December Issue of the Dial

Freedom from Chemical Dependency (p. 2)

Read about the Dial’s opinion on the effectiveness of FCD .

Students participate in Sandy relief efforts (p. 5) Spearheaded by the freshman class project, students from all grades have been participating in relief efforts supporting the victims of Superstorm Sandy.

PE Curling makes debut (p.12) Learn the history and rules of the game. Become an expert in the newest PE Olympic sport offering to hit the Hilltop. .

the December 2012 | Volume 115 Issue 5

Dial

Voice of the student body

voices.hackleyschool.org/dial

Clubs center efforts on holiday giving laurenfallon staff writer

Soup Kitchen

On Sunday mornings, students cook a full meal, including soup, salad, and dessert for people in need in at St. Bart’s in White Plains.

Abbott House

The junior grade has chosen as its grade project to run a toy drive for orphans at the Abbott House.

Breakfast Run

On a Sunday once a month, students serve waffles, eggs, and other food and drinks to homeless citizens in Manhattan.

For retailers, purchases during the holiday season can represent anywhere between 20-40% of annual sales. On average, holiday sales have increased 3.5% per year in the last ten years.

This holiday season students are preparing to give back to Hackley as well as the local community, rather than buying out the stores for themselves.

The Wellness Club continues its efforts to make healthier changes on campus by scheduling a free bake sale with healthy treats; any donations the club receives will go towards helping Superstorm Sandy victims.

The club has already made significant changes at Hackley. “We have put healthier options in the lunchroom as well as vending machines in the gym,” senior leader Stephanie Rubin said.

The number of students participating in the Peer Tutoring program is larger than ever. This program matches upperclassman volunteers with underclassmen who need help in specific subjects.

Senior Bryan Yu heads Peer Tutoring.

“We’ve taken their subjects; we’ve had their teachers; we know what they’re going through; that is why it is extremely helpful having a peer tutor who can give you help and advice on how to improve your grades,” he said.

Senior Dilsia Olivero, one of the leaders of the Hawthorne Project, “hopes to have a bake sale before winter break to raise money and promote the holiday

spirit of gift-giving.”

One Saturday a month the Hawthorne Project organizes a student visit to the Hawthorne School where they interact with children with autism. Students play sports and do arts and crafts for a few hours.

Students who volunteer for St. Barts Soup Kitchen continued their monthy trips this December. The group, led by senior Xiaoling Keller, travels to White Plains to prepare food at St. Barts. This past month they served a holiday themed dinner with ham and trimmings. “Knowing that you are cooking for a large group of people in need is very rewarding,” Xiaoling said.

HEAL has also joined the giving spirit. “The club has recently harvested vegetables from the campus garden to give to Marco Morales, Director of Dining Services, to use in Hackley’s salads,” senior Kelsey Manning said.

HEAL aims to educate the student body on environmental affairs and to lead Hackley on a path to becoming a sustainable school.

UNITY, Hackley’s multicultural club, has been sponsoring community service projects to help Super Storm Sandy victims. Senior member Calli Reynolds said, “we went into Long Island where a group of students did hands-on work helping to remove debris from houses.”

Breakfast Run travels to New York City one Sunday each month to bring

breakfast to the homeless. Senior Danielle Pettiti, one of the club’s leaders, said, “in December, we usually bring out holiday items and try to collect warm clothes for the homeless by having a clothing drive.

Even though it’s freezing, everyone is extremely cheerful and we are always able to have great conversations with the people.”

At the other end of the day, the last Midnight Run before the holiday was on Dec. 12. “We brought food, clothing, toiletries, and hot chocolate, which was especially enjoyed because of the cold weather,” senior leader Luke Sweeney said.

Open Door Family Center is a medical clinic for low-income families.

These past few weeks, students including sophomore Jeffrey Guzman have held a gift drive for the clinic and wrapped all of the donated presents.

“We plan on dropping off the gifts before the holiday break; it will be a lot of fun because the kids really enjoy receiving the presents, especially during the holiday season,” Jeffrey said.

The junior class has been holding a toy drive for the Abbot House in Irvington.

Abbot House is an organization that helps foster children as well as foster parents.

Junior leader Peter Patapis said, “every Wednesday, once a month, the Abbot House holds an event for foster children and their foster parents. While we play with the kids, their parents are trained and given advice on how they can be great foster parents.”

Sorted and gift-wrapped toys were collected near the Upper School office on tables for the Abbott [Left to right] Senior Xiaoling Keller, freshmen Laura Seebacher and Molly Harmon fold clothing House toy drive for orphans. This was the junior grade project. Photo by Xiaoling Keller. at St. Camillus Church in Rockaway Park, N.Y. Photo by Nicole Butterfield.

2 editorial

theDial

december

Time is wasted waiting in long lunch lines

The clock strikes 12:15 and as students and teachers get on line for hot food, the debate begins on whether or not the lunch is worth the wait.

Lunch should be available in a timely manner and not become a point of conflict. It is a time to relax during the long and sometimes stressful school day.

Students only have 30 minutes to eat and prepare for the rest of their day’s classes, and if students have to wait on line for a majority of their lunch period, this can be hard to do.

With less time to eat, students have to resort to other options, which means they might not eat the most nutritious or substantial foods. If students have sports after school and didn’t eat a substantial meal, they might not be able to perform to the best of their ability.

Students use part of the lunch period to study for upcoming tests or complete homework assignments after a quick meal. With limited time for lunch, the

options are to study on an empty stomach or receive a lower grades on the assessment.

While multiple students leave the line, others decide to wait it out and ultimately end up arriving late to class.

Long lines create dirtier lunch room

The lunchroom is often times left messier because students rush to clean up and run to class. The lunchroom would be cleaner if students had sufficient time to clean up after themselves and relax. Not only would students who were eating be content, but the jobs of those on lunch duty would also be simplified.

The predicament of lunch lines is not only unfair to the students, but it is also unfair to the lunch staff because their food is neither appreciated nor consumed by the maximum number of students who actually wanted to try the food.

It would be helpful if the ten-minute period in between the two lunches was used to set up more plates. This way the distribution system would be

quicker and the food could be ready earlier.

More self–serve options

It would also be helpful if foods that didn’t have to be on the hot food line weren’t. For example, vegetables and breads that are cooked and prepared in a certain way can be put near the bread line.

Foods that need to be heated can remain on that line so that there are more self-serve options. Since many people will wait on the long line multiple times just to get one item because they disagree with portion sizes, certain students never get to eat while others are going for seconds.

It would be helpful if different sides of the line had different foods so that it is clear what people are waiting for.

Additionally, food in all stations of the cafeteria could be replenished more often so that options for those still abstaining from waiting on the lunch line can get nutrients in other foods.

Students wait in line for the Hornet. As one of Hackley’s most popular foods, the Hornet sometimes commands long lines. Top photo by Xiaoling Keller. Center photo by Melissa Warshauer.

FCD provides useful drug information

O

ne week every year, Hackley freshmen and juniors talk to former drug abusers instead of attending English class. The Freedom from Chemical Dependency Program (FCD) educates

students on drug and alcohol abuse.

The FCD educators have experienced the dangerous consequences of alcohol and drug abuses, and in some cases, they have seen the fatal effects on others. They attempt to incorporate Hackley’s drug policy, which can be found in the student handbook, into the discussion.

While a recent poll was inconclusive – 37 percent said FCD is effective, 42 percent it is not effective (with a five percent margin of error), the FCD program is an effective way to assist students in making intelligent decisions regarding drugs and alcohol. Their efforts to com-

municate to students the real dangers of drug use have been successful and should be continued.

Unlike a regularly scheduled class, the FCD program takes a personalized approach by teaching through the counselor’s experiences, which is effective for the majority of students. This, students believe, makes the counselor more relatable, welcoming, and understanding of the situations students face on a daily basis.

Rather than telling students “don’t do drugs,” the educators inform them of the deadly risks they take if they choose to partake in drug use or underage drinking and tell them to manage it responsibly.

They tell stories of their own personal

dialstaff

experience, and warn students not to make the same mistakes they did when they were younger. By communicating this information, the students find the men and women who visit Hackley every year to be more relatable than typical drug educators, for they understand the situations teens are going through.

These methods are not only more interesting, but they are also more effective than a health teacher listing off statistics and facts. The ninth and eleventh graders enjoy listening to the various stories of each counselor, and they learn much from every one.

The Dial supports the efforts of the Freedom from Chemical Dependency program.

Hackley School - 293 Bendict Ave., Tarrytown, NY - (914) 631 0128 - December 2012 - Vol. 115, No. 5

Editor-in-chief dominiquealpuche

Asst. Managing Editor isabellaberland

Politics Editor gabyoppenheim

Science Editor rebeccaslutsky

Staff Artist mollykestenbaum Staff Photographer xiaolingkeller

Managing Editor melissawarshauer

Feature Editor allymueller

Arts Editor sarahbonanno

Dial OnLine Editor paulathenastone

Executive Editor danielhoffman

Asst. Feature Editor angelamauri

Lifestyles Editor carolinechmiel

Technical Editor petergerma

Design Editor paulrapisardi

News Editor samheyward

Sports Editor maxparauda

Polling Editor harrisonwetzler

Advisers jennielyons

Coordinating Editors alexhersh rolandrizzi

Editorial nickhallock

Asst. Sports Editors teddymiddleton evanweisberg

Copy Editors annatskhovrebov giannad’alessio

annebudlong

www.hackleyschool.org

Policy Opinions expressed in staff editorials reflect the majory view of The Dial Editorial Board. Opinions expressed in signed articles are those of the author and do not represent the views of Hackley School, its administration or its staff. The Dial invites and encourages its readers to write letters to the editor or submit contributions. We reserve the right to edit any submission for clarity and brevity, and to correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation when necessary. We refuse to publish submissions which are unsigned, libelous, or plagiarized.

