The Blackfriar Chronicle - May 2014

Closing Thoughts from the 2013-2014 Editors-in-Chief Our senior leaders lament the last sprinkled donut, and offer some wisdom for the underclassmen.

Farewell to “Our Most Beloved Teachers” This year, retirement means farewells to eight of our favorite faculty and staff. Our reporters profiled all of them. Learn about their memories and hopes for the future.

Girls at the guy’s school?

Guys at the girl’s school?

Students from Malvern Prep and Villa Maria swap schools for a day of perspective.

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BLACKFRIAR Chronicle

The

www.mpfriarslantern.COM

MAY 2014

VOLUME 14, NUMBER 8

Lacrosse Team Achieves Perfection

Football Showcases Attract College Coaches

Varsity lacrosse goes 24-0, wins Inter-Ac Invitational

Sean Christman ‘17 Sports Editor f you want to play college football, you might have to set an early alarm clock. That’s what Malvern players have been doing recently, as college coaches have been coming from all over to watch them. Before school, rising seniors and select underclassmen go out onto Malvern’s turf and participate in drills in order to showcase their skills.

Newly hired football head coach Aaron Brady says that the school has been visited by 78 college coaches since April 22. “I would have liked to reach 100 but the Division III schools do not typically

The Friar football players have been passing, running, and kicking in the early-morning fog since Coach Brady’s arrival

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Which schools have visited Friar Football this spring?

Page 10 R. Colameco / Flickr

Sean Christman ‘17 Sports Editor t was quite the season for the members of this year’s varsity lacrosse team. The Friars went 24-0 on the season, including an Inter-Ac Title and a championship at the Inter-Ac Invitational. After being ranked the #19 team in the country (according to Inside Lacrosse), they will finish at #3 overall, behind Maryland powerhouse Boys Latin and Indiana school Culver Academy.

The road to an undefeated season was not an easy one. The team had to overcome seven one goal games, including overtime wins against Avon Grove, Episcopal, and Haverford.

The Friars finished 10-0 in league play and won 11 out of conference games during the regular season.

Furthermore, the out of conference schedule was extremely difficult.

The first two games of the season were against Loyola Blakefield (MD) and St. Mary’s (MD). They also had to take down Salesianum, La Salle, and Saint Augustine Prep. The season all culminated in a one goal game at Cabrini College. In a back and forth game, the Friars were able to defeat

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Haverford 10-9, for the third time he made against Haverford in the that season.

Inter-Ac Invitational Championship The senior-laden team was led Game earned him MVP Honors. by many veteran players, as well O f fensively, sen ior Spa rky as a few newcomers. Greg Pelton, Hilburn provided veteran leadership who was named an Under Armour to the attack unit, scoring goals, All American, had a dishing out assists, shutdown season playand initiating dodges.

The road to ing both close defense Hilburn hustled all over an undefeated the field and played an and long-stick middie. season was not Pelton was ranked as integral role in the Friar an easy one. the #4 senior in the offense. He was joined country going in to the by sophomores Adam year, and certainly lived up to expecGoldner and Kyle Anderson. Goldner tations. Fellow senior Ryder Harkins had many clutch performances this and junior Mike Mulqueen anchored year, including the game winner the rest of the starting defense, who against Avon Grove. Goldner has one held opponents to very few scoring of the faster shots on the team, and opportunities. Senior Chris Isenberg scored an unbelievable goal from his was unstoppable at the long-stick back in the Inter-Ac Championship midfield position, often covering the Game. Anderson, a transfer from opponents’ top midfielder.

Downingtown West, quickly made an Joining the defenders was goalie impact in his first year at Malvern, Carson Cocco. Cocco had been in the leading the team in points. shadows of Malvern alumni Matt The midfield was led offensively Barrett, who is now the starting goalby three seniors; Conor Glancy, Kevin tender at the University of Virginia.

McGeary, and Tripp Traynor. Glancy Cocco stepped in to the vacant spot made the switch from attack to midand earned the starting job, and field for this season. The short-stick finished the year victoriously. Cocco defensive midfield unit was led by > PAGE 12 was strong all year, but the ten saves

recruit in the spring,” said Brady.

For the players, it is an exciting opportunity. “I love the showcases,” said junior Mike McCarthy, “We get a chance to prove ourselves in front of a number of college coaches as well as meet with those coaches after the conclusion of the showcase.”

Junior quarterback Alex Hornibrook agreed. “I think it’s great to see our team get more exposure than we have in the past,” said Hornibrook.

These coaching visits are not brand new to Malvern. “We have had similar showcases for other sports, like soccer and basketball,” said Athletic D i r e c t or K u r t R uc h .

“This is the first time we have had one for football.

It was orchestrated by Coach Brady using his > PAGE 10

What is Really Happening at the End of May The truth about the changes in finals this year and the thought process behind it.

Jack Marchesani Editor in Chief re we home free? That seems to be the question. By the time the May Issue of the Blackfriar Chronicle is released you’re going to be asking yourself that more and more often. The trees will be in full bloom, the sun will be shining, and homework will be the last thing on your mind. But wait… what’s that? Something is lurking and you can feel it. Mr. Valyo reminded us at every award ceremony as far back as this editor can remember: finals are coming. But this year, they’re going to be a little bit different.

The typical 6 days of mandatory, 2 hour sit down exams are no longer in place at Malvern. In a movement towards major changes in Malvern’s goals, the administration has decided to shift from the typical sit-down exam to a more ‘project-based’ and ‘experiential-learning’ style exam. These exams will What do Friars be conducted for Science, REALLY think of Social Studies, English, and project-based finals? Language, and it will be up

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May 2014

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

EDITORIAL The Final Countdown “It’s too soon, too soon to say goodbye.” A reflection from our graduating Editors in Chief Joe DiSipio ‘14 & Brian Tatlow ‘14 2013-2014 Editors in Chief

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s our final days at Malvern wind down, wisdom has descended upon us.

friars, something we hope next year’s team will continue and improve. Thanks to a summer training session with Natalie DiBlasio, a USA Today reporter, the senior editors learned not only how to report, but how much of an impact words on paper can have. A major mistake on a printed student publication can not only destroy the reputation of the paper, but also has the possibility to ripple down and affect the school community as a whole.

No, not really, we still realize that whatever we say in this column isn’t going to inspire any of you to change or take advantage of some opportuYour days at nity. What we do know, however, is that we Malvern are had a blast here at Malvern. It is a really numbered, so find special place where boys become men and the team, club, or friends become brothers.

We know we sound really sappy, but we don’t care, because it’s the truth.

That’s when we realized this publication means much more than we ever could have imagined.

This paper never belonged to just the two of us, but to all of the seniors who worked so hard to give the paper the recognition it has today. Thanks to managing editor Dan McGlinn, section editors Anthony Abron, Brendan Hallinan, Mike Higgins, Matt Magargee, the support of Ms. Plows, Mr. Kindon, and all the underclassmen, we tried to help the paper flourish as a team.

activity that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even cry.

One of the places where we had some of our best times was here at the BFC. We spent countless hours together as a team, from the 7:30 donut-bribed meetings to the late night editing on Google Drive on the eve that the paper would be sent to press.

Through writing and trying to get others to care about writing, we have a lot of memories. We formed a strong bond trying to do this together and can honestly say some of our best friends are our fellow editors.

This year we challenged ourselves more than we ever had in years past. We just began to delve deeper into the major decisions of the school, and we worked to not only report the news, but gauge the opinion of our fellow

We’re not going to sit here and beg you to try to write next year under the leadership of the new EICs, Jack Marchesani and Matt Lanetti (but if you’re interested, do it!). What we

are trying to say is our Malvern experience was impacted greatly by our involvement in the paper. Go find something that you can make your own and you’ll never regret it. The great Jimmy V once said, “If you laugh, you think, and you cry, that's a full day. That's a heck of a day.” If you do this at Malvern, you’ll have a heck of a four years.

Your days at Malvern are numbered, so find the team, club, or activity that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even cry.

We laughed while having fun with the stories and joking around during early morning meetings. We truly thought when we conducted important interviews and probed into touchy subjects that concerned the school community. And yes, we cried, whether it was due to an inbox full of story reminder emails leading to a late night of editing, or when the last sprinkled donut would be taken before you got one.

The time in the newspaper office is much more than a simple activity and title on a college application is worth, yet in the end it truly wasn’t about that. Our time at the BFC was something the two of us wouldn’t trade for anything, for it led to a bond that will last a lifetime. n

A Reality Check on Diversity How realistic is the Diversity Initiative when 90% of the student body reports hearing derogatory comments about racial backgrounds? An expert from the University of Pennsylvania weighs in. from school. We accept who we are, and we call it brotherhood. But how accepting will we be of differences? alvern wishes to increase its diverIn that same survey, 93 percent of stusity from 7.5 percent to 20 percent dents reported hearing insensitive remarks by 2019. I wonder how many of our towards gay, lesbians or bisexuals, and 45 readers knew this, or gave it any serious percent of them reported hearing those thought since the initiative was announced in remarks frequently. Eighty percent of stuthe fall. As a student leader of the Diversity dents said they hear condescending comClub, I have been thinking about this a lot. ments about socio-economic class at school.

Currently, we do not even have half the As for visible diversity, 90 percent of students visible diversity of any of our peers in the say they hear derogatory comments about Inter-Ac. Even with 20 percent we would persons of particular racial or ethnic backstill be trailing the national avergrounds, and 38 percent of them “The student age of independent schools at 30 say “very often” or “frequently.” body is not ready percent.

These are all statistics from our own students on diversity!

The Board of Trustees has or accepting of made a commitment to this plan.

Not only are we similar diversity by any by race and visible diversity In order to attract great students stretch.” too many of the student body out of the limited amount of vis-Anthony Abron ‘14 believes, speaks, and acts in ibly diverse students in the area, a school needs to be accessible ways that demonstrate being not and welcoming to diverse candidates. Not ready for a more diverse community. It’s not only on paper, or in mission statements, but an insurmountable problem, but it’s going to also in practice. take a lot of hard work. According to outgoHowever, our student body is far from ing president of our Diversity Club, Anthony ready for a more diverse community, accordAbron, “The student body is not ready or ing to our recent student survey. accepting of diversity by any stretch.”

How are we doing with the accessible and Ms. A li M ichael of University of welcoming part? We certainly welcome each Pennsylvania’s Center for the Study of Race other. In a survey sent out to the student in Equity in Education offered some advice body recently, 73 percent of students agree for our community. According to Michael, the the Malvern environment is accepting of who way to deal with 90% of the students hearing they are. We know the student community is derogatory comments is to ask them “What 85 percent catholic and 92.5 percent white. does this say about our community? Is this the community we want to create?"

83 percent of the students who answered “Most of the students think that is unacidentified themselves as conservative or “far right,” whereas, only 1.5 percent students ceptable but maybe they think they have to considered themselves “far left.” 60 percent participate in it to fit in,” Michael theorizes.

“Also even though 90% of the students hear of students live within a 11-30 minutes range Justice Bennett ‘16 Chief Investigative Reporter

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it, there may be only a small percentage actually saying it.”

Michael, who is Jewish, emailed that she sometimes feels “alienated by Quaker schools that are welcoming to other religions, but don't honor their traditions. I imagine this could happen at a school that is Christian, but is trying to attract religious diversity.”

She states an example of this is “having prayer in the classroom or at major school events that does not work to incorporate all the religious perspectives of the community or an open ended style/deity.”

“It's important to learn to see Christian privilege if you are a Christian community working to attract people of other religions,” noted Michael.

She states education and training to help the faculty and student body be more racially and culturally proficient is the first step. "The school will also be more attractive to people of color if it seems like people know a thing or two and it's not a hostile atmosphere,” said Michael.

The Diversity Task force indicated that the Diversity Initiative will cost $10M. To make sure we do not spend even more money, we need to pick our battles, but in order.

According to Malvern's mission statement for diversity on the website, the 'foundational text' for characterizing diversity at the school is the passage: "Whatever you did for the least of my brothers and sisters, you did for me." (Matthew 25:40) Perhaps, in order to be truly welcoming, we should start with the recognition that diverse or different does not mean 'least' or 'less than.' n

Tough Lessons from Social Media When you can’t undo a click-send Nick Fizzano ‘15 Contributor here are good and bad things about social media.

The good: connections, talking to your friends, expressing your opinion.

The bad: It’s there forever. No matter what it is, who you are, or when you typed it. It doesn’t go away.

I learned this the hard way back in January before the Wing Bowl. The week leading up to Wing Bowl was a very exciting time. Listening to the seniors express their angst, I got caught up in all the hype. When we were informed that there would be disciplinary actions taken against any students that attended the event, many students became annoyed and “outraged.”

When I got home from school that night, my friend texted me telling me to check Barstool Sports, a well-known blog that many students follow, because they had written a piece about the email Mr. Dougherty sent out regarding Wing Bowl and Malvern.

Immediately I felt the need to let people know how I felt. I

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THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

May 2014

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FRIAR LIFE Not Everyone is Catholic

Malvern Upperclassmen Rave (maybe a little too much) at Prom

Some insights from the other 15%

From the high-pitched “amen” to close out the opening prayer to the constant stops in music, prom proves to remain a high-octane outing in the Malvern experience.

Having a blast at prom 2014 / R. Colameco

when the seniors appeared on Kieran Sweeney ‘15 the ballroom floor to fist pump Reporter n Saturday, May 10, and make the most of their last Malvern’s juniors and dance as high school students. seniors gathered together Unfortunately, the DJs and at Drexelbrook Banquet Hall for chaperones disapproved of the a fun-filled and eventful prom. energy level brought to the floor It is nearing the end of the as they feared for student safety.

2013-14 school year, and the They eventually had to stop the prom season has music to tell students officially come and to calm down.

“It was a great passed. The prom“It was a really way to send off posals were ramfun night, but I wish the seniors, and pant, the d rama the music didn’t keep both classes had was tense, and the stopping,” said senior an awesome Malvern men were Jake Reber. “Other night.” rushed to get their than that, it was a -Jack Marchesani ‘15 t u xe d o s fo r t he great way to spend highly-anticipated my last da nce at gathering.

Malvern.”

The night began with an It appears that the senopening prayer from Fr. Flynn, iors weren’t the only ones with this opinion. “I really had a after which someone’s date great time at prom,” said Jack screamed “amen” exuberantly.

What proved to be the most Marchesani ‘15. “It was a great interesting aspect of the event, way to send off the seniors, and however, was the dancing. No both classes had an awesome sooner had the lights dimmed night.”

