Classic newspaper Volume 27 Issue no. 3

,..

November-December 2010 Vol. 27No. 3 f

Townsend Harris High School at Queens College

Businesswo111an appointed to DOE as chancellor

Gas leak delays concert forces evacuation Students wait in the Queens College Science Building after being evacuated on December 17.

by Rebecca Seidel Due to multiple gas leaks in the buih:ling, Townsend Harris was evacuated soon after enrichment on December 17. As a result, the annual Winter Concert was postponed to December 21 - the following Tuesday.

Currently, the building is running on oil instead of gas heat, and only cold lunch is being served in the cafeteria as Con Edison continues to inspect

classrooms for further traces of gas. However, the latest readings show the gas levels to be at zero.

In an email to the school community, principal Kenneth Bonamo said that repairs will take .place over Winter Break.

Mter several people in the building reported that they smelled gas last Friday, the school called Con Edison to assess the situation. Mr. Bonamo called for evacuation over the schoolwide intercom continued on Page 3

by Hayley Desmond Cathleen Black has worked in the publishing industry for over 40 years. She is the author of a book on how to succeed in the business world. She has served on the boards of both Coca-Cola and I.l3.M., and gained a reputation for her no-nonsense policies as chairwoman of Hearst Magazines. Beginning January 3, she will succeed Joel Klein as New York City Public School Chancellor.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg appointed Ms. Black in November, but needed to obtain approval from state education commissioner David Steiner due to her lack of experience in education. A state law requires. that the chancellor have a degree in educational leadership and a minimum of three years of school experience, but allows these standards to be waived for "exceptionally qualified persons."

On November 29, Mr. Steiner granted Ms. Black such a waiver, stating that her "exceptional record of successfully leading complex organizations and achievement of excellence in her endeavors warrant certification." His decision sparked controversy and discontent.

"The first phrase that comes to mind is uniquely unqualified," said Robert Babstock, English teacher, referring to the fact that Ms. Black "hasn't spent any time working in pubcontinued on Page 3

Colleges clain1 not to check applicants' Facebooks

by Rupeshi Shah and Tracey Wang He conquered the SAT. He squeezed his life story into 500 characters. He secured teacher recommendations. High school senior Frank Smith finally applied to college. Navigating away from the Common Application website, Frank knew there was just one thing left to do: change his name on Facebook.

Like Frank, many high . school seniors change their names on Facebook. There is a widespread concern among this group that college officials

search applicants' profiles when making their decision.

"We've heard stories of colleges who have been 'turned off' by their applicants' Facebook pages .. .I figured that it wouldn't hurt to keep it [changed] like that until the college application process was over," said senior Sophia Jin, who is Sophia "Van der Jinsen" on Facebook.

However, she added, "I think the real reason we changed our names was just for fun."

Senior Kevin Leung, who is "Kevin Ge Ge" on Facebook, changed his name "to prevent colleges from searching [him]

up." He added, "I have heard that a certain student lost his spot to a certain college because of certain inappropriate pictures posted on Facebook of him. I don't know if this is true or not but I would like to be safe about it."

Senior George Surilas, who kept his real name on his profile, said that he did not change his name because he "doesn't think there is anything too damaging to my character on Facebook."

He noted, "I'm not really worried about college admissions officers seeing my profile because I don't think they have the time continued on Page 8

INSIDE: SAGEST-shirt . campatgn

page4

Harry Potter 7 • revtew The Social Network page9 pageS Alumni and

Henna Fest page 10

2 .

.

- ,.... ..

.

'The 'Classic

·N"bv-Dec·2o1o

New

OPINION sound off! ~ystem requires attendance to be taken Editors express opposing views on the new policy.

· Attendance sheets efficiently discourage cutting

f

in every class

New system wastes resources

by Hayley Desmond

by Tracey Wang John Smith? Here. Jane Doe? Present. Thomas Lee? Here.

Earlier this month, Harris implemented a new attendance sysThis routine, which has always eaten up a few minutes of tern that aimed to radically reduce the number of students cutting second band, now wastes time .in each and every class. The new classes. This new system, which instructs teachers to take attenpolicy mandating teachers to take attendance each band is meant dance during every band, makes the Delaney book attendance reto cut back on cutting, but it really only diminishes class time cord obsolete.lt will automatically note on the computer whether and reflects the lack of confidence the administration has in the or not a student was late to a certain class or simply did not show up. student body.

While many students and teachers have complained about Aside from the minutes lost from every lesson, this practice this new system, it is ultimately for the best. Looking at the staalso wastes paper, as eight times as many attendance sheets must be used daily. tistics provided to The Classic by Dean Wanda Nix, it is clear It is true that this policy takes the burden of reporting cuts off that cutting is a serious problem in the school. Even though the of teachers, but in its place it gives them the task of calling the statistics show the senior class is responsible for the most cuts roll. The latter takes much more effort in the long fun, as attenthat occur, there is still a significant number in ~he other grades. lt is true that the only people who "lose" are the students who cut, dance must be taken every day, while cuts occur at a much lesser .f?ut the fact remains that there are students as young as thirteen frequency. Also, teachers are expected to dole out demerits for years old attending the school. The school is responsible for these chewing gum, not wearing IDs, inappropriate dress, and every other infraction of school rules. Why should cutting be any difstudents, and their education. What message would the school send if it reviewed the referral record and did not do anything? ferent?

Before, it was possible for students to show up during second Regardless of the resources that it squanders, the policy is a band and be marked present on the official attendance sheet for poor plan in principle. According to the statistics on page three, the' whole dayand then not go to any of their other classes. Some the senior class of2010 accounts for over two thirds of the referteachers did not check whether or not the student missing from rals issued for cutting last school year. Does this new attendance their class was also absent from school. Doing so would be expolicy really help seniors, the main perpetrators? The Bridge Year !J;:~p_ap~ryygrk f9.r~ th~- t~_acher~~t!I}g fq.rJlt<lt t:~'!~Qtk~twJ~I,l.ts..w.et(f -> .. _;. prpgmm:aim£tQl}r~par~~s~ni.9.r.'l fQr .college and ius.til1re.spo.nsibil-: easily..able to c_u.t;l.;~a..s..~~~ The~nww,mollitamagr s()r.£.tem,is. .m.oFe..ef~:-:- ~-- ity-inthem. 'But in college, many professors do not take attendance ficient because every teacher is asked to take official attendance. at all. University students can skip classes without any direct retThe school is holding the students accountable for their actions. ribution most of the time. So if seniors are only going to class to This attendance system may be new to Harris, but it has avoid getting demerits, what will happen to them when there are long · been enforced in schools like Bronx Science and Forno penalties for cutting? It is better that seniors witness the negaest Hills, to name a few. Unlike these schools, however, Hartive effects of skipping class now, while grades are less important, ris .has the best attendapce record in the entire city. How hypthan ruin their college GPAs by cuttirig classes and bombing in ocritical would it be if, in a school known for its excellent their first semesters. Students do not learn to be responsible by attendance record, no one went to their scheduled classes? coercion. Rather, they must learn from their mistakes.

Also, since the computer can administer demerits to those stuWithout senior cuts, the total amounts to 144, which makes detitswhodidnotcometoclass,itallowsteacherstodowhatthey're cutting seem like much less of a problem school-wide. Furthermeant to do: teach. Teachers should not have to worry about givmore, it is extremely unlikely that 144 students individually coming out demerits or reprimanding those who do not come to class. mitted one cut each. Most Harrisites are far too concerned with grades and attendance records to cut. Assuming that each student Harris is a place of learning, but none of that happens if students are not going to their classes. The new attenwho cut did so three times, which is a much more reasonable esdance system discourages cutting, and it achieves this goal. timate, only 48 students in grades nine through eleven skipped class. This number represents only a small minority of the approximate 800 underclassmen. It makes no sense to inconvenience all \...-orrection: teachers and stUdents in an attempt to solve a problem caused by n the October issue of The Classic, it was stated that Amnesty only a small group. Instead, the administration should invest re~nternational maintains that Troy Davis is innocent. However, sources in addressing the underlying causes of cutting amongst he organization maintains that he might not be guilty - not that that minority. !he is necessarily innocent.

1

!EDITOR-IN-CHIEF FEATURE EDITOR NEWS EDITOR COPY EDITOR SPORTS EDITOR A&EEDITOR ADMINISTRATNE EDITOR PUBLIC EDITOR PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR ART EDITOR

Rebecca Seidel Hayley Desmond Rupeshi Shah Tracey Wang Ben Horowitz Freddy Millan Jr. Lory Martinez Frank Corazza Karen Rose Kim Richie Bonilla

ADVISOR Caroline Cross PRINCIPAL Kenneth Bonamo Townsend Harris High School 149-11 Melbourne Avenue Flushing/ NY 11367

We always welcome opinions.

Email letters to the editors at thhsclassic@gmail.com.

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 of the student body as a whole.

