@thepharcyde_tbs
THE BENJAMIN SCHOOL NEWSPAPER 4875 Grandiflora Road, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
14 December 2021
@thepharcyde_tbs Volume 43
Issue 05
It’s That Time of Year: Fill Yourselves with Holiday Cheer Lucy Rubin Staff Writer On Dec. 7, the Upper School held its annual assembly to commemorate the holiday season. Beginning in 2018, the Holiday Assembly has been a great way for students and teachers to celebrate the holiday season as a community. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 Holiday Assembly was pre-filmed in the BTV studio and streamed in advisory classrooms for students. This made the 2021 Holiday Assembly even more special, as the full community was able to reunite and come back together after the pandemic separated us. The joint experience of everyone coming together to celebrate the most cheerful time of the year helped cultivate a great atmosphere and experience for the entire Benjamin family. The Holiday Assembly featured the Dazzlers, choral and instrumental performances, and the sharing of customs and traditions by various students and staff. Dr. James Haley, the Chair of the Science Department, orchestrated the event, managing the entire process. When asked about his role in setting up the Assembly he stated, “All I do is coordinate the
program, making sure I get all of the essential pieces in the program, put them in order, and the program usually runs itself.” Coordinating the assembly is no easy task as Dr. Haley started to plan everything in late October. He began
by creating an outline of the different performances, based on previous assemblies and then began asking around for students and teachers who would be interested in participating. Dr. Haley noted “I pick people every year that the community would
Following moving talks and performances from teachers and students, the Upper School Dazzlers took the stage to conclude this year’s Holiday Assesmbly with a moving performance of the “Waltz of the Snowflakes” from The Nutcracker. (Photo by Tvisha Goel)
‘Tis the Season of Giving
Upper School Holds Food, Toy Drives Joey Tomassetti Staff Writer Since the pandemic began, some families have had a hard time making the money to supply themselves with the necessities of everyday living. Each holiday season, Benjamin gives back to the community through their food and toy drives. Students, teachers, and faculty are able to help those in need by donating to this cause. Upper School Student Services Counselor Dr. Renea Yates, who organizes the drives annually, is very appreciative of the effort put forth by Benjamin. “I am, once again, in awe of the generosity of our Benjamin Community and their giving spirits. To know that we helped put food on the table for so many makes my heart happy,” said Dr. Yates. In regards to the toy drive, Dr. Yates would love to see the same amount of generosity shown as the food drive. “I would love for our community to come together once more to help our friends at ARC with adaptive toys for Christmas,” added Dr. Yates. The Arc of Palm Beach County, established in the mid-1950s, is a group of community volunteers who joined together to advocate for the rights and needs of people with intellectual disabilities in Palm Beach County. The volunteers- many of them parents of children with disabilitiesfirst started Arc with a vision of the creation of local community-based programs to educate and help their children live productive lives. Benjamin is helping to contribute to this cause in a big way. Upper School Science Teacher Mrs. Amanda Pierman, a frequent
be interested in hearing from and are maybe people that are not always up on the Benjamin stage making announcements.” His goal is to bring in a diverse group of students the community could learn more about while sharing in the festive holiday spirit.
donator in Benjamin’s charity drives, is a fan of helping out the community in any way possible. “I did donate to the food drive, and yes, I will donate to the toy drive. Any time we can do something, no matter how small or big, for someone else, it makes a world of difference for the recipient. It also makes the donor feel good too. It helps to remind my family and me how lucky we are to have and to be able to share,” said Mrs. Pierman. “When Dr. Yates sent out the images of recipients at ARC holding up t-shirts, my heart melted. Seeing their huge smiles, especially as one person
was holding up a shirt that my daughter had worn, made me exceptionally happy and satisfied with my decision to donate. Even if I did not see these pictures, knowing that I could make someone else smile is enough of a reason for me to donate and keep donating,” adds Mrs. Pierman. As each holiday season goes by, Benjamin and Arc’s relationship grows ever stronger. Thanks to the generosity and kindness of the Benjamin community, children’s lives all over Palm Beach county are improving in some shape or form. Excellent job, Benjamin, and keep up the great work!
Freshman Leah Klein helps to pack up some of the toys that were donated by Upper School Students to support the children of The Arc of Palm Beach County. (Photo by Joey Tomassetti)
Every year, Dr. Haley asks students to speak about the three holidays: Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. With the help of Mrs. Goldberg and the Jewish Student Union, as well as spreading the word through faculty, this year’s Holiday Assembly featured the sharing of Christmas traditions by Ella Pierman, Hanukkah traditions by Leo and Hudson Byrne, and Kwanzaa traditions by Victoria Powell and Micah Mays. Mrs. Wendler and Mr. Cramer also got to speak about their holiday memories. Mr. Cramer noted that he was excited to share a Christmas memory with the Upper School as it is his favorite time of the year. The Holiday Assembly shared fun holiday memories, taught us about the different experiences and traditions throughout the Benjamin community, and engaged us with exciting performances by various performing arts groups at Benjamin. With the hard work of Dr. Haley and everyone who participated in the 2021 Holiday Assembly, the Benjamin Upper School community got to enjoy yet another festive occasion to help lift everyone’s spirits as we get closer to winter break.
Annual NHS Poinsettia Sales Mark Arrival of Holiday Season Sophia Liporace Co-Editor-in-Chief Over the past month, Benjamin families have been ordering poinsettias to support the National Honor Society’s annual poinsettia drive, and NHS leaders have been busy delivering and coordinating pickup for over 700 poinsettias to spread holiday cheer throughout the community. According to Social Studies Department Chair and NHS advisor Ms. Sara Misselhorn, the poinsettia drive is the only fundraiser during the year to support the organization, and one of the many community service activities members partake in throughout the year; it is also beneficial to the Benjamin community. “Poinsettias are a wonderful holiday tradition, and the different sizes and colors of the beautiful plants NHS offers for sale are some of, if not the, best quality and prices in the community,” said Ms. Misselhorn. NHS sells pink, red, and white poinsettias that each come in small, medium, or large sizes. NHS Vice-President and Treasurer, seniors Jack Regnery and Joey Slyh, respectively, have been most helpful in the process: creating spreadsheets to keep track of the orders and profits and assigning NHS members to help with delivery. “As Vice-President, it is my responsibility to be in charge of the poinsettia drive. Earlier this year, I contacted the poinsettia manufacturer and made sure everything was good to go. I also made a spreadsheet that kept track of all the orders and the total amount of poinsettias so that we could ensure that all orders would be completed,” said Regnery. Each NHS member is required to sell at least 60 dollars worth of poinsettias and help distribute the poinsettias at some point on Wednesday, Dec. 1.
“Jack and I delivered poinsettias with the other NHS officers throughout the morning on Wednesday and coordinated all pick-up orders in the afternoon. As treasurer, my main responsibility was calculating the profit that the NHS would make, and I am now excited to be able to manage the budget throughout the year and find helpful ways to use it,” said Joey Slyh. NHS has plans to use their profits of over $10,000 for the greater good while also maintaining the chapter. “We intend to contribute to the school-wide service project, create and send cards to the troops, keep our membership supplies intact, continue to make and deliver no-sew blankets, and to help support any other service project that might need some funding,” said Ms. Misselhorn. After another successful year of poinsettias, Ms. Misselhorn and NHS hope to continue spreading cheer among the Benjamin community for years to come with their long-lasting and pet friendly poinsettias.
Members of NHS come in early on Wednesday, Dec. 1 to help count poinsettia orders. NHS officers spent nearly all day delivering poinsettias to local businesses. (Photo by Sophia Liporace)
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The Pharcyde
14 December 2021
Students Serve on Boards of State, National Organizations Tvisha Goel Co-Editor-in-Chief Benjamin provides its students with immense opportunities to learn and get involved with organizations in ways that extend their education beyond what’s accomplished inside of classrooms. One example of this is the School’s encouragment of student participation on organizing boards for some important state and national organizations. The experiences of four members of the Upper School-Tati Georgas, Ella Pierman, Maddie Popilek, and Matthew Roundtree-highlight the many positive aspects such engagement has. Senior Ella Pierman serves on the state board for HOSA, Health Occupations Students of America - Future Health Professionals, as Regional Director. Regarding their leadership, HOSA faculty advisor Mrs. Amanda Peirman proudly explained, “As The
Benjamin School only really started with HOSA about four years ago, it is impressive that we’ve had a member on the board for the past three years and are now holding two positions [...] There is stiff competition for these positions for all of the schools in this region, and the fact that both Ella and Tati were elected by votes from all the schools shows how well our students are doing and how well they represent themselves and The Benjamin School.” Pierman’s job is to “lead meetings regarding competition preparation and events throughout the school year as well as host the competition awards ceremony.” Prior to taking on the lead role in the region, Pierman previously served as its secretary during her sophomore and junior years. In explaining her promotion, Pierman noted, “As President, I’ve had to become more outgoing as a leader, and plan
The 2021-2022 FHSAA Student-Athlete Advisory Committee gathered for a picture before their October meeting. Junior Maddie Popilek, third from left in the top row, represents our region on the committee. (Photo courtesy of the FHSAA)
the competitions. I hope to have a fun and successful year.” Junior Tati Georgas has also recently joined the regional board of HOSA. On the board, she is the Historian of the Treasure Coast region, meaning she represents all the schools participating in HOSA in the state’s largest region. “From this position, I want to learn leadership among a group of students that share the same scientific interests as me. I want to grow in my knowledge of medicine. I hope to contribute to the organization and in the meetings with my fellow officers in the treasure coast region,” she said. Junior Maddie Popilek is a part of the FHSAA, or Florida High School Athletic Association’s Student-Athlete Advisory committee. This committee is a group of 16 students selected from across the state, tasked with discussing how to make the Florida high school athletic atmosphere better for everyone. Regarding her experience on the board, Popilek explained, “I have learned leadership skills as well as how I can aid my school in becoming a better environment for athletes.” Popilek has high hopes for what she can achieve to fulfill this position. “I want to raise awareness to issues related to athletics within our school in order to make it an enjoyable experience for everyone. Most of what we have talked about so far relates to the spirit aspects of athletics and getting everyone involved to support each other. We have also discussed rankings for sports and how we can fix that to make it easier for people to see where they place within individual sports.” Regarding Popilek’s participation, Athletic Director Mr. Ryan Smith shared, “We were thrilled
The Pharcyde
14 December 2021
As we look toward the Spring Semester, the Upper School anxiously awaits the return of two veteran teachers back to the Social Studies Department. Mr. Steven Anderson and Coach Peter Cordrey are returning to share with students their deep knowledge about government and finance, respectively. Social Studies teacher Mr. Anderson, who has been educating mindsfor the past two decades at Benjamin, will be teaching semester courses in Government and Economics as well as offering the student-favorite History of the Florida and the Caribbean class. During COVID-19, Mr. Anderson disappeared from the second floor hallway he usually called home, opting to relocate to students’ computer screens. Having finished the 20192020 school year on Zoom, Anderson remained online throughout all of the 2020-2021 school year as well. Regarding his return to campus life, Anderson shared, “I am looking forward to returning- it has been a long time.” During his time off during the first semester, Mr. Anderson and his wife, Charlene, enjoyed life in Cape Cod. Senior Jake Haggard, who has had Mr. Anderson as a teacher for Government and Economics, expressed his excitement about Anderson’s return: “He’s a really relatable guy, [we both] like sports and he’s really outgoing”, Haggard continued, “We do a lot of interactive projects and we do a lot of talking in class, it’s not just all essays and homework so I think that makes his class really effective.”
