Eastside: February/March 2016

www.eastside-online.org

Vol. 49 No. 5

Cherry Hill High School East: 1750 Kresson Road, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003

February/March 2016

THE NEW GENDERATION Acceptance, inclusion and understanding are becoming increasingly crucial in today’s society. With the Supreme Court’s recent legalization of same-sex marriage, awareness for the LGBTQ+ community has come to a forefront. It is time to bring the discussion to East.

■ By Jenna Myers (‘17) Eastside Community Editor

Today, more people are openly coming out as LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer and others). According to NBC, in a typical school of about 2,000 students, about three or four students are transgender. Yet, with a student population of 2,217 at East, according to GSA (Gay-Straight Alliance) adviser Mr. Ed Hall, there are at least 8 to 10 known transgender students.

Since early December, Eastside has set out to interview a number of LGBTQ+ students to teach others about their perspectives and raise awareness of the problems that the LGBTQ+ community faces, with a specific focus on the transgender community. Each interview discussed the lives of these students and the struggles and misconceptions they commonly go through.

One of the transgender students interviewed, Alexander Rudin (‘19), discussed how he came to be transgender, sharing the story of how he came out to his friends and family; he also discussed his future plans as a transgender male.

“I want to have a flat chest and I want to be physically male,” said Rudin.

Rudin’s story is just one of many featured in this special coverage on the LGBTQ+ community at East. This coverage also explores topics that will inform others about different sexualities, genders, misunderstandings and other general information regarding the LGBTQ+ community.

Eastside aims to ultimately give students a deeper understanding of their peers’ lives and how they can be more aware of LGBTQ+ issues at East and in society as a whole.

See Page 9 and eastside-online.org for more coverage on The New Genderation.

When Alexander Rudin (‘19) looks in the mirror, he sees himself for whom he truly is.

Photo by Rachel Becker (‘16)/ Eastside Photo Editor Photo illustration by Rachel Becker (‘16)/ Eastside Photo Editor and Lanxi Li (‘16)/ Eastside Humor Editor

Inside This Issue

Theater prepares for Beauty and the Beast News/Features, Pg. 2

Farm redevelopment angers residents Community, Pg. 6

Wons perseveres despite injury Sports, Pg. 22

NEWS/FEATURES

Page 2

EASTSIDE

East Theater Department tells a tale as old as time ■ By Jenn Pacitti (‘17)

Eastside News/Features Editor

From Disney, to Broadway, and to the East Stage, Beauty and the Beast is a timeless classic. This spring, the Theater Department will combine song, dance, costumes, orchestra and even flying to tell a tale as old as time.

Differing greatly from the plot and language of the fall play, The Tempest, Beauty and the Beast will bring a fun and animated atmosphere to the stage that is perfect for the prospective audience of children.

This is not the first time, however, that East actors will perform Beauty and the Beast. In 2007, this same musical was performed.

While there are many similarities between the productions, Director Mr. Tom Weaver and the rest of the cast and crew will put their own spin on the show.

“There will be subtle changes,” said Weaver.

“Bob Nation, the guy that directed it before and an incredibly successful theater director here for 31 years, always liked to try to reproduce what he saw on Broadway, and so the lights, sets, costumes…everything we could do to make it look like the Broadway show, we did, that was his style… Me, I’m not the least bit concerned about Broadway. In either case, it is going to jazz the kids.”

Differences will include set design, lighting, casting and the original logos designed by Mr. Peter Gambino for this year’s show.

“There will be differences, but [to] an audience member, it will still be Disney’s Beauty and the Beast… We have made changes, we have stamped it as our show for this time.

If I were to do it ten years from now, again it would be re-stamped in a different way, but for here and now, it fits the way we want to do it,” said Weaver.

As this musical is geared towards children, the Theater Department is taking great care to ensure the show capti-

vates the young audience’s expectations.

“It is really amazing to put on a show that everyone knows and that so many people are going to come, love and enjoy because it is a classic,” said Samantha Mautner (‘16), playing Belle in the Red Cast. “It’s a little nerve-racking in a way because we want to fulfill the expectations of all the little kids that come…

That’s a challenge for us.”

role.

Flying is one of the many special effects that will grab the audience’s attention. This year, the Theater Department will be using Flying by Foy, a theatrical flying service, in order to enhance many scenes throughout the show.

“With so many cool effects going on, not to mention all the choreography numbers and the costumes, along with the sheer amount of

Another interesting aspect of Beauty and the Beast includes the Breakfast with Belle booster that will run on the day of the second Saturday showing in Cafeteria 2. All of the main characters will come visit about 100 children with their parents. The East cast will be signing character autographs in a manner reminiscent of character brunches in Disney World.

