www.eastside-online.org
Vol. 49 No. 1
Cherry Hill High School East: 1750 Kresson Road, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
October 2015
East is...
■ By Brett Dashevsky (‘16) Eastside Multimedia Director
Just in time for the start of the new school year, Newsweek released its annual list of the top high schools in America. Landing a top-100 spot was Cherry Hill High School East, ranking number 85 out of the 500 listed. Newsweek’s rankings from 2014 did not even include East amongst the schools listed. In 2010, East was ranked number 1,664 in the nation, and in 2007 ranked number 1,258, a far cry from the number 85 spot that the school holds today. The rankings were compiled using a number of logistics. Some factors were weighted more than others, as the publication tries to determine which schools prepares their students the most for college. According to Newsweek, the publication used a formula which largely considered state proficiency levels in math and reading, as well as a composite analysis
weighing a number of factors that Newsweek deemed indicative of college readiness. Specifically, the analysis considered 25 percent school enrollment rate, 20 percent graduation rate, 17.5 percent weighted AP scores, 17.5 percent weighted SAT/ACT composite scores, 10 percent factors change in student enrollment to control for dropout rates, and a final 10 percent for counselor-to-student ratio. East fares well in most of these categories. The school has a self-reported perfect 100 percent graduation rate, a 100-to-1 counselor-to-student ratio, an average ACT score of 23.8, average SAT score of 1718, average AP score of 4, 98 percent student retention and 96 percent of students advancing to college. Cherry Hill East Principal Dr. Lawyer Chapman said at a recent school rally during LB1 that he was not content with the number 85 spot because he wants to be number 1. When the rankings are released for 2016, the community will see whether East has fulfilled Chapman’s wish.
in the Nation Inside This Issue
85
How valid is East’s #85 rank? Editorial, Pg. 14
Solar paneling at East could prove effective Opinions, Pg. 16
East Athletics starts Hall of Fame Sports, Pg. 20
NEWS/FEATURES
Page 2
EASTSIDE
New SAT offered in 2016 ■ By Sari Cohen (‘18)
Eastside News/Features Editor
On March 5, 2016, the new version of the SAT will be administered at East. According to College Board, the new test will focus more on skills and knowledge of what has been learned in high school and what is needed to succeed in college. College Board also suggests that students will be prepared for this test by taking challenging courses in school and participating in class as well as completing homework and studying for tests and quizzes. At East, however, SAT preparation courses are available to further prepare students for the test.
These courses are offered throughout the school year and over the summer. With the change in the format and content of the SAT, teachers of the course will also have to change how they help their students prepare. Mrs. Katie Kelly-Radbill, who teaches the English portion of the SAT course and the summer SAT course at East, plans to focus mainly on skills and strategies in class this year. She said that it will
be a learning year with the entire transition. “There’s not a lot out there yet, and that’s a big concern,” said Kelly about the lack of preparation materials for the new SAT. One of the biggest changes in the SAT is the point value of the test. On the SAT that will be available until January 2016, a student can receive up to 2400 points. On the new SAT that will be available as of March 2016, one can only receive up to 1600 points. Additionally, the essay section of the SAT will be optional. In addition to t h e
change in points and the optional essay, the new SAT will not contain as much vocabulary as the current one does, but vocabulary will still be in the reading sections. Also, students are given three hours and 45 minutes for the current SAT. For the new SAT, students will have three hours to complete the test and 50 extra minutes if the student chooses to complete the essay. The new SAT will only have three sections includ-
ing the optional essay, while the current SAT has three mandatory sections. Moreover, there will be no penalty for guessing on the new SAT, according to College Board. The current SAT focuses more on reasoning and the new SAT will focus more on knowledge, skills and understanding. In previous years, the math portion of the SAT course at East was taught by Ms. Susan Nicolazzo. With a lot of background on the current SAT, Nicolazzo focused a lot in class on strategies for a standardized test.
“There used to be 54 math questions, now there’s less. It used to be completely calculator, now there is only one calculator section,” said Nicolazzo regarding the semantics of the math section in the new SAT. Despite the various changes of format the new exam holds, the hours of practice and the determination to succeed among students remains the same. Results compiled by Courtney Finnegan (‘17)/ Eastside News/ Features Editor
Infographic by Jenn Pacitti (‘17)/ Eastside News/Features Editor
Practice SAT/ACT fundraiser held at Tutoring Club
■ By Jenn Pacitti (‘17) Eastside News/Features Editor
On Saturday, October 17, The Tutoring Club of Cherry Hill hosted the SAT or ACT Practice Test Fundraiser. Students had the opportunity to take a full length exam and receive a full analysis of their test results. “The purpose of the event [was] to offer high school students [with] an opportunity to take a realistic SAT or ACT exam while raising money for a variety of charities and school organizations,” said Alan Cohen, owner of The Tutoring Club of Cherry Hill and coordinator of the event. The Tutoring Club has been doing these fundraisers for over eight years. Through the fundraisers,
approximately 65,000 dollars have been raised. The students participating went to The Tutoring Club on October 17 to take the practice exam. Approximately a week later, they will return to review their scores and analysis. Cohen said, “That’s when we review with the students and parents what The Tutoring Club can do to improve scores.” The price to participate was 40 dollars. Upcoming events will benefit CHE Theatre, CHE Music, CHE Football, CHE Field Hockey, CHE PTA, Alicia Rose Victorious Foundation, M’Kor Shalom Women’s Connection, Eastern Theatre, Eastern Cheerleading and other organizations. Cohen said, “The students get valuable practice
at the SAT or ACT exam. The parents appreciate the fact that it is a fundraiser where their children will benefit from taking a practice test, and the organization loves the fact that it is a very easy fundraiser for them.” Cohen said that out of the 40-dollar price for the exam, the Tutoring Club donates 25 dollars paid per student to the organization. For example, if 40 students attend, that is 1,000 dollars for the organization. All tests are held at the Tutoring Club located at Short Hills Towne Center, 484 Evesham Road in Cherry Hill. In addition to the October date, there will be another fundraiser on Sunday, April 10, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The Boyling Point:
October 2015
New SAT
■ By Kaitlyn Boyle (‘17) Eastside Managing Editor
Despite all of the clubs and activities available in high school, it often feels like we lose ourselves to a number. Our GPAs, our class rank, and the most intimidating, our SAT score. As if this four digit number was not frightening enough, students in the Class of 2017 and beyond have been thrown an even greater curveball: a change in the SATs. Around March of 2014, College Board released information that a new SAT test, scored out of 1600 instead of 2400, would be instituted in March of 2016. The first problem with this change lies within the timing. In March of 2016, the Class of 2017, or the group of students preparing to take the SATs, will already have completed half of the school year. This brings up the frequently asked question: Which SAT do I take? The four tests prior to the March test will feature the “old” SAT, while the new test will appear in March and beyond. Students must make the decision to either prepare for the old test before the last available test in January or to take more time to study. A logical person may simply advise students to take more time to study, which seems like a fitting solution if, of course, adequate tools existed. Countless preparatory books containing practice versions of the old SAT are readily available at Barnes and Noble. Students planning to take the new SAT, however, may find themselves at a loss for such guides. Many students utilize the College Board Official SAT Study Guide when preparing for the test. Although it has released guides for both the new and old test, College Board clearly offers more resources for the old SAT. The old guide contains ten practice tests compared to the mere four within the new guide. While a six-test difference may not seem
extremely significant, this lack of information extends through all test preparatory courses, whether it be a tutoring center or guide written by another company. Since the test itself has not been given yet, how can an extensive amount of practice problems even exist? One of the best ways to increase an SAT score involves taking timed practice tests to get a feel for the situation prior to taking the official exam. A shortened version of the actual test, the PSAT, also provides the much-needed experience. Unlike the SATs, students who receive scores on their PSATs within the top three percent of their state qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program. This program selects 50,000 students nationwide who have taken the PSAT in the fall of their junior year to become either commended scholars, semifinalists or finalists. East students are fortunate enough to take the PSAT in school during October; however, highranking scholars who have prepared for the old SAT, and may otherwise have qualified as a National Merit Scholar, could quite possibly be disappointed with their results. College Board has decided to model the 2015 PSAT off of the new test, a decision which could prove detrimental to students preparing for the old SAT. Many students deserving of a National Merit Scholar title will be at a disadvantage when taking the revised PSAT. Ultimately, College Board has not offered adequate information or test materials for the changing SATs. The decision to change the test mid-school year both confuses and troubles high school students, specifically the Class of 2017, who must make the difficult decision of which test to take. If College Board truly feels the need to alter such an influential test, it must first consider whether the choice will benefit students.
Courtesy of College Board
NEWS/FEATURES
October 2015
EASTSIDE
Page 3
East hires new teaching staff in English Department ■ By Courtney Finnegan (‘17)
Along with the various changes that the 2015-2016 school year has brought to East, one of the most prominent changes is the newly hired teaching staff. After the retirement of English teachers Ms. Julie Bathke, Ms. Roseanne Rocchino and Ms. Marguerite Smaldore, the transfer to a district library for Ms. Skye Vitale and the departure of Ms. Hayley VanAmburg, East has gained five new teachers in the English Department. Ms. Margot Mackay, Mr. Brian Connolly, Ms. Janet Jang, Ms. Erica Shultes and Dr. Nicole Mantuano possess different backgrounds in education. Their previous experiences have shaped their current and unique teaching styles that will enrich the East community and play a postive role in the education of East students. Eastside News/Features Editor
Ms. Mackay
Emelia Keller (‘17)/ Eastside Photo Editor
Mackay helps a student one-on-one during class. “Cherry Hill has always in a public high school in been my hometown, I went the Bronx. Jang lived in to elementary and middle Manhattan and taught school here as well, and it ninth and tenth grade Enghas always been a special lish for two years while goplace in my heart, and I ing to graduate school at knew if I was ever going to Columbia University. go into [teaching], I really Aside from wanting to wanted to be able to come create strong relationships back to East,” said East with her students and help alum and now teacher Ms. shape them into leaders, Janet Jang. Jang is looking forward to Jang is teaching freshbeing a role model for her man and sophomore Engstudents while teaching at lish classes this year. East. Previously, Jang taught “I want to be an inspira-
Dr. Mantuano
For Ms. Margot Mackay, the long-standing “East vs West” rivalry does not exist. After a year and a half as a Title I support teacher for R and A-level students at Cherry Hill West, Mackay transferred to East when the opportunity arose for the start of the 2015-2016 school year. “I’m a career change teacher. I was doing something else for about five years before I decided to become a teacher, and West is also [my] alma mater, so it was an easy place for me to get my foot in the door,” tion for students who may be afraid of going into liberal arts, if that is either because of parental expectations or just not knowing that they can pursue their passions no matter what.” Between her nostalgia from walking through the halls where she received her high school diploma and her passion for guiding and teaching young students, Jang has never been so excited to continue doing what she loves.
said Mackay. Along with the majority of the teaching staff at West, Mackay has been in regular communication with the East English teachers. From this, Mackay was able to hear about the available open positions at East right away. “It feels great knowing I have friends on both sides of town. People I meet here, people I know over there, it makes it great to share resources, and it really benefits the students because I have access to both sides of town,” said Mackay.
During her time at West, Mackay worked with all grade levels. Mackay’s teaching experience at West helped develop her teaching style and her ability to teach a wide range of students. “At any point in time I could step into any classroom and be doing their vocabulary and their literature. It gave me such a breadth of experience, and it was a great way to make me realize, yes, I love this career change, teaching is it. I’m here, and I’m excited.”
Ms. Jang
Emelia Keller (‘17)/ Eastside Photo Editor
Jang engages in class discussion with her students.
As a long-term substitute Engting back to working with those lish teacher at East last year, Dr. same students,” said Mantuano. Nicole Mantuano experienced a Mantuano appreciated East’s glimpse of East prior to making unique environment during her her decision to apply for the job substitute teaching last year. permanently. After working with freshman Mantuano was introduced to students last year, Mantuano’s East by her friend, Ms. Carmela excitement to teach this year has Griffo, one of the East French heightened. teachers. In her freshman classrooms, Mantuano has been working Mantuano has developed her in education for eleven years, own personal teaching style. and now she will spend her Mantuano said, “You have to twelfth year working in East’s be flexible. Always. And I think English Department, a year for that’s one of my strengths. I’m which she is very excited. flexible as a teacher and always “The kids here are great. The looking for alternate ways to Emelia Keller (‘17)/ Eastside Photo Editor students are really awesome, so help my students that need exMantuano helps a student with his work during class. I’m really looking forward to gettra assistance.” Ms. Erika Shultes exemWhile in Romania, to the high standards here plifies deep passion for her Shultes taught a mixture and knowing how great the hereditary roots and teachof reading, writing and the students are here,” said ing career. For nine months English language. Shultes. this past year, Shultes Previous to her RomaShultes teaches sophotaught eleventh graders nian experience, Shultes more A-level and H-level and college students in Rotaught at Bucks County students. Shultes plans to mania. College while receiving bring her interactive teachShultes’ family moved her masters at The College ing styles and positive attito the United States from of New Jersey. Originally tude to the classroom. Romania in the 1980s, and growing up in Burlington Shultes said, “My expecher family’s Romanian County, Shultes was aware tations have been exceeded roots are a huge factor and of East’s academics and had so far.” important aspect of her evalways admired East’s theNot only is Shultes exciteryday life. ater program in particular. ed to delve into the English Shultes had the oppor“I saw the opening and I curriculum this upcoming tunity to deepen her roots know that East is an amazyear, but she also hopes to and exercise her teaching ing school and has a great get involved with assisting Rachel Becker (‘16)/ Eastside Photo Editor skills in another area of the reputation across the area. the theater program this Shultes grades students’ assignments after school. world. So I was definitely attracted fall and spring.