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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

Prom could not have been such a success without the hard work of the prom committee and its leaders, Ms. Zbrzeznj and Dr. Fry. The committee, “decided how the room would be set up, what was on the menu, and which songs to play throughout the duration of the dance,” said committee member Pat Coffey ‘15.

As for food, there was a great variety provided. Some of the options included roast beef, grilled chicken, pasta with alfredo sauce, mashed potatoes, and a vegetable medley. Many enjoyed the food and found it started the evening off right.

The committee provided its student body with great food, upbeat music, and an organized table layout. With the help of the committee as well as the spirit of the students, the prom will once again be remembered as a one of the highlights of the Malvern experience. n Editors in Chief Matthew Lanetti ‘15 Jack Marchesani ‘15 Managing Editors Print: Michael McHugh ‘15 Online: Chris Bunn ‘16 Investigative Reporter Justice Bennett ‘16 Section Editors Friar Life OPEN

Arts Andrew Stetser ‘15

Sports Sean Christman ‘17 Patrick Ferraiolo ‘17

Media & Technology Michael McCarthy ‘15 News Jake Sorensen ‘15

Editorial Board Contributors To be announced in Fall 2014

Anthony Abron ‘14 Senior Editor early every Monday, the students of Malvern P rep gather in Our Lady of Good Counsel Chapel to get a spiritual message for the week. This is to be expected at a Catholic school. However, not all of our brothers are Catholic, and Malvern is also an independent school. On the Malvern webpage, it's says that only 85% of students at Malvern are Catholic.

Who are the other 15% of students - nearly 100 members of our student community?

O n the re cent Student Diversity Survey, members of our student community also identified as Protestant, Buddhist, Hindu, Jewish, Muslim, Atheist, Agnostic, other Christian denominations, and having no religious beliefs. The non-Catholic brotherhood of Malvern includes students such as Justice Bennett ‘16, Hadid Thomas ‘14, and Andrew Freed ‘14.

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Over 20% of our students report hearing students make disparaging remarks about persons of particular religious backgrounds frequently or very often.

Do non-Catholic students have an equal voice on Malvern’s campus? "I do not think we have an equal representation on campus. And I do not think we should, as it is a Catholic institution,” said Freed, who is a member of the United Church of Christ. “But we do have a voice, and I'm satisfied with our representation as it is."

Sophomore Justice Bennett, an atheist, sees things a little differently. "I would say that everything at Malvern is pretty much taught or whatever it may be with the expectation that everyone is Catholic,” said Bennett.

“I think it may be forgotten that there are 15% of the school who isn't Catholic, and that the mentality should change, especially in the wake of the diversity initiative."

There are substantive differences in beliefs between their religions and the principles of the Catholic Church. On occasion, teachers and fellow Malvern students say or do things that are counter to the beliefs of nonCatholic students.

“It's stuff that they say that I clearly don't believe in because it's two different faiths. I don't think it comes from disrespect,

Administration Addresses Student Anti-Semitic Remarks Head of School Mr. Christian Talbot and President Fr. James Flynn sent an email to the Malvern community of parents on Wednesday, May 28, recognizing and denouncing Anti-Semitic remarks made by Malvern students.

On at least three separate occasions, Haverford students were the subject of these remarks.

“These comments are antithetical to our Augustinian, Catholic values. They express neither Truth, nor Unity, nor Love. Indeed, these comments express the opposite of our Augustinian values,” wrote Talbot in the email, also signed by Fr. Flynn.

Talbot took the issue “personally,” as his wife is Jewish.

He also noted that a member of the Malvern faculty is Jewish.

These comments were made back in August to a campus visitor from Haverford, on social media after a lacrosse game, and during the Inter-Ac Lacrosse Championships.

There was a call to action for the parents to talk with their sons about the incidents.

Talbot stated that there will be follow-up in grade-level awards assemblies this week.

“We know that young men will say and do thoughtless things. It is our responsibility as adults to intervene when we see these errors in judgment,” Talbot wrote. n J. Bennett, J. Marchesani just from thinking d i ffer ent things,” said senior Hadid Thomas, who is Muslim. “When I have to hear it I just take what I can from the message because it's more about the syntax not the whole belief point."

“It’s stuff that they say that I clearly don’t believe in because it’s two different faiths. I don’t think it comes from disrespect just from thinking different things.”

-Hadid Thomas ‘14

Freed provided an example.

"I do not believe in transubstantiation. So at every Eucharist the Friars are doing something against what I believe. But I respect what they believe and > PAGE 14

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May 2014

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

FRIAR LIFE Senior Class Successfully Coordinates ‘Mock Massive Chess Tournament takes Malvern Wing Bowl’ Prank The seniors coordinated a ‘mock wing bowl’ as their senior prank, paying tribute to their last day of classes.

With Malvern’s increasing interest in chess, Mr. Rogai set up a 47 competitor chess tournament to determine Malvern’s Friar Chess Champion.

Underclassmen Enjoy a game of chess / M. Lanetti

CHRIS ISENBERG ‘14 MC-ING THE SENIOR PRANK/ J. Marchesani

Jack Marchesani ‘15 Editor in Chief s students headed towards the cafeteria on Thursday, May 8 for a typical lunch, many found themselves in the midst of an unexpected and seemingly unplanned event due to the tension in the air and a crowd of students in the quad. Many claimed to have smelled wings and even seen a set up in the Duffy Center prior to the actual event.

Beginning at the start of 6th period lunch, students and faculty began congregating around the center of campus.

Heads popped out of windows of Carney, ignoring class and focusing on what was to come.

Seniors walked across the campus, only to be met by suspicious looks from Mr. Dougherty and Mr. Poce, who had taken a post outside of Stewart Hall to try and deter any prank-related activities.

As the clock ticked on the possible senior prank, disappointment, not suspense, grew.

Many began to believe nothing was happening. Mr. Dougherty even began dismissing students back to lunch or class, only to have the students shout at him for ironically walking on the grass.

Suddenly, there was sound.

Across campus, streaming from the O’Neill center, a group of seniors blowing vuvuzela horns and holding mock protest signs saying things such as "Wings do evil things," and "Talbot 3:16," ran out onto the quad. The seniors ran down to the bottom of campus by the St. Augustine statue.

Meanwhile, angry teachers made threats to underclassmen regarding participation in the whatever was to occur. As the seniors ran around campus screaming “USA,” teachers and students began to believe that this was all there was to it. Many

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were disappointed. while the student body crowded "It's a distraction!" somearound the tables. one shouted. Heads turned. As Mr. Dougherty and Mr. Algeo many (including the faculty and stood amongst the students to Mr. Dougherty) focused on the make sure things didn’t get too seniors running in the front of out of hand. campus , the seniors leading the About 10 speedos and 150 wings later, we had a winner. prank were setting up tables Alex “ Tutti” Galantino had and chairs in front of the Duffy eaten 20 wings. Galantino, a Center. grown man and rugby player, Just as they had run down in the other direction, the students was only 343 wings short of the headed up towards the quad. record set at the WMMR Wing It had become clear to many Bowl by champion competitive eater Molly Schuyler, a petite that those who ran down to the woman about half bottom of campus “I’ve never felt were actually picking Tutti’s size. so empowered up wings delivered “There was a minthe minute I from PJ Whelihans. ute there we didn’t pulled those Mea nwh i le, Nick think it was going to greasy, warm, Wells and others had happen,” said senior delicious wings pulled out tables, Zach Whitlock, who out of the helped Wells with folding chairs, and a trunk.” set-up. “We had to microphone plugged -Zach Whitlock ‘14 into an outlet in the march down and get Duffy Center. the wings. Me and classmate of mine “As you can see the idea was for a wingbowl went to the car. I’ve never felt so for a senior prank, and we did empowered the minute I pulled that,” said Nick Wells. “There those greasy, warm, delicious were a lot of moving parts. We wings out of the trunk. Then it had a Facebook group about a was just a matter of getting back week ago to start signing people there, avoiding Doc and Poce, up. Security guards. The swim and getting into a speedo.” team for...what they do best. We Whitlock, as a member of obviously needed eaters. After the speedo-wearing swim team, all those people signed up it is completely alright with being was only a matter of getting the objectified. “If we were not,” he wings in.” said, “we would not have come As the tables came out, so did out in pink speedos.” seniors dressed as bodyguards, “I’m proud of the senior swimmers dressed in speedos, class,” said Whitlock Wells says that he “knew the and the six participants. Chris Isenberg jumped onto a table, administration was trying to picked up the microphone, and prevent it and keep order,” but “doesn’t feel they did anything the event began.

In three rounds the seniors wrong.”

No serious consequences are ate wings while the swim team, dressed in bowties and pink expected. After the event had speedos (to mimic the women ended, Mr. Dougherty asked the who lead WMMR Wing Bowl), seniors to clean up. held up signs for each round.

Connor McNeill was rumored Tim Dagit, Brian Beck, Tutti to have said “300 rts and I’ll Galantino, Matt Brown, Billy clean up.” n Bevevino, and Jeff St. Amour all competed in the competition,

Matt Lanetti ‘15 where students must turn in Editor in Chief their cell phone in order to s part of the recent surge receive a set, and only a complete of interest in chess, Mr. set would return the phone.

Rogai, advisor of the According to Rogai, Alex Chess Club, started Malvern’s Yablonski ‘15 originated the first ever chess tournament. idea for the tournament. Alex, Readers may have noticed that one of 11 juniors that entered in the now-commonplace chess the competition, was initially a matches in the learning comlikely winner, a top 6 at least, but was unexpectedly defeated mons were slightly more serious these past weeks. The tournaby sophomore Jack Buttimer in ment, which started on April 24, only the second round. is still ongoing as we go to press. “ We need seedings next time, but it is what it is,” said T he che s s t ou r n a ment Yablonski. This complaint was included a total of 47 competitors from all high school classes, common among the competitors, competing for the title of Friar and will be addressed in future Chess Champion, and tournaments. a Chipotle gift card.

Harrison Locke “Two years ago it ‘15 was also elimiStudents were was basically the wrestling team bracketed off, allownated in the second playing chess… the round, but he was ing 2 days to comaddition of the more than happy plete best-of-three learning commons with the results. “I style matches against has really opponents. Matches played chess already, contributed to the success, I think.” were scheduled by the so I figured it would students themselves be a fun thing to do. I -Mr. Rogai on their own time, was eliminated early with most happening on, but I still had a at lunches and 9ths. Wins and lot of fun,” said Locke. losses of the 2 or 3 games were Although Alex Yablonski was reported to Mr. Rogai. If the studefeated in the second round, his dents failed to schedule matches, younger brother, freshman Adam they would both be disqualified.

Yablonski, has made it to the If a student failed to make the final 2. Does the younger sibling games, the other would move think he is a better player than on. Students were not required his brother? “I’ve won against to make Chess Club meetings, or him before, but I’m not sure I’m even be in the Club. better than him, yet,” said Adam.

Mr. Rogai, who has run the With less than a week left to finish the tournament, the Chess Club for years, confirmed that this is indeed the greatest competition has been narrowed interest in chess at Malvern he down to Adam Yablonski and Jack Buttimer. Buttimer, who has ever seen. “Two years ago defeated the highly respected it was basically the wrestling team playing chess… the addiolder Yablonski in only round 2, tion of the learning commons has now has to finish off the younger really contributed to the success brother to claim the title.

I think,” said Rogai.

Mr. Rogai plans on continuMaking sets available is key. ing the chess tournament next An initial concern was whether year, and possibly adding seedstudents would respect the sets ing to the brackets. “A middle school tournament is on the and boards enough to put them all away for the next players. way,” added Rogai. Eighth grader “There is nothing worse than Rohan Jhunjhunwala wished he opening up a set and finding could have competed in the high it’s not all there, which is why school tournament, but loves the there is a policy,” said Rogai. He > PAGE 14 explained a simple arrangement

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THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

May 2014

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FRIAR LIFE Tuition, Endowment, and Economics A primer on what Malvern tuition covers and why it keeps going up Andrew Stetser Peer School Tuition Increases 2013-2014 Arts Editor “What am I even paying for?”

School Name Increase ($) “What do you mean the tuition doesn’t cover the full cost of the student?”

Archmere $655 “That’s a thousand dollars more than it was last year!” ou and your parents pay for the chance to go to Malvern, but St. Joseph’s Prep $700 do you know what you are paying for? Do you know what your LaSalle College H.S. $920 x-thousand dollar tuition is going towards? Did you know that Malvern Prep $950 there are millions of dollars that Malvern invests which they never touch, but instead, use only the interest? If you do not know the Devon Prep $1000 answers to these questions, you will after reading this!

Germantown Academy $1095 When you think of a school’s finances, you most likely immediately think of the main money you (and your family) contribute: tuition.

Springside Chestnut Hill $1140 Before we can break down, analyze, and compare tuition, we must Episcopal Academy $1160 first know what tuition actually is.

We asked Mr. Ted Caniglia, Director of Finance and Facilities, if Friends Central $1250 he could give us a clear definition. Tuition is essentially the money Haverford School $1300 you pay to the school so that it is able to give you an education in William Penn Charter $1450 return.

“67% of the school’s expenses are salaries and benefits for employBaldwin School $1600 ees here at Malvern,” said Mr. Caniglia. “The other 33% is comprised Agnes Irwin $2300 of financial aid, development expenses, athletics, utilities and maintenance fees, student activities, and direct instructional supplies.”

“So then if we pay x amount of dollars during our current year, It is easy to see that our rise in tuition in 2013-2014 was not why does x increase each year?” The fact of the matter is, tuition is that bad. In fact, it appears that we are in the bottom three notable a cost, and a cost deals with economics. schools on this list for tuition increase [excluding Archmere, which “Tuition increases at Malvern each year because it has to,” accordis in Delaware]. ing to Mr. John Ostick, Economics teacher. Ostick explained that this “Our biggest competitors are Saint Joseph’s Prep and LaSalle is because of two main reasons. The first, and largest, is the cost of College High School,” explained Mr. Caniglia. “As you can see by labor. In the last 10 years in the United States, labor wages for busithe statistics, we are, for the most part, on par with their increases.” nesses and schools has gone up 2-4%. This especially was prevalent Malvern’s 2013-2014 tuition increase was $950 - $250 higher in the educational field. In Catholic schools in the than St. Joe’s $700. However, the St. Joe’s average 1950’s, almost all the classes were taught by nuns, class size is approximately double that of Malvern’s.

