Classic newspaper Volume 25 Issue no. 6

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Vol. 25 No. 6 May 2009

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aSSlC Townsend Harris High School at Queens College

149-11 Melbourne Avenue, Flushing, NY 11367

1491h Street do.ors c.ou ld be ·new offi.cial ent·ra·nce

by Pearl Bhatnagar A six-week pilot to determine the official entrance for the 2009-2010 year began on May 4 with the opening of the 149th Street entrance. .

Principal Kenneth Bonamo has wanted to change the . he entrance smce first visited, and cited safety as a reason for replacing the entrance on Melbourne Avenue with the one on 149th Street.

"Me 1 bourne

our Wall of Fame Dylgjeri feels that the honoring illustrious administration should have alumni of the original changed the entrance earlier.

Townsend Harris," he "A lot of people say, and I explained. "In short, agree, that Melbourne Avenue walking into the main should have always been the lobby makes a visitor main entrance because the feel like he or she has side entrance is pointless. I just entered a great think it's a little odd to adjust ~ school - much to, but I figure they had to start "'~ more so than the sometime," she said. c=> side door could Jaspreet Sandhu, junior, ;;.-. because of space __ prefers the old entrance on _ _ - __ .;: limitations."

Melbourne Avenue. "I find it :::=.---~ £ Parent-teacher troublesome to use the new ~ ;.- · -] C o o r d i n at o r entrance. I'm so familiar with .r _>~ · o. Dafne Manhardt the old entrance since I've · commented, "The ·been using it for the last three Melbourne Avenue years and the new entrance entrance is the seems further away," she said.

Feedback from students, school's back door. parents and community has buses and car Harrisites exit the building on 149'h Street, which may become the location of the new front doors.

It is similar to when traffic from Queens visitors come to your members will help Mr. Bonamo College, and students are that the 149th Street entrance he said. house for the first time; you analyze the pilot's success. dropped off on the opposite was intended to be the main The new entrance also leads would not want them to come "I won't be hardheaded: if side of the street; 149th Street entrance for the school. straight into the main lobby, in through the back door." the complaints are many and is a one-way street with much "It has a beautiful outdoor which Mr. Bonamo wants to Tentatively, students will the problems unmanageable, less vehicular traffic. Students patio with benches overlooking make sure visitors see. "There only be permitted to use the we'll move the entrance back can be dropped off alongside the cafeteria courtyard, are display cases, a sculpture Melbourne Avenue entrance to Melbourne Avenue. I've said that from the start, and I the school," he said. along with the school's name encouraging recycling, the during dismissal time.

Mr. Bonamo believes overhead in metal lettering," dove for tolerance, and Junior Enxhi (Angie) mean it," he said.

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National award honors publications Swine flu hits USA, for First Amendment press freedoms causes health concerns

by Ariel Brodsky Named a First Amendment School f<?r the sixth time, Harris has once again received the First Amendment Press Freedom Award.

The Journalism Education Association, the · Columbia Scholastic Press Association, the National Scholastic Press Association and the Quill and Scroll Society sponsored the national contest and this year selected only three high schools for the honor.

"I was very proud that our school has won this award six times, more than any other high school," said Principal Kenneth Bonamo. "It speaks to the talented guidance of the advisors of our publications and the smart choices made. by students in exercising this freedom. It is especially relevant in today's world, In

which the Internet with its blogs and whatnot allows any individual to publish what he or she pleases to the world. With that limitless possibility comes the need for responsibility in choosing what to publish.

This can best be learned in the school setting."

To enter the contest, Mr. Bonamo, as well as the editors and advisors of The Classic, The Phoenix, and Crimson and Gold, completed two rounds of questionnaires about the school's student media. Questions included how teachers address the First Amendment in the classroom; and whether students are expected to submit content to administrators for prior review.

English teacher andPhoenix advisor Robert Babstock said, "At a school where so

much activity is motivated by compulsion and anxiety often in the service of entirely virtuous goals - it's easy to forget not only the meaning of freedom, but how to experience it. Public education in our democracy has been, in my experience, subject to any number of political pressures which have precious little to do with either education or democracy. The students who work on The Phoenix, espeeially the editors, carry on as though all that matters is democratic free speech and the highest literary values."

He continued, "Ifl play any role in helping them to help our school win this award, I feel a vindication almost impossible to express."

Since 2000, a charter devised by English teacher and continued on page 7

42ndStreet comes

Review:

to Harris pg. 3

Hair

pg.7

by Frank Corazza and Rupeshi Shah A growing number of confirmed cases of swine influenza in the United States has caused concerns schoolwide. According to Principal Kenneth Bonamo, although some students have been absent because of flu-like symptoms, there have been no confirmed cases of swine flu in the school. Only some of these ill students, however, were tested for the virus.

Two notices were sent home to inform Harrisites and their parents about the illness.

Swine flu, or H1N1, is a highly contagious respiratory infection from influenza viruses that regularly cause outbreaks in pigs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of May 14 there have been 47 American

Ugliness pg.ll

states with human cases of the H1N1 flu. There have also been 4298 laboratory-confirmed cases and three deaths.

H 1N 1 spreads through human-to-human and pig-tohuman transmission. It can also be transmitted through contact with an object that has flu virus on it. "I am taking many precautions since the swine flu can be spread very easily. I always have my hand sanitizer on me!" said Caitlin 0' Grady, junior.

Symptoms of H1N1 are similar to those of regular human flu. These include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, lethargy and headaches.

Currently, there is no vaccine for H1Nl. People are advised to cover their mouths and noses when they cough or sneeze, and to wash their hands often continued on page 7

NYl covers fencing team pg.12

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The

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A grand opening

Freedom of the press

The new experimental entrance on 149th S.t reet is a welcome change. As Mr. Bonamo stated, the architect of the buil<:ii111g undoubtedly meant for the new entrance to be the actual entrance to the premises. The three concrettil benches, intended for students to sit on, are more inviting than the ramp students used as a makeshift bench. The new entrance, unlike the old one, explicitly states the name of this high school. The wide and open area is a great contrast to the narrow, constricted Melbourne Avenue entrance that once was.

Mr. Bonamo stated that one reason for changing the entrance was "to enhance our visitors' first impressions upon entering the school." The grand 149th Street gates will not only make more of a lasting impression on visitors, but it wiU also give them more of a taste of our school The map of the world on the gates denotes the diversity of our students, the Hall of Fame in the main lobby boasts distinguished Harris alumni, the recycled~can dinosaur right near the door shows our students' concern for the world at large, and the white dove on the lobby wall symbolizes the sense of togetherness present in the school We also agree with Mr. Bonamo when he says the tl.ew entrance will be a safer alternative for students. Although there is now additional congestion on 1491h Street, parents who are unable to park directly in front of the entrance can at least park on. the same block as the school. This means no

Harris was recently honored with its sixth First Amendment Press Freedom Award by a consortium of national scholastic press associations (see page 1). This accolade is a testame-nt to our school's commitment to the protection of students' First Amendment rights, which are constantly put into practice through the school's award-winning publications. However, while the individual staffs of The Classic, The Phoenix and Crimson and Gold are well versed in the ideals signified by this award, students and faculty alike would greatly benefit from becoming familiar with our school's charter.

The document ensures that students' First Amendment freedoms will not be compromised by the administration as long as these rights are exercised responsibly.

By reading the charter, the Harris community will become aware of the liberties granted to us, as well as the responsibilities that come with these freedoms. This awareness of treedom of expression could in turn assert itself in the classroom wi:th essays that examine topics often censored in other schools. With this fum grounding in the rights and responsibilities ofthe First Amendment, a more intellectual and motivated student body will emerge.

While students already analyze and openly discuss the school's charter in the Journalism elective, this alone will not get the job done. Incoming students should be required to learn about the charter in their Writing Process class, which already educates students about the ]jphebic Oath and Harris history in preparation for Founders' Day. The Classic hopes that both the rights and responsibilities outlined in the charter are not overlooked by the Harris cotnmunity. The publications already practice freedom of expression, but there is no reason why the whole student body should not be aware of these cherished liberties as well.

Excerpts from the charter are included on the following1Jage.

Letter to the Editors

To the Editors: I would like to bring to your attention a certain criticism that I have. It is concerning the English Regents Predicative Test that we (the juniors) just took. I have no problem with the test itself, but rather the fact that we took an identical test in the fall term. The second time around will not help us, other than doing better on the same exact test. But what skills for the Regents in June does this give us? None. I ask you to research this further and report about it in the .next edition of The Classic.

Lucas Knight, junior This issue was investigated by Classic News Editor Sarah Mahmood. See article on page 5.

Dr~~atizing

refugee camps

Dear Hams1tes, · We [the Queens College chapter of STAND, the student-led division of the Genocide Intervention Network] are establishing a simulated refugee camp that we're calling REFUGEE CAMPus on the quad outside Remsen Hall (opposite Powdermaker) in order to express solidarity with Sudanese genocide victims.

Right now, over 2. 7 million people have been put at immediate risk due to the removal of 16 humanitarian organizations by Sudan's president, Omar al-Bashir.

This is yet another example of the regime's genocidal uses of starvation and forced deprivation of medical supplies as weapons ofwar.

In order to draw attention and encourage a peaceful resolution to the situation, about a dozen of us will be sleeping out on the quad in makeshift tents for 5 days and 4 nights (May 18th-May 22nd), simulating the situations in refugee camps somewhat by only eating what we can carry in our backpacks and what people will give us of their own generosity. We will have speakers - ranging from professors to members of Congress, from students to people from Darfur - throughout the week.

We will also host interfaith dialogues, learn how to play cricket, and be filmed for a documentary. We are not only focusing on Darfur; we want to engage students and the community at large in the all-encompassing issue of the importance of taking action as global citizens!

Even when we're not having a formal event, anyone who comes by the camp will be welcomed to a tour and can stay for however long they like. Our biggest event will be on Monday May 18: Congressperson Gregory Meeks will be speaking, along with many others. Only Queens College students can sleep over with us, but other than that, anyone is welcome at any time! Bring friends after school and hang out with us: activism is so important and is a heavy responsibility.

Peace and love, Jennifer Polish, '07

Co-Editors-in-Chief Ariel Brodsky

Benjamin Snyder

Sarah Mahmood News Editor

A warm community

by Yena Purmasir · Because she was an extraordinary student, Matilda had to go to an extraordinary school. And no school could compare to Townsend Harris.

Having seen and experienced the brutality of Headmistress Trunchbull while she was in elementary school, she was surprised to see so many students joyfully attend classes. Even those students who came in swinish moods readily completed assignments and actively participated in the classroom.

Now, Matilda was a remarkable child with remarkable talents. But as she had grown, so did her ability to use these talents. Aside from simple telekinesis, Matilda had also learned to see fantastic things.

