Merionite May 2022

The Merionite

The official student newspaper of Lower Merion High School since 1929 Volume 93, Issue 4 www.themerionite.org

Ardmore, PA, 19003

May 1 , 2022

Aces in sync Lila Schwartzberg ’24 Arts & Entertainment Editor On Thursday April 7, 2022, LM filmed its third ever Lip Dub to the song “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake. Student Council committee head Avery Bickell ’23 said the huge rise in spirit at LM inspired the idea for a Lip Dub this year—Student Council thought it would bring the school together. The video was filmed

Dubbers lined up through the library, halls, and atrium and lip-synced to the song, “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” for the Lip Dub. Photos courtesy of Isabel Saler ’23, Logan Hall ’22, and Anika Xi ’23/Staff

Pride at the park Madeleine Fiks ’23 Copy Editor

Graphic by Juliana Messinger ’24

Community members can attend Pride at the Park free of charge.

Whatever happened to field trips?

Welcome Principal Johnson!

Luke Shepard ’24 Sports Editor

As June approaches, so do the festivities surrounding Pride Month. In past years, people wishing to show their pride would need to travel to Philadelphia or New York City. But this year, a group of LM students have organized an event right here in Narberth Park. Taking place on June 11 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., there will be an assortment of drag queens, musicians, artists, food vendors, and more to bring pride celebrations to our community.

The idea for this event has been in the works since June 2021.

Galena Wurtzel ’23 described that while leaving a pride parade in Doylestown last year, they and a group of friends were verbally harassed by homophobic protestors. This terrifying experience sparked the idea for Pride at the Park, which is going to provide a safe space for queer people and allies to celebrate their identities.

Please see PRIDE AT THE PARK on page 4

NEWS

throughout the first and sec- Reflecting on the process, parond floors of LM, with clubs ticipant Eliza Castello ’24 said and sports spread out and “The first run through was assigned into sixteen different confusing because no one knew zones. Students held posters to where to go/what to do. By the identify each club or sport. In third take, it got organized. Peoeach zone, there were ‘dubbers’ ple threw balloons and cheered, (lip-syncers) and zone leaders which made it lots of fun.” who helped things run smoothThe Lip Dub took lots of time ly. According to Student Council and energy to plan. Bickell, president Leo Solga ’22, the who was part of the process, money raised from the Lip Dub said how “there were so many “is going to the Sean Hughes people involved with the planChildren’s Trust. People will ning... To start, Señor Capkin certainly be able to donate is the best club sponsor we through a GoFundMe link on could ask for, he was at LM the Aces Nation [@aces.nation] before and after school making insta and YouTube,” said Solga. sure everything was in line.

He described promoting it Next would be our student to all the district’s teachers council cabinet, Leo, Alana, and parents over email, as well Rissa, Sam and Eli- who took as the decision to show the so much time to communicate video over the announcements with all of the dubbers/zone to the whole student body leaders to make sure that things at once. He hoped doing so would move smoothly.” Bickell would bring positive attention . explained how the student counThe Lip Dub was filmed three cil committee heads played an times. First was just a practice important role in the Lip Dub, run, and the next two were by working as zone leaders be used as the final product. and showing their LM spirit.

Please see ACES IN SYNC on page 2

On April 19, it was announced that Harriton’s assistant principal, Mike Johnson, would take the reins at LM beginning for the 2022-23 school year. After spending the previous eight years as an assistant principal at Harriton, Johnson will lead LM as principal. “I am excited to join a world class school community at one of the nation’s best high schools,” comments Johnson. Prior to administrative roles, his educational career began with a position as a sixth grade teacher at the West Oak Lane Charter School. Afterwards, Johnson held a variety of roles in the Abington School District (ASD). He began as a sixth grade teacher like in West Oak Lane Charter School, and then ended up becoming the Elementary Curriculum Specialist.

Johnson later held a principal role in the Centennial School District and then was an assistant princpal at Harriton. Now, as principal at LM, Johnson offers an interesting perspective based on his work with all levels of pre-college education: “It has given me the experience to see the development of young people from kindergarten through high school graduation.” He further mentions, “In my educational practice I have always done what I can to support students in the areas where these needs are not being met; in doing so, you increase the likelihood that students experience holistic success in schools.” Johnson believes that specific Photo courtesy of Michael Johnson student needs are often a more important factor than age itself. As he has accomplished in his previ- Newly appointed princpal Johnson has spent his ous educational positions, Johnson aims to come career working with students across grade into LM assessing the needs of individual students. levels.

Please see WELCOME PRINCIPAL JOHNSON! on page 5

OPINIONS Name change necessity

CENTERSPREAD

Asian American & Pacific Islander Month

SPORTS

Open campus?

Gideon Wolf ’24 explains conditions for Noah Barkan ’24 and Anisa Pugh ’22 Learn how COVID-19 has changed field trip sports teams who must leave LM grounds discuss the racial undertones behind the Read about Asian American and Pacific approval procedures page 3 Islander perspectives and experiences at for practice and home games. name of Harriton High School. page 9 tion page 21 LM. pages 12-13

FEATURES

Graphic by Emma Liu ’22

Save the environment

A&E

Lela Miller ’24 reports on the importance of being eco-friendly and LM environmental club’s introduction of a “green week.” page 15

As Keeping Up With the Kardashians ends, get all the details about their brand new show page 19

The Kardashians Photo courtesy of The Enchiridion

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News

May 10, 2022

Graduation goes home LM’s commencement is returning to Saint Joseph’s University (SJU). The ceremony has been traditionally held on SJU premises since 2008 when Villanova University’s pavilion was being renovated.

LM then pronounced SJU as its location for commencements, allowing Harriton to use Vilanova’s grounds.

But the past two years, of course, have been different. As a result of COVID-19, the senior class of 2020 graduated online and received their diplomas isolated from their fellow classmates, while the class of ’21 had their ceremony on Arnold Field. But, the evening of June 8, the commencement will be back to normal.

Does the venue of the ceremony affect its overall significance? Can the importance of the soon-to-be graduates’ accomplishments be enough on their own?

“The location doesn’t mat t e r t o me be cau s e

The Merionite

Aces in sync

Lily Goldstein ’24

Continued from ACES IN SYNC... on page 1

it’s really just a place… but I am excited for the adventures after graduation, and to see what it all holds for me,” comments Zach Brownstein ’22. In contrast, history teacher John Grace states, “The location is special, when there is a community consensus that it is the right place.” Returning the ceremony to SJU can give some a sense of contentment, knowing the long road is coming to an end. For many, graduation is the bridge to new adventures.

As one grows into adulthood, one often reminisces on the times of adolescence. For some alumni, graduation holds some of their most unforgettable memories, and for others, it remains one thing to always feel a little nostalgic about.

“It felt more like an ending than a beginning,” recalls Liz Tiley ’94. “I just felt like it was weird to have all of that end in just one afternoon.”

And yet, certain people, such as Megan Gilbert ’94, do not recall much.

“I don’t remember anything except what I wore. A long black crocheted dress.” As years go on, one may take a trip down memory lane and reflect on one’s youth, to remember the good and the bad.

However, not everyone is fond of the high school experience. “I tried to

Bickell explained how helpful all of the activity leaders were in creating posters, decorating, and learning the lyrics of the song. Additionally, choosing a song for ths year's Lip Dub took awhile. A form was sent to all of LM from the student council, asking for song suggestions.

“Can't Stop the Feeling” was finally chosen as the main song. Bickell said, “My favorite part however is the song we’ll play during the credits, ‘This is me.’ It was one of Hughes favorite songs that he would play during graduation. We wanted

make the best of it…I felt the biggest sense of relief because that chapter of my life was over,” recalls Audrey Price Gornish ’96. “You’re so focused on your name being called, walking up there, and receiving your diploma.”

Everyone’s experience during their academic journey differs, but each and everyone can remember and reflect.

Teachers, throughout their careers, attend many commencements, carrying their most cherished junctures with them. “There are several moments at graduation I so enjoy, every year,” remarks Grace fondly.

He explains one of his most treasured times during the ceremonies is the end, and “the joy of accomplishment shared by everyone.”

Countless people come together to watch their loved ones receive their diplomas in honor of their achievements. In the near future, seniors will say goodbye to their high school careers, Graphics by Emmi Wu ’23/Staff

to honor him by playing that song in the video.”

To finish the video, students gathered in the Kobe Gymnasium where star basketball player Demetrius Lilley ’22 dunked. Ace the Bulldog was in the gym as well as two cheerleaders who did back handsprings.

Bickell said that when choosing the dubbers the student council sought out “officers and captains of LMs clubs and sports teams.” This, Bickell said “would be the best way to show how spirited each organization at LM is!”

Elias Dutwin ’24 was the videographer for the

project. His “camera expertise was muchneeded and played a huge role in how the lip dub came out,” said Bickell. To assist in the filming, Dutwin brought his “high-tech” camera gear from home.

LM’s student council worked hard planning the event and even provided dubbers with t-shirts saying “Lip Dub” and Hughes’ catchphrase— “Character Counts”—to wear in the video. Much of LM enjoyed making the Lip Dub and hope that people will donate to the Sean Hughes Children’s Trust because of it.

Photo by Logan Hall ’22

Dubbers had several early meetings in preparation—they had to be at school by 6:30 AM to practice.

Conversing with a congressman Joy Donovan ’23

Photo by Aiko Palaypayon ’23/Staff

Representative Brian Fitzpatrick fielded questions from students about his policies and views.

On April 18, the newly established LM Conservative Club welcomed Representative Brian Fitzpatrick (R) to speak to club members and interested students about various topics, ranging from bipartisanship to the Ukraine conflict.

Fitzpatrick had a lot to say about the importance of diversity in our discussions of political issues, especially amongst our generation. He used an analogous example from his time in the FBI, a kidnapping case, where bringing people of all different disciplinary backgrounds to the same table helped the law enforcement team gain productive insight into the scope of the issue and how best to address it. He championed diversity of thought in particular, reiterating the mantra

that such was a “strength to be harnessed, not a weakness to be criticized.”

Fitzpatrick also recounted stories of his time on the Hill, which ranged from disillusioning to reassuring. He imparted an important lesson through one anecdote, in which he recalled a colleague who initially agreed with a policy and sought to support it until he discovered who’d drafted and sponsored it. Why? “Because I don’t like that guy,” said Fitzpatrick, reciting what he’d been told by the obstinate congressperson. In regards to this pervasive pathogen of polarizing partisanship and intense divisiveness, Fitzpatrick shared: “that’s what children do, that’s not what leaders do.”

Additionally, Fitzpatrick referenced an infrastructure bill that he authored in conjunction with West Virginian Senator Joe Manchin (D), who throughout recent weeks has come under tremendous fire from both the left and the right for his refusal to support the Biden administration’s Build Back Better bill. Fitzpatrick praised Manchin for his bipartisanship and decisiveness in ensuring that their bill successfully passed in both congressional houses.

In the wake of the Ukrainian crisis and the “global attack on democracy.”

Fitzpatrick repeated fierce pro-democratic and patriotic sentiment. “We all love our country, we all want to sustain it…our country is the best in the world, that’s why everyone wants to come here.” Club co-founder Jack Shapiro ’22 asked the Representative about the distinctions between the “humanitarian” no-fly-zone Fitzpatrick advocated for and the typical NATO no-fly-zone.

Fitzpatrick stated that his “humanitarian” no-fly-zone would call on the U.S. government and other NATO nations to supply Ukraine with the necessary weapon reinforcements that President Zelenskyy requested to institute and enforce their own no-fly-zone without requiring NATO boots on the ground. Senior and club co-founder Henry Bard raised questions surrounding the threat Rep Fitzpatrick believed China posed to Taiwan and how the country could settle that impending crisis; Fitzpatrick’s response was similar to his previous answer: weapons aid and defensive reinforcement.

The meeting was well attended, though demographically some hold concerns.

Some attendees felt that those present didn’t adequately represent the diversity present at LM; the very diversity Fitzpatrick championed. Following this meeting, many Aces hope that the Conservative Club holds true to their goals of promoting diversity of thought and creating space for ideological differences.

News

May 1 , 2022

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The Merionite

LM looks to Ukraine Connor Kleinman ’24 On February 24, Russia officially invaded Ukraine, inciting the largest war in Europe since World War II. To address the large amount of Ukrainian refugees that have been left in need of supplies, many students from the High School Democrats of America (HSDA), LM Amnesty International, and teacher Thomas Reed’s Global Citizenship class joined together to run a supply drive. According to Reed, “I don’t understand how we could sit back and watch. This is an invasion of a sovereign nation where war crimes and genocide are taking place....Get off of the damn couch and do something.” Noah Barkan ’24, one of the main people organizing the drive added that “The goal was to help initiate action and catalyze further action towards providing aid and support to Ukraine from the LM community.” He believes that this is important “because we are interconnected individuals in a globalized world and the struggles of people across the world affect us all.”

The fear of another Russian annexation of their homeland has caused Ukranians to take up arms and fight back against Russia, much harder than Putin seems to have expected. Among other actions taken by Western nations, sanctions have been placed on many Russian banks and oligarchs. The Russian ruble has fallen almost fifty percent in value since sanctions were first placed on Russia. Additionally, this war is the first in history to contain a cyber theater, which is when governments launch coordinated attacks aimed to terrorize and misinform civilians through the spreading of disinformation and the taking down of government websites. While the crisis has also led to numerous Russian protests, Putin’s regime has cracked down on dissent. Ukraine is not the only country that Russia had plans to invade. Recently, numerous blunders have culminated in a Russian general announcing plans to move large amounts of soldiers into Moldova as well.

Russia’s economy being isolated has had a ripple effect across the globe.

Russia’s main export was cheap gas and oil. Thus, the price of gas has spiked— evident even here in Ardmore. LM students will see the price of everything go up. The cost of gasoline has already risen almost ten percent since the war began. Teacher Scott Seibert says, “For me personally, the cost of filling up my truck with gas has increased by $70. Over the course of a month, this accounts for nearly a $300 increase in my expenses. Teachers like many Americans are employed on a fixed wage and these unexpected increases can dramatically affect a household budget.” He continues, “My financial pain at the pump is real but the human pain in war-torn Ukraine is devastating.

It is past time for the US to once again remove the barriers to domestic oil and gas production in order to alleviate our dependence on foreign energy.”

LM’s geographical removal from the violence does not stop families from being personally affected or concerned. Ivan Sanchez ’24, whose uncle’s wife and daughter are still stuck in Belarus, a nation that is increasingly seen as part of Russia’s new Iron Curtain, thinks that people in LM should accept that the sanctions are necessary. He says that while many in the United States may have some economic pain, it is nothing compared to the heartbreak experienced by Russian, Belarusian, and Ukrainian citizens. He elaborated, “The people of Belarus and Russia do not want to fight Ukraine and are being forced to suffer. Sanctions won’t be the be all and end all but they are the best we can do right now without a world war.” Additionally, he believes that ordinary people should try to get involved. One way this could be done is through drives such as those led by HSDA or Amnesty International. However, Sanchez makes sure to say that “helping doesn’t necessarily mean donations. It means getting informed and talking about the issues. This will help others and yourself to better understand the problem.”

