October 2011

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

Malden High School Volume 97 Edition 1

Our 97th Year October 2011

Football Team Bounces Back

New Brunelli House principal Nathan Lamar. Photo by Cristina Peters. See article on page 13.

The Malden High School football team has fought back from an 0-2 start, winning consecutive games against Lynn Classical and Bedford. Junior quarterback Jacob Martino, senior running back O’Shane McCreath, and senior Witchie Exilhomme are leading the comeback. Photo by Kayla Bramante. See article on page 18.

Mr. Mahoney Retires

In This Issue: Al-Qaeda Page 5

The girls soccer team is looking to improve their record in the second half of the season. Photo by Vicki Ngan. See article on page 21.

Palestinian Peace Process Page 6 New Teachers Pages 8-10 Harvest Moon Festival Page 14 Two and a Half Men Page 17 Cross Country Page 19 Field Hockey Page 22 Crew Page 23

Former Brunelli House principal Thomas Mahoney leaves Malden High School after 26 years. Photos courtesy of Paul Famiglietti. See article on page 12.

Barack Obama speaks at the United Nations about a Palestinian bid for statehood. (Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times/MCT) See article on page 6.

Opinion 2-6 World News 5-7 Local News 8-15 Style 16 Entertainment 17 Sports 18-24

2

Editorials

The Blue and Gold October 2011

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Why We Should Also “Occupy Main Street” Malden High School

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

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Print: Dan Holmqvist Print: Cristina Peters Online: Omar Khoshafa MANAGING EDITORS Paige Yurek Brittany McFeeley HEAD COPY EDITOR Joel Stevenson HEAD LOCAL NEWS WRITER Print: Lauren Beniot Online: Catherine Poirier HEAD WORLD NEWS WRITER Megan Kelly HEAD ENTERTAINMENT WRITER Rebecca Broomstein HEAD SPORTS WRITER Print: Sharon Lee Online: Joshua Kummins HEAD OF BUSINESS Lesley Ta HEADS OF PHOTOGRAPHY Kayla Bramante Natalie Fallano HEAD OF SURVEYS Johanna Lai VIDEO EDITOR Timothee Pierre COPY EDITORS Amalia Quesada Nylen Jacob Martino Amanda Rosatone Kristen Leonard Vicki Ngan REPORTERS & PHOTOGRAPHERS Haley Dowdie Jason Drapinski Amanda Moraes Sumya Mohiuddin Casey Lyons Grace Stathos Jessica Lynn DePaula P.J. Montezuma Alan Shooteech Kerry Ngan Jake Robinson ADVISOR Ryan Gallagher Established in 1915 Check out our online edition: http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Y

oung people today have been placed at a disadvantage even more so than most ethnic, religious, and sexual minorities in America. From further inaccessibility to higher education, to high youth unemployment, to a marginalized political voice, the trend has been troubling for young Americans.

It has been harder to get an education because of skyrocketing tuition rates. In fact, college tuition rates have risen at more than double the rate of inflation over the past decade. Meanwhile, employment rates for recent graduates (and other young individuals without degrees) are at historic lows.

The youth unemployment figure in America is hovering around 20 percent, twice the dismal rate of 10 percent experienced by the rest of country.

Young Americans today constitute a group of people that have gone unaccounted for by the rest of society.

That is not to say that young people are not trying to fight for socioeconomic equity. For the past three weeks, a mass of protesters, most under the age of 30, have descended upon New York City as part of the “Occupy Wall Street” campaign.

While these protests have no formal leadership, structure, or aim, many have felt compelled to camp out in the heart of New York City’s financial district in order to speak out against broadly defined evils like “corporate greed” and “high unemployment.” Other protests are now planned to take place in other cities across America, including Boston.

While their motives are commendable, these protesters have been criticized for having “no actionable agenda.” These criticisms are justified.

In all likelihood, these protests will effect little discernible change, especially within corporate America.

Those at the forefront of the “Occupy Wall Street” protests claim that they were inspired by the Arab Spring. A clear distinction can be made between the two movements. The Arab Spring, although similar in its chaotic structure and organization, aimed to topple the regimes of ruthless dictators through strength in numbers and brute force. Americans, on the other hand, already enjoy the benefit of having sound and tested democratic institutions. Young Americans must take a dif-

Editorial Policy The Blue and Gold is an open forum for student expression. It is produced by students for the school and the community. The views presented in this paper are not necessarily those of the advisor or the school administration. The views presented in the editorials are those of the editors-in-chief or guests. The goal of The Blue and Gold is to inform and entertain students as well as the community regarding issues that we feel are important.

We strongly encourage readers to respond to material printed in the form of signed letters to the editors. No libelous, malicious, defamatory, obscene, or unsigned material will be printed.

The Blue and Gold reserves the right to edit the letters. Names may be withheld upon request. Not all letters will be printed.

Although The Blue and Gold appreciates the support of advertisers, we may refuse any advertisement that violates the above policy or that promotes products questionable to student use.

Any correspondence concerning this publication should be directed to Mr. Ryan Gallagher’s room in J387 or to his mailbox in the main office.

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

ferent approach to strive towards socioeconomic equality.

So how can this disadvantaged age group begin an American Spring? The answer lies with political activism, but at the scale of local towns and communities.

One of the reasons Barack Obama was able to secure the presidency in 2008 was because of the surprisingly high young voter turnout. Around 23 million Americans between the ages of 18 and 29 voted, constituting around half of the eligible young voters that year. Since then, young voter turnout has waned. During the 2010 midterm elections, this figure fell 60 percent, with only 21 percent of eligible young voters participating. And even though turnout has been lower at midterms historically, this figure also represents a 10 percent drop from the 2006 midterm elections.

This does not have to be the case. After all, it was former Speaker of the House Tip O’Neill that once famously said, “All politics are local.” Young voters, often allured by the grandeur of presidential elections, should be more politically active at the local level. In most cases, local politicians have a greater tangible impact on everyday American citizens than leaders at the national level. To really change the status quo, young Americans must get involved by supporting local campaigns, voting in all political contests, and even running for office themselves, albeit at lower level positions like city councilor.

Malden High School students can also make a difference. Those seniors who are eligible to vote by this November election should do so. Other students should help campaign for mayoral candidates like Gary Christenson and Deborah Fallon. At the very least, young Maldonians should be aware of who is running for mayor and city councilor within their respective wards.

Instead of “occupying Wall Street” as a purely symbolic gesture, young Americans should be “occupying Main Street.” That is not a suggestion to go bring a tent and camp out in the middle of Malden square. It is, however, a recommendation for young Americans to become more politically active at the local level. With greater political clout in their communities, young people would be in a better position to strive for social and economic equality.

Dan Holmqvist Editor-in-Chief

Corrections:

Email corrections to theblue andgold @gmail.com

The Blue and Gold October 2011

3

Opinion http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

congratulations Omar Khoshafa The Blue and Gold staff congratulates Editor-in-Chief of the Online Edition Omar Khoshafa for recieving a 10,000 dollar scholarship as part of the Nordstrom Scholarship Program.

Khoshafa was one of 80 students across the country to recieve this distinction, which was “awarded on the basis of academic achievement, awards/honors, leadership, school activities, community/volunteer activities, financial and employment history.�

Photo courtesy of James Valente.

Would you like to have the opportunity to publish your work in the newspaper?

Send in your letter to the editor or comic to the Blue & Gold at theblueandgold@ gmail.com

Follow us on Twitter @MHSBlueandGold

4

Opinion

The Blue and Gold October 2011

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

800 channels and nothing to watch Popular TV Shows Today Contradict Traditional American Values.

F

lip on the television, and what is on? Typically, reality show after reality show in a wide variety of controversial issues. Shows of controversy ranging from the shocking comedic cartoons that “dare to go there,” such as “Family Guy,” to the reality shows on MTV with the “say anything, do anything, anything goes” attitude like “Jersey Shore” to the questionable behaviors on the infamous “Toddlers and Tiaras” swarm the cable networks on TV today.

Since the invention of television, and later, the invention of cable, American culture has been changing constantly, and thus the limit as to how “controversial” is too “controversial” has been pushed back and pushed back throughout the years.

In the 1960’s, one television “controversy” consisted of worries about the genie wardrobe of Jeannie from “I Dream of Jeannie” being considered almost too inappropriate-actress Barbara Eden (Jeannie) was asked to cover her navel at all times.

Nearly 50 years later, a television

“controversy” consists of too much drug and alcohol use, violence, and of course, sex, among other things. In fact, who can forget the shortly-lived MTV series Skins last year that was banned due to its over-exposure of the previously mentioned controversial factors in young teens, more specifically high school students. The show was even labelled as “child pornography,” because although rated TV-MA, (meaning there is a disclaimer to audiences under 18) many of the actors and actresses themselves were under 18. Not exactly something I want my 8 year old sister to see if she happens to be channel surfing, and I certainly do not want her to feel self conscious about her body or self (at all-but especially) at such a young age because she witnesses four year old girls on Toddlers and Tiaras piling on layers and layers of make-up, spending a fortune on makeovers, and stuffing their shirts and pants with “fake busts” and “fake butts” to win a “beauty” competition.

Even “kid shows” today such as iCarly, although not

quite as controversial and inspected, have transitioned from family time slap-stick comedy to too-awkward-to-watch-withyour-parents high school romance. So it makes one wonder when-if ever-is watching television going to be a family time activity again? Will there be a time when enough is enough and American values will revert back to tradition, and appreciate the importance of family values and childhood development?

At this time, the speculation of whether people are really getting sick of over-exposure is something to consider, as the risk factor on TV has been pushed to the farthest limit it has ever been, and as classic, traditional, television shows such as The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Dick Van Dyke Show, The Brady Bunch, and The Bob Newhart Show return to television this fall. Maybe there will once again be a day when the family can sit together to enjoy watching TV without feeling disgusted and awkwardly having to shield the eyes of the children, mute the volume, or forcefully change the channel.

Analyzing the MHS SCHOOL RANKING A closer look at Boston Magazine’s 119th place ranking of Malden High School

A

ccording to Boston Magazine’s recent study, Boston’s Best Public Schools 2011, Malden Public Schools ranked 119 out of 135 districts. This ranking was based off of specialized criteria, revolving mostly around financial factors.

The first two factors considered were student enrollment and student to teacher ratio. In Malden, the enrollment of students is 6,565, while the student to teacher ratio is 14.7:1.

