Merionite February 2021

The Merionite

The official student newspaper of Lower Merion High School since 1929 Volume 92, Issue 3 www.themerionite.org

Ardmore, PA, 19003

February 16, 2021

Vaccination station

SAT frenzy

Arts and Entertainment Editor

Maggie Monahan ’21

Anika Xi ’23

Please see VACCINATION STATION on page 4

Please see SAT FRENZY on page 3

Playing it safe Sydney Harman ’23

the ones held by other eliminates the chance

Boston through the lens of an LM stu-

Embarking on a journey by train, Camilla Pheulpin ’22 travels with her

Please see PLAYING IT SAFE on page 3

NEWS

Black History Month

OPINIONS

New year, new restrictions

LM celebrates Black History Month pages 10 and 11

A&E

SPORTS

Time for change page 8

TikTok and your playlist page 12

page 18

FEATURES Valentivities page 13

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News

February 16, 2021

The Merionite

COVID-19 testing News Editors Victoria Bermudez ’22, Phillip Gao ’22, Spencer Rosenbaum ’22, and Caryl Shepard ’22

Photo courtesy of Phillip Gao ’22/Staff

Winter sport athletes take weekly COVID-19 tests in the cafeteria and receive results electronically.

In order to keep students and faculty members safe, LM has been testing teachers and winter sport athletes for COVID-19. LMSD is one of the first districts taking part in a program called Assisting Childhood Education through Increased Testing, also known as ACE-IT. According to Superintendent Robert Copeland, “The program primarily uses BinaxNOW tests, which provide results in fifteen minutes and are administered using a nasal swab in the front area of the nostril.” Tests are conducted weekly for both teachers and students. All teachers who work in the building, asymptomatic or symptomatic, are required to test. As of now, only students who compete in winter sports can participate in the program, as the district is prioritizing “...programs where social distancing cannot be maintained to the extent recommended...” In a schoolwide poll surveying 292 students, 12.3 percent of the respondents reported having participated in the ACE-IT program. Other results from the survey are shown below.

“I think it is important to do my part in helping protect people through herd immunity.”

- Natalie Hillis ’24 uting to the vaccine and I want to have a chance to be around others without endangering them.”

- Sophia Schur ’23 “Vaccines are essential to keeping everybody safe.

Once there are enough vaccines, taking the vaccine will keep me, as well as the people around me, safe.”

- Benjamin Timberlake ’23

Graphic by Emma Liu

“Unless you have a medical reason, your individual choice should not outweigh the health of students.”

- Max Fishman ’22 “Right now with the hybrid schedule no one is vaccinated and we are coming anyway. I think it - Brendan McGrew ’24 “Once they’re available, you shouldn’t be allowed in person without one. There’s ways to learn online if you don’t want to get one.”

- Aine McCann ’24

Graphic by Emma Liu

Timeline on vaccines News Editors Victoria Bermudez ’22, Phillip Gao ’22, Spencer Rosenbaum ’22, and Caryl Shepard ’22

Currently, most high schoolers are not eligible to take the COVID-19 vaccination. In Montgomery County, the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is only and healthcare professionals, private healthcare contractors, people age 65 and older, and people age eighteen to 64 with high-risk conditions. There is no dependent on the quantity of vaccine doses that become available. Many health at its current pace, full vaccination could take over a year. Regardless, students will only have access to the vaccine once high-risk individuals get vaccinated.

However, there are still ways to protect yourself and others without the vaccine. Wearing masks, avoiding large gatherings, washing hands, and Graphic by Emma Liu

News

February 16, 2021

3

The Merionite

COVID’s custodians Ben Warren ’21

SAT frenzy Continued from SAT FRENZY on page 1

Dante McFadden has worked at LM for eleven years and John McHugh has been here for three. Shirley Leahy says she is “just a sub.” What they all have in common is the arduous task of keeping LM clean and its community members safe. LM’s custodians have always worked hard to maintain the school, often taking on long hours and dealing with the messes that 1500 break of the novel coronavirus, the stakes are higher this year. The custodians’ focus has shifted from the discarded trays and milk bottles of unruly Lunch & Learners to the painstaking process of wiping down every surface imaginable, from the lunch tables to the desks to the doorknobs throughout the building.

Lunch and Learn may seem like a small part of the school day, but its absence this year has left a dilemma for custodians. While before, McHugh notes, students could “spread all throughout the hallways,” this year they are “condensed into [the gym] and the cafeteria.” The new schedule leaves es and clean up trash. This might be manageable, but throw in the students who leave class early, and those who sit in the cafeteria for study halls, and it becomes a tricky situation. McHugh also mentions that the challenges are not “more intense deep cleaning and disinfection” than they ever have been before.

McFadden acknowledged the unique challenges that school custodians face this year, but made clear his motivations to do a good job, saying, “I’m here for students, to make sure they feel safe.” He mentioned another reason he follows safety protocols so closely. “I have a family too,” he said, “so I don’t want to bring anything home.” To that end, he feels that the school adminisSpeaking to the support of the administration, McHugh adds, “everything we’ve needed, they’ve gotten us.” From masks and gloves to spray bottles and rags, Leahy can often be seen during the lunch periods assiduously wiping down tables, chairs, and desks. She makes sure to pay attention to detail, disinfecting pandemic and a normal school year is the increased vigilance that is constantly required. She says, “we have to be very diligent.” However, she notes that not every students throughout the building results in fewer distractions and less debris left behind to clean up. This simple fact has allowed Leahy and the rest of the custodi-

the COVID-19 pandemic, from ever-changing schedules to increased responsibilities to the risk of getting sick themselves, they have managed to maintain a positive mindset. McFadden says, “I enjoy what I do. I want to make you all [students and faculty] happy and your family happy.” pandemic has been a newfound sense of appreciation for the custodians. McFadden notes that the school administration sent them appreciative “thank you” cards, something “you don’t hear that much, but now you hear more, because of what’s going on.” Perhaps after the pandemic, there will be a heightened level of respect for the people who keep LM healthy and clean. As McFadden says, they treat the school community “like family.” Maybe it is time to return the favor.

Photo courtesy of Aiko Palaypayon ’23/Staff

Playing it safe Continued from PLAYING IT SAFE on page 1 Students were asked about their opinions of travel during this remarkable time, and they all alluded to following safety precautions if one is to travel.

One student wrote, “I think that travel right now is okay as long as people are being smart and safe for themselves, and safe and respectful to others.” Someone else responded, “I was very envious of my peers who had the opportunity to travel, but I knew it was for the best that we stayed home.” A third student answered, “I lost a lot of respect for people who went on vacation for fun.” This person’s response highlights our community’s main priority of safety above all else during this unpredictable time. When deciding to unnecessarily go to public places, people are not only putting themselves at risk, but also putting everyone else around them in a dangerous situation. Everyone needs to be very conscious of their actions and think about how it could potentially affect others.

Graphic by Emma Liu ’22

Similarly, very few colleges required applicants to take SAT subject tests, and most of those that required or even strongly recommended them have adopted much more lenient policies for the 2020-2021 application cycle. The College Board presents their discontinuation of the essay and subject tests as an independent decision made for the sake of convenience, but it comes after these tests, and the SAT as a whole, have spent the last year rapidly falling out of popularity. Several colleges have begun phasing the SAT out of their admissions requirements entirely, so it’s possible that the simplification of the SAT may be an attempt by the College Board to convince students to continue taking it. Though the College Board is classified as a nonprofit, it tends to bring in around $1 billion a year as a result of the monopoly it has built in test administration. It’s an industry, and like the cable industry or the video rental industry, it’s floundering to keep up with changing times.

It’s hard to say what impact these changes will have on the College Board’s success, but there’s no doubt that they will change the college application process for students at LM. Out of those surveyed, 38.8 percent of this year’s seniors took the optional SAT Essay, while 41.4 percent took at least one subject test. The majority of both groups only took the subject tests or essay because schools they were interested in required or recommended them. Meanwhile, 25.7 percent of this year’s junior class had been planning to take the SAT with the essay, while 38 percent planned to take at least one subject test. When asked about additional thoughts, most juniors seemed relieved about the change, with one student claiming that they were less stressed now, since “some of the colleges I’m looking at wanted subject tests, so I’m happy to not have to go through the hassle of taking them at the end of this year.” However, others raised concerns that without subject tests or the essay, colleges would have trouble distinguishing between students, and would rely more heavily on AP exams. This increased reliance on AP courses places more pressure on students to not only take AP courses, but to perform well on the often rigorous exams that accompany them. AP scores are typically not critical to college admissions, intended more to allow students to earn college credit or skip low-level courses when they enter college, but it’s possible they could become more heavily considered in the absence of subject tests. Another student pointed out that some of their peers have already put in hours of prep work for these exams, and now that they are no longer offered, they’ve “essentially wasted their time.” While the SAT Essay will remain available through June 2021, it’s evident that students who have already dedicated time to studying for subject tests are out of luck.