Photo courtesy of Sean Capkin

Over the course of three school days, student volunteers work to pack collected items into a truck to send to Ukrainian refugees.

Whatever happened to field trips?

Michelle Kelly ’23 Sports Editor It was not long ago that we were all stuck learning from inside the walls of our bedrooms while quarantined from the rest of the world. However, despite all the progress we have made since March 2020, we are all stuck learning from inside the walls of LM. Prior to the pandemic, field trips were an integral part of the “transformative curriculum” that the district sought to execute as part of the “All Forward” strategic plan in 2014. The team of seventy administrators, teachers, students, parents, and other community members set goals to finish implementing the plan by 2020, expecting that “every student participates in at least one local service program and a workplace internship by the time they complete high school” and “students have the opportunity to study abroad as part of their development as global citizens.” However, the sum of our out-ofschool experiences seems to have diverged from the 2020 expectations. Instead of expanding our reach further beyond the Main Line, education has been confined to the school building, limiting the cultural and developmental progress the Strategic Plan called for. Physics teacher Jeffery Heller notes, “I think it was one of the real strengths of the school that we had a lot of field trips.”

While some of the restrictions on field trips have tightened due to the precarity of the pandemic, others have existed long before we were sent home in 2020.

For instance, a field trip committee made of administrators has regulated every field trip request for at least four years. Additionally, while teachers were previously permitted to submit their own requests for field trips, they have been required to submit them through the Activities and Athletics Office for the past few years. This extra barrier between teachers and district administrators further filters the activities that are even considered for off-campus experiences.

Graphic by Emma Liu ’22/Staff

However, even if field trip requests make their way through administration, finding nurses that could provide necessary services on trips has become increasingly difficult for the district, especially at LM. Now, with a staff of only four nurses to balance everyday needs with those related to COVID-19 (e.g. contact tracing, testing, etc.), there are not enough services to accommodate the multitude of people in the building in addition to anyone going off-campus.

Another blow to field trips has been the insufficient amount of bus drivers since 2020, which remains too low despite district emails looking for applications.

Beyond transportation, other constraints limit the types of trips allowed off-campus. At present, according to Activities and Athletics Director Jason Stroup, field trips are only being considered if they involve service, performances, or competitions. For instance, the music department traveled to Disney for a performance this March. Due to these constraints, most trips are taken for extracurricular activities rather than curriculum-based learning. This directly contradicts the plan set out by the Strategic Plan in 2014, as it prevents learning from expanding to other settings and shrinks the field of education.

One of the most well-known and anticipated trips at LM was the one to Six Flags that used to take place annually in late spring for physics students.

However, the trip has not run since 2019 due to the pandemic and current restrictions that inhibit curriculum-based trips. When Heller requested to run the field trip this year, he “got kind of a vague response at first from the Athletics and Activities Office.” Eventually, Stroup told Heller to put through an official request and sent it to the Central Administration Field Trip Committee, who told Heller that “they’re not approving field trips this year other than competitions.” He still has not found out the reason why only competitions are being permitted as off-campus excursions, but plans to investigate it in the future.

The Six Flags trip was formerly a highlight after a grueling year of extremely difficult subject matter and made for a revered LM tradition.

Sophie Roth ’20 recalls that, beyond the physics aspect, “it [was] a great thing the school [did] to promote balancing stress!” Experiencing the topics learned in the classroom in a different setting gave students perspective on the real applications of the work, but it was done in a way that students enjoyed and looked forward to as an alternative form of learning. Physics teacher David Vinci speaks to his own experiences going on the trip with his physics students: “I went to college for engineering so applications of what we do are super important to me... [at Six Flags,] you do see real world applications.” To him, it was a crucial way to culminate the topics on the curriculum in an understandable and fun fashion. Roth proclaim that it’s “always important to take the time to do enjoyable things and reward yourself for working hard,” as the students of LM so characteristically do.

With local policies allowing masks to be optional and global discoveries enabling people to be safer, COVID-19 is no longer as prominent of a limiting factor in our lives. Students and teachers alike are eager to resume the unique learning experiences valued at LM, but barriers of health, transportation, and administrative oversight have made field trips seemingly a thing of the past.

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May 1 , 2022

News The Merionite

A new direction for diversity Jonathan Xu ’22 Editor-in-Chief

On April 25, 2022, LMSD Superintendent Dr. Khalid Mumin announced his recommendation of Shawanna James-Coles as the new Director of Diversity and Equity for the district, an endorsement confirmed by the Board of School Directors. James-Coles will assume the role on July 1 this year.

James-Coles is a seasoned veteran of the educational system, with nearly three decades of experience as an educator and supporter of students. Having served in a variety of roles—from kindergarten teacher to elementary school principal, instructional specialist to diversity director—James-Coles also has not stopped with her own education, as she pursues her doctorate from Immaculata University.

James-Coles draws from a myriad of experiences spanning both urban and suburban districts as she takes on the new role as diversity coordinator at LM. James-Coles draws her own story from humble origins, growing up in the inner city as the eldest of three siblings. She cites her role model as her mother, who raised her “three children as a single mom” and instilled in them the importance of “resilience, hard work, dedication, and sacrifice.” James-Coles fondly recalls how her mother would always take the time to be there for her, from sending her off to school to being there when she arrived home, and notes how her mother’s emphasis on family contributes to her current desires to bring her community together. Despite the financial limitations of her upbringing, she recounts how her mother’s emphasis on education, along with the support of teachers and extended family, was what helped shape her own aspirations for bettering those around her, because education is “something no one can take from you.”

James-Coles carried this philosophy of community-based education into her professional career, where she strived to be as visible and impactful in students’ lives as possible. As a kindergarten teacher, she would directly engage with families out in the community, and as principal, she would regularly conduct friendly home visits so students and their extended families—especially those new to the district—could “get to know me.” After transitioning to a district-level administrator—a decision she admits was quite difficult to make—she continued to go out of her way to connect with students beyond the walls of her office, even keeping the latter in the same building where she was principal so students could access her whenever they needed. “I’ve never been a teacher or administrator who liked to sit behind a desk,” James-Coles reflects. “I want to be in touch with the students, I want to hear

about their day, I want to be in the lunchroom, I want to be invited to all the events they have, and so I think early on I understood the importance of being involved.”

James-Coles’ efforts have certainly made their mark in her community, with many of her students offering their unwavering support of her as a mentor and advocate. James-Coles describes how her most memorable moment as an educator was following a difficult episode in which she was diagnosed with liver disease, after which a local news outlet interviewed some of her students as part of a report on her. The response from students was heartwarming. “She cares about me. She looks us in our eyes. She makes us feel that we matter.” Similarly, after conversing with her two children, Jared and Kelli, a few years ago about whether she should continue with her current career path, James-Coles was inspired by what they told her as students coming from a suburban district lacking in racial diversity: “Be what we didn’t have.” All these experiences have helped JamesColes come to appreciate the way in which she can touch the lives of her pupils.

As James-Coles continues her educational journey at LM, she seeks to continue to apply her philosophy on being highly visible for students in order to best engage with her new community and build upon what has already been done. She strives to develop a learning environment conducive to all forms of diversity, including but not limited to race, gender, ethnicity, and sexual orientation, and be in a position where she can “empower their voices, show that I am listening, so they feel that they have an advocate, an ally in me.” She also hopes to develop partnerships between school districts, as she has done previously with Springfield Township High School and Centennial School Districts, so as to best “elevate the collective voices” of the student body. One of the best ways she believes she can facilitate change is through partnerships with students and student-run organizations as well, which have made tremendous impact in her own previous experiences. After partnering with a student equity group called Voices for Change at Centennial, she was able to help support a book club to read beyond required texts, an initiative for sending birthday box gifts for students in need, and a program for visiting local elementary schools to read with their students. She hopes to continue to develop further initiatives for advancing student growth and diversity by getting to know the student body, exploring all that LM has to offer, and enjoying the wealth of opportunity that comes with the role she is about to embark upon.

Pride at the park Continued from PRIDE AT THE PARK on page 1

Photo courtesy of Shawanna James-Coles

New DEI Director Shawanna James-Coles plans to serve by getting to know the student body on a personal level.

The planners for this event include Wurtzel, Maya Taylor ’23, Ruby Davis ’23, and Sylvie Weisbord ’23. “We have been working with the Narberth Borough and they will be providing police officers to watch over the event,” explained Taylor when asked about the safety precautions that will be in place. Taylor added, “Hateful protests legally aren’t allowed to enter the park during our event.” Through these measures, there hopefully won’t be an incident like the one Wurtzel, Taylor, and others endured last June.

The headlining musical performance is the Philly-based queer band, Kate Dressed Up, with other local musicians also taking the stage. Drag queen Balena Canto will be giving one of their iconic storytimes for kids of all ages. Andrea Duetsch, the mayor of Narberth, will be speaking along with Brian Sims, a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Entrance is free due to the support of many local businesses, but Wurtzel recommends bringing money to support local artists and food vendors.

Although Pride at the Park is still a month away, prepare for an exciting, inclusive celebration. Prepare your most outrageous outfit and get ready to show your pride!

Purification of the soul Aneeq Osman ’24 The month of Ramadan is celebrated by Muslims all over the world. This is an important month for Muslims because this is when the Quran, the Muslim holy book, was revealed. This holy month is where Muslims fast for thirty days, meaning they abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. But why do Muslims do this?

In Chapter Two line 185 of the Quran, God says, “Whoever is present in the month of Ramadan, let them fast.” Not only is it mandatory for Muslims to fast during this month, but it is also one of the five pillars of Islam. The five pillars in Islam is what makes someone a practicing Muslim. The five pillars in order are the Shahada (believing that there is no one worthy of worship except God, and the Prophet Muhammad is the messenger of God), praying five times a day, Zakat (giving charity), fasting during the month of Ramadan, and Hajj (the pilgrimage Muslims make to Mecca). Ramadan is a chance for a person to improve spiritually, and it purifies one’s soul. Ramadan also purifies the heart, which is arguably our most precious organ.

This month, Muslims increase their participation in acts of good deeds and charity. This is a time of the year when Muslims are grateful for their blessings.

Food and water are blessings that are given to us from God. LM student Sarem Khan ’24 says, “Ramadan is a time where I can connect with God and become a better Muslim. Everyone comes together and it is a great time of the year.”

While Muslims keep away from their food and water, they also give these blessings to the ones who need it more than them. Charity and Ramadan go hand in hand. Charity is the third pillar of Islam, and it increases tremendously during this month. One’s generosity should increase 100 percent during this month.

It is said in a narration that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was generous all year round; however, during Ramadan, he was described as a hurricane of generosity or a wind that bears gifts. A hurricane wipes away everything around itself, meaning everyone around you should feel your generosity.

Charity and fasting are vital factors in bringing oneself closer to Islam and God. People may think fasting limits a person’s ability to do things. This is a misconception about people who fast. Muslims still participate in activities and sports.

Kyrie Irving, a professional basketball player for the Brooklyn Nets, fasted while playing in the NBA playoffs. Irivng averaged 31.8 points since the start of Ramadan and put up 42 points against the Rockets on April 5. Athletes could potentially break their fast in the middle of their games if the times of sunset and their matches

overlap. The meal that Muslims break their fast with is known as iftar. A number of famous athletes have iftar in the middle of their games. It is the way of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to break the fast with dates and water. This is a healthy way to break your fast because dates are a natural source of energy and are a filling fruit that can make you feel energized in a short amount of time. These aspects are what make Ramadan precious to Muslims and the real reason why Muslims fast. Fasting purifies the heart and soul for a closer relationship to God.

Graphic by Tillie Szwartz ’25

News

May 1 , 2022

5

The Merionite

Science Olympiad strikes again Sasha Murray ’24 Over two years ago, members of LM’s Science Olympiad team were devastated to discover that their regional tournament had been canceled due to the emergence of a new virus: COVID-19. Two years later, on March 19, the Aces finally experienced their first in-person tournament since the unexpected cancellation in 2020.

Over the past few years, LM Science Olympiad has faced many challenges. Meeting and competing virtually proved difficult for the team; without the opportunity to prepare their build and lab events, many members lost interest in the club. Additionally, integrating freshmen into the team was challenging due to the lack of spirit dinners and in-person meetings. However, there were some benefits. Traditionally, the team struggled in build events, but due to the virtual format of the 2020-2021 season, the team performed extremely well, placing first at States for the first time in history and coming in thirteenth at Nationals.

Throughout the 2021-2022 season, the team has struggled with the return of build events. Co-captain Amy Huang ’23 says that “the biggest difficulty we’ve faced actually wasn’t the virtual format—it was the transition to being back in-person. After spending so much time competing in virtual competitions with heavily modified event slates, transitioning back to our normal schedule with in-person competitions has definitely posed some problems.”

This March, the Science Olympiad team had a satisfactory showing at Regionals, placing second only to Harriton, and earning first-place medals in the events Chemistry Lab, Codebusters, Experimental Design, and Ornithology. The competitors were all overjoyed and relieved to finally participate in a “real,” in-person competition.

“The experience was a ton of fun,” Nathan Donagi ’24 indicates. Huang describes that “it was great to be back in person and be able to greet other schools’ teams.”

However, their performance was not good enough to be sure that the team would

Photo courtesy of Andrew Samulewicz

Following an exceptional performance at Regionals (top), the team had been diligently preparing for States, where they finished in fourth place (bottom).

Welcome Principal Johnson!

Continued from WELCOME PRINCIPAL JOHNSON! on page 1

Photo courtesy of Anika Xi ’23/Staff

make it to Nationals. Just a single point separated LM and their rivals, Bayard Rustin.

Because of the way Science Olympiad tournaments are scored, poor performances in just one or two events can drag a team down significantly in the overall rankings. Thus, team members focused on the events which didn’t perform as well at Regionals. “Most of our study events did well, but our builds dragged us down,” Donagi states. Many devices were completely rebuilt as the team rushed to improve as much as possible.

On April 30th 2022, LM Science Olympiad participated in their first in-person state competition since 2019. Many memories were made as the team played games, slept, and studied on their 4-hour-long bus ride. However, once the competition itself started, team members started to become anxious. When it came time for the awards ceremony to start, the team was instantly hit with a wave of excitement as they had placed first in Anatomy and Physiology. However, as more results were announced, it became clear that too much had gone wrong for there to be any hope of making it to Nationals. The team ended up in fourth place, a mere four points behind Bayard Rustin. Although the team’s performance at States was not what they had hoped, the excitement of an in-person competition was unforgettable. “States was neither the optimal or expected outcome in terms of our placing but it was more than what could ever be anticipated in terms of a bonding experience,” team member Anika Xi ’23 indicates. But now, the Science Olympiad squad is more motivated than ever to work hard next year. Co-captain Noa Cutler ’22 expresses, “it’s really disappointing that this is the way our season had to end, but I also know that everyone on the team learned a lot from this experience and will come back next year even stronger and more motivated to win.”