The ratio of the second best-ranked district, Concord-Carlisle, is 13.9:1, continued on page 13

The Blue and Gold October 2011

OPINION / WORLD NEWS http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

5

Egypt’s Al-Qaeda: All Talk, No Action? Female Presidency Candidate

W

ith the death of Al-Qaeda’s main leader, Osama bin Laden, who was killed during a Navy Seal operation on May 2, 2011, and the death of the second in command, Rahman, Al-Qaeda is desperate for a new leader. The death of Rahman has been such a huge set back for Al-Qaeda, considering he was the most important person and figure of Al-Qaeda after bin Laden.

But with their new leader, Ayman al-Zawahir, they are looking for new changes. He has allegedly released information about the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in which he plans to make a “devastating blow” to the United States. There was a posted video on terror network of al-Zawahir talking which included a message from bin Laden that was taped before his death in May. His speech is described as if the Islamic prisoners who were put in jail by Americans were set free and were to attack America.

The footage of bin Laden in al-Zawahir’s video is apparently the same footage released by U.S

government after the death of bin Laden. The only difference is, the footage in the broadcast included audio of him speaking. The video released by the U.S government did not have audio and was very silent.

Bin Ladens message was supposedly a message to Americans to beware of falling into slaves by major corporations and “Jewish money capital” according to cnn.com.

Al- Zawahir is a religious leader who is lacking the necessities to lead this terrorist group. Some experts note that they are unsure whether or not al-Zawahir has what it takes to rebuild the organization.

He had also been promoting the usage of suicide bombs.

Al-Qaeda’s central government has been greatly lowered since the deaths of the two major leaders and U.S strikes are continuing to be sent out to find secret hideouts in Pakistan.

However, will Al-Qaeda be able to pick itself back up again and be as strong as it used to be? That is unclear at the moment.

The Sept. 11 terrorist attacks stoked fears throughout America that more such acts were inevitable. Yet aside from a handful of smaller incidents and thwarted plots in the U.S., the large scale attacks many have feared did not happen in the decade after 9/11. Meanwhile, parts of the Middle East and South Asia, saw a dramatic increase in attacks, most notably Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan, where insurgents have relied heavily on suicide bombings as a means of furthering their political agendas. Chicago Tribune 2011

These graphics look at how terrorism around the world has changed since Sept. 11, 2001; includes map showing attacks by region and chart showing number of people killed, by month, 1991 to present. Chicago Tribune 2011

Bothaina Kamel is the first female presidential canidate in Egypt after the fall of Hosni Mubarak. Photo courtesy of Bothaina Kamel’s Official Page for the Official Presidential Candidate.

O

nly a month after the fall of long time President Hosni Mubarak, a surprising candidate has announced her running. For the first time in Egyptian history, a woman will be running for the presidency.

49 year old Bothaina Kamel declared her candidacy -- on Twitter, in fact -- after hinting in a sign at a rally in Tahrir Square that women should have more involvement in politics.

Kamel is not new to the political scene in Egypt. For the last twenty or so years she has been an activist, journalist, and democrat. In the early 1990s, Kamel hosted a radio talk show where she gave callers advice.

Afterwards, she worked as a journalist and new anchor for Egyptian papers and stations. After working in journalism and reporting for many years, Kamel became suspicious of the stories she was forced to tell and write by her employers. She claimed that she would not work if she was being fed false stories to report, and in 2005 she quit. In the same year, Kamel became co-founder of We Are Watching You - an ominous title to a group that watches over preliminary elections.

Her background complies with her main goals for her election - the spread of democracy and equality.

Despite the fact that the election date is unknown, Kamel says she is dedicated to her campaign and plans to have “moved through the villages and brought the revolution to all of Egypt, not just the big cities.” The spread of equality is important to Kamel’s campaign, she hopes that by visiting poorer areas of the country, that she can deeply connect with continued on page 6

6

OPINION / WORLD NEWS http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Palestinian Peace Palestinian Prime Minister Mahmoud Abbas, left, and other Palestinian delegates attend the United Nations Gereral Assembly on Wednesday, September 21, 2011. They are asking that Palestine be given statehood by the United Nations. (Carolyn Cole/Los Angeles Times/MCT)

I

t seems that the world is never at peace, there is never a moment were there is not some military operation being conducted by a government against another country because they’re hostile with each other for some reason or another.

And when you think of the main areas of conflict on earth you think of the Middle East, where fighting is not only between countries but clashes between cultures as well as religions. Now the world is hoping that there is evidence of progress as Palestine, which has been feuding with Israel since the late 1940s, has made appeals and is to attend to meetings with the UN, hopefully to be officially recognized as a sovereign state.

For almost a century, an official state of Palestine has struggled to ever be recognized; either due to European influence in the area as between 1900 to the mid 1940s, such as with British rule over the area or with conflicts with Israel, which declared itself a nation on what was originally Palestinian land.

The declaration of a Jewish state in what had been a Muslim controlled area for hundreds of years sparked much anger between the religions leading to the nine month Arab-Israeli War, which gained more land for Israel then what had originally been discussed. Since it’s acceptance into the UN Israel, has aggressively occupied areas of surrounding countries. Though now this political and religious feud is hopefully coming to an end.

The meeting which took place Sept. 28, is the first of several meetings being conducted by the UN’s security council after peace discussions between Israel and Palestine fell apart a year ago when Israel started to build houses for Israeli “settlers” on land that has been claimed by Palestine.

While it is a conflict that has origins in religion it also seems to have shown many divides in the international political community,

The Blue and Gold October 2011

as Israel which has been a member of the UN for almost sixty years now has been able to claim that it’s aggressive moves into other countries as mere expansion, while acts of the Palestinians has been put under the category of sporadic Muslim violence. Israel with its place in the UN, along with 3 billion dollars in financial aid alone in 2011 from the US, seems to have been able to gain more tolerance for its antagonizing actions than the Palestinian freedom movement.

Of course neither side is completely innocent in this matter, both have done unjustifiable acts which has caused the deaths of many; but an alarming matter that has raised is that a member of the UN has been given tolerance for these acts. Though the only time that Israel seems to have ever been chastised over it’s actions of growing beyond it’s borders is in June when President Barack Obama, became the first US President to ever officially announce the US support to not only Israel but also the Palestinian state as well. During his speech Obama told Israel that it should return to it’s original borders, that had been agreed upon in 1967, summing up that the only way for there to be peace between the two states was that there would be compromise over borders. It seems, the tolerance for Israel’s quest for more land had run out.

The possibility of the creation of an official new UN member is giv-

ing many hope that this can be the starting steps to peace in the Middle East. Though many of these members, located in Europe have almost forgotten that almost 15 years earlier that violence between countries, religions and ethnic groups was occurring on their continent. The ethnic cleansing in the former Yugoslavia, the still fresh violence and unrest in Northern Ireland as well as the almost twenty year conflict in Russia’s southern republic of Chechnya were once all top news stories, where the same far off hope was to be achieve peace.

Peace is not going to occur quickly or with the signing of a paper, especially when fighting had just been seen as a fact of the world instead of as a variable that can be changed.

continued from page 5 those people and help their voices be heard.

Kamel’s radical philosophy was very difficult for many to accept at the beginning of her campaign, “at first people were shocked... but now, they are taking [her] more seriously.”

Despite the cultural and political shock, Kamel’s motives to change the government resonate with most.

Since the government under Mubarak was absolutely corrupted, she sincerely wants “to work to build new values for Egypt.” Young people remain the key to her election, it was the young people who began

“...moved through the villages and brought the revolution to all of Egypt, not just the big cities.” and fought for the overturn of Mubarak’s regime. Egypt is on the road to becoming a country with strong and young political voice, something many democratic countries strive for. Their youth are becoming increasingly involved, changing the dynamics of social classes distinctly.

Kamel strongly believes in the power of the youth, and “in tolerance and dialogue between the generations. [She tells] the elders we must respect our sons and daughters and take them seriously.”

With a credible record, her campaign has a stable and educated leader. However, many still question whether she will be successful or not. Shifting from a tyrant to a woman democrat for president will be a large jump for many traditional Egyptians, especially when Kamel is competing against well established politicians. Despite these obstacles, response to her campaign has been positive and will certainly effect the country in that light no matter the election outcome.those people and help their voices be heard.

Map of Israel and the Palestinian territories; includes a brief history of modern Israel/Palestine and charts of Palestinian population and diaspora. For use with stories about the Palestinians’ quest for statehood and U.N. recognition. MCT 2011

The Blue and Gold October 2011

7

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

EUROZONE CRISIS L

ately the Eurozone crisis has proved to be experiencing something similar to the domino effect. After the collapse of the Greek economy in 2010, one after the other, European countries have started to follow suit in an economical chaos.

Greece’s economic woes were result of it’s long time increasing debt that has caused interest rates to rocket up and sending financial markets to plummet. Other European countries tried to come up with public money to stabilize the markets, knowing Greece’s problems would affect them soon enough.

But other Eurozone members like Portugal have been experiencing economic woes including deficit and banking collapses. Even nations like Italy whose economy is over twice the size of Greece and has a far larger amount of debt, has caught the contagion.

For the past years, the euro has been the most valuable currency in the world because of its wide market. But now the disadvantages are shining right in Europe’s face.

Because there are 17 countries that share this currency, 17 countries will be affected and hurt by the collapse

of only a few economies.

The tension in Europe has been rising due to financial stress and worry from the people. The Eurozone crisis has led to unemployment which has been arising the anger of English citizens with their government. Months ago London looked united in the public eye, waving mini British flags in support of Prince William Wales and Princess Catherine Middleton rode a horse driven carriage through the streets after their wedding.

This summer, however, news reports showed people burning down local coffee shops and double decker buses. Although these riots were more so caused by the public reaction shooting of Mark Duggen by police, the economic tension was also a contributing factor. It may not be long before an event like this could set off another European country in crisis.

A powerful and essential market like the Eurozone not only affects it’s members but the other large economies of the world like the United States. The U.S. exports goods to the Eurozone area worth approximately 100 billion US dollars, about 10 percent of its total exports. Flags are being raised and

Europe has uncertainty about continuing this.

The US economy has a slim chance of recovering if these exports with Europe decrease.