The discontinuation of the SAT Essay portion and SAT Subject Tests could be a blessing for students both at LM and across the country, or it could lead to consequences that are less than preferable. Either way, it’s clear that the way prospective students are expected to prove their worth to colleges is changing, and the College Board is doing whatever it can to adapt to this changing environment. Whatever the outcome of the abandonment of previous testing standards, this change is only the start of what will likely be a years-long evolution of a once unquestioned standardized testing standard.

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February 16, 2021

News The Merionite

Marking a new era Michelle Kelly ’23 Copy Editor Over the course of the past year, political division, violent protests, and widespread disputes dominated the climate of the United States. However, one event loomed large in the future throughout 2020: the November presidential election. Citizens held their breath for nearly a week as votes were counted and the predicted result seemed to oscillate by the hour. Eventually, the outcomes were to finish out his term. Political protests, lawsuits, and an insurrection on the Capitol building threatened to dissipate what was left of our country’s unity; nevertheless,

inauguration was just a bolster to the typical curriculum, just like US History class with Chad Hennebery: “Our class just happened to be learning about events they were learning about for class. Furthermore, Hennebery explains that “the inauguration ceremony of the new President Hayes was held under tight security since the government feared an insurrection of his opponent’s supportonce said, “History doesn’t repeat itself, witnessed with our own government this past month, reinforcing the ways in which

of viewers across the globe watched PresiHere in LM, families and individuals alike watched as the newest president was sworn

Students in Hennebery’s class also had the opportunity to experience the power of Amanda Gorman’s words, the poet laureate who performed at the inauguration.

Learning about this year’s inauguration wasn’t limited to just social studies

the historical event in their classes: open forum discussions were held, the inauguration was streamed for everyone to watch, and some students were required to complete projects about it. On the other hand, some teachers decided not to refer to it at all. For

art classes, poet laureate Gorman was commonly discussed w ith his students.

Students recall how emotional it was to dissect the power of her words, as well as her performance as a whole, analyzing its artistic

fundamental to discuss the inauguration ship. He recalls that his “classes watched the events throughout the day and discussions were held on our country moving

inauguration ceremony wasn’t entirely political, so it was important to incorporate riencing some of the most inner hostility in its entire history. However, millions of people across the globe were able to find a common interest a few weeks ago.

Graphic by Katie Fang ’23/

students on the country’s political state. He even noted that “even though our democracy was seriously challenged by the insurrection that took place at the Capi-

community was fortunate enough to engage in it from multiple perspectives.

No midterms?!

Jessica Dubin ’23

year, coming back from winter break normally means one thing: midterm week. through long tests to assess what they have learned throughout the first semester.

However, this year, midterms were not required for every class and teachers were able to choose how they would assess their students. When asked about midterms,

really helps with course placement next year as there are a variety of calculus classes offered and different levels of difficulty. Without the exam as a barometer, there is some concern that students might end up in a less than ideal learning environment next year.” Every teacher has decided on a different approach to replace midterms this year. Whether it is a test, project, or just forgetting about midterms all together, every teacher is doing what is best for their students and their class as a whole.

personally learn better in school rather than online so if there would be midterms similar to last year it would create a lot of stress.” Some teachers still had tests, while others decided to do large projects. When social studies and psychology

cumulative midterm would cause undue stress and anxiety in an already stressful years, and most teachers decided to not give midterm assessments if possible.

Chemistry teacher Patrick Cronin spoke about how he is not giving a midterm or anything close to what he would give during a typical year. He said that “the whole curriculum has changed from last year to this year. [He’s] not giving a midterm that is even close to what [teachers] would normally give but [is] going to ask spiraling previous units. Cronin is going to give numerous worksheets and labs to his students with questions that worked with topics previously learned. On the other hand, certain math teachers, like William Hawkins decided to give a more traditional midterm to his Pre-Calculus classes. His first reason for doing this is because it requires students to go back and reteach themselves skills they have previously mastered. Another reason for giving a midterm is because he thought this would be best for their students and best for teachers to understand what course recommendations they should give. He said that “the other major reason for deciding to give a midterm (in the middle of a pandemic) was that [teachers]

Vaccination Station

Graphic by Emmi Wu ’23/

Continued from VACCINATION STATION on page 1 ing in line. For h i m, t he proc e ss wa s ef f icient a nd h ig h ly orga ni zed.

Other staff members felt the registration process proved quite stressful.

Fellow teacher Mark Levy described that part of the process as “very hit or miss,” though it was organized at the actual location. Overall, the vaccines have gone well

vaccinations has yet to start, which includes education workers and caretakers of children, leaving the majority of staff members vulnerable in the meantime.

Not many students are permitted to receive the vaccine yet, but they still Lower Merion being vaccinated so everyone can go to school safely and learn

described the current course of action: “Our Administration is continuing to consult with public health officials and CHOP’s PolicyLab for their guidance as we plan scenarios for how and when to return students to fulltime in-person Photo courtesy of Aiko Palaypayon ’23/

can be vaccinated and student testing can be ramped up, among other variables.”

Opinions

February 16, 2021

5

The Merionite

Editorial: Exceptional egotism

The Merionite Official newspaper of www.themerionite.org

On January 6, we as a nation witnessed one of the most tragic events in American history. When a mob of violent insurrectionists broke down the doors of the Capitol in an election, they weren’t just shattering glass and splintering wood; they were striking at

Editors-in-Chief

News Editors

Opinions Editors

Perhaps the very aspect of America that is itself the impetus for the problems we see today. Driven by the proliferation of nationpast six years has witnessed a resurgence “exceptionalism” of America and holds all

simply view this earth-shattering incident as irrefutable evidence of one individual’s wrongdoing, and only the byproduct of such, ignores the greater issue that untold thousands of individuals out there even now are willing to do the same given the opportunity. gers does nothing to resolve the much more insidious reality that too many out there, who are otherwise everyday Americans, will not hesitate to tear down the bulwarks of our democracy in favor of the whims and

the concept of American exceptionalism in no way emerged as a means of distinguishing Americans from the rest of the world, far from it. Rather, America drew its exceptional character from the principles of free and fair democracy that inspired its foundation and empowered the people to hold their rulers accountable. America was unique not because it was inherently perfect, but rather because of its consensus that peaceful elections could educational culture today does far too little

Features Editors

cient appreciation of the liberties and democategorically rejected to people in countless civics education is almost absent from the picture, especially in the years that are vital to one’s conception of the world around them. tional as the values it upholds—falling short of its promises to protect the right of all to be equally heard is itself deprecating the very reason this nation has survived this long is because it continues to strive to improve and defend the principles of fairness and equity in the law and on the ballot. We must hope it is not too late to continue on the same path.

Unsigned editorials reflect the general opinion of the staff and not the opinion of any single editor.

contributers and not neccesarily those of The Merionite

Trigger warnings ahead conducted exposure in a safe environment sure (or rather an ambush) in a classroom setting is not constructive. Both experts are under the assumption that trigger warnings

Arts and Entertainment Editors

individuals, when that is not their purpose.

Sports Editors

Emily Shang ’21 Opinions Editor Copy Editors

Senior Design Editor Graphics Editors

Senior Web Editor Web Editor Business Manager Assistant Business Manager Photographers

Due to an increase in sexual assault on campuses (or rather an increase in knowledge about these assaults), a culture where parents are expected to become increasingly involved with their children, and the growing sensitivity towards diverse emotional circumstances, the word “trigger” has

since caused a wave of controversial debates in higher education about the extent society should extend its sensitivity towards victims of trauma, and how prominent these trigger warnings should be before society ceases to shelter these people for the sake of intellectual freedom or the good of the majority. While critics of trigger warnings may declare them medically pointless, they are hallmarks of our community’s progress in recognizing mental illness’s

sented in the newspaper to be acthat mistakes are possible and welcomes questions as to accuracy.

Inquiries regarding accuracy should be directed to the editors tacted via e-mail at merionite@ represent all viewpoints in the school community, The Merionite welcomes all letters to the editor. Letters can be sent via The Merionite The Merionite reserves the right to edit letters to the editor for length or clarity. All unattributed images are courtesy of WikiCommons.

analyzing

everybody to feel validated without revealing their past or anything personal, whether they feel strong waves of emotion towards a particular matter or they don’t. Other than being helpful to victims of trauma, trigger warnings can also say a lot warnings acknowledge the existence of survivors in our midst, address the array of emotional and psychological preparedness students inhabit before immersing themselves in the content of the class, and help to cultivate an environment of care and solidar-

a gun or a causative event. In recent years, the word “trigger” has become closely related to warnings preceding sensitive information and denotes an event that causes emotional dam-

Psychologists Advisor

on a deeper level, since it implies that those who feel they need trigger warnings should not be able to freely share their mental health issues or be accomodated, but instead should agement of staying quiet about issues that already isolate victims is counterproductive to creating a culture where mental health issues are discussed and addressed without shame or secrecy. By invalidating the use of trigger warnings and saying students can

do not have the luxury of distancing themedging this modern parallel infringes upon intellectual freedom in classrooms: can we truly learn what authors wanted us to learn, if we refuse to recognize themes from the novel within our classroom and classmates? cates are seen as a signal for those who have undergone traumatic events to begin to prepare themselves mentally and emotion-

Dr. Alexis Lothian, explains it is also ger warnings in academia has tended to revolve around sexual content in queer and feminist contexts… [which] might tell us more about the gendered and sexual cultures of campus life than about trigger warnings themselves.”

trigger

strictly for avoidance of certain topics, rather than warnings to those sensitive to trauma, the result for healing these victims is counterproductive.