Haggard is looking forward to having Mr. Anderson for a second time in the History of Florida and the Caribbean. When asked if it will feel different because Mr. Anderson was not here during the first semester, Haggard said, “No; I mean I feel like I will just pick up right where I left off with Mr. Anderson and I think we’ll have a good time.” For his part, Mr. Anderson is most looking forward to leading a new group of students to the Grenadine Islands in March for his annual service learning trip. When asked about his potential retirement, Anderson jokes, “I always take things one year at a time-- like Tom Brady.” While Anderson’s return to the Social Studies Department will indeed make it feel more like old times, the additional return of Coach Cordrey will make the department feel complete. Head Varsity Lacrosse Coach and Social Studies teacher Mr. Cordrey has had previous experience teaching as an adjunct professor at Seton Hall University’s business school, teaching “money and banking.” As he did last year, Coach Cordrey will be teaching one section of Economic Issues, a course that focuses on personal financial issues, budgeting, earning, taxes, spending, saving, and investing. Mr. Cordrey aims to deepen his relationship with the school and better understand what his players were experiencing during the school day: “I enjoy teaching all students including those who play in our lacrosse program. I also firmly believe that coaching is teaching and teaching is coaching.”
The January 6th Storming of the Capitol: On Jan. 6, as Congress meets to certify the results of the 2020 election, thousands of rioters--many of whom were Trump supporters--storm the Capitol. Over 140 police officers are injured and one is killed.
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Second Impeachment of President Trump: Then-President Donald Trump is impeached for a second time on Jan. 13 for his role in the breach of the Capitol. All Democrats in the House of Representatives in addition to ten Republicans vote in favor of impeachment.
3. The U.S. officially rejoins the Paris Climate Agreement: President Biden’s administration re-enters the international treaty on climate change after former President Trump pulled out a year prior.
Junior Tati Georgas and Senior Ella Pierman serve on the regional leadership committee for HOSA. Georgas is the Treasure Coast Region’s Historian, while Pierman is the Region’s Director. (Photo by Mrs. Pierman)
when Maddie was selected [...] she follows in the footsteps of Devyn Dyett ‘21 who served on the committee prior. Maddie will gain excellent leadership training while resprenting The Benjamin School School. Being on an organizing board of any state-wide or national level organization is a great way to learn not only leadership skills, but how to take initiative in reaching these positions. While Georgas explained that she took a test for the organization and sent in a video speech of why she should be elected as Historian for HOSA, Pierman said she had to write an essay, answer several short answer questions, upload her resume, and ask a few teachers to sign off on her application. Following this, she had to take a test on HOSA’s history and parliamentary procedure, and win the election two delegates from each school vote on each of the six officer positions. To become a student
on the state board of the FHSAA, Popilek needed to submit an application online and have the school send a recommendation to the FHSAA board. Senior Matt Roundtree is a part of a teen executive board of the Palm Beach County Chapter of the Jack and Jill of America Inc. This national organization is dedicated to developing African-American leaders through community involvement, programming, and cultural events. According to their chapter program handbook, a teen executive board “provides leadership, strategic direction, and operational excellence to the team group under the guidance of the lead team sponsors. For more information, visit their website: www.jackandjillpalmbeach.org. These students are taking the first steps to becoming strong, initiative-taking leaders, and these opportunities can be waiting just around the corner. Take them.
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4. COVID-19 Relief Bill is Signed: On Mar. 11, President Biden signs the COVID-19 Stimulus Package into law. Its goal is to revive a sluggish American economy as it comes out of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Expanded: On May 10, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for all Americans 12-15 years of age. Previously, only those 16 or older were able to receive the vaccine.
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U.S. Military Pulls Out of Afghanistan: Following a nearly 20 year-long conflict in the Middle Eastern country, the U.S. scrambles to evacuate its troops and select Afghan civilians from Kabul International Airport in late August. This comes just weeks after the Taliban sweep through the country.
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NY Governor Andrew Cuomo Resigns: After an investigation by the state Attorney General and political pressure over his COVID-19 nursing home policies, Andrew Cuomo resigns from his post as Governor of New York. He names Democrat Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul as his successor.
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Biden Signs $2 Trillion Infrastructure Bill: On Nov. 15, President Biden signed the Build Back Better Bill, which allocates funds towards the healthcare system, Amtrak, and the social safety net and is considered the hallmark of Biden’s domestic agenda. Four days later, the House narrowly passes the bill 220 to 213.
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Senior Lacrosse player Peter Cenci has had Mr. Cordrey as a coach for the entirety of his high school career. Cenci looks forward to enaging with his Coach in a different forum, explaining, “I am very excited for his class, he is a good mentor and its going to be different to see him as a teacher compared to coaching, I see two different sides of him.” Mr. Cordrey is excited to see his students and players realize their dreams. Head of the Upper School and Current Issues History Social Studies Teacher Mr. Fletcher Carr is excited to welcome two veteran teachers back to school. He said, “Mr. Anderson’s and Mr. Cordrey’s collective experience--both in schools and life--adds many positive dimensions to our faculty and program. Most importantly, both bring incredible skills at connecting with and inspiring our students”. Both Mr. Anderson and Mr. Cordrey have been updated and are aware the changes with the COVID-19 protocols, the growth of the school, and the sense of spirit in the community.
The Upper School’s Social Studies Department will see the return of two key faculty members this January: Mr. Steven Anderson and Coach Peter Cordrey. The two veteran educators return to the classroom following a fall semester spent off campus. (Photo courtesy of the the Benjamin School)
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The year 2021 has been another tumultuous one in the arena of politics. There has been everything from an attempted coup to heated trials that deal with issues of racial justice and self defense. However, in between these major events, some important moments have been forgotten in the minds of Americans. Here are The Pharcyde’s top ten most important political events of this past year, forgotten or not.
Social Studies Department Ready to Welcome Back Anderson and Cordrey Clara Schor Social Media Director
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The most important event of 2021 in the realm of politics was the January 20th inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as the 46th and 49th President and Vice President of the United States of America, respectively.
Republicans Impress in VA, NJ Elections: On Nov. 2, Virginia and New Jersey held elections for several state offices--the most notable of which being Governor of the state. In Virginia, Republican Glenn Youngkin defeated Democrat Terry McAullife, despite the latter being considered the favorite. In New Jersey, Republican Jack Ciattarelli comes within roughly three percent of unseating incumbent Democrat Phil Murphy, outperforming the polls by several percent.
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Kyle Rittenhouse Acquitted on All Charges: Kyle Rittenhouse is acquitted on all charges after 26 hours of jury deliberation. Rittenhouse fatally shot two men and injured another during riots in Kenosha, Wisconsin in Aug. 2020.
Photos of the first of our Wellness Wednesdays courtesy of Dr. Yates.
Story of the Year
List created and written by Evan Liberman, Managing Editor
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The Pharcyde
14 December 2021
The Pharcyde
Hanukkiyah, Dreidel, Gelt, and Kwanzaa: Sharing the Kugel: A Chanukah to Remember Lights of Heritage, Heart Leah Klein Staff Writer With so many spelling variations of the Jewish holiday Chanukah, which one is the most appropriate to use? The two most commonly used are Chanukah, and Hanukkah, but other variations include Hanukkah or Chanukah. The reason for so many alterations of the spelling is because the language of Hebrew consists of a different alphabet, therefore there is no direct translation or any specifically correct spelling. There are multiple ways to interpret how the word sounds and put it into words with the English alphabet. Britannica elucidates that “both are considered correct, though Hanukkah is the most widely used spelling, while Chanukah is more traditional.” Behind the holiday, Chanukah has a great historical and religious significance. It is based on the Jews being victorious in driving out their Greek-Syrian oppressors out of Jerusalem in the Maccabean Revolt. It also celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple, subsequent to the revolt. In addition, there was only enough oil to keep the menorah’s candles burning for one night, but the oil miraculously lasted for eight days. Menorahs were used previously to the holiday’s creation to symbolize the ideal of universal enlightenment and the creation in seven days with seven candles. The center candle, known as the shamash, represents the Sabbath or day of rest. However, there are different types of menorahs to celebrate different things. A hanukkiyah is a menorah used to celebrate Chanukah. It features nine candles instead of seven to represent the eight days the oil lasted, with the shamash used to light the others. Chanukah is celebrated on different dates almost every year. This is because there is a separate calendar
that Jewish holidays are based off of, called Lunisolar. This is also why the Jewish New Year occurs in September instead of January. Chanukah can take place anywhere from late November to late December. Today, Chanukah is observed with many different traditions and practices. The most well known is the nightly lighting of the candles on the menorah. The candles are lit from right to left with the exception of the shamash. The first candle is lit on the first day, the second candle on the second day, and so on until the last candle is lit on the eight day. Traditional foods are also eaten to celebrate, such as latkes or other fried foods. The symbolism beyond the fried food is to remind Jews of the miracle of the oil associated with Chanukah. Brisket, kugel, or jelly donuts are other commonly eaten foods. Typically no seafood or pork is eaten because it isn’t kosher. “We don’t usually fry foods, but because part of the Chanukah story is about oil lasting longer than anticipated, we’ll be frying up some yummy foods in oil. In addition, for JSU, I’ll be delivering some Chanu-
kah boxes to JSU students,” said Jennifer Romanoff, JSU Private School Liaison. During Chanukah, all sorts of events are held, such as services at synagogues. Typical services include singing, reflecting, and talking about recent events. Another traditional Chanukah activity is playing dreidel. The dreidel, defined as a spinning top with Hebrew letters used mainly in a game to celebrate Chanukah. The top is spinned and depending on the letter that lands face up, and gelt (chocolate coins) are either taken or given. “This year I’ll be celebrating by light my menorah with my family each night of Chanukah. We’ll also spend special family time next to the lights, without our phones, by either playing games, eating Chanukah foods, or giving gifts. I’ll also be celebrating with all of the JSU Clubs in private school JSU across South Florida,” said Romanoff. The holiday serves as a reminder of the miracle that occurred many years ago, but is also a fun traditional holiday, and a chance to spend more time with family and friends.
JSU, or the Jewish Student Union, held a Chanukah Party on Thursday, Dec. 2 during lunch where students enjoyed themselves playing dreidel, eating latkes and crafting their own menorahs. (Photo courtesy of The Benjamin School)
Evan Liberman Managing Editor When someone mentions the “holidays,” it’s often in reference to the celebration of Christmas, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, and sometimes Chanukah. However, as some gather around the Christmas tree and the menorah, others come together to celebrate the African holiday of Kwanzaa. This year, families across the world–most prominently in the United States and the Caribbean–will celebrate Kwanzaa from Dec. 26, 2021, to Jan. 1, 2022. Kwanzaa is a celebration of traditional African culture and social values. The celebration consists of various activities, including recitations and candle lighting. Kwanzaa takes place over seven days, with each one dedicated to a different principle. For example, one day focuses on the concept of unity (umoja), while another centers around creativity (kuumba). There are also seven symbols of unity, some of which are a straw mat, ears of corn (otherwise known as maize), and a communal cup, among others. Every evening, those celebrating Kwanzaa gather around the candle holder (kinara) to discuss the day’s principle and symbol. Kwanzaa’s history is another aspect of what makes it unique. Unlike other holidays often celebrated during the same period, Kwanzaa was only recently devised. Maulana Karenga created the holiday in 1966 while teaching at California State University–Long Beach. At the time, Karenga was an active member of the Black Power movement and other causes aimed at increasing civil rights for African-Americans. His creation of Kwanzaa is seen as an important contribution to the concept of Afrocentrism, which is the belief that one’s
perspective on the world should be grounded in traditional African values. Karenga also modeled the holiday after the traditional sub-Saharan First Fruits Festivals–which are practiced to this day in some African countries. This festival is sacrificial in nature and provides food to the gods believed to be responsible for the season’s harvest, according to Dr. Keith Snedegar of Utah Valley University. Upper School math teacher Ms. Rachelle Mays is one member of the Benjamin community who celebrates Kwanzaa and has since she was in high school, having learned about Kwanzaa from a church service she attended. Her family only celebrated Christmas and didn’t understand the meaning of the principles and values of the celebration, according to Ms. Mays. Thus, her coming across the holiday was a bit of a happy accident. Ms. Mays also has also formed a personal connection to the holiday. “I admire all 7 principles, but if I had to choose a favorite it would Nia, [which means] purpose,” she said. Additionally, Ms. Mays has developed a personal definition of nia. In her eyes, nia describes the reason why she was placed on this Earth and the being of her existence. She feels that her purpose is to be kind, loving, and hard-working for her family. When the day nia was celebrated comes around, she always posts a picture in her house of the young children in her family. This year, Ms. Mays will celebrate Kwanzaa by attending local church and community events dedicated to the holiday. Moreover, she has purchased certain home decorations such as candles and a tablecloth. Ms. Mays will join millions of other individuals across the world this holiday season as she celebrates Kwanzaa. Happy Kwanzaa to all!