Ms. Shultes
Mr. Connolly
Emelia Keller (‘17)/ Eastside Photo Editor
Connolly explains the instructions of an assignment to his students during class.
Coming from Leap Academy, a charter school in Camden, Mr. Brian Connolly decided to continue his teaching career by becoming a teacher at East for the 2015-2016 school year. Connolly said, “I wanted a more stable environment. In the charter school environment, it was very chaotic, plus I wanted to experience the intellectual wealth of East and the rigorous academics it offers.” Connolly taught eleventh and twelfth grade AP English at Leap Academy, and he now similarly teaches R, A and AP level English to juniors at East.
“I want to expose my students to a wealth of culture,” said Connolly. “Say my students are working with a novel. I’ll bring in a film, a script from a film, sources they’ll encounter in college, and historical texts and sources, all to help widen their gaze and open up their minds.” Part of Connolly’s teaching style includes bringing in those outside sources that he was exposed to in his schoolings. He gained exposure through his double major in history and English, as well as his minor in film studies, during college.
NEWS/FEATURES
Page 4
EASTSIDE
October 2015
Meloche begins his term as superintendent ■ By Kaitlyn Boyle (‘17)
Eastside Managing Editor
The superintendent’s office at Malberg School is not your typical workspace. Artwork painted by aspiring young artists hangs from the ceilings, draping the walls. An abundance of red, white and blue decorations frame the shelves, ranging from American flags to an unopened box of patriotic Pop-Tarts, expired in 2005. A bookshelf holding a variety of novels and teaching manuals, including “The Hobbit” and “1984,” sits next to a shelf containing a plaque with the word “Dad” on it. This quaint, cozy office, however, holds the big plans of one confident man. Dr. Joe Meloche moved to Cherry Hill from Detroit, Michigan, in 1977. He traveled through the school district, attending Kingston Elementary School, Brainerd Middle School (later changed to Carusi) and Cherry Hill High School West. After working in a variety of positions in the education system, such as a history teacher, an English teacher and a curriculum director, Meloche became principal of each of the schools he had attended in Cherry Hill. After 23 years in education, and 13 years in Cherry Hill, Meloche began his new role as superintendent in the Cherry Hill School District on September 1. His passion for the district, however, extends much deeper than just any educational position. “My wife and I are raising our kids here. This is home for me,” said Meloche. “There’s a commitment that I feel and a responsibility that I feel to do what’s best for all of the kids that are here, and for me it‘s meaningful. I enjoy being a part of it.”
With the well-being of and what truly is a meahave with the district,” he his hometown in mind, Mesurement of success,” said said. loche hopes to address some Meloche. Meloche wants to develmajor problems currently With a plethora of stanop relationships with staff, facing the school district. dardized tests judging stustudents and all residents Monetary restrictions, a dent ability, he reminds of Cherry Hill in order to continuous issue among that a strong focus needs help the district to flourish. many public schools withto remain on the individu“I want us to be better,” in the country, impact the al student. In response to he said. “I want us to conCherry Hill Public Schools. PARCC outbursts during tinue to grow.” “There’s only a set amount the 2014-2015 school year, In the midst of current of money that we can have the Cherry Hill School Discontract negotiations, a each year,” said Meloche. trict must plan ahead for strong relationship with Seekboth the Board ing the of Education input (BOE) and the of staff, teachers is crus t u cial. dents “It’s my goal and comthat they are munity able to reach an m e m agreement, [to] b e r s try to help both alike, sides to reach an Meloche agreement that plans to is beneficial to utilize everyone.” district This “everymoney one” includes in the the students of most juthe Cherry Hill dicious School District, w a y . perhaps the One of most affected the most population of pressing contract disissues, putes besides the dethe staff and terioratBOE. ing infra“The 11,000 Madeline Bowne (‘16)/ Eastside Video Editor structure Meloche brings experience with the Cherry Hill School kids who are w i t h i n District into his role as superintendent. here on a daily certain basis make this school district alive,” buildings, will require a the second year of this test. said Meloche. closer look into the budget. Meloche explains that alIn a district with talBy addressing each buildthough the district would ented students across both ing individually, a stralike things to go smoothly, high schools, a recent distegic planning committee there is a lack of informaparity between Cherry evaluates the necessary tion for the time being. Hill High Schools East and plausible renovations Along with addressing and West in the Newsweek within the next five to ten long-term issues, Meloche ranking must be addressed. years. would also like to interact Pointing out that Newsweek In addition to monetary with the district on a perdoes not always request inproblems, Cherry Hill sonal level as soon as posformation from all schools, schools also face external sible. Meloche remains confident evaluations of achieve“I want to know what in the equity of the curricuments. [the community thinks] lum between both schools. “I think one of the other is working well, what are Other differences, however, biggest challenges we face their concerns, what are may hold responsibility for [are] the outside influences their questions, what relathe inconsistency. of how we measure success tionship do they currently “There’s a difference in
the level of performance in terms of outcome,” said Meloche, “but I would also contend that there’s a difference in terms of socioeconomic status of the community that is being served by the community of both high schools, and that has an impact.” Aside from national ranking systems, Meloche still hopes to help each high school continue to grow educationally and as a community. With the construction of an additional 800 apartments in the planning stages, the Cherry Hill School District must demographically study the effects of the new addition on the schools. “[It] will have an impact on us for sure,” said Meloche. “If a child lives in Cherry Hill, it’s our responsibility to educate [him or her]. We have to provide [him or her] with an education.” Ultimately, the school district relies on a flourishing, dynamic and diverse student body to prosper. “[In 2020 and 2021], I see the name of the Cherry Hill Public Schools being recognized throughout the state, throughout the region, throughout the country, as being a central hub of education,” said Meloche. Meloche finds great happiness in cheering at school sporting events, attending concerts and shows, and just interacting with the students within the district that he once attended. He looks towards the future optimistically and enthusiastically, eager to experience the ups and downs of the district along with the rest of the community. “We are faced with so many challenges and so much stuff that goes on,” said Meloche. “I’m going to choose happy every day.”
body is most likely going to the biggest negative imstudents while not taking be missing at least one day pact was in Health. We try it from someone else,” said out of the week,” said Jesto prepare very carefully Melograna. sica Payne (‘17). for assessments, benchAmanda Gairo (‘16) said, Will Lewis (‘17) said, marks, group presentations “I like being able to have a “If you are full break in a club e v e r y like yearday, but book with instead leadership of misspositions, ing gym, you are [I] miss not there h o m e for your rer o o m , sponsibiliwhich I ties on that think is day.” better.” For othS t u er departdents also ments, this get more change has time in benefitted s t u d y the amount h a l l s , of class health time and classes, attendance and muof students sic classes per cycle. that they Physical w o u l d Education otherwise Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Editor and Health A lab table is out of place as itSydney miss due sits among lunch tables. teacher, to labbing Mr. Mike out. Melograna, said, “The labor guest speakers, and the Blaise Impagliazzo (‘16) outs were always a huge labs made it impossible, said, “I kind of like the new problem. It made it very even with the added no lab schedule… Instead of labdifficult to have any conday five and six. [The new bing out of Study Hall, I get sistency while teaching labs allow the Health] Dethe full period to get work Health or PE. Honestly, partment to gain time with done.”
On the other hand, there is general discontent in the Science Department. The new schedule leaves the teachers with 30 fewer minutes for labs in the cycle, and students who are not used to the change have been late or missed their lab day. Students who are taking more than one science class also have found the schedule challenging. As it is not uncommon for students at East to double up on science classes, students now lab out multiple times in the school week. As for the social aspect, some students have found themselves on lab-out days eating in lunch breaks without their friends and having less time to unwind between classes. Will Givner (‘17) said that after his labbing out, the situation forced him to eat in the next lunch period without any of his friends. This change will take some getting used to, but whether the new lab out periods are helping or hurting the convenience of teachers’ and students’ schedules, they are here to stay for the school year.
East implements new lab-out schedule this year
■ By Jenn Pacitti (‘17)
Eastside News/Features Editor
As students stepped through the doors of Cherry Hill East to begin the 2015-2016 school year, they also shortly found themselves stepping out of the lunchrooms and into the lab rooms. Ever since the beginning of the new school year, students have started to “lab out” of their lunch breaks for an extra half hour in any variety of their science classes. Prior to this change, students labbed out once a sixday cycle from either their Physical Education class or study hall period in order to go to lab. This switch has caused many different opinions throughout East. For certain groups and clubs, the new lab-out periods have caused inconveniences for meetings and rehearsals. “A lot of the music groups meet at lunch and rehearse, but it's going to be really hard and mess up a lot because not everyone has the same lab-out day…You can't have a full rehearsal time because not everyone will be there, and every-
COMMUNITY
October 2015
EASTSIDE
Page 5
Police Belgian waffles arrive in Cherry Hill Evesham Department ■ By Brandon Weinberg (‘16)
Eastside Staff
If you are looking for a place to indulge yourself in some amazing treats, then La Liegeoise Waffles is the place to go. La Liegeoise Waffles, a brand-new eatery located inside of the Cherry Hill Mall, offers a wide variety of delicious Belgian waffles to its customers. There is the “Classic Belgian Liege Waffle,” which is a plain Belgian waffle with powdered sugar on top, as well as a large assortment of toppings that can be piled onto the waffles to make them even tastier. Scoops of ice cream are available to add on top
of the waffles as well. A great aspect of La Liegeoise Waffles is that the waffles are completely made to order. Therefore, customers are ensured to have a fresh and high-quality waffle creation ready for them to eat when served. The eatery is dedicated to “Bringing You The Real Belgian Experience.” When I visited here on a recent afternoon, I was very satisfied with my entire experience. After looking over the intriguing menu, I decided to order the “Chococaramel Cream Dream,” a Belgian waffle topped with chocolate sauce, caramel sauce and whipped cream. After devouring my waffle, I can definitely say
that it was worth waiting a few extra minutes so that the
Brandon Weinberg (‘16)/ Eastside Staff
La Liegeoise’s “Chococaramel Cream Dream” waffle features chocolate sauce, caramel sauce and whipped cream.
adds free driving program
■ By Jonah Barnett (‘16)
Eastside Staff
waffle c o u l d h a v e the best possible taste. T h e owner of La Liegeoise Waffles w a s thrilled to open up a big location at the Cherry Hill Mall, as he lives in the South Jersey region. “ W e opened up first in the Gloucester Out-
Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director
lets for the grand opening,” said Victoria Samadi, a cashier at the eatery. “[The owner] wanted to be somewhere that’s really populated, and it’s something different. Nothing is like this in any other mall.” Since the Cherry Hill Mall is one of the premier and most popular malls in the region, it was not a surprise to hear that La Liegeoise Waffles is finding success at its new location. “Business has been great, and it’s opening a lot of doors for a lot of people trying new things, and it’s awesome,” said Samadi. High-quality treats and exceptional service make La Liegeoise Waffles a great place to eat, one which I intend on returning to. La Liegeoise Waffles is the spot that bridges the gap between Cherry Hill and Belgium.
According to the FBI, a person is injured in a drunk driving accident every two minutes. More than half of these drunk drivers are repeat offenders, while one-third of drunk drivers continue to drive with suspended licenses. While police have been cracking down on drunk driving, it still remains a prominent issue today. In 2009, Shawn English, a 19year-old student at Burlington County College, was killed by a drunk driver on Evesham Road. In response, the township made an effort to eliminate accidents like this, as is evident from the 1,050 DUI arrests made in the county since 2010. In addition to an increase of arrests, a recent program was put into effect to provide free transportation for Evesham residents from local businesses. The program, called “Evesham Saving Lives,” was inaugurated on Labor Day and ran for 30 days to test its effectiveness. Randy Brown, Mayor of Evesham, said to The Courier Post, “[The township is] hopeful that one day, [they] don’t ever arrest another Evesham resident for DUI.” In addition to the shuttle service, Evesham also partnered with the Marlton Business Association and Sober Sam, a driving service that takes nonresidents home along with their cars. These recent efforts should serve as a model for local districts in the area, making Evesham and neighboring townships safer for everyone.
Fall menus bring a new taste to Philly restaurants ■ By Brooke Greenberg (‘17) Eastside Community Editor
Fall is a time for new beginnings, including school, extra-curricular activities and settling into a routine again after a relaxing summer. Although those are all integral parts of the fall season, limited-edition foods are also an important part of the year. Recent trends have seen chefs make fall flavors an important part of their menus, thus adding a seasonal flair to some of the most basic and popular items on any menu. Just across the Ben Franklin Bridge in Philadelphia is home to some of the best fall menus in the South Jersey area, distributed throughout the different boroughs in Philadelphia, including University City, Media, Penn Centers and Northern Liberties. Whether you are just visiting for a meal or are a resident of Philly, there is sure to be a restaurant that is convenient to almost all residents of the Philadelphia and South Jersey region. In the Media region of Philadelphia lies Azie, a hip Japanese restaurant with an exceptional flair for seafood and intricate flavors. Featured on its new 2015 fall menu is the Spicy
Tuna Crosrenowned tini appetizer chefs and as well as a will score main seafood big serving dish of Mariup fall flanated Black vors in its Cod for the boutique arising sealocation in son. While the heart the menu is of the City pricey, this of Brotherrestaurant ly Love. proves that T h e fall flavors original and spices menu feacan be incortures luxe porated into delicacies many popular including dishes with a caviar. As very tasteful part of the and sophistinew fall cated palate features, in mind. the restauS t i c k rant has ing with the introduced Asian theme, new flavors CoZara is such as the another resU P e n n taurant loRoll, paycated in Uniing homversity City, age to the close to the prestigious University of Ivy, which Pennsylvania includes and Drexel Spicy Tuna University, Jalepeno that features Maki, Chilartisan sushi ean Sea as well as a Bass and trendy college Courtesy of The Harvest Seasonal Grill G o c h u a t m o s p h e r e Seared Scallops reign at the Harvest Seasonal Grill. jang. The for the estabD r e x e l royuki “Zama” Tanaka is lishment’s Dragon Roll one of Philadelphia’s most target customers. Chef Hirivals that of the UPenn.
