The Blue and Gold maldenblueandgold.com Malden High School Volume 101 Edition 3
77 salem street December 2015
“Blood Brothers” musical pages 12-13
Collage done by Manale Zouhir. All photos taken by Jesaias Benitez.
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pg 18-21 pg 6-7 pg 11 pg 9 pg 16 pg 16 pg 16
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MALDEN HIGH SCHOOL
Volume 101, Edition 3 / 8 December 2015
Editorial
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Malden High School
It’s Going to Be Okay, Mom
The Blue and Gold 77 Salem St. Malden, MA 02148
Staff Print Editor-in-Chief Lucia Quesada Nylen ‘16 Print Managing Editors Cassandra Reyes ‘16 Manale Zouhir ‘16 Web and Mobile Apps Editorsin-Chief Emma Ceplinskas ‘16 Andrew Cogliano ‘16 Head Copy Editor Nicholas Bramante ‘16 Web & Mobile Apps Managing Editor Jasper Haag ‘16 Art & Design Editor Ashley Leung ‘16 Multimedia Editor Chaimae El Adlouni ‘16 Heads of Local News Felicia Fallano ‘17 Julia Parker ‘17 Heads of Sports News Tatyanna Cabral ‘17 Tenzin Dorjee ‘17 Nedlam’s Corner Karina Matos ‘17 Lead Reporters Abdul Ali ‘16 Alexis Brown ‘16 Liam Elliott ‘16 Marly Loreus ‘16 Haley Mallett ‘16 Megan Downer ‘18 Leila Greige ‘18 Ana Bia Kerr ‘18 Anna Powers ‘18 Lead Photographer Meghan Yip ‘18 Lead Videographers Stacey Wong ‘16 Samuel Martinez ‘18 Staff Artist Ziqi Zeng ‘16 Reporters Gabriella Onessimo ‘17 Tatum Skiffington ‘17 Christina Appignani ‘18 Ryan Hames ‘18 Alysha McDevitt ‘18 Ymanika “Monica” Nicolas ‘18 Nada Tuffaha ‘18 Cameron Witham ‘18 Jesaias Benitez ‘19 Neden Bernadin ‘19 Vivian Dang ‘19 Joanna Li ‘19 Cedrina Missamou ‘19 Abhishek Rana ‘19 Sydney Stumpf ‘19 Ailin Toro ‘19 Kristy Yang ‘19 Advisor ryan gallagher
The Blue and Gold December 2015
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ours are being scheduled, interviews are being held, acceptance letters are being received, and over there, right in the shadows, is a parent crying at the thought of their child leaving for college. Nevermind the mere idea of their child attending school that’s not down the street, but the idea of them living on campus? No way. Not on my mom’s watch, at least. For the past seventeen years, my mom has fed me, put a roof over my head and has been no farther than a phone call from the nurse and a 5 minute drive from my school. It just doesn’t make any sense to her as to why I’m planning on dorming. “How could [her] baby leave [her]?” Showing up to a new school with all of your luggage in a new city with a bit too many new faces is nerve-wracking. Most of us seniors are ready to take on this challenge though. Our parents, not so much. I get it. It’s more nerve-wracking not knowing who your child is going to be living with for the next year, or if they liked the food they ate today, or if they even ate at all. Don’t they want us to grow up though? I find myself contemplating this question every time my mom is baffled by me not knowing how to cook a turkey dinner but then, ten minutes later, she is begging me to stay home and commute next year. College is supposed to help us gain our independence. I thought that’s what they wanted. But the reality is, our parents rather have us living in their house for the rest of our lives than for us to go live at college. They rather deal with our mood swings, hungry stomachs and poor attitudes than to only see us once a month. And as much as we think we want to get out, we’ll be crying on move-in day too. Our parents are the only roommates we’ve ever known. They’re also the best roommates we’ve ever known because who else will cook and clean for us just because we don’t feel like it or don’t know how to? Of course, living on college campus may not be the best fit for everyone, but it does open up a
lot of doors for those who decide to. On top of being an independence-builder, dorming allows students to make more solid connections with their peers, especially their roommates, to be more active in the school’s activities and to feel more apart of the school’s community. It’ll be heart-breaking for our families to let us take this life-changing step, but it’s a major part of the college experience. If you or your parents are hesitant about the whole dorming situation, I suggest planning a visit to the college with them. Once your parents meet adults and students at the school, they’ll hopefully warm up to the idea. It gives them the chance to know where you’ll be and to feel more comfortable about it. If they’re like my mom, a college visit isn’t enough to change their mind, but we’re working on it! College visits also help you feel less intimidated by living on campus and taking this drastic step. So, seniors, as over-dramatic as we think they’re being right now, cherish the time you have left with your parents. Take your mom out to eat, or better yet, learn how to make her favorite meal. Involve them in the college process and be patient with their stubbornness, they’re only being protective. It’s a big step for them too. June 5th is fast approaching and before you know it, you’ll be at Target getting your twin-size comforter set for your new room.
Cassandra Reyes Cassandra Reyes Print Managing Editor Class of 2016
Editorial Policy
The Blue and Gold is an open forum for student expression. It is produced by students for the school and the community. The views presented in this paper are not necessarily those of the advisor or the school administration. The views presented in the editorials are those of the editors-in-chief or guests. The goal of The Blue and Gold is to inform and entertain students as well as the community regarding issues that we feel are important. We strongly encourage readers to respond to material printed in the form of signed letters to the editors. No libelous, malicious, defamatory, obscene, or unsigned material will be printed. The Blue and Gold reserves the right to edit the letters. Names may be withheld upon request. Not all letters will be printed. Although The Blue and Gold appreciates the support of advertisers, we may refuse any advertisement that violates the above policy or that promotes products questionable to student use. Any correspondence concerning this publication should be directed to Mr. Ryan Gallagher’s room in J387 or to his mailbox in the main office.
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An inside look the daniel holtzclaw case Andrew Cogliano Online Editor-in-Chief
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n December 10, 2015, former Oklahoma City police officer Daniel Holtzclaw was found guilty of the serial rape of 13 women while on duty, all of them African American. Holtzclaw faced 36 counts, ranging from first degree rape to indecent exposure and sexual battery, and was found guilty of 18. He is currently awaiting sentencing, which is scheduled for next month. Holtzclaw preyed upon women in one of the poorest areas of Oklahoma City, and routinely turned traffic stops into sexual assaults. Witnesses testified before the court that Holtzclaw promised to drop a drug charge from their criminal records if they did not report his actions. Others still testified that Holtzclaw stalked them, appearing at their homes and forcing them to expose themselves to him. In June of 2014, a woman known only as J.L came forward to report Holtzclaw’s actions, which launched the investigation that led to his arrest. This case is significant in that the media has refused to pay attention to it. Many people were made aware on social media via Black Lives Matter protesters and independent news sources. An all white jury convicted Holtzclaw (who specified his race as “Asian or Pacific Islander”), consisting of eight men and four women. Critics of the way the legal system treats police officers as a whole were shocked by the jury’s decision. One witness specifically said “I didn’t think anyone would believe me, I’m a black female.” This case focuses on the abuse of power and authority by police in the United States, and the way in which women (specifically black women) are targeted. Police Chief William Citty wrote in Holtzclaw’s termination letter that his actions constituted “the greatest abuse of police authority I have witnessed in my 37 years as a member of this agency.”