Four hundred copies of each issue are distributed among the High School student body of about four hundred students and the faculty and staff.

Letters and submissions can be emailed to dial@hackleyschool.org.

The Dial is the official student newspaper of Hackley School.

theDial

feature 3

december

Students object to being kicked out of the library granturken&jamesfirpo staff writers

What are the main reasons that students are kicked out of the library?

Being too loud/talking: 38% Being too rowdy: 24% Eating in the library: 18%

[From top to bottom]: Juniors Jenny Horing and Peter Patapis appear to be studying, but Upper School Librarian Jackson Blossom catches Jenny eating in the library and sends her out. Junior Daniel Shaw uses his free time to relax, putting his feet on the table and using his phone to call his friends. Photos

by Ally Mueller and Melissa Warshauer.

Thirty four percent of the upper school students report having heard the words “Get out,” or something similar, requesting them to leave the Sternberg Library according to a recent Dial poll.

Head librarian Brianna Judkins reports that the main reason students are kicked out of the library is for eating. The poll, however, reflects that students report the primary reason they are kicked out is for talking or being too loud. Food represents 18% of the violations according to the student poll, which is less than the number kicked out for “being too rowdy”—24% and “being too loud/Talking”—38%.

Ms. Judkins also said, “For talking, there is a warning to settle down and find something to do.” Junior Jilian Dressler said, “I was kicked out without a warning for apparently talking too loud.”

Just as there are differences in how the students and librarians view violations, students believe that there are discrepancies in how library personnel enforce the rules. “Each librarian has very different rules, especially when it comes to the “quiet side” of the library,” said senior Greg Pon. The poll indicated that half of the students (51%) were asked to leave by librarian and archivist Eleanor Friedman while the other half were asked by Ms. Judkins (36%) or Upper School Librarian Jack Blossom (13%).

Ms. Friedman spends more time supervising because Mr. Blossom and Ms. Judkins are often teaching.

Ms. Freidman and Mr. Blossom encourage students to work together on projects. “I don’t discourage students from talking when they are doing work,” said Ms. Friedman.

Mr. Blossom believes that talking is a necessary part of collaboration and he only steps in when the talking appears unproductive.

“Talking is good because you have to think and multi-task and we encourage that, but it would be better if more people talked with a softer tone of voice,” said Mr. Blossom.

Ms. Friedman noted that there are some larger groups of students who tend to be repeat offenders and when they get “rowdy” she will request that they leave. “Usually when we get kicked out of the library we’re doing something bad, so it’s justified,” said junior Thomas Slipsager.

Library policy is to provide a warning for disruptive behavior. After a warning, “If we have to come back five minutes later, and have to ask them to settle down again, we may ask them to leave,” said Ms. Judkins. Students are supportive of a warning system for talking.

Freshman Sammy Mueller said, “Honestly, if the librarians actually just enforce the warning system they say they have, I think the library would be better for all. It should be like a strike system—two strikes and you’re out.”

Welcome signs stating library policy are posted throughout the library and the student handbook makes three references to the library: cell phone use is forbidden; gum, food, drinks and candy are prohibited; and study rooms are available for small group usage, tutoring sessions and private, quiet study.”

But students admit that they are not aware of any stated rules. Senior Kate Gruskey said, “I don’t even know the policies. Maybe they could make a nice sign [of the official policies].”

There is zero tolerance for food. “Since it is a new library, we are pretty hard and fast on it [the rule],” said Ms. Judkins.

“I love our library, but constantly watching kids being kicked out, and sometimes I myself being kicked out for silly things just gets annoying, and makes me want to spend less time at the library,” said sophomore Serena Hernandez.

How do topics for assemblies really come about?

allymueller&irenekim&clairemeyer feature editor and staff writers ne day in 1991, the editor of the Harvard Law Review was the Forbes lecturer at Hackley. Little notice was given to this event until this speaker, Barack Obama, ran for president.

Once every two to three cycles, students gather in the PAC for assemblies, with varying student interest. While students have had the opportunity to listen to speakers on diverse topics, interest still varies among the Upper Schoolers. As junior Rafael Giradello said, “Most [assemblies] are mildly interesting, but others are a waste of time. We need more relatable speakers to students with more relevance and current events.”

The decision process for choosing the lecture speakers goes through each department chair, along with Upper School Director Andy King and Assistant Headmaster Kevin Rea. Mr. Rea chairs the committee that reviews possible speakers and works closely with a variety of faculty and administrators to pursue the best leads. Contacts are usually made through teacher connections, and the teachers consult the headmaster before the lectures are set up.

Forbes Lectures deal with current events and politics.

Malcolm S. Forbes ’37 developed the lecture series in 1989 and enabled many of the speakers, such as Ralph Nader and President Barack Obama, to discuss controversial issues and share their opinions with the students.

Tom Casten came in 2009 and spoke about his work in the field of energy and conservation. If you recognize the name Casten, it’s because his family is the benefactor of Hackley’s Casten Travel Program, a series of trips for Hackley’s Upper

O

“

School students and faculty.

Recently, Art Laffer gave a lecture concerning his preferred tax policy, which raised controversy within the student body.A recent Dial poll shows that 35% of students say that their favorite assembly at Hackley was Mr. Laffer’s lecture, while 19% say that Mr. Laffer’s lecture was their least favorite.

The Szabo Lecture involves the science department and addresses intriguing issues such as the Genome Project and the Hubble Telescope. It is named for two former Hackley teachers, Kathy and Paul Szabo. Dr. Szabo taught for 32 years as an Upper School science teacher.

“Doc [Szabo] has touched the lives of students both in the classroom and out of it,” said Emily Moqtaderi ’88.

This year’s Szabo speaker will be Carey Nadell, an alumnus and son of Hackley college ~Rafael Giradello counselor Jean Nadell. Science Department Head Bill McLay is essential in choosing speakers for the Szabo lectures since he specializes in science.

Naething Lectures nurture student interest in literature.

Arthur Naething, former English teacher and Chair of Hackley’s English Department for 35 years, inspired the Naething Lecture.

English Department Head Richard Robinson lets the English board know his contacts and reaches out to Mr. Naething to set up a lecture for the students. He also gets contact information from Director of Alumni Affairs and Development John Gannon.

Wendt Lectures have explored international affairs topics such as nuclear proliferation in North Korea and the Iraq War. This lecture was established through the generosity of Henry

Most [assemblies] are mildly interesting, but others are a waste of time. We need more relatable speakers.

Wendt ’51. Classics Department Head Adrienne Pierce organizes the Wendt lectures and is the current chair holder. A Wendt speaker may be coming in the new year according to Mr. Rea. The DuBois Lecture results from Hackley’s partnership with Harvard University’s W.E.B. DuBois Institute. Topics usually relate to questions of racial or cultural identity. Past speakers have included Professor Henry Louis Gates Jr., the head of Harvard’s DuBois Institute. He is also famous for being invited to the White House by President Obama to “share a beer” with the white police officer who had arrested him outside of his home in 2009. Another past speaker is Vincent Brown, Harvard University Professor of History and African and African American Studies, who came in 2010.

“My favorite speaker was Colonel Edward Neisz who spoke with Eugene Jareki, a Hackley alum,” said Mr. Rea. “Neisz spoke a year after the surge in Iraq, and talked to the students about the war. He deeply informed the students about the conflict in 2008.” Mr. Rea also enjoyed the lecture given by Professor David Harrison, who spoke about endangered languages. “Professor Harrison was very personable and warm, but challenged the students intellectually,” Mr. Rea reported.

Despite the arduous process it sometimes takes to bring in prominent speakers or to prepare Casten Trip presentations, students don’t always enjoy assemblies. “I feel like assemblies would be more engaging if they were interactive,” said junior Rebkha Michael. Junior Zach Walsh agreed: “I feel like students should be better informed about what assemblies are about beforehand, and then students should be given the option of attending if they are interested.”

However, sophomore Callye Bolster said, “I actually thought Colson Whitehead was very interesting, as he was relatable and really funny.” Senior Allie Coppola added that, “I liked Arthur Laffer because he was semi-relevant.”

4 news

theDial

december

FCD program educates students for another year jeffreyguzman staff writer

Drop your English books and take a look at what substance abuse does to you. This is the routine for every freshman and junior, as students take part in the week-long Freedom from Chemical Dependency program (FDC) .

This is a

program that has been running internationally for over 35 years, and has been at Hackley for more than 10.

The goal of FCD is to educate students about the dangers of drug, alcohol, and tobacco addiction. The program presenters use their “stories” to highlight the possible outcomes of substance abuse. Some of the presenters like Barbara, more widely know as “drug lady,” can be funny and even wild.