Resolutions Revamped, Goals Set for the New Year Tvisha Goel Co-Editor-in-Chief
New Year’s is a time for people to celebrate the year that has passed and look forward to the year that will come. Many people also use New Year’s as a way to set goals for themselves that they feel will make for an accomplished year. The history of New Year’s Resolutions can possibly be traced back to 4,000 years ago starting with the ancient Babylonians. According to History.com, “during a massive 12-day religious festival known as Akitu, the Babylonians crowned a new king or reaffirmed their loyalty to the reigning king. They also made promises to the gods to pay their debts and return any objects they had borrowed. These promises could be considered the forerunners of our New Year’s resolutions. If the Babylonians kept to their word, their (pagan) gods would bestow favor on them for the coming year. If not, they would fall out of the gods’ favor—a place no one wanted to be.” A similar practice can be followed into ancient Rome, where Julius Caesar established January 1st as the beginning of the year, named after Janus, a god who was a “two-faced god whose spirit inhabited doorways and arches.” Romans held a special connection to January, as Janus was believed to symbolically look “backwards into the previous year and ahead into the future.” So the Romans offered sacrifices to the god and made promises of good conduct for
the new year. The beginnings of the New Year’s resolutions created a tradition for the modern era and the Benjamin community is no exception. The first year of high school can be very difficult, trying to acclimate oneself to a new environment. Freshman Easley Hughes has resolutions that correspond to this change. Hughes said, “I want to keep up with school work because I want to make sure I remind myself to stay organized and continue using my planner to make sure I complete all my assignments. I also want to continue to have good grades and improve even more
by working and studying hard for all my tests, quizzes, and exams to make sure I do well in my classes. Finally, I want to complete one act of kindness every day. It could be anything from helping someone study or picking up trash even if it’s not yours.” Resolutions have been in high demand especially after COVID-19, shifting the focus to not only a more health-conscious society but a society that will always be grateful for those that are around them. Mirroring this emphasis on personal development, Sophomore J. Paul Jacobs said that his resolutions are to spend more time with family
and eat healthier. Similarly, junior Nicole Nicklaus has resolutions that exemplify this more prominent growth mindset. She said she will begin the new year improving her habits. “This includes eating better and becoming healthier. I feel like these things can help the way someone feels,” she explained. She also wants to focus on keeping her best interests at heart, because, as she elaborated, “Your mental health is more important than pleasing other people, so focusing on myself and what I like is another resolution.” Finally, Nicklaus also wants to spend more time with friends and family.
She said, “Family is always going to be with you your whole life, so I feel like spending more time with family should be a priority for me as well.” Seniors have been overwhelmed with balancing school work and college applications. As they begin to head into the next chapter of their lives, they hold many New Year’s resolutions for themselves for the end of their high school career. Senior Luke Pisani explained that his resolutions include getting better grades, becoming a better person, and working harder at being a better athlete. Change follows everyone, not just a transition from the stages of school, but in adult life. Art teacher Ms. Caroline Duran is new to Benjamin this year, and she has some resolutions of her own as well. “I want to remain positive in all situations and try to see the best in people, continue to put effort and time into growing my small business (painting watercolor pet portraits), and make it a priority to leave time and space for myself outside of work. These are my resolutions because moving to a new school and a new town have presented many challenges. I see these changes as opportunities to grow and move outside of my comfort zone,” Ms. Duran explained. Whether one’s New Year’s resolutions include building on a previous accomplishment, maintaining habits of the current year or trying something new, these act as goals for the betterment of people’s lives, and the new year provides the opportunity and fresh start to fulfill these goals.
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14 December 2021 The Pharcyde is excited to share with you the personal statements of three members of the Class of 2022. Our hope is that by reading these works, you may both be inspired to reflect on your own experiences and be humbled by knowing extraordinary individuals such as Emma, Caden, and Robyn are part of the very same community of thinkers, readers, and dreamers as are you.
I started singing, writing songs, and performing in middle school, and I realized being on stage was exhilarating because it was where I felt most deeply connected to myself. I’m an emotional person, so when I felt a certain emotion, I’d sit down with my guitar and put words to it because that was the best way of expressing myself. However, as I got older, adolescence wiped out the confidence I’d developed as a child when I allowed what others said about me to impact me negatively. I had songs and stories inside me, but I was too scared about what other people would think. To put my stories and songs out there and have people laugh at them would be like someone diving into my deepest soul just to drown me. Fear latched onto my insecurities and created its own stories to make me stay small. Quarantine interceded to change my story by forcing me to be alone with my thoughts. At first, I hated it. Then one day I was sitting outside, and a monarch butterfly flew by. As a kid I’d loved butterflies, and it got me thinking about where that kid had gone. The little girl who smiled, laughed, and believed in herself. I felt as if I were meant to see this butterfly because butterflies embody change, and I knew it was time for me to make a change. I cut out social media, toxic friends, and bad habits and began journaling and working with a life coach. I focused on appreciating small things like the smell of a candle, the colors of the sky, the orchestra of the morning birds, and I consciously forced my negative thoughts from my mind. When I wrote, “I’m learning to breathe in the hopes and dreams of my future and exhale the pain of the past,” I was inspired to set it to music and build a song around it. Playing on the piano, I used my four favorite chords and turned that line into the chorus of my song “Mind Storm.” I realized that my worst fear was not fully becoming the person I wanted to be. To look back on life and think “what if?” What if I wasted my chances by not taking risks? What if I shared my words and they actually reached someone who needed them to overcome their own battles? No longer wanting to live in fear’s shadow, I decided to go on a date with fear. If I valued speaking up, then why not ask fear about its presence in my life. I conversed with fear with my journal and pen, asking questions like “why do I let fear overpower my dreams?” Ultimately, fear revealed it was trying to teach me to fully believe in myself. Once I understood that, I refused to allow it to hold me back. Instead, I turned this understanding into my song “Fly” about not stopping myself from achieving my dreams and finally breaking free from fear’s grasp. I no longer care if people judge me or my songs because their judgments are about them, not me. Being enough for myself is what matters. I think everyone could list a thousand things they think would make them happier. But nothing can make someone feel worthy if they don’t already feel that way to begin with. So, I wrote a song about learning to stop looking outside of myself to see my worth, telling myself that I am, in fact, enough. “To Be Enough” encapsulates my personal journey to loving myself the way I am. Fear and I have made a pact to not just live life but be alive. To courageously express myself in my art and never again limit my creativity. To share my voice, my music, and my words in hopes that I’ll inspire others “To Be Enough” as they are. To be fearless.
It’s purple and green twine, with three alternating segments of about half an inch long to make six total inch long segments of purple and green. Then it leads into an intertwining of individual strands to make a mash of those two colors, which leads to a knot, tying it comfortably around my wrist. Although it used to be a lush green and royal purple, it has faded to a bleaker version of both colors. It has been about two and a half months since Owen put it on my wrist, and I haven’t thought of taking it off. To understand why a small bracelet makes such an impact, we need to travel to one of the last days of Camp Highlander. Owen was one of the most kindhearted campers I have ever met and had one simple question: What are your favorite colors? Owen, just like all the other kids in my cabin, was always asking questions like “Do we have to?”, “why can’t you launch me off the water blob?” and “Are you allowed to do that?”. However, this question wasn’t a trick or an elaborate scheme as I could tell, and showed a strange interest in me, personally. I answered frankly with “purple and green”. He smiled, turned around, and went back to his business. The next day, he walked over to me carrying a bracelet...for me. Not for a camper, not for someone in leadership, but just plain me. We had known each other for a grand total of two weeks, and here it was, a bracelet. I had done nothing besides my job, which I was being (poorly) compensated for, so I didn’t deserve anything else, did I? As if it was a key to a hidden vault, a memory unlocked. I saw how I was in his shoes just a few years ago. I still remember the inside jokes of my own camper experience, four years ago now, and how special my counselors made me feel. When my cabin built a poker table in woodworking and our counselor destroyed us all in poker, or when we would always play counselors vs campers in games like dodgeball and frisbee, it made my experience feel unique and different from anyone else there. In that moment, in the blink of an eye, the split of a second, another metaphor for a small period of time, the bracelet became something more than just a bracelet. When I look at that bracelet, I see the potential for something great. I love to help as many people as possible, whether they are rude or ignorant or just different. However, due to the unfortunate fact that I am neither a politician nor billionaire philanthropist yet, I do what I can to make people smile. I help others with their problems, no matter if that means a talk, a performance, or just playing the fool for a while. I see no greater pleasure in life than to aid others and build a community of caring, loving individuals around you. This bracelet is now a token of my successes, memories I have forged, and people I have had the pleasure of making laugh. All it took was one little kid, one piece of rope, and a memory I will have forever. They showed me how great it can be to make memories and help in any way you can. Just a little help can change the world for the better. “Blood is thicker than water” is a misquoted idiom, with the real quote being “The blood of the covenant is thicker than the water of the womb”. The bonds we make along the way are stronger and more fulfilling than any connections we are born with. Life is not about the ending, but about how many people you helped along the way. I intend to live that life to its fullest.
Emma Hardyman
An Explosive Start. For two days the bombardment of my island left only destruction. Much of the Bahamas was obliterated by Hurricane Dorian. Few homes were strong enough to withstand the storm. The destruction of my home, left only partially standing, made my family homeless and forced us to flee. Yet, we were the lucky ones — those that had survived and were not seriously injured or killed. We escaped, hoping to build a new life. The Approach. The rhythmic life that I enjoyed in the Bahamas came to a crashing end. As it became obvious that my family and I would not be able to return to our home anytime soon, we came to Florida. Although I had to leave everything I knew behind, I firmly set my eyes on the opportunity for positive change. I had to learn a new cadence. Gone was the familiar and the comfortable. Out of step, and outside of my comfort zone, I had to learn to live in a different culture. It was more than just a change of address when I emigrated. The new rhythm in Florida gave me the sense that everyone was making leaps and bounds to be successful. I was now caught in a chaotic stream of forward movement. The focus on fast-paced progress with no limits on success, however, gave me the opportunity to redefine myself. I wanted to rediscover myself. I needed to know what makes me unique. I wanted to find my passion. The Attack. I have excelled at sports my entire life, but I have lacked consistency — stumbling many times. I was constantly weaving through many activities in pursuit of my identity. Without the proper mechanics, I was unbalanced and out of rhythm. I finally found what I had been looking for during my junior year of high school. I started running track in the hopes of making a connection with others and myself. I succeeded in the former, making some wonderful friends. Despite this, I felt defeated for the first two months due to the sprinting events I was initially placed in. It wasn’t until my coach pulled me aside to attempt hurdles. Jumping those first sets of hurdles felt liberating. I felt as if I had cleared a personal obstacle in my life. I developed a love that was so overwhelming that I began to cry. I was able to relax my shoulders and just breathe. I was no longer carrying this burden on my chest. I’d found what I was looking for. I am a hurdler.
Caden Quinn The Clearance. “Run your own race, Robyn,” my coach often says, and now I understand what he means. It was always my run alone. Of course, others are always there with me, and the hurdles must be cleared, but the race is my own. Hurricane Dorian was devastating, but it was a hurdle cleared. My new life in Florida was another challenge, and it strengthened me. The fact that hurdles are a personal commitment for me is the main reason for my close connection to them. In the past, I did things for the sake of meeting other people’s expectations. For the first time, I had something I could call my own. The Goal. Even though track season is still a long way away, I spend eight hours a week honing my talents to ensure that I am ready. Whether it’s lengthy hours of conditioning, strengthening workouts, or systematically breaking down hurdling, I am willing to put in the extra work. I now know how to work hard for my goals no matter what. I never take for granted the opportunities presented to me, and I thank God for the circumstance he has placed me in. I haven’t encountered all of my hurdles in life, but I now know that I will always get over them.