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Opinion
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The Primaries: Making Your Voice Known Submitted by Senior Terrica Dang
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id January, we will be hosting a mock primary election right here at Malden High. Last week, we talked about how your vote matters and to prove that it does, each and every student in this school will be voting in this election. We’ve held a mock election here in the school earlier in this year for the councilor at large election and those candidates were very interested in what the turnouts were. They were excited to hear about what the students at Malden High had to say and this is the impact that we have in our community. If you are going to be under 18 before the primary or general elections, you have the power to influence the adults in your life to be informed and vote for the person that you think would be best for our country. The primary election can arguably be the most important part of the presidential election process. In Massachusetts, we have an open primary, meaning that any registered
voter can choose either a Republican end of the primaries, we will have or Democratic two presidential ballot regardnominees and less of what one of them party they will be our next are regispresident. tered to. The The way reason why it works is that the primary first, the comelection is so mon citizens important is of the United because we States go to the are basically voting locations choosing our that they are next president registered in at this elecand request the tion. There ballot of their are currently choosing; either 14 Republican a Republican or and 3 Demoa Democratic cratic candiballot. On this dates, making ballot, votour decision ers will either that much An infographic of the primary election. choose one out more crucial Photo provided by Terrica Dang. of the fourteen because we Republicans or need to vet these candidates and one of the three Democrats who they pick the absolute best one. By the think will be a good presidential
candidate. After the people vote, all of the Republican votes go the Republican delegates while the Democratic votes go to the Democratic delegates. Then, these delegates from each state take into account what the votes from the people were and take them to the National Convention of their respective parties. Here, the delegates from all 50 states come together to choose and present their nominee for the next President of the United States. The primaries are crucial in the election process. Some of you will be able to vote in the real primaries this year and that can be very exciting! But if you are like me and you’re not 18 by the time the real primaries roll around, you can take part in our mock primaries and influence the adults in your life or your friends who are 18 years old to vote your way. Make your voice known and make these primary votes count because they determine who our next leader will be.
Pulling Our “Trump” Card How One of 2016’s Presidential Candidates Revealed that America’s Liberties May be a Fleeting Idea Nicholas Bramante Head Copy Editor
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nless you’ve been living under the largest and deepest rock in recorded geological history, there’s a good chance you’ve been subjected to the numerous reports and countless headlines dominated by the one and only, Donald Trump. Whether you love him or hate him, there’s no denying in that his rise from political joke to serious (and lead GOP) contender for the 2016 Presidential Election was an incredibly swift and surprising feat. His claims on everything from immigration to terrorism have been pretty polarized and even jarring, sparking furious debate from Republicans, Democrats, and Independents alike on all facets of communication, whether it be over social media, on mainstream news stations, or angry family dinners. But this isn’t about Trump, because honestly Trump isn’t the “problem” I see in the United States. If anything, his campaign has helped shed light to the darker, uglier side of the U.S that has seemed to evade most headlines in favor of more dramatic issues like terrorism or whatever North Korea seems to be threatening next. You can agree with many of Trump’s points, you’re allowed to have different views on particular
issues than others, such is the way ideas this country was founded on, of the United States. What is not and countless so that have thrown acceptable however, is the massive liberties to the wind in favor of seamount of support many Americans curity and short term gratification. have shown on ideas or policies that It doesn’t matter what your are not only downright un-Amer- political, social, ethnic, or religious ican, they’re background practically unis; if you agree constitutional. with blatant Trump so far discriminahas seemed tion against to say exactly religious or what a lot of ethnic groups people want in the form of to hear, and bans on immiknows exactly gration based how to play on said charoff of what acteristics, in they do not. the form of By all means identification so far, he’s dobadges, or ing a great job in the form of convincing of specific many Amerimonitoring cans that he of mosques is the right or other locandidate. cations of T h e supposed unfortunate religious freetruth however dom promDonald Trump, Republican candidate. is that the focus Photo provided by Wikimedia. ised in the seems to be on United States, whether or not people agree with then you are un-American. Using some of the statements made by fear and past attacks as justification Trump, not that some ideas are com- to discriminate against people who pletely unacceptable in the modern have in most cases gone through United States as we know it. This the immensely difficult process of isn’t a jab at Trump or his campaign, immigration into the United States it’s a jab at the countless Americans is not only morally wrong, it’s igthat seem to have forgotten what norant, and it’s possibly one of the
most unpatriotic and un-American acts a U.S citizen can commit. Discrimination in any form against people who have legally come to the United States because of identifying characteristics such as ethnicity or religion is unacceptable in 2015, and it’s going against nearly everything this country was founded on. America should be the land of the free, and it’s slowly and unfortunately turning into the land of the fearful and the secure. The person that chooses security over liberty deserves neither, and unfortunately, many of those that call the U.S home seem to have already made the wrong decision, and aren’t intent on stepping down from it anytime soon. So I reiterate, Trump isn’t the problem. Because of our freedom we Americans seem to stand up and fight for every day, people are allowed to freely express their agreeances with this candidate. The problem is the pure bigotry, discrimination, and unAmerican culture that some (but not all) of Trump’s policies and statements have bred. So before you take a stance on any of the upcoming policies or candidates in this 2016 election, before you can even consider expressing your opinions and concerns, take a step back and ask yourself: is this acceptable? Does this abide by the U.S’ ideologies and Constitution? And most importantly: is this American?
