with Yuan T. Lee and John C. Polanyi, while working at Harvard University to develop the study of reaction dynamics.

Before Herschbach became a laureate, he was the associate editor of the Journal of Physical Chemistry. He graduated first in his class from Standford University with the intention of studying mathematics; however, by the time he came to Harvard in 1958, where he received

his Ph.D. in Chemical Physics, Herschbach realized that he had an interest in studying molecular beams in chemical reactions at the elementary level. After he graduated from Harvard, he went to the University of California, Berkeley; he was hired as an assistant professor of chemistry in 1959 and later as an associate professor in 1961.

Before he became a successful Nobel Laureate Dudley Herschbach gives a lecture to MHS Chemistry students in the liacademic scholar, brary . Photo by Johanna Lai however, Herschbach had to overcome and defy the in National Geographic. This basis, he still chooses to find the odds. He grew up in a poor family marked a turning point for young time to reach out to the next genof six children and neither of his par- Herschbach, who, from that point eration, and instill within them the ents had college degrees. As a child, on, studied science with poignant same passion for the sciences as he he grew up on a farm in San Jose, interest. himself feels. For MHS students, the CA; in his autobiography on the One might wonder why such visit was invaluable. As Dr. Diane Nobel Prize homepage, he explains a distinguished man with so many Perito said, “This is an incredible that he “milked cows, fed pigs and accomplishments would choose to opportunity for students to realize chickens, and picked prunes, apri- come to an ordinary high school that anything is possible.” And as cots, and walnuts.” Despite coming such as MHS; for Herschbach, how- Herschbach’s upbringing and rise to from such a background, he sud- ever, visiting high school students is prominence shows, it really is true: denly became interested in science a rewarding experience. Even as he science can make almost anything through an article about astronomy continues his research on a regular possible.

What is Chemical Kinetics?

Student Feedback

An Holmqvist Copy Editing Director Chemical Kinetics is the observation of how fast a chemical reaction occurs and is also the basis of most of Herschbach’s studies. He received his Ph.D from Harvard University in Chemical Physics and continued to make striking breakthroughs through a method known as Molecular Beam Scattering.

“He was a very down-to-earth type of guy who didn’t mind telling us about his personal experiences. I think we’re all very lucky to have met him.” - Anthony Phamduy

“Herschbach was very funny; he really made us more interested in science.” - Hung Banh

Chemical Physics takes the study of particles and their speed down to the molecular level.

“He might have been an impressive person, but he didn’t make us feel uncomfortable. he was friendly.” - Trang Tran

The basis of studying chemical reaction rates is often visualized in the form of this diagram. This graph shows the relationship between activation energy (Ea) and enthalpy (ΔH), with and without a catalyst.

“Herschbach didn’t just come to lecture us about ordinary chemistry. He also came to share with us his real work.” - Adil Elkarmach

In this area of study, the two general areas of Chemistry and Physics merge and allow scientists to observe how fast particles move - as studied in physics - in order to determine the rate of reaction - as studied in chemistry. One such example is shown above in the behavior of enzymes (biological catalysts that cells use to speed up metabolism).

“He was a very Laid-Back kind of guy; he connected well with us.” - Sabrina Desriviere

The Blue and Gold January 2010

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

Mock Trial Team Makes a Case Joel Stevenson Reporter

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nce upon a time, the Mock Trial Team was nothing but a sole idea of one teacher. Ann Pember, Social Studies teacher here at Malden High school was upset to see that when she first came to MHS, it did not have this club. After spreading the word and talking with Justice and Government teacher Rick Tivnan, they were able bring this program to Malden. Although the team finished their season 0-3, they treated it as a learning experience.

After their three competitions against Saugus, Lynn Classical, and Winthrop the team adjusted to courtroom ettiquette as well as sucessfully defending their assertions.

Several of their competitions were extremely close and only came down to a few points. The team so far has already had a competition during January 27th at 1:30 at the Saugus Town Hall.

With all this hard work, the mock team has high expectations as stated by In this trial they competed against Everett High, and sadly lost by four points. Although this defeat did start the team off on a shaky foot, they are still confident for the upcoming meets. As Tivnan teacher advisor states, “[This case] is a hard one, but the kids have worked hard to understand it, and Pember and I are hoping that it pays off.” The final tournament will be on March 26.

For this competition, all of the mock teams are going to be invited. The

Olivia Pagliccia, Sheila Rachels, Angie Genois, Samuel Warton, Jillian Dervisian, and Brittany Joseph at the Saugus competition. winner of this trial will go on to the nationals in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in May. Several of the members, including Jackie Tynes, learned several valuable lessons during their competition. Tynes explained that the team “must be prepared to defend the other side, because they have to be able to think on your feet because you are representing yourself and your team.”

The Mock Trial Team is a program that was founded in 1910 by the Massachusetts Bar Association (MBA). This organization as stated by their website, “serves the legal profession and the public by promoting the administration of justice, legal education, profes-

sional excellence and respect for the law. The MBA represents a diverse group of attorneys, judges and legal professionals across the commonwealth.”

This club is run state-wide, and starts each November, each school that is participating is given a case.

The students mock a trial case that they have months to study and go over and over to get ready. After a set amount to time they face off against another school in a courthouse, with a real judge judging them on their performance. Their case centered around an investor who lost 44 percent of his investments and subsequently sued them for fraud and misrepresentation.

This year there are sixteen

members, which consist of mostly juniors and some seniors. The team is planning to go all the way this year to nationals. Throughout their season they have practiced since November, two days a week. As Pember explains, “We have created a google group for the club, where students can post their opening and closing statements, direct and cross exam questions, [their final] thoughts of their witness roles, and general questions and concerns with the case.” Next year, the group aims to prepare earlier and focus more on preparing for the defense.

Stop and Stop Supplements School Salaries Amanda Adams Reporter

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top & Shop cards have been around for years and they broaden the customers’ opportunities. These cards make it possible to receive savings on many products. Free antibiotics and an A+ program are a couple of things that are given to customers when they own a Stop & Shop card. The A+ program benefits schools by giving each dollar spent by a customer, money to put in a school account.

“In reality, most of our customers are oblivious to the new card program and what it entails, it’s just a shiny new Stop & Shop card, getting the regular discounts,”Malden High Schools junior Andrew Terenzi stated, an employee of one of the Stop & Shops in Malden. There are many different aspects of the card, but most people take such opportunities for granted. “I think the cards are useful, but it would be much easier for us cashiers if the sales just went through the computers for everyone without the use of a card,” Terenzi affirmed. Therefore, the Stop & Shop cards offer a give-take situation. By giving people these benefits, it makes things more complicated for the cashiers. The Stop & Shop cards are a brilliant way to receive more customers and provide savings which should be taken advantage of.