Whether you are a visitor from either side of the bridge, or a hungry college student looking for some food worthy of school spirit, CoZara will have something to please any hungry appetite and will do it with a sophisticated and upscale feel. Embracing the spirit and the feeling of fall also is Harvest Seasonal Grill and Wine Bar located in University City. While it is more reasonably priced than Azie or CoZara, the Harvest Seasonal Grill and Wine Bar is strictly vegetarian. The restaurant’s success thrives off of its seasonal flavors and what is grown locally in a mission to provide a fresh eatery for the Philadelphia and South Jersey regions. Fall features this season include Autumn Scallops, Cedar Roasted Salmon and a mouthwatering Fall Spice French Toast, which is sure to please anybody on a brisk fall morning in the city. Expanding from the neighborhoods of Media to University City are a plethora of restaurants offering fall treats. These restaurants, ranging in palettes and cost, are sure to be crowd pleasers due to their variety of foods, incorporating local, seasonal flavors to keep with the fall trends.
COMMUNITY
Page 6
EASTSIDE
October 2015
Pat’s Pets opening angers Cherry Hill natives ■ By Julia Rothkoff (‘16)
Eastside Editor-in-Chief
Starting on July 16, protesters have gathered outside Pat’s Pets on Route 70 urging prospective animal owners to “adopt. Don’t shop.” Pat’s Pets has been accused of getting its puppies from puppy mills, which are large-scale establishments that breed puppies solely for money without any regard for the puppies’ quality of life and the potential owners that may adopt them. Many dogs that come from puppy mills are born with severe birth defects and die at a very young age. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), many puppies from puppy mills are sold to pet shops. Some believe that pet shops would not be able to stay in business if the government were to shut down the puppy mills. A group of local activists has decided to take action against Pat’s Pets. The group calls itself the Residents Against Pet Stores in Cherry Hill. Group leader and dog lover, Alan Braslow, knew that he had to do something about the pet store problem in Cherry Hill.
“Puppy stores sell puppy mill dogs, and it’s just basically wrong. It has everything to do with greed and maltreatment of animals… I’ve been rescuing dogs for thirty years,” said Braslow.
cided that somebody needed to do something.” Braslow said that he has a lot of proof to support his claims that Pat’s Pets gets its dogs from puppy mills. Many years ago, New Jer-
and then transports them to pet stores. “[Pat’s Pets] in Cherry Hill won’t allow [Residents Against Pet Stores in Cherry Hill] in there, and they won’t talk to us because they know that we don’t like what they’re doing. We were fortunate in that an 18-year-old young lady went in, didn’t like what she saw, bought a Chihuahua for 900 dollars on her mom’s credit card, and she gave us a copy of that particular cage card which shows the name of the broker. The broker that was on this card is one who has been in trouble with the Ohio Department of Agri Brooke Greenberg (‘17)/ Eastside Community Editor culture and the U.S. Department Pat’s Pets now will only sell rescue pets. of Agriculture,” “When it came up that a sey passed a law that states said Braslow. puppy store was opening in that puppy stores have to While this instance may Cherry Hill, it just rubbed have cage cards, or informanot seem like enough proof me the wrong way that this tion cards, with facts about that Pat’s Pets sells puppy was happening. There were the dog, such as where the mill dogs, Braslow said two or three other women dog came from. The cage that there have been other who were getting involved, cards also include the name times when Pat’s Pets has and we just decided to start of the broker, someone who not complied with the New protesting the store. We debuys dogs from breeders Jersey law.
“Another individual went [into Pat’s Pets] and took pictures of these not-in-compliance cage cards. When we searched the names [of the breeders and brokers], some of them couldn’t even be found, so they are hiding behind other names,” said Braslow. “We know that these dogs are not coming from reputable breeders.” Many days a week, Braslow and his fellow protesters stood on Route 70 to protest Pat’s Pets. Although Braslow says that he would have liked more people to become involved in the protests, he saw his protests affect prospective buyers. “We find that we are preventing one or two dogs from being purchased every time we’re out there, and maybe [helping to rescue] one or two dogs from Animal Orphanage, AWA or any other foster based [animal] rescue,” said Braslow. On September 17, Camden County passed new legislation called “Norman’s Law,” putting stricter pressure on pet stores to only sell rescue dogs. On September 29, Pat’s Pets posted a sign on its door saying that it will switch to selling strictly rescue dogs. For more information on puppy mills, visit www. bestfriends.org.
Katz JCC initiates new members-only benefits ■ By Sidra Isenberg (‘18) Eastside Staff
The Jewish Community Center in Cherry Hill is offering exclusive new benefits for full-time members. These benefits only aid full-facility members, but it is now well worth the money and time invested that comes with the membership. At the JCC, there are different levels of membership one can sign up for. There are Affiliate Memberships, which have no access to the fitness facilities but include non-fitness classes, trips and other programs. The second level of membership is called the Basic Membership. Basic members have limited access to the JCC’s fitness facilities but are not limited to their after-school programs, swim lessons and non-fitness programs. Finally, and foremost, there is a Full-Facility Membership. These unlimited members have access to all of the programs and classes listed above, plus access to the entire Katz JCC fitness facility. The Katz JCC is offering half a dozen new perks for being a full-time member. Teens over 15 years old will get two free fitness sessions with a personal trainer, which include a fitness assessment and the use of the JCC’s weight and cardio equipment. Thirteen and 14-year-olds will get two one-hour training sessions on how to handle and maneuver the machines found in the Fitness Center, which will become a lifelong skill for working out and staying in shape throughout life. In addition, personal fitness assessments are given to evaluate and create a personal fitness routine. These assessments are 30 minutes long and measurements such as blood pressure and muscle strength are taken into account. “It would help members get back on track and improve their health and fitness,” said Cherry Hill resident and Katz JCC member Susan Friedler. Further, personal training ses-
sions with trained professionals certified by nationally recognized fitness programs are an additional gain for JCC members. For yet another benefit, assisted stretching is offered, which can improve one’s physical performance, muscle coordination and posture. To make sure the member is getting desirable Rachel Becker (‘16)/ Eastside Photo Editor results, the Katz JCC members utilize their memberships by working out in the gym facility. JCC offers a body fat analysis session, which is available by appointment. The JCC occupies thousands of members so once the program starts, appointments can be hard to schedule. “It would be great to have someone to help me get back and achieve my fitness goals,” said Friedler in regards to the new Assisted Stretching Program being offered. This program aims to help its members work out and stretch safely, which is a main priority of the community center that has members of all ages. Many of its members utilize all of the complex’s many facilities at all times of the year, including Early Childhood care and indoor and outdoor pools. These are just a few of the new advantages offered to JCC members with full-facility benefits. With sessions like these, Cherry Hill residents may be looking to switch their gym memberships soon.
COMMUNITY
October 2015
EASTSIDE
Cherry Hill Fire Department hosts award ceremony ■ By Jenna Myers (‘17) Eastside Community Editor
On October 1, the Cherry Hill Fire Department hosted an award ceremony to honor members of the Camden County and Cherry Hill Fire Departments. These awards were given to select firefighters who went out of their way to help the community and increase the safety of Cherry Hill residents. A flag salute initiated the ceremony, after which the awards were given to the respective firefighters. Sargent John Martinez from the Camden County Police Department was first presented with a “Departmental Service Recognition” award for saving a Cherry Hill resident’s life earlier this year. Martinez was at a restaurant when a customer began choking on her meal. After she turned blue and became unconscious, Martinez immediately ran over to the customer to perform the Heimlich maneuver. Martinez saved her life before the ambulance and police came. Later in July, a man was trapped under a 2,500Courtesy of the Cherry Hill pound branch in a cherry picker 30 feet in the air. Fire Department The cherry picker and branch were both unstable and A pamphlet was providthe weather conditions were horrible. Cherry Hill ed to those at the meetfirefighter Timothy Moore, a local tree expert and a ing. grounds crew member, managed to cut the branches
and freed the stuck man with hydraulic cutters. Moore and the rest of the grounds crew were given a “Certificate of Service and Appreciation” award for saving the man’s life during a dangerous situation. “All the hard work [the firefighters] do here every day is the dividends paid off in those kinds of instances,” said chairperson of the Board of Fire Commissioners, Hugh Gibson. On the first Thursday of every month, a public awards ceremony is hosted by the Cherry Hill Fire Department on Marlkress Road. There, you can see the numerous awards granted to the brave local firefighters and what they go through in order to keep the community a safe place for everyone.
Chief McCargar provides value to the Cherry Hill Fire Department
that that’s too late to make a difference in the lives of those who could be saved.” Just last year, McCargar helped When hired by the Cherry Hill lead a demonstration for teachers Fire Department’s Emergency at East, preparing them for the Medical Services unit (EMS), event of an active shooter. At employees receive a small lamthe demonstration, he explained inated card. The card bears the that responders have between following quote: “You’re not the five and 30 minutes before a best in the nation. You’re not victim could bleed to death in the best in your state. In fact, an active shooter situation. you’re probably not very good McCargar said, “The idea is at all… unless you prove it, evthat the police stop the shootery day.” ing, while we step in and stop This quote embodies the culthe dying.” ture and standard that Chief Other EMS units model their Randall McCargar has created task forces after McCargar’s, at Cherry Hill EMS. and he takes deep pride in that In 2003, when the Cherry fact. Therefore, as the leader Hill Fire Department assumed of one of the top EMS units in control of the township’s EMS the region, he takes the profunction, McCargar, 58, who at cess of hiring new emergency the time lived in Texas, was remedical technicians very sericruited to take the Chief posiously in order to maintain the tion of the EMS unit in Cherry level of excellence that his unit Hill. Since then, Cherry Hill has previously achieved. Aside EMS has become one of the top from the basic credentials that pre-hospital care units in the include three years of EMT exregion. McCargar, a recipient perience, McCargar looks for of the 2008 Cherry Hill Rotary certain character traits as well. Club Public Safety Person of Perhaps the most telling trait, the Year Award, was exposed according to McCargar, is how at a young age to what life is much the applicants care about like working in the back of an what they do. ambulance. Courtesy of courierpostonline.com “You could be able to resus“I was exposed to [EMS] Chief McCargar teaches drills at East. citate anybody, but you have to when I was twelve years old,” have caring traits. We put tosaid McCargar. “My dad was McCargar. gether a testing process that looks in the ambulance service…and I McCargar’s experience and for caring traits, what people have would go in on a Friday night after knowledge has certainly made a in here,” he said as he pointed to school and ride with him…I got to positive impact in the Cherry Hill his heart. “It’s not necessarily see how the system operated, and community. Recently, he helped about the cards they carry in their that was the hook that got me.” create and lead in the implemenwallet…the question that we have EMS has not left his life since tation of the Rescue Task Force, is, what have you done for manhis days in the ambulance with a group of bullet-proof vest-clad kind?” his father. McCargar spent many paramedics trained to take a forMcCargar stressed the imporyears as a paramedic, but has also ward approach in the event of an tance of the intentions of his empursued opportunities working as active shooter. ployees. an educator of pre-hospital care “Historically, the EMS person“We want to be able to walk and has taken on leadership roles nel wait outside until everything away and say that we have done in various locations including Texis all clear, and then they go in,” something good for those that we as, Alaska, California, Washingsaid McCargar. “We have found serve every day.” ton and New Jersey. ■ By Matt Kains (‘16)
Eastside Community Editor
“I believe I have a pretty wellrounded experience base in operations, administration and education, and I think those three things are critical in my job,” said
Art by Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director
Page 7
COMICS
Page 8
EASTSIDE
October 2015
I’m Fine by Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director
Differences in Grades by Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director
Want to see YOUR art or comics in an Eastside? e-mail us at Art@eastside-online.org
We have opportunities for your comics to appear both online and in print.
UNDERGROUND
October 2015
EASTSIDE
Page 9
Lexus shocks world with groundbreaking invention ■ By Justin Tobolsky (‘18) Eastside Staff
The future is here: the engineers of Lexus have designed and created the allnew “Back to the Future”styled hoverboard. In the beginning of August, Lexus uploaded a promotional video referring to the new gadget as the “Slide.” In only three weeks, the video managed to receive nine million views. Sadly, for any thrill-seekers out there, riding a hoverboard is currently not a
[but] it exists exclusively for the purpose of elevating the Lexus brand image.” The process of constructing the hoverboard was a mind-boggling task for the Lexus engineers. The engineers used superconductors and magnets to construct the bottom of the “Slide.” In this way, the “Slide” is able to repel gravity as the magnets on the board push away from the magnets in the ground. The “Slide” also only
ews
NN sy of IG
Courte
r
Hove Lexus
The possibility. According to Tim Stevens, a writer and editor from CNET, “the board is real,
e.
s smok
emit board
works in a specially designed skate park with magnetic technology, thereby making it unable to function on regular concrete. These magnets
are custom designed for each skate park that buys the magnets. In a specially designed skate park in Barcelona, Spain, there are magnets
a l l around that allow the board to operate. The magnets form a track around the park that go over some of the key obstacles that the park features, including a small pool of water and even some jumps. The hoverboard also possesses other additional features. The board can emit a futuristiclooking smoke, caused by liquid nitrogen cooling the superconductor. The “Slide”
needs to be refilled with liquid nitrogen around every ten minutes in order to maintain the temperature of the superconductor at -321 degrees
Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director
Fahrenheit. The project took approximately a year and a half to complete its current prototype stage. Ross McGouran, a professional skateboarder, promoted the new
board in a commercial by testing out the invention. McGouran said riding the hoverboard was similar to “starting all over again.” Learning to ride the hoverboard reminded McGouran of his first time learning how to ride a skateboard. McGouran must be a quick learner, for in the promotional video, he is seen riding over water and even jumping over a Lexus. Looking at how much time it would take to produce, advertise, sell and build the magnetic skate parks, it simply may not be worth it to put the hoverboard on the market. However, ten years from now, who knows? Maybe these hoverboards will resurface and replace the skateboard for good. Although that idea currently doesn’t seem practical, it is plausible.
