February 2017 (65, 6)

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bhpanel.org

Volu m e 6 5 , Issu e 6

Febr u ar y 9, 2017

A Student Publication of the Belmont Hill School

DOES BELMONT HILL RECYCLE? A Campus Investigation into the Workings of Belmont Hill’s Recycling System

By William McCormack ‘18 and Bennett Morris ‘18 Panel Staff A few months ago, a teacher, who will remain anonymous, revealed that one afternoon he had seen the recycling in Morse dumped into the same bin as the trash. Upon sharing his observation with Belmont Hill colleagues, he realized other faculty members had also witnessed a similar occurrence at least once or twice in their Belmont Hill careers. In fact, one faculty member recalled that about five years ago, some teachers speculated so much that recycling at Belmont Hill became somewhat scandalous. Hungry for the truth, we set out to investigate, hoping to unveil the cloaked recycling process on campus.

We began our research with the dining staff. We had noticed that the recycling bins outside the kitchen door were lined with the same bags that are primarily used for collecting trash.

Look Inside Teaching at Belmont Hill Page 3 Four Students Return from Semester Aboroad Page 6

Frozen Fenway Page 8

Alumni Feature: Dylan Hayre ‘04 on his Panel Page 10

However, Denis Gagne, head of Belmont Hill’s dining services, dispelled our worries and explained to us the kitchen’s separation regimen.

Rest assured: behind the big red fence b ord e r i n g the milk and cookies area, the dining hall does separate trash from recyclables. Cardboard is placed in its own special bin, while large plastic bottles (often used for juice) and other large plastic items are placed in another bin. Unfortunately, due to con-

tamination with food, the dining hall is un-

able to recycle many other items. If an item was to be recycled with remaining food or liquid waste, the whole batch of recycling would need to be nu l l i fied.

A f ter talking with Mr. Gagne, we met with Mr. Casey Young, Director of Facilities. Mr. Young is also responsible for Belmont Hill’s relationship and contract with Prospect Cleaning, a company whose employees clean the school after hours. Very happy to help, Mr. Young walked

us through many previously unknown aspects of Belmont Hill’s recycling systems. According to Mr. Young, recycling collected

by Prospect Cleaning employees on the academic side of campus is first stored in a temporary, separate location behind the dining hall. Maintenance employees continually monitor the recycling bags and trash dumpster, moving recycling to a larger storage center behind the Jordan Athletic Center if needed. Trash, however, is picked up by the waste disposal company directly from the dining hall. Subsequently, every few days, a Belmont Hill-contracted waste management company picks up recycling, trash, and cardboard from the JAC and any trash from the dining hall, transporting them separately to the Belmont Dump for proper disposal. (continued

on

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2)

Politics and Journalism

By Arnav Prasad ‘18, and Ishaan Prasaad ‘18, and William McCormack ‘18 Panel Staff On a cold Wednesday night last December, we three Panel editors, accompanied by faculty advisor Ms. Zener, journeyed to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum for a timely discussion on the role of journalism in the current political climate.

Treated by the Boston Globe and their student journalism outreach program, we anticipated a riveting forum led by ABC’s Chief Washington Correspondent Ann Compton and CBS News Political Director John Dickerson. With the recent Presidential campaign and the present state of journalism as a focal point of the conversation, Compton and Dickerson’s analysis found direction in Dickerson’s new book Whistlestop: My Favorite Stories from Presidential Campaign History before answering audience questions and conducting a special private session with student journalists.

Ann Compton covered seven consecutive presidents in the White House, travelling to all 50 states with presidents ranging from Gerald Ford to Barack Obama.

The first full-time female reporter at the White House for network television, Compton also served as a panelist on two presidential debates, one in 1988 and the other in 1992. Dickerson, on the other hand, has written about American politics and the White House for Time, Slate, and CBS News. Now the moderator of CBS’s weekly Face the Nation, he has hosted Donald Trump, Joe Biden, Mike Pence, Bernie Sanders, Marco Rubio, and Paul Ryan within the last year. Both were extremely qualified to comment on journalism and American elections, but even more impressively, they graciously and thoughtfully answered our own questions after the larger event. (continued on page 4)

Basketball Starts 8-0 in ISL

By William McCormack ‘18 Panel Staff Entering this season with two consecutive secondplace finishes in the ISL, Varsity basketball has thus far managed to maintain expectations during league play. As of February 3rd, with league wins over Rivers, Nobles, Groton, BBN, Lawrence, St. Sebastian’s, St. Mark’s, and Roxbury Latin, Belmont Hill is a perfect 8-0 in Independent School League competition.

Currently tied atop the standings with another undefeated team, Brooks, team captains Jovan Jones ‘18 and David Mitchell ‘18 have been very satisfied with the first two months of the season.

Considering the notable increase in ISL basketball talent, Belmont Hill’s undefeated record becomes all the more im-

pressive. While St. Mark’s used to essentially be the lone source of Division I talent, sending Kaleb Tarczewski to Arizona and Nik Stauskas to Michigan and the NBA, the ISL has recently mushroomed into one of New England’s premier basketball circuits, boasting a considerable number of D1 commits and New England’s top-ranked 2018 player (Cormac Ryan at Milton).

Rivers’s Jermaine Samuels ‘17 will most notably play at Villanova next year, and Brooks, Governor’s, Rivers, Milton, and Lawrence (and BH) all have at least a couple Division 1 recruits on their rosters. Plus, to many, NEPSAC (New England Preparatory School Athletic Council) is the most competitive prep athletic league in the country, especially for basketball. (continued on page 7)

BELMONT HILL OPINION

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Drop Lisbon.

Th e Pan el

Tweeter-In-Chief?

By John Markis ‘18 Panel Staff

Representatives gather to celebrate the death of their respective national sovereignties

By Robbie Warming ‘17 Panel Staff On December 13th, 2007, the European Union signed its death warrant.

And now, a decade later, Britain will be its just executioner.

The European Union has far overstepped its original intentions. Arising from the ashes of two world wars that devastated the continent, the Union began as a loose group of states which dared to strive towards peace. Their intentions were pure and simple: stronger diplomatic and economic ties within the continent would put a stop to the past centuries of near-constant warfare. The goal was noble, and it worked. Europe emerged from the carnage as an economic powerhouse.

The Union itself evolved throughout the later 20th century, but it has now reached a critical point. The Lisbon Treaty, signed in 2007, and the older Maastricht Treaty it replaced greatly increased the powers of a central European government.

The people of Europe now have two options: either they can let this expansion of central power continue, resulting in a virtual nation-state encompassing all of Europe, or they can ditch Lisbon in the name of national sovereignty.

The Lisbon Treaty is a political disaster.

It threatens the national sovereignty of member states and puts the European Union, which is economically advantageous to all, in jeopardy. Opposition to the overreaching Lisbon treaty has sparked the rise of farright groups like the UK Independence Party, Front National of France, and the Freedom Party of Austria. These groups, utilizing the anti-Lisbon sentiment in their respective countries, have grasped power.

Their rise has given political legitimacy to racist anti-Muslim policies. And instead of dismantling the Lisbon Treaty, they seek to destroy the Union entirely, demolishing the economic framework that benefits all members. Instead of trying to weather this new wave of nationalism, the European Union must save itself. The Union must be wholly reformed.

As constituted by the Lisbon Treaty, the European Union looks a lot like a national government. It has a Parliament and Council acting as its dual legislative branches. And it has a European Commission to run its executive functions. Though

this simplified the governance of the Union, it began a slippery slope towards a centralized European state forced upon its diverse peoples. Voters want representation, and they don’t feel represented when their European Parliament consists of 751 MEPs, the majority of whom come from vastly different cultures than their own. Centuries-old

Each state would be represented by a delegation selected by their own government. Sovereignty is respected, human rights issues are addressed, and European trade deals are brokered.

Instead of embarking on the impossible goal of forming a single European superstate, the new union would focus on European friendship and cooperation. nations cannot be deconstructed without friction.

More over, the European Parliament is itself a weak institution, with the unelected European Commission having the power to introduce legislation. In effect, the EU’s governance has a democratic deficit. That voter opposition to unity will doom the Union in its current form.

Instead, the European Union should model itself after the United Nations. Each state would be represented by a delegation selected by their own government. Sovereignty is respected, human rights issues are addressed, and European trade deals are brokered. Instead of embarking on the impossible goal of forming a single European superstate, the new union would focus on European friendship and cooperation.

It would ensure nations are respected, continue the economic stability Europe has enjoyed, and take the wind out of the sails of right wing parties.

So what will it be? Will the European Union continue to be stubborn and risk seeing its member states bow out? Or will it take a step back and do what’s best for the European people? ☐

Although various groups find President Trump deplorable for a plethora of reasons, one of the most common critiques against him remains his use of Twitter. The president’s statements over social media--from calling climate change a hoax perpetuated by the Chinese “to make U.S. manufacturing non-competitive,” to criticizing former beauty pageant darling Alicia Machado--have made headlines across the country. Republicans and Democrats alike, citing both a potential loss in respectability for the office and Trump’s propensity for rash statements, have urged President Trump to surrender his account to his aides.

In spite of these real dangers, Trump’s account enables him to speak directly to the masses, a necessity for any president. Where FDR utilized his fireside chats to retain popularity with his constituents, Trump can employ the same strategy to keep his base engaged.

Furthermore, Trump’s campaign has been slandered repeatedly by the press.

Whether the media claims that Trump removed the Dr. King bust from the Oval Office, asserts that the president’s assertions on illegal immigration are sui generis, or releases fake news concerning golden showers under the guise of “classified information,” the truth has become painstakingly clear: the press works to hinder the Trump presidency. Now, to be clear, the media should hold President Trump accountable for his actions, and reputable news sources such as the Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, and New York Post have performed admirably under harsh conditions; however, far too many others, allowing bias to turn news pieces into opinion editorials, have failed in this regard. Until all outlets report Trump fairly, he must tweet to allow his opinion to resound loudly. After all, the president’s view on a particular is-

Recycling

Food, cardboard, paper, and trash mixed Continued from Page 1 During our investigation, we also met with a cleaner for Prospect Cleaning. Informally interviewing him on a Wednesday night around 6:00 pm on the second floor of the Melvoin Academic Center, we asked the employee, whose English was limited, about the procedure he followed when collecting trash and recycling. When asked if cleaners merged trash and recycling, he responded affirmatively. Then when asked if this was usual procedure campus-wide, the answer remained the same. However, adding to our confusion, about fifteen minutes later, when the employee reached Melvoin Commons and we asked him a final question, he began to explain that actually, recycling and trash are separated. His changed response could be due to an array of issues (i.e. context, clarity), but is most likely because of a language barrier.