“It will be really fun to

Ashley Cooper (‘17)/ Eastside Underground Editor Jack Breslow (‘17), Avi Natan (‘16) and Harrison Smith (‘18) rehearse their lines in preparation for the spring musical.

Cedric Middleton (‘17), playing Gaston in the Red Cast, said, “Mr. Weaver’s put a lot of emphasis on keeping the show lively to keep up with the kid’s attention span.”

While this play is primarily meant for children, the Theater Department is ensuring that adults will have a blast, too.

“The story is interesting enough for the parents to enjoy it, and therefore the kids will love it…That to me is the secret to good children’s theater,” said Weaver.

“I think Beauty and the B e a s t has that q u a l ity... Not all children’s shows do, but this one does.”

As in every E a s t product i o n , special effects, intricate costumes, sets and c h o reography play a large

Sabrina DeAbreu (‘18)/ Eastside Staff

people on stage and scale of the sets, a lot of times the environment of the song or musical number is breathtaking,” said Justin Accardi (‘17), playing Gaston in the White Cast.

Putting on a Disney production like Beauty and the Beast varies in several aspects from other spring musicals East has done the past few years, especially in choreography.

“Thankfully [choreography] is a lot easier considering the lack of tap. Anything Goes was a huge challenge dance-wise last year,” said Accardi. “This show compensates for that more in singing, which is harder in this show and the technical side of it. There are a lot of technical effects, a lot of complicated costumes that everyone has to wear and by the time the show is finally up and running, it really is quite a spectacle.”

Instead of tap, the cast will be engaging in a more traditional type of dancing, including kicks and chorus lines.

As for costumes, several main character costumes will be rented, but the majority will be handmade by the costume designers and crew.

“This production is mostly specialty costumes, and we are making most of them… The show is really whimsical, and it has a lot of color, which make [costumes] more fun,” said Gabi Stahl (’17), a head of the crew for costumes.

sit and interact with them and just give each little girl or boy the aspect of Disney that everyone knows and loves. I love kids, so Breakfast with Belle is going to be so much fun,” said Mautner.

In addition to Brunch with Belle, the Theater Department will have souvenirs for purchase to encourage the audience’s engagement with the show.

Light-up roses will be sold for the kids to wave around in order to aid the Beast’s transformation at the end of the musical.

With a show like Beauty and the Beast, the cast and crew anticipate a huge turnout from all age groups, as it will entertain child and parent alike.

“There is a buzz in the air, a sense of excitement…

Everyone anticipates huge audiences, and there is energy, and the kids respond to it and absolutely love it… Here it is inexpensive, it is live, the characters will be signing autographs, there will be souvenirs, and the theatrical experience will be just as rewarding and enriching as if they went to New York but a lot cheaper…. It’s all pure family fun, and I am proud of that,” said Weaver.

Beauty and the Beast opened on Friday, February 26, at 7:30 p.m., with additional shows on February 27 and 28 and on March 4,5 and 6.

February/March 2016

The Boyling Point

■ By Kaitlyn Boyle (‘17) Eastside Managing Editor

On a recent college tour of Georgetown University, my student tour guide spoke passionately of a new student building under construction. Much of her excitement was due to the fact that the architects hired by the school surveyed the students prior to construction in an effort to determine what the students themselves wanted in the hall. An experience like this is something I have yet to face during my time at East.

Although change is important in a dynamic school, the administration rarely seems to take the opinions of students into consideration when proposing and implementing drastic changes.

If it had not been for my recent reporting, I would not have known of the decision to cut Quantitative Physical Science (QPS) and Conceptual Physical Science (CPS) from the science curriculum. Students were neither informed nor asked their opinions on the removal of these two important classes.

Similar arguments can be made for the half-hour earlier start time put in place two years ago or the new lab-out system for science classes this year.

Whether or not students agree with these decisions, it feels as if we are finding out too little too late, and time and time again we are thrown into a haphazard situation, lacking information.

The Board of Education (BOE) has attempted to receive some student input through the BOE representatives and the occasional student leadership meetings; however, as a student, it often feels as if my concerns are merely a reaction to a poor decision that lacked student input in the first place.

Additionally, by that point in time, a repeal of the change is nearly impossible. Such situations could be avoided by both the BOE and East administration if students had the opportunity to voice their concerns and ideas from the start. The Cherry Hill School District mission statement claims to prioritize “enhance[ing] relationships with internal stakeholders.” Aren’t students the most important stakeholders?