The US, a country built off of globalization and capitalism also has banks exposed to the Europe. 2 trillion US dollars or 23 percent of America’s total foreign exposure is in European banks which means unless the US helps Europe, it will be deeply affected as well.

The Eurozone crisis is not only affecting Europe and the United States but also the economies of other world powers like China and Japan. A Eurozone collapse could ultimately alter the economies of the entire world. Countries like the US and other European allies need to step up and help this fiasco before it takes its toll on them. Maybe the Mayans are one up on us: Could the world market collapse in 2012?

Long-term interest rate statistics for EU Member States. High interest rates are markers of uncertainty among investors about the ability of governments to pay back their debts. To see this graph in color, go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ File:Long_term_interest_rates.png.

Courtesy of Wikimedia.org and The European Central Bank

American Hikers set free T

his past July marked the two year anniversary for Americans, Shane Bauer and Josh Fattal for being held captive in Iran. On July 31, 2009 Bauer, Fattal, and Sarah Shourd were captured by Iranian border guards while on a hiking trip in the Iraqi Kurdistan mountains.

The reasoning for their captivity is that the guards claimed that the three were allegedly spying, and not on a leisurely hiking trip.

The Iranian border guards claimed that the trio trespassed into their territory, which is one of the other reasons why they were captured. But during an interview with the victims, it is heard that they were kidnapped from inside of the Iraqi borders across the boundary line.

About one year later to their imprisonment, Shourd was let out on bail of about 465,000 dollars due to her declining health. What about the other two hikers? Bauer and Fattal remained in Iranian prison while Shourd was let free.

Aug. 20, 2011 was the day that changed the American perspective on the subject. On this day, Bauer and Fattal were sentenced to eight years in prison under the accounts

American hikers Shane Bauer (right) and Josh Fattal talk to the press as they arrive to Muscat airport in Oman on September 21, 2011, after nearly two years spent in Iran under the accusation of spying. (Balkis Press/Abaca Press/ MCT)

of “illegal entry” and “espionage”.

By this time the two men have been in Iranian prison for about two years. With another eight years added onto their sentence, they were looking at losing ten years of their life being spent in prison by a crime that they allegedly did not commit. But on Sep. 21, 2011 their prayers were answered as they were released from Iranian jail on a 1,860,000 dollar bail. The pair was held in detainment for a total of 782 days, 15 hours, and 41 minutes.

Throughout their years of im-

prisonment, many organizations were formed in supporting the hikers quest for freedom. Websites such as freethehikers.org and shanebauer. net had petitions, and fundraisers in attempts to try and shift the Iranian views on the situation. Also on these websites one could find addresses to send mail to the captives to show love and support through this tough time. Although the mail did not get sent over seas to Iran, there is a heart warming welcome home gift for the hikers. T-shirts, hiking gear, and other items were sold online. All the

proceeds helped defray the coat of the families and supporters efforts to release them.

Not only did the hikers’ story grab a hold of the hearts in America, but also government officials in Switzerland were engaged. America and Switzerland have a strong alliance. When negotiating the hikers release in Tehran, the Swiss took control over because there is no U.S. embassy there. Another country that aided the three American hikers was Oman. Oman gratefully paid one million dollars to bail the two men out, and before they paid for the release for Shroud.

Once landed in America, the two men were instantly engaged in an on site interview. Fattal stated that “we do not know if we crossed the border... this was never about crossing the unmarked border between Iran and Iraq. We were held because of our nationality.”

It is likely that the Iranian officials will stick to their story, that the Americans crossed the border.

Whether this is an investigation of trespassing or nationality discrimination, no one will know if the hikers did actually cross the border.

Local News

8

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Creating Pathways

Yuan Chan expressing the procedures of a lab. Photo by Johanna Lai.

A

The Blue and Gold October 2011

s a first time teacher, Yuen Chan is still learning the basics when it comes to students, curriculum, and Malden High School. Chan says teaching special education is challenging but is very thankful for the assistance of all the teachers who were “patient and kind to help her from classroom management to curriculum.” Chan attended North Eastern and earned her first masters in biomedical science and a second masters in secondary school education from the University of Phoenix online. For Chan it is important that she continues to learn to become a better teacher. Chan says the technology at the school such as the smart board and X2 are “very helpful and cool.” After learning all there is to teaching, Chan looks forward to the year, and anticipates that it will get easier as the year continues.

As a Pathways teacher at MHS, Chan finds it helpful to know her students personally because each student has different needs and a different background. Chan admires her student’s effort and commitment and says “they work hard so I want to work hard too.” In her classroom Chan focuses on class work and class participation. She works on a point system that centers on respect, responsibility, and preparedness as a guideline. Chan expects her students to complete all assignments and feels it is important to be strict, saying “I’d rather [have] you hate me for a year than when you go out to society.” Chan is a firm believer in responsibility and knowledge when it comes to her students. She feels it is important that they make up work and understand it. As a teacher Chan wants her students to do well and accomplish their goals.

GPS to Success S

ince college, Caitlin Scott- DeLeskey has been working as a social worker, helping students reach their full potential. Being another helpful resource, Scott-DeLeskey came into this familiar scene with renewed inspiration, determined to make this year a good one. Being a member of Malden School System, she has worked in Malden for six years and decided to move forward and work at Malden High School. She described it as a great place and very progressive. Her first impression of the school included the 77 million dollar renovation. She agreed that the students would feel more appreciated because the school cared enough to do this.

The program Graduation, Promotion and Success was newly added to the school. As a part of the dropout prevention, Scott-DeLeskey had a lot of experience with working with students, no matter what their story is. She believes “life can be hard and kids can be resilient and rise above difficult sitations.”

Scott-DeLeskey took these words to heart and now helps students who truly need it. The G. P. S. program will now act as an extra hand in the Malden High building. Only 33 of the 150 schools that applied for the program schools received the grant. The choice was based on the

Caitlin Scott-DeLeskey working at her computer. Photo by Christina Peters.

strength of the plan proposed, and the level of student dropout percentage. Upon asking her what Malden Highs dropout percentage was, she said that it was a little higher than the recommended Massachusetts dropout rate, but improvement has shown over the past couple of years.

Scott-DeLeskey has been working with students for years now, and one of her best experiences included a field trip at the G. P. S summer program. The students “engaged and participated in a remarkable way.” They visited Endicott College, went to the beach, and explored Project Adventure, an outdoor wilderness course. Most of the students climbed to the top of the trees and

crossed the rope. This unity signified that anything is possible, and everyone can be reached if the time and effort is put in.

Starting fresh, Scott-DeLeskey has many goals for this year. Her mission is to “become fully integrated into [MHS], and to engage students.” She wants to increase the graduation rates. Scott-DeLeskey said the best thing you can do is just show up, that is more than half the battle. Whether it is for school, or not, it will get a person very far. Anyone could easily stay where they are and ignore the responsibilities they were given, but it takes strength to stand up and participate.

Bringing Woodshop Back

W

hen entering the Malden High School’s Wood Shop class, one would not expect to find much besides the smell of wood, scattered tools, and other appliances. Greg Cocca, MHS’s new woodworking teacher, came into his classroom which looked like an unorganized mess. However, that only led to his first project - to get the students together. He wanted his students to understand that it is not just his shop, it belongs to everyone. With this philosophy, any product of the shop is something everyone can take pride in.

“Mr. Cocca came to MHS this year and is trying to organize his class. He also likes to unify his students and make them feel welcomed,” freshman, Fitzgerald Eloi says. Cocca also wants to re-establish the woodworking plan because it was taken away for two years.

“We did not have wood working last year, so Mr. Cocca will help us get back on track,”stated Principal Dana Brown.

Cocca attended Tufts University for his undergraduate degree and majored in English and then decided to go to Cambridge College for his masters in education. When Cocca first became interested in woodworking, he was participating in after school programs teaching

Greg Cocca demonstrating how to use the powerdrill in his woodshop class.

Photo By Jacob Martino.

that activity. Cocca is a local guy from Winthrop, and knows Malden well. When he got hired he was familiar with his surroundings. “[It is] funny how the first time I was in a wood shop I was used to smelling New England’s Coffee and now [it is] the same thing. I come to the work still smelling the New England’s Coffee,” said Cocca, as he chuckled at the irony.

Cocca also has a lot of big plans this year too. Sitting by his desk, there is a Boston Red Sox “B” in a shadow box that Cocca made him-

self. He plans on making an even bigger shadow box with a “M” for MHS’ gallery. Cocca also said that he was big into recycling. When he was given the old wooden benches that once surrounded MHS, he was really excited to be using that wood in order to make tables for the students. Cocca also said that he can relate to freshman. “I’m sort of like a freshman teacher,” he admitted. Cocca says that he’s getting to know that school just like the freshman and that everything is new to him too.

The Blue and Gold October 2011

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

A Teacher of Many Talents T

he North Dartmouth native, Lauren Enoksen is a person of many talents, teaching history being only one of them. Enoksen comes from a very musical family and while attending North Dartmouth High School she was in marching band, indoor percussion and on the school dance team. Though Enoksen says she had a very positive and enjoyable high school experience she also recalls that by the time she was a senior she was “ready to leave and have new experiences.”

While attending Clarke University in Dubuque, Iowa, Enoksen participated in the Variant Dance Troop and was both a student and one of the co-directors for three years.

Though Enoksen says she has a very strong love for dance she claims that she is “not a prima ballerina at all!”

Another passion of Enoksen’s is traveling. She studied abroad at the University of Sterling in Scotland for one semester during college. She lived off campus in a flat, with seven other people who she returned to visit the year after. When asked if she misses Scotland, Enoksen nods wistfully and says she misses “the accent and the food.”

Enoksen has known from a very young age that she wanted to

teach. She just was not sure what area she wanted to teach. Enoksen says she considered being a Pre-K teacher, a kindergarten teacher, or even a dance teacher. So how did she choose to teach history? Thanks to her high school freshman history teacher, who made class so enjoyable for Enoksen by using different accents that she was inspired to teach history as well. She says that he had a “really cool personality.” Enoksen majored in History with a focus on European History. Her Concentra-

tion was Holocaust and Genocide Studies.

When asked about her top books, Enoksen eagerly reaches into her bag and pulls out her Nook in its little blue case while cheerfully exclaiming “I have my Nook with me!” She says that fiction is her favorite genre; more specifically, fairy tales.

Enoksen says that in her opinion fairy tales are “a way of escape.”