Our most concerning discovery pertains to the dumpster behind the dining hall. On three separate occasions (12/6/16, 1/11/17, and 1/25/17),

sue carries enormous sway, and the public has the right to have access to his attitudes.

While Trump should retain the option of social media as an avenue to the masses, he should wield his influence cautiously. Trump’s advisors should warn him to avoid any unneeded negative reference to the following: Clinton (either one), Obama, the Democratic Party, Paul Ryan, and the media. He will obtain nothing but ridicule by attacking any of these.

Trump should also remove from social media any mention of Russia, China, or the European Union.

If international treaties unravel, United States citizens could be in legitimate danger. The best discussions for treaties, trade alliances, and renegotiations occur behind closed doors, not in 140-character messages. Finally, President Trump, while maintaining the spunk that makes him The Donald, should renounce his beloved one-word phrases, especially any which require exclamation marks. For an example of the type of Twitter account which Trump should strive for, search up “MatureTrumpTwts” on Twitter. Conveniently, this handle compares what Trump tweets to what a more experienced politician would write. Some of the ire concerning Trump’s tweets comes from the lack of sophistication contained, and Trump’s tweets read much more professionally when a stronger vocabulary is displayed, as seen in this account. While his base may be dismayed initially based off its fondness for blunt phrases, Trump can expand his appeal dramatically by enhancing the quality of his tweets. Ultimately, Trump should heed this famous expression before he publishes any new messages: with great power comes great responsibility. ☐ we checked the contents of the dumpster.

Bags with recyclables from buildings Melvoin, Morse, and Science had been mixed with bags of trash on all three days. According to Mr. Young, the dumpster at the dining hall is only supposed to include trash, since the waste disposal company picks up contents of the dining hall dumpster and discards them as trash, not recyclables. As mentioned earlier, recycling bags are to be stored temporarily at the dining hall (propped up against gray bins next to the dumpster) before being relocated to Jordan. Thus, the fact that bags of recycling and trash were mixed in the dumpster poses a serious problem, as most of the recycling on Belmont Hill’s academic side is being treated and processed like trash.

Though our trash and recycling policy may be sound, the actual implementation is flawed.

By exposing these lapses in Belmont Hill’s recycling systems, we call for greater adherence to the current policies and procedures. We encourage everyone to employ vigilance around disposal practices. Should you witness recycling foul play, please contact Mr. Young, Director of Facilities. He can be reached at kyoung@belmonthill.org and is committed to communicating with cleaning staff and making the proper changes. ☐

BELMONT HILL OPINION

Febr u ar y 9, 2017

Teaching and Working at Belmont Hill: An In-Depth Look

Fixing Attendance

By Will Ryan ‘17 Staff Writer

Mr. Martin ‘65 has taught and coached at Belmont Hill since 1972

By Gavin Colbert ‘18 Staff Writer Belmont Hill School is an outstanding institution that garners a sterling reputation for academics, arts, and athletics. For many burgeoning prospective students, our school is on the top of their lists. Furthermore, many students experience a real brotherhood at school, one that connects and bonds classmates for the rest of their lives. But is it the same for faculty and staff? Is Belmont Hill a quality workplace conducive to a supportive community not just for faculty but also for the staff working here? I decided to find out.

Tasked with great responsibility as the Dean of Faculty, Mr. Armstrong is entrusted with nurturing the lifeblood of the school: its teachers. Since all new faculty must first pass through his office, I was interested in hearing his take on aspiring Belmont Hill teachers as well as the current Belmont Hill teaching community: “As faculty members, we are treated very well. We love being here, it is a great place to work our craft as teachers everyday. I take a lot of pride in being a faculty member at Belmont Hill; that’s what I consider myself first and foremost.” At current count, a substantial eight teachers are graduates of Belmont Hill. Their graduation years span generations, marking different times in the school’s history. Both young and old alumi come back to teach.

Mr. Murphy, who runs the Annual Giving program among faculty members, has been successful with 100% of teachers giving back to the school annually, demonstrating that as Mr. Murphy said, “We all clearly believe in the school and its mission.” Similarly, Mr. Armstrong added that the 100% giving is “a reflection of Dr. Melvoin and how much we believe in his leadership and a reflection of how much we believe in the school and the boys.” Interestingly enough, I heard this same sentiment about connecting with students from one of the youngest faculty members, Ms. Vailas. She underscored, as one of her favorite aspects of being a faculty member, the opportunity to connect with her students and the athletes on her teams, “I’ve really loved getting to know the boys, specifically the athletes on my teams. I really enjoy the time I spend with them, my runs in the afternoon are some of the best hours of my day.”

Next, I wanted to hear from a so-called “lifer” at Belmont Hill, the esteemed and hilarious Mr. Sherman, to find out what has compelled him to stay on the Hill for the past forty-five years: “I have a lovely space in which to work here...but more importantly, I’ve been blessed with wonderful colleagues, and of course ter-

rific students who certainly make it all worthwhile. When I was younger, one of my wise friends told me, ‘Oh, you are absolutely going to be a lifer at Belmont Hill’ and after all these years I have been very stimulated and happy working here. It’s been a happy marriage.”

Not only is the Belmont Hill environment molded by teachers, but also by the staff who work diligently to maintain the campus from the Library to the playing fields. I spoke with the very friendly and hard-working Evi Tejada, who cleans the library and lunchroom in the afternoons. We held our conversation in Spanish as she spoke graciously and enthusiastically about the teachers and students who, for the past seventeen years, have made this community feel like a family: “[translated] I love working at Belmont Hill. When I applied to work, I thought I would work here for only a couple of months, but later I discovered how great the school was. The teachers and students were always so friendly, always asking how I was doing, how my family was. It became a very special place for me. I feel very grateful to not only be at this school but also in this country and for the opportunities that both have provided. I am very happy and thankful.”

Indeed the underlying theme of community and connection exists not only for the faculty but also for the staff here on the Hill.

Therefore, if in your future you happen to be a recently graduated alum looking for a place to work with a strong community feel, look no farther than from whence you came. ☐

Pa g e 3

If you’re anything like me, you have, on more than one occasion, grumbled to yourself about having to walk across campus to sign in with your advisor. Our current system is undeniably archaic. In a world where you can order coffee on a smartphone app, walk into the store, and pick up your drink, we still have to write our names down on a whiteboard or a piece of paper to let the school know we are present. I propose a better way.

What if daily attendance was on your phone? Or your computer? Or any other device with access to the internet? What if signing in simply required you to type your name and hit submit? Such a system could be on its way.

Alongside Maahin Gulati ‘18, I have been developing an attendance application that would enable students to sign in from anywhere on campus. With the school’s new BYOD policy, we thought it only suitable that the attendance system should receive an internet-age update as well. The app would function just like a website, allowing any student to sign in from any device. The student would sign in with their BH email, input some more information, including their form and advisor, then hit submit. In order to ensure the student is on campus, they would need to be connected to the wifi in order to sign in. Once you receive a confirmation alert, you’re good to go.

The new system would also have included features for the faculty. A faculty specific website will allow teachers to search for an individual’s status or see how many of their advisees have signed in. Possible features could include a readable ‘notes’ section so that faculty would know the nature of a student’s absence.

When asked for a comment, Maahin said that, “in my opinion this application will help make life easier and more time efficient for all the students at Belmont Hill. The current attendance system can be tedious at times and our goal is to solve this issue with our new app. Will has done a great job so far but the job is not yet complete. We are hoping to launch it during this school year!”

Mr. Smith, Director of Academic Technology, did point out one issue that needed to be addressed concerning the app: “I suspect that the main hesitation with an app like this is that certain advisors will lose opportunities to check-in with their students… While innovation is important, our relationship with students is more so, and we want to be sure that we don’t allow technology to steer this ship.”

While such hesitation is well-founded, such an app would make signing students in easier for advisors. Advisor time should be set aside, because those connections are sacred. But when a meeting isn’t scheduled, running to one’s advisor just seems like a waste of everyone’s time.

The app is still in its developmental stages, but the strong support from students who have heard of the idea has been a great motivator in the process. We are working with the administration to iron out the details and full functionality of the app, but are encouraged to bring you a product that will make your mornings just a little bit easier.

In the coming months, we ask that students get involved with voicing their support for this new system.

Change best comes from the bottom up.

Hopefully, with the support of the students, faculty, and administration behind us, we’ll be able to do away with an outdated and frustrating system, replacing it with easier system for everyone. ☐

Many seniors must sign in in Morse (left), which is not centrally located

Trump’s Ban on Immigration Lacks Logic and Morality

By Matt O’Leary ‘17 Panel Staff On Friday afternoon, President Donald Trump signed an executive order that suspended indefinitely all Syrian refugees, put a 120 day freeze on all admissions of refugees, and blocked citizens of seven Muslim majority nations from entering the United States for 90 days: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. Outrage swelled as Muslims who are valid Green Card holders or have student visas were either stopped in foreign airports or detained in domestic ones. The President passed this executive order with America’s safety from terrorism in mind; however, Syrian and Iraqi nationals have not been the main perpetrators of terror attacks. Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey are all Muslim majority nations who have had citizens commit terror attacks against America, none of which are included on Trump’s list. Nobody is able to pick and choose which countries breed terrorists; there is no established formula to find the countries where our potential enemies live.