Robyn Duncombe
Gerald Bissell Staff Writer As we finish the last Thanksgiving leftovers and score the last deals on the Black Friday weekend, reality sinks in and reminds us that midterms are within reach. Having five exams in one week can be quite intimidating, so here are some tips from a student who’s had four years worth of stressful studying. Tip #1: Don’t cram at the last minute. I know I’m stating the obvious here, but spacing out your studying is necessary for better grades. Pay attention in class during the week leading up to midterms and ask questions. From there, you can space out you’re studying according to your weaknesses. When you start studying early, you’re able to take advantage of the many resources at Benjamin such as teachers, tutors, and peer clubs like Mu Alpha Theta. As they say, “help me help you.” At 10 o’clock the night before, it’s hard to contact teachers who want to help you. Study early, identify difficulties, and reach out to the available resources for extra help. Tip #2: Be able to teach the information you’re studying. My friends think they’re a burden when asking for help, but I love being called for study help. Not only am I able to assist others but I can affirm my own understanding of the content. When I can explain the information without using my notes, I know that I’ve mastered the material. Sometimes it helps to get together with a group of friends and study; you get to practice your own skills while being assisted by those who know you the best. Tip #3: Get involved while studying. While going over notes may be helpful to an extent, this alone will not get you good grades. Doing practice problems by hand is the best way to ingrain the information. I like to use Quizlet, but writing flashcards by hand is another great study habit. For those in AP classes, use online resources that take problems directly from official exams. AP Classroom and Khan Academy are great websites to use. As stated earlier, your teachers are there to help; reach out and ask for practice problems if you are unable to find any and they’ll be more than happy to help, albeit Mr. Ruggie may be a little reluctant. Hopefully, some of my tips will be useful in the coming weeks. As with all of your exams, I urge you to remember the school’s Honor Code especially during midterms. Remember to take advantage of the support system here at Benjamin and good luck!
EXAM WEEK SCHEDULE Monday Social Sciences Tuesday English Wednesday Math Thursday World Languages Conflicts Friday Science
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14 December 2021
Student Voices
The Pharcyde
Student Voices
The Pharcyde
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14 December 2021
Never Lose Sight of Your Blessings
English Dept. Chair Reflects on Holidays
Throughout the holiday season, we can oftentimes get wrapped up in the excitement of presents and school breaks, but it is important to look below the surface area of what we tend to focus on and take the time to reflect on what we have to be grateful for. Gratitude does not always have to be thought of as the classic definition of showing appreciation; it is just important that we reflect and take the time to understand how lucky we are. While no one’s particular circumstances are alike, we can all reflect and be grateful for a positive school community. We should all be grateful for the supportive and dedicated teachers we trust, the spirited and caring peers we love, and the countless opportunities and outlets for learning that Benjamin provides. Gratitude is a powerful and positive force. Far from a fluffy or frivolous concept, it can have a real impact on physical health, emotional wellbeing, motivation, engagement and belonging. A study published in Psychological Science found that
As part of this year’s Holiday Assembly, Chair of the English department Mrs. Sharon Wendler reflected upon the holiday season, her family, and gratitude. Below, in its entirety, is the text of Mrs. Wendler’s talk.
“Teachers put so much of their time to help us and it feels like there’s no way to thank them as much as they deserve. Thank you for caring, thank you for understanding, and thank you for believing in us.” - Tvisha Goel
“Thank you for encouraging learning and making class time fun. You all put so much into making sure students understand the material and are prepared for upcoming challenges. The teachers have made me feel so comfortable in the high school.” - Leah Klein
“Thank you so much for your continued sacrifice of time in order to help students learn and get the best grades possible. We students are extremely grateful for everything you do for us. -Charlie Spungin
the
PHARCYDE
when people focused on being thankful, they were more able to demonstrate patience. In addition, a study published in the Review of Communication found that gratitude has a positive impact on our mental and emotional states as well as physical health. Gratefulness also has proven to increase happiness and decrease anxiety because of how it can ground people. When you are more grateful,
A few weeks ago, students were asked to submit the annual mid-year surveys designed to evaluate their teachers’ teaching skills. You need not worry. Despite what students may say in the surveys, The Pharcyde wanted to tell you some things that our surveys may not immediately reveal: We are very thankful for all that you have done for the students at the Benjamin School. You are one of the main reasons The Benjamin School can pride itself on creating a successful path for many of its students. The last year and a half was incredibly difficult, and we wanted to thank you for the efforts that you all put into maintaining an educationally fun environment for your students by creating a zoom-friendly, interactive forms of learning, for helping to keep us safe during a hard time, and for being an outlet to whom students are comfortable talking. We wanted to thank you for your immeasurable patience with us and with the ever-changing environment that you all must endure. We understand we don’t make it easy on you sometimes, and we are baffled by your growing endurance of our mischiefs. Your leniency and understanding with students for all occasions are qualities that we will forever cherish and for which we are incredibly grateful. We forever appreciate your dedication to us, driving through the morning traffic to get to school early instead of sleeping in or staying after school, spending longer amounts of time away from the comfort of your home, to help us forge our future. When we get our Nobel Prizes or Pulitzers or Emmys or Grammys, we’ll be sure to thank you for helping us get there. You always push us to do our best, and will never accept anything less. We may get annoyed at times right now, but your high expectations for us, we know, will light our way and help us to constantly push our limits. Every day, you inspire us to do well. We might come to school with frowns on our faces, but those soon turn to ear-to-ear grins because of you. This may not seem obvious, but after all, teenagers never really communicate their feelings too well. We simply wanted to thank you. Thank you for your efforts, determination, caring and loving nature. Thank you for being you. With much love, appreciation, and gratitude, The Pharcyde
EDITORIAL BOARD
Founded in 1980 as The Spectator 14 December 2021
Evan Liberman, Managing Editor
The Benjamin School 4875 Grandiflora Road Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33418 Contact Information Phone: 561-472-5998, ext. 2119 Fax: 561-691-8823 Advisor Dr. John Peruggia john.peruggia@thebenjaminschool.org Advisor Emeritus Mr. Kendall Didsbury Media Consultants Mr. and Mrs. Tim Burke
press appreciation, others perceive that they can form a constructive relationship with them, and tend to invest and contribute to connecting. Being grateful for your community can essentially continue to foster a sense of unification. All of this means gratitude may be just what we need at the moment—while we’re hanging on—or still traipsing toward the break at the end of the semester.
Dear Benjamin School Teachers,
Tvisha Goel, Co-Editor-in-Chief Sophia Liporace, Co-Editor-in-Chief
Volume 43, Issue 05
you tend to focus on the present—appreciating right now—and this can reduce a sense of yearning or anxiety about the future. Gratefulness provokes a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction which is important to give yourself as you finish up a tough semester. Gratitude as a community is just as important as individual gratitude. A study at the University of New South Wales found when people ex-
Charlie Spungin, Copy Editor Clara Schor, Social Media/Breaking News Director
STAFF WRITERS Gerald Bissell Leah Klein Matt Marasco Morgan McKenna
Shea O’Donoghue Lucy Rubin Joey Tomassetti Ollie Olsson-White
MISSION STATEMENT
GENERAL
The Pharcyde, the Upper School newspaper of The Benjamin School, is published seven times a year. 1,200 copies of The Pharcyde are distributed to 398 students and 57 faculty members and are available in the Upper School office. The Pharcyde encourages submission of Letters to the Editor. Send your feedback, criticism, or outside opinions in 150 words or fewer to tvisha.goel21@thebenjaminschool.org or sophia.liporace21@thebenjaminschool.org. The Pharcyde reserves the right to edit all letters for length, grammar, and clarity.
The Pharcyde is a student newspaper produced to foster an open dialogue about topics that relate to The Benjamin School. The issues that appear throughout our pages may be light-hearted or serious, but regardless we aim to reflect the diversity of opinion within our school that we value so deeply.
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The price of a quarter-page advertisement is $30/issue. The price of a business card advertisement is $15/issue. If you or anyone you know would like to place an advertisement in The Pharcyde, please contact Sophia Liporace, sophia. liporace22@thebenjaminschool.org.
OPINION
The opinion articles in this paper are the opinion of the writer or the majority opinion of The Pharcyde Editorial Board. They are not the opinion of The Benjamin School or our advertisers.
Once you take the steps to recognizing what you have to be grateful for, it is important to take steps to show that appreciation to others or yourself. Gratitude journaling is a great way to express gratitude and reflect positively. Volunteering in your community is a perfect way to individually reflect while also benefiting the greater good. Writing a simple thank you note to the people who have helped you succeed or brought you joy can help you materialize your gratitude while also helping someone else recognize their importance. Even though it is usually overlooked, gratitude is immensely important to think about during the holidays and to try to remember throughout everyday life. Sometimes it can be more difficult during stressful times, but taking a moment to appreciate the simple things can drastically change your mindset.
“My teachers this year are amazing. They are really working with me to help me succeed in class and the rest of the year. I am so grateful for all the energy they put into their jobs in order to ensure the best outcomes.” - Alex Fleming Lake “Teachers dedicate their lives to helping us learn and it’s hard to thank them enough. I’m always impressed by their willingness to spend their time to help all students achieve their best. I wish we could do more to thank them for their hard work.” - Jack Horgen “Teachers are the people who make the world function. They give us the knowledge independent in this world. Without them, this world would not function. Poeple would be left in the dark.” - Aditya Jasti QUOTATION POLICY
Anyone interviewed by The Pharcyde will have the chance to correct and edit their quotations before the paper goes to press. If they would like to change their interview before the quote confirmations get sent out, they can contact the student who interviewed them and ask to redo the interview.
MEMBERSHIP
The Pharcyde is a member of the Florida Scholastic Press Association, American Scholastic Press Association, Columbia Scholastic Press Association and the National Scholastic Press Association.
somewhere inside of the couch, that the Christmas tree ornaments were just too darn bunched up—“What are you thinking putting three reds next to each other? Why is the bottom being ignored? Sharon, honey, can you check the back for me??” I still wonder: Who looks at the back of a Christmas tree?
I was excited and honored when Dr. Haley invited me to speak to you about my favorite Christmas memories. I turned up the Christmas tunes, busted out the photo albums, put some of my favorite holiday pictures in a slideshow, and began hammering out the skeleton of a speech inspired by the rich traditions and unforgettable moments with which I associate the 25th day of December. My inclination as an English teacher when producing any kind of written or spoken word is usually to do what I assume we all love to do— think carefully about each detail and every rhetorical strategy, pick some favorites, and use them to decorate the content like a Christmas tree. My personal process also involves wearing a Rudolph nose while imagining how my writing would score on a rubric—but now I may be crossing the line into TMI. Anyway, it was the very idea of trying to artfully incorporate the classroom principles I preach that got me thinking about my favorite Christmas memories and, more specifically, about my grandma. Grandma was a piano-playing, slipper-throwing, housedress-wearing woman who was rarely if ever seen without her rosary, orange tic tacs, and, misleadingly named because they’re tastier than you might think, Nabisco Social Tea Biscuits. She is at the epicenter of one of my favorite annual holiday memories— the observation, made from her perch
yourself. To that end, I thought I had a pretty sick speech prepared, and I was looking forward to relaying “Sharon Wendler’s Greatest Christmas hits” to you. I was also going to tell you about the more “Charlie Brown” memories, such as the year our freshly hewn tree flew out of the back of the pick up truck, without us realizing, on our
tion that my Christmas cookies play second fiddle to those made by every other baker in the family. I was going to tell you all this and more, but, on December 1st, my dad died. And now I find myself unable to deliver the originally drafted speech. Christmas will look different for my family this year. I have four sons. Usually my
As part of her presentation to the Upper School, Mrs. Wendler shared many photographs from her family albums. Above, the Wendler family gathered for a family photo during Christmas 2020. (Photo courtesy of Mrs. Wendler)
I am drawn to generalizable lessons, and her general emphasis on spreading the love has always resonated with me—it is virtually always the right thing to do. One exception would be if you have this flu thing or the pinkeye that is going around— in that case maybe keep the love to
My favorite part of this time of year is that I get to see my family. They live in North Florida. I didn’t really ask for much this year, but last year I got a telescope. I like looking at the stars. My family and I like watching Elf because it's very funny. It's a very good movie. It is a very good time to spend with family and you get to see friends over the break. ~Melea Morgan Sixth Grade
way home from the woods; the gifts that have been epic misses (one year there were Red Sox t-shirts gifted to Yankees fans and another year my dad accidentally ate cat food treats that, in his defense, were very attractively foil wrapped). There’s also my husband and sons’ annual declara-
My favorite part is probably spending time with family. A lot of times we go on a trip on the 26th; this year we’re going to our house in the Bahamas. It's gonna be really nice. I asked for a new laptop and that's it. My favorite gift was probably my first basketball that I got when I was in 6th grade. My favorite Christmas movie is by far A Christmas Story. They play it on repeat. ~Jackson Hill Eighth Grade
December energy goes into making carefully written and graded midterm exams, for all of you here at TBS, of course, but in my other spare time I am chief card sender, cookie baker, travel agent, shopper, wrapper, and Christmas party-animal extraordinaire for the Wendler family. Six
My favorite part of the holidays is spreading the cheer and giving to people. I really wanted a 3D printer this year. I like robotics and doing experiments so maybe I would use it to make creations. My family is Jewish so we celebrate Hanukkah, but we also celebrate Christmas. My mom’s family celebrates Christmas, so we celebrate both. Make sure you spread to other people!