She also sheepishly confesses to having read the Twilight series. Enoksen says that she thought the books were much better than the movies, but the books were “alright for a quick read.”

So whether she’s teaching, dancing, or simply sitting at home reading, Enoksen is able to find joy in everything she does.

Lauren Enoksen is speaking to her class about the Department of Justice. Photo by Amalia Quesada Nylen.

Opening Act at Malden High

E

lizabeth Bateman, a new teacher at Malden High School, was a resident of Dallas, Texas for all of her life. Until college time came around. She attended college at Brigham Young University in Utah, so she moved out of Dallas for the first time. “In college I majored in two [subjects], Math Education and Theater Design,” said Bateman.

While going to BYU for five years, Bateman met the man that is now her husband.

She was not sure where she wanted to go in life, to pursue a career in theater or as a teacher. The choice became clear when she was doing community service for math.

She enjoyed it so much that it inspired her to be a teacher.

After graduation Batemen waited for her husband to graduate, during this time she worked at Orem Junior High, where she taught algebra, pre-Algebra, and algebra help courses. When asked about the experience Bateman was quick to reply,”I loved it!” The staff was very supportive. In the year she worked there, she remembers that the students were wonderful and had an excellent work ethic.

When her husband was accepted to Tuft’s Dental in Medford, Massachusetts, the couple moved from Utah to Massachusetts, where Bateman found herself a job at MHS.

9

Local News

Freshman Olivia Ryan, was asked what about Bateman’s teaching style that she liked, “she explains things very well and if I need help with anything like homework she helps me. Oh, and the homework is quite reasonable.”

Before joining MHS staff Bateman’s summer was mostly spent with her family in Texas and her husbands family in Idaho. In Summer of 2010, the Bateman’s started building a one room cabin in Idaho.

They spent three weeks building it, and it was finally finished in 2011.

Her travels have also brought her around the world as she has visited Egypt, Italy, and Spain. Her favorite of the three destinations was Italy, though if given the option she would choose to live in Spain. Even though Egypt was not her favorite of those three places, she still had an unforgettable experience as she got to ride a camel and a donkey, went to a pyramid and a tomb, and swam in the Nile River. Bateman hopes that her next destination is Alaska where she might get the chance to see the northern lights.

The math leader, Nick Lippman, stated “My first impression of Mrs.Bateman was that she demonstrated an enormous degree of professionalism. She clearly cares deeply about teaching and about her students. This was evident from the first time that I spoke to her.”

Bateman said that she loves working at MHS so far, and added that she loves her students.

Elizabeth Bateman preparing for her next class. Photo by Megan Kelly.

New Atom

Manjula Subramanian welcoming her students into class. Photo by Kristen Leonard.

Jason Drapinski Reporter

D

espite the fact that Manjula Subramanian did not enjoy chemistry in high school, she is now the newest chemistry teacher at Malden High School. What makes this dynamic addition to the MHS faculty such an interesting yet complex person? She had conflicting opinions of her high school experiences, “[she] was on the fence…In high school [she] was under the radar.” Teaching high school did not seem to enter into her mind until she became a tutor. Subramanian confides about her tutoring experiences that she “loved it!”

Subramanian did not actually become fond of chemistry until late in college, but she did not go to just any college, she received her Master’s degree from the oldest college in the United States, Harvard University. Subramanian graduated with her master’s degree in teaching and curriculum; her undergraduate work was in Biology, although she wanted to transfer to Mathematics.

Unfortunately she could not because she was a Biology Major.

Unlike when she went to high school, Subramanian enjoys teaching and learning the sciences. Previously to her arrival at MHS she taught science at Cambridge Rindge and Latin to high school students. She also taught at two schools in Boston.

There she taught science to seventh and eighth graders. Malden students have commented positively about the addition to the faculty, “[She is] doing [well,] considering she was a middle school teacher. Her teaching strategies differ from others, she is more for doing than explaining, which I like,” said sophomore chemistry student Winnie Chen. Sophomore Robyn Farrell believes Subramanian is very straight forward on what she wants done and, “that [is] a great approach to [her] education.

She wants things done in a timely order and she really us to learn what we do in class. We go over stuff we do for homework in class, and she is always there to answer any of her questions. [She is] looking forward to this year with Ms. Subramanian teaching [her] Chemistry. Like her students Subramanian is “very excited for this upcoming year.”

10

LOCAL news

The Blue and Gold October 2011

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

New Teachers at MHS To read the rest of these articles, go to our website: www.maldenblueandgold.com

Wayne Ameen

C

oming to Malden High School, Wayne Ameen hopes to gain more experience in his profession and to instruct the teachings into the minds of young scholars. His curriculum consists of a teacher for Pre-engineering in the class of H103, which happens to be a new class this year.

As a teacher, he has shown diligent work by focusing on his classes and instructing them carefully. Ameen makes careful, accurate suggestions and decisions with correspondence with what he does with his students and how he handles events occurring in his school surroundings.

Raisa Herrera

R

aisa Herrera is a new Spanish teacher in Malden High School. Herrera was an intern at MHS last year and “is [the] one and only place [that she has taught] so far.” She came to Malden to teach because she “really enjoyed the students and the staff last year, and [she was not] ready to leave. There are great people [at MHS], a great population.” Before interning, Herrera attended USMASS Dartmouth for her bachelor’s degree, and later at Tufts to achieve her master’s degree. When asked about her high school experience, Herrera smiles and says, “High school was an interesting experience for me. I think if I could go back as a student, I would not. It [was not] that bad. I learned a lot, and I was involved a lot so I got to meet friends.” Her goal for the school year is “for [her] students to learn as much Spanish as possible.

Ted Hespeler

C

oming from English High School in Jamaica Plain, Ted Hespeler is starting a new chapter of his life at Malden High School as a PACE teacher. Before EHS, Hespeler worked three years at both a high school in South Boston and a middle school in Connecticut as a Special Education teacher. “Calm and confident, two traits of a good teacher.” stated Dana Brown, Principal.

Growing up, he had always wanted to be a teacher; and his mother was one as well (sometimes he would volunteer in her class- enjoying it very much). As he got older, Hespeler began tutoring kids as a summer job. When it came time for College, he spent two years in a community college then eventually transferred to the University Of Connecticut, where he majored in Special Education.

Matt Sadowski

M

atthew Sadowski, a ninth grade guidance councilor at the Malden High School, arrived with the goal of bonding with his students and helping them be more successful. With that ambition in mind, he laughed that his other goal will be to memorize the corridors, hoping to not get lost anymore in the maze of hallways in the building. Sadowski had a great experience guiding students in the high school. “I really love it”, Sadowski exclaims.”The faculty has been amazing. It has been a good time so far. The students are really interesting.”

Although he enjoys being a guidance counsellor, Sadowski originally planned to major in journalism in college. He loved writing and was the editor-in-chief in high school for the newspaper.

Michal Berdugo

F

luent in multiple languages, the new English Secondary Language teacher, Michal Berdugo looks forward to making connections with the students of Malden High School. Majoring in ESL at Simmons College, and Sociology at Clark University, Berdugo enjoys working with students from other countries. Berdugo is fluent in the languages Hebrew and English. She also speaks Spanish very well. Berdugo did student teaching at Watertown High School and in Brookline. This year being her first year as a full time teacher at MHS, Berdugo explains she is “really impressed with the diversity” at the school. Having a father that immigrated from Morocco, and had to learn English, evoked a personal connection between Berdugo and all of her students learning the English language. In her ESL classes Berdugo has students from all over the world. Many of her students are from Brazil, Haiti, China, Vietnam, Columbia, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Dominican Republic, as well as other countries.

The Blue and Gold October 2011

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

11

Malden Public Schools Welcome DeRousi DeRousi looks forward to taking charge at the helm of the Malden Public School system.

A

new era in the Malden Public Schools began this past June when David DeRousi, a veteran in the field of education for 28 years, was named the new superintendent of the city.

He was hired over two other final candidates to replace the nowretired Sidney Smith, who spent four years in Malden at the head of the school department.

DeRousi came to Malden after spending the last year of his tenure as the Assistant Superintendent of the Revere Public Schools, where he had many great experiences.

Before taking that role for one year, he served as the Principal of Revere High School for seven years.

He thinks that becoming the high school principal “was the hardest job [he has] done to this point, but the most rewarding, because [he feels] that you get to become so involved with what is going on with the kids.”

“We did the dodgeball games,” DeRousi said with a laugh. “I was in the talent shows. We had a lot of fun. It was both hard work, but it was good work.”

In addition to his time in Revere, he also spent time in many different districts in the Greater Boston area, including Winthrop, Salem, and Chelsea as a special education teacher and administrator.

When he officially began his work on July 1, 2011, he felt it was challenging to have to be the leader while learning the basics of the city and its schools simultaneously.

“When you are a superintendent, you don’t have much opportunity to get a feel for the place before you are now running the place,” DeRousi added.

This is also DeRousi’s first time as the head superintendent, so running the school committee meetings are a major piece of the job that he has never fully experienced in the past.

“When you are a principal, you are managing your building,” DeRousi said. “When you are an assistant superintendent, you are managing the pieces that come under you. When you are the superintendent, it’s all under you, so you really have to begin to develop a lens and a method to keep an eye on everything and still look ahead all the time.”

DeRousi bases most of his beliefs and values in the field of education on his personal life and how he got to this point in life today.

“My core values…are based a lot on my life growing up,” DeRousi said. “I grew up similar to [people like us] in East Boston, in a city and I had to work hard for things.”

He was the first person in

his family to attend college, going through his undergraduate programs at Northeastern University before studying at Salem State College and the University of Massachusetts-Boston as a graduate and doctorate student.

Because he felt “...nothing came easy” and that he “has to work hard for things,” DeRousi’s values “state back to that kind of blue-collar work ethic. No one will give you anything for free, you have to work hard for it.”

As far as the education piece of his position is concerned, his core values stand around the fact that “intelligence is not fixed and [he thinks] that people can be smarter.”

He feels that the most important part of a school experience is the relationship between a teacher and a student, which makes the environment more enjoyable for everyone involved.

In the early stages of his time in the City of Malden, DeRousi says that he has nothing but good things to say about the community and its students.

As this is his first year as a superintendent, he is a part of a two-phase New Superintendent Induction Program, which is run by the state of Massachusetts. A part of the initial work of each of the 27 new superintendents in the state was to compile what DeRousi called an entry plan.