Additionally, the President, in

signing this executive order, is purporting a narrative that refugees are not given proper screening and are, therefore, a potential loophole for terrorists. This is not true. Refugees are subject to intense screening and the process of their relocation is overseen by the State Department, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Health and Human Services. The only way for refugees to enter the United States is with the government’s permission, as they can’t take a raft across the Atlantic similar to how one would get to the Greek islands. On average, the refugee admission process to the United States takes around 18 months. The United States has ample time to screen these individuals, so the President’s stopgap approach to immigration is unnecessary.

There is no plausible way for Middle Eastern refugees to come here illegally.

Refugees are also required to pay the government back over time for the cost of their flight, and are not afforded long term housing. They must work for the American Dream similar to anyone else in the country, a task they are willing and thankful to take on. It is perplexing why

the Republican Party, protectors and proponents of the American Dream to their constituents, have not spoken out about Trump’s denying of it to those willing to work hard and take pride in the country.

On the campaign trail, Donald Trump’s oft-heard slogan was “Make America Great Again.” America has long revered the values of hard work, cooperation, and freedom from persecution. One of the “great” times that may fit Trump’s catchphrase is the founding years of this country. There may be no figure more closely associated with patriotism and nobility than our First President, George Washington. In 1788, one year before taking office, Washington wrote concerning his view of America, “I had always hoped that this land might become a safe and agreeable Asylum to the virtuous and persecuted part of mankind, to whatever nation they might belong.” America’s role as an “Asylum,” as outlined by Washington, has long been upheld and celebrated by the country’s leaders. The 45th President’s executive order undoubtedly does not reflect the acceptance and cohesiveness envisioned by the very first. ☐

Belmont Hill NEWS

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Th e Pan el

Politics and Journalism: John Dickerson and Ann Compton Offer Valuable Insight to Panel Editors continued from Page 1...

Speaking to the crowd at the library less than a month after Donald Trump’s sensational victory, Compton and Dickerson prefaced their conversation with a rather pertinent theory from Dickerson’s Whistlestop: “If there is a constant to the American campaign story, it is that elites cannot protect the future very well.” When considering how to approach politics, Dickerson explained that he has always thought of politics the same way physicists approach physics. There is both a delight and expectation that the complicated, unknown world will consistently present surprises. Acknowledging that the press often makes faults, both conceded that news agencies are in the business of covering and publicizing surprises; however, considering these flaws, both also strongly asserted the fact that journalism is not dead. Compton reminded student writers that “journalism is not only alive, but thriving.” Commenting after an election cycle in which the media was often criticized, she stressed the importance of giving voice to conflicting opinions, minimizing sensational, “noise” stories, and emphasizing the most important (but not necessarily most exciting) news. Reporters, she believe, must employ tolerance, thoughtfulness, and an open mind, a special willingness to consider multiple perspectives on an issue.

Relating stories and anecdotes from our nation’s history with ease, both Dickerson and Compton were experts in capturing and explaining the captivating similarities and connections that have persisted throughout the United States’ complex political history. As any student of history can attest, there is something deeply compelling about hearing the thoughts of renowned individuals in person. Having spent time in our U.S. History classes this year discussing some of the very same topics, it was thrilling to be in the midst of a dynamic, animated conversation between historians, rather than just reading their words on a page. Elections from 1800 to 2008 were synthesized and analyzed before our eyes, as Compton and Dick-

erson examined events from the 2016 election against the backdrop of history.

While the Belmont Hill community is no stranger to national politics, the results of the recent election seemed to resonate deeply with the student body and revive school-wide debate on social issues. Both faculty and students found themselves personally investing in their politics, especially as more classes and student organizations began to unpack the election season. Noting the importance of the youth in America’s future, Compton urged students to “have an open mind” and “respect each other” when engaging with politics. In Mr. Curran’s Form V American Literature class, students commented on an evolving American identity. While The Scarlet Letter and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn may have seemed outdated, students in the class began to appreciate how literary themes have transcended time while describing the complexities

Acknowledging that the press often makes faults, both conceded that news agencies are in the business of covering and publicizing surprises; however, considering these flaws, both also strongly asserted the fact that journalism is not dead. Compton reminded student writers that “journalism is not only alive, but thriving.” of society and commenting on the roots of American institutions. Mr. Curran and his class’s readiness to delve into American politics reflects the school community’s commitment to addressing real-world issues through a holistic curriculum. Ultimately, Compton ended the evening with an important truism: “History teaches us so much about not only where we’ve been, but where we are, and we can draw lessons from that on where we are headed as well.” ☐

Ishaan and William Listen to Ann Compton

Icelandic Scientist Halla Hrund Logadóttir Speaks on the Hill about Climate Change Jason Fischman ‘17 and Mack Perry ‘17 use of geothermal energy, were jumpPanel Staff started by individuals’ entrepreneurialism and experimentation. She answered In the fourth Hunt Global Lecture student questions pertaining to governSeries, Halla Hrund Logadóttir gave an ment-led/top-down change vs. peopleinformative and engaging talk about cli- led/bottom-up change, the viability of mate change, its causes, and its poten- a carbon tax in the US, the viewpoint of tial solutions. Ms. Logadóttir, currently climate change deniers, and the role of a Davis Bacon Environmental Fellow at private companies in sustainability. Ms. the Harvard Kennedy School, formerly Logadóttir spent the rest of the day on directed the School of Energy at Reyk- campus visiting classes and participatjavik University, founded the Arctic ing in various small group discussions.

Innovation Lab, and previously conMs. Logadóttir was introduced to the sulted with the Icelandic Energy fund. school community by Nobel laureate WilAt Belmont Hill, she discussed liam Moomaw (aka Mr. Harder’s father-inthe gravity of climate change, includ- law), Professor Emeritus of International ing the melting ice caps, droughts, and Environmental Policy at the Fletcher rising sea levels, providing a unique School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts Uniinsight into her climate change niche versity . Moomaw is the founding direcof the Arctic. Having worked in the tor of the Tufts Climate Initiative and the Arctic for years, Ms. Logadóttir hu- Center for International Environment morously explained how protecting and Resource Policy, and co-founded the the Arctic is about so much more than Global Development and Environment Injust saving the polar bears, pointing stitute. His work with the Intergovernmento the area’s massive size and the dev- tal Panel on Climate Change was acknowlastating effects of rising sea levels. edged with the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize.

Afterwards, Ms. Logadóttir Thank you to Mr. Harder, Profesdiscussed what each student could do sor Moomaw, and the Hunt family for to minimize their own carbon foot- bringing Ms. Logadóttir to Belmont print, noting that even top-down, gov- Hill for an engaging day on campus. ☐ ernment-side efforts such as Iceland’s

Mrs. Sweeney Departs for Well-Deserved Sabattical

By Charlie Booth ‘19 Staff Writer Mrs. Sweeney will be leaving Belmont Hill to enjoy a restorative sabbatical, returning in the fall to continue her tireless mission teaching Biology. Mrs. Sweeney has been hard at work teaching young scientists at Belmont Hill since 1996. Somehow, she even finds time to coach the fearsome Thirds Crew team, rain or shine. She teaches AP Biology to the novice sophomore scientists of Belmont Hill, covering a large course load in record time. This challenges not only the few students willing to grind their way through the course, but also Mrs. Sweeney, who somehow manages to give the impression that it is a pleasure to teach. Classes are notoriously fast moving, energetic and thought-provoking.

Throughout the carefully planned “torture,” Mrs. Sweeney mitigates the suffering with a plentiful supply of her famous homemade baked goods. For the few, the lucky few who enjoyed having Mrs Sweeney as advisor, we were able to benefit from her nurturing involvement

in our broader school life, as we received sensible advice, were introduced to a positive approach, and were supported by a stalwart advocate. While away on her sabbatical, Mrs. Sweeney expects to keep busy. She has plans to coach Crew to inner-city girls and to study Biology in the Galapagos Islands—even joining an orchestra has been a possibility she’s considered. However Mrs. Sweeney chooses to spend her semester, we wish her well and anticipate her return next fall. ☐

After Short, Impactful Stay in the Music Department, Dr. Slaughter Moves On

By Charlie Booth ‘19 Staff Writer What makes an excellent teacher?

Enthusiasm? Passion? Dr. Slaughter embodies those characteristics and many more. Some students who were enrolled in his Music Appreciation class would even go as far as to say that he is the best teacher ever to walk the hallowed grounds of Belmont Hill. Not because he was an equal opportunities grader, but because he was an engaging teacher who demonstrably

cared about his young charges. He engages his students as he lives his life, aiming to “minimize the stress, focus on the journey.” Dr. Slaughter was never offended that many boys prioritized science or languages ahead of music; all he asked was that you approach the class in a serious way with an open ear, mind, and heart, and a willingness to learn something new every day.

To call his class “Music Appreciation” is to understate its influence. In Slaughter’s Music App, we built a few of the tools of life: the gentleman’s handshake, the ability to present one’s views in public, and of course, the disdain for teenage slang. I shall miss the customary handshake at the beginning of every class, the cheerful greeting, the warmth of his engagement. Dr. Slaughter cared about us, the boys, his cherished students. We on the Hill all wish him well with future endeavors. ☐

Belmont Hill NEWS

Febr u ar y 9, 2017

Mr. Patterson: To Paris and Back

By Bennett Morris ‘18 Panel Staff This past fall, while the B-Flats were hard at work under the leadership of Dr. Dennis Slaughter, “Brother P” was taking advantage of a well-earned sabbatical. As part of Belmont Hill’s teacher contract, one is granted a sabbatical after every 10 years of service, so Mr. Patterson wasted no time embarking on his seven-month journey.

In June, after securing his replacement for the fall semester, Brother P mirrored his travel itinerary to when he accompanied former Belmont Hill Chinese teacher, Jenny Gao, on a trip to China.

He then continued on to Taipei, Taiwan; Seoul, South Korea; Tokyo, Japan; and Shanghai, China. Upon his return to the states, he spent the remainder of August planning his September departure to Nice, France, where he took up residency for a month. While many may not know, Brother P is fluent in French.

The French life agreed with Brother P as he recounted his relaxing routine of, “going to the same bakery, meat place, and supermarket.” One other highlight of his European tour included working with a gospel choir in Bavaria, Germany.