As May approached, she noticed that there were peculiar things clinging to her friends' bags. They were strange, grotesque things, slightly green, and Matilda was intensely aware of their subtle but pervasive effect on the atmosphere at Harris. Yet they were unseen by the other students and the teachers. They were huge and hulking and displayed an optimistic disposition that was infectious. They were silent, limiting their expression to gestures and affectionate caresses. Matilda was shocked to see the absolute adoration these things had for her friends.

But no matter what they did, they were always invisible to all the others. Pitying the fantastic things and having learned not to judge people, she accepted and embraced this new company. Influenza tried to spread her love and spirit around the unseeit.lg Harrisites. Matilda, touched by her affection, immediately ·bonded with her; they became inseparable. Bronchitis often hugged her so tightly that she could hardly breathe. There were many others whom Matilda saw and she came to be very close to all of them.

The school- the atmosphere- was unlike anything she had ever dreamed of.

Never before had she thought that students and teachers could be so closely knit.

Despite the unusually chilly days of May, she realized that there was a certain warmth in Townsend Harris. The faculty and the student body were huddled together and even though they could not see· her companions, her friends felt their feverish presence.

In an extraordinary school, it made perfect sense that extraordinary things would be shared. At Townsend Harris, everything was a collaborative achievement. (inspired by Matilda, by Roald Dahl)

News Staff: Allison Bennett, Jasmine Daniel, Hayley Desmond, Shelby Heeht, Cristine Khan, Eunice Lau, Sydney Lowe, Nicholas Lupo, Freddy Milhin Jr., Lory Martinez, Rupeshi Shah, Grace Shin, Rebecca Suzuki, Tracey Wang

Feature Staff: Indira Abiskaroon, Heriselda Begaj, Frank Corazza, Emma Court, Abigail Koffler, Steven Lange, Demetta Panagiotopoulos, Sharmin Rashed, Katherine Valles .

Pearl Bhatnagar Esther Whang Rebecca Seidel Feature Co-Editors Entertainment Editor Sports Staff: Kirsten Guelly, Oliver Lee, Daniel Pecoraro, Eilin Perez, Grace Shin, Arthur Tarley

Ashley Guzman Photography Editor

Ashley Knight Sports Editor

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Townsend Harris High School at Queens College 149-11 Melbourne Avenue, Flushing, NY 11367

The Classic is an open forum for the expression of student views. The opinions expressed therein should not be taken to represent those of the administration or faculty or st u d en t b o d y as a w h o1e.

Art Staff: Richie Bonilla, Edward Farquharson, Alice Hung, Readers are invited to submit letters to the ediSafa Siddiqui, Katherine Valles, Amy Wang, Esther Whang, Amy Yuan tor. Letters should be placed in Ms. Cowen's Liz Kussman Heriselda Begaj mailbox or e-mailed to thhsclassic@gmail.

Photography Staff: Aliza Altman, Pearl Bhatnagar, Rebecca com. The Classic reserves the right to edit all Art Editor Business Manager Chu, Ang-ie Dylgeri, Sharmin Rashed, Alexander Sabatino, letters. Letters must include name and official •.

Fl. .

C class. Names wiU oe withhelO upon re(!luest.

Principal- Kenneth, Bonamo Ad .. VIsor - usa owen Angglelia SutJipto

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Excerpts from the Charter for The Classic Since its founding in 1984, along with the re-establishment of Townsend Harris High School, The Classic has enjoyed the de facto status of an open forum forf the expression of student opinion. This charter formalizes the administration's commitment to First Amendment rights for students and spells out the policies of the newspaper which have led to sixteen years of outstanding, responsible journalism.

1. Both the administration of Townsend Harris High School and The Classic sanction and scrupulously adhere to the limitations on student expressiqn delineated in the Tinker decision of 1969. Under no circumstances will the paper knowingly commit libel, breach the privacy of an individual, incite disorderly conduct, violate copyrights or use obscene language ....

2. The administration will refrain from

d~manding

prior review of any article, and will place no subjects off limits to student reporters.

3 . ... The Classic is permitted to print articles on any subject so long as these articles are fair, balanced and accurate and do not violate any of the strictures mandated by the Tinker decision, as stated in # 1 above ....

4. The Classic will strive to uphold the highest level of accuracy in reporting and will conscientiously cite all sources used for research. The paper will publish a correction when an error is brought to its attention ....

6. The Classic ... will not target individual students or faculty members for criticism so long as there are viable official channels available for the redress of any legitimate grievances ....

7. Should students seriously violate the trust placed in them, as outlined in the above provisions, it is understood that this charter will be placed in jeopardy....

8. The advisor of The Classic will work with students to meet the highest possible standards ofjournalism ...but will not censor the protected free expression of student journalists.... ·

Rendition of 4~d Street deemed 'very impressive'

by Lory Martinez Dancers and a love-laden plotline highlighted the Players' rendition of 42nd Street on April 3 and 4. The show, directed by English teacher Joe Canzoneri and produced by Assistant Principal of Humanities Susan Getting, received standing ovations on both nights.

The play starred freshman Kyra Leeds as Peggy Sawyer, a young, talented Broadway hopeful who is cast as a chorus girl in a new play directed

by Julian Marsh (senior Dakota Gangi). In the midst of a complicated love triangle, Dorothy Brock Gunior Kellie Gergoudis ), the star of Marsh's show, The cast of 42"dStreet takes a bow at the curtain call of their final performance onApril4. breaks her ankle came together for the nights of the Lenk, a former PTA member whose during rehearsal. play."

She added, "Staying until9 p.m. daughter graduated in 2006, helped the This gives Peggy the chance to take was definitely worth it." cast find more than 100 costumes for a her part.

Teachers also devoted lots of time 1930s setting.

As she left the auditorium, health The play, which was cast in to the production. English teacher Judy teacher Maria Assante said, "Very November, prioritized singing and Biener was the singers' vocal coach. impressive! I thought our students dancing.

"Especially with a show like worked very hard to give their audience "She takes a song and turns it into a this, that's what matters most," said a wonderful performance. The level of Broadway song," said Mr. Canzoneri.

Mr. Canzoneri.

The show had numerous dance talent was incredible. I can't wait for numbers that required extensive .

Throughout the long rehearsals next year's play!"

Junior Almedin Javorovac and choreography. Laura Schubert was the and hours of running lines, the cast freshman Jennifer Aviles agreed. "We tap dance instructor for the show, while grew very close. Mr. Canzoneri said, both really liked it," Jennifer said. "We Biology teacher Katherine Cooper "You get students from all four grades. didn't know we had this much talent in created the non-tap choreography. "I'm They get to hang out with people they really happy to get dancers that pick wouldn't speak to if it hadn't been for our school." things up quickly," she said. the play."

Members of the -cast often stayed Behind the scenes, art teacher Sophomore Bryan Medina, who at school extra late to practice. "There Margherita Wischerth was in charge played Mac, Mr. Marsh's assistant, were times when we were totally fed up with all the late rehearsals, but 42nd of set design. She, with the help of the said, "It was an amazing experience.

Street turned out great," said sophomore art and scenery crew and her husband, We grew as a cast and found family created a set that depicted Depression bonds." dancer Christine Roman.

Senior dancer Demetra Kentrotas Era New York City.

Senior Johanna Sanders, who The show also required a lot of agreed. "The play is an amazing played Ethel, said, "The hours we spent costumes.

Costume Director Vivienne bonding experience. The whole cast is practicing really paid off. Everything

one big-family," she said.

"Everyone should.try to participate in the play in · some way during their time at Townsend."

Chorus member Vicky Papagermanos, junior, added, "I find it amazing how a group of acquaintances can become a family in the time span of two months. The cast of 42nd Street is a unique and talented one that I ~ feel extremely proud ~ to be a part of." ';., Dakota played a ~ lead role, although ~ he had never done ,.0 any shows before this and was accidentally put into the Drama Workshop elective.

He had been unsure about auditioning, but Mr. Canzoneri persuaded him, along with seniors Raoul Valencia and Jordano Sanchez. "Next thing you know, I got the lead," Dakota said.

He added, "The whole show was an excellent experience."

Junior Joey Spitaleri has acted in the past two school plays, This year, he played Billy Loler, Peggy Sawyer's love interest. "42nd Street was without a doubt the best play I've done since West Side Story and Forum," he said.

"The cast was fantastic and we've really stepped it up this year."

Mr. Canzoneri also noted how 42nd Street contrasts with the previous two Harris shows. "Personally, I like the fact that those three shows are so different," he said.- "West Side Story was a tragic musical, Forum a witty comedy, and this show had glitz and glamour and a thin script."

Mr. Canzoneri said that next year's play, like 42nd Street, will include a lot of dancing. "I knew we had a strorig core of talented dancers in the building," he said. "I'll pick something that will showcase their talents." <!)

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Brustein recognized as 'Outstanding EducatOr' _

by Esther Whang · The Science Council of New York City (SCONYC) and the Science Supervisors Association recognized Assistant Principal of Science and Technology SusanBrustein as "Outstanding Educator of the Year" at an awards ct~remony at Stuyvesant High School on April 25. According to Ms. Brustein, it is "a lifetime achievement," that is annually given to one or more educators who have "made a difference in more than their own school."

Officially named' the "Jerry Resnick Memorial Presidential Award" after the second president ofSCONYC, Jerry Resnick, the honor was bestowed upon Ms. Brustein after a city-wide search, and with the recommendation of her peers.

Ms. Brustein said she was "a little surprised and very proud" when she heard the news. She added, "It pleases me that people beyond our school think that what I've done is valuable to science education."

Ms. Brusteinhascontributed to various science committees and programs. She co-edited New York City's Chemistry Curriculum, was a co-author of the Queens College/Queens High Schools Investigative Science Rubric for Teachers & Students, and has been a part of the New York City Science and Engineering Fair (NYCSEF) Scientific Review Committee for eight years. In addition, Ms. Brustein was the secretary of the Science Supervisors Association of NewYork, and is currently serving as Vice

President of this organization. passion for chemist~ during Before coming to Harris, high school. "I knew I wanted she.taught Organic Chemistry to teach chemistry when I sat at "Stuyvesant and wrote the in Mr. Zuckerman's class ...

Stuyvesant Course Guide, . because it was just magic. I as well as the College can't explain it any other way.

Handbook.

And I thought that ifl could do Throughout her time just that, that would be the best working as an educator, Ms. thing," she said.

Brustein said there have Ms. Brustein added that been "so many" rewarding working as an educator experiences, such as when "doesn't get easier." However, students come out of a class she emphasized her passion with "a good sense of self' and for what she does. She said, with the attitude, "Ifl could do "Teaching was always hard this, I could do anything." work, but it's joyous work. Ifl Ms. Brustein realized her had to do it again, I would."