Hughes case closure

In his new role, Johnson vouches to listen and learn to determine what is best for the school. Some of his goals as principal include ensuring “the building is properly staffed for the fall and that our leadership team has a productive summer preparing to open school in September.” Sean Capkin, LM Spanish teacher and member of the committee that interviewed potential candidates for principal, mentions, “What underlied everything he said was connections with students and others.”

A central point of Johnson’s transition to LM is his promise to listen to the community that surrounds him. Not only will he use these comments to implement new ideas, but to discover the areas of the school with the most room for growth.

Johnson mentions part of his leadership strategy is to “work to do things with students rather than to them or for them.” He will lead by building strong connections with the student body, rather reminiscent of Sean Hughes’s tenure at LM. When instituting new policies, Johnson is prepared to handle confusion and backlash that might arise from the student body. Such as with changes in the library in the previous year, the student body was hesitant to adjust to new policies that were instituted by administration. Johnson acknowledges the fear behind change, but notes it is often the fear of change itself that drives nerves, not the actual policies. When instituting new policies, Johnson believes that “helping people understand the ‘Why’ behind change is very important because it gives framing and clarity for what is being proposed.” Anger from the library was mired by confusion as to whether there were substitutes or where to sign in. Auditorium assemblies or Advisory speeches could have easily cleared up the expectations and likely some of the anger. Johnson pledges to give both the what and the why to run a smooth operation once becoming principal.

Since the passing of Hughes, LM has been left without a long-term principal in the main office. While Dr. Jim Scanlon has acted as an interim principal, Mr. Johnson will offer the security of a full time principal. Capkin believes that any “incoming school leader needs to take the temperature of the school.” Capkin affirms that, “Mr. Johnson will try to and want to honor Mr. Hughes as he was the culture of this building,” yet acknowledges that he is his own principal and leader. As seen through his various comments and ideas, understanding and communication are some of the central components of Johnson’s leadership style. While Johnson will come in with new ideas to grow LM, he carries with him some of the core tenets of Mr. Hughes’s philosophy: building connections is the key to building the school.

Julia Dubnoff ’23 News Editor Months have passed since the shocking passing of beloved Principal Sean Hughes, who died after a car crash that occurred while driving his thirteen year-old son to soccer practice. On March 10, there was a new development surrounding the tragedy. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, 54-year-old Azuka Ossai of Pine Hill New Jersey was arrested and charged with fourth-degree assault by auto. After Ossai drove through a stop sign in Winslow Township, he collided with Hughes’ SUV, ultimately causing his death and injuring Hughes’ son. Ossai has been released and will be subject to a detention hearing.

When speaking with the Inquirer, wife Kristi Hughes expressed gratitude for the Camden County prosecutors, and that there was “a little bit of closure” in the tragedy. The LM community, still in mourning themselves, hopes to continue to be a place to honor Hughes’ memory. A recent way in which this has occurred was the many teachers and students who participated in the Broad Street Run on Team Hughes, raising money through sponsors for the Sean Hughes Children’s Fun. As participating physical education teacher Kyrie Michaud described, “Everyone here misses him a lot, so it was just a good time to come together, to remember him, to celebrate him, and to just challenge ourselves. to do something in his honor.

Photo courtesy of Michael Johnson

As the new LM principal, Johnson will implement his own ideas while also preserving the values instituted by Hughes.

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May 1 , 2022

Opinions The Merionite

The Merionite Official newspaper of Lower Merion High School since 1929 www.themerionite.org Columbia Scholastic Press Assocation Silver Crown 2013 Editors-in-Chief Victoria Bermudez ’22 Caryl Shepard ’22 Jonathan Xu ’22 News Editors Noa Cutler ’22 Julia Dubnoff ’23 Phillip Gao ’22 Ben Wolf ’22 Opinions Editors Shaine Davison ’23 Sonia Laby ’22 Ike Mittman ’22 Spencer Rosenbaum ’22 Features Editors Angela Ge ’23 Ella Johnson ’22 Olivia Lee ’23 Eric Yang ’22 Arts and Entertainment Editors Mia Hail ’23 Julia Russel ’23 Lila Schwartzberg ’24 Nolan Shanley ’23

Editorial: Difference between hearing & listening Think before you speak: a message we often hear but rarely apply. Amidst the participation and protests in the aftermath of the George Floyd incident, there was an increase in political parley. But was it truly parley? Over the last few years, we have progressively witnessed aggressive language, hostility, and a lack of listening following proclamations of political perspectives.

Although listening does tend to “go by the wayside” in periods of community crisis, we need to rise above COVID-19 to react properly, collectively to our greatest obstacles.

Antagonistic responses to political opinions that do not align with one’s own are common, and unfortunately, the results—failure to inform of society’s needed changes, hindering justice promotion, intensification of political tensions—are destructive.

Considering the social issues that exist not only in the United States but throughout the world, we cannot afford to have verbal outrage and over-aggressive social media posting when people are angered by the beliefs of their political opposition. People are significantly less likely to pay attention to what someone is saying when they are criticized, ridiculed,

Ezra Thau ’22 Copy Editors Vivian Collins ’24 Madeleine Fiks ’23 Zoe Hassett ’23 Senior Design Editors Emma Liu ’22 Emmi Wu ’23

Web Editor Jessica Dubin ’23 Business Manager Mona Vakil ’22 Assistant Business Manager Noah Barkan ’24 Photographers Aiko Palaypayon ’23 Anika Xi ’23 Advisor Charles Henneberry The editors believe all facts presented in the newspaper to be accurate. The paper acknowledges that mistakes are possible and welcomes questions as to accuracy.

Inquiries regarding accuracy should be directed to the editors of the paper. Editors can be contacted via e-mail at merionite@ gmail.com or in Room 200A. To represent all viewpoints in the school community, The Merionite welcomes all letters to the editor. Letters can be sent via e-mail or dropped off outside The Merionite office. The Merionite reserves the right to edit letters to the editor for length or clarity. All unattributed images are courtesy of WikiCommons.

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

We can clear the AP Jungle

Gabby Tepper-Waterman ’23

Senior Web Editor Katie Fang ’23

that exist in the world. However, these people do not understand that their method of doing so is flawed. If one would like someone to consider and listen to their arguments, they must not have combative discussions, but instead, listen to the opposition and be open to changing their mind. The process of intellectual charity is a two-way street.

There is no solving racial repression and climate change if we don’t take the time to have civil discourse with each other. With these discussions, rather than becoming further polarized, our communities can grow.

That is precisely why it is essential that we, at LM, teach intellectual charity to students. Just ask English teacher Aimee Ferguson, who begins her AP Language and Composition course with a lesson on it. In a course that is structured around arguing, students must know how to properly do so. After all, we, as students, are the future. If we cannot listen to each other, then we must ask ourselves the feared question: is the future truly bright?

Articles and letters featured in the Opinions section reflect the viewpoints of individual contributers and not neccesarily those of The Merionite editorial staff.

Sports Editors Michelle Kelly ’23 Luke Shepard ’24

Graphics Editor Ilana Zahavy ’24

and tormented rather than engaged in a friendly, civil conversation. Only after an arguer begins to have a civil conversation can they start to persuade their listener.

Recognizing this, we must make people aware of the importance of having constructive dialogue in halting the growing political divide. We can do this through advertisements, speaking out publicly, having these very conversations ourselves, and encouraging lawmakers to enact legislation requiring the teaching of intellectual charity. According to the Maine Department of Education, intellectual charity is listening to someone’s argument with precision, perceiving it in the best possible light by assuming it is well-intentioned. By treating other people’s arguments how we would want them to treat our arguments, we ensure that we have a clear perception of their reasoning, and ultimately, this helps us gain a deeper understanding of their argument so we can respond civilly and more meticulously.

Those who express their discontent with passion and hostility often have good intentions; they want to help the opposition recognize the inequalities, environmental issues, and overall community problems

Max Fishman ’22 Dear Merionite Editorial Staff (and anyone who might take an AP),The title of your article in the March edition of this wonderful paper has it on the money.

AP Classes are fundamentally flawed, and it feels like most of us had a sense of that already. Hoping to gain valuable skills from APs, or at least with the knowledge that harder classes are more attractive to selective colleges, many of us have ventured into the AP jungle.

Navigating through AP Lang or APUSH, or AP Psych, similar snares tangled our trek. Ultimately, time consuming homework regimes and stressful grading sprout from the “mile-wide” nature of these classes. Precisely as your article pointed out, APs cram a lot of material into one class and AP tests force teachers to cover all of it. On the “inch-deep” side of things, the complex ideas taught in college classes (which APs are meant to mirror) typically end up boiled down to rubrics and bullet points. As John Tierny, a college professor of 25 years turned high school teacher puts it, “The courses cover too much material and do so too quickly and superficially. In short, AP courses are a forced march through a preordained subject, leaving no time for a high-school

teacher to take [their] students down some path of mutual interest.” Tierny concludes, “The AP classroom is where intellectual curiosity goes to die.” Beyond their direct flaws, colleges’ irreverent attitude towards APs (they hardly ever earn you a full academic credit) demonstrates the flimsiness of the College Board’s sell. APs simply don’t do what they are meant to do. Or, do they? I am writing this letter solely because of the last line of your article: “It is clear that the College Board needs to make a change.” To live up to their purported goals, it absolutely does. But in the College Board’s executives’ bigger picture, the AP racket is perfectly fulfilling its goal. Between 2016 and 2019, the number of AP exams given per year more than doubled to 5 million. Selling that many $94 tests helped fund CEO David Coleman’s $1.4 million and President Jermery Singer’s $910,000

it’s not particularly invested in a quality education, just a profitable one. So what now? We can lay bare the behemoth system’s machinations and blatant disregard for proper learning, but demanding that the College Board reshape their profitable model is futile. Instead, students need to appeal directly to the district. Afterall, LM could simply disband the AP program. In 2018, after colleges confirmed that AP classes have no bearing on acceptance compared to other challenging classes, eight prominent D.C. private schools did exactly that. Teachers in those districts are now empowered to focus on interdisciplinary research, current events, and question-based learning. “We expect this approach will appeal to students’ innate curiosity, increase their motivation and fuel their love of learning,” said the schools of the changes’ effect on their pupils. Thus, leaving the College Board behind entirely is one (and perhaps the only) viable solution to clear the AP jungle. However, such a drastic tack from the norm will require tremendous willpower.

Unfortunately, due to the nature of high school, the grade with the most AP and institutional experience is constantly on its way out. Only with proper coordination can the underclassmen coagulate their power and truly fight to drastically improve our school. Perhaps, as suggested in my last op-ed, a student-led organization devoted to spreading awareness and lobbying the administration on Graphic by Emma Liu ‘22/Staff behalf of the student compensation packages. That money also goes body as a whole is necessary. to the College Board’s lobbying efforts. Over As storied at his memorial, Mr. Hughes took the last fifteen years, the College Board has great pride in learning from other districts and spent a yearly average of $309,000 on lob- pushing for innovative solutions. He believed bying to ensure local governments accept or in the prowess of his teachers and he trusted sometimes even require AP courses. I bring up his students. To live up to Mr. Hughes’ legathese innerworkings not just to emphasize that cy of love and educational best practice, it’s the College Board is flawed, but to expose how clear that this district needs to make a change.

Opinions

May 1 , 2022

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The Merionite

Confronting our bruised fruit

Joy Donovan ’23 After reading “attention is the beginning of devotion” in a Mary Oliver poem some time during my anorexia recovery, I was forever changed. Her prose was universal and enduring and made plain sense to a girl whose world had been complicated by an isolating pandemic and an even more isolating diagnosis. Once we notice things we begin to love them, and once we love someone we begin to notice them in the things we do everyday. It was clear to me, at least, that love is asking questions and caring about the answers. Love is attention.

Therefore, attention-occupying “machines” like social media have indubitably led to a decline in our capacity to love with earnesty, dimension, and fullness. As we spend our time preoccupied with the false realities we create online, a veil is draped over our eyes, obscuring our collective perception of life apart from our screens. Our eyes glaze over at the sight of natural faces and bodies. We try to pretend this is less foreign than it truly is; but our attempts are futile. In the highly isolating and increasingly technologized world we live in, symptoms of anxiety and depressive disorders affect nearly 60% of young adults in the United States. Dr. Bryn Astin, a specialist in food policy and adolescent behavioral psychology, says in her New York Times op-ed that American youth’s mental health problem, particularly pertaining to eating disorders, is “way outstretching the capacity to address it.”

The brain notices differences; it notices the

breaking of patterns, the disruption of sameness.

This is precisely why it is so easy to spend hours scrolling on algorithmic platforms like Instagram and TikTok; they give us the sameness our dulling brains long for that we cannot get out of corporeality. In the real world, people are constantly changing, constantly teaching, learning, and growing.

Online, this change is apportioned; there is no room for non-homogeneity. Dr. Astin reaffirms what every teenager who’s suffered through ED Tumblr or quarantine fitness Tik Tok already knows: that this comparison plated by social media is killing us. In the United States, eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. And if comparison is the grave-digger, and desirability politics are the soil which buries us—the hundreds of thousands of us victimized by the corporate greed of private corporations profiting off of self-hatred and insecurity—then social media is the haunted hotel built foolishly upon these hallowed grounds.

Five insecticide-doused red apples in a row are disrupted by a bruised banana with brown senescent spots. This disruption is consequentially noted by the brain as an intrusion. With enough time spent online, soon our realities of daily life— scarred stomachs, unaligned teeth, and bruised bananas—become the disruptions themselves.

This acknowledgement becomes all the more indigestible when one too learns that it is the corporations themselves that practice and promote this unattainable uniformity. TikTok was exposed for telling its content moderators to hide videos that featured users who could be categorized as being “[of] abnormal body shape, chubby, obese, or too thin.” This isn’t anything new either. Zuckerberg’s first model of The Facebook, a website called FaceMash, was used to compare women from his school and publicly rate them; an adaptive form of stake-burning equipped for the digital age. It is foolish to assume that Facebook has, at its essence, changed at all from its misogynistic beginnings. In October 2021, Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen’s damning claims, backed by internal corporate documents, demonstrated indisputably that the company’s app, Instagram, knowingly worsened eating disorders in teenage girls.

Despite this, these institutions are bound towards ruin, for they rely on the sorely misguided notion that we weren’t buried alive and fighting; that we’ve not spent all of our lives desperately scratching and clawing our way out.

