The Blackfriar Chronicle - February 2015

Mr. Chinici set to retire from the classroom

Mr. Grey will see you now...

But he still plans to attend all of Malvern’s sports. Learn more about his new role as Campaign Stewardship Officer.

Does 50 Shades of Gray deserve any of the hype? Our columnist does not think so.

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In celebration of Scholastic Journalism Week, our editors celebrate freedom of expression by sharing their opinions on topics that matter - from sports to cursive to journalism and the media.

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BLACKFRIAR Chronicle

The

www.mpfriarslantern.COM

FEBRUARY 2015

VOLUME 15, NUMBER 5

Malvern marches, struggles to come home On Thursday, January 22, Malvern students joined in with thousands for the 41st annual March for Life.

MIKE MCHUGH ‘15 & MIKE MCCARTHY ‘15 CARRY FLAGS AT THE MARCH / M. MCCARTH Y

Joe Lister ‘21, Justice Bennett ‘16 6TH GRADE CORRESPONDENT, CHIEF INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER t about 2:55 PM every Friday, the 6th grade class and their teachers trickle into Our Mother of Good Counsel Chapel for a discussion.

During the first semester, the teachers led discussions about elements of brotherhood that they saw during the week. Now the students have taken over, signing up for the week that they want to present with a partner, talking about things that make someone a better Malvern brother. The meeting always leaves the students with something to reflect on for the weekend. Student topics range from God’s plan for us, to students presenting on the March for Life.

However, the Sixth Grade Academy (SGA) is focused on far more than brotherhood. This new approach to education represents the installation of a whole new learning program at Malvern, which is almost entirely interdisciplinary.

In the SGA, teachers often co-teach and teach their subject with an overall theme. It is not uncommon for Spanish teachers to be in an English class, or math teachers to be in a history class. Teamwork is a key idea for both the students and the teachers.

How does this theme concept work? The first theme for the sixth grade academy is immigration. The final project is to tell the story of an immigrant. Many of them come from countries like Mexico, or further places like Romania. Most of the immigrants are friends or family of Malvern teachers and students. In Spanish class, students tell the story of the immigrants in Spanish. In English class, they learn about journalism and interviewing skills so that they can write the best story about their immigrant. In History, the sixth graders learn about Ellis Island and took a trip there to learn about immigration. In Math, they make charts of immigration statistics.

Teachers told sixth graders the goal is to have a published book with the stories from all the immigrants by the end of the year.

According to SGA teacher Mr. Robert Buscaglia, this book will later be sold on Amazon. Students may go to local libraries and talk

Tyler Pizzico ‘17 FRIAR LIFE EDITOR s exhausted Malvern students slowly trudged through the freezing weather on Thursday morning to the O'Neill Center, they showed little enthusiasm. However, many dreary faces turned into an energetic cluster of young men rushing to get a seat for a life-changing adventure.

The March for Life is an annual opportunity for Malvern students, however, due to inclement weather, the trip was canceled the last two years.

“Yeah, I was tired,” said Nick Li ‘17, “but I didn’t want to miss the opportunity. Who knows if it will be offered again while I’m still here at Malvern?”

Villa Maria seniors shared a bus with the Malvern students, and others from Villa met the group at the March. For the first time ever, Malvern’s middle school students were also able to attend.

After arriving in D.C, the Malvern students and staff joined in Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception on Michigan Avenue.

One of the staff members and organizer of the March, Theology teacher Mr. Alexander Haynie, emphasized the need

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Illustration by M. Pichola, J. Bennett, K. Plows / Images: Malvern Communications

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Wrestling bleaches its way to Nationals Wrestling Team takes the Inter-Ac title, places second in States, and sends 11 wrestlers to Nationals.

Kieran Sweeney ‘15 REPORTER f you’ve been wondering why students around campus are flaunting bleached, blonde hair, you’ve come to the right place.

Fresh off of their Inter-Ac championship, Malvern’s wrestling team members each dyed their hair to show their spirit for the team.

The championship is especially significant, as it is the first time Malvern has won the Inter-ac in twenty years, when Coach Nathan Lautar was just a freshman at Malvern.

But what to what do they attribute their success? According to Lautar, who was just named Pennsylvania’s Wrestling Coach

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of the Year, the team’s unity was key.

“We all came together as a group throughout the season,” said Lautar. “We had some ups and downs, but towards the end of the season everybody came back healthy and ready to go and it showed on the mat.”

Eleven Friar wrestlers qualified for Nationals: Mike Beard ‘18, Pete Ciesielski ‘15, Patrick Devine ‘15, Brian Gola ‘17, Chris Hisey ‘18, Matt and Nick Lattanze ‘16, Rashon Lusane ‘16, Mark Salvatore ‘18, Frank Satriale ‘15, and Ben Tuohey ‘16.

The team practiced daily throughout the season, in what is known as “a two-hour grind,” according to Lautar. > PAGE 8

WRESTLING WITH THE VICTORY / MALVERN COMMUNICATIONS

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February 2015

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

EDITORIAL Student centered or student directed? Flaws in student centered learning and how to avoid them The Editorial Board takes a look at student centered learning at Malvern so far, what issues it has caused, and what it will take to improve the experience.

EDITORIAL BOARD ver the past several years, Malvern has been implementing a “student centered learning” model for the classroom. This term, still unfamiliar to some, implies a classroom where the students’ own interests in the course material defines the curriculum. In student centered learning, the abilities and learning styles of students set the rate and relative direction of education.

Although the intent of the new learning style and its implementation at Malvern is geared towards the advancement of student learning, flaws exist, as do in many new programs.

What are some of the benefits of student centered Learning?

Student centered learning comes with the many positives of group-based work, including the presentation of various opinions.

Student centered learning allows for discussion and open dialogue. Our Editorial Board believes that a two way conversation is one of the best ways to nurture learning. Finally, we have found that student centered learning has pushed students to ask why.

Student centered learning, although beneficial in many instances, has become student directed learning, which can be detrimental to education in other situations.

The Editorial Board has defined student centered learning as when a teacher acts as a guide for a student’s growth and progress in the definition of the school work. Similarly, the Editorial Board has defined Student Directed Learning as when the student acts in place of the traditional classroom teacher.

It seems all too common: a classroom setting intended to be centered on the students instead becomes the opportunity for students to struggle for information or direction on their own, without the assistance of the teacher.

Some teachers seem to think this struggle is an essential element to student centered learning.

“As a teacher, my job is to guide the student learning. I’m not necessarily the person to provide the tools, I’m simply the

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person to say how can we use these tools. If the student can come It seems unjust when teachers are asking students to educate up with the tool, that’s on them - I’m simply the guiding force,” themselves and each other at any price, especially with 2014-2015 said Mr. Kevin Moore, first year Malvern teacher. tuition just $50 short of a whopping $30,000.

However, when students are asked to teach the class, lack of The cause for the issues in student centered learning is most preparation and lack of content knowledge by student presenters likely the time of transition Malvern is currently in. With new can deprive the class being taught of full educastrategies being implemented and new ideas tion on the topic. added, it is likely that both teachers and stu“[Learning] is [the students’] job. You’ve dents are still learning what to do.

It seems got to show up to your job and be prepared,” “I think the teachers are trying to get it unjust when said Moore. right just as much as the students are,” said teachers are Science Department Chair Mr. Kevin Parker Abate ‘15. asking students Quinn said, “By asking students to teach, you The Editorial Board calls for a higher standto educate are asking them to think about the content at ard of student centered learning. We ask that themselves a higher level.” teachers more faithfully follow the principles and each other Teachers, and student teachers, are forced and ideas structured behind the new learning at any price, to be prepared to answer questions about the format. It is important that those we entrust especially with subject. Mr. Quinn believes that teaching a subwith our education have some form of defined 2014-2015 tuition ject requires an authentic understanding from standard of what student centered learning is, just $50 short the teacher. He values this knowledge over and they are held to that. On top of this we of a whopping the ability to answer what he refers to as “recall ask that Department Chairs be responsible for $30,000. questions.” holding teachers accountable for their teaching However, a student asked to do a presentastyles and making sure that student centered tion to the class on a topic the student has never seen before is learning is carried out in the best interest of the students. not likely to fully cover the subject. Without instruction by the Although we are aware that teachers are currently coached teacher, it can feel impossible to find the information needed. and evaluated, Department Chairs should be responsible on a This becomes an almost domino-like problem in which the class, regular basis for holding teachers accountable for upholding the learning from student directed presentations, does not get the standards of student centered learning. full effect of the lesson.

We must not allow for time to be an excuse. Recognition that According to Charlie Malone ‘15, teachers often “give group too much time allotted before finalization of a specific form of projects with the instruction of ‘teach the class about a topic’ and education is negative. If Malvern waits too long without making then solely rely on student work.” sure teachers adhere to student centered learning, families will be Nick Algeo ‘15 said, “I have noticed teachers not actually asked to pay full price for a product that is not fully developed. n teaching. We come into class unprepared because we don’t understand material that was never taught.”

Many of us remember the pain-staking repetition of perfecting those loopy letters and perfect connections. As we get older, are we actually applying that third grade skill anymore?

Tyler Pizzico ‘17 FRIAR LIFE EDITOR f this article was written in cursive, many wouldn’t bat an eye before setting down the paper and playing a game on their brand new iPhone 6. While practicing cursive writing was all the rage ten years ago, today’s elementary school students are way more concerned with Candy Crush.

I personally remember handwriting classes and the 200 page book with endless dotted lines and margins to write thousands of little loopy letters. I picked up the skill in the second grade and mastered it in third. By sixth grade, I couldn’t connect a T to a Y in cursive if I tried. Now, I couldn’t even begin to read it.

In my opinion, cursive writing is obsolete and forevermore will be. This is not so much to reflect on a style of writing but to focus on a new style of communication all together. With the advancement of technology, the average American reads the daily newspaper on an app or on the internet. Information can be relayed to an individual while they are in their PJ’s laying in bed.

It was stated in an April USA Today story that at least 41 schools no longer require public schools to teach cursive reading or writing. Even though some states have started to prioritize computer and typing skills, many schools haven’t come up with a viable replacement skill to teach.

While many high school students are still using the Dewey Decimal System to find their old and heavy research books, Malvern students enjoy a library filled with laptops and iPads which open a pathway to unlimited knowledge.

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Just as cursive writing has become obsolete, so has looking up information manually. With the addition of Google, Wikipedia, and various online databases the only books students need for information are Chromebooks.

I would like to see schools across America with a similar setup to Malvern. There is no point in learning a skill with no application in the real world anymore. Students of the 21st century will find themselves more prepared for the business world with a laptop and a smartphone rather than a quill and inkwell.

It is important for schools to continue educating their students on popular trends and advancements. The work they do in school should directly relate to the work they will be doing in the real world. Someone who can write killer cursive essays in Latin has less power than an 11 year old with a Macbook Pro. Once again this is something that our school really excels in. The buzz word “collaboration” comes up a lot as a joke and an excuse for not doing your own work. However, it will prove to be a very useful tool in the future.

You will never find yourself in a situation in which you won’t have access to the internet to complete your work assignment.

The wonderful creation of YouTube can make an average person learn the basics of a completely unknown task in the matter of

minutes and a few ads. That is why it is important to be tested on the information you can access rather than the information you know.

Accessing information is a skill, one you will evaluated on when interviewing for a job. You want to be quick on your feet.

You must be ready to not only adjust to new trends but embrace them. This is something schools should teach you.

You should be surrounded with constant application of technology. It is what you’ll see in the future and there is no use in being behind the learning curve.

The world is scary and unpredictable. You need to be prepared for everything it throws at you. It is important for students to be technologically active. Today’s video game playing “nerds” will be tomorrow’s computer designing millionaires.

The times are changing and so must our country’s schools. Recently, Alex Rodriguez wrote an apology letter to the fans for his PED usage.

Despite his sincere efforts, no one could take him seriously and only joked about him writing a letter in cursive in an age with technology and twitter.

