the
Journal By and for the students of Guilderland Central High School
This Issue
Volume 62 Issue 1
Guilderland Center, NY 12085 October 2010
Powderpuff crowd:
Powderpuff
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New rules for an old tradition
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Abby Levy
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Over the past couple of years, the annual senior vs. junior girls Powder Puff football game has had several girls suspended, one sent to the hospital in an ambulance, and feuding tensions between the classes. This year, new rules were established to prevent the physical and verbal violence leading up to, and after the game. “I have concerns about the competitive nature of the event turning into something that might result in harm to people. People might get too fired up and forget that it’s just a game,” stated assistant principal Aaron Sicotte. “They have potential to take some unfortunate physical harm, so we want to make sure that doesn’t happen.” continued on page 4
Head-first into the Olympic Trials Julianne Legnard
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Imagine the typical Guilderland girl; she strides through the halls with purpose, enjoys morning bagels, attends football games, and fits the profile of a chronic texter. Now picture that same girl on the block at a swim meet. Goggles down, hopes up, she’s ready to dive at the sound of the whistle. This, in essence, is Jenna Bickel, a Guilderville swimmer whose determination and work ethic keep her dominating the section II swim scene time and time again. In fact, winning races has become a constant pattern for Bickel. Placing 19th in the 100 back at NYS championships in just the eighth grade, she has progressively improved her times, earning 4th
place in 2009. However, her most prominent display of swimming prowess was last year’s steal of Section II MVP, one of Jenna’s most treasured successes. “I really wanted it” states Bickel of her win, “I felt really accomplished and everyone was excited for me”. She is now preparing for sectionals on November 3rd in search of a back-to-back title. While Jenna is aware of the significance of her accomplishments, she is quick to acknowledge the support of her teammates and coaches. “There are a lot of other good swimmers on the team; we work hard together” states Jenna of her fellow “Guilderville Geese”.
SeeJennaBickelpage 20
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October 2010
Journal 2010 - 2011 Staff
The Journal is published by and for the students of Guilderland High School and is the school’s official student newspaper. We publish accounts of, and perspectives on, people, issues, and events that affect members of the school as well as the community. Although initialed by the writer, editorials reflect the majority opinion of the editorial staff. Reviews, columns, commentaries, and letters to the editor, however, represent the view of the individual writer and not necessarily those of the staff. Although we try not to solicit advertisements from competing businesses in a given issue, we cannot guarantee that a conflict involving advertising will not arise. Advertisers are solely responsible for the content of their respective advertisements. We are not responsible for printing and/or typographical errors that may occur in a given advertisement. We reserve the right not to print a given advertisement. Also, we cannot assure that columns, editorials, news, reviews or feature stories will not cover issues or events relating to any advertiser in this newspaper. We welcome signed letters from our readers. To be printed, letters must be of a reasonable length and contain neither libelous, slanderous, nor profane material. We reserve the right to reject any letter received. Unless otherwise noted by the editor-in-chief or the managing editor, all accepted letters will be printed in the letters to the editor section. We reserve the right to edit for length, grammar and content.
Winner of a $25 Crossgates Mall gift card:
“In my professional opinion, I believe that you and your kids might get along better if you don’t wear your work uniform everywhere you went...” - Mike Pultz Runners-up, chosen by Facebook “likes:”
How to contact The Journal Mail: The Journal c/o Guilderland High School Guilderland Center, NY 12085 Phone: (518) 861-8591 Ask for The Journal Email: journal@guilderlandschools.org
“So, you’re still having trouble letting things go, eh?” - CJ Semos
-Management-
“Well Ms. Rho, err I mean Sohee the Clown, what is it you don’t like about Cornell?” - Brendon Phillips
Editors-in-Chief Michael Marcantonio Beatrice Malsky Managing Editor Gregory Barber Associate Editors Tony Pitkin Ved Tanavde -ContentHallways Editors Abby Levy, Devon Gingrich Fine Arts Editor Noah Rubin Pop Arts Editor Anastasia Mazur Around Town Editor Haejin Hwang Opinions Editor Libby Gioia World & Cultures Editor Meghan Bodo Sports Editor Kyungduk Rho Copyeditors Hannah Cohen, Jimmy McQuade, Larry Gerchikov, Rory Carroll, Hannah Liu -DesignPhotography Editor Devin Keenholts Graphics Editor Katherine Bickmore Layout & Design Editor Mike Dvorscak -BusinessBusiness Manager Mike Crupi Advertising Manager Matt Simon Marketing Manager Austin Cornell Distribution Manager Tara Jackson
By Tucker Seinberg
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Faculty Advisor Christopher Mazura Building Principal Brian McCann Superintendent of Schools John McGuire
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By Isaac Malsky
In this section:
Journal October 2010
Hallways
-Club Spotlight: Graffiti Literary Magazine- page 3 -College Decisions- page 3 -Powder Puff Breakdown- page 4
Club Spotlight: Nicole Siracusa Have you ever written a piece of work that you were really proud of ? Consider submitting it to GHS’s very own Graffiti Literary Magazine. The magazine is published once a year at the end of school. It covers everything from poetry, cartoons, photography, short stories, drawings and paintings, to one act plays. Any student can write in it or be part of the staff. The magazine was created several years ago, but was then only viewable as an online copy. Recently, the staff made some changes and the literary magazine became an actual hard copy in 2008. Last year alone, the magazine had about fifty students contribute to make an amazing
Graphic by Zach Sicard
magazine. Students can submit more then one piece of art work or writing if they want, and all submissions are due by February. The staff starts designing and creating the magazine around March. Creating the magazine is a lot of fun, the club advisor, Mrs. Larkin says. “What I like best would have to be the creativity of it,
seeing how talented the students in school are.” They rate every submission they get and the highest rated pieces make it into the magazine. If you’re interested in helping to create and design the magazine, become a staff member. The Graffiti Literary Magazine Club meets in room 702A every Tuesday
at 2:30. New members are always welcome. If you want to submit your work into the magazine, check out the club bulletin board in the upstairs English hallway. Graffiti Literary would be a great way to show off your work or get involved!
Decisions, decisions:
Applying to college 101, and how to determine the timeline that’s right for you
Hannah Cohen The process of applying to college ED is binding, meaning that if you are with a much smaller pool of applicants. time what kind of financial aid package is stressful and confusing for many of accepted to the school you are obligated Colleges with a 20% acceptance rate for you will be offered. Many schools have us. One major source of this stress and to attend and withdraw your application regular decision accept around 50% of a tendency to give less aid to those confusion can be found in choosing from all other schools. The benefit of ED students who apply ED. The risk in this who apply ED because they know the when you’d like to apply. There are three is that your application will be considered is that it is not possible to know ahead of students are obligated to attend. If you options: Early Action, Early Decision, have any hesitation about the school and Regular Decision. You should and your ability to pay, then Early base your decision on how much Decision is probably not the best you like the school, when you choice for you. want to find out whether or not The third and most common you’ve been accepted, and your way to apply is Regular Decifinancial situation. sion. Every college allows you to Early Action is the least comapply regular decision, and you mon way to apply, because many can apply to as many colleges as colleges don’t even offer it as you want. Regular decision apan option. If a school you like plicants apply early January and does offer, however, it is a great find out whether or not they have opportunity. It is non-binding, been accepted in either March meaning that if you are accepted or April for most schools. Some you can still apply to other schools applicants are waitlisted, meaning and you have no obligation to the that they haven’t been rejected school. This allows you to apply by the school, but that they will early action or regular decision to have to wait to see how many of other schools and consider their the students who were accepted financial aid packages. Early acchoose to attend. If that number tion applications are due around is lower than expected, there may November 1st for most schools. be room for the waitlisted appliPhotos by Abby Levy / The Journal The next type of applicacants to attend. Regular decision tion available is Early Decision gives you the most options in (ED). ED applications are due terms of financial aid packages around the same time as early and the number of schools you action. If you apply ED to a colcan apply to. lege, it should mean that you are At the end of the college applicompletely passionate about it, cation process, we will all breathe and that it is definitely your first a collective sigh of relief. Whether choice. You can only apply ED to you choose to apply early decision, one college. You will be notified early action, or regular decision, in January of the college’s decision you are bound to find the college on you application. You can either that fits you best. Be sure to conbe accepted, denied, or deferred sider all your options and choose Top: Senior Yves Nazon stresses over his college search (not accepted as an Early Decision what is right for you. Bottom left: Counselor Amy Arena helps senior Dev Gingrich with her applications, candidate but added to the pool Bottom right: Guidance counseling center provides students with many references and of regular decision applicants to information about different universities be reconsidered at a later date).
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Powder Puff Breakdown: continued from page 1
These concerns were addressed by reducing the number of girls allowed to participate to forty-four players per team. Twenty-two of them played the first half, then they came off the field and then the next twenty two came on for the second half. This reduced the number of people standing and wondering around the field, keeping them to the stands. If more then forty-four girls signed up to play, a lottery would be established to reduce the number of players. Fortunately, neither team had to result to the lottery system to decide who would play. Another issue addressed this year was the problem of the crowd rushing the field after the game. In previous years, r ushing the field forced pushing and shoving between players of opposite
teams, and fights breaking out that there might not otherwise have been. Chaperones for both sides of the field took a different approach to making sure that it was very unlikely for fans to rush the field, and keep their behavior in check from inappropriate chanting and yelling. “We don’t want anyone doing anything inappropriate that they shouldn’t do on school grounds and we also don’t want feelings to be hurt or have harassment issues,” said Sicotte. T h i s y e a r ’s Po w d e r P u f f game and new rules proved to be a success as players and fans were kept in line with their behavior and safe from any unnecessary harm.
Photos by Mike Marcantonio and Tara Jackson/ The Journal
Seniors, Lexi Selca and Audra Hamill pose for a picture right before the big game (above), while Ernie Skipper and Erin Mossop run down the field (below).