“Avoidance of triggers is a symptom Program Coordinator for the Greater Good versity professor of psychology Dr. Richard warnings as a sign that therapy is needed, the idea that trigger warnings should not substitute professional therapy does not necessarily provide evidence to leave them neglects to acknowledge that only properly

who oppose trigger warnings and those who advocate for them is their intended purpose. While the opposing side asserts that trigger warnings cannot help a victim psychologically, the reality is that trigger warnings Graphic by Emma Liu ’22 are not a replacement of therapy, but just get therapy, critics are ultimately avoiding the issue of how mental illness can dras- tal health states and acceptance of them.

Due to the types of trigger warnings that how any number of us can feel “triggered.” are being targeted by those in high education, this is more indicative of the universithose who feel they need trigger warnings should just get therapy, it seems that the erstanding of sexuality organized through issue of mental and emotional health is still the legal discourses of liability, compliance, and mandated reporting embedded in example, in freshman literature classrooms for trigger warnings shows a call for recognition of all mental and emotional states in rape and how he seeks to restore his cour- America as well as that victims are often not age. We often discuss these canon works as alone in their experience with trauma: their if they are millions of miles away–it’s easy community stands in solidarity with them.

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Opinions

February 16, 2021

The Merionite

Words matter to stop the election certification through an insurrection thanks to Trump. Trump used conspiracy theories to instigate the violent attack on the Capitol through social media. While many people pushed Twitter to ban Trump for this reason, it is rather difficult to control conspiracy theories on social media because many believe it inhibits their rights as Americans Liam Shack ’22 if they cannot say what they want.

In recent days, the country has Nevertheless, banning Trump from witnessed the effect that the power Twitter had to be done in order to of free speech truly has on society. maintain public safety and prevent Ever since President Donald Trump Trump from inciting violence any released conspiracy theories and further. In addition, considering how incited violence on social media— many conspiracy theories Trump which instigated an attack on our put out on social media, banning nation’s capital—society started him was a fantastic method at temto have concerns as to how far we porarily halting the colossal flow of should take freedom of speech on conspiracy theories on social media. social media. These days especially, You might be wondering, how social media is filled with violent does this pertain to students? Well, posts and conspiracy theories, many think about how many times stuof which have the potential to dents post on social media. Espeincrease political viocially these days, social lence.

Through media posts made social media, by students freedom of surround speech student opinions.

Misinformed & misled

Noah Barkan ’24 Social media has become an essential part of our lives. From allowing people to stay connected to introducing new interests, hobbies and providing entertainment, social media gives us great power and it has a lot of value. Despite the social media, there has been universal pushback against it from across the board. As social media and its culture are developing, lines are still being should be used. As a society we have been confronted with a wildly important question: What should social media be used for and should it be limited?

The trend of discussing politics on social media has grown massively in popularity over the past year. Scrolling through TikTok, you might see a video on the latest policies being made or on Twitter, you might come across a rant about a controversial lawmaker. Though there is a wide range of political social media engagement, between political opinions and spreading information. Unfortunately, this line is steadily being blurred. This distortion is becoming dangerous very quickly.

The country as a whole witnessed the

extends to the point at which public safety is not at risk and the public gets accurate information.

In general, the place where freedom of speech is most debated is social media. Social media is very unregulated and as we have seen on January 6, it can have devastating effects. In fact, founders and investors of various social media platforms tried to pretend that free speech would not create violence.

They also argued that unregulated posts could damage and take away millions of lives. The issue with free speech on social media is that we need to hear and read ideas in order to know if they are considered conspiracy theories or if they incite violence. For this reason, even if there was a policy that said you cannot post anything on social media that would incite violence, millions of people may have already seen a post before it gets taken down.

However, based on what the country has witnessed in the past, making a policy against posting conspiracy theories is a must no matter what.

During the month of January, we witnessed a catastrophic event at our nation’s Capitol. An angry mob of pro-Trump terrorists attempted

Although, just like everyone else in the US, students should not be able to post whatever they want on social media.

Specifically, students should not be able to post conspiracy theories, incite violence, or imply that they will cause violence through social media. Within the past four years, we have seen an uprising of violent social media posts made by students intended to attack an individual or an entire school.

This is another huge public safety issue because it can be strongly connected to school shootings.

Freedom of speech is one of the more debated human rights, and it is the right that causes the most violence, harm to schools, and political unrest today. The government should continue to allow freedom of speech, but to the point at which the public is not at risk and does not obtain false information. As we have witnessed in the past and will continue to witness in the future, peaceful discussion gets much farther than violent debate and terrorism. If we relied on brutal debate and terrorism in the past, the world we live in would be a drastically different place than it is today.

Graphic by Ilana Zahavy ’24

hand with the storming of the Capitol on January 6. This is a surreal image of what happens when huge masses of people which are led by false information lies. Though former president Donald Trump and news stations that supported him undoubtedly should receive much of the blame for inciting the travesty, the rigged election conspiracy was only further spread by numerous social media outlets. The radical conspiracy group QAnon’s Twitter account is one extreme example of social media’s impact on the event. Situations like the Capitol insurrection are an example of what is so terrifying about the spread of misinformation. Widespread, accurate news is a necessity

that must be maintained, especially at a time when democracy itself is imperiled.

It is imperative that the very people who elect and form our government have the facts and truth to make the right choice. hand is that huge companies like Facebook, Snapchat, and Instagram are not going to be monitoring and fact checking the way we need them to. They are not in it for truth nor with users’ best interests at heart. Their main goal is and always has been to make money.

Facebook, for example, has put out numerous statements advancing that it is not within their policy to take down feres with individual expression and debate.” Despite numerous platforms being blocked, including QAnon and Trump, over the past several weeks, this trend is not going to last. Often mation, let alone block an account. It took outright tyranny and the very fate of democracy on the line for these companies to accede to moral obligation.

We cannot simply assume YouTube or any other platform will take down lies, instead we must take responsibility for the information we choose to believe.

As of right now, it doesn’t seem like we think social media is really important to get kids engaged with movements and spread stories. But often I’ll see something online, and I will initially believe it, but it will turn out to not be true.

That’s really bad when eighty percent of my information does come from Instagram.” This statement brings up the fact that it is easy to assume the information you are being fed is correct, espeanother video, Tweet, or post. Though it is a wonderful thing to get involved in political movements and campaigns, especially through social media apps, it is so vital that we make sure we know what is true and what isn’t. As it happens, the other day I was scrolling through TikTok whenI saw a video claiming political commentator Ben Shapiro was anti-Semitic. I almost believed it, until it occurred to me that Shapiro himself is a Jew. The importance of fair and truthful facts has never been more important, and misinformation in the modern age has never been so prevalent; it can be spread with just the opening of an app. We must take responsibility for our information and news before it is too late.

Graphic by

Opinions

February 16, 2021

7

The Merionite

Our responsibility to small businesses

Nathan Grunfeld ’24 When buying products or services, you are faced with a choice. You can either buy from a local, small business or buy from one of many mega corporations. For many, this choice is not considered or even acknowledged. Despite this, it is imperative that people choose to shop at small businesses when given the opportunity. Small businesses are privately owned businesses that only exist in one community and have only one or eral reasons why one should shop local.

Shopping locally is better for the environment than buying from large corporations. It’s common for small businesses to get their supply from places close to them. In contrast, big companies usually get their supply from factories far away from the actual stores. from trucks driving products across the country. When you support local businesses, you support fewer miles driven and less carbon emissions. Buying locally results in 25 percent fewer miles driven by aging used when buying locally. Large companies often use plastic containers to ship their products. On the other hand, small businesses don’t use these con-

tainers as much and therefore use less unnecessary plastic. It is for these reasons that the National Resource Defense Council stated that buying local helps to reduce pollution and improve air quality.

Shopping at small businesses is also beneficial for you personally. With local businesses, there is typically a better relationship between customers and the business—you are seen as important and real relationships develop. It’s a personalized experience that results in higher-quality service and a more enjoyable time. Additionally, the food from local restaurants and markets is often better than from large chains. Locallygrown food is generally picked with quality in mind and when the crops

the community means a better quality of life for people and also that more money result in better education, health services, and road maintenance, among other things. Local businesses also donate more to local charities than large corporations. By shopping at small businesses, you are indirectly donating to charity.

Due to COVID-19, people across the it’s more important than ever to support local businesses. In this way you

In contrast, large companies have

resources necessary to survive the pandemic. Meanwhile, small businesses shop local, you help to keep these businesses alive. You keep a dream alive and allow for people to put dinner on the table. Large companies don’t need your money like small businesses do.

then transported a short distance to markets and food’s quality isn’t lost.

In contrast, food from large companies typically travels long distances, sits in warehouses, and isn’t necessarily made with quality in mind.