Stop & Shop cashier checks out groceries from a costumer. Photo by Joshua Kummins

local news

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The Blue and Gold January 2010

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Monthly Profile: Mar Marjomaa public higher education institution, calls physics her first love; in fact, at one point, she hoped to teach physics, but “was convinced not to follow through...at that time in Mexico, it was just for men,” she explained.

Instead, Marjomaa decided to teach Spanish. Occasionally using her classroom as a forum for teaching other subjects, such as chemistry and English grammar, Marjomaa feels it essential to push Mar Marjomaa in her classroom. Photo by Sharon her students to a higher Lee. level of understanding Spanish than they may have reached Nidale Zouhir otherwise; at this point, her Spanish Head of Local News III honors classes have already begun learning some of the next level lover of physics and a native of of Spanish’s subject matter. “I believe Mexico, Malden High School that, besides the language, I have a Spanish III teacher Mar Marjomaa culture to offer,” she stated, adding has managed to develop friendly that she feels her Spanish class leads relationships with her students and to “a window of opportunities to fellow teachers in only three years, become a citizen of the world.” a fact clearly representative of her Her students wholeheartedly inviting personality and personal agree; “We get educated in many attachment to teaching. worldly aspects besides Spanish,” Marjomaa, who grew up in stated junior and Spanish III honors Mexico City and attended La Es- student Hong Chung. cuela Normal Superior, Mexico’s In the future, Marjomaa would

A

like to continue to develop a strong program for Spanish, both at MHS and, eventually, “to enrich the [Malden] community” in the Spanish language and Spanish culture. Marjomaa called MHS “very diverse,” but described it as a tightly wound group of people rather than one separated by its differences. Marjomaa herself takes part in this diversity; she is the advisor of the Deafness Awareness Club, which focuses on spreading awareness of the hearing impaired.

Of Marjomaa, Deafness Awareness Club co-founder Rachael Solano (who herself is hearing impaired) stated, “What initially made me think Marjomaa was a great teacher were her great stories. She makes unrealistic situations in the classroom seem useful.”

Marjomaa was drawn to teaching by examples set for her during her adolescence; “I think I’ve had the privilege to have had fantastic teachers in my life,” she stated, adding that “every day is a big challenge, and I like challenges.”

Marjomaa’s students hold her in similarly high esteem; “She is one of the greatest teachers at MHS,” former Spanish III honors student Daniel Rendon expressed.

“She doesn’t only teach her students Spanish...she teaches them valuable life lessons.” Junior Alison Nguyen

For the spanish version visit the online edition

spoke similarly of the learning experience that Marjomaa’s class was for her: “After having Marjomaa for a teacher last year, I’ve realized that Spanish class isn’t just about learning grammar and vocabulary from a textbook; it’s about learning Spanish, the language, the culture, in its whole integrity...I’ve begun to appreciate the Spanish language for what it is, not for what a book dictates it is.”

“She gets up in front of us every day and teaches us in a language that’s foreign to her, and she does it well,” sophomore Mary Stathos stated. Junior Andrew Chen echoed this sentiment, stating, “Although she was born and raised in Mexico, her knowledge and speaking of the English language is incredible.”

These feelings are clearly reciprocated; of her students, Marjomaa stated, “I feel lucky. I really feel honored to have the privilege to work with them. It is like sunshine…they are intelligent, incredible. I think they are the best students in the whole world.”

Though Marjomaa has only been teaching at MHS for three years, she feels that she is “growing into [the Malden community] and finding [her] way in,” stating, “I don’t feel like a foreigner here...especially in Malden, I feel at home.”

LOCAL NEWS BRIEFS Taste of Malden Hits the Spot

Shoe Drive equals New Basketball courts Alicia Young Reporter

David Riemer

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Co-Editor-In-Chief

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n Monday night, Fed. 1, 2010, the Jackson Suite Function Hall in downtown Malden was abuzz with good conversation and even better food at the Chamber of Commerce’s first annual “Taste of Malden.” Local restaurants from all over Malden and the surrounding area were invited to take part in this promotional even in which individuals could buy tickets for $20 and test out the local cuisine. “We are a just a few weeks removed from Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday and the question he asked persistently throughout his life was ‘What are you doing for others?’”

Malden City Councilor Gary Christenson stated. “The Malden Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with DanversBank helped answer that question with ‘A Taste of Malden.’ Not only did this event bring the community together for an evening but it also raised funds for the Bread of Life, a Malden-based

organization that serves the hungry, homeless, needy, and isolated.” Indeed, the crowd numbered around 300, and ended up raising around $1000 for the organization--a successful event to be sure. “I had no idea Malden was home to such great food,” Malden High School junior Sheila Rachels commented. “I really hope they do it again next year.”

Massimo’s Ristorante represented at the first annual Taste of Malden fundraiser for hte bread of life on Feb. 1st.

f you thought your old worn-out, too small sneakers were total trash, you were wrong. The Malden high School Environmental Club and Athletic Department have joined forces to enact a shoe drive, sponsored by Nike and their Reusea-Shoe program. All the shoes collected are turned into “Nike Grind,” the squishy material sports surfaces like playgrounds and turf football fields are made of. The thought that “one day our football players and basketball players could be playing on their own shoes is pretty amazing,” stated Barbara Scibelli, a key figure in heading the drive.

Thanks to Nike, the Environmental Club, MHS’s Athletic Department, and countless donators, old, useless shoes can be transformed into something better, something that will promote health and exercise.

The drive has been a great way to bring about awareness to recycling and philanthropy. President of the Environmental Club, Lynn Tran, calls recycling shoes “important,” because they’d be turned into something extremely useful instead of “thrown away” so they can “fill up in landfills.”

The Blue and Gold January 2010

Local News

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http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

To hear some of the amazing poetry recitations, visit the online edition!

Paige Yurek

at Malden High SchooL

Reporter

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ompetition was fierce throughout Nov. and Dec. 2009, when all of Malden High School English classes were assigned to memorize and perform a poem for “Poetry Out Loud” and compete against other classmates. Poetry Out Loud is a contest in which young adults from all over the country compete to recite and express poems in the best way they can to both entertain and educated audiences.

After winning the class competition, the winner of each class competed against other students in the same English class periods who also won. Then, one winner from each period competition went on to compete against each other reciting two poems. In addition to the actual competition, Poetry Out Loud acts as a way to help students understand the meaning of poems and their significance.

Each English class helped their students prepare for Poetry Out Loud by deconstructing poems, understanding tone, and being able to emote. In fact, Poetry Out Loud has actually been going on in MHS classes for five years. Due to the efforts of English teacher Jennifer Clapp, it has become a school-wide competition. “We have never been able to, but the woman who runs [Poetry Out Loud] helped organize it the way Burlington High does it,” Clapp stated. “It might even become an annual event.”