100% of 21st Century priests, etc. Since then, there has been a huge decline Malvern is currently at its maximum enrollment, expenses comes out of in the number of vocations. So in the past 25 years, and the administration has decided that’s what it is tuition. Whether you going to stay (for now). most labor costs in Catholic schools [like Malvern] absolutely love the new have been from the increase in hired lay people.

Even though a plethora of costs are paid for changes at Malvern, or According to Ostick, an institution has to pay more through tuition, factors like energy use and teacher abhor every single last to support lay faculty and their families, as opposed salaries do not seem like they directly apply to one of them, you are to paying less for someone who is in the order. students. One factor that does directly impact you paying for them in their And today, with more focus on the best people is a topic we have been discussing a lot this year. entirety.

According to Mr. Caniglia, 100% of 21st Century with the most experience, schools are required to pay teachers more for their talents. expenses comes out of tuition. Whether you absolutely On top of that, you have the cost of energy, which has risen greatly love the new changes at Malvern, or abhor every single last one of in the past 5 years. them, you are paying for them in their entirety.

The cost of tuition, according to Mr. Ostick’s explanation, is merely When it comes to money (especially when you are the one payanother aspect of the world around us. Tuition has to stay current and ing for it), things can be confusing. It becomes more confusing when people mix up terminology. For instance, you might ask, “Why am I in touch with the world and financial situations around it, so it always paying so much for Malvern when the school has millions of dollars has to increase as prices get more expensive. If tuition stayed constant in its endowment?” each year, there would not be enough money to fund the school.

But this leads to the question of how much our tuition increases To explain the difference between tuition and endowment, I turned each year. Mr. Caniglia provided us with the percentage increases to a source close to me. for each grade in the 2014-2015 school year: “Tuition and endowment are two completely different things,” said How does Malvern’s tuition increase stand up against its peer Nell Stetser, Principal of Waldron Mercy Academy. “Your endowment schools? In reality, Malvern’s increase may appear to be a lot, but is money that you don’t touch. It’s money that you invest. You’re putting the money aside, and every year, you use the acquired interest relative to the schools around it, its dollar increment is towards the to fund things like financial aid.” bottom end of the spectrum. Mr. Caniglia provided a comparison of Malvern’s increase to the other schools in the Inter-Ac and region for “If Malvern has a polymillion dollar endowment, they’ll make a the 2013-2014 school year. lot yearly off the interest, and be able to give more aid to current and prospective students,” noted Mrs. Stetser.

When it all boils down to it, Malvern is a business. There are difMalvern Tuition Increases 2014-2015 ferent levels of administration, there is a Board of Trustees which Grade Percent Increase oversees operations, the teachers are the employees, and the students are the customers. Each one functions for the benefit of the other, and 6 5% in the end, the money put forth by all the different factions turns out 7 4.94% to run one heck of a school.

So the next time you wonder “Why am I paying this?” just know 8 4.91% that your money is funding a lot more here at Malvern than just your 9-12 4.54% four year education. n Total Increase in $ $1300

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Get your money’s worth from The Blackfriar Chronicle. (Yeah, we know it’s free.)

Comment online at The Friar’s Lantern. www.mpfriarslantern.com

Senior Tribute Heralds the Class of 2014 Ceremony celebrated graduates’ individual and class accomplishments Matt Kropiewnicki ‘16 Contributor n Monday, May 19, the entire Malvern community gathered in the Duffy auditorium to pay tribute to a group of seniors who have impacted Malvern in so many ways.

The seniors processed onto the Duffy stage for the last time as they received medallions, blessed by Father Flynn.

After Jake Reber '14 spoke the words of Saint Augustine, Fr. Flynn told the Gospel story of the mustard seed, and spoke about how the senior class had grown during their time at Malvern into a blossoming tree, like the mustard seed. “ G od has called you to greatness, and great you have become,” said Fr. Flynn.

And indeed, this senior class has many accomplishments to boast about. Over half of the senior class received college scholarships of some kind. 53 seniors were part of the National Honors Society. Fifteen students were recognized by the College Board in the National Merit contest, and two were named finalists. Senior Hadid Thomas was formally recognized for his acceptance to the Naval Academy Prep School. Conor Glancy and Stephen Dunn were acknowledged for their acceptance to the highly selective United States Military Academy at West Point.

On the athletic field, this year’s senior-led varsity squads captured 8 Inter-Ac championships. And this senior class was involved in a wide range of activities, from arts to academics to everything else Malvern offers.

Yet, as Fr. Flynn noted, “ True greatness transcends those things.”

Many members of our senior class were involved in many service projects which were influenced by the service trips of their junior and senior years. And, when polled, this year’s seniors said they were most proud of the bond among their class.

In celebration of that bond, Father Flynn presented Kevin Fitzpatrick ‘81 Award to senior Jake Anderson. This award is voted by the senior class in recognition of kindness, friendship, leadership, and loyalty.

Other traditions also defined this annual event. The student council gavel passed from the current Student Council

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May 2014

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

FRIAR LIFE

The Newly Formed Service Club Tackles Social Issues Co-founders of Malvern Prep’s newest service club, Tyler Barr ‘15 and Andrew Gosselin ‘15 have enlisted a team of young men to go above and beyond the service requirement.

SERVICE CLUB ONSITE AT ST. AGNES PARISH / J. Marchesani

Jack Marchesani ‘15 Editor in Chief n Friday, May 2, 6 juniors, 1 sophomore, and Social Justice teacher, Mr. Haynie, set out towards St. Agnes Parish in West Chester with an arsenal of baby wipes.

They spent the afternoon scrubbing down the classroom for the Pre-K students as well as the facility for struggling families.

St. Agnes was only one of the first stops along the tour of service that the Service Club hopes to carry out. And yet, after only one stop, those involved have already learned much about racism and the struggle of immigrants to find steady work when they first come to the states.

Imagine coming to the United States at around 8 years old. You go to school. Study and try to learn English the best that you can. Your parents work hard. They try to maintain the best job possible in order to support you, and give you a better life. You graduate from high school doing better than anyone could’ve expected you to in a foreign country.

You go to college and meet someone you want to spend the rest of your life with. Just like you they came to the States as a child. You marry and have children. Each of you have steady and well paying jobs. On a typical Sunday afternoon you’re sitting out on your porch with your family. The police arrive and take away your spouse.

You have two choices. Attempt to raise your children on your own or bring them to a third-world country you barely remember to be with their other parent.

For many Latin-American immig rants in the United States, this is the fate they face.

This was the situation described to the newly formed Malvern Prep Service Club by Lisa Bice, the Coordinator of Education Preparation at Blessed Dorothy

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Day Ministry. Mrs. Bice, mother of Villa Maria graduate Cailey Bice ‘13, runs this program with the intent of doing “whatever she can for help the people who need it.”

B l e s s e d D o r o t h y D ay Ministry not only aims to help those who have come to the States and need support, but also to bring better lives to the children of these immigrants.

The Ministry operates out of St. Agnes Parish in West Chester.

It provides daily care and schooling for Pre-K students who cannot afford preparation for Kindergarten as well as food and shelter for those who don’t have it.

Mrs. Bice explained that most immigrants aren’t here to live off the government. According to Bice, the vast majority of them have simply come to work hard and attempt to get educated.

Although she recognizes the issues that will come with immigration reform, she hopes that soon it will be easier for those who have recently come to the United States to become acclimated and live steady familyoriented lifestyles.

“Jesus wouldn’t split up families,” said Mrs. Bice.

Mrs. Bice explained that cleanliness was crucial, as many whom the Ministry serves do not have access to showers.

The idea began back in the winter when Tyler Barr ‘15 and Andrew Gosselin ‘15 came to the conclusion that they desired to do more service, Despite the multitude of opportunities to give back from the Christian Service Program, Barr and Gosselin were aware that some still desired to do even more.

They came to Activities Director Dr. Fry with a goal of getting

the group off the ground soon.

Through hard work and planning, things worked out. They then moved on to recruiting a start-up group of Malvern sophomores and juniors to help begin carrying out their mission.

T yler Ba r r, co-founder, explained that the goal of the group is to “give students an opportunity to do organized voluntary Christian service in the surrounding area during the Spring because Malvern doesn’t have many service projects during that time.”

“We realized that there’s a lot more poverty and homelessness in our surrounding area than meets the eye,” said Barr.

We don’t have to go to Camden or Philly to find families in need, and that there are many illegal immigrants here who want to pay taxes and grow a family in our country just like the rest of us, but legislation doesn’t allow them to do that.”

“It was a privilege for me to go there and experience the living conditions of those less fortunate and work to improve them,” said Harrison Locke ’15, who participated in the Service Club’s first program.

Barr and Gosselin hope to do many more service-oriented activities in the near future and throughout next year. As time passes, and as each service site allows, more availability for participants will open up. Everyone involved hopes to lend a helping hand to the surrounding communities, and learn much more about those less fortunate.

To get involved with the Service Club, contact Tyler or Andrew at tbarr50@malvernprep.org or agosselin50@malvernprep.org. n

Student of the Issue: Caleb Kao ‘16 Malvern’s Favorite Comedian Tells Us About Himself and His Jokes Christopher Bunn ’16 Managing Editor unior Caleb Kao is known throughout Malvern for his infamous jokes. Playing on a mixed variety of wordplay and puns, Caleb has told a few of his jokes to many other students, to teachers, and during the Christmas talent show. Many of his jokes can be seen in this year’s Impressions. Aside from that, he is a outstanding example of a upstanding Malvern student.

Corresponding through email, Caleb discusses his background, his personal life, his start, and his best Malvern memory.

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Caleb Kao ‘15 / C. Bunn

CB: What do you like to do in your free time? What kinds of things interest you?

CK: During my free time, I usually spend time thinking of jokes.

Other things I like to do include CB: Tell me about your background. reading some novels, watching Where did you grow up, what schools Food Network, playing X-Box, you went to in the past, what you watching sports (Favorite teams: were like growing up...

Phillies, Eagles, Flyers, Sixers), CK: First of all, I was born playing board games like chess. i n We st C he st er Some things that Hospita l on Ju ly interest me include “When students 28, 1996. I grew up sports and music. I read my jokes, i n D ow n i n g t ow n also play trumpet I want them for my entire life du r i ng my spa re to be happy up to this point. In time. Some music I and in a good Kindergarten to 3rd listen include Gospel mood. But I Grade, I attended music, jazz and rock. also want them Landmark Christian to know that I School; in 4th-5th CB: Tell me more about can overcome Grade I attended the comedic side of you. difficulties.”

Windsor Christian Who or what inspires -Caleb Kao ‘15 Academy; and you? How did you get through 6th-now I started? Why do you attend Malvern Prep. like telling jokes?

As I grew up, I loved to read CK: I started to do this comedic books and I loved watching and stuff in Middle School when I had playing sports. some Laffy Taffy candy. I read some of the jokes that were subMy dad is from Taiwan, my mom mitted, and I thought maybe one is from Hong Kong and the rest day I can have my jokes on the of my family is from China. We wrappers. So I decided to make usually observe different Chinese up some jokes. I started when my holidays such as the Chinese mom gave me a small journal to New Year and Mid-Autumn fes- write in for jokes. Then I tried to tival. Another fun fact is that tell some to my classmates and my grandfather on my dad's side teachers as well as during bus was part of Chiang-Kai-Shek's rides to away baseball games.

Nationalist Army during the Civil War. CB: What is your best Malvern Early in life, I had a developmen- memory? tal delay. When I entered elemen- CK: Some of the best memories tary school, I was put into special at Malvern include my first education. Later my parents home run and an interception decided to change my education for a touchdown (both in the 8th to a homeschool setting ran by a Grade). Other memories include Southern Baptist Church. From my first ever distinguished hon4th-5th Grade I transferred to a ors in 7th Grade. more formal school. Then I took the big challenge to enroll in CB: What is your best joke?

Malvern Prep.

CK: My best joke would probably be "Moooooooo" and the answer So during my life, I had big chal- is "It's because I am a cow." Also lenges including understanding when students read my jokes, I language, and self-expression want them to be happy and in and learning fundamentally. a good mood. But I also want I grew up in a Christian fam- them to know that I can overily, and the Church I attend is come difficulties so this is a sort Trinity Christian Church of of inspiration or advice to them.

Greater Philadelphia.

Some funny sides of me include my weird imitations of different fictional characters such as Cleveland. n

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

May 2014

7

FRIAR LIFE Friars, how are those Final Projects going?

We asked a few men on the street what they thought of the new system for finals.

Tyler Legner ‘16

Christian D’Ascenzo ‘16

Anthony Ciro ‘16

Matt Dinehart ‘16

Alex Sorenson ‘16

How do you feel about the new finals process? Is it any harder or easier?

I prefer projects because they are easier to do, but doing all of the projects is very time- consuming and stressful.

Is the finals process any harder or easier than the last year?

I think that this year, the projects are more tedious than the exams and they are overall harder. However, I believe that it is more like college and is a very good learning tool for us.

Do you like the new finals system?

No, not at all. I think that it is a bunch of busywork. To study for finals is a lot easier to study because you already know most of the background information and you know what will be on the final. Projects are very timeconsuming and stressful. And plus for the old finals system, you already had a midterm so you wouldn’t have to study for the first part of the course. The new system adds a lot more stress because most of the finals are due on the same day.

How are you handling the new finals system so far?

I think that its a real struggle with all the work piled onto one student at a time.

Do you like how Malvern is doing finals this year?

I actually really like how they did it this year. I think it gives the student more time to complete the project instead of having to cram for a final two days before. So I really hope they keep it this way.

up what they missed either at home or when they returned.

He did reason that his overall fear was the loss of momentum and the possibility of a psychological effect on the student body in terms of comprehension and focus due to the great number of breaks.

Algeo expressed that the key was to assess based upon different learning styles to suit all types of students. This is the basis of “Student-Centered Learning.” He used the word “differentiation” in describing different types of tests given to students to reflect what the students know and what they have learned. “Providing as many choices as possible is the best way to go,” he said.

When asked about new final ideas he would like to see out of teachers he stated he likes the idea of comprehensive portfolios, overall experiments, and essays, as these finals reflect assessments the students might see in college, all the while allowing a different basis for assessment.

While Mr. Algeo focussed on the effects of finals on the students, the teachers faced a different challenge. Forced to squeeze a year’s worth of curriculum into less than a year’s worth of time, teachers had to change their teaching styles to accommodate the needs of the student body.