days ago, however, my Christmas lights dimmed a bit when it dawned on me that I’ll not be able to finesse my list to completion as I usually do because I am now otherwise engaged in planning for and anticipating my dad’s funeral. Since moving to Florida seven years ago, my December weekend plans have traditionally included menacing those who I love in the Northeast with texts including pictures of me shopping at the Palm Beach Outlets, in shorts and sunglasses, surrounded by palm trees. I love buying gifts for others way more than receiving them. But this year, risking being compared with Ebenezer Scrooge, I have promised IOUs to my loved ones. And yet, it’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas. There is simply no stopping the joy that Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” brings. And next week I am anticipating seeing most of the people who I most love to see. All at the same time. In the same place. There will be food, laughter, and storytelling. It looks like the most compelling family tradition that is so ingrained in us is kicking in, in spite of the obvious sorrow or grief related to a death: it’s the joy of having such strong family bonds. It’s looking forward, even though we may have preferred to linger a bit longer in the past. This year, the focus of Christmas will still be on gifts, but there will be no wrapping paper necessary. Rather than presents, the emphasis will be on the presence of the greatest gifts of my life: my family and friends. And my dad, as he has always done, will be the one bringing us together. Please spread the love, and have a lovely Christmas.
My favorite part of the holidays is spending time with family. I asked for a purple crystal. My favorite movie during this time of year is Elf. What’s your favorite holiday? ~Christopher Connor Second Grade
~Isabella Levi-Minzi Fifth Grade
I like getting toys during the holidays. I wanna ask for a Bakugan. I do not have a favorite movie or song.
I like spending time with my family during the holidays. I asked for a real dog. I might name it Rex. My favorite holiday song is “All I Want for Christmas Music is You.”
~Aarush Kaushal First Grade
~Emory MacArthur Third Grade
Some
Holiday
Magic
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14 December 2021
Catherine Civitella began her project when she saw the detrimental impact of hurricanes in parts of the Bahamas. She set in motion her project to help those who have been impacted by hurricanes, and spent time on it daily, after Hurricane Dorian because so many people experienced tragic losses. She had previously been to the Bahamas and seen its beauty, by seeing all of the damage done to the country increased her desire to help the country. As the Bahamas is a prime spot for hurricanes, in the future, she wishes to continue to help hurricane survivors when hurricanes hit, and tackle other problems in the Bahamas as well. She has learned that the little things matter and that every effort makes a difference.
Catherine Civitella
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Caroline Yancey has spent over 500 hours doing community service over the past four years. She has volunteered in a variety of ways, including her most consistent project at Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse and Museum, where she welcomes guests, sells admissions and merchandise in the gift shop, gives safety speeches for those climbing the lighthouse, manages the top of the lighthouse, and more. Other projects of hers have been at the River Center and the Honda Classic. Her first volunteer experience was when she was 12, and she instantly fell in love with helping others and making a positive impact on the community. She plans to continue indulging into her community service endeavors, as she continues into college. The amount of community service that Yancey has completed has improved her communication and public speaking skills.
Caroline Yancey
Casey Crawford helps with the recreational and competitive tennis seasons here at Benjamin. Once the season begins, it is a daily commitment for Crawford, who spends about an hour and a half to two hours per day helping the players. When Crawford’s older brother was at the school, he helped with the middle school; by looking up to his brother, Crawford decided to pursue a similar path. His connection and good friendship with the coaches were also why he began to help the teams. This opportunity was presented to him because he played on the team when he was in middle school. Crawford has enjoyed his experience, as he hopes to coach tennis in college. He has learned how to keep younger children in control, a very valuable skill that he will use as his life continues.
Casey Crawford
Sophia Liporace founded Eye Ride Foundation in 2017 in order to raise and redistribute funds to assist visually impaired people with their public transportation costs. She started this in order as her mitzvah project for her Bat Mitzvah, but it has grown into a weekly commitment for her. Every two weeks, she has board meetings, and the time between the biweekly meetings is spent reviewing applications. Liporace is able to drive, but she realizes that many others who are visually impaired are not as fortunate as she is. She hopes to continue helping people all around the country with their transportation costs. Additionally, she has learned how a small act of kindness can make an immense impact on somebody’s life, as her help has helped people secure jobs, earn degrees, make it to doctor’s appointments, and more.
Matthew Roundtree originally started Matt-Lax academy to introduce lacrosse to minorities. Lacrosse was a primary part of his schedule and life, so when he realized that there were a low number of minorities playing at tournaments, he wanted to make a change. Wanting to share his love of lacrosse to people who typically wouldn’t opportunity to play it, Roundtree decided to make a change. He began to dedicate an hour every Sunday to help coach kids lacking the opportunity to play the sport. In the future, Roundtree would like to become a coach or sports agent to work with players. During his time spent on the project, the kids he works with teach him that bringing a good attitude to practice everyday is very important.
Matthew Roundtree
Sophia Liporace
Logan Sorensen is the treasurer and a very active member of the Urban Youth Junior committee. Every year, the committee would help organize a 5k in Palm Beach, but the COVID-19 pandemic has interrupted this annual tradition. Recently, Sorensen has helped hold fundraisers at Chick-fil-A; a percentage of these proceeds go to food and school supplies for Inner-City Youth. This commitment takes a lofty amount of time out of Sorensen’s schedule, as he puts about 4-6 hours a week into it. Sorensen has his Bronze and Silver Congressional Medals, awards for completiny various hours of physical fitness, professional development, and community service. He is en route to being awarded with Gold. Sorensen’s hope is that the 5k race will be back on the committee’s plate for next year. Throughout his various projects, he has realized how important time management is and has gotten an opportunity to learn how to organize public events.
Logan Sorensen
Starting at eight years old, Ella Pierman began to volunteer at the Hispanic Human Resources Center. She was inspired by her grandmother, who worked at the HHRC. She originally visited occasionally, but soon formed a relationship with the school. She didn’t volunteer on a regular basis at first, but at an older age, she started to help in classes, landscaping, playground maintenance, give concerts, and collect donations. Out of all the community service projects she previously participated in, helping at a school with underprivileged children became her preferred choice. With college coming up, Pierman will not be able to help as often, but she hopes that her brother will carry on the tradition. She finds that her purpose there in the faces of joy when kids receive school supplies or toys and the appreciation from teachers. She found that giving back to the community and helping kids get the education they deserve was a good learning experience that also brought joy to her life.
Ella Pierman
Outstretched Hands reaching out to those in need
The Benjamin School’s Class of 2022 is made up of 224 distinct hands. At any one moment, you’re likely to find several engaged in the act of helping out someone else. Serving others is not just a means to Congressional medals, an opportunity for interesting personal statements, a sure-fire way to enhance one’s resume, or an item on a list of graduation requirements. For Buccaneers-- of every year-- serving is a way of life, a calling members of the Benjamin community answer, and make, every day. As part of this issue’s focus on gratitude, the staff of The Pharcyde are humbled to highlight a small handful of the many small acts of service being undertaken by our most senior students. We hope their stories help inspire you to share your own, to find your own way to stretch out your hands and aid the too many among us who remain in need of...you.
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The Pharcyde
14 December 2021
Holiday Staycation: County Has Much to See, Do During Break Ollie Olsson-White Staff Writer As the Christmas season approaches, kids are getting ready for our two-week holiday break. With fourteen days worth of time to kill, hit the streets, and enjoy everything that is our beautiful county. Here are the top 10 places to visit over the break. 1. Drive Shack: ($$ Golf Driving Range, 1710 Belvedere Rd, West Palm Beach, FL 33406) - Drive Shack is a popular golf destination to practice your swing, or just have a good time. You can reserve a bay for you and your friends for 1-3 hours. They boast a large selection of gourmet meals and appetizers. Go with your family or your friends, you’ll have a good time either way.
2. Henry Morrison Flagler Museum: ($ Historical Mansion, 1 Whitehall Way, Palm Beach, FL 33480) - The Flagler Museum is a stunning Mansion owned by railroad tycoon and American Industrialist Henry Morrison Flagler. It boasts 100,000 square feet of luxurious which cost 4 million dollars back in the day, which is the equivalent to 120,000,000 dollars today. If you visit, you will be stunned by the beautiful architecture and furniture that decorate the entire mansion.
3. Jupiter Inlet: The Jupiter Inlet is the perfect place to hang out with friends. Bring a fishing rod and some Celsius and enjoy the beautiful weather our Sunshine state has to offer. Maybe ride your bike across the bridge, or just enjoy swimming in the aquamarine waters. You can also visit the Jupiter Lighthouse Museum and learn interesting facts about our most famous landmark here in Jupiter. Bring your jet skis, if you have them, and the ride in the stunningly gorgeous and flat waters. There are countless things to do here, so expect to spend many hours here!
4. The Delray Beach Avenue: ($-$$$ Shopping and Dining Destination, Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach) - “The Avenue is a popular location for teens to hang out. Right on the Beach, you can for a dip in the gorgeous waters or you can visit shops and get a bite to eat. With countless high-quality restaurants, you’ll never have to worry about being hungry while you’re here. You can also buy some cool clothing at unique surf shops and luxurious brand names. Overall a fun place to come to! Also, if you come during Christmas week, you can’t miss the 100 foot Christmas tree and the decorated shops.
Music Festival Brings Sounds of Season to Benjamin Hall Shea O’Donoghue Staff Writer
The Benjamin music department filled Benjamin Hall with the sound of music. As the holiday season begins to fall upon us, Upper School musicians excitedly showcased their progress and shared the gift of music, helping to brighten the community. On Dec. 3, the annual Winter Music Festival was held in Benjamin Hall featuring incredible performances by both Upper and Lower School students, including selections from the band, orchestra, and chorus classes. The Winter Concert also featured a performance by the Lower School’s 3rd grade violin group. After the weight of the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival was back in person, allowing a full audience and a return to normalcy for the music department. “I’m most excited for the fun of doing the performance, it’s always a fun time for everybody,” said Dr. Nick Lockey, Upper School music director. Lockey conducted many of the performances; “it’s exciting. You never know what’s going to happen and it makes it really interesting.” Students had been looking forward to playing for the Benjamin community and hoped to spread
some holiday cheer. “I am most excited to sing and perform on stage again since the pandemic,” said sophomore choir member Xan Blount prior to the show. The annual show highlights all the hard and amazing work music students have done to improve their craft. Before the show, Dr. Lockey shared, “I’m excited for the audience to see what everybody has accomplished as a group, we’ve been working hard on this music throughout the semester on top of everything else everyone is doing. So to be able to see the results of that work and see how far we’ve come.” Students are also excited to show off what they have in store. “I am proud of how in only a few months the choir has gotten to know each other and each other’s voices and learned and pretty much perfected three songs for the assembly after taking an over a year long hiatus with COVID-19 and all,” said Blount. Dr. Lockey had high expectations for the concert: “I hope that they will enjoy the program and come away happy and excited to see what everyone has done and will be interested in coming to more of our arts events and other things the students do.” This festive performance is truly a collaboration between the entire Benjamin community and is a beautiful way to kick off this holiday season. If you didn’t get the chance to watch it live, the 2021 Benjamin School Winter Music Festival has been filmed by BTV for everyone to enjoy online.