On Thursday, Jan. 14th, 2010, MHS held the final Poetry Out Loud competition for the school, with the winners from the class and period challenges. Winners participating were: Seniors Bridget Mutebi, Jennifer Joseph, and Tishauna Thomas, Junior Alison Nguyen, sophomore and copy editor of The Blue and Gold, Dan Holmqvist, and Freshmen Blondel Binyame and Edgar Palacios.

Round one consisted of pre20th century poetry. Reciting first was Bridget Mutebi, with a moving performance of Langston Hughes’ famous poem “The Negro Speaks of Rivers.” Following, was Tishauna Thomas’ lively recital of “For My People,” by Margaret Walker. Next, Blondel Binyame performed an animated recitation of Siegfried Sassoon’s “Dreamers.” Afterwards, Jennifer Joseph gave her all for her recital of Katherine Phillips’ “Epitaph.” Then, Edgar Palacios emoted “Life in a Love” by Robert Browning. At that point, Dan Holmqvist delivered an exceptional performance of “Richard Cory” by Edwin Arlington Robinson. Finallu, Alison Nguyen presented her rendition of John Donne’s “The Sun Rising.”

Freshman Blondel Binyame recieving a hug from principal Dana Brown after winning Poetry Out Loud with his recitation of Siegfried Sassoon’s “Dreamers” and Francis Ellen Watkin’s “Slave Auction.” Photo by Paige Yurek.

In round two, contestants recited the poems that made them win in their class and period competitions. This time, students recited in the reverse order as round one.

Setting the bar high with Maurice Kilwein Guevara’s bilingual poem, “Doña Josefina Counsels Doña Concepción before Entering Sears,” was Nguyen, reciting first. Next up was Holmqvist giving his take on “Analysis of Baseball” by May Swenson. Changing the tone with “In a Dark Time” by Theodore Roethke was Palacios, with quite an emotive presentation. The fourth recitation of round two was Joseph with her portrayal of Maya Angelou’s “Phenomenal Woman.” Following Joseph was Binyame once again for an outstanding depiction of “Slave Auction” by Francis Ellen Watkins.

For her second time around, Thomas recited John Clare’s “I Am” with specific focus on inflection. Finally, Mutebi wrapped up the contest with a unique take on “Richard Cory” Round two being over, it was time to tally up the results.

In their own ways, each contestant worked hard to fully understand and memorize their poems and work their way to the top, but there could only be one student to represent MHS for the Poetry Out Loud state competition. At last, the results were in and the outcome was this; taking third place was Palacios. Coming in second place for her challenging, yet excellent performances was Nguyen, but taking first place that day was Binyame, for his stupendous interpretations of his poems. Every one of the

participants could be considered winners for their tremendous effort and remarkable performances.

Although they did not take first place that Thursday, Nguyen and Palacios were very grateful for making it as far as they did. Like a good sport, Palacios says, “It was great, I felt like I accomplished something big.” Nguyen agrees proudly, “I feel pretty accomplished being second because it’s not just second out of the seven finalists, but second out of the entire school.”

Every student in the school had to prepare for their poetry presentations in some way, but everyone seemed to have different techniques in and out of school than each other.

Third place taker Palacios, explains how he put himself into his poems to get a better understanding. Practicing “Life in a Love,” Palacios says, “What I did to memorize it was to picture that one person that I had very strong feelings for because of the name of the poem. I just took it line by every line like if it was coming from my heart.” The second poem had a very different tone, Palacios continues, “It was ‘In a Dark Time,’ so I pictured myself in a dark place like if I was the poet and like if I was depressed and alone, so that helped me.”

Second place champion, Nguyen, practiced just as long and hard to comprehend her poems as many students and get her performances right, but used different techniques, “I remember staying up at 1 a.m. practicing the gestures and delivery.

In school, I would run lines through my head and then sometimes re-

cite them out loud to my friends.”

Nguyen laughs, “They were good sports about my random outbursts.”

When asked on how he practiced, first place winner Benyame replied, “It took me about 30-45 minutes to memorize my poem and I just kept saying it over and over again in front of the mirror until it was stuck in my head. When it was time for me to recite the poem, I was really nervous but I discovered that I could use the nervousness to sort of emphasize the true meaning of my poem, and it worked,” continued Binyame. “I did not prepare all by myself. If it wasn’t for my teacher English teacher, Mr. [David] Londino I don’t think I would be where I am at right now. He was a real mentor. He was the one who really told me where my strengths at reciting were.”

Later, Londino reacted on how it feels to have such an impact on his students, like he did with Binyame.

“It feels good,” Londino says, “but it’s really when the students make an effort, they are the ones giving themselves a chance to improve themselves.” Binyame is just one example, who truly made an effort.

“Even at the beginning, he transferred from CP to Honors. Plus, he came for about an hour after school each day to prepare.”

lOcal News

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The Blue and Gold January 2010

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Valentine’s Day Lauren Benoit Reporter

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alentine’s Day is right around the corner and Malden high School clubs and classes are not hesitating to start fund raising.

The freshman class will be selling one and a half inch lip shaped lollipops in eight different flavors.

Class President Lisa Delacy remembered how selling these types of lollipops at her old school raised lots of money, “they were a big hit, and it helped us raise money for future school events.” Selling for only one dollar Delacy exclaims “it’s like heaven on earth! … Buy one for a friend, or for yourself.”

What is more romantic than receiving a message in a heartshaped bottle? This Valentine’s Day the sophomore class is selling “messages in a bottle” where anyone can go and write a secret message to a special someone for three dollars.

Also the class of 2012 is holding a

Valentine’s Day social. For five dollars you can eat some snacks and take a picture in front of their “Valentine Card” with your friends. You wouldn’t want to miss out on this Kodak moment.

This year the Key Club is selling red, white, or pink carnations along with a different selection valentine cards for one dollar.

The Breast Cancer Awareness Club is selling chocolate lollipops shaped like ribbons, roses, and hearts for one dollar. All proceeds go towards the Susan G. Komen foundation at the end of the year.

Buying a lollipop is one step closer to the cure.

The annual Valentine’s Day Bear is now on sale from the Interact Club. In previous years the seven and a half inch three dollar bears were filled with gummie bears. But this year “to meet the substantial

profits the gummie bears have been cut out” states member Long Lu. Accompanied by the bear will be a valentine card. Within the past years this has been a huge hit, the club is confident that they will sell out very quickly.

Red velvet cupcakes and cookies is what the Gay Straight Alliance Club is selling for Valentine’s Day at a cost of one dollar. Covering the cookie will be rainbow M&M’s to symbolize the club, and the cupcake will be covered with cream cheese frosting. All profits will be donated to the children in Uganda.