It does not make logical sense that a decision affecting a community of over 2,000 people can be made without even asking the constituents their viewpoints. Perhaps I have not yet had an experience where the administration attempts to understand how its decisions can affect me personally, while other students have. But whenever students with whom I discuss the disappearance of QPS and CPS answer with a surprised disgust, the possibility seems less and less likely.

February/March 2016

NEWS/FEATURES EASTSIDE

Page 3

Major changes to science program will begin in fall ■ By Kaitlyn Boyle (‘17)

2AP, then you’re super prepared for the AP test,” said Yang. “Same thing for Physics. BiEast students perform ology is very hard. A numerous experiments on a lot of people don’t do daily basis in science classwell, even in sophorooms, predicting results more and junior year, and tabulating data. Some so I don’t know how it worry, however, that as will work out for freshsoon as the new school year, men. Probably not too they will become the guinea well, I’m assuming. If pigs in a new change in the you’re jumping from science curriculum implemiddle to high school, mented by the Cherry Hill then biology is not a Public School District. good class to transiBeginning in the fall of tion into immediately.”

2016, the freshman-levIn a survey distribel courses, Quantitative uted by Eastside to 100 Physical Science H (QPS) students split evenly and Conceptual Physical between grade levels, Science A (CPS), will be 75% of students felt as removed entirely from the if the system should science curriculum. In their be kept as it is right place, incoming freshmen now. Other students will be required to take eiacknowledge both the ther Biology 1H or Biology disadvantages and ad1A. vantages of this change.

Throughout last school “In QPS, they taught Kevin Chen (‘17)/ Eastside Staff year, a committee made us a lot of stuff that was up of administrators from the basis for Chemistry Jacob Manders (‘19) performs a lab during a QPS H class Cherry Hill High School H, and so I guess they during his lunch period.

East and West, along with already have to teach representatives from the more, and the class ing to remove all labs from Curriculum, Mrs. Erica central office, met multiple seemed rather crammed, school science courses…

Price, announced that effectimes to discuss this change. so from that perspective Dr. Meloche [is] allegedly tive during the 2017-2018 Members of the committee it seemed necessary as an trying to do this to save school year, all science labs included Dr. Lawyer Chapintro course,” said Lauren money so there will be would be removed from the man, principal of East; Hurley (’17), who took QPS fewer science teachers.” high schools. This will reMrs. Marsha Pecker, assisH but has not doubled up Chapman denied the acmove 25 minutes of class tant printime per six-day-cycle. cipal and Additional changes director of will include changing the Engthe credits earned in lish and a science class from Science six to five and assignDeparting science teachers to ments at five sections of classes East; Dr. instead of four. It has Kwame not yet been confirmed Morton, whether or not this principal will affect the numof West; ber of science teachers Mr. Lou at the high schools.

Papa, as“The labs need to sistant be an additional time. principal at West; Dr. Jocurriculums. Singh is ofin science. “At the same curacy of this statement, We need more time for scieseph Meloche, assistant fering a flex option for all time, I feel sort of blighted at least to his knowledge. ence [classes]...because we superintendent at the time; district teachers regardthat I have to take Biol“I have not heard any still need to have the same Dr. Farrah Mahan, director ing the new standards. ogy [1] this year. There’s conversation about getting amount of teaching, but we of curriculum; and Mr. Alex Some East students have no prerequisite for biology; rid of labs,” Chapneed the lab as enrichRosenwald, district supernot been made aware of the I think you could easily man said. “The ment,” said Madlyn visor of science at the time. upcoming changes, includtake it as a freshman. The conversaKates (‘16), member “Our survey [of neighboring those heavily involved problem would just be for tion that of the Science Olyming school districts] indicatin the Science Department. the chemistry track, how I have piad Competition ed that the majority of the David Yang (’16), Secremuch they could fit in.” heard Team. “If we’re neighboring Pecker is is how taking 25 minutes schools were optimistic yet we will away from the offering biology uncertain as provide class time, we’re in ninth grade, to how the disthe lab exlosing the period so the committrict will react perience next to really do a lab tee made the to the replaceyear. My opinion that’s full length.” decision that ment of QPS is that it is very Even students if the majority and CPS with difficult to have who disagree with the [is] doing it, Biology 1. a science class current lab system then we should “I like to dewithout some feel as if the change be doing the pend on data, type of lab.” will not be beneficial. same,” said so I don’t have However, “We don’t have Chapman. the data yet,” at a district enough time already,” Meloche resaid Pecker.