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2015 MHS Pep Rally
Above: The Sophomore and Junior spirit teams during the Tug of War competition. Photo by Meghan Yip
Sydney Stumpf Reporter Ailin Toro Reporter
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he week before Thanksgiving, Spirit Week and pep rally took over Malden High School, engulfing the students in daily dress-up themes, beginning with pajama day, leading into wacky tacky day and closing on the day of the pep rally with Blue and Gold day where students are encouraged to dress in blue and gold to show Malden pride. Rebecca Corcoran, the Class of 2019 advisor, stated, “It has been great to watch the freshman class get excited about their first spirit week. The class of 2019 is already coming together and showing how proud they are to be Malden High students.” Freshman placed fourth during pep rally, behind sophomores, juniors, and seniors in first place but all classes showed great
school spirit as there was a sea of blue and gold in the bleachers of the Finn gym. Each class created a banner to show school pride and to encourage the football team before their annual Thanksgiving game against Medford. Themes ranged from television shows to celebrities in which Malden is always shown to be the victor. The pep rally began with all four classes chanting “Go Malden, beat Medford,” beginning with Freshmen yelling “Go,” ending with the Seniors yelling “Medford.” Even though all classes showed their enthusiasm and MHS pride, it was a bittersweet event for MHS principal, Dana Brown as it was his last Spirit Week and pep rally before retiring at the end of this school year. On his last spirit day, Brown expressed that “[he] love[s] the idea of coming together as a school in fun competitions.” He particularly likes
wacky tacky day and is unsure what he will do next year at this time. Pep rally continued with basketball between the classes, followed by cheer routines from MHS’s cheerleading team. The senior football players and cheerleaders were then honored. The dance team, The Lions, performed in a lively dance routine, with the step team and break dancing group, Airbound, to follow later on. The pull up competition was next and concluded with the seniors reigning victorious. The next performance during pep rally was memorable. All eyes were on the Step Team as their performance was full of coordinated dancers. The human pyramid event came shortly after then the over and under competition. Sophomores claimed victory for that competition. The popular and exceptional MHS dance team, Airbound, concluded Spirit Week and pep rally, leaving the crowd in amazement.
Clockwise: The Freshman and Senior spirit teams during the Volleyball competition, the Malden High School band performing as students arrive to the Finn Gym, breakdancing group Airbound performing, the MHS Golden Tornado cheerleaders performing. All photos by Ryan Hames and Meghan Yip.
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Clockwise: Senior pep rally team huddling before an event, provided by Damandeep Singh. The Freshman spirit team attempting the Human Pyramid, Seniors cheering on their fellow classmates, Junior Vivian Nguyen during the pullup competition, the MHS Lions dance team during their performance, breakdancing group Airbound during their performance, Seniors during Human Pyramid, provided by Damandeep Singh. Other photos by Ryan Hames and Meghan Yip.
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Malden Presented With Award For Sustainable Energy Efforts Haley Mallett Lead Reporter
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ecently, the city of Malden was presented with National Grid’s “Shining Community Award” which is presented to communities that have put their best efforts forward to sustaining energy for the future. Malden, among four other towns and cities including Chelmsford, Newburyport, Shirley, and Salisbury, was recognized and awarded with $47,476. Malden participated in National Grid’s Efficiency Community Initiative this year. This is a grant program designed to “support municipalities in their efforts to become more energy efficient,” explained Malden mayor, Gary Christenson. Malden was required to help its business owners save money on
their energy bills as well as select community members in their households. The city exceeded all of its
goals, specifically its audit, air sealing, and insulation goals. The grant awarded will go to-
wards funding LED streetlights, and other upgrades that will allow the city to build on its energy efficiency. Christenson, attended the event at National Grid’s headquarters in Waltham, Massachusetts to accept the award. “[He] thank[s] National Grid for their continued commitment to sustainable energy. [He is] grateful to the Energy Efficiency Commission, chaired by City Councillor Craig Spadafora for promoting this initiative and for moving Malden towards becoming a green community,” stated Christenson. The future of Malden is looking bright, especially now that we as a city have become more energy efficient, and have been recognized for our efforts.
Photo of Mayor Christenson and the president of National Grid of Massachusetts, Marcy Reed. Photo from City of Malden website.
Malden is On the Search for a New Principal
From left to right: Principal candidates Kevin Brill, Edward Lombardi, and Richard Bransfield. Photos by Emma Ceplinskas. Megan Downer Lead Reporter
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fter 12 years of hard work and dedication here at Malden High School, Dana Brown will be resigning from his position as principal. The end of Brown’s time at MHS signals a need for someone to fill his seemingly irreplaceable shoes. When seeking out candidates for the job, the high school had to organize a new principal search committee. The committee includes several divisions which consist of the Community Committee, the High School Committee, the Search Committee and the Interview Committee. The extensive process in choosing the next principal required members of the community and school to help out. During the summer, members were selected and sent a letter from
the mayor’s office asking for their input when carrying out the process. The combined total of those involved in the decision committee consists of is some 35 members that have been diligently working in recommending and interviewing candidates. There were some committee members that took on roles based off of their personal interests and expertise. The committee is a well-balanced representation of the community of Malden, pulling from current staff at MHS, workers in the community, community members and even student representatives. The school and Malden community as a whole anxiously awaits the announcement of the new principal but that time has yet to come as the principal search committee has not completed come to a final decision. The committee has recently performed a series of interviews to
select the candidate they find most suitable for the position. The superintendent has plans to announce the new principal in the beginning of 2016. Malden is known for its camaraderie and so it is imperative that the new principal is involved in the community outside of school hours. Drama and English teacher Sean Walsh expressed that “[he is] always in awe that the principal of the high school shows up to every performance of every show and does not stand in the back, but sits in the audience and watches the performance as a community member. This is awesome and inspires [him] and the students as well.” Within the requirements that come with the position, a principal must be attentive, meticulous in his work, and to meet the needs of students and staff. Brown exemplifies
the characteristics of an ideal principal should with his ability to connect with students and staff. Sophomore Jason Montezuma pointed out that he wishes for a principal “who is kind and enjoys spending time with the students.” All great leaders must reach out to the people in order to be successful. Brown has made a positive impression on students and staff alike throughout his 12 years as principal. Freshman Terrell Pesaturo explained that “[Brown] comes and checks on [her] classes and it’s cool to interact with him.” The search will soon be coming to an end as the Superintendent makes his decision after carefully evaluating the finals interviews. The Malden community are saddened by Brown’s resignation but look forward to what the future principal will offer to MHS and the city overall.
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The Triangle Project: Helping People Live Fuller Lives Ailin Toro Reporter
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he Triangle Project has been running since 1971. Triangle is meant to help people with disabilities live more independent lives. The project started off serving five people, and then blossomed into a program that now serves over 3,000 people from 170 different communities, all located in Southern New England. Triangle has many different programs. They have a program called impact where they provide hands-on personal training. They do this because, “men and women with intellectual disabilities are physically or sexually assaulted four to ten times more than non-disabled adults”. They have helped over 1,900 students with this program. Their goal with this program if for their students to build confidence and be able to defend themselves. This is not the only program Triangle has to help disabled people in their lives. They have the Schoolto-Career Project. The School-to-Career Project is set to make sure that young adults secure employment
and advance in their careers. Their mission with this project is to get 16-24 year olds to achieve their career and education goals because “80% of young adults with disabilities who don’t have job experience before they graduate from high school will never secure employment.” To help these young
adults, Triangle finds them internships at community partnerships, such as the Dockside Restaurants. In this program Triangle has helped over 100 people start or continue their careers. Triangle also has Residential Services. Residential Services are group homes where Triangle al-
lows people to live more independent lives. In these homes they do chores and live with roommates. Families still have an active role in the resident’s lives while they live here. Triangle also makes sure each individual’s assistance is different according to their needs. Another program Triangle runs is Ablevision. Ablevision is a television and media program made and produced solely by people with disabilities. Ablevision has won multiple awards and garnered over a 100,000 views on Youtube. The crew members are placed in either the creative crew, the production crew, and the studio crew. Malden has partnered with the Triangle Project, which had benefitted the community of special needs adults immensely. In Malden, seven workers from the Triangle Project are assigned to work three days per week during the Spring and Summer and contribute to cleaning up trash around the city. If you are interested in visiting their location in Malden, they are located at 420 Pearl St.