Writing Staff: Indira Abiskaroon, Candace Burton, Emma Court, Chandi Ghuman, Margaret Jia, Abigail Koffler, Eunice Lau, Ella Leviyeva, Genna Mastellone, Salma Mohamed, Catherine Moskos, Nicholas Lupo, Demetra Panagiotopoulos, Yuval Solomon Sports Staff: Grace Shin, Joshua Solomon Art Staff: Edward Farquharson, Alice Hung, Amy Wang . Photography Staff: Indira Abiskaroon, Rebecca Chu, Nicole Godreau, Samiha Khan, Misty Kim, Demetra Panagiotopoulos, Marissa Shieh, Yuval Solomon ·

news

SUMMARY OF REFERRALS FOR 2009-20 I 0 GRADE12

GRADES 9·11

FALL

SPRING

TOTAL

FALL

206

302

40

INAPPROPRIATE CONDUCT

96 13

16

29

SCHOOL RULE! VIOLATIONS

23

23

46

23 101

INSUBRDINATIONIDISREPECTFUL

28

20

48

LATENESS

47

40

CUTTING

SPRING

TOTAL

104 40

144

~

122

63 223

15

13

28

87

152

57

207

IDCARDS - -PROHBITiiD EQUIPMENT

2

20

22

9

88

97

12

16

28

18

38

56

ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

2

5

7

16

9

25

DADS CODE

1

7

8

2

43

45

RETURN OF FORMS

101

3

104

103

7

110

0

__

0

0

0

2

2

0

0

1

1

PROHIBJTIID suasTANCU

0

-0

Q

0

0

5

MISCELLANEOUS

0

0

0

15

26

SENIOR VtOLATlONS

151

58

209

0

0

--

-Ill

- --

PHYSICAL ALTiiRCATIONS

--

VERBAL ALTERCATIONS

-

,

--

-

-

--

--

-

-·

0

--w

5

- 11 0

These statistics, presented at a Student Leadership Team (SLT) meeting, give the breakdown for . referrals issued in the last school year.

-

Business executive named new Department of Ed. chancellor high school and belonged to a country lie schools [and] sent her kids to pri- club which banned blacks and Jews. vate schools."

She currently resides in a penthouse on "What worries me is that we get a Park Avenue on the Upper East Side, chancellor who comes from the busi- and also owns a home in Southampton ness world and sees that any worker worth $4.1 million. output is quantifiable and that you Ms. D'Souza noted, "There is very must reward people accordingly," said little understanding between those Mariet D'Souza, language teacher and from a working class background and Harris's UFT representative. . those who aren't."

"So many options that business In an interview with The New management exploits are not options in York Times, Ms. Black commented, :'I a classroom," said Debra Michlewitz, want to give [parents'] chi1fuehopporformer English teacher. "She should tunities. That's the bottom line. They try to create a lesson plan that teaches should have their children in the best ·an important challenging concept us- school that they possibly can have. So ing challenging materials and then de- whether I have grown up in the projects sign a project that demonstrates that or not, which I didn't, is irrelevant." the thirty-four stu- ,~ "I don't see dents in the class ~eal teaching and learning what the big deal have mastered the dwell in another galaxy that is," said Kelly ideas. Real teachh h . .t d , Cordray, senior. . "The system is ing and learning s e as n~ver "_181 e · -Debra Mtchlewttz, former Enghsh going to be run dwell in another galaxy that she.has teacher. like a business never visited." either way."

"I think the idea of having a nonWhile some disapprove of Ms. education career puts a strike against Black, others have defended her merher to begin with," added Adam Stone- its. In his request for a waiver, Mayhill, history teacher. "As far as her indi- or Bloomberg cited her management vidual performance, we'll see." skills, experience with incorporating Others have raised concerns that, customer feedback and with acting in due to her affiuent upbringing and life- the face of budget cuts, the internship style, Ms. Black will be disconnected program she founded to include more from public school students, a group in minorities in journalism, and her award which two thirds qualify for free lunch for volunteer work following Hurriand 85% identify as black, Asian or cane Katrina.

Hispanic. During her youth, Ms. Black "I think Ms. Black will bring exattended a private, all-white, all-girls cellent managerial skills to the position continued from Page 1

of Chancellor," said Principal Kenneth leges, according to insideschools.org.

Bonamo. "There has been a lot of con- Schools.nyc.gov reports that Bronx Introversy about her appointment and tern{ltional received anA on its progress lack of tt . hild _ report for the 2009-10 year. educa- ~ ...wan give C ren op As chief deputy, Mr. Polationa! portunities." kow-Suransky will oversee expe-Cathleen Black, business executive teaching, learning, testing, rience, curriculum and accountabilb u t ity. His appointment has also there drawn mixed responses. is merit to the idea that the skills re"What sense is there in having two quired to run the NYC school system people doing one person's job?" asked are not necessarily g&ined through science teacher-Katherine Cooper. teaching experience."

"I don't know the new chancellor Senior Sebastian Derian com- as a person, but I have concerns that mented, "Cathleen Black should not she has not educational background and be making educational policy, but she no experience working with the public may be able to administer the system. schools," said Georgette Wallace. "I Keep a pen out of her hand, that's it." think that the mayor's barber should In an attempt to placate those con- perform his neck surgery. Historically, cerned about Ms. Black's lack of expe- barbers were surgeons. A barber is a rience, Mr. Steiner required as a condi- person skilled with sharp instruments tion of the waiver that someone with and will have the opportunity to learn education credentials be chosen as her on the job from a professional surgeon, second-in-command. Shael Polakow- who will assist him just as Ms. Black Suransky, current chief accountability will benefit from the deputy chief's exofficer of the Department ofEducation, pertise." was later appointed to this position.

Mr. Bonamo stated, "It is imporWhile Ms. Black holds a bach- tant that educators and people with elor's degree in English, Mr. Polakow- teaching experience are working imSuransky has a bachelor's degree in mediately under the Chancellor, since education and urban studies and a the knowledge gained as a teacher is master's degree in educational leader- incredibly important when making deship. He attended public school, taught cisions that will affect teachers and stumath, and was the founding principal dents throughout the city." of Bronx International High School for "I'd like to see the changes that are poor immigrant students. The school made in the first few months, what polihas an 81% attendance rate and about cies she puts into place, what happens," 70% of graduates enter four year col- said science teacher Philip Porzio.

1;6

°

Gas leak delays Winter Concert; repairs to take place over Winter Break continued from Page 1 \at around 4:20PM. As students and teachers quickly left the building - mainly people coming from team practices and a Seekers potluck - ConEd workers and firemen rushed into the building and up to the third floor.

Meanwhile, Harrisites gathered in the lobby of the Queens College science building to await further announcements. Mr. Bonamo notified students and their families via email and phone numbers listed in the emergency contact database.

"I went outside and smelled gas and saw four fire trucks," said Eddie Caraccioli, senior. "One of the fire-fighters was climbing up a ladder to the third

floor. I still didn't really know what happened until I got home and read the emails and received a phone call from the school."

At around 5:30PM, students were allowed back into the school to gather belongings they had left in school and then leave the building.

"I'm glad the school was opened for students who needed their books and that we were able to retrieve whatever we needed, but I have to wonder how something like this could be prevented in he future," · said senior Michael Harris, who plays the guitar in Jazz Band. "This was just really bad timing."

If not for the gas leak, this would have been the ; first ever Winter Concert held on a Friday night, not- ·

ed Lisa Mars, Assistant Principal of Languages Other Than English, Art, and Music. The school hoped to boost attendance and ease pressure on performers by not holding the concert on a school night, but that will have to wait until next year.

Many student musicians were disappointed that the concert had to be postponed, but understood that it was a necessity.

"I guess whe're just lucky that they identified the problem and alerted us to evacuate as soon as th~y could," said junior Donna ~hung. '~Students should trust tl)eir instincts," said Ms. Mars. "If you see sometJling -~ or. sm~ll· SOJI).yth,i~g .;._ say something." . · ' , ··. . --- ' -· :. ' ':· .. · ~ A "" ; · ~:;~ :..~· ;'..:

. . . . ,., • •

t

• • : ... •••

, ~;~ ? :~ ~ ... ~·~ ·.-·

L

news

Nov-Dec201

f

HIV/ AIDS Day educates student body

by Demetra Panagiotopoulos

Distant shouts of "PENIS!" echoed in the halls, and the customary "no mayo" stories spread among the freshmen. Staff members who usually reside in the basement materialized on the upper floors. Anybody at Harris on December 7 would have noticed something going on: HIVI AIDS Day. Peer educators, who have attended seminars on the subject at Long Island Jewish Hospital, taught lessorts on topics such as the transmission of the virus, abstinence, and the relationship between sex, drugs and HIVIAIDS. "I'veneverseena place pull together for AIDS Day like here," MariaAssante,

physical education teacher, commented.