Rory Caroll
October 2010
The game
At 7:30 there was a sea of blue and seemed to have stopped the seniors, but yellow and black, mingling together, a speedy interception by Abby Levy again laughing, joking, and listening to music. put the seniors within sight of a win. Erin Although some words were said, the gen- Mossop’s stellar drive straight through eral feeling of the bonfire was congenial, in contrast to an hour before, this seemed all anyone could hope for. Overtime at After the opening coin toss of the game, the juniors took the ball, ready Tawasentha! to push through the senior defense and - Carleen make the first touch down. However, they were promptly pushed back ten Farrugia yards towards their own goal line before the seniors took possession of the ball. Over the course of the night there were only a handful of memorable plays. Dallas Colvito’s stellar catch topped off by the junior defense made a senior victory Danielle Heath’s touch down gave the seem all too close. However, due to the seniors the lead mid-way through the first junior defense and, as some allege, some half. The juniors quickly countered with backhanded dealings on the sidelines, a great play on the part of Shelby Iopoce the game ended with a tie of 6-6. Shouts who bobbed and weaved through the erupted from the stands. Overtime was senior’s defensive line, racking up huge the word on every senior’s lips. “We yardage. Lexi Ferheveri put the finishing played too hard for this,” said Dylan touches on the drive with a touchdown August. “Overtime at Tawesentha,” said senior players Carleen Farrugia and Alexa for the juniors. Halftime brought about no rest for Patanaude. Although some left the game a little either team. Each was anxious to break the tie, and both came close, but to no worse for the wear everyone seemed to avail. As the clock wound down tensions have had fun. “It was a fair game. Both sides did good and built. The last played their hardest,” half seemed to said junior player last for hours Meghan Cahill. And as the seniors that seemed to be the made their way consensus; everyone down the field. had done their best. Huge gains In the end it wasn’t were made just about the comon the part of petition. It was about Justine Cozsitting by a dying fire, za and Alexa listening to Uncle Patanaude. A Seniors, Tyler Warchol, Nick Flaherty, Brenden Joel’s Comb, watchquick intercepDoak, and Zach Belokopitsky get rowdy ing your friends play tion by Leah cheering for their class (left to right). football, and cheerCure at 1:20 ing them on.
Meet our new Assistant Principal:
Mr. Brooks Mike Marcantonio
Photos by Dev Keenholts / The Journal
Freshmen aren’t the only new people at GHS this year. Replacing Assistant Principal, Brian Bailey, is Mark Brooks, who joins the Guilderland School District after serving as the dean of students for Oneida Middle School in the Schenectady City School District. As Mr. Brooks begins to embark upon his first year at GHS, he said that his goal is to become a major part of the community by evolving himself in student activities, sporting events, and most importantly, by getting to know the students and lending help whenever needed. Before becoming a principal, Mr. Brooks taught global history in the Highland Central School District, and he continued teaching history at Schenectady High School before his post as dean of students.
Mr. Brooks always knew he wanted to teach, but had no clear direction of what subject to study in college. He finally realized that history was his passion and graduated from The College of Saint Rose, where he received both a bachelor’s degree in secondary education/history, and a master’s degree in education. As Mr. Brooks began his first week, he felt “It [was] transition as you’d see anywhere, [and I] couldn’t ask for a better student body, better teachers or better administrators to work with.” He also expressed that it’s tough to go into any type of situation as “the new guy”, but he stated that everyone at GHS has been so kind and helpful to his transition. “I have not met a nicer group of students than [those] here at Guilderland. It’s been amazing.”
In this section:
Journal October 2010
Around Town
-Guilderland Races to Fight Huntington’s Disease--page 7 -The Chipotle Experience--page 8 -Guilderland’s Historic Treasure--page 8
Guilderland Races to Fight Huntington’s Disease Matt Walsh
An incurable genetic disorder that affects five to ten people per hundred thousand in the world, Huntington’s disease, is something of which we should all be aware. And yet, many people aren’t. On September 18, 2010, however, Guilderland students hosted an event to help raise both awareness about the disorder and money to donate to research of Huntington’s disease. “At first, I didn’t know what the disease was, but then I heard about the Rodinos. We picked Huntington’s because nobody knew what it was,” says Guilderland High School junior Marissa Lafave, who was one of the main organizers of the event. Huntington’s is a disease that is not currently fully understood. It’s a neurodegenerative disease that causes loss of muscle coordination and cognitive decline, but scientists are still trying to figure out how it works. That’s why hundreds of local residents gathered at Tawasentha Park on September 18th to participate in the Huntington’s Walk/ Run Fundraiser. “The community is able to come together and support something. This is a great way to support the Huntington’s foundation,” say Halli Travers, Nick Haluska, and Daniella Giardina, who helped out at the event. Indeed, runners, walkers, volunteers, local businesses, and many more all showed up to help raise funds for and awareness about the disease. The Guilderland community is directly affected by Huntington’s. Last April, Gianna Rodino, a GHS junior, lost her sister, Rachel, to Huntington’s. “It’s affected my family and relation-
ships, like with my dad and sister. It’s changed my future because I haven’t been tested yet and it’s a big decision with kids,” says Rodino, whose father is also afflicted by Huntington’s. Giardina adds, “Huntington’s is an issue that hits home for Guilderland. We’re a big community and this is a way to show everyone about the disease.” Despite substantial difficulty, however, Rodino shines some positive light on her experience: “It makes me feel scared and sad, but I’m glad I’m going through it because it’s made my family stronger.” Bob Oates, a former physical education teacher and cross country coach at GHS, notes “I never knew about Huntington’s until Rachel passed away. Now I’m more aware of the effects and feelings that it causes. It’s one more thing for people try and solve.” The event certainly attracted a lot of attention. Not only did local residents turn out in the hundreds to participate in the five kilometer race and two mile walk - Pix 106 was there providing entertainment, and Panera’s Bread donated food for people finishing the race. But organizing the event wasn’t easy. It took much effort on the part of a few motivated students to make this event possible. “It was mostly me, Dejana, Stephanie, and Elisa,” comments Lafave, “At first we didn’t have any support; the companies and people we asked didn’t believe in us, but we kept on pushing and people started listening, and somehow it got to this day.” Indeed, they succeeded, to which anyone who was there would attest. “Thank you to everybody who participated. We probably made thousands;
Capital Region Huntington’s connections pose right after the walk (above). The girls are getting ready for the Huntington’s varsity run (below).
Photos by Alexandra Sima / The Journal
it was a success!” adds Lafave. Oates was especially impressed - “It shows that young people can take on responsibility.” Hopefully, by hosting participating in
this event, the community will be more aware of what Huntington’s disease is and what they can do to help people dealing with it and to move towards a cure.
Eateries Calorie Law Takes Guilderland By Storm Bernadette Javier
Since the mid-1970‘s, America has been engaging in a never-ending war, one that has had detrimental implications and more deaths among innocent civilians than anyone has ever dreamed of. But believe it or not, this is not a reference to the war in the Middle East at all, but an allusion to America’s greatest adversary: obesity. With the threat of unhealthy dietary habits looming over the capital region, county lawmakers in Albany have recently decided to take action in the fight for healthy eating choices by imposing what has come to be known as the Eateries Calorie Law. The law, passed by the Albany County Legislature on August 10, 2009, requires every chain restaurant in the capital region with fifteen or more locations nationally to post the calorie information of all the food they serve on their menus, websites, or posters plastered on walls and doors. Why is this necessary? It is believed that when such information is provided to customers it will impede unhealthy choices and act as a type of “wake-up call” to steer clear of the very dangerous path to obesity. Recent studies show that
whatever food eating out in public food they want to establishments consume, increases the the Albany likelihood of County Legislaunhealthy ture is just hopeating ing that the law ch o i c will at least make e s . people conThis, sider more couresponsible pled choices. with T h e t h e average fact Graphic by Justina Liu Amer ican t h a t household physical activhas gained a ity is slowly diminishwidespread fear of ing amongst children and adults, is what prompted this plan of action the term “calorie,” yet the amount of calories Americans consume everyday is from the Albany County Legislature. “The idea is to inform people, right even more frightening. According to the at the point of purchase how many US Department of Agriculture, an avercalories a food item has,” Latham age person must consume around 2,000 Democrat Timothy Nichols explained calories a day in order to live healthily. at a news conference at Panera Bread When you think about it, that’s really on Wolf Road when he first introduced not a lot. Devouring a small Whopper the plan. However, the law is certainly value meal in Burger King, for example, not imposed to tell the public what you obtain roughly 1,200 calories. That’s to do. People are still free to choose about 60% of your daily 2,000-calorie
guideline already. Rarely do we ever meticulously examine what we put into our bodies. Since many American households tend to eat out more and more these days, the possibility of intaking more calories and fat increases. The main goal of the Eateries Calories Law, according to Nichols, is to “[reduce] obesity rates and [help] people live healthier and longer.” Informing customers of what exactly they’re eating and how incredibly bad it is for their bodies will aid them in making healthier choices. Also, it may convince many chain restaurants to add healthier selections to their menus. While New York and California are only two of the handful of states that have considered posting a calorie count on menus, many popular chain restaurants are now supporting this trend, and would like it to be imposed nationwide. In fact, the idea of posting calorie information on menus and drive-through signs was included in the new health care deal that President Obama signed earlier this year. It is safe to say that America is now firing its first shot in the battle against obesity.
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Around Town
October 2010
The Chipotle Experience Julianne Legnard
I walked into the new Chipotle was greeted with a variety of flavors and ful, and best of all; the ingredients tasted self-proclaimed priorities. This entails Mexican Grill in Stuyvesant Plaza, a firm textures, all of which fused nicely and wholesome and fresh. acquiring produce based on what’s best believer that Moe’s was the finest eatery complimented each other. The portion In fact, making sure to give consumers for animals, the environment, and the to meet my Mexican food cravings. size was generous, the meal was color- “Food with Integrity” is one of Chipotle’s consumer. However, after extensive research, a visit The widespread restaurant chain to the location, and a customary taste prides itself on serving only 100% test, my preferences were completely naturally raised pork and chicken, altered. I now know that Chipotle sets as well as 85% naturally raised beef. the standard for the most delicious and Simply put, this means that the aniaffordable Mexican cuisine, without mals were not tightly packed in cages sacrificing taste or quality of ingredients. or fed stimulants, but rather treated The design of the restaurant is very humanely and respectfully during life. simple yet bold. The restaurant atmoThis also benefits humans, ensuring sphere makes a statement with bright that they are eating safer, healthier lighting, immaculately clean tables, meat, not tainted with pesticides or and floors. Metallic panels cover the chemicals fed to the animals. Chipotle walls as sounds of jazz-techno drift is also known for using cheeses and through the vicinity, generating a sour cream free of rBGH; a harmful modern, stimulating environment. chemical linked to mad cow disease. Amongst the booths in the front porPhotos courtesy of Nag Gandham/The Journal Not something you would want lintion of the room, I observed people gering in your quesadilla. of all ages and demographics eating Chipotle also strives to help farmand conversing, while off to the side ers and the earth. By using 40% orthe food line moved along swiftly. ganically certified beans, they support When ordering my meal, I found it easy farmers practicing techniques that are to pick and choose the components of better for the soil and the environmy “Chicken Burrito Bowl” with all of ment. Although the company admits the ingredients displayed on the counter that produce is not always grown on in front of me. Overall, the service was the farm down the street, they do fast and efficient, though admittedly it promise that all ingredients come was difficult to explain my order over from nearby family-owned farms to the volume of the music and people stimulate economies in the region. chatting in the background. Through the Chipotle experience I While the service was not flawless, was able to get an enjoyable night out, the food proved to be the highlight of a high-quality meal, and a wealth of the entire Chipotle experience. My burinformation on Chipotle’s care for its rito bowl (comprised of black beans, consumers for the reasonable price of cilantro-lime rice, grilled chicken, salsa, $6.10. So if you’re craving Mexican, corn and cheese) was a tad spicy, yet head over to Chipotle Mexican Grill added sour cream and sweet corn helped for a better burrito that won’t break to extinguish the fire. With every bite I Top: Outside view of the new Chipotle located in Stuyvesant Plaza. your bank. Bottom: Chipotle workers tending to orders.