Stepping Up Their Game Anna Powers Lead Reporter
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he Malden High School Step team stepped up their game during Malden High School’s annual pep rally on Nov. 25, 2015. The Step Team is one of MHS’s most popular clubs. Sophomore Carla RosalesMcfarlane stated that, “The beginning of the year was shaky...the girls really pulled it together when [they] needed to right before pep rally.” She continued, “[They] were practicing after school for about two or three hours every day for two weeks before the pep rally.” It came as no surprise the step team’s electrifying performance at the pep rally left people excited to see what was next for the team. Pep Rally was fun for the team as they loved the energy of the crowd. They also enjoyed that the audience was attentive to their performance.The team is making another appearance at the annual Junior Varieties show and MHS is in anticipation to see what else the team has to offer. Senior Amanda Pierre described their performance at Junior Varieties last year as a “nice way to end off the step season especially for the seniors who were graduating.” Because the step team is a popular act at Junior Varieties, the team strives to succeed and prepare as much as possible. Pierre stated
Above, from left ot right: Sophomore Coralie Deus, Sophomore Carla RosalesMcfarlane, Junior Sandy Pierre-Rene, Sophomore Adeline Occean, Sophomore Guerlyne Desane, and Junior Brittney Jean. Photo by Meghan Yip. that “[they] are taking a break before [they] begin to prepare a new routine for Junior Varieties.” The time and effort put into the team has brought the team closer together. When talking about the seniors, Rosales-Mcfarlane expressed that, “Amanda, Hadinna, Molvitah, Mona, and Marly really were the glue of the team. Marly ran practices for a while after tryouts and played a big part in helping [them] learn the routines.” She also explained that the seniors’ constructive criticism helped to improve the team and did not discourage the members. The seniors are in agreement
that they will miss spending time with the rest of the members next year. Pierre loves the team because of the “sense of camaraderie that [they] have [and] feels like [they] are a family”. To any students in the future that want to try out for the team, they are welcomed with open arms. Pierre offers these words of advice, “Always go home and practice and never give up when learning a new step”. Overall the seniors on the team will be missed dearly next year, but everyone is looking forward to their performance at Junior Varieties and what is to come for next year.
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Malden Welcomes the Holidays
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The Golden Torando band marches down Salem Street in the parade. Haley Mallett Lead Reporter
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his past Thanksgiving Day weekend on Saturday, Nov. 28, the City of Malden put on their 12th Annual Malden Parade of Holiday Traditions. The parade embarked from Salemwood School, and concluded at City Hall Plaza where a ceremony was held. Following the ceremony that night was the annual Christmas tree lighting. The Parade Committee decided this year that Malden High School’s very own principal, Dana Brown, would be the Grand Marshal in honor of his retirement. Brown can always be seen in attendance at the
city’s events, including the parades to support everyone, but especially his students. Mayor Gary Christenson agreed and commented that “there is no one more deserving” of being Grand Marshal than Brown. This year’s parade featured the Malden Police and Fire Departments, Ward 7 Association, Malden Teen Enrichment Center, The Bostonian, MHS Golden Tornado Band, Ferryway School, Malden Girl Scouts, United States Submarine Veterans, Boy Scout Troop, Linden Steam Academy, Paula Terenzi’s Dance Complex, Department of Recreation, Aleppo Shrine Clowns, Divisions 1, 3, and 4, Malden Pop
Warner, Salemwood School, Darcy’s Dance Academy, Tuney Tornado Marching Band, Beebe School, Bike To The Sea, Salvation Army, Malden Chamber of Commerce, Malden Institute of Korean Karate, U.S. Postal Service, and of course, Santa Claus. Despite the rainy weather, the people of Malden still gathered outside Saturday afternoon in support of local businesses, schools, athletics, activities, and many community members who participated.
“The parade was exceptionally special because of the attendance of the Captains Council members and the box of letters they presented to me. The student remembrances were touching and warm. I will never forget them.” -MHS Principal Dana Brown
Clockwise: One of the many floats driving down Salem St. The Wah Lum Kung Fu school performing. Darcy’s Dance Academy marching. The Division 3 marching percussion ensemble performing. All photos taken by Haley Mallett.
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Malden Malden High High School’s School’s
Willy Russell’s Above: Digital art of Marilyn Monroe. Credits to Staff Artist Ziqi Zeng.
Christina Appignani Reporter Neden Bernadin Reporter
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n Nov. 19th, 20 and 21, Malden High School’s play production performed their annual fall musical, this year’s being Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers, which was narrated by sophomore Ramon Aguinaldo. The original musical was first produced as a school play, but eventually became a huge success in London’s West End. The musical soon had year-long national tours throughout the United Kingdom and the United States and won sev-
eral awards along the way. The play is mostly set in the early 1960’s in London, England. It concludes with a tragic ending that is meant to shock and startle the audience, leading them through a whirlwind of emotions. Directed by Lead English teacher and Play Production director Sean Walsh, the play is unlike any other production put on by MHS in the past. Walsh expresses that Blood Brothers “is a fantastic show. [Students] are committed to telling the story to people who have never heard of it, and [people] came because [they] were interested in who [Play Production] is and what they have to say. Se-
nior Sarah Vieira adds that “[Blood Brothers] is really interesting” and has been “a very fun experience”. She also adds that “the energy has been amazing”. Senior Joylyn Norris claimed that “it’s very challenging to play a mean character, but it is fun.” Junior Aigul Fitzgerald admits that she “was very scared at first and it took a while to come altogether,” but, “everyone’s work paid off to become a fantastic show and [she] is excited to say that [she] was a part of another play production”. The cast, crew and audience were very impressed by Play Production’s dedication to their final performances.
“The musical was something different than what we usually do. We took a risk, which really paid off.” - Senior Stage Manager and President Jilian Molokwu
From top to bottom, left to right: Mrs. Johnstone, played by senior Sarah Vieira and others, including Mickey, played by senior Brayan Angulo, and Linda, played by senior Kamila Regalado during a moving scene. Linda and teacher, played by senior Sarah Bendell. Sophomore Nathalia Sousa as Elliot Ness. Regalado as Linda crying after the tragedy towards the ending of the play. Vieira as Mrs. Johnstone with Eddie, played by junior Paul Araiza.