November brought Brother P stateside for a nanosecond, before he was off to Bermuda. Of particular interest and enjoyment was the warm weather and cave exploration. But the thrill of the election drew him back to Washington D.C., where he spent much of his time parading up and down the

mall and popping into all of the Smithsonian Museums. Most exciting was an opportunity to visit the highly anticipated African American Museum, which recently opened in September 2016. From there, Brother P travelled to New York and although he has much family living in the area, he was too busy visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art, One Trade Center, Ground Zero, and attending the four-hour opera Tristan Und Isolde at the Lincoln Center to stay with relatives. This trip to New York was particularly emotional since he had been in New York one month prior to the attacks on 9/11. Brother P returned home for Christmas and on the 26th, his bags were packed and he was jetting off to Panama!

While he enjoyed what he referred to as a “professional New Year’s celebration” orchestrated by the Panamanians, he is intrigued by the Panama Canal, even dedicating one day of his trip exploring it via boat.

Coming back to Belmont Hill, Brother P brings with him a refreshed sense of excitement for the classroom and the arts. While he enjoyed his extensive travels and relaxing pastimes, he confided in me his desire to occasionally “sneak into the play or see the flats.” I know I speak for the entire Belmont Hill community when I say Brother P was missed; we are thrilled to have him back. ☐

MAP/SAFE Breakfast Discusses Issues of Community and Diversity

By Arnav Prasad ‘18 Panel Staff On Januar y 5th, students, alumni, and faculty met for the annual MAP (Multicultural Alumni Partnership)/SAFE(Students Actively Fostering Equality) breakfast, one of the many events run by the Alumni office to facilitate conversation around key diversity and community issues. With one of the larger turnouts in recent years, the breakfast acted as a bridge of communication by exposing current students to new perspectives and conversely reacquainting faculty and alumni with the experiences of a B elmont Hill student. Throughout the morning, Mr. Collins, a leader within MAP and a faculty advisor of SAFE, posed

thoughtful questions about the B elmont Hill community that challenged each participant to ref lect and share their ideas with the group.

The questions often challenged participants to think on their feet and communicate their ideas with their partners. While at times conversation seemed to gravitate towards national affairs and politics, especially in ref lection of the tumultuous and divisive presidential campaign season, participants found comfort in reconnecting with the B elmont Hill community by recounting schoolwide traditions and personal anecdotes. The MAP/SAFE Breakfast has continually been a highlight for students interested in reconnecting with alumni, and the discussion can always benefit from new voices! ☐

Pa g e 5

Doc Wacht: Back from the Farm

By Duncan Grant ‘18 Panel Staff As the second semester began, long time science teacher Dr. Wachtmeister returned from his semester sabbatical. Doc Wacht. first started working in the science department at Belmont Hill in the fall of 1987. However, this was far from the beginning of his teaching career. In 1967, Doc Wacht. began teaching at a community college in Virginia Beach, VA. In his time at Belmont Hill, Doc Wacht. has taught several science classes (most notably AP Biology, which he has taught since his first year) and also coaches JV Baseball with Mr. Greer.

Doc Wachtmeister was not due for a sabbatical until next year, but he was able to take his a year early in order to join his wife’s family on a safari in South Africa. As a biology teacher, Doc Wacht was “amazed” by the wildlife, especially when he witnessed a herd of elephants dig up a dried river basin to find water. After returning from Africa, he and his wife spent seven warm days in Cuba, where he had previously travelled as part of a summer faculty trip. Doc spent the remainder of his time away from Bel-

mont Hill on his cattle farm in Northern Virginia. Doc Wacht. grew up on the farm and now works there in the summer. Along with his wife and son Kurt, Doc spent his days doing odd jobs around the farmhouse, tending to the nearly 100 cattle, and chopping trees to supply his growing firewood business. “It’s exhausting at any age,” says Doc, “but extremely rewarding.”

Even so, Doc admits that he is excited to be back at Belmont Hill, something he considers a vacation compared to grueling farm work. Doc

Doc looks forward to chatting and being around the other members of the Science Department because in Virginia, “all you can talk to is the cattle, and they never say anything back.” is thrilled to return to teaching; like farming, he enjoys seeing his hard work during the year pay off. But most of all, Doc looks forward to chatting and being around the other members of the Science Department because in Virginia, “all you can talk to is the cattle, and they never say anything back.” ☐

Trump Stumbles Out of the Gate

By Robbie Warming ‘17 Panel Staff Thousands of eager supporters waited under gray clouds and sprinkles of rain. Eager supporters waited on the National Mall to see their new President deliver his first address. But before the ceremony even began, controversy loomed.

Trump’s inaugural committee found difficulty recruiting artists to perform at his “Make America Great Again Welcome Celebration” concert.

When Elton John was floated as an option, the English singer, who was an outspoken Clinton supporter, quickly shut it down, saying “it’s nothing personal… [but] I’m not a Republican in a million years.” Other singers joined the chorus of voices boycotting President Trump’s inauguration. Finally, Trump’s team found their match in Lee Greenwood, Toby Keith, 3 Doors Down, DJ Ravidrums, and the Piano Guys.

Trump hosted the event on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. With fireworks and dancing, the sun set on President Barack Obama’s last day in office.

The day-long marathon of Inauguration events began early in the morning. First, President Obama, Michelle Obama, President Trump, and his wife, Melania Trump, met for tea.

After that, in a powerful and traditional symbol of the peaceful transfer of power, Trump and Obama shared a car for the procession to the Capitol.

The inauguration stand on the western front of the capitol was packed with important Washington leaders of past and present. President Jimmy Carter, Vice President Dick Cheney, President George W. Bush, and Belmont Hill alumni General Mark Milley, Chief of Staff of the Army, were seated behind the presidential podium. Hillary Clinton, Trump’s bitter rival throughout the election, was accompanied by President Bill Clinton. Chief Justice John Roberts administered the presidential oath of office, and President Trump swore on both his childhood bible and the Lincoln bible.

President Trump’s inaugural

address, written by aides Stephen Miller and Steve Bannon, focused on many of the messages he focused on during his campaign; it highlighted his philosophy of “America First.” In front of a crowd of established politicians, Trump went to the jugular early on, declaring that “a small group in our nation’s Capital has reaped the rewards of government while the people have borne the cost… That all changes -- starting right here, and right now.” Trump touched on quelling the “carnage” of the inner cities, tightening up the borders, and bringing back jobs.

The speech also invoked God multiple times, a strange move for a man who was controversial among Evangelical leaders and remarked in 2015 that he has never sought for forgiveness from God. The true controversy began after the inauguration had concluded. Many social media users remarked that Trump’s inauguration crowd was lackluster compared to President Obama’s 2009 inauguration. Trump fired back, saying his inauguration crowd “looked like a million, a million and a half people.” But numbers do not lie. Trump’s inauguration crowd was estimated to be 160,000 people. Obama’s was 1.8 million in 2008.

But Obama wasn’t the only one that beat President Trump’s crowd. The very next day, an estimated 470,000 people participated in the Women’s March on Washington. The worldwide movement was a show of force against what many perceive to be a threat to women’s rights in Trump’s administration. Marches were staged in London (100,000 people), Chicago (250,000), Los Angeles (750,000), New York (400,000), and Boston (175,000).

The spit over crowd sizes became a story after the White House Press Secretary scolded reporters for lying about Trump’s crowd size. Trump Advisor Kellyanne Conway backed him up, saying Spicer was reporting “alternative facts.”

The internet pounced and made memes.

Trump is off to a rocky start.

He has stumbled out of the gates. He has damaged his image by making an embarrassing “nonstory” a story.

Whether he is able to let it go and let the news cycle pass is yet to be seen. ☐

Belmont HIll NEWS

Pa g e 6

Th e Pan el

Four Students Return From Semesters Abroad

By Nick Daley ‘19 Panel Staff As the Belmont Hill community returned from winter break, it welcomed back four students from semesters abroad. Colin Braun ’19, Matt McGaffigan ’18, and Alex Ackerman ’18 all spent the Fall at the Island School, on Cape Eleuthera, Bahamas, while Donavan Payne ’18 studied at the Master’s School in New York City, as a part of the CityTerm program.

At the Island School, the students took full advantage of their surroundings, focusing on marine biology and sustainability. The program emphasized learning from experiences, rather than teachers: “Even when you weren’t in class, every day was a school day.” Matt and Alex participated in a four-mile swim, and Colin ran a half-marathon.

They described the feats as grueling, but none had any complaints about spending days under the Bahamian sun. Although in a very different environment, Donavan’s time at Cityterm included many similar themes. CityTerm specialized in “experienced-based learning,” using New York City as the classroom. Every

week, Donavan would spend three days on campus and three days out in the city itself, interviewing strangers in a park and taking weekend trips to Coney Is-

land without guidance from a teacher.

The program stressed self-reliance and was a stark contrast to the rigidity of an everyday school: “Every day was different,” Donavan said.

The students called their initial decision to travel a “leap of faith,” but now agree that it was one of the best decisions they have made, even life-changing.

The trips taught them to “really like learning,” and work hard not because they were told to, but because they genuinely wanted to. Finding that there is “so much more to life than just getting the A,” the students Donavan Payne ‘18 in New York City During CityTerm fell in love with

the strong sense of togetherness at their respective schools, as well as the close relationships with their teachers, who felt more like peers than au-

thority figures. The independence the students were allowed and the uniqueness of the experience strongly resonated with them and taught them that “there is a lot outside of Belmont Hill.”

Now back at school, Colin, Alex, Donavan, and Matt have found the transition to be bittersweet. It was tough to say goodbye to their tight knit communities and the readjustment to the Belmont Hill routine has been difficult at times, but none have any regrets. When asked if they had any advice for any students considering a semester away, all four agreed on a simple answer: “Do it.” ☐

Sustainability Club Attends Global Forum at Winsor

By Jack Daley ‘17 and Andrew Kaneb ‘17

Staff Writers

On Monday, January 23, five senior members of Belmont Hill’s Sustainability Club ventured to Winsor for the opening day of the school’s first ever Global Forum. Modeled around “J-Term” or “Winter Term” programs in use at various colleges, the Global Forum spans the week between first and second semester at Winsor and aims to educate students on relevant, complex issues facing the world. This Forum’s subject was “Waste Not, Want Not: An Investigation into What We Throw Away.” Its focus on human waste and its implications for the environment naturally drew the interest of five members of Belmont Hill’s Sustainability Club: Andrew Kaneb, Jack Daley, Mike Armstrong, Cam Gordon, and Will Ryan. Members’ successful coordination with Winsor faculty gave them the chance to look in on the Forum with their faculty advisor, Mr. McAlpin.