Curriculum said Jamie Goodwin quested that “I would hope and Instruc(‘17), “but at the same questions be that these tion Committime I never thought asked to Chapchanges will tee meeting the lunch [labs] man in lieu of at least proon Februwere a good idea.” an interview. duce for stuary 1, SuThe Cherry Hill Pecker exdents the pervisor high schools are takplained that same levels of Sciing on a change with Meloche beof success... ence an unclear outcome. lieves that as a and perhaps The effect can now result of these even greater only be deterchanges, more success.

We mined by creatKaitlyn Boyle (‘17)/ Eastside Managing Editor students will Jack Granite (‘19) (left) and Jacob Rose (‘19) obwon’t know ing a hypothtake four years serve the results of their experiment in QPS H. until several esis, obtaining of science, thus years of data.” two schools reducing the Chapman worth of test need to double up. tary of the Science Olymalso does not know what this subjects Chapman said that he piad Competition Team, change will bring to East. and colsupports any student’s efwho has taken seven sci“I don’t like to speculecting forts to take more than one ence classes throughout late,” Chapman said, data in science class. his high school experience “so we will have to wait order According to Chapman, including QPS H, did not and see the results.” to obhe did not personally disknow about these changes.

On January 19, the tain a cuss this change with the “I think it’s not a good “Parents for Cherry conscience teachers at East idea, because in my experiHill Teachers” Facebook c l u Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director until after the decision was ence, if you take QPS, and group posted a status that s i v e made official. Mrs. Sonia Chemistry 1 and Chemistry read, “Dr. Meloche is tryresult.

Eastside Managing Editor

Singh, an East biology and chemistry teacher, said that she was not consulted.

“In most school districts, it’s a decision that’s made by higher administrators,” said Singh.

Singh, along with another East biology teacher, Mr. Nicholas Wright, and two science teachers from West, is on the biology curriculum development team.

Now, they must not only revise the curriculum to fit the change in grade of students enrolled in the class, but also to fit a new set of statewide science standards called Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

These standards, which will impact classroom learning as well as the New Jersey Biology Competency Test (NJBCT), emphasize inquiry, investigation and an inclusion of science literacy.

“Even if we hadn’t had this change with grade level, we would have still had to make curricula changes across the board to accommodate the new standards,” said Singh.

The Chemistry and Physics Departments have also created committees currently in the process of rewriting their respective

“I would hope that these changes will at least produce for students the same levels of success...and perhaps even greater success. We won’t know until several years of data.”

-Mrs. Marsha Pecker

NEWS/FEATURES

Page 4

EASTSIDE

February/March 2016

Multicultural Day continues to bring East students’ diversity to light ■ By Louis Zimmermann (‘18)

Eastside Staff

The bright stage lights illuminate beautiful cultural costumes. The correlating booths serve delicious delicacies from various countries.

On Multicultural Day, students are enlightened to cultures and religions from all across the world.

Bringing various cultures to the East community, including the African-American Culture Club, Chinese Student Association, Indian Culture Club, Korean Culture Club, Filipino Culture Club and Vietnamese Culture Society, March 18 marks a truly insightful day for all students to learn about their peers’ cultures.

Through the use of magnificent cultural foods and performances, including dancing and singing, students at East acquire a taste of the ethnic backgrounds with which their classmates identify.

As the reigning champions attaining the first place title in a tie, the Indian Culture Club alongside the Korean Culture Club plan to present once again their best performances and food this year.

Even though last year, both clubs revealed their best effort to an exhilarating and palatable exhibit of their cultures, they will divulge new changes this year.

This year, the Indian Culture Club held auditions for both boys and girls as opposed to the past when they selectively chose girls for the dance performance. In addition, the food selection at the booth will

have a greater capacity, including North Indian appetizers and snacks such as samosas and chaat.

Nishaad Khedkar (‘18), a member of the Indian Culture Club, said, "Although it is famous as a day of

more energy than last year and get as many people as we can involved in both the performance and activity section,” said Nezzy Jean-Baptiste (‘17), president of the dance committee for the African-American Culture Club.