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Play Production Presents:
Blood Brothers
rreeww C C nndd Produced and Directed by Mr. Sean Walsh a a t t Musical Director: Mr. Todd Cole CCaass Technical Director: Mr. Allen Phelps
Choreographer: Ms. Miranda Libkin Stage Manager: Jilian Molokwu Assistant Stage Manager: Sabrina Kumar Head Lighting Designer and Board Operator: Tenzin Tseyang Scenic Painter, Scenic Design, and Additional Lighting Design: Ziqi Zeng Sound Design and Sound Operator: Sabrina Kumar Set Design and Master Carpenters: Alex Silva and Thomas Hannafin Set Construction: Josue Espada, Richard Melgar, and Anthony Folkes Properties: Lyndsey Martin and Connor Fitzpatrick Head Costumer: Iliana Rivas Costumers: Camilla Raraliticci Castano and Isadora Alpino Spot Operators: Richard Melgar and Anthony Folkes Shift Crew and Fly System: Alex Silva, Connor Fitzpatrick, Josue Espada, Thomas Hannafin Additional Painters: Denise Le and Jenny Nguyen Documentarians: Stacey Wong and Ryan Hyunh Sound Assistance: Jessica Munroe and Mohsin Qureshi
To read an extended article, go on maldenblueandgold.com and to view a “Meet the Cast” video on Blood Brothers and a “What Does...” video on Play Production, visit youtube.com/maldenblueandgold!
Narrator - Ramon Aguinaldo Mrs. Johnstone - Sarah Vieira Mickey - Brayan Angulo Eddie - Paul Araiza Sammy - Sajeanah Cadet Linda - Kamila Regalado Urrutia Mrs. Lyons - Joylyn Norris Mr. Lyons - Marino DiPietrantonio Ensemble: Sarah Bendell, Ali Fletcher, Daniela Herrera, Nathalia Sousa, Aigul Fitzgerald, Maggie O’Callaghan, Nicolas Acuna, Christine Bordeau, Julia Cocuzzo, Ariana Teixeira, Karina Matos, Bailey Reed, Eliana Alvardo
From top to bottom, left to right: Regalado as Linda, Angulo as Mickey, and Araiza as Eddie. Members of the cast during a performance of “Bright New Day”. Angulo and Bendell as Mickey and a teacher during a classroom scene. Vieira as Johnstone and senior Joylyn Norris as Mrs. Lyons. Senior Sajeanah Cadet as Sammy after the tragedy towards the ending of the play. All photos by Jesaias Benitez.
Local News
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The Blue and Gold December 2015
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2016 Poetry Out Loud Preview Nada Tuffaha Reporter
P
oetry Out Loud is a nation-wide recitation contest in which people all around the country compete in. The competition is based off of recitation, performance, presence, volume, and understanding of the poem chosen by a student off of poetryoutloud.org POL has become a huge part of Malden High School’s English department. It first started in 2006, merely with English teachers who chose to fit it into their curriculum. It wasn’t until seven years ago where it became a school-wide requirement across all high school grade levels. The decision to make POL a school-wide requirement was to help increase focus on poetry and recitation. POL is one of MHS’s biggest competitions in the school year, and it can often get intense and entertaining. The winner(s) of POL later go to regionals, and if successful then a statewide competition, then nationals. POL first starts off as a competition in one’s English class, with the competition between classmates. The winner of each class later moves to the more narrow competition,
which is between all the winners from the same class period. The two winners of each period come to a total of 14, who enter the semi-finals in front of the whole entire school! The semi-finals are divided into two days, and take place on Jan. 6, 2016 and Jan. 7, 2016. On Jan. 6th, 2016, periods 5,6,7,2, and 3 will be competing. On Jan. 7, 2016, periods 4 and 1 will be competing. The semifinals later lead into the finals which take place on Jan. 28, 2016. MHS lead English teacher Sean Walsh notes that over the years, unfortunately, there hasn’t been a student from MHS who has made it into Nationals, but Malden has been very successful within the region. Walsh also stated that the winners vary each year, and that “it really is wide open” although they have “never had a sophomore win”. He also adds that they have had “students from AP classes and CP classes win as well”, the winners of POL always vary. Walsh also stated that “teachers are gravitating towards more poems”, and are “also trying to think a lot about making the classroom experience something that will be exciting and involving [for students]”.
Poster for this year’s upcoming Poetry Out Loud competition. Designed and provided by staff artist Ziqi Zeng.
Chromebook Rollout: A Month Later
Go to youtube.com/ maldenblueandgold to watch a video on student persepctives of Chromebooks. Photo courtesy of MHS English teacher Natalia Brennan. Sydney Stumpf Reporter
J
ust a little over a month ago, Chromebooks were rolled out to all Malden High School students as part of the Chromebook 1:1 Initiative. Freshmen, Juniors, and Seniors were new to the program, with Sophomores returning this year with trial experience from their Freshmen year. The Chromebook 1:1 Initiative began last year, when Sprint do-
nated about 2000 Chromebooks to Malden High School. Students here have mixed views on the Chromebooks, and tend to criticize the laptops connectivity issues, due to the constant strain on the wifi. The majority also tend to prefer to do work on the Chromebooks, rather than in a notebook or on paper. Natalia Brennan, who plays a large role in the 1:1 Initiative, said “We’ve managed to accomplish a lot in a year in a half,” and “It’s going
to take time to become a 1:1 school.” Already, a year into the program, Malden High School’s students learning has been impacted greatly by the Chromebooks. Teachers are incorporating them more and more in the classroom, and for the students who didn’t have laptops or a computer at home, it gives them a chance to use them for school work and for fun. At the 1:1 Showcase on December 3, 2015, there was a particular slide that showed the most frequent-
ly visited websites, for December 2. Google Docs, Google Classroom, and Youtube were the top three. Following were, Google, Poetry Out Loud, Netflix, and Facebook. The data collected here, proves just how much both school work and personal use, are incorporated with Chromebooks. The slide also shows the issues with Chromebooks, including the fact 40 Chromebooks were repaired, 143 need to be repaired, and 76 screens have cracked.
The Blue and Gold December 2015
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Stocjing Stuffers Manale Zouhir Print Managing Editor
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Dear Nedlam, Recently I have been having a difficult time sleeping. I keep thinking and worrying about things I have to do the next day, and other things that are on my mind. Since my sleep’s been off I’ve also had a harder time focusing in school. Everything just seems to be falling apart, what should I do? - Tired and restless
Photographer Friend - For a friend who is hard to tear apart from their camera, get a memory card, film, or even a fancy mug! Fashionista - For your friend who shops ‘till they drop, a gift card to their favorite store may seem a little impersonal. Maybe try picking out an accessory that reminds you of them. Tech Geek - For the friend who never seems to put their phone down, a new phone case or pair of headphones may change their life. Bookworm - For your friend who can’t put down their current reads, pick up a Barnes and Noble gift card, a customized bookmark, or your favorite book. Most readers are strong writers as well, so if you find a personalized journal or a nice set of pens, this may be a nice touch.