The biggest hit of all, the Fine Arts Club will be selling balloons and teddie bears this Valentine’s Day. Ms. Seager states that it’s the club’s “signature fundraiser” is very popular to the Malden High Community. A large balloon will cost ten dollars, and a small balloon

will cost three. The four in a half inch teddy bear will cost two dollars.

On a recent poll on Valentine’s Day fifty people claimed that they expected nothing from this holiday.

An anonymous quote written on the poll was “this is a stupid holiday, and it shouldn’t even be considered a holiday.” Seventy nine people were expecting chocolates on this special day, some saying that its cute and romantic. Twenty eight students claimed that they love Valentines Day. Twenty seven students voted that balloons were a perfect present to receive. Another twenty seven students thought that other options were better to give for Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day might just be a “stupid pointless holiday” or a “wonderful treat” but it is much more than that at MHS.

Valentine’s day Shoutouts happy valentines day haley

- Iris Feng

Happy Valentines day kiaria! Love you!

-Roxy Chaves

Thanks for the donation Mr.BRown.

-Haley DeFilippis and Brittany McFeely

Happy Valentines Day Brittany

-Hakima Missbah

Happy valentines day Xavier

-Haley DeFilippis

Happy Valentines Day Sarah Palin, and Nicole, Sam , and Jeff.

-Monika Bashllari

Hi Alana

-Eddie FIsher

Happy Valentines day to all my friends! =)

-Stacey Sousa

Nick Gravell is a beast.

-Daniel Glynn Happy valentines day!

-Anonymous I love you All!

-Kaela Bryan

Happy V-Day Cathy Pham -Tina Phan and Julia Vu

Dear Marbie, you’re so beautiful and perfect. i love you.

-love your secret admirer LAUREN BENOIT IS MY AMERICAN IDOL !

LOVE NAT FAL.

-Natalie Fallano

Blargh

Sam la

Happy Valentines Day Monika, Sam , Amanda, and Jeff.

-Nicole Johnson

Happy Valentines Day to all the good looking boys in school, and girls too.

-Ashley Ngo

The Blue and Gold January 2010

19

Entertainment http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Oscar Predictions Joao and Nidale’s take on who will walk away with a statuette on Sunday, March 7, 2010.

Nidale Zouhir

Joao Nascimento

Head of Local News

Head of World News

Best Actress

Best Actor

Joao: This would have been Colin Firth’s year if the now

5-time, 60 year-old Oscar nominee Jeff Bridges hadn’t been nominated. Firth is perfect in A Single Man, his performance simultaneously heartbreaking and funny throughout the film. George Clooney’s buzz for Up In the Air died earlier in the year, and after walking away with the Golden Globe, Bridges pretty much has this one in the bank.

Nidale: Although Jeremy Renner’s performance in the The Hurt Locker was one of the best parts of the otherwise unoriginal film, Firth, Clooney, and Bridges clearly outdo him when it comes to acting. However, Clooney’s performance in Up in the Air is no different from his performance in Fantastic Mr. Fox or Michael Clayton; as usual, he simply plays himself.

Firth’s performance as a heartbroken college professor in a spectacular film, however, was painfully tragic; Bridges’ role in Crazy Hearts, which is no different than country-singer-mockbiopics before it, deserves little of the acclaim it has been given thus far.

All photos from www.oscar.go.com

Joao: My world stopped when I saw Sandra Bullock holding a Golden Globe, and the fact that she can now call herself an Oscar nominee is earth-shattering. It's crazy that her forced performance in The Blind Side is getting so much praise, and although she is probably writing her acceptance speech as I type this, I still have faith that the Academy will give this one to Meryl Streep, who perfectly portrayed the American chef Julia Child in Julie & Julia. In a year of many first time nominees, Carey Mulligan and Gabourey Sidibe were newcomers recognized for their touching, relatable performances, too bad they have no other award to show for it.

Nidale: Unsurprisingly, Meryl Streep will continue to sweep at this year’s Academy Awards; her performances are consistently lovable and amusing. I’d have to agree that newcomers such as Carey Mulligan and Gabourey Sidibe will be lost against the all-powerful and unforgettable acting of Streep, who somehow manages to create distinct roles in all of her films. Helen Mirren, unfortunately, simply does not stand a chance; her performance was forgettable in The Last Station. As for Sandra Bullock’s terrible southern accent and stiff portrayal of Leigh Anne Tuohy in The Blind Side? Let’s pretend she never won that Golden Globe.

Best Supporting Actress

Nidale: Although Mo'Nique seems to be the frontrunner in this

category for her surprisingly spectacular performance in Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire, fellow nominee Anna Kendrick might just steal the statue. After all, who expected the annoying girl from Twilight to stand up to George Clooney and, in fact, demonstrate at least as much acting skill as he did, if not more, in Up in the Air? Naturally, Crazy Hearts' Maggie Gyllenhaal is also a contender, as Crazy Hearts is undoubtedly one of the most critically acclaimed films of the year thus far.

Joao: I admit I was the first to discard Precious as a Lifetime after-school special, but after seeing it, it is almost certain Mo'Nique will win the Oscar for her terrifying performance. Who would have thought someone who acted in a movie like Phat Girlz would ever be nominated for an Academy Award? Mo'Nique should embrace this moment, and so should the Academy, since she will probably not be in this position many times in the future. All of the other performances in this category pale in comparison to Mo'Nique's, but the only other one who could potentially take this is Julianne Moore for A Single Man, but somehow she wasn't even nominated! Biggest snub of the year!

Best Orignal Screenplay

Joao: Hello creativity! What this year's nominees lack in execution,

they more than make up for it in writing. The front-runner in this competition is the tale of American soldiers going undercover as Nazis in World War II France. Quentin Tarantino's Inglourious Basterds is a gruesomely funny freakshow, and hopefully his unconventional sense of humor will be rewarded by the Academy this year. I would not be shocked if Pixar added one more statue to their collection with the lovable tale told in Up, or even The Hurt Locker's dramatic portrayal of soldiers in the Iraq War, but it's time to recognize Tarantino's unique skill.

Nidale: Quentin Tarantino, who has written such iconic films as Pulp Fiction and Resevoir Dogs, has somehow not yet won an Oscar; however, Inglourious Basterds is so darkly comedic that it might finally score him a statue. However, Up's script remains memorable – "I hid under your porch because I love you!" – and Pixar might take home another award. The unoriginal A Serious Man and the forgettable The Messenger barely stand a chance in this category against the Best Picture

Best Director

Nidale: It is common knowledge that Jason

Reitman was robbed in 2007, when he should have won Best Director for Juno. It appears as if the same will happen this year; not even Quentin Tarantino can compete against the almighty Avatar, let alone Reitman.

