T7he
hittier
stoad;ay
oNiscetitiany
2012
unity News
Since 18ca
Superstorm Sandy Hits Coast Hard Fortunately, Sandy's damage to Delaware was less severe than that in New York and New Jersey. Tree clowns , floods , and power outages for tens of thousands were noted On October 31, 2012, news came that Hurricane as the most profound impacts. Grayton Downing ' 14, Sandy would be gifting Wilmington Friends students notes that, luckily, her neighborhood at the beach was not a short fall break. Sandy graciously left less severe hit badly: "A tree limb fell down near my house, but the impacts on Wilmington, but inflicted more catastrophic boardwalk looked fairly normal, aside from washed-up consequences specifically in New York and New Jersey. sand." Power outages were significant throughout the state. Hurricane Sandy wreaked pure havoc on numerous Izzy Martelli-Raben '15, a resident of Alapocas, notes beaches up and down the East Coast. The eye of the storm neighborhood power outages: "We first lost power because crossed beaches on New Jersey's coast. Winds of ninety of the tree limb that fell on our power line; it caught on miles-per-hour and mass flooding from both the bay and fire and the whole house shook with an electric shock." ocean left many streets completely submerged. Debris Martelli-Raben says Delmarva Power was able to restore from the boardwalk floated powerthenextevening.With cooperation from regional in the streets, leaving mass barriers, and waves at high power suppliers, power tides reached a shocking outages were kept minimal in Delaware. twenty feet near the shore Despite the damaging and a stunning forty feet effects of Superstorm Sandy, at sea. Some seaside roller the region is beginning to coasters were even uplifted from their foundations and return to nomal. Governor drawn into the sea. Chris Christie of New Sandy hit New York Jersey happily announced in mid-November the end City brutally. A fourteenfoot storm surge struck of gas rationing. Similarly, southern Manhattan, in New York City, everyone seventy mile-per-hour is working hard to rebuild
Shanhon Skibjcki '15
News Writer
Winds caused structural
fJl.8fe warcr5 in dow#fow# Bcfhany Bcach, Dc/aware
the city. On a November 15th
damage to cranes and buildings, and a total of 750,000 visit to Staten Island, President Obama stressed , "We have NYC residents lost power. Perhaps the most dramatic to make sure that everybody's focused on doing the job, effect to the city was flooding in the subway system. as opposed to wonying about who's getting the credit or Almost three levels of flooding penetrated the system, who 's getting the contracts , or all that stuff that sometimes and the work to repair the system will be costly. Friends goes into the rebuilding process ." Ultimately, even though alumna Gwen Baraniecki-Zwil ' 12, currently attending Sandy left New York and New Jersey trouble stricken , the New York University, reflects on challenges posed to the morale of residents has been remarkable, and President NYU community, ``1 had no power, heat, or hot water in Obama has exhibited great confidence in the recovery. my dom and only two dining halls were open for the Despite Sandy's horrific effects placed on the US, entire student population, which, as you can imagine, ran the cooperation of government officials, residents, and out of food some nights." Baraniecki-Zwil also notes that neighbors to work through the adversity of this natural students lost a week of classes and had to reschedule their disaster demonstrates the strength of our region's midterm exams. community. ®
Ece9cphsse4quences°fcat?esbloLTte9qupobn9hLc!Hussdyarri!v?g News Writer Since March 201 I , the Syrian civil war has displaced an estimated 2.5 million people: more than double the entire population of Delaware. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) predicts that more than 700,000 refugees will have left Syria by the end of
seems to be unrecognized by UN Security Council members, who have made minimal attempts at assisting relief efforts , and by the European Union , whose member nations have played a minor role in housing Syrian refugees. On October 24th, Nicholas Beger, Director of Amnesty International 's European Institution Office , said, "As a recent Nobel peace prize recipient, the EU is honor-
bound to take decisive action to ensure refugees fleeing UNICEF estimates the total casualties to be around from Syria are protected. At present only a fraction of 40,000 , but some sources have reported more than 60,000 Syrian refugees have sought protection in Europe, while fatalities since the conflict erupted in March of 2011. many times their number are being hosted by Syria's Even more horrific are the reports claiming that 90% of immediate neighbors." Amnesty International urges EU deaths are civilian casualties. Although the publication AI member nations to ensure access to protection and asylum Jazeera says armed rebels are often counted as civilians, procedures, to lift visa requirements, and to donate to the the numbers coming out of Syria continue to rise. UN's Response Plan. As a result of the endless violence, refugees are Horrifying violence, innumerable human rights fleeing Syria by the thousands. Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey, violations , and widespread terror are now commonplace in and Iraq have generally accepted the influx of refugees, Syria, and there is no immediate solution. Syrian President but the economic and social burdens for these countries Bashar al-Assad has refused all peace agreements saying "I'm not a puppet, and I was not made by the West to go to are beginning to arise. In Lebanon , UN-provided relief kits rarely make it out the West or to any other country. I am Syrian. I was made of Beirut, where government officials continue to withhold in Syria and to live and die in Syria." With no end in sight, much needed medicines, food, and hygienic supplies. the situation looks increasingly grim. "The seriousness Many refugees can find food and shelter with the help of the crisis is deepening every day and this trend has UN distributed vouchers, but a lack of security has made been unintemipted since the summer," said Peter Maurer, 20 1 2 .
delivery especially difficult.
presidentofthelntemationalCommitteeoftheRedCross, Turkish government officials have expressed in Geneva this past November. frustration with the inaction of the Security Council in For now, the UN and numerous non-govemmentalresponse to the Syrian crisis . Turkey is now responsible for organizations will continue to alleviate the growing hundreds of thousands of refugees , but there is inadequate humanitarian crisis day by day. As Maurer says: "we try funding, shelter, and food to provide for everyone, and to fill the cracks which open, and whenever we have an winter is quickly approaching. opportunity to deliver aid, we go ahead." I
The Whittier Miscellany Holiday 2012
Elmo is Elmo. Kevin clash is Kevin clash. In regards to Elmo, the truth of the allegations does not l{enji Endo '14 matter. Elmo is still the little monster from Scsamc Sfree/ Columnist Like J.D. from Scrwds, I too grew up on the street. who loves to play games and sing songs with Grover and The, uh, Sesame Street, of course. I remember coming Big Bird. These accusations do not hurt Elmo. They hurt the home everyday from moming session preschool and turning on the TV to "hang out" with Emie and Cookie rest of us. Above all, these allegations hurt Kevin Clash. Monster. In lower school, I remember watching the show Clash, who officially became a puppeteer on Sesczmc SfrecJ whenever I was home sick. And I admit that I still often in 1984, has given life and energy to Elmo's character, watch the show. Scsc}me Strecf is not just a show for kids. It's a show for everyone. With cameos from celebrities such as Zac Efron, sports stars like David Beckham, and artists including Bruno Mars, Scsczme Sf7ice/ has a major cultural presence. It's a show full of leaming, fun, and above all, joy. My sister's favorite character was Abby Cadabby, an adorable little fairy-in-training. My favorite , however, was always, and still is, Elmo, the furry red monster. Unfortunately, Elmo 's image has recently been scarred by the media, due to allegations of underage relationships by thevoiceandpuppeteerofElmo'scharacter,KevinClash. In November, a now-23-year-old man accused Clash of an inappropriate relationship when the accuser was 16 years old. This accuser later recanted the accusation, saying the relationship occurred when he was of age. However, a second lawsuit was later filed, which sought $5 million in damages . After taking a temporary leave of Kevin Clash with his character El:mo absence in early November, Clash resigned on November 20th, after a third accusation was made, saying, "Personal bringing the little monster to be the cultural icon that he matters have diverted attention from the important work is. La.st year, Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey was Sesame Strecf is doing and I cannot allow it to go on any released,awonderful,touchingdocumentarythatfollowed longer. I am deeply sony to be leaving and am looking Kevin Clash's journey to achieve his childhood dream of working with the Muppets . In the film, Clash's love for the forward to resolving these personal matters privately." These accusers could just be opportunists who character is apparent, along with the joy he gets from his came out of nowhere to try and get a ton of money from job.Heworkedthroughatoughchildhood,justtopursuea completely false accusations . Or, all the allegations could seemingly impossible dream. I really respect him for that. I disagree with the belief that a character does not be true, and Clash is the one in the wrong. I have not read the full details of what happened, and have no desire to. exist beyond the pages of a novel or the confines of a TV
fity|:',I; ':j1,I:';1,:' ;,il':, `';i ,:`' ;,:. I;:1 ' :,;'!
show. I believe that once the author puts down the pen, or the puppet maker puts down the needle and thread, the character thinks and breathes and lives on its own, apart from its creator. Many of us fall so in love with a creation that the love expands to its creator. My love for Elmo made me want to lean more about his creator. My love for Horton and the Cat in the Hat brought me to love Dr. Seuss. My love for Harry, Ron, and Hermione made me love J.K. Rowling.