Not only is the AfricanAmerican Culture Club attaching more vitality to its routines, but members are also adding a male routine to the performance aspect of Multicultural Day. Still, the most essential feature to the club involves having a voice to express and take the students into their

Emelia Keller (‘17)/ Eastside Photo Editor culture and The Indian Culture Club performs at a 2015 Multiwhat it is truly cultural Day assembly. about. fire competition between dancers “[Multicultural Day’s] purpose is and booths, this day also brings not only to give each culture a sense different races together in cultural of self-satisfaction, but also to act as awareness, and it allows them to an enriching experience for the rest bond over [their cultures].” of the student body, exposing them Placing third during last year’s to culture and traditions that difMulticultural Day, the Africanfer from their own,” said president American Culture Club displayed of the African-American Culture jubilation to the school with their Club, Yvonne Olayemi (‘16). entertaining and amusing dance Even though Chinese food is popperformance and hairstyling booth. ularly eaten in the United States, “Honestly, we hope to bring even the majority of people at East may

not have a full understanding of Chinese culture. Therefore, the Chinese Student Association will be showcasing its culture and food once more in hope of rising above all other cultural groups, along with showing East how its culture is framed.

With a more lively and spirited dance that now implements boys in the performance category, the Chinese Student Association aims to show each and every East student its cultural bearing.

“While learning the choreography requires a time commitment and usually involves bruising myself after most practices, it is so rewarding, and the memories we make are priceless,” said the co-president of the Chinese Student Association, Grace Shen (‘16).

Shen said her favorite aspect of Multicultural Day is bonding with her cultural group to bring out the best cultural lesson.

Even though only thirty percent of the students at East are culturally diverse from the Caucasian population, students provide an exclusively enriching knowledge on cultures that others may be lacking.

When the lights gleam once more on the East stage, the Multicultural Day performances will not fail to enhance students’ knowledge on different cultures throughout the world. Multicultural Day will stay a valuable part of East.

Art by Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director

The Robotics Club exemplifies resiliency on its way to success ■ By Luke Hinrichs (‘17)

Eastside Sports Editor

To an athlete, it is the win that results from hours of practicing. To an artist, it is the finished painting that results from hours of sketching. To an actress, it is the final production that results from hours of going over lines. To an East Robotics participant, it is winning a competition that makes the hours of tinkering and creating worth it.

As demanding as any extracurricular at East, the Robotics Club, in order to be successful, requires dedication of time and energy.

“The average team is spending about ten hours a week in order to get a robot that competes successfully in every competition,” said co-vice president of the Robotics Club and 2015 State Champion, Nikola Kosaric (’16).

To Kosaric and other club participants, the process and time spent building the robot is in itself rewarding.

“When I look at our finished robot, I am happy that I see it working, but at the same time, I am kind of sad that I cannot have the experience again. There are a lot of memories of staying up late and building, testing and correcting things that do not work,” said Kosaric.

The Robotics Club members may view their finished robots as embodiments of memories and experiences, but to the robotics community, these robots are the products of a highly ranked program.

“We have definitely been

extremely successful. We collaborative. Yes, we have competitions offer various have one of the most sucten or eleven individual opportunities for the club cessful programs in the teams in this club, but we participants. state, and we are hoping to are all working together.

The Robotics Club goes keep that going,” said KoWe are always trying to beyond building a robot saric. help everyone so that we and contending at competiEven though the club get East better as whole,” tive events. The club prides has accumulated over fifty said co-vice president Keith itself on teaching students trophies through the years, Babitz (’17). problem-solving skills in the Robotics Club remains Babitz is currently mena hands-on platform. Parpredominantly unacknowledged by the students of East.

President of the club and 2015 State Champion, Jason Fisch (’16) said, “Being in the back of F-wing, we don’t get recognized as much because we are practically hidden from the rest of East. We deserve to be recognized more, not necessarily as a sport or club, but as a highly competitive and very successful program.”

The club’s tradition of success is based on a mentoring system that is passed down from class to class.

Emelia Keller (‘17)/ Eastside Photo Editor “As a freshman, you Robotics Club members Jason Fisch (‘16) and Sofia Benedon’t really have to detto (‘17) assemble their robot after school. know anything about robotics. We teach you everything, and all the jutoring a flourishing group ticipants learn valuable niors and seniors that are of freshmen who have allessons in the areas of commore experienced mentor ready qualified for the state puter programming, engithe freshmen and sophochampionship. neering and innovation. mores. Everyone learns Michael Ryan (’19), a “There is a lot of actuafter coming in. You really participant on the team ally knowing what to do don’t even need to know that Babitz mentors, said, with the metal, and what how to use a screwdriver,” “Even though we have one to do with the materials said Fisch. mentor, everyone here is themselves, but a lot of the The club maintains the willing to help out, and it skills we learn here can be belief that a program is was really easy to get startapplied to any problemonly as good as its weakest ed, not just on the robot, but solving situation, anything team. Rather than focusing also as a part of the club.” that requires innovative on a single team’s ambition, Babitz and the other design or innovative ideas the club creates a welcomclub participants have been to better something or fix a ing community of camaracompeting almost every problem,” said Babitz. derie and teamwork.