James Cameron will undoubtedly win, taking home yet another statue – though I would not be surprised if The Hurt Locker's Kathryn Bigelow came from behind to take the award for her realistic portrayal of the war in Iraq.

Joao: Reitman was not robbed, Julian Schanabel (The Diving Bell and the Butterfly) was! And how can a man who worked in a movie for 10 years not receive the Oscar? Cameron's Avatar grossed more than $2 billion, we have to give the guy some credit. But when it comes down to it, Bigelow's skill with the camera and visual techniques is so obvious in The Hurt Locker, and she achieved so much with so little money... This is Cameron's year, but Bigelow deserved it.

Best Supporting Actor

Nidale: Stanley Tucci's creepy performance as murderer George

Harvey in The Lovely Bones rightfully deserves all the praise it has been receiving thus far; however, Christoph Waltz's performance as an SS officer in Inglourious Basterds far outdoes the understated acting of Tucci. Of course, Christopher Plummer's role as novelist Leo Tolstoy may emerge as victorious; his heartbreaking performance may well beat out Waltz and Tucci. Matt Damon's underwhelming performance in Invictus, as well as Woody Harrelson's interesting but forgettable role in The Messenger, quite frankly does not stand much of a chance against the more intense roles of the frontrunners.

Joao: I don't see an upset happening in this category. Christoph Waltz played a Nazi "jew-hunter," terrorized audiences, and spoke four different languages in the process. None of the other movies had as much buzz or appeal, and although I agree Tucci was super creepy, he was nothing compared to Waltz.

Best Adapted Screenplay

Nidale: Although An Education and Precious have been gaining

hype since their releases, they simply cannot compare to last summer's District 9, which pushed the boundaries of mockumentaries while also demonstrating a clear political message without becoming too preachy. Up in the Air is a contender in this category as well; its story of a lonely airplane-addict, as well as its dark humor, may well gain writer/director Jason Reitman the golden statue he missed out on for Thank You For Smoking.

Joao: Despite the overwhelming buzz, District 9 turned out to be somewhat unsatisfying. I see Jason Reitman as one of today's sharpest and funniest young filmmakers, and the writing in Up In the Air is brilliant. It was a hilarious yet belieavable comedy, and we don't see much of that today. Hopefully it will sweep the prize, but it wouldn't hurt to see An Education's Nick Hornby being awarded after High Fidelity went by under the radar.

Best Picture

Joao: The Academy has imposed a new rule that states that

every year, ten movies will be in the race for the most coveted award of the evening. Adding five movies to the category is ineffective and pointless, especially when they fill the space with hopeless nominations, and in the process, snub a few good contenders. The masses went crazy when last year, The Dark Knight didn’t gain a Best Picture nomination, despite being critically and comercially acclaimed; now the Academy is under scrutinizing pressure to produce a mainstream winner. Avatar is the obvious choice in this category, but The Hurt Locker’s is intense filmmaking at its best, and kept viewers at the edge of their seats for its two hour run. Although The Hurt Locker deserves the award this year, it would’t hurt to see cutting-edge cinema like Inglourious Basterds being awarded the statuette.

Nidale: Although Avatar is clearly the frontrunner in this category (let’s hope James Cameron doesn’t declare that he is “king of the world” again this year), The Hurt Locker, Inglourious Basterds, Up and even Up in the Air deserve the award much more; they all have more innovative and interesting stories, more clever screenplays, and better acting.

However, Avatar’s mainstream appeal and even more mainstream “Go Green!” theme, along with its spectacular special effects, will no doubt gain it the victory James Cameron has been working toward since 1998’s Titanic.

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Entertainment

The Blue and Gold January 2010

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Nick Jonas Disappoints

Brittany Foley Head of Entertainment/Opinion

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eventeen year-old Nick Jonas, most commonly known as onethird of the Jonas Brothers, might actually start to get some respect as a musician, now that he is growing up—and branching out. Last year, Jonas took on a side project during a two-week tour break. During those two weeks, Nick Jonas and the Administration was formed, Jonas’ own solo act, including bassist/music producer John Fields. The band also features Michael Bland (drums), Tommy Barbarella (keyboards), and Sonny Thompson (guitar), all of whom played with musical legend Prince during the 90s. The reactions of Jonas fans to the news of the project varied, but for the most part were supportive. Many were excited by the news, eager to see Jonas’ full potential. Lauren Miller of Westminster, Maryland, aware of the solo musical career Jonas pursued in his younger years, viewed the new project as a way “to see possibly what his original solo project may have grown into.”

The project, which is claimed to only last fifteen months, included a month-long nationwide tour that took off on Jan. 2. On Jan. 12 and 13, the band stopped in Boston for two shows at the Orpheum Theater.

Despite the fact that his brothers were not present, Jonas still

carried the heartthrob card, fanatics waiting patiently for a glimpse at him all over the city. Attempts at getting his attention ranged from camping outside his hotel to dawning Teletubby costumes for the show. Unfortunately, this extreme fandom does not seem to be the attention Jonas hopes to receive from the new project.

Although it is apparent he wants to get away from the tweensensation status that has thrust itself upon him and his brothers over the past few years, the direction Jonas is actually aiming for remains unclear.

At either show, Jonas performed several of his new songs, the sound of which differ significantly from that of the Jonas Brothers. One song, “State of Emergency,” is a prime example of Jonas’ new sound, with music resembling the styles of one of his admitted influences, the iconic Stevie Wonder, and lyrics that actually sound as though they might belong to a seventeen-year-old; one can only imagine a Disney publicist’s reaction to the first few lines of that song alone, “she’s seductive, she does it well; she’ll charge you by the hour for a trip straight down to Hell.” Still, whether Jonas is hoping to come across as an actual rocker or the next Stevie Wonder—if not by channeling his sound then by imitating him, as he performed Wonder’s “Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I’m yours” is likely something even the most devoted of Jonas-stalker-fans do not know.

Despite Jonas’ identity crisis, diehard Jonas Brothers fans were reassured every time he began to play one of he and his brothers’ songs.

Among them were the ever-popular “Inseparable” from the boys’ selftitled album and a mash-up of piano tunes “Black Keys” and “A Little Bit Longer.”Additionally, Jonas performed a slower, softer version of the originally upbeat powerchord number “Tonight,” from the third Jonas Brothers album “A Little Bit

On his second night at the Orpheum Theater, Jonas was especially enthusiastic, jumping onto the piano during the very first song.

With colorful lights as the only effects during the shows in addition to the smaller venues, every concert had an intimate feel.

Longer.” Jonas’ new take on the song is featured on the new Nick Jonas and the Administration album, Who I Am, in stores as of Feb. 2.