Steampunk Granny continues sci-fi series supplies and the surmounting influence of biowarfare,” said Gilbert. In the story, the apocalypse started by an evil A self-proclaimed “super heroine stuck in a man set on infecting humans with a bacteria, grandmother’s body,” Marie Gilbert is a ball of which is highly damaging to the human immune imagination. Raised in South Philadelphia and system. Set fifty years into the future, the apocacurrently residing in Audubon, NJ, lypse affects not only Gilbert has many interests ranging the Earth, but also a from ghost hunting to screenwriting. far-off moon. Gilbert’s “I especially love Steampunk,” said initial novel of the seGilbert, speaking of the sub-genre of ries, “Roof Oasis,” folsci-fi. Steampunk gets its name from lows the lives of twins featuring steam-powered machinery Michael and Lucy. The and is set in the Victorian Era. two find solace from the Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director Nonetheless, Gilbert remains steadzombie apocalypse in a fast to her one true love: writing. Now remirror. Not just any mirtired from Rowan’s Academy of Natural Sciences, ror, but a gateway to an entire other world. Gilbert can finally focus on her passion. She is Gilbert’s second novel, “Saving Solanda,” picks constantly crafting works of paranormal/science up exactly where her initial novel left off. That fiction, and she has no plans to stop. Her wit and mirror mentioned before leads to the mysterious spunk spill over into her writing, creating multimoon Solanda. This time Bird, an alien girl, is dimensional pieces that never fail to intrigue. the main focus of the novel. Gilbert has published two novels; both chroni“I hope to show each character’s voice in the cle a horrifying, yet romantic story set in a zomseries,” said Gilbert. bie apocalypse. The two novels belong to Gilbert’s Gilbert’s novels can be purchased on Creinnovative Roof Oasis Series. An “apocalyptic ateSpace.com and the Kindle marketplace. tale with a twist,” the fictional series is actually Watch out for another twist...the series isn’t grounded in scientific logic. over yet. Book Three of Roof Oasis, “Beware the “I use things that are happening on our planet Harvesters,” will be released in the summer of now that worry me; the lack of food and water 2016. ■ By Ashley Cooper (‘17)
Eastside Underground Editor
Courtesy of Marie Gilbert
Audobon resident Gilbert poses in traditional Steampunk garb.
Out of the Vault: Teddy Ruxpin lives on ■ By Liza Rothkoff (‘16)
stories that were played on an audio cassette tape deck inside the toy’s back. The cassette tape Teddy Ruxpin, a talkhad two audio tracks for steing toy bear that dereophonic sound reproducbuted in 1985, was the tion. The left track of the perfect companion for cassette was used for audio, children who needed whereas the right track a new friend. Teddy was used to control data Ruxpin was the stream. The data stream brainchild of Ken served to control serForsse, who came vomotors that moved up with the idea for Teddy Ruxpin’s eyes the toy following his and mouth. work for The Walt With the data Disney Company. stream, Teddy Teddy RuxRuxpin pin was w a s made a b l e with to intert h e act with intenGrubby, tion the bear’s of crecompanion ating toy. This ina home teraction would version of the occur with animatronic puppre-recorded pets that children tracks through saw at amusement the use of prop a r k s . prietary cables. The bear The interaction Courtesy of Hasbro worked by Teddy Ruxpin rose to popularity in between Ted“ r e a d i n g ” the mid-1980s when it was released. dy Ruxpin and Eastside Editor-In-Chief
Grubby only worked with the initial release of the toy in the ‘80s with Worlds of Wonder. In its debut year, Worlds of Wonder sold 800,000 Teddy Ruxpin dolls. In 1985, the doll had a retail price of 68 dollars. Teddy Ruxpin was the best-selling toy of 1985 and 1986. Since there was high demand for the toy, m a n y T e d d y Ruxpins were sold for double or triple the retail price due to the shortages during the holiday season. The doll was so popular that in 1987, a cartoon was based off of the toy. Although the doll was immensely well-known among children and their parents alike, many of the first generation bears arrived to stores with a glitch. This glitch caused Teddy Ruxpin to speak gibberish, which made this glossy-eyed doll seem pretty creepy. The follow-
ing year, the toy was recalled, with over 12,000 models returned due to a defective cassette tape. After Worlds of Wonder went bankrupt in 1988, Hasbro began producing Teddy Ruxpin dolls. Hasbro got rid of the cassette tapes, instead replacing them with smaller 8-track tapes, which proved easily damageable. Unfortunately, the move only increased the danger of defects and glitches. In 2005, BackPack Toys announced that it would produce the fourth version of Teddy Ruxpin. This version turned out to be the last generation of the doll. This newer version utilized digital cartridges for the voice of the bear instead of the outdated audio tapes. BackPack Toys no longer produces Teddy Ruxpin, with the company ceasing production in 2010. Teddy Ruxpin has recently been found for sale at upwards of 200 dollars on eBay, including mulitple outfits for the doll. Do not be misled by Teddy Ruxpin’s unfortunate past plagued with glitches and defects, because Teddy Ruxpin is certainly one of the world’s most memorable toys. Logo by Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director
Page 10
EASTSIDE
October 2015
UNDERGROUND
October 2015
EASTSIDE
Page 11
Musically inclined students at East shine through the Cloud
■ By Ashley Cooper (‘17) Eastside Underground Editor
Javier Roman (‘18), Ricky Iuliucci (‘18) and Dillon Holder (‘17) are part of a select group of students at East who utilize the website SoundCloud to spread their love for creating music.
Listen now: trending in the community:
■ By Julia Rothkoff (‘16)
One may know Ricky Iuliucci (‘18) from his successful track “Scholars,” which features sound bites from East Principal Dr. Lawyer Chapman. Yet, Iuliucci is so much more than just one track. Iuliucci does not just publish music—he produces it. Creating instrument-like sounds and EDM beats from absolutely nothing, Iuliucci has been creating, mixing and uploading his own music on SoundCloud since the age of 11. At such a young age, it might be hard to understand why Iuliucci used the little-known SoundCloud, as opposed to the mainstream YouTube. It really was a question of accessibility, he said. SoundCloud simply worked better for his purposes. Iuliucci has a continued belief in SoundCloud’s accessibility. “All you need is your phone or your computer and you can listen. It allows your music to be heard by greater audiences...I have my signature synths and samples and just ways I mix and master and compress, but it is EDM which is popular, so I’m in the process of developing my own style of EDM,” said Iuliucci. Many assume that EDM is just noises thrown together, said Iuliucci. But, in reality, EDM is a much more complex entity, taking an extreme amount of both time and effort. “Uploading a track to SoundCloud takes about five minutes,” said Iuliucci, “but mixing, producing and EQing a song? That’s a whole other beast.” The amount of hours Iuliucci spends on his tracks greatly varies. For instance, his next release, an EP, took the entire duration of the summer to create. “‘Scholars’ was one of the faster ones [at about] 16 [hours]. But that’s 16 [hours], non-stop,” said Iuliucci. “I think the fastest one I did was a remix in three hours. But there’s other ones like the Steve Angello remix I [recently] posted. That took six hours a day, every day of July.” Despite the immense time commitment, Iuliucci has been uploading, for a year now, at least one track per month. “I like what I do and [enjoy] the reaction it gets,” said Iuliucci. But this is not Iuliucci’s sole reason for spending so much time on his SoundCloud tracks. Another major reason for his passion is that SoundCloud is not simply a hobby for him, it is a viable life-long occupation. “I want to have a main focus in business, but I also want to learn mixing and mastering. I essentially want to make this my job one day, so I’m trying to work as hard as I can now,” said Iuliucci. Iuliucci truly loves his art form of EDM. The genre “loves” him right back, having had quite a positive effect on his life. “In seventh grade when I first started really getting into [EDM], it came at a rough time for me personally, and [it] helped me through... it was a distraction from what was going on and so I always thought of it as a happy thing,” said Iuliucci. He added, “Whenever I’m mixing or producing or playing out live, it’s just that feeling.”
■ By Jared Fisch (‘18) Eastside Editor-in-Chief
Dillon Holder (‘17) uses SoundCloud as a medium to explore his passions. He incorporates elements of rap into his mixes. Over the course of two years, Holder has published 33 tracks through his SoundCloud account. Holder has garnered 64 followers on SoundCloud and hopes to gain more. Holder’s SoundCloud followers range from East students to others outside of the East community. Holder’s first experience with music was not on a computer. He initially learned how to play piano but soon got into the world of rap music. Holder said that he would buy rap CDs and listen to them for hours on repeat until they became stale. While Holder uses SoundCloud as a creative outlet, he also notes that he would like to become famous using the platform. While he tries to be realistic, he can’t help but dream about being a famous producer. “I like to use [SoundCloud] as creative expressions, but I would also like to become big with it. That would be nice,” said Holder. Using the computer software FL Studio, Holder creates his rap and instrumental pieces. FL Studio allows Holder to easily create and sequence his music digitally. He cites modern rappers who produce their own music, such as Eminem, as inspiration for him to pursue his passion. Holder said that he would like to continue learning about the music industry by majoring in music production when he goes to college. While modern rappers influence Holder, he separates himself from the mainstream. According to Holder, he tries to stray away from the generic hip-hop music he hears on the radio today by creating his own original style. “I try to stay away from the normal rap music nowadays. I try to be realistic and not do what I rap about or try to live it,” said Holder. Until Holder further pursues his passion in college, he will continue to use SoundCloud as a way to share his love of music with the public.
Eastside Underground Editor
One can find Javier Roman (‘18) walking the halls of East with a pair of headphones on his head and a definite swagger in his step. When Roman is not working at Papa Luigi’s Pizzeria, he is writing rhymes as Young Javi for his SoundCloud account. “When I was young, I loved music and then I got a notebook and started writing stuff down,” said Roman. Roman comes from a family that has no personal ties to music. His sole influence coming from a family with no musical background, he stated, is rapper Drake, currently the biggest rapper in the world. Although Roman looks up to Drake, he is proud of his style and always aims to keep his own “flow.” Although Young Javi has only released two songs on SoundCloud, more are on the way. Roman has plans of dropping a four-part, 50-song album throughout the upcoming year. That seems like a lot of work considering the young rapper still has school and work as his main priorities. Over the summer, Roman worked hard, completing half of his multi-part album in the short three-month break away from school. On October 21, Roman anticipates uploading 15 new songs as a part of his album on SoundCloud. Roman said that he loves SoundCloud because he believes that it is a good way to get his name and music out there. Young Javi publicizes his music through many social media platforms including Twitter and Instagram. Roman’s Soundcloud has 73 followers, and his most popular song thus far, “Grindin’ Freestyle,” has been listened to over 800 times. When asked about the future, Roman said that he would like to continue his rap career and even make a living from it. But if all else fails, Roman wouldn’t mind being a clothing designer. With all of his style and rhythm, Young Javi wouldn’t have trouble making either of those dreams a reality. Photo by Emelia Keller (‘17)/ Eastside Photo Editor
Screenshots by Ashley Cooper (‘17) and Jared Fisch (‘18)/ Eastside Underground Editors
ENTERTAINMENT
Page 12
EASTSIDE
October 2015
The new face of the transgender community ■ By Allie Grossman (‘16)
Eastside Entertainment Editor
On July 26, “I Am Cait” made its television debut on E!. Caitlyn Jenner made her first public appearance on the new reality television show. “Am I going to project the right image?” she pondered on the show. “I hope I get it right.” Caitlyn, formerly known as Bruce Jenner, serves to educate people on the hardships of transitioning and how important it is to be comfortable in one’s own skin in “I Am Cait.” Each hour-long episode presents a closer look at Jenner’s life as a transgender woman. She tells her intimate story to the world as she tries to adapt to a new normal. Being an unlikely spokesperson for the community due to the privileges she has enjoyed in her life, Jenner acknowledges her fortunate past. On the show, Jenner forms new relationships with
others of the transgender community and tries to hold on to old r e l a t i o n ships with her family. Jenner spends a lot of t i m e with her mother, Esther, and her sisters, P a m a n d Lisa. It becomes c l e a r t h a t change is not Rachel Becker (‘16)/ Eastside Photo Editor e a s y Jenner is changing the outlook of the transgender communiand of- ty one episode at a time on her new show, “I am Cait,” on E!. fers a
new perspective on life’s challenges. However, Jenner’s family is nonjudgmental and loving. “I’m just going to live life,” Jenner said on the show. “I’m going to go enjoy life. I have nothing left to hide.” A l though the show has great intentions to educate the world and teach viewers to embrace their true selves, it is a hard transition watching a previous
reality star switch to an intense symbol of change in the world. Talk of hormone therapies, sex work and the fight for civil rights replaces the Kardashian drama many viewers were used to seeing out of Jenner. As Caitlyn, Jenner may be the most visible member of America’s most talked about minority group, and she has made a significant contribution to enhancing the understanding of the transgender community. “I just want to be able to create some understanding, so that the next person who comes along doesn’t have to be like me,” said Jenner on the show. “We have to reach out, one soul at a time, and figure this problem out.” And that is exactly what she is doing. one soul reaching out to 153 countries, in 24 different languages, educating and shedding light on the transgender community. “I am Cait” ended its first season on September 13, 2015.
just a competition, and loses her competitive attitude. This movie proved that the stereotypical description of a cheerleader was indeed false and that cheerleaders could be normal, nice girls who break outside of their bubble of cheerleader friends. The truth is, cheerleaders at schools nowadays are just as smart and as kind to the rest of the students in school as any of the other classmates. East cheerleader Rachel Palitto (‘16) explained her experiences on the cheerleading squad for her fourth year at East. Palitto said that unlike in the movies, “the cheer team at East is recreational as opposed to competitive.” She also said that each year they welcome new students to join their fun, yet challeng-
ing cheer squad. “We are in no way the popular girls from the movies, but people see us cheering at the games, and they know who we are,” said Palitto. She also explained how the cheerleaders interact with the Countrymen at basketball games in order to get the crowd excited and to show some school spirit. Palitto also said that she will be truly upset to leave these girls after this year. “We are like a family,” she said. On television, cheerleaders are now rarely ever depicted as the dumb blondes that they once were. Times have changed, with stereotypes straying away from the former trends that had depicted the cheerleaders as snobby and rude people.