Saturday since the start With a rise in club par“The atmosphere is very of the school year. These ticipants, the Robotics Club

finds itself accommodating an increasing number of freshmen. Making a jump from seven teams last year to 11 teams this year has not been easy.

The parts and tools to create each robot cost about 2,500 dollars. As each team produces a robot, the club has managed to survive using the remaining money accumulated from years of selling Chick-fil-A and Krispy Kreme items, as well as a small amount of school funding to support the club’s efforts.

Since the sale of those goods is no longer allowed, the Robotics Club is searching for new sources of funding. It is the responsibility of the East community and Cherry Hill as a whole to preserve and protect programs that help prepare students for careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

Although East offers a comprehensive selection of science classes and a challenging honors science route, future innovations in STEM will require crossdisciplinary expertise, including visual artists, effective communicators, creative problem-solvers and others that currently do not think of themselves as having a future in science and technology.

The Robotics Club is unique in its potential to bring together students with diverse interests and talents. This club, unlike any other extracurricular at East, plays a vital role in providing all students the opportunity to explore STEM-related ideas.

February/March 2016

COMMUNITY EASTSIDE

Page 5

The Philly Auto Show drives spectators from near and far ■ By Jocelynne Dorotan (‘18)

casing. vehicle. tor in order to expose teens State Farm had attendCars lied stationed along Jeep significantly into driving on city streets ees complete a quiz in orthe floor’s road-themed carcreased its popularity and without any risk of danger. der to receive a ticket to The Philadelphia Auto pets, where visitors had the attention within the show Car brands took advanthen use to redeem a prize.

Show returned to the Philaoption to MetroPCS only delphia Convention Center enter the offered meron January 30 and ran until car and chandise to February 7. The show featest its people who tured more than 700 showcomfort signed with its cased cars from the most and conproduct under popular brands, such as venience. a certain conFIAT, Mercedes-Benz and Next to tract.

Porsche. It also included the disBecause the the more luxurious brands, play was main area was like Maserati, Alfa Romero a sign overflowing and McLaren. that inwith people Adult tickets (from ages dicated and cars, Lex13 and up) sold for 14 doleach car’s us and Merlars, children between the name and cedes-Benz ages of seven and 12 for model, showcased seven dollars and children with its their cars in a six and under could enter price and separate area free with an adult ticket. properon the second Multiple food stands sellties. floor. This aling pretzels, Rita’s Water BMW lowed Lexus Ice, bottled beverages and s h o w and MercedesJocelynne Dorotan (‘18)/ Eastside Staff Benz to disother snacks sat scattered c a s e d throughout the main hallm a n y The Philadelphia Auto Show featured over 700 cars by 40 different companies. play more cars ways of the convention of its and reduce center. “Ride and Drive” most inthe feeling of opportunities sponsored triguing cars, such as the due to its extensive display. tage of this opportunity to claustrophobia within the In addition to showcasing advertise their products by Convention Center. its vehicles on the floor, Jeep giving out free merchandise At this most recent conalso offered an opportunity to the visitors. vention, the Philadelphia for people to ride through Hyundai, Subaru and Auto Show continued its its indoor course inside a Honda offered free blue retradition as an attraction Jeep vehicle, for all peothrough an ple, whethevent called er or not “Camp Jeep.” they enjoy People lined cars.There up for the opwere many portunity to activities partake in this for the experience, non-carand the line enthusiast, grew to be as including long as one in the many Disney World. aforemenThe Jeep dist i o n e d play also had games and a small area s w e e p where chilstakes. dren could Those who Liza Rothkoff (‘16)/ Eastside Editor-in-Chief went to the Jeep had a play area for kids who visited the car show. ride in the toy version of a auto show Liza Rothkoff (‘16)/ Eastside Editor-in-Chief for Jeep vehicle the

by Toyota, Kia and Mazda brand’s two-door Corvetteto recieve a Audi displayed its newest car models. purpose could be found at the main equivalent race-car. Many comparable of viewing entrance. visitors took pictures with experience. cars met The show effectively utiand inside the car because The workers offered helusable bags on pedestals their goal, as the show allized the two stories of the of its gorgeous appearance. mets and hand sanitizer to within their space, and Toylowed people to thoroughly convention center: the first BMW’s signature all-eleceach child before he or she ota distributed red reusable experience the features of floor for the “dub display,” tric car—the i3—drew peocould ride. bags. Some companies, like a car or simply admire the the customized vehicles ple’s interest as they wantToyota also featured a State Farm, added an extra car, especially the expenand motorcycles, and the ed to see the features and driving simulator in its acstep before a visitor could sive ones, from both a sigsecond floor contained the differences of an electric tivity called Teendrive 365. receive his or her free prodnificant distance and right main event—the car showcar versus a gas-dependent Toyota created this simulauct. inside.