However, while we may love both the invention and the inventor equally, the two exist separately. If the wonderful J.K. Rowling were to mug me on the streets of Wilmington, I would hope that my views of Harry and Dumbledore would not be affected, even if my views of their creator were to change drastically. The actions of these artistic inventors may affect the way we see them as people, but they shouldn't affect the way we see their creations.
MelvinMing,presidentandchiefexecutiveofsesame Workshop, is confident both the character and show will survive. "We've been through the abrupt demise of Jim Henson [the creator of the Muppets] and the passing of our beloved Count. Our characters are bigger than a voice or hand." Sesame Workshop has stated that an understudy will replace Clash as Elmo's puppeteer, and that the character will remain a fundamental part of the show. Elmo is Elmo. Kevin Clash is Kevin Clash. Despite a tarnished public image, Kevin Clash will still be the brilliant creative mind behind the character. Elmo will still be the fury, red, three-and-a-half year old monster who loves to play, hug, and speak in the third-person. I guess maybe why I loved and still love Sesame Street is because it teaches you more than just the letters of the alphabet, or how to count to twenty. It teaches you how to be a good
person . You can sort of lean everything you need to know about life from watching the show as a kid. Like always play fair. Be yourself. Never give up. Follow your dreams .
A Public Confession
Annie MCDonough '13 Co-Editor-inlchief I can't remember the first lie I ever told. I imagine it was harmless, maybe something about brushing my teeth when I had not, or blaming my sister for something I did. Whatever it was, it was probably typical of a toddler. At some point in my life, though, around seven or eight years old, I started lying for fun. Every kid exaggerates to friends to make their lives sound a little more interesting, but my lies were oddly specific. When I came home from school one day, handed my mother a list of names, and told her, "These are the names and ages of your twelve children. Memorize them," I think my lying became pathological. I realize that the person I am describing resembles a budding psychopath, but I like to think of my lies as creative fiction. I never listened to my teachers in lower school who told me to write what I know during a creative writing assignment. Writing what I knew would have been very boring , and probably would be still. That is why, when we had to write a personal essay in sixth grade English, I wrote about moving from Ireland to America when I was eight years old, and the difficult cultural adjustment that the experience was for me. Most people who know me have been made aware of my compulsive tendencies, so I figure that if they are aware of it, there is no harm in spinning an entirely false and misleading narrative every now and then. In fact, I think the habit keeps me honest on the important things. I worried for a while that my dream job in journalism may not be the best path for a compulsive liar, and I wondered where my interest in writing the truth could possibly be coming from. I realized, though, that my mindless lying about trivialities (like my non-existent twelve brothers and sisters) was a way to get the thrill of lying out of my system when the consequences are minimal . The more ridiculous the lie is, the funnier it becomes and the more unbelievable it is to the people who know about my hobby. Some people play tennis in their free time. I opt for lying. The great thing about my hobby is that I don't need any accessories -just an open imagination and a gullible friend. Before my habit
got dangerous, it simply became a part of my sense of humor. Kind of like Mitch Hedberg was known for non-sequiturs, I'm that girl who doesn't tell the truth. When I meet people, I do not open with my pathological lying habit. I am afraid of being associated with real liars like Bernie Madoff and Richard Nixon. Steven Spielberg's film Li."co/# calmed those anxieties, though. In the movie, Daniel Day-Lewis as President Lincoln tells a white lie to his cabinet to get the Thirteenth Amendment passed in the House of Representatives. His lie, of course, was meaningful and necessary, and its results are historical. My lies keep me entertained when I'm bored, but I am reassured nonetheless. If a man known as "Honest Abe" told a lie every once in a while, I think I can be trusted too. While I fully understand that this long overdue confession may cause some of my teachers and peers to be wary of trusting me, I assure you, all of my fibs are (relatively) harmless. To emphasize this point, I would like to debunk several of my most notorious lies right now. Firstly, I have one sibling, not twelve. I assume that one is pretty clear. Once in ASP in lower school, Annie Procaccini and I spent hours constructing a fake family tree to convince some classmates that we were cousins . In our story, Annie had a different real name, because what cousins would share the same first name? In case there is anyone out there who still believes that - and part of me thinks there is - I finally admit that this is false. And lastly, if I ever tell you that you have a note on the message board, you definitely do not. I honestly do not know why I resort to that lie so often because, like most lies I tell, people stopped laughing at it a while ago. Also like most lies I tell though, that one always keeps me amused.
Freedom of Speech Challenged Emma Milder '14
News Writer "Freedom of speech is a central human right," says Sophia Clark ' 14. It is something that the average citizen of the US takes for granted everyday. Yet how would you feel if your freedom of speech was taken away from you? This has been the case for a Qatari poet, Mohammed al-Ajami, and two Vietnamese musicians, Tran Vu Anh Binh and Vo Minh Tri, who have recently been jailed for their work. Ajami published a poem in 2010 that criticized the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad AI Thani . The poet was then arrested by Qatari state security in Doha during November of 2011. Qatar allows freedom of speech and expression in "accordance with the conditions and circumstances set forth
prisoner of conscience and should be released immediately and unconditionally." Unfortunately, as of late November, Ajami was sentenced to a life sentence by the Qatari
government. Halfway across the globe in Vietnam, Tram Vu Anh Binh has been sentenced to six years in prison. Vo Minh Tri's case is a similar one, as he must also spend time in
jail for the next four years for spreading "anti-government propaganda." Both men are musicians in their thirties . Binh is famous for his song: "Nguc Toi Hien Ngang" (Courage in the Dark Prison) , which encourages non-violent protests and supports the recently jailed blogger, Nguyen Van Hai. Similarly, Tri's song , "Where is My Vietnam?" criticizes the Vietnamese govemment's non-aggressive policy towards China's territorial claims in the South China Sea. The jail in the law." Insulting the Emir can result in being jailed for sentences of the two musicians have followed a recent string up to five years , while attempting to overthrow the regime is of arrests of Vietnamese bloggers who have been sentenced punishable by death in Qatar. Ajami is currently being held for speaking up against the Vietnamese government. Phil in solitary confinement. Amnesty International , a worldwide Robertson, from the Human Rights Watch states: "First organization that campaigns for human rights, has spoken critics, then bloggers, then poets, and now musicians! The out in defense of Ajami. Amnesty Intemational believes international community can no longer stand by quietly that Ajami's trials were "marred by irregularities , with court as these free speech activists are picked off one by one by sessions held in secret." The organization also suspects that Vietnam's security apparatus." his more recent poem, "Tunisian Jasmine" , is the true reason Both cases, and numerous others, show the lack of behind his imprisonment. In his controversial poem, Ajami freedom of speech in much of the world. The majority of writes: "We are all Tunisia in the face of the repressive elite." WFS student body supports the oppressed, believing that "Tunisian Jasmine" criticizes the authoritarian rule in the they should still voice their opinion . "I believe that if people Arab world and praises the uprisings that are occurring in don't have their freedom of speech, they should still speak the region . As the one-year anniversary of his imprisonment out," Julia Blumberg '15 remarks. Many believe that if draws to a close, Amnesty Intemational's Philip Luther the case had taken place within the United States it would issued a statement. "Mohammed al-Ajami has now spent have been considered unconstitutional. The recent jailings almost a year behind bars in solitary confinement, apparently of public activists highlight a current trend concerning the solely for peacefully exercising his right to freedom of lack of freedom of speech available in foreign countries, expression. If that is the case, he would be considered a which could have a large impact on the future.