“Monica” fails to impress Modern cheerleaders change stereotypes ■ By Annie Lipsett (‘17)
Eastside Staff
“Monica the Medium,” a new show on ABC Family, is absolutely nothing new to television. Previously, there has already been a show on TLC called “Long Island Medium” that has garnered mixed reviews from critics. These shows focus on two different women who claim they can communicate with the dead. This concept of being a medium, or a person who communicates with the dead, helps others tie up their loose ends with those who have died. The ABC Family show, which premiered on August 25, is remarkably similar in content to “Long Island Medium,” as well as “Sex and the City.” Monica, the protagonist, is a college student at Pennsylvania State University and lives the life of a medium. She lives in a home with her three best girlfriends. The “Sex and the City” parallels are abundantly apparent, as the new show does not even attempt to hide the influence of “Sex and the City.” These girls help her with so-called “chick things,” which include flirting with guys, preparing for a blind date and going shopping.
Seriously? In today’s society, for these stereotypical “girly” activities to still be widely portrayed in the media is preposterous. There is so much more to being a woman than flirting with guys and worrying about what clothes to wear. Why doesn’t this series focus more on Monica being a medium and dealing with college? To reiterate, “Monica the Medium” is very cliché. Its themes are superficial, and it does not even attempt to be innovative or different from similar series. Rather than focusing on Monica’s life and being a medium in college, the show focuses on much more superficial things. The series should try to tackle a new aspect of being a medium. The show would benefit instead from diving into the actual mentality of a medium by detailing Monica’s thoughts. The show should really dive into Monica’s psyche. Instead, the audience gets the same medium television programming that they have seen from the show “Long Island Medium,” and the same girly stereotypes from shows like “Sex and the City.” As of now, “Monica the Medium” misses the mark as an interesting and thought-provoking series.
Courtesy of ABC Family
Monica the Medium smiles for the camera.
■ By Sammy Abrams (‘17)
Eastside Staff
Throughout most of the century, the cheerleader has always been portrayed as a ditzy, popular and superficial girl. We see it all over TV and in movies; the most popular dumb blonde tends to rule the school with her pack of cheerleader friends at her side. All the boys want to date her and all the girls want to be her. This was true until “Bring It On” came out 15 years ago. “Bring It On” is about how the Toro cheerleading squad, from Rancho Carne High School in San Diego, struggles to win a cheerleading competition. They recently received a new captain, who does everything in her power to save the team and lead them to another victory. When trying to solve the team’s problems, she realizes that it is
Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director
This visual representation shows the progression of cheerleaders from the 1950’s to the present in the movie and television industry.
ENTERTAINMENT
October 2015
EASTSIDE
Page 13
What to be on the look-out for this year...
Meet Moana: Disney’s newest and most beloved Polynesian princess ■ By Leah Korn (‘16) Eastside Entertainment Editor
This past August, Disney introduced its newest princess: Moana. Moana will be Disney’s first-ever Polynesian princess and is set to hit the big screen in November of 2016. The movie will be directed by Ron Clements and John Musker. The movie takes place on the islands of the South Pacific, as well as the adjoining seas where Moana embarks on a journey filled with adventure. On the journey, Moana finds a sense of identity and what she wants in life. Moana’s journey is fueled by her determination to find a mythical island located in Oceania. During her journey, she encounters the oncemighty demi-god, Maui, who is voiced by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. In addition to Maui, other characters include Tui, Moana’s father, a pig named Pua and a rainbowcolored rooster named Hei Hei. Moana was introduced at the D23 Expo on August 14 as a CGI animated character. Released sketches of
Moana show that she er Disney movies such as will be dressed in a Tangled, Brave and Frozen. South Pacific-inspired They are no “damsels in outfit, which includes distress.” Just as Frozen a red crop top and was a victory for female mixed-media skirt. leads and feminists all It is clear that Disney over the world, Disney has been trying to break hopes Moana will be its newest characters out a victory in cultural of the stereotypical prinrepresentation and cess mold that Disney once diversity. represented. It used to be Out of the 13 Disthat the distressed prinney princesses crecess needed to be rescued ated thus far, Moaby the handsome prince in na will be the fifth order to live “happily ever princess of color. after,” as seen in some of In today’s society, the classics such as Cinderwith the emerging ella and Sleeping Beauty. presence of a multiMany Disney princesses, cultural world, it is necalthough they have apessary for Disney to crepeared in different films in ate characters that can different time periods, have positively impact difremarkably similar traits. ferent cultures from They are kindhearted, beauaround the globe. tiful inside and out, classy, It is important for graceful, and almost all of young, easily influthem have a romance that enced girls to have is resolved by the end of the a Disney princess film. Now, Disney has made they can look up much more of a conscious to. effort to create strong and The Disney independent female characcorporation owns or ters. These new characters has influence over can fend for themselves. six movie studios, The newest Disney printhe ABC Network, cesses are strong-willed, ESPN, and seven resilient, feisty and advenother channels. Disturous. This effort by Disney can be seen Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director in some of the newMoana, the new polynesian princess, poses with her oar.
ney also controls 227 radio stations, as well as vacation resorts, theme parks and cruise lines that travel all over the globe. In addition, Disney holds ten franchises that produce consumer goods. Obviously, the impact that Disney has over young children is monumental. With Disney’s newest princess, Moana, as well as other new ethnic characters like Merida of Brave and Tiana of The Princess and the Frog, Disney is giving young children a broader global perspective. In the 21st century, it is unrealistic to portary princesses as living in these unattainable fairylands. Disney has avoided addressing many controversial issues that children all over the world have to face everyday. Moana will inspire young children to follow their determined footsteps rather than promote an unrealistic view of perfection. Disney has come a long way since the release of its first movie, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, in 1937. Moana, Disney’s first ever Polynesian princess, will open up the door for many more culturally enriching Disney characters in the future.
Katniss and Peeta take their final bows ■ By Gabriella Friedman (‘17)
Eastside Webmaster
The Haddonfield Building Company
is acquiring homes to remodel and sell in southern NJ. We are rebuilding homes in Moorestown, Haddonfield, Voorhees, Cherry Hill, Cinnaminson and Collingswood. Please call us if you have a home to sell or know of someone who needs to sell. No real estate commissions. Quick close.
Call: 609.605.9131
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 will be released in theaters on November 20. Based off of the Hunger Games trilogy by Suzanne Collins, Mockingjay Part 2 concludes its story with Katniss Everdeen, who will lead a rebellion against the Capitol for its abuse and tight control over the people of the Districts. With the help of District Thirteen, the district that citzens thought was destroyed, Katniss Everdeen and her companions plan to make their way into the Capitol to take down the evil President Snow. Katniss will aim to take down the government system and replace it with a new order that will no longer be corrupt. Thousands of fans have expressed their excitement of Mockingjay Part 2 through the official Twitter and Facebook pages. Suzanne Collins’ books became a worldwide hit, leading Lions Gate Entertainment and Color Force to make a movie out of the trilogy. The usual gang of characters will come back for the final movie to produce the epic finale fans around the world have been waiting for. In a dystopian future set in a nation called Panem, the Capitol abuses and controls the twelve districts. “The Hunger Games,” a televised show where kids between the ages of twelve and eighteen are forced to fight each other until death in a makeshift arena, is used to squash rebellions and teach the districts to be obedient to the Capitol. Katniss volunteers to participate and take her sister’s place after her sister was picked to participate in the games. Peeta Mellark, chosen from the group of males in District Twelve, and Katniss Everdeen, against all odds, become victors of the Hunger Games with the help of Haymitch, their mentor. After Katniss and Peeta won the games, they were supposed to
be guaranteed a life of status, luxury and wealth from the Capitol as their rewards; instead, the Capitol leaders are angered that Peeta and Katniss bent the rules of winning because only one victor was supposed to come out rather than two. In Catching Fire, the Quarter Quell leads all of the victors to fight against one another to see who is the strongest of them all. Peeta and Katniss find themselves being thrown back into the Hunger Games when every victor should have been guaranteed a life of luxury and safety. District Thirteen, a district long ago thought to be destroyed, rescues them because they have actually built a district underground in order to escape from the Capitol. Now, in Mockingjay Part 2, the rebellion will continue against the Capitol, which Katniss Everdeen started when she first bent the rules and pulled out the berries that were meant to kill her and Peeta. When the final installment of The Hunger Games hits theaters, viewers will be in for an epic ending.
Emelia Keller (‘17)/ Eastside Photo Editor
“The Hunger Games” trilogy has been a hit since it was first released in September of 2008.
EDITORIAL
Page 14
EASTSIDE
East should host yearly heart testing Whether a student collapses on the football field or collapses in the halls after climbing to the third floor, sudden cardiac arrest is a tragedy that can easily be avoided. According to Simon’s Fund, a local-based youth heart screening organization, sudden cardiac arrest is the number-one killer of student athletes as well as the number-one killer of adults in the United States. According to a study by the American Heart Association, about 66 athletes ages 13 to 25 die from cardiac arrest each year, and eight times as many non-athletes die from heart-related conditions. The misconception that student athletes are the only people susceptible to cardiac arrests holds a majority of students in danger of unknown heart conditions. According to Simon’s Fund, one out of every 100 kids has a heart condition. Although some student athletes may receive some sort of heart screening as part of their
physical examination, many students remain untested and unaware. Since all East students are subject to various types of physical activity in their daily lives, the issue is prominent to students no matter the activities in which they participate. Eastside believes that East should host an optional electrocardiogram (EKG) screening that would be accessible to all East students. An EKG can detect 85 percent of all heart conditions that lead to sudden cardiac arrest. The test consists of a series of questions about family history and sensors on the chest, arms and legs. The test only takes one to three minutes. The EKG can detect many heart conditions that would not be detected otherwise, such as arrhythmia, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, congenital heart defects, heart valve disease, pericarditis and abnormal heart rhythms. Furthermore, the EKG test is noninvasive and therefore painless. There are no pos-
sible negative side effects to the EKG test. Simon’s Fund is committed to providing heart screenings for youth. East has previously held a Simon’s Fund screening event in 2013. Eastside spoke to a representative from Simon’s Fund who said that East fits the criteria for the drive. The screening event would be entirely free and open to all 12- to 19-year-olds throughout the local area. This issue has already affected another school in the local area. On April 20, 2015, 15-year-old St. Joseph’s Prep student, Ryan Gillard, died during his football team’s spring conditioning. In memory of Gillard, St. Joe’s is holding a Simon’s Fund screening this November. Eastside believes that East should not wait for a death to make a change. It would only be in the school’s best interest to host a heart screening event for next year and years to come.