"You have students signing up for enrichment to be peer counselors."

Shannon MacColl, senior, has been a peer counselor for the past three years. "I have a passion for educating peers about HIVI AIDS, what better way than becoming an educator?" she asked. She recalled, "I was impressed by [the peer educators'] vast knowledge .. .I didn't know how someone could remember that much."

"I think it was really informative and I think that [the peer educators] did a really good job explaining all the aspects they needed to explain," said freshman Danielle Dominguez. "They went more

Free HIV/AIDS Testing Sites La Oua:rdia CoJk>;e 31-10 Thompson Aveaue

UC, NY11101 (718) 4C2-5280 I!'Vety Tu~y} 11 AM- 4 PM 7 to 33rd Rawson.

Minors do not need parental consent for testing or treatment. For more information on testing sites, HIVIAIDS, or other sexually transmitted diseases, call 311.

Queens Pride House 67-19 Rockaway Beach Blvd.

10-11 37di Avel!lu.e, &Dte l06 Rockaway, NY 11692 Jackso.n Heights, NY 11372 (718) 868-8230 (21 Z) 8:88:..(),230 Monday thru Friday, 9 AM- 5 PM Every Thes. & Th.urs., I PM - 7 PM A train to Beach 67th 7, E, F, M, R to 74th S<tl.llooseve~t Ave'

---

in-depth than I thought they would."

One junior, having experienced HIVIAIDS Day twice, commented, "They should do something different.

They say the same things every year.

There's a lesson, a movie, a game."

Every year, HIVIAIDS Day hosts an assembly with guest speakers, but this year, as Wanda Nix, dean and physical education teacher, explained, "there was a mix-up with the speakers and the scheduled date.

[Physical education teacher Keith Hanson, advisor of the HIVI AIDS peer counselors,] found out in the morning that there would be no speakers."

Instead, the faculty improvised, and students watched a video.

"I had to pull something out of a hat, so to speak," Mr. Hanson said, noting that this year, as a result of the video, "a lot of kids are requesting to go get tested, which hasn't happened before."

Ms. Nix reflected, "I think it resonated with the audience.

People were . attentive, even though it was an older film."

"I wish they had finished the movie," said Danielle, alluding to the fact that the assembly was too short for the entire film. "[The protagonist] was a teenager like us and I think it was appropriate to show us that."

"Ies too bad that the speaker couldn't come," Ms. Assante said, adding, "They'll be coming sometime in

January, but only to the Health classes.

To get the whole school, we'd need to reorganize the whole school day."

HIVI AIDS Day has its origins in the old building on Parsons Boulevard.

"Every teacher ... had so many lessons on AIDS they had to teach each term," recalled Ms. Nix, adding that the old system was not very effective.

"Some of the teachers were not comfortable with the subject matter," Mr. Hanson noted. "You can't have English teachers talking about penises and vaginas."

Ms. Assante, who joined the physical education department in the fall of 2008, had encountered a similar situation while overseeing HIVI AIDS Day at her former school.

"Teachers were forced to give the lessons, and they weren't comfortable talking about it," she said. "I remember having a teacher talking about soldiers and castles . . . [how] the soldiers are your T-cells, ~d the castle is your immune system-and I thought, I'd rather read about AIDS in a pamphlet than hear about it from a teacher who's not comfortable talking about it."

"You need to remember that you've never lived in a world without AIDS," Ms. Assante said. "When AIDS came out . . . people were terrified, and it took a lot of years for solid information to get out."

T.:.shirt campaign raiseS awareneSS for hOmophobia

by Candace Burton

Sophomore Carly Lam, SAGES Over a hundred students and teach- member, explained, "The campaign ersshowedsupportfortheLGBTQcom- was a response to the recent reports munity by wearing T-shirts proclaiming of homophobic bullying and suicide."

"I am gay" on December 9th. SponMultiple young adults have comsored by Straights and Gays Educating mitted suicide this year because of Students (SAGES), this project aimed homophobic abuse, including Tyler to foster tolerance and raise awareness. Clementi, whose death was recently Senior Tracey Wang, club member, highlighted by the media. Katherine recounted a story that Franco Scardi- Cooper, science teacher, had a personal ld k reason for parno, SAGES advisor (.../T eep you ticipating in and social studies ~ 0 one shou the campaign. teacher, told to il- from living life the way. lustrate the idea be- you want to live it."

"I' have a hind the campaign.

M' h l H . . friend whose . Ne- 1c ae ams, semor fri end comm1.tA f:am1.1y m braska had a brick ted suicide bethrown. through their window be- causeofhomophobic bullying," she said. cause a menorah was on display.

Others had varying rea"It was clearly an anti-semitic ges- sons . for sporting the T-shirt. ture, but after it was reported on by the "Itshouldn 't be a hazard to society to local newspaper, the entire neighbor- be gay and no one should keep you from hood put menorahs on display in their living life the way you want to live it. windows. Even though they weren't People shouldn't react to gays in a negJewish and they did not celebrate Ha- ative way," sal.d senior Michael Harris. nukkah, the neighbors chose to supSenior Sue Lee, co-president of port this family and to band together Seekers Christian Fellowship Club against .the hate and disrespect that had a specific reason for wearing had been shown to them," she said. the路 shirt. She said, "I think that so "So that is the basic idea behind many people think that Christians are the T-shirt campaign. You certainly hateful. They make such a big deal didn't have to be gay to wear this shirt out of being gay. Honestly, I think and to be a part of the campaign. This that we should all be more loving."

While some students said that they was about respect, and about showing your respect to people in our school indeed feel that Town.send Harris was who may feel alienated or bullied. This a safe space, others expressed concern.

"In school, I hear a lot of misuswas a chance to show that you care and that you won't stand for any kind age of the word 'gay' and it hurts a of bullying whether it'd be because of lot of people. The bottom line is that sexual orientation or anything else." everyone should be respected, regard-

less of your opinion on the matter," said junior Katherine Dominguez.

"Students may think that just because we're labeled as a 'liberal' school that homophobia doesn't exist in our school and that's . simply not true," Tracey noted.

"Some people were uncomfortable about wearing these shirts because they didn't want other people to think that they were themselves gay," commented SAGES President Sheryl Rivas. "It first made me sad that they thought being gay was something to be ashamed or embarrassed of, but even sadder

because their friends who are gay are probably quiet for the same reason."

According to Mr. Scardino, the goal of SAGES is to "create an environment where all people are respected and feel comfortable coming to Town.send Harris." He said, "If the SAGES only impacts the life of one student, if it opens the mind of only one student, then I think it has made a huge impact."

SAGES plans to have another T-shirt campaign in January, as well as a double feature screening of "8: The Mormon Proposition" and "Bullied," films concerning LGBTQ issues.

"g.

0

0 ~

:? f ;; ~- ;,j

::.: ~

::...

""<::;路 tr C5 0

;:;

Jonathan Owens, teacher, and Victoria Tu, senior, give thumbs-up for acceptance.

-

---------------------------------------------news

'Rainbo-w Reading' encourages acceptance, tolerance through poetry

by Catherine Moskos Flashing holiday lights and colorful construction paper snowflakes greeted students entering the library on December 10. With every seat occupied, Harrisite~s anticipated the upcoming performances.

The annual joint poetry reading held by The Phoenix and Straights and Gays Educating Students (SAGES), called "The Rainbow Reading," coincided with Human Rights Day. The theme of this year's gathering was acceptance.

Students voiced opinions and emotions through spoken word. Max Bachuber, Phoenix member and performer, said, "The readings are a great place to unwind and speak your mind."

"People reacted well to the topic," said Kelly Cordray, co-editor-in-chief of The Phoenix. "We always encourage people to read their own poetry, and I was pleased with the number of personal pieces that we heard."

Sheryl Rivas, president of the SAGES, noted, "I am very grateful for the comfortable atmosphere we all help create."

"This reading gave us, the students, a chance

to express to the LGBTQ community that we're on their side," commented Fatime Uruci, sophomore.

Nishat Riya Hamid, Phoenix member and performer, said, "The collaboration between SAGES and The Phoenix attracted a lot more people than it typically does, so it felt incredible watching people gather just to hear others spill their hearts out about things they feel intensely about."

Some poems brought listeners to tears, while others were laced with comedy.

"Who knew that this small school on the comer of 149 Street and Melbourne Avenue ha.d such a diverse set of talented student poets?" asked Jason Mills, sophomore.

Anna Di Tommaso, sophomore, said, "This poetry reminded us that prejudice is not dead and that we need to band together as a school, city, state, country, and world against intolerance and ignorance. i think that The Phoenix should continue to work with SAGES and other clubs to spread and promote ideas of acceptance and peace."

Holiday shoppers support athletic progralll at fundraiser

by Abigail Koffler A highly atypical crowd occupied the Fresh Meadows Barnes and Noble on December 5. In addition to the college students sipping lattes and kids reading Clifford, a contingent of Townsend Harris students, teachers, administrators and alumni shopped, sang and raised money.