Space Shuttle Rolls into Retirement Jacob Gagliano '15 News Writer
was cancelled last year because Congress wanted NASA to focus on different programs . One of the STS's major achievements was the In 1981, the space shuttle program, more formally completion of the International Space Station. The ISS known as the Space Transportation System (STS), is a habitable low-orbit artificial satellite, which hosts was established. The STS is a program in the National scientists from countries including the US , Japan, Canada, AeronauticsandSpaceAdministration.NASAisresponsible Russia, and many European nations. The station serves for space exploration and aeronautic research in the US as a laboratory for micro gravity and space environment Although NASA originally planned for the program to last research. Space shuttles are used to restock supplies, and only fifteen years, the STS had its last mission July 8th, with the cancellation of the STS the station will now have 20 1 1 . After thirty years of space exploration and a total of to be restocked by privately funded companies. 135 flights, the space shuttle program was terminated last Some of the now retired space shuttles will spend year. The STS may have been canceled, but there will still the rest of their existence in museums and exhibits across be space travel through privately funded organizations. the country, while others will collect rust in NASA's The STS was established only five years after the Apollo graveyard. In October 2012, Los Angeles held a parade moon landings . The first for the retirement of one shuttle launched was of these space shuttles, Columbia, which took named Endeavour, off on April 12,1981. as it slowly made its There were high initial way to California's hopes for the program. Science Center. Moved Unlike the space crafts by an eighty-wheeled used for the Apollo transporter, it took the missions, the space shuttle two hours just shuttles were built to be to get a couple of miles. able to return to Earth Thousands of people intact,thereforemaking had gathered around the them re-usable. "I've retired shuttle to watch always been amazed as it passed. It was a hard at the genius it must task moving the shuttle have taken to come up to its final resting place; Space shuttle Endeavour works it way through the streets Of with the design for the the Endeavor had to be Los Angeles space shuttle," says flown to Los Angeles on Ian Furman '15. NASA envisioned many plans for the the back of NASA's shuttle carrier aircraft. Not only that, program; they also planned to construct a low-orbit United but many trees and street signs were taken down to allow the States space station, which eventually evolved into the shuttletopass,whichangeredsomeneighborhoodresidents. construction of the Intemational Space Station. In the end , despite tensions with residents , the shuttle safely However, the STS received a lot of criticism for made it to Califomia's Science Center. numerous reasons. The program has been criticized on its While there was much criticism for the STS, many failure to achieve its utility goals as well as its high cost. are sad to see it go. Sophomore Ben Fischer says, "I was While early estimates stated that the entire program would upset to hear that the space shuttle program was canceled." cost $43 billion of the National Budget, actual spending Although federally funded space shuttle programs have of the program, up until its closure in 2011, totaled $196 ended, there is still a market for space tourism sponsored billion. NASA was also criticized after the Challenger by private corporations. Companies like Virgin Galactic and Columbia disasters. Both were missions that ended in are researching methods of space tourism. Virgin Galactic the destruction of the shuttles and the death of the crews. and similar companies hope to have commercially available Along with these unfortunate disasters, some have argued space flights within the next couple of years, continuing that the quality of the program's scientific achievements our nation's curiosity with the world beyond the reaches was a step back from the Apollo space missions. The STS of our atmosphere .
The Whittier Miscellany Holiday 2012
'11
The Whittier Misce.lany ay 2012
A Warm Welcome For Whittenburg Katie Halpern'13
Features writer Friends Upper School. One fresh face is that of Samuel "Jenks" Whittenburg. Upon interviewing Mr. Whittenburg, I found him to be every bit as amiable and enjoyable as his students have described. Whittenburg joins us in the booming metropolis of Wilmington, Delaware from the sleepy town of New York City. While in New York, Whittenburg worked as a web developer for a Public Relations firm by day and taught at the Parsons School of Design by night. One day, he attended a Carney Sandoe and Associates educational recruitment meeting, which he described as being somewhat ``similar to speed dating." It was at this recruitment that Whittenburg met Rebecca Zug, the Friends Head of Upper School. Though Whittenburg interviewed at other schools aside from Friends, he noted that Friends "had a wami and casual feeling-a feeling that just wasn't present at other schools. The students were unpretentious, real, and mature." So far, the student body perceives Whittenburg in an equally favorable light. "He's really cool," remarks Tylisa Johnson '13 through a smile, when asked about her new yearbook teacher. She is particularly fond of his offbeat sense of humor: ``One day, I was sick and was working on yearbook from home. I skyped into the class, and he [Mr. Whittenburg] kept coming onto the screen, making movements to appear as if his head were `floating' around the room." Butthehurdlesofbeinganewteacherdonotendwith
positive response from the student body. Whittenburg
juggles many classes: "In this first semester, I teach seven sections of the same class. I like to try different things. In a way, it's good because I haveseven times to
get it just right. The hardest part is keeping everything straight-to remember which classes have done what." Expectations were set high for Whittenburg from the start, as the universally loved Erie Rizzi left the position to continue his education. He was, however, well aware that he had big shoes to fill and even credits Rizzi for showing him the ins and outs of the
program: "Erie was very helpful. As a sort of demo, he took time out to ask for critiques from his own classes to help me see what they liked and what they didn't. He even gave me folders of his lesson plans, all of which had notes and were well documented." Whittenburg also faces the task of adjusting to suburban Delaware. Upon asking about his transition, Whittenburg remarks that he particularly enjoys the
presenceofnature,especiallyafterlivinginNewYorkcity for sixteen years: "So far, I've been going to parks, taking walks, and exploring the area by going on long drives and getting lost. One thing that I immediately noticed was how quickly you can transition from being in a city to out in the country." Though Whittenburg was rather accustomed to the cityscape, he is not originally from New York: "I come from Amarillo, Texas," comments Whittenburg."I'mthecrazyunclethatnevercameback!" Overall, Mr. Whittenburg has experienced a smooth transition -both into the school and into a new address in Wilmington , Delaware. Let us continue to make sure that this new addition to the Friends community feels at home !
New Art ln New York Eliza Durham '14
Features writer On October 12th, the 18 art and music class went on a research trip to New York City. 18 art and music both went to The Metropolitan Museum much to the delight of the students. Akili Dorsey-bell, class of ' 14,
young. And this trip has only reinforced that belief. I loved seeing Strawberry Fields and trying to find a place to eat." Dan Getty '14, a music major, proved that this trip was not all work and no play by shouting to random
people on the streets of New York,: "Is that Tom Cruise? Oh my God,
#h.1v:dc:i:i in
Top
Gunl."