Stressed - For the friend who has been stressed the past few days, some relaxing tea bags or even a book of motivational quotes to keep them going. You can even grab a mason jar and fill it with quotes for each day of the upcoming year that they can pull out when they’re feeling down.
Winter Playlist Manale Zouhir Print Managing Editor
If you’re already sick of the classic holiday jams, here is a playlist that will get you through the rest of the brutally cold winter season, with songs from a variety of different artists and genres. You’re bound to discover an artist or song you like! Hoops - Jones Like Real People Do - Hozier Refuse - Kevin Garrett Why iii Love the Moon - Phony Ppl Love Again - Ta-ku Goddess - Banks Exchange - Bryson Tiller Every Moment - Dead Times Eternal Sunshine - Jhene Aiko Flesh and Bone - Keaton Henson 8896 - Lapsley Bright - Kehlani Hurricane - Halsey Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right - Bob Dylan The Girl - City and Colour No Less - SG Lewis Slow it Down - The Lumineers Fallingforyou - The 1975 Bloom - The Paper Kites Please, Please, Please, Let Me Get What I Want - The Smiths 505 - Arctic Monkeys Pressure - Milk & Bone Crown of Love - Arcade Fire From Time (feat. Jhene Aiko) - Drake Hold On (feat. Sampha) - SBTRKT Just Friends - Amy Winehouse Rivers and Roads - The Head and the Heart Two Weeks - FKA twigs
Dear Tired and Restless, As I’m sure you know from your personal experiences, sleep is vital in all aspects of our lives. Besides providing you with energy, it also helps your mind process the events of the day, increases your focus, and helps your mind and body function properly. That being said, it seems like you’ve realized that and identified the cause of your sleeplessness, stress. Stress is a major cause of sleep deprivation because at night we have time to think and can’t distract ourselves from worry. But you already know all this, the question is what to do about it. First, specifically identify what is causing you stress. If you are unable to sleep, keep a notebook or piece of paper by your bed (no electronic devices, they are clinically proven to only keep you more awake) and write down what’s on your mind. Sometimes letting out what you are feeling, whether it’s to a counselor, or just written on a piece of paper can help ease your mind. Once you’ve written down what it is that is causing you to stress, think if there is anything you can do to reduce your anxiety about it. If you haven’t finished all of your homework and are worrying about having to get it done in the morning, or worrying about what your teacher might say, plan ahead to get your work done earlier to prevent it from happening again. If you are worried about friends or social issues, talk it out with your parents, a counselor, or even just discuss how you are feeling with your friends. You weren’t specific in what issue was causing you to be unable to sleep, but whatever it is if you are able to do something about it to make your situation less stressful, mainly talking with friends/family/counselors, I think is a good idea. Since you also mentioned that your lack of sleep is affecting your schoolwork, I suggest talking to your teacher or counselors if it becomes a real issue. But for now, just try to get your sleep pattern back on track (give it a month or so) and deal with whatever is causing you this anxiety and stress. A few other small ways to encourage sleep is to do physical activity sometime during the day, not use electronic devices at least an hour or so before bed, listen to calming music, and to think about the place that makes you happiest, or come up with a story in your mind and hopefully you’ll eventually drift off. Hope this helps! Good Luck!
Submit your questions to the school’s favorite mascot anonymously at ask.fm/ maldenblueandgold!
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How to Be More Motivated As we are approaching the cold, brutal, winter months, it is crucial for many of us to buckle down and stay motivated enough to achieve our goals. No matter how much you want to curl up into bed with a mug of hot cocoa and binge-watch your favorite Netflix show, there is a time and a place... and that time and place is after you have checked off every item on your to-do list. Being a natural born-procrastinator, it’s often hard for me to stay on top of everything I need to do, but these tips have been getting me through it. Manale Zouhir Print Managing Editor
1.
Set a list of goals. If you don’t have any, think of some. A goal doesn’t have to be as big as “become a hip-hop star”. It can be, but you can also start small, as small as “finish 5 job applications by next week”. As long as you are keeping specific small goals for short time periods, you won’t be as easily discouraged.
2.
Once you have a few goals, stick to them. Constantly be reminded of them. I used to always write notes on my phone of my goals, but I realized that it was ineffective since it got hidden on the app, so I only had to look at it when I felt like it--never. Put them somewhere you will see them every day. Write them in journals, on notepads, on sticky-notes, any surface you can find. It helps to hand-write them; studies have shown writing engages our brains more effectively than typing. Set them as your phone background, whatever you have to do. I keep sticky-notes on my mirror and in my laptop reminding me of my goals, and this way there is no escaping them.
3. Try to visualize yourself reaching your goals. For example, if your goal is to finish all of
your homework, then visualize yourself in bed by nine pm, waking up in the morning fully rested, and getting a high score on the assignment that you worked hard on. If your goal is to complete college applications and supplements, visualize yourself receiving and holding an acceptance letter to the school whose application you spent extra time perfecting. Seeing really is believing sometimes, and you can make these visions reality simply by getting up and chasing after them.
4.
As far as actually getting up, being productive, and staying that way, try to think about it in a different way. This is how I view it: every single thing that I choose to do, whether it is going out with friends, doing homework, completing a chore, or going to work, is beginning to define and shape who I am becoming as a person. Thinking about it like this may help you change how you spend your time. I can binge-watch as much Netflix as I want on a weekend, but at the end of the day, it is not really furthering me in pursuit of my goals. I don’t feel like I am progressing as a person. Yes, it is absolutely important to take time to rest and relax when you have free time from the hecticness that comes throughout the week, but this time can definitely be limited. I value my free time so much more now. Rather than putting it into rewatching season 2 of The Office, I can put it into doing things I am more passionate about, and you can too.
5.
As for small daily assignments that you may be faced with, you can easily get these done! When I am faced with a small chore such as cleaning my room, I can huff and puff about this all I want. I can procrastinate, throw a tantrum, complain to myself, but I’m just wasting my time. Completing this small assignment will ultimately just get me farther in life, because once I clean my room, I can continue on with my day. If a small task that won’t take you very long is getting in the way of your day, just do it. Put all of your focus into it. I often turn off my phone, play some music, then quickly complete said task.
6.
Once it hits you how much faster you can get these small tasks done, it will hit you how much more you can get from your day. Sure, you can lie in bed all day, and the day will pass you by so much faster; before you know it it’s time to go to sleep when you realize you haven’t done anything productive today. But if you focus your day on doing more from the second you wake up, the day will feel longer. You can go to bed early, wake up early, and get your next day started with just as much productivity. Time is valuable, irreplaceable. Don’t waste it.
7.Don’t compete with others--compete with yourself. I used to think it was a good motivation
tool to compete with someone else, but it really isn’t; it’s discouraging at best. Instead, compete with yourself, challenge yourself to be a better person than you were yesterday. A friend once told me this, and it hit me hard. Every day you wake up and are faced with the chance to better yourself. Who I am right now is someone different than who I was yesterday, and completely different than who I was six months ago. Ask yourself every day: what can I do to make myself a better person than I was yesterday?