Students find the stories and facts interesting, and believe they’ve allowed them to be more aware of certain substances, although they don’t think the program has led them to completely disregard all substances. “The program is helping me be more cautious, but it’s not like I’m gonna wait to be 21 to drink— nor do I think many people will,” said an anonymous student.

“I think it’s necessary,” said senior and former peer advisor, Ian Parnell. “The stories help kids see the danger of abuse by having them hear real life stories of struggles.”’

The week of classes concludes with a student and parent night, in which different parents and freshmen are paired together and discuss alcohol and drug use. The discussion is facilitated by peer advisors.

This program was specifically chosen over others like the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) because FCD brings parents into the conversation, with the friends and peers of their children; it is also being held in a very high regard internationally.

Upper School Director Andy King thinks the program is effective. “The parents appreciate the program. By reaching out to and educating both parents and students, and then having them talk, it creates a forum to discuss a generally challenging, yet important topic,” he said.

Mr. King believes that it is the conversation sparked between parents and students that make all the difference.

“In the end, it’s the parents and what kids are told at home that really matters,” he said. “It’s your parents telling you not to do this that really makes an impact. They have more influence than any program.”

Students weigh in

Aside from having a role in class instruction and teaching students and helping formulate questions for the freshmen parent-student forums, FCD played an important role in helping Hackley create its recent addition to the handbook: the off-campus substance abuse policy. For many years,Hackley has had a straightforward policy that states if you have any alcohol, drugs, or tobacco on campus or off-campus school events you will be punished, which may include expulsion.

A new addition worked out between Head of Physical Education Patricia White, the Administration, Upper School psychologist Linda Sadler, and FCD tackles the situation that students might encounter at parties where these substances is present. Students who suffer a substance abuse-related ailment are often left alone without care by friends who fear repercussions, and sometimes die.

Hackley created a new policy a few years ago, which states that students who seek medical attention for an ill friend at a party or social gathering outside of school or studenst who speaks out about their own or another student’s abuse issue will not be punished. “Instead they’ll be blessed with counseling from Dr. Sadler, and the school will do everything in its power to help them without the issue affecting any other school related activities.”

42%

Hackley’s drug and alcohol policy

Sophomore Alex Cvecich agrees that the policy is effective and “will prevent any lamentable situations in the future.”

He disagrees, though, that the program itself is effective.

“It doesn’t do much. For one, my parents did not talk to me after they attended the discussion, and generally I don’t think students are really swayed by what they are told in school,” he said.

“Substances are present everywhere, and peer pressure gets to you. What I do think the program does is help you pick out certain substances that you know you won’t ever do. I mean, I find drugs gross,” Alex added.

Students agree with Alex and see the program as a repetition of health class, just more in depth and with stories relating to the abuse, which makes it more interesting.

Ian not only went through the classes but also monitored one of the parent-student discussions. Of this experience he said, “I got a better look at what parents think, which didn’t completely change my stance or course of actions when confronted with substances, but did allow me to get better insight and think more clearly.”

Students agree that the information and the addiction stories have scared them away from certain substances, mostly tobacco and certain hard drugs. At the end of the program students are given evaluations which, according to Mr. King, seem generally favorable.

Do you think FCD is effective?

I don’t know

21%

Yes

37%

1 2

No

3

What do you think the purpose of FCD is?

To learn about drugs

28%

To prevent students from taking drugs

16%

1

To teach kids about the dangers/ to tell us not to do drugs

2 3

53%

Summer program returns after 12 year absence tristanjung staff writer

F

or the first time since construction began on the Hilltop in 2000, Hackley is offering students the chance to enrich their minds and study during the summer.

Director of Auxillary Programs Edward Mills is arranging several new classes that integrate with existing programs for the Summer of 2013. “In a sense, we are rebooting the Summer programs to focus on school-year missions,” he said.

“We haven’t had any summer enrichment classes for several years, but we now want to give more opportunities to teachers and students,” Mr. Mills said. “Because we are still six months away from Summer, most of the programs are not yet concrete, but the schedule should be finalized by the end of December,” he added.

Regular Drivers Ed., SAT classes and sports programs will run as scheduled. “We are planning on offering courses prioritized for students in transition from eighth to ninth grade,” he said.

Mr. Mills was unable to elaborate on the specifics of the Summer classes but he did outline some details of the upcoming schedule. The entire Summer program will run from June 10 until Aug. 16; however, most courses will appear during the June 24 – Aug. 2, six-week period.

The daily schedule is broken down into four periods of

1.5 hours each. The morning session, periods 1 and 2, will run from 9am-12pm and the afternoon session (periods 3 and 4) will run from 1pm-4pm.

“We are planning on offering more English and math classes as well as classes in other disciplines. Most sports programs are scheduled to begin two weeks after school ends. Once we have the classes finalized, we should be able to start moving.

Student reactions to the summer programs have been mixed. “I feel like the summer programs haven’t been advertised very well. However, I would be interested in whatever is offered.” said sophomore Ross Hoch.

“I know a little bit about them [the programs]. I’m planning on taking a science course over the summer,” sophomore Leandro Caponong commented. “I wasn’t able to take physics in ninth grade, so I want to work over the summer.”

Although most students have not started to plan out their summer schedules, juniors and sophomores are planning on taking SAT prep classes to prepare for college applications.

Mr. Mills joined Hackley for a newly created position in July, focusing on summer programs and busing. Before joining the Hackley community, Mr. Mills managed international academic programs.

Are you interested in summer programs at Hackley?

Yes 10% 1 2

No 90%

Areas of top interest: 1. Sports 48% 2. SAT prep 4% 3. Math 3%

theDial

news 5

december

Hornets lend a hand in Sandy relief efforts heathervega staff writer

Devastation and destruction. The same storm that kept power off at Hackley for almost a week has ruined houses and left lives in shambles across the Northeast. After Superstorm Sandy, students, and particularly the ninth grade class, stepped up to offer help.

The ninth grade has taken on volunteer work for victims of Supersotrm Sandy in New York as their grade project.

“Every grade comes up with their own grade level project. I decided to go for it and hop on board with what other teachers and some students had been suggesting,” said upper school physics teacher and freshman class dean Seth Karpinski.

Freshman Karina Franke is very involved in the Sandy relief efforts and has gone twice to Staten Island with Hackley students and teachers. As of early December, there have been four trips to affected areas. “The first time I went it was just a few teachers, and we were just trying to figure out what it was about,” said Karina.

On the first trip Karina was accompanied by history teacher David Sykes, Spanish teachers Jessica Spates and Spanish teacher Anne Gatschet, as well as English teacher and Community Service Coordinator Nicole Butterfield, who has been a driving force behind these trips. The group delivered donated items to the Red Hook neighborhood in Brooklyn.

In the following weeks, these trips have included more students, mostly freshmen.

They have been focusing on the Rockaway area, which was hit very hard by the storm. According to Mrs. Butterfield, on Dec. 2nd, the first truckload of supplies from the American Red Cross arrived at St. Camillus Church in Rockaway Park. “The group was there to help unload what seemed like at least 100 boxes of diapers, cleaning supplies, and ready-to-eat meals,” she said.

Freshman grade project

Volunteering has given students a better understanding of the disaster. “Seeing the destruction actually made the experience more real for me in a sense, because I actually was able to see the houses that are being demolished. It made me realize that the hurricane was real and affected a lot of people,” said freshman Sabina Thomas.

In order to motivate students, they have been divided into groups by physics classes, with three class leaders in each class, and each class competing against each other. According to Mr. Karpinski, they are organized by physics classes because it is easier to reach students there than it is in homeroom, which only lasts ten minutes and where attendance is low.

The ninth grade class is awarding points to each physics class depending on the amount of volunteer work each class does. “We are keeping this as our grade project, and it isn’t just limited to Sandy,” said Mr. Karpinski. “Points can be awarded for other volunteer work. For example, working at a soup kitchen can get your class one point.”

The team with the most points will be receiving a prize in May. The winners will be designing their own Nike T-shirts. “There are three different components of the project,” Mr. Karpinski said. “Smaller components include making donations and on-campus work. Offcampus work is the largest part of this.”

Freshman Chris Chon is the off-campus leader for his physics class. “It’s my job to make sure that there are people going to Staten Island regularly and also doing other outside work,” he said.

Outside work includes any sort of community service, Sandy-related or not. Any category of volunteer work awards a team points. “As leader of on-campus work, I notify my class about upcoming community service events and encourage them to participate,” said freshman Arielle Stern.

Other student trips planned

Upper School biology teacher Amanda Esteves-Kraus believes it’s very important to get involved and to offer support to families affected by the storm. “Tons and tons of houses that we saw on our trip are going to be demolished, and those families can’t go inside to get what they need and are essentially homeless,” she said.

Another group, made up of sophomores, juniors and seniors, travelled to Staten Island on Nov. 16. This trip was separate from the freshman grade project, but it served the same purpose—helping others. Chaperoned by Ms. Esteves-Kraus, upper school Spanish teacher Emily DeMarchena, and middle school teacher Rebecca Garfield, this was the earliest student trip to visit one of the hardest hit areas in New York.

Sophomore James O’Keefe participated on this trip to Staten Island. “We dropped off donations and brought food and water to a neighborhood that was badly beat up by the storm because it was near the water,” he said.

“I think that Hackley made a big difference with all the supplies we brought, but many people say that what they need now is help with clean-up,” James added.