The day opened with an allschool meeting, where National Geographic photojournalist Mike Hettwer, the Forum’s keynote speaker, gave a powerful presentation documenting the aspects of waste that many of us never see. Hettwer, whose photographs have appeared in the New York Times, BBC, and National Geographic, among other prestigious publications, first gave a harrowing account of the shipbreaking industry in Bangladesh. Shipbreaking refers to the deconstruction and recycling of massive, defunct container ships and oil tankers. In Bangladesh, home to the world’s largest shipbreaking industry, workers toil in toxic conditions with no safety equipment for twelve hours a day in exchange for $1-3. Hettwer’s 2014 National Geographic article broke the story on shipbreaking and helped spur notable health and safety improvements in the industry. Next, he presented a new top-secret story

(he had presented the story to National Geographic only days earlier) covering some of the most polluted places on earth.

Hettwer finished up his talk with suggestions on how s t u d e nt s

er, the Branch Manager for Commercial Waste Reduction and Waste Planning at the Mass. Department of Environmental Protection. The studio provided a fascinating look into the polic i e s t h at

could t a k e action to fight pollution.

shape waste m a n agement in Mass achus etts and highlighted the importance and complexity of waste reduction.

The other workshop attended

by Belmont Hill students was about the so-called “Great Pacific Garbage Patch.” The workshop began with an overview of the problem: the garbage patch, located a few hundred miles north of Hawaii, is a segment

After a brief morning snack, students split up into workshops, known as studios. Andrew, Will, and Mr. McAlpin attended “Massachusetts Zero Waste 2020: Can We Get There?” while Jack, Mike, and Cam attended “The Great Pacific Garbage Patch: The Real Reason Dory Can’t Find Her Way Home.” “Massachusetts Zero Waste 2020” focused on Massachusetts’ current plan to reduce waste by 30 percent by 2030 and by 90 percent by 2080, and the steps necessary to accomplish such goals.

In the morning, students worked to present “elevator pitches” to each other on four topics of interest: Pay-As-You-Throw trash programs, eWaste, home composting, and textile recycling. Following lunch, students spent an hour researching waste reduction plans in their hometowns. The day closed with a visit from guest speaker John Fisch-

of the ocean that is full of floating debri, plastic waste, and styrofoam.

This waste, which comes primarily from the US, Japan, and China, collects around the region due to ocean currents. The Patch is more than twice the size of Texas, and the waste within it is estimated to weigh 7 million tons--enough to fill 130,000 basketball gyms from floor to ceiling. All this waste has extremely detrimental effects on sea life, including many of the species commonly consumed by humans. After students learned about the garbage patch, they devised ways to raise awareness about the issues among the general community, while also coming up with plans to reduce plastic use on campus.

All in all, the Global Forum on Waste and Pollution was interesting, well-organized, and engaging. The Sustainability Club’s visit was a rewarding learning experience. Mike and Cam agreed, “The experience was unique and informative, and speaker Mike Hettwer’s work on shipbreaking in Bangladesh was eye-opening.”

The Forum’s focuses on real-world, multi-disciplinary issues and cooperation between the whole school to address them, provide an image that Belmont Hill should look to replicate in the future. Lastly, the members of Sustainability Club would like to thank Winsor for accommodating their interest in the Forum. ☐

Febr u ar y 9, 2017

Belmont Hill Sp orts

Wrestling Team Excels Through Early Season Matches

By Ishaan Prasad ‘18 Panel Staff Rounding out the first half of the regular season with an exceptional 12-0 record, Varsity Wrestling has continued to blaze a trail of dominance through the ISL and New England Prep circuits. Facing several tough injuries, the squad has looked to capitalize on its depth, with many of the team’s victories resting on the shoulders of newcomers to the starting lineup. Handily defeating nearly every opponent by solid margins of at least 30 points — including two back-to-back shutouts against Lawrence Academy (730) and Thayer Academy (75-0) — on January 21, the team confronted their toughest

challenge yet, hosting a defiant Roxbury Latin and three other teams at a quad meet.

Besting an RL wrestler at 106 pounds, newcomer Hamza Shemsu ‘19 started off the match by giving Belmont Hill a 3-0 lead on the scoreboard. Nevertheless, facing a string of hard-fought losses, as Seth Israel ‘18 walked on the mats to wrestle off at the 138 pound weight class, the boys in blue trailed by 14. Securing another 3 points after a well-executed threeperiod match, Belmont Hill feel another 6 points after a demanding match at 152.

Sitting on the lower end of the score by 16 points — a first for the team this season — the perennial powerhouses of Beast of the East Champ Phil Conigliaro ‘18, and former freshman phenoms Colin Vallis ‘19 and Luca Pontone ‘19, all came up with much needed victories for the home team.

With the score now tied at 23-23, Fifth Former Billy Weldon ‘18 stepped on the mat, filling the role of Captain Will Ryan ‘17 at 182. Undeniably the pivotal match of the day, Weldon exemplified the

depth and perseverance that has come to dominate the wrestling program at Belmont Hill. Coming up with a slight lead to start the third period, Weldon fought impressively off his back to earn Belmont Hill its place at the top of the scoreboard. With “big guns” Mike Glauninger ‘19 and Shane Rockett ‘19 each pinning their opponents, Belmont Hill triumphantly reclaimed the match for a dramatic 38-29 victory. Ending the day with additional wins against Phillips Andover and Loomis Chaffee, the squad moved just as swiftly the following Wednesday (January 25) to secure a commanding victory over the (formerly) undefeated squad at Middlesex (78-4).

A true testament to the strength of the program, the middle school team

has also demonstrated their extraordinary dominance over their opponents, clearly letting their adversaries know that they won’t be a team to be trifled with either as they move up to the Varsity program. Defeating opposing schools with a plethora of pins, this year’s first form wrestlers also capped off an impressive showing at the annual Fay School tournament (a rite of passage for seventh grade wrestlers at Belmont Hill), with all of them coming away with 1st place ribbons.

With such dominance throughout the wrestling program at Belmont Hill, it’s certain that Belmont Hill is poised to excel this season, and in many seasons to come.

Facing a string of opponents leading up to the Graves Kelsey ISL tournament, the team stands with additional victories over Avon Old Farms, Long Island Lutheran, Nobles, St. Sebastian’s, and Brooks. Met with a tough, one point loss from perennial powerhouse, Phillips Exeter, the team is poised to avenge this loss and continue its legacy to round out the rest of the season.☐

Pa g e 7

Varsity Basketball Meeting ISL Expectations Continued from Page 1

Outside of the ISL, January was a more difficult month for the team. Facing difficult competition, Belmont Hill dropped two games to Philips Exeter and Loomis Chaffee (whose players came from London, California, South Carolina, New York, and other places), but also beat Master’s and Tabor. Speaking at practice after the team’s loss to Exeter, starting point guard Jake Haase ‘18 stressed the importance of increasing energy: “We’ve been a little dead lately because of injuries and illnesses, but we need to play with more energy, especially on defense. Reigniting that spark on defense will lead to great offense.” Playing in front of an insane Loop™ crowd the next night, Belmont Hill didn’t need to worry about a lack of energy, handling St. Sebastian’s with ease.

David Mitchell ‘18 and Jovan Jones ‘18 have continued to provide strong play and leadership this season. Particularly, Mitchell has been invincible under the basket, grabbing boards and drawing contact from multiple defenders for and-ones. Although Jake Bobo ‘18 missed most of January with a broken hand sustained over Belmont Hill’s basketball holiday tournament, junior guard Quentin Harris ‘18 has filled in Bobo’s starting role admirably. Providing energy and stringent defense, Quentin plays a principled game, very rarely turning over the ball.

Spenser Smith ‘18 made a valuable impact off the bench during the month of January, and Pat Shea ‘17 played exceptionally well against BBN. Center Eric Taitano ‘18 has matched up well with other big men, even picking up a few key blocks against Lawrence, and TJ Agnihotri ‘17 has supplied important athleticism. Jake Haase’s in-game facilitation and passing from the point guard position often goes unnoticed, but is also instrumental to the team’s success. Finally, sophomore sharpshooter Kevin Michael O’Boy ‘19 seems to score more and more each game.

As opponents initially concentrate all their effort on the duo of Mitchell and Jones, it is often “Kmo” who is the one to collect points on offense. With only a foot of open space between the defender, O’Boy seems to be able to convert any 3-point shot he attempts.

As the team enters the final month

of the 2016-2017 ISL season, the school’s first-ever ISL title in basketball is just a few big wins away. Matchups against Milton Academy, rescheduled because of snow, Governor’s, and most importantly Brooks will determine the ISL’s champion. Preparing for the final stretch, Harris stresses the importance of everyday improvement and trust in the process: “We just have to trust ourselves. The ISL is a tough league, but at the same time we’re a tough team. We have to make sure we’re getting better everyday.”