Guilderland’s Historic Treasure
Hannah Cohen
Driving through Guilderland, we pass the same landmarks day after day, but we rarely put much thought into their origins. Among the aforementioned landmarks, one in particular has a long and interesting historical significance: The Schoolcraft House. The house, built in the 1840s, is owned by the Town of Guilderland and is one of the best examples of Gothic Revival Architecture in the Capital District. It is located at 2299 Western Avenue near the YMCA. The house was originally built as a country retreat for Congressman John L. Schoolcraft, who also owned another property in downtown Albany. After his father’s death, Schoolcraft moved to the area at the age of eighteen to live with his grandfather, John Schoolcraft. The elder Schoolcraft was also important to the history of Guilderland, as he served on the first school board in 1813. In addition to his tenure as a congressman, Schoolcraft ran a successful mercantile business and served as president of the Albany Commercial Bank, which we now know as Key Bank. He was married to Carolyn Canfield, the niece of Governor William Seward, who is best known for his role in “Seward’s Folly,” the acquisition of Alaska from the Russians.
In the 1800s, the house was the grandest in the area, then called the Hamlet of Guilderland, and was used for a multitude of gatherings, from balls to quilting bees. Schoolcraft is also notable for its distinct architecture, including steeples, skylights, and cast iron tracery. According to architect Richard N. Pierpont, the use of cast iron is what makes the house so unique and such a great representation of gothic-style architecture. For nearly two centuries, Schoolcraft House has served a number of functions, including apartments and office space. Over time, the house fell into disrepair and no longer held any affiliation with the Schoolcraft family. The house was threatened in 1994 when it was proposed that the house be demolished in order to construct a parking lot for the Hamilton Union Church. This prompted the Town of Guilderland and the Guilderland Historical Society to purchase the house in order to preserve the important landmark. Many Guilderland residents felt it was important to preserve Schoolcraft because it gives us such a unique insight into the lives of those who lived in our
Photos courtesy of Devin Keenholts/ The Journal
town almost two hundred years ago. The future of the Schoolcraft House looks positive as of now. The Guilderland Historical Society has been working to preserve and restore the house to its former splendor. The renovation has begun and it will include restoring the floors, refinishing the doors, woodwork, walls, and fireplaces, and creating a new “old”
(a recreation of the original) kitchen. Over the years, fundraisers have been held in order to raise money for the project, including the annual Schoolcraft Trail Run. Once construction is completed the house will be reopened as the Schoolcraft Cultural Center and a new generation of Guilderland residents will be able to visit and enjoy it.
In this section:
Journal October 2010
Pop Arts
-Album Reviews- page 7 -Movie Reviews- page 8 -Upcoming Concerts-page 9
Folk Music; The New Rock Show
Rory Carroll A packed stage begins to overflow as a lanky man dressed in only white pants and a crimson scarf glides into the crowd. The audience screams the lyrics along with him, filling the already stuffy air with even more noise. The heartbeat of the crowd matches the enchanting beat of the drum. “Sometimes said its suntime let it sunshine on my mind,” sang Ebert and the surrounding audience. “All the same its conscience waiting, cross the line.” Approximately a half an hour later We Are Each Other (essentially the Magnetic Zeros playing each other’s compositions) takes the stage, playing through a set of diverse songs, ranging from distorted guitar pop-rock songs to Dylan-esque
Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
piano ditties. Throughout the set it seems almost everyone sings except for front man Alex Ebert who sits for the majority of the set, solemnly shaking and tapping his oversized tambourine. After a brief intermission the band takes the stage again, this time with a renewed vigor. Feet begin stomping on stage and the audience follows right into
“40 Day Dream,” a folksy romp through psychadelia. However, the fun had just started. Halfway through the set Ebert goes on a short speech about the experience of the show, saying “This is your home, so this is really your show. But it’s our show too. So it’s sort of 50/50.” Shortly afterward during the song “Come In Please” Ebert stepped over the barrier in
separating the audience and the band and became part of the audience, singing and dancing with the crowd, even hugging those around him. As the show wound down Ebert began to make more excursions into the audience, finally culminating with him sitting in the midst of the crowd singing the last song of the night, “Brother.” But even that was not the end of the show. Ebert, along with his fellow band members, stayed out in the audience, talking to concert goers, giving hugs to anyone who asked, taking the more than occasional compliment. I even managed to slip in a question to guitarist Nico Aglietti, asking him about some of their instruments. To sum up the events of the concert in one neat sentence
would not do it justice. It was a rock show without rock music. It was a 60’s hippie gathering in the 21st century. It was folk music with electric guitar and synthesizers. This was no ordinary concert, and to even call it a concert does not do it justice. It was truly an event that I will never forget.
Photo courtesy of Rory Carroll/The Journal
Album Reviews: What you missed over summer
Maggie Rogers
This is an example of one of the problems with this album: six of the fifteen tracks are not actual songs, but rather are transitions between proper songs. This is because ATS is supposed to be a concept album about nuclear war (hence the Thousand Suns motif), intended to be listened to as one 48 minute song. Having a concept doesn’t mean anything, though, if the music isn’t good. Unfortunately, even the full songs in ATS aren’t very fun to listen to. LP attempts to follow the fad of adding electronic buzzes and drumbeats to their music, but it sounds incredibly out of place. Even bringing back Mike Shinoda (LP’s rapper, who was mysteriously absent in most of MtM) doesn’t save ATS from sounding like a random mess.
Christofer Drew Ingle, aka Never Shout Never, released his second full-length album, titled Harmony, in a span of just 7 months. Christofer has been quoted as saying that he tries to write a song every day. The album is a mixture of “old NSN” and “new NSN”; honest tracks like the new single “Cheatercheaterbestfriendeater” and “The Lousy Truth”, newer more popinspired songs like “This Sh*t Getz Old”, and the newest more country-themed tracks like “Piggy Bank” all prove that Christofer is still figuring out just what he wants to do with his music. Released on August 24th, the album has the perfect summer vibe, and its tracks will invariably get stuck in anyone’s head. Harmony is a favorite with old fans as well as creating new fans, all who look forward to seeing what Christofer will do next. At just 19 years old, Christofer could take Never Shout Never anywhere.
Key tracks: “When They Come For Me,” “Blackout,” “The Catalyst”
Key Tracks: “Harmony,” “Cheatercheaterbestfriendeater,” “Sweet Perfection”
Mike Pultz Linkin Park was my first favorite band. Even when I discovered more bands, I still kept LP close to my heart. Then they released their 2007 album Minutes to Midnight. They attempted to broaden their audience, but abandoning their signature nu-metal/ rap sound for a mainstream stadium-rock sound alienated many of their old fans (including myself). Still, when I heard that the band that literally got me into music was making another album, I couldn’t resist checking it out. A Thousand Suns kicks off with “The Requiem”, a spacey intro with pretty piano and a robotic woman singing “God save us everyone / Will we burn inside the fires of a thousand suns?” (these lyrics reoccur in the lead single and penultimate track “The Catalyst). After that intro, the next track is “The Radiance” - an introduction to the third track.
Aimee Denn
Elexius Prince
The Devil Wears Prada has done it again with their latest EP, Zombies. The sound of their new album changed from their old ones but the beats in the songs make it catchier and puts a new spin on their old sounds. The main vocalist, Mike Hranica, says their newest album, was inspired by the bestselling book, The Zombie Survival Guide. They, at first only wanted to make one song inspired by Zombies but a whole five track CD came out of it. The CD features realist sound bites that would be heard in action flicks. Zombie’s places less emphasis on Jeremy DePoyster’s clean melodies and more on Mike Hranica’s low growls, with cranked tempos, darker tunings and more breakdowns per track than they’ve ever attempted before. Even though the EP is only 22 minutes long, you won’t want it to end. Who knew zombies could sound so good?
Is the new Australian Pop/ R&B artist Cody Simpson the new Justin Bieber? Cody Simpson has blonde short scruffy hair, green eyes and is only 13 years old. He was discovered on YouTube by music producer Shawn Campell in 2009. Cody and Justin have many similarities. They both started writing music at a young age, recording videos at home of their talent (singing and playing an instrument), and posting the videos onto YouTube. Cody is most famous for his song “iYiYi” (ft. Florida.) These two teenage boys are incredible artists. Even though they have many similarities, Justin Bieber had been discovered before Cody Simpson. With that said, Justin Bieber has more experience. Does Cody have what it takes to get on Justin Bieber’s level or is he already there?