After go i ng their separate ways 18 music and art students met up to watch the new Broadway
show
Chaplin,
about the trials and tribulations of Charlie
Chaplin, one of the best-known comedians of the twentieth century. Quinn MCNeil '14, oh Wilmington Friends AIt students on the steps Of the Metropolitan Museum Of Art. so eloquently de scribes her said"this,"It was amazing seeing all of the variations of experience seeing Cftap/I.#, "It was, like, cool and stuff. instruments . A simple instmment like a horn could have Yeah . Hey, Akili cried." Myles MCDevitt ' 14 reflected on twenty variations that all produce different sounds" the humorous and moving aspects of Cfoap/I.Jt, "Cfoczp/I." about the music collection. Another junior, Laura really stood out to me . It was really moving to hear young Gates, discovered a unique connection to her art class Chaplin crying after his mother but it was also very funny, when visiting the Andy Warhol exhibit. "We've been for example , when he mimicked Hitler using `1 am a Little talking a lot about what is considered art and what Tea Pot' . Overall, I really enjoyed it." Molly Marcus ' 14 isn't, and the Warhol exhibit was a perfect example of had this to say, "I liked that the designers chose not to use any color in the set and costumes to parallel the style postmodem art, which is something that might not be considered art in the conventional sense. It was really of Chaplin's films. This left the cast with the difficult inspiring." Aisling Horan, class of '14, stated, "As a task of making everything look and feel exciting even new student, it was an amazing experience. I got to without color, and they did an amazing job of that!" know my classmates much better and they made my Arriving home at almost one in the moming after a experiences in New York that much more meaningful." long day filled with fun and exciting new experiences, After spending a good portion of the day at The the 18 art and Music students retired for some much Met, the 18 music and art majors split up. 18 art went needed sleep. Emari Viera-Gunn '14 says, "I can't to the Museum Of Modern Art and 18 music went to wait to do it again next year!" Lauren Smith ' 13 agrees The New York Public Library, but not before stopping and adds," I wanted to thank all of the chaperones to see Strawberry Fields. Upon being asked about his and teachers who gave up their whole day to spend experience in New York, David Gobris ' 14, had this to with a bunch of rowdy juniors and seniors! Thank say, "I have always loved New York ever since I was you because you made that amazing day possible!"
['E
Mal-kThese Wol-dswell
'T:::|e'sLook-Affii
Fiona Nagaswami '13
Features Writer DistinguishedAlumnusMarkBall'52isanarbitrator, mediator, and consultant on the law of international and domestic arbitration. He is also an adjunct professor of international commercial law and senior fellow at Temple University Law School in Philadelphia. Ball graduated from Amherst College, magma cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa, and went on to attend Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar. After receiving his LLB from Harvard Law School in 1960, he clerked for Chief Justice Earl Warren and retired Justices Stanley Reed and Harold Burton of the Supreme Court of the United States. Ball has also worked as the Assistant General Counsel in the Office of Economic Opportuliity and General Counsel of VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America). VISTA was
part of the Kennedy-Johnson "War on Poverty." From 1964-1967,BallwasoneofthefirststaffDirectorsofthe Peace Corps . After that, from 1977-79 , Ball was General Counsel of the United States Agency for International Development. Ball recently enjoyed a lunch at school and spoke with a number of students about his work.
How did the Wi]mington Friends education impact your life? I really learned to treasure friendships, and I have maintained the friendships I made during high school . At Friends, I found that the faculty truly had a concern for our well-being. They were really interested in helping students develop their self-confidence. I found that in the real world that wasn't always the case with those in power. I also leamed the Quaker values and did my best to adopt them. After law school, I chose to go to D.C. rather than going to a place where the focus of law practice was on commercial matters, because I was interested in how government impacted people. When I went into government, I was able to work for agencies whose mission was to provide services to people in need, first in the U.S. and then overseas. When Ball's classmates, Bill Quillen and Fred Pardee, both `52, nominated him for the Distinguished Alumnus Award, they noted that, "They [his human qualities] are perhaps best encapsulated by the word `empathy'. To borrow from a dictionary definition, Mark is sensitive to, and vicariously experiences, the feelings, thoughts, and hurt of others. Arbitration and mediation are tools designed to heal conflict and let the
participants move on, hopefully with speed and lesser cost than litigation or continued battle." Ball has consulted and advised nations on mediation and arbitration law, including Bulgaria and Georgia, and was a member of the International Finance Corporation mission team to South Sudan to evaluate prospects for development. Ball has counseled in almost sixty international and domestic arbitrations in the U.S. England, and the Netherlands.
What was one time you used failure to make progress? When I was General Counsel of the AID program (appointed by Jimmy Carter to deliver foreign aid to countries that needed economic development) , John Gilligan, the head of AID, who had hired me, was fired over a policy dispute. The new permanent head of the agency chose to bring in a new general counsel with whom he had worked for many years. I was fired on the spot. I did not think I had failed as general counsel. In fact, I thought I had done a pretty good job. The general counselship is a political appointment, however, and the new agency head was acting entirely properly. This setback gave me an opportunity to go back to private practice -' although quite a bit earlier than I had planned -with a new set of skills. I had become an international lawyer. I was able to join a firm looking to expand its international practice. I was off on a new career. Ball is currently a senior fellow with the International Law Institute in Washington, D.C. He has lectured and been the director of programs in the International Law Institute on arbitration, mediation, and negotiation for lawyers, judges, and government officials from developing nations, including among others, Uganda,
The Whittier Miscellany Holiday2012
Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt , and Turkey.
Who inspires you? John F. Kennedy. When I was clerking at the Supreme Court, I was fortunate to be among the crowd that witnessed the Kennedy inauguration on a cold January day in 1961. I saw and heard Robert Frost recite "The Gift Outright." (He recited from memory. The sun
was in his eyes and he couldn't read the poem he'd written for the occasion.) I heard John Kennedy say, "Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country." Since then I have seen the national ethic change. Now self interest seems to be the dominant force in shaping private goals and public policy. The theme of service that President Kennedy enunciated is not nearly so much a dominant theme in today's America-either in
#n°abe8#npe#SB.ltd.ie Mitchell Juers '14
Features Writer With the debut of the Wilrington Friends School 2012 musical well behind us, it is now the time to look back in remembrance. This year's lovely performance was the 1960 Broadway classic Bye Bye Bz.ndz.c. As usual, the spectacular Margaret Anne Butterfield directed this real life high school musical with her expert knowledge of music and the performing arts. With two evening shows and one weekend matinee, Friends School's run of Bye Bye Bz.ndz.c had many fans. Among these fans was Christopher Damon ' 14, one of the
members of the front of house crew, a very important-
public speech or in everyday practice . Another inspiration though underappreciated -part of the stage play process . in my younger days was Chief Justice Earl Warren. He "The three performances over that weekend demonstrated was a strong man who had a strong personal sense of the commitment and ability that the actors had," he right and wrong. His values included an inherent belief commented appreciatively. "It was this ability that allowed in the worthiness of all individuals and a patriotic love for an enjoyable weekend." Damon's words should not be of country that today might seem old fashioned. He was taken lightly, as his role as front of house placed him in a strong man and a natural leader. He also also reacted the audience all three nights, and even many of the final strongly to injury or affront: When one of the Justices practices and rehearsals, which the Wilmington Friends on the Court apologized for an intemperate criticism, School cast performed in. the Chief Justice forgave him, but he said, ``Hugo, you Margaret Anne Butterfield had some words to add can't unring a bell." to Damon's praise. "This was the biggest cast we have
ever had," Butterfield began in her wise, but lengthy, commentary. "Adding that to the many difficulties our I've been going for about ten years. I teach nearly cast experienced along the way, including, but not limited every year at the International Law Institute in Uganda. to, the fact that they only were allowed three rehearsals It's a non-profit organization that teaches legal skills to in their final performing space before the curtain rose on third world lawyers, government officials and judges. I opening night, I believe the musical went remarkably well , teach the law and practice of intemational commercial all things considered." arbitration -knowledge and skill that the students need The point Butterfield brings up is a good one. As to operate effectively in the global economy. In Uganda, most of you will recall,last April a devastating fire took I have attended an Anglican church. Some of the people away our precious auditorium space. This was a tragic there, who are now friends , told me about the Namuongo event indeed, but our arts department, being made up School-a preschool/primary school for very poor of the hardy, enduring folk that they are known to be, children. Located in a dismal Kampala slum, the school pressed ever onward, never considering the option of is dingy and crowded. There is no drinkable water and giving up. Butterfield worked long and hard to find the no electricity. Many of the children are AIDS orphans perfect replacement space for the show, and after much or refugees. My wife and I and many of our friends have deliberation, she chose Brandywine High School. been providing money to support the school. The school Location was not the only difficulty faced by the hard runs on a shoestring. A little money goes a long way. The working cast of Bye Bye B!.rdz.e. One of the stars, twelfth lunch that each child receives every day (sometimes the grade: Lauren Smith, who played the lead lady of the only meal they can count on in a day) costs the equivalent performance, Rose Alvarez-nicknamed Spanish Rose of 39 cents. The meal is a porridge of commeal, sugar, (roll the "r" please)- had to fight one of the toughest milk, and purchased water. battles a person can face when they are performing on
Te]] me about your time in Uganda.