The only time you should be writing in cursive is to sign your name, like on Rodriguez’s new baseball contract. n

Students of the 21st century will find themselves more prepared for the business world with a laptop and a blackberry rather than a quill and inkwell.

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

February 2015

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FRIAR LIFE Chinici retiring from classroom After the school year, Mr. Carlo Chinici will move into a new job at Malvern for two more years before ending one of the longest currently running careers at Malvern Daniel Malloy ‘18, Ethan Rowley ‘18 CORRESPONDENTS r. Chinici sits back in his chair and smiles, reminiscing on his experience at Malvern.

With his usual laid-back, joking manner, he described how the year is going. “Oh, day after day, week after week, month after month, year after year, that’s how it usually goes,” says Chinici.

This year is his final year as a history teacher. However, he will still be working at Malvern for two more years in the Development Office after the school year finishes.

After that, Mr. Chinici will retire altogether.

On July 1, Chinici will start his new job under the title of Campaign Stewardship Officer, working with alumni to generate funds for the school.

“I am going to be working with Mr. [Vic] D’Ascenzo in the Development Office regarding alumni relations,” said Chinci. I am going to be working with alumni and parents. I am going to use Facebook. I am going to use a lot of the social media to contact alumni.”

“It’s weird because I had no idea this would be my last year teaching until just before Christmas. The first semester was just like any other semester, but the second MR. CHINICI / D. MALLOY semester is different because it is my last semester,” said Chinici.

He said he will miss many things Chinici came to Malvern in 1978 after about Malvern, but one thing Chinici “I’ll miss teaching at a school called Mitchell Prep will especially long for is teaching kids. working with for 8 years. He left Mitchell after hearing He explains, “I’ll miss working with the the kids. rumors that the school was going, in his kids. I think that keeps you young, workI think that words, “kapooie” - which it did. ing with the kids.” keeps you How did he first come to Malvern? “I However, he is looking forward to the young, was walking down my driveway and my benefits of retirement. working with neighbor, Buddy Tosti, now the principal “I’m going to have more time to spend the kids.” of St. Katherine of Siena School in Wayne, with my wife and my 6 grandchildren, taktold me he got a job at Malvern. He said ing them to historical places around the there was an opening in the history departEast coast. It will be neat not having to be -Mr. Chinci ment at Malvern and that I should apply.” at a certain place at a certain time. If I want “So I applied in August,” Chinici conto sleep, I sleep. If I want to get up, I get tinued, “and about week or two later, I was up. If I want to go to a football game, I do.” interviewed by Mr. Stewart and Father Mr. Chinici says he will still go to Duffy. I got the job at Malvern teaching history and watch all of the Malvern sports. He is a dedicated fan, became the assistant athletic director, freshman football going to baseball, lacrosse, basketball, and especially footcoach, JV baseball coach, and activities director. All that ball games. “I have missed 10 football games, home and was my first year at Malvern in 1978.” away, in 37 years at Malvern,” he said.

Mr. Chinici believes Malvern is different from any He will also continue his coin and sports cards colother school because of what goes on beyond the classroom. lection. He is currently working on Ryan Nassib, former “I think the education is similar, but the relationship Malvern Quarterback and current New York Giant. that the teachers have with the kids is a lot different. I “Malvern has been my life. Over the past 30 years, I have a lot of friends that teach at other schools and they go have gotten to meet a lot of fine young men and faculty home at 3:00. They don't do a lot of the things our teach- and staff. I got to meet a lot of kids I did not teach in ers do with the kids [like] chaperoning dances, going to class,” says Mr. Chinici. “I love history, I love people, I games, being athletic director,” said Chinici. love kids, I love sports -- so [Malvern is] still going to be “At the cafeteria, they’ll sit and talk to the kids,” he a part of my life.” n said. “At a lot of the other schools I’ve visited, they have the teachers there and the students there. They don’t interact.

Whereas at Malvern, I’ll talk to kids I don’t have class with.”

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The

BLACKFRIAR Chronicle

is a monthly student-run publication at Malvern Preparatory School. Its online affiliate is the Friar’s Lantern (www.mpfriarslantern.com).

Mission Statement The Blackfriar Chronicle and The Friar’s Lantern are the student-run publications of Malvern Prep. The principal goals of the publications are to provide accurate and relevant information to the Malvern community and to offer a forum for intelligent dialogue on all things Malvern. The reporting for these student publications is conducted thoroughly and edited by student leaders to ensure this accuracy to the best of our ability. In order to fairly provide all points of view, contributions from all members of the Malvern community are welcomed and encouraged through letters of opinion, student reporting, and respectful commentary. mpfriarslantern1@gmail.com / Twitter @friarslantern1 / facebook.com/TheFriarsLantern EDITORS IN CHIEF SECTION EDITORS EDITORIAL BOARD Jack Marchesani ‘15 All editors Friar Life Media & Technology Matthew Lanetti ‘15 Mike Flanagan ‘16 Tyler Pizzico ‘17 Mike McCarthy ‘15 David Wright ‘15 MANAGING EDITORS Sports Local/World News Jack Walker ‘18 Print: Michael McHugh ‘15 Sean Christman ‘17 Jake Sorensen ‘15 Jack Magargee ‘18 Online: Chris Bunn ‘16 Patrick Ferraiolo ‘17 Social Media / Podcast INVESTIGATIVE REPORTER Arts Ben Yankelitis ‘16 Justice Bennett ‘16 Tommy Pero ‘17 Jimmy Canuso ‘17

Student of the Issue: John I. is “your guy” We had the chance to sit down with a true renaissance man of Malvern, senior John Iannuzzi.

Jack Marchesani ‘15 EDITOR IN CHIEF

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JOHN IANNUZZI / M. APR AHAMIAN

his month, the Blackfriar Chronicle caught up with one of Malvern’s finest, John Iannuzzi. A senior, John’s accomplishments are recognized by all. A student council secretary, a college commit, a storyteller, an actor, and a brother, John has made his mark on our school.

Right off the bat, John, why are you “our guy?” How did you come up with that slogan? How do you live it everyday?

I guess I hear that so often that I can’t forget about it. People always shout “John I’s your guy!” I guess that’s good because it’s a good reminder. People ask me if it irritates me, but I like it. I created it. I try to strive to actually be your guy. I came up with it the night before I gave the speech. I was thinking, “you know, this won’t be the funniest speech,” so I need something to set it apart.

First thought? Slogans work well. I started rattling off things that rhymed with “John” and then “Ianuzzi,” which didn’t really work very well. Then I thought of “I” and “guy” worked! It all fell into place.

What does the student council secretary do? Where can we see your work?

Do you hope this leads into a career path?

The secretary specifically is in charge of keeping everything organized for the student council. Everything the student council does needs to be documented, so that’s where you can see my work. Aside from that, we work together a lot on all the big picture type stuff. Where you can see my work? You can look at the Google Doc, or you can see all the things that student council works on.

Kings of the Campus DOES still exist.

This Spring, you stepped into the arts, and landed an ensemble role in MTS’s Grease. Why did you choose to do the show? What have you learned? What can you say about MTS as a whole?

A bunch of my friends were doing the show and I heard it was a great time. I like to try new things, so that was my incentive. It’s a lot more work than you think. A LOT of work goes into it behind the scenes that you wouldn’t really see. It’ s a great organization. There’s a lot of comradery that goes with it, like a sports team, and a lot of people might not see it that way.

You recently committed to Richmond University. What are you most excited for?

The college experience as a whole. New things. New stories. Everything that comes with being in college. Richmond is a great place to do that, so I am excited.

You’ve been called the “best storyteller at Malvern.” What goes into crafting a “John I story?”

Not much. It’s about being aware of the stories that happen in your life all the time. Looking around for opportunities is critical. It’s important to see how things could be funny or suspenseful. Believe that it’s a good story and you’ll tell it well. Oh and also talk slow.

What does Malvern mean to you? What advice can you give to the brothers who come next?

Malvern has meant everything to me. It’s really changed me. I’m not who I am when I first came here. It changed me for the better. As for advice? Try new things. Freshman year I wouldn’t have predicted doing the things that I done. Before high school I was a “totally-sports-athlete.” I In 8th grade I was 5’8 and I peaked athletically. It’s all about finding what you do like and finding what you don’t like. n

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February 2015

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

FRIAR LIFE Teacher of the Issue: Captain Robert W. Boyce

Campus Hero of the Issue: Ms. Sarah Trently

We discuss the life of a teacher who has done almost everything imaginable.

Ms. Trently talks social media, boxing, beagles, and what she would tweet if the world was ending.

Ben Yankelitis, Mike Flanagan EDITOR, CONTRIBUTOR AP T. Robert Boyce has become an important figure at our campus after coming to Malvern in 2001. From his transcendent knowledge regarding chemistry, to his stories which never fail to excite, CAPT. Boyce has effectively disseminated his wisdom to the privileged few who have been graced by his company. We sat down with him to see how his life has brought him to such stardom, starting with his upbringing.

Boyce told us he is, “a Delaware County Boy, from a place called Fernwood, part of Upper Darby Township.” He grew up and attended Bonner. Father Melton, his counselor, was a very important figure in his life.

Melton helped get Boyce a scholarship to the University of Pennsylvania. With this scholarship, Boyce went on to join the Navy because, “he liked the military and thought everyone should serve.” He did not think he would go on to be a career naval officer, but in fact he did.

After serving 26 years in the Navy, Captain Boyce had three children in college and four more on the path to college. He needed more income to support his children. He had three job offers; one from the Hanford in Washington, General Electric RCA in New Jersey, and one from the Philadelphia Electric Company in Limerick.

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Boyce took the job in Limerick and said he, “believed fate had something to do with it, because my late wife was diagnosed with cancer here in Philadelphia where she got care she would have never gotten any place else.”

At the plant Boyce initially helped to reduce costs and increase efficiency and later worked with acquisitions.

He had the chance to participate in many business deals. While reducing overtime for workers to reduce costs Boyce even received two death threats that were investigated by the FBI. Thankfully, nothing happened to the Captain.

From these experiences Captain Boyce has derived several important lessons which he has brought to the classroom.

First and foremost is Integrity.

In his previous occupations, work could not be done without integrity.

Dealing with nuclear submarines and power plants required honesty and accountability. This holds true with the classroom.

According to Boyce, integrity is vital in a student-teacher relationship, and it’s a two-way street. Students need to put forward their own work, and teachers can’t take lessons from professors and claim them as their own. Respect has to exist from teacher to student and from student to teacher in order for a class to be successful.

The second lesson is the consistent application of rules, or standards.

Colin Price ‘18, Desmond Papariello ‘18 CONTRIBUTORS his month we interviewed Ms. Sarah Trently. She runs Malvern’s social media sites, and is part of the Communications team.

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CAPTAIN BOYCE / SELFIE

Without expectations set by a teacher, a student has no goal to be aiming at, which can lead to a lack in performance. A teacher is also responsible with providing applicable education.

Captain Boyce mentioned that one of his students, “learned more about life than about physics” which isn’t a bad thing.

Fina l ly, a teacher needs to reinforce the principles set forth.

Standards are meaningless if they do not also have enforcement to go with it. He ran a strict ship, which ensured the safety of the crew he oversaw. The enforcement of vital rules and codes allowed him to navigate his vessel about the open seas.

Captain Boyce has done a lot in his life, including selfie-taking.

When asked if he would host a Community Time story telling session he said, “Yes.” n

Mock Trial Season’s Success Sets the Bar Higher A first for the Friar Mock Trial Team: Districts Christopher Bunn ‘16 MANAGING EDITOR or the first time, the mock trial team has managed to reach the district-level of the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s mock trial division. Both the prosecution team and the defense team advanced to the districtlevel of the competition.

The district-level competition has taken place at the Chester County Courthouse on February 18, 2015. The team ended the competition at a loss.

“I think that there was a lot of new players this year.

I thought that they performed great.” says Mrs. Randle, one of the advisors for Mock Trial.