Shopping at local, small businesses is also better for your community. When you buy from local businesses, you invest back into your community. Small businesses are responsible for creating twoout-of-three new jobs in the US. By buying local, you support job creation and help stabilize employment levels. Out of $100 spent in local businesses, $58 is with large companies. More money in

are helping your struggling community as a whole. A recent report by Yelp stated that from April to September about 160,000 small businesses have temporarily or permanently closed down, averadded that sixty percent of these 160,000 businesses are permanently closed as opposed to just temporary closed. Many small businesses don’t have the money necessary to survive in the pandemic.

Graphic by Emmi Wu ’23

In the modern world there are large businesses and small, local businesses.

Despite the apparent shine of big businesses, you should take it upon yourself to always buy local when such is time you have the option to buy something, consider the greater impact on where you shop from and buy local.

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Opinions

February 16, 2021

Look forward, not back

The Merionite

Test-taking treachery

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Jonathan Xu ’22 Opinions Editor

Elliot Ginzburg ’21 Editor-in-Chief

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Time for change

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There’s no doubt that this schoolyear

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the school day at 9:00 Emma Liu ’22

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Features

February 16, 2021

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The Merionite

Light the lanterns Olivia Lee ’23 Lunar New Year is a time of the year when families and friends gather to celebrate the endar. It is often celebrated between January 21 and February 20; this year, Lunar New Year is being observed on February 12. The holiday is celebrated all throughout the world by many people of Asian descent. On the day, many families take part in rituals and feast together as a celebration.

As immigrants, my parents held onto this tradition and are passing it down as time goes on.

My family often gathers together at my grandparents’ house, where we fold tiny, square pieces of paper called “Joss” into burritoshaped origami. Once all the papers have been folded, we gather bags of them to toss them into a big can, where they are then burnt. This tradition originated because the Chinese believed that the deceased have needs similar to those in the natural world.

Burning the Joss paper is believed

dren as they cheer on the dancers.

The dance is quite hectic and full of adrenaline. Chinese lanterns are hung glowing with a deep red Lunar New Year is a time of celebration and coming together to wish everyone a lucky and happy year.

Food is one of the most important parts of Lunar New Year. It is believed that food brings good luck for the years to come. At my grandparents’ house, lots of fruit and candy is displayed to be eaten. Special dishes like a whole

trade for goods and exist comfortably in the spirit world. After all has been burnt, we attend the lion dance. Dancers hold huge, colorful parts of cardboard cut-out lions and march around. Loud drums and crashes can be heard from blocks away as the dragon dancers make their way through the crowd. Families carry their small chil-

a whole chicken, and sweet rice balls are made for dinner to celebrate. After dinner is when oranges and tangerines are handed out as a way of giving good fortune.

The word oranges in Cantonese sounds the same as good fortune, therefore we are being handed “good fortune.” Food is a symbol of good luck and happiness.

Nonetheless, 2021 will be a different story. With COVID-19, it ebrate together with family members and the community. Large gatherings will not be an option and with the current situation, my family has decided to celebrate with only immediate family Graphic by Emmi Wu ’23/ members. Instead of going out, to watch the lion dance we will be enjoying dinner and visiting our grandparents to burn Joss paper and celebrate the upcoming new year!

Call out to the current clubs Crosby Johnson ’24 nities to pursue an activity you love, or even a chance to try something out for submit their work for judging, while others of a less competitive nature create a chance to connect with your culture or get to know other students. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, clubs at school have still been active, though The Technology Students Association (TSA) has successfully completed its projects virtually instead of bringing their displays and work to an in-person conference. Those with exceptional work received tickets to the next round of the competition, States, which, barring a sigic, will most likely stay all virtual as well.

Mock Trial is a club in which students develop their skills in understanding the law and courtroom procedure through “trial” competitions. Students have been working to prepare “cases” and are presenting them as the “Plain-

and learn together, is still going on, although much of it is through Zoom.

Many cultural clubs have started up as well: Asian, French, Israel, Classics, and Spanish are all meeting via Zoom. Once back in-person, these and games that are being played over Zoom currently. Many of these clubs have also been hosting virtual movie nights to encourage club bonding. their Teach Python season, current events that will be held through the next few months include coding competitions, CodeLM, and the Girls Hackathon.

Try and support these clubs over the next few months by cheering them on, be it in person or virtually, and maybe even giving one of them a try yourself!

Montgomery County Courthouse. Professional lawyers and judges oversee the procedures.

LM’s robotics team, DAWGMA, allows students the opportunity to use their STEM and robotics skills in competition environments. season experience that does not include in-person game play. The DAWGMA team will also The community service club, BuildOn, has been busy the past couple of months doing a variety of COVID-19 safe service “activities, such as the 2020 LMSD BuildOn Gala, as well as continuing their yearly tutoring program held virtually this year.

Science Olympiad is competing in invitationals, including the MIT, Solon, HarvardBrown, and Duke invites. They are also preand hoping to get into States and Nationals.

Best Buddies has been working with students in LMSD with disabilities. COVID-19 makes it hard to do regularly scheduled events and have safe interactions between members. However, LM’s gym program for disabled students, in which students play games

Photo by Anika Xi ’23/ A recent meeting from the Science Olympiad team watching the awards ceremony for the MIT Invitational together.

“In the American education system, history is told from the perspective of people who hold the power. Black History Month takes a moment out of the year to highlight the achievements, culture and voices of African American people.”

- Black Student Union Founders Board

News Victoria Bermudez ’22, Phillip Gao ’22, Spe

Ethel Waters (1896-1977) African American to host her own show can American woman to be nominated for an Emmy Award, and the second African American to be nominated for an Academy Award.

Dr. Ethel D. Allen (1929-1981) Attended Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and was a practicing gynecologist in underserved areas in Philadelphia. She later served as the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for three years and on Philadelphia’s city council for seven years.

Twin Pandemics: COVID-19 and Racism Izzy Bonita ’22 The past ten months have been defined by heavy losses in life, prosperity, and comfort. The world is dealing with multiple viruses; the plague of racism and racial injustice, and COVID-19. In the aftermath of the death of George Floyd, like thousands of Americans, LM students took to the streets to protest in the name of the countless lives lost to police brutality and the racist systems in place, in both our society and law enforcement. Students participated through online activism, protests in Philadelphia, and even held their own Black Lives Matter protest with Harriton, on June 7, 2020. Long overdue conversations surrounding race and equality in every sector of society have finally begun which includes the worrisome statistics that show black Americans are dying at higher rates than white Americans from COVID-19.

As of February 4, 2021, more than 451,000 Americans have died from COVID-19. Even though the majority of the deaths in the United States have been Caucasian, black communities are being devastated at an alarming rate. According to APM Research Lab, as of January 5, 2021, one in 1,030 white Americans had died from Coronavirus in comparison to one in 737 black Americans who had died of the Coronavirus and black Americans are 2.3 times more likely to die of COVID-19 than white Americans.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has stated that people with conditions like asthma and diabetes have a higher risk of suffering from more severe illness if they contract COVID-19 with minority populations being “Fifty percent more likely to work in service industries,” says Dr. Dora Hughes, a professor of health policy at George Washington University.

“Black History Month is an opportunity to “History, despite its wrenching open the doors pain cannot be unlived, but if of the past and faced with courage, need not be to the future.” lived again.”

- Black Student Union Founders Board

- Maya Angelou, “On the Pulse of Morning.”

“We are striving to forge a union with purpose, to compose a country committed to all cultures, colors, characters and conditions of man.”

Editors encer Rosenbaum ’22, and Caryl Shepard ’22

Guion Bluford (1942-)

Emlen Tunnell (1924-1975)

First African American to go to space. Bluford served as an aerospace engineer, a African American to play for the New York ducted into the Football Hall of Fame. Tunnell pilot, and an astronaut at NASA. also served as a coast guard, and was posthumously awarded the Silver Lifesaving Medal for his heroism in rescuing a fellow shipmate from drowning.

- Amanda Gorman, “The Hill We Climb”

This creates a higher risk of being exposed to the virus whereas more affluent, typically white Americans, have the privilege to work remotely. Lastly, black Americans are more likely to live in multi-generational homes, potentially exposing older, more vulnerable populations to COVID-19.

While scientists globally have been working tirelessly to produce the vaccines, one scientist has played an even more vital role. Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, the National Institute of Health’s lead scientist for Coronavirus vaccine research, says she helped to develop the Moderna vaccine which is now available to first responders and vulnerable populations. She is also a Black American woman who has expressed her belief in the importance of being “seen and not to be a hidden figure.” This is even more significant because not only does she hope to be a role model for other aspiring scientists, but to minorities who have “done the dirty work for these large efforts towards a vaccine.” In response to the disturbing data of racial inequities in COVID-19 deaths, the Biden administration recently released the National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response where “goal six” addresses the need for a more organized and on-the-ground approach to vaccinations, especially for disproportionately affected communities.

This past year has brought a new meaning to Black History Month. Everyday we must remember the past, provoke unjust systems everywhere, and protect future generations from the evils of racism. Similar to what Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said in his famous letter written from Birmingham Jail in 1963, inequality anywhere threatens life everywhere. It is vital that every possible explanation as to why a disproportionate number of black Americans are dying from COVID-19 is thoroughly investigated so that the country can move forward to address these inequalities for a fairer and healthier future.