“The snow days had no effect, they had a huge effect, and the true answer is probably somewhere in between,” said Honor British Literature teacher Mr. Rich Roper. “I am feeling the constrictions of time as we hustle towards the end. It is worrisome, but it’s not insurmountable. We’ll

be fine.”

Mr. Roper described his final as a “stopgap measure.” Due to the lost time, he has combined the junior year English curriculum, including a research paper, with the final. The paper typically placed in the fourth quarter along with the notorious speeches will now serve as a final exam grade.

He explained that next year he will try to return to the normal final, pending upcoming discussions in which the future of the exams will be discussed.

The students have had quite a different response than the faculty and administration.

Many believe that the final projects are a good thing, and will hopefully alleviate stress that is usual associated with the typical 2 hour final. Magnus Sims ‘15 expressed his desire to simply have the ability to test out of finals, as is the case in many colleges nationwide. Meanwhile, many Villa and Notre Dame students remain outraged that, “the boys get out of finals and we don’t.”

Many hope that this will indeed be a course of action that will set them “home free.”

The snow may have changed scheduling, but the same feeling of relief will most definitely pervade throughout the student body as pencils are finally placed down on the last exam date.

Regardless of what types of new finals are truly given come late May, the student body should expect to work, but must keep in mind that the administration has changed this system with the student in mind. n

How much time would you say it takes you to finish one of these projects?

It all depends on the class. One class might take up my whole weekend, while the other might take 90 minutes.

> END OF MAY, 1 to the teachers to decide when and how these new exam formats will be administered. As for Math and Theology, the usual test format will be in place on June 2 and 3, so ready those #2 pencils and Red Bulls for those day-before cram sessions.

Many have asked the question as to whether or not a record number of snow days had a direct impact on the new finals and if the finals will be occurring in years to come. Jack St. Amour reflected the feelings of the vast majority of students on twitter: ‘Everyone’s spring break got shortened because of snow and instead of shortening ours, they took away most exams. #ThanksMalvern #13daysLeft’ According to Head of Upper School Mr. Algeo, the snow days were indeed a major factor in changing the exam schedule.

“The main impetus that really gave us some momentum was the snow days; however, we were already talking back in the summer and fall about changing our approach to the exams,” said Algeo.

In truth, the changes came as a result of a combination of two major factors. The goal of making major changes to the finals schedule was in mind, but the snow days allowed the administration to implement the changes in the 2013-2014 school year.

“You’re talking about 14 to 18 year olds sitting down for two hours and taking a test that was worth the same as a 9 week quarter. We thought that that didn’t seem equitable,” said Mr. Algeo, describing the old system of finals.

So, you think this is a good thing?

Like I said before, I think Malvern is doing a very good job preparing us for what college will feel like. So, yes it is a very good thing.

Mr. Algeo and Mr. Valyo, after recognizing the need for change, sur veyed Malvern alums in college at the time to find out exactly how many “sitdown” style finals they actually took. They found the average to be between 3 to 3.5 out of 5 finals to be the typical style. This inspired the idea to cut back this year, and allow faculty to give the new testing format a try.

Algeo explained that the original plan was to keep the original exam dates, but allow teachers to opt out of them for the changed finals. After the mess of a winter we had, the administration chose to change final days into class days and allow the departments to choose their testing style. “The snow really kickstarted this,” added Algeo.

Algeo did express the importance of the sit-down exam, as Malvern is a college preparatory school, and we can expect this type of final exam in college.

As to whether or not the finals would occur in this manor in the future, Mr. Algeo described an upcoming meeting that will determine this. “I’m going to ask the departments that question. I can determine whether we rotate it every year, or [the departments] can help me decide… We’re probably not going to have more than three [project-based finals],” said Algeo.

Mr. Algeo also elaborated on the fact that he does not believe we lost quality of curriculum with the snow days. Due to a combination of both skilled teachers and supportive families, the students were able to make

Did you like the old finals system better?

Yes, because it was way more organized with the time. You used to have a strict schedule to follow for when finals were, but now the teachers keep on switching the due dates and its just a lot more frustrating.

So you didn't like last year's system?

No, like I said before, I think most students just cram two nights before and it just added stress -Chris Abbott ‘16

Sports College Players Selected in NFL Draft Jadeveon Clowney goes #1 overall, local product Tom Savage selected.

Sean Christman ‘17 Sports Editor very year, college football players enter the NFL Draft in hopes of making their lifelong dreams a reality.

With 32 teams and 7 rounds, 256 players get drafted by the end of the process. There was an air of excitement around the first pick in this year's draft, as charismatic players like Johnny Manziel, Jadeveon Clowney, and AJ McCarron were all in the mix.

The Houston Texans had the first pick, and they chose South Carolina defensive end Jadeveon Clowney. After a monster junior season, Clowney had a somewhat underwhelming senior year after having such high expectations going into the year. What will happen with Clowney's pro career? Will he pan out and turn into a star? Or will he follow the path of other #1 draft picks like Jamarcus Russell and turn out to be a bust?

In other news, local product Tom Savage was also selected in the 4th round by the Texans.

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May 2014

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

FRIAR LIFE Fond Farewells The BFC pays tribute to members of our faculty & staff community who are retiring this year As the school year comes to a close, more and more events, groups, and classes wind down. And yet, a term much greater than that of 9 months of schooling is coming to an end as well: the careers of 8 of Malvern's cherished faculty members. Those retiring have given to Malvern immensely, pouring heart and soul into their respective fields. Each member of the faculty who is saying their final goodbye has helped students to grow and better themselves over the years. To reflect this, the BFC had the opportunity to send out a group of reporters and editors to sit down with these retirees and get their perspectives on their career, Malvern, and what lies ahead.

Helping Students and Athletes Reach Potential

Many Roles, Many Memories

Mr. Paul Hornsleth has been inspiring Malvern’s swimmers, divers, and students since 1970.

Ted Holleran ‘16 Reporter fter years of teaching young students grammar and writing skills, working the admissions of the middle school, and managing Malvern’s literary magazine, Impressions, Mr. Gerald Ellis is stepping down from his many positions and retiring at the end of this year.

While saying goodbye to the classroom, Mr. Ellis made clear that he will not be saying goodbye to the Malvern community. We sat down with Mr. Ellis to reminiscence on his years at Malvern and talk about the future for him and the school.

Kieran Cullen ‘17 Contributor he Malvern Swimming/ Diving Team is on top of their game with two sequential undefeated seasons, and at the front of it all is Mr. Paul Hornsleth. Mr. Hornsleth is a Malvern alum and was, himself, a member of the MP S w i m m i n g pr o g r a m . M r.

Hornsleth has been working very hard at Malvern for many years as a swim coach and math teacher.

I have been swimming at Malvern since sixth grade and began diving last year. Mr. Hornsleth has been a huge help to me in becoming the swimmer I am today, as well as to all of the other swimmers and divers at Malvern. He is always very

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Mr. Hornsleth / J. Bennett

supportive and always helps you out however he can. I will not ever have the opportunity to have Mr. Hornsleth as a teacher, but I only ever hear stellar remarks > PAGE 14

Unitas, Globally: Mrs. Lida Rosle Changing hearts and minds through a career in counseling and the Global Exchange Program Andrew Stetser Arts Editor

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nitas: Unity. The quality or state of being made one. Malvern has strived to achieve this in our classes with our fellow Malvern brothers, our faculty and staff, the Children of God who struggle in Philadelphia and Camden, and many other places around the Tri-State area. For the past twenty-seven years, one member of the Malvern has gone above and beyond all limitations, and has brought Unitas to an international level. This teacher is Ms. Lida Rosle.

Born in Zeist, Holland, Mrs. Rosle grew up with surrounded by many different European cultures. It was in Holland that she met her husband, who, at the time, was a Captain in the United States Air Force. The two got married, and moved back with her husband to America, and settled down in the Philly area. Fueled by her love of learning and passion cultures, Rosle attended West Chester MRS. ROSLE / SOCIAL MEDIA University, and received a Bachelor’s of Arts in Spanish. Knowing that she wanted to continue education through teaching, Mrs. Rosle then received her Master’s of Education from Immaculata.

Twenty-seven years ago, Mrs. Rosle was a teacher at Shanahan. Due to Shanahan’s lack of enrollment, Mrs. Rosle was let go after one year. An unexpected surprise was awaiting for Mrs. Rosle; however, because the President of Malvern Prep, Father Duffy, who had received a list of the Archdiocesan teachers laid off that year, asked her to come in for an interview. Coincidentally, the same year she was offered a job at Villa Maria High School, but chose Malvern because she “knew that working with boys would be a lot easier.”

Ms. Rosle served as a counselor for eleven years, and also taught different levels of Spanish. Recently, she took over the role of the Director of the Global Exchange Program. Rosle had a vision that students

Mr. Ellis reminisces about 31 years at Malvern Prep

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TH: How did you first get started teaching at Malvern?

GE: I’ve been working full-time for 45 years and 41 of those years I was a full-time educator. I came to Malvern in 1983, so this is my 31st year at Malvern Prep.

I’ve been blessed work in so many different capacities, particularly at Malvern. English teacher and counselor (both upper school and middle school), admissions director, its been such a great privilege. I was admissions director of the middle school for 20 years, which was a joy.

In terms of involvement, I have been blessed to be involved in things that a love as a whole person. Its kind of typical, I think, to be a fully immersed Malvern educator. I’ve been able to coach football over the years, I’ve been the moderator of the Impressions literary magazine, I’ve been involved with MECO for about 29 years. MECO, which is a joy. It’s such a strength of the school. I’ve worked with Christian service. One of my greatest privileges is to be the eucharistic minister at Malvern. I continue to love what we do, things like Best Nest.

I think that covers many of the things I’ve been fortunate enough to be involved with at Malvern.

TH: So, you’re retiring at the end of this year?

GE: Yes, I’m retiring at the end of this year, technically. I will teach summer classes in June and my last day as an employee at Malvern will be August 31st.

But “retired” does not mean excommun icated f rom the Malvern family, in fact its the opposite. We all plan to continue to be part of the Malvern family.

I’ll definitely be involved with Mr. Ellis / P. Ferraiolo supporting the teams, the theater groups, the music program, Best Nest, and especially MECO. We all plan on attending graduations. [Retirees] are still part of the Malvern family. I think that’s important.

TH: What would you say is your favorite experience of Malvern?

GE: The relationships have been and continue to be the most wonderful part of the Malvern experience from the first day I set foot on campus in 1983 and met Father Duffy and Mr. Stewart. My goal at the time was (and continues to be) to build Malvern one relationship at a time. To this day, I still firmly believe that the caritas at Malvern makes Malvern unique. It makes Malvern very very special, among other things. The caritas and the people. You can take that anywhere.

The people in the classroom, the people on the wrestling mats, MECO, wherever we are. > PAGE 9

> PAGE 12

Mr. Frank Ryan: A Long Tenure of Love for Malvern Mr. Ryan has so many favorite memories of Malvern that he can’t choose just one.

Zac Chan Reporter r. Frank Ryan has been a beloved member of the Malvern staff for over 40 years. Driven by a love for the school, and for the community on campus, he taught a variety

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of subjects. His long tenure of teaching and coaching is coming to an end, however, as he is retiring at the end of this school year.

Mr. Ryan is sure to be missed by everyone who has known him in his time at Malvern.

ZC: Why did you first come to Malvern Prep?

FR: I was first hired in 1970 as a teacher and coach.

ZC: How long have you worked at Malvern?

FR: I taught 39 years.

ZC: What positions have you held?

FR: I taught Afro-Asian Studies, AP US History and US History.

I also served as Dean of Students from 1980-1990, and Athletic Director from 1990-2003.

ZC: Who was your favorite person to work with and why?

FR: I worked for two great bosses, Fr. Duffy and Jim Stewart.

ZC: What's your favorite memory of Malvern?

FR: I had many fond memories of my time at Malvern. It would not be fair to pick one.

ZC: What did you think of Middle School Cross Country?

FR: I enjoyed Middle School Cross Country.n

Malvern Prep Communications

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

May 2014

9

FRIAR LIFE Mr. Kenny says goodbye to Malvern after 43 years

Say “Au revoir” to French, and “Nǐ hǎo” to Chinese

With only one year less than Mr. Hornsleth, Mr. Kenny is Malvern’s 2nd longest running employee of 43 years and 12+ positions.

Mr. Al Tomaszewski offers perspective on a long career of teaching French and Spanish and upcoming changes to his department

Matt Lanetti ‘15 Editor-in-Chief Mr. Fran Kenny has had many different jobs in his 43 years at Malvern. Sadly, this year is his last as he says goodbye not only to counseling and his many other positions, but also to the friends he has made here.

Mr. Kenny started his time at Malvern in 1971 when he was interviewed for a job after serving as a Military Policeman in the Vietnam War. Malvern was very different back then, and Mr. Kenny has been pleased with the changes he has seen.

“Well for one, the facilities have greatly improved. Not only that, but the size too. When I started, we had 225 students and 25 faculty,” said Kenny. The size and layout of Malvern’s campus has changed over the years, and many buildings that existed in the 70s have different functions now. “The cafeteria used to be in Sullivan Hall, and Stewart Hall served as a student union and gym.”

Mr. Kenny, who has held many different positions and jobs at Malvern, has a unique perspective that few other faculty members or students can share.

“I was the Dean of Students for 8 years, I drove a school van, I’ve coached rifle, golf, tennis,

Christopher Bunn Managing Editor s part of giving students a diverse education, the language program here at Malvern has allowed students to pursue either Spanish, Latin, or French. With the upcoming 2014-2015 school year, the language program will experience some changes, including the retirement of two faculty members and the curricular addition of Mandarin Chinese.

Two French teachers, Mr. Al Tomaszewksi and Mr. Fran Kenny will retire at the end of the spring 2014 semester.

These two teachers have been important figures in the French language program at Malvern for a significant amount of time. Mr. Tomaszewki recently spoke with the BFC about his time at Malvern and his love of languages.

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Mr. Kenny / M. Lanetti

baseball, and basketball...”

Here, I had to stop Mr. Kenny to learn more about Malvern’s abandoned rifle program. Before there were locker rooms in Dougherty Hall, there was a small rifle range in that area. Mr. Kenny, with his military experience, was the coach of the team, which was eventually ended in the 70s.

Mr. Kenny continued, “For 40 summers now I’ve worked on the grounds, I also ran summer programs for students who failed conduct.” In this program, students who had failed conduct had to work a total of 40 hours over the summer, an idea of Mr. Kenny’s.