By handing a voucher to the cashier, members of the Harris community and other shoppers contributed to the Student Union with every purchase. Online orders placed between December 5 and 10 using the voucher code also yielded donations for the school.

To draw foot traffic to the store, SU President Aquib Yacoob served as the master of ceremonies for an open mic event. Performers included senior Melina Iacovou, who sang several songs with senior Georganna Panos's guitar accompaniment.

Melina recalled, "I had a great time performing 'Somewhere Only We Know' by Keane. As the show progressed, I noticed some Townsend talent that I had no idea existed. The variety was great too. There was a mix of John Mayer, classic Taylor

Swift, Coldplay and even some original poetry."

Senior Welles Tanzer debuted an original song entitled "Title," describing the process of writ.. ing a song and the challenges he faced. Welles's performance was met with giggles and smiles.

"I usually play covers of songs, but a friend of mine inspired me to write my own song for a change, so I did. I enjoyed being able to display my own musical persona through my song," said Welles.

Kelly Cordray and Brandon O'Shea, editors of The Phoenix, created an exquisite core poem which audience members contributed one line of poetry to a group poem. The order of the lines was selected randomly. Alumnus and former Phoenix member Deano Kritikos ('10) read the poem to laughter and applause.

Students stockeq up on calendars, review books, holiday gifts and fr~ppucinos at the school's benefit. Senior Dana Cubillan commented, "It was nice to have Townsend come together and embrace our artsy side."

Clubs break bread together at Thanksgiving interfaith _potluck

by Frank Corazza Seekers Christian Fellowship Club invited Muslim Student Association (MSA), Straights and Gays Educating Students (SAGES), and the Jewish Club to their annual Thanksgivmg potluck in the cafeteria on November 23. This was the first time Seekers has ever had an interfaith potluck.

The theme for this potluck was the tolerance and acceptance of others. At the beginning of the potluck, a leader from each club spoke about what they were thankful for this Thanksgiving. Seekers Vice President Angela Kim said, "It was amazing to see people put aside differences for the common goal of tolerance and community. I think it was a huge step forward and I

hope this effort to unite all the separate groups within our school will be a continued effort."

Members from each of the ' clubs brought different ethnic foods to sample.

"There was a lot of good food and it was really diverse. I got to try some latkes, mac and cheese and even something I didn't know the name of. It was all very magical and surreal," said Sophomore Yoona Chun.

Junior Mayisha Ahsan, president of MSA, shared in the enthusiasm, saying, "It was an amazing experience to be able to help organize such an event. .. and I hope that it becomes a lasting tradition in Townsend Harris!"

News in 路Brief Staff members, students, alumni, parents and others pthered at the Glen Cove Golf

C1ub on October 25 for the inaugural Golf Outing. The event raised fu.nds to support Harris's athletic program.

EnaLisb teacher Joe Canzoneri brought his Shakespeare: From Pa,e to Stage class to see The Merry Wives of Windsor at PACE University's Shakespeare's Globe Theater on November3.

Townsend Harris's annual High Scboo1 Information Night was held on the evelli:n:t of November 4. Prospective students and parents toured the school and met with current students~ faculty, and alumni.

On November 19, interested stll<ke:nts visited the Queens College catnpus for a series ofworbbops on mathematics.

ARlSTA welcomed its new members on November 10. A catered dinner tbltowed the ceremony, whidl consisted of speeches

and musical performances.

An alumni ba$kefball tournameni-was helt:l in the IYJllllaSWm on December 3. Guests attended to support their friends and faculty.

At the 7th NYC High School Journalism Conference oo Decetnber 3td, The Classic won Best Ove:raU Newspaper award in the Newsies. Many individual contributors

were recognized in individual ~s as well. The NY Daily News published winning articles on their website.

On December 8, select Greek, Latin and Social Science Research clanes visited 路~haas and Classicism'' at the Guggenheim.. The exhibit displayed art from

Frtmce" Germany and Italy between World War I and World War II which utilized clam.cal elements.

Anme&ty lrltemational collected clothing, toys titd other iJtems for children in need tbrou1Ja December 20. Aqwib Yacooo, presideM of the c:tlub, appeared on CNN's Arll芦i~ MOD1Jim1 to discttSS th:e drive Olll Decem,ber 17.

S,pecial stiokers allowed stludeats wko couARISTA and Arch,on's fUndraiser to wear lmts in sckoo! on December 22. 1'ht clubs doomed lie proceeds to tile Foondatjoo for Cl\\ildrtm wrtl\\ Omoer,

trihut~d 11o

6

feature

** ***

*

.

Tlte.Classie, Nov-Dec 2010'

f

&

Celebrate yourWinte

New Year's Resolutions Harrisites share their plans for 20 II.

p·lfl!n to bake som:&thing every we:ek.'• ..Demetra Pap.a¥faso:pu1Qst senior ·~1

FE lSI

''t'm aoing to get a better av!!r.age than

li+~· is

my sister:• -Nathaniel Cbeng, 'freshmafl

-'1

str:,c. is;fiJ.l I"""

•,

WINTER EDITION' ~. '

''1 ptan to sh~efl more,~ at lea-st two poel"T'l$ a week a:nd fiinaUy organi~e m; 11-. • . . b'·rg... -A k'Jeks ...• book CO••~CtJon ....'Jt•s pretty Kus, seA:io,r

'~

F,_,

_,

,-

.

'"

'

'

T&d~y. S&llta cam~t '~o Townsend ' Harris. A

··~;: ::''·safety 'a genttold him to take off his' hat. MI ' ·...

'

j

__ II: •

•

f

,'

•

'

~

'<:

•

>;

At the top of my Christmas presents list? A lator. A TI-83 PLUS, to be exact. MLIT.

"I QOn ""' •·.t have one... · I'' m penect ...z ... so f' ve heard.'' -Jona.th·an Owens, teacher

Today, I filled my planner with projects to o break. Chuckling to myself, I realized I wo1 open it again till next Sunday. MLIT. Today, I got deferred from my college of< Hey, at least a deferral is better than a n MLIT. Send in your MLITs to thhsclassic@gmai

~o ~o: D

How to make the most out of your winter break Lower your running time. Sub-zero weather will help boost your endurance.

Work on college apps. That means you, freshmen.

0

0 D

Stay as far away from Times Square as humanly possible. ~

~

Start counting down the days until you graduate. Or the apocalypse.

Whichever comes first.

~-

Two words: CULTURE VULTURE. Implement your time-management skills and start your homework on the first night of break. Miracles do happen.

Sleep. (As in, hibernate.)

*

•

*

feature

7

~~~~

"

The editorial board visited hot chocolate hot spots all over the city. We hope you'll take our advice during the break and try the places we recommend.

reak:Townsend style. ~-"

~~---;~

-

F

Here are our findings.

Starbucks' hot chocolate: Every year around Christmas time, we are lured into a Star-

frdm;. lO

bucks and tricked into buying an overf,riced seemingly delicious cup of hot chocolate.

With its festive red cups and holiday .soundtrack, Starbucks fools me into thinking this time their hot chocolate is not utterly disgusting and dissatisfying. Perhaps it's because their hot chocolate is made with steam milk and vanilla and mocha-flavored syrups, but something about it is just wrong. Hot chocolate should taste like Christmas, not like a cup of hot water with sugar in it. Take note, Starbucks.

~ool

"'

Dunkin' Donuts' white hot chocolate: White chocolate may not really be considered "chocolate," but that makes no difference when it comes to Dunkin' Donuts' white hot chocolate. Cheap and easily accessible, it is the ideal way to satisfy cravings. However, take caution. Consuming any larger size than a small will leave you feeling nauseous.

Overall, this creamy drink, an alternative to their original hot chocolate, is great to go ... but only occasionally.

r.

ll.lcu-

Aubergine Cafe's caramel hot chocolate: Besides simply being grateful for a refuge from the winter wind, any traveller who stumbles •upon the Aubergine Cafe in Woodside will feel immediately relaxed by the venue's candlelight, cozy atmosphere and rich hot chocolate. The caramel flavor mel~_s~amel and_2l}.pcolate mazye!loasl.)l, and-the resl!!ltis .-., 1 sweet almost to a fault. This is not a drink for anyone without a sweet tooth.

pice. rral.

n"'

Panera's peppermint hot chocolate: It takes a few minutes to get used to a taste generally limited to gum, toothpaste, and candy canes. But once you get past the initial strangeness, you'll find yourself unable to put this drink down. Panera's peppermint-flavored drink adds just the right kick to the cozy hot chocolate flavor we all love.

[:Om.

Shake Shack's peanut butter hot chocolate: For its lack of ambiance, Shake Shack compensates with absolutely delicious food. Their hot cocoa can be described as nothing other than liquid peanut butter chocolate goodness. It is viscous enough to make you think you're actually drinking peanut butter, but chocolaty enough to satisfy those with more of -a taste for sugar. This combination of sweet and savory will satisfy peanut butter fans and chocolate enthusiasts alike.

Artwork by Richie Bonilla

••

e

SNOMAN

<::::::?

_.,/" :::::

~~~ ~

IKEA Instructions

8

le) ~

._J_ ~

3 ~·

~

)<

)I'

...

f

Alullllli reflect on Mark Zuckerberg, creation of Facebook

by Rebecca Seidel In less than a decade, Facebook has exploded from a dorm room project into a worldwide phenomenon, permanently altering the way people interact. Mark Zuckerberg, the site's co-founder, is Time's 2010 "Person of the Year"- and The Social Network, a film dramatizing Facebook's rocky and controversial start, has unnerved viewers everywhere.