Queens College professors bring expertise to classes

by Katherine Valles The third annual Visiting Professors Week, in collaboration with Queens College's College Prepatory Program, took place starting March 21.

Invited Queens College professors came "to give underclassmen the opportunity to experience being taught by a college professor... [and to] give them a taste of college before their senior year," said Assistant Principal of Humanities Susan Getting, who worked with Helen Gaudette, liaison between Queens College and Harris, to coordinate the visits.

The speakers gave lectures in a variety of subject areas,

from the Humanities to science and math. They demonstrated the practical application of their subjects, gave a preview of the upcoming topics in the curriculum, or gave insights into subjects not covered in the curriculum.

"The kids were engaged," said social studies teacher Franco Scardino of his junior social science research class, who was visited by Suzanne Strickland, a sociology professor. Dr. Strickland, who has previously set up social investment funds that went to the biofuel and housing sectors in Afghanistan, .spoke to the students about redevelopment in the area. "[The lecture] showed [the

students] how research helps formulate policy," said Mr. Scardino.

Susan Meswick spoke to Ms. Getting's sophomore science research class, which is currently working on projects to enter in next year's Young Epidemiology Scholar's Competition. Dr. Meswick spoke about behaviors that contribute to the spread of diseases, the topic of her doctoral thesis. Ms. Getting noted that this was especially relevant given recent scares about the swine flu.

Mariana Zinni, Assistant Professor of the Department of Hispanic Language and Literature, spoke to first year Spanish students about

Hispanic writers of the "boom generation" in Latin America.

"It was fantastic," said Assistant Principal of Languages Other than English Lisa Mars, adding, "It was brand new for [the students]."

Many teachers followed up on the lectures the next day by clarifying the subject material, as some students had · no background knowledge on the lecture topic. "[The lecturer] spoke about ideas reviewed in class," math teacher Eleanor Reilly said.

"I followed up on it the next day to connect it with what we had le~rne.d." Professor Chris Vickery spoke about computer architecture to Ms. Reilly's Java 1 class.

"I thought it was helpful to anyone interested in pursuing a career in computer programing," said junior Adam Mielnik. "He gave us advice on what courses we should study if we want to go into that career."

Because the lectures took place immediately after spring break, planning began before the vacation. Ms. Getting first had to find out which teachers planned to participate in the event. Interested teachers had to specify the desired lecture topic so that available professors with the right expertise could be found.

Ms. Getting felt that Visiting Professors Week was "generally a success."

Marine Biologist Ott discusses Exxon Valdez oil spill

by Benjamin Snyder Marine biologist and author Riki Ott visited Harris classes on March 31 to discuss her experiences regarding the effects of the Exxon Valdez oil spill, which is estimated to have contaminated Prince William Sound in Alaska with at least 11 million gallons of oil 19 years ago.

Dr. Ott spoke during Assistant Principal of Humanities Susan Getting's first band Social Science Research class, social studies teacher· Linda Steinmahn's second band Advanced Placement Government and Politics class and sixth band Law Seminar, as well as during social studies teacher Jaime Byrne's fifth band United States History class.

Junior Shayna Weiss's family knows Dr. Ott through a family friend and allowed her to stay at their house while she visited New York, "promoting awareness and _promoting her new book," explained Shayna. "Dr. Ott wanted to do something in return for our hospitality, so she offered to speak at Harris. I realized that this was an opportunity to get environmental awareness, especially because the Students for the Preservation of the Earth (SPE) club was being

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fairly active in the school during that week," Shayna continued. Stewart Weiss, Shayna's father and a member of the Parent-Teacher Association, helped organize the visit along with Ms.Getting.

Dr. Ott, who has written two books, Not One Drop and Sound Truth and Corporate Myth$, on the oil spill and its ~ffects on the city of Cordova, Alaska, delivered a Power Point presentation and held discussions afterward.

With graphic images portraying the deadly effects of the oil on animals and humans alike, the presentation emphasized the social and environmental impact that the spill had in Alaska. The damage is said to have spread further than 1200 miles from the site where the Exxon Valdez Oil Tanker initially made impact in Prince William Sound due to a storm.

The clean-up, according to Dr. Ott, took place for three years. However, because of beach cleaning practices now recognized as unsafe, numerous workers became ill.

Through research of Exxon's medical data, Dr. Ott found that "there was a total of 6,722 workers who had filed upper respiratory illness claims during the 1989 clean-up alone."

Dr. Ott also spoke about the about environmental issues." destruction of Cordova's fish"[Dr. Ott's presentation] ing economy and the actions opened the students' eyes to taken against Exxon in court. some ideas they hadn't thought The oil residue, which still of before about the United pollutes the water to this day, States Government and corpohas detrimentally affected various fish species like the herring, which is a primary source of income for the inhabitants of Cordova. According to the presentation, the closing of the town's herring fishery costs Cordova "about $100 million by Pearl Bhatnagar a year in lost earnings."

The New Yor!<. State Teachers and students · Science Honor Society found Dr.Ott's passionate pre- (NYSSHS) celebrated the sentation very informative. "I science achievements of 211 was so impressed by her pre- members with an induction sentation," said Dr. Steinmann. ceremony in the auditorium on "I felt [it] was so important... April28. and the students who heard "I want our inductees to her speak felt the same way. I know that I am proud of them, think they were very apprecia- and know that achieving this tive." honor is no small feat," said "I was in one of the classes Assistant Principal of Science to which Riki spoke. My at- and Technology Susan tention was captured by what Brustein.

Riki was saying because the The ceremony opened with events that she discussed were a screening of the Intel Schools things I never thought could of Distinction Video, followed have happened," said Shayna. by a welcome speech by Susan "I'm pretty passionate about Brustein, Assistant Principal saving the environment, which of Science and Technology probably ~ad an impact on my and NYSSHS advisor. Junior .impression of the presentation. Michelle Ciesielska then However, I think that Riki performed "Maple Leaf Rag" did a great job of making the by Scott Joplin on the piano. topic interesting to everyone, After remarks by Principal even the people who don't care Kenneth Bonamo, junior

rate America and how they can sometimes be irresponsible," said Ms. Byrne. "I thought what she haci to say was valuable, and I hope [my students] thought so, too."

Science Honor Society welcomes inductees Shayna Weiss performed "Procession of the Gnomes," also on piano, and later, senior Jeffrey Wong, violinist, and junior Sheena Tsai, pianist, played "Salut D'Amour" by Edward Elgar.

Following the speeches and musical performances, the Science Department faculty led the induction of the students, who received their certificates on stage.

Junior Kellie Gergoudis ended the ceremony with the Alma Mater. "[The ceremony was a] really nice celebration for students that achieved high grades in the sciences," said science teacher Rosemarie Eaton .

Inductees earn a minimum average of 90% in science, math, an overall, as well as take a required number of science courses.

The Classic

5

May2009

Duplicate Regents predictive distrib.uted to juniQrs

by Sarah Mahmood

Approximately 35 juniors and their English teachers recounted experiencing deja vu in March: the Department of Education (DO E)-mandated English assessment being administered seemed like the same one they had been given in September. "[My English teacher] Mr. Cappuccio said the reading is from JFK's inaugural address, and the whole class said, 'Wait a minute. Didn't we take this already?"' said junior Preet Korani.

The two assessments in question were the RllB, taken the week of September 22, and the Spring English Regents Assessment, taken the week of March 30. Deputy Press Secretary of the DOE Andrew Jacobs confirmed that the two were very similar.

"We made changes to some of the items on the English Regents-year predictive assessment in response to feedback we received from teachers last year. In order to make sure the results of the new version of the test were accurate, we had to 'field test' the new items. A random sampling of students across the city participated in the field test in the fall," he said.

Some of these students were also given the final version of the assessment in March.

"Typically, we would not create a situation where students could take · two versions of the same test in one year, but these were special circumstances. We wanted to make sure teachers would have complete results from the final version that was administered [in March]," he continued.

The integrity of the results of the March assessment may have been compromised because many students relied on memory rather than rereading the passages to pick their answers. "I didn't even really have to read the material because I remembered the gist of all the passages.

Everyone commented on how the assessment was useless, then, because it didn't assess anything but our · memory," said junior Shanice Bedassie. "[English teacher] Mr. Canzoneri said that we were taking another practice Regents assessment, and the class in general was pretty upset because we were reading a really good book at the time. As soon as ~ got the test, I recognized it from before; I didn't even read the passage on the bikes because I remembered it so well. It was a waste of my time, and I think Harrisites' time in general- this is a Humanities school!" said junior Jeannette Raymond. "I made an effort to take the test ---;-

[in March], but recently our class took another practice Regents assessment [in May].

I was so fed up that I bubbled in a smiley face on my answer sheet. I was not taking another assessment for the fourth time.

How ridiculous."

Like Jeannette, others were also disgruntled at the number of assessments the DOE has mandated for the year. Thus far, the juniors have taken four assessments in preparation for the English R~gents they will take in June.

"We lose approximately five teaching periods, which would be one week [of classes]," said English teacher Raquel Chung.

"The English 6 curriculum is jam-packed as it is. Now instead of doing enrichment lessons on The Great Gatsby - whether musical, historical, or artistic - we [teachers] stand and watch them take multiple choice tests," said Mr. Canzoneri. "Let's not neglect the amount of money all of this is costing. It could be used to lower class size, offer more electives, purchase books and materials for those who are struggling - whom we can pinpoint without the predictive assessment."

However, the DOE believes that the assessments are a valuable tool for the classroom.

"The city's philosophy is that frequent assessments and early intervention when necessary can help improve a student's ·achievement," said principal Kenneth Bonamo.

The DOE uses Acuity, a testing program from McGraw Hill, to arrange the periodic assessments. It has a contract with the company valued at $57 million for the years 20072012, according to a report entitled "Show and Tell" by Councilmember Bill de Blasio.

Although the assessments are currently limited to Math and English classes, students will eventually start to take them in science. and history classes as well.

"These assessments are designed to give regular, timely feedback on students' strengths and weaknesses to help guide teachers' instruction.' In other words, they help teachers pinpoint areas where students are struggling. They also provide an early indicator of student performance on state tests and measure student progress toward success in high school and beyond," explained Mr. Jacob.

Assistant Principal of Humanities Susan Getting said that many feel the periodic assessments "don't mirror" the Regents exam.

"The questions on the predictive assessments are actually harder than those on

the Regents. The class average is about 10 points lower- in the low 80s - on the assessments than it is on the actual Regents, which is in the low 90s," said Mr. Canzoneri.