While districts was one of the bigger highlights of the year, both the prosecution and the defense team went undefeated for their first two rounds. As a result, they became a top five team. Top five teams go on to the semifinals within districts.

In preparation for the districts competition, Mr. Joseph McGettigan has helped to judge and critique both the prosecution and defense teams. Mr. McGettigan was the prosecutor for the Jerry Sandusky and John du Pont trials.

“I thought that it was a really cool opportunity for the guys.” says Mrs. Randle. “He offered really practical advice, and it was nice to have an outsider give their expertise.”

Members of the team also shared the same sentiment.

“He was pretty interesting. He had a lot of interesting insights into the case.” said Rohan Jhunjhunwala ‘18.

“We learned about the trial and how the law system works,” says Sean Ward ‘17, “It helped us win both of our

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MOCK TRIAL TEAM AT COMPETITION / MALVERN COMMUNICATIONS

matches.”

Each team is judged before a panel of judges and a jury. Teams are graded on their performance. Along with presentation and performance, teams are graded on their knowledge of applicable laws and knowing case theory.

Every year, the case files for mock trial change. This year’s case involves a homicide that is the result of a college hazing incident. “The cases are always well done,” says Mrs. Randle “There are no clear answers. There are a lot of nuances to each case.”

The competition, which dates back to 1997, is sponsored by the Pennsylvania Bar Association. It involves over 300 high schools from all over Pennsylvania.

Despite not winning districts, Mrs. Randle has a positive outlook for next year. “I’m sad that our three senior attorneys are graduating,” she says, “I’m really excited about the younger group. They are very passionate, and I see that they will have a bright future with taking the lead next year.” n

What is an average day like for you here at Malvern?

I start my day by checking Malvern’s primary social media sites. Those are Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. I will then respond, retweet, favorite, or share anything that happened overnight, because I don't check the sites at eleven o’clock at night (laugh).

After that I have a social media schedule that I do every Monday, and I check it at the beginning of every day just to see what needs to be posted, what is going on in the day at Malvern. Then I will post accordingly, or make sure everything is scheduled and ready to go. I keep a to-do list of what I need to do. I will update Malvern’s website, and continue to monitor Malvern’s social media sites.

I will also research and collect data about latest trends on social media.

Explain what you do exactly?

I love this question. People must think “what do you do?” or “what is your job name?” My official title is Social Media and PR specialist.

Primarily, my job is to spread the good work of Malvern’s faculty, staff, students, and alumni via social media.

I keep the community updated on events, and things like that. I am also responsible for running Malvern’s social media sites. I need to know who are we connecting with. Are we making the appropriate connections?

Are things happening the way things are supposed to happen?

Do you feel that the social media outlets do a good job of getting news out to students?

I don't. What I would actually like to do is talk to a group of students, and figure out how do you get your information, do you follow any of Malvern’s sites, what is the best way for me to share information directly with you? On the flipside, I feel that Twitter gets the news out best to students. Instagram is also big. When I check Instagram, most of the likes and comments are from students.

Where are you from? What’s your background?

I was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. I have lived in Chester County for about seven years. I went to Immaculata University for college.

I graduated in 2011 with my bachelors in communication. Then I enrolled at West Chester University in 2012 for my masters in public administration.

I just graduated this past summer. I

MS. TRENTLY / C. PRICE

served a year with Americorps with the Chester County Department of Community Development. We worked with the homeless population of Chester County.

How was the transition to Malvern?

I started on August 1st. This is my first year. The transition was pretty seamless. Everyone was very welcoming. I enjoy working here. Everybody is so nice. I feel the mission really comes across in day-to-day life here.

What’s your favorite social media outlet?

I love Instagram. It is my favorite outside of malvern. But I love this app called Pocket. Pocket is an app that you can save articles you want to read at a later date or save to show people. I love that, because with so much going on I don't have as much time to read all the articles I want. So Pocket and Instagram are my favorite.

Do you feel like you interact with the students as much as you would like?

No. I would really love to be out interacting with the students more than I do. Since I am not a teacher it is hard to interact, but i would really love to talk to everyone more. I am really hoping to get involved.

Do you have any special hobbies that not everyone would know about?

I am very interested in boxing. I joined the UFC gym in Exton. They offer classes for boxing, kickboxing and I would love to start some jiujitsu. I am a runner, and I feel like both boxing and running are tough mentally and physically, and I really like that about them.

In the event of a mass extinction, what animals do you think would survive over others?

This was a very hard question. My typical answer would be a cockroach because they have survived over 250 years. They can survive without their head. This is ridiculous, but my future in-laws have four beagles. One beagle is close to 14 years old, and he has eaten anything you can imagine, and I really believe that in the event of a mass extinction he could survive. I could see him roaming the earth just barking at everything. So my answer would be either a cockroach or my in laws fourteen year old beagle.

What would you tweet in the event of a mass extinction?

End of the world tweet: “Our hearts were restless, but now they rest in you.” n

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

February 2015

5

FRIAR LIFE Technology policy will not include BYAD in 2015-2016 Discussions about a future “Bring Your Own Approved Device” program have slowed down.

Matthew Lanetti ‘15 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF alvern Prep will not be moving to a “Bring Your Own Approved Device” or BYAD program next year. According to Head of School Mr. Christian Talbot, a student-centered learning environment must be established before Malvern will take the next step and ask each student to purchase their own device.

Instead Malvern’s Technology Department is focusing on other technology goals, including a change from the “My Backpack” service.

The Blackfriar Chronicle reported in October 2014 that BYAD would go into effect in September 2015, according to Mr. Terrence Norko, Director of Technology. In that story, Mr. Norko indicated that BYAD would possibly go into effect during the 2014-2015 school year.

The Technology Department is not considering dropping BYAD. “We see it being a requirement for the following school year,” Street said.

The current student technology policy does not require students to bring in devices. “Right now, teachers can ask students to bring devices in, but no students are required to,” said Mr. Kevin Whitney, Dean of Curriculum.

Whitney said that 2015-2016 technology will be “a continuation of the current policy of teachers’ discretion with no definitive hardware requirements.”

According to Whitney, the delay in BYAD is a result of resource limitation. “It is because of two limited resources; time and money.”

Mr. Talbot describes the more deliberate approach in conversations on BYAD more broadly. “We have slowed down discussions around BYAD because technology is a tool to support learning. It is not an end in and of itself.”

According to Talbot, BYAD will not be implemented until the school has thought through all the implications of what he describes as a BYAD environment and not a policy. The other two conditions are a developed strategy for technology in support of student-centered learning and faculty and student training to use devices.

Whitney explained that the Technology Department is currently in the process of replacing the “My Backpack” service, which is supplied by Senior Systems Inc. Street confirmed that My Backpack will be replaced by the 2015-2016 school year. Street explained that the Technology Department has decided on what system will be used next year. However, he opted not to comment on this new system until it has been announced to the faculty.

According to both Street and Whitney, the process of switching out of “My Backpack” is intensive. “This huge process takes over a year,” said Whitney.

“That is really a big shift, a major technology change happening behind the scenes,” he said.

Mr. Talbot suggested that some of the decisions about future directions in technology for Malvern depend on the school’s transition to a student centered learning environment.

“When students are the ones generating and exploring questions, when students are the ones creating solutions to problems or creating projects that demonstrate deep and authentic understanding, and when all of that is happening consistently in every corner of the campus, then we can talk about asking everyone to purchase a device that will support that student-centered learning,” said Talbot. n

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> SIXTH GRADE, 1 about their book.

SGA teachers try to develop four key skills in the students: collaboration, communication, responsibility, and critical thinking.

According to Head of School Mr. Talbot, the concept for SGA came to Malvern because of year-long conversations amongst the members of the first Strategic Insight Council, a committee of the Board of Trustees, which included Mr. Christian Talbot, Mr. Patrick Sillup, and Mrs. Carrie Snyder.

The SGA team visited Gary and Jerri-Ann Jacobs High Tech High Charter School in San Diego that has already implemented the philosophy. “It was a really pivotal moment for [the sixth grade academy team],” said Buscaglia.

According to SGA teacher Mr. Chris DeVido, it is a common misconception among upper school students to think of the SGA as a product instead of a philosophy.

“It’s a philosophy based on how we can make our students better learners,” said DeVido.

“A lot of time in school is content driven, but our [program] is not content driven at all. We’re trying to be able to get our kids to do things as

NCAA Core Requirements limit recognized classes for students NCAA regulations prohibit classes like Literature and Film to count as credit for students looking to play sports in college.

Ryan Franks ‘17 REPORTER alvern Prep prides itself on their elite athletic teams and the athletes who play on them. However, there are certain classes Friar-athletes and all student-athletes nationwide must take in order to be eligible to participate in college athletics.

According to the NCAA Eligibility Center, prospective student athletes are required to complete 16 “core courses” to be permitted to play Division I athletics. With this requirement, the NCAA strives to make sure student athletes take classes at their high school that will make those students ready for college level courses.

A main goal for Malvern as a college preparatory school is to ensure every student is ready “for further study in institutions of higher education,” as written in its statement of philosophy. The school requires students take 16 of these core classes in order to graduate and be fully prepared for college level courses. These prerequisites are based off of state requirements.

“The NCAA compared each state's varying prerequisites and then came up with a number that seemed to best fit into each state's regulations,” Director of Guidance Paul Simpson explained. “Malvern’s requirements are slightly higher than the state’s, and the typical Malvern student will even graduate with three or more credits than required.”

According to Simpson, Malvern athletes have never had eligibility problems with playing Division I sports. “The college counselors make sure that [athletes] are taking the appropriate classes and amount necessary to be able to play,” said Simpson.

According to the NCAA Eligibility Center, some courses at Malvern that have been denied in the past include Effective Business Communication, Science and Art of Narrative, Storytelling, and beginning next year, the popular senior elective Literature and Film. These classes are denied because “The course does not meet NCAA core course guidelines as established by the NCAA Membership.”

Another course that appears in the denied list is AP Computer Science.

According to the NCAA Guidelines, if a school awards computer science courses technology credit only, the courses cannot be approved in any NCAA core area.

Some denied courses are classified by the NCAA as, “courses that are taught below grade level, at a slower pace, with less rigor or depth.” The famed Literature and Film class will no longer be a core class because it has been labeled as “not academic in nature,” in an indicated list including examples such as Film Study, Video Editing, and Greenhouse Management.

For a Catholic school like Malvern that requires three and a half years of theology, Comparative Religions is the only theology class approved by the NCAA. Sophomore lacrosse player and future Lehigh Mountain Hawk Sam

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opposed to just memorizing.”

“Our kids are always applying. They’re always doing things outside of the classroom,” said DeVido.

Lots of training and cohesion is needed on the part of the teachers for this to work.

According to Buscaglia, the SGA teachers log around five hours of team meetings each week.

“It challenges you to be better [as a teacher],” said DeVito. “Working in this team forces my accountability, forces me to get better, forces me to try new things.”

Beginning in November 2014, the SGA teachers came together as a team and started to meet and plan, according to Wasson. Head of the Middle School Mr. Patrick Sillup presented questions and challenges for the teachers to pursue. Wasson noted that these meetings as well as shared professional development grew the SGA teachers to be a team.

“Education is very ‘what am I doing’, but for us it’s ‘what are we doing’,” said DeVito.

“To me, it is taking a different approach, a more student-centered approach with the students this year, and also teaming as a teaching unit,” said SGA teacher James Wasson. “Our

What is a NCAA Core Course?

A core course must meet the following standards: Must be an academic course that receives high school graduation credit in one or a combination of these areas: English, mathematics, natural/physical science; social science, foreign language, comparative religion or philosophy Four-year college preparatory At or above the high school’s regular academic level Algebra I or higher in the mathematics area Taught by a qualified instructor

What is NOT a NCAA Core Course?

Courses in non-core areas or vocational courses: Driver’s Ed, Keyboarding, Art, Music, Physical Education, Welding.

Courses that prepare students for the world of work or life, or for a two-year college ortechnical school. Examples include Personal Finance, Consumer Education, Tech Prep.