Key tracks: “Escape,” “Anatomy,” “Outnumbered”
Key Tracks: “iYiYi,” “Summertime”
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Journal)
Pop Arts
October 2010
Movie Reviews
Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps Andrew Fedorov The best way to describe it is that it is too big to fail. What I mean by big is it is a genuine epic. Our recent economic collapse is maybe a little better than that of the crash of 1929, but it is nothing to sneer at. It’s something like Lord of the Rings, an exploration of a world most of us don’t understand. At a time when the top dogs are howling their last, when the walls are crumbling around them into pieces too small to put back together, when the resisted change is happening, a time to lose all that brings you joy and cling to what matters. In both it is seen from the view of a few fleshed out characters. Wall Street Money Never Sleeps shows the economic collapse of 2008 from the view of Shia LaBeouf ’s character, a young idealistic investor who is coming to terms with the cardinal rule of Wall Street: Greed
is Good. After being tossed into prison Gordon Gekko is thrown right out to find he has been abandoned. He emerges looking a little shabby in his preppy old brooks brothers sweater, subconsciously applying so much pressure to his 80s high
roller brick phone that if it was one of our cheap modern phones it would be dust in his closed fist. The ruthless, cruel, manipulative, entertaining, and despicable bullish investor starts in on a task that would be challenging for those with morals; but it is not a problem for
him. He’s rebuilding his empire and doesn’t care how. He is the icon of greed; the reason so many of the young men crawl through Wall Street. He is the scoundrel that you can’t help but admire. He is yesterday’s scum and today’s kingpin. He is the dark side of human nature and he can’t sell out
because he was born sold out. At the heart of it Wall Street Money Never Sleeps is a story about human nature. The fact that Shia LaBeouf ’s character has a The Good, the Bad and the Ugly ring tone is significant because all three of those states are represented; Shia LaBeouf as the good, Michael Douglas(Gordon Gekko) as the bad, and Josh Brolin as the ugly. Eli Wallach who played the ugly in the Good the Bad and the Ugly is also in the film. It is a spaghetti western where the ammunition is lies and info. It shows the good and evil in humanity, the greed and charity that are the element of the lifelong battle for human nature. In the end it’s message is a hopeful one; it says that through all the evil we face, through the crumbling infrastructure around us, no matter how cut up we are, no matter what kind of people we become, no matter what, humanity will survive.
Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World Josh Santos Yet another romance movie where the chill local dude falls for the mysterious chick from who knows where? Not quite, but it is a start. Filmed in Toronto, Ontario, this movie had a quiet and serene setting, which could make a person from there feel a sense of nostalgia. That, however, is where the calm ends, and the fun chaos begins. Michael Cera, known for his awkwardness in other movies such as Superbad, played as Scott Pilgrim, the best fighter in Toronto. Unlike his other roles, Cera does a great job with quick witty puns and slap-stick based comedy. Like some other teen romance movies, there is drama between Scott and the girl of his dreams (literally), Romana Flowers, played by Mary Elizabeth Winstead. For them to date, Scott has to defeat her seven evil ex’s, all with unique powers and backgrounds. The action in this movie is similar to that of an arcade game, which I’ve personally never seen in a movie before. The scenes were well made, seeing as spe-
cial fx accounted for the swords and energy blasts that were very common. For the most part, the movie follows along with the comics it was based on, up until the end of the third novel, in which the movie takes a big step in a different direction. What did carry on in the movie, however, was the game motif that the
comics are known for, such as extra lives and coins appearing when Scott beats his opponents. Scott is also bass player for the band Sex Bob-omb, creating many opportunities for music scenes throughout the movie. The music itself wasn’t too bad, but it was mostly used for the sake of comedy or the plot line, such as the bass battle between Scott and one of the ex’s. Even though the story itself might be
cliché in some ways, it was presented in a way that is unique for our generation, making it feel as if it was a revolutionary idea. I’ve heard many people say they didn’t see it due to the trailer and I admit that the trailer wasn’t that great, but the movie is definitely worth seeing. After all, who doesn’t like a violent, romantic, video gamebased comedy?
Pop Arts
October 2010
page 9 (theJournal)
Upcoming Fall Concerts
A wide variety of musical styles creates an exciting concert season Who: A DAY TO REMEMBER Underoath * The Word Alive * Close Your Eyes When: Monday, November 8 6pm Door * 7pm Show Where: Northern Lights Cost: $25 16+ w/ID Both ADTR and Underoath have been pushing boundaries for the past several years and with both putting out new albums this November, and both having sold out the venue before this is sure to be sold out show and will probably be one of the best lineups this winter.
BAD RELIGION Bouncing Souls * Off With Their Heads Saturday, October 16 7pm Door * 8pm Show Northern Lights Tickets $22.50 adv/$25 door 16+ w/ID
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After 3 decades the unruly members of Bad Religion are still putting out new music while banging out the hits. While their stage presence may not be the same as when the guys were in high school, the show is sure to be a punk paradise of young and old.
MATT and KIM with special guests: Donnis Sunday, October 31 6:30 Door * 7:30pm Show Northern Lights Tickets $17 adv/$20 door 16+ w/ID
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Who: DAVE MATTHEWS BAND Punch Brothers When: Friday, November 5 6pm Door * 7pm Show Where: Times Union Center Cost: $57.20-$98.20 All Ages When it comes to DMB there isn’t much explanation needed anymore. Having just played SPAC this summer for two nights, this is the perfect opportunity for those who missed out. While it may not be the same show indoors, it’s still sure to be another fantastic show from the group.
The indie power pop/dance group consisting of just two members has been getting more and more airplay by the minute since showing up in 2004. These kids are known for putting on one of the most boisterous shows in indie rock, and it’s rumored that it’s a costume party.
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SHINEDOWN (Acoustic) With special guests: Will Hoge Monday, November 15 7:30pm Door * 8pm Show The Egg Tickets $39.50 - $45 All Ages Whether you know their softer radio hits, or their harder album songs, Shinedown is one of many of the “post-Creed” era bands. Combining the leftovers of grunge with the sound of radio hard rock, Shinedown is nothing unfamiliar. What could make this a great show however is that they’ll be acoustic.
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OK GO With special guests: Those Darlins * Eytan & the Embassy Wednesday, October 27 7pm Door * 8pm Show Northern Lights Tickets $15 adv/$17 door 16+ w/ID
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We all know these YouTube sensations for their treadmill music video that catapulted them to fame over 4 years ago. After a visit this summer at Tulip Fest, the guys are returning to the capital region once again. Their raw talent and buoyant indie sound makes this an essential concert.
Compiled by Tony Pitkin
page 10 (theJournal)
Octobe
For the first few days of school, everyone is exc
things that happened over the summer, but at th
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Students were worried abou to make up all of their classe of school. They were worrie the time to get pre-sign importantly, they were w to get their bagels in
“These changes are a big deal to a lot of us at school because we are used to the freedom we had during advisory. For example, many people went to their friends’ advisories simply just to hang out (or work on homework together). The majority of the student body did not cause a lot of trouble during advisory, so they may feel that the changes to it are unfair.”
-Claire Ladd and Sharon Lin Juniors
“Well so far, I’m lovin’ it,” said History parents of Guilderland High School pay for kids to be walking around for an h and socializing with their friends.” Since 1997, advisory has been a during which students had the op than two teachers for help on ass work, and even eat their breakfa restrictions. The new advisory po the free flowing traffic into two during which only those with p in the halls. According to Build McCann, advisory is now a “hi period,” something McCann sa not successful in creating. Teachers like Michelle Mar the new changes. “I like that a following the same guidelines sessions within the advisory.” T said that the new advisory “f their time more wisely.” But wise use of advisory is for all students. While one stud all his or her teachers is a wise u may think that buying a bagel heavy workload. Senior Jack Walsh argued that sual morning routine before the c purchasing breakfast. “I don’t have not having bagel sales is affecting of the major changes is that bagels advisory, but rather prior to 1st block before advisory. Mr. McCann said he is aware of the s “I know students loved to buy bagels, w some point. Students who don’t get on th don’t get the time [to have breakfast], we h Bagel sales are not the only issue that has like International Club are finding it difficult t Senior Jenn David, an active member of In advisory has made delivering passes and planning f tional Club organizes the Cultural Fair, a huge even from all around the school have the opportunity to se information about their home countries. “Students only have 5 minutes to pass, we need to hav it difficult,” said Mrs. Mackey, advisor of the International C Cultural Fair. The new advisory system has forced clubs like I modate the new limitations on student schedules. “We are trying The new advisory system has also created problems for stud school, how will I make up all my work if I can only see two teach with her problems. Sabihah Mamdani, another Senior, explained that s on Friday and it wasn’t until a week later that she had finally caught up w An issue still remains, why did the administration approve these changes? Junior Christian Meola said, “I think it’s absolutely ridiculous…they’re focusin “It’s not fair to those who used it. It punishes everyone.” While these students felt that the changes were targeting an unfairly small portion of rotten kids running the hallways…as far as I’m concerned, we don’t have that kind of st advisory, said, “It reduces chaos within the rooms and throughout the building. Hopefully it will giv History teacher Mr. Kinally said “I like the concept of it, but by talking to students, I understand its
er 2010
cited to see all of their friends and to talk about
page 11 (theJournal)
he beginning of the 2010-2011 school year,
ut how they were going es if they missed a day ed about when to find ned passes. Most worried about where n the morning.
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y teacher Joseph Renaud.“The y way too much in tax dollars hour and half eating bagels
a period of 95 minutes pportunity to visit more signments, to make up ast, all under minimal olicies have broken up o organized sessions passes are permitted ding Principal Brian igh impact academic aid the old system was
rtin are in support of all the teachers will be and I like the shorter Teacher Beth Whitney forces students to use
s not always the same dent may think visiting use of advisory, another is a de-stressor from a
t he really enjoyed his cachange, and this included e time to eat breakfast and my habits,” he said. One s are no longer sold during k and during the ten minutes
strong opinions over the issue. well we have to address that at he bus until quarter after six and have to address that.” risen due to the new advisory. Clubs to carry on their orders of business. nternational Club, has said that “the new for the Cultural Fair much harder.” Internant held annually at Guilderland where students et up booths to display various nationalities, and
ve passes in rooms, we need to contact kids, it makes Club and organizer of Guilderland High school’s annual International Club to plan events far in advance and accomg to work with the change, but I do find it a little constraining.” dents trying to make up missed work. “If I miss a whole day of hers every advisory?” said Senior Rachel Cerutti. She was not alone she didn’t like the new system because she had missed a day of school with all her work. ? ng too much on the kids who don’t really care.” Another junior, Clarissa Schmidt said,
of the student body, Mr. McCann explained, “We didn’t do all this because there were a bunch tudent going to Guilderland.” Bernard Rahman, a Biology teacher and one of the creators of the new ive me a chance to sit and help a student.” limitation and I’m sure the administrators are talking about it.”