Facuity members · also questioned the usefulness of such assessments in specialized schools. Although deeme9 harder than the Regents, the assessments are considered to be much ea~ier than the assignments and tests teachers give in class. "In lowperforming schools it can be very valuable, but for a school like Townsend Harris, I don't know how valuable it is," said Ms. Getting.

"Assessments don't give a realistic sense of our students' ability," said Ms. Chung. "The level of the questions is much lower, and much more contentbased, whereas tyachers in the school .focus more on analyzing, synthesizing, and comparing and contrasting."

"Teachers at all schools, including specialized high schools, can benefit from having timely data about their students' performance, which is exactly what these tests provide. However, if a school feels that the assessment options we provide do not meet their needs, they can

design their own assessment.

Many schools, including high schools, choose this option," said Mr. Jacob.

However, some argued that no assessments are needed at all. "Yes, you need to look at data to drive instruction, but use the data that says 99 percent of our students are at mastery level [a score of 85 or above] and use that data to drive the kind of instruction we should offer our students," said Mr. Canzoneri.

According to the DOE's Comprehensive Information Reports, Townsend Harris has consistently had a 100% passing rate on the English Regents for the last four years. The value of periodic assessments is "greatly diminished in a school such as ours. In essence, we're looking for a problem that doesn't exist," said Mr. Bonamo.

Teachers also doubted the reliability of the results. Ms. Chung believes thatthevalidity of the results is disputable because many students didn't take any of the assessments - not only the duplicate test seriously.

"I bubbled in whatever suited my mood. No effort," said junior Kathleen Zabala.

"I hope that didn't count for

anything."

Even if students did take them seriously, "they'd only be marginally reliable, and for the amount of time and money, it's not worth the effort," said Mr. Canzoneri. "As my uncle used to say, 'Sometimes, the prize ain't worth the contest."'

Mr. Cappuccio was also skeptical- of the effectiveness of the assessments. If students are performing poorly on a questiop. testing a specific skill, "it could be that the students are having difficulty with the skill or that the question is faulty.

There is no way to assess the validity of the question," he said.

Ms. Chmig noticed that some students' results conflicted with their class achievement. As an example, she pulled up the results of one of her students who is doing well in class but received a 33% in the subset of skills labeled as 'Read and follow written directions and procedures to solve problems and accomplish tasks - use workplace documents and technical manuals.'

"On paper, it looks bad," said Ms. Chung, but the results are "misleading," because there were only three questions in that section.

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The Classic

May2009

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Ephebic Oath Project creates 9/11 memorial

by Lory Martinez You may have seen your fellow Harrisites wearing red bracelets recently. The bracelets read: "9/11--343." They are a part of the Ephebic Oath Project which has been launched by English teacher Helen Rizzuto and her sophomore classes to make a permanent memorial to the 343 firefighters who passed away on September 11, 2001.

The project involves the creation of three books that will be put on display in the library the year of the tenth anniversary of 9/11 . The first is a Memory Book, consisting of several letters that members of the class of 2005 wrote to the fallen heroes while in Ms. Rizzuto's English class. Upon completion,itwillbepublished and distributed to the families of the firefighters.

The second book is a Scrapbook that will consist of art inspired by 9/11. The third is a Yearbook that will have individual biographies of the 343 firefighters and reflections on their lives written by each of the students in Ms. Rizzuto's current sophomore classes.

Fundraising is being done to

raise money for the glass case that will house the books in their permanent place of honor in the library. The money will also be used for publishing costs and distribution to the families. The goal is to provide every family a remembrance of their loved ones.

Captain Alfredo Fuentes, who was one of the firefighters who survived 9/11, was happy to see the project take flight.

"The families are going to be so happy that you took the time to remember their son or brother. I thank you from the bottom of my heart," he said when he visited Ms. Rizzuto's classes before spring break.

Captain Fuentes has frequently visited the school since 2002. "The students have adopted me and I've adopted them,"hesaid.Thenow-retired Captain was buried underneath the rubble of the North Tower for 45 grueling minutes on 9/11 before being rescued. After making his slow recovery from his near-fatal injuries, Captain Fuentes focused on founding a quicker first response system through the Patriot Group organization.

The group has co-sponsored

two Patriot walks with Harris students. The goal, according to Captain Fuentes, was to fundraise for the non-profit group and to remember his "brothers" from the firehouses all over the city. He knew nearly 250 of the 343 who passed away, according to Ms. Rizzuto.

Senior Estefania Diaz, one of the project coordinators, attended the second walk in October, 2005, when hundreds of Harrisites walked around Kissena Park to honor.

9/11 's fallen heroes. "Now, it is time for their names, lives and importance to be remembered again," Estefania said.

She . is working closely with sophomore coordinators Karina Hernandez, Lory Martinez, Tracy Wang and Aquib Yacoob, and their aides, sophomores Alice Kim, Misty Kim, Ashley Lecaro and Helena Pak. Each of the coordinators showed an individual interest in creating a rememberance project after hearing Ms. Rizzuto read a letter written by a student who attended the first Walk in 2005.

"Every time [a 9/11 memorial

project] comes up, it is always the students who take the initiative. I never would have done the walks had it not been a student who came up to me," said Ms. Rizzuto.

"In the short time that we have been doing this, this project has become more than just a project; it has become a "drive," and day by day, as we work more on it, it is carving itself deeper into my heart," Aquib said.

Tracey is leading the Yearbook committee, which will edit the submitted biographies. "When we began this project, there was a real problem of not having a place where every single firefighter was named and recognized.

I thought it would be great if we had a 'yearbook' where all the 343 firefighters can be mentioned," she said.

Karina is leading the scrapbook committee. "I suggested it to Ms. Rizzuto, and since someone had already started, but never really progressed with [the scrapbook] in previous years, I wanted to take it up again," she said.

A small group of artists

f

will be creating the scrapbook with quotations, momentums, letters, and photographs.

"We have about two years, enough time to make it perfect, personal, neat and beautifully crafted. Anyone who contributes will be doing something extraordinary, and something special for the firefighters that are with us and those that have passed away," she added.

"This project will not only be for us to remember these men for their incredible dedication to their city, but also to remember their lives, .their hobbies, their lifestyles, so that we can establish a connection that will live on in our hearts and in the hearts of all of the other students who will come to Townsend Harris in the future and see this permanent memorial," Estefania, said.

"Never underestimate how much good you can do," said Captain Fuentes.

Ms. Rizzuto began the project not only to remember those who passed away that day, but also to celebrate their lives. "That is what its all about," she said.

'Straights and Gays Educating Students' shows Milk

by Freddy Millan, Jr. Straights and Gays Educating Students (SAGES), advised by social studies teacher Franco Scardino, presented a free showing of the film Milk to anyone who came with a signed permission slip onApril24. The screening took place in the auditorium, where SAGES members also gave background information about Harvey Milk. Rainbow cookies and milk were served after the movie.

Milk is based on the life of the first openly gay man elected to office. It follows his relationship with his lover, Scott Smith, and portrays events leading to his election to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors and, ultimately, to his assassination by politician Dan White. At the 81 '1 Annual Academy Awards, Milk was nominated for Best Picture, and Sean Penn won Best Actor for his portrayal of Milk.

SAGES According to

president Megan McCaffrey, and you can tell that [director] junior, Milk was chosen for Gus Van Sant and [writer] ''its popularity and critical Dustin Lance Black want to acclaim" and because it "tells tell this story with the right a really important story, but it amount of respect and care."

Junior Lia Manoukian said, doesn't really elevate Harvey "I thought the showing of Milk Milk to some sort of god. He clearly has flaws and is just was a great opportunity. The as human as everyone else, . club has helped open my eyes although maybe a little braver. to the problems people have to It also shows really clearly the face."

This was a major goal of prejudices that people had at the time and, to an extent, still the screening. "Well, a large do. And besides that, it's really part of it was getting our beautifully acted and filmed, name out there, for sure," said

Megan. "Although, more than that, we hoped it would reach new audiences, maybe people who hadn't really thought of gay rights as an issue and didn't know the history of the movement. We wanted it to open some minds."

SophomoreAdelManoukian said, "I thought Milk was a fantastic movie. Harvey Milk inspired me to fight for what I believe in, and made me truly . see this issue. If I wasn't for gay rights before, I am now."

Variety Show rai.ses money for Ecuadorian education

by Tracey Wang Free the Children, the club dedicated to helping children worldwide through education, hosted the seventh annual Variety Show on April 22 to raise money to build clean water systems for schools in Ecuador. The ticket sales and profits from the food garnered over $1,000.

"Thecauseisvery honorable and altruistic. Students spend their time, talents, and money to help people they've never met. It is the embodiment of the Townsend Harris spirit and it is the Ephebic Oath in action," said Principal Kenneth Bonamo.

"I think it was a very worthy cause. We have some very talented [performers]. I can see people really want to help," said sophomore Brian Lamberta "I like the fact that there's so much talent in this school

and that the students are willing to share their talent for such a good cause," said senior Christina Cruz.

The show featured juniors Jeannette Raymond, Nicole Markopoulos, and Ashley Newman as emcees. Nicole informed the audience about why the club chose to support this specific cause.

"Contamination of water is a major cause of death and it is the leading killer of children.

Over two million children die every year," she said. of Free Co-President the Children, junior Maddy French, 路said, "The lack of available clean water systems was keeping young girls from going to school because it was usually the daughjer's job to walk the long distances to get water during the day."

About a.dozen acts donated their talents to benefit the cause. The show featured the

jazz band, conducted by Peter Lustig, several musical acts, an improvisational skit, and many more acts.

The jazz band performed "Birdland," "Love is Here To Stay," and "ANightin Tunisia."

After their performance, seniors Rea Bhasin, Kieran Persaud, and Deep Patel sang "Jai Ho," a mix of the original from Slumdog Millionaire and the Pussycat Dolls.

Juniors Liz Kussman and Joey Spitaleri performed "All I Ask of You" from Phantom of the Opera.

"It was better than the last two years. We have a much greater variety of acts," said Joey.

Liz said, "It gave everyone a chance to do something they thought they would never do."

Freshman Shivani Mulji said, "My favorite was Phantom [of the Opera] because that's my favorite

Broadway show. The singers year's show was better than were really, really good. They the last two years. Yena should continue doing it."

Purmasir, junior, explained An unusual addition to that due to snow storms, the the program was an art war last two Variety Shows were "a featuring emcees Nicole and disaster." She added that there Ashley. Jeannette chose an was a very low attendance that audience member, junior hurt the overall efforts.

Kibret Yebetit, and had her 路 This year, however, the hold a pose for Nicole and weather was clear and the club Ashley to draw. When time was able to raise over $300 was up, the winner was chosen more than last year. by the audience's applause.