New York Times writer Lauren Slater writes in her piece on self esteem: “Feeling bad about yourself is not the cause of our country’s biggest ... social problems.’’ To this, I vehemently disagree. If we cannot cope with the realities of our bruised fruits, how are we to sustain ourselves as a species? If we cannot give our own bodies and selves due attention and love, how can we honestly give these to others? To the passions and causes that have been thrust upon us as a humanity? Psychiatrist Frantz Fanon philosophizes that “each generation must ... discover its mission, fulfill it, or betray it.” How are we to discover our mission if we cannot even feed ourselves? How are we to confront the humanity-threatening objects in our sideview mirror (which are dangerously closer than they appear) if we can’t even stand to look in one?

These questions are often overlooked in the political discourse pertaining to our “missions,” though this is not due to their lack of relevance nor our inability to answer them. It is rather that in answering these questions, we will not only come to understand the pertinence of love and attention in relation to ourselves, but in every facet of our lives; in our jobs, in our communities, and most radically, in our political action. To acknowledge this would be a consciousness revolution bordering on divine revelation—our day of reckoning. Though this is precisely why we don’t ask these questions, it is also precisely why we should.

Between the climate, the pandemic, and devastation on the Ukrainian front, the bruises are unavoidable. Humanity demands love and healing, and therefore, it demands our attention— earnest, dimensional, and full attention. Though it is uncomfortable, it is essential, but without lifting the veil, it is impossible. If love is asking questions and caring about the answers, then the first step is to ask them, regardless of how daunting they may seem, regardless of what will change once we determine their answers.

Bang for your buck

Cameron Gordon ’23 $37,288—the average cost of tuition every year for a private college in Pennsylvania. Add on room and board and that totals to around $50,000 a year. Four years of that, and you owe $200,000. No doubt this is a large check to write, but is it worth it?

To answer that question, I am going to take a financial approach. Yes, financial gain is not the only reason to go to college, but there are much less expensive alternatives to the college experience.

So, if we’re looking at college as an investment, how are you getting the best bang for your buck?

The answer: it depends. In engineering, for example, it does make financial sense to go to the best university possible. In fact, the top ten highest paying majors are all forms of engineering, with computer science in the middle. The starting salary for the students coming out of those majors is about $70,000 a year. So yes, if you want to pursue a career in engineering, MIT would be a good decision.

However, there are a lot of people that have no idea what they want to pursue in college but enroll

just because it’s the “normal” next step. That is the problem for me. People make the massive investment of time, hard work, and money to come out with a degree that 62 percent of graduates say has nothing to do with their job. That leads to a massive underemployment problem. There are more people who have degrees than there are jobs that will give enough salary to pay off those degrees.

So if college is a bad investment for you, what is a good next step? Let’s go back to that extremely high paying computer science degree. Kenzie Academy is a coding academy, where you can get a degree and start working for the same pay as the college degrees in nine to twelve months for $10,000 to $20,000. Community college is about $2,000 to $5,000 per year, and the average student comes out making about $42,000, while college graduates make about $55,000 per year; the spread does not cover the cost difference of about ten times between the two schools.

With so many alternatives, why are students still choosing to get a four year college degree?

Well, if you take a look at any LM student’s Instagram feed, it won’t take you long to find the answer. The feed is flooded with senior college commits, and there is nothing wrong with celebrating the massive achievements of committing to a university, but the alternatives should not be shunned the way they are. Not following the college path is something of bravery and should be praised to help get rid of the stigma that going to college is the only option.

It is a stigma that piles up loans on people, who only have a piece of paper to show for it.

So I challenge you, who probably read this and thought “interesting buuuut not for me,” to think about what type of investment you want to make post high school and give some thought to the fact that it does not have to be a four-year college.

Graphic by Emma Liu ’22/Staff

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Opinions

May 1 , 2022

The Merionite

Affirmative action revisited tion. This is due to a phenomenon known as relative deprivation theory, best explained by Malcolm Gladwell via a Google Zeitgeist talk in 2019. Gladwell, having examined the graduation rates of STEM degree-seeking students across a wide spectrum of colleges, found that the bottom third of those students (based on SAT scores) at Hartwick College earned only eighteen percent of degrees awarded, meaning many of them dropped out. Rationalizing that this was due to Harvard, expecting a much better performance

Jonathan Xu ’22 Editor-in-Chief

tone of its cocksure ninth grade author, characteristically stark and blunt: colleges were institutions of -

percent of degrees. In other words, only one out of every two students in that third of students graduated with their desired degree, a pattern replicated across the board in essentially every university analyzed. The reality is that comparative position matters much more than absolute position, as Gladwell concluded, and thus academic persistence is not a function of cognitive ability but of individual characteristics and environment, rendering scores irrelevant after the admissions cycle. Therefore, when comparing applicants head-to-head, standardized scores are

instead consider applicants under one “American

academic success and cannot be prescribed as the

In December 2018, for Issue 3 of the 90th volMerionite article—an op-ed piece that, amidst blathering diatribes and extraneous history-digging, decried the action to discriminate against Asian-American appli-

half years later and two dozen articles hopefully the traversing the bridge into higher education myself.

National universities draw from a tremendously diverse and far-ranging pool of applicants, bisected into various regions, demographics, nationalities, and attributes. Even with standardized metrics, it is nearly impossible to compare an applicant from one corner of the US to one from another—hence introducing a variety of other factors to consider. Merit can be demonstrated in a plethora of ways, including classwork, awards, community service, technical enterprise, and leadership, but even then are scarcely comparable in the context of applicant pools eclipsing tens of thousands strong. merit” is, there is not a clear-cut answer. Moreover, institutions of higher learning aren’t bound to choose academic success, just as employers should not be delimited to hiring applicants only from top-ranked universities. Colleges seek to build classes that can requires more than just scoring well on a test. That’s shaky fulcrum upon which the rest of my argument rested. But it’s not just my opinions that drive this new interpretation—it’s also empirically proven.

As I wrote in another op-ed entitled “Test-taking treachery” last year, standardized tests are incredibly poor predictors of academic success, and even the top universities who apply it concur. The 2020 University of Michigan study introduced in that article not only established that there was no meaningful correlation between scores and graduation rates, but there might even be a negative correla-

Yet even in the absence of standardized test scores, there is another gaping faulty premise in my prior opinion—the idea that race is the most decisive (and discriminating) demographical feature in shaping college admissions decisions. To bepetitive selection system is that it is inherently a other person’s loss—thus the system is designed to make most people disappointed at some point. The classic correlation-causation fallacy comes into efattribute their unfavorable outcomes to things outside of their control. The truth is that while nationality, gender, race, location, rank—a given class breakdown is merely the result of a process incorporating many decisions and data points, not the determining factor for it. Diversity, whether we choose to like it or not on paper, is crucial to the institution of higher learning; just as it’s rational to understand why the male-female ratio is usually 1:1, it should not be hard to believe why colleges would want to create classes that simulate the racial diversity seen in the real world. Going to a university that merely incubates the same type of person you embody is not conducive to growth nor preparation for outpoint for colleges. In the context of Asian-Americans, for most top-ranked colleges, they are vastly overrepresented, contributing to around or above twenty of the US population. Is that demographically fair to begin with? Only those colleges can make that call. launched by Students for Fair Admissions against Harvard that is now being heard by the Supreme

Court, it is also worth considering what a blanket policy instituted by the Court would mean for college admissions. My guess is that it would likely not change a thing, if not make things worse. Understanding each applicant is an individualized process that incorporates a generous degree of subjectivity, and simply rewriting the challenged admissions codes with more constitutional lingo will not alter the way admissions they will play a role in shaping each college’s community. As analyzed by the Harvard Law Review, “there is no reason to think eliminating explicit consideration of race from the admissions process would eliminate the alleged Asian American penalty,” if one should even exist. Since the vast majority of universities are also opting to be test-optional now, this reinforces this point further. What’s more, a Courtof Michigan in 2014, the ensuing classes witnessed a seventeen percent decline in the matriculation of students of color at the medical school, while only yielding a marginal increase in the number of AsianAmerican students. Imagining a similar impact across the board at all colleges across the United States, I think we can all agree it would not be for the better.

The bottom line is that the admissions cycle is a bitter process, and only shows signs of growing more is ignorant of the broader truth that college admissions is a mere microcosm of the archetypal problem in economics: limitless wants, limited resources. No arrangement will be deemed completely fair nor result in an absolutely optimal outcome. As acceptance rates continue to plummet and colleges grow more selective ing cycle of students applying to more colleges to feel secure about admissions and consequently receiving more rejections is bound to ensue. It is completely understandable for applicants to feel that rejections should be grounded upon objective criteria rather than subjective, a sentiment I echoed myself, but unfortunately in the modern era of college admissions such is hardly possible. From a policy-based perspective, however, it is not only unfavorable but impractical to focus amendments of admissions on race, especially when there are so many other pressing problems that meant to be the quintessential solution to improving vestments and reforms in public schooling at the pritive action can be considered a success at any college. tion can and should be settled upon consensus: we all should want a diverse environment of learning in which we can grow as both students and people, and incorporating diversity into college admissions is an imperfect but inevitable step for achieving that outcome, one that will ultimately be far to our benefit.

Senior project success

Grady Garner ’23 As a rising senior, my peers and I have begun to feel the pressures of college and post-secondary life commencing. This can potentially be a very scary and stressful time for those who don’t have ideas about what they want to do with their life. The LMSD Senior Project is, according to the LMSD Handbook 2022, “an experiential exploration of a topic of interest to an individual student.” This entails that seniors end classes on May 6, 2022, in order to complete seventy hours of work for the project before presentations start on May 31, 2022. The senior project pro-

gram should continue for future years at LM because it provides seniors with an opportunity to make a change in their community, it gives them career prospective, and it gives them time management skills.

The LM Senior Project Program provides opportunities for personal growth, and can possibly have an impact on another person or community. An example of a senior project for personal growth could be to intern or shadow someone at a company or business within your desired field of interest. This could be a way for someone to figure out what they want to do or potentially lead them to a different career path than they expected. Current senior Lillie Abella explains that “allowing for seniors to explore any interest they have in a professional setting is a great way to be exposed to careers that spike their curiosity at the time.” Senior project helps give seniors a real world perspective on possible job opportunities.

Another skill gained from the senior project is time management. Students have almost three weeks off to complete their actual project.

However, many could procrastinate and not end

up completing their project until the last minute. Cramming a project into just a few days would cause major stress to seniors and it would teach them to never procrastinate again. Thus, the senior project teaches seniors to manage their time wisely in order to make their experience worthwhile.

Another reason why the LM senior project is a positive aspect of the senior curriculum is that many projects involve community service. Some projects that involve community service include offering to be a coach to younger kids, tutoring those in need, or cleaning up parks around the township. This is a way that seniors can make the community better while gaining a bit of satisfaction.

I strongly believe that the Senior Project Program is beneficial to students. The program gives students meaningful insight into possible future careers. It also helps create necessary time management skills. Furthermore, some students can engage in meaningful community service. In conclusion, not only does it give seniors a more laid back end to high school, but it can also provide the opportunity to have a meaningful experience before they begin their first steps of adult life.

Opinions

May 1 , 2022

9

The Merionite

Democracy on the ropes

Connor Kleinman ’24 Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, “Democracy cannot succeed unless those who express their choice are prepared to choose wisely.

The real safeguard of democracy, therefore, is education.” The war in Ukraine has caused a new reckoning for democracies around the world. In the largest European war in history since World War II, the Russian invasion has clearly drawn lines between countries that support Ukraine, like France, and countries that don’t.. But does this mean that the United States will always be democratic? The hope of democracy as something permanent is consistent throughout American history. Archibald MacLeish once said, “Democracy is never a thing done.

Democracy is always something that a nation must be doing.” However, nations must beware of democratic backsliding. In order to prevent this from happening in the United States, it is crucial that LM students vote.

The looming danger of democratic backsliding is one of increasing magnitude. The term democratic backsliding means the erosion of democratic norms. Institutions such as the Democracy Index, an organization which tracks democracy, says that countries previously perceived as democratic, like Hungary or India, are experiencing backsliding.

During the Russian civil war, Leon Trotsky, a Bolshevik, told the remaining legislators advocating for a democratic republic to, “‘go to the place where you belong from now on - the dustbin of history!”

This was the end of a dream that a new, democratic Russia could have formed. Instead, Russia embarked on years of terror. Such norms are going to this dustbin of history around the world, and, for the first time, the number of people living in a democracy has shrunk in the past decade.

It is clear that democratic backsliding is occurring. Around the world, politicians are beginning to make moves for undisputed power. In Hungary, Victor Orban ran on a platform of opposing the European Union, Middle Eastern migrants, and LGBTQ+ rights, in direct opposition to the majority of peaceful, democratic countries. With full control over the state media and the economy, he was able to win in a landslide against an opponent whom many considered Hungary’s “last best hope” to save their fragile democracy. In France and the United States, leaders who are staunch supporters of democracy have come under attack from illiberal politicians who proclaim that the elections will be stolen from them. For example, Donald

dents have a moral obligation to vote. Voting is the best way to save and protect our democracy, as voting proves that we still have a democracy— especially when you vote for change.

Whether it is for socialism, liberalism, conservatism, or any other political ideology, as long as the candidate supports democracy, a vote is a voice for democracy. Even more importantly, your vote can protect others. A vote can push a candidate over the finish line, and that candidate could legislate the continuing of voting rights efforts. Just like how your lack of a vote could allow someone who is undemocratic to win power.

Looking at the numbers, we can clearly see that the voter turnout rate in American is not what it should be. The dismal turnout rating among youth voters in the 2020 election (only just over 50%) was actually an increase of over 10 percentage points, the highest ever. The “sky high” turnout from under 75% of registered voters did not represent a high amount of youth voters. As Obama said, “the biggest threat to our democracy is cynicism – a cynicism that’s led too many people to turn away from politics and stay home on election day” Some people argue that their vote will not change anything. However, this narrative could not be further from wrong. In 2000, George Bush defeated Al Gore for the presidency by only 537 Florida votes. Pennsylvania is a pivotal swing state too. If you want to step into a new world, where that world is made safe for democracy, then you must vote for those candidates who represent you. We don’t all have to be politicians or like politics. But that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t know and talk about the issues plaguing our nation.

Students and citizens reading this must all encourage everyone we know who is able to vote, and for those who can, vote themselves. Learn how to vote, and share that information.

Democracy is not a given. ThroughGraphic by Emma Liu ’22/Staff out the world, the dark cloud that represents governments without deTrump refused to accept that he lost the 2020 elec- mocracy is descending over millions of people. tion, claiming that his loss was the result of election Let that not be us also. Jay Griffths said, “Befraud. When politicians go against the norms of ing adequately informed is a democratic duty, democratic societies, democracy is on the decline. just as the vote is a democratic right. A misinSo how can we, as LM students, help to stop formed electorate, voting without knowledge, is such a large issue? Although saving the face of our not a true democracy.” Ask others to vote, teach democracy sounds like an arduous task, we them to vote, inspire them to vote. The shining can start with one simple step: voting. LM stu- city on the hill must not descend into darkness.