Photo Courtesy of Ezra Thau ’22

“Some live by love thy neighbor as thyself,

no harm or take no more than you need.

What if the “Everything we are today has been mightiest word is shaped from our past. Black Hislove?” tory Month is a great time for celtake a look around. Black history is being made every day!”

- Elizabeth Alexander: “Praise Song for the Day”

- I Will Breathe, LM Chapter Graphics by Cate Roser ’21/

Emmi Wu ’23

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February 16, 2021

Arts & Entertainment The Merionite

The fashion of masks Gabryelle Tepper-Waterman ’23

A year after the first COVID-19 case appeared in the United States, masks have emerged as a symbol of the pandemic. What started as a necessity birthed a brand new fashion trend everyone could get in on.

Masks are not going anywhere. In fact, they are mandated here in Pennsylvania and it seems as if that order won’t be lifted for the foreseeable future. While the traditional blue disposable mask is still a go-to for many, the fashion of masks has exploded with different styles, fabrics, patterns, and designs. The production of fashionable face coverings presented an opportunity for individuals, young designers, and well established brands. Even celebrities and influencers got in on the mask trend.

Having become an extension of an kk

individual’s own personal style and creativity, masks reflect one’s personality and outlook on life. Whether it’s the fabric, design, or the way it’s worn, masks provide the opportunity to make a fashion statement. When looking to express your personal style through your mask, there are three main types of face coverings from which one can choose: bandanas, gaiters, and standard masks. Not to worry, there are an endless amount of options to help you express your personal style.

For athletes, familiar brands like Under Armour, Reebok, and Athleta make lightweight, absorbent masks using stretchy performance fabrics like polyester, spandex, and mesh.

It makes for a breathable and comfortable workout, something that is much more difficult when wearing a cloth covering. Some athletic masks even come in different sizes to fit the athlete’s face. You’ll find your favorite NBA players wearing the Co. Protect Premium threeLayer Face Mask. These masks are three ply fabric, so they are breathable, sweat-free, and comfortable.

If sports aren’t your thing but style is more your speed, there are a ton of mask options for the fashionistas out there. Masks come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including; animal prints, tie-dye, and

camo. Masks can also help tie current looks together. For example, adding a matching mask to a monochromatic outfit is the perfect way to complete the look. Not to mention, almost every brand — from designers on Etsy to luxury fashion brands like Fendi — now produce masks.

Even those not looking to make a bold statement with their face covering have options! The brand SKIMS, owned by Kim Kardashian, sells masks matching every skin tone. The masks shape the face and are meant to “disappear.” Nolan Shanley ’23, believes “SKIMS masks look simple, yet are still fashionable, and provide protection and breathability.” There are even companies like Etsy and Amazon that will personalize masks with your face, leaving the wearer looking maskless.

If you’re concerned about the environment, there are even ecofriendly masks made of sustainable materials using ethical manufacturing practices. These masks are made out of organic and recyclable materials.

Finally, there are even masks that represent your interests and activities.

These include your favorite brands, apps, celebrities, influencers, colleges, sports teams, foods, etc. Many even chose to express their social and political opinions through their masks.

Throughout 2020, we saw masks sup-

porting Black Lives Matter, the presidential candidate of your choice, the LGBTQ+ community, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Whatever causes you support, it’s likely there’s a face covering to match. Whether you are an athlete, fashionista, conservationist, or just want to express yourself, there is definitley a mask that reflects your personality and fashion sense.

While it is likely we will all be wearing masks for the forseeable future, with shots becoming more available and going into more and more people’s arms every day, there is hope we’ll soon be able to remove these coverings and return to seeing everyone’s face. Until that normalcy returns, you can try to make the best situation out of these coverings.

Graphics by Emma Liu ’22

Mia Hail ’23 Copy Editor Like many LM students, I constantly find myself scrolling through an endless loop of TikToks for what feels like hours. TikTok has become such an integral part of our generation’s media consumption and influences almost every aspect of our lives, from the clothes we wear to the music we listen to.

As far as social media platforms go, in recent years TikTok can be credited for making many songs extremely popular. It seems to be an inevitable outcome for any song that finds itself in the foreground of a viral TikTok trend.

In fact, many of the songs that are at the top of the music charts were part of a TikTok trend at some point. Take Olivia Rodrigo’s record smashing new song, “Drivers License.” Over a million videos on TikTok use Rodrigo’s song, and many of them have millions of likes.

The TikTok community has played a huge role in the song’s success, as it did with many other songs, like “ O l d T o w n R o a d ” b y Li l N a s X , o r “ S a v a g e ” b y Me g a n T h e e S t allio n .

The most dominant and popular music platforms, like Spotify and Apple Music, have dozens of playlists specifically curated with viral TikTok songs, which receive huge sums of streams daily. TikTok has essentially created a whole new genre of viral internet music. TikTok is a versatile platform that allows many unknown, underrated artists to reach popularity seemingly overnight. It can also make songs from past eras surge to popularity, despite being released years ago. Just like any other internet trend, there is no telling what song will go viral next.

TikTok has also created a community where creators, who aren’t as well known yet, can promote their music and reach a wide audience. Many artists who were severely underappreciated soared to popularity after one

of their songs went viral, like Ashe with her song “Moral of the Story,” Ricky Montgomery with “Line Without a Hook,” and countless others.

People who share similar music tastes or are looking to discover brand new music can come to TikTok and find a community where they can discover both. Many users have measures to share the songs they love, their personal playlists, links to their music streaming accounts, and even create community playlists where users can add their own songs. Once someone begins to interact with videos on TikTok of a certain genre, the door is opened to related music. Since the algorithm notes which videos every user interacts with, allowing more similar videos to be shown. Abby Braslow ’23 shares her thoughts on this, “I think that TikTok has definitely opened my music taste to a wider range of genres. I find myself listening to songs I never would’ve discovered otherwise.” Another student, Shaine Davison ’23, shares that, “I discover a lot of new music, but I also hear a lot of overplayed songs. I think it evens out a little.” Everyone’s personalized “For You” page has a combination of extremely popular songs that are being played everywhere and undiscovered artists with brand new music.

Not only has TikTok simply influenced what songs find themselves on the top of the charts, it has created a space for creators and users to discover new music. Speaking from my personal experience, I can definitely say that TikTok has helped me develop my own music taste and introduced me to countless new songs. I have found dozens of new artists and have been able to discover strangers’ favorite songs (that I never would’ve listened to, or possibly even heard of, otherwise) and add them to my own playlists.

Graphic by Emmi Wu ’23

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Overcoming the winter blues Shaine Davison ’23 As the dark winter drags on, maintaining positive mental health

platforms are the primary ways for

of year tends to bring gloom to pandemic seem to drag on in the

and anxiety, irritability, decreased energy, increased sleep, and anxiety, depression, loneliness, sleep

ways for LM One main way to boost mental someone who needs help or someone weather does range in the mid

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improves, as does the ability to

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is proven to boost mental health, Limiting time spent on social media is also known to improve

remember that there are always people Graphic by Emma Liu ’22/Staff

YES or sNOw Ben Cromer ‘24

school when there is a threat of a large storm that night, keeping everybody be based on the severity of the storm; before, saying that it will be either an starts to make the call based on how everyone to connect to the internet look at the radar, as the closer we get to storm that we knew was going to chance that the majority of the district administrators decided to have everyone stay home and perform

to make the day of the storm chance of poor driving conditions, then

Graphic by Emma Liu ’22/Staff

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Features

February 16, 2021

The Merionite

Valentivities Julia Russel ’23

Although it can be difficult to participate in fun activities with COVID-19, don’t let your Valentine’s Day be ruined! There are still various activities to do with your significant other on this special holiday, indoors and outdoors.

One option could be making dinner together. Cooking or eating a meal together is a delicious way to bring you closer together with the people you love.

Rather than having frozen food or ordering out, why not try to make a special dinner from scratch? Not only will this be a fun experience, but you’ll end up with a more rewarding, special and unique meal.

Not good chefs? No problem. A movie night is always a classic, romantic date.

From horror to comedy, there are a variety of options. Spice up your night with some of the snacks you’ve been missing from the movie theater: popcorn, chocolate, and candy always pair well with a movie,

Graphic by Katie Fang ’23

even if you’re watching from the couch.

While these date ideas would be perfect for Valentine’s Day, during quarantine, it’s understandable that not all dates can take place indoors. It might be hard to brave the February chill, but if you’ve gone quarantine shopping, this is the perfect opportunity to change out of sweats and get dressed up to go out. There are many things to do, especially in Philadelphia. Ice skating on the waterfront or at City Hall is a fun way to spend a night with a loved one, and could be paired with an outdoor dinner or a walk around town. Parks are a good daytime option for a picnic or casual stroll as well, and many have beautiful lights if you would prefer to go at night.

Valentine’s Day is much harder due to the pandemic, but don’t let that get it in the way! With any one of these date ideas, Valentine’s Day is sure to be as special and memorable as ever.

The gift guide that keeps on giving Lila Schwartzberg ’24 Valentine’s Day is coming soon. It’s always a challenge to come up with the perfect gift to give, especially when you’re low on time due to school, work, or extracurricular activities.