October 2015
Cherry Hill High School East 1750 Kresson Road Cherry Hill, NJ 08003 Phone: (856) 424-2222, ext. 2087 Fax: (856) 424-3509
Eastside Online eastside-online.org
Publisher
Fort Nassau Graphics Thorofare, NJ
Letters to the Editor
Submit signed letters to F087 or e-mail to letters@ eastside-online.org
East’s #85 ranking not a valid indicator of school quality There is no denying that Cherry Hill East is a top-tier public high school in the United States. East boasts a tremendous teaching staff in all areas of study, numerous state and nationally recognized clubs and student organizations, and ample resources for students to utilize in order to receive the most out of their education. The quality education available to all students has not gone unrecognized; previously, East was awarded the Blue Ribbon Award by the US Department of Education, the most prestigious award an American school can receive, as well as placing in the top 100 schools in New Jersey by publications such as The Washington Post. This summer, Newsweek released its “America’s Top High Schools 2015” list, a list on which East has been ranked #1,664 in the country in 2010 and #1,258 in 2007. Though East has never broken the top 500 before, on the 2015 list, East placed as the #85 public high school in the nation, exceeding previous ranking in any publication. Clearly, East has reason to be proud of its achievements. With 96 percent of students advancing to college and a self-reported 100 percent graduation rate, students at East are rigorously prepared for life after high school. Newsweek gives East an 85.0 out of 100 on its “College Readiness” scale, the sole statistical value used in ranking schools. However, upon taking a closer look at Newsweek’s methodology for its rankings, it appears that some of the factors it considers Benefactors Sherri and Ken Hoffman Fran and Sid Fisch Lynne and Eddie Cohen Jennifer and Steven Greenberg The Goldsmith Family Erica and Jerry Rothkoff Susan and Ian Meklinsky Robin and Richard Pacitti The Steele Family Lois and Mitch Cohen Billig Jewelers Stephanie and Ted Fisch Linda Ross The Appel Family Lonnie Propass Dolores Birnbaum Shine Power Yoga Christy Marella
may not truly indicate how high the quality of a school’s education is. Newsweek’s rankings are based on a methodology that considers “Short List Analysis” and “Ranking Analysis.” The Short List Analysis considers school proficiency rates in standardized state-level math and reading. Next, the Ranking Analysis weighs a numerical value that considers six indicators, including 25 percent college enrollment rate, 20 percent graduation rate and 17.5 percent weighted SAT/ACT composite scores. East benefits from this ranking system by boasting high proficiency rates, an average AP score of 4, average SAT score of 1718 and 100 percent graduation rate. Thus, it is logical that East would be highly ranked. Despite this, Eastside questions the validity of these factors as the sole metrics in ranking schools nationwide. To begin, many of the factors considered are not true indicators of a high school’s quality. There is much debate about whether SAT scores are genuine indicators of college readiness. Graduation rate is another questionable metric used; while employing this statistic benefits East, it could be argued that a 100 percent graduation rate is not a favorable statistic, as it shows classes may be too easy to pass or that students are pushed along. Moreover, many of these statistics are self-reported. Thus, the 100 percent graduation rate my be as inaccurate as the reported 100to-1 student-to-counselor ratio, which could only
David Samuel Steven Davis David and Maxine Butler Matthew Cohen Sponsors Cheri Tolin Patrons Jessica Gardner Brad and Melissa Tinkelman The Nussbaum Family Jonathan and Staci Boiskin The Mistry Family Joan and Rich Rosenblatt Jennifer Grossman Wayne Myers The Keller Family Steve and Michele Kains
Friends of Eastside Debbie Shore and Jonathan Korn Jeffrey and Rochelle Dashevsky The Goldfinger Family Brian and Christina Boyle Steve and Stella Kim June and Bill Borowsky The Cooper Family Jeffrey and Darcy Becker Cynthia Black Dr. Jarrod Kaufman Premier Surgical and Vein Center Ronald Stern Andrea Cohen Stephen Ross Mr. Greg Rouen Contributors The Greenberg Family Pamela Barroway
be accurate if East had 22 counselors; the school has less than half that amount. Moreover, most all of the statistics used to rank schools are derived from students’ scores. This indicates that Newsweek’s rankings are largely ranking the students that go to the school instead of merely the schools themselves. As Cherry Hill is a relatively affluent area, most students have access to resources outside of school that would boost scores. Eastside finds it wholly unfeasible to believe that East could go unranked in the 2014 rankings, only to ascend to the top 100 in 2015. Additionally, another renowned school ranking list, US News, ranks East #897. Though this is still a phenomenal placement, as according to this list, East still breaks the top 5 percent of high schools in the nation, the disparity between the two rankings demonstrates how subjective the school ranking process is. A better ranking system might, perhaps, weigh proficiency levels more, and standard tests like the SAT less. Additional factors such as extra-curriculars offered, percentage of students in AP courses and variety of courses would add to a more accurate ranking system. East is undoubtedly a special school, offering students opportunities that most public high schools do not. Still, Eastside maintains that the most recent Newsweek rankings do not accurately depict the quality of East.
Haye and Sherry Hinrichs The Voorhees Diner Rosemarie and George Dolnycky The Nemeroff Family The Kibitz Room Spencer Lincoln Douglas A. Perham Mitchell and Martha Rosenburg Steven and Jane Lindemann Advocates Samir and Rupalee Mehta Ralph and Roe Deal Rachel Wint Daniel Stahl Abby Hoffman Suzanne and Clifford Young Sam Malat Ruth Southworth
Scott Brown Sari Mintz and Tom Mirsen Janet Ruslf Norman H. Fuegal John Solano Nancy Ramming The Lehrfeyd Family Arizona Green Richard Josselzon Sandra and Mutch Berger Barbara and Stanley Rekant Lucas Lafor Elinor Beier Dr. Robin Fenilberg Heather Lehrfeld Akkesandra Berger
Managing Editor: Kaitlyn Boyle Editors-in-Chief: Jacob Borowsky, Julia Rothkoff, Liza Rothkoff Online Editor-in-Chief: Sonia Kim Adviser: Mr. Greg Gagliardi
News/Features Editors Sari Cohen Courtney Finnegan Jennifer Pacitti
Community Editors Brooke Greenberg Matt Kains Jenna Myers
Sports Editors Elissa Cohen Samuel Greenberg Luke Hinrichs
Entertainment Editors Allison Grossman Leah Korn
Opinions Editors Shari Boiskin Matt Nussbaum Hope Rosenblatt
Photo Editors Rachel Becker Emelia Keller
Art Directors Tammy Stahl Sydney Steele
Video Editor Madeline Bowne
Webmaster Gabriella Friedman
Underground Editors Ashley Cooper Jared Fisch
Multimedia Directors Brett Dashevsky Ben Goldsmith Steve Mirsen
Business Managers Drew Meklinksy Priya Mistry
Humor Editor Lanxi Li
Radio Manager Ethan Tinkelman
Contact the Board: To contact a member of the Eastside Editorial Board via email, type the person’s first name followed by a period, then his or her last name followed by “@eastside-online. org,” ie: lanxi.li@ eastside-online.org.
Editorial Assistants Alon Goldfinger (Note: There is a dash Drew Hoffman between “eastside” Josh Sodicoff and “online”)
October 2015
OPINIONS EASTSIDE
New rules make school like prison
■ By Matt Nussbaum (‘16)
Eastside Opinions Editor
As East students walked into the cafeteria for their first study hall of the year, it was immediately obvious there was something different. Each table had a number hanging off the end, and there was a large sign pointing towards a few pieces of paper taped to the wall. Thus began the “quadrant era” of study hall at East. Unfortunately for this new era, it has not been well received, and for good reason. New to East this year is a study hall structure based around assigned seating. Students find their assigned table and seat, organized alphabetically, and discover they are part of one of four quadrants. Each quadrant has one or two staff members assigned to it called “quadrant leaders.” Students are now required to sit in their assigned seats at the beginning of study hall, and thereafter must ask their quadrant leader for permission to move to another table in the cafeteria. Of course, if the table is in another quadrant, the student must also acquire permission of that quadrant’s leader as well. While it is understandable why administration would want to try to create order in the previously chaotic structure of study hall, it does not seem like the quadrant system is the best way to go. The system prevents students from being able to work with fellow students on schoolwork without needing to jump through unnecessary hoops. There is also a rule that limits library usage to four students per quadrant on a first-come first-served basis.
This limit is inherently unfair. In past years there was a numerical limit on library-goers, but anyone
to all go to the library, even if all four spots from other quadrants are not taken. For example, there may
Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director
New rules make classrooms more like prisons. in the study hall was able to attain one of the spots. In the new system, if there is a group of five or more students from the same quadrant, they are not allowed
be nine students going to the library out of the possible twelve spots, yet there could be two or three more students who still would like to go but are unable to.
vos (’17). “[It] doesn’t let the information I learned sink in.” Devos, however, is not alone in his thoughts on this matter. Throughout the country, many researchers are beginning to look into the benefits of block scheduling. In his dissertation for Liberty University, Gayle Hawkins Hughes compared the grades and ACT scores of two schools, one that had adopted block scheduling and one that had not. From his experiment, Hughes noticed that, although there was a negligible difference in ACT scores, students who underwent block scheduling received significantly higher grades than students who maintained a regular sevencourse schedule, which only provides about ten minutes less class time than that of East. There is one main factor that contributes to the success of block scheduling: time. Block scheduling adds an additional 31 minutes of class time to each course. This allows students to
learn the material more indepth. “In all honesty, I think [block scheduling] does help us,” said Devos. “We get more time to learn a subject, and it allows teachers to [teach] more thoroughly.” In addition to students, teachers also feel that block scheduling has helped them teach more in class. “It’s a good opportunity to try to get more writing in and more conversing,” said East English teacher Mrs. Katie Kelly-Radbill. Kelly-Radbill also said that East once had a “writing lab.” Much like the current science labs, writing labs provided an extra 30 minutes every cycle for English classes, with the purpose of teaching students to write fluently. “It really made Cherry Hill East a step above most of the area,” said KellyRadbill. Kelly-Radbill said that she thinks of block scheduling as a replacement of the writing lab. Now that the problem has been identified, the
People being contained in one quadrant of an area, unable to leave unless permission is granted by a superior, does not sound like study hall. It sounds like prison. The only difference is our wardens are called “quadrant leaders.” Along with study hall being altered, homeroom was given a major upheaval, also for the worse. The new rules state that students must stay in their homerooms the entire break period they are supposed to be there. This on the surface is logical and makes sense, but in practice does more harm than good. Homeroom is often used by students to meet with other teachers for extra help. However, now for a student to leave homeroom, he or she must have a pass. This means that teachers can no longer hold mass extra help sessions during lunch breaks because they would need to write each and every student a pass. Also, students in homeroom are not allowed to go to the library. Students often use the library to finish their schoolwork, or to work together on a group project. If a student needs to use the library during the day, then he or she must go during their lunch period. The issue is that since food is not allowed in the library, a student will have no time to eat during the day because they had to go to the library during their lunchtime. Holding students hostage, whether it be during study hall or homeroom, takes away important freedom during the day. Students get tired of class and need a break, which previously was attained during study hall and homeroom. Now, due to East’s new strict laws, students are being hurt for minimal benefit.
All class periods should be 90 minutes ■ By Alon Goldfinger (‘17)
Eastside Editorial Assistant
A student comes ready for English class. Just as the student begins to follow the teacher’s thought process, the class ends, and the student must rush to Functions, or any other class he might find next on his schedule. East is currently under a scheduling program that consists of four days with six classes (three in the morning and three in the afternoon, with an hour in between for lunch and homeroom) that each last 57 minutes. In addition, the schedule consists of two more days which have four classes in total (two in the morning and two in the afternoon), allowing for each class to last 88 minutes. The latter structure, often called a “block” schedule, has proved more promising as it removes many pesky transition periods between classes. “I’d be learning something in Chem and all of the sudden I have to switch to English,” said Jared De-
main issue is how to change the schedule. One of the most direct ways to voice an opinion is to simply attend one of the scheduled board meetings. For example, there was a Board of Education Action Meeting on September 29 (more information can be found at www.chclc.org). By attending a meeting, students can voice their opinions about the schedule and have the Board of Education directly listen and consider suggestions for changes to the schedule. If a meeting is too inconvenient, one can also send an email to the Board of Education with any email that may be found on the Cherry Hill Public Schools website. This method is much more convenient and will also be considered by the Board. If this schedule is changed, then there will be many positives for students. The student who can barely learn English before moving to Functions will have all the time he or she needs to learn effectively. Art by Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director
Page 15
S versus S In every issue Sebastian Duva (‘16) and Shira Resnick (‘17) will debate a hot-button issue.
PRO-Iran deal
■ By Shira Resnick (‘17)
Eastside Staff
Representatives from P5+1 (U.S., U.K., China, France, Russia plus Germany) and Iran successfully negotiated a nuclear deal that many call “The Deal of a Lifetime.” This Nuclear Deal will force Iran to rid itself of its existing enriched uranium, the key ingredient needed to produce nuclear weapons. This deal will also push back Iran’s capability to produce nuclear weapons for at least another ten years, and will allow international inspectors to scrutinize all of Iran’s nuclear facilities. Though the economic sanctions on Iran will be removed, the United States will continue to monitor acts of terrorism and ballistic issues within Iran. A main reason this deal is beneficial is that Iran has natural gas and oil reserves that will benefit the global economy when sanctions are removed. Successfully negotiating this deal will prevent a military conflict in a region that is already tangled in trouble. This agreement also guarantees that Iran’s nuclear power remains peaceful through the international inspections. Without this nuclear deal, Iran could be producing nuclear weapons in a few months time.
CON-Iran deal ■ By Sebastian Duva (‘16)
Eastside Staff
Since 1953, when American forces orchestrated a coup of Iran’s democratically elected Prime Minister, Mohammed Mossadeq, relations have been rocky. In 1979, there was the Iranian Hostage Crisis, where 55 American hostages were taken by the Iranian government and released after 444 days. We must keep in mind that we are dealing with a country that still calls us “The Great Satan.” As a part of the nuclear deal, Iran has 24 days notice before any major inspection can take place. With 24 days notice, surely a cover-up of some kind can be arranged. Also, Iran has about 19,000 centrifuges, machines that create uranium fuel, which are used in nuclear weapons. As a result of the deal, the U.S wants to cut that amount to about 6,500; however, Iran insists it would like 200,000 centrifuges. The Iran Deal totally disregards Israel, our largest ally in the Middle East. Former President of Iran, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, said himself that he questions whether the Holocaust is real. This deal does not mean certain peace in the Middle East. All this deal is good for is complicating the situation.