Freshmen Sabina Thomas, Fesseha Michael and Chris Chon organize and unpack clothing. Photo by Ms. Butterfield

Reflection from freshman Katie Bogart on volunteering for Sandy relief effort

Rockaway trips continue

Mrs. Butterfield doesn’t plan to stop the trips any time soon. According to Ms. Butterfield, there were trips scheduled for Dec. 9 and 16 to transport the donations collected by Hackley students and to volunteer at shelters.

Students do not participate in demolition work due to safety concerns.

The collection of desperately needed items such as cleaning supplies, toiletries, tools, diapers, blankets, nonperishable food and water is still going on. “Water has been in particularly short supply, so we are eager to collect more between now and the holidays,” said Ms. Butterfield.

Students are still eager to help. “It definitely was an amazing experience and I’m going to continue to be involved with the efforts for Hurricane Sandy relief,” said Sabina.

History teacher David Sykes and freshman Karina Franke help unload supplies in the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn. Since October, students have taken almost weekly trips to hard hit areas. Photo by Ms. Butterfield.

When you hear about community service, people always talk about how connected they feel with those they are working to help. I didn’t have this feeling at all. That is, until an old woman came to our table.

We asked her if she needed anything, expecting her to walk away or to mumble what she was looking for. However, she told us in a clear voice that she was looking for clothes for her grandson, and he was the most important thing in her life.

She told us her story of Hurricane Sandy, and how today was the first day that she would see her dog after nearly a month without contact. She mentioned little details that touched my heart, like how she lost her favorite book when her house flooded. Right then, I knew this was the reason that people volunteer; the conversation with the old woman made me feel connected to what she was going through.

I guess that is what volunteering is all about— making people feel like they have someone to talk to and someone who will help them. She made that day feel important to me because she made me feel that I was actually helping.

Volunteering is not always as rewarding as you might expect, but the individual moments make it much more than worthwhile.

Exchange students set to arrive from China meganmark staff writer

Would you like to participate in a foreign exchange program?

No 52%

Yes 48%

1 2

Poll Methodology: The poll was conducted on Tuesday, Dec. 4, distributed through homerooms, and the results were collected by the next few days. The poll had 155 respondents, approximately 40% of the student body. All grades were represented in this poll. This survey has a margin of error of ±5%.

Six students will have a new family member this January, if only for a week. Six students from China will be traveling to the United States to experience American life and culture through a homestay, all a part of an exchange for the World’s Leader School Association (WLSA). As a new member of the WLSA, this is the first time Hackley will participate in the WLSA cultural immersion program.

Prior to this exchange, the only consistent exchange program for students has been the French exchange, a language immersion program started by former French teacher Mary Farrell, that has been running every other year for 17 years.

This exchange takes place over spring break in conjunction with the Lycée Fabert School in Metz, France.

An average of 14 students travel to Metz from Hackley to experience French life through a homestay. About 25 French students are hosted in America by families from both Hackley and Masters School during the Spring.

Senior Megan Dolan participated in the exchange trip last year, and would love to see more exchange trips in the future. “These trips provide a great way to experience a new culture, share your own and make new friends,” she said.

“Also, full integration into a society does wonders for your

language skills.”

The WLSA exchange is a pilot program called East to West. Ten Association schools in the U.S. will be welcoming students from China. In late January to early February, host families in each of the schools will welcome six students, most likely three boys and three girls, from China for one week.

After spending the week at Hackley, the Chinese students will spend the second week of their stay at Poly Prep in Brooklyn. If the pilot program is successful, WLSA will begin its West to East exchange where students from the U.S. will go to China.

An email was sent to Hackley parents in November looking for interested host families. Assistant Headmaster Kevin Rea and Upper School Classics teacher Adrianne Pierce, who is also the Upper School Global Education Coordinator, will announce the host arrangements.

Participation in networks such as Round Square and WLSA enables the school to be a part of student exchanges. According to Mr. Rea, there is a possibility of students taking part in other exchange programs, such as a future WLSA West-East exchange program and Round Square exchanges.

6 politics

theDial

december

Progressive Action League wins the debate photo by paul rapisardi

nickhallock op-ed editor On Nov. 6, four students stood at a podium in the chapel in front of three judges and a sea of empty chairs.

Seniors Alex Goddard and Angelina Xing of the Progressive Action League and junior Phil Brooks and sophomore Frank Medici of the Conservative Club debated the statement, “Campaign finance regulations should be avoided because they violate our First Amendment rights, and they allow the government dangerous power over its own elections.” The Conservative Club argued the pro side, while the Progressive Action League argued the con side.

Both clubs gave impassioned defenses of their positions.

In his opening speech, Phil read the entire First Amendment to the Constitution, arguing that while money is not synonymous with speech, it is necessary for a speech to be heard.

“It’s a fact in this world that effective and widespread communication of ideas takes money,” Phil said. “Since the purpose of speech is spreading ideas, any restrictions on how much money can be spent, by donors or by campaigns, are restricting their ability to spread ideas effectively in a widespread manner; that restricts their free speech also.”

In her rebuttal, Angelina said that the Conservatives’

First Amendment argument supporting corporate speech is “absurd” and that the lack of campaign finance restrictions is “antidemocratic.” “The unlimited influence of corporate funding for individual politicians will result in the following corrupt action: political votes by Senators and Representatives [will be] based on the terms of their funding,” she said.

Frank declared that private citizens must be able to spend their money as they please, but he drew a line between free speech and free spending. “The Supreme Court did not say money equals speech,” he said. “You do not have more speech if you have more money. You are able to reach more people, and you are able to say, possibly, about more, but you don’t have more speech. Everyone has the same amount.”

Alex focused on the idea that spending money on speeches by some could dilute the speech of others. “[My opponents’ argument] assumes that money equals free speech,” he said. “This argument does not take into account, however, how much influence money can have on others’ free speech… Forgive me if I’m wrong, but isn’t it supposed to be that everyone has an equal voice when it comes to our elections?”

Approaching the fiscal cliff jojomiller staff writer

T

he current national debt is 16 trillion dollars. If this amount of money was split among students in the Upper School, each student would need to pay over 40 billion dollars.

The approaching fiscal cliff refers to the tax increase and spending cuts that may occur at the end of the year. House Speaker John Boehner and the White House have offered plans to avoid the fiscal cliff, but each side has rejected the other’s plan.

“Even though our economy is in one of the worst states it has been in history, companies can still find success as long as they are sensitive and responsive to customers’ needs,” history teacher David Sykes said. “Companies cannot be hesitant to invest and take chances.”

Tax plans play a role in the success of the economy and many businesses. The government has recently passed a series of tax

Science Department Chair William McLay, English teacher Anne Siviglia, and history teacher David Sykes evaluated the teams’ performances. They unanimously declared the Progressive Action League the winner.

“It was really very close and I think what made the difference was the use of specific details. That always seems to carry more weight than generalizations,” Mrs. Siviglia said. She attributed the Progressives’ win to the students’ more effective use of statistics.

Nearly as striking as the powerful arguments by both sides, however, was the lack of interest obviated by the meager student attendance. Angelina estimates that a total of six students attended and that most of them left early.

At the end of the debate only one student remained in the audience. The debate took place during a ‘universal free,’ so few students had class. The debate may also have not been well advertised.

Both sides’ obvious enthusiasm for public discourse was evident in the debate, and both sides stood by their researchers. “In future debates, I believe that I would benefit from more preparation,” Frank said. “I’m very excited for the next debate. I think we can expect to see another debate in the Spring, although nothing is official yet.”

increases in hopes of quickly paying down the nation’s debt.

But does this tax increase hurt business and economic growth?

The country experienced tremendous success when the government cut spending and lowered taxes, such as in the “Golden Age” that began in 1983.

“I don’t feel tax increases are the way to go; I think we have to cut spending, because increasing taxes crushes the U.S. economy,” said freshman Gabriella Zak, who invests in the stock market and is currently researching this topic in the Debate Club.

But this method requires patience and time in order to take effect, while America is in dire need of a quick recovery. The current national unemployment rate is 7.7 percent.

“I feel Obama’s policies to tax the rich help the poor, and the income gap between the middle class and the rich is the biggest problem affecting our economy,” senior Mike Dimilia said.

Mike believes these raised taxes will cause the stock market to take a short dip, but as the economy gets better, it will succeed.

Obama’s tax plan targets businesses and the upper class in order to immediately close the gap between the middle class and the lower class. He plans to lower taxes for working families and to increase tax rates for households earning over $250,000 per year.

“I will cut taxes—cut taxes—for 95 percent of all working families, because in an economy like this, the last thing we should do is raise taxes on the middle class,” Obama said.

According to poll conducted by the Dial, 53% of students do not support Obama’s fiscal policy. Many businesses are fighting higher business tax rates for around 30 million businesses because these rates will pass their business earnings through their personal income taxes resulting in double taxation. “[Many believe these tax increases] are anti-business and antigrowth and would be detrimental to our economy, combined with the serious spending cuts included in the fiscal cliff, which could possibly push us back into recession,” Mr. Sykes said.

“Unless a compromise is reached quickly, the outlook does not look good. Hopefully president Obama and the Congress can work together to resolve this pressing issue,” Mr. Sykes added.

Both parties will hopefully compromise to restore economic progress and allow the stock market to thrive. But according the the Dial poll only 23 percent of students believe that Congress will resolve the issue before Jan. 1.