Will Ryan

The Loop™ has been a clear contributing factor to the team’s success this year. Their presence, arguably at historic levels for the basketball program, has been like having a sixth player on defense and has been a motivating force during practice. According to Mitchell, “The Loop was influential in the wins versus Rivers and Sebs.” David reports, “that was the loudest and most packed the gym has been in the last ten years.” Assuming both teams are still undefeated, Belmont Hill’s February 15th home matchup against Brooks (ISL champion or runner-up since 2011) will be monumental and likely the biggest game in Belmont Hill basketball history. Don’t miss it. ☐

Belmont Hill Sp orts

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Th e Pan el

Hockey Looks to Finish Strong

Led by talented senior leaders Sam Hesler, Christian O’Neill, and Jonny Folsom, the Belmont Hill Varsity Hockey Team is enjoying a very solid season. Thus far, the team has compiled a record of

tremendous defense and held down the fort. The goalies, Sophomore Connor Hopkins and Senior Jack Eselius, have exhibited very strong play and kept the team in it when they have needed it the most. Senior captain Folsom and fellow senior Peter O’Connell both returned from injury a few weeks into the season and both have shined; Folsom has scored

hockey. As the game proceeded, Tabor got off to a fast start as they potted a goal home within the first five minutes. However, this goal proved to be their only tally of the night as the rest of the night belonged to Belmont Hill. Senior Zach Shpilner put home the first goal off of a tip. Four minutes later, captain Jonny Folsom snuck a shot by the Tabor goalie and put the boys up one.

The Loop™ was in full force, as a phenomenal number of kids both showed support and cheered their heads off. Then, another four minutes later, Christian O’Neill buried Max Fields’ shot while falling to ice.

Finally, Jonny Folsom tallied the final goal off of a slick wrist shot. Special shout out to the varsity hockey team for making this 13-5-2. Over winter break, the boys comnight so special for all those involved. ☐ peted in tournaments at the Lawrenceville School in New Jersey and the Nichols School in Buffalo, securing two 5th place finishes. At Lawrenceville, they beat defending champion Canterbury in their last game, and at Nichols, they outlasted a tough Millbrook team in addition to beating Upper Canada College and tying Brunswick. In the ISL, the boys in blue have secured very solid wins over Nobles, Milton, and St. Paul’s, and on a magical night that the team and the school will remember for a long time, they earned a decisive 4-1 win over Tabor at Fenway Park.

Captains O’Neill and Hesler lead the team in scoring, once again proving themselves as two of the most prominent forwards in the league, as well as New England. Seniors Mike Armstrong and Brendan Rocha, and Sophomores Robert Radochia and James Perullo have played

5 goals in 3 games, while O’Connell scored his first against St. Paul’s and has been giving 100% on every shift.

Additionally, returning seniors Evan Daddario and Kyle Maxwell, juniors Max Fields, John Copeland, and Noah Traylor, and sophomores Michael Hayes, Andrew Holland, and Joe Goguen have given Coach McCarthy and the boys consistently solid play. Lastly, new members of the team this year are senior Zach Shpilner and freshmen Mike Brown and Brett Bliss, and all three are proving themselves to be very valuable contributors.

Varsity Hockey now looks ahead to the main stretch of ISL games as they aim to top the Keller Division, climb up the New England rankings, and avenge some losses from earlier in the season. Big upcoming games include Lawrence, Rivers, St. Sebastian’s, and Thayer. Roll sextants. ☐ Bill Mahoney

By jack ablon ‘17 staff writer

Hockey Shines at Fenway

By Evan ricci ‘17 panel staff On January 11, 2017, Belmont Hill’s varsity hockey team took to Fenway. In this year’s edition, the squad took on the Tabor Seawolves. While the team looked to take in the incredible opportunity, captains Folsom, Hesler, and O’Neill also looked to leave Yawkey Way with a W. Leading up to the game, rain from the previous night threatened the playing of the game. Rumors regarding the ice melting and the team not being able to play quickly circulated. However, the next day, the game proceeded as scheduled and spirits were high. Belmont Hill’s Loop™ came out in full force as the weather was perfect for a night of outdoor

Phil Conigliaro: Beast of the East By matt smith ‘19 Staff Writer Whi le s ome students j ette d of f to t ropic a l res or ts or sk i lo dges to b eg in t heir w inter bre a k, Phi l C onig li a ro, a long w it h C olin Va l lis, Wi l l Ryan, and C o ach L e on ardis, j our ne ye d dow n to D el aware to comp ete in t he prest ig ious B e ast of t he E ast w rest ling tour nament. Now in its 24t h ye ar, t his nat iona l tour nament ho sts more t han 800 of t he b est w rest lers in t he count r y f rom over 100 te ams, pr ivate, public, and club. C onig li aro, w rest ling in a 64-man bracket, won six matches over t wo d ays to emerge w it h a f irstpl ace f inish. This fe at accomplishe d by C onig li aro is remark able. Even more remarkably, C onig li aro cr ushe d his opp onents, not y ieldi ng a sing le p oint in t he f irst four of t ho s e matches . His accomplishment is unpre ce dente d not on ly for B elmont Hi l l, t he Indep en dent S cho ol L e ague, and t he Ne w Eng l and Prep L e ague, but it is a ls o b elie ve d t hat he is t he f irst w rest ler

f rom Mass achus etts to have e ver achie ve d t his honor. B ot h Ryan and Va l lis a ls o manage d to s e c ure w ins

for B elmont Hi l l, a ver y impressive fe at at such a comp et it ive tour nament. As defending Ne w Eng l and and ISL champions, B elmont Hi l l lo oks for ward to a p otent i a l s e cond st raig ht t it l e in b ot h l e agues. ☐

NBA MVP Race Heats Up each put together decorated careers of their

By Thomas mcevoy ‘19 Staff Writer The date was July 4, 2016. Russell Westbrook’s friend, teammate, and partner in crime, Kevin Durant, had just made the decision to abandon the Thunder and test the waters of Golden State. Having completed a full nine seasons with Oklahoma City, Durant’s move infuriated many a Thunder fan, and all eyes turned to O k l a h o m a’s one remaining star, Russell We s t b r o o k , who was preparing to not only bear the load of a team, but of a city as well. So far, Westbrook has been nothing short of sensational, averaging a triple-double per game.

Due to his 30.6 ppg, 10.6 rpg, and 10.4 apg, Westbrook is rightfully considered the frontrunner for MVP honors. In addition, it is interesting to note that each of the three leading candidates for MVP have, at one point in their respective careers, donned the blue and orange of Oklahoma City. James Harden and Kevin Durant have

own, and have dominated the league since their entrance into it. Harden, with 28.7 ppg, 8.3 rpg, and 11.6 apg, is widely viewed as the fuel of the Rocket’s title hopes. Similarly, Durant has compiled 26.3 ppg, 8.5 rpg, and 4.7 apg. Although these three statistics fall short of the pace set by Westbrook and Harden, Durant’s impressive 54.6 FG% has kept him in the running. Furthermore, the man they call “KD” has seemingly unseated Steph Curry as Golden State’s brightest star.

We st bro ok , Harden, and Durant have all been awarded the all-star delegation for their contributions to their respective teams. However, the voters deemed that Westbrook would come off the bench rather than start. This slight will not go unnoticed by Westbrook, and it will propel him to an equally successful second half of the season. Overall, the contributions of all three stars deserve recognition. However, the adversity Westbrook has had to overcome on the way to his team’s 25-19 record should be the reason he is given the MVP nod. ☐

Belmont Hill Sp orts

Febr u ar y 9, 2017

Pa g e 9

Belmont Hill Varsity Scoreboard TEAM

RECORD

Hockey

14-6-4

Basketball Wrestling

11-5 17-1

NOTABLE RESULTS

TEAM MVPS

W 4-2 vs. Nobles W 5-4 vs. Rivers

Christian O’Neill Sam Hesler

W 73-67 vs. Rivers W 68-52 vs. St. Sebastian’s

Jovan Jones David Mitchell Kevin Michael O’Boy

W 38-29 vs. Roxury Latin

Phil Conigliaro Luca Pontone

Alpine Ski

N/A

Sam Rohrer

Nordic Ski

N/A

Cam Hall Ben Pradko

Squash

12-0

W 5-2 vs. St. George’s W 4-3 vs. Nobles

Squash Team Continues Dominance

By J.P. Champa ‘17 Staff Writer Both the Varsity and JV squash teams are currently undefeated in both ISL and non-league play. The varsity stands with an impressive 7-0 record as their eyes are set on a ninth-straight ISL championship, while the JV holds a similarly notable 6-0 record, having only dropped one individual match all season.

The Varsity’s most impressive wins so far have come against league rivals St. Georges (5-2) and Nobles (4-3). Against Nobles, BH’s biggest challenger in the ISL, the team showed true determination and a fierce competitive spirit. Coming out of the first round of play, Belmont Hill took

a commanding 3-0 lead as Jack Bell, Alex Kurtin, and Douglas Conigliaro all secured wins at positions 2, 4, and 6 respectively; however, during the second round matches, James Bell, John Paul Champa, and Robert Williamson, at positions 1,3, and 5, fell to their Nobles competitors.

Nevertheless, Andrew Lee, at number 7, took control in his match from the first point and won with a convincing 3-0 score to secure the Belmont Hill victory. As the team continues training, it is looking forward to both High School Nationals and the New England Tournament, in which the team is looking to improve upon their third and second place finishes.

Good luck to the Varsity Squash team as they look towards an undefeated season!

Veterans Continue to Lead Nordic Ski Team

By Arnav Prasad ‘18 Panel Staff Despite the unusually warm weather in Belmont, the Nordic Ski team has been vying for success in recent Lakes Region races, facing tough field of competition from schools as far as New Hampshire and Vermont. Without the advantage of fresh snow at the Weston Ski Track, Belmont Hill skiers and coaches have salvaged the season with a productive stay at the Jackson Ski Center, where technique-focused practices and weekly strength workouts with the Stella trainers have been performed. Undeterred by the absence of snow during practices, long bus rides to races, ski-waxing sessions,

and entertaining team dinners have fostered a team camaraderie that has become uniquely rewarding for each skier. Fueled by intra-squad competition and personal ambitions to succeed at races, the Belmont Hill Ski team has also progressed through Lakes-Region rankings, rivaling schools such as Phillips Andover, Vermont Academy, and St. Paul’s. A recent fourth place (out of 12 official school teams) finish at a Lakes-Region skate-style race at the Holderness School, a possible inflection point for the team, featured breakout performances by Belmont Hill skiers Charlie Donahue ’19, Quin McGaugh ’18, Ben Pradko ’18, and Aidan McGaugh ’21.