But back when Zuckerberg was at Harvard, he was just another student, with relatively few people in his own "social network."

In recent interviews, two Harris alumni who were Zuckerberg's classmates in college offered their perspectives on the film, as well as on the concept of Facebook in general.

Divya Narendra (Townsend Harris '00) was among three Harvard students who sued Zuckerberg in 2004 for allegedly breaking a contract and copying their idea for a social networking site, HarvardConnection (later renamed ConnectU). He was played by actor Max Minghella in the film, which was in theaters until recently.

"I think the movie generally conveyed the important elements of the story correctly, despite the fact that I was never consulted regarding the

film," he said. "As far as the casting for my character, I thought Max did a great job at conveying a sense of urgency and frustration that was understandable given the circumstances."

Divya, who played on the tennis team and ran cross-country track during his years at Harris, is now studying for a JD-MBA degree at Northwestern University. He is the CEO of SumZero, a professional networking site for investors.

Another alumnus, Eric Trager ('01), lived downstairs from Mark Zuckerberg the year he launched Facebook. He is now working towards a Ph.D degree at the University of Pennsylvania. He was the SU president as a senior in high school; he was also involved in Moot Court, SING!, The Classic, Mock Trial, and the bowling team.

"I once figured out that I was the 38th member to join [Facebook]," he said. "Essentially, I joined as a favor, since he sent out the website on the dorm listserv, and I figured that I'd look like a jerk if I didn't post an account to my upstairs neighbor's new web project."

Facebook is now well beyond the 38-member mark; it now has over 500 million active users, according to its

statistics page. Eric said that Facebook's ongoing development, rather than the settled controversy surrounding its founding, is the most noteworthy part of its existence.

"The dispute with ConnectU is an interesting Facebook backstory and good Hollywood fodder, but it should never detract from the amazing, worldthat Facebook has

created," he added.

The story goes that Divya and two of his friends at Harvard, Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, asked Zuckerberg to join them in developing HarvardConnection - a site that would network all students on the Harvard campus, allowing them to interact via the Internet.

Though Zuckerberg was agreeable at first, the communication. between contznued. on Page JU

~ c

c

"

c

~

~

<Q., oCl !:)

l

~

Q

~ ~

~

"

~"

~

~c

.8 c

~

Divya Narendra

Max Minghella, actor who played Divya in The Social Network.

A!JpHcants'"'fearsJoulld'"tO'lJe-unwarr,antea .

'

'

I •

'

~ : ~-

_. o:::__,_

II t

•~in ·

continued from page I

plicants on Facebook because, as he explained, "Personally, I feel there's enough information in the application itself so we feel no need to [use Facerible.~· .. ·' While most ,people said that they book] ... There is no policy [regarding changed their names on Facebook to Facebook] in place." "hide themselves" from admissions ofAssociate Dean of Admissions at fic.ers •. many have changed their names Wellesley College,Maggie Farnsworth, for oth~r reasons. Senior Victoria stated, "No, frankly we don't have the Kump, who is "Victoria Kayy" on Fa- time. If there were just a dozen applicebook, said that she changed her name cants, then maybe' we would."

Likewise, officers at Fordam Union Facebook because she "doesn't like versity and St. John's University both [her] last name."

Senior Elaiza Santos "changed said that they do not have the time to [her] Facebook name to Elaiza Thorn- look up applicants. Tova Tolman, an berry shortly after creating [her] second admissions officer at Fordam UniverYouTube account under the same user- sity, said, "We do not have the time, name." She added, "I did this in the in- and [even if we did], we would probterest of keeping my identity consistent ably would not. One can only speculate (and possibly more importantly, hidden from the applications themselves."

Olivia Schum, an admissions from my family) on the Internet."

Senior Janice Caimires, who is counselor at St. John's University, said, "Jay-nice" on Facebook, said, "I'm not "There're simply too many applicants. worried at all [about college admissions We have never, ever done that in all my officers seeing my profile]. Actually I years here."

Other colleges, however, have difmight like them to see my Facebook. I feel it shows me." ferent reasons for not searching appliThe Classic contacted 21 colleges cants on Facebook. Michael Orick, an to ask whether or not the admissions of- admissions ambassador at New York University, said that New York Unificers search applicants on Facebook.

Admissions officers at American versity doesn't use Facebook when University, Amherst College, Boston reviewing applicants because "it's not College, Colorado State University, an accurate representation of the apColumbia University, Wellesley Col- plicant." He added that there is enough lege, Williams College, and Univer- information from the applications, like sity of Pennsylvania said they did not the essay and the teacher's recommensearch applicants on Facebook, negat- dation.

The College of Holy Cross was ing the rumor many believed.

Michael Hawkins, Associate Dean the only school that said that they on of Admissions at Amherst College, occasion did search up applicants on said their school does not search ap- Facebook. An admissions counselor at • . , to st~ applicants' Facebook [pro1 files] and if they did look at it I don't think they wouJd find anything too hor-

the school explained that they use Facebook to check if they have seen the student before . She explained, "Whatever is out there on the Internet is information for the public, an~ this includes admissions officials." Referring to the information on the sites, she said, "They are never deal-breakers but then again, they may not make us want you as well."

A 2008 survey by Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions found that at top schools, one in ten college admissions officers visit applicants' social networking websites. 320 admissions officers were surveyed from the nation's top 500 schools.

Twenty five percent of those who claimed viewing applicants' sites said it had a positive impact on the admissions decision-making process. However, 38% of admissions officers said the sites had a generally negative impact on their evaluation.

About.com 's "Facebook,MySpace, and College Admissions" guide advises applicants to untag themselves from or remove any unflattering photos on Facbook. Author Allen Grove recommends unsubscribing from groups that promote illegal activity or bias, citing the examples "Old People Shouldn't Drive" and "Budweiser Rules." He suggests posting more positive pictures, such as those featuring volunteer work or travel experiences. Grove explains, "Use our site to make yourself look good [to those admissions officers looking at applicants' social networking sites]. Think of it as a free place to promote yourself and increase your

chance of acceptance."

Based on the Facebook Privacy Policy, it may not be necessary for seniors to change their names at all.

Both adults and minors (anyone under 18) using Facebook have some basic information appear on their profiles.

This includes their name, profile picture, gender, and networks. Both also appeat in search results. However, unlike adults, minors do not have public search listings created for them. When minors set certain information to ·be visible to "Everyone," the information is only visibly to friends, friends of friends, and people in their networks.

For "Search for me on Facebook" and "Send me friend request," however, the "Everyone" setting is respected.

"Facebook~s Privacy Policy." www.facebook.com. 5 Oct. 2010 . Web. 2 Dec. 2010. <www.facebook.com/policy. php>.

Grove, Allen. "Facebook, MySpace and College Admissions - Make Facebook and MySpace Work in Your Favor." College Admissions. Web. 02 Dec. 2010. <http://collegeapps.about. com/ od/theartofgettingaccepted/a/Facebook.htm>.

Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions. At Top Schools, One In Ten College Admissions Officers Visits Applicants' Social Networking Sites. Www.kaplan. com. Kaplan, Inc., Sept. 2008. Web. 2 Dec. 2010. <http://www.kaplan.com/ aboutkaplan/newsroom/Pages/newsroom.aspx?ID=41> .

,,

9 Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

holds audience in suspense

by B:ebeeea Seidel

lt''S.l:17 in the mo~, ami I oon"t eaEe. llllav:e tw-o tests tomorrow, ~ew<>llk that I've negteote.G, and oolege ap~ons »oaing 0ver m;y head ldb VoWemo:vt's snake ],\)Oised to atta:ok:~t life can. waitt. A~r ~a this time, I have finally witnessea a Harry Potter i:litn that Jives-. t'O its name. Sleep ean wait.