If you could give one piece of advice to a Friends student, what would it be? Sometimes it's important not to have a plan. Start with your Quaker values, start with a compass. Then, as choices come along, do what seems most promising, most likely to be rewarding to you and the world. Don't be afraid to take risks. When Ball was asked what his biggest achievement was, he replied, "My finily." Family is clearly Ball's
stage, especially when that performance is a musical. She had to battle with her voice. On the first night of
performance our actress discovered she had lost her voice. To her, it seemed all downhill from there; after all, a person cannot sing without a functioning voice. Luckily for us adoring fans, Smith, like all the cast and crew,
persevered, and this writer can attest to the fact that by the end of the second night ladies and gentlemen, she was musical gold. "Losing my voice and having a lead role in the musical was very difficult," Smith said, sounding very greatest source of pride. In another interview he said, much the professional, "I could not have done it without "Right now, I'm decompressing. I'm looking forward the wonderful love and support of the cast and crew. I am to more time for breakfast, more time for grandchildren , so thankful to have been able to work with these lovely and more time for those legal activities that I find really people." Her good spirits and kind words wami many a interesting and challenging ." Mark Ball , from the values heart, and this writer is quite glad that she was able to he leamed from his Friends education to his integral role overcome her trials and tribulations. as a teacher, is a role model for Friends generations to All in all, the Wilmington Friends School 2012 fall come . While he may have an expansive professional life, musical was a success, though it did not travel an easy he knows that it is most important to place his values at road. It is certain that the perfoming arts department of the forefront of his existence. Friends School will continue to work more of their magic
both on the stage and off .
The Whittier Miscellany
NHL LOckout: Bad Fo+°`]day2oT2
players, Owners, and Fans revolutionized the MLB contract system today, and I wouldn't be surprised if this is the change the players Sports Writer demand happen to the NHL." At 11:59 PM on September 15, 2012, hockey The biggest win for the players would be if the fans everywhere received the dreaded news that could salary cap terminated under the new collective bargaining potentially change their hobbies for the next eight months . The NHL's old collective bargaining agreement had officially expired without a clear-cut plan for a new one. The owners proceeded to lockout their players since no agreement could be made. Overall, until a new collective bargaining agreement is reached, the owners will not let their players play hockey. Many NHL fans see the owners as the main problem in the situation since they are demanding limitations on many of the players' rights and revenues. Cutting many of the players' revenue would in turn increase the money coming in to the owners. Dwyer Tschantz '13 explains, "The whole lockout is because of greedy owners fighting
Zack Lessner '13
over money they don't need." One of the main modifications that the owners presented was a decrease from 57% to 46% in the players' share of hockey-related revenue. Other smaller modifications include extending qualification for unrestricted free agency from seven years in the league to ten, and also setting a maximum limit of five years on all new players' contracts. For obvious reasons, the players strongly disagree with this new proposal set forth by the owners. Helping to represent the NHL Players ' Association is
Steve Fehr, who also helped set the current Major League Baseball collective-bargaining agreement in 2011. The players have been arguing for an increase in the percent of hockey-related revenue in their share from the owners ' plan, but no common ground has been reached. "Both the owners and players want ridiculous amounts of money," Cale Aerenson ' 14 argues. "Neither of them are willing to comprorfuse to a fair point." Mr. Clothier also agrees with Cale's point, "It seems to me that most of the lockout is about pride. Both sides have too much pride on their sides of the issue to come to a reasonable compromise." The players also are calling for an unlinked salary cap that will steadily increase over a five-year period. This demand shows how far apart the owners and players are regarding their views on revenue and salary, with neither of them willing to cave in the near future. "Overall, the
players want more change than the owners are currently willing to settle for," Greg Szumel '14 justifies. "Fehr
Some devoted hockey fans , frusturated with consequences of the lockout agreement. Just like the MLB , no salary cap would mean higher salaries for the players since teams would not have to hold back in order to fit the cap. Even though most owners would be able to afford going over the cap, they are strongly opposed to this point because this would mean paying the players more. Even if all these points were to be resolved, a bestcase scenario for the league would be a December lst opening day, although that does not make up for the loss of multiple important games up to date. In addition to the month and a half already missed, the 6`h annual Winter Classic will now be canceled because of the ongoing labor disputes. There is still hope that a shortened season can still occur,withmuchoptimismbeingexpressedthroughoutthe student body. Since the players are playing overseas and still making salaries, it is the owners that have the most to lose. ``The owners don't really have an income now, and sponsors are starting to put on pressure ," Szumel explains. "I think the owners are going to have to cave eventually."
There is even more pressure for the league to settle since they already lost a season due to a lockout in the 2004-2005 season. A second lost season in nine years would majorly cripple the positive trends the league has seen in the past few years.
Wearing Our Quaker Pl-ide Thomas Connelly '14
because "they don't completely clash with what we wear. . . Involleyballwhatyouwearisblue,black,orredspandex." Senior Alex Gallicchio agrees: "They're nice!" Tyra Banks , supermodel and television host, recently Matt Schmittle, a junior soccer player and weight described the new Wilmington Friends "Quaker Pride" lifter, is also very fond of the new shirts because of their practice shirts as "more than just uniforms but possibly ability to "make me look like I can bench 200 pounds." the most attractive attire on the streets today." The shirts, Schmittle modestly added, "I can already do that." designedbyKarlLagerfeldofChanel,havequicklyspread For similar reasons, lacrosse player, Grayton across Wilmington Friends' campus, Delaware, and the Downing ' 14 appreciates the new shirts: "They make my United States . And yes , the rumors are true; both the blue biceps look enormous, and they're hot. I think it looks and the grey shirts will be exhibited to all designers at this really nice and put together when we're all wearing the year's "fashion week" in New York City. Banks admits same colors instead of just neon and green." that the shirts "could be bigger than UGGs." Volleyball player Delaney Lee ' 14 agrees: "I think Wilmington Friends ' very own athletic trainer Devon they are cool, and we all match. They keep you cool in Adams has the same impression of the viral shirts: "I've a hot gym, and you can wear really fun spandex with had alumni and parents ask if they could get [shirts] for them." themselves!" Although the athletic T's have recently When asked if he liked the shirts, Junior Greg gone mainstream, Adams encourages hipsters to give Szumel replied: "Yes, totally because they are blue and the shirts a chance considering that the "Quaker Pride" say Quakers." Szumel added with a grin "We don't have theme is in fact a vintage throwback: "Recently, I saw one enough of that." of our athletes wearing a vintage basketball t-shirt with "Anyone who's anyone owns a Quaker Pride shirt," "Quaker Pride" across the back. I think using the temi explains Junior soccer player Jamie Martelli-Raben will also help connect younger alumni back to Friends about student-athletes, "I like the shirts because they Athletics." In addition, Adams explains that the style is make us look like more of a team, and they intimidate anything but ephemeral: "classic varsity prints will never our opponents." In addition to the intimidation factor, go out of style." Martelli-Raben claims he "finally found a shirt that is A positive buzz about the shirts is also coming from stylish AND comfortable." the students. Volleyball champ, Ali Keith ' 13 , is a Quaker So in case you were wondering what to wear to Pride fanatic: "I like how light they are," Keith says about practice, to school, or to prom, yes-the style this winter the shirt material. She also appreciate the simple colors is undoubtedly "Quaker Pride." Wear it.