Israel vs. Hamas

gabyoppenheim politics editor As the tension in the Middle East continues to spread, America’s stance on the conflict becomes of greater consequence to the millions of people who live in the region. Although this conflict might not directly affect Hackley students, its long-term implications may be detrimental to America’s future.

After numerous deaths in both Israel and Gaza, Israel and Hamas called a cease-fire on Nov. 21. The two were urged by Egypt and the United States to end the warfare after eight days of missiles sent to Israel and Israeli airstrikes into Gaza. Hamas is a militant Palestinian Muslim Organization committed to forming an Islamic state concurrent with the eradication of Israel.

“The goal must be a durable outcome that promotes regional stability and advances the security and legitimate aspirations of Israelis and Palestinians alike,” Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said. Clinton met multiple times with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, but could not meet with Hamas officials because the United States considers Hamas to be a terrorist group.

Before the cease-fire, junior Mike Leonard struggled to support Israel because he was concerned that Israel was not doing enough to promote peace. “Now they signed that cease-fire and proved that they do not just want to go to war,” Mike said. “I do not support Hamas in any way, and I think they are a terrorist organization.”

Junior Omar Momani does not believe the current peace agreement is the way to achieve long-standing peace. “The way to get a secure peace is to end the occupation, end the siege, dismantle illegal settlements, and finally have a just settlement for the Palestinian people ensuring peace for Arabs and Jews,” Omar said.

“As far as the cease-fire goes,” Mike added, “I am not convinced about how long it is going to last.”

theDial

science 7

december

The lunch room: Hackley’s nutritious food options sidneywertimer staff writer The many food options offered at Hackley allow students to make the choice to lead a healthy lifestyle. Different sections in the lunchroom give students clear choices—whole wheat bread or white bread, grilled chicken or breaded chicken, peanut butter or natural peanut butter.

FLIK and Hackley work together to provide the healthiest lunches possible, while still ensuring that everything tastes great. They prepare student meals using the most nutritious and healthy ingredients.

FLIK’s website promises RBGH-free milk, poultry raised without routine use of antibiotics, cage-free eggs, beef raised on 100 percent grain based feed, sustainable seafood, and food with no trans fat. All of these standards are in place to ensure healthy yet delicious lunches and dinners. “Our

Executive Chef and his culinary team prepare all foods from scratch and use only fresh ingredients on a daily basis,” said Director of Dining Services Marco Morales.

Sophomore Sofie Alabaster, an active member in the Health and Wellness Club, said, “Hackley food is healthy because they always have healthy options, like salad and fruit. You don’t have to eat the healthier foods, but there is always an opportunity to make good choices.”

It really is up to the students to decide if they want to take that step towards a more nutritious meal. Mr. Morales said, “There’s always a meal for anyone who wants to enjoy a healthy lifestyle.”

At the hot line students can try the vegetarian options or steamed vegetables. Instead of going for the white pasta,

students can try the whole-wheat pasta. The deli bar has a choice of whole grain bread, which students can pair with lean deli cuts or natural peanut butter. Greens are always found at the salad bar along with grilled chicken and tofu.

Students can even eat dessert and pizza while maintaining a healthy diet. “And for dessert, they can get either fat-free yogurt from the yogurt machine, a fruit from the fruit station or fresh cut fruit salad at the salad bar. Even our pizza crust is made of whole wheat flour, and our mozzarella cheese is low fat,” said Mr. Morales.

Sofie recommends similar choices, and said, “If students want to stay healthy they should be eating the vegetarian options, a lot of fruit, the grilled chicken and whole wheat bread and pasta instead of white bread and pasta.”

whole wheat pasta

grilled chicken

fruit

Fruits provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are low in fat and calories but are still very filling.

Whole wheat pasta is a healthier alternative to the white pasta because it is higher in fiber and nutrients.

Grilled chicken is a healthy source of protein and can be put in salads, whole wheat wraps or even eaten plain.

Controversy over climate change arises after Sandy rebeccaslutsky science and technology editor

Superstorm Sandy, the megastorm that ripped into New Jersey and the tri-state area weeks ago, destroyed many lives and cost billions of dollars in damage. While there is no doubt that there is an intensification of the weather and climate extremes over the last few years,

From the experts According to a poll conducted by Siena College, 69 percent of New York State voters linked Hurricane Sandy and Hurricane Irene to global climate change.

Only 24 percent of these voters believed that these storms were isolated weather events. According to LiveScience.com, 97 percent of climate scientists believe that human-made global warming is resulting in extreme weather.

According to Michael Oppenheimer, a professor of geosciences at Princeton University and a member of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, “Climate change did not cause Sandy to form, but climate change certainly made it worse.”

In the past few decades, according to LiveScience.com, the amount of Arctic sea ice that has melted is equivalent to almost half the landmass of America minus Alaska. As a result, there is less bright, white light to reflect the sun’s rays back into space. Instead, there is more ocean water (sea level is about a foot higher than it was a century ago) to absorb that sunlight, raising ocean temperatures and warming the air. It appears that the warmer sea surface temperatures guided Sandy farther north than typical for this time of year and resulted in the monster weather system.

Scientists have also suggested that a warming atmosphere is slowing the jet stream, causing higher ridges and deeper troughs. This is called Arctic

amplification. Since jet streams control the formations of storms, this new pattern results in more extreme weather and more persistent weather conditions.

Others are more skeptical of climate change and some even believe that the concept of global warming is just plain myth. Some scientists believe that climate change is a natural event. In fact, in the aftermath of the Little Ice Age of the 19th century these scientists expect the rising temperatures that we are experiencing today. Further, these scientists believe that the Earth has warmed less than many official temperature records indicate. They believe records are distorted by urban heat measurements that would inflate average temperatures and neglect to include measurements from the colder northern latitudes and higher elevations.

In his book, Climategate, Meteorologist Brian Sussman discusses the relatively benign effect of carbon emissions and argues that carbon dioxide may have no “greenhouse effect” at all. He believes that water vapor is to blame and that humanity’s share of the greenhouse effect is .9 to 1 percent. Therefore, climate change is a natural event.

The Marshall Institute asserts that global temperatures are mainly affected by variations in solar activity, changes in the earth’s orbit and axis, fluctuations in gamma ray activity, and volcanic and tectonic activity in the earth’s crust.

the question being debated is whether climate change is the reason for the extreme weather patterns and, specifically, whether or not climate change contributed to the intensity of Superstorm Sandy.

From the students Students were recently polled on whether or not they believe that climate change had an effect on the intensity of Hurricane Sandy. The results showed that 46 percent of the student body responded that climate change had an effect on the intensity of Hurricane Sandy, a percentage significantly lower than other New York State polls that have been conducted.

Freshman Sophie Slutsky said, “Sandy was a huge storm and it seems more than likely that climate change played a significant role in the size of the storm.

It just seems like the weather has been so extreme the last few years.”

Junior Harry Wechsler has a different view, saying, “Despite the recent storms, I do not think that there is a trend toward warmer summers and colder winters. There is just not enough evidence that global warming exists in reality.”

Despite the controversy, Science teacher John Gillard asserts that “the recent hurricanes were absolutely effected by climate change because weather patterns have changed significantly in the past few years, which is a result of climate change.”

Junior Amanda Chung states, “stronger hurricanes, heavier rainfall and rising sea levels are the new reality, and we need to recognize it and do something about it.”

While scientists around the world have found convincing evidence of the

existence and effect of climate change, some still feel that more evidence is necessary to link extreme weather and climate change.

Freshman Kat Cucullo said, “I do think that the climate is changing but I do not think it is because of carbon emissions or anything humans are doing to contribute to an increase in temperatures.”

While the results of the poll at Hackley are an anomaly when compared to the results of other official New York State polls regarding climate change and the recent hurricanes, there is no doubt that the weather, whether effected by climate change or not, is becoming more extreme and persistent.

The debate continues as to whether climate change is to blame. Nevertheless, monster storms like Hurricane Sandy may foreshadow future extreme weather systems as our climate continues to change.

Sources: LiveScience.com, The New York Times, The Huffington Post, Brian Sussman, Michael Oppenheimer

8 arts

theDial

december

The Performing Arts Center is used for various activities including community time assemblies, musical performances, and performing art performances, but some feel change is needed. Photo by Paul Rapisardi.

Performing Arts Department makes use of the PAC’s Space samheyward news editor

“

The PAC is like one big black sand box that nobody plays in,” said Director of Communications Suzy Akin.

The Performing Arts Center (PAC) is used for a wide range of performances and student assemblies. However, holding a large number of people for concerts, plays and assemblies was not the building’s original purpose.

The building was originally used as a gym, and to this day, some of the remnants remain; the main theater is a basketball court, the technical equipment and costumes are up on the old track, and the building is attached to the pool.

Because it was not built for performances, the PAC causes problems for students who participate in the performing arts.

Since its transformation from gym to performing arts, the PAC has undergone a series of renovations, such as a new lighting system, sound system, and stage.

Ms. Akin advocates for a new PAC and shares the opinion with 52% of students that the PAC is outdated.

“The acoustics are so poor,” said junior Meghan Philpott. “When we are on stage we can’t hear what actors are saying on the other side of the stage,” she said. Senior Mae McColl agrees. “It just wasn’t built for acoustics,” she said. “The library has better acoustics than the theater.”