Courses that are taught below grade level, at a slower pace, with less rigor or depth.

Examples include Basic, Essential, Fundamental or Foundations courses.

Courses that are not academic in nature. Examples include Film Study, Video Editing, Greenhouse Management.

Source: ncaa.org High School Portal

> PAGE 12 focus is on student-centered learning, and on giving constant personal feedback to the students on different things that we’re doing.”

Both classroom time and community time are devoted to offering personal feedback to students individually and in small groups, according to Wasson. “With the six teachers we have, we split the kids up into groups of 15, and we will meet with our group of students one-on-one to talk about their core skills that we’re developing, and where they are in regards to that,” said Wasson.

“You really have to prepare yourself in a completely different way, but it’s completely invigorating,” added Wasson.

According to DeVido, the next theme will be sustainability. Students will be building greenhouses, and growing vegetables to then make a spanish cooking show as a final project.

In English, students will learn about the sustainability of print newspaper and magazines in the digital age.

The academy model is headed towards the upper school. Dean of Curriculum Mr. Kevin Whitney confirms that there will be a 7th grade academy next year. “We’ve done a lot

of reflection, and that’s going to affect the 7th grade approach,” he said. “Conversely, we’ll do the same thing for the 8th grade academy and beyond.”

“I think a key distinction is that the curriculum and programs may not look the same in each grade level,” said Whitney. “We are certainly, as a school, looking to create what we are calling a radically student-centered learning environment in the upper school.”

“But that [learning environment] may look completely different than it does in the middle school,” noted Whitney.

The Sixth Grade Academy is definitely a base for a Seventh Grade academy, according to Sillup. But as for the Eighth Grade, “We are still trying to define it,” said Sillup.

Wasson said that his first year with the SGA “has been the most amazing and the hardest year of teaching.” He has been teaching at Malvern for over 20 years. n

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February 2015

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

OPINION

The week of February 22-28 is National Scholastic Journalism Week. A celebration of our first amendment right, NSJ looks to recognize freedom of expression.

Freedom of religion, freedom speech, freedom of religion, right to assembly, and right to petition are all critical values to us here at the BFC. The Blackfriar Chronicle’s editors decided to commemorate this monumental week by writing columns (opinion-based articles) on their passions and interests.

Christopher Bunn ‘16 MANAGING EDITOR s new platforms for reaching readers emerge, news outlets have found distributing news to be easier, but much more competitive. With the massive size of the internet, it’s hard to be the first to report new events or content.

As a result, many outlets are looking for different ways to capture new audiences.

Most of these initiatives are rather harmless. Take, for example, Snapchat’s new “Discover” feature.

Companies can pay Snapchat to post featured articles and stories on the “Discover” screen. Out of the twelve “stories” available for viewing, eight of them come from some sort of publication.

However, some outlets are willing to go into a grayer area in order to gain a higher amount of readers.

While not necessarily illegal, some methods are questionable- at best.

Buzzfeed, a “social news and entertainment company”, is a modern day source of “yellow journalism”.

Whether it is a list of “11 Problems People Had In The ’00s” to a quiz on “What Kind Of Garbage Are You?”, Buzzfeed is notorious for publishing sensationalist “clickbait” titles.

Through their clickbait titles, Buzzfeed tries to gain page views and ad revenue. Their writers attempt to pander to both nostalgic and edgy

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viewers with their titles, but in the While news organizations do end deliver low quality content. (and should) have the right to experiThe problem, however, is that ment and try new ways of reaching their model is working. readers, reader’s trust and ethics need Because of Buzzfeed’s success, to be taken into consideration. For far legitimate news sources, such as too long, both have been taken for CNN, have slowly started to insert granted by publishers and writers clickbait titles into their tweets. One alike. recent CNN tweet, for example, says Readers need to be aware that that “14-year-old girl the success of Buzzfeed stabbed her little sismay inf luence other ter 40 times, police Readers should publishers, including say. The reason why be aware of how reputable and legitimate will shock you.” the popularity sources, to follow their Perhaps what is of clickbait lead. CNN is only one the most ironic thing will affect the example of the publishabout this problem is coverage of ers caving into clickbait the fact that Buzzfeed legitimate news titles. does not realize - or sources.

In response to this admit - that it is a growing trend of clickclickbait site. In a blog bait content, satirical post blazingly titled “Why BuzzFeed publisher The Onion has created a Doesn’t Do Clickbait”, Editornew website that also satirizes clickIn-Chief Ben Smith claims that bait sites. Titled Clickhole, the site Buzzfeed’s titles underpromise and takes a comical view on popular overdeliver. However, a quick search Buzzfeed articles. Clickhole closely of the terms “you won't believe” says mirrors Buzzfeed, down to the mix the opposite. of quizzes, articles, and lists that are Even more i ron ic is how present.

Buzzfeed slammed CNN after they While it is extremely unlikely published the tweet mentioned above. that Buzzfeed will stop publishIn an article titled “CNN Tweeted ing clickbait articles anytime soon, An Upworthy-Ish Headline, And It readers should be aware of how the Really Didn’t Go Down That Well popularity of clickbait will affect the On Twitter”, Buzzfeed staff mem- coverage of legitimate news sources. ber Scott Bryan deliberately chooses CNN may only be the start of a new tweets that slams CNN for having an revival of yellow journalism.

“Upworthy-like” title.

And you won’t believe why. n

Blood, barbary, and the moral role of our nation Michael McCarthy ‘15 Nowhere has this been more MEDIA & TECHNOLOGY EDITOR obvious than in our current handling n recorded history, there has of the ISIS situation. Not only has always been a dominant force the Islamic State repeatedly declared on t he i nte r n awar on the west, and the tional stage. The Roman US in particular, but they Empire, Persia, Great Not only has the have also declared war on Britain, and now, us, Islamic State human decency. the United States of repeatedly Beheadings, torture, America. Many say that declared war on burning a POW in a the US is no different, the west, and the cage. These are just some but those people are US in particular, of the outright barbaric wrong. but they have also atrocities committed Unlike all previous declared war on by the self-proclaimed great world powers, the human decency. “saviors” of the Muslim United States was built world. A nd what is upon a code of moralworse? All of these atrocity. Romans, Persians, and British ities have been planned out, recorded, all achieved their influence through edited, and released as a sort of sick brutality in the name of power and form of entertainment. They proclaim wealth. America’s inf luence was their barbary. They are proud of it. earned through respect and internal To be clear, ISIS most definitely strength rather than imperialism and does not reflect the beliefs of Islam as militaristic tendencies. a whole, and should not be treated as Since the end of World War a Muslim group, but rather a separate II, the US has been that dominant entity entirely. As President Obama world power. We are far from perfect, said, “We are not at war with Islam. and as time has progressed we have We are at war with people who have become more lazy and content with perverted Islam.” our situation. We have lost our edge, Yet, despite all of this, what have the edge that got us to the top of the we done about it? The United States international political world in the of America has done next to nothing. first place. > PAGE 12

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Early season lacrosse games have been heavily impacted by the heavy snow in the Northeast.

Sean Christman ‘17 SPORTS EDITOR he first two games of the season for the Villanova Wildcats Lacrosse Team have had different results, but a common theme. In the first game, they lost 13-11 to Johns Hopkins, and in the second, they beat Penn State 11-7.

While these games sound different, they were extremely similar, as they were both played in snow storms with less than ideal conditions.

While lacrosse is considered to be a “Spring Sport” by the NCAA, teams often begin practices in January, immediately after Christmas break. The first game of the season often occurs in early February, and this year was no different as High Point defeated Delaware 15-10 on February first. These frigid early season games have become the norm in college lacrosse, but while it is no issue for some, it is a huge obstacle for others.

In the NESCAC, a Division 3 conference home to teams

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like Amherst, Tufts, and Williams, teams have been unable to even practice, let alone have games. The massive snow hitting the northeast during this time of year has made it difficult for many schools to play. Games have been changed, postponed, and even canceled.

Nearly every game during weeks 2 and 3 of the college lacrosse season was played in the snow. The game between Hofstra and Princeton, which was played in Princeton, was played with almost 4 inches of snow on the ground. This slowed down loose balls and caused many of the players to slip and fall while playing.

Is it okay for some teams to be on their 5th game of the year while others can’t even practice? This is the question that the NCAA needs to address. Weather has inhibited the progress of the past two seasons, with teams practicing in single digit temperatures during the week and playing in snow storms on the weekend.

Some lacrosse outlets, like the blog College Crosse, and

Lacrosse Magazine editor Corey McLaughlin, have been satirically posting pictures of the snow covered fields with the hashtag #SpringSport. Others, like RIT lacrosse graduate Jerry Ragonese, have taken a different stance, tweeting “Why is everyone crying about the snow? It's always been cold the start of lax season and snow is a lot of fun to play in. Don't tell me ‘it's sloppy’. It is no different than a torrential downpour with no lightning. This isn't baseball. #manup”.

This is a difficult issue to resolve. Realistically, there are not many options that make the beginning of the season fair to all involved. While calling the Hofstra-Princeton game, announcer Ryan Boyle said it best. “When you play a game in February in New Jersey, this snow is going to be what you get. We either need to accept that, or we need to be smarter and take a look at pushing our start date back”. n

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

February 2015

7

OPINION

RISK IT ALL?

VALENTINES '

day advice

The Eagles are on the clock After not making the playoffs, many Eagles fans are looking forward to the draft with uncertainty and hope for the future.

Tommy Pero ‘17 ARTS EDITOR isappointment. That’s all I could feel about what felt like a very promising season for the Philadelphia Eagles. Thankfully, hope comes at the end of April with the 2015 NFL Draft.

This season was mostly defined by inconsistent play from the quarterbacks and the secondary, as well as injuries throughout the offensive line. Nick Foles, the starting quarterback, missed the last eight games of the season due to a broken collarbone. Mark Sanchez filled in as the backup with Foles injured.

Both quarterbacks played eight games and had mediocre seasons. Sanchez is now a free agent while Foles will become a free agent after the 2015 season.

The secondary could also use some help too. While Malcolm Jenkins played well his first year with the team, the two starting cornerbacks, Bradley Fletcher and Cary Williams, were disgraceful.

Nate Allen, the other starting safety, actually looked relatively good this year for the first time Bottom line: in his career. Although he will be able to return don’t risk it all next year after he was released from custody in for one player.

Florida, he is currently a free agent so the Eagles may decide to part ways.

The offensive line is not as much of a concern. The five starters have shown that they can be dominant when they all play together, and the Eagles have one or two solid backups.

Even more uncertainty came toward the end of the season when starting inside linebacker DeMeco Ryans ruptured his achilles, which is a very hard injury to come back from.

So with that, the Eagles enter the draft with a lot of holes to fill.

What many are hoping for is that the Eagles will be able to pick Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Marcus Mariota from Oregon.

It makes sense since he played under head coach Chip Kelly at Oregon, and he would be a perfect fit for the Eagles’ offense since he ran it in college.

Mariota is currently projected to be taken 6th overall by the Jets. In order to get him, the Eagles would have to package a huge deal: possibly two or three first round picks and maybe even a player like Fletcher Cox or Mychal Kendricks.

Is is worth it? Definitely not.

Picking quarterbacks in the NFL is a crapshoot at best. Teams pick wrong all the time. Highly rated players like Ryan Leaf and JaMarcus Russell both got picked early and did not work out. While Tom Brady and Joe Montana both were passed over by every team in the league multiple times, and they each won four Super Bowls.

The Eagles need to fix their defense first, then fill other needs. Foles had an off year, but he has shown he is an above average starting quarterback.

With that being said, here’s how the Eagles should approach the draft.

In the first round, they should try to trade back a few spots to try to pick up a third or fourth pick.

Then they should pick the best defensive back available. It might be Trae Waynes, Marcus Peters, Landon Collins, or Shaq Thompson.