Much promise has been shown for future races this season and for years to come. ☐

Alex Kurtin James Bell Jack Bell

Athlete of the Issue: Christian O’Neill

By Richard kendall ‘19 Staff Writer Christian O’Neill has been an undeniable asset to the Belmont Hill hockey program since his arrival. Nicknamed “Wheels O’Neill,” he is oftentimes the fastest skater on the ice. His ability to glide quickly across the rink provides a subst ant ia l advantage against opposing players.

Once he has possession, O’Neill does not allow the other team to stop him.

His premier stick skills and puck handling allow him to weave through defenders; as a result, O’Neill has racked up thirteen goals through just nineteen games. As a forward, O’Neill works in synchrony with other starters to create opportunities to score. In addition his exceptional skill, his hard play inspires his teammates; according to Joe

Goguen ‘19, “(O’Neill’s) everyday work ethic is unparalleled. Despite being the captain of the team, O’Neill trains just as if he were fighting for a spot.” With this combination of both talent and determination, O’Neill will take his talents to Princeton University next fall.

O’Neill’s athletic achievements do not end on the ice.

In the spring, he is also a major asset to the varsity lacrosse t e a m .

His raw speed, a g i l i t y, and pure athletic talent have all factored into his success in this sport as well. Similar to his play on the rink, he passes defenders with ease en route to the net. He will continue to lead the hockey team through the winter season and will surely be an impact player on the lacrosse team this coming spring. Christian’s multifaceted skills and talents truly emulate the qualities of an outstanding athlete.☐

Belmont hill arts

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Why I See My Panel

By Dylan Hayre ‘04 Alumni Contributor It’s been over twelve years since I carved it. But, every time I visit Belmont Hill, I go to see my panel. I’m back here teaching for a month (filling in for Mr. Sullivan), and visiting my panel in the Science Building was one of the first things I did after my first day of classes wrapped up. The reason is simple: my panel still defines me. Its staying power as a representation of who I am has far outlasted my expectations. Because of that, I am so glad that I took Mr. Kaplan’s

advice as a senior, and actually thought a little bit about how I saw myself as I approached the end of my time at Belmont Hill.

What were my hopes? What were my fears? What part of me would stay on the Hill forever? What would I take with me?

These were some of the questions that ran through my mind when I decided what to carve. My hope was that I’d have the chance to take everything I learned at BHS and pass it on, in some way, to future students. My fear was that one day I’d be too old, too far removed from Belmont Hill, to be able to do that. I knew that parts of my heart and soul would always be on campus, in Mr. Mar-

Rogue Kwoun: A Star Wars Review

By Austin Kwoun ‘18 Panel Staff

As an eighth installment in the storied Star Wars film franchise, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story offered the same action-packed, graphically astounding showing that fans have come to expect.

Movie critics across the galaxy are split on whether the film, which surpassed $1.011 billion in global earnings as of January 22, was up to par with the others in the legendary series. Although it is difficult for any Star Wars film to measure up to the lauded original trilogy, Rogue One put its best foot forward for this critic.

The film follows Jyn Erso’s (Felicity Jones) campaign to an Imperial base on the planet Scarif, wherein she is tasked with stealing the infamous Death Star plans of Episode IV: A New Hope fame. Jyn’s motley crew crusades to Scarif, initially independent of the Rebel Alliance, to vanquish the Empire, offering a new perspective on the Star Wars universe through the lens of a people uninvested in the battle be-

tellini’s room or in Doc. Wach’s lab. And I was excited to take with me the things I learned from Mr. Richards and Mr. Greer about confronting challenges head-on.

I ended up carving a scene from one of my favorite books that captured all of this. I carved the depiction of a catcher in the rye as described by Holden Caulfield in that quintessential American novel. The panel depicts me, standing at the edge of a cliff with a rye field stretched out before me. There I am, trying to catch that next wave of BHS grads before they leave the rye field and have to do what I was getting ready to do, myself - what I am still doing: growing up.

To seniors who are now getting ready to start their own panels, from my story I offer this: slow down and think. But don’t just think about what might look good, or what might be easy to carve. Do not worry about coming up with something that says everything. Focus, instead, on carving a panel that says something. Something about who. Something about what you love at BHS. Something about why you’re excited to go but maybe afraid to leave. Carve something that matters - not to your teachers or your parents or even your friends, but to you. Carve that, and I promise that you’ll want to visit your panel because your panel will still matter every time you’re back on campus. And, most important of all, enjoy this process. You only get it once.☐

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Artist of the Issue: Armin Thomas

By Austin Kwoun ‘18 Panel staff Few Belmont Hill boys are unfamiliar with Armin Thomas’s immortal battle cry. It rings through the chapel in his renowned Woodbury performances, and it echoes through The Kraft Theater (as much as something can echo in The Kraft Theater), where his coffee house renditions, those both serious and humorous, have drawn rave reviews. Most of all, it leaves its indelible mark on the hallowed halls of the Prenatt Music Building, where Armin has spent countless hours of his Belmont Hill career, lost in the magic of creating and perfecting his own style of music.

Armin is renowned across campus for his prowess on both the piano and the trombone, but his musical journey actually started with cello at five years old. After six months, six year old Armin switched to the violin, and his search for his musical passion continued. Armin finally found it the next year at seven, when he picked up the piano.

Now, he studies with Andrew Goodridge at NEC as he works towards his PLE IV evaluation as a member of the NEC Certificate Program. He is also a prolific composer, and among his fondest memories is the legendary performance of highlights from Beethoven’s 9th Symphony - “Belmont Hill music’s finest hour” - that he himself arranged and conducted at the Spring Concert a year ago.

Armin’s contributions to the arts reach far and wide to nearly every corner.

President of the Belmont Hill Orchestra and one of its spiritual leaders since his arrival in Form III, Armin is also the de facto leader of the vaunted Belmont Hill Chamber Society.

He also plays trombone in the Jazz Combo (and dabbles with the Jazz Band), and he won the Spring Woodbury competition in his junior year. Outside of school, he both plays trombone in New England Conservatory’s Youth Repertory Orchestra and is a leading member of NEC’s top level piano seminar.

Armin is multifaceted in his music-making, and as such he has many artists whom he admires. Among composers, he draws inspiration from Gustav Mahler’s blaring brass and legendary Ludwig van Beethoven; he admires conductor Gustavo Dudamel, and his favorite pianist is Krystian Zimerman. I’m sure Armin will be happy to hear that his own energetic musicality has likewise inspired many Belmont Hill musicians as well. As somebody who has worked with him on several musical projects over the past three years, I know that he has certainly been an inspiration to me. As Armin graduates and continues his music-making in college and beyond, I’m sure he will bring his tireless energy and limitless passion to every community that is lucky enough to have him. ☐

Above left: Panel carving of Dylan Hayre ‘04 Right: Armin Thomas’s trombone makes The Kraft Theater rumble Below left: Felicity Jones acts in Rogue One tween sides, but still largely affected by it.

This group of independents excluded nearly every character from the main series and did well to do so. In addition to the new, fresh perspective it yielded, the introduction of a new set of characters dispelled the possibility of the continuity issues that are always a risk when creating a film meant to fill in plot gaps and tie up loose ends. In particular (spoiler!), Gareth Edwards’ decision to kill off the majority of the film’s main characters eliminated any ambiguity, not to mention provided an effective subversion of the “heroes never die” trend that the feel-good Star Wars movies have tended to avoid (with notable exceptions). In all, the new film was a darker and heavier take on the series, featuring jaded characters from the dregs of society and culminating in their demise; it certainly feels out of place if considered among the other seven films.

And yet, with a grand soundtrack that screamed Star Wars with blaring brass and swelling strings, and with lovable side characters played by the likes of Donnie Yen and Ben Mendelsohn, Rogue One did not disappoint.

The film embraced an extensive special effects budget with planet-shaking explosions and convincing CGI renderings of Princess Leia and Grand Moff Tarkin.

In spite of the inevitable occasional lull in plot and a handful of contrived jokes, Rogue One was riveting and was certainly a cut above my expectations. ☐

Executive Editor Mack Perry ‘17

Arts Editor Augustus Lamb ‘17 Sports Editor Evan Ricci ‘17 Photo Editor Duncan Grant ‘18

Editors-in-Chief Jason Fischman ‘17 Bennett Rush ‘17 Copy Editors John Paul Champa ‘17 John Markis ‘18

Faculty Advisors David Hegarty Juliette Zener News Editor Ishaan Prasad ‘18

Assistant Editors Matthew Bracken ‘17 William McCormack ‘18 Opinion Editor Phillip Bailey ‘17 Robbie Warming ‘17 Armin Thomas ‘17 Back Page Editors Seamus Clair ‘17 Matt O’Leary ‘17

Online Editors Arnav Prasad ‘18 Matthew Smith ‘19

Graphics Editors Lawson Morris ‘19 Bennett Morris ‘18

The Panel, founded in 1953, is the official school newspaper of the Belmont Hill and Winsor schools. The Panel is the voice of the student body. We publish articles that are of consequence to the students, as well as the school communities. The views expressed in the Panel belong solely to the authors and editors and do not necessarily represent the student body, faculty or administration of either school. Any comment about the content should be addressed directly to the editors. The Panel encourages responsible opinion in the form of Letters to the Editor. We reserve the right to edit all submissions for length and content. Copyright 2015 the Panel. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission of the Editor-in-Chief. Printed by Belmont Printing Company, Belmont, MA 02478.

belmont hill arts

Febr u ar y 9th, 20 1 7

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Armin and Gus’s Playlist of the Month

By Augustus Lamb ‘17 and Armin Thomas ‘17 Panel staff

Armin Dschinghis Khan - Moskau This is a ‘70s song about the great city of Moscow, the capital of our new Russian friends/overlords. It’s got a sick beat, and that chorus always gets me every time. It’s like I just spontaneously break into doing the Hopak. Also, the lyrics are in German, so if you want to learn another language, listen to this song. An English speaker listening to a German song about Russia. I love the world.