Recently short term fixes have been made to this problem, with the purchase of new body microphones. But according to Mark Nelson, Head of the Performing Arts Department, this is not a permanent fix. “I would like not to have to use mics for every show,” he said.

Both Meghan and Mae are active participants as actors, and the two have seen firsthand the problems associated with the space. “There is no real backstage area,” said Meghan. “We have to use the pool lobby to get ready.” The small backstage area that does exist is often littered with nails and wood, which is dangerous for the actors scrambling to get on stage by their cue.

Mae recalled the many times that the actors were preparing for a show and Empire, a swim team that rents Hackley’s pool, had practice going on. “Its not fair to them because they pay for the space, but we need somewhere to change and get ready,” said Mae. Junior Catie Orlando plays bass in the Chamber Ensemble. According to her, the band and orchestra rooms, located on the bottom floor, are difficult to use. “The floors are too slippery,” she said. “They don’t hold up my bass.”

The acoustical problem that exists upstairs also exists downstairs, because of the retro-fitted space. Oftentimes during band or orchestra practice the rooms can get too loud, as there are too many students in one room.

One bonus of downstairs is the five smaller practice rooms. They allow for students to take private lessons in the Music Institute either after school or during the day.

Improvements

Although new to Hackley this year, Dr. Nelson already has thought of changes to make the PAC a better space. He currently has a plan to partner with the Visual Arts department to improve the second floor lobby.

The small hallway outside the theater door is currently dimly lit with old posters.

Dr. Nelson is hoping to create a regularly updated student art gallery to fill that space.

“It would transform it into a contemporary space,” he said.

He also wants to do the same for the downstairs, where pictures of old performances currently hang. He believes that the cosmetics of a place are important, as the appearance speaks for the aspirations of the place.

Dr. Nelson believes that the PAC also has good qualities. The lack of permanent seats allows for different and creative use of space, such as the pool in the fall play Metamorphosis in 2010. “Events like Coffeehouse can’t happen in an auditorium,” said Dr. Nelson.

This year, the old track has found new use in props and costumes. The balcony was cleaned up and now houses a sizable costume workshop. Costume and prop designer Liz Blanco has been using the space to her advantage, creating the intricate and historically accurate costumes for the fall production of The Crucible.

Recently an air conditioner was added to the auditorium to cool the room down, as many days in the beginning of summer can make it unbearably hot.

Before the building’s current use as the Performing Arts Center, the space was used as the gym. Today, the basketball court flooring and track are still in place. Photo from the Hackley archives.

Do you think we need a new PAC?

No 48%

Yes 52%

1 2

The future

Only a major renovation could address everyone’s concerns, and currently only temporary fixes are planned. Many students believe that it is the next major building project that should be undertaken by the school. But in order for that to happen, the pool would have to move first.

Many students feel that at the least a true auditorium is needed. Not only for play performances, but for community time assemblies.

“It’s ridiculous, we have a fountain but not an auditorium,” said Meghan. Even junior Jenny Horing who doesn’t participate in theater or music agrees. “We really do need a new space, so assemblies can be better,” she said.

But all those who wish for a bigger, better PAC know that a lot of construction is required. “I want it to be rebuilt, but I know it won’t be done by the time I graduate,” said Catie.

If and when the PAC is rebuilt, Dr. Nelson would like to see its use expanded. He is an advocate for interdisciplinary studies and would like other classes to use the PAC and integrate what is done there with the rest of the school. “We would be remiss if we didn’t build a performing arts center that serves a greater need,” he said.

What do you think the best part of the PAC is?

Other 51%

Music Department 22% The Space 14%

The Instruments 7%

What do you think the worst part of the PAC is?

The stage and seating 21% Other 55%

The Smell 17%

The Exterior 7% See News p. 5 for poll methodology.

theDial

arts 9

december

CE

museums there and Mr. Green and he have close ties to the city. He plans on hitting every major museum in Paris and many of the smaller ones. The students will also have the opportunity to explore other parts of the country. “We plan on travelling outside of the city to the town of Chartres,” Mr. Cice said.

While Mr. Cice has planned to bring the students all throughout Paris, the girls have their own ideas of what they want to see and where they would like to go. Gabby hopes that they get to see the Mona Lisa and other famous pieces of art, something Mr. Cice has surely planned. Other students, like Melissa and Alana, hope to get a chance to go to Euro Disney.

Melissa Chervin

Molly Kestenbuam

Chervin look forward to spending Spring Break in Paris with all of their friends and fellow AP art students. However, they also hope to improve their quality of work and find inspiration for their art. Gabby thinks that seeing famous pieces of art “will serve as a motivation for artwork moving forward.”

Melissa similarly thinks that the art will inspire her and looks forward to seeing some of the most famous pieces of art in the world. Senior Alana Cohen said, “The different culture and environment will have an influence in our art.”

As Alana put it, “It will be interesting to see the effects that travel have.”

Mr. Cice looks forward to returning to Paris. He used to teach in some of the

Sohpia Carpiniello

ryanwalker staff writer The Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, escargot, you guessed it, France! Over Spring Break the AP art class has scheduled a trip to Paris.

Ten seniors, members of the AP art program, along with art teacher Mark Green, Head of Visual Art Department Gregory Cice, and Head of Support Services Department Dr. Linda Sadler will be participating this Spring.

Mr. Cice described Paris as “arguably one of the greatest cities for art.” He not only thinks that the trip will serve as a great experience, but a chance for the students “to enrich their art” with the culture of France.

The city of Paris, he believes, is filled with “artistic and architectural landmarks.”

Seniors Gabby Urken and Melissa

Kathryn Harmon

AP art students visit Paris in March

“I’ve never been to Europe! We also have an amazing group of girls going and amazing teachers.”

Danielle Petitti

N FRA TO

“Im excited to hang with my best friends in Paris!”

“I’ve never been to Europe! I can’t wait to expirience new cultures.”

“Our art teachers know a lot about art history, so I’m excited to truly be able to understand the art around us and explore a world I’ve never been to.”

“I’m most looking forward to the food, especially the macaroons!”

Photos provided by The Hilltop

Is the choice of musical Working for students? sarahbonanno arts editor

D

oing math problems, analyzing a musical, she has respect for the play now that she’s read the script and seen the material. novel, conjugating verbs, practic“The play could relate to Hackley students ing an instrument, playing a sport, because it offers some really good advice about preparing for the musical — they’re the choices people have to make throughout all work, a concept that students are not unfalife,” she said. miliar with.

Senior Jess Vasso disagrees, “We have the The Performing Arts Department announced whole rest of our lives to worry about getting the musical Working as this year’s musical. Perjobs and I don’t want to spend my senior year formed on Broadway and nominated for six Tony in a musical that has me thinking about the Awards, Working is based on the novel by journalwhole job process.

I think we should stick to ist Studs Terkel. It follows the lives of middle class fun and well known musicals.”

Americans from across the country with different Junior Jed Diagourdi agrees with Jess. “It is occupations ranging from a teacher, to a newsboy, what it is,” Jed said.

“I enjoy doing the musical, a model, to a housewife. The musical is performed so I’m a little disappointed that it’s one that as a series of monologues with musical numbers.

I’ve never heard of.”

One of the reasons that head of Performing Dr. Nelson said that he wanted to introduce Arts Department Dr. Mark Nelson chose Working a piece of substance. “I like this show because was its ensemble cast. “The ensemble is really imit explores the importance of work. It shows portant and we wanted to develop a piece where the diversity and eclecticism of the American the real core of the piece was not a few lead roles, Logo from the musical when it was performed on Broadway. The production was nominated for population, and the diversity and eclecticism six Tony Awards. and won two Drama Desk Awards.

Photo from http://notsocommonplayers.org/ but the collaborative energy of the ensemble. We of the American work population. It celebrates need to build a team that is committed to doing not technically challenging for a group of talented high school people who don’t usually have high profiles,” something,” Dr. Nelson said. students. Any individual singer will only need to learn at most he said.

Senior Helen Ballentine thinks that the choice of musical half a dozen songs. Most ‘lead’ cast members only have one Dr. Nelson also said that he would like to expose students accommodates Hackley performers perfectly. “It offers a wide solo.” to a wider range of musicals. range of roles that are open to many different interpretations,” Dr. Nelson described the cast’s reaction to the choice of “I’m not saying it’s a bad musical,” Jess said. “I actually think she said.

Working as “bewilderment.” there’s a great meaning behind it. I just think that it’s a little too Rehearsals for the musical also should have started three “For better or for worse, and I don’t think this is a good weeks ago, but because of Sandy, The Crucible was preformed thing, I haven’t heard much student reaction,” Dr. Nelson said. serious of a subject. The musical is supposed to be really fun and encouraging to get other people to participate and come three weeks late. “We have very little time to learn a show,” Dr. Helen thinks that even though Working is not a well known Nelson said. “So we had to chose a show where the music is see the show.”

Upcoming Events Coffeehouse on Jan. 31

The second Coffeehouse of the school year comes after break in late January. This is the senior class’ second-to-last appearance at this event, which they have always been a prominent part of.

Poetry Out Loud Competition on Jan. 7 The second annual poetry competition will be held during Community Time (Day 2). For more information email Mrs. Butterfield at nbutterfield@hackleyschool.org or check out poetryoutloud.org.