The secondary should be their primary need because it was pitiful last year, and they half to defend Odell Beckham, Dez Bryant, DeSean Jackson, Victor Cruz, and Pierre Garçon in their division.

Next the Eagles should use the pick they got from trading back and another third or fourth round pick to get another pick in the early second round.

They should use this pick to take quarterback Brett Hundley. Hundley is a very good athlete and ran a similar style offense to the Eagles at UCLA. Chip Kelly also recruited him over Marcus Mariota when they were coming out of high school.

Hundley may not start right away, but he is a really good option for the Eagles.

With the other second round pick, the Eagles should take linebacker Eric Kendricks, also from UCLA. Kendricks is a highly rated player that would be able to replace DeMeco Ryans in a year or two. Kendricks won the Butkus award, which is given to the best linebacker in the country.

He is also the brother of Mychal Kendricks, who is the other starting inside linebacker for the Eagles. It would make for a great comradery.

In the later rounds, with the other remaining picks, the Eagles should try to take more defensive players, specifically to help out the secondary. Otherwise picking up a wide receiver or an offensive lineman won’t hurt either.

Bottom line: don’t risk it all for one player. Trade back, get more picks, and take more solid players. n

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Although the 76ers recent trades sparked numerous negative reactions from fans, this move was genius.

Patrick Ferraiolo ‘17 SPORTS EDITOR ntering the all star break, the Philadelphia 76ers were the second worst team in the NBA. Leaving the all- star break, the Sixers made a trade that won’t help them win games this year- but in the years to come.

SIxers fans had to departure from two of the promising young stars they had in their organization; reigning rookie of the year Michael CarterWilliams and KJ McDaniels. Both were dealt in a three team trade.

So what exactly did the Sixers give up and what did they receive in return? They gave up, like said before, MCW and KJ McDaniels.

But, they received a first round draft pick from the Lakers that is nulled until next year iif the Lakers get a top five pick this upcoming draft.

Also, they got Javale Mcgee, a tall, athletic center who has not lived up to his potential. In addition, a new point guard, Isaiah Canaan.

But, maybe the most surprising trade made was when the Sixers gave up an unknown foreign player for the Oklahoma City Thunder’s first round pick this year unless it is in the top 18. Both the fisrt found picks we received are pick protected.

I love all of the moves that GM Sam Hinke made for his franchise.

He realizes that they will not win this year. So, he took his most talented players and knew that they had enough talent to attract teams willing to give up draft picks, that can be used to rebuild a franchise.

Some people do not like this idea and hated seeing the Rookie of the Year leave the team. But, news f lash, Michael Carter-Williams could not shoot the ball. Yes, he did win ROTY, but in a very poor showing from the other rookies, winning the award was not much of accomplishment.

Also, Carter- Williams was not the point guard that Sam Hinke and coach Brett Brown wanted. His lack of three point success for a team that thrives on them was not a good mix, and also he is known for turning the ball over too many times. By trading him for what could be a top-10 pick in the future is almost a steal. Sam Hinkie is not accepting ‘good’ when he knows that there is ‘great’ to be found. Bold.

Also, it is a double whammy, because by trading the best player, there is no one left to fill his spot, except the new point guard Isaiah

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> PAGE 10

Malvern’s and Villa’s most experienced paramours bequeath the wisdom of love Michael McCarthy ‘15 & Keely McAveney VMA‘15 MEDIA AND TECHNOLOGY EDITOR & RESIDENT GIRL alentine’s Day. Yes, that’s right, the one day a year Malvern gentlemen see girls.

Many of you are probably asking, “Hey, but I don’t know the first thing about girls… What do I do about Valentine’s Day?” Don’t fret young fratres, Papa Bear McCarth and The Love Guru herself, Keely McAveney, are here to drop a little knowledge on ya’. So wipe the sweat off your palms, take out a notebook, and get ready to be schooled in the art of seduction.

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Q: How do I know if a girl/guy likes me?

MM: Ah. The age old question that is the bane of Wipe the sweat off many a Friar’s existence. In my extensive experiyour palms, take ence, I have come to the conclusion that the key out a notebook, indicator of a girl’s affection for you is exactly the and get ready to opposite of what you may think. You know a girl be schooled. likes you when she seems like she hates you. For example, if you say “Gee (girl), your hair is looking pretty today,” and she responds with, “Why are you talking to me you disgusting ogre?!,” you know she digs you.

KM: Easy. Everyone likes you. Continue drowning in the wake of your narcissism and babe pool.

Q: How should I ask her/him out?

MM: When it comes to asking a girl out, you want to make as big of a scene as possible. Yell, make sure everyone in the whole building can hear when you finally decide to ask her to see Fifty Shades of Grey. The bigger scene you make, the more pressure she will feel to say yes!

KM: Start calling her your girlfriend. Follow her home. Follow her to school.

Call her house on an hourly basis. Tell her she looks pretty from the angle of the tree outside her window. This leaves zero room for rejection. She’ll have no choice but to consent or get a restraining order.

Q: What are some good ideas for a date?

MM: Time for some rapid fire ideas: grab a back-alley Italian meal (Lady and the Tramp style), join her guild in World of Warcraft, get tickets to Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch, go to a minor league baseball game, stay in and build pillow forts.

KM: Sit her down to watch Shrek, followed by Shrek 2, and, finally, Shrek the Third. By the time you're done with these three, she’ll be begging not only for Shrek Forever After but to be yours forever after.

Q: What should I do when the waiter brings the check?

MM: When the waiter drops the check off at your table, make absolutely no attempt to take it. This is a power struggle. Stare her down until she cracks.

When she finally breaks, smile menacingly. This will show her your mental fortuitousness, that you are an expert at “mind games.” Power = Love KM: Pay entirely in coupons. Nothing turns a woman on like an zealous couponer. Just look at Danny Tanner.

Q: How should I dress?

MM: Anything as long as bucket hats are included.

KM: Anything but bucket hats.

Q: When should I make “the move”?

MM: Make your move when she least expects it. Use the element of surprise to your advantage. She takes a glance down at her phone and WHAM you're there when she looks up.

KM: Agreed. Make your move when she least expects it. She’ll be all like, “Who are you? How did you get my number? We met one time at that party.

I’m not your girlfriend!!!!! Please stop calling this number!!!!”

Q: How can I get a girl/guy to like me?

MM: Two words. Foot massage. Make sure to put a lot of force into it. This is a chance to not only show your mastery of the sensual màssage but also exhibit your raw strength.

KM: One word. Blackmail. Unflattering pictures and holding family members and/or pets hostage are both fair game.

Please note: Keely and Mike are both single. n

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February 2015

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

SPORTS Athlete of the Issue: Michael Beard ‘18

Malvern swimming wins third consecutive Inter-Ac Championship

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Malvern clinches third Inter-Ac Championship and they worked very hard to get there.

Patrick Ferraiolo ‘17 SPORTS EDITOR uring his freshman year, star Mike Beard was a huge part of the team’s Inter- Ac championship run, their first one in over a decade, and was named “Wrestler of the Year” in the process. We interviewed him about his thoughts on Malvern and the Wrestling team.

by drilling with a practice partner or by sprinting to get my heart rate up. After that, I settle down a little to focus on what I need to do in my match.

Where did you go to school before attending Malvern?

I attended Daniel Boone Elementary.

I left there in seventh grade to come to Malvern. I’ve been here since then.

How has your freshman year been so far?

It’s going great. I accomplished more than what my goals were. I need to stay focused on my grades during the second semester and it will be an overall great year for me.

I know that the team accomplished many things this year, but which one stands out the most for you?

The accomplishment that stands out for me the most is definitely winning the Inter- Ac Championship due to the fact that our team had not won it since 1995. To finally win one for Malvern after all those winless years was really amazing to me.

You were named “Wrestler of the Year”. That is very impressive. What do you attribute your success to?

Practice. I took a lot of time always trying to work harder in the practice room and focusing on my technique as much as possible so I have confidence when I am in an actual match.

How did the coaches prepare you to succeed this year?

The coaches pushed me throughout the whole year because they knew what I was capable of doing. They helped me with my offense in my matches so I can keep scoring on my opponent.

What has been the highlight for you this year?

The highlights for my year were all the big tournaments I have excelled in. But, most importantly, I really enjoyed contributing to winning the Inter-Ac title with my teammates.

What is your routine before each match?

My routine before my matches are always to get a physical warm up

MIKE BEARD / P. FERR AIOLO

When you are on the mat, during a match, what is your strategy?

My main strategy is always staying on offense no matter what is going on in the match. I always need to stay aggressive and look to score.

Both your head coach (Nate Lautar) and assistant coach (Nate Wachter) have gotten praise for their work this year- what specific things do they do that makes them so special?

The Malvern coaches are so special because they are so flexible with their time. They always give their time to help the wrestler. Instead of being somewhere else and having fun, they are dedicating their time to make their wrestlers better.

Being a freshman can be scary sometimes; how have the older wrestlers on the team make you feel more comfortable?

I knew the upperclassmen since I was very young because I wrestled with them on the Malvern Club team.

They are always nice and they always treat me with respect, and I act the same way to them.

Lastly, what does Malvern mean to you?

Malvern means a whole lot to me because I know it’s my whole future.

Malvern will help me succeed in life due to the people around me pushing me to always to be the best person I can possibly be; both in the classroom and out. n

> WRESTLING, 1 “We pushed the kids throughout the season in terms of tournaments, and tried to get good matches so when it came down to the season they were ready to go,” said Lautar. He said that the team habitually trained in order to peak when it counted most, at the Inter-Ac championships.

Charlie Arena ‘15, co-captain of the team, described the team as “the hardest working group of guys in the gym, pushing themselves every day to get better. That was the biggest contributor to winning the Inter-Ac.” Arena described Coach Lautar as a huge support and

Tommy White ‘17 REPORTER ith their third straight Inter-Ac championship, the Malvern Swim team proved that winning an Inter-Ac Championship requires hard work, constant training, and dedication.

The Friars took the title with four wins against Episcopal, Germantown Academy, The Haverford School, and Penn Charter.

“I am of very proud of my team’s accomplishments. Number one in the classroom, number two in the pool, and number three the legacy that gets passed from the senior class STUDENT SWIMMERS CHEER ON TEAMMATES AT EASTERN CHAMPIONSHIPS / A. SALINAS down to the younger swimmers,” said Head Coach Mr. Jay Schiller.

“It wasn't as close as some of our other meets, but However, this type of success does not happen over- the win secured our third consecutive Inter-Ac title,” said night. During the season, the team committed six to Calvaresi. “After the meet, the team was really energized eight workouts a week, including vigorous practices every and during our post-meet huddle, we managed to throw Wednesday, where the team practiced from 6:15 to 7:15 the coaches in the pool.”

AM and again at the end of the school day.

The juniors and seniors on this team are in the unique Also, during the off season, several swimmers train position of winning Inter-Ac Championships for three with club teams. They are also encouraged to work out years in a row. Few Malvern sports teams who have had with Mr. Miller in the weight room. The constant effort such an accomplishment. the players and coaches put into these workouts and pracCalvaresi said the biggest challenge this year to win tices are the biggest reasons why the swim team has been the Inter-Ac for a third straight year was defeating The a dominant force for the last three years.

Haverford School. “We knew going into the final relay The team took a trip to Florida over Christmas break that we couldn't let them get first and second in order to to train. During this trip, they swam between five and six win and our ‘A Relay’ made sure that didn't happen, which miles a day. This trip also gave the team an opportunity allowed us to win the meet.” to bond as a team.

After winning two championships, Coach Schiller The captains this year were Peter Calvaresi ‘15 and said, “The team had a target on their back and all of the Brandon Fronczak ‘15. According to Schiller, these cap- other teams were gunning for them. Winning under this tains along with the other senior swimmers have been type of pressure is a testament to the camaraderie of the great leaders and role models for the younger guys. team.” n Calvaresi shared his most memorable moment this year, the victory over Episcopal.

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Malvern strong off is a success The event, run by Mr. Miller, had its largest participant turnout ever.