J just ~t nome Er{)m tdte naia~t premiere .o( Harry Potter a:ud Ike Deathly Haif(JWB, Part 1. Yes, "Warner .Brc(}thers decili~ to extmot tdowWe the m<mey mom t1!S excitaole Potter fans t>y splitting the series' seventla and ittail iDStaJilmen.t in t\'\f0,. ~nt <i1recror Da'Vi:d Yates and sereenplay wrlter Steve C10¥es nseel the e:x;tra screen tim:e wisely., oraft1ag a ilm far rich:er aJ!ld more ~!ppirtg than its iererwners. · Deathly HalU:Jws throws viewers irtto the :teail and elan~erons ~ai world beyond Hogwarts school V<>idemort (1\alplt Fi~e·s) is alive: anti tb.rlviom;, wttht: a legion ofli>loodthirsty f'();lil'Owers. Harry (Daniel :Radcii!llfe). des4fteel to ekller kill V()ldemort or <ie by his nan<!. e.an do aot})jng watilllle des~y;s all seven. Hore~es-- ~je0ts t'bat c0nt.ain maimed fra~nts of Voldemert's S0!Ul. Meanwliiile, \i(jl<ilemQI't sm:othws the Mdnis«y ofWa~c anti H£lgwarts itself nneler his F'11$oist-lke contfc(}i, and the ~th t0bl o~im~s.

The StlantJe tliing aillout tb;is movie is that ~lthoup it's the be~miltg of the end, s:Omellow al1 we g(ft is a tDid..d.te. The movie sli0:ves u& i.tito the midst of 'the o01Hliict and. ends wifll•t a rese-lutien, 'Droup there ~ some irttense momel'lts (nearly ha;l:f the theater soreamet4 at one point), tllere is a lot 0f oown. time as the trilll cletiili!.erates over wlaat to ao next ttnd tries to iroo. eut personal woes.

At tlle m0vie's md, we stili don't brow wul!ler to b'¢<1ieve in: the Deathly Hall0ws.......fihr,ee o.bj:ee_ts th:at, acoo.r®iag to ~§'ad._ wiJil ia 1l!litison make tlteir carrier tlte "Masiet of Deafa.'·' We do't brow wny Dun:tihlednre lelll: Harry the irst Smtch he ever eattpt as his final beqlileSt. An:d. as the eretlts come on. we're stitt sobbing over the Eteatl oi Dol>by, the m:Ost aelm:irable ad ever-loyal k'O'USe-e'li Harry lruts a lann*iog and. deeply taersQlMlil task lyblg ahead of'Wm:, and li.atidiBe exeotttes th:e strt1;ggle p<nfeetly. When Harry vi&its h1s parettts' graves for the first time, sn:O'W'iakes ~g to tile· goou<l arouatl anti r-efiects on 11is past aJ!ld h:is ueertaift f~t<e, we o.an at last appreciate l.adeiiitl'<¢'s mattnity as an aetor. He's come a Jnug way siltce his 1111ibearably awkward crying seette du.ring PriHner fJ/ .4dlfabatJ. But .Ws mO"vie is by no means just about Harry. Tne iilit:n's b.l;gpst strength is its imimate flbcns on tim ttienelsbip between Harry, Ito (lt•rt Orint), anti H~e (Emma Wats<m), as tlleit bon.<l is put to the U!l~mate test As in the bOO:ks, Ron as a character is as ollam.Hng as ever, au HtHmi0J!lC retains her

-w..

briifianee. Yet in: this ll:etne s~etell. bQ'tll ht:a-ve th• ~ents @II tntih-momen:ts that ma;lie tts rea.Ii<ze the complexity of tlteir eh:ata:etert!l.

F0r the :lrst time, It• comes irtto tb:e l!imeltight as a tn;tly wom,le<l character, btl!rde.ned by seJt..(l\oui(;)t in:. the snaclow of his t\V() nest Erien.<Jrs. Hermion:e stuns 'US rl~t in the irst scene, wh:ett: s:lae tit>toes oWl'l$tail1s to Iter l:hitl!g roam whore ker Ml11,ggle paren:ts are wadli•g TV, raises her wamt, ant1 Ci}uietl:y o~iternt0s tkeir memories. With; tlae dallgers ly1!ng aheat1, it weuW be ~er :thr the.m; :not t<> know she eme4 than to W0fl'Y 3bowt Iller fMever.

In tlte b00k. Henui0ne merely mentions this afteF·4lhe-mot., ad we never get s:ueli a direct giimpse into tike We ske lea~ lael!tind. This de,artitlr€ mom the ~!look w0rlts irtoredi@ly we;l.

It's &ne of the many moments vrile.n the subtle brilliance o;f tke movie seript cam:e teO litht.

Orirtt and W'atsoA are absnluteiy phen0mena~l in thll!ilr aetiag, ~;).ringing us ri~ ittttl their own sub-story. The roman1Jic tensi0n: Rtiween tht! two eil:aractets :i!s t•t1!1.1izing---t(l)O 111ad we ftave ttl wait Uii Jwly tbr them to a~ty get tog$'tber.

Harry, :too. a:ntl Hemn<me get 'by far the mtlst ser•en time, just by na11tme of the plot. 13nt that doesn~t minit:nilzie Dedl!J Hcff/l'()ws' &mister odert0nes. Once again, Helena Banham Carter tn.akes ller,gt\if so delectably wid.<:fld, so elis.gusti.tigly v:tte, tltat it>'s im,p•iltlte to 'forgive or nate her.

Despite. its irtoornplete pi0t, Det1!Mty Ht~llt~JW:s, Peart l stands on its own as a ~iity lim. \Varner 5J:o1lltt.lf-s has aen!lO:nslPted 'llhat a s.ingle tim. cotrla 't have El:otte 'the story justi.ce.

Dttn•t get me W~X>Elg, though. :fit mi,ght stanlii on its O:wn, ani Jurly can't oO"me EJiUie'ldy enou~h.

t:

"'

~

~

I':Q

!;;

f:: ~

~ ~

~<:>

'-'

.2 ~

~ !r

p·

Harry, Ron and Hermione debate their next move on the Horcrux hunt.

The Clatsic Nov.-Dec. -2010

A et1terlt1i· E · -

erzl

~

~ ~

~

~

~

8

] ~ '----------""""

Mega111.ind lets dow-n vievvers

by Freddy Millan Jr. DreamWorks, what happened? Everyone had such high hopes for you after the beautiful and touching How to Train Your Dragon.

People thought that maybe you would finally be able to beat out Pixar as top dog in animation. But no, once again you have mopped the ball. Once again you have decided to forego thoughtful storytelling and inventive ideas in fa:vor ·of making a cheap buck off of the parents of chiMren who don't know any better.

Megamind tells the story of... Megamind, a mechanical genius and super villain caught up in a lifelong rivalry with Metro Man, who is basically Superman with a different outit. During one of their usual fights, Megamind somewhat irtadvertently kills Metro Man, allowing Megamind to take over Metro City. However, he soon grows tired of doing evil without retribution and sets out to create · a new hero to stop him. In a subplot, Megamind, using a device to look like a normal person, tries to woo reporter Roxanne Ritchi.

Two major, interconnected problems exist in this movie. The fust is the predictability. Anyone over ilie age of ten can walk into this movie and, after seeing Metro Man die, know what is going to happen up until the very end. However, some twists at the end partially compensate for the other, easily foreseen 'events.

In comes the other problem: .

The ~ommercials ruined everything. The clips shown

in: television commercials dozens t5f times reveal what was apparently supposed to be the surprise ending.

The commercials also made some other pieces of the plot, such as the arrival of Titan, easy to predict.

The script also disappoirtts. Apart from a few jokes that work, the humor is generic and generally unfunny. The terrific voice cast, which includes Will Ferrell :as Megamirtd, TirtaFeyasMiss Ritchi, and David Cross as Megamind's lackey, Minion, tries its best with ilie material, but ultimately fails, understandably, to make Megamind work. It should also be noted that Brad Pitt, who gets billing above most of the rest of the cast, has the smallest part out of all of the leads.

On the more positive side, the movie is visually beautiful. Metro City, always vibrant and full of life in any given ·scene, captivates the audience. As previously stated, the quality of ilie voice acting far surpasses that of the writing. The best and funniest character in the film was easily Minion, who delivers most of the best lines and jokes. Also of interest is the fact that this is something of an affectionate parody of the superhero genre. The idea itself is solid, the execution is lacking.

Megamind is a generally innocuous experience. If you have to entertain: some little kids, this should do the trick. Otherwise, other movies are probably better ways to spend your money.

10

news

The Classic

f

Nov-Dec 2010

Henna Fest explores different perspectives on beauty \

by Salma Mohamed Films on the concept of beauty, henna tattoos, and a variety of food were made available at the Henna Fest on · December 8. Organized by the Muslim Student Association and in conjunction with The Phoenix, the event also included various booths and a poetry reading revolving around the theme of beauty.

MSA president Mayisha Ahsan, junior, explained that Henna Fest was meant for students to enjoy and understand the true meaning of beauty, as she believes it an issue teenagers struggle with. She hoped to create a milieu of peace and understanding.