Think no further, as the best Valentine’s Day gift list has been created.

A nice bouquet of flowers and chocolate is one of the most classic Valentine’s Day gift ideas out there. It’s crazy how much prices surge for flowers when Valentine’s Day rolls around, but most people agree you can’t go wrong with this tried and true gift—and although flowers can be expensive, Trader Joe’s and various drug stores can have cheaper options.

Another classic is homemade baked goods. Nothing says “I love you” like home-cooked food. If you’re lazy or don’t have the free time, Insomnia cookies are just as good, and can be ordered online and delivered to your loved one if you don’t have a store near you! If you still don’t feel like you have the right food-related gift, try custom M&Ms that you can order with colors, images, or words of your choice.

If food and flowers aren’t your thing, you could try purchasing a new Xbox game, such as Madden NFL 2021. Or how about getting a set of darts to play together? Both are fun activities to do when the cold weather keeps you stuck inside. If your loved one is more of a sweats-and-Netflix snow day

type of person, fuzzy socks are an inexpensive, easy go-to. A nicely-scented candle can be another amazing gift to give.

How about some clothes? Everyone loves a Comfy. If you haven’t heard of one, it is basically a huge, fluffy, and soft hoodie that is sherpa on the inside. It’s great for relaxed winter nights while sitting and watching TV. A great add-on to the gift of a Comfy are some Ugg slippers or moccasins. These shoes are fantastic and extremely cozy. Since people are spending so much time at home, any loungewear would be useful. For those seniors out there, how about a sweatshirt with a design of their favorite college?

For the smartphone and social media obsessed, another idea is a custom phone case. Also, LED lights are very popular nowadays, which could be a great option. For someone who enjoys listening to music, a speaker would be a splendid idea. If someone you love is a fan of hot sauce or spicy foods, buying them a “make your own” hot sauce kit would be a delightful surprise. For a more thoughtful and heartfelt gift that requires less effort, you could purchase “What I Love About You,” a fill-in-theblank book that you can order on Amazon and personalize for the recipient.

Any gift on this list is sure to put a smile on someone’s face, whether it be a significant other, family member, friend, or you, if you want to treat yourself!

Graphic by Emmi Wu ’23

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The Merionite

Valentine’s Day dilemma Ruby Romano-Lehr ’24 Love is in the air, But it does come with a scare.

So for everyone out there, beware.

Maybe you’re alone, Honestly same here, But don’t let that make you down, Life isn’t Shakespeare.

Show some appreciation in general, For the amazing population out there.

Help make your community grow,

Show them some art, Do a Zoom call movie, Make a detailed Minecraft map, Listen to music that is groovy.

Don’t worry for cooties, Or Cupid’s arrow.

Worry for germs, And cleaning thorough.

Do something with friends, Virtual and fun, Do something with family, Or just with anyone.

Give your pets some love, Cuddle them with attention, Catch up with some good shows, That will keep up your retention.

Try to impress them, Try to be yourself, Try to not be awkward, Try not to do too much and hurt oneself

Roses can be red, And violets I guess are blue, But make sure you are protected, And your loved ones too.

Play some Among Us, Do some Jackbox games, If you go out of the town, Wear a mask and don’t be lame.

Dip your toes into new waters, Or have a day of relaxation.

We don’t have school on the 14th, Make your own creation!

The trope says

Do a screen share of a movie, Maybe a safe walk through the park.

Do photoshops of you two together, Something in that ballpark.

Rip on a bad movie, Make fun of it to your heart’s content, Maybe do some creative writing, It could always be a vent.

Tell your SO how you truly feel.

The circumstances are not the best,

Just talking to someone Makes everything so much better.

It doesn’t have to be a crush, It could be your pet in a sweater.

Write a poem like this!

And make it cheesy and cheerful.

Make a long playlist of songs, It might end up very tearful.

Get chocolates and candy, Could be just for you.

Maybe it’s for the kids Give them some of the sugary brew.

You could just send them a text, If you have their number.

If that’s not the case, Then that’s kind of a bummer.

Give stuff to close ones, Give stuff to the people, Give things to yourself, Nothing all too royal or regal.

Get creative and make A Minecraft dating mod.

Or stay home and bake, Just don’t be in a squad.

Go old fashioned and send Your lover a card, One with lots of stickers, Nothing too complicated or hard.

Or the classic paper card.

Do a scavenger hunt, That runs through their yard.

Ranking love songs Nolan Shanley ’23

This year might be better for masks And sanitizer, which is very dandy

The ideas are endless, I hope this might help you out.

Have a very happy Valentine’s Day!

Valentine's Day

word search

1. “Crazy In Love solo single post-Destiny’s Child, titled “Crazy In Love,” featuring hip-hop rapper (and current husband), Jay-Z. This song instantly became a hit as it landed number one on the Billsuccessful was the inspiration it came from. At the time, there was speculation that Beyoncé and Jay-Z had feelings for each other, and that they were possibly together. “Crazy In Love” forever be an iconic love song that everyone can easily jam out and scream the words to.

2. “Thank U, Next” by Ariana Grande. While brainstorming song ideas, I, of course, needed to include a song for all of those heartbroken, lonely individuals out there this Valentine’s Day. As you know, Ariana Grande released her highly praised song “thank u, next” in 2018 in response to the way the media portrayed her as an artist. In the song, Grande calls out and thanks her previous lovers who have made her the person she is today. Due to the honesty and catchiness of the song, it scored board Hot 100, and became her most successful song of all time. At the time, her music video (in which Grande plays the main characters from Mean Girls, Graphic by Emmi Wu ’23/Staff Bring It On, 13 Going On 30, and Legally Blonde), broke the record for most viewed video in 24 hours, with 55.4 million views.

It is easy to say that this is one of Grande’s most personal and most iconic songs, perfect for those who are suffering from being single this Valentine’s Day. 3. “Lover” by Taylor Swift. This song is for the people who happen to be lucky enough to be in a relationship. Although “Lover” by Taylor Swift was a recent release by the popstar, it feels guaranteed that this song will become a highlight of Swift’s musical discography. It has potential to be used as a wedding song for future generations as it delivers a warm, comforting message about a long-lasting love. a song about a certain individual whom she is so in love with and wants to spend the rest of her life with. “Lover” is sure to be one of Gen Z’s future wedding songs.

Word Bank:

Love Sweet Kiss Valentine Chocolate

Heart Flower Romance Cupid Rose

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February 16, 2021

Arts & Entertainment The Merionite

WandaVision Noah Sommer ’22

WandaVison -

WandaVison.

WandaVision -

Friends Emma Liu ’22

Class Action Park Noa Cutler ’22 Arts & Entertainment Editor

Class Action Park,

-

Class Action Park.

-

-

-

Class Action Park Cate Roser ’21 /

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Rest in peace art Arts & Entertainment Editor

Back in August, I took a week-long online painting class through Columbia University. I would spend five hours a day putting colors to canvas, studying art history, and playing with metaphors.

In the end, I created four official portfolio pieces.

The syllabus focused on imagery and color theory, and when I wasn’t working on the assigned pieces, I’d absentmindedly use the spare paint to experiment with these elements in my own preferred niche: acrylic portraits. These extra pieces may not have been aesthetically pleasing, or anything special at all, but they were living relics of my curiosity, testing the limits of these techniques.

Six months later, in the second semester of the school year, my paints collect dust in the basement where I used to lay them on canvas. My mental

energy is used up in my daily classes, then squeezed dry with everything else outside of school. I’ve been too tired to paint, or write, or do any of the creative things that used to light up my brain. Most days, I simply can’t incorporate it in. On the rare occasion I do have time, the spark of curiosity is nowhere to be found. Art, after all, is scarcely easy. It’s constantly extending the boundaries, pushing your own abilities and mental capacity, and seeing what comes of it.

The other factor, of course, is the concept of “productivity.” Doing schoolwork is considered productive because it’s accomplishing a task that can get you good grades, and good grades can get you into a good college, if you’re lucky. Even when the schoolwork doesn’t hold much value or interest to the student, getting it done is still productive because, without it, you could do poorly in a class. Art, by most of society’s definitions, is not a productive use of time. Pursuing it professionally is discouraged, but at least then you may be working towards something. But what if you like to create for the feeling of doing so, as a form of relaxation and release? What if you have no real goal in your art except to push yourself and see where it leads? With no clear path, no stagnant direction, art can be freeing. Sometimes, someone really just wants to enjoy the feeling. With that mindset, though, how could someone convince themself that it’s productive?

After all, the artist may have no intention of it leading anywhere.

It holds immeasurable value, but it doesn’t exist in a void, and it sometimes feels impossible to rationalize spending time on art

and not everything else that one could be doing.

Many students, like myself, have been wrestling with this internal conflict. What will it take to manage it, to get past the hurdle of being burnt out? Is it something an individual can accomplish on their own, by changing their routine and reminding themselves that even if something isn’t deemed productive, it can still be important? Or, is it part of something bigger, something that should be examined as a symptom of a system in which work is the priority, something that can only be treated by curing the root disease? Personally, I envy students who have found ways to hold onto their artistic spark.