“Although there are a few students who abused the old advisory system, the majority did not. Freedom in advisory should be a privilege. Only those who mistreat their freedom should be restricted. The entire school shouldn’t be punished for a few students’ mistakes.”
-Russell Oliver Senior
theJournal October 2010
World & Cultures A “Taste” of Chinese Culture A freshman recounts her journey through China, observing and enjoying the cultural differences that were served to her on a plate Justina Liu Weaving through masses of people, I was no longer driven by my mind; instead, my stomach. Having retrieved my chopsticks successfully, I sit down and snap them apart. Not able to resist the luring aroma any longer I begin to inhale my noodles. Dad asks how the noodles are; his voice has to fight the noisy chatters of the food court. I smile and nod, the noodles are delicious. I proceed in devouring my lunch, confirming the previous statement. My table etiquette may seem a tad barbaric, but here in China it may as well serve as my compliments to the chef. No, the Chinese do not dine like cavemen. They simply don’t bother with time consuming table etiquette that Americans have adapted. Meals are important in China; most Chinese would agree that if you have not eaten well, you will not be able to go about your day properly. Eating your food enthusiastically is rarely insulting in China; rather, it implies that the food is delicious! Only after finishing the last of our noodles, my dad and I leave the food court. Eating is almost never done ‘on the go’ in China. Perhaps this is part two of the Chinese eating philosophy, not only must you eat well, you must also devote this time to eating, and only eating. Almost immediately after exiting the shopping center, I begin to regret leaving so soon. The temperatures of midJuly Beijing have been aberrant this year; some blame it on El Nino. Pushing aside negative thoughts, I try to remember the chilled winters of upstate New York. Never before have icicle fingers and purples toes appealed to me in such a positive manner! Anyway, I disregard the heat and continue to venture the busy streets of Beijing. Dad and I continue walking, occasion-
ally surrendering to the heat, resting at benches. Dad points to buildings, a story behind each one. One that sticks in my mind, I call it the ‘dragon building’. Nothing out of the ordinary at the bottom, but once you reach the top, the building has morphed into a dragon’s head. Something you have to see yourself! China’s a rapidly growing country, that’s old news. Cities are spreading, the economy booming, the buildings are inching toward to the clouds. Today, China has much to boast of, but what remains the country’s most admiral aspect? It’s rich history, one of the longest of any country. Filled with words of wise men, and records of dynamic events, it is a past that has not been forgotten. Many traditions have been passed down hundreds of generations, thousands of years, proving to be ageless. The endless city streets have tired us. It is nearing rush hour and we agree it is best to head back. Dad waves down a taxi and we wrap up a day’s journey. I press my nose to the glass as we pass the tall buildings once more. Change seems to happen overnight here. China is branching out in all directions. I look down and see the civilians commuting and going about their ways, the first time I’ve noticed them today. They have always been here, always will be here, no matter how tall the buildings grow to be. Are they not the ones that pass down years of wisdom to the young? Are they not the ones that remain true to the values of the country? I set out the chopsticks; my family gathers around the table. I pick up my rice filled bowl. If I were China, a growing country, this bowl of rice would be the people of the nation. United, they are fuel to the developing country, yet a symbol of the virtue of past China. How is one to virtuously handle a bowl of rice? Eat it.
“Noodles”
World & Cultures
October 2010
Costa Rica, a land rich in nature and kindness Meghan Bodo
Traveling through the jungle, the jungle-like streets of San Jose, and down the raging Saripiqui River, it was easy to fall in love with Costa Rica in a short ten days. With a vibrant culture that is rapidly Photos by Meghan Bodo / The Journal modernizing while still retaining a firm grasp on many of its traditions, Costa Rica is a country full of adventures, nature, culture, and kind people. Economy and the environment are intertwined in this country which is located in Central America. Unlike in the United States, much of the infrastructure and economy is built in accordance with the environment instead of on top of it or around it. Unsurprisingly, ecotourism is one of the main industries in the Costa Rican economy. Travel Club of Guilderland High School experienced this fact first hand, visiting, among other places, the Baldi Hot Springs. Pool ranging from approximately 92 degrees Fahrenheit to an overwhelming 112 degrees Fahrenheit both cooled down and warmed up the multitude of tourists at the spa. The springs are the products of Volcano Arenal, which is only one of several active volcanoes active in Costa Rica. For those who are more adventurous, Costa Rica’s landscape is surely not disappointing. Another flourishing form of ecotourism in Costa Rica is ziplining. Tourists and locals alike have the opportunity to be attached to a harness and then “zip” through the rainforest
on zip-lines, with the help of guides native to the area. This offers a whole new perspective of the rainforest, and at the very least, a good laugh. Even more exhilarating than ziplining, Costa Rica’s climate and environment provide for some of the best white-water rafting courses in the world. Travel Club suited up and attempted to paddle its way down the Saripiqui River, one of several rivers throughout the country on which tourists can whitewater raft. White-water rafting is much more intense in Costa Rica than it is in the United States; a level 1 course in Costa Rica might be considered a level 3 or level 4 course in the U.S. Undoubtedly, kind people are as pervasive as rain and coffee and bananas in Costa Rica. Hospitality and friendliness are strong tenants of the Costa Rican culture, and Costa Rica prides itself on upholding these values. It is not a shock to learn that Costa Rica is one of the only nations in the world with no standing army. If the food or the weather or the beach or adventures in Costa Rica does not cause one to fall in love with the culture, the people would easily be a reason to. Left and above: Various wildlife and scenery that can be observed while in Costa Rica.
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Journal)
“Trapped” In Chile Chilean miners remain underground, until November at the earliest Leah Wassermann It was just another day at work for 33 miners near the city of Copiapo, Chile, when suddenly, the roof of the mine collapsed and the men became trapped 2,300 feet below ground. It took nearly three weeks to discover the stranded miners, ages ranging from 19 to 63. Which means from August 5th through August 22nd, all 33 men were living in this hot, murky mine with no supplies but surprisingly, all were found alive. Although the men were found, the task of rescuing them presents many issues. To depart from the mine, a second shaft must be dug, wide enough for the men to be lifted through. At the time experts announced that it would take until Christmas time to pull each miner out safely, but now it is reported that their goal is much sooner, around the beginning of November. While stuck in the mine, officials and rescue aids are doing all they can to make life easier on the men. Supplies are transferred down boreholes through tubes, meaning everything that is sent is less than 3.2 inches in width! Goods such as water, bread, fruit, toiletries and clothing are sent through these tubes, also known as “doves.” The miners also have acquired a make shift television where TV shows and movies are sent down the shafts through a cable and projected onto improvised screens, but these “televisions” and only for fun and games. Starting September 14th, the men were putting on a daily workout schedule by following a video of a personal trainer. This is partially for their health but also to fit through the new shaft that is currently being created, all of the men need to have a 35 inch waist or smaller. Through all of these challenges, the 33 miners are keeping an amazing optimistic view with an attitude of never giving up.
Understanding Israel-Palestine Peace Talks Rory Carroll Many don’t realize how young a country Israel really is. Created in 1948, one year after the partitioning of Palestine, Israel was meant to be a Jewish state. It was a country of immigrants, men and women devastated by the Holocaust who were trying to make their way to an ancient homestead. Skip forward 62 years. Israel is now a powerhouse in the Middle East, a virtual fortress surrounded by those who would wish it wiped off the face of the planet. Its position as one of the United States’ only allies in the Middle East is one that it covets, and uses to its advantage at any chance it gets. Now peace talks are underway between Palestine and Israel, both of which are trying to settle the last 60 years of unrest between the two states. The only question is; who will come out on top? According to the Torah, Israel is
the Holy Land, a place here all Jewish peoples may be free. It was the House of David, a truly mighty kingdom. However, this did not last long. Throughout the last two and a half centuries Israel has been invaded numerous times by both European and Asian superpowers. Eventually the city of Jerusalem was the only Jewish city in the whole of Israel that one could truly call Jewish, and even that was a stretch. However, a new idea emerged, called Zionism. This philosophy stemmed from Orthodox Jewish beliefs that the Jewish people must all live in their own Jewish state, a land free of persecution where the Chosen People could live truly holy lives. After World War II and the atrocities of the Holocaust, many Jews saw great value in having a Jewish state where they might be free from persecution. Soon
after the end of World War II, many Jews began emigrating from their host countries to Palestine, a British colony in the Middle East inhabited largely by Arabs. Palestine was seen by these Jews as their birthright, and in 1948 the United Nations officially created the new state of Israel. For the next 62 years Israel became a land of war and progress. Various conflicts with neighboring Palestine have brought about increasing hostility in the Middle East, especially among radical Muslim groups such as Hamas and al Qaeda. The Gaza Strip is still a “hot bed” of conflict with missile attacks and bombings seeming to occur almost weekly. Now the United States is trying to step in and help the peace process along. On September 2 peace talks
began again, this time trying to focus on placing another moratorium on building new Jewish settlements. The issue has been pushed by Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas, however the Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has refused to extend the moratorium a day past expiration, causing even more tension between the two nations. Coupled with the aftermath of this summer’s flotilla and the recent UN meetings it is a wonder that these talks were put together at all. In any case, the end result could be a long awaited peace, one which both sides would appreciate greatly. One can only hope that progress is made in the ongoing battle for peace. But to be truthful, even a standstill would be a sliver of hope in an otherwise bleak outlook on the future of the Middle East.
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Journal)
World & Cultures
October 2010
India Meeting kicks off International Club’s year Senior Sindhura Mandava and Junior Anisha Ghosh share insights about culture and lifestyle in India Tara Jackson As late September arrived, students had begun to get in the swing of things at Guilderland High. As soon as this permanency was felt it was time for a new first day, the first meeting of the ever-popular International Club. International Club, advised by Mrs. Mackey, held its first meeting of the 20102011 school year on September 20th. This meeting was an informational meeting on the country of India. Flurries of people enter the room, greeting their friends and discussing the upcoming meeting. Once seats are found, whether it is in a chair or on the floor, a member of the club urges everyone to quiet down. Once this is accomplished, the presenters for the meeting, introduce themselves. The presentors at this meeting were Sindhura Mandava and Anisha Ghosh. The lights are turned off and the PowerPoint presentation begins. Sindhura and Anisha went through the slides and added in their own personal anecdotes to cover all of the basic facts of the country. Things like the flag, population and geographical features were shared with the group. Freshman in Mrs. Mackey’s class feverously scratch down notes for extra credit; everyone listens intently and respectively.