10 lifestyles

theDial

december

uncle mom

brother

om

m

Last minute gifts for the holidays carolinechmiel lifestyles editor

B

eing a triumphant gift giver can be a daunting task. From simple stocking stuffers to huge gifts, there is pressure to not only get the perfect present, but also stay within budget.

Parents, friends, siblings and relatives don’t expect much from teenagers, which provides the perfect opportunity to exceed expectations and show appreciation.

Before shopping, make a list of ideas and stores to avoid overwhelming situations.

When shopping for moms, aunts, sisters, or friends, Sephora has great gifts at any budget.

Most women wear makeup and are willing to try new products, so this store is a foolproof pick; they can exchange, too.

C. Wonder is another great store for women of all ages. They have tons of trendy jewelry pieces at reasonable prices, starting at $28.

“I get last minute gifts for my family at Target,” sophomore Serena Hernandez said.

Target now has a Neiman Marcus line, carrying designer brands at inexpensive prices.

This is a great opportunity to buy gifts for moms and aunts.

Another idea is to give books and cookbooks. Target has shelves with top-sellers if you need recommendations.

For friends and siblings, jewelry and makeup are expected, so try to mix it up by buying a season of their favorite TV show. It’s a thoughtful and well-priced gift.

Another idea is getting simple board games for the entire family This is a thoughtful gift, and entertaining. Classic movies found at Target are also cute and easy gifts for anyone.

For dads and uncles, weights are always useful, and can cost only $20. Homemade holiday cookies are another fun and delicious gift for the entire family.

Winter items, such as flannel pajamas and warm hats, are easy ideas for brothers and dads. These items can be found at varying prices.

J. Crew has men’s gifts ranging from technology accessories to basic sweaters to ties.

“For Christmas, I usually pick a nice sweater out for my brother from J. Crew,” sophomore

Freshmen celebrate traditional holidays

peppermint bark

cookies

carolinechmiel lifestyles editor

Andrea McCree said. “They aren’t too expensive, but still great quality.”

Many groups of friends, classes and sports teams participate in secret Santa, but these can cause a lot of stress. Gift cards are simple, stress-free secret Santa gifts. For boys, iTunes, Target, or American Express gift cards are easy and always useful. Sephora gift cards are simple gifts for girls as well as Starbucks cards. These can be great as stocking stuffers for family, too!

A final suggestion would be getting anyone a Pillow Pet. Fun, no pressure gifts are usually the most appreciated ones. “It is always a hit when I get people lighthearted gifts like Pillow Pets!” freshman Ally Petitti said.

Ingredients: 2 cups all purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature 1 cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 large egg yolk 6 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, chopped

(or use chocolate chips) 1 cup chopped Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses

(or use crumbled candy canes) 2 ounces white chocolate

Student: Sabina Thomas Religion: Christian Holiday: Christmas Date: Dec. 25

Student: Marc Rod Religion: Jewish Holiday: Chanukah Date: Dec. 8-16

Student: Sonia Singh Religion: Hindu Holiday: Diwali Date: Nov. 13-17

Tradition of holiday: Advent is the four weeks leading up to Christmas where Christ i a n s p re p a re fo r t h e b i r t h of Jesus Christ. The Advent wreath is a tradition with four candles around the wreath: three purple and one pink. One more candle is lit each Sunday leading up to Christmas. The purple candles represent the remorseful nature of the season while the pink represents the forgiveness of the Gaudete Sunday, the third Sunday of Advent. Advent is a season of joy, representing the coming of the Christians’ savior, Jesus Christ.

Tra d i t i o n o f h o l i d ay : T h i s holiday celebrates the deliverance of the Jews of Palestine from the oppression of the Syrian-Greeks. When the Jews revolted, they retook control of the Syrian-Greek temple, cleansed it and re-dedicated it. The eternal light is a lamp in a synagogue that is supposed to burn continuously.

One unopened jug was found, which had enough to burn for one day. The oil miraculously b u r n e d fo r e i g h t d ay s a n d nights.

Tradition of holiday: In the I n d i a n c u l t u re , D i w a l i i s a prominent holiday. It is the time of year where families let the goodness of light into their homes and bless it for the upcoming year. The date of this holiday changes by year, but it is usually in October or November on a moonless night. All lights are turned on in homes during Diwali. In India, streets are lit up and lights are on everywhere, allowing the goodness of light into the whole country. It is an official holiday in many countries.

Specialty: Some churches light a fifth white candle in the middle of the wreath on Christmas Eve.

Specialty: Chanukah is actually not the most important Jewish holiday, but it has gained more prominence because of its proximity to Christmas.

Families light menorahs, one candle for each of the eight nights of the holiday.

Specialty: In Sonia’s family they perform a ceremony or “pooja” during Diwali. This ceremony gives thanks for the blessings of the past year and brings in the hope of an even better upcoming year.

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray 13x9x2-inch metal baking pan with nonstick spray. Line bottom of pan with long strip of 9-inch-wide parchment paper, leaving overhang on both short sides of pan.

2. Whisk flour and salt in medium bowl. Using electric mixer, beat butter in large bowl until creamy, about 2 minutes. Gradually beat in sugar.

Continue beating until mixture is light and fluffy, stopping occasionally to scrape down sides of bowl, about 3 minutes. Beat in vanilla, then egg yolk. Gradually add flour mixture, beating on low speed just to blend.

3. Drop dough by tablespoonfuls into prepared baking pan, spacing evenly. Using moistened fingertips, press dough to form even layer over bottom of pan. Pierce dough all over with fork.

4. Bake cookie base until light golden brown and slightly puffed and edges begin to come away from sides of pan, about 30 minutes. Place pan on rack; immediately sprinkle bittersweet chocolate over. Let stand until chocolate softens, about 3 minutes. Using small offset spatula, spread bittersweet chocolate over top of cookie in thin even layer. Immediately sprinkle chopped candy cane kisses overtop.

5. Stir white chocolate in medium metal bowl set over saucepan of simmering water until melted and smooth. Remove from over water. Using fork, drizzle white chocolate all over cookies. Chill until white chocolate is set, about 30 minutes.

6. Using paper overhang as aid, lift cookie from pan and transfer to work surface. Using large knife, cut cookie into irregular pieces.

theDial

sports 11

december

Girls’ basketball pushes forward with core players davidcummins& adinrinzler staff writers From being undefeated, Ivy League and NYSAIS Champions, to scrounging for players and cutting the JV team, Hackley Girls’ Varsity Basketball faces more challenges than ever this year, as they fight to continue their success.

When the season first began, the team only had seven girls, girls who were ready to play, but who new they would face a problem because of their low numbers. The core group consisting of seniors Dominique Alpuche (captain), Allie Coppola (captain), Katie Maguire, and Julie Piscina, juniors Stef Frolo (captain) and Ally Mueller and freshman Sammy Mueller started practices, but it was quickly apparent that they would need more players. “It was difficult creating a game-like atmosphere that forced us to work to the best of our ability when we only had seven people to work with,” Julie said. With so few girls, many of the drills the team would usually do in practice were hard to run and scrimmaging was impossible.

Freshman Nkechi Nwokorie and sophomore Izzy Hayward joined the team a little over a week into the season, and then about a week after that, freshman Sabina Thomas and sophomore Isis Flores joined the team following the JV program being cut due to lack of participation. All of the girls quickly got to work learning plays and adjusting to the team dynamic. “The intensity level is much higher on varsity and more challenging but the higher intensity level is definitely improving my skill level,” Isis said. “The biggest challenges have been not knowing the plays because I came in later in the season but as we scrimmage the plays start to make more sense and become more clear,” she added.

Having played in a system for multiple years is a benefit to any team; ask football. After the introduction of Coach Treglia last year, football turned a 1-6 record into a 7-1 record. Playing under Coach Amann has had the same effect on Dom, Allie, Katie, Julie, Stef, and Ally, all of whom have been on the team since either freshman year or eighth grade.

This experience culminated last year in the most successful season in the program’s history.

Joining a group of girls with this experience and accomplishment meant that Nkechi, Izzy, Sabina, Isis, and Sammy had to transition quickly to being on a varsity team.

“When I went to the first practice I knew it was going to be challenging because everybody already knew what their strengths and weaknesses were as a team,” Nkechi said.

Adding, “Now, I feel like being a part of a team that has been playing together and know each other so well can only push me to do better. I also feel like the team is so nice and inclusive that it made the transition easier.”

There was also a transition period for the returning players. “It’s been a big adjustment,” Ally said. “We realized we’re

corner

[Left]: Junior Ally Mueller looks for an open teammate in their game against King on Dec. 8. [Above]: Senior Julie Piscina dribbles the ball down the court, keeping her head up for possible scoring opportunities. Photos by Xiaoling Keller.

with any team in the area,” Allie said.

Hackley’s first round game will be played at the Westchester County Center on Dec. 26. The expectation to do well in this tournament will be very high because of the difficulty it took to get in.

Mr. Edwards thinks that this tournament will be a great experience for the players because “it will put them on a stage much bigger than anything they have been a part of, which will be invaluable for those who continue to be athletes at the next level.” Mr. Edwards continued to express his confidence in this team, saying, “We have the type of team that can compete at the highest level in this area. I have felt this way for the past three years, and it took that long to get a team into the tournament.”

stat

rookiesofthemonth

Number of pounds junior wrestler Xavier Carmona gives way to his opponents in his 220-pound weightclass.