Eastside Staff

Film Festival brings South Jersey a new movie experience ■ By Matt Kains (‘16)

Eastside Community Editor

From March 31 to April 3, guests can immerse themselves in the culture of independent filmmaking at the Garden State Film Festival in Atlantic City.

A film festival is an event where independent filmmakers can showcase their work to the public, usually for the first time. Since 2003, The Garden State Film Festival has been the perfect opportunity for passionate filmmakers to come together to celebrate the independent film industry and display their most recent films, not for any commercial reason, but for the love of filmmaking.

The festival also serves as a great marketing opportunity for those looking for a career in the film business, and it is a great way for people to learn more about the industry, as the festival features question and answer sessions and many other great opportunities for learning.

The Festival was founded by film industry veteran Diane Raver and the late Robert Pastorelli, a Hollywood actor. The first film festival in 2003 was deemed a huge success. Since then, the festival has garnered support from the likes of “The Sopranos” star James Gandolfini, rock musician Bruce Springsteen, Batman producer Michael Uslan and many other notable figures that have helped change the film industry.

Raver believes that the festival serves a deeper purpose than to celebrate and commend the independent film industry.

“It’s really the essence of our amendment filmmakers from Iran. “But in their own counrights for freedom of speech,” said Raver, who tries, they are making films that just show that reminisced back to a time when she was not they are regular people like the rest of us. It’s reable to express herself in the form of ally very important for cultural understanda film. ing… [The film festival] transcends all Raver described how at barriers: political, cultural, racial, the festival, two films with religious… Our little event is of conflicting messages are huge, huge, social and cultural often shown during the importance.” same screening block Raver explained that, withto give the viewer out this importance, she the point of view of would not organize the festiboth sides of an isval every year, as the Garsue. den State Film Festival is “When I was a non-profit organization. young we would According to Raver, march on Washthis year’s submissions ington… march “are absolutely fantastic.” to get our point The film schedule for the across because we festival is currently up on really didn’t have the festival’s website. Day access to making passes are currently availfilms,” said Raver. able online for 30 dollars, Films from all and weekend passes are different cultures available for 45 dollars. Tickand countries will be ets for the awards dinner and shown at this year’s fesa meet and greet with various tival as well. In fact, the filmmakers and celebrities are also festival received a film from available and provide a once-in-a-lifeIran, but the filmmakers time film experience that is will not be able to attend.

Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director close to home.

“Those folks won’t be The Garden State Film Festival showable to come out,” said cases films from all over the world.

For more information on Raver, speaking of the the festival, visit gsff.org.

COMMUNITY

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February/March 2016

Holly Ravine redevelopment angers residents ■ By Steve Mirsen (‘16) Eastside Multimedia Director

It is an all-too-familiar story in movies and TV: a historic, open piece of land in town is sold to a developer, who plans to build something else in its place. Far less dramatic, but possibly just as controversial, is the potential purchase and development of Holly Ravine Farm.

The up-until-recentlyworking farm lies near the intersection of Springdale and Evesham Road between the Faulkner mansion and the Holly Ravine Shopping Center. Purchased by the Gilmour family in 1925, when Cherry Hill was still named Delaware Township, the farm technically predates the township that houses it. The Gilmour family has moved away from Cherry Hill and plans to sell the property for around 5.5 million dollars.

The farm has shrunk over time; the shopping center and mansion were both built through purchases of farmland.

Traffic has increased with development, and many residents are wary of seeing congestion increase.

“It’s not just sitting in traffic,” said Ellen Fensterer, who lives across from the farm.

“It’s dangerous.

People [already]

run into each other.”

Nearly all comments on a Facebook post regarding the farm expressed the same sentiment; congestion is already at an undesirable level, and any further development will worsen the problem. Fensterer also expressed concern that her daughter would be more likely to experience an accident leaving her neighborhood.

“There’s barely any space there and traffic is already a nightmare,” Jason Clarke, who grew up in Woodcrest, commented on a Facebook post related to the sale. “They are going to further develop? Mistake.”