Lily Greenberg ’23, a student with an artistic focus in film, deals with this by following the advice of a teacher: “taking something simple and just building off of that.” For some people, this is perfect advice, but for others, it can be hard to find motivation in something so small. In the future, I hope to discover a method of my own to overcome the burnout.

Pictures courtesy by

The constant conundrums of COVID-19 Arts & Entertainment Editor We’re used to hearing about people counting down the days until the last day of school, a certain event, or a special trip they’re about to go on. But for LM’ renowned Music Department’s teachers were counting down the days until a COVID-19 study would come out.

“I have never seen a group of people so invested Choir Director Joshua Hunnex. The study he was referencing investigated how COVID-19 spreads in performing arts settings and classes, and what schools would need to do to make sure that did not happen.

This was only the beginning for these teachers.

Band Director Joshua Cooperstein said he and others members of the music department were part of a Facebook group this summer with performing arts teachers from across the country who were sharing the ways they were preparing to teach in the pandemic era. “We would take the best what we needed to do to incorporate those things.”

“We’ve gotten a lot of information from other schools,” said Band Director Aaron Datsko. He added how the teachers would often join Zoom presentations with “thousands of people” trying to hear about the results of studies.

Many of these changes they were learning about were not implemented at the beginning of the year, as school began virtually. In that setting, teachers conduct students while they sing or play their instruments muted, to avoid any problems with lag.

Those initial days were all about testing the ideas they had designed over the summer. After class, Hunnex would ask his students, “How did that work for you? What

was good, what was bad,’ just sort of get their feedback.”

When in-person classes returned, teachers had to follow strict guidelines they learned about over the summer. Data showed after thirty minutes of playing a wind instrument or singing the risk of COVID-19 transmission increased, so “after thirty minutes of playing, we stop,” according to Datsko.

Datsko’s band classes are now in the auditorium instead of his classroom in the music hallway.

Wind instrument players were provided specially designed masks so they can have their faces covered while still being able to blow into their instruments.

Voice performance has one of the highest risks for transmission of COVID, according Hunnex. Therefore he

but it’s twenty individual people singing together.”

Classes aren’t the only part of the music departacapella group Flying Aces, described how they follow the in-person regulations and how the amount of people on Zoom versus in-person is about “half and half.” that we can’t all be together and hear the blending,” said Forman describing the circumstances. But Forman says they’re just happy they are “able to sing together at all.”

Datsko shares the sentiment that the lack of togetherness is a disappointment, and described conversations he’s had with “seniors who are seeing the writing on the wall that they can’t come in and make music like they used to.”

He says they really miss rehearsing and performing with their peers like they would any other year.

But Forman was able to see the bright side of the situation. “I’m just happy that I could still do my favorite activity my senior year.”

For now, the music department, like others, will push forward, and when doing that they’re

the way. “We’re discovering over the course of this year… some of the new resources we’re using are things Graphic by we’d like to continsaid instead of following the typical six feet apart guideline ue using after the pandemic is over,” said Hunnex. we’ve all heard by now, “we use Twelve-foot distancing.”

“Now we feel settled into it,” said Cooperstein about These classes are all about being an ensemble: indi- what teaching is like at this moment. He credits the viduals coming together to make music. While that’s not students for being patient with all the changes as a possible, Cooperstein described one way the choir was huge help. “Kids have already come into our classroom able to create an ensemble. “Everybody recorded their with an understanding of realistically what to expect.” parts, we produced it, and it sounds like a full group,

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Sports

February 16, 2021

The Merionite

New year, new restrictions Luke Shepard ’24 The winter sports season usually has LM students thrilled to see what their teams can do around this time of year. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it seemed as if a 2021 campaign might not be compatible with Pennsylvania’s health and safety protocols.

Governor Wolf placed a temporary ban on all sports from Kindergarten through twelfth grade, leading to many pessimistic thoughts of a suspended season.

However, due to plateauing positivity rates around Pennsylvania, a return to winter sports was permitted on January 4 with both athletic and medical restrictions in place. Although teams will miss hosting big crowds of screaming fans, athletes and coaches are grateful for the opportunity to participate in a season at all.

The cold Pennsylvania winter and lack of favorable outdoor conditions make practicing outside an illogical or impossible option for most winter sports. Indoor training and competition is not as simple a solution as it may seem, as the state issued a mandate that only ten percent occupancy be permitted in indoor venues with a capacity of up to 2,000 people and an occupancy 2,000 people, with masks required in any venue at all for two teams to play a game against one another,

means players can practice in the gym at the same time, ultimately resulting in fewer practices for every team as a whole. Each training session is even more valuable than usual as a result of this limited availability, so the infrequency of these practices is far from ideal for competitive teams. practice time, the Board of Directors for the PIAA amended the requirements for teams to compete. practices for each team to begin playing other schools.

The Board revised this rule to only ten practices before competition to allow for an immediate start to the Photo courtesy of Bridget McCann ’21

LM girls’ basketball seniors are looking to guide the team to success this season, especially after narrowly losing to Conestoga 41-40. tournaments and other showcases that many athletes rely on to display their skills are nearly impossible with these restrictions. Although some sports are able to operate smoothly with only two teams in one facility at once, these limits have led more tournament-dependent teams to forego the interscholastic aspect of their seasons. Winter track coach David VanHouten notes that cancellation of competition was required as “indoor

to the ban of K-12 sports back in December, they only needed to complete a minimum of four preseason practices before challenging opponents. Otherwise, the requirement is shifted to a total combination of ten preseason practices (e.g. three in December and seven in January or zero at the end of last year and all ten in January). The main reason behind this decision was to even out the time that all schools begin restrictions are only in place for this season and will revert to the normal requirements in following years.

In addition to the occupancy limitations in place, available for sports teams to play. Most competition has to remain within leagues such as the Central League, overcome. “It isn’t possible to limit our competitive opportunities to Central League teams only since we possible to go to other states to play tournaments, but a negative COVID-19 test of each athlete is required at least 72 hours from arrival in the commonwealth.

Indoor restrictions on occupancy also make it decrease in the maximum occupancy of the gymnasium Photo courtesy of Hannah Shalaby ’21 Graphic by

uncertainity surrounding their season.

Tribute to a Legend Ben Wolf ’22 Sports Editor Any member of the LM community will undoubtedly remember exactly where they were and what they were doing the moment they heard about the death of Kobe Bryant ’96 last January 26. Falling under the category of rumors seemingly spread across social media. Bryant was a hero known worldwide, not just for his athletic prowess and status as an alltime National Basketball Association (NBA) great, but for his compassion, work ethic, and more than anything, his burning, unwavering determination to excel as a player and a teammate, a father and a husband, a human being.

The impact of the helicopter crash that killed Bryant, his thirteen-year-old daughter, Gianna, and seven others rapidly spread across the globe, but for many LM students and township residents, the devastation hit close to home. Bryant graduated from LM in 1996 after leading the Aces to a 31-3 record and a PIAA state championship school career with a variety of accolades, including a Pennsylvania Player of the Year selection as a junior, Naismith Gatorade Men’s National Basketball Player of the Year, and McDonald’s AllAmerican honors after the 1996 season.

Player award, Hall of Fame membership, and widely agreed-upon status as one of the few most dominant forces to ever dribble the ball on hardwood are incredible achievements, though they are not the sole indicators of his greatness as a player and a person. The gym named after him where the Aces home games take place, the memorabilia lining the hallway outside the court, and the $411,000 raised for the school district over the years are equally representative measures; so was his last road game in Philadelphia against the 76ers in 2015 in front of a raucous home crowd that, despite its reputation for hostility towards opponents, roared with approval every time Bryant put the ball through the basket; so was the collection of bouquets, jerseys, and basketballs left outside the Bryant Gymnasium in the aftermath of his passing; so was the solemn 33-second moment of silence the next morning announced over the LM loudspeakers; so was Graphic by the attendance of seemingly the entire community for One year after the tragic accident that killed Kobe Bryant, individuals around

Charlotte Hornets directly out of LM in 1996, he was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers on draft night where he ultimately spent all twenty years of

third consecutive NBA title, Kobe’s number 33 was retired by the Aces basketball program in 2002. Fifteen years later, when Kobe concluded his playing days, his Lakers uniform choices–eight and 24–were both retired in Los Angeles.

following the devastating news It is far from rare for professional athletes to have pride in and give back to their communities, yet Bryant’s commitment to and appreciation of his hometown and alma mater is eternally mutual and will continue to live on as part of his legacy. Thank you, Kobe. Aces Nation loves you forever.

Sports

February 16, 2021

19

The Merionite

Aces hockey skates into shortened season Rebecca Altman ’21 Sports Editor After the twists and turns throughout the past few months regarding school athletics, the boys’ and girls’ ice hockey teams finally took to the ice this past month. When PA Governor Tom Wolf announced a multitude of restrictions on December 10—which included a temporary restriction of extracurricular activities—many were unsure of the trajectory of the winter athletics season. The LM School Board of Directors had finally given the go-ahead for them to commence, only to be cut off shortly thereafter.