Name-change necessity

Anisa Pugh ’22 Harriton High School. When the name is spoken one may think about lavish lifestyles and old money. But how would someone feel if they found out that these lifestyles were built on the backs of enslaved people and swept under the rug like they never existed? Harriton High School’s name praises slavery and needs to be changed.

Examination and reform should not end where Lower Merion begins. Many students have become aware of and taken concern with the history of Harriton High School and, more specifically, its name. The name “Harriton’’ derives from Hannah Norris’s family, widely known as Norriton. Hannah Norris married Richard Harrison whose last names combined to form Harriton. Harrison, however, was a slave owner who built a 700 acre tabacco empire on the backs of enslaved African-Americans.

The name of a school has extreme importance. In

many cases, schools will be named in testament to the contributions of important historical figures. In many cases, schools are named after people who had a strong influence over the founding of that school.

However, neither Harrison nor Norris contributed in any way to Harriton High School. What place does a slave owner with little to no connection with a school have in being celebrated by the establishment itself? When a school is named after a person with no connection to the given school, it is presumed to be named in remembrance and celebration of an individual or set of ideals an individual showed.

Lower Merion School District has attempted to justify the name by providing information about the history on the Harriton website. They mention that Thomson, the successor of the plot of land and plantation, was avidly against slavery and wrote to President, Thomas Jefferson as such. They also point out the convenient plaque outside the main office honors Thomson and his achievements. However, Thomson is not who the school is named after. A simple plaque in a lobby is not reparation for the damage of a building named Harriton. Students should not have to walk through doors coated with praise for a slave owner. The unchanged status of the school’s name reveals a crucial pattern; our words and speech on equity mean little when we aren’t willing to admit our past and current wrongdoings. To admit this requires responsibility and accountabil-

Noah Barkan ’24 ity, which many in the district seem to lack. We must hold ourselves accountable for the history that stares us in our faces in the most blatant ways.

Changing Harriton High School’s name is imperative to accountability. Though the name of Harriton may present solace and lasting tradition to many, the history cannot be ignored. Many feel changing the name will change the culture of Harriton and shift the present traditions. We would have to agree. Changing the name means adjusting present cultures that discount celebrations of slavery as a positive. It means forming a culture of accountability and willingness for students to be critical of their district. Further, it would demonstrate to students the truth that slavery was a codemable atrocity with lasting impacts in the now. Those who contributed to it are not worth a celebration, a testament, or even a name.

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May 1 , 2022

The joy of spring Ruby Romano-Lehr ’24

Droplets glisten on the waxy leaves The evanescent shine Could blind ones eyes Fish splash and leap out of the opposing currents Their scales reflect the clear water Of radiant scarlets, golds, ambers Clovers sway in the light breeze Which hums its way into the blooming flowers Petals breaking off and falling to the ground Within the hollow wood, chirps of Crickets vibrate throughout the tree Lady bugs crawl along the crevices And creases of the weathered bark It trails to the roots which puncture The Earth’s floor Along comes the pitter-patter Of small feet Making marks across the terrain A twig is in the hand of the being That makes its marks on the crust of the Earth She swings it around like a wand A paintbrush A pen with no end to the ink Her eyes wander to the tops of the treetops Where the birds have perched to watch the performance The girl comes upon the stream With the glistening fish of warmth which Swim away from the loud noises coming from her direction Another small child enters the picture He roars like a dragon from the peacock-colored leaves And charges into the girl They fall into the shallow water and laugh Voices echoing to the birds above And bugs below The creatures seem a bit rattled By the interference of the newcomers But nevertheless they enjoy their presence in The otherwise peaceful environment because A little chaos never hurt anyone The children get up and brush themselves off Before leaving, the girl decides to put the duo’s mark somewhere She gathers some smooth rocks from the stream And colorful flowers from a nearby patch Even found a feather from a bird And makes a heart on the ground out of the objects She plants her stick in the middle, Smiles to the sky and marches out of the small forest The boy follows close behind And the animals were once again left alone The birds were the bravest and first to Go examine what the human did up close

Features The Merionite

Let’s celebrate!

Ava Cohen ’23

Mother’s Day is coming up on May 8, so it is earrings, or a ring are all perfect ideas. Make sure you time to celebrate the person who we hold so dearly know if she prefers gold or silver and you are all set!

Help her out: As mentioned before, our moms do so in our hearts. Our moms do so much for us every single day, so it is important to take this day to much for us so make today a day where you take on all return the favor. Here are some fun, cre- her tasks. Whether it is doing extra chores around the ative, and simple ways to appreciate your house or helping out with dinner, the effort will mean so much to her. After all, she mom this Mother’s Day. should relax on her special day.

Get her flowers: You Clean the house: Similarly, can never go wrong with you could clean the house. This this kind gesture. Not sure is a gift to everyone in the famwhich kind of flower is her ily. No one, especially our hardfavorite? Take a guess! All working moms, likes to come flowers are beautiful and home to a messy house so cleanshe will appreciate the ing it will be much appreciated. thought regardless. They Spend time with her: We don’t have to be storeall have busy lives but it is imbought either. Picking her portant to make sure to spend a small bouquet of garden time with our moms. You could flowers is just as special. watch her favorite movie, play Make a card: Every a card game, or just talk and mother loves receiving your mom will feel so happy. her child’s artwork and Book her a self care creativity. If you make appointment: A mani-pedi, a her a heartfelt card and tell her how much you Graphic by Tillie Szwartz ’25 massage, facial, or any othappreciate her, it will surely bring her great joy. er form of self care is a perfect gift for your mom.

Bake her a sweet treat: Baking is easy and Sometimes our moms are so focused on providing pretty much anyone can do it. Make your mom for us and our needs that they forget to treat themher favorite treat and she will be so thankful. selves. By booking this appointment, you are showBuy her jewelry: Similar to flowers, you can ing that you are thinking of her and her needs. never go wrong with jewelry. A necklace, bracelet, Let’s celebrate our mothers with love and care!

Stop stressing Maya Silbert ’23 Stress. It gets to all of us. While stress can physi- preparing for college. Learning to cope with stress and cally impact a person, the most difficult part about finding healthy ways to deal with situations like AP Exit is dealing with it when it takes over. Sometimes ams, tests, and interviews is extremely important. If all you need is to take a deep breath or a minute you are worried about the ACTs or SATs, take time and alone to calm those nerves. adapt to regular studyAs the school year ing habits so instead comes to a close, the AP of feeling stressed out, Exams approach faster come test day, you will than ever. Whether you feel prepared and calm. are taking the tests for Williams Integracollege applications or care Clinic explains even as a benchmark, the that stress affects more hours of tests can carry than just your mind a lot of stress along with and learning to overthem. How can you deal come issues that you with it? Finley Hoffman cannot change is a very ’23 explains that she “had important part of stress a set studying schedule management. Whether and tried not to stress too it is taking care of yourmuch because it was not self by eating healthy the end of the world if my meals, getting plenty of score was not the best.” As sleep, or giving yourself these tests approach, stua break when stress gets dents should remember out of hand, there are that their scores do not many ways to cope with determine who they are negative feelings. Even as people and it is simply finding a trusted adult an assessment on the AP or friend to sit down curriculum. Jamie Elman and talk to is always ’22 says that she “stopped helpful. Since Stress studying the night before Awareness Month Graphic by Ilana Zahavy ’24 /Staff is upon us, it is very because it does not do you any good to cram in last minute studying.” important for high school students to rememElman further expressed that, “my AP scores ber: don’t overthink situations that will not have would not be the end all be all of my college a massive impact on the rest of your life. Start doapplications.” This advice could carry over into ing yoga, learn to communicate struggles, find a few any situation, especially for a high school student fellow trusted listeners, and remember to relax.

They pecked at the ground at first And look up at the child’s masterpiece Squirrels scurry to look and then came the bunnies None of them dare to touch it Only look Admire Stare Study Watch After a bit they all leave Until the only beings that could have admired it Are the fish confined to the water The piece now left to the wind and the elements Graphic by Eliza Leibo ’25

Features

May 1 , 2022

The Merionite

ADVICE COLUMN

Victoria Bermudez ’22, Julia Dubnoff ’23, Angela Ge ’23, Caryl Shepard ’22

UND F E S A E PL

Q: What should I do to fill up my free time this summer?

A: When the final bell rings on June 17, many students at LM will eagerly flee the building until they are legally obligated to return the following September. Anticipating the endless hours of free time appears promising after already overworked students have spent hours studying for exams and preparing for final projects. However, after two weeks without the pressing obligations that plague the school year, students may realize that the monotony of free time quickly grows boring. To avoid being caught in this standstill until September, try and fill your schedule with some structure during the summer months. Primarily, try and get a job. Many local businesses hire for the summer, so try and stop by in-person to inquire to see if your favorite places are hiring. Whether at a restaurant, ice cream shop, clothing store, or a coffee shop, getting work experience can lead to developing good skills–and earning some spending money. If you can’t find a job, try something new, like taking up a new hobby. When the weather is nice (and not too hot–thanks Philly) try being active by going on a bike ride or hike. If you have to stay inside, try a hobby like baking or knitting. Regardless of what you ultimately decide to do, make sure to try and have some structure in your summer!

Q: I’m worried I’m going to do bad on my AP exams, how do I accept my scores?

A: I’ve heard a lot of chatter amongst the junior class about AP exams...rightfully so. We’ve all been put under the extreme pressure of taking an AP exam, or even four, within the same two week period! You’re completely valid for feeling nervous, anxious, and scared about how you’ll perform on those fateful days, but when you actually get the scores, you need to remind yourself that it’s not as huge of a deal as you truly think it is. I remember I was so terrified to get a bad score on my AP exams until I remembered that colleges barely put any weight on these exams. If anything, they only really look at these scores once you’ve actually been accepted to see which classes you can opt out of after accepting your AP credits. Now, colleges are more concerned about your actual grade in the class and who you are as a person. More and more, you are seeing colleges ask about what makes you “special” outside of academics. So just remember, you are an awesome student and person. It’s okay to put in your headphones and cry while listening to sad music after finding out a bad AP score. But hey, you can always fill out a withholding form!

Q: How do I keep up with high school friends after graduation?

A: It can be daunting to go from seeing someone five times a week to living separate lives with hundreds of miles in-between. But don’t be discouraged—while it’s natural for some to drift apart, those who truly want to, can maintain their friendships for years to come. In the age of technology, staying in contact across distance is easier than ever. But don’t relegate your once-closest friends to just your Instagram feeds— take that extra step and build habits of calls and FaceTimes.

Though at first it may seem lackluster compared to in-person hangouts, eventually you may find value in having someone separate from your college life that you can call whenever.

Before you know it, you and your friends will be on break, back together and back to normal.

Q: What are some activities to do with friends over the summer?

A: Here’s a list of fun activity ideas: 1. Color themed picnic (each person brings foods or drinks of a different color of the rainbow) 2. Play hide and seek in the mall with a big group of friends (of course, don’t do anything dangerous or illegal) 3. Play “Guess Who” but substitute the faces on the tabs with faces of people you know 4. Go on a walk and ask Siri whether to go left or right and see where it leads you - stay safe though!

5. Hold a powerpoint or jeopardy night 6. Make and decorate lunchbox cakes together 7. Put together a time capsule and bury it 8. Solve a mystery: figure out an unsolved case together, go to an escape room, or complete a scavenger hunt

THE MERIONITE

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May 1 , 2022

Arts & Entertainment The Merionite

Godspell Sam Donagi ’25

You step into LM’s Blackbox Theater and are immediately transported into a ragtag circus tent. Red and white striped curtains line the walls, and a ringleader’s circle is painted on the floor. A voice booms over the speaker, and you are welcomed into a Players production of their first musical in two years. Stephen Schwartz’s Godspell, directed by Kit Schlaak ’22 and Mandy Donahoe ’23, ran from April 28 to May 1. The show was a smashing success, and the third and final in a series of blackbox shows produced by Players this year (outside The Mousetrap alongside The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe).

Due to COVID-19, Players was unable to perform their musical on the main stage as usual but instead set up a live broadcast of the Blackbox theater production that was streamed into the auditorium. Importantly the “overflow seating” model allowed a wider audience to appreciate the show while adhering to pandemic protocols. Putting on a musical allowed Players to return to a sense of normalcy despite having to work with a much smaller stage.

Obviously, the Blackbox is not the typical setting for a Players musical, as there is a need to incorporate live musicians and much more elabo-

rate sound systems. To adapt the Blackbox into a stage fit for a musical, the closet was converted into a “pit” for a live orchestra to perform. The show orchestra provided backing to a cast of thirteen vocalists, playing Jesus, Judas/John the Baptist, and eleven apostles. Jesus (Will Pickering ’22) led the cast through a series of songs and parables, with John The Baptist (played by Julia Sobel ’22) joining in the first act. The apostles were played by Ani Annapragada ’22, Kal Hachadoorian ’23, Gabriel Robinson ’23, Katharine Worth ’24, Cid Miller ’24, Gwen O’Bannon ’25, Liam Cox ’25, Emilia Feaster ’25, Erin Fox’25, M. Borden ’25, and Addison Garner ’23.

Garner’s role was played in later shows by the production’s choreographer, Abigail Parks ’23.

The cast was adorned in the costumes of various circus members, including clowns, trapeze artists, lion tamers, and acrobats, with Sobel and Pickering as the ringleaders. Each show ran for a little under two hours and culminated in a stunning and fiery finale, and four standing ovations. Even with facing the challenges of the pandemic, Players is glad to have ended the year with a bang and can’t wait for what next year’s show season brings!

Photos courtesy of LMSD Newsroom

Another amazing anime day Hadia Ahmad ’23 Anime has taken the world by storm in recent years. These Japanese animations typically have unique styles of art combined with soundtracks that perfectly match their intensity.

Whether you watch romance or action, with or without subtitles— there is something for everyone.

National Anime Day was held on April 15, where many fans proudly talked about their favorite shows and movies under the category. As someone who grew up watching classics such as Pokemon, Naruto, and Dragon Ball, I want to recommend some of my favorite anime.

Nana (2006)- 47 episodes You might have heard about this anime from TikTok, but the first time I saw it was in 2017. I instantly fell in love with the realistic emotions, catchy soundtrack, and how the character’s outfits take inspiration from Vivienne Westwood. This 47-episode anime tells the story of two girls with the same name, Nana, whose lives become connected after coincidentally meeting on a train. The show has been on a hiatus for many years, but many fans patiently await its return. I believe that despite its hiatus, it’s definitely worth the watch. If you love shows that tackle themes of love, coming of age, and music—definitely check out Nana.

A Silent Voice (2016)- movie This is one of my favorite animes, let alone movies, of all time. It’s about a boy, Shoya, who accompanied his

friends in bullying a deaf girl, Shoko, in elementary school. The movie follows how these actions affected his life, and how Shoya’s anxiety prevented him from making friends. I showed this to my friends on my fifteenth birthday (they hate anime) and now they recommend it to people.