Mr. Kenny served as Director of College Counseling for 30 > PAGE 11

> ELLIS, 8 TH: So, as one who has been at Malvern for a while, what are you thoughts on 21st century learning and all the changes it brings with it?

GE: Project-based learning is interesting. It seems to be something going on across the country. I believe its important that we follow where the future is going. I also think it’s important to blend the best of learning experiences. Project-based learning is important.

Collaboration is very important. Learning content is important. So the students need to learn fundamental skills to have the ability to compute and calculate. I think its important to take the best of educational techniques and utilize them in a beautiful blend that’ll foster maximum learning.

TH: What would you say is your opinion on the destruction of the library and creation of the learning commons?

GE: (Laughs) Oh gosh. It’s hard for a guy my age to go into that building and not see the stacks of books and all those things. I loved it. That was very difficult for me to accept, but accept we have and I bring my classes over there quite often to learn in that environment using the chromebooks and those facilities.

TH: What do you plan to do after retirement?

GE: After full time for 45 years, I have plans to spend time with my beloved family and friends, especially my dear wife. It’s not like I’m gonna just jump out and run around like a crazy man in retirement, because there’s plenty that I can do. My wife and I are very involved in our parish, St.Teresa of Ávila, and we can do so many things because it’s like an extension of our family. I think our goals are to do what our Lord calls us to do each day. There’s also plenty of work I do at home. Getting the house in shape and things like that. There’s some writing to put together, collections of years of poetry, or “prosetry” as I call it. There’ll be opportunities to serve, and we’ll open ourselves up to that. n

CB: What did you do before Malvern?

AT: I came to Malvern 30 years ago after having completed 8 years of teaching at Valley Forge Military Academy. Before that, I went to La Salle College in Philadelphia. After graduating, I was a teaching assistant both at the University of Arkansas and at University of Pittsburgh for 5 years.

As I was involved in language when I went into military service at time of Vietnam War, I became a Russian linguist for the Air Force. After getting out of Air Force, I started teaching at Valley Forge Military Academy. I was there for 8 years.

Then I came to Malvern in the September of 1984. My entire teaching career has been teaching mainly French and Spanish as a secondary language.

CB: Do you know any other languages other than French and Spanish?

AT: Well, as a member of the United States Air Force, I had a job in intelligence and they sent me to Syracuse University to learn Russian. I have studied other languages. I have studied Italian, Romanian, Russian (of course), Latin, German. My entire career has been involved in languages.

CB: So you could say that language has been a pretty big part of your

life.

AT: I am a linguist. Yes. CB: As of right now, what are some things you do outside of Malvern?

AT: Outside of Malvern, one of my favorite hobbies is reading historical fiction. Thats one of my avocations. I like history. I like to do calligraphy as well, and for exercise I like to walk a lot.

CB: Who were some of the biggest people who have influenced your life?

AT: Father Duffy. Mr. Stewart.

Anyone who knew Father Duffy was aware of the man as a somebody who loved life. And who loved Malvern, and would do anything. He was dedicated to Malvern.

He always had a smile on his face. And Mr.Stewart for hav ing hired me. [He] has been a friend and a mentor over the years.

CB: What is your fondest memory at Malvern?

AT: My fondest memory...well, Mr. Tomaszewski / C. Bunn it has to do with CB: If this isn’t too the entire course of 30 years personal of a question, why have [that I was here]. Getting stuyou decided to retire? And what do you plan to do after? dents to understand that learning a language means that they AT: When one reaches 70 years can now communicate in another old....I have decided to retire language. And it gives me a lot because I wanted to start a new of pleasure when phase of my life I see that they and do something “I am a linguist.” understood what different. I will -Mr. Tomaszewski continue taking they heard me say.

It is a vehicle for academic courses. I them. They don't have to depend will continue volunteering. I will upon English. They can converse also look into getting a part-time with someone in either French or job outside of education.

Spanish.

CB: So you are looking to expand CB: Over your time at Malvern, your knowledge? what do you think were some of the AT: I want to continue expandbiggest changes you saw? ing my knowledge, yes. I want to remain active. I’m not a big AT: The biggest changes that I am really happy about...of course fan of sitting in the living room the campus has grown quite watching TV. I want to continue a bit. Of course, the physical reading. I want to do a lot more campus has grown quite a bit. reading than I have been able But the main thing that i really to do as a teacher because as a enjoyed seeing at Malvern is [the teacher, there is a lot of preparagrowth of] the arts department. tory work that needs to be done A long time ago, when I first for classes. With the extra time got here, the late Father Edson I will have in retirement, I want Wood would have said that when to do a tremendous amount of he started here, the arts departreading. And also, continuing to pursue Russian. ment and the music department consisted of a piano, which was in his classroom. And now we CB: You will be continuing to pursue have the Duffy Center. We have Russian? students who are allowed to AT: Yes. It is going to be pursue their interest in singself-taught. ing, in acting, in doing ceramics, photography, and we have CB: What do you think about the some fantastic teachers to help 21st century education initiative at them in that area. I really think Malvern? that that was one of the biggest AT: I am a proponent of it. I things that happened in my 30 have always felt that change is years. > PAGE 14

Please visit our previously published articles on retirees Dr. Joseph Oechsle (February 2014) and Mrs. Denise Popper (March 2014) online at The Friar’s Lantern www.mpfriarslantern.com

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May 2014

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

SPORTS Athlete of the Issue: Ryan Doane ‘15

A Busy Spring for Friar Football

With the help of supportive teammates, hard training, and the right socks, Doane has helped the Track and Field Team to an outstanding season Andrew Aprahamian ‘17 Reporter ya n D oa ne ‘15 is a d ist a nce r u n ner for Malvern’s Varsity Track and Field Team. Typically Ryan alternates between the mile and the two mile run. His strength is in the two mile because he has an outstanding endurance to maintain a solid pace throughout the longer distance runs.

This year’s Track and Field team has had a very successful season, winning both the Inter-Ac and PAISA A State Championship meets. Everyone on the team trained very hard, which clearly resulted in a lot of success for the team.

Doane recently stood out in the PAISAA State Championship race, which took place at the Hill School on May 14. Malvern was losing by a slight margin to the Haverford School before going into the second-to-last event which was Doane’s race, the two mile.

Accord ing to Doane, track coach Mr. Mike Koenig approached him just before the race and said, “You must do whatever it takes to beat Alex Kim in order for us to win. No pressure bud.” Kim is Haverford's number one runner and ranked 3rd overall for that race, while Doane was ranked 7th.

For the whole race, Doane drafted off of Kim. As much as he wanted to fall off at times during the race, he knew that if his team had a shot at winning this meet, he would have to stay with him. With 150 meters left in the race Ryan managed to take a full sprint into the finish line and ended up passing Kim and one other competitor to take 3rd place in the meet.

Doane said he did not even notice what his time was, and was just happy to help the team

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win. After his teammates congratulated him, he realized that he had ran a time of 10:00:42 22 seconds faster than his time at the Inter-Ac meet, held 5 days prior to the state meet.

Malvern’s Track and Field team has one last meet on May 30, at which Doane hopes to break a time of 4:35 in the mile.

“Most people consider track an individual sport, but you can't win with just one or two outstanding runners, you really need a whole team,” stated Doane. The distance team, including Doane, enjoyed a very successful season. Billy McDevitt ‘15, Colin Wills ‘16, and Jaxson Hoey ‘16 are other top runners who will be returning next year.

Just like any dedicated athlete, Doane has his pregame routine. He does his best get a lot of sleep and rest despite the heavy work load. Doane emphasized the importance of eating many carbs the night before, and drinking a lot of water.

Ryan also revealed some of his superstitions. “I'm not superstitious but I always need high polo socks on my feet and specific pump-up music right before I run,” he said. n

According to newly hired football head coach Aaron Brady, 78 schools have visited Malvern Prep since he arrived on April 22. “Not bad,” noted Brady. “I would have liked to reach 100 but the Division III schools do not typically recruit in the spring.

Here is a list of the visiting schools.

University of Albany Army Ball State University Bentley University Boston College Brown University Bryant University Bucknell University Buffalo University Butler University University of Central Florida Central Michigan University University of Cincinnati Colgate University Columbia University University of Connecticut Cornell University Dartmouth University Davidson University University of Dayton University of Delaware Dickinson University Duke University Duquesne University Eastern Kentucky University Eastern Michigan University East Stroudsburg University

> FOOTBALL, 1 connections in the college coaching world.”

According to Ruch, the morning sessions are showcases for the visiting coaches, not football practices. Inter-Ac rules do not allow for off-season football practices. “ The morning showcases are positive in many ways,” said Brady. “It allows the coaches to see our players in person, it does not disrupt class, our players get discovered, and coaches will come back each year because they like to get outside.”

Coach Brady also stressed that getting outside to watch players was a nice break from the monotonous and boring task of driving all over the country as a coach.

For the coaches, it’s an opportunity to come watch some very

Fordham University Georgetown University Harvard University Holy Cross College University of Illinois James Madison University University of Kentucky Kutztown University Lafayette College Lehigh University University of Maine Marist College University of Maryland University of Massachusetts University of Miami Millersville University Monmouth University University of New Hampshire Northwestern University Oberlin College University of Ohio Old Dominion University University of Pennsylvania Penn State University University of Pittsburgh Princeton University University of Rhode Island

talented football players in person. For the players, it’s a great chance to make impressions and hopefully get noticed. “I was most excited to play in front of Princeton. It is cool to be able to say they came to look for possible student-athletes at Malvern,” said McCarthy.

“It’s always great to play in front of a coach at any level, but it’s most exciting when the big time coaches come through.

It’s pretty cool when you’re just having fun with your team and schools like Kentucky, Pitt, and Virginia Tech come to check it out,” said Hornibrook.

Not only do the players get to play in front of the coaches, but at the end of the sessions, the players actually get to have a conversation with the coaches.

Face to face encounters are the best way for players and coaches

University of Richmond Robert Morris University Rutgers University Sacred Heart University St. Anselm's College St. Francis University Stanford University Stetson University Stony Brook University Temple University University of Tennessee Towson University Tulane University University of Virginia Vanderbilt University Villanova University Virginia Tech Wagner University Wake Forest University West Chester University Western Michigan University College of William & Mary University of Wisconsin Yale University n

to form a bond. Hornibrook also stated that the showcases help the players to work well with one another.

Another goal of these workouts is the promotion of Malvern Football nationally. According to Coach Brady, these types of events allow for nationwide exposure of Malvern players. “I will set the bar high for our players, and coaches know that about me,” he said.

These events are something that is beneficial to everyone involved, and certainly plays well into Brady’s philosophy: “Every day we either improve ourselves or lower ourselves. We never stay the same.” n

Senior Athletic College Commitments Jake Anderson (Wrestling)- Cornell University Matt Brown (Football)- Villanova University Richard Buzza (Lacrosse)- St. Joe’s University Chris Cary (Swimming)- Loyola University Maryland Connor Cassidy (Rugby)- Pennsylvania State University J.P. Clark (Crew)- Drexel University Carson Cocco (Lacrosse)- Quinnipiac University Jackson Connor (Crew)- University of Pennsylvania Michael Davis (Golf)- Princeton University Erik Dresden (Swimming)- Drexel University Daniel Ferraiolo (Track and Field)- St. Joe’s University Christian Frey (Crew)- Dartmouth College Alexander Galantino (Rugby)- Pennsylvania State University

Troy Gallen (Football)- University of Delaware Conor Glancy (Lacrosse)- United States Military Academy Daniel Grandieri (Baseball)- St. Joe’s University Anthony Gruenling (Baseball)- Babson College Alexander Gusikoff (Baseball)- Dickinson College Jeff Hagen (Water Polo)- Bucknell University Ryder Harkins (Lacrosse)- Loyola University Maryland Ryan Hilburn (Lacrosse)- Boston University Christopher Isenberg (Lacrosse)- Pennsylvania State University Jordan Majors (Football)- Cornell University Matthew Maul (Baseball)- St. Joe’s University Kevin McGeary (Lacrosse)- University of Pennsylvania Kevin McKnight (Football)- Gettysburg College

James McManus (Crew)- Cornell University John Nassib (Football)- University of Delaware Gardner Nutter (Baseball)- Eckerd College Andrew Pancoast (Track and Field)- Duke University Hunter Paulus (Football)- Stetson University Gregory Pelton (Lacrosse)- Duke University Christopher Schaffer (Swimming)- University of Pennsylvania James Sincavage (Crew)- Princeton University Hadid Thomas (Track and Field)- Naval Academy Prep School Kevin Traynor (Lacrosse)- Pennsylvania State University Christopher White (Crew)- Georgetown University -Michael McCarthy ‘15

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

May 2014

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SPORTS

Champions in All Fields Friars take home big victories in a variety of spring sports Pat Ferraiolo ‘17 Sports Editor radition is important to Malvernians. It has been for years. The beauty of Malvern is that it supplies us with numerous traditions, not only in the classroom, but also on the field. This year, Malvern kept up the tradition of winning success. Throughout the whole year, the Malvern sports teams have accumulated eight out of the thirteen possible championships. Four of these championships were won in the spring.

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Congratulations to Friars who brought home this spring’s championships!

Track and Field Inter-Ac and State Champions

Rowing

Stotesbury, City, and National Champions

Lacrosse

Inter-Ac Champions (Perfect Season)

Baseball

Inter-Ac and Independent School State Champions Mason Abate ‘16, Clay KonieNcki ‘15 & Parker Abate ‘15 at Baseball Championships Morgan Abate

Media and Technology Summer Movie Preview What films should Friars be eager to see in Summer 2014?

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Mike McCarthy ‘15 & Ben Yankelitis ‘16 s summer fast approaches, it is hard for us Malvernians to concentrate on the things we should, namely school. Our minds are on what we want to do this summer. Maybe you are looking forward to making some cash money at your summer job at your local library. Maybe you are planning on training for the upcoming squash season. Maybe you are looking forward to exploring the wonders of the great outdoors as you go get the mail.

Or maybe you are looking to fully appreciate nature by shutting yourself inside an industrial strength freezer (aka your local movie theater) by way of wasting eleven bucks for two hours of entertainment.

Here are our best previews:

not the film’s main protagonist, despite the many trailers which depict this. Despite this disappointment, it is still a solid summer flick.

was worthy to spend $200 million on. Yes this is actually a real thing. Please don’t let this movie make any money.