John McGlinn ’18 you must use all your main muscle groups just to do daily REPORTER activities, from lifting up a child to carrying your backhe second annual Malvern Strong Off took place pack,” Mr. Miller said.

January 27 and 29. This year there The other event at the Strong-Off was were two events - the deadlift and the benchpress. Perhaps one of the more the benchpress. events in strength competi“Weightlifting common Mr. Erik Miller, the Health teacher tions, the bench press uses lots of pectoral isn’t just a and Strength and Conditioning manager, strength. sport...” was not only proud that more kids decided Rashon Lusane ’16 was the benchpress to show up and participate, but also that champion, lifting 315 pounds, easily setting - Mr. Miller many kids reached new personal records the record for his weight class. and school records for their weight classes.

“Benching and deadlifting have a sim“Weightlifting isn’t just a physical sport, ilar mind-process,” said Titchenell, who it’s mental as well,” said sophomore Justin Titchenell. “You came in second for the bench press as well. “In both you need to aim toward your one goal and focus your whole must first align your body and make sure that you are well way through, not just at the start and preparing for it.” balanced when you approach lifting the bar.”

Titchenell was the winner of the deadlift. This is an Weightlifting at Malvern has grown in the past several event where the participant keeps a straight back and years. It is another way that athletes can compete against lifts the weight off the ground to an upright position. It each other in different aspects of strength. The Strong-Off engages muscle groups including the calves, back, glutes, is a way to bring lifters against each other to each other to and quadriceps. achieve new goals and personal bests.n “Weightlifting isn’t just a sport though. Every day life

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influence. “Whenever I needed help on or off the mat he has been there as an influential figure in my life,” he said.

Senior co-captain Patrick Devine said, "The most important thing Nate taught me is how to always give 100% effort in everything I do. This mentality of always wanting to be the best has really affected the way I look at both academics and athletics.

I’m grateful to have a coach like Nate to help me along the way."

Lautar was caught by surprise when he heard the news about being named Coach of the Year. “They didn’t even make an announcement so I had no clue until I got home,” he said. “I got a text message from the guy running the tournament who

called and said, ‘Hey how do you want your name spelled on a Coach of the Year award.”

Lautar noted that award is not just his, but shows the team’s effort as a whole.

After taking the Inter-Ac championship, the team went on to States where they placed second.

“We just have to to get back in the gym and work even harder to place first at nationals,” said Arena. “I know we have talent as a team to do it, and we just have to work for it.” n

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

February 2015

9

SPORTS NBA Power Rankings: Where does everyone stand mid-season?

Alum Drew Kennedy excels at Johns Hopkins

As the NBA season nears a little bit past the midpoint, the top 10 teams are placed into power rankings, from last to first.

2011 alum credits Malvern’s level of play as “similar to playing in D1.”

Alex Reber ‘17 REPORTER ince the All-Star break, the NBA’s top story has been one word: Injuries. With season (possibly career) ending injuries to two superstars in Kobe Bryant and Derrick Rose, their respective teams have lost major pieces.

All in all, this NBA season as a whole has been unlike any other because no one has reached/maintained their superstar status and completely dominated their games.

Here are our power rankings for the top ten current teams.

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10 Los Angeles Clippers The Clippers have to be concerned with Forward Blake Griffin’s Staph Infection in his right elbow. There currently is no timeline for his return, but it could be weeks.

The Clippers do, however, have many assets that they can turn to, like All Star Point Guard Chris Paul and defensive superstar DeAndre Jordan. While Jordan has yet to be selected as an all star, he is leading the league in rebounds (13.8) and averaging 2.4 blocks per game. It is no doubt that the Clippers are a very good team, but they have not played up to their full potential this year. It is almost a given that they will make the playoffs this year, but is questionable if they even make it out of the first round. Los Angeles needs Griffin back and healthy as soon as possible so they can get back on track.

9 Portland Trail Blazers The Blazers have to be pleased that Forward LaMarcus Aldridge has decided to avoid surgery on his injured thumb and play through the pain. Aldridge is the backbone of this talented team, and with the help of 2013 rookie of the year Damian Lillard, they will be hard to stop for the rest of the year. Players like Nick Batum and Wesley Matthews will help from the both the three point arc and on the defensive end.

It is hard to find any flaws in this tough squad, and there is no doubt that they deserve a top ten spot on this list.

8 Houston Rockets There is no question that the rockets are a good team.

James Harden has emerged as one of the top contenders for MVP of the league this year, scoring at will from anywhere he wants. His 27 points a game is a big reason as to why they’re in the position they are in, and no matter what anyone says, Dwight Howard is still a good player, averaging 16 points and 11 rebounds per game. Those two players, along with players like Patrick Beverley and Josh Smith have led Houston to a very good season so far.

7 Chicago Bulls The Bulls have so many good players to hurt other teams from so many different angles. Derrick Rose is finally back and playing pretty good, but nothing like his 2011 MVP season. He is averaging 19 points per game, which

by Rose’s standards isn’t enough. Luckily for them, players like Jimmy Butler and Joakim Noah have really stepped up this year to bring this Bulls team to being one of the best teams in the East, and they should be exciting to watch for the remainder of the season.

6 Cleveland Cavaliers Even though the Cavs got off to a rough start, they are now dominating with all players looking fresh and focused for the rest of the season. Additions like J.R Smith and Iman Shumpert have been huge helps to this team, and there is no doubt that they will do well for the rest of the season.

Stars LeBron James, Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Love have

been doing very well this season, and at this point, there is no reason as to why they shouldn’t clinch a top spot in the Eastern Conference.

5 Toronto Raptors The Raptors have spent most of their time in the air, dunking on almost every possession. While high flyers like Terrence Ross and Demar DeRozan focus on getting to the rim, All Star point guard Kyle Lowry orchestrates the offense with 18 points and 7 assists per game. Center Jonas Valanciunas has also done well in the paint, making 56 percent of the shots he takes. The Raptors are a dangerous team, and could cause some real problems for most teams in the playoffs.

4 Memphis Grizzlies The Grizzlies are a weird team. They don’t have any superstars, yet they know how to win. Players like Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol are very good players, but are not yet stars. Memphis is a genuinely good team and knows how to win. It will be hard in the post-season, however, to defend against superstars like Harden or Griffin without one of their own.

This team will definitely have their work cut out for them in the final half of the season, but they will most likely handle it like they have all year: well.

3 San Antonio Spurs The Spurs seem to be good every single year. They have made the playoffs every year since Tim Duncan was drafted in 1997. The Spurs organization definitely have things figured out, winning championships and dominating teams, and this year is no different. They would most likely be the number one team on this list if they other two haven’t been so outstanding all year. The Spurs are so good even in their old age, and they will continue to be one of the best teams in the league for the rest of the season.

2 Atlanta Hawks It appears that the Hawks have cooled down after that crazy hot streak they had back in December, winning 19 games in a row, but they still play as good as any team in this league. It is hard to not excel with four all stars on a team (Paul Millsap, Kyle Korver, Jeff Teague, and Al Horford) and the Hawks have easily been one of the biggest surprise teams this season. Never has the league seen an entire starting lineup win the player of the month award, and the Hawks did just that in December. They are great offensively inside, outside, and defensively, and there is no team more deserving to be atop the Eastern Conference 1 Golden State Warriors There isn’t much to say about the Warriors that hasn’t already been said. They have the best record, and possibly the best shooting backcourt in a long time around the league. Both Steph Curry and Klay Thompson are deadly from the three point arc, and there is no doubt that Curry is in the running for MVP this season. This team is unbelievable, especially in a very talented Western Conference. This team will shoot lights out every game, and will continue to do so for the rest of the season, and as long as all players stay with Golden State, they will be a very good team for a very long time. n

Visit the Friar’s Lantern for rankings on the top 30 teams. www.mpfriarslantern.com

DREW KENNEDY ON THE FIELD / 247SPORTS.COM / Used with permission

Sean Christman ‘17 SPORTS EDITOR t Johns Hopkins, Malvern graduate Drew Kennedy has established himself as one of the top faceoff specialists in Division 1 lacrosse.

After graduating from Malvern in 2012, Kennedy came to Hopkins as a freshman. While some players struggle to adjust to the change from high school lacrosse to college lacrosse, Kennedy credits Malvern with preparing him to be a college athlete.

“The level of play [at Malvern] was very high and it was very competitive to get on the field. The coaches made playing at Malvern very similar to playing in Division 1,” said Kennedy.

For years, Malvern’s lacrosse program has sent players to the college ranks, where they have had immense success. Players like Matt Mackrides ‘08 and Matt Dolente ‘07 both saw immense success in college, and have even gone on to play professionally.

Matt Barrett ‘13 started in goal as a freshman at University of Virginia, and Greg Pelton ‘14 is in line to see significant playing time as a freshman at Duke.

At Hopkins, Kennedy backed up All-American Mike Poppleton for his first two seasons, who he says helped him to elevate his game.

“Every guy you’re going against in practice and in games is very skilled, and I needed to prepare more than I ever have to be successful,” said Kennedy.

Kennedy won 29 of 55 faceoffs his freshman year as the main backup. In 2013, he saw some more action, going 37 for 68. After Poppleton’s graduation in 2013, Kennedy took over at the faceoff X for the Blue Jays.

In the first game of the season in 2014, Kennedy exploded, going 18 of 22 against Ohio State as the Blue Jays won in overtime. He continued this success throughout the season, with key games against Syracuse (21 of 25), UMBC (18 of 26), and Towson (16 of 23). For the year, Kennedy finished 191 of 324, good for a 59% winning percentage. Most schools set 50% as the benchmark they want to reach at the faceoff X, a number that Kennedy eclipsed by almost 10%.

It was a great year for Kennedy (he finished with the 14th best win

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percentage in D1), but he did it all while battling injuries throughout the season.

In 2015, with improved health, he has some goals in mind. Aside from the team goal of winning a Big Ten championship, Kennedy hopes to again be one of the top faceoff specialists in college lacrosse.

“I also want to step into a bigger leadership role this year, and help the younger guys adjust so our senior class can leave the program in a position to succeed in the future,” said Kennedy.

Hopkins has a tough schedule this year, with games against Villanova, UNC, Princeton, and Maryland, so Kennedy will be able to compete against some of the other top teams in the country. He will face Maryland’s Second-Team AllAmerican Charlie Raffa and UNC’s Stephen Kelly at the faceoff X. Kennedy is not the only Malvern player who will have an impact on college lacrosse this year. In fact, many Malvern teammates end up playing against each other at the college level. Kennedy describes this as, “definitely different. You don’t think of it much during the game, but we always talk and catch up afterward.

It’s a cool experience.”

Many of the teams that Hopkins plays this year have Malvern graduates on their rosters, such as TJ Hanzsche ‘11 at Navy and Chris Isenberg ‘14 and Tripp Traynor ‘14 at Penn State. Kennedy also plays with two Malvern grads at Hopkins, defenseman Eddie Morris ‘12 and defensive midfielder Joe Carlini ‘13.

While Kennedy is a senior this year and will graduate from Hopkins following the spring season, lacrosse will continue to impact him off the f ield after graduation. “Lacrosse taught me the importance of teamwork to succeed in any situation,” he said. “At Hopkins, we call our team a family, and our willingness to do anything for each other puts us in a position to succeed” 2015 gives Kennedy and the Blue Jays a great opportunity. They have a high-powered offense and a stout defense, and the talent to make a deep run in the postseason.

However, just as every lacrosse game does, it all starts at the faceoff X, and that is right where Drew Kennedy will be. n

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February 2015

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

MEDIA and TechNOLOGY Chris Pratt: the New Indiana Jones Chris Pratt inherits Harrison Ford’s role in the new ‘Indiana Jones’ film Eric McLaughlin ‘18 CONTRIBUTOR hris Pratt has become a famous actor over the past year.

He shined as Star-Lord in the movie, “Guardians of the Galaxy” where he was a comedic but courageous super hero. Pratt has also been in the television show “Parks and Recreation” where he also displays his funny and dry sense of humor.