Sports
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The Blue and Gold December 2015
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MHS 2016 Winter
Collage done by Samuel Martinez.
The Blue and Gold December 2015
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Swimming Upcoming Varsity Home Game: 12/17/15 vs. Milton @ 3:30 pm
wrestling Upcoming Varsity Home Game: 1/28/16 vs. Newton North @ 5pm
Coach- Jeremiah Smith Captains- Anthony Johnson, Michael Castro
Coaches- Paul DeVincentis, Jessica Bisson Captains- Samantha Forestier, Alexandra Lombardi, Ryan Luu, Matthew Perry “For the past few years the team has been extremely strong and we have managed to bring home titles and medals. I hope that we follow the same path this year by winning GBL’s and creating a large states and sectionals team. We are a determined team and I know that we are fully capable to accomplish all of our goals.” - Senior Captain Samantha Forestier
Boys Hockey Upcoming Game: 12/23/15 New England Regional @ 6pm
Gymnastics Coach- Vanessa James Captains- Kiley Ruelle and Jessica Munroe Upcoming Varsity Home Game: 1/16/16 vs. Medford @ 11 am “My goals for our team this year will be to make sure that everyone leaves a better gymnast and athlete than they were at the beginning of the season. That doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone gets a new skill, but maybe that they improved the performance of a particular skill that in turn contributed to the success of our team.” - Coach Vanessa James
The great thing about ice hocke is that no individual can win a game. This sport is one of brotherhood and is truly a team sport, because in order to succed, you need to be on the same page as your team. Our team mottoe is ‘don’t give up the ship,” as it lets everyone know that no matter what, we need to stand together as a team and not abandon each other when we hit a rough patch. - Junior James Pandalfo
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Boys Indoor track Coaches- David Londino, Jayson Payeur, Christopher Kaubfliesch
Upcoming Varsity Home Game: 1/6/16 vs. Everett @ 3:45 pm
Girls Indoor track Coaches- David Londino, Jayson Payeur, Christopher Kaubfliesch
“Last year was a great success. Beyond their undefeated record, the boys showed great character in their GBL clinching win at Somerville. We also had some of the top individual runners and throwers on the state stage.” - Coach David Londino
Girls Basketball “We don’t have a lot of Coach- Lydia Coverdale size but we have a lot Captains-Tishida Stroud, Caitlyn of fight in us which will Leonard make us very competitive Upcoming Varsity against other teams” Home Game: - Senior Captain 12/17/15 vs. Lowell Simson Liberis @ 7pm
Boys Basketball Coach- Don Nally Captains- Simson Liberis, Nathaniel Ilebode, Mark Rogers Upcoming Varsity Home Game: 1/8/16 vs. Somerville @ 7pm
“Each season we want to be the best we can be as a team. It takes commitment and each player must be willing to make their teammates their number one priority.” - Coach Lydia Coverdale
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Opinion
The Blue and Gold December 2015
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The Truth ABout Concussions
Abhishek Rana Reporter
T
he National Football League, better known as the NFL is the most competitive and entertaining league for professional football. For the 31st year in a row, the Harris poll found that the NFL is the most popular sports league in America among adult males. According to the poll, 31% of all male adults in America prefer the NFL over any other sports league. The closest competitor to the NFL is Major League Baseball, which received only 16% of the votes. With the game evolving for the better and its popularity increasing, even overseas, it seems that the NFL is only heading in an upward direction. Howeaver, what is not heading in an upward direction is the league’s reputation, which has been questioned numerous times by critics and the media. Players’ off the field antics are not the only issue, their safety on it is also a huge concern for the league. There is no doubt that the sport of football is a “violent” sport and playing it takes a toll on a human being’s body. Football builds on a culture of toughness. It is said that that you need to be tough to survive football. Stone Phillips Reports quoted Hall of Fame running back, Eric Dickerson as saying “You are supposed to be tough. You are supposed to play through pain. You are not supposed to cry. We are taught that early on in the game as kids. Tough sport. Brutal sport. It’s like the gladiator. People want to see the big hits. They wind up on Sports Center. And as a player, you don’t want to admit you are injured,” when asked about playing through injuries. This type of attitude and approach from players towards football may seem
admirable in the moment, but quite frankly is ignorant on the long run. One of the biggest issues injury wise in the sport is how exposed they are to concussions. A study conducted by researchers with the Department of Veteran Affairs and Boston University discovered that a total of 87 out of 91 former NFL players were positive to a brain disease common to a concussion known as Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, or CTE. That is an astonishing 96% of the players they examined. Not only that, but in their lab they also found CTE in the brain tissues of 131 out of a total of 165 individuals who before their deaths played football either professionally, semi-professionally, or during high school and college. CTE is believed to occur after numerous head traumas, and can result in memory loss, depression, and dementia. They estimate that 79% of all football players will eventually suffer from this condition. The players that are most exposed to CTE are offensive and defensive lineman as they are exposed to physical contact every play. This was backed up by the lab’s findings, as 40% of all players tested positive either played offensive or defensive lineman. The toll of numerous concussions was never as apparent as in the case of Steelers Hall of Fame Center Mike Webster. Webster was a former nine time pro bowl player and the player that had played more games than any other player in franchise history; 220 of them. It was known at the time that players had a hard time after retirement, however Webster’s case was extreme. After 17 seasons in the NFL, Webster once known as ‘Iron Mike,’ had lost complete control of his body that was once deemed invincible. He became forgetful, often forgetting to eat. He became depressed and suffered through many physical prob-
lems, like almost losing his ability to hear. One night he urinated in the oven, frightening his wife and kids. He also needs to taze himself into unconsciousness just to get some sleep. “He was too sick to come to my birthday party. He didn’t even call me and I was mad,” his son Garrett Webster recalled to ESPN. All of these issues lead to end of his 23 year marriage with Pamela Webster. With no conscious of himself, Webster was dead in 2002, at the age of just 50. The tragic death of Webster brought national attention to the issue of concussions in the NFL. Much needed changes were implemented to insure the safety of the players. The same helmet to helmet contact penalties that fans
complain about, are there just there to insure other players don’t end up like Webster. There is no doubt that new concussion protocols have improved the safety of players on the field. Though, for football to be as safe as possible, players must admit when they are hurt. It is not courage to play with an injury; it is stupidity. The players must let go of the whole idea of “toughness” and “pride” that makes them want to play through a concussion. I can’t understand why a game is worth your well being in the future. After all, admitting when you are hurt does not make you a less of a man, it just makes your chances of becoming paralysed in the future a whole lot less.
From top to bottom, left to right: Pictures of examples of concussions that have occured in the NFL. A description of what a concussion is. All photos taken from Wikimedia.