Another reason the club Junior Kristina Rodulfo was more successful this performed "White Horse" by year, Maddy said, were Taylor Swift. She sang the the performers. "We were song while playing the guitar. fortunate enough to get Maddy said, "She was my amazing performers this year favorite act. I had liked the and the help of a lot of students song before I heard her sing who we.r en't even in the club," it, and I knew that Kristina she said. had just started playing guitar Advisor Charlene Levi in January. I have never heard said, "I just hope that they're her sing before and I was just entertained. They'll walk really blown away by her voice away feeling that they have and ability to play the guitar." contributed to the world. But Members of Free the in the end, they should just Children all agreed that this have fun."

The Classic

7

May2009

Review:

H1N1 virus

Hair revival engages audience

by Freddy Millan, Jr. Hair is a unique show, to say the least.

It originally appeared on Broadway in 1968 and was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Musical the next year.

It also spawned a film adaptation in 1979. Hair has now been revived on Broadway at the Al Hirschfeld Theater, and it opened on March 31.

Hair follows the Tribe ofAquarius, a group ofhippies inNew York during the Vietnam War. The plot mainly focuses on Claude Bukowski, the de facto leader of the Tribe. Claude gets drafted by the army and must pick between his hippie ideals and his parents' more conventional expectations of him Along the way, Claude is aided by his friends Berger, the silliest member of the Tribe; Woof, who seems to be having questions about his sexuality; Jeanie, who is pregnant with what she wishes were Claude;s baby; Hud, who deals with most of the show's racial issues; Sheila, who leads the Tribe in their many protests, despite her disapproval of their lifestyle; Crissy, who is a little odd; and Dionne, who usually leads the Tribe in song.

One of the m0st striking things about Hair is its visual beauty. The set, even though there is only one, is complex enough to make sure no other is needed, yet simple enough for audience members to always see everything on stage. The show also puts the orchestra on stage, in full hippie

outfits. The costumes are all vibrant and beautiful. Though they reveal a bit too much at times, they help to define the characters as much as the dialogue and songs do.

The songs are also beautiful, with the first "Aquarius" and the last, "Let the Sun Shine In" standing out the most. A special mention should go to Sasha Allen, who plays Dionne, for being the best singer in the show.

However, as most of the songs are sung by the entire tribe of20, it is often hard to understand the words.

A great strength of Hair is its sense of hutnor. There are some good jokes throughout, but the real laughs come when the Tribe breaks the fourth wall, openly acknowledging that they are in a show, and directly addresses the audience. Luckily, this happens frequently.

I like the audience interaction in the show. Every couple of seconds, it seems, numerous Tribe members are running up to you, even if you sit in the balcony, singing, dancing, or giving you something. During bows, the cast even invites anyone who would like to dance to the final song to join them on stage. This makes you feel like part of the show.

The biggest problem with Hair is its story. It doesn't make much sense.

Sure, it's a musical and people are supposed to burst into song, but at least those songs usually make sense

in context. Some of Hair s songs seem randomly thrown in. For example, Berger introduces himself, sings a song, and then everyone in the Tribe, out of nowhere, starts singing about drugs. There are also various plot lines that are never fully completed, such as when Crissy sings about how she met a boy named Frank Mills, but nothing comes from it.

Act One starts out fast-paced and entertaining, but, by the act finale, I was beginning to feel bored. However, the show's second act is much better. It is packed with symbolism and is really where the message of the play comes across. Of special note is the haunting yet beautiful final scene, which, if further described, would ruin the entire story. It is this scene that packs Hair's biggest punch.

One thing that must be mentioned about Hair is the prevalence of risque lyrics and dances. Most of the songs deal with controversial issues, such as race, politics, and sex, and in almost every dance scene, you will surely see someone suggestively dancing in the background. During the Act One finale, the entire cast (except Claude) strips down and stands completely nude on stage while Claude sings. There is also frequent use of profanity.

Hair is fun and has a good message that has come back into relevance.

Overall, it's worth it to go and see "the dawning of the Age of Aquarius."

f

leads to h!ealth precautions continued from page 1 Health teacher Maria Assante said, "I 1ihink we shouia be cal!ltions., l:>nt I also think we're overreacting.

Wa$Bing your hantls, covering y0ur mouth when col!lghifl'g - these are precautions we use every day."

The H lN 1 first appeared in the United States at St. Franc,is Pt~paratory School in Fresh Meadows, when some stuaents returned from a non-school-related trip to M-exico. The schoQ'l closed for one week and samtized the 'building.

"The week off of school w.as re'laxing, but we are going to have to mak'tl it up in June,'' said Anthony Corazza, a St. Francis smaent.

The school re~pened recently, although the in£ected students are stiJ:l recovering.

The New York City Departme1lt of Health and Mental Hygiene recently clistril:mted a note about what New Yorkers should know about HlNl. 1t assured parents tlaat cWldren can go to school as rong as tlaey are not sick.

First Amendment award honors freedom of press continued from page 1 Classic advisor Ilsa Cowen and the editors of The Classic has allowed students to responsibly exercise their First Amendment freedoms. This charter was signed by former principal Malcolm Largmann when it was first introduced, and was later signed by former principal Thomas Cunningham before Mr. Bonamo added his own signature this fall.

"I feel so fortunate to teach in a school where students' views are valued and young journalists are trusted to write responsibly about what really matters to them," said Ms. Cowen.

In 1988, in the Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier case, the Supreme Court ruled that schools may censor student expression that is "inconsistent

with 'the shared values of a civilized order,' or associate[ s] the school with any position other than neutrality on matters of political controversy." The charter, however, allows Harris to operate under the 1969 Tinker v. Des Moines decision that precludes such censorship.

"The principle of student empowerment is reflected in the First Amendment freedoms preserved for our student publications. A free press is one of the trademarks of the Townsend Harris experience and one which I will continue to support as principal," Mr. Bonamo said.

Crimson and Gold advisor Margherita Wischerth said, "It's an honor to be able to advise a publication where students can create a voice to tell

their story about Townsend Harris."

Amendment school because we can She added, "The yearbook staff make a book that we feel good about, works to fairly depict the temperament and we don't have to constantly think of the student body and also the about whether or not we're pleasing administration. Learning about the the administration."

"We feel extremely privileged rights and responsibilities of a First Amendment school provides the to be in a school that is so accepting students with the understanding of the of our voices," agreed senior Diana audience for which the publication is Buchhalter, Co-Editor-in-Chief of The Phoenix. "Without freedom, poetry is written."

Senior Sasha Collins, Co-Editor-in- nothing, so having the opportunity to Chief of Crimson and Gold, said, "It's express ourselves without boundaries is really great knowing that we're a First truly the ultimate creative experience."

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I 8.

Lowe wins scholarship, appears on Today Show ~~

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"[The ceremony] was not as nerve-wracking as I thought it would be. I was able to gain a lot of exposure and meet celebrities behind the scenes," said Sydney.

The girls were treated to $500 gift cards from The Limited to purchase clothing for the ceremony and also received free makeovers '0 from professional stylists.

5 0 The weekend before the Award Show, the winners got acquainted with each ~ 0 other at a sleepover. "It was ,..., r./l such a good feeling to be with a group of people who ~ all have the same interests as me. It felt like I was in a really nice sorority; everyone was supporting each other," said Sydney.

Senior Sydney Lowe meets Ann Shoket, editor of Seventeen Magazine.

She also enjoyed her meeting with Ms. Shoket.

"She is such a wonderful

by Cristine Khan As one of 16 winners of the New person. She gave us a lot of really York Women in Communications good advice about heading into the Scholarship contest, senior Sydney communications field," Sydney said.

Sydney, who is Co-Editor-in-Chief Lowe received not only a $5,000 scholarship, but also dined with the of Crimson and Gold and a news writer Editor-in-ChiefofSeventeenMagazine, on The Classic, admires Amy Astley, Anne Shoket, and appeared on NBC's the Editor-in-Chief of Teen Vogue.

"I've always had an interest in The Today Show. Sydney received her prizes at the Matrix Award Show fashion and I love to write. I think Amy on April 25, which was also attended is a perfect role model for magazine by celebrities such as Tom Hanks and editing, which I what I aspire to do," she said.

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Club of Women 路Dress Drive Do you have dresses, handbags, or accessories that you don't use anymore? If so, you can donate them to a good cause!

Club of Women is holding a dress drive for Project HEAL, an organiza- 路 tion that focuses on raising money for the treatment of those suffering from eating disorders who cannot afford it themselves.

Bring in your donations to the COSA office by May 20. Project HEAL will sell them at a fundraising event on May 23 at Douglas Manor. To learn more about the organization, visit its website at www.theprojectheal.org.

For more information about the dress drive, contact English teacher Judy Biener or email junior Sarah Mahmood at sarahmahmoodOl@gmail.com.

Harrisites rally in support of the environment on April 8.

by Grace Shin Students for the Preservation of the Earth (SPE) promoted their new recycling program at a rally they co-hosted with the Trivia Knowledge Club on April 8. It extended through all lunch,bands and SPE offered free refreshments. Those who received free food pledged to .keep the environment clean by writing their names on Post-Its and putting them on a tree-shaped paper.

Members of SPE sold t-shirts that read "Don't Treat Us Like Trash!'' for $8, and felt flowers for $1. The club also had a stationary hike that several students t@ok turns pedaling. The bike was supposed to generate power for a hospital, but because it could not be hooked up to a generator, it became "symbolic ... for generating electricity," according to junior Daniel Pecoraro, President of the Trivia K.nowlecl:ge Club aad Vice President of SPE. Additionally, the Trivia Knowledge Club displayed Environmental Jeopardy categories such as "Mother Earth,'' "Antarctica," and "Blue, Green, or Trash?" with facts for students to reatl. "[The event went] really well, and we had a good turnout," said sophomore Brian Lamberta. According to several members of the clubs, more people attended during sixth band than in :fi.ft!h, rnost likely because the rally had been moved from the courtyard to the lob@y due to a chance of rain.

Those who did not have enough money to pay for the shirts had the option to sign up t<> receive them and pay for th.em afterwards.

SPE made approxitnately $120 during fifth band, and the money raised wiU be "Qsed to h.elp pay for the school's new recyclmg bins, wh.ich cost $55 each. ''I think the outcome was great,'' said sophomore Jasmine Multani.

"There were teachers too, and we raised environmental awareness and money. We nee<ded timding for tihe garbage li>cins."

Coordinator of Student Activ1ties (COSA) Adam S:tonehi;l;l said, "The rally was wonderfuL I want to eo:fligratulate SPE for doing a phenomenal job."

Parade celebrates Greek pride on-Independence Day \'

by Abigail Koffler March 25, 1821 is seared into the memory of virtually all Greeks, as it marks the day when Greece won independence from the Ottoman Empire.