Harrison Ford made the Indiana Jones series famous in the first movie ‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ in 1981. The movie was nominated for nine Academy Awards and made many fans want to get more of it. There has since been three sequels, receiving mixed receptions by Indiana Jones fans.

Ford seemed to be a perfect Indiana Jones. He was smart, courageous, and strong and he looked like he would be capable of doing the incredible actions of Dr. Jones. Now, Ford has aged and cannot believably play the action hero.

Pratt, similar to what Ford used to be, will be smart, courageous, and strong as the new “Indy”.

Patrick Keenan ‘18, a huge Indiana Jones fan, thinks that Pratt will do a good job in his new role. “He was really good in Guardians of the Galaxy and is also a funny actor,” said Keenan.

Pratt is expected to also throw in some of his humor to the new role. This will be another important facet to Indiana Jones and will possibly add a change in the way he acts.

There are very high expectations for Pratt and the newest Indiana Jones film, and many are expecting it to be a huge success. According to Keenan, “If Pratt shows the same Indiana Jones that we know and love, it will be a great movie.” n

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The BFC Music Review A monthly review of new artists or bands who are making a splash in the music scene.

This month’s feature: Rap. Desmond Papariello ‘18, Colin Price ‘18 CONTRIBUTORS Song to Watch: The Blacker the Berry - Kendrick Lamar In Kendrick’s latest song, he takes a hit on racial injustice. Kendrick turns up the intensity calling out racists with black stereotypes. With this, he makes sure everyone knows he’s proud to be who he is. With wicked rhymes, he proves his point. Kendrick even seems to fire shots at police officers with lines like, “I can tell because you're in love with that Desert Eagle.” He continues to call himself a hypocrite throughout his song. He confesses to killing a black man but also crying about Trayvon Martin.

Album We Love: Forest Hills Drive - J.Cole (2014) 2014 Forest Hill Drive is J.Cole’s most personal album yet. In J.Cole’s last albums he showed he can make commercial rap songs, but on this album he really dug deep within himself. He tells stories of him growing up at 2014 Forest Hills Drive, which was the address of his family’s house in North Carolina. He recently bought the house so that his family can live there and find their feet like he once did in the music business. The album tells how he moved from North Carolina to New York to pursue his dreams of making it in the music business. The album includes piano melodies, and you can really hear the lyrical ability of him. It is a great album that deserves a listen. Here are some more songs to check out: No Role Modelz, GOMD, Love Yourz and A Tale of Two Citiez. n

HoloLens promises new horizons in tech-aided visualization Newest wearable gadget makes waves Matt Heisler ‘16 CONTRIBUTOR n a commercial for the The THEINQUIRER.NET HoloLens, Microsoft’s headmounted holographic computer, the announcer asks, “What if we can blend the digital world with your actual world?”

This concept is what sets the HoloLens apart from other headsets, such as the now defunct Google Glass, which essentially was just a smartphone disguised as glasses, and the Oculus Rift, which is a digital gaming device.

So, just what is Microsoft’s new HoloLens? The HoloLens is a completely self-contained unit, which means there are no cables or wires nor need for a computer or other device to interact with it. It is powered by Windows 10, the newest Microsoft operating system. The glasses have a built-in CPU and GPU, but most impressively, they also have the first of its kind HPU, holographic processing unit.

This wearable computer is more powerful than a laptop but doesn’t overheat thanks to vents built into the side of the glasses, which vent the warm air out.

The holographic images are not actually projected into the room, but onto the goggles, so only those wearing the goggles will be able to see the images.

Similar to the Xbox Kinect, the HoloLens has an interface with gestures, but it also has voice and gaze interfaces, where sensors can track where you are looking and adjust the display. Because the HoloLens will have no keyboard, the voice and gesture controls must work perfectly before bringing it to the marketplace, or it will be a big flop.

NASA has been one of the early supporters of this project and plans on using it as “hands-on” training for its space explorers. Several members of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory moved to Redmond, WA, Microsoft’s headquarters, to build a Mars simulation using the HoloLens. But, perhaps the first app Microsoft will launch with the new headset is, Minecraft. Microsoft paid billions of dollars to acquire Minecraft in September and must have had this application in mind. The only thing Microsoft has not revealed about the HoloLens is how much it will cost.

Microsoft has promised its HoloLens will provide new ways to visualize work, share ideas, and immerse yourself in play, but to do so you will be required to wear a computer weighing about the same as a bike helmet on your face. However cool this idea seems, price, comfort level, and a flawless operating system will ultimately decide if the HoloLens will be a success.n

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> 76ERS, 7 Canaan who can assimilate into his new role. This will result in even a more terrible record by the end of the year. But, since they were not going to try to make the playoffs anyway, their chances in getting a higher draft pick are raised. By raising the white flag and surrendering this season, he has allowed for three potential high draft picks that will rebuild the franchise.

The McDaniels trade is a more complex to understand. He has shown potential that he can shoot and has talent to play the shooting guard position. This deal dealt with money. He is under a strict one year contract that is up at the end of the season. By showing his talent to other teams, it will be hard to resign him in the rigorous world that is free agency. While also being outplayed at the current moment, it made sense to trade him for whatever we can get.

These moves are amazing for the 76ers organization. It has the ability to recreate the team with potential high draft picks. This involves much risk, but with great risk, there is great reward. n

50 Shades of Grey leaves audiences polarized.

Audiences exit theaters either offended or laughing, but nothing in between.

Kieran Sweeney the film perfect for die-hard fans. Director Sam Taylor-Johnson was said REPORTER to have seen the film at least a hundred times before she felt s it offensive? Yes. Is it weird that I saw this movie at all? it was the best it could be.

Probably. 50 Shades of Grey is exactly what its makers said Dakota Johnson was the biggest surprise, bringing a The it was going to be. The film has very few surprises, a thin hilariously awkward girl who actually had some depth. soundtrack plot, and dreadful sex scenes.

Unfortunately, her counterpart Christian Grey ( Jamie far surpasses 50 Shades‘s controversial subject matter is what I found most Dornan) did a not so stellar job of hiding his Irish accent. troubling. Said to be a feminist film, the movie seemed quite Although it may be argued that the character himself is emothe film in sexist in my eyes. Ana Steele (Dakota Johnson) is completely tionless, Dornan’s performance seemed a little too stiff. sex appeal, naked for a whopping third of the film, while Christian Grey The soundtrack to the film was additionally commendable. style, and (Jamie Dornan) is only shirtless. Finally, without spoiling the It far surpasses the film in sex appeal, style, and excitement. excitement. film’s ending, Grey does some things that are incredibly offensive With modern hits as well as classics from back in the day, the to women. It was despicable to watch, and it made the overall soundtrack lifts the film. message of the film unclear.

Overall, 50 Shades of Grey is a film that attempts to At the same time, the film was somewhat entertaining in aspects other than arouse, but ends up coming across as flaccid. the actual sex. The crew obviously worked incredibly hard to get the details of Grade: C+ n

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THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

February 2015

11

NEWS > MARCH FOR LIFE, 1

of moving and inspirational speeches, for engagement in prayer before the the march began. start of the march. “I thought it was The streets of Washington D.C perfect to start the day with mass were f looded with people from down there in a prayerful manner around the country. People of differwhich demonstrated the tone and ent race, religion, and culture came importance of the day,” said Haynie. together for a singular goal, to stop The Mass was a grand scene with abortion. dozens of seminarians aiding in the It was evident that people had ceremony. The mass was said by the different ways of handling the situArchbishop of Philadelphia, Charles ation. A group of priests were dancChaput. ing in the streets singing while others “Many of you gathered today were displaying graphic images in have made sacrifices hopes to sway indito be here and partake viduals. Others in the “The joy on in this march and it streets were chantpeople’s faces is important we carry ing and passionately and how out our actions with protesting the cause, decency for all human one man even dressed engaged they life,” said Chaput up l i k e B e nja m i n truly were really A f ter t he mass Franklin. jumped out at was over, the students The main feeling, me. I knew the got bac k on t hei r however, was unity. day was already respective buses and The passionate marcha success.” ate while traveling ers seemed happy to through Chinatown know that they could -Mr. Haynie to the National Mall. express their strong Now that ever yone beliefs while being had woken up a bit the accepted by the people excitement was even more noticeable. around them and others were just “The joy on people’s faces and happy they could join in the cause. how engaged they truly were really Malvern students were exposed jumped out at me. I knew the day was to all of this and, according to many, already a success,” said Haynie. it was very impactful.

The students gathered on the As a few Malvern students rallarge grass area and listened to pro- lied at the Supreme Court, they had life activists and people affected by a hard time finding the group marked abortion. After more than 45 minutes by the blue Malvern flag. It was nearly

impossible to move in the now vacuum-packed streets and it was time for the bus to leave.

When they f inally found the group, a surprise was in store for the students expecting to get right back on their buses and make the trek back to Malvern’s campus after a stressful search for their fellow Malvernians in the street. One of the buses had broken down and was unable to drive back to the school. Another bus had to be sent from Pennsylvania to pick the remaining students up.

As the students were waiting for this other bus, they spent some time exploring the National Air and Space Museum. After an hour or so observing the aircrafts, the second bus arrived to take the students home.

Haynie called the day a great success, despite the bus problems. “I hope that they [the students] realized the importance of each and every human life and that every life is sacred from conception to natural death whether you have a disability or an impairment. Every life has dignity,” said Haynie “When we as a school come together, with people from all over the country, we can make things happen,” said Haynie. n Learn about the game students played on the long ride home at The Friar’s Lantern. www.mpfriarslantern.org

>WRESTLING, 1 The team practiced daily throughout the season, in what is known as “a two-hour grind,” according to Lautar.

“We pushed the kids throughout the season in terms of tournaments, and tried to get good matches so when it came down to the season they were ready to go,” said Lautar. He said that the team habitually trained in order to peak when it counted most, at the Inter-Ac championships.

Charlie Arena ‘15, co-captain of the team, described the team as “the hardest working group of guys in the gym, pushing themselves every day to get better. That was the biggest contributor to winning the Inter-Ac.” Arena described Coach Lautar as a huge support and influence. “Whenever I needed help on or off the mat he has been there as an influential figure in my life,” he said.

Senior co-captain Patrick Devine said, "The most important thing Nate taught me is how to always give 100% effort in everything I do. This mentality of always

wanting to be the best has really affected the way I look at both academics and athletics. I’m grateful to have a coach like Nate to help me along the way."

Lautar was caught by surprise when he heard the news about being named Coach of the Year. “They didn’t even make an announcement so I had no clue until I got home,” he said. “I got a text message from the guy running the tournament who called and said, ‘Hey how do you want your name spelled on a Coach of the Year award.”

Lautar noted that award is not just his, but shows the team’s effort as a whole.

After taking the Inter-Ac championship, the team went on to States where they placed second.

“We just have to to get back in the gym and work even harder to place first at nationals,” said Arena. “I know we have talent as a team to do it, and we just have to work for it.” n

>ISIS, 6 Some argue that sending US bombers is enough, that those closer to the ISIS threat should take the lead on the ground. However, our military is better supplied financially than the next eight largest militaries combined. We have the means, but apparently not the will.

Perhaps the worst part of this whole ISIS fiasco is that we created the political vacuum that allowed for ISIS to rise to power. After the tragedy of 9-11, in a fit of reactionary and misguided anger, we marched into a nation that had little to no blame in the barbaric acts in which we were attempting to do justice for. We hastily depart a decade later, leaving behind a shanty of a government which would soon be non-existent.

Contributing heavily to the misinformation is the current state of the free press. Instead of supplying the general public with necessary information about world news and current events, we are consistently spoon-fed a diet of mindless blather. News is now a profit-concerned form of entertainment. We are given what we want, but not what we need.

We were founded on the principles of the universal rights of all mankind to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. All mankind includes those in the Middle East. Forget liberty and happiness, the innocents under the bloody reign of ISIS have been deprived of the most basic right, that of life.