Death Note (2006)- 37 episodes After almost two decades, many fans are claiming that Death Note has aged into a masterpiece. I don’t want to give away too much, because I believe for this show the less you know the better, but it’s a mystery that follows the story of Light And L. Light is a teenage boy with a strict code of values, and he hates criminals.

What do you think happens when he gets his hands on the Death Note (the notebook that allows him to kill anyone simply by writing their name down)? Will the detective, L, catch him right away? If this seems interesting—definitely watch it. I catch myself watching old episodes all the time.

Attack On Titan- 86 episodes In 2022, if you Google “anime,” the first thing that pops up are probably images of this morally ambiguous and action-packed show. It follows the story of three children: Eren, Armin, and Mikasa. They live a peaceful life within walls that guard them from tall creatures named “titans.” One day, the walls break and their lives are never the same. Be sure to watch before the final season airs in 2023!

Graphic by Emmi Wu ’23/Staff

Features

May 1 , 2022

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The Merionite

ALS awareness James Korin ’24

May is best known for celebrations like Cinco de Mayo and Memorial Day, however most people don’t recognized that it’s also ALS awareness month. ALS affects upwards of 30,000 Americans today, however, the disease is not very well known. So, what is ALS anyway?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive disease which affects nerve cells in the brain and spine. The first hints of ALS are muscle twitches and weakness, but this can advance rapidly into loss of muscle control. Though ALS can be managed with medication, there is currently no cure, and the disease is unfortunately fatal. However, the progression of the disease is unique to everyone. In fact, about five percent of people living with ALS survive over twenty years with it, according to the ALS Association.

While the cause of ALS is unknown, in some cases genetics is a factor. One type of ALS, known as Familial ALS, is thought to be inherited. However, this type is much rarer than Sporadic ALS which makes up between ninety and ninety-five percent of all ALS cases in America. Sporadic ALS is completely random and does not have an obvious cause.

Although it seems like scientists are far from developing a cure, researchers are working to uncover the cause of ALS and how to treat it. As a matter of fact, neurologists at Johns Hopkins University are in the process of experimenting with a drug that is thought to treat and prevent ALS. They discovered a problem with the DNA of ALS patients caused by the length of the DNA strands. Because these strands are “sticky,” proteins attach themselves to the DNA and cannot function properly.

To combat this, researchers are experimenting with a drug that coats the DNA in order to prevent proteins from sticking to it. This drug is currently in the experimental phase, but if it is mass produced, it can have huge effects, making a real difference for thousands of people.

It is commonly believed that ALS is exceptionally rare, this is not actually the case. In truth, one out of every 500 men that die will die from ALS, according to neurologist Jeffery Rothstein. Actually, many readers have heard of people with ALS though they may be unaware of it. One prominent figure who had ALS was Steven Hawking.

After being diagnosed with ALS in 1963 at the age of 21, Steven Hawking’s condition grew increasingly worse. Hawking quickly lost his ability to use motor skills, and his ability to walk was soon depleted as well. After around twenty years of living with ALS, Hawking lost his ability to speak and never regained it. However, Hawking’s life was an extraordinary phenomenon. Firstly, only five percent of people face ALS onset before the age of thirty, so his diagnosis at 21 was virtually unheard of. Furthermore, at the time, doctors weren’t very useful because they could offer little help past prescribing vitamins. Currently, the mean survival rate for ALS is two to five years, but Hawking lived a miraculous 55 years with the disease. Hawking was able to maximize his life, becoming a successful physicist, cosmologist, and author. All the while, Hawking was a symbol of hope for people with ALS. Another name commonly associated with ALS is Lou Gehrig. In fact, ALS was widely known as Lou Gehrig’s disease for many years. Gehrig was an exceptional baseball talent for the Yankees in the 1930s. However, he experienced sudden onset symptoms like loss of strength and coordination in 1939, leading to a visit at the Mayo Clinic. Gehrig’s hallof-fame worthy career was cut short when he was diagnosed with ALS at the age of 36. After choosing to retire, Graphic by Emma Liu ’22/Staff Gehrig delivered a heartfelt farewell speech that expressed acceptance and gratitude. To conclude his speech, Gehrig remarked solemnly, “So I close by saying that I may have had a tough break, but I have an awful lot to live for.” Unfortunately, Gehrig passed away less than two years later on June 2, 1941. Today, Gehrig’s life is celebrated on June 2.

With new research and medicine, hopefully ALS will become history. However, this May, we should recognize and remember those affected by ALS. If you are interested in learning more about ALS or getting involved, visit the ALS Association Greater Philadelphia Chapter website for more information and join the Philadelphia Walk to Defeat ALS. Starting at Citizens Bank Park, people will walk a distance of 1.8 miles around Philly, spreading awareness and support for those affected by ALS. The walk’s date is to be determined, but you can email kelsey@alsphiladelphia.org to find more information.

Save the planet!

Lela Miller ’24 Graphic by Eliza Liebo ’25

As the time the world has left to address the climate crisis shortens, the call for action is becoming more dire. The amount of attention and help the environment needs can be intimidating, and it can feel as if people’s efforts are insignificant in the battle against climate change. However, there are many ways to get involved that can have significant contributions.

Many events are being held around the world for this cause, including several within our very own LM community. On April 30, the Narberth Civic Association hosted their annual, “NarbEarth Day.” This event included opportunities for used book donations, toys and clothing swaps, plant sales, and fun, eco-friendly activities such as rock painting.

Within LM, the Environmental Club is holding many events to help students become more environmentally conscious. During what they called “Green week,” they invited students to engage in “Meatless Monday,” “Reusable Tuesday,” “Save the Energy Wednesday,” “Thrifted Thursday,” and “Greenday” on Friday, in which they conducted a ten minute walkout. This effort was held specifically in honor of Earth day, but officer Emma Liu ’22 detailed the club’s additional plans including planting, “Many vegetables/flowers in the greenhouse ranging from tomato to basil,” which they “plan to sell in the upcoming months in support of Philabundance.” Starting with students from LM, the club is attempting

to spread “Awareness but also gives students motivation to partake in their own environmentally sustainable practices and develop those actions into habits.”

Whether a student joins the club or applies this message to their own life, it is important that everyone begins to live more consciously. One way to contribute to these efforts is to make changes in one’s daily lifestyle. One of the biggest contributing factors to climate change is the wasteful lifestyle of the majority of the population. Commercial and residential greenhouse gas emissions contribute to thirteen percent of the emissions in the U.S. A simple change to reduce the emissions coming from a house could be to rely less on the heating system and instead put on warmer clothing.

One could also greatly reduce their carbon footprint by taking advantage of alternate forms of transportation. Trains, buses, walking, and biking are much more efficient and much less expensive ways to travel from place to place.

Therefore, by opting not to drive, one helps to save both money and the planet.

There are many other ways to be eco-conscious in one’s everyday life, but big changes must be made on an international level to combat the increasingly dire environmental issues. One way you can support the cause is by voting for and promoting politicians with initiatives to tackle climate change. This is one of the most simple, yet most effective, way for us to save our planet.

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May 1 , 2022

Features The Merionite

Lending a hand Crosby Johnson ’24 Volunteering requires lots of time, commitment, and heart. However, it is a paramount factor in the development and well-being of our community.

Lower Merion Township has many different volunteer options available, all of which accept high school students eager to help out and are easily accessible.

For nature lovers, the Cynwyd Heritage Trail is a perfect way to help out the community while having fun. Starting this upcoming fall, the Cynwyd Heritage Trail will conduct trail cleanup sessions on the third Saturday of each month. Another chance to immerse yourself in the environment is by aiding the extension of the trail. The Cynwyd Heritage Trail board announced that “Lower Merion seeks to extend the trail from Cynwyd Station to City Ave, City Ave to the Mann Music Center; to Westminster Cemetery; and finally through the Connelly connection to the Schuylkill Riverfront.” During the extension, volunteers will be lined up and down the trail adding plants and refining the path, and you could be one of them too! Volunteering through the Cynwyd Heritage Trail not only keeps the trail beautiful, but also works towards a more eco-friendly community.

Another way to volunteer within the community is through the Narberth Community Food Bank. Registered with the Pennsylvania Board of Charitable Organizations, this local food bank works to provide food to people in the community who seek assistance. Liz Stoller, a member of the Narberth Community Food Bank, expresses that they are, “always looking for volunteers to sort and pack food for our guests but we are also in great need of drivers who canw deliver food to our clients’ houses.” If volunteering is a burden, donations of pasta sauce, flour, mac and cheese, mayonnaise, oatmeal, mustard, rice, and quinoa are highly requested. Students can easily get

involved with The Narberth Community Food Bank as it is located just a few minutes from LMHS and massively contributes to the health of the LM community.

Similar to the Narberth Community Food Bank, Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF) is a non-profit charity organization that works towards helping out others. ALSF aids children with cancer through funding impactful research, raising awareness, supporting families, and empowering everyone to help cure childhood cancer. When volunteering, ALSF offers a multitude of options: office volunteers, stand request event volunteers, and special event volunteers. Volunteers can also work in large groups, organizing their own grassroots fundraising event. CBS Philly, states, “The foundation has raised more than $37 million since it began in 2007.” Even though ALSF has received national recognition, it is always appreciative of local volunteers.

If staying within township buildings is a priority, the LM Library System offers a variety of different volunteer opportunities. Volunteers have the option to work at the front circulation desk, assist with shelving and shelf order, mend books and other library materials, assist with data entry and other tasks in the technical services area, and work on special projects as needed. Commitment level can range from multiple hours a Graphic by Ilana Zahavy ’24/Staff week, to only working occasionally, therefore benefitting all age groups. The LM Library System’s mission is to, “support the informational, educational, recreational and cultural needs of groups and individuals of all ages.” Supporting LM’s libraries, one of the best library systems in the country, provides access to and promotes a wide variety of books, audio-visual materials, and electronic resources for Lower Merion Township.

After reviewing these options, ask yourself, what can you do to get involved?

Arts & Entertainment

May 1 , 2022

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The Merionite

The cure to academic slump?

Siobhan Minerva ’24 As high school students, the idea of studying a subject that we are truly interested in seems otherworldly. Every year we are forced to take the same required courses that many of us have little interest in. Psychologically, humans are prone to pay closer attention and process information more efficiently when they are able to study interesting topics. Learning strategies such as critical thinking, connecting information, and paying attention to the deeper structure of a topic are applied. Furthermore, this generation is captivated by popular culture. As a result, some colleges have unlocked the key to incorporate this into their curriculum, and response from students has been quite positive. Is the key to academic slumps and unmotivated students simply to offer courses that they have a personal connection to or interest in?

In January 2022, New York University launched their Taylor Swift course. This class covers Swift’s role in pop culture, the legacy of pop, country music, and what women experience in the music industry. Although it is still pending, Swift will appear before the class and speak of her firsthand experiences as a pop star. The course is taught

by Rolling Stone’s Brittany Spanos, and she noted, “It’s such an honor to be able to share my Swiftie expertise with a sharp group of students. I hope to help them rethink how to engage with one of the world’s biggest and sometimes divisive stars.” Utilizing the passion many students have for Taylor, Spanos strives to contextualize her culturally and get students to think about gender, feminism, race, class, and other categories related to identity.

NYU isn’t the only college making pioneering steps towards a new way of

teaching. Colleges across the country have implemented courses that focus on Harry Potter, Beyonce, the Beatles, and tons of different pop culture emblems.

This push has led many to question if this is the future of education. For high schoolers, enthralling courses such as the ones mentioned above have not been incorporated. Oftentimes, teachers give their students the opportunity to write a short piece on how the curriculum can relate to students. However, these projects often fall short of captivating students. One reason for this is because of the fluidity of popular culture. The media’s current trends are always changing, so the longevity of the class topic is hard to maintain. As a result, a class devoted entirely to Taylor Swift would be hard to create and fit into a high school curriculum, unless it was taught in a broader manner.

Furthermore, it comes at little surprise that students have had an extremely positive reaction to these versatile classes. Spanos noted, “I wasn’t really sure who would sign up for it. I was kind of pleasantly surprised that there were so many students who already had a base level of knowledge of Graphic by Emmi Wu ’23/Staff Taylor.” When asked if this type of class would be of interest to them, and if they would take the class, LM students gave insightful perspectives. Lela Miller ’24 noted, “I would be worried that these types of courses would ruin my enjoyment of popular culture, but I am open to the idea of them considering I would be motivated to study a topic I am passionate about.”

Overall, students of the future should be prepared to see these types of courses on their roasters when choosing classes in college. This leaves an intrigue to what diverse courses you might be able to take in the future. Who knows, maybe one day you will find yourself in a class studying the lives of TikTokers.

Seeking creation in college Julia Russel ’23 Arts & Entertainment Editor

There are many types of art that are being pursued by talented LM students. In the current senior class, there have been numerous students committing to further advance their art talents as evidenced by commitment to art programs such as University of New York, George Mason, and Montclair State University.

Current senior, Jenna Love, recently committed to New York University to study music business and jazz performance . Love has multiple musical talents and has been playing the saxophone since she was ten, the piano since she was five, and the flute since she was fifteen. Love has devoted a lot of time and effort towards all her instruments , especially her primary instrument, the saxophone.

Why music school? “I was interested in music school, especially at NYU, because it was so different from a normal college experience,” says Love. NYU offers various opportunitie s to excel in arts and Jenna is extremely excited to continue her music education at the prestigious university.

Another of the many seniors committing to art school is Liz Stern. She will be attending Montclair State University to major in film and television.

Stern has done choir and Players (spending most of her time doing scenery work). Stern claims, “I will have way more opportunities than I did in high school mainly because I only discovered that I have a passion for film at the end of my high school time.” Due to her recent interest, this has influenced her high school experience as she spent the later years focused on this passion. She is very excited to fulfill her passion next fall!

Maya Stricker, recent commit to George Mason University, will be majoring in performance violin. Stricker has been playing the violin since she was seven and later started playing the piano and guitar as well. Her

engagement with music temporarily reduced as she didn’t like orchestra in middle school so she continued to play and perform outside of school.

Stricker states that she is unable to compare it to a high school orchestral experience, but having access to an entire music school is really exciting because of all the opportunitie s they offer. Something attractive to her is that along with the many music classes, part of the program involves private lessons. Although she wasn’t really involved in music at LM, she is excited for the many opportunities she will have and meeting people with similar interests.

Will Johnson has committed to the Boyer School of Music at Temple University to study jazz trumpet performance . Johnson has been involved with the music department throughout high school by joining the symphony orchestra and jazz band in freshman year.