OPINIONS
Page 16
EASTSIDE
October 2015
Social media impacts all aspects of everyday life
and put on Twitter, a couple months later that same _cashier ended Eastside Opinions Editor up as a guest on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” all for doing absoluteTwelve years ago Facebook was ly nothing. not even an idea, ten years ago It is amazing that everyone in there was no Twitter (the hashtag the world has the ability to come was also more commonly known together to look, debate and interas the pound symbol), and just five act, but the news and the classroom years ago Instagram was put in the have more important topApp Store. ics to cover. So now, in 2015, how Small jokes should not has our world so quickly become heated world topstarted to revolve around ics, and teens attempting social media and all its to earn some extra money small facets? should not be turned into “Tweets” and “‘grams” overnight sensations. are now prominent at It’s time to focus on East, in our news, and in what really matters. Soour everyday lives. cial media is an amazing In fact, not only does gift, if one uses it corsocial media get on the rectly. news, but it also reports With the power to renews. Being able to check port news seconds after what’s “trending” on the it takes place, connect internet has become a people who live on opquick way to find out Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director posite sides of the world, what is happening. Social media has become a global force, but not always in a good way. and just become a fun Long-lived trends such Internet,” which it truly was. One the world with just one click of a environment for users of all ages to as the ALS “ice bucket challenge” did not have to be on social media button. Instead, many choose to catch up with friends, social media proved to help raise millions of dolto hear about this. It appeared on make the cashier who works at has become a vital part of life that lars as well as awareness for a great the news the next morning, it was a Target famous in under an hour beshould not be taken for granted and, cause. But when trends such as “The heated discussion in science classes cause he looks cute. instead, should be taken advantage Dress” and “Alex from Target” take the next day, and it was all anyone All because a picture was taken of in all of its aspects. over our phones and lives for these ■ By Hope Rosenblatt (‘18)
short periods of times, it makes one wonder whether the world has its priorities in order. On February 27, the world broke into chaos over a picture of a dress that appeared black and blue to some and white and gold to others. Leslie Shaffer of CNBC refers to it as “The Dress That Broke the
could talk about for the next week, all because one picture was posted on the internet. Social media can be used for a wondrous amount of things, but as a society, we have turned it into a huge joke. Most people forget that one can interact with people from all over
Solar panels would be a beneficial addition to East
energy, yet at the projected rate, the school would have no chance to utilize the Global warming is a hot credit. Additionally, when topic these days. Conscienthe process is stretched to tious East students can be such an extent, projects lose seen turning urgency, and off lights to there is fear save power, that any sort of recycling, project would and walkbe lost long being or riding fore plans could their bikes be drawn up. back and “Sustainforth. Yet, ability is someone of the thing that we greatest polneed to streamluters in our line the process, midsts has like, alternative barely been energy, people noted by even are inherently the most conlazy and we scientious make too much of our peers. work for peoThe school itple to want to self exists as make that ina hallowing vestment.” said reminder of DeFuria. an era when From East’s the environperspective, ment was of three to five no concern. years is far too In 1966, long to wait for when East a project with first opened, fiscal and enviscience was ronmental benonly first beefits as well as ginning to quick setup. If understand the town and the effect district can tear of burning down the walls fossil futo sustainable Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director els. Charles energy in the Keeling, an Cherry Hill East could benefit substantially from investing in rooftop solar panels. near future, American then perhaps scientist, had the East comjust proved that the quanbeen widely researched. Acsolar power. During an of infrastructure changes munity will soon see the tity of atmospheric carbon cording to “Brighter Future: interview with local resimade on the school. Installight, powered by the sun, dioxide was increasing. It A Study on Solar in U.S. dent and solar user, Sonia lation would involve alterof course. was not until 1969 when a Schools” by the Solar FounCohen, it was found that ing sections of the land large international group, dation, “The large, flat roofmonthly payments, similar around the school for sucStatistics on the North Atlantic Treaty Ortops typically found on pubin quantity to utility chargcessful deployments. Still, Solar Industry ganization (NATO), even lic and private K-12 school es, are an affordable option one massive hurdle would began researching the efbuildings throughout the for payment. Yet, darkness, remain, even in the event 1. The US solar market grew fects of climate change. United States make many dim enough to make solar that a plan, cost estimates 41% last year. Despite advancements in of these properties excelpanels inaccessible, may be and construction were in easily replaceable systems, lent candidates for rooftop on the horizon. line: district and town ap2. A solar PV system is now inlike light bulbs and buses, solar photovoltaic (PV) or “Solar panels use a lot of proval of a plan could take stalled every four minutes. the building as a whole resolar thermal systems.” rare earth metals and reyears. Bureaucracy, spo3. Solar energy employment in mains costly to keep warm Mr. Jason DeFuria, one quire a lot of energy to be radic meeting times and the US has increased by 20%. and well-lit. of the Environmental Scimade in the first place to internal politics could stop A solution to the coence teachers at East, said, then be producing energy, any movement forward 4. Two-thirds of all solar PV nundrum of reducing the “The installation can be when you're only allowed to with the plan. capacity has been installed school’s carbon footprint done in only a few days. sort of get ten to fifteen perThe federal government since 2011. exists within a technology It’s pretty easy to hook up cent,” added DeFuria. currently offers a subsidy that has only of late gained the panels, hook up the inSeveral other factors inof about 30 percent on solar Courtesy of TechRepublic ■ By Josh Sodicoff (‘18)
Eastsde Editorial Assistant
enough prominence to be considered. Solar power is beginning to play a part in how the United States powers schools. Solar power has already
verter.” The Solar Foundation report also makes the claim that in New Jersey, over 98 percent of schools could break even financially on
volving the grounds and local government would stand in the way of quickly introducing new methods of energy as well. Time would be necessary for any sort
OPINIONS
October 2015
EASTSIDE
Page 17
The HIB law wastes time for students and teachers ■ By Madi Palat (‘18)
Eastside Staff
The word “bullying” has lost significant meaning in today’s society due to its abundant usage in everyday conversation. In 2002, the state of New Jersey gained enough support to implement a new law on Harassment, Intimidation and Bullying (HIB). For example, at a school in Toms River, when a student was being bullied for his sexual orientation, the situation became so severe that his case was brought to the New Jersey State Legislature. Another instance saw a Rutgers student commit suicide because of the harassment he endured. His last words, posted on Facebook before he died, were: “Jumping off the gw bridge sorry.” This sparked major controversy, and the state legislature decided to create the HIB law. Before 2011, there was no strict law in New Jersey that contained the exact definition of the word “bullying.” Going to Guidance and explaining to the counselor that someone was being bullied did not mean a whole lot. No one individual could tell you the exact definition of bullying. The state, seeing this as an issue, took initiative. As of 2011, all New Jer-
er automatically has to file an HIB law report even if he or she does not think the situation the student is dealing with is major, despite the fact that these teachers who have to report the bullying could have little to no knowledge of how to deal with a bullying situation. The Bullying Education Law Center reports that bullying affects approximately 30% of students in the United States, which would logically explain why many states are beginning to take the issue more seriously. However, the way in which the state approached the situation must be modified. Students should only be allowed to report a bullying case if it is affecting their learning and it is evident to their teachers. School is a place for education, a fact that the government is overlooking. This is also why it is Rachel Becker (‘16)/ Eastside Photo Editor absurd that “districts A teacher or a counselor must fill out a form to file an HIB complaint. must strengthen their sey schools now have to a single incident or a series one else to understand how standards and procefollow the Harassment, of incidents that is reasonone perceives something. dures for preventing, reIntimidation and Bullying ably perceived as being moA person should not be laporting, investigating and (HIB) law. The HIB law tivated either by any actual beled as a bully and have responding to incidents of states that “Harassment, or perceived character” can an HIB law report written HIB, both in school and intimidation or bullying be considered bullying, acon him or her if the person off school premises, as the means any gesture, any cording to New Jersey State reporting is just perceiving Bullying Education Law written, verbal or physical Legislature. something minor in a more Center puts it, because the act or any electronic comThe most substantial serious manner. formal process is a massive munication, whether it be word that stands out in this The faculty members waste of time. definition who review HIB reports The HIB law is promotis “perhave to evaluate the inforing students to be more ceived.” mation in the report. Thus, sensitive and less able to Humans if a situation is being misdeal with disagreements perceive represented by a student, without an adult to consult. stimuli the reviewers will take the The policy is wasting time in many information given to them for teachers, counselors and ways, so seriously, even if the report students who must have it is someis false. learning time taken away times hard If a student says the from them dealing with an for someword “bullying,” any teachHIB situation.
Swear words are obsolete ■ By Shari Boiskin (‘17)
Eastside Opinions Editor
Walking around the hallways of East, one can hear some engaging things, be it different languages, interesting slang or swear words. Swear words have become an integral part of the teenage syntax, so much so that they have lost their shock value. In other words, they have become banal. According to Brigham Young University’s McKay School of Education, the use of curse words comes into play when teenagers try exerting independence. During one’s teenage years, the frontal cortex of the brain goes through numerous of changes. The frontal cortex controls reasoning, logic, thinking and decision making, and it does not stop changing until age 17. Teenagers heavily rely on the amygdala, the portion of the brain that controls gut reaction and emotion, during the time period that the frontal cortex is changing. Using swear words is considered impulsive emotional behavior, partly caused by the growth one experiences during the teenage years. Swearing is also a de-stressor, providing an emotional release, according to Livestrong. Swearing can be used to add emotion to speech. According to Dr. Timothy Jay, a leading expert on swear words, curse words are often used as “filler words,” which has helped make them the norm. However, swearing can become excessive, just like anything else. Swearing in public settings is not considered polite and proper in the
first place, but excessive swearing is considered even less so. In high schools, swearing has become an epidemic. It can be found in every corner. The principle of the expression “if everyone is special, no one is special” applies to this. If everyone swears, or if almost every word one uses is a swear word, it is almost as if the swear words cease to carry their usually harsh impact. The point of a swear word is its shock value, but if a swear word loses its shock value, what is it really worth? In a New York Times Online article directed towards teenagers, the New York Times asked teenagers to comment on their beliefs on swearing. Going through the comments and looking at the first fifty, 38 of the teens who commented believed that swearing is bad but has lost its shock value, six believed that swearing is just part of the English language, and thus, not a bad thing, and six believed in neither of those positions. Some East students agree with the teenagers featured in the New York Times Online article. “Swearing is no longer shocking because of how common it is today,” said Jackie Rappaport (‘18). Ben Vaupen (‘17) agrees. “[Swear words] are so overused, in fact, that people don’t even think twice about what they say.” Thus, swearing remains an integral aspect of most teenagers’ vernacular. Though in formal settings their use is discouraged, everyone can agree that sometimes, you just need to swear.
SPORTS
East receives turf field of dreams
Page 18
EASTSIDE
East property, teams must satellite to the nearby Decou Fields for practice and games for soccer and lacrosse. East football cur-
■ By Sam Greenberg (’16)
Eastside Sports Editor
East’s barren grass fields are about to receive a turf makeover. As it stands, East does not have any turf on school land, posing a serious issue for many East athletics; however, change is coming soon. Cherry Hill East Athletics and the community have something to be very excited about with a brand new turf field coming to its grounds within the next year. The project will break ground in about spring of 2016 and should be completed by the end of the 2016-2017 fall sports season. The Board of Education has worked hand in hand with both Cherry Hill East and Cherry Hill West to come together to add turf fields to each complex. Between Mayor Chuck Cahn, the Board of Education, the sub-committees formed and the numerous parents and students who advocated for turf, there are many people who worked diligently to ultimately make turf fields a reality. East has been working on bringing a turf field to the property for years now. More specifically, it has been discussed at a number of board meetings in great length for the last two years. Simply put, East needs turf fields to help improve its sports facilities. “The reason this is happening is because the administrations of both schools got together and wanted it, the parents wanted it, the kids wanted it [and] the coaches wanted [it],” said Mr. Mike Melograna, East Boys’ Varsity Soccer Coach. “Everybody who has participated in some way, shape or form to help us get to this point, really, you know, my hat goes off to you,” said Varsity Field Hockey Coach Ms. Elizabeth Scharff. With no turf fields on
to the side of the football field on a similar jagged grass terrain. East girls soccer ventures out to the nearby Richterman Sports
The grass field at East awaits its turf field makeover. rently plays on the jagged grass field where the turf will be placed. Turf allows East to have a facility accessible for multiple sports to utilize. Football is the only team that uses the aforementioned grass. Field hockey plays
Complex for practice and games. The addition of the turf field will allow for a new home field for many of East’s sports teams. Boys’ and girls’ soccer and lacrosse will now get to play games on the campus of East. Ad-
October 2015
ditionally, both field hockey and football will get to have home games on turf. The coaches are not worried about timeshare of the field
Liz Lee (‘17)/ Eastside Staff
and believe it will be very easy to work out. “To my knowledge, Cherry Hill East Boys’ Soccer has never played on East soil for their home games,” said Melograna. For boys’ soccer, these new fields provide a new
Rachel Becker (‘16)/ Eastside Photo Editot
The Decou turf fields are lined for the many sports they host.
sense of what it means to play at home. With field hockey and football receiving access to turf for home games, the whole East “stadium” will have a nicer look and feel to it. Both grass fields the respective teams play on are in fairly poor condition. The fields also cost a lot of money in maintenance fees to keep up. Playing on the durable turf field means that fewer divots will be made, ultimately leading to fewer players slipping up, and hopefully fewer injuries, too. “They understand the importance of having a facility like this to be competitive in this area,” said Scharff. For field hockey and Coach Scharff, the new field forecasts a bright future. Scharff prefers turf fields above all else. Furthermore, she thinks her team has somewhat of a disadvantage because just about every other school that they play at has turf fields. “For field hockey, the game is completely different if it’s played on turf,” said Scharff. “I could have two totally different practices based on the type of surface.” Not only does the turf benefit the school, but it also allows accessibility for the community to utilize the field when the school is not using it. “It is truly a gift that thousands of kids will be able to use,” said Melograna. “It should be something that the whole community should be proud of.” With the new turf will come a renewed track around the field as well as lighting, and possibly an even larger stadium for its teams to play in. Those projects are still a couple years down the line. For now, East athletes, coaches and anyone in the community have a lot to look forward to. The grass will be greener here at Cherry Hill East.