In New York, this occasion was celebrated with a Fifth Avenue parade onApril26. Representatives from Greek churches and social groups, as well as from schools like Harris, Stuyvesant and Bronx Science, marched with flags, face paint, floats, and of course, pride.

Leading Harris's entry in the parade were sophomores Anthony Barsamian and Malamo Koutsogiannis, who made arrangements with Latin teacher Marianthe Colakis, the trip advisor.

Marching in the parade is a tradition for Anthony. "I've been marching in the Greek Parade ever since I was in kindergarten, so I thought it would be really great to continue the tradition in high school and share it with everyone I know," he said.

In the weeks leading up to the parade, Malamo and Anthony grew very busy. "From getting the banner to . collecting all the permission slips; it was very time and energy-consuming, but it was worth it," Malamo stated.

On the day of the parade, 15 students journeyed to Madison Avenue to prepare, wearing blue and white and carrying flags.

The group encountered an enthusiastic crowd as they walked down Fifth Avenue. The parade was broadcast on TV, and sophomore Sophia N g caught a glimpse of her classmates.

"I was watching the Greek Parade

on UPN and saw the Townsend Harris banner held by a bunch of my classmates. I recognized them for the three seconds in a background shot and then a close up of them 1 . cheering at the camera. I think ~ they were a great representation of Townsend Harris culture!" said Sophia.

Alumni who were present at the parade recognized the students.

"A man on the sidewalk yelled out, 'Yeah, Townsend Harris! I went there!' His friend next to him yelled, 'And look how he tuined out.' It was pretty funny and I hope this is the first

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of many years we'll march," said junior Eleni Gizas.

The exhaust from the floats bothered sophomore Demetra Panagiotopoulos.

"I found it hard to breathe because there were about fiye floats around us; with gas running, the smell of exhaust was pretty strong. But I enjoyed marching and got to see a lot of Greek people whom I hadn't seen since I came to Townsend," she said.

Malamo and Anthony hope more students, including non-Greeks, will attend next year. "[We will place] more advertisements ... so next year it'll be better known," said Malamo.

The students hope to make the parade an aimual tradition. "It felt great supporting Townsend Harris and marching with friends to show our Greek pride. Although we were completely disorganized, we had a really great time marching together," said junior Dino Demetriou.

~ i~e. Classic May 2009

European travelers explore Franc~, · Germany, Switzerland

9

Excursion to Peru

'exceeds expectations,_

by Allison Bennett For some, spring break meant days' a town noted for its wood-carving;

by Indira Abiskaroon worth of rainy weather Thirty Harrisites, accompanied by Lucerne; and Engelberg: in New York. However, English teacher Georgette Wallace, "My favorite part of the trip was for one group of Ms. Wallace's friend Rose Mary being on Mount Titlis [in Engelberg]," Harrisites, it meant Holland, and foreign language teachers said ·sophomore Emily Siu. exploring the artistic, Another highlight was the surprise Mariet D'Souza and Andrew Hagerty, historical, and natural met at John F. Kennedy Airport on scavenger hunt planned for the last wonders of Peru.

April 9 to jump-start spring break night in Switzerland. "[During the The • students with a trip to Europe. They spent the scavenger hunt] my group ran for 20 departed April 8 subsequent 10 days "seeing sights minutes straight. The teachers joked at and spent eight days and experiencing European culture" how [physical education teacher] Ms. visiting Lima, Cuzco, in France, Switzerland, and Germany, Nix would be proud ofus," said junior and Puerto Maldonado. Harrisites enjoy the Peruvian landscape over spring break. traveling with the American Council Sandy Serra.

They were accompanied for International Studies (ACIS).

From Switzerland, the tired but by foreign . language brave enough the chance to sample Led by Tour Manager Mark Waldron, enthusiasticHarrisitesfoundthemselves teachers Diana Villaverde, a native of some of the country's most popular the group managed to see highlights of on a bus ride to Bavaria's capital, Peru, and Carolina Lopera. dishes.

Paris in three days, Switzerland in two, Munich, with stops in Vaduz, the capital "When we arrived [in Peru], it was Kellyn McCarthy, junior, said, "I and Munich for the remainder of the of Liechtenstein, and Ludwig IT's midnight, and we went straight to tried many new foods. Although alpaca trip. Starting in Paris, they began by fairytale castle of N~uschwanstein. In bed .... Everybody was exhausted," said and guinea pig are delicacies in Peru, acquainting themselves with the Metro. Munich, they enjoyed the old town hall Ms. Villaverde.

I didn't really like either. of them." · Being New Yorkers, they found the (the Rathaus), the famed Glockenspiel In Lima, the group did a great deal However, she added that she did enjoy Parisian Metro to be much simpler than of the new town hall, Nymphenburg of sightseeing, which included a public eating snake and yulture.

New York's subway system. They then Palace and large portions of food. park's notable fountain display. "Some Many students recalled their twoIt was not all fun and games, visited such famous monuments as the fountains reached 100 feet high and night stay in Puerto Maldonado as the A trip to the Dachau Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, the however. [included] light shows," said junior greatest highlight of the trip. While Concentration Camp Memorial served Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower..

Lucas Knight, who named the display there, they spent hours hiking through The group took France's long- as a vivid reminder of the atrocities as his favorite tourist attraction. "We the jungle and slept in huts situated distance rail service, the TGV, to committed during World War II. got to run through the fountains ....It amongst the trees. Nick described his Switzerland, where they visited Brienz, The day before departure was spent was [fun]," he said. experience in the rainforest as "by far traveling to Heidelberg. En route, the However, among all ofPeru's tourist the most exciting." He enjoyed finding bus stopped in the medieval town attractions, Machu Picchu in Cuzco rare animals, such as the Cayman, <~.nd of Rothenburg, where students went seemed to be the overall favorite of the · playing soccer against the locals in shopping. They even tried the local group. Junior Alexei Furs described the Puerto Maldonado. delicacy, Schneeballen ("snowball" in ancient Incan ruins as "very beautiful "Sleeping in the jungle was pretty German), a fried ball of gingerbread and awe-inspiring." exciting," said Elisa Atamian, junior. "I dough dipped in powdered sugar to Junior Nick Fedus added, "Being loved that we could hear everything that resemble a snowball. thousands of feet above sea level, was going on (outside of] our rooms. It "Every day [was] filled with standing on the most impressive was really cool, but I don't know ifl' d wonderful experiences, informative accomplishment of the Incan Empire, be able to take cold showers and have lectures by our tour managers [and] and being able to learn about the history no electricity for more than a week." sightseeing, and [was] steeped in the behind the ruins made [Machu Picchu] The group returned home on April culture and traditions of the locales my favorite attraction."

16. "I would definitely recommend a we visit," said Ms. Wallace. "Some of B.esides seeing what Peru had vacation to Peru," said Elisa, "because our experiences have been poignant... to offer, the students and teachers there is so much to see!" but sometimes it's just fun to be with got a taste of it as well. Eating at the Lucas said, "This trip definitely the students and enjoy their sense authentic Peruvian restaurants of Lima exceeded my expectations ... .It was one of wonder at what we are seeing and and Cuzco gave all of those who were of the best experiences of my life." doing."

Bonjour! Harrisites gather at the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.

First college trip takes juniors to Northeast campuses

by Rebecca Suzuki About three hours after boarding the bus on April 3, a group of juniors finally looked out the window and faced the campus of Yale University, begininning their first of informative college tours on the first college trip in Harris history.

The juniors, accompanied by history teacher Franco Scardino, college advisor Antoinette Teague and alumnae Amita Rai, '01, and Natalie Krauser McCarthy, '94, spent two and a half days visiting eight colleges: Yale, University of Connecticut, Wesleyan, Brown, Harvard, Boston College, Boston University, and Northeastern.

"I think the trip was a huge success.

All the tours and information sessions really helped the students get a feel for the academics and campus life of each school," said Mr. Scardino.

Students agreed that seeing the colleges with their ·own eyes was a valuable experience. "[Visiting the schools] is more hands-

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on than a pamphlet. Also, you get a feel "I believe the trip helped the students of the environment and campus," said in that it showed a variety of schools and campuses so they can decide Ryu Gregory, junior.

"Books only tell you what they [the what is a good fit for them," said Mr. colleges] want you to know," agreed Scardino.

The tours not only gave facts about junior Sandy Serra.

The trip influenced some students the colleges, but also navigated the to consider applying to some of the students through the campuses and the buildings. After tour sessions, visited colleges.

"I want to apply to the University of Harrisites dined in the college dining Connecticut because after seeing it, it halls with college students.

"It was a good experience. We were seemed like a very kind environment, and the people seemed very happy able to sample the food and experience there," said junior Maria Stamatelatos. college life," said Maria.

Junior Natalia Stypulkowski said that Many of the campus tour guides she would "apply to Boston University were Harris alumni.

Mr. Scardino said, "The alums gave because the atmosphere is closest to New York City and they have so many their own free time to be there with our current students in the truest sense of fields to choose from or study."

Others, however, were not convinced the Ephebic Oath." "[The alumni] were helpful because to apply. "I might apply to a couple of the colleges, but others are still not they knew what they were talking about really what I'm aiming for," said Ryu. and also provided us Townsend kids Although the visitations . only with information related specifically to convinced some, they gave soon-to-be us .... They had the inside scoop," said college students a taste of campus life. Sandy.

The college trip not only benefited the people who were able to go, but also those who were unable to.

"Students that went on the trip have photos that they can share with other friends. Knowledge gained can be shared with others because students will now advocate seeing and visiting colleges and share their experience with friends and give peer reactions," said Ms. Teague.

Since this trip proved to be successful, Ms. Teague and Mr. Scardino agreed that college trips will "most definitely" be planned again.

"In fact, we are planning two trips for Fall 2009, one to upstate New York state schools and the other to the Philadelphia and Washington D.C. area," said Mr. Scardino.

Ms. Teague added that these trips will be open to both juniors and seniors.

This will give more opportunities to students who missed the last trip or would like to further broaden their choices by visiting more schools.

The Classic. :

10 Japanese classes welcome exchange students •.

May 2009

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ability to speak Japanese." understand the visitors.

Isaiah agreed, saying, Cynthia Perez, junior, said, "Even though talking to the "Honestly, even if they came, students was a little difficult they wouldn't have been able due to our limited knowledge to communicate at all. ... [My of Japanese and ·English, class has] known each other respectively, we had interesting for three years, so we're like family. We can feel conversations."

Will recalled, "They started comfortable in helping each mentioning bands that I've other out to convey what we never heard of and I mentioned want to say to the Japanese some Japanese bands that they students." knew. We talked about how "Plus, the freshmen can't everyday life was there and miss their first Career Day," how everyday life was here." he joked.