Anisha and Sindhura get to the more cultural aspects of India like the holidays, religions and traditions. They are able to speak not only based on knowledge obtained through research, but also from first hand experience and information from family or relatives in India. During the presentation, club members pass out traditional Indian food to all people attending the meeting. Everyone is able to sample an authentic dish prepared by a member of the International Club advisory, and very often by the presenter themserlves. The unique thing about the experience at many International Club presentations is that presenters often have had a first hand account of the information they are sharing. When asked why she’s a part of International Club and what the club is here for Anisha responded, “To teach people about a country or culture they might not be aware of or know much about.” All of the International Club meetings always follow a similar routine and are fun to attend, and very informative. Be sure to come to the next meeting and experience a new culture!
Top: Presenters Sindhura Mandava (left) and Anisha Ghosh (Right). Middle Left: Sindhura Mandava shares facts about India. Middle Right: Sophomore Oindri Sen shares a personal anecdote about attending school in India as a child. Bottom Right: Samosas, a traditional Indian snack, were served at the meeting. Photos courtesty of Sarah Sonenberg/The Journal
Rash of Teen Suicides Brings National Attention to LGBT issues Meghan Bodo Recently, the suicides of several adolescents who had issues of gender non-conformity across the country have captured the hearts and minds of the American population. These suicides allegedly occurred due to bullying and discrimination that the students faced due to their sexual orientation. One of the most recent incidents is that of Tyler Clementi. Clementi was a freshman at Rutgers University in New Jersey when he jumped off the George Washington Bridge, taking his own life. Clementi’s actions were believed to have been in reaction to his sexual encounter with another man being broadcasted online by a fellow classmate. College and university campuses across the country are not the only context in which such atrocities are occurring. In Tehachapi, California, Seth Walsh hung himself in his own backyard at the age of 13. This event also occurred because of the bullying and abuse that he suffered from openly declaring himself as a homosexual. The generation of the twenty-first century often prides itself on being a forward-thinking, progressive, generation. But can we really identify ourselves as such, when events like this are making news headlines at an alarmingly frequent rate?
In America, issues concerning gender non-conformity continue to be an extremely controversial topic. In recent years LBGT have been targeted in, or the focus of, certain political issues. Proposition 8, a document banning same-sex marriage, was recently passed in California. Acts such as these are not creating a comfortable environment for the LGBT community to exercise their rights as individuals or practice their civil liberties in; recent events only support this claim. With the recent string of events, America sees that issues of gender non-conformity are an equally large social issue as it is a political one. In order to actually become a more progressive nation, the United States in the context of modern culture, must choose to accept and embrace its LBGT community. However, America is not the only nation in which issues of gender nonconformity is a hotbed of controversy. Not two years ago, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad addressed a group of students at Columbia University in New York City, New York. “In Iran, we do not have homosexuals like in your country,” Ahmadinejad stated. While the President of the United States has certainly not made any comparable statements, America will only be able to lead in a global trend of accepting
the LBGT population by example. The recent string of teen suicides has thrown the ball back in America’s face: we are failing at being a global leader in this issue. We are not among the ten countries that have now legalized same-sex marriages, which include Argentina, Belgium, Canada, Iceland, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, South Africa, and Sweden. Something has to change. While President Ahmadinejad’s statement may have shocked the American public, the idea that he presented is an uncomfortably common notion throughout the world. In a whopping 76 countries, people are eligible to face prosecution because of their sexual preference, according to research conducted by the International Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association. Amnesty International cites sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East and Eastern Europe as the places of most concern for gay rights. While America is not among these regions, our nation certainly should not separate itself from this group. America is the only nation in NATO with a prohibition of being openly gay in the military. Creating a hostile environment for individuals that deal with issues of gender non-conformity is not only wrong and harmful to these individuals themselves, but it also hurts global population as a
whole. According to a study by Campus Pride, an organization aimed at making campuses more LGBT-friendly, people not of the hetero-centric majority are much more likely to drop out of school because of the discrimination and harassment that they suffer. At this point, it is unrealistic to say that everyone is of equal opportunity. Not only are people being denied of equal rights, but talent is being lost due to unfair and unjust conditions that society has created for itself. America does not have a “clean” past when it comes to discrimination. In the past, America has seen civil rights protesters in the segregated south during the civil war suffer great violence and justice. Eventually, the majority of America realized the efforts of these people, and we no longer live in a segregated society. This is not to say that the effects of segregation do not resonate in society today. Hopefully, the string of adolescent suicides will be the wake up call to Americans: that a portion of our own population is suffering injustice due to our policies and attitudes. One can only hope that an effort to create true equal opportunity for the LGBT community in our nation and in the world will be bolstered and foster greater support, as America is now staring the injustice that it has created in the face.
Journal October 2010
Fine Arts ASO prepares vibrant 80th season
Jim McQuade Starting October 21st, the highly regarded Albany Symphony will be performing at various theaters and concert halls, including Palace Theatre and Troy Savings Bank Music Hall. Ranging from Felix Mendelssohn to Aaron Copland, from classical to exotic, the Symphony will be playing a wide variety of musical selections this upcoming year. Starting off their schedule is Mendelssohn’s music to “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at Zankel Hall, which will be repeated October 22nd at Troy Savings Bank Music Hall. Also of note on their schedule is “The Magic of Christmas” festival on December 4th and 5th, as well as an appearance by Nathan De’Shon Myers in the Symphony’s “Spirituals Project” this upcoming April. Although an orchestra at heart, the Albany Symphony includes various vocal works as well as grand orchestral works. Such vocal pieces include Verdi’s Requiem, which will be featured January 22nd at the Palace Theatre. The Symphony – then called the People’s Orchestra of Albany – was founded in 1930 by Professor John Carabella. Carabella was born in Rome, Italy, and came over to the United States in 1915. He had vowed excellence, saying, “I’m going to give this great city a first rate symphony orchestra whether they want it or not.” It is clear that his promise has been fulfilled, and some people feel that the Albany Symphony has truly improved. It has pulled steadily closer to the status of a “major orchestra” in the United States over
the years of its development. The Symphony is led by the internationally renowned David Alan Miller, who has received various awards for excellent musical programming and has made frequent guest appearances around the world. He is a champion of American-composed music, both new and old. However, as the founder and artistic director of the New York City festival “New Paths in Music,” Miller also attempts to introduce great non-American composers who are fairly unknown in the United States. In addition to its repertoire of musical classics, the Symphony also shares its musical talents by educating the citizens of the Capital Region. Age isn’t an issue here – everybody, from preschoolers to full-grown adults can participate in discussions and activities, learning about music with the Albany Symphony. For students in high school, the Symphony offers practice in small ensembles, conversations in various kinds of music, guest appearances, and even seasonal concert offerings. Eighty years and running, the Albany Symphony has awakened the senses of the Capital Region with its music. Families, classical music fans, or those of you who simply want a new experience – the Albany Symphony will have something in store for all of you. Go and support this amazing yet conveniently local orchestra at one of their concerts during their 2010 – 2011 season!
Albany Symphony Orchestra 2010-2011 Season Highlights 10/21, MENDELSSOHN: Incidental Music to A Midsummer’s Night Dream 11/13, ELGAR: Enigma Variations, and TCHAIKOVSKY: Violin Concerto 12/4-5, “The Magic of Christmas” annual concert series 1/22, VERDI: Requiem Mass 2/12, BEETHOVEN: Symphony No. 4 3/6, Selections of COPLAND: El salón México, and more 3/12, MOZART: Symphony No. 38, “Prague” 4/28, COPLAND: Appalachian Spring (complete ballet performance) 5/12, Music by CORIGLIANO and others 5/22, American Music Festival Concert with the Empire State Youth Orchestra (ESYO)
Student tickets are only $15! (518)-465-4755 http://www.albanysymphony.com/
Photos courtesy of Albany Symphony Orchestra/Gary D. Gold Photography
page 16 (
Fine Arts
Journal)
October 2010
Exciting conclusion to Hunger Games trilogy Kallie Swyer When Katniss Everdeen chose to take her sister’s place in the 74th annual Hunger Games, she knew what she was getting herself into. At least, she thought she did. Katniss would not have predicted that she would live through the reality show-like Hunger Games, where winning means murdering all other competitors. She had no idea that that decision would end up irrevocably changing her life, or spark a revolution – a revolution that wants to recruit her to be the symbol of rebellion. In the first two books of the series, Hunger Games and Catching Fire, author Suzanne Collins created a world in which twelve districts are ruled by poverty and are dependent on the Capitol. The people of the Capitol, especially the greedy President Snow, wouldn’t have it any other way. They believe that if the districts need the help the Capitol gives, then they can’t rebel like District 13 tried to do.
The end of Catching Fire leaves you on a cliffhanger, waiting in anticipation for the final book – the whereabouts of Peeta, Katniss’s co-competitor in the Hunger Games and potential boyfriend, are unknown. The third and last installment of the Hunger Games trilogy, Mockingjay, hit stores on August 24th this summer, and it did not disappoint. In typical Suzanne Collins style, the book constantly keeps you on the edge of your seat, anxiously turning the pages while guessing at what comes next. Mockingjay is a fast paced, thrilling sci-fi story that makes you question your morals when the main characters do the same. If your idea of science fiction has anything to do with Star Trek, then think again. The last things you’ll find in this book are spaceships and creatures from planets outside of our galaxy. It’s a future of the world that we are creating today. Yes, there are fu-
turistic technologies, but in much more comprehensible ways than what many peoples’ ideas of science fiction entail. In her seventeen years, Katniss has been faced with many choices, such as who she loves: Gale or Peeta? Both love her, but she doesn’t know who to choose. She also has to decide if she wants to be the symbol of the rebellion. She knows if she agrees, it can mean the destruction of the hated Capitol, and her revenge on President Snow. If she doesn’t agree there will still be a war, just one that most likely cannot be won. But war means death and after living through two previous Hunger Games, Katniss has seen her fair share of deaths. She knows that it’s unavoidable. Will it end up snatching away someone she loves? To find out what Katniss decides in the dangerous game of war that’s being played around her, read Mockingjay, by Suzanne Collins. Maybe this decision will change your life.