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: f f : f u f p u r p e r d e w d o w P o S P H M MHS ? t ? a t h a w h t w ’ n t ’ a n c a s c l s r GGiirl maldenblueandgold.com
Tenzin Dorjee Head of Sports Tatyanna Cabral Head of Sports
T
he senior and juniors girls of Malden High School gave it their all during this year’s annual Powderpuff game. The girls spent hours and hours of their time to practice plays and learn their positions from their coaches. The game was held on November 25th, 2015 at MacDonald Stadium. The game was very intense, as in the beginning, the seniors were the definite favorite to win, as historically, the game is always won by the seniors. Both sides fought hard, with both sides of the ball making many key plays. The defensive side of the teams were especially notable as several interceptions were made during the game. The offense of seniors and juniors were very strong as well, as both were able to drive the ball down the field with great success. The seniors were coached by several senior members of the MHS football team. Senior Robert Green expressed how being a coach has allowed him to “take what [he has] learned [his] whole life and [teach
that] to other people.” Green goes on to confess that being able to do so, especially when “[he] saw them succeed, it is just the best feeling [one] can honestly have.“ As the powderpuff coaches are also players themselves, senior Djorggenson Exilhomme adds to Green’s sentiments, saying how powderpuff has allowed them “to know how [their own football] coaches go through [the process].” Exilhomme akins powderpuff to football as “when [they] call a play, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t, but [still, they] just have to do their best to making things work in a positive way.” When looking back at the game, senior Gillian Willcox admitted how “[she] was nervous,” because during the game, while “looking at the crowd, [she] saw a [lot of] people, [and it] was really scary.” This gave her a better appreciation for the football team as she now better imagine “how [the boys] feel [as they] have full bleachers [during their games].” Seniors Kelsey Gordon and Jacqueline Smith explained that their inspiration for joining powderpuff was that “it is senior year, you got to do everything.” Willcox elaborated,
saying how “[one does not] end [their] high school [career] thinking ‘Oh, I wish I did this. I wish I did that.” Gordon and Smith agree that it is best to experience all that they can, as to not end up with regrets in the end. The junior girls were taught how to play by junior members of the MHS football team. Junior Joshua Simon echoed the words of Green, saying how being a coach “is a fun experience to get out there and show what [they have] known, since [they] have been playing [football] for forever.” Junior Pedro Lugo explained how since “there is no [official] girls football team, having powderpuff, as it is close to having an [actual] organized [girls team, is great].” Junior Deyshawn Boucicault remarked how “football is not just a ‘man’s sport’; it’s also a girls sport.” Fellow junior coach and MHS football player Andy Tham noted that “anybody can play [football], and [that] everybody should play it,” a sentiment the other coaches honestly agree with. For the junior girls, this was their first time playing powderpuff. Junior Felicia Lombardi expressed
that “football is definitely harder than it looks,” because on paper, the plays seemed manageable, but once the ball was snapped, things quickly became easier said than done. For junior Lucia Ramos learning and playing the game was also difficult, because, “it is a very physical game and it’s something new, [though], it was a good experience.” After having played powderpuff, Lombardi explains how it gave the girls “more respect for football.” Thanks to powderpuff, the girls were able to play with people they have never met before and already knew. Thus, new friendships and teamwork skills were formed, and old ones solidified. The juniors this year were able to make history, as through their hard work and determination, they were able to snag the 2nd ever tie in MHS powderpuff history. In every powderpuff game, both sides always want to win and push themselves. While MHS always enjoys seeing the competitive spirits of the players, MHS, above all else, always hopes its girls enjoy themselves and looks forward to future powderpuff games in the years to come.
Scan this QR code to view a video on Powderpuff from our youtube channel youtube.com/maldenblueandgold!
Top: Senior and junior participants along with coaches posing after the game. Bottom, left to right: Senior team in a huddle in between plays. Junior coaches discussing a play with junior Felicia Lombardi. Photos taken by Tenzin Dorjee.
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The Blue and Gold December 2015
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bringing the trophy home With a final score of 59-36, Malden High School’s Golden Torando football team defeats the Medford Mustangs at the 128th Annual Thanksgiving Day Game.
Leila Greige Lead Reporter
T
he Malden High School Golden Tornado and the Medford Mustangs added another chapter to one of the most historic high school football games on Thanksgiving, with a victory score of 59-36. The Malden boys soaked up the triumph and took home the trophy. Senior Mack Brunot expressed that “bringing back the trophy to Malden was the only way to end the season. [They] had [their] ups and downs during the season, but [they] played the game with everything [the team] had and left everything on the field.” The game was held on Nov. 25, 2015 at Hormel Stadium, in Medford, Massachusetts. The day before, MHS held its annual pep rally. The pep rally’s chants of “Go Malden Beat Medford” resounded throughout the gym and helped to keep the boys’ minds focused on the
match ahead. During halftime, head coach Joseph Papagallo made a shocking announcement. The six year MHS football coach had decided to retire. “[The boys] had an idea that [the coach] was leaving so [they were not completely] shocked when [he] announced that at halftime during the Thanksgiving game. [Coach] is just glad that [he] was able to accomplish being a Greater Boston League champ with us! Something that hasn’t been done in Malden for a long time” explained senior captain Danley Exilhomme. “He was an amazing coach. He led us to victory against great teams” added senior Deven Kelley. The seniors were glad that they were able to spend their last high school football experience with him. Malden was able to score the
most points ever on Thanksgiving. In addition, the Golden Tornado defense was able to score four touchdowns in the 1st half as sophomore Jared Martino and senior Lincoln Ibanda returned fumbles and Danley Exilhomme picked off two passes and ran them back for touchdowns. Senior captain Djorggenson Exilhomme had three rushing TDs. The 2015 Golden Tornado is one of only 10 teams ever who have defeated Somerville, Everett and Medford in the same season. Brothers Danley and DJ Exilhomme broke the most touchdowns scored by siblings record and scored the most points during the history of the Malden Vs. Medford Thanksgiving game. “It was a very special day and a great way to end our high school careers,” confessed Danley Exilhomme. “That was probably
one of our best team wins. Everyone contributed and it was really special. The only thing [he’d] change is the length of the quarters to keep balling with [his] boys,” he continued. Although the game was their very last for the senior boys, the season was one of hard work and talent. With the confidence to win, the boys knew that they could succeed. Brunot explained “[they] went into the game with the same mentality [they] went with in the Everett game. [They] took everything personal because [they] knew how much change this would bring to [their] community.” MHS is truly proud of its boys and wishes the team all the best as they regroup under a new head coach next season and for their future Thanksgiving games.
Clockwise: The Golden Tornado celebrating their victory against Medford as they huddle around the trophy. Sophomore quarterback Jared Martino preparing to throw the ball as his team faces off with Medford players. Malden players and coaches walking off the field at the end of the second quarter. The Malden team in the locker room during halftime. All photos by Tenzin Dorjee.