Now, hockey players on both teams are excited to return to the sport and to make the most of their respective seasons—albeit with many restrictions.

Will Treiman ’21, the boys’ team captain, has expressed how the sudden shutdown in December caused major challenges for the team, stating, “we only

had two practices before our first game this year.” Treiman plays for a club team outside of LM as well, and notes how only half the team is allowed on the ice at any given time, creating staggered practice days. Together, these factors have led to a substantial decrease in time working on skills and creating bonds with teammates—both in and out of practice. He mentions, “it’s hard to build team chemistry when I’m only able to see my teammates once a week.”

Jada Goonewardene ’21 shares a similar sentiment. She is one of the girls’ team captains, with the other being a senior from Harriton, as the two schools combine forces to create one team. “Our team has been able to hold two masked practices on ice each week: one on our own, and one splitting ice with LM’s boys’ ice hockey team,” she describes. Goonewardene also notes the team’s weekly access to LM’s weight room.

During these practices and games, there are many more challenges to overcome. Due to COVID-19 protocols, players on both

Photo courtesy of Will Treiman ’21 Captain Will Treiman ’21 (middle) has paced the Aces with three goals and four assists through two games.

Both captains attest to the increased challenge this presents, with Treiman highlighting that wearing them tires the players out and Goonewardene describing how it affects their vision. Additionally, the girls’ team specifically is fielding a smaller unit than in previous years as a result of the pandemic, both at practices and during games; Goonewardene indicates that “we have learned to adjust accordingly, however games are undeniably more tiring when we are down players.” On the boys’ side, Treiman mentions how team chemistry has also affected his school team, especially with the ability to bond with the new players on essary in order for their seasons to run as smoothly as possible.

Despite the setbacks, neither team has faced any cancellations for their games thus far. The boys’ team picked up a 7-5 win against Garnet Valley on January 22, with goalie Juliano Lucca ’23 proving to be a great new addition to the team, making 38 saves on 43 shots. The girls’ team faced West Chester Henderson on January 18, playing a hard-fought game that unfortunately ended in a 10-1 loss. Both teams have shortened seasons—shrinking the number of games from eighteen to twelve—but the boys’ and girls’ ice hockey teams both look to be in great shape to continue their seasons strongly.

Rapid COVID tests save winter sports Michelle Kelly ’23 Copy Editor The circumstances of this whirlwind of a year have made athletics particularly read the test and enter into an online system using an iPad,” Stroup articulates. The out of the ordinary, with many new protocols in place to keep them safe and ongo- logistics are very straightforward, allowing the system to run smoothly and tests to be ing. Most recently, winter sports have started participating in a weekly COVID-19 This program allows participants within all Central League schools to make sure has permitted all winter sports to largely remain COVID-free thus far, proven by inthey are not carrying the coronavistances of coronavirus already being rus, which gives a sense of security discovered and isolated. “If there is a at inter-school competitions, knowing that everyone has tested negative, and thus cannot spread the disease. public health. Contact tracing is done The district is taking part in a pilot and any close contacts are informed testing program through the Children’s what steps they need to take,” Stroup Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), so the describes. Students are also well inentire athletic department has been formed of the process, proven by instructed to follow their guidelines. sophomore Solvej Berman’s knowlThey are working with students and edge: “When there is a positive test, out the winter sports season. LMSD published “Winter Sports Return to tem is well thought-out and executed, Play Protocols” that outline the sysallowing sports to remain in session. tems in place to keep everyone safe Student athletes are extremely throughout the season. These guidegrateful for the chance to play this lines can be found on the LM website.

Additionally, the document states, the COVID-19 testing arrange“all in-person practices/competitions ment. Sophomore Sam Brown exwill be suspended if school is closed presses, “Our whole team is absolutely ecstatic to have a season—no Photo by Anika Xi ’23 which only allows winter athletics one thought it would have hapto occur as long as school is still in pened, so even a chance at havLM brings in rapid tests for all winter athletes to be tested once a week. session. The district protocols priing thirteen games is amazing.” marily follow the “Special Considerations for Sports (CHOP Policy Centheir attitude towards such a strange year of basketball. In terms of the testing The most prominent mandate for winter sports is that all student athletes must itself, many students appreciate the knowledge of whether or not they carry the highlytransmitted virus. Zeni Bradway ’24, a member of the Swim and Dive Team, reports, member, including coaches, are able to test using the rapid tests,” according to LM “I think that the COVID testing is really great. I am happy that we have been given the Athletics & Activities Director Jason Stroup. For some teams, such as wrestling, test- opportunity to do weekly tests, and have a season. Rapid testing is rather ing is conducted twice a week, based on the level of contact and likelihood of transmission. However, the process is roughly the same for everyone involved. “Parents sign tion. It is all very helpful because it allows students to participate in sports, a consent form, the student or parent registers online, then the student brings in QR and it keeps our school safer when we know who has and doesn’t have COVcode. The QR code gets scanned along with a test kit. Nurses have the students swab ID-19.” Thus far, most student athletes have found weekly COVID testing simtheir nostrils and provide any instructions. Nurses complete the testing process and

20

Sports

February 16, 2021

The Merionite

Diving into a day in the life of an Ace Josh Sultanik ’22 Hello everyone! I’m a junior and a swimmer for LM. In some ways, being a swimmer is a very fun and relaxed sport…wait, I was thinking about sailing.

Swimming, on the contrary, requires a substantial amount of time and energy, and because of school and extracurriculars, that is not a common occurrence. Much of my free time is spent in the pool, which isn’t necessarily “free time” at all. With that in mind, I would love to share what a normal, COVID19-free schedule looks like for me as a swimmer.

To preface, I like to relate my swim schedule to the song “A Day in the Life” by The Beatles. I feel that the days in my life repeat over and over in the same way during prime swim season: I wake up, fall out of bed, go off to school, and swim. Although it’s a ton of practice, it makes me and other swimmers that much better in competition. A typical daily schedule of mine follows something like this:

Photo by Josh Sultanik ’22

Early mornings are rarely fun, but beautiful sunrises almost make them worth it.

Almost.

Photo courtesy of Josh Sultanik ’22

Amidst a pandemic, after-school sports let students stay close with their friends...maybe just not this close.

5:30 a.m. — Wake up for swim practice! Sometimes—especially on weekends and half days during a regular school year—I have morning practices that I must wake up at the crack of dawn for. Though it’s somewhat brutal getting up that early, there’s something to be said about swimming and finishing up my out-of-school practice before the world even wakes up, and that always feels really nice.

7:30 a.m. — Everybody’s favorite activity: school. There’s not much to be said about school other than that it’s school. However, as an athlete, having frees during the school day is fantastic.

I have a finite amount of time to do my homework outside of school, as you will see.

3:00 p.m. — Afternoon swim! Right after school, swim practices are hosted for a few hours.

What’s convenient about having swim right after school (like most other extracurriculars) is that you don’t have to drive anywhere else. You get

to just walk down to the pool, and hop right in.

5:30 p.m. — I get home just in time to finally eat something: dinner! I can safely say for most swimmers that we get hungrier as the day goes on, so finally being able to eat is certainly a treat.

6:15 p.m. — Hooray! I have some time where I can finally relax… nope, not yet. It’s homework time, if I didn’t finish all of it during school hours.

Sometime after 6:15 p.m. — Now, I can finally get ready to go to bed. I usually aim to fall asleep at around 10:30 so I can start the next day with even more energy than the last. But, as a busy studentathlete, that unfortunately never seems to happen.

That’s a day in the life of me, a swimmer. If you talk to most swimmers about their sport, they’ll most likely give off the impression that it’s unbearable.

And though that’s true a lot of the time, it’s super fun as well. I get to hang out with an awesome group of hardworking and committed people who are living roughly the same life that I am. Shout out to the rest of my fellow swimmers, and as always, COFTB!

Photo courtesy of Josh Sultanik ’22

The sport itself is only half the fun; it’s the teammates that ultimately make it worthwhile.

Photo courtesy of Zeni Bradway ’24

Photo courtesy of Juliano Lucca ’23

Photo courtesy of Amanda Rosello ’22

Photo courtesy of Ella Braunfeld ’21

Freshman Zeni Bradway

Sophomore Juliano Lucca

Junior Amanda Rosello

Senior Ella Braunfeld

What sport(s) do you play?

Volleyball, Diving, and Ultimate Frisbee

What sport(s) do you play?

Ice Hockey

What sport(s) do you play?

Soccer, Basketball, and Lacrosse

What sport(s) do you play?

Soccer, Squash, and Track & Field

What is your greatest athletic achievement?

Winning any game with my volleyball team

What is your greatest athletic achievement?

Winning the Central League title for LM

What is your greatest athletic achievement?

What is your greatest athletic achievement?

Winning the “Most Improved Player” award 4 times

If you could have your own TV show, what would it be about?

I would have a reality show, and it would be really funny

What is your favorite Valentine’s Day candy?

Sweethearts or M&Ms

Winning the Central League title You’re going to sail around the world, what’s the name of your boat?

The Codfather

What fruit or vegetable would you most want to be, and why?

A banana because it is the most versatile fruit

Graphic by Emmi Wu ’23