Mockingjay Suzanne Collins $17.99 400 pages
k Review o Journal Bo s, wor ds, chapt p ers, words,
ag
Books with words, title
es
uthors. (hopefully) a d n ,a
Super Sad True Love Story: dystopian reality? Andrew Federov “Relax, P’adner,” says a demonic Jeffrey Otter (a digital creation of our all powerful government) as he drags you into the seemingly eternal darkness. A smile of pure malice gradually stretches across that lovable face, letting you know you’ve entered this world of debt, illiteracy, and constant monitoring. You try to let out a horrified scream but you quickly and wisely stop any sound. This is the terrifying world of Gary Shteyngart’s science fiction novel Super Sad True Love Story. This book is so much more horrifying than any other dystopia because it takes place in a world that could be easily mistaken for our own. Jeffrey Otter is far worse than 1984’s Big Brother; although he is definitely as evil as Big Brother, he hides behind the guise of an innocent, cuddly creature. The book takes place about 160 miles south of us and, hopefully, further away than “next Tuesday,” as the inside cover says. Lenny Abromov is aging and very aware of it. He is reminded of this fact by his job. Lenny works at post-
human services – they provide their customers with the privilege of everlasting life, something which Lenny could never afford. Lenny is the son of Russian immigrants who experienced the demise of the Soviet Union. He is old fashioned and has trouble with his äppäräti, which is something like our smart phones and helps rank you among every other person. He is not used to using text language in speech like every other person in his world. He also clings to the most out of date form of information reception – books – and gets strange looks for even holding one of these relics of the ancient world. He falls in love with Eunice Park, who is a youthful Korean-American and modern to a fault. Eunice is 15 years younger than Lenny and she can’t understand his backwardness, but accepts him anyway. Their mismatched affair plays out with a background of the National Guard tanks on every street corner, helicopters projecting the deafening sound of their rotor blades and, following the end of the patience of our
Chinese creditors, the downfall of the United States of America. For a glimpse at the future and a perspective on your own world read Super Sad True Love Story. Shteyngart style of writing is incredibly witty; his descriptions are unexpected and in the style of a Groucho Marx joke. His humor keeps you from plunging into the darkest depths of despair. You feel Lenny’s loneliness and you sympathize with him as he reaches for contact and for youth. The most depressing part of the book is that although it is clearly a dystopia it is also a hyperbolic version of our own world. In our world, as in that of Super Sad True Love Story, people despise books – in my English class majority of my classmates said they did not like to read. In the very halls that you wander every single day you can hear Shteyngart’s predictions coming true, cries of “omg!” and “rotfl” echo, filling the halls, the space between the book’s quotation marks, and your nightmares.
Super Sad True Love Story Gary Shteyngart $26.00 352 pages
In this section:
Journal October 2010
Opinions School shirts are for more than just school spirit
-Inconsistent rules lead to confusion in student body - Page 17 -Fresh, soph, junior & senior perspectives of first days of school - Page 18
Inconsistent school rules lead to confusion in student body By Evan Snow
By Molly Sonenberg Sweet ice cream, the smell of the beach, swings, roller coasters, and no one telling you to put your cell phone away, followed by teachers saying their favorite phrases, such as: “make sure it’s filled out in complete sentences” and “it’s due by next class, yes, all of it! Stop groaning.” These past couple of weeks have been fun, and exciting, yet tiring and annoying all at the same time. While some are happy to start school and see friends, others are upset that summer has faded to gray and school has started blinked bright colors of red and white. However, there is one school tradition that has helped the transition from summer to school. You’ve seen them around school, talked about in texts, and if you don’t have one, you wish you did. Yes, this is about the senior and junior t-shirts. These t-shirts are made by our very own students here at GHS. There are over four different types of class t-shirts. This tradition sparks many opinions around school. Recently, a small poll was taken asking which shirt was the voter’s favorite. And the results are in. 63% of the voters said that the eleventh grade “The world’s not ending, we’re just taking over” t-shirt was their favorite. The runner up was the senior “On a scale of 1-10, we’re 11!” t-shirt which 25% of the voters voted for. Michelina Scotti, a freshman at GHS said “I wish freshmen had their own (shirts). I think they would be fun to design.”
-School shirts are for more than just school spirit - Page 17
One senior says: “The shirts are just a fun tradition and are fun to wear. I wear mine because my friend designed it.” Another school tradition that took place during the first week of school was stickering. Many students got stuck with stickers that were based off of a theme, and this year’s theme was lifeguarding. Stickers that said “Seniors will save your soul” and other stickers were stuck on freshmen and other students throughout the halls. Now at that we find ourselves in the beginning of October—it’s starting to feel a bit more realistic. No more stickers, and no more hallways cluttered with teens wearing these shirts. Just more high school.
Have you ever stopped to wonder, “What exact rules does our school follow?” You are not alone. Our school may post the “rules” in the agenda book given to us every year, but who would take the time to read them? As a student you are left wondering what rules you should watch out for, and the types of teachers who are not as strict in regards to rules. For example, if a student were to go to their advisory teacher and ask to see a teacher without a pass, the teacher might not care. However, ask a teacher who is more strict on the subject, and you will find yourself locked in your advisory classroom because you did not have time to get that pass pre-signed. We all have busy lives, so when are you supposed to find time to get a pre-signed pass when you have to rush to get to your next class? It is the erratic, inconsistent rules enforcement that causes confusion
among the student body. Because these teachers and rules are so inconsistently enforced, students find themselves getting into trouble far more than they should. Most teachers usually follow the “No cell phones in class” rule. They choose to be more strict on that because it directly affects their teaching, therefore a student’s receptiveness to them. What if all rules were enforced and upheld to the same standard? Would school be a more respectable place? Would administrators find more students revolting against a “lock-down” school community? We need to go back to the basics. It takes the right amount of balance and precision to ensure that school remains a safe environment, and I find that the inconsistencies in school rules erode the stable structure we call a school. For the better of the school, administrators should make up their minds: enforce the rules, or back off.
page 18 (
Journal)
Opinions
October 2010
Junior Austin Cornell Senior Rachel Ellenbogen When entering into life as an upperclassman, one would think that the worries of social groupings and small groups of separated friends would be gone by now. Think again. With teenagers pressed to fit in to any group of friends, anyone around school can notice sections of people standing by the same set of lockers, the same area in the hallway, or the same lunch table every day. By now you would assume that everyone is pretty comfortable with each other after going to school as a class for over five years together. This need for acceptance in each and every student keeps people from getting to know one another as individuals,
Graphics by Zach Sicard
not just simply keeping the same group of friends throughout your entire high school life. Every once in a while you can find an adventurous socialite looking to find another group of people to get acquainted with, but it almost never works out the way you want it to. Now that person is left to come crawling back to their friends, stuck at the bottom of the social ladder once again, or at least lower than when they defied the group. To see these groups of people tightly bound into a (and I feel like I have to say this) clique, makes me wonder if there will ever be a time when social boundaries are dropped and individuals can once again be seen as themselves and not part of a group. I didn’t expect to have to witness this as a junior, but it’s happening. Do you think you could ever find the confidence to meet new personalities? Give it a shot.
I walked into school on the first day with so many thoughts running around in my mind. One of them being, “When did the senior girls transform into lifeguards?” When I looked around at all of us dressed up in our red shorts and lifeguard shirts, I knew it was going to be an unforgettable year. I quickly found all my friends and talked about our classes, who we had them with and who we didn’t, and talked about how crazy it was that we were finally seniors! I knew that it would be my last first day of a high school year and as I met my senior year teachers and classes, I knew those too would be my last time doing so in high school. My sadness was quickly washed away though with excitement for the future and the awesome senior year to come. I can’t wait to see the amazing things that are to happen. My first day of senior year
was incredible. To see all my friends that I’ve known for a long time and to see my old teachers, it was crazy to see how we’ve all changed and stayed the same over the years. To see the freshman, who are just starting the same journey that this year’s senior class is about to finish, was great. My unforgettable bittersweet first day of senior year is just a speck of what the rest of senior year will bring, that I am sure of.
Sophomore Christine Bolognino
The white tile floors seem entirely spotless for once, is the only difference that registers in my mind as I cross the lobby of the high school for the first time in two months. Faces pass me, most familiar, some completely new, and it takes me half a second to remember which hallway leads to which wing. My recently trimmed hair, the newly pur-
chased clothes, and the person I thought I had evolved into over the summer all seem to fade and get lost in those nervous memories of a small, freshmen me that come rushing into my system as I walk the halls. It’s hard to believe that a day has passed since I was last here, catching that bus that would bring me home to a summer of change. The sophomore in
me makes herself known though, when the first bell rings and I fall back into that routine of listening, checking the clock, listening, then checking the clock. Lunch is a blurred flurry of questions and conversations, assessing each other for the changes in appearances and personalities, large and small. There’s this feeling as I walk from each new classroom to
the next, this sense of having just come full circle and somehow ended up in the exact same place I was in a year ago. Not only physically back in school, but again in that high school environment state of mind. I soon found my thoughts full of the upcoming year, and anticipating its adventures.
Freshman Clarissa Schmidt Freshman Julia Kronick Entering high school for the first time feels like your mom just dropped you off at elementary school all over again. Being a freshman is terrifying. You’re in a giant maze with tall, loud, and foreign people who act like monsters. You might as well write “Freshman” on your forehead because the scary senior will make sure you never forget it. They give out wrong directions, bump into you, or even push books out of your hands. By the time your last day of freshman year arrives, you know you couldn’t be happier to no longer be a freshman. The question, though, is: is high school what you thought it would be like? Did you think that it’d be full of misery or full of freedom and fun? “High school is somewhat like I thought to would be. I like it a lot and thing it’s really fun. I just don’t like the amount of homework you get. I do like the freedom there is, I think it’s awesome,” Natalaie Ferrara, freshman, said. Another change is lunch which no longer limits you to one cafeteria with one group of friends. You no longer have to put your things in your locker between classes, your bag has it all. The hallways aren’t just crowded
anymore, they’re jam-packed, always. Savannah Alvey, freshman, says, “It’s a lot different than I expected it to be. I thought it was going to be really hard to get to class and carry my bag around all day. I like that you can actually see everyone every day and talk to them. I got to meet people that I never really have before. One thing I don’t like [however,] is the amount of work I get.” So, fortunately, it’s not the scary seniors that have freshmen worried- it’s the work! The textbook readings, essays that need to be written and deadlines are only the beginning. Joe Wier believes, “After two or three days, it’s a piece of cake. It’s much better than elementary school and FMS.” There are always changes going on throughout the high school. You never know what’s going to happen next during the school year. Good luck, class of 2014.