PWR BTTM is a queer, punk-rock band from New York that I first heard on NPR’s Youtube, when the band performed their Franz Liszt - Hungarian Rhapsody No. 6 own Tiny Desk Concert. In their perforA classical one on here, but by no means any less in standard and quality than any of mance, the duo showed crazy musical talent and vibrancy that singled them out as the others. Liszt’s fine musicianship shines artists in my knowledge of music. My two through, especially during the Lassan section favorite songs on the album are Ugly Cherthat conveys a melancholy demeanor. The ries and C U Around.

French 0.

final octave section is basically proto-metal, it’s just so addicting. Playing those octaves Nat and Alex Wolff - Disappointed on repeat is probably one of the most annoying things a pianist can do ever.

Xi Yang, Li Huanzhi - She Hui Zhu Yi Hao Gotta love the Revolutionary songs. The point of listening to the song is not saying that “socialism is good”, it’s about appreciating the ardor for progress and forward motion that China has. This song makes me want to fly down to the Strait to liberate Taiwan.

Katy Perry - Firework This song is pretty old in our short atten tion spans, but it’s got an infectious buildup to the wicked awesome. I mean, they even used this song as a central plot element in a movie about bringing down a North Korean dictator, if I remember chorus, and the Patrick Doyle - Non Nobis Domine From the 1989 film adaptation of Shake- energy unleashed on that suspended ninth of “firework” in the chorus is correctly. Jokes speare’s “Henry V”, this song is one of aside, there is a reason people still listen to those “Hallelujah” moments that makes atheists wonder their beliefs are correct at this song six years after it was written (where has Friday gone?). Definitely a recommendaall. From the single voice at the beginning tion from me. to the entire chorus of the English army, this song kills it on all counts. English 1, Gus PWR BTTM - Ugly Cherries

Manchester By The Sea Features BH’s Mr. McCarthy

By Owen Pickette ‘18 Panel staff Recently nominated for six Academy Awards, Manchester by the Sea is a stunningly intimate study of how people deal with hardship and grief. Written and directed by Kenneth Lonergan (You Can Count On Me, Margaret) and starring Boston-native Casey Affleck (The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, Gone Baby Gone), the film tells the story of Lee Chandler (Affleck) returning to his hometown in order to take care of his nephew, Patrick Chandler (Lucas Hedges, Moonrise Kingdom), after his brother Joe Chandler (Kyle Chandler, Friday Night Lights) dies. Upon his return, he must begin to face the demons that drove him away from his hometown in the first place. Michelle Williams (Brokeback Mountain, Blue Valentine) plays Lee’s ex-wife, Randi, and steals the show with a scene late in the film’s third act.

Lonergan has crafted a beautiful meditation on grief and tragedy with Manchester by the Sea. All of the characters experience loss in the film, and Lonergan explores these themes in a structurally interesting way, which will not be spoiled here. The dialogue is sharp and believable, delivered with perfection by his outstanding cast. Propelling him to frontrunner for the Academy Award for Best Actor, Casey Affleck gives the performance of his career. His portrayal of Lee is subtle and quiet, but the pain Affleck has in his eyes, and the way he carries himself immedi-

ately inform you of who Lee is. Lucas Hedges demonstrates incredible emotional range as Lee’s teenage nephew, and their relationship forms the heart of the film. In fact, their exchanges are actually quite humorous, which balances out the other heavy material.

The film has an unusual history, starting with its inception in 2014. Originally, Matt Damon was set to star in and direct the film, with Lonergan solely writing the script; however, scheduling conflicts forced Damon off the project, though he still produced. Damon passed the role onto Affleck, and filming commenced on location in Manchester by the Sea, Massachusetts in spring 2015. After it premiered to rave reviews at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival, Amazon Studios purchased the distribution rights for $10.5 million.

Interestingly, Manchester by the Sea has connections to Belmont Hill. Mr. McCarthy and some of the Belmont Hill Varsity Hockey team are featured within the film because he knew a producer for the film, and both Mr. McCarthy and Belmont Hill are thanked in the film’s credits. The hockey team fills in for Patrick’s hockey teammates, while Mr. McCarthy plays a coach. Mr. McCarthy’s performance in the one frame in which he was featured individually was critically acclaimed, and when the Academy failed to nominate him for Best Supporting Actor, the film community was outraged.

Sadly, Belmont Hill will have to wait a little longer to bring home Oscar gold. ☐

My favorite TV show growing up was The Naked Brothers Band, and Nat and Alex Wolff were the first musicians I ever saw perform live, so it has made me really happy to see the two brothers continue their careers in both music and movies over the past few years. Although, I do not think anything either of them will ever do will make me feel more than I did when the music video for their song, Banana Smoothie, premiered on Nickelodeon a melancholy ten years ago, their recent music is awesome. Disappointed is a song off one of their albums, Black Sheep, and I also recommend Thump, Thump, Thump and Greatest Prize.

Isaiah Rashad - Heavenly Father

Lordy, give me something for my soul.

The Shins - Name For You The Shins have been on my list before, but I chose them again because they’ve been releasing new music! Within the past couple months, James Mercer, who basically is the entire band, dropped two singles of the band’s first album since 2012, Heartworms, which will be fully released in March. The Shins’s newest single is Name For You, a catchy song which has gotten me even more excited for the album. I cannot wait for The Shins to make a comeback this spring.

Kraus - Three My friend Jack’s brother makes noise-rock music, which is a type of experimental rock with a lot of heavy drums, guitar, and feedback. He came out with his first record, End Tomorrow, this summer and was recently featured as a rising artist on Pitchfork, an online music magazine. He says his music is made to help calm anxious people. Listen to Kraus if you are feeling nervous. ☐

Celebrating the Lives Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher

By Thomas McEvoy ‘19 and Matt Goguen ‘19 Panel staff

Carrie Fisher: Born in Burbank, California, to parents Eddie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds, Carrie Fisher experienced a tumultuous upbringing.

At the age of two, Fisher was forced to endure her parents’ divorce. Her parents would go on to remarry with varying amounts of success.

Nonetheless, the split-up had a profound effect of Fisher, almost certainly contributing to her spending much of her childhood immersed in book after book, seeking relief from the real world.

Years later, Fisher’s promising career on Broadway led to her decision to drop out of high school. Fisher experienced similar amounts of success in college, dropping out before graduation. However, Fisher’s almost two year stint at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London began to fuel the fire that was her love of performing. Fisher finally got her “big break” in 1977 when she played Princess Leia in George Lucas’ timeless classic Star Wars. Known mostly for her work in the Star Wars series, Fisher also contributed to numerous other successful movies. Other films featuring the talents of Fisher include: The Blues Brothers, Hannah and Her Sisters, The ‘Burbs, and When Harry Met Sally. In 2008, Fisher took a leap of faith in writing her own novel, which she entitled Wishful Drinking. The novel was based on an autobiographical play she had written, which chronicled much of her life including her struggles with bipolar disorder.

The tragic news of Carrie Fisher’s death, due to cardiac arrest, on December 27 devestated the public. However, despite her passing, Fisher has made a tremendous impact on the world of acting, and she will live on through each and every character she portrayed.

Debbie Reynolds: Born in El Paso, Texas, on April 1, 1932, Debbie Reynolds was raised by Raymond and Maxene Reynolds in a very poor family. Her father was a ditch digger, her mother was a laundry lady, and the three of them lived in a cozy shack in El Paso.

In 1939, her family moved to Burbank, California,

where Reynolds was an outcast in school. However, when she was sixteen years old, Reynolds won the Miss Burbank Beauty Contest and inked a contract with Warner Brothers. After two years with the company, she left for MGM because Warner Brothers stopped producing musicals. Because of her consistent performances, MGM gave her a starring role in Singin’ in the Rain (1952), a trailblazer movie which was one of the first films to have sound.

Three years later, Reynolds married Eddie Fisher. However, the marriage did not last, as the couple split in 1959 after Eddie was caught having an affair with Elizabeth Taylor. The affair was one of the biggest public scandals of its era, and it sent ripples through the Reynolds-Fisher family lives, including her two children’s: Carrie and Todd Fisher. Reynolds’ second husband, Harry Karl, was a heavy gambler and bad investor. And after 13 years, the couple split, giving Debbie her second divorce. Later on, she got married again, this time to real estate investor Richard Hamlett.

In a successful career, Reynolds starred in productions such as: How the West Was Won (1963), The Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964), Charlotte’s Web (1973), and Mother (1996). Reynolds also starred in her own TV Show, The Debbie Reynolds Show, which received a Golden Globe Award. Her accolades include: four Golden Globe Nominations, one Academy Award (Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award), and one American Comedy Award (Lifetime Achievement Award in Comedy).

On a sadder note, this past December, Debbie’s daughter, Carrie died of cardiac arrest.

The following day, Debbie Reynolds was hospitalized for a severe stroke. Later that afternoon, the 84-year-old died of a intracerebral hemorrhage.

Both her daughter’s death and her own sent a ripple across the country. Their legacy still lives on today. Debbie has left her footprint on American film and charities such as The Thailans, which focuses on children and adults with mental health issues. Her cheerful spirit, beautiful smile, and film Holly Gettings legacy will live on in Hollywood lore. Both Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher are deeply missed. ☐

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L SHPIL astYALDRINK o ok

A Public Service Announcement from the Belmont Hill Athletic Department: The student spectators at recent athletic events, while certainly lively, have not necessarily been a positive representation of the Belmont Hill Community™. Below we have included a list of chants that the Athletic Department, with the approval of the School Senate, have deemed appropriate.

• • • • • •

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Let’s go Belmont We respect you (clap clap clapclapclap) Not my president! Not my president! Say what? (Repeat) We have STEM/STEAM programs! (To the tune of the former “Olay” chant) Let’s get ethical! (The “Let’s get fundamental” chant was being abused by some students) Belmont Hill is a community dedicated to developing boys in mind, body, spirit. In a school that challenges and supports students in and beyond the classroom, we strive for excellence, honoring clear thinking and creativity, competition and teamwork, and tradition and vision.

Jablon, give us a wave!

“The best taco bowls can be found in the Belmont Hill dining hall!”

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In a surprising turn of events, Dr. Melvoin recently took to Twitter late at night to voice his opinions on several issues currently surrounding the Belmont Hill community. Below are the tweets as they appeared on the social media site.