New wave of beach sports gains popularity ■ By Asher Maitin (’17)
Eastside Staff
Typically, the summer is a time when many East students break away from their normal schoolyear sports, a period of relaxation from their constant practices and stress. Instead, students are attracted to a
number of other alternative and non-professional sports, activities that usually take place in a beach or backyard. Among these non-traditional sports is a game called Pro Kadima, or Kadima for short. “It’s pretty simple,” said Noah Shalit (’17), whose family owns a summer house in the Jersey Shore. “Two people each have a paddle and hit a rubber ball back and forth, trying to keep it up.” Also known as paddleball, racquetball or beach tennis, Kadima is a nod to both tennis and volleyball. It is among a breed of newly refined sports embracing the concept of a simplified, portable game that can be played
Art by Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director
practically anywhere, by anyone. Another recent hit, referred to as Spikeball, has players spiking a ball into a
trampoline-like structure, with the objective of not allowing the opposing team to hit it back. “It’s like reverse volleyball,” said Ben Kimball (’16). “Four players, each player has a teammate next to them. [You] spike the ball into the net to try to get the others to not hit it.” As a Tall Pines Day Camp counselor, Kimball recalls seeing the game being played at the camp as well as at the beach. “I witnessed campers playing amongst each other all the time,” Kimball said. “The game can
b e fun, but you need a soft ground to reach the ball sometimes for diving plays. It gets intense.” Similar to Spikeball’s emerging popularity is another simple game, called KanJam, involving a frisbee and two baskets. “The objective,” said East English teacher Mr. Anthony Maniscal-
co, “is to throw a Frisbee through a slit. If you miss, your partner can hit it in.” New York-based game KanJam actually originated in the ‘80s, created by two friends in Buffalo. After being granted a patent in 2005, the two created a company and began selling the product. “I remember the first time I got the Frisbee in,” Maniscalco recalls. “I was elated! As for the sport, I’m pretty sure there’s a whole Twitter account dedicated to it.” An additional and equally popular activity among East scholars is throwing a Waboba ball. A 2005 invention by water-sport company, Waboba, based out of Stockholm, Sweden, the ball is designed to bounce on water and float on the surface. “I see [Waboba balls] being sold everywhere,” said Taylor Loiacono (’17). “It’s awesome because it’s like throwing a baseball in the water without the fear of losing the ball.” Loiacono also commented on her love for the game. “I bring my Waboba every time I go to the beach,” said Loiacono. “Peace. Love. Waboba.”
October 2015
SPORTS EASTSIDE
Page 19
Students find new alternatives for gym courses ■ By Elissa Cohen (‘18) Eastside Sports Editor
A new trend of opting out of physical education courses has increased within the past five years. Students now express an urge to get rid of undesired gym classes to clear up space in their schedules. Of course, many of these students are just in search of room for an extra study hall in order to tackle their other challenging classes. Still, in order to opt out of gym, a student must meet a specific set of qualifications. “You have to have six hours of an outside-ofschool sport or activity per week,” said Sammy Abrams (‘17). For Abrams, competitive dance gets her out of gym class. She said she commits a majority of her time to this sport. Tobi Friedman (‘17) opts out of gym class as well. Friedman described the process as being easy, as she simply received a Courtesy of Founders Education note from her dance in- East students can take physical education online by completing activity logs, tests and essays. structor. matches. plaints about having to go opts out of physical educalessons with summarizing Not having to take For some students, like to the hot, uncomfortable tion by taking gym online. tests and weekly activity physical education in high Louis Zimmerman (‘18), gym for a class period, or She said she prefers to exlogs. school has become conthe main reason for freecomplaints about grades ercise on her own time, so Checkoff said, “Even troversial among the stuing their schedule is to in physical education not she enrolled in an online though it was more work dents. have more time to do school counting toward one’s GPA. physical education course than expected, I’m still For example, part of work. As soon as ZimmerThese are just two of the instead. happy I did it because it the opt-out policy states man knew he had the opmany reasons motivat“For me to take gym ondid not require too much efthat students who perform tion to drop the physical ing students to pursue the line, I had to sign up and fort and now I don’t have to six hours of out-of-school education course, Zimmerphysical education opt-out pay an entry fee, and then take gym.” physical activity on school man discussed the potential option. I had to pass the course,” Though the vast majority grounds do not meet the switch with his guidance Opting out of gym class said Checkoff. of students will simply rerequirements to drop gym. counselor. After switching is an option for non-athletes The course that Checkoff main in the gym and health This rule largely affects out of gym, Zimmerman exas well. Lilly Checkoff (’18) took had more work than curriculum, the new trend student athletes, who all pressed relief about having does not meet the required she had expected. She said of dropping physical educaperform at least six hours time to do his extra work. six hours of physical activthis alternate gym class intion will certainly persist of physical activity a week It is typical to hear comity per week, but she still cluded five essays, multiple for years to come. through practices and
Yanasov twins make an impact on girls’ tennis ■ By Luke Hinrichs (‘17) Eastside Sports Editor
The Cherry Hill East Girls Tennis team sees the 2015-2016 season as a chance to rebound from last year’s disappointing upset loss at home in the SJ Group IV Championship match against Lenape. The Cougars’ 20-2 season saw Stephanie Yanasov (‘17), a Bishop Eustace transfer, come off a 30-day wait (a rule because she transferred) and still advance to the semifinals of the state singles tournament. This season, East’s opponents have not only faced Stephanie, but also her twin sister, Natalie Yanasov (‘17). A first-year East athlete, Natalie features in the first doubles team alongside teammate Lauren Romisher (‘16). “It feels good to be playing on the same team as my sister. We build off of each other’s motivation and desire to win,” said Stephanie Yanasov. The addition of Natalie brings significant depth to the already strong girls tennis team. “It was an honor for Natalie to be my doubles partner. We make such a strong team together, and having her on the team this year im-
proves our varsity lineup,” said Romisher. Stephanie and Natalie attended Eustace as freshmen.. At Eustace, Stephanie played first singles and Natalie played second singles. When they transferred to East last year, NJSIAA restricted the Yanasov twins from playing for a required thirty days at the beginning of the season. Stephanie emerged ready to make an impact on South Jersey tennis, but Natalie, partially due to her 30-day transfer wait, instead decided to focus on her academic studies for the 2014-2015 year. Going into this year’s season, Natalie faced the pressure of meeting the standard of her accomplished sister. “I am energized and ready to go. I feel like I’m really going to have to prove myself Hannah Manders (‘16)/ For Eastside and show that I am as good as her. It’s tough Stephanie Yanasov (‘17), Coach Mary Jewett and Natalie when everybody com- Yanasov (‘17) pose after a match. pares us to each other. Sometimes we fight Even though the Yaa lefty, they both possess here and there, but at the nasovs have their differthe skill East needs to end of the day, we are all ences, such as Natalie beclaim a championship title. good,” said Natalie Yanasov. ing a righty and Stephanie “Both of the girls add
talent, charisma, team unity and maturity to the team. Their movement on the court is almost identical. They have very similar games. Both are tenacious, extremely athletic, they know how to work a point and they know how to win,” said Coach Mary Jewett. Although Stephanie hopes to represent East in the NJSIAA Singles Tournament, currently she will not be playing in NJSIAA States because of a conflicting tournament. Stephanie is a key player for East, playing a pivotal role in the regular season, but the team’s depth will have to prove its resiliency if East makes the state tournament. For now, the team is focusing on continuing to dominate throughout the season. “We get off the bus and we are already up 1-0 because of Stephanie,” said Jewett. Natalie hopes to help her team claim another championship for East and add to the Cougar pride. “I am hoping to get a lot from this season. I think me and my doubles partner Lauren can win States,” said Natalie. With Stephanie and Natalie joining a proven and strong roster, the 20152016 season will continue to be bright for the Cherry Hill East Girls’ Tennis team.
SPORTS
October 2015
EASTSIDE
Page 20
East Athletic Hall of Fame inaugurates first class
■ By Luke Hinrichs (‘17)
Eastside Sports Editor
Cherry Hill East Athletics have been a major point of pride for students at East for many decades. Throughout East’s athletic history, many students who had proven themselves as Cougars would go on to represent East as college allstars, Olympic competitors and professional athletes. Though remnants of previous championships and accomplished athletes still remain, until recently, these select athletes’ excellence has been largely unknown and unacknowledged by the students who walk the halls today. On Saturday, November 28, at the Indian Spring Country Club, the first class of the Cherry Hill East Athletic Hall of Fame will be inaugurated. The first class of inductees, The Class of 2015, includes sixteen student athletes who graduated from East between 19711999 and longtime Athletic Director Virginia ‘Ginny’ Whitaker, who passed away in January of this year. Whitaker, the first female Athletic Director in South Jersey, simultaneously oversaw the athletics at Cherry Hill East and West, as well as the middle schools now known as Rosa, Carusi and Beck. Now that her accomplishments will be officially recorded, Whitaker will receive her due credit for her years of hard work. “After years of trying, plans for a hall of fame finally materialized. There was never a single group committed to make this happen, but now we had our motivation. A group of us, when Ginny passed away, were driving down to the funeral, and we all agreed ‘We are going to get it done. It has got to happen,’” said Fred Belchikoff,
Courtesy of Eastside
Greg Casamento (‘88) was featured in the February 1988 issue for his wrestling leadership.
retired East Activities Director and a member of the selection committee. Later that month, the group moved forward to create a selection committee that included past coaches, directors and involved parents. “Commitment was the name of the game. The difference between this committee and years past is our determination to get this done so that we can honor the athletic excellence of past students and Virginia Whitaker’s memory,” said Belchikoff. The final selection committee included coaches Bill Sheppard, Dave Martin, John Valore, Sue Schooley, Peg Jordan, Beth and Tony Mancini; past activities director and coach Fred Belchikoff; and parents Kelly Young, Pierce Pelouze and Bob Hennefer. They contacted and received responses from over 40 coaches. Each contacted coach was charged with the task of submitting up to ten athletes in order of preference. Any player a coach nominated was analyzed based on the athlete’s years of varsity played, honors/ awards earned, s t a tistics Todd Azar (’93): football, baseball the Kurt Barbera (’78): football, basket- and coaches’ c o m ball ments. Greg Casamento (’88): wrestling All inGlenn Foley (’89): football, basketball, ductees, w h o baseball m u s t Kristi Gallagher (’99): field hockey, la- h a v e graducrosse
First Class of Inductees:
Nick Katsikis (’86): basketball, soccer, baseball Tom Katsikis (’86): basketball, soccer Sean Killion (’86): swimming Pete Kugler (’77): football, baseball Tom Nugent (’83): wrestling Andrea Rubio (’89): soccer Rick Santarone (’77): soccer, basketball, baseball Stephanie Schwab (’89): swimming Virgina Whitaker: Athletic Director Wendy Young (’87): soccer, basketball, lacrosse Steve Young (’92): soccer, baseball Betty Jane Zellers (’80): field hockey, basketball, softball
cellence between 1971 and 1999 posed an overwhelming task for the committee, but after meeting every month since January, the committee dwindled hundreds of candidates down to sixteen. “The hardest part was narrowing it down. You can’t catch up forty-something years in one year. This is going to be a long process to catch up and to recognize everybody that deserves it. There are a lot of people that will receive the honor they deserve,” said former longtime swimming and golf coach Bill Sheppard. Students at East and members of the community
Courtesy of Eastside
Stephanie Schwab (‘89) was featured in the February 1989 issue as a record-setting swimmer. ated at a minimum of fifteen years ago, were chosen based on the number of sports they excelled in and, most importantly, their performance as Cougars. “We focused our discussions and nominations on the graduates pre-2000. We are trying to keep it from 1970 to 2000 as of right now, so that we do justice to those who played in the earlier years,” said former longtime boys’ basketball coach John Valore. Whether or not a graduate flourished after graduation was not a deciding factor in the selection of inductees. Decades of memories and recollections were collected to produce binders filled entirely with lists of candidates. The abundance of athletes who displayed ex-
“The goal is that the athletes feel honored. We hope they get the feeling that what they did here at East didn’t go in vain. We want to recognize the kids that really went out and represented the athletic programs of East,” said Belchikoff. Now that the dream of an East Athletics Hall of Fame has come to fruition, the committee hopes that the induction of athletes becomes an annual event. The number of annual inductees is expected to be around sixteen, though no formal limit or minimum has been set. The committee plans on inducting the first coaches into the Hall of Fame with the Class of 2016 inductees. Considering the number of coaches that have devoted over twenty years to East Athletics and the number of championship programs coached between 1971 and 1999, the task of choosing the inductees poses great difficulty. “Selecting [coaches] will be just as difficult as selecting the athletes. It is going to be one or two here, one or two there, so that we get everyone that deserves to be honored. There are a lot of them from all the years of East athletics,” said Sheppard. The athletes who graduated after 1999 will be inducted at a later time, which is currently undetermined, due to the large number of outstanding East athletes who walked the halls before
Courtesy of Eastside
Kristi Gallagher (‘99) was featured in the May 1999 issue for her excellence in lacrosse.
Courtesy of Eastside
Glenn Foley (‘89) was featured in the March 1988 issue for his success as an East athlete.
will be able to view the honorees of the Hall of Fame on plaques above the athletic bulletin boards in G-Wing. Additionally, there are plans to install a display in the DiBart Gym that will read ‘Cherry Hill East Athletic Hall of Fame’ and include the most recent year’s inductees.
them. Current and former students, teachers and parents are encouraged to come to the inauguration and support the first class of athletes to be inducted into the Cherry Hill East Athletic Hall of Fame. The event starts at 12 p.m. on November 28 at the Indian Spring Country Club, and admission is $40 per person. “We are recognizing tradition, and we can never forget tradition. You learn from history and these kids should never be forgotten. We went from being the doormat, people stepping on us, to being a threat in South Jersey. We rose to greatness and it was truly amazing,” said Coach Valore.