Sports writer
Quakers Swing Into the New Season Sean Kirkpatriack '13
Senior Captain Max Davis expects even better results this
Sports writer
year. When asked what his prediction was for this season, the four-time varsity swimmer replied, "State finalists." With Davis and junior captain Chase Conley leading the
Only one day after the Wilmington Friends Football team won a thrilling 23-21 victory over rival Tower Hill in Quakers into the pool, we should expect nothing less. their last game of the season on Tattersall Field, the sound The Lady Quakers look to also extend their success of a basketball bouncing on wood rang through the chilly from last season as they finished with seven wins and West Gym. While many were sleeping, enjoying their three losses last year and finished third in the conference Sunday, Sam Camey, a senior who threw for 97 yards and meet. Returning for her senior season, Elise Lanciowitz, two touchdowns the day before, was working on his foul will look to defend her two time state championship in shots. "Sports never really end for me. It's a new day, so swimming . The girls' swim team, coming off a successful bring on the new season," Carney said. After a successful state tournament meet last year, hope they can swim to fall sport's season in which three teams (football, glory this upcoming winter. volleyball , and field hockey) won the DISC conference, a Last year, in the winter track program's first year new excitement fills the air as athletes exchange cleats for ever participating in the DIAA, the Quakers experienced sneakers,andjerseysforsingletsandswimsuits.Everyone great success on the track. This year, with many returning has high expectations for the winter season as the Quakers runners and promising new faces, the team expects to be look to extend their success from the fall. a contender in all meets this season. The team started The Quaker swimming team will make their debut on with a successful showing at the University of Delaware Friday, December 7th, as both the girls' and boys' teams Holiday Classic on December 2nd, a meet that included will take on conference foe Sanford School at the William seventeen other teams. Returning from last year is Hicks Anderson Center at 4:00 pin. For the boys' squad, Cavender Salvadori , a senior star cross country runner and the start of a track star, who finished 2nd in the state in the 1600m run new season and 8th in the 3200m last year. The team also welcomes marks a junior Thomas Connelly who will contribute largely chance for to the distance events. Last years, the boys' track team theQuakers finished 13th in the state, a ranking which they hope to to build improve during this winter. On the girls' side, the squad on their returns seniors Emily Horwitz, Erin skibicki, and Joelle s u c c e s s Napoletano, who all look to lead the Lady Quakers to from the another successful year in indoor track. end of last For a group that is returning ten starters from last season as year's team that won seven meets and lost only four theQuakers and finished 2nd in the conference by beating Sanford, won five of Tower Hill, and Tatnall during the regular season, the their last six expectations are set very high for the wilmington Friends meets on wrestling team. "We have stepped up the level of intensity their way and as long as we keep the same work ethic we've had, to a third then making team states is a hopeful projection," says
Junior ljarenz Thurman Of the
Quaker basketball team takes the ball down the court on a fastbreak. The Whittier Miscellany ay 2012
place finish at the DISC conference in e e t .
conference match is going to be tough and important. We are really hoping to take it to Westtown this year and win conference," says Maguire. Returning lsr team all conference wrestlers include Luke Magness ' 13, Zac Hinderhofer '14, and Jesse Miller '14, and returning second team all conference wrestlers include Bowman Benge '13, Conner Armstrong '14, Dan Shaw '14, Bill Gordon '14, and Ian Furman '15. The 2012-2013
Wrestling Team will show what they are made of against many strong teams in the state as they look to finish high at the state championship meet. From the wrestling mats to the hardwood, the Quakers have large goals for themselves on the basketball court. The Lady Quakers lost Erica Brown and Beth Hill to graduation. They are now both playing Division three basketball . The expectations will still be set high as many
young players look to fill big roles. The team returns four-year varsity starter Lauren Kerrigan, and returning starter and senior Annie Procaccini, who will use their leadership to guide the Lady Quakers to success this winter. After winning four of their last five games at the end of the regular season last year before falling to mighty Indian River High School in the first round of the state
playoffs, the girls' basketball team will look to continue their success on the court. After losing a very tough game to a talented Mount Pleasant basketball team in the state playoffs last year, the boys' basketball team has been waiting for their shot at revenge all off-season. Now is their chance , as the Quakers will look to make their mark on the Wilmington Friends School basketball program. With eight returning seniors, Jack Hall, Zach Lessner, Sam Camey, Ryan Broussard, Sean Kirkpatrick, Malcomn Delpeche, Ben Hansom, and Marcus Delpeche, the WFS boys' basketball team is experienced and ready for anything that their opponents could throw at them this season. Also, with the return of first-team all conference point guard Larenz Thurman, and many talented under-classmen, the Quakers will be ready to win. All in all, the winter season at Wilmington Will Maguire, a senior, and captain of the team. The only team that stood between the Quakers' and a conference Friends looks very promising as many teams look to title last season was powerhouse westtown school who extend their success from last season. Come out and will give the mighty Quakers a strong bout. "Every support our Quakers !
',I
The Whittier Miscellany Holiday 2012
Delightful December Dishes Eli Akerfeldt and Maddie Ireland `16 Entertainment One of the most memorable parts of the holiday is not only spending time with the family and getting presents , but also enjoying a nice holiday meal consisting of sometimes wild and new recipes, or more traditional and practical options . However, great holiday food usually comes with a struggle. It can be stressful not only to cook the meal, but also to find the recipes that will make your meal perfect. So here are some suggestions of tasty treats to keep your guests and tastes buds happy this holiday season.
chocolate frosting (or vanilla if you like) and fruit on top. This is not only delicious, particularly for chocolate lovers, but it also has a little extra something: the fruit that sweetens it adds deliciousness and healthiness to your pie. This is also something enjoyed among not only adults, but childrenaswell;plus,thechefoftheeveningdoesnothave to cook or prepare much. This pie is simple , delicious , and an all time favorite for every event or holiday evening! For someone who wants a more creative dessert to try out on farily and friends, Banoffi pie is a good suggestion. Owen Tolton '16 says, "Banoffi pie is awesome." He also shared with us his recipe for this delicious dish. To start making this dessert, you should first have a loxl .5 inch deep loose-bottomed flat tin and an oven preheated to 350-375 degrees . Now, to make the pie,
you need nine ounces of flower, one ounce of icing sugar, and four and a half ounces of butter. You will also need one egg and one egg yolk. First put the flour and sugar into a bowl, and then add cubed pieces of butter into the bowl and mix it until it resembles breadcrumbs. Then you should add the egg and work it until it forms a fine paste. Let the batter sit for half an hour. Then, take the batter and roll it out on a baking sheet, but be careful to make it not too thin. Prick the bottom of the batter before putting it in Filet Mignon: one classy dish the oven. Once you have done all this, put the pan in the Filet mignon is a more traditional entree to serve; oven and let it cook for approximately fifteen minutes , or but no matter how many times it is served, it truly is a until it is evenly golden. Once it is done, remove the crust holiday staple. In order to make a classic filet, you will from the oven and let it cool. To assemble the pie you will need two tablespoons of oil, dashes of salt and pepper, need one and a half tins of toffee , five to six ripe bananas , a bowl, and a strip of meat. The steak should be two to three fourths of a pint of double cream, one teaspoon of three inches thick. You can either buy individual filets or instant coffee, one dessertspoon of caster sugar, and a just cut larger loins and slice them later. Allow the meat to pinch of ground coffee. Spread the toffee over the pastry reach room temperature . Place two tablespoons of oil on a base you just made, and make sure it is even. Next, peel pan for one minute. Put the steaks on the pan at medium the bananas and cut them lengthwise , and fit them over the temperature for three to six minutes (depending on the toffee. Get your cream and ground coffee, and whip them in a bowl together. Spread the cream over the bananas, up thickness). Flip the filets for another two to five minutes. Once you feel it is almost done, place a thermometer in to the pastry rim, and if you wish you can sprinkle more