Gabriela Campoverde, He added, "I found out there are kids all over the world just sophomore, has taken ~::7"~~:z ·vt?.'~~~~:~-. ·:-~·~:;·q like me but the culture that Japanese for two years and they're exposed to [differs she said that she really wanted Konnichiwa! Marilm Sato's Japanese classes greet students from Shimoda, from ours] in the slightest to attend the party. "I'm Japan. ways." learning the language so it so advanced, they already never happen. I had so much After they had time to talk, would have made it awesome had some background, some fun talking to a student of my the students played games. to meet them," she said. common interests." age who lived in Japan."

Although the elective class One game was "Fruits Basket."

Helena has taken Japanese "It was no doubt a learning Cynthia explained, "It is a is a first-year Japanese class, for the first tim~ this year as an experience," Helena said, "to combination of musical chairs Dr. Sato said they were able elective. She said that meeting speak mostly in Japanese .. .! to go to the party because the visiting students was one think that all Townsend Harris and Simon says."

Dr. Sato said, "Shimoda is "they really want to know of the highlights of her high students should be presented far from Tokyo, in the country- [Japanese]." school life so far. with 1he opportunity to meet She explained, "Although side and Townsend Harris is in She said, "It was an with students who live in other the middle of the city. It is a their language may not be opportunity I thought would countries." diverse place. Although we have common interests, [we live in] completely different worlds."

by Heriselda Begaj She explained that the first Participants in the 30-Hour Famine helfiled ~..._w..-- ­ and second year Japanese raise awareness for global hunger by fasting students weren't allowed to from 10 a.m. on May 1 until the following attend the party because she afternoon. Sponsored by World Vision, a did not want to overwhelm the Christian organization, the event is hosted visitors with so many students annually by the Seekers club but is open to all at once. In addition, she felt all. that they did not have enough Senior Jane Whang, who has participated knowledge of Japanese to fully in three fasts, said, "I chose to partake in [the event] because it helps me realize again that I am very fortunate to wear the clothes on my back and eat the food on the table."

Senior Lydia Nitc,h man said, "Besides raising money, we wanted to make others aware of world hunger by doing something ourselves. It's for an honorable and important cause."

Over the five years that Harris has participated in the 30-Hour Famine, students have rais-ed over $15,000.

According to World Vision, $360 feeds a child for a year. "That means TRHS students

by Tracey Wang have fed 41 students for a year," said Assistant Frincipal of Mathematics and Org'l;nization Visitors from China observed classes on April 6 as part mien Fee, Seekers advisor. ''That could be a small vitlage of children! That definitely makes of an educational trip to schools in New York City. difference." a The group consisted of 16 p.rincipals and one chancellor,

by Tracey Wang Through a foreign exchange program, students from Harris's "sister" school in Japan paid the Japanese class a visit on April4.

Japanese teacher Mariko Sato arranged for her elective class, along with her third and fourth year students, to meet about 20 students from Shimoda, a town in the country-side. The three-hour meeting was filled with food, conversations and games.

Helena Pak, sophomore, said, "First, we greeted the students and sat down together to talk. After Dr. Sato welcomed them with a speech, she invited them to eat. Then we talked for a while."

The students participating in the event missed their Career Day activities, but many didn't mind. Junior Isaiah Yim said, "We had our own little party."

Senior Will Jo said, "I've personally been taking Japanese for four years and I haven't visited Japan once, so it was a really cool experience for me to interact with these native Japanese-speaking people."

Isaiah said, "It [the meeting] was great! We were able ·to connect not only through speaking, but through facial expressions and body language ....My classmates said that they were able to test their Japanese and also just connect with them, regardless of their

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30-H·our Famine fights worl-d hunger

Chinese educators visit Harris class.es

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all of whom came to tap "some of our educational expertise" and learn from our ''curriculum, overall running ofthe school, and structure," said Lisa Mrars, Assistant Principal crf Art, Music, and Languages Other than English.

Throughout the beginning of the day, tile Assistant PrincipaJs guiaed the visiltors on a tttur of the sckool buitding and to many classes. Assistant Principal of Science and Technology SJUSan Brustein sai'€1, "'They came to see our programs and share ideas. They weFe very taken by the Robotics class."

Susan Gettmg, Assistant Principal of Humanities, ex_pl1tined that Harris was n-ot the only school they visited and that a pJrofessor at Columbia University arranged the tour.

She adtted that the school's Humanities pro~am. was the reason"they chose us."

Principal K.eooeth 13-onamo and Ms. Mars said that it was also th.e reputation of the school's exceJlence that interested the educat<Ors. "Townsend Harris has a l>or<Ottgh-wilile, state-wi0:e, national, and I dare say iDternational reputation,'' Mr. BoDamo said.

"More and more people,'' he added, "are learning about the gem that is Townsend Harris. Our name has gotten. around [due to] the Intel Award, countless awards, and the amazing students we have.''

Ms. Mars and Ms. Brustein agreed that they both had learned a lot from itateracting wi'th the Chinese educators.

Ms. Mars said, ''It was a very enrichiDg dialo.gue ...1t was ex.cellent in terms of being able to listeta to their values.''

Career Day guests are 'interesting'

by Daniel Pecoraro Parents, alumni and other guests spoke at Career Day on March 16. The event included three sessions with the speakers, who represented such professions as lawyers, professors, politicians, and writers. They discussed the paths they took to their careers and the benefits of their fields.

"Students should have the option of finding· out about careers that they might have some interest in, but may not know a lot about," said private practice lawyer Barry Seidel.

"I enjoyed speaking to an interested audience."

He added jokingly, "In two ofmythreeclasses, the students asked a lot of questions. In one of the three, they didn't, so I flunked them."

Many alumni returned to discuss both their careers

and how their high school the rest of your lives. Things are subject to change," said education influenced them.

Dr. Weiss, who had begun English and Publishing architecture Study teacher Melissa Tortorro working · in said, "It's like you've crossed and building design before a threshold. After going to shifting gears to become a tenured professor at Hunter [L1rris], college is a breeze."

Freelance writer and editor College.

Helen Gaudette, professor Eileen Gunn also spoke positively of her education at and Academic Director of Harris, adding that the school College Preparatory Programs "turns you to look at things in at Queens College, told students to accept whatever ways that aren't obvious."

Computer science professor opportunities they could get.

"My policy has been for Stewart Weiss said that as a parent, he has been influenced years now to say 'yes' to

by Harris because he now oppo~ities," she said.

Art director and publisher understands the point of view of a student, something he Lisa Donovan said that does not get to see as well as students should be forthright.

"If you feel strongly about a professor.

Many presenters also gave something, you may be able to convince them," she said. advice to students.

Additional reporting "The decisions you're making now are not necessarily by Indira Abiskaroon and the decisions that will affect Rebecca Seidel

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May 2009

Revisiting an old stereotyp~~· f

Idea of 'ugliness' undergoes change on physical beauty than inner ogre he was and how he tried Jonathan Hirsch stated that Biener pointed out that modem Ugliness.

Just three beauty. "[The] media idolizes to help Fiona and I thought there have been about three or moviemakers sometimes make syllables, but three syllables those who are attractive. Just that was really beautiful," said four instances when students a villain handsome, and that drenched in fear, darkness and look at all those model reality junior Rebecca Chandra. In a who have anorexia have called often throws off the audience. even evil. The mere thought of shows and makeover shows," dialogue between Shrek and themselves 'ugly.' "Someone It is strange for people to Donkey in the movie Shrek, who is anorexic looks in the see that beauty and ugliness this word causes your mind to said a junior girl.

When questioned about Shrek says that ogres are like mirror" and thinks she sees can coincide to form a single envision something grotesque, quite onions. The perplexed donkey someone who is "not attractive; entity. like the Wicked Witch of the ugliness, however, want T o West, with her green face, a few Harrisites focused then thinks that maybe ogres they combat the lose pointed nose, and warts. That on personality and 'ugly' are like onions because they to negative Coordinator of (onions and ogres) stink, they weight," he is the 'ugly' stereotype, but behavior. make you cry, and when they stereotypes Student Activities (COSA) said. nowadays 'ugly'hasundergone "In every associated a transformation, for what Adam Stonehill stated that an are left out in the sun, "they turn with the of one might have believed to 'ugly' person is "someone who brown and start sproutin' little period hairs."

Shrek replies that time, there's w o r d white just talks about themselves be 'ugly' can actually ogres are like onions because 'ugly,' the a different turn out to standard they have layers. show Ugly be not-so Many who go by the o{ beauty.

Betty tries 'ugly.' superficial layer and buy into What was to show According to The "UGLY" by a senior girl the 'ugly' stereotype believe that beauty beautiful Oxford Companion that physically beautiful lastcenturymaynot be beautiful may come in a so-called 'ugly' to the Body, "'ugly' people are more trustworthy now," stated junior Julia Kim. package. "The way people is a Middle English and intelligent than so-called Similar to Julia's belief of there react to Betty when she walks term meaning ugly people. According to being "a different standard of in the room is, 'huh?"' stated 'frightful' or The Classic poll, 87% of the beauty," a modeling agency Rebecca. "They don't expect 'repulsive,' and is surveyed students believe that called Ugly NY has made it its her to do the fashion thing. But derived from the "UGLY" by a junior girl someone who is perceived purpose to provide advertisers when they get to know her, Old Norse term uggligr. Uggligr is in turn all the time. They just really to be physically attractive with a wide range of talent that they get to find out how pretry formed by uggr: fear or horror, don't care." Health and is generally treated more displays a different type of and wonderful she is."

The campaign motto of and the suffix -ligr: like. An physical education teacher favorably than someone who beauty. This agency, created by two photographers in Ugly Betty is 'Be real, be is not.

A senior girl said that Laura Caiaccia said that an ugly body is thus a physical body that induces horror in 'ugly' person is someone this 'practice"'alwayshappens 1969, "recognized the need in smart, be passionate, be true who "doesn't have respect." - in the real world!" About 36% print advertising for models to yourself and be ugly.' Some us."

When asked about their Senior Belinda Lao stated that of those polled admitted that who were not traditionally critics of the show argue that feelings about the word 'ugly,' "Malice [is ugly] because it they are more likely to talk to beautiful" (http://www.uglyny. since the actress who plays the show's protagonist Betty, many students and teachers is a ... negative feeling without someone whom they perceive com).

About 45% of the polled America Ferrara, is pretty and took a few moments to digest reason." A junior girl stated . to be physically attractive students is made up to look 'ugly,' the "excessive cursing, rather than the loaded word. Some students that someone think show's "Be Ugly" campaign is chronic lying, and extreme laughed, probably because no who is not, that the nothing more than a marketing one had ever gone up to them laziness" are 'ugly.' p h r a s e , strategy. "The statement's When surveyed students while 3 7% _ asking about this bizarre - and " Yo u ' r e rather clever, but people that were given the opportunity to said sensitive- topic. they do just a may interpret it differently," draw "an 'ugly' person, animal "The word ugly sounds base different commented junior Aminta Liu. ugly," stated sophomore Alice or thing," the sketches focused not kind of "I disagree with the statement. both on the .physical and the talking to Kim. It should read: 'Be real, be someone on beautiful" figurative.