“Part of my entry plan is to talk to people,” DeRousi stated. “So I talk to city council, school committee, teachers, parents. You name the people in the community, I talk to them. At some point, I’ll be up here running focus groups with students.

The job is to get the input…Things are really happening, good things here.”

When going through several different programs in his career, he came across a few Malden school employees that helped him influence his decision. In the end, he chose Malden because of the urban district and the diversity of the community.

When asked about his opinion of MHS, DeRousi feels that its technical programs, including vocational, health and engineering are a great asset to the options students have.

He also feels that the administration has done a strong job supporting the students and helping them to achieve their goals.

With such a busy job, DeRousi is lucky when he gets a little down time and enjoys studying history as well as spending time outdoors.

DeRousi looks forward to the new responsibilities as the superintendent of Malden.

The new supertintendent David DeRousi giving his welcoming speech for the Malden High School staff. Photo

by Joshua Kummins.

12

LOCAL news

The Blue and Gold October 2011

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Brunelli Bids Mahoney Farewell After many years of working at Malden High School, beloved Brunelli House Principal, Thomas Mahoney, retires from his position.

O

n Sept. 15, 2011, the hallways of Malden High, especially the Brunelli House Office, missed the sense of humor, kindness and caring personality that Thomas Mahoney brought to MHS. Mahoney’s last day as Brunelli House Principal was Sept.14, 2011, however he will be dearly missed and never forgotten by the students and colleagues that loved his presence at MHS. Mahoney recalls sitting in fourth grade, already knowing that he wanted to be a teacher, and deciding what he would and would not do to his students when he became

a teacher from what he saw from his own teachers.

Years later Mahoney attended Boston College, where he later had influenced Principal Dana Brown to attend college after taking Brown to his first Boston College football game. Mahoney originally taught English in Chelsea, where he spent his childhood, but by 1985 he joined the MHS staff.

Upon joining MHS he was a Holland House Academy English teacher and two years later Mahoney transferred to the Math Department.

In 2003, when Brown became MHS Principal, Mahoney had been hired as Brunelli House Principal. After working for over 20 years at MHS, Mahoney has “come to appreciate Malden High because [it is] alive, it’s going places, [and] Malden High is an exciting place to work.”

Mahoney had expected to return as the Brunelli House Principal for the 2011-2012 school year, but according to multiple sources, the school committee, the superintendent, and the teachers’ union were not able to come to an agreement on the details of this contract.

The news that Mahoney had to leave MHS was unexpected to the staff that he had developed great relationships with, as well as to the students he had acquired a “great affinity for,” as Mahoney described.

Following a long line of educators within his family, Mahoney became a teacher similar to his

grandfather, father, both older and younger brother, and his wife. Now, Mahoney is teaching algebra, finance, and SAT Prep at Pope John XXIII High School. Since he has begun teaching again, Mahoney states that he has developed a “renewed appreciation for teachers; it’s not easy being a teachMahoney’s 2010 staff portrait submitted by James Valente. er.”

Through all his years of teaching and being Brunelli House Principal, Mahoney is most fond of graduations because he sees all that the kids that he has worried about or worked with accomplish great things throughout their high schools years.

A “master of understatement,” says Brunelli House Secretary Jeanne Marquardo, is the best way to describe M a h o n e y ’s p e r s o n a l i t y.

Teachers agree that you never know what to

expect from Mahoney because he has so many different personalities.

Humbleness, his most notable trait highlighted when “he does for the kids because he cares for the kids,” states Marquardo just a few days following Mahoney’s departure as Brunelli House Principal.

“[He] cared more about the underdog than anyone else in the school.”

-Mr. Brown “[He is] kind, caring, sensitive, funny, personable, and [an] all around nice guy.”

-Mr. Marques “[The] best thing about Mr.Mahoney was that after a crazy day you could just go into his office and he’d put things in perspective and he would give [you] Twix.”

-Ms. Pettit

Mahoney (far left) at the Senior Barbeque. A photo of Mahoney edited by Paul Famiglietti.

The Blue and Gold October 2011

13

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

A New Addition to Brunelli A

s the new school year begins, many students return to the parting of a dear man that they all have heard over the loudspeaker, Brunelli House principal Thomas Mahoney. Now for Brunelli House students there is going to be a new sheriff in town, Nathan Lamar.

Lamar joins many Malden High School freshmen in wandering the halls as he has only been working at MHS since Mahoney’s retirement. Originally from southern California, Lamar grew up in Sedona, Arizona where he attended Mingus Union High School. Like many high schoolers Lamar did not have a specific idea pegged down for what he wanted to do with the rest of his life, Lamar said, “I guess as a freshman I think I thought I was going to write the next great American novel. Or maybe I thought I was going to be a professional soccer player. Or maybe I wanted to go into politics.” When he did reach his first year of college he had decided to study theology to become a youth minister in the Presbyterian church when he returned to California to

study at a small Bible college.

After a few years as a minister, Lamar, like his parents, returned to school to become a teacher. He applied to UMass Lowell where he later graduated Magna Cum Laude with his degrees in English and History. Pursuing teaching, Lamar worked for several years before he decided to head into the field of school administration. He earned his Masters Degree in this field from the American International College.

Now that Lamar has found his way to MHS, he has some new responsibilities. “Well two weeks ago I was teaching English and this morning I served up 25 detentions...”

Though for Lamar the adjustment to the new school environment does not seem to be an issue, as “working with kids is the same wherever you go. In my previous job I treated students fairly and they could trust me.

So in that regard, new title, same job.”

Even though the change in the Brunelli House is new for the staff and students, it seems as MHS says farewell to one valued staff member, MHS is gaining a new one.

Nathan Lamar joked about finding his way around Malden High School by saying,“I need an app for my phone so that I don’t get lost!” Photo by Cristina Peters.

continued from page 3 which is relatively close to Malden’s ratio. We compare Malden’s rank to that of Concord-Carlisle, because their student to teacher ratio was so similar, yet the rank difference was poles apart.

Student enrollment in relation to per-pupil spending is shown to be benefiting the districts with a smaller enrollment rate, as opposed to the larger ratings. Concord-Carlisle has a much smaller enrollment rate, being 1,208, compared to Malden’s 6,565. Concord-Carlisle, who has a per-pupil spending amount of 18,872 dollars in comparison to Malden’s 12,400 dollars, evidently has more money to spend on their lesser amount of students. Malden, on the other hand, who has a larger enrollment and a lesser budget, does not have an advantage in this field.

Another major factor in the low ranking appears to be Malden’s inadequate graduation rate. Malden has a graduation rate of 71.7 percent, while Concord-Carlisle has a near-perfect percentage of 96.4.

What the study did not take into account is the major difference in average median income of the districts. According to City-Data.com, Malden’s average median income is 56,244 dollars, a much closer proximity to Massachusetts’ average median income. Concord-Carlisle, however, has an average median income of 123,105 dollars, almost two times the average of Massachusetts.

Thus, Malden’s lower-middle class

standing contributes to its lower graduation rate.

Compared to its surrounding cities, Malden is ranked in the middle. Melrose and Medford are at a higher rank, while Revere and Everett are ranked below Malden.

All of these cities are within a similar average median income, as well as population rate. This indicates that Malden is performing fairly well, given its restrictions within the considered factors of the study.

Based off of the information provided by this study, and being

a student of MHS, what qualifies a school is a “good” should not be solely based on financial aspects, but on the opportunities provided by the school. This serves as a direct reflection of what the education focus of the city is. For example, the number available advanced placement classes are in favor of Malden.

Eight out of the top ten offer less AP classes than Malden High School’s 19. This just goes to show that this study does not focus on all of the necessary factors in ranking school districts. Although it does provide

Photos by Paige Yurek. resourceful data relating to financial benefits a school may have, it is limited. The study does not take into account the personal benefits that most cities offer. For example, in 2009, Malden was named the “Best Place to Raise Your Kids” by Business Week. This was due to the diversity, communal atmosphere, and school performance that Malden provides. Perhaps, if all of these additional aspects and more were considered, Malden would have been ranked higher on the list.

14

Local News

The Blue and Gold October 2011

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Harvest Moon Festival I

t is that time of year again. School is starting, the leaves are changing, and everyone in Malden is visiting the Fellsmere Pond for the seventh annual Harvest Moon Festival.

Seven years and seven successes, hosted by the Oak Grove Improvement Association and the Chinese Culture Connection, Fellsmere holds the many booths of local clubs and organizations gathered to promote their causes and celebrate September- Celebrating Arts Month.

The Harvest Moon Festival is a collaboration between the OGIA and the Chinese Culture Connection. Together, they organize an entire festival every September, celebrating the approaching harvest season and Chinese culture.

On Sept. 1, 2011, Mayor Howard declared September to be Celebrating Arts Month. In Malden, September is full of artful events, the Harvest Moon Festival being only one. Malden presents other events such as Window Arts Malden, an art exhibition, and the Malden River Festival during the month of September, as well. Our town also hosts ART+, an event dedicated to the senior artists of Malden. The month of September has become one in which local art and music come alive and bring the community together for a day to revel in the talent that many locals present here.

Every year, a stage is set up at the park, where many local musicians perform, as well as some local dance teams. This year, some of the performers included The Bad Rabbits, Dirty Mac Blues Band, Herb’s Herd: 15-Piece Band, and classes from the Dance With Brigitte studio.

The Chinese Culture Connection puts on both musical and dance performances every year. Each performance convinces the audience of the rich culture that makes Malden so diverse.

The festival is sponsored by many local businesses, including those who donated: Applebee’s, Nonni’s Pizza, Playful Paws Doggie Daycare, the YMCA of Malden, and so many more. Some of the individual sponsors were Gary Christenson- Candidate for Mayor, Mayor Richard Howard, and State Representatives Chris Fallon and Paul Donato.

Because so many locals attend this event, clubs and organizations set up a display or booth to promote their businesses there. Some who participated were the Bread of Life, the Malden Public Library, the Salvation Army, the YMCA, the Victorian Society of Malden, plus more.

Of course, it would not be a festival without the festivities the OGIA and the CCC had to offer.

Weaving through the many booths, I could not help but notice all of the different kinds of activities set up for the festivalgoers. One table was dedicated to pumpkin decoratinga very appropriate activity that attracted just about every child who attended. For the first time, the OGIA tried out a miniature train ridewhich proved to be a success- that snaked around the park, down the street a bit, and back.