As a freshman, the first couple days of school were awful. The sophomores around every corner would tell us how “stupid,” “immature,” and “annoying” we are. To my surprise, I only got this from sophomores. Nothing from any juniors; seniors wouldn’t even look at us. So why did the sophomores get so much joy out of abusing us? One would think that maybe, just maybe, they would have sympathy for us. After all, they were tiny, little freshman only a year ago. My new theory is that they want revenge because they were verbally attacked by the sophomores last year. Or maybe, they feel it is a tradition for sophomores to be aw-
ful to the freshmen. Maybe they feel like they need to be unfriendly to us. Like it’s a responsibility they have. Either way, it was awful. Being a freshman in advanced classes, I’m taking subjects that sophomores take. Since I am in two tenth grade classes, I thought I would have to deal with this rudeness the entire year and, I was dreading it. I’m not saying that every single sophomore had something against us the first few days. To my surprise, however, the first Monday we had school was totally different. The sophomores got over their need to berate us and, some were even nice. A vast majority of them didn’t care that we were freshmen. But the ones who had did, made it pretty obvious. On Monday, they kind of dropped it. Once the few sophomores dropped their hatred towards freshmen, others started to talk to us, to be friendly. Now, I’ve made some friends in both bio and geometry, and I’m looking forward to this school year. And to the class of 2015, I promise next year once I’m a sophomore, I won’t hate on you.
In this section:
Journal October 2010
- GHS Football - pg. 19
Sports
- GHS Volleyball - pg. 19 -Jenna Bickel to go to Olympic Trials - pg. 20
Despite tough losses, Varsity team looks promising
Danielle Heath While the red flag decorated with a giant, white “G” is swung around in the air, and the “Red Sea” is screaming, the Guilderland Flying Dutchmen march onto the lush green football field to begin their battle for the evening. Before each game, players use their own techniques to get focused and ready for the game. Senior captain and quarterback, Ryan Smith, likes to put his headphones in and focus himself. After
everyone gets themselves in the zone, the team gets pumped up together in the locker room by listening to music by Jay-Z and Bone Crusher. It’s then that senior captains Dustin Maguire, Matt Callanan and Ryan Smith lead the team onto the field to perform a war chant. Matt Callanan and senior wide receiver, Dylan August, stand in the middle of a giant circle, leading the team in a series of chest banging and chanting. Not only
does this excite the Dutchmen, but the giant huddle of jumping, screaming football players surely intimidates their opponents. On Thursday nights in preparation for Friday’s game, team dinners are held in the cafeteria at the high school. Parents of the players cook spaghetti and meatballs for all 40+ players. Before the Dutchmen’s game against Albany High, 240 meatballs were made. Together as a team, the boys also go to Parm Night on Wednesday’s at Pizza Gram, and Wing Night at Dorato’s on Tuesday’s. According to “High School Football Insider” published by the Times Union, Guilderland is predicted to finish the season with an overall record of 3-4. So far, the team’s record is 2-3, beating Lasalle 28-13, Albany 34-26 and losing to Saratoga 28-12, CBA 33-21, and Ballston Spa 35-31. Ryan Smith is leading Section II Quarterbacks in complete passes this season with 51 complete passes out of 112 attempts. He has also thrown for a total of 786 yards and 10 touchdowns so far this season. Junior halfback, Tony Stanish, is leading the team with 5 touchdowns. Senior wide receiver Dylan August has 3 and senior Dom Litz and junior Tim O’Connor each have 2, and Smith has 1 touchdown himself. Senior Josh Sommers
has kicked for 7 points after touchdowns and 2 field goals this season. The Varsity Football team seems to be getting along this year. Senior linebacker Nick Mastrianni and senior safety and wingback Jack Walsh feel the team is more united this year compared to last year when it felt separated between seniors and juniors. Walsh said, “We’re all good pals. Win or lose we’re still going to be friends. We’re in it together.” The change in defensive and offensive strategy this year can be held partially accountable for Guilderland’s success on the field. There is more focus on tackling and being a more physical team. The offense is a combination of passing and running the ball with quick, strong players. Smith noted that their defense is completely different this year from last, and is filled with “a good line, balls hawks and physical players.” The Dutchmen season is not over yet. Come support the team and be a member of the “Red Sea” at one of their 3 remaining games: Guilderland’s Homecoming Game on Friday, October 1st 7 p.m at home against Ballston Spa, October 8th 7 p.m at Shenendehowa and Senior Night at home October 15th 7 p.m. against Bethlehem.
Volleyball, more than just winning Armane Robinson and Morgan Parker
Volleyball is a very important sport at Guilderland High School. The teams work hard and really enjoy doing what they love. “The varsity team is a really close group of girls that give each other support,” said Coach Allen, further explaining the importance of teamwork in volleyball. And as the volleyball season starts up again this year at Guilderland High School, the girls’ volleyball team gets ready for the exciting upcoming events and games. Some of these events include the Power Pink Tournament and the Servea-thon. The Power Pink tournament coming up this fall is going to be held at Queensbury, New York. The Power Pink Tournament is a fundraiser event, where the girls’ volleyball team raises money for the American Cancer Society. I recently spoke with the coach of the volleyball team, Coach Allen, to learn more about this upcoming event. L a s t year about sixteen to twenty teams showed up to the Power Pink tournament including our GHS girls volleyball team who raised over $1,300 dollars that went towards the American Can-
cer Society. The girls’ volleyball team is attending the event once again this year on October 16th and will hopefully raise even more money than last year for the American Cancer Society. The second event that the volleyball team has coming up is the Serve-a-thon, which is on October 6th. The serve-a-thon is when each player serves volleyball for 10 minutes and will ask pledges to donate money for each serve they hit. During those 10 minutes there will be sponsors that will be watching each player as they serve. I talked with Coach Allen, some more, about the girls and what their relationship is like as a team. There are 10 girls on Varsity, 14 girls on Junior varsity and 12 girls on the Freshman team, and according to Coach Allen these 36 girls have “Great team chemistry”. Coach Allen also stated that “varsity is a close knit team”. They are a very close team and spend a lot of time together, Coach Allen believes these girls “Have a lot of fire” on the court when playing at their volleyball matches. After talking with Coach Allen and learning more about the volleyball team, it was very interesting to k n ow m o r e
about what this team does and how they are helping society, such as doing the Power Pink Tournament.
A race to the top of Section II Jimmy McLaughlin
The varsity boy’s soccer team works every year to be able to compete against every team in the Suburban Council. Coach Kinnally, the head coach, said, “Every year it’s like a dog fight, there is no dominant team. You could beat a really great team, but the team you beat could also beat another team you lost to. It is a very down to the wire season.” “Many players have graduated in the past two years, so it has been the team’s focus to win more in a collective effort rather than the star player coming up with the big win,” Coach Kinnally says. “Our team goal every year is to win ten games and make it to the final four.” It seems for years to come the soccer team looks pretty promising with Sophomore Vittio Messiti returning and Juniors Nick Iurno and Michael Crupi. But after several tough games against Shaker, Shenendehowa, and Ballston Spa, the varsity boys’ soccer team feels like it has some work to do before they can become Section 2 champions. Both the senior captains, Jordan Weeden and Jp Horan, agree that without a doubt, the team will be able to beat Shaker if
they had another chance to play them. Tuesday, 9/21, the Dutchmen played one of their toughest opponents yet. They fell short of the victory, losing 4-3 to Shaker. Horan, the starting goalie, said, “Shaker was a tough loss because we were up 3-1.” He also added, “We would definitely beat Shaker if we played like we did the past two games.” Jordan Weeden also added, “Shaker was probably our worst loss of the year. That one hurt.” After the Shaker loss, it was another tough two days before they had to play Shen later on that week. The game ended with a tie, scoreless in both half ’s. After the game Weeden said, “It was a great game, I was proud of how we played.” To conclude their stressful week, the Dutchmen played Ballston Spa on Saturday. Junior Nick Iurno said, “Ballston Spa is suppose to be the best team in our council and we were just out played that game.” Weeden said, “I’m not going to make any promises but we have as a good as a chance as anyone and there is no doubt were in the hunt for the plaque.” There is much more to come from Guilderland soccer.
Sports
page 20 (theJournal)
October 2010
Swimmer Jenna Bickels to go to Olympic Trials continued from page 1 full varsity practices 6 days a week. Yet this extra practice has not gone on without result. On August 5th 2010 at the Speedo championship tournament, Jenna raced for the winning time of 1:O3.41 in the 100 meter backstroke event. This impressive victory now gives her the opportunity to reach for one of her most ambitious goals yet…Olympic Trials in Nebraska, 2012. Here, 852 of the United States’ most elite swimmers will compete to swim in the U.S. lane in London, England. This includes the notorious Michael Phelps, who won an astounding 8 medals in the Beijing Olympics of 2008 and is one of Jenna’s heroes. “I wouldn’t know what to say if I met him…he’s so inspiring!” she confesses.
In the 100 backstroke event, 78 other women will be fighting to make the cut with Jenna currently seeded in the 45th slot. When asked how she will prepare for such cut-throat competition, the MVP’s thoughts were; “I have to train really hard year round, and run and lift on the side”. That’ll be a breeze for an athlete who already on average trains 5 hours daily. Although this trial does not equate to a guaranteed spot on the U.S. roster, Jenna Bickel remains a promising swimmer who is likely to be participating in the Olympic trials for many years to come. Though she treats competitive swimming as a top
priority, Jenna also looks to excel in school and develop the sport she loves here in Guilderland. By means of teaching swim lessons and lifeguarding at the Albany JCC, she sets an example of a wellrounded athlete to aspiring swimmers in our community. Her message is simple: “Go to practice every day, work hard and have fun”. We know Jenna Bickel will illustrate this same philosophy when hitting the pool in the trial race; representing Guilderland the entire length of the way.
g n i m o c e m
Joining the Delmar Dolfins club swim team has also advanced the level of competition, challenging her with grueling training sessions even after
o H
2010
“It was tough game and we
fought hard throughout it. I am proud of my team.” ~Conor Hurley #12
Photos by Dev Keenholts / The Journal
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