your meat. Any temperature from 120 degrees fahrenheit ground coffee over the cream. Avoid freezing the pie, as to 145 fahrenheit should thouroughly cook your meal ! You it does not lend itself to being frozen. Your Banoffi pie can add ingredients to your filet to turn it into something should now be complete--enjoy! In case you would another dessert to accompany more creative for both yourself and your family. Items such as steak sauce, mushrooms, onions, or any spice your pie , Buche de Noel is the perfect pairing . This French can enhance a steak's taste. You can alter its taste to dish is perfect for novices and culinary masters alike! In make it more your style, but no matter what you add order to prepare this dish , you will need two cups of heavy or subtract from your filet, it pleases nearly everyone. cream, a half a cup of confectioner's sugar, a half cup of Whether accompanied by mashed potatoes , string beans , unsweetened cocoa powder, six egg yolks , one teaspoon of or Brussels sprouts, filet mignon is something everyone vanilla extract, and half a cup of sugar. Once you have all of the ingredients ready, preheat the oven to 375 degrees is going to enjoy. For any vegetarians, a delicious dinner entree farenheit. In a bowl, whip together cream, half a cup of would be spanckopita. Spanakopita is a Greek pie that contains spinach inside of it. Sophia Clark '14 says, "It is my favorite part of the holidays !" It tastes good warm, especially on a cold day, but you can also put it in the fridge and eat it cold or heat it up later. Although not a particularly common holiday dinner dish , spanakopita is a new opportunity to try something new and creative that, if
you enjoy it, could turn into a new family tradition; your guests will not be able to get enough! In order to create this dish, you will need five eggs , three ten-ounce packages of frozen, chopped, defrosted spinach, eight ounces of cream cheese, eight or more ounces of feta cheese, olive oil, one stick of butter, a box of phyllo pastry, dill, fennel, two bunches of chopped saut6ed onions, one tablespoon of parsley, and eight ounces of small curd cottage cheese. First, you should beat the five eggs in a mixer until they look fluffy, and then add everything else, except the confectioner's sugar and cocoa, one teaspoon of vanilla, phyllo dough and butter, gradually into the mixer. Then, and cream. Then, line a 10xl5 inch pan with parchment you should melt the butter and grease a 9xl3x3 inch pan. Next, you should line the bottom of the pan with half a box of phyllo dough . While remembering to butter between each layer, you should add spinach filling and spread it evenly. If you have extra feta, you can top your creation with it before placing the leftover dough on top. Remember to continue buttering in between each sheet. Put a little water on the top, and bake it in the oven at 350 degrees, until the top is light brown and looks crispy and slightly crunchy. It should be in the oven about forty-five to fifty minutes. Then, once it is done and you leave it on the stove a little to cool off, you and your family can just take a slice-- and enjoy ! Finally for it is time for desserts, which is of course the best and most anticipated to part of dinner. A good suggestion for dessert is a homemade chocolate pie with
paper. Mix together the eggs and the sugar until thick. Afterwards, add the cocoa, vanilla, and salt, and then spread the mixture evenly into the pan. Once you have created the batter, bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Take the cake out of the pan and roll it up for 30 minutes. Dust it with some confectioner's sugar, and you are ready to go! From filet mignon to the delicious Banoffi pie, you will certainly be set for the hectic holidays. You can surprise your family by offering to help out and cook, while also receiving praise for a fantastic job well done! With this quick and easy-to-follow recipe guide, no one will stress over meals again. So this holiday season, do not fret about what to cook or what to buy; instead focus on the important aspects of the seasons: family, friends, and no school.
The Whittier Miscellany Holiday 2012
Watching in a Winter Wonderland Lu Matyumza `15 and Clara Graves `16
Entertainment `Tis the season to watch movies ! The holiday season is
upon us , and along with the Christmas trees and gift-wrap come our favorite holiday movies. Favorites like GrI."cfe Stole Christmas a.nd A Charlie Brown Christmas will soon be appearing on our televisions everywhere. If you are looking for a great Christmas movie this year, you are in luck. Here is just a list of the top ten Christmas movies thatarepeoples'favorites.So,gatheraroundandgetready for your holiday wishes to come to life ! A Cferz.s#7c¢s Sfory makes its way to number ten on
to Home AJo#c. Upset at his parents' decision to spend Christmas in Florida, the antithesis of a winter holiday, Kevin unwittingly boards a flight to New York City. Kevin wanders around the city and discovers that his nemeses Harry and Marv (from the previous Home A/o#e) are on the loose and plotting to rob a toy store of money going to a hospital. Kevin saves the day by stopping Harry and Marv (though at the end he may be in trouble as he spent
$967 on room service.) "I think Hormc A/o#c is a classic and is super funny!" says Nimalah Baaith Ducharme ' 16.
Number three is the original movie Home AJo#e. The film focuses on an eight-year-old boy
named Kevin Mccalli ster who is left home alone by accident on Christmas. At first over].oyed at the
"You' 11 shoot your eye out! "
the list. "It's a really funny movie that everybody will enjoy!" says Eleanor Napoli '16. This film features the story about nine-year-old Ralphie Parker who wishes to find only one toy under the Christmas tree: a Red Ryder 88 gun. He hears the trademark line, "You'll shoot your eye out," while trying to persuade his parents to buy the toy. You should certainly watch this feel good family film ! The Nightmare Bofore Christmas birngs .in TNI"toe;I nine on the list. ``1 think The Nightmare Bef ore Christmas is hilariously creepy and a different kind of Christmas movie," says Margaret Kane ' 16. The film takes place in Halloween Town, which consists of monsters and
ghouls alike. Each year the mayor, or Pumpkin King, Jack Skellington, and leads the festivities of Halloween. However, one year he wanders in the forest in the outskirts of town, he inadvertently opens a portal to Christmas Town. Jack recounts his experiences in the portal to the residents of Halloween Town, but they do not understand the idea of Christmas. He then kidnaps Santa Clause so that Jack himself can replace Santa. If you are sick of stereotypical holiday films, 7lfee M.gfeJmc]re Be/ore Cfarz.sf773czs is perfect for you.
Number eight on the list is How ffee Grz.#cfe Sfo/c Cfer!.s#7tczs . The film centers around The Grinch , a mean old creature with a heart that is two sizes too small. He lives on
the ffigid Mount Crumpit with his only friend, a dog named Max.AngeredbytheneighboringWhos'Christmasspirit, the Grinch vows to destroy their holiday cheer by taking their presents. However, during his thievery, he realizes Christmas is not just about presents; it's about sharing and giving thanks. If you want to experience Christmas all over again, this film is perfect for you. Zlfec Po/czr Express comes in at number seven on the list. The film takes place on Christmas Eve. It follows the story of a young boy who finds himself questioning Santa's existence. He is invited to ride a mysterious train, the Polar Express, which takes children to see Santa in the North Pole. Together, he and his friends get into a whole lot of shenanigans, but they each end up safely at their own house. The boy receives a bell that only believers in Santa can hear. For all those who want to relive the nights of waiting for Santa to deliver their presents, 7lfec Po/czr Exprcfs is a perfect fit. Number six on the list is Adz.rczcJc o7c 34ffe Sfrecf .
The film apens up with a hired Santa Claus getting drunk before the Thanksgiving parade . The event planner, Doris Walker, replaces him on the spot with an old man who goes by the name of Kris Kringle. Little by little , everyone starts recognizing a special little something about the new Santa. Things for him go smoothly, until he is arrested for allegedly assaulting the man he replaced. The only way to acquit Kris at his trial is to prove not only the existence of Santa, but that Kris himself is the real one. Number four on the list is ZJomc A/o"e 2 Losf I.# IVcw yorfe. Kevin Mccallister is back with the sequel
Charlie who stays with his dad on Christmas Eve. That night Charlie hears a clatter on the roof , so he goes to his dad, Scott Calvin. They accidentally find Santa on the roof and inadvertently make him fall off . The duo realizes they will have to replace Santa in order deliver children'sgifts.Scottphysicallyandmentallytransforms into the holiday hero , alarming his friends and family. "I think rfoc Scz7czcz C/czz4sc is pretty good for a Christmas holiday!" says Sujeylee Alvarez ` 16.