Plenty of Malden High School students volunteer at the HMF each year, to support a school club that they are a part of. Key Club and Interact Club were the The sponsors of the HMF were put on display along the two MHS club stage. Photo by Rebecca Broomstein. that made an appearance.

Junior Angela Ly volunteering with the Chinese Culture Connection, making crafts at the festival to raise money for the organization. Photo by Rebecca Broomstein.

Senior and Blue and Gold member Joel Stevenson, junior Prayush Pokharel, seniors Henely Theodat, Andres Torres, Michelle Le and junior Lisa DeLacey volunteering at the Harvest Moon Festival. Photo by Rebecca Broomstein.

Dance and song performance by the Chinese Culture Connection. Photo

by Rebecca Broomstein.

Seeing such a vast portion of Malden participate in this event just goes to show how united we are as a community. It is no wonder that Mayor Howard did not hesitate to affirm an entire month dedicated to honor the artistically-inclined citizens of Malden. Because of his

proclamation, our city can unite once a year to celebrate art- an essential piece of our community.

The Blue and Gold October 2011

ADVERTISEMENT http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

The Teen Health Advisory

15

16

Style

The Blue and Gold October 2011

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Seasonal Trends: Autumn

This fall, many new trends have been hitting the runways. As always, some of these trends tend to be a little more outrageous than what our typical closet has to offer. Here is a preview of what’s hot this fall, and how to achieve each look for everyday use:

Geometric Shapes The trend: Sharp angles have been spotted on clothing pieces, bags and shoes on recent runways, these past few months. The unusual shapes flatter the body’s best features by drawing attention from the not-so-best features. Bizarre patterns enhance the contrast between the bold, complimentary colors used to model the trend. Fortunately, color blocking was a major trend this past summer, so many pieces can be recycled this Fall.

How to wear it: This may be rather difficult to wear head-totoe due to its distractingdemeanor. Pairing a color-blocking top with solid bottoms makes for a less outrageous outfit that still stays true to the trend.

Victorian-Inspired The trend: Ruffled collars, high-feathered necks, and cameo jewels were all feminine trends back in the 1800s. Plenty of velvet and brocades decorated the full skirts and dresses that graced recent fashion shows. They represented class and royalty, but in no way is a ball gown acceptable during today’s day and age.

How to wear it: This ancient look can be made timeless if worn without over-doing. Pick a highnecked lace top or dress rather than a full-fledged feathered collar, which could resemble a neck brace. The classic Victorian cameo jewel is a very easy find for any type of jewelry at any price. Also, some rendition of those lace-up booties with a heel is common today.

A major trend this fall is wearing clothing inspired by victorian attire. Here, Marie-Joseph de Sax is dressed in luxurious prints and lace. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.com

Cozy Sweaters The trend: Quite possibly the easiest and most-wearable trend this fall is the chunky sweater. Paired with a maxi skirt, boots, and a scarf, this trend is effortless- who doesn’t own a typical cable knit sweater?

How to wear it: Seriously, just open your closet! If you are one who is shy of skirts, then do not fret- sweaters can be paired with almost any bottom. Whatever is most comfortable, whether it be leggings, jeans, slacks, etc. You name it, and it works. Not only is this trend in style, but it is also efficient. The sweater will protect you from the brisk Autumn air.

Filling in your eyebrows gives them a fuller look, without looking messy and unkept. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.com

Darker = Warmer The trend: Deep hues are in for fall. Sticking with the traditional warm autumn tones, use a metallic shadow for the eyelids. Do not be frugal, here.

Rim the entire eye for that smoldering effect. Do not worry about waxing and plucking those brows this season- unkept is in. Cleaning them up is fine, but let them grow in a bit. The thicker brows will better frame your eyes. As for the cheeks, contour contour contour! The hollows of the cheeks should be much exaggerated, defining the cheekbones, and making them appear higher. Classic red is a go for lips this time of year.Try picking a deeper shade, like a wine color or burgundy. I would suggest that these looks are not wornaltogether. Such heavy makeup will certainly take away from the face, and you want to embrace your individuality.

The Blue and Gold October 2011

17

Entertainment http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Demi Lovato: No Longer Broken T

he once cheery Disney channel star Demi Lovato proved she has grown up in her mature new comeback album “Unbroken”. Lovato, who got her start in the movie Camp Rock and her TV show Sonny with a Chance, has left Disney to further focus on her music career.

She began the album back in July 2010 but this was postponed when she left the Jonas Brothers Live in Concert Tour 2010 after a physical confrontation with one of her back up dancers Lovato made the decision to check herself into a treatment center for physical and emotional issues.

After her release in January 2011, Lovato went back to working on her album, with months full of songpotential experiences.

Lovato’s first single, “Skyscraper,” was released on July, 12 2011. The song is about believing in oneself and staying strong through hard times. It received positive public opinion because of its inspirational lyrics like: “Go on and try and tear me down/ I will be rising from the ground like a skyscraper.” In

“Skyscraper,” Lovato is able to show off her powerful vocals. Compared to the remainder of the album, “Skyscraper” is very unique because of its ballad quality.

Unlike her previous albums “Don’t Forget” and “Here We Go Again,” Lovato’s style has transformed from Pop into Soul and R&B as she decided to have her Hollywood Records crew work with well known music producer Timbaland.

As a result of this,Lovato has many R&B collaborations including the song “All Night Long” featuring Missy Elliot and Timbaland, “Who’s that Boy?” featuring Dev, and “You’re My Only Shorty” featuring Iyaz. All of these songs contain a dance and club beat. Lovato, the once Pop singer has stepped out of her comfort zone, successfully taking on a new style.

Another song, “For the Love of a Daughter” gets intense and personal with Lovato’s personal family issues: “Oh father please father/ I’d love to leave you alone but I can’t let you go/ oh father please father/ put the bottle down for the love of a daughter.”

In “Lightweight,” “Mistake,” and “Fix A Heart,” Lovato stays true to her long time fans through her

signature musical style. “My Love is Like A Star” has a Soul and Blues feel with a sound similar to one of her influences, John Mayer.

Overall, Lovato’s album appeals to a wider and more mature audience with its mentioning of adult themes like alcohol, sex, and clubbing. The album contrasts with her previous Disney albums, due to being more real and open to her personal experiences and struggles.

“Unbroken” has a wide variety of music types including everything from R&B to Pop to Blues. Lovato

deserves to be given a chance from those who singled out her music before because of her Disney affiliations.

“Unbroken” proves that she can no longer be put into the music category of Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez. Unlike many many child stars, Lovato has been able to acknowledge her now legal age in a classier and more appropriate manner. “Unbroken” is a break out coming of age album, in which her music and lyrics have grown with her.

Two and a half new men

Catherine Poirier Online Head of Local

F

rom it’s premiere in 2003, CBS’ show Two and a Half Men has grown to become one of the station’s most watched. Until this year, the series was centered around the lives of Charlie Harper, Alan Harper, and Jake Harper. The wild and rambunctious lifestyle Charlie lives does not stray far from that of the real life of actor Charlie Sheen.

Sheen’s famous falling out with the

sitcom’s producer and writer, Chuck Lorre, caused him to no longer have a spot on the show.

Sheen’s absence has not delayed the show from continuing with its series. Ashton Kutcher has taken his role and will apparently be filling the spot of one man. In the first episode of season eight, the new cast received 28 million viewers, making it the most watched show of

the night.

Having the funeral of Sheen’s character in the first minute of the episode, the writers obviously fought to find a way to throw Kutcher’s character, Walden Schmidt into the mix. Schmidt turns up at Charlie Harper’s house while Alan Harper is there attempting to find a spot for his brother’s ashes. After spending one night out with Alan Harper, Schmidt decides he is going to buy Charlie’s house. The two seem like best friends already while bonding over the fact that their wives left them.

With Kutcher, the cast dynamics have changed dramatically. It is obvious to any viewer of earlier seasons that the character relations feel forced now, as it would with any sitcom losing a main character of seven seasons. Surprisingly, the show seems to maintain similar mature humor like earlier years.

Writers created Kutcher’s character to be the complete opposite of Sheen’s, despite the wealth, in order to create more ironic humor. Schmidt is a young, immature, emotional wreck from a recently ended 15 year relationship, while Charlie Harper was a middle

aged, mature, partier, who only had approximately two semi-serious relationships in all seven seasons.

Viewers are going to have to adjust from the classic bowling shirt, shorts, and loafers of Sheen, to the classic nakedness of Kutcher.

Ratings dropped 30 percent, to 20 million viewers for the second episode of the season. While viewers are realizing it is not the same Two and a Half Men because of Kutcher, others are realizing that despite the loss of Sheen, the dialogue will maintain as hilarious as always.

18

sports

The Blue and Gold October 2011

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Cheering On And Off the Field Lesley Ta

Kerry Ngan

Head of Business

Reporter

T

he cheerleaders of the Malden High School cheerleading team are more than just the stereotypical bouncy, bright dancers that most people perceive. Each member of

the team holds a close relationship with their fellow squad members and gives the MHS football team the extra support that they need.

With full anticipation of a competitive year, the cheerleaders practice with determination and style. Their coach, Diana Buonopane, who also teaches eighth grade math at the Linden school, drills them through intense choreography for their personal competitions and football games. Their routines are lined with simple acrobatics and dance rhythms consistent with the tunes of music icons such as Lady Gaga. To spread the school spirit, these athletes rehearse to the music of the MHS band, whom, alongside their traditional harmonies, also orchestrate popular songs often played on the radio station KISS 108.

“Cheerleading is difficult and it requires a lot of strength to throw people up in to [the] air. It is probably The football locker room at MacDonald Stadium deco- more dangerous than any rated by the cheerleading team. Photo by Sharon Lee.

From left to right: senior Jeffy Kembo, freshman Lysette Marrero, seniors Alyssa Ward, Anna Maguire, sophomore Berlinda Lucien, juniors Christy Ringdahl, Brianna Machued-Santiago, sophomores Cori Malone, Olivia Tyree, and junior Giovanna Soares. Photo by Sharon Lee.

other sports,” Buonopane explained earnestly.

The team boasts two proud senior captains, Juleena Hugley and Chardeza Cloeman, both whom have been on cheerleading teams since elementary school.