Jonas covered several songs in addition to the tunes regularly performed by the Jonas Brothers, including Owl City’s “Fireflies,” Taylor Swift’s “You Belong with Me,” and Kings of Leon’s “Use Somebody” on both nights and Miley Cyrus’s “The Climb” on Jan. 13.

The countless covers, although they differed drastically in musical taste, all worked simultaneously to help Jonas provide an unusually intimate show as the audience sang along in unison, knowing every word. Jonas’ hopes for a more personal performance became evident as either night progressed. If it were not for the abnormally small venue—Boston’s Orpheum theater holds less than 2000—or the variety of covers and moves of sing-along encouragement, Jonas’ direct interaction with the audience made either night seem less like a concert and more like a simple performance. As opposed to the traditional Jonas Brothers show facets—sold-out 20,000 seat arenas, astonishing pyrotechnic displays, and the coordination of high-fashion outfits—these shows felt almost impromptu, with the star wearing jeans, sneakers, and a t-shirt and not so much as a TV screen floating above the stage. Even without such special effects, the audience was in awe for the entirety of the show. The favorite performance was inarguably that of Jonas’ new song, “Stay,” described by Samantha Stalker of Billerica, MA, attendant of the show on the 13, as “pure emotion pouring from his soul into the microphone.”

The lack of structure in either show also contributed to their impromptu feel, which was consistent throughout the entire tour. Elizabeth Huffman, a fan from Pikeville, KY who attended the Nashville show admitted that one of the highlights of the show was how Jonas “really connected with the audience.”

Although Jonas was able to

connect with his audience on a new level, though, the irregular lack of structure became evident as Jonas faced a few minor struggles in performing on his own. The set list changed just as did Jonas’ attempts at being the front man. Without brother Joe’s well-rehearsed stunts and performances dripping with his evident charisma, the youngest Jonas Brother seemed somewhat awkward on stage when trying to share jokes with the audience, but made up for it on the second night when he, a major Yankees fan, held up a Red Sox shirt and stuck a Sox foam finger on the end of his guitar.

Even the opening act was unpredictable, but enjoyable nonetheless. The Regina-Spektor-esque piano queen Diane Birch took the stage before Jonas throughout the tour, thrilling the majority of the crowd with her Indie-soul-type feel.

On the second night, Birch was accompanied by We the Kings’ Travis Clark, who represented yet another sound that resembled Jonas’ just as much as Celine Dion resembles Lady GaGa. It seemed the crowd paid no notice to the genre-confusion, however, as Clark and Birch received an overwhelming reaction after their performance. Those reactions were rather tame, however, in comparison to the series of screams and applause that followed every one of Jonas’ songs. Such response held the same throughout Jonas’ entire tour. Los Angeles, CA fan, Cindy Linares, who attended the show at the Wiltern in LA on Jan. 29, revealed how “once Nick Jonas came out, the crowd never stayed quiet.”

The majority of those in the Boston audiences would likely agree with Becca Freeman of Taunton, MA, who shared that “the energy in the Oprheum on January 13th was like nothing else.” As suggested by such overwhelming satisfaction in the reactions to Jonas’ solo tour, most fans cannot help but hope that the project will last longer than the intended fifteen months.

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Sports

The Blue and Gold January 2010

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

MHS Swimming Strokes into the GBLs

ATHLETES FACE SUDDEN DEATH Alfonse Femino Head Of Sports

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Junior Luis Detoledo does the backstroke. Photo by Sharon Lee Alex Gennigiorgis Reporter

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he electric atmosphere at the meet against Somerville High School symbolized the exciting Malden High School swim team season, even though the results were in the Somerville High School team’s favor as “The Tornadoes” could not come from behind to win.

At times, it looked as if Malden was bound to be victorious but Somerville stood their ground and won the meet by a small margin, Somerville 87--Malden 83. The crowd was booming at the meet in support of the team.

The crowd was a greatly motivating the swimmers from start to finish with non-stop cheering. There were many close finishes and the crowd was kept in suspense during the whole meet. In the end, the fans stated how it was a great meet overall and that the team should be proud of the efforts put in by every swimmer. Sophomore swimmer Eddie Lee stated that the meet was not what was expected, “but we learned a lot from it to improve on next year.”

In conclusion to the normal season the record is 6-4.

When asked about the Greater Boston League Championship (GBL’s), Lee stated, “Yes, we are going as a team, but we are individuals, representing the team. So I think individually, we need to step it up and work harder,” showing leadership and responsibility for such a young member of the team.

Although the season did not end the way the team expected, there is still the GBL’s coming up and the team can work on the faults shown in the Somerville meet and be prepared to take on anything that comes at the team. The team has been practicing sprint swimming with “loads of rest”, stated Lee, “we can get better” for the Greater Boston League (GBL) Championship and perform at 100 percent.

This season the team was put in an interesting position, with having lost two key swimmers due to lack of commitment and 4 seniors from the team having graduated. The team has had a swimmer qualify for State Championships for the past 10 years and this year the streak was ended.

The fact that the streak has ended is being used as “motivation” for the team to do better in the GBL’s and next year.

This year, the team was in a “rebuilding phase”, stated Head Coach Paul

Malden dives against Somerville. Photo by Alex Gennigiorgis.

Senior Captian Cristina Valente doing the butterfly.

Photo by Sharon Lee

Junior Jackie Tran doing the freestly against Somerville.

Photo by Sharon Lee. DeVincentis. “What we lack, we rebuild in work ethic and hard work,” stated DeVincentis. Coach DeVincentis was not surprised at the result because it was “as good as it could be”. He also spoke about how the team did a lot with little to work with, while other teams did little with a lot to work with. For the GBL’s, coach DeVincentis stated how the team has been “Above and beyond the Call of Duty” and that the team will go to the GBL’s with 100% intensity because the team had “prepared all season”. DeVincentis praised the team by saying that he is very “proud of them” and that they may have been the least talented, but “they were the hardest working” team he had.

ver the past month, three athletes, ranging from the high school level to even the professional levels have died from reasons involving heart and lung problems.

The first of the three unfortunate athletes was Matthew McCarthy. On Dec. 29, 2009, McCarthy, who was a senior captain on the Pentucket Regional High School hockey team, suddenly collapsed during a practice in Haverhill, Massachusetts. He was then rushed to Merrimack Regional Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The death came as a complete shock to coaches and teammates.

“He seemed fine. We were laughing and joking a little bit then he fell over and was unresponsive,” stated teammate Andrew Mueskes.

Also, school superintendent Dr. Bill Hart said “To the best of our knowledge he was in perfect health. A real fine athlete. So that makes the shock even deeper,” with an interview with The Boston Globe further showing the surprise of McCarthy’s sudden death. Further research has shown that McCarthy had been complaining about his lungs burning prior to his death.