We talk a big game. Defenders of Freedom, City on a Hill, One Nation Under God. But lately, we have not backed it up.

ISIS is the most obviously and inherently evil force since the Third Reich. Any person with common sense sees that we have the ability and therefore obligation to defend those whose human rights are being trampled on. If we can’t even all get behind that, what can we agree on? n

Reporters’ Meetings every Monday & Friday at 7:45 AM

New reporters always welcome!

Email Jack Marchesani (jmarchesani50@malvernprep.org) to get involved.

War on ISIS Taking New Shape We were told we would never go back. That same man is now asking Congress to go back.

Jack McClatchy ‘17 REPORTER he place is Iraq. After withdrawing in 2010, President Barack Obama triumphed in what was considered one of the greater aspects of his legacy.

Now, however, the country is in ruins after a sectarian government led to sectarian violence, and a terror group spilling over from Syria has now taken a large portion of land in Iraq, including Mosul, Iraq’s second largest city.

This terror group, known as ISIS, ISIL, Daesh and other names, is known for its extreme acts of terror against Christians and Kurds, most recently executing 21 Egyptian Coptic Christians in Libya in a video released on 15 February.

The rapid expansion and cruelty of this group has caused President Obama to go to Congress to authorize military force against the group, despite the fact that the United States has been launching air strikes against the group since the summer.

Congress, which is now controlled by the Republicans, have been posturing against the President’s plan, saying it has not gone far enough to combat the terror group.

“I don’t think our response is strong enough,” said Mrs. Harriet Lappas, AP US Government teacher, “When you look at how much more our European allies have done [to fight ISIS] compared to us, you have to wonder what are we doing?”

“Obviously ISIS is something that needs to be stamped out.” Mr. Andrew Burke, Global Perspectives and US History teacher, said, “And coalition air strikes have been effective in stopping their spread, and halting them on the ground.”

“It will certainly not be enough to defeat them.” Burke continued, “The question then becomes, do we send in ground troops to defeat them, or rely on a partner to do it for us?”

In the eyes of President Obama, this partner might be various Kurdish militias in Northern Iraq who have claimed victory after victory against the terror group. However, the Kurds ask for their own independent nation, which they have been asking for decades.

"I think Iraq's a mess," Burke said, "And in an ideal world, they (the Kurds

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Trial for Marathon Bomber hits speed bumps Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, one of the bombers in the Boston Marathon, is awaiting his day in court.

Jack McClatchy ‘17 REPORTER he long-awaited trial has been delayed further, as the defense team for Dzhokhar Tsarnaev is pleading for the trial not to occur in Boston on 19 February, where finding an impartial jury may prove impossible.

“They [the defense team] have tried three times before to have the trial moved to a different state,” Ms. Zbrzeznj, Global Perspectives teacher and co-moderator of the Mock Trial team, said. “It’s tough because anyone in a jury is not supposed to be biased towards a case, and Boston was really traumatized by the attack.”

The Justice Department has come under fire because of their decision to put him in a civilian trial. Critics say that since Tsarnaev is not an American citizen, he should not have a jury trial, and instead be tried before a military tribunal like other terrorists in the past.

“I believe that since this happened in America, giving him a trial by jury is fair.” Zbrzeznj continued, “However, jury selection will still be hard, because of how much attention the bombing got.”

“I think everyone deserves a fair trial, regardless of their citizenship. Fair is fair,” said Father Chris Drennan. “It’ll be hard finding an impartial jury, but I think it’s possible. There are people who don’t follow the news everyday, so it can’t be impossible.”

When the case does go to trial, the Justice Department has stated that they will pursue the death penalty for Tsarnaev, which has critics of the death penalty up in arms.

“I really don’t think he should get the death penalty.” Daniel Colameco, son to AP US History Mr. Colameco and who has run the Marathon three times including 2013, said. “I don’t think anyone deserves the death penalty.

There’s just no point to it in my view.”

Colameco, who had already crossed the finish line when the bomb went off, said it was hard to follow the story for him.

“I don’t think the word traumatized applies here,” he said, “But I was just sad because of it. The marathon is supposed to be this big achievement for people, but it turned into something horrible.”

Since jury selection was still ongoing when the defense team appealed to

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>WAR ON ISIS, 11 and other Iraqis) would work together in some sort of a federal system. But I don't know if that's realistic, and I don't think the Kurds would accept anything less than independence."

The Kurds, who have been attacked by ISIS in Iraq, have rallied behind the Kurdish militias of the Peshmerga and PKK to take the fight to ISIS, recently liberating the Mosul Dam and the town of Kobani.

Students in Mr. Burke’s classes are “...appalled by these atrocities, and want to do more to combat ISIS,” according to Burke. However, they are reluctant to see US ground troops go into Iraq to directly fight the group.

This recent wave of Middle Eastern unrest has not been contained to the Arab World, however.

In January, the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo was attacked by terrorists because of their publications mocking the Prophet Muhammad, killing 10 and wounding 11.

This attack launched a discussion on free speech in regards to religion, leading Pope Francis to say that one cannot insult his mother without expecting a punch to the face.

The Pope later clarified his comments. "In theory we can say a violent reaction to an offense or provocation isn't a good thing ... In theory we can say that we have the freedom to express ourselves. But we are human.

And there is prudence, which is a virtue of human coexistence."

“I love the way he [the Pope] is so candid,” Mr. DiDomenico, Moral Theology teacher, said, “All he’s saying is ‘Should I expect a reaction from you?’ He’s not justifying the reaction, he’s just saying expect a reaction.”

“I totally agree with him.”

DiDomenico said, “Just because we have free speech, we shouldn’t abuse it. The Pope’s not saying to take it away, just not to abuse it.”

Mrs. Lappas, while respecting the Pope’s opinion, has differing thoughts. “I think that free speech is free speech, and going back to Supreme Court cases in the ‘20s and ‘30s, free speech isn’t always hearing what you want to hear.”

This war with ISIS is rapidly evolving, with the attacks against Charlie Hebdo showing this conflict can hit close to home. “The President doesn’t have many good options here,” Burke said, “But, you also can’t kill an idea with a gun. You also have to ask why is this ideology so attractive to people.” n

Valyo: “There’s No Secret Formula” to Snow Days The process of cancelling school due to snow revolves around one man, whom some call “The Trap” - and Malvern’s Maintenance team.

Tommy Pero ‘17 ARTS EDITOR “I wake up, and I hear there’s a snow day, then I go back to sleep. It’s such a good feeling,” said Aaron Shirker ‘17. Like Shirker, many other Malvern students are excited and happy to wake up and realize that school has been cancelled or delayed.

While it is often unpredictable to know when school will be affected by the snow, there is a definite process that is followed.

According to Assistant Head of School Mr. Steve Valyo, who has been heading the process for the past two years, the process begins at 4:30 AM or earlier, when he wakes up and checks the top six school districts that Malvern students belong to. These include West Chester, Great Valley, Downingtown, Marple Newtown, Phoenixville, and Tredyffrin/Easttown.

Valyo considers these districts the main source when deciding to start late, cancel school, or have a normal day.

It generally will take more than one these schools to be closed or have a delay for Malvern to have one. “Last week even though Marple was closed, the other top four were not. That’s why we were still in,” said Valyo.

The next step, assuming the districts are mostly open, is ensuring Malvern’s campus is safe. According to Valyo, that process is headed by Director of Maintenance Mr. Bruce Smith.

Smith says he, along with the rest of his team, wakes up at 4:00 AM and gets to Malvern as soon as possible. They then start at the bus drop off and at the parent drop off and work their way into the center of campus, clearing snow and ice.

“If there’s not going to be a delay,” Smith said, “8:00 AM is our deadline.”

Smith and his team of six others use three John Deere snowblowers and two tractors with plows for heavier snow. If the snow is light, they will use leaf blowers to blow the snow off the pathways and Ring Road.

Smith said, “If the campus is really bad, then I’ll report to him (Valyo)

>NCAA, 5 Charlton ‘17 says he did not know of this requirement before he committed.

“After I committed I was informed that I had to take a certain amount of these core classes,” said Charlton.

“I was not concerned with this rule, however,” said Charlton. “As a student at Malvern I am sure I will have no problem completing the requirement.”

Mr. Pison, Mr. Rogai, and Ms. Plows are hoping that a Journalism and Media class proposed for next year will be approved by the NCAA as a core course.

“Because Literature and Film will no longer be an approved course, we were looking for some possible options to replace it,” said Rogai. “In September, Ms. Plows raised the possibility of having this course, and we think that this class with this new schedule will be a perfect fit and an opportunity to teach and develop writing skills and techniques.”

Rogai said they are looking into a variety of other classes to get approved.

Whether or not they are approved may affect student interest in taking these new courses.

A Boston Globe article last year detailed that every year the NCAA reviews qualifying information from about 85,000 high school juniors and seniors who want to play at the top college level. On average 10.5% of incoming college freshmen are rejected annually for Division I play because they don’t meet academic standards, according to the NCAA.n

>BOSTON, 11 have the case moved for a third time, it is hard to determine when exactly the trial will begin. What is known, however, is the defense’s arguments on behalf of Tsarnaev.

“The defense has said they are pitting the blame on his brother.” Ms. Zbzreznj said, “And he’s not here to say what role he really had. And since we don’t know what the roles were, it is hard to pursue the death penalty not knowing everything.”

“He has not shown remorse, and that should play a large role.” Zbzreznj said, “But I’m a Catholic, and we can’t just blindly go for the death penalty.”

“It was definitely a tragic event,” said Colameco, “Where a hatred and culture of of fundamentalism and extremism erupted. However, the way in which our society sees everything in black and white is dangerous, because

we forget our moral values.”

“There definitely needs to be some outreach to the Islamic World,” Fr. Drennan said, “We need to let them, and especially the hard-liners, that we are not out to get them, but that we are supportive of their basic, non-radicalized views of life.”

“2013 was a bit of an odd year leading up to the marathon.” Colameco said, “The year before, it was near ninety degrees, and people had medical problems running the marathon. So, for 2013, the medical capacities were tripled.”

“I don’t want to think about how the marathon would’ve played out without this buff to the medical capacity.” n

T. PERO

on what my thoughts are, but generally we follow whatever West Chester and Great Valley and Tredyffrin do.”

If the campus cannot be prepared on time, then Valyo will call in to KYW to impart the delay or cancellation of school.

Valyo said he prefers to send out a text message to Malvern’s text messaging list first, by 5:15 AM. What about early dismissals? “Early dismissals (are) dictated also by the school districts,” Valyo said. “They’ll call us and say ‘hey, look, we’re coming to get the kids.’” The drivers in each district with an early dismissal will also be allowed to leave at the same time as the buses from their district, according to Valyo.

In the event of a snow day, the eight-day rotation continues as it is listed on the Malvern calendar, according to Valyo. “What we’re doing is logging the day that’s been impacted the most, and we’ll make that particular day up,” said Valyo.

Valyo said that the day that misses the most will have an added extra day on days that are marked blank on the calendar. February 18 and March 23 are upcoming ‘blank’ days on the Malvern calendar.

Malvern had 6 full snow days and 12 two hour delays last year. This amount of delays caused the entire final exam process to be amended so that the lost days could be made up.

Is Mr. Valyo more cautious when calling snow days this year because of last year’s weather?

“Nah,” said Valyo.

The pandemonium and uncertainty of whether or not snow days will occur prompted some Malvern students to tweet at Head of School Mr. Christian Talbot, asking for a call. Talbot responded by tweeting that Mr. Valyo, whom he referred to as “The Trap” makes the calls. He encouraged the students to lobby Mr. Valyo to get on Twitter.

When shown the tweet, Valyo said with a laugh, “They want me to get a Twitter account so they can harass me? Well, maybe I’ll take that under consideration.”

Valyo did later create a Twitter account and announced in a tweet, "'The Trap' has arrived." You can ask him all your snow related questions by tweeting @srvmalvern. n

PARTING PERSPECTIVES