They have performed in the show orchestra for the Players productions of Chicago and Godspell while also serving as student instrumental director. They are also involved in ensembles outside of school, Bravo Brass, and the Settlement Music School advanced jazz ensemble. They are a teaching assistant at the Clef Club of Jazz and Performing arts. Another significant part of their high school experience is a band, Lights on the Field, they had co-founded and colead along with Mark Riggio and Ezra Imaizumi that has been featured at Amazing Ace and even the Graphic by Ilana Zahavy ’24/Staff Made on the main line local festival in Narberth. “I am extremely excited to work with a larger group of like-minded and talented musicians at Temple. Music, especially improvised music like I enjoy playing, is all about having a community to work with,” says Johnson.

All these gifted musicians have demonstrate d their art talents at LM and are thrilled to continue their journey and elevate their skills in their upcoming educational pursuits in a larger and focused college environment .

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May 1 , 2022

Arts and Entertainment The Merionite

The 2022 Oscars: Everything you need to know Sebastian Havira ’23

The 92nd Academy Awards was certainly a night to remember, filled with laughter, gasps, and uncomfortable confrontations. While there were many cringe-worthy moments, the ceremony also marked some historic firsts.

The independent film, CODA (Children of Deaf Adults), won various accolades including Best Motion Picture, Best Actor in a Supporting Role, and Best Adapted Screenplay. The film revolves around Ruby, a seventeenyear-old girl who finds herself torn between finding her dreams and staying home with her physically disabled family. Although the majority of the actors aren’t handicapped, the cast does include multiple deaf actors.

Besides the Academy Awards, CODA was featured at the Sundance Film Festival, Spirit Independent Film Awards, Gotham Independent Film Awards, BAFTA Awards, and SAG Awards. However, the night of the Oscars marked a historic first: Troy Kotsur became the first deaf man to win an Oscar for his beautiful performance in CODA. As he was handed the prestigious award, his heartfelt speech certainly made many viewers cry. Kotsur explained, “I was so tired of financially struggling for so many years. Now, receiving these awards— it’s saved my life, my career, my family. I’ve taken so many risks, and without these nominations and awards, I don’t know what could have happened. I’d be working at a fast-food restaurant or as a grocery bagger.”

Although the ceremony was filled with uplifting and mirthful moments, the most viral news from the chaotic night centered on the unfortunate episode of Will Smith confronting and assaulting Chris Rock during the event. Rock, a comedian known for his insensitive jokes, made an offensive remark towards Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith. Pinkett suffers from alopecia, an autoimmune disease that results in hair loss. After Chris Rock compared Pinkett to G.I. Jane, Smith took it upon himself to teach the comedian “a lesson.” Many viewers were shocked to see the tension between the two celebrities and how it escalated on live television, cultimating in Smith physically assaulting Rock on stage. Smith—who ironically won the Academy Award for Best Actor in a Leading Role— issued an apology declaring he was wrong: “I am embarrassed and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be.” Days after the brawl, Smith announced that he will soon resign from the Academy to avoid consequences. Unfortunately for Smith, the Academy banned him from attending future ceremonies or any event related to the Oscars.

Graphic by Emmi Wu ’23/Staff Regardless if people believe he deserves this penalty or not, his actions have certainly paid the price. Although this topic has been heavily involved in the media and public eye, we should still not forget the historical moments that occurred during this tumultuous event.

Olivia Race ’24 From the upsetting delay that was caused by COVID-19 to controversy over certain performers and winners, the 2022 Grammys were able to put on a memorable show that captured its viewers’ attention.

The 64th annual Grammys were hosted by Trevor Noah on April 2022, and for the first time ever, they took place in Las Vegas, Nevada. This year’s Grammys were a major step up compared to the 2021 Grammys, which were held during the height of the pandemic. In 2021, there were no crowds, no outdoor red carpet, and the party-like scene was nonexistent. In 2022, the crowd returned and the party came back to life with performances by BTS, Billie Eilish, Olivia Rodrigo, Silk Sonic, and many other popular performers. As exciting as being back in person for the Grammys was, the reaction to certain people being nominated or even winning became a topic of controversy.

About a month before the Grammys took place, a representative informed Kanye West that he had been removed from the lineup of performers because of “concerning online behavior.” Over the past few months, Kanye had been active on social media harassing Pete Davidson, Kim Kardashian’s new boyfriend.

West used a slur against Noah Trevor because of something he said on the “Daily Show,” and overall West has been very negative and problematic on his platforms. The producers of the Grammys were concerned that during his performance he would say something controversial due to his long history of doing so on stage and at events. After being banned from performing, West decided not to attend the show at all. Although West never showed up, he still managed to win two Grammys for Best Melodic Rap Performance and Best Rap Song. With all of the problems West had leading up to the Grammys, the reaction towards his wins was positive and got him various congratulations from people, including his current girlfriend, Chaney Jones, who posted on her Instagram story, “THE BIGGEST [GOAT] SO PROUD.” West now has a sizable collection of 24 Grammys, and with his two recent wins, he is now the most-awarded rapper in Grammy history. Juliana Messinger ’24 said, “The fact that the Grammys still allows so many people to win awards who, despite their music being good, are not good

people themselves really shows that their ‘activism’ and awareness is performative. Pulling Kanye from the lineup was a step but there are greater strides to take.”

More controversies surrounding the Grammys include celebrities such as Marilyn Manson, Louis C.K., and Dave Chapelle. Manson or Chappelle did not end up winning, but their initial nominations were still criticized by many others.

Manson has received several abuse allegations and Chapelle has made various transphobic comments. These actions have resulted in a debate over whether the two deserved to be nominated. Some believe that Manson and Chapelle’s personal issues should not play a role towards the decision on whether they should be nominated for a Grammy because it should be based solely on talent.

Unlike the others, C.K., who openly admitted to sexual abuse acusations in 2017, actually won a Grammy for the Best Comedy Album. This win caused public outrage.

Although many people had a negative reaction to his big win, most of the comedy community decided to support him regardless of the controversy.

Aside from some controversial reactions, other nominations and wins had very positive reactions.

Olivia Rodrigo, for example, won three Grammys including Best New Artist, Best Pop Vocal Album, and Best Pop Graphic by Julia Zorc ’24 Solo Performance, making her the second youngest artist in history to win in these categories.

Grace Benedict, a sophomore at LM, said that, “At her age, it is so amazing that she was able to become such an influencer in the music industry.”

The Foo Fighters also won three awards, one for every category that they were nominated for. This included Best Rock Performance, Best Rock Song, and Best Rock Album. The band was supposed to perform at the Grammys, but Taylor Hawkins, the band’s drummer, passed away a week before they were to perform. With this tragic loss, the band was unable to attend the live event or accept its awards in person. A tribute to Taylor Hawkins was played at the Grammys to honor his legacy and long career with the Foo Fighters. Many artists even paid tribute to Taylor Hawkins at the event.

The Grammys are known as one of the biggest and most popular music award shows to exist and the 2022 event was certainly one to remember.

Arts & Entertainment

May 1 , 2022

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The Merionite

Chamberlain YouTube to Chamberlain Coffee Nolan Shanley ’23 Arts & Entertainment Editor Since December 14, 2021, YouTube influencer Emma Chamberlain has been absent on YouTube, causing fans to express concerns. Chamberlain has been considered YouTube’s ‘it girl’ since posting her first video when she was just sixteen. Due to being real and authentic, she gained millions of fans who provide her nothing but love and support. From behind the scenes prior to fashion shows with Louis Vuitton, to cooking homemade meals in her own kitchen, she completely opened her life to the public, which became a blessing and a curse for Chamberlain.

After four years of constant weekly uploads on YouTube, Chamberlain made the executive decision that she will no longer be uploading videos.

Chamberlain did not announce her resignation in the tradition YouTube way.

She addressed how she has been feeling about her career, mental well-being, and YouTube all on an episode titled “the truth about youtube” on her podcast Anything Goes. She expressed, “The pressure to be a weekly YouTuber, 365 days a year, is unrealistic, yet it’s the standard... It is the standard that YouTubers hold themselves to but yet it is an impossible thing to keep up mentally.” As for this, she decided that it was best for her to step back from her YouTube platform.

To handle the pressure of uploading videos weekly, many YouTubers are beginning to hire editors for their videos. Chamberlain was not opposed to hiring an editor for some time, but she explained that she eventually gave up as it was difficult for her to balance her businesses and up-and-coming modeling career with filming and editing her YouTube videos. But when Chamberlain stopped editing herself, her passion and love for YouTube began to diminish—causing her to realize that the main reason she started YouTube channel was because she admired editing her own videos. Additionally, Chamberlain mentioned that she felt obliged because otherwise she does not meet the standard she made for herself.

Although she will be missed, Emma Chamberlain did what she thinks is best for her, and it seems to be working out. With numerous modeling campaigns, new Chamberlain Coffee products, and her podcast Anything Goes, she is on the way to becoming the next Paris Hilton for younger generatons.

Graphic by Emmi Wu ’23/Staff

Kardashian Komeback Gabby Tepper-Waterman ’23 Sports Editor With a few episodes already released, fans and critics are forming their opinions Out with the old and in with the new, the Kardashians ended their twentieth season sharing them with the public. While many are just glad to have their faof Keeping up with the Kardashians last June. After fourteen years, the family was and vorite celebrity drama back, even more are disappointed with the ready to close this chapter and move on to bigger things. The Kardashians, similarities between the two shows. Aside from switching netthe family’s new and highly anticipated show, premiered this April works, The Kardashians is not much different from KUexclusively on Hulu.

WTK. While it was said to be refined and stylized, What was the reason behind switching networks? the Kardashians’ underwhelmed fans expected According to the family, they wanted to be as tech forsomething different. Yes, there are minor differward and current as possible. This took the form ences with the videography, content, and charof switching from cable television to a streamacters, but the overall feel of the show is very faing platform. Although the family had many miliar. So far, it lacks any shocks or surprises streaming platforms in which they could that have not already been seen in the past broadcast their show after they left E! fourteen years.

Entertainment, Hulu was the perfect fit for Sophomore Lila Schwartzberg voices The Kardashians. Hulu releases episodes her opinion on the show, expressing, “The much faster and closer to the date that show was good, but it was old news. The they were filmed compared to cable TV. first four episodes all focused on Kim goThis means that old drama and news will ing on SNL and the Kim and Pete drama, no longer be rehashed months after it things we already knew about. These epifirst occurred. The Kardashians realized sodes come out weekly, and I actually like that cable’s celebrity reality TV show days waiting each Thursday so I have time to were over and that their audience cares catch up. I’d definitely like to hear more more about social media than cable television. With E!, episodes were shorter and from Kendall and Kylie. Right now the more documentary-style. The new show is focused mainly on Kim. There hasn’t show will be more intimate and been an appearance by Rob, Caitlyn, and feature the siblings individually, rather other family members we haven’t seen since than in big groups. Hulu is also setting filmKUWTK.” ing boundaries for the family that E! did not proHowever, the show does promise to focus more vide. on the working lives of the family and include neverLoyal Kardashian fans who were devastated by before talked about revelations. Hopefully, these small the show’s cancellation were obviously excited for some new details and improvements are included in the rest of the seaKardashian drama. Kourtney’s relationship status? Kim and Ye’s son. Hulu has already announced the launch of two seasons with divorce? Kylie’s new baby? Khloé and Tristan? If you are wonderforty episodes in total. The Kardashians are a family famous for being Graphic by Emmi Wu ’23/Staff ing about it, The Kardashians is going to cover it all. A teaser for famous, so regardless of what you may think about their new show, they the show promised that “all the walls will be shattered,” an enticing are not going away any time soon. hook for enthusiastic Kardashian fans to get excited about.

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Sports

May 1 , 2022

Batter up, baseball

Open campus?

Joshua Greenberg ’24

Gideon Wolf ’24

After a disappointing season that saw the Aces win just seven of twenty games and miss the district playoffs, the LM Baseball Program decided to make some major changes. Longtime varsity head coach Tim Gunn was asked to resign following another unsatisfactory campaign. In his place came former freshman coach Colin Quinn, and former JV coach Brandon Mussellman rose to assist him. To fill the now vacant JV head coach spot, the program hired Mike Shannon, an aide at Harriton High School.

To take Quinn’s place from last season, the program then hired Mark Gottfried at the freshman level. With lots of new faces and mix-ups in staff positions, here is an introduction to both the players and coaches of all three levels of the baseball program.

In order to establish a sense of leadership amongst the players on the varsity level, Quinn decided to hold a team vote for two captains. Winning by a landslide, Ilan Tauber ’22 and Ben Wolf ’22 were elected as team captains. This season, Tauber hopes to bounce back from last year’s disappointing season, aspiring “to make [the district] playoffs.” In addition, Tauber was looking forward to the team’s spring break trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where the varsity team had a perfect 3-0 record. As for Wolf, winning four of the first five games has proven to him

that “we’re undoubtedly right up near, if not at, the top of the food chain” in the Central League. This early success has led him to set “lofty goals for district seeding” and he has his eyes on “winning a few games once we get in.”

The varsity coaches are equally ambitious, and share many goals with the players.

Head coach Colin Quinn stated that he looks forward to “the team competing in big games against Central League powerhouses.” Quinn later went on to say that he aims to “foster a culture of family where everyone is willing to sacrifice individually for the greater good of the team,” and he believes the team is “capable of hosting a District One playoff game.”

Similar to the rest of the team, pitching coach Art Wharton hopes to make it to the District playoffs. Furthermore, Wharton desires to “have a top earned run average and strikeout to walk ratio for pitching in the Central [League].” The varsity team has high hopes of continuing their sensational spring season.

Following fantastic performances in their first two contests, the JV team is on a mission to prove that they are the best team in the program.

According to Matt Hartstein ’25, a reasonable goal for the team is “to complete [an] undefeated season.” Hartstein proceeded to add that he is “really looking

forward to getting to work with a great group of guys and continuing to grow as players.”

Although Coach Mike Shannon is a little more modest about the team’s capabilities, he still has no doubt that they could potentially win “at least 15 out of our 19 games.” Being a rookie in the program, Shannon looks “forward to getting to work with a new group of guys this year.”

Although the season is just beginning, Shannon’s JV team has proved to be an unrelenting force in their opening games.

After losing both of their first two games by a combined 31 runs, the freshman team is taking a drastically different approach toward the season.

Although some may consider this to be farfetched, Henry Kestenbaum ’25 set the ambitious goal of achieving a win percentage “above 500.” The freshman team’s season may have gotten off to a rough start, however the team still has plenty of opportunities to show what they are truly capable of.

While the program has dealt with monumental staff and roster shake-ups since the conclusion of last year, the program’s overall success has proved that they are more than able to handle adversity.

Although the season is young, the program anticipates much more growth, development, and success in the coming months as summer approaches.

Photo courtesy of The Enchiridion

Softball takes a swing Nathan Grunfeld ’24

As the spring sports season swings forward, the LM softball program continues to push through despite the struggles of the past few seasons. Although there was a shortage of pitchers last season, the team made the best of the situation. COVID-19 was another obstacle that the team faced, but they have moved past the virus and enjoyed a return to normalcy.