Even though these girls have busy schedules with great goals, they are not selfish in using their time to support others. The squad holds a close relationship with the MHS football team.

At the beginning of the season, the cheerleaders surprise the foot-

ball team by decorating their locker room. The posted banners, and delicious snacks let the team know that they are not the only ones on the field.

At the beginning of each game, the cheerleaders have yet one more honor to perform. When each football member crashes onto the field, one specific cheerleader will call out his name and egg him on.

As gesture of gratitude and appreciation, the football team in return presents the cheerleaders with bright, blooming flowers.

Tackling One Team At A Time Kayla Bramante

Amanda De Moraes

Head of Photography

Reporter

D

espite the freezing weather, the football players and cheerleaders showed great enthusiasm as the Sept. 17, 2011 home game began. Everyone in the crowd all maintained the positive attitude despite Malden’s slow start against Methuen.

As the game proceeded, more fans began piling into the stands and the team started working together more efficiently by making a drastic change. It almost seemed as thought Malden fans knew that the team was improving.

When asked about his goals for the team this season varsity coach Joseph Pappagalo says that while as “a coach your ultimate goal is to win every game,” he is also trying to focus on getting more of his players to be able to qualify for college.

Pappagallo recognizes that his team has their flaws but he says that there are strong, committed players this season and that as long as he is able to get more off season commitment he thinks the team will thrive.

Though Pappagalo is obviously proud of his team and claims that “coaching is [his] passions” he thinks that the team could improve in certain areas. When asked what

he thinks the strengths of the team is, he says it’s how dedicated and positive everyone is.

Starting quarterback and Blue and Gold member, Jacob Martino shares similar feelings. He says that the close knit team needs to stay positive and not get used to losing.

But he agrees with Pappagalo on the teams strengths. Martino believes that the team has a very good vibe and that they call each other a family and all get along very well. He also says that the team has complete and total faith in the coaches, as long as the coaches have faith in the team.

It’s clear by the excitement in their voices as they talk about the team, that they do.

Overall the team is feeling high spirited and ready to play. Since their win against Lynn Classical, the team is feeling much better about their overall performance. They are looking forward to playing the rest of the season and are striving for more wins.

Right: The Malden team coming off the field exhausted after an intense play against Lynn Classical. Photo by Kayla Bramante.

Left: Senior O’Shane McCreath attempts to run the ball down the field as the Lynn defense tries to tackle him. Photo by Kayla Bramante.

Bottom: Both teams line up and prepare for the play. Photo by Kayla Bramante.

The Blue and Gold October 2011

sports http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

19

Racing for another GBL title Amanda Rosatone Copy Editor

A

ccording to head coach David Londino, this year’s cross country team is the “biggest team [the school has] ever had.” There are 67 new members, 39 of whom are freshman and 28 of whom are upperclassmen.

Londino stated that “the upperclassmen are fantastic and they are very goal oriented.” With this aspect going for the team, the new members are very attentive as they watch and learn what cross country is really about and, “they do a great job of respecting what [the team has].”

This season for cross country, coach Londino has high expectations for the team. Winning the Greater Boston League title and going undefeated is among the team’s long term goals and although they may seem out of reach for most, the team is motivated and plans to give their all this season.

The team was so dedicated that they came together before the season started to prepare themselves

for what was to come.

Preparing for the season early in the summer helped all three cross country teams win the GBL opener on Sept. 19. The first place runner coming in for the novice team was freshman Yosef Tefera.

Following his lead and placing first in the boys varsity race was senior Yusuf Mohamed. After their first meet, the team’s members began to focus on further improving their times.

Londino stated ”This is not a re-building season. Many members came in with a lot of talent and [the team] strives to improve on that.”

With the seniors members on the team graduating this year, the team has new members to replace them so in the years to come there will always be skilled runners.

Considering the team is so large in numbers this season, the freshmen are taking well to keeping up with the skill levels expected of them. Freshman Jonathan Gibson stated that,”[I] didn’t expect there to be so many people on the team

The boys cross country team in a huddle before their meet against Everett.

Photo by Casey Lyons.

but having big numbers means having a greater chance of winning our meets.” Along with this high spirited attitude comes a lot of hard work and as Gibson stated, “the hardest part will be running with the varsity team.”

Although the season just started Gibson stated, “that as we progress we will only get better” and this attitude runs through all the members of the team as they anticipate a good season.

focus and hydration are key Casey Lyons Reporter

A

s the number of new cross country members increased so did the spirit and positive attitude of the team. This year’s girls cross country team has some of the “best runners that have top-level talent,” coach David Londino says.

They are also developing some of the new runners due to the fact that cross country members increased greatly. Even with the large amount of new members they are still looking for new girl members to do distance running. The girls cross country team has sixteen members which is a huge improvement since girls cross country usually struggles to get more than a few members.

But with more girl runners, they can even out the amount of members on the boy’s and girl’s team.

The girl’s team has some goals for the season too. Since Malden High School has never had a girls cross country team title, they are “striving to be the first team in MHS history to take the title and put up a banner in the gym,” senior captain Haley DeFilippis stated. They plan on being undefeated this season.

The girls want to be the Greater Boston League champions and hope to do well at the state meet. Along with these goals, the team also improve their individual times.

But they are also working on getting everyone to maintain their health, because the team depends on it. In order to be GBL champions, everyone has to be physically and mentally healthy.

“The team ultimately needs to work on being disciplined.

When you’re a runner, everything you do affects your performance,” says DeFilippis.

Getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and hydration are big factors on how well everyone performs. Everyone needs to put in all of their effort in order to prepare for competitions. In order to meet their goals for this year the team needs to be healthy and foThe girls cross country team competing at a meet against Everett. Photo by Casey Lycused. ons.

“The team has great sportsmanship, especially the seniors,” says freshman Genevieve Egan. She explains how the seniors has created a special bond. Londino showed their spirit. The boys and are always very encouraging and says that the girls are extremely girls team have separate races that opened. But for anyone cross coun- close and have great relationships. go on during different times, so try can be tough. It is a lot of dedica- Whether it is in school or out, the when the girls race is happening, the tion and can be exhausting at times team is always together. With their boys cheer and motivate us, and vice but it is worth it. Because handling special connection and love for run- versa,” DeFilippis said. Which only a sport along with school can be dif- ning, they can always rely on each proves that the cross country team is ficult at times but everyone on the other for friendship, advice, and incredibly close and has great team support. “At the GBL Open Meet spirit. team is managing well.

Like many teams, the girls team on Sept. 19, the whole team really

20

sports

The Blue and Gold October 2011

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Change can be Good Amalia Quesada Nylen

Sumya Mohiuddin

Copy Editor

Reporter

Left to right: Senior Commie Ayuk approaching to serve the ball. Junior Lisa DeLacey looks for an area over the net to serve a ball. Photos by Sharon Lee.

W

ith new additions to the team and to the staff, the volleyball team this year has high expectations for their upcoming season.

The team currently holds a solidrecord of 1-3, having played teams from Lawrence, Methuen, and Brighton. They look forward to their Greater Boston League games against teams such as Cambridge, Somerville, Medford, and Everett.

Around 30 girls joined the team this year, meaning that all three teams freshman, junior varsity, and varsity have 14 to 15 members each, an unusually large amount compared to past years.

“All three of the teams are fairly new, but are strong and and have a great amount of potential for success that will begin to take off!”, senior captain Commie Ayuk revealed. Ayuk, along with junior captain Lisa DeLacey and Blue and Gold member Brittany McFeeley anticipate a great season ahead of them.

Along with the huge turnout of new members, one significant change for the team this year has been the addition of new Jenkins and Brunelli guidance counselor Matt Sadowski to the coaching

staff. Sadowski has been working with returning coaches Dana-Marie Brown and Berenice Diaz, providing a new coaching perspective for the girls.“This season we were lucky enough to have Mr. Sadowski.

He is an awesome volleyball player himself and really has a lot to offer to the team working on skill, technique, and game play. Mr. Sadowski is the freshmen girl’s coach but works with all three teams during practice and helps coach varsity,” DeLacey stated. Likewise, Sadowski is extremely excited to be apart of the volleyball experience.

He has already coached before, so the transition was easy. “It is a different change of pace, but it is easier than I initially thought.” By having previous coaching experience, he has certain goals he would like to

achieve for this team. Sadowski wants to teach them the basic skills of volleyball and help the other coaches. He also plans to lead the team into a sucessful year by creating effective, yet fun practices and to focus on improving necessary skill so that their future matches can be as much of a “fantastic win” as their game against Somerville.

In this match, the team came together a n d delivered a much stronger performance than ever before. Although they have a few things to tweak, Sadowski is sure that they will continue to improve throughout the season. Considering this statement, Sadowski is focusing on their next game against Somerville, and is positive that everyone is going to be surprised at their improvement.

Showing the new members the commitment needed for volleyball allows the team to understand just how much effort is needed to have a rewarding season. Sawdoski and his fellow coaches are determined to bring success to the team and hope that they continue to do well as the season progresses.

The Blue and Gold October 2011

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

21

Girls Soccer Looks to Improve Jake Robinson

Vicki Ngan

Reporter

Copy Editor

F

or the Malden High School girls soccer team, they are off to a rocky start this season, but are also more united and cooperative team, under the guidance of Beebe School third grade and special education teacher Lindsey O’Leary, who is currently in her second season of coaching the team. O’Leary had leaped for the opportunity to be the girls soccer coach when the position was opened, and throughout her life, she had always loved soccer. “I am happy with the way things are going,” O’Leary explained, overseeing the positive attitude of her team and expecting them to improve as a overall unit, for both varsity and junior varsity teams.

Soccer is not just about kicking the ball and working on touches and shooting. Although they work on passing and receiving the ball, to the girls, soccer also has a mental piece. The MHS girls soccer team works to improve themselves mentally as well as physically. Preparing themselves with “Secret Psyche,” the girls are able to get motivated and ready before a game. This type of practice involves the players getting assigned to another without

knowing who they are being paired up with. Then, the girls would have to find a way to get their partners motivated for the game. In addition, the girls can bond and meet other team members, bringing together the team as a whole. O’Leary hopes that the girls can build as a team, and that they can be more confident in their abilities. They are a “group of very talented players,” described O’Leary.