The best Christmas movie of all time is EJfl The film centers around Buddy, a human raised faithfully by toy-making elves. Soon he starts wondering why he is not like his other elven friends . Once Buddy realizes that he is an actual human, he travels to New York to find his parents. While there, Buddy not only revamps a toy store , permanently alters the lives of his parents, and falls in love with a sales clerk, but he spreads Christmas spirit throughout New York. "E// is really funny, and it reminds us that the best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud for all to
thought of some alone " Sidling is nay favorite" hear!" says Caroline Wren ` 16. time, he realizes life This holiday season is the perfect might not be all that sweet when two robbers named Harry and Marv try to break time to catch up on childhood films that rekindle fond in into his house. Kevin must protect his house with memories of leaving milk and cookies out for Santa, outlandishbooby-trapsandschemes.HomcAJo#efeatures stuffing stockings, and delight after seeing Santa did in lots of laughs and adventure; it is truly a movie that the fact deliver presents . These movies offer sentimentality whole family would love. Sarah Brennan-Martin ' 15 says , of the good old days and are perfect distractions for "I like it because it's really funny, especially when Kevin procrastinators who do not want to focus on midterms. So sit down, get your hot chocolate, and relive all the tricks the burglars ! " wonderful memories of Christmas past. 77!e Scz#fc} C/oz{sc makes its way as number two on the list. 7lfec Scz„fa CJczwsc is about a young boy named
E,;: I,; :I(,; : i,; : ,1j;:`'I,; :,i;.`:,;I :i,; The Whittier Miscellany
HOLIDAY 2012
Taking a (Metaphorical) Stand Sophie Mester '13 Co-Editor-in-Chief Although it happened weeks ago, I can't seem to
when I felt several eyes upon me as I remained seated for the first relatively obvious prompt: stand up if you consider
yourself a female . It wasn 't that I felt uncomfortable with get over it. I can feel my face flush just remembering the people knowing that I consider myself a female; it was discomfort and awkwardness that I couldn't avoid feeling that I didn't want my participation in the meeting to reveal throughout this year's Diversity Meeting for Worship. things about me for the more difficult prompts. When it For anyone who doesn't know, the Diversity Meeting for came time for the prompt, "stand if you identify with the Worship is a meeting that has been held by the Diversity middle class", I didn't want people to assume that just Committee each year for the past three years. Committee because I didn't stand, I don't identify with the middle members read aloud several different ethnic, political, class. Even if I in fact don't identify with the middle class, racial , and socioeconomic classifications and ask anyone I don't want any assumptions about me to be made. I'm who identifies with the specific group they mentioned not embarrassed by who I am or where I come from; on to silently stand. The meeting aims to unify the school the contrary, I'm proud. I just don't think I need to share community and make each individual feel comfortable personal infomation, such as my family's socioeconomic with and proud of their differences. In my experience, status , with the entire school community. Even as a person however, the meeting has done just the opposite. who falls into the category of the majority for essentially Before you accuse me of being anti-diversity, let me every classification mentioned, I can't help feeling explain myself. I both respect the Diversity Committee's uncomfortable throughout the entire meeting. I imagine enthusiasm and support their cause. My issue with the that I'm not the only person that feels this way. meeting comes not from its aim, but its practice. With There are so many possible solutions to this problem. each descriptor the committee reads out, everyone in the The best solution in my mind is to make the meeting room is placed in an unfair position. By standing for the optional. Those who want to attend should be able to. I specific group described, you are putting yourself on the recognize that this meeting actually does benefit many receiving end of the entire school community's silent and makes several people feel more comfortable about stares as everyone is instructed to "Notice those who are the things that make them unique. But for those like me, standing, and notice those who are not." However, by who have no desire to be put in a position where either choosing to not stand with a group you identify with, you their personal information is shared with or assumed by are left feeling untrue to yourself . Although the Diversity a large audience, they shouldn't be forced to. Maybe my Committee has good intentions and stresses the fact that view of this meeting is too conservative, and maybe for you are not required to stand up, the essential problem the first time, I'm actually in the minority for feeling this with the meeting is this: you are saying something about way. However, isn't the point of diversity to respect and honor all differences, including those of opinion? That is yourself by remaining seated as well. That is why this year, I decided to remain seated for why I believe we should acknowledge those who don't the entire meeting. It was awkward at times, especially want to stand or sit, and allow them to abstain.
I Wandered Lonely as a Cumulonimbus Julia Rhodes '14 Columnist ln late October, the east coast braced itself for the Frankenstorm, Hurricane Sandy. Was global warming
with boundless opportunity to broaden my understanding of the environment around me. By no means did my na.I.vet6 evaporate with the commencement of middle school , but somehow nature's inflicting poetic justice on polluters? Was God sending appeal slowly withered. Instead of launching expeditions us a sign? Or was nature unleashing a reckoning on the into my backyard to find solitude or adventure, I apathetic Americans? Whatever the conspiracy, those few increasingly found myself either watching Grey's days I spent confined to my house made me realize an Anatomy or figuring out the mechanics of Facebook. astonishing but completely obvious fact: I almost never Little by little, my fascination with the outside world go outside. Besides the half-sprint from my house to the diminished as my indoor life required more upkeep. Soon car, hunying across the courtyard because I do not feel after, obligatory pre-teem cynicism overlaid itself into my like walking through crowded hallways , or my one season daily routines. I carried a perpetual storm cloud above my of playing sports, I spend less than three minutes of my head, and rarely shed my angsty exterior. day outdoors. The Romantic poets find clarity in hindsight, and My indoor education I try to do the same. When I completely contradicts those was little, I had a protective of the Romantic poets about shield of innocence to protect whom I learn. One such me from awkward situations. writer, William Wordsworth , I obliviously frolicked in the staunchly believes "good outside world that offered so much to me. The more selfpoetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful aware I became , the more selffeelings," resulting in nature conscious I felt about venturing as his predominant subject outdoors. Nature used to hold matter. My `overflow of the promise of unsolved mysteries and opportunity. powerful feelings' usually comesfrom2-3cupsofcoffee. Self-awareness taught me the Wordsworth subscribes the absurdity of innovation and A serene forest cathartic effects of nature the pointlessness of novelty. walks, while I constantly worry about doing the right The outdoors supplied me with a liberated medium; the E-HEM assignment. Wordsworth "dances with daffodils ," indoors with confinement. while I blast "Gangnam Style" in the car. Even so, I did Whatever joy, or ` spontaneous overflow of feelings ,' not always possess such indifference to the world without I experienced as a youngster promptly ended as I gained SmartBoards or laptops. more self-awareness. The Romantic poet Thomas Gray I remember back in the days of lower school, when coined the iconic phrase `ignorance is bliss.' How right I would count down the seconds until recess - the he is. Moreover, these poets believe in the power of the magical block of time when we could expand our limited individual, innovation, and infinite possibilities. Maybe boundaries of the Earth by simply venturing in the someofthebestthinkers,likeWordsworth,neverletgoof woods. I was either a benevolent Christopher Columbus their blithe sheen of the world -or , at least could remember discovering new rocks and trees , Amelia Earhart reaching back to a time of such joyousness. Maybe this winter we the bounds of the atmosphere on a swing, or Kobe Bryant should all go outside to construct snowmen, igloos, and on a bad day. My na.I.vets precluded me from seeing that the like. Though perhaps the stress associated with high I never made any valuable discoveries, I never outwitted school may never detach itself from our thoughts (until gravity on a swing, and I never scored a single point in maybe spring of senior year), we can always revisit and basketball. Nevertheless, the outside world provided me re-appreciate kinder days of carefreeness.
1I'
t^. .,.i
I,-,_