The number of points per game the boys’ varsity basketball team averages.

Number of rebounds senior Allie Coppolla has in her 5-year career on varsity basketball.

a different team from last year, so it’s been challenging.”

Eleven girls strong, the team is ready to move forward with their season, and it seems that their drive and focus has been producing the desired results. After a tough loss against Clarkstown South in the Sleepy Hollow Holiday Tournament, the team bounced back, going 4-0 in their next four games. “It was hard at first because we didn’t have a set team, but now that we have a set team the new people are adjusting well and we have been performing,” Ally said.

The team also faced added pressure following their immense success last year. “People expected us to go undefeated again, so when we first lost everyone was kind of shocked,” Stef.

The team will face another challenge in the upcoming week. It will be Hackley’s first time ever participating in the Slam Dunk Basketball Tournament, a very prestigious tournament for some of the top teams in the area. Hackley’s bracket includes Alexander Hamilton, Albertus Magnus, and Mary Louis Academy. According to Athletic Director Jason Edwards, “To get into the Slam Dunk you have to have some pretty impressive credentials, and last year’s team allowed them the opportunity to get in.”

Many of the players on the team feel as though this will be a great chance to prove themselves as a team. “Win or lose, it’s just about playing our hardest and showing the public schools, especially Alexander Hamilton, who we play in the first round, that we are capable of competing

22

seasonrecords

Girls’ Basketball

stats accurate as of 12/17/12

Boys’ Basketball: 2-4

38

Sammy Mueller

Boys’ Basketball

Girls’ Basketball: 5-1

Darius Inzar

Girls’ Squash: 2-1

1000+

Number of takedowns by senior Andre Newland in the Irvington wrestling tournament.

“ Ro o k i e s ” a r e t h o s e p l aye r s w h o a r e i n t h e i r first year on a varsity team for a certain sport.

T h e “ r o o k i e o f t h e m o n t h ” wa s c h o s e n b a s e d off of these rookies’ success up until Dec. 17.

Girls’ Squash

Boys’ Squash: 1-2

Riya Mital

Boys’ Squash

Wrestling: 5-2

Wyatt Khosrowshahi

Girls’ Swimming: 2-0

9

Wrestling

Boys’ Swimming: 2-0

Elijah Ngbokoli

Indoor Track Mustafaa Dais

The number of points the girls’ varsity basketball team won by against Greenwich Academy on Dec. 7.

44

Boys’ Swimming Hiro Kuwana

Girls’ Swimming Junior forward Charlie Pidoriano

post-breakhomegames

topperformances Stefanie Frolo had a double-double, including 17 points, in the girls’ basketball win over Greenwich Academy.

WED.

THURS.

Charlie Pidoriano scored 18 points in the boys’ basketball team’s season opener against Edgemont High School

Boys’ varsity squash vs.

Rye High School

Fencing vs.

Ardsley

Mustafaa Dais won 3 different events at a meet on Dec. 5th, winning the long jump, triple jump, and the 4 x 2 relay.

Riya Mital won her match 3-0 against Rye Country Day on Dec. 13.

Sarah Schlesinger

WINTER STING Boys’ and girls’ varsity basketball vs.

Horace Mann

Varsity wrestling vs.

Croton-Harmon

MON.

TUES.

Boys’ varsity squash vs.

Horace Mann

Varsity girls’squash vs.

Brearley School

9 10 11 14 15

Varsity wrestling vs.

Riverdale Country Day

Girls’ varsity squash vs.

St. Ann’s

Coed swimming vs.

Riverdale Country Day

8

12 sports

theDial

december

curling

things to know about There is a new PE offering “sweeping” in popularity at Hackley. However, the sport is a mystery in terms of its rules and history. The Dial hopes that we can give you an idea of what the sport is all about. Facts and information courtesy of the curling PE’s supervisor, Karen Casper.

1. it’s one of the oldest sports

5. the stone

2. what are the rules?

6. the playing “field”

3. sportsmanship

7. how to win a game

Evidence that curling existed in Scotland in the early 16th century includes a curling stone inscirbed with the date 1511 when an old pond was drained at Dunblane, Scotland.

A curling stone is round and must weigh between 38 and 44 pounds. Each curling team has a set of eight stones with the same color handle. The handle allows the stone to be gripped and rotated upon release.

International competitive games are ten ends. An end consists of each player from both teams of four players throwing two stones down the sheet with the players on each side alternating shots, for a total of 16 stones.

The ice, called the sheet, is the area of play. It is 150 feet long and 16.5 feet wide. The House is located on the sheet, and this is the round scoring area that is 12 feet in diamater with consecutive circles at one, four, and eight foot distances.

A match traditionally begins with players shaking hands and saying “Good Curling” to each member of the opposing team. It is also traditional for the winning team to buy the losing team a beverage after the game.

4. what makes a team

The way to win in a game of curling is to get more points than the opposing team by getting more rocks in “The House,” which is a bullseye-looking circle located on the ice that acts as a scoring system.

Junior Gabby Troya slides a curling stone while practicing for the new curling PE program at Hackley. Photo by Melissa Warshauer.

A curling team is comprised of four players—the lead, the second, the skip, and the vice-skip. The skip is the player that throws last and determines the strategy for the team.

8. sweeping?

Players vigorously sweep the ice with a broom creating friction between ice and underneath the stone.

This allows the stone to travel straighter and curl less.

Eighth graders step up their game this winter maxparauda & teddymiddleton sports editor & asst. sports editor

Some of the most valuable players on Hackley’s varsity teams don’t even go to the Upper School. They are the students who get lunch detentions rather than after school detentions. They don’t get to choose their minors, in fact they don’t even have frees during the day. They end school 50 minutes earlier than most varsity athletes. They are 8th graders who play a varsity sport. This season, there are four 8th grade athletes playing on a varsity team, and all of them have played a crucial role in their team’s successes.

Boys’ basketball

On the boys’ varsity basketball team, 8th grader Andrew Chung has embraced an important role for the team: the 6th man. Andrew has been new head coach Jeremy Fink’s first option off the bench, subbing in for either senior captain Max Parauda or junior forward Charlie Pidoriano when they need rest. In addition, Andrew often plays with the starting lineup when the team wants to have some size, pushing Charlie to guard and Max out to the perimeter where they are more comfortable.

“Andrew has been a nice addition to our team,” Charlie said.

“He knows his role, and he does it well.”

At 6’1”, Andrew has only two focuses when he gets on the court—defend and rebound. “When I play, I don’t worry about scoring,” Andrew said. “Coach [Fink] stresses controlling the backboard because we don’t have much height, so that’s what I try to do every day.”

One of the biggest challenges facing young varsity athletes is managing time between schoolwork and the commitment that is needed to play a varsity sport. However, this transition has been painless for Andrew. “Coach [Fink] has been a big part of the adjustment I made to playing on a varsity team,” he said. “He makes sure that I’m on top of my homework and allows me to miss the team lifts if I feel that I need to catch up on my work.”

Coach Fink is delighted with Andrew’s play and is excited for his future on the team. “Andrew has been instrumental to the team this year. I can’t say enough about his maturity and skill level, especially considering he’s only an 8th grader!”

Boys’ and girls’ squash

The girls’ varsity squash team picked up a new player this year, Riya Mital, an 8th grader who could not be more excited about the opportunity. “It’s been great to be a part of the team.

I love the girls, and they have done a great job in making me feel welcome,” Riya said.

Not only is Riya playing on the varsity team, but she has earned herself the top seed, something which she takes a lot of pride in. “I feel really proud to be number one on this team,” she said.

One concern of playing at the varsity level as an 8th grader is the age difference, but Riya thinks she’s ready for this adjustment. “[My opponents] have all played a lot longer than I have, but I definitely feel I am up for the challenge,” she said.

On the other end of the squash courts stand Wyatt Khosrowshahi and Salik Awan. These two 8th graders also play a major role on the varsity team as they play the number one and four positions, respectively. Rather than feeling nervous about the season, they are nothing but prepared for the road ahead. Salik trained for this season throughout the fall. “I played squash for one and a half hours a day with tournaments on the weekend, so I was well prepared for the season,” he said.

The fact that he is up to four years younger than his opposition doesn’t seem to faze a player like Salik. “I am used to playing taller and bigger people because I play with adults at my squash club on the weekends,” he said.

Wyatt takes on a slightly bigger responsibility on the varsity team; he is the number one seed. Usually the first match of a season is enough pressure in itself, but being an 8th grader playing your first varsity match against a nationally ranked senior is a whole new definition of pressure. However, Wyatt didn’t feel this way, “Since there weren’t any real expectations for me to win, it was easy to keep pressure minimal, and I did better than I expected,” he said. There are some advantages that 8th graders have over other high school athletes in that their workload is not nearly as demanding. Due to this extra time, Wyatt finds

a lot of time to get out on the court. “I pretty much play every day except when my coaches tell me to rest a bit, so prepping for the season was not out of the ordinary for me,” he said.

In the end, just as in any sport, the key is keeping a level headed mentality. “When I just go out there, play my game, stay relaxed, and not think about their age or skill level, that’s when I play my best,” Wyatt said.

Eighth grader Wyatt Khosrowshahi prepares to hit a forehand in his match against Horace Mann. Photo by Xiaoling Keller.