X-Men: Days of Future Past (May 23)

21 Jump Street was one of the funniest movies in recent years. While sequels rarely live up to the originals, we have high hopes for this summer comedy. The plot will most likely be lacking, as most comedies are, but hopefully the plethora of one-liners and quotable moments will be enough to make this memorable.

Godzilla (May 16)

Edge of Tomorrow (June 6)

You might as well call this movie the superhero equivalent of the crossover episode of iCarly and Victorious. Stars from all over Hollywood have joined director Bryan Singer, including Jennifer Lawrence, Hugh Jackman, and Peter Dinklage. The variety of characters and veteran actors could make this the biggest hit of the summer. However, a confusing plot consisting of time travel could turn away prospective viewers.

Sadly, Miranda Cosgrove, Victoria Justice, and Ariana Grande will not be making appearances.

Our best (and worst) movie picks for your air-conditioned theatre time

Do you like giant monsters fighting each other while causing billions of dollars in damages and killing score of innocent people? How about lots of people staring wideeyed and open-mouthed at something far in the distance?

If you answered yes to either of these questions, then this is the movie for you! But be warned, Bryan Cranston is

Have you ever thought to yourself, “Gee, if only the movie ‘Groundhog Day’ focused around a futuristic war between robots and half-robot half-man things. And instead of Bill Murray, I wish it had Tom Cruise in it!”

No? You haven’t ever thought of that because that sounds like a terrible idea? Well apparently someone thought it

22 Jump Street (June 13)

The Expendables 3 (August 15)

As summer winds down, and you’re looking to hold onto the past few months, you can watch over aged actors who try to hold onto their past careers. Sylvester Stallone, Antonio Banderas, Mel Gibson, Harrison Ford, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Kelsey Grammer, are just a few of the actors who play the same action stars that they played twenty years ago. If you like scenes filled with explosions, gun fights, Mel Gibson dealing with childproof Tylenol lids, and terrible acting then you might enjoy this action flick. End your summer with a bang. n

> KENNY, 9

Gamers Unite at PAX East PAX East, a gaming convention out of Boston, brought together gamers world-wide for an amazing event.

Zac Chan ‘16 Reporter ver heard of the Penny Arcade Expo, or Pax? The Boston extension of the convention was held just last month at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, from April 11 - April 14. Known as Pax East, the event is one of the two largest gaming conventions in North America (the other being Pax Prime, which is held in Seattle, Washington). Ever since the original Pax held in Bellevue, Washington in 2004, the convention has grown in size each and every year. The Boston branch of the convention was first held in 2010. Resembling E3, Pax stands out by offering more than just game showcases,

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being open to the general public, and putting a huge focus on indie developers.

However, Pax isn’t just about the games. The event puts on many panels throughout each day, where viewers can have their questions answered by their favorite game developers, companies, youtubers, or webseries creators. The panel topics cover a variety of things, everything from esports to crowdfunding, and even the state of the gaming industry as a whole.

There are presentations, such as “From Playtest to 3-D Printer: How to Make, Fund, and Sell Your Own Boardgame", which was featured at this year’s event.

Each year’s Pax event also features a speaker who is at the

core the gaming industry as well as concerts put on by “nerdcore” artists.

While Pax is considered great for it’s game displays, it is really much more than just a public showcase for companies to preview or show off new games. The people behind the event (formerly sponsored by the Penny Arcade Expo) make good use of the over one hundred thousand square feet of show floor. With all this space, there are a lot of cool things for attendees to do.

Console Freeplay Area: The latest consoles, the latest games, and a free checkout system so you can play said games on said consoles.

Handheld Lounge: A room full of hundreds of bean bags

designed for those with handheld devices such as the Nintendo DS, Playstation Portable, and Playstation Vita.

PC Area: Hundreds of highend PC’s for your use, games included.

Tabletop Area: Designed for those who prefer boardgames to video games to either play or checkout games, like checking out books at a library.

Interested in attending next year’s PAX? The event is set to be held at the Boston Convention Center from March 6-8. Tickets, which cost $40 per day, or $75 for a three day pass, usually go on sale in October. If you plan on going, it’s best to be wary, as tickets usually sell out in hours.n

years. His current position of counselor is what he is best known for from student perspective, but he is also known as the Test Center Coordinator for students who have already taken the SAT or an AP test.

What will Mr. Kenny miss most after his retirement? “The friends I have made, both faculty and students,” said Kenny. After 43 years of service to Malvern, Mr. Kenny has grown close to the maintenance staff through his work on the grounds, as well as every student he has counseled. Four decades of Malvern grads and staff members have known him, and his impact on the community will last for generations.n

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May 2014

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

ARTS Artist of the Issue: Steven Van Ommeren Malvern sophomore Steven Van Ommeren: Master of the Ivories

Christian O’Connor ‘08 discusses his first album, inspiration, and Malvern roots

Zac Chan ‘16 Reporter urrently in tenth grade at Malvern Prep, Steven Van Ommeren first joined the school’s music program in 2009, when he was in sixth grade.

He has since played multiple piano solos for both the middle and upper school bands. Van Ommeren was recently accepted to The University of the Arts Pre-College Summer Institute for Music. Focusing primarily on Jazz, one of Van Ommeren’s favorite genres, the program is hosted in Philadelphia, and lasts for two weeks in July.

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ZC: Why the piano? What made you choose that instrument?

SVO: When I was three years old, I was at the beach, and my dad took out a tiny, toy keyboard, and played a Van Halen song on it. The next day, I was able to play it back for him. After that he bought me an electric keyboard, and I've been in love with piano ever since. I'm also currently trying to learn other instruments, like drums, guitar, and bass.

ZC: Is there a musical background in your family?

SVO: Yes! My uncle is a professional drummer, and my aunt went to The University of Arts for college. Even further back, my mom's great aunt was a professional singer, great grandfather was a professional bass player in Philly, and my great uncle is also a bass player.

ZC: How long have you been playing piano?

SVO: I’ve been playing the piano for twelve years, but I’ve only been taking lessons for ten.

ZC: What is your favorite part about playing music?

SVO: My favorite part of playing music is definitely improvising. It's when you start playing a song knowing the basic song outline, but then you start making the entire thing on the spot.

I love it because I'll never play the same thing twice! Everytime I play, I get something new out

> ROSLE, 8 should partake in some international and cultural submersion at some point in their high school career, and with the help of Father Flynn, Mr. Stewart, and Mr. Valyo, she was given the freedom to make her vision a reality. The Global Exchange Program still continues to this day, sending about 25 Malvern students to Spain, Australia, and Panama each year, and it’s all because of Mrs. Rosle’s

Alum Releases Rock Album Under Independent Label Andrew Stetser ‘15 Arts Editor n today’s age of 10,000 BPM beats and teenaged girls singing about their exboyfriends, the term “rock star” has come to mean little more than an energy drink you buy at Wawa. But one of our fellow brothers is on his way to returning the term to what it used to mean.

Christian O’Connor ‘08, has just released his first “Karma is what scares me, album entitled Dogma, Dharma, because if I am to end up ‘reapGrace, and Karma, which was writing what I sowed’ that’s bad news ten, produced, and for me,” added arranged entirely by O’Connor.

“Karma is what O’Connor. Coming T h o u g h scares me, because from an extremely O’Connor started if I am to end up mu s ic a l f a m i ly, the album after he ‘reaping what I O’Connor’s parents left Malvern, one sowed’ that’s bad got him set up with aspect of Malvern news for me.”

P ho sphor yl at ive definitely had a -Christian O’Connor ‘08 Enter tainment big impact on his Group, an independmusicianship. ent record label, and his album “Mr. Del Pizzo was a big influence on my decision to be was distributed by MondoTunes. a musician full time. He was Far from the “techno/electro” music you would see today, the my favorite teacher when I was album is deeply rooted with rock at Malvern, and one thing he and roll, with a little bit of counalways told the students is ‘It’s try twang. O’Connor actually very possible to make a living off wrote and arranged the entire of music, even if you’re not the album before he even had a band! main rockstar,’” said O’Connor.

He also hired a session guitarist, It’s no doubt that Christian Jef Lee Johnson, who was Billy O’Connor is on his way to becomJoel’s bass player and who played ing the main rockstar. When on the last five Mariah Carey we called him, he was actually albums. Sadly, Johnson passed getting ready to perform for the away a short time after working 2014 Nascar Sprint All-Star Race in Charlotte, NC. With with O’Connor. O’Connor decided to dedicate Dogma, Dharma, Grace, hundreds of fans in attendance, and Karma to Jef. and thousands watching on telInstantly we were wondering evision, it was a pretty big gig! how he got the title. “I actually The Blackfriar Chronicle would like to congratulate our got the title from one of the lyrfellow brother for releasing his ics in my song ‘Love Steps’ [the album, and cannot wait to see third track on his album]. It’s the idea that dogma being the him on the big stage one day! rules, dharma being fate, grace Dogma, Dharma, Grace, being forgiven if you are to be and Karma is available now on iTunes. His sister Devon forgiven, and karma is ‘you reap O’Connor (NDA ‘13) has also what you sow,’” said O’Connor. recently released the album “It’s not Christian Rock, but I am a Christian. The album’s really Love and Haight - also available all about grace, what saves you on iTunes. n unconditionally.”

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of the song.

ZC: What ensembles/musical groups have you participated in, whether inside or outside of school?

SVO: I was in the middle school’s Jazz Band for three years, the high school’s Jazz Band for two years, and I play music with my friends (not professionally... yet...)

ZC: Which group was your favorite one to be in?

SVO: My favorite is definitely the high school Jazz Band. I've learned so much from it and it has helped me to become a better musician.

ZC: What was your favorite song from this Spring's concert, and why?

SVO: I really liked Feels So Good. I loved listening to the song, loved the melody, and I had a solo in it, which was really fun to improvise on.

ZC: What musician do you look up to as your role model?

SVO: I have a couple. One is Alex Tran ‘13, because he inspires me to practice harder. I also look up to my piano teacher, Dave Thomas. He teaches me about jazz and music theory, was actually the reason I started playing jazz. For famous role models, I try to play like Bill Evans and Herbie Hancock.

persevera nce i n fol low i ng through with her vision.

In reality, Ms. Rosle has taken almost as many trips abroad as she has exchanged.

Throughout the 1990’s and early 2000’s, Ms. Rosle began taking Malvern students on trips to Spain and Mexico during their Easter Breaks, and she participated on two different occasions for the Peru service trips.

Mrs. Rosle has “never had a dull day at Malvern”. She is very

ZC: What musical genres do you listen to? Who is your favorite artist?

What about your favorite band?

SVO: My favorite genre is jazz, my favorite artist is Bill Evans, and my favorite band is The Beka Gochiashvili Trio.

ZC: If you had to try to convince someone to come to next year's band concert, what would you say to him?

SVO: The concerts are always a great time. You get to see both the middle schoolers and the high schoolers putting all their effort into what they love, and it’s FREE! ZC: Got any shoutouts?

SVO: I’d like to give a shoutout to David Bennett Thomas, my piano teacher. Check out his YouTube page at www.youtube. com/user/DavidBennettThomas.

I’d also like to give a shoutout to Mr. Del Pizzo, and his band, Del's Groove.

Interested in seeing Steve and the rest of Malvern’s music program perform? Unfortunately, their Spring Concert was held on April 30th, but you still catch them at Malvern’s Winter Arts Festival next December. n

thankful to have been able to work with such great colleagues, and teach so many amazing students. She even jokes that “for someone with a short attention span, it speaks highly of Malvern that she has lasted more than a quarter of a century at this place.” Just as she speaks highly of us, we would like to thank her for all the joy and opportunities she has brought to the school, and applaud her great dedication for the past 27 years. n

> LACROSSE, 1 junior Drew Schantz, who was all over the field clearing the ball, playing defense, and even scoring. He was joined by fellow junior Ryan Antell, and sophomores Jarrett Donaghy and Will Powers. Charles Kelly took almost every faceoff, and did an outstanding job, winning around 75% of his faceoffs on the year. Kelly’s role was especially important, as it kept the ball with the dangerous Friar offense.

The whole team was able to join together for an incredible undefeated season. At every position, Malvern was extremely talented, and the bond among the players helped to create what has to be described as a perfect season. Though it wasn’t easy, Head Coach John McEvoy, his staff, and all the players were able to cement their names in Malvern sports history. n

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

May 2014

13

FRIAR LIFE

NEWS Unrest Continues in Ukraine

Net Neutrality and You

It has been several months since the annexation of Crimea, and as the instability continues, it is clear that the unrest will go on. As Ukraine votes for a new president, Malvern watches with the rest of the world to see what happens next.

A world without Netflix might be closer than you think.

John McClatchy ‘17 Reporter re we going to war? If you follow the news, you may have asked yourself this question once or twice after seeing developing stories coming out of Ukraine in the past few weeks and months.

Wait, where is Ukraine, and why are we concerned?

Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe that used to be a Soviet republic during the Cold War. Since the fall of the Iron Curtain in the early 1990’s, Ukraine became an independent country, along with the other 15 republics. In the past few months, the people of Ukraine have tried to grow closer ties with the European Union, but when then-president Viktor Yanukovych scrapped the deal for closer relations with Russia, the people took to the streets, declaring their dissatisfaction.

The protests soon grew violent, and Yanukovych fled to Russia on 22 February of this year.

Tensions escalated when Russia, formerly neutral in the affair, annexed the region of Crimea, which was extremely pro-Russian, and in the heat of the revolution, voted to secede and join Russia. Before the vote, militants without uniforms stormed airports and government buildings in Crimea, and flew the Russian flag over them.

A fter the annexation of Crimea, President Obama has stressed there will be extreme consequences for this action,

namely in the form of economic sanctions, along with the European Union. Mr. Obama has also declared that there would harsher sanctions if Russia intervenes in Eastern Ukraine, which has become a battlefield as militants seized government buildings, just like Crimea.

So, are we doing what should be done? According to science teacher Captain Robert Boyce, “[these] sanctions haven’t really worked, and I don’t think it’s going to work against Russia, because Europe doesn’t want the sanctions because then they can’t import the fossil fuels, which are vital.”

Should we act militarily? “In my opinion, the answer is no [for a military reaction],” said Boyce.

History teacher Mr. Andrew Burke says that de-escalation is key. “Putin needs to save face,” said Burke. “The sanctions, while they haven’t really worked thus far, is making Putin cautious, because he realizes there will be harder sanctions if

he gets directly involved in the south or east [of Ukraine].” “ We should acknowledge Crimea is a part of Russia,” added history teacher Mr. Robert Colameco. “What we need to make sure is that there is no more aggression.”