Mayisha felt that beauty was especially

emphasized through the help of The Phoenix because "literature in itself possesses a certain type ofbeauty, even if we can't always comprehend it."

At the event, Mayisha also spread the word about her own project, The Hijab Project. On display were Mayisha's collection of photographs and personal statements from nonMuslim females in the eleventh grade. Participants wore the Islamic head covering for women known as a "hijab" for a day, made note of their experience, and then had their photograph compared to a particular flower that fit them best. The Hijab Project serves the purpose of transforming the negative stereotypes

attached to the "hijab" into positive lights of truth and understanding.

Mayisha started in January 2010 to show the "hijab" as a universal symbol ofbeauty that connects women through the barriers of time, space, and age.

Junior attendee Jae Hyun Pak believes, "Henna Fest was a different experience as compared to other school events I've attended. The event's combination of an open mic, henna, food, and discussions come together to give an amazing experience."

Mayisha agreed, saying, "I also feel as if the attendees came out of the event with more than just a henna tattoo.

We created an environment of peace and tolerance. For a few hours we all

enjoyed ourselves while putting our differences aside."

Although MSA board membe; junior Sarika Antora commented that the event was very hectic and required a lot of work, she said, "a sufficient amount of money was raised, the concept of beauty was explored, and everyone had a lot of fun. Everyone at the event managed to maintain a level of respect for the out of school guests as well as for the performers."

The MSA board members explained that a percentage of the proceeds would be used to aid the victims of the devastating floods in Pakistan.

MSA plans to hold a similar event next year.

Tw-o alun1.ni respond to The Social Network continued from page 8

I

1

,

1

him and the HarvardConnection team dwindled. In January 2004, Zuckerberg launched Facebook (then called "Thefacebook") with co-founders Dustin Moskovitz, Eduardo Saverin, and Chris Hughes.

Days after the site's launch, Divya and the Winklevoss twins accused Zuckerberg of intentionallymisleading them into believing he would help them with their site. They filed a complaint with Harvard's administration, which eventually escalated into a lawsuit against Facebook. This suit, along with a later counter-suit by Facebook against ConnectU, were settled in 2008.

In the ineantitne, Faoebook expanded to other colleges, and eventually became open to the general public. It's now the second most visited site on the Internet after Google, according to Alexa Traffic Rank.

Ben Mezrich's The Accidental Billionaires, a book about the founding of Facebook, hit shelves in 2009. Mezrich got most of his information from Eduardo Saverin, a co-founder of the site, as well as from court documents. The Social Network, directed by David Fincher, was based on the book.

"I didn't think too much of it when I heard a said Eric. "Until Dustin left Facebook a few years book w~s · comin~ out, but news of the movie changed ago, I'd e-mail him immediately anytime something things," said Divya. "It was exciting and nerve- went wrong with my account. It would be fixed instantly." wracking at the same time."

Eric thinks that the movie's stark depiction of Eric noted how the concept of'Facebook "etiZuckerberg as an aloof, unlikable character is off- quette" has evolved since the site's launch. When base. "I remember Mark being a nice, unassuming he first joined Facebook, he recalls, "the notion of guy, which is in sharp contrast to the devious charac- asking someone to be my 'friend' online seemed a bit ter that is portrayed in The ' " - , · , odd. Now, my whole outlook on Social Network," he said. tMark] wasn t a nerd or a this has obviously changed."

Divya commented on The So"He wasn't a nerd or a loser loser- to the contrary, he was - to the contrary, he was a a well-liked smart guy." · cial Network's premise that the , ' E . T 'Ol growing realm of networking techwell-liked, smart guy." . a cause of concern. . on - nc rager, The fil m zeroes m \ no1ogy IS "I agree that the movie alerts the friendship and subsequent falling-out between people to the dangers of sharing inZuckerberg and Saverin, who also sued Zuckerberg formation too broadly without caution," he remarked. after his share in the company dropped significantly. "That said, I think there exists a happy balance where However, the movie does not emphasize the role of people can benefit from the spreading of information Dustin Moskovitz , another co-founder. ' online without feeling as if their privacy has been un"Dustin was also a very good guy and deeply in- duly infringed upon." volved in creating Facebook, and I don't really understand why he didn't get a bigger role in the movie,"

\\

Chronic lateness 81 ONTIMII'OR trrtn#f No MOM t:¥M6RR"S FORM¥. ' MOM AVO lM OFFTJ/1 Clle88

comic by Richie Bonilla

Class of 2012 defends SING! title commissioners announced the winning class on the second night., Junior director Victoria BaamQnde remarked, "It's absolutely ridiculous, winning two years in a row."

Junior SING! choreographer Laurie Beckoff said, "It seems surreal that we did it again! We had awesome directors, and it was really a group effort with all of the passionate, talented, and frankly ridiculous cast and crew. The sophmen and seniors gave us some serious competition."

Sophmen director Jonathan Kilom said, "I really feel like the seniors deserved it; they put a. lot more work into theirs then the juniors did. I liked their SING a lot better. [The juniors] have so much talent that it's almost unfair. We have to find that talent for next year."

Junior audience member Timothy Trzaskalski said, "In particular, the class of 2012 has performing strengths such as acting, comics, ~ voice, and dancing, and used these in their act to § their advantage." ~ Other audience members had varying opinions "' ~ on the show. Freshman Leah Koffler said, "[The] ..9 juniors and seniors were really good. The sophmen c l:l.. .___ _ _.__ _ _...___. had an unfair disadvantage because of the show Junior dancers perform a tap number with canes and top hats. taking place so early in the year. Overall, the seniors had the most enjoyable show."

by Genna Mastellone "Our SING changed a lot. I really didn't think we'd The Class of2012 emerged victorious for the second year in a row at the annual SING! competition. It was win, it was a close call," said junior Jae Pak. Seriior co-director Catherine Wallin said, "We the fourth time in THHS history that the seniors have not . thought that because we were seniors, we would have won, and the second time since 2002. of time to get things done, but that wasn't how plenty The theme of this year's SING! was "Fly Me to ."The sophmen woke up from a dream gone it worked out. The memories definitely outweighed the the wrong with "Fly Me to My Dreams," the juniors proved challenges, though."

She added, "We want to congratulate the Juniors on their innocence in "Fly Me to My Honeymoon," and their win, but we also want to challenge them, and the the seniors escaped from tribal people in "Fly Me to the Amazon." The performances were on the nights of rest of the grades, to bring something new to SING! next November 13 and 14. year. We wish good luck to all of them, and we'll be back . d ,, The junior directors were shocked when the SING! next year to JU ge.

..s

~

-

- ,; ..-.J _,;:. _. _.t_-"'.,.,...a .i.JL~...... .., :.. ..; ~--"' .... • • •

'__.. _

_JJI

..-

·v

IWi

~ -•r: T: ~

~ . . ..-..~~rl

'! '"' ~'-"

"""-Q~ t n

,.. Yt

Founders' Day celebrates Harris traditions

by Ella Leviyeva and Lory Martinez Past, present, and future collided at the annual Founders' Day celebration.

"Traditions Old and New" was the theme of this year's event, held at the Kupferberg Center for the Arts on October 29.

As a departure from past years' ususal guest speakers, English teachers Debra Michlewitz and Judy Biener, Dean and Physical Education teacher Wanda Nix, and Science teacher Philip Porzio delivered the key note address in four parts. They shared poems,stories and advice about life at Harris.

"I was surprised and honored to be given the chance to share my experiences and compare the old traditions to the present ones," said Mr. Porzio.

Ms. Biener continued the -celebration, singing a parody of "I will survive" by Diana Ross, in the voice of a freshman struggling during her first days as a harrisite.

Sophomore Gabriella Niyazov said, "I thought the speakers were funny and inspirational. It's great that we have such a devoted and intelligent staff willing to share their experiences."

Music teacher Peter Lustig's Concert Band also performed a tribute to alumnus Ira Gershwin, followed by Japanese and Music

11

news

ron top oftne world: .

September's top 5 events in world n'ews in ~ershif> 'liillt the Amnest:y tntemat-ittnal clai!J AtfJilib Y«eob, J>ras~

Aung San &uu lqt'i Freed Oaw Aullg San $w Kyi, a ~ble Peac-e P"rme lwreate bel€1 under howse arrest for fifteen of •e jast tw-enty yean, ·was finally rejeased on N<.:weml!>•r I)till. Tu re•ing miltary junta in M¥£U'fmar v .. resteti Suu Kyt· after her poftetcal party WOI!\ a he election in tbe ¢-$~ A pro-•mocracy teader, Suu K¥1 was ib most ~us poldal prisoner -of the ~OURtljls OV$t'

J..lOt) prisoners.

North Korean Missile 5t:rik.s On ~ 13rd., North Korea: lauAC.hed several missiles cmto !Re South Korean island of'Yeoa;pyeon8> tt was in response to""'SotJth Koreaf!\ rif,. tary exercises seen by Norta Konta as provocative.l\esufeing in~d jdin1; military ·e •rcis.es between $oua Ko:re: and their a~ the; Uru'ted States.• have sinoe evokU'Mgati.e response from

tn:e Chinese administrafic:m.