5. Juno Beach: Juno Beach is a stunningly pristine beach with bright blue waters and white sands. It is the perfect place for relaxing in the sand or surfing the waves. You can also visit the pier and get a few Insta-worthy pictures. Juno is a very quiet beach compared to other places if you find the right spot. No matter what you do you’ll have a fun day!
6. Jonathan Dickinson State Park: ($ State Park, 16450 S.E. Federal Highway Hobe Sound FL 33455) - Jonathan Dickinson State Park is a Florida State Park and historic site located in Martin County, Florida, between Hobe Sound and Tequesta. The park includes the Elsa Kimbell Environmental Education and Research Center and a variety of natural habitats: sand pine scrub, pine Flatwoods, mangroves, and river swamps. It is a very well-known park in Jupiter which has visitors all around the year. This is the place for the outdoor person. Enjoy the luscious greenery and diverse wildlife as you venture through the park. You can go camping for a few days or just go for the day. There are many things to do including hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking.
7. The Gardens Mall: ($-$$$ Shopping Center, 3101 PGA Boulevard, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33410) - The Gardens Mall is a beautiful shopping mall with many well-known shops including Macy’s, Apple, Bloomingdales, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and much more. Bring your friends to hang out or go and buy your Christmas presents. Grab a bite at the various restaurants like ChickFil-A, P.F Chang’s China Bistro, Charleys Philly Steaks, and Chipotle Mexican Grill. Make sure to bring your wallet, because you are sure to see something you want.
8. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens: ($$ Japanese Garden, 4000 Morikami Park Rd, Delray Beach, FL 33446) - The Morikami Gardens are a stunning collection of waterfalls, fountains, and a lake in the center of it all. There is a path around the whole lake that exhibits the beautiful landscape and plant life. You can observe turtles, koi fish, and many types of birds. You can also visit the Japanese restaurant overlooking the water that carries many gourmet meals, and foreign snacks that are hard to get a hold of. If you visit this, you’ll definitely want to come back.
9. Norton Museum of Art: ($ Art Museum, 1450 S Dixie Hwy, West Palm Beach, FL 33401) - The Norton Museum of Art is a stunningly gorgeous museum full of priceless artworks. If you enjoy looking at art and architecture, this is the place to come to. Take a trip into the sophisticated world of paint and clay and understand the history and processes that artists go through to create their works. The museum contains iconic paintings by famous artists like Frida Kahlo. They also offer opportunities for volunteer work starting at age fifteen. Over the break, you can also visit the museum at night to sit in on detailed presentations on some of the pieces. Visiting the Norton is a great way to keep your mind active and witness beautiful art over the break.
10. Peanut Island: (Island in Riviera Beach) - Peanut Island is a small island that attracts many travelers from near and far to experience the clear waters and golden sands. It is a popular location for snorkelers and boaters, with its shallow waters and marine life. Accessible by boat, Peanut Island is a great place for a picnic or beach day. Marine Science or Environmental Science students might enjoy looking for wildlife to reinforce the material. If you come here, don’t forget to bring sunscreen!
Dazzlers Join Ballet Vero Beach For Nutcracker on the Indian River Evan Liberman Managing Editor
As the curtain closes on the School’s Dec. 10 performance of The Nutcracker with Ballet Vero Beach, The Pharcyde spoke to some of the people instrumental to the production to hear how it all came together. Although the collaboration came to the stage this winter, it has been in the works for some time, according to Performing Arts Department Chair Mrs. Sara Salivar. “We initially were going to collaborate in 2020, but as you know, COVID-19 hit and we were not able to bring it to the Benjamin Hall stage.” she wrote to The Pharcyde in a Nov. 29 email. Despite this major setback, Mrs. Salivar was determined to bring the performance to The Benjamin School for several reasons. “The Nutcracker is a beautiful and long-standing tradition in the ballet world, especially during the holidays... I felt this opportunity to join forces with a professional company such as Ballet Vero Beach would be a great opportunity for our dancers to experience this magical ballet. Secondly, because this particular ballet is set in Florida, using the Indian River ecosystem as its backdrop, I thought it was such a clever idea, that I wanted to bring this clever version to our TBS community,” she added. However, interestingly enough, the link between the Performing Arts Department and Ballet Vero Beach was Associate Director of College Counseling Mrs. Bekka Goldberg. Mrs. Goldberg’s brother, Mr. Adam Schnell, serves as the Artistic Direc-
tor of Ballet Vero Beach. Mrs. Salivar noted that Schnell “has done such an outstanding job coordinating and working out the details of this production.” Commenting on making the connection between the School and Ballet Vero Beach, Mrs. Goldberg stated: “I wanted to connect Benjamin and Ballet Vero Beach because I believe in the power of the arts and arts education. Benjamin has such robust arts offerings and stellar facilities that I knew the two organizations could form a mutually beneficial relationship.” Additionally, she noted: “...There are so many transferable skills gained from the arts, and it takes a lot to step on stage and perform. It is a great opportunity for our dancers to work with professional dancers and choreographers and ultimately perform in a professional production. Beyond that, I think many difficult topics can be addressed through the power of live performance--there is tremendous potential for further education and discussions to occur. The possibilities are endless!”
Mr. Schnell added onto Mrs. Goldberg’s comments: “BVB would be nowhere without the partnerships we cultivate, and the fact that Benjamin faculty and staff have bought into the idea of this project at all speaks volumes about the quality of the school as a whole. It has been a herculean effort on the part of many people to get to this point and the future of us working together looks very bright indeed,” he wrote. In addition to Mr. Schnell and Mrs. Salivar, Benjamin’s Dazzler dance team was also key to making the production the success that it was. Sophomore and Dazzler Asia Cohen noted the teamwork behind the production: “Working with Ballet Vero Beach was a great opportunity and great experience. The Nutcracker is one of my favorite performances to do and having a different take on it inspires me more with other things in the dance world,” she said. All the hard work that went into the project culminated in a very successful performance and a memorable way to begin the holiday season.
The Pharcyde
14 December 2021
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All My Sons Brings Tears Senior Dancers March in NYC’s to Benjamin Audiences Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Morgan McKenna Staff Writer The events taken place on Nov. 12 and 13 are ones to remember in The Benjamin School’s Drama Club history. After not being seen on the stage in two years, the Benjamin drama program made a strong comeback with the production of All My Sons. Originally written by Arthur Miller, All My Sons is classified as a tragedy, telling the story of Joe Keller, his wife, Kate, and his son, Chris, after the sudden disappearance of their son in a battle during World War II. Seniors Catherine Schenk, Jacob Steinger, Ryan Collins, Jacob Kroll, and Caden Quinn spearheaded the production, taking some of the leading roles. Alongside them, noteworthy performances by Katherine Rodgers, Sage Sorenson, Rebekka Merkel, and Xan Blount. Besides cast members, director and Benjamin School drama teacher, Mr. Jason Peck took a large role behind the stage along with Mrs. Sara Salivar
and Marina Gasparini. Benjamin’s production of All My Sons was certainly a challenge for some of the young actors. The script involves a lot of deep themes and language, making it hard to accurately portray the characters true feelings and translating it to the audience. When watching from the audience’s perspective it can be very deceiving. The audience cannot truly begin to understand all the hard work and dedication everyone put into the making and performing of the show. Seeing the full production in person is a very encapsulating experience, as the cast members did an amazing job at creating a world within the story they were retelling. Being able to get an audience emotionally invested into the characters and their situations of a show is something very difficult to achieve. I can personally say that the actors and actresses did a fantastic job at creating dynamic characters that kept the audience at the edge of their seats.
Seniors Caden Quinn, playing Chris Keller; Jacob Steinger, playing Joe Keller; and Cat Schenk, playing Ann Deever, took on lead roles in this heart-breaking drama. Mr. Jason Peck and the entire drama program put on a standing-ovation-worthy performance. (Photo courtesy of BTV)
Charlie Spungin Copy Editor The annual tradition of the senior Dazzlers taking part in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade continued this year, as seniors Sophia Liporace, Amelia Porges, and Abby Swank traveled to New York City to dance in the parade. This is all possible because of Performing Arts Department Chair and Dance Teacher Mrs. Sara Salivar, who has a connection with Spirit of America Productions, the exclusive provider of cheerleaders and dancers to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Mrs. Salivar is very proud of the Dazzlers who take their talents to New York City each year. “It’s not everybody who gets to participate in the Macy’s Day Parade, and it’s a pretty special event that only happens once in a lifetime for a performer. For the seniors, it’s a terrific opportunity for them to get together and work together,” she said. According to Mrs. Salivar, the tradition of sending the senior Dazzlers to the Parade has been happening for over a decade. Because of how well-documented this history is, Liporace has thought about the trip since joining the dance team during her freshman year. “I’ve been looking forward to it since freshman year and was excited to partake,” she said. In order to prepare for the Parade, the Dazzlers were sent a video of the choreography by Spirit of America to learn before their arrival in New York. Then, once they arrived in New York on Saturday, Nov. 20, they had
five days that totaled about 25 hours of rehearsal in order to prepare for the Parade on Thursday, Nov. 25. However, spending that much time on rehearsals for such a short routine was found to be somewhat irritating to the Dazzlers. “I was definitely not expecting to spend that much time in rehearsal just for a one and a half minute routine, and there were definitely some questionable aspects of the program,” Swank said. Regardless, she still had fun on the trip because she was able to spend time with friends and dance. After their exhausting rehearsals, the cold Thanksgiving day, a complaint of the Dazzlers, finally came, and they were ready to begin the Parade and their routine. They walked from 81st Street to 34th Street. While it was cold and the Dazzlers were uncomfortable, once the Parade got started, their spirits were lifted.
“Once we started actually walking, it was exciting to wave to everyone and just generally interact with the crowds. We were only actually dancing for a very brief time, but it was really exhilarating with all of the cameras and confetti,” Swank said. Aside from the Parade, the Dazzlers tapped into the New York environment. “We saw Six on Broadway, watched the Rockettes, took a harbor cruise to the Statue of Liberty, visited the Oculus and the 9/11 memorial, shopped in SoHo, visited Columbia, and just generally walked around,” Swank said. The Dazzlers were able to not only participate in a once-in-a-lifetime experience but also travel New York with their friends, making a very enjoyable experience for them.
Seniors Amelia Porges, Sophia Liporace, Abby Swank pose for a mid-rehearsal picture. The dancers had a total of five rehearsals before the performance in the Macy’s Day Parade on Thanksgiving Day. (Photo courtesy of Sophia Liporace)
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The Pharcyde
14 December 2021
TELEVISION
With movie theaters open and production back in full swing, 2021 was filled with plenty of addicting TV shows and entertaining movies. Here are The Pharcyde’s top ten most popular movies and TV shows released this year.
The Pharcyde
14 December 2021
2021 is nearly wrapped up, and with it have been many notable sports stories. The Summer Olympics returned after an abnormal five-year drought, sports teams of new and old came out at the top of their respective sports, and college athletes can now make money off of their name, image, and likeness. Here are The Pharcyde’s 10 most distinguished sports stories of the year. Alabama Wins Football National Championship: National powerhouse Alabama dominated Ohio State 52-24 to win their 3rd national championship in six years. Devonta Smith, the Heisman winner, was the Offensive MVP for the game after having 12 catches for 215 yards and 3 touchdowns.
A drama that throws 456 people into a game to win millions of dollars, Squid Game has received a great deal of international attention. The players participate in children’s games, and those who fail are killed. The success of the show made sense, as it received a 94% on Rotten Tomatoes.
The highly anticipated 2nd season of Ted Lasso released this year following its hit first season in 2020. It follows Ted Lasso, a football coach who is hired to coach a soccer team in England. The story details his struggle to coach soccer, a sport that he has never dealt with.