A huge improvement, the girls had created a more friendly atmosphere this year as opposed to the last. Senior co-captain Alex Ly expects the team to be “more united and a family,” and for them to win more games. Last year, the team had only won one game, which was a match against Jeremiah Burke in Dorchester. To add, the team also had problems with teamwork and communication. There had been closed groups of friends at practices, and the tensions were high because of the blaming and finger pointing from teammates. Working with senior co-captian Malorie MacDonald this year, Ly has the responsibility of supporting the team and creating a good atmosphere, as well as a

Senior Malorie MacDonald defending from an opponent trying to score.

Photo by Vicki Ngan.

spokesperson for the team.

After the seniors had left, there had been many spots open in the team, but they have capable and good sophomores that could helped with defensive and offensive positions. Though the girls are trying their best and has proved to be more

united, their start of the season has not gone so well. On Sept. 30,2011 , their game against Cambridge was a defeat, losing 1-0. With a current record of 0 - 8, the girls soccer team is remaining positive and hopes to win some games.

Boys Soccer Gets Mixed Results Jacob Martino

Phillip Montezuma

Copy Editor

Reporter

T

he Malden High School boy’s soccer team started off this season with high hopes to make the state tournament for the second straight year.

Coach Jeremiah Smith expects them to make the state tournament.

In order for this to happen the team has to have a record of .500 or above.

Last year the team the ended the season with a 9-9 this was just good enough for them to make it.

The boys lost the first round however to Acton/Boxboro. This year they would rather have a more winning record so they do not have to worry about not making it, and have a higher seed in the tournament.

Although they lost a few key players including graduate Michael Rincon, who is a member of the New England Revolution Youth Academy, the team still is confident that can accomplish this goal.

Smith feels that there is no need for other players to try and fill the shoes of past players, he just thinks that the members should just try their best each and everyday to get better. He feels that the younger members on the team will eventual-

ly become huge assets to the team’s success during the season.

He is very confident in his two captains senior and Blue and Gold member Dan Holmqvist, and junior Prince Mukala. “They show great leadership,” Smith commented.

Smith thinks that out of the younger players on the team, there are a few that stand out and have tremendous potential but does not want to share any names so it does not seen like there are favorites.

As of now the boys are struggling to get the upper-hand against the tough competition with a record of 4-6, but are still confident that they will bounce back and have a winning season.

The captains know what they have to do to keep the other players on the team motivated and ready to play. The two things the coach says the team needs to do to succeed are to keep working hard, and play as a team.

Every week the boys show improvement in their skills throughout the wins and losses that they face throught the year . As the season progresses, it will bring more accomplishments and hopefully no

Senior Renaud Jean and junior Prince Mukala chase after the ball during a recent match. Photo by Sharon Lee.

more disappointments. The team knows that this year will have it’s shares of ups and downs, but they are aware at the task at hand. Smith feels like the challenges the boys face, make them stronger as a team Smith stated, “Every season brings a new challenge”. The soccer team’s home field is Pine Banks in Malden where they practice everyday and have games almost three

times a week, so the opportunity to succeed is right with the boys in this 18 game season.

The team’s biggest threat to the state tournament is the powerhouse Brookline High School which the last game of they year for both teams. A win against Brookline can either assure that they make the state tournament, but a loss, can crush the hopes for the season.

22

SPORTS

The Blue and Gold October 2011

http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Field Hockey Delivers Mighty Performance Natalie Fallano Photo Editor Alan Shooteech Reporter

M

alden High School’s hockey team this year is fueled by new players, improvement, and leadership.

Head Coach Susan Famiglietti’s main goal this year is “win more games than last year” and to potentially “end the season with a .500 record.” She believes this is possible because of the chemistry her squad had developed, due to the fact that “most of the girls have been playing together since freshman year.” This has caused them to become aware of other’s strengths and weaknesses on the field, so that they can help out and improve. Famiglietti claims that this is due to the bond the team has maintained both on and off the team. They have become so close because of their seniors and captains making the effort.

The tri-captains of the team are seniors Kiara Amos, Emily Hoffman, and Stacey Sousa. Famiglietti credits that these three girls as “unbelievable” by providing an example of being “role models and showing the importance of attendance’’ to the underclassmen of the team.

Although the field hockey team is very small this year, they have two extraordinary goalies, juniors Emily Moran and Erica Hanson.

Moran is a returning varsity player while Hanson transferred from Suffield Academy, a boarding school in Connecticut. Both experienced players, have been switching off from varsity to junior varsity every other game. Hoffman expressed that this is a good strategy because “[they] play teams twice, so [they] can confuse them by putting Emily in one game, and Erica the other.”

Another addition to the team is senior Kevin Schlegel, the first boy to join the program in years.

According to Hoffman, nothing has changed about the team now that it

it is co-ed except that “[she] has to correct [herself] when [she] refers to the team as ‘girls’”. Not many other schools have boys on their teams so it surprises them, but MHS had used this as an advantage. “When we walk off the bus and they see Kevin, they’re intimidated because he’s a guy,” explained Amos. He has added to the team with his speed on the field, because of three years of cross country, outdoor, and indoor track. Famiglietti also noted that Schlegel picked up the sport quickly and made varsity his first year playing, a big accomplishment.

Over the last few years Malden has been recruiting younger girls for a middle school program. Deena Bello, a MHS graduate herself is the coach of the team who established the program back in 2010 She successfully won a grant from the National Field Hockey Association that provides all the equipment for the team and enough money to send a few players to a field hockey camp in the summer.

Famiglietti noted that many underclassman joined the team knowing the basic mechanics already when joining the team. This is an advantage over the upperclassmen and former players who joined the sport when entering high school, but not have never even heard of it before. Sousa stated “this has always been a disadvantage” to the team due to other cities having girls start playing at a youger age, but in the future, MHS “will have this experience too.” The middle school team has continued to grow since forming two years ago.

Hoffman and Sousa both look forward to playing Everett this season. “Everett is the most even match for us, so it’s always a good game.

Amos on the other hand is excited to play Swampscott “because they’re a talented team who we came so close to beating before.” Currently with a 6-6 record, MHS field hockey will be facing Bedford away, on Monday.

Sept. 26, 2011.

Junior Natalie Melo agressively retrieves the ball from a Dracut opponent.

Photo by Sharon Lee.

Senior Rebecca Krigman dodges an opponent as she pursues the ball.

Photo by Sharon Lee.

Head Coach Susan Famiglietti strategizes with her team in a huddle at halftime. Photo by Sharon Lee.

The Blue and Gold October 2011

23

SPORTS http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

Crew Team rallies behind coaches

Golf Team Kristen Leonard Copy Editor Jessica Lynn DePaula Reporter

L The boys varsity boat rowing on the Malden River. Photo by Megan Kelly.

Timothee Pierre Head of Video Editing

T

he Malden High School crew team is one of the unique teams this school offers during the Fall season.

When asked about the strong points of Fall and Spring, according to junior James Hickey, “Fall is all about the determination, a good mind set, and good mental fitness. If you can’t do something then don’t do it,” he stated. According to Hickey, the Spring is a time that is more physically intense as it involves getting in shape for competitions.

Coach Shauna Campbell compares the Fall and Spring to “cross- country and track [as in these sports] you do long runs for a limit of time, [and in track] run on a course.

When discussing expectations about the experience with crew, the members are all straight forward. Hickey stated that the expectations the

team held were overall to “grow [not only as team] but [as individuals.]” The season so far is looking very well, as new members learn more about the concept of the sport and look forward to having a successful season.

Coach Campbell commented on the team’s expectations as “[the] athletes have to be open to new things, to depend on others, and to hold everyone accountable for each other.” For Campbell, crew is more than just a sport. She became interested in crew in high school and continued to pursue her interest in the sport as she applied to a college that had a crew team. Campbell enjoys the aspect of “[making sure] every movement is on point, [and having] to work [together] as a team.”

The crew team will be competing against their rival teams: Medford High School and Lowell High School. Medford has the same number of rowers making the competition more challenging, and with LHS, their larger team size puts MHS at a slight disadvantage.

Juniors Mohammed Anwar, Carlos Flores, senior Manny Martinez, and junior James Hickey rowing at practice. Photo by Megan Kelly.

ooks like it is that time of year again for the polos, dress pants, and the nine-irons. No, not for Tiger Woods, but for the Malden High School golf team. So far the team has started out the season with a record of 1-3-1.

Though the team has not won a match yet, coach Rick Malatesta has expectations for the players to “improve as golfers.” He also states that he wants the golfers to “embrace golf as a ‘Game for a Lifetime’.

Last season with a record of 6-2, placing second in the Greater Boston League, making the state tournament for the first time in over 20 years, and winning the GBL Tournament for the first time in MHS history, the golf team has some high standards to live up to.

With the addition of new players and freshman to the team those standards could very well be met. The freshman joining the team this year are Trsitar Po, who is experienced in playing in golf tournaments; Piero Pocobene, who Malatesta describes as a “rising star”; and Dennis Bailer, who is new to the game, but has a lot of potential. New additions to the team who are not freshman are sophomores Derek Mauriello, Devin Ftizpatrick, John Hastings IV, and juniors John Cagno, and TJ Ruddock. Malatesta states that he team is “very welcoming, supportive and receptive” towards new players “helping [them] understand the nuances of the game.”

Captian Matteo Pocobene also spoke highly of the newest additions to the team, stating that the team, “has acquired two very promising freshman golfers this year, both of which are in the top four on the team.” Does this perhaps signal any rivalries between new and older members? “It’s not so much of a rivalry, but there is a bit of pressure for the upper classmen to step up their game and hold their top positions on the team.” According to him, each and every person on the golf team are very respectful towards everyone, and although there can be times of merriment, when it needs to get serious, things stay very serious.

Pocobene, as a soon-to-be graduating member of the team, says that he will think of his time as a golfer on the Malden High School team as “definitely one of my fondest memories. Although I hope to play golf in college, I’ll miss my time on the team here at MHS no matter what. I’m sure I’ll appreciate my time on the team even more so than I do now.”

According to Malatesta, the game of golf is “often refered to as the metaphor for life in so many ways.” He feels that golf is a game of “honor and integrity, and also one of constant learning.”

Malatesta is loves being a coach of the MHS golf team. “I feel blessed to have them. I am proud of all of them.”

24

SPORTS http://www.maldenblueandgold.com/

The Blue and Gold October 2011