In the past two weeks, there were new referendum votes in the east of Ukraine, just like in Crimea. Also like in Crimea, the results were overwhelmingly in favor of secession from Kiev and Russian rule. Mr. Burke is doubtful of the sincerity of the election, however. “I think Russia supported those votes and allowed the elections to take place,” said Burke.

With the results of this new vote, and the world’s eyes on Ukraine, no one knows how it will turn out. President Obama and other world leaders can only hope for a peaceful resolution, but must be prepared for the worst. n

> SOCIAL MEDIA, 2 think most people know what I said, but for those who don’t, on a scale of 1 to 10 of things not to say it was a 20 at best. I hit send, closed my computer and went to get a snack. I came back to my chair sat down and thought to myself, ‘what did I just say?’ I started to get nervous, opened my computer, clicked on the link to the blog - and there it was.

My brain at that exact moment was filled with one word and one word only, DELETE. But I couldn’t delete it. I said, “What do you mean I can’t delete this? I said it, I should be aloud to delete it.” But it doesn’t work that way with social media. Your send button is the gateway to the world.

It’s a terrifying thought that anyone in world can read your tweets or see your pictures on Facebook. It makes kids very susceptible to making a mistake like I did. We have all said something stupid or offensive before, but when you type it on screen,

you can’t take it back. The whole world can see that and judge you for that one comment.

Kids don’t think like adults; we act on impulses. Very little thinking goes into sending out tweets or texts or instagrams.

Now I send tweets to my drafts, and come back ten minutes later.

This way I can remove myself from whatever situation is going on and double-check what I’m sending to the world.

But back to the story. When I realized I couldn’t delete my comment, I knew I would be in trouble. It was a helpless feeling.

Coming to school the next day, I was a wreck. I was trying to set up the story in my head of how I got hacked and it wasn’t me, but down deep I kind of knew there was no chance of me getting away with this.

I had to ask myself, would I be here tomorrow? Even if I was, would I be accepted by my classmates or my teachers? At one point I wished to be expelled so I wouldn’t have to face the reality

of what I had done or the school I misrepresented.

I am writing this so my fellow classmates can learn from my mistakes and see how the smallest urge to comment or post can get you into a lot of trouble. I would hate to see what happened to me happen to anyone else.

All I am asking from you is to take a step back and think before you tweet or post or whatever you like to do. Because as long as it’s in a place for everyone to see, you can’t have those words back. n

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Jake Sorensen ‘15 News Editor f you follow news, media, or pop culture, chances are that you’ve heard some buzz about ‘internet freedom’ in the last few months. The phrase ‘net neutrality’ is not just jargon - it is going to be a major issue for us as we move into college and adulthood. Here’s a primer on why it matters.

Currently, internet providers can't control what you use or look at on the Internet. No organization or government can sanction off parts of the internet from their customers. This is, in simplest terms, net neutrality.

But, thanks to a recent ruling by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) the internet could lose this right forever.

On Thursday, May 5, the FCC voted to further consider 'paid priority,' a concept that could radically change how we experience the internet. The proposal would give internet service providers like Comcast and Time Warner the right to charge websites for quality delivery of content. That means, for instance, that Facebook, Google, and your future internet startup might have to negotiate a business agreement with internet providers in order for users to access the sites effectively.

In the last 3 years, the internet has been targeted by proposals like SOPA, DOMA, and CISPA, each of which are cases which had restrictions on the internet. Though most of these have been shut down thanks to public outcry, an all new threat, with no signs of stopping, has arose. You’ve guessed it: this threat is the FCC’s limitation of Net Neutrality.

The battle against net neutrality is no new conflict. The FCC’s 2005 Broadband Policy stated that open internet has four core principles: 1) Users can access the lawful Internet content of their choice; 2) Users can run applications and use services of their choice, subject to the needs of law enforcement; 3) Users can connect their choice of legal devices that do not harm the network; 4) Competition

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among network providers, application and service providers, and content providers.

In 2010, the FCC passed the FCC Open Internet Order, which actively prevented cable companies from barring the usage of sites that threatened their business. Both of these acts were passed in the face of companies like Time Warner and Comcast, who have been fighting long and hard to suppress competing web-based services like Netflix.

Between 2012-2013, America’s pay-TV industry lost 316,000 customers, along with the steady decrease that began in 2007. The majority of these unsubscriptions led to people switching over to Netflix, which shows how popular this new, cheaper service has become.

But, in 2014, such cable companies could regain the upper hand.

The FCC has always been responsible for regulating the internet in the US, but this does not always mean they are always on the side of free internet. Paid priority would require websites to negotiate with internet service providers in order provide customers access to sites. Cable companies could limit access to sites like Netflix, YouTube, or even Facebook if they wanted to.

The paid priority plan is not a final ruling. It will be open for the public comment through September 10, so that the FCC can hear the arguments for and against it. You can comment at www.fcc.gov/comments, or, if you're old fashioned, write a letter to your local congressman in case this comes to another vote.

In 2011, the United Nations declared that access to the internet is a human right. n Sanctioning of parts of the internet is an attack on those rights.

Though cable companies may not intend it, they are seriously limiting the freedom of their customers in trying to stifle competition.

This proposal needs to be taken seriously.n

> NFL, 7 Savage, a quarterback, went to Cardinal O'Hara High School. His college career was unusual, as coaching changes led him to three schools, from Rutgers, to Arizona, and finally to Pitt. Savage has the opportunity to compete for a wide open Texans quarterback spot.

Johnny Manziel of Texas A&M fell to the 22nd spot, where he was picked by the Cleveland Browns.

Manziel was projected at #1 on some boards, but character and maturity questions caused him to fall down. Manziel has been announced as the backup, but will certainly do his best to push incumbent starter Brian Hoyer, who started off hot but missed

much of last year with injury.

In the last round of the draft, Missouri Defensive End Michael Sam was drafted at #249 overall by the Saint Louis Rams. Sam is the first openly gay player to be drafted into the league.

As the draft went on, speculation began to emerge that Sam would go undrafted. However, the Rams selected Sam towards the end of the seventh round.

What players in this draft will go on to become the next Peyton Manning, the next Ray Lewis?

With an abundance of talent in this draft much like every year, only time will tell which young players will find themselves among the NFL’s greats. n

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May 2014

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

FRIAR LIFE > HORNSLETH, 8 about him in the classroom.

I had the opportunity to ask Mr. Hornsleth a couple of questions about his time at Malvern.

KC: How did you first get into swimming?

PH: I first got started in Drexel Hill, at Aronimink swim club. I was on the summer team there, and then later I joined a winter club which at that time was called the Bonner Boys Club, and we swam down in Philadelphia.

Then I came here to Malvern Prep. They didn’t have a pool yet, they were just building one, so for my first year I swam at Villanova's pool. The coaches here at Malvern were Eddie Guise and Jack Lumsion who were both coaches at Villanova and then the next year, my sophomore year, our coach was Lary Placio. The rest is sort of history.

and I enjoy being at home and having a smiling face with her.

Yes, divers are cooler than swimmers. Divers are a tough breed.

It is a whole different thing to get up on the board by themselves and be able to do dives, that sometimes can be crazy. There's a lot of skill involved. So, I have a true appreciation for diving.

Diving was the big part of us beating Germantown for the first time in a long time, back in 2002.

So yes, I have a true appreciation for divers.

KC: Can you finish the following sentence “ My favorite day at the pool is _______?”

PH: When the swimmers are in the water on time.

KC: Who are some of your influences/ favorite people at Malvern?

PH: I would have to say right on top I have been so fortunate to have been able to work with and KC: How did you get started swimunder Father Dave Duffy and Jim Stewart. I feel I could not ming at Malvern?

PH: I knew that when I came have been mentored by two bethere I was going to swim. We ter people. Father Knapp is probwere pretty decent when we first ably the person who influenced started and in my me most overall, senior year we were whether it was here “I think right now ranked one of the at school, when I many students top in the country. was at Villanova, or want instant We had some great when I came back gratification. They swimmers on the to school. He was a want instant oneteam. In fact, Mrs. very special person. step problems.

Fe eney ’s father They don’t like Mike Buckley was KC: How has Malvern going through one of my teamchanged since you multiple steps.” m at e s . He wa s came to Malvern?

-Mr. Hornsleth an All-American PH: I think the stuB r e a s t s t r oke r. dents are somewhat That was the start of it, That similar. I havent had a large amount of students in my 40+ was when Malvern first sort of years that i didn't think were put their name on the map and it was fun. I had a great bunch good people. I think sometimes of teammates. the focus is different. I think right now many students want KC: When did you start at Malvern instant gratification. They want instant one-step problems. They Prep?

PH: I started in the Fall of don't like going through multiple 1970. I was able to get a what steps. They live in that fast social they call “early out” or an “early media and they expect their edudischarge” from the Army to cation to be that way. They want come and start teaching here in instant feedback and sometimes September. they don’t have enough discipline to go through a process logically.

KC: How has Malvern Swimming grown to the top school in the All in all, Mr. Hornsleth will be very missed here at Inter-Ac? Malvern. He helped the Swim PH: We have been very fortunate to have some great young men Team accomplish many Inter-Ac come into our program. Then it Championships, and in the last has been up to Coach Schiller, two years back-to-back undemyself, and the other coaches feated Inter-Ac Championships. that have been here just to try Mr. Hornsleth has done so much to take those boys to their potenfor Malvern in the many years tial. I think the talent was here he has been here, whether it is and it was up to us to get the talteaching coaching the swimming ent out. Then the key thing for and diving teams to another us was the swimmers believing undefeated season, or even just in themselves. It’s been fun. It’s cheering the swimmers and been truly fun. divers on. He will be missed. n KC: Do you agree with this statement? Divers are cooler than swimmers.

PH: (Smiles) I would have to agree with that because my wife was a former diver and diving coach. I love my wife very much

> AU REVOIR, 8 necessary if institutions or organizations does not seek to change, it becomes a dinosaur. And we know what happened to the dinosaurs. Change is necessary.

Another significant change in the language program is the removal of the French program. In its place will be a new program that is based off of Mandarin Chinese. Spoken by more than a billion people around the world, Mandarin Chinese has surpassed English as the most widely spoken language in the world.

Department leader and Spanish teacher, Señor Jim Kirchner offered some perspective about what these language changes entail.

CB: What is exactly happening in the french program?

JK: We have known for several years now that the number of students enrolling in French is diminishing massively at Malvern Prep, other Inter-Ac schools, and across the nation. Unfortunately the decision was made about two years ago to phase French out and replace it with Mandarin Chinese.

That’s the decision we are going ahead with. It makes me very sad to lose French, but I also understand the push for Chinese.

CB: How will this affect AP French?

JK: In September of 2015 there will be one section of French 3 and Honors French 3 that are meeting all at the same time, There will be another section of French 4 / AP French.

CB: So they will be combining classes?

JK: Well its been done for decades. Again, the numbers… there might be 6 kids in French 3 and 3 kids in Honors French. We don’t have the faculty numbers to have two separate sections. There’s one section and that teacher distributes the work. And thats going to happen next year, and the following year. We’re talking 2015-2016, there will be one section of French 4/AP. And then the following year, French is gone. It’s bubbling its way up through the system.

CB: The last French will be taught in 2015-2016? Who will be teaching Chinese?

JK: Yes. We have a new teacher coming on board. Her name is Mrs. Michele DelGiorno. She will be our Chinese teacher.

CB: Personally, do you think this gradual elimination of French is a good idea?

JK: Personal opinion, it makes me extremely sad, although I don't speak French. It is one of my great regrets that I did not begin French in high school, in college, or postgraduate. And I say that fully aware that I can begin studying it right now. I should have studied it as a student, and then as an undergrad. On one hand, it makes me very sad, but on the other hand I’m a realist and I understand that the numbers are decreasing. The school cannot support the program where there’s only 7-8 kinds in a class. Thats what was happening with French.

CB: How do you think students will feel about these changes?

JK: They also, I suspect, will feel the same as I, in that they will be sad to see it go, but (I hope that), they will understand the reality of it. The more traditional parents who themselves studied French will be upset, but that’s the future. The future’s with Mandarin Chinese.

With the retirement of two esteemed French-teaching faculty, as well as the gradual elimination of Malvern’s French program, some students question if these changes are for the best.

“It’s not fun. My brother, who is 2 years younger than me, really wanted to take French too. But he could not, because of these changes,” said Jaxon Hoey ‘16.

Most students, however, are also in full support of these changes. Says one student, “Chinese is an odd, but interesting language. And I think it will be something that Malvern will embrace.” n

> CATHOLIC, 3 How does Malvern work to make students of other faiths feel welcome at the school?” As an Augustinian school, the concept of forming a dynamic Christian community has always been very important to Malvern, so it goes without saying that our first priority is to welcome everyone and to try to make everyone feel welcome,” said President Fr. James Flynn, OSA. “The upperclassmen are traditionally great models in this. Essentially, we try to make them feel welcome by loving them.”

“As a Catholic school, we are committed to forming all of our students within the Roman Catholic tradition, but we should also welcome and learn from our non-Catholic brothers and sisters,” according to Mr. Christian Talbot, Head of School. “St. Augustine himself sought out non-Catholics - that dialogue didn't threaten his faith, it actually strengthened it!”

“Diversity of religious belief is akin to diversity of ethnicity,

socio-economic status, and other differences,” continued Talbot.

“Every graduate of Malvern is entering a global economy, and the more comfortable and conversant you are with the diverse beliefs of others, the better equipped you will be to succeed.”

Talbot believes that discussion based in diversity "allows you to be a more committed Catholic while allowing your brother to be equally committed to his own faith tradition."

According to Bennett, "I chose to attend Malvern for the higher academic standard than my public school."

"I didn't choose to. My parents forced me to attend. Haha, but that wasn't because of religious reasons. I just didn't want to leave my public school friends behind," said Freed.

"And obviously I am very glad they made me come!" n

> CHESS, 4 idea of a middle school version.

“I’m excited, I’m definitely interested in it,” said Jhunjhunwala.

With 47 total competitors, the chess tournament was larger than anyone ever expected, and it is likely next year’s will be even grander. With the addition of a middle school tournament, chess will soon become a skill fostered early on in students’ Malvern careers. n

“Where there is no envy or fear, differences, far from creating divisions, foster harmony.”

-St. Augustine

According to the Malvern website, “Malvern Preparatory School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin in its educational, admission or financial aid policies.”