Next in the string of tragic deaths was a 21 year old basketball player at the University of Southern Indiana named Jeron Lewis. On the fifteenth of January, Lewis was playing in a game when he fell hard to the ground, slamming his head of the court floor. After the fall, the 6’8 Lewis began convulsing violently, and was taken to a nearby hospital where he was later pronounced dead. Although the hit to the head was very fierce, doctors believe that the cause of the death was related to a heart defect.

On Jan. 17, 2010, just a mere two days after the death of Lewis, Gaines Adams, a defensive end for the Cincinnati Bengals, died from an enlarged heart. An autopsy a few days later showed that Adams went through cardiac arrest before being taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. The death of Adams, just as the death of McCarthy, came as a great shock to people that knew him. “Nobody was aware of his medical condition,” stated Deputy Marcia Kelly-Clark in an interview with the press that morning.

The three deaths can represent the growing strain that sports are putting on athletes as sports at every level, from youth to professional is becoming more intense and demanding. Also, along with the growing intensity of sports taking a physical toll on athletes, different leagues actions towards making sure players are healthy can come into question.

The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA) states that a student athlete must have an annual physical to be eligible to play, however these physicals do nothing to see if a players lungs are stable, which if changed could prevent sudden deaths in the future. In the National Football League and Collegiate levels, players lift weights everyday, which can have a profound effect on the heart, and if tighter limits were placed lifting, maybe heart related deaths among athletes would decrease. These are just some steps that could be taken to make sure that no team or family should have to go through the pain of the deaths of these three unfortunate athletes.

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SPORTS

The Blue and Gold January 2010

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Malden Wrestling Pins the GBL Title Brendan Provitola Left: Junior Christian Rizzo beginning his match against Tewksbury

Reporter

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he Malden High Wrestling team has an overall team record of 5-8-1, but is still fighting to finish the season off strong. Malden’s next meet is January 6, in a dual meet tournament in Brookline. Following this last team meet, Malden’s wrestlers will compete in Sectionals looking to qualify for the State tournament.

Despite the losing record, Malden has a few notable wrestlers who will fight to qualify for states.

Senior captain Richard Basile has an impressive record at 9-5. Also, senior captain Alan Kwan has a winning record at 10-4. Malden has been fighting injuries the entire season, causing the team to have an incomplete line up. The Tornadoes have strived to overcome this dilemma. Senior Chris Sullivan (6-3) has been suffering from a pulled oblique during a match against Everett earlier on in the season, forcing him to miss out in a couple of meets. Sullivan quoted, “Junior Mandy Liao got her weight down to 103, and now we have a chance to finish off the season with a full line up”.

The next few weeks of practice will be vital in Malden’s hopes for a 50-50 season and for state qualifiers. Sullivan said, “The past couple weeks of practice have been really productive with solid drilling, and it really helps having a full line-up since the next couple of meets are really important for the team and individuals”.

With only a couple weeks before Sectionals, Malden will prepare with hard working pratices, but still need to be careful because of the inconsistency of the full varsity line up.

Below: Senior Jimmy Vo prepares for a take down at the Tewksbury meet Bottom: Senior captain Richie Basile trying to pin down his opponent.

All wrestling photos

by Catherine Poirier

Visit our website for more sports photos

continued from page 1

Malden Gymnastics Dismounts to Victory Joshua Kummins Reporter

Gymnastics rocks the floor with the addition of a JV Team

Lowell Catholic, all by relatively close scores.

Head coach Katie Bowdridge said that she “[has] been very pleased with the team's progress this year. Everyone has improved as the season went on.”

Bowdridge also added that the team has received contributions from “some new gymnasts this year that have made a difference and will help to pick up where our outgoing seniors will leave off.”

All three captains agree that this season has gone very well and senior captain Kristen Cruikshank said that this has been “the team’s best season in her four years” at Malden High, since she joined the team as a freshman.

They also added that the team’s new male additions have played a

key role in their success this season.

Sophomore Andres Torres said that the boys’ main contribution is on the bars, which is a very difficult event, according to coach Bowdridge.

He said that a majority of the boys participate in bars, compared to a smaller amount of girls. Torres added that the boys help maintain a good effort and that their presence “makes the girls work more.”

Captain Stephanie Dervishian said that the boys “are like [her] brothers” and that “they do everything” to help the team win.

Dervishian is a junior, but her story is atypical, as opposed to other MHS athletes. She competes as a gymnast for Malden High, but attends the Northeast Voke in Wakefield.

Coach Bowdridge said that it is

not a distraction to the other members of the team, who “voted her as captain.” She added that Dervishian is at every practice and the only difference is that they go to different schools.

The team has become stronger with the recent addition of a junior varsity team. Senior captain Jessica Fox said that with the JV team “a lot of people still have opportunities” to compete. She added that they compete before their varsity counterparts on the same floor, against specific teams.

Malden looks to end the season on a high note at the GBL Meet on Saturday, February 6 at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge.

Heba Khurram. The club has already reached its goal, and it is only half way through the year; at this rate they will be making tons of money for the ones who need it most.

"The idea of supporting breast cancer from basketball is mind boggling. Who knew that the two would be related?

The idea is great and i hope to see them continuing to do so," stated Pink Out game spectator John Paul Brant. The men and women watching the games seem to like the idea of the Pink Out games just as much as the people running them. Freshman team member Rodney Morton of MHS exclaimed, "I think this is good because they do it in many other major sports and now its good that the high schools are doing it too!" The Pink Out games are a great addition to MHS and it helps the breast cancer awareness club help raise money and awareness which is the whole purpose for the club. Breast cancer and any other cancer is life threatening, and at MHS everyone seems to want to help out with the cause.

The Blue and Gold January 2010

23

SPORTS http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Girls Basketball Rebounds After somerville Dan Holmqvist Copy Editor

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he girls basketball team is looking to rebound from a less-thanconvincing start to their season.

The team, which has gone 3-12, has seen signs of improvement over the course of the year but are still looking to have success in the final stretch.

On Tuesday Jan. 26th, the girls basketball game against Somerville was hotly contested until the 4th quarter, with the scores being relatively close at 38-34 in favor of Somerville at the end of the 3rd quarter. Malden fell behind early, but fought back, at times coming within one point of the opposition.

With senior Jennifer Tamindzija hitting important shots going into the last quarter of the game, Malden looked ready to storm back and cause an upset. Despite this, Somerville increased their 4 point lead to 14 points by the end the game to win 49-35.

However, the game was not without controversy; the referees, from the start of the game, accidentally chose to play with a men’s regulation size basketball rather than using the women’s basketball,

which is smaller in volume, meaning that for three quarters, both teams were forced to play with a ball that they were unfamiliar with.