One sophomore Going beyond its sound, the person's is a smart, be passionate, be true male drew cigarette and a the word 'ugly' holds different physic a 1 "UGLY" by a junior boy negative to yourself and be beautiful to meanings for different people. bottle of alcohol. Some of the remark. "It [the phrase] yourself." appearance.

Freshman Kari Wei stated drawings appear on this page.

'Ugly' could refer to sounds like a slap on the face," In today's world, ugliness About 54% of students that ugliness is determined by said a sophomore boy.

On something that contains a level no longer has the single appearance "on an aesthetic polled believe that the negative level." However, she believes connotation associated with the of 'freakiness.' "I think that the other hand, about 27% of definition of a lack of beauty; that ugliness should be based word 'ugly' can never change, Ferbies are ugly because they students think that the phrase rather it has a plethora of on a "level of personality, while 16% believe that it can have weird hair and they look is positive. "It brings hope of meanings. While Shrek and scary," stated junior Jennifer there being some kind ·of spark "Ugly Betty" might challenge rather than on somebody's change.

The face does provide a Chern. On the other hand, that someone will like," said a old stereotypes, however, face." one traditional meaning "The word 'ugly' is mainly first impression of a person, Rebecca thinks that Ferbies junior girl. definitely has remained constant. In The media used in our society for looks but that does not necessarily are cute because of their wild instead of personality," stated mean that it provides a lasting and colorful hair. "[Their hair] influence one's perception Harper Lee's novel To Kill A junior Swetha Murnmini. impression. "People you like looks like little birds and I like of the word 'ugly.' From an Mockingbird, Atticus Finch birds," she said. early age, children exposed to perhaps put it best when he "'Ugly' has always been an begin to become more and "'Ugly, 'when describing Disney movies, for example, said, "There's a lot of ugly insult and will always continue are taught to believe that ugly things in this world, son. I wish appearance, is a subjective to remain one," she added. '· term that people assign is evil and beauty is good. I could keep 'em all away from Many people resort to themselves due to insecurity Sophomore Bryan Medina you. That's never possible." plastic surgery to erase or others assign to them stated, "I don't believe that traces of 'ugliness' and to make them insecure," ugly should be defined as evil. make themselves 'beautiful.'

Sources: stated sophomore Eunice I think that the Disney movies A January, 2009 article in Kershaw, Sarah. (2008, portray ugliness as evil, for Chou.

Science News by Elizabeth October 30). "Move "UGLY" by a sophomore girl label When people example the evil/wicked Quill revealed that "each Over, My Pretty, Ugly Is year, Americans spend more more attractive," stated Judy themselves 'ugly,' "it's because witch. Personally I feel ugly Here." The New than $13 billion on cosmetic Beiner, English teacher and they compare themselves to should be defined as a person York Tzmes. pp. El, E8. surgery and tens of billions on advisor of the Club ofWomen models and actors," said Ms. that expresses their emotions Biener. "It's because no one irrationally, a!ld shows no (COW). cosmetics and beauty aids."

QuiU, Elizabeth. (2009, Look at Shrek the Ogre, ever told them that they were sympathy towards others."

According to a survey January 17). ''It's written The movies have conducted by The Classic in for example. "Although Shrek cute when they were children. all over your face: to February, about 82% ofthe 183 is · not a visually pleasing They focus on one particular traditionally paired the battle potential mates, students polled- 29 freshmen, character, he is friendly," said feature they don't like about of good versus evil with that your mug may reveal 45 sophomores, 76 juniors, junior Ayurni Kano. "I stopped themselves and they don't see of beauty versus ugliness, but m-ore tllan you thmk." recently there has been some and 33 seniors - believe that considering him [Shrek] ugly the other pretty features."

Science News. p. 24.

Guidance counselor change in the business.

Ms. because I saw what a generous society places more emphasis

by Ramona Gobinrajloo

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by Ariel Brodsky and Benjamin Snyder The Fencing team was featured on a Saturday segment of Your Queens News Now for the broadcasting station NY1 on May 8. Anchor and reporter Jon Weinstein filmed and interviewed various team members along with coach Debra Michelwitz on March 6.

The filmed skirmish practice also featured fencers from Francis Lewis High School and Benjamin Cardozo High School.

Mr. Weinstein initially reached out to Ms. Michelwitz after hearing about the team's success and the planned practice with the two other teams. The practice took place only a few days before the City playoffs, which ended with Harris securing third place in the city and first place in Queens.

"It's always fun to feel as if what you say has an audience," Ms. Michlewitz said. "I

wanted to be able to say...how much the success of the team depends on the students at Townsend Harris."

She added that "our fencers in great part are self-taught," and that Harris's team is the only one in which "no one has a private coach." Despite this, the team exemplifies "pure will, determination, and commitment."

Senior Rupinder Garcha, co-captain of the Girls' Fencing team, was one of the Harris fencers interviewed by Mr. Wienstein.

"It was a very exciting experience. I had never been on TV, and getting the chance to talk about fencing was amazing," she said.

Although the feature has already aired, it can still be viewed at: http:// www.ny1.com/content/top _ stories/98871/female-fencersface-off-in-queens/Default. aspx.

Lady Hawks tie final fencing match; make city playoffs

by Daniel Pecoraro The Girls' Varsity Fencing Team thrashed the Queens High School of Teaching Tigers 8.25 to 0.75 on May 4, in the Hawk's final match before the city playoffs.

The win brings the Hawks into a tie for first with Francis Lewis High School. The team's

7-1 record was their best finish since the 2007 season, when they earned an 8-0 record and the city championships.

In Game A, seniors Rupinder Garcha and Margaret Ngo shut out the Tigers 4-0, allowing only one touch from Tigers sophomore Alexandra Monteiro. The Tigers' only

by Eilin Perez The Boys' Varsity Baseball team played the Robert F. Wagner . Jr. Panthers in a battle that ended in favor of the Hawks on April 28. After allowing seven runs in the first inning, the Hawks rallied in the final inning to pull off a comefrom-behind win against the Panthers. The win improved the team's record to 6-2, warranting third place in the Queens B Central Division.

Junior Arthur Tarley had three hits in four at-bats, including the game-winning hit. He also scored two runs, drove in one run, and stole a base. Tarley attributed the team's tough start to "mental errors and fielding errors."

However, he said that the team recovered because it was able to "regain composure, [and become] focused."

On the complete tumaround, Tarley commented, "our weaknesses became our stTengths later in the game."

This is a testament to the team's defense, which only

allowed three runs over five innings after allowing nine runs in the first two innings.

Starting as pitcher for the first time this season, junior Matthew Ajzenman kept the Hawks in the game. After allowing six earned runs in the first two innings, Ajzenman settled down and struck out three out of the four batters h~ faced in the ·third inning.

Ajzenn1an was "disappointed" in his first two innings, but gained confidence and was able to "make good . pitches" in his third inning of work. On striking out the final batter of the itming, Ajzemnan said, "I had a good feel for the ball, and threw it where [the catcher] asked." Ajzenman allowed four hits, seven walks, and finished with five strikeouts in the game.

Senior co-captain Andrew Mayer had two hits in five at-bats, with one run batted in and one stolen base. While he conceded that the team "came out slow," he said that it "came through with clutch hits

and pulled it off in the end."

Although put into a tough spot from the beginning of the game, the team "fought hard, stayed together."

Senior co-captain Gary Dixon added, "Chemistry is a big part 9f the team's success this year." Dixon had one hit in four tries, with two runs batted in and one walk.

Noting an improvement in "camaraderie" over last year's team, coach Raymond Adamkiewicz said, "Our dedication has grown through our experiences together." He also highlighted "the versatility of the team this year."

The fact that many different players are able to assume a variety of positions is an advantage. Looking ahead, Adamkiewicz would like t6 see an improvement in "communication" from the team. "This is something for the team to focus and improve upon, as the Hawks have important match-ups against teams in their division in the weeks to come."

Lewis Patriots defeat Hawks on tennis court

by Oliver Lee

The Harris Hawks lost 5-0 to the Lewis Patriots on April 27 at the Lewis courts.

In the rust singles matcn, :ieshman Michael Nittole lost 1Q-1 to Daniel Lakhnllan., a player whose own JJecmu is 4-7.

In tile second sia~les match, junior Jtm Jeong lost 10-3 to sopnomore Darren Leon. His match, however, consistently went to either 40-3·0 or deuce.

The third singles match, wbtich featured freshman Nt>ah Carson; the :first doubles, whicn featured freshmen Amon Krnpnik and Vken Patel; and the' second doubles, freshmen Brian Tan and Christopher Yhun, al\1 enaed in 1t>-5 losses.

Coach Bryan Gabriel said, "This season is disappointing but we are a young team-. All of our players are fi.;esnmen exeeJi)t Jun.'' win came from sophomore Francesca Mackay in Game B, but senior Shelby Hecht and junior Meng Zhu held the day with a 2.25-0.75 victory. Juniors Irene Yenko, Amanda Liew, Jenny Zhang and Michele Yu finished off

the victory with a 2-0 shutout in Game C. Irene Yenko led all juniors with a 12-2 record and 64 total touches. Hecht led the team this season with a 15-1 record and 78 total touches, having not lost in a match since April

1, when the Hawks defeated Francis Lewis by a score of 6.5 to 2.5.

"I've been on the team for four years" said Hecht. "I feel as though I'm improving each year and am going to miss the team so much."

Players of the Month: Ehresman and Mayer 'g.

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Name: Cecilia Ehresman Grade: 12 Team: Girls' Varsity Softball Favorite part of being on the team: Being surrounded by some of the best girls that I've ever met and being able to have fun with them by making jokes about one another Pre-game ritual: Analyze the other team snack: Pizza or Poptarts .'i;'iir'~.,.,...,··~ Pre-game Hero: My grandmother Outside Team: None at the moment, but I will be joining the Varsity Softball team at · Catholic University

Name: Andrew Mayer Grade: 12 Teams: Boys' Varsity Baseball and Track Favorite part of being on the teams: The competition, the big spots and the brotherhood Pre-game ritual: Run, stretch, whatever I can to get myself and the team focused and ready to play Pre-game snack: Knish or Strawberry Pop Tarts and orange Gatorade Hero: Lou Gehrig Outside Team: Not on one at the moment, but I played for the Broad Channel Shamrocks for about 5 years