A._.talt Tat8tan peace talks' a hoax Recent attempted peace talks bet>Neen tlae

presen;t Npan A<frnirri&tration at~td

the Tatitmn have come to am embark~ "''a!fgwtd wfth·lhf~tioff~~~ purpc:ned Taiban •okesperson was simply a !oca1 cont'n'an. The p.erpetrator seemed to ttave vanisked after receMn8j 1nmdrtms of thOttsant'ls of tiollars from the Afgllan gover'lt\fnent.

Cyber·war tweaks over WlldLeatcs A virtuld cyber-war has be&llttl over the

"'~

arrest ofWikiteak:s bun<ter, j:uftall. As, ....,an:cf'the att-empts to close down hls wA.fstJe.;bfowtng -site, WikiLeab.

Wikileab struck late last mondil. ~liming 150.000 leaked QO'Mdentiat US Olpk>matl:c Cables. Thousands of supporters ba.Ye come toaet.her i'lll this fi~t agailtst Int-ernet eensorsbip, targe.titag the dififerent comp.Ues who; un-•r political press,ure, have pttUed supt>:ort hm ttle sfte.Visa. M:ast-e:rCa:rd and Pa;yPai were a-mong the tompa:nies

;::<

targeted.

~ c C)

~

~ .,~

a.ec· Members of the Chamber Ensemble showcase their musical talents.

teacher Dr. Mariko Sato Berger's Chamber Ensemble performing a remix of "Some Enchanted Evening" from Alumnus Richard Roger's musical "South Pacific."

Senior Philip Kim said, "I especially liked the Chamber Ensemble's song, because it put a modem spin on an oldies classic."

After the musical performances, The Class of 2011 presented the annual senior skit, which included a dean from the future called "N.I.X. 3000."

~ c ;::

~

Freshman Anna Simonyan said, "Founders' Day was really interesting and fun. The skit was hilarious and I really enjoyed it. I learned a lot about the school and how life was like in Townsend in the past."

"Overall, it was the best Founders' Day yet. It was livelier, more engaging, and more of a celebration of what makes Townsend unique.

I felt that it united all of the grades and'alumni as Harrisites," said senior Brian Lamberta.

Cit-y C.Uftdt against Food Stamp F:tagerprib..ng The New York City Coundl ba:s come

in eppo$i:on to Mayor Mh Btoomilerg's Food Stamp Pin.rJlrfAtirrg

out

Poticy. Mayor Btootnliberg tmf>~e~

•e potiq in an- attempt to reduce th-e rnte of frau€1 widffn ulae Food StaMp SJlst&m. How'e\len opponents dairn •• reas<>ning lb.ehmd tb:e poicy is tawed.

The c;Ound1 argues lihat 11le policy Will only 1ead to i~reaee illl tt\e Alifdet of hungry New Yorkers, ana wil open r:Joors fOr di'scriminat!ing practices. R-e.gardlesa. ~or 8J.OQA1berg stands firm in his support of tlae polq.

);

'>:

)I

v

12 路

~~-harris

The Classic

Nov-Dec 2010

f

Boys' & Girls' Varsity Basketball First Quarter Reports

by Ben Horowitz

Boys work together to continue success In 2007, the basketball team made it to the 2nd round of the PSAL playoffs.

In 2008, they succeeded to the quarterfinals and in 2009, the Hawks finished the regular season a perfect 18-0 but suffered a heartbreaking loss in the PSAL semifinals. Last year, the Hawks advanced to the 2nd round of playoffs, but lost a close game to the Bushwick Campus Tigers.

Captain David Weeks is convinced that the team will be able to work well as a unit this year. "People are doubting us after we lost Thomas (Tsatsis) and Shel-

~

~

~"'

Freshmen girls impress Queens A Division

don (Jones) but we have a pretty wellbalanced team this year and everyone is . contributing. Things are looking up for us and I am confident that we can do well in our division," Weeks said.

Tsatsis averaged over 25 points per game and was ranked 4th in scoring in New York City in 2010. Jones is Townsend Harris' all team leading scorer with over 2100 points and averaged close to 25 points per game over four years.

This year, team meetings and practices have emphasized the idea of working as one coherent unit. Weeks and his co-captain Nicholas Nehaul will lead the team's balanced offensive and defensive attack.

As of Wednesday, the team was 3-1.

Weeks and Nehaul are providing steady scoring performances, Senior Edward Caraccioli and junior Joannis Babatsikos are going to the boards hard grabbing rebounds and sophomore Connor Doyle has had three big offensive games scoring 19,20 and 20 points again.

Nehaul is pleased with the team's practices and is also confident that the Hawks will continue to have a strong season. "We've only begun to scratch the surface 9f O!Jr potential an4 already we are a solid team. I think people will be surprised where we stand at the end of the season," he said.

The Hawks look to continue the success the program has had over the past four years.

The Girl's Varsity Basketball team made the playoffs three out of the last four years and in those three years, the team has had a very ,impressive combined record of 40 wins and 14 losses.

Last year, the Hawks made it to the 2nd round of the PSAL playoffs led by their strong senior leaders. Allison Donovan was ranked 8th in the city with 350 points and Ivana Illic was ranked 17th in the city with over 230 rebounds.

Captain Kristin Eggers has been a part of the three successful teams and is excited about this season. "We have lots of new faces on the team this year and we will focus on team unity and coming together as a team.

This season we are going to work hard but the practice will pay off and the season will be a lot of fun," she said.

The team boasts a strong group of underclassmen who have already been major contributors. Freshman Sierra Berkel has been the breakout star of the year. She is averaging over 25 points per game and is one of the top ten scorers in the city.

In the Hawks' recent 3835 win over Long Island City, Berkel scored 30 ofthe team's 38 points, an absolutely dominant performance. Freshman Olivia McFadden has also been a major part of the team's early success. She is averaging 8 points a game and is working well with her teammates.

Coach Lauren Caiaccia has led the Hawks to three consecutive winning seasons and is looking forward to the challenge of coaching the Hawks to success this year. , She said,"Seeing as though we have only a couple of major returning players this season, we will have to concentrate on building team chemistry. We are going to emphasize mastering all the basics and I will work with our team leaders to train the underclassmen. So far, our team defense has been very solid and we are going to work hard on outside shooting and rebounding The freshman class looks promising and if everyone can play their role effectively we will do well."

Nicholas Nehaulleads basketball team.

e

Girls' Cross Country tean1 races to state chan1pionships

by Joshua Solomon

After three years, the Girls Varsity Cross Country team raced back to the New York State Championships. Senior Co-captain Ellie Wu led the team into third place in the PSAL City Championship race on November 13 at Van Cortland Park.

Wu competed individually in the state championship race as a junior last year, without the other Hawks . "Last year I went as an individual, but this year it felt so much better [to go with the team]," Wu said. This year, she finished first among her fellow hawks and thirteenth overall with a time of 21 minutes and 6 seconds. She and her teammates stressed how this year was different because of the team unity.

"Just going through the whole process as a team and finishing it.. ..it was complete," Wu said.

Co-captain Kerry McEnerney felt similarly about

the process they went through to' reach the state level. making it to states and most importantly, we succeed"It felt fulfilling because that was our goal from the ed in it," said junior Marta Tomaszewski.

The success led them to represent the school and beginning of the season. It was lA ike all the hard work 'the city in New York State. "New York State is the payed off," Kerry said.

The Cross Country team swept the PSAL Queens best cross country state, so to go there means you are Championship races. They fini~hed first in all four running against the best in the country," said Coach divisions: Frosh, Sophomore, Junior Varsity, and Connor.

To run there next year they are going to need valVarsity. Coach Timothy Conner had clear and simple expectations for his team this season, "Our goal was iant efforts from Tomaszewski and the three underto win Queens [Championship] and place fourth in class runners that were part of the third place team.

Cities [City Championship]." Necessary to achieve Tomaszewski said looking forward to next year, "We this goal was team unity. have all already agreed to work next year as hard as Becoming Queens Champs has helped the team we did this year to get into states ...we know we can bond. "We all became so close and we didn't expect do it."

Wu summed up this year's Cross Country season to be that close," said Kerry.

"When we went to states, we bonded even more as, "the best possible way to end senior year." as a team because we had all shared a common goal, I

GAM_E_S_ T_O_ WAr 路c-R 1/4/11 Boys Varsity Basketball Vi. Pathways College Prep 庐THHS 1/5/11 Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Flu~hing HS @THHS 1/6/11 Varsity Wrestling vs. Newton @THHS 1/11111 Girls Varsity Basketball vs. Richmond Hill @THHS 1/17/11 Boys & Girls Varsity Indoor Track ML~K Invitational @The Armory 1