When the referees eventually decided to switch back to the women’s size basketball, Malden coach Joe Levine protested and a short argument ensued between him and an animated Somerville coach. Selecting the wrong basketball was only the “first sign of incompetence” of the referees claimed Paul Garrity, the former Somerville boys basketball coach. “The refereeing was a disgrace. There were fouls not being called, and ultimately that’s bad for the kids.”

After the game, Coach Levine still had positive things to say about the team, despite the difficult loss.

He mentioned that, “The effort that the girls showed today was encouraging. I’ve told them that I expect them to get better as the season wears on and they have. Last time we played this team, we lost by 30 points.”

At this point in the season, many players agree that one of the only things they can do is work harder in practice. Sophomore Rebecca Krigman said that the team is

Sophmore Bridget Furlong dribbles down the court against Everett.

Photo by Lauren Benoit. “struggling with getting past presses and struggling with communication on the court” and sophomore Jessica Cotto added that the team needed to “protect the ball and improve on offense.” She insists that “their shots aren’t falling yet, but they should come.”

The departure of eleven senior girls last year has certainly had an effect on the team, but with a large portion of the team being underclassmen this year, the signs are cer-

tainly encouraging. Cotto is excited about the team in the future, adding, “Two years from now we’ll be unstoppable; the team will have a lot more chemistry and hopefully a lot more wins.” Senior captain Casey Willcox agrees that the team is in a rebuilding stage and harbors the same aspirations for the next couple of years: “I’m sad that I will be leaving next year, but at the same time, I am happy for the team.”

Full Court Press for State Tourney Malden huddles to dicuss strategy.

Xavier Leo Copy Editor

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ith a current record of 9-8, the boy’s basketball team’s hopes of making the state tournament are indeed well and alive. After losing the senior tandem of Steven Suida, Marcus Armstrong, and Travis Nally due to graduation and sophomore Egi Gjikondi to a transfer to Cushing Academy, the team is more focused than ever, keeping their eyes on the prize. They would need to go 2-2 in their last four games to achieve the 11-10 record required of all tourney qualifiers; “We definitely have the ability to get into the tourney, it’s all just a matter of staying focused and keeping our heads in the game,” said senior co-captain Nathan Freni. The Tornados are most definitely well on their way to realizing their hopes, taking the momentum from their Jan. 29th victory against Everett High School in stride and looking to play hard in the final stretch of the season.

The team also has three solid underclassmen players in Billy Bonnet, Bradley Applin, and Marcus Pierre;

“They definitely have the capability to lead this team for the next two years,” stated Freni, “They’re going to be great players.” With all three players being sophomores, the team is looking forward to their development as leaders and watching the progression of their chemistry on the hardwood.

As for Freni, he is determined to take the reigns and steer the team along with fellow captain Ramon Viches into the tourney before graduation. He has not thought too much about his future with college athletics, admittedly being more concerned with the team in the present; “I would love to play basketball, or even baseball, in college. I just don’t know where yet. Right now I am more focused on this season and maybe going deep in the tourney.”

With their final six games looming over the horizon, Malden is looking forward to taking on all their remaining opponents. With two senior leaders and a talented team of athletes, the Tornados are not only looking to roll over their competition, but into the state tournament as well.

Senior Captain Ramon Viches goes for a layup.

Photo by Lauren Benoit.

24

Sports

The Blue and Gold January 2010

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Indoor Boys and Girls Track Sharon Lee

One Step Closer to The GBL Championship

Reporter Weeks of training plus dedication have truly gotten the Boys’ Indoor Track team really far. Heading to GBL’s with a record of one tie and five wins is a great accomplishment.

As of right now they share the first place title with Somerville. However, the team is only a few days away from the GBL championships.

Ever since 1977 the Somerville Boys’ Indoor Track team has been unbeatable but for the first time in over 30 years the Boys’ Track team ended Somerville’s winning streak and started off their season with a tie. Coincidentally Coach David Londino happens to be from Somerville and was part of the track team for Somerville High. He remembers running the 600 meter race and said “when I ran for Somerville they always thought Malden was an easy

win but once I started working in Malden I changed my mind.”

Following their tie to Somerville were four more victories over Everett, Arlington, Cambridge and Medford. One of which took place on Wednesday February 3rd when Malden took a victory over Medford with a score of 68-18. That day many players finished in 1st place like Kelvin Tsang and Abdu El Adlouni.

Captain Ariel Hurts ran a personal best of 5.72 seconds in the 50 meter dash and by the end of the meet he showed how pleased he was by saying “I can’t explain the feeling; I can’t believe it happened and I am so proud of [the] team.”

As Coach Stephen Rubin watches all the well trained athletes warming up around the gym he is sure that “everyone has gotten bet-

ter [and that was] our main g o a l . ” This has definitely reflected u p o n people like Brendan Provitola, a high jumper who is now qualified for States, because he reached a height of 6’ in his high jump when the qualifying height is only 5’10’’.

Another high jumper is Herbens Antenor who will also be joining Provitola at States with a height of 5’11.’’ However, all of the coaches are sure that many more players will be attending States this year since some are only seconds away from qualifying.

Brendan Provitola, a memver of The Blue and Gold (top) jumps 6 feet for the high jump qualifying him for States.

Cynthia Antenor (left) finishes first for the 50 meter hurdles. Photos by Sharon Lee.

Upcoming Meets GBL Meet 2-13 at the reggie lewis center State Meet 2-26 at the reggie lewis center

Girls Sweat for the Title Sharon Lee Reporter Counting down the days until GBLs Championships, the Girls’ Indoor Track team is working their hardest and is well on their way to a great finish. Although their last two meets against Cambridge and Medford may not have been the highlight of their season they have shown major improvement.

As Londino had said “personal bests [were] everywhere” and this was true because their meets against Cambridge and Medford were not just ordinary meets but for some it

was where they had done exceptionally well and performed their own personal best. Knocking off 6 seconds to reach her all time personal best at 3 minutes and 46 seconds was Senior Ngoc Doan as she ran the 1000 meter run. Many others also had amazing performances like Junior Cynthia Antenor who finished in 1st place for both the high jump and hurdles, Sophomore Jessica Vo finishing 1st with a time of 13minutes and 55 seconds in the 2 mile run. Similarly Senior Lynn

Tran performed amazingly as she came in 2nd place in the 2 mile run while also beating her best record by a whole minute down to 14 minutes and 36 seconds. To end the night Jessica Vo, Carolyn Lam, Chardeza Coleman, and Cynthia Antenor ran a season best for the 4X4 relay.

By the end of the meet Coach Mitch Abbatessa said he was “pleasantly surprised [by] surprising performances and personalities; [it’s just] absolutely incredible.”

State Qualifiers Thanh Nguyen for Shotput Brendan Provitola for High Jump Herbens Antenor for High Jump