James LaPera, head coach of the varsity team, has 26 years of experience coaching softball. He started out coaching in the Brookhaven Softball Rec League, then moved onto different travel teams, and even coached for two years at Salem Community College. Since then, he has been coaching at LM for the past nine years.

LaPera is assisted by firstyear Coach Sam Donato, who has a lot of experience playing

the sport, as she competed at Haverford High School and at Ursinus University.

Elaine Dougherty, who also has extensive experience coaching softball, heads the junior varsity squad for her third year. Together, thanks to their vast experience, these coaches ensure that the program is in good hands.

LaPera describes how his love for coaching stems from teaching his players and seeing them improve over time. He tries to keep the atmosphere relaxed so that the players and coaching staff have fun, but there is also obviously a focus on practicing and playing hard.

His style, according to starting varsity outfielder Syndey Grunfeld ’24, clearly works, as it “brings the team together and gives us confidence to perform our best.” The team stays consistent by holding

practice at South Ardmore Park every day after school when they do not have a game. Despite a slow start to the season due to the mostly young team’s growing pains, LaPera believes that varsity has “turned the corner” and is optimistic that the “second half of the season will be a good one.” His prediction seems to be accurate, as shortly after this statement was made, the varsity squad defeated rival Radnor 18-14.

The program encourages people to come out and watch their games, and their schedule can be found on the Digital Sports website.

Supporting your fellow Aces is key to their success. The program, led by an impressive group of coaches, has overcome the struggles of the past and looks forward to the remainder of the successful spring season ahead of them.

Most of LM’s sports teams enjoy the luxury of wellmaintained and easily accessible facilities. Just across the street from school, the green expanse of Arnold Field provides sufficient space for as many as five or six teams to practice comfortably at once.

Throughout the fall and spring seasons, the soccer, football, field hockey, lacrosse, ultimate frisbee, track and field, and tennis programs all utilize the abundance of space. Those who play indoor sports also have it made, with two gymnasiums and a swimming pool at their disposal. However, the baseball, softball, and junior varsity tennis squads are not so lucky.

Each day during the spring season, their players trudge out behind the locker rooms and clamber onto a bus destined for South Ardmore Park.

Obviously, the commute puts these teams at a severe disadvantage. For starters, they are forced to start practices at least fifteen minutes later and end fifteen minutes earlier than they would like to. Less practice time leads to less prepared teams. As Ben Wolf ’22, a captain of the baseball team, explains, “A two-hour practice is considerably less work than a two-and-a-half-hour practice, especially when you think about the fact that it adds up to multiple hours a week.” Still, perhaps more frustrating than the challenges presented by a shortage of practice is the fact that their off-campus location means drastically fewer fans are able to attend. While teams playing at Arnold Field or in the Kobe Bryant Gymnasium can rely on the passionate cheers of the Dawg Pound to spur them on, very few students make the journey out to watch the baseball or softball teams. Playing in front of your friends and classmates is part of what makes school athletics so special, but those who play at South Ardmore Park rarely get to experience it.

Not only are the fields farther away, but they’re also in worse condition. The LMHS Athletic Facilities Master Plan published in 2016 recognized

that South Ardmore’s fields “are not in the best of shape due to excessive play by other teams.” That was almost six years ago, and field conditions have only gotten worse since.

Being off-campus also means that the field is controlled by the Township, who quickly cancels any games at South Ardmore with even the slightest bit of rain. The effects of this have already been felt multiple times this season by the baseball program, as twice a game originally as a home game had to be played at the opposing team’s field, as conditions at South Ardmore were deemed “non-playable.” On one of these occasions, confusion as to who the true home team was caused a uniform fiasco, and both teams played in white jerseys.

In addition to negating any type of home-field advantage the Aces might hope for, it can also leave the junior varsity squad without a field to play on.

Based on all of this, there is no debate that the off-campus fields give LM’s Central League rivals a competitive advantage over the Aces in baseball and softball. The district has been aware of these problems for many years. In the same LM Athletic Facilities Master Plan from 2016, it is made clear that “District staff has indicated that it is their desire to consolidate as many sports programs back on campus as possible.”

Although there is a consensus that all teams would be better off playing at school, and a proposal to add a baseball and softball diamond to Arnold Field does exist, there is little optimism that it will get done anytime soon. Wolf, who has now spent four years practicing and playing at South Ardmore Park, believes, “ The district following through on its supposed plan to eventually construct a baseball field on campus is the only real solution,” but doubts it ever will happen. At this point, it seems inevitable that future generations of LM’s top Aces and sluggers will be handicapped by shortened practices, limited fans, and constant cancellations.

Photo courtesy of The Enchiridion

Sports

May 1 , 2022

23

The Merionite

The seniors that stick Shaine Davison ’23 Opinions Editor At first glance, the girls’ varsity lacrosse team may look the same as every other year. While this year’s record remains similar to years prior, there is much more under the surface, where aspects of the team have changed for the better: a new head coach, a new assistant coach, and a new attitude. At the beginning of the half in the game against Springfield, the Aces led by two goals. While the Cougars took the win that game–their head coach’s 450th career win–the Aces still ended with another type of win: the coach remarked that this LM lacrosse team is the best he has ever seen.

The talent from the stand-out junior class Avery Bickell, Mia Falco, and Finley Hoffman has definitely helped the Aces boost their performance this year. The Garnet Valley game was well within reach, while in years prior the team was getting blown out by more than twenty goals. However, the leadership from the senior class has improved t h e t e a m ’ s f r a m e o f m ind, creating a legacy of unity that will last for years.

Senior captains Clare Morrissey, Eliza Rudy, and Makenna Sill have been the support this team has needed in years past. Sill shares that “LM girls’ lacrosse has changed immensely over the last four years, and despite each year having their own positives, I’ve never seen the team more united and excited for every practice and every game. No matter the stressors we face in school, coming to Arnold Field brings out the best of every teammate whose unique personalities create a sometimes chaotic, but

always supportive and loving environment.

With the help of a new coaching staff, this year brings the upbeat energy of a new team filled with familiar faces from past years.” Rudy adds that “LM girls’ lacrosse is an incredibly resilient team. Despite coaching staff changes and being in one of the toughest leagues, each player is always willing to give 100 percent everyday.

This team is full of spirit and determination, and will undoubtedly grow to do great things.”

These leaders are also shaping the years to come by providing an ecouraging environment for underclassmen to pass on. Sophomore Rachel Riggio expressed that “the senior class this year is one of a kind. They are always there with the energy to help us get through a tough game or to support you if you need it.” Evelyn Photo courtesy of The Enchiridion Mastaglio ’24 added that “the seniors are great role models to the underclassmen. They show us what it means to be a great teammate, leader, and friend.” Coach Kara Stroup-Clark recognized that “our 2022 senior class has a huge impact on the team both on and off the field. They are a large group, so they cover a lot of ground including impact players on the field, leadership, and experience for our younger players who have not yet experienced the full paced lacrosse season until this year.” While this year’s team has a far from perfect record, players are more unified than ever, and rising seniors certainly have big shoes to fill in future seasons. LM should expect many successful seasons ahead!

Track to success Sadie Cohen ’23 The boys’ and girls’ track and field teams are off to scorching starts with wins in the boys’ 400m

by Reid Joseph ’22, boys’ 800m by Krzysztof Jarocha ’22 and Drew Gannon ’23, and boys’ 3200m victories by Alex Bullard ’22 and David Litvin Photo courtesy of The Enchiridion ’22. The girls’ team placed third in the 4x100m relay at their first Central League meet of the season on April 6. When asked about their season, members of the Aces’ track and field team shared an inside look into training regimes, competition days, and how they have developed together as a team over the course of the year.

With multiple members of the LM track and field team participating in both cross country and indoor track, they have become close friends on and off the track after spending multiple seasons together. Suffering through long runs and an intense training environment has contributed to the Aces’ close knit teams. “Workouts can be hard but we are all in it together,” says long distance runner Maya Silbert ’23 in regards to how her team finds fun through tough training days. “Training every day definitely makes us a lot closer than your average team. We probably spend at least twelve hours a week together and talking the whole way helps the miles go fast,” says Litvin.

The Aces have vigorously trained throughout their season preparing for their eight meets, but not every runner trains the same way. When it comes to a long distance runner’s training compared to a sprinter’s training, they are vastly different.

“For long distance runners, we typically have forty to sixty minute runs every other day,” explains Silbert. Every day presents a slightly different training regimen for a distance runner. Regardless of whether it is a recovery day or a workout day, the

friendly competition amongst the Aces never ends. The hard work never stops for LM track and field as these long distance recovery days start with a quickpaced warm up followed by running at least six miles.

When asked about how Photo courtesy of The Enchiridion they keep long runs exciting, Gannon mentions how the team loves “to race to the last rep and have fun improving as a group.” For sprinters, training for a meet looks a little different. “After warmups of two laps and stretching, we do form drills, then transition to practicing starts off the blocks and relay handoffs,” describes Jamie Elman ’22.

Although each event is unique, preparation for the meets is similar for many track athletes. In terms of fueling their bodies pre-race, Silbert shared, “I drink lots of water throughout the day, stretch the night before, and eat food I know will make me feel ready to race.” Gannon shared similar sentiments about race prep along with ways to get focused in the busy environment of a track meet. Gannon notes, “I like to play music beforehand that makes me focused, and to keep my body moving.”

When it is time to compete, LM runners make sure to support their teammates in their heats. “Usually we warm up as a team and then we cheer on our teammates while they run their events,” says Silbert. When questioned about any prerace superstitions, Litvin mentioned, “I always put my right shoe on before my left,” and the team makes sure to do the same warmup that they do at practice.

Following their first Central League meet, the Aces were a tough opponent with wins at their third Central League meet at Garnet Valley in the boys’ 800m by Bullard, 1600m by Litvin, and the 3200m by Sarem Khan ’24.

Double the trouble Anna Costantino ’24 After the State’s victory last season, the This undoubted confidence in his team is clear LM boys’ tennis team has started off as through his words, but is this season really as strong as ever in this season’s ladder. As they smooth as it seems? Senior Scotty Stuart, a LM remind the league of their superiority, after varsity doubles player, talks about the ups and winning their matches against Downingtown downs of this season coming off of their incredible East, Harriton, and Great Valley at the win last year. Stuart explains, “Although last year’s beginning of the season, the Aces continue season was such a breeze, this year is much more to hold up their success. Although this exciting, as we will really have to work hard and season is off to a great start, how has last fight for this season’s win.” After losing two top year’s win at States affected this season? The players last year, LM has bounced back from this LM varsity tennis coach, Harris Mailman, upset with two new freshman varsity players. explains, “This year we are all working a Stuart goes on to hype up his teammates, saying, lot harder to keep up with the position and “It’s tough, but we’ve got some freshmen and some respect we earned last year.” After coaching players moved up and it’s really fun and we still the boys’ team since 2018, Harris says, “We have the same energy as any other year.” Their just have the best players … double teams team chemistry is clear on and off the courts. Stuart that I thought would have never worked are continues, “Having this supportive team in the Photo courtesy of The Enchiridion playing their best matches.” Even though background cheering you on has definitely saved Boys’ tennis poses together with their rackets for a team photo. some of the top players have graduated, me in games where I have been feeling down.” the team is still growing strong. Harris goes on to explain that “this season The work ethic that this team exhibits has definitely made an impact on this is different from others, as I’ve learned it’s not always about matching season. New players and hardworking mindsets will set LM up for success for skills but matching personalities for the strongest doubles teams.” upcoming seasons as well. The LM tennis team can only grow stronger from here.

24

Sports

May 1 , 2022

The Merionite

Aces Update

As of May 3

Baseball (8-6)

Girls’ Track and Field (4-7)

Following a spring trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the baseball team went on a five game skid before beating Chichester to get back on track.

Girls’ track raced at 2 invitationals, and Penn Relays, racking in medals for sprinters, jumpers, and distance runners alike.

Girls’ Ultimate Frisbee (3-2)

Ultimate frisbee started off strong, after placing second in the Radnor tournament and third in the Hip-Hop tournament.

Boys’ Lacrosse

(6-6) Boys’ lacrosse maintains a .500 record overall. A statement 18-3 win against Roman Catholic embodied the team’s potential.

(6-6)

Boys’ Tennis

Softball (2-9)

Boys’ Track and Field Boys’ Ultimate Frisbee (2-2)

Dominance. There are no other words to describe the Aces’ tennis team as they went undefeated in the regular season. The state playoffs are in the upcoming weeks for the team.

Lacrosse Icon by Freepik Frisbee and Baseball by Smashicons Tennis and Softball by By Those Icons Volleyball by surang Track and crew icons courtesy of Emma Liu ’22

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Last week, the boys’ track team squared off at the Penn Relays. The team competed in various distance and field events.

Big wins against both Haverford and Cardinal O’Hara have encapsulated the sprit and fight of ultimate frisbee.

Girls’ Lacrosse

Girls’ lacrosse pulled out a nailbiter on April 25 when they held on in the final minutes to defeat rival Harrition 13-12.

Boys’ and Girls’ Crew

The crew team has performed well in their recent races, the Cooper Cup and City Championships, as they look forward to finishing up strong for the rest of the season.

Boys’ Volleyball

After a successful start and pieces connecting for a solid season, boys’ volleyball looks to make one final push for the playoffs.

(4-8)

(5-6)

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Softball earned their first win of the season with their defeat of Radnor on Wednesday April 26 and followed it up with another victory breaking a three year streak.

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Freshman Ren Yarosewick What sport(s) do you play?

Crew If you could look into your future for your sport, what would you want to see?

Giving more opportunities to students and constantly pushing people to the limit every single day If you could be any animal, which one would you choose?

An owl If you could add one sport to LM, what would it be?

Badminton

Sophomore Sydney Grunfeld

What sport(s) do you play?

Softball and Tennis Would you rather silence an away crowd or rally up a home crowd?

Rally up a home crowd because I would have more encouragement from my teammates and supporters What is your greatest athletic achievement?

Winning the MVP award on varsity as a freshman What is your favorite summer activity?

Going to the beach with my friends

Junior Gabriella Jarvis What sport(s) do you play?

Soccer, Basketball, and Track and Field If you could look into your future for your sport, what would you want to see?

Playing on the field with my friends again What is your favorite summer activity?

Traveling to different places What the perfect weather for your sport?

Not too hot, not too cold. Right in the middle

Senior Charlie Hurwitz What sport(s) do you play?

Ultiimate Frisbee What’s the perfect weather for your sport?

Sun is out but not like “oh my god I need a hat” kind of sun.

Would you rather silence an away crowd or rally up a home crowd?

Rally up a home crowd for sure. I love to see people get hype If you could be any animal, which one would you choose?

A dolphin. They are super smart and always got some of their friends around