What do you think?

Let us know at mpfriarslantern.com

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

May 2014

15

FRIAR LIFE Main Line Takeover Project Takes College Admissions?

How has the Main Line Takeover project been viewed by admissions offices around the country? "Disappointing," but strong students stand on their own credentials.

Justice Bennett ‘16 meet that expectation, I could Jack Marchesani ‘15 unfairly judge a student. It is important to expect the best he ongoing investigation of a Philadelphia prep school from every applicant but also to drug ring, dubbed the be sure to read a student with ‘Main Line Takeover Project’ by bias or judgement. its alleged perpetrators and the headlines, made national news Is there any classification of certain in late April. News broadcasters areas having certain traits? as large as Washington Post, Every area has certain traits New York Times, both anecdotal and and Good Morning factual. Anecdotal “I am certainly t r a it s c a n help America were coverdisappointed admissions couning the news as stuto learn about dents, alumni and selors plan travel, this story but reputable schools decide which issues don’t associate had their names to address with stuthe schools or tarnished. dents or parents. the area with T he BFC was Factual traits, howthe actions of cur ious i f the ever, can be even individuals.” national headlines more impor ta nt.

-Sarah Quin, One factual trait had reached college Vanderbilt Univeristy that is very imporadmissions offices, and if this story tant in admission is yield - how many of the students would have any effect on admissions considerations for students who have been admitted will accept the offer of admission? from the Main Line. Sarah Quin, Assistant Director of Admissions Yield traits determine the final at Vanderbilt University in shaping of the admitted pool and Nashville, Tennessee answered each area has a different yield percentage. The Philadelphia a few of our questions. area has a yield percentage around 40%, which helps us Are there any areas or regions with our enrollment managewhere the first time you see it on an application you associate it with ment models. something?

I have worked with students in PA and DE for the last five years What do you associate the Main Line so at this point I have come to of Pennsylvania with? expect certain traits from my I associate the area with highly students. My job, however, is motivated, well prepared stuto remove bias and expectation dents. I grew up in the Lehigh Valley, in Easton, PA, so am and read every applicant with a blank slate. If I read an applicaalways happy to come back to PA tion with a certain pre-existing to work with students with whom expectation and a student doesn't I feel I can relate to! Students

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from this area are well prepared for the college search and often sure of what they want. I am impressed with students, parents and counselors from the area.

Did you hear of the Main Line drug incident?

Yes. Do you associate that incident solely with the involved schools or the entire Main Line?

Honestly neither. I am certainly disappointed to learn about this story but don't associate the schools or the area with the actions of individuals.

Will the Main Line drug event affect admissions for Main Line Prep schools?

No. We judge every candidate on their own accomplishments and credentials.

According to Ms. Monica Hernandez, Admissions Representative at Notre Dame University for Pennsylvania, “The recent events will not affect our impression of strong students from high schools in the area."

She associates the Philadelphia Main Line with strong schools and students fortunate enough to attend them. “ The first thing I associate a student with is their high school,” said Hernandez. n

> SENIOR TRIBUTE, 5

5 Facts about the Main Line Takeover Project 1. A ring of drug dealers aiming to acquire a monopoly of the drug trade on the Main Line named themselves the Main Line Takeover Project.

2. Lower Merion High School, The Haverford School, Harriton High School, Conestoga High School, and Radnor High School were identified as the target high schools in the drug ring, as well as three collegesGettysburg College, Lafayette College and Haverford College.

3. Lead by two alumni of the Haverford School - Neil Scott (25) and Timothy Brooks (18).

4. On April 21, 11 were arrested in association with the project, including 2 unnamed minors.

5. Confiscated items included approximately eight pounds of marijuana, three grams of hash oil, 23 grams of cocaine, 11 grams of MDMA, $11,000 in cash, a loaded AR15 rifle, a loaded 9mm handgun, a .22 caliber AR-15 rifle, ammunition, and other items. n

President, Johnny Monday ‘14, to the president-elect, Ryan Doane ‘15. This year’s version of the Malvernian yearbook was dedicated to Mrs. McGettigan, Malvern’s school nurse, who commented on how she never regretted her choice to be a nurse over a history teacher.

"The main reason for choosing Mrs. McGettigan was that she is a more behind-the-scenes faculty member who really helps the students and brings a great attitude towards everyone she comes across,” said Nick Melchiorre ‘14, a member of the yearbook committee.

As everyone else looked back at the senior class’s accomplishments, Mr. Talbot closed the tribute by looking ahead to the graduates’ futures past college.

Mr. Talbot repeated the title of a recent article from the Wall Street Journal three times: “Elite Colleges Don’t Buy Happiness for Graduates.” Read the full article here.

He went on to ask the question, “What produces a happy person and better worker?” As he explained, the secret to these things is “working for a purpose greater than yourself.”

Talbot told the story of an Ivy League grad and an owner of a multimillion dollar company who was most happy and fulfilled because of his charity work and his answer to the Gospel call.

Knowing the accomplishments and varied talents of this senior class to whom we paid tribute, we as a community are confident that the graduating class will go out into the world and answer that Gospel call to serve God by serving others. n

Want to get involved in investigative stories like this?

Contact us at mpfriarslantern.com for more information.

From Friar to Fleet An inside look at the everyday life of Ensign Ted Pease Matthew Jones ‘14 Reporter alvern has a reputation of producing young men who excel in whatever they may do in life. Many of our alumni strive after goals in the business world, goals which allow them to wear buttondowns, tie optional. However, every so often, a Friar can be spotted wearing a uniform.

Malvern alumnus Ted Pease ‘08 fits this criteria very well.

Pease goes to work each day wearing US Navy-issued clothing, as a Surface Warfare Officer with the US Navy onboard the USS Taylor.

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Pease’s interest in joining the Navy was with him long before he was commissioned.

Upon graduating from Malvern, Pease chose to study economics at Penn State University, During college he was accepted into a Navy Baccalaureate Degree Completion Program (BDCP) program, which allowed the Navy to help pay for schooling.

In July of 2012 he began Officer Candidate School and a few months later, on October 19, he was commissioned.

After his commission, he was assigned to the USS Taylor. This assignment carries many opportunities and responsibilities.

Pease is a Surface Warfare Officer. Typical tasks at work include standing watch as Officer of the Deck, managing the ship’s Close in Weapon System (CIWS) weapon system, and taking care of the men who look up to him for leadership.

Pease may work hard, but the navy has allowed him to play hard as well. Through his service he has been given the opportunity to travel all over the globe. Some highlights include Barcelona, Naples, and providing US presence and security off the coast of Sochi during the Winter Olympics. More travels around Europe in the near future are in store for the USS Taylor.

For any Malvern students

who have an interest in military service, Pease says to definitely pursue the field. The opportunities presented and rewarding career path makes each day interesting.

“Some days are hard, but when you're driving a 450ft ship through the ocean at 30kts while shooting every gun on the ship at a target you realize that it's definitely better than sitting at a cubicle writing a TPS report,” said Pease Thank you to Ensign Ted Pease ‘08 and all of the other Malvern military alumni for your service. n

Pease at Commissioning, 2012 / Social Media

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May 2014

THE BLACKFRIAR CHRONICLE

PARTING PERSPECTIVES

Trading Places: The Malvern-Villa Swap Two Malvern students and two Villa students swapped roles for a day in order to gain new perspectives, not only on their respective swaps, but on their own schools. course.”

Andrew Stetser ‘15 Arts Editor Villa did not have the set “break” in the day like we do t was the craziest idea I had ever had. at Malvern. And my tour guide Well, no. Let me rephrase had seventh period lunch. Going my lead: It was the craziest idea seven periods of class straight I had ever had that worked. through is harder than you On Friday, May 16, two girls might think! I also was not from Villa Maria Academy, Keely accustomed to the bell. Having Washel ‘15 and Emily Legaard a universally set time which eve‘15, spent the day as Malvern ryone switches classes was a cool students while Parker Abate thing to see. It brought order and ‘15 and I spent the day as Villa lessened confusion. students. The swap was the But at the end of the day, result of nearly a Villa and Malvern full month of plan“We definitely were more alike ning, cooperation of feel that there than dissimilar.

Both schools have the administrations was a lot at both schools, more freedom b e au t i f u l c a m and the willingpuses, the students in the classes. ness of a couple Classes were a and teachers are of brave students welc om i n g, a nd lot more laid from each school to back then we each school, though be involved. were used to.” founded by differThe girls both ent orders, is deeply Keeley Washel & followed my acar o ot e d i n t hei r Emily Legaard, dem i c s c he du le Catholic faith.

VMA ‘15 for the day, while T his one day Parker and I each of le a r n i ng d id not come without followed individual preparation and planning. In schedules at Villa accompanied fact, planning began on April by a host.

When I was at Villa, I defi22, almost four weeks before the nitely noticed some differences. actual swap.

During the classes, the students In advance of the swap, Mr. were a lot more attentive. Not Algeo, Head of Malvern’s Upper to say that Malvern students School, had some cautious quesare not attentive, but the level tions. “How do we assure that of focus which was present by the young lady who trades every student in every class was spaces and spends the day here astounding. isn't subject to immature barbs, “ We definitely feel that harassment, or negative comthere was a lot more freedom in ments? Should another student the classes,” noted Washel and from her school accompany her Legaard on their Malvern expeso she doesn't feel so isolated? rience. “Classes were a lot more How can we educate our students laid back then we were used to.” about this experiment and have However, Pa rker A bate them buy into making a posithought the experience of attendtive impression and avoid negaing Villa was more similar than tive behavior?” he asked. These different to a day at Malvern. questions drove our discussions “I felt like it was the same, throughout several planning just with girls,” said Abate. “I meetings. mean, a little more mannerly, of Both Villa’s and Malvern’s

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Snowballs in the summer Snowballs? Sno Balls? All delicious.

Ted Holleran ‘16 Contributor icture this: You swagger on into your local Wawa and go over to browse the fine collection of Tastykake baked goods. As you’re looking for the chocolate cupcakes with the cream-filled centers, you notice something is off. Did the Tastykakes always take up all these shelves? You look closer and you realize it: New Tastykakes have arrived.

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administrations preferred the idea of having two students participate from each school. Algeo had a brief meeting with the junior class on Friday, May 15, the day prior to the swap. He explained the program to the juniors and asked for the full class’s respect and cooperation.

“Class was normal regarding my routine, how I lectured, etc.

The guys in class acted a little bit different though. They were trying harder than normal to be funny,” said Mr. Koenig, Physics teacher at Malvern.

Koenig liked the experience, noting it was a change of pace. “At Salesianum we used to have an exchange program with Ursuline, a nearby all girls school. We had a fixed first period daily and the rest of the classes rotated. The exchange was during this fixed 1st period and we loved it. It was basically our only interaction with females on an everyday basis,” he said.

Kiersten McDonald V MA ‘15 liked the experience of having boys attend Villa for the day.

“It was definitely intriguing to get to have boys in our classes, because it got a chance for all of us to know the differences in single-sex education styles. They asked questions of us, we asked questions of them, and in the end, we all learned new things,” said McDonald.

“I think it was definitely an interesting experience for the girls,” said Peter Calvaresi ‘15.

“They seemed like they were surprised on how laid back some of the classes were. But it was definitely awesome to have something happen like this in class.”

“I felt pretty comfortable attending Malvern, because even though we had no clue where we were going,” joked Keely Washel, “We could ask anyone on campus and they would be happy to help

Yes, that’s me at the front of the class / A. Stetser

us. Everyone was really nice and willing to help us if we needed it.”

“It was really a stress-free day, and in general, a lot less structured than Villa is.” said Emily Legaard. “That aspect of the swap was definitely unusual, but the different buildings and classes were extremely similar to mine. This made it easier to adapt to the different atmosphere.”

“I love the concept of a co-ed exchange and hope we can find a way to work this in for the future,” said Mr. Koenig. “We should do a teacher exchange some time also, that would be interesting. I would absolutely do it again.”

Mr. Algeo was thrilled with how this all played out. “I was extremely proud of the hard work that went into this. The team who organized this took on all

At first, the new cakes don’t seem too exciting.

Tastykake Danish. Tastykake Cinnamon Roll. The Tastykake Dreamie looks like it holds some potential, but one of the new recruits stands out above the rest.

One new kandy kake you can’t help but instantly desire the moment your eyes catch sight of it. It’s so exotic! It’s so intricate! Carefully, you pick the first package out of the box and behold it in your hands for a second. Slowly, soaking in all the bliss of the moment, you read the words again: “Tastykake Snowballs.”

The Tastykake Snowball consists of three, separately delicious and collectively harmonious parts. The first part is your standard chocolate cake with a cream center. Over the cake, there is a thick layer of marshmallow. Finally, on top of the marshmallow lies a thin coat of pink coconut shavings. The result is a pink semi-sphere that greatly resembles a snowball in Candyland.

You snack food connoisseurs may be noticing some similarities between the Tastykake Snowball and Hostess’s Sno Ball. For the casual snacker, I will explain.

Back in the pre-2013 world, when the company still existed, Hostess Brands Inc. was a wholesale baker and distributor of bakery products that owned the Hostess

of my concerns head on, and it turned out to be successful,” said Algeo.

“I used to teach in a school in Florida,” said Sister Regina Ryan, Principal of Villa. “We used to do swaps like these all the time. It was interesting to see this happen again at Villa.”

Whether it be students or teachers, the exchange is definitely an interesting concept, and an extremely unique experience. In the words of Romans 12:5: “So in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” n

Cake brand, the brand of Sno Balls and the better known Twinkie. Lots of financial and legal stuff happened, Hostess Brands Inc. went bankrupt, and for a while it seemed as if the Hostess Cake brand was going to go with it.

I can do no more than speculate, but what may have happened is that Tastykake seized the opportunity to take up the production of coconut-covered treats at a time when it seemed like Sno Balls would soon meet their demise. Then the Fates drew a wildcard and the Hostess Cake brand was saved and continued to manufacture both Twinkies and Sno Balls, while Tastykake continued its development of Hostess replacements. Thus, we have the Tastykake Dreamie as the equivalent of Hostess’s Twinkie and the Tastykake Snowball as the equivalent of Hostess’s Sno Ball.

I, for one, fully support Tastykake’s adaption over the Hostess original. Not only does the Snowball support proper spelling, but it’s also a product of Philadelphia’s own Tasty Baking Company. I’d highly suggest to everyone reading this and everyone not reading this to go out and try some of Tastykake’s tasty cakes today. n