The first of the Marvel Cinematic Universe TV shows, WandaVision continues the story of Wanda Maximoff, The Scarlet Witch, that was established in prior Marvel films. Dealing with the grief of Vision dying, she creates a pocket reality where she and Vision have a family. Ultimately, all is not as it seems, and Wanda must fight for her reality.
The Netflix original series Maid debuted in October, and circles a single mother of a young girl who turns to housekeeping as she works to escape an abusive relationship. The ten episode series is an uplifting and empowering story that received 93% on Rotten Tomatoes.
The hit Hulu series, starring Selena Gomez, combines mystery and drama when three friends find themselves caught up in an investigation in their New York City apartment building. The trio uses their knowledge of true crime to solve the mystery.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Take Home Super Bowl: The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 31-9. The Chiefs were favorites going in, but nonetheless, they were dominated. Tom Brady was named Super Bowl MVP, the firth time he has won the award. Baylor Wins First Basketball National Championship: Baylor upset Gonzaga 86-70, denying Gonzaga from having an undefeated season. Both teams were 1 seeds and arguably the two best teams entering the tournament. Jared Butler was named Final Four Most Outstanding Player.
Tampa Bay Lightning Capture Back-to-Back Stanley Cups: The Tampa Bay Lightning beat the Montreal Canadians in five games to assert themselves as the back-to-back NHL champions. Andrei Vasilevsky was named MVP.
32nd Summer Olympics Take Place in Tokyo: The 2020 Olympics took place in Tokyo after its one year delay due to COVID-19. The United States won the most gold medals with 39 and total medals with 113. China was second in both categories totaling 38 and 88, respectively.
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CHAMPION
Senior Smith Wins State Golf Title
Teenager Emma Raducanu Wins US Open In Amazing Run: British teenager Emma Raducanu won the US Open after only making it into the tournament from the qualifiers. During her run, she notably beat Belinda Bencic and Maria Sakkari. Novak Djokovic Dominates Men’s Tennis Scene: Coming into the year, Novak Djokovic already had an amazing resume, but 2021 was a historic year for the Serbian tennis star. He won three of the four Grand Slams (Australian Open, French Open, Wimbledon) while being the runner-up in the US Open. Atlanta Braves Triumph Over Houston Astros, Win First World Series Since 1995: The Atlanta Braves beat the Houston Astros in six games. The Braves had not won a World Series since 1995, and this year’s title was the fourth in franchise history. Jorge Soler was named the MVP.
Story of the Year
Senior Andie Smith won the FHSAA 1-A Individual State Golf Championship in early November. Having finished in the top-five in her last two attempts at a title with the Pine School, Andie achieved success on her first attempt as a member of the Benjamin School’s team. Her two-round championship total of 6-under-par helped deliver the School’s first ever individual State title in golf! Congratulations, Andie.
Alumni Success
Lange, Carr Earn NESCAC Honors
Italy Takes Home European Championship: Italy won its first European Championship since 1968 against England 1-1 in a penalty shootout. England made its first-ever appearance in the finals but could not come out on top. Gianluigi Donnarumma was named Player of the Tournament.
Inspired by the stories of real truffle-hunters, Pig is about a hunter living alone in the Oregon wilderness who returns to Portland to seek out the person who stole his beloved pig. It stars Nicolas Cage and received an impressive 97% on Rotten Tomatoes.
A documentary about the rock duo Sparks, the film dives into the details of the band and how it can be successful, underrated, hugely influential and criminally overlooked -- all at the same time. It explores the history of the band and its roots all while receiving 95% on Rotten Tomatoes and racking up over a million dollars.
M OV I ES
A film adaptation of the musical which takes place in Washington Heights, New York, In the Heights, stars Anthony Ramos who owns a bodega in the generally poor neighborhood. The movie features big dreams and an uplifting story of Ramos’ character, Usnavi, who hopes to open a bar in the Dominican Republic.
Receiving 88% on Rotten Tomatoes, Zola is about a waitress from Detroit who travels to Florida hoping to ease her financial struggles. To her surprise, the trip becomes a 48-hour adventure of crime and comedy based on a true story.
A sci-fi film released in October of this year, Dune is about a gifted boy who has a destiny to travel to the most dangerous planet in the universe in order to save the future of his family.
Milwaukee Bucks Defeat Phoenix Suns En Route to NBA Championship: The Milwaukee Bucks beat the Phoenix Suns after six games. The Bucks had not won an NBA championship since 1971. Giannis Antetokounmpo was named Finals MVP, as he continued to add to his already historic resume.
Starting on July 1, collegiate athletes could benefit off of their name, image, and likeness. This means that they can do sponsorships, appear in commercials, and more. This previously was not allowed by the NCAA. List created and written by Charlie Spungin, Copy Editor
12 Months of Buccaneer Success: List created and written by Sophia Liporace, Co-Editor-in-Chief
Congratulations to our Benjamin Alumni Lauren Lange and Lowell Carr on their being selected to the NESCAC Fall All Academic Team.
Girls Soccer: District Champions; Boys’ Tennis: District Champions, Regional Champions; Girls’ Tennis: District Champions; Girls’ Lacrosse: District Champions; Boys’ Track and Field: District Champions; Girls’ Track and Field: District Champions; Darrell Sweeting: State Runer-up Long Jump; Volleyball: District Champions, Regional Champions; Girls’ Swimming: District Champions; Boys’ Swimming: District Runner-ups; Girls’ Cross Country: District Champions, Regional Runner-ups; Boys’ Cross Country: District Champions; Girls’ Golf: District Champions, Regional Runner-ups; Boys’ Golf: District Champions; Andie Smith: State Golf Champion
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JT’s Analysis:
The CFP Final Four Joey Tomassetti Staff Writer
The Pharcyde
14 December 2021
Bowl Madness
The Pharcyde’s Postseason Picks Saturday, December 18
Saturday, December 18
Wednesday, December 22
Thursday, December 23
1: Alabama (12-1) Led by the all-time great Nick Saban, the number one Crimson Tide are poised to make another strong push at the National Championship. Their high-powered offense is led by sophomore quarterback Bryce Young, senior running back Brian Robinson, and junior, breakout wide receiver Jameson Williams. Playing in their seventh playoffs in eight years, The Pharcyde is picking Alabama to beat Cincinatti 4517 in the Cotton Bowl Classic.
Independence Bowl 3:30 p.m.- ABC Independence Stadium Shreveport, Louisiana UAB vs. 13 BYU Pharcyde Pick- 13 BYU
New Orleans Bowl 9:15 p.m.- ESPN Caesars Superdome New Orleans, Louisiana 23 Louisiana vs. Marshall Pharcyde Pick- 23 Louisiana
Armed Forces Bowl 8 p.m.- ESPN Amon G. Carter Stadium Fort Worth, Texas Missouri vs. Army Pharcyde Pick- Missouri
Gasparilla Bowl 7 p.m.- ESPN Raymond James Stadium Tampa, Florida UCF vs. Florida Pharcyde Pick- Florida
Friday, December 24
Monday, December 27
Monday, December 27
Wednesday, December 29
2: Michigan (12-1) Michigan has not made the playoffs since 2003… until now. The Wolverines are fueled by a strong defensive front, led by senior, superstar edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson. This is Jim Harbaugh’s first playoffs as Michigan’s head coach, but it will be a short-lived appearance as The Pharcyde is picking Michigan to lose to Georgia 35-31 in the Orange Bowl.
Hawai’i Bowl 8 p.m.- ESPN T.C. Ching Athletics Complex Honolulu, Hawai’i Memphis vs. Hawai’i Pharcyde Pick- Hawai’i
Liberty Bowl 6:45 p.m.- ESPN Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium Memphis, Tennessee Mississippi State vs. Texas Tech Pharcyde Pick- Mississippi State
Holiday Bowl 8 p.m.- FOX Petco Park San Diego, California UCLA vs. NC State Pharcyde Pick- NC State
Fenway Bowl 11 a.m.- ESPN Fenway Park Boston, Massachusetts SMU vs. Virginia Pharcyde Pick- Virginia
3: Georgia (12-1) Looking like the clear-cut, number one team in the nation for the majority of the season, Georgia fell at the hands of the Alabama Crimson Tide in the SEC Championship. Who’s to say that this one loss will define their season? Another team led by a stifling defense, Georgia only allowed a touchdown a game to opponents before their battle with Alabama. In what should be a gritty, tough matchup, The Pharcyde is picking Kirby Smart and the Bulldogs to take down the Wolverines 35-31 in the Orange Bowl. 4: Cincinnati (13-0) Even though their the lone undefeated team in the country, the Bearcats are still the weakest of the four teams in the playoffs. Cincinnati took care of business in the American Athletic Conference this year, and also beat a very good Notre Dame team. So, it is unfair to overlook this Cincinnati team, but it looks like Luke Fickell’s team is about to hit a crossroads. The Pharcyde is picking Alabama to blowout Cincinnati 45-17 in the Cotton Bowl Classic
Coming Soon
Construction recently began on a new, expanded fitness center in the Healey Gymnasium. According to Athletic Director Mr. Ryan Smith, the center will be 50% larger and also feature new strength & cardio equipment. The project should be completed by late January.
Wednesday, December 29
Pinstripe Bowl 2:15 p.m.- ESPN Yankee Stadium New York, New York Maryland vs. Virginia Tech Pharcyde Pick- Maryland
Wednesday, December 29
8 p.m.- ESPN Lucas Oil Stadium Indianapolis, Indiana
Cheez-It Bowl 5:45 p.m.- ESPN Camping World Stadium Orlando, Florida 19 Clemson vs Iowa State Pharcyde Pick- 19 Clemson
Pharcyde Pick- Alabama defeats Georgia, 45-31
Wednesday, December 29
Thursday, December 30
Thursday, December 30
Friday, December 31
Alamo Bowl 9:15 p.m.- ESPN Alamodome San Antonio, Texas 14 Oregon vs. 16 Oklahoma Pharcyde Pick- 16 Oklahoma
Music City Bowl 3 p.m.- ESPN Nissan Stadium Nashville, Tennessee Tennessee vs. Purdue Pharcyde Pick- Tennessee
Peach Bowl 7 p.m.- ESPN Mercedes-Benz Stadium Atlanta, Georgia 12 Pittsburgh vs. 10 Michigan State Pharcyde Pick- Michigan State
Orange Bowl (CFP Semifinal) ESPN Hard Rock Stadium Miami Gardens, Florida 3 Georgia vs. 2 Michigan Pharcyde Pick- Georgia
Friday, December 31
Friday, December 31
Friday, December 31
Saturday January, 1
Cotton Bowl (CFP Semifinal) ESPN AT&T Stadium Arlington, Texas 4 Cincinnati vs. 1 Alabama Pharcyde Pick- 1 Alabama
Gator Bowl 11 a.m.- ESPN TIAA Bank Stadium Jacksonville, Florida 17 Wake Forest vs 25 Texas A&M Pharcyde Pick- 25 Texas A&M
Sun Bowl 12 p.m.- CBS Sun Bowl El Paso, Texas Washington State vs. Miami Pharcyde Pick- Miami
Outback Bowl 12 p.m.- ESPN2 Raymond James Stadium Tampa, Florida Penn State. vs 21 Arkansas Pharcyde Pick- Penn State
Saturday January, 1
Saturday January, 1
Saturday January, 1
Saturday January, 1
Citrus Bowl 1 p.m.- ABC Camping World Stadium Orlando, Florida 9 Oklahoma State vs. 5 Notre Dame Pharcyde Pick- 5 Notre Dame
Fiesta Bowl 1 p.m.- ESPN State Farm Stadium Glendale, Arizona 15 Iowa vs. 22 Kentucky Pharcyde Pick- 22 Kentucky
Rose Bowl 5 p.m.- ESPN Rose Bowl Pasadena, California 11 Utah State vs. 6 Ohio State Pharcyde Pick- 6 Ohio State
Sugar Bowl 8:45 p.m.- ESPN Caesar’s Superdome New Orleans, Louisiana 7 Baylor vs. 8 Ole Miss Pharcyde Pick- 8 Ole Miss
The Pharcyde
14 December 2021
Basketball Teams Post-Up for Success Matt Marasco Staff Writer
Coming off a disappointing year with an 8-14 record, the boys’ varsity basketball team is looking to turn things around and compete for a district win as they lost in the first round of districts last year. This first comes with high expectations that they can do better than a measly .360 win percentage from last year. Head Coach Brandon Arnette believes the team has much improved from last year as they returned players such as 6’10 junior center Gavin Aydelotte, who is one of the most proficient scorers on the team. The team is also returning some other main scorers such as senior Mark Cueto, senior Carter Smith, and junior Darnell Sweeting. Smith, believes that the team will be able to achieve their goal of winning the district championship because of how much effort they have put into building chemistry and getting better overall during the offseason. “My expectations are pretty high based on the fact that we did not lose many key players from last year and that we had some important auditions. I think we had a bad last year because we did not have strong chemistry with each other. We have
worked on our chemistry by practicing over the summer, and some of us have played travel together all spring and summer. I believe that we can achieve our goal of getting to districts by continually practicing as hard as we can,” said Smith. The team has had many new players, but they believe their most important addition is their new assistant coach who is focusing on improving the defense. Aydelotte believes that coaching is one of the most important aspects of the sport, and the Benjamin coaches continue to improve the basketball program overall. “Coaching is a huge part of the sport, and with our new defensive coach, David First, I believe we will be a very competitive team this year,” he said. On the other side of the court, the girls’ varsity basketball team is looking for another dominant year after finishing last year with a 10-7 record where they ended up losing in the regional finals. The team has set their sights high looking to repeat last year’s success by winning district finals again. They believe they will do this by continuing to practice hard and play for their teammates rather than playing for themselves.
“The reason why we have been successful for the last few years and why we will continue to be successful this year is because of how hard we work during practice and on our own. Everyone comes to practice focused and ready to work hard, which carries out through what we all do individually at home. We also take time to bond with one another which creates better relationships for when we play and makes it more enjoyable when it gets tough,” said senior Jasmine Patrick. Along with good coaching, the
team believes having fun is also a key to success, and they believe that if they were to see an increase in attendance in the student section it would motivate them to play even harder. “The student section pumps us up and motivates us during the game. The cheering makes the game much more fun and brings overall positive energy to the gym,” said sophomore Nandini Patel. Both the girls’ and boys’ basketball teams are hoping for successful seasons with their sights set on bringing home the district championship.
Junior Tay Blackshear works hard on defense during a recent game against the Martin County Tigers. (Photo by Erika Sousa)
Boys’ Soccer Season Varsity Girls’ Soccer Kicks Into Full Gear Fakes Left, Scores Right Charlie Spungin Copy Editor
Clara Schor Social Media Director
The boys’ soccer team is off to a good varsity start to the 2021-22 season by kicking off to a 3-2 start, as of Nov. 29. As the season continues, the team hopes to advance as far as possible into the postseason due to their raised chemistry and talent this year. In order to prepare for the season, the team held captains practices before the season could officially get underway with Head Coach Kris Steeves present. Players have found those practices to be beneficial. “It felt good to get back in the swing of things. It gave us extra touches to be more prepared for the season. The practices helped develop good chemistry early on and before the season officially began,” junior Luke Egizio said. Coach Steeves is now in his second year with the team. His first year took place during a shortened, altered COVID-19 season, so not only will he be more familiar with the team itself this year but the season should be more steady. The familiarity with the team and Benjamin’s athletic department is the most significant part about being a second year head coach, according to Coach Steeves. “As a first year head coach and having not worked with high school aged boys for a couple of years, it was a pretty steep learning curve for me. I also wasn’t too sure what I’d be working with in terms of the athletic department and the players them-
While in the midst of the winter sports season, the girls’ varsity soccer team has done astonishingly well, being undefeated at 5-0, as of Dec. 4. Senior Reagan Rodriguez, who has been playing soccer for the past 16 years, began her soccer career in awe of her older sister. She is committed to play Division II Women’s Soccer at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg on the west coast of Florida Being a captain this year, Rodriguez is most excited to bring together a new group of girls as there are eight new players, including three eighth graders. “We have already started to come together, and I am looking forward to playing this season with everyone, and hopefully making it as far as we can in the postseason”, she said. Outside of school, Reagan practices four times a week with the Palm Beach Gardens Predators and goes to the gym to incorporate weight training into her schedule. Speaking about her coaches Hillary Carney and Melissa Vitagliano, she said “I could not have asked for better coaches. Coach Hillary and Melissa are definitely some of my favorite coaches, and they make everything so enjoyable, even when we have to run.” The coaches focus on technical and possession drills early in the season to try to help the players learn each other’s style of play and incorporate team bonding. “Soccer is my passion and definitely the first thing I tell people when they ask what I do. I couldn’t picture myself not playing soccer in college, especially since it has been a dream of mine ever since I stepped on the field. My love for the sport has never faded and that is what prompted me to keep going”, Rodriguez said. Freshman Sam Woods has been on the varsity team since her eighth grade year but has played soccer for 11 years. Woods is hoping that the team wins Regionals and maybe even farther. On the field, Woods says “I mainly think about what my role is on the field and where I should be running to receive the ball, but once
Senior Max Gelinas shows off some fancy footwork during a recent game against the Scots of St. Andrews. (Photo by Erika Sousa)
Senior Marco Chojnacki keeps the ball away from a tough Scots defender. (Photo by Erika Sousa)
selves. This year, I came in ready with clear goals and expectations which helps pull everybody in the same direction,” he said. He explains that one of his “clear goals and expectations” for the team is to make regionals. He admits that this will be a tough task, but it is certainly one that the team looks forward to and one that can be accomplished. Additionally, players have found that the continuity of a second year head coach has been beneficial for the team because players are able to understand their coach better. “It’s good to play under the same coach because we understand his expectations for us and his playstyle,” Egizio said. “He expects us to develop as complete, all-around players and to always put in maximum effort. He holds us to a high level of discipline that the entire team executes because we know what he wants out of us.” Improvement from the prior season is always something that every team seeks to do. In this case, that has happened with the Bucs. Not only did the team’s talent increase but the chemistry did as well. “We got older, more confident, and our trust in one another has elevated to new heights,” senior Max Gelinas said. Reiterating his star player’s point, Coach Steeves feels that the team has “bought in more this year”. Ultimately, what will bring the Bucs to reach their goal of making regionals is the team’s biggest strength, and according to Gelinas, that is their desire.
in a while I have a song stuck in my head.” With her future in mind, Woods is hoping to play soccer at the collegiate level at a school that has four seasons and a good science department. “The team is filled with really nice people and they make playing for the school a lot of fun. There is a very good environment and chemistry in our team that I am very grateful to be a part of,” Woods said. Freshman Vanessa Zito, who has been playing travel soccer since she was age seven, is most looking forward to games against Oxbridge Academy and American Heritage. “When playing during the game, I am always very focused and want to do the best that I can,” Zito said. The coaches help Zito and the team with formation and understanding the play of the field. Head Coach Hillary Carney likes for her players to be more possessive in the game. She tries to incorporate workouts during the season and off. “I do have off season and recovery workouts for my teams, especially after having coached in college, you realize the importance of the recovery days as a team”, she said. Senior Logan McGruder and goalie has been playing soccer since she was five. As her parents placed her in sports and activities when she was younger, she grew fond of the game of soccer as she grew up. McGruder has a lot of experience with soccer as she trains more than five times a week with various coaches and institutions ranging from the Benjamin School to Miami, and New Jersey. She said, “The experience has been amazing and it allows me to learn the aspects of being a goalkeeper more in depth”. She is most excited for this soccer season because of the group of girls she believes will continue to evolve and develop in the following years. During practices, the team works on passing lines and foot drills that will evolve into game-like drills and shooting. The team is looking forward to their rival games against Oxbridge Academy and Cardinal Newman in the coming weeks.
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Wrestling Hits the Mats Matt Marasco Staff Writer
Wrestling is a sport that often does not get as much attention as other sports, but that does not mean that it is not as exciting. This year, with many more wrestlers than ever, the team feels confident that they’re headed for a record season. “We have high expectations this year. This will be the largest roster of any Benjamin wrestling team in the school’s history. I am looking at having a wrestler at all 13 weight classes, also a first in the last decade. The team’s leadership is also the strongest in my tenure with the program. There are five seniors and nine returning lettermen from previous seasons,” said wrestling coach Fred German. Not only does the team have high expectations because of the large roster, but the team also has put great effort into preparing for the season individually. The wrestlers have been weightlifting, conditioning, and working on their form. This is also the first year there will be an official girls division that is attracting more girls than ever to the sport. “I am working hard to win the girls’ state competition this year. I am super excited and pumped as this is the first year there will be an official girl’s division. I plan to condition after practice and alternate mornings for endurance and strength,” said senior Teresa Tuong. Although getting prepared for the season helps with individual success, coaching is one of the main parts of a team’s success. With the addition of many new wrestlers coaching is leading to the development of the form which is leading to success in their practices. Coach German believes that a hands-on approach with the wrestlers is the best way for them to learn, so he makes sure to be involved in every aspect of practice. “Coach Fred teaches us vital moves needed to succeed in the sport. Under his guidance, everyone on the team learns quickly as he is great at explaining new moves. His coaching gives us the ability to wrestle better than ever,” said sophomore David Scarola. Often during the winter, wrestling gets overshadowed by sports such as soccer and basketball, which leads to many wrestlers believing their sport deserves more attention than it gets. “I believe wrestling should get more attention since it is a sport back on the rise with the growing numbers, and it shows more passion and energy than other sports which is definitely fun to watch. I would love to see the student section come to a couple of matches and cheer us on,” said sophomore Charlie Noble. As the team is better than ever with 31 total wrestlers on the team including nine middle schoolers, Coach German decided to make the schedule harder than ever to make the team prepared for the toughness that is seen in the district, regional, and state finals. Although the finals are not a guarantee, the team is making sure that if they get there, they will be ready to win it all.
The JV Wrestling team gathers for a picture at the Jensen Beach Tournament. (Picture courtesy of Mr. German)
the
PHLIPCYDE
THE BENJAMIN SCHOOL NEWSPAPER
4875 Grandiflora Road, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
14 December 2021
how to draw Snowflakes
@thepharcyde_tbs
@thepharcyde_tbs
Volume 43
Issue 05
The Pharcyde’s
Holiday Hit List
Sophia’s Sudoku
Ingredients
Tvisha’s Chole
1 cup chickpeas 6 cups of water 2-3 black leaf tea bags 2 tbsp chole masala 1 tsp red chili powder 1 tbsp coriander powder 1 tsp cumin powder 1 tsp dried mango powder ¼ tsp garam masala Salt 1 inch ginger stem 2-3 green chilies 1 medium tomato 4 tbsp ghee (clarified butter) 1 tsp carom seeds Finely chopped fresh cilantro Indian bread (puri, naan, bhatura)
Directions
Soak 1 cup dry chickpeas overnight in 3 cups of water Once soaked, rinse and strain with fresh water Season with a pinch of salt, 2-3 black leaf tea bags Pressure cook it with another3 cups of water in InstantPot for 25 minutes on high temperature Strain the water, save it to the side In a mixing bowl, take the boiled chickpeas and add 2 tablespoons chole masala, 1 tsp red chili powder, coriander powder 1 tbsp, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp dried mango powder, quarter tsp garam masala (all found at your local indian store), salt to taste Mix well With a pan on medium flame, add four tablespoons ghee (clarified butter), heat well On another pan (do not put on flamed stove), put all the chole and add 1 inch finely julienned ginger, 2-3 slit green chilies, and 1 quartered medium tomato When ghee is piping hot, add 1 tsp of carom seeds Take ghee off gas and pour it over chole mixture Place the pan with the chole mixture on high flame and stir well, about 2-3 minutes Serving suggestion: serve in a bowl garnish with 1tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro leaves garnished on top Serve with indian bread, naan, puri, or bhatura