However, according to Jeffrey Lucas of Rose Commercial Real Estate and former Director of Economic Development in Cherry Hill, who is in charge of the sale, development will not cause the problems some residents anticipate.

“Right now,” Lucas said, “the zoning is for single family homes.”

The land is being sold as an R2 zone, which only allows for residential development. Single family homes only allow separate housing, not apartments, townhouses or retail outlets. However, the developer who purchases the land is able to submit requests to the township

for adjustments to the zoning. Possible additions, according to Lucas, are a nursing or assisted living home, or minimal retail additions to the shopping center in addition to housing. Out of the 26 acres on the property, only 12.5 are developable, including the farm, which is technically already altered from its natural state. The rest of the property is either forest, wetlands or a combination of both.

“When we get a plan of what the developer wants us to do, we get a read from [the township] to see if that’s a possibility,” said Lucas.

“We don’t know what’s going to be there yet.”

Lucas assured that all possible measures will be taken to ensure traffic conditions remain safe and efficient.

“We may have to add another traffic light, and we might have to add a deceleration lane,” he said.

“We use traffic experts and consultants, civil engineers and planners. Anything that gets developed can create traffic. That’s something that we will deal with, with the township once we know what we want to develop.”

Regarding some residents’ opposition, Lucas said, “If someone wants to buy the property and preserve it, we’re

happy to talk to them.”

A similar event occured in Voorhees, when the township purchased over 200 acres of Stafford Farm for preservation.

While selling the land to the township was considered for Holly Ravine, Lucas said it did not seem likely to happen. Fensterer mentioned raising money for a purchase, but the Farm’s multimillion dollar price tag makes this a very unlikely outcome.

From an environmental perspective, Chair of the Cherry Hill Environmental Board Lewis Gorman III said that impact should not be problematic as long as proper precautions are taken. The non-developable parts of the land should be preserved and, potentially, donated, he said.

The main environmental concern is making sure flooding and pollution do not occur as a result of stormwater runoff. So long as the wetlands are left undisturbed and proper environmental protection measures are taken, he said, pollution, flooding and other adverse environmental effects will be largely mitigated.

“If you allow development, managing that stormwater runoff is very important,” said

Gorman.

Over 55 houses or a nursing home would create less overall traffic, Lucas said.

The developer’s goal will be to plan something feasible and marketable to the public.

In regard to preserving the natural look of the land, Lucas said that a possible loop road from Springdale to Evesham lined with houses is possible, which could also potentially prevent traffic buildup. Additionally, the land’s buyer remains unknown.

While the farm’s future currently remains unknown, residents and developers both aim to ensure the development’s success.

“The goal...is to make sure [it is] a positive development for Cherry Hill,” said Lucas.

While the sun has already set on the era of the Cowtail Bar (an ice cream parlor established by the Gilmours on the farm) and the 68acre working farm, twilight is approaching for what remains of the Gilmour Farm.

Either way, for future generations, whatever is developed there will become the new norm.

Rachel Becker (‘16)/ Eastside Photo Editor

The Gilmour Farm’s sale creates discussion regarding future Holly Ravine development.

National Liberty Museum brings heroes to Philadelphia ■ By Sidra Isenberg (‘18) Eastside Staff

When discussing the topic of heroes, one tends to consider the definition of a hero and what some of the greatest heroes in the world have achieved. According to the Oxford Dictionary, the definition of a hero is someone “who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements or noble qualities.” This definition was taken into account when administrators at the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia hand-picked heroes to recognize and honor. The museum’s new exhibit, entitled “Heroes Around the World,” highlights 55 heroes from the last century who have contributed to society in one way or another.

These hand-picked heroes were judged based on a rubric created by the National Liberty Museum of certain qualities that a hero should have. “[A hero is] someone who does not put barriers in the way of others,” said Michelle Baxter, Marketing and Communications Specialist at the National Liberty Museum.

Some heies. Interestingroes chosen ly, many heroes were very well in the exhibit known, such were diagnosed as Anne Frank with horrible and Nelson diseases, but Mandela. they learned to Many others’ overcome them names may and achieve be unfamiliar, great things. but their stoOther heroes ries are recogwere writers, innizable, like fluential enterNancy Brinktainers and past er’s and Jim United States Eisenreich’s presidents. stories.

The exhibit These hestressed that roes are living people from evproof that one ery country and does not “have every standing to be larger can be a hero than life . . . their own way and that peobecause, accordple can all do ing to Baxter, a Courtesy of tripadvisor.com hero is simply heroic things every day,” Malala Yousafzai is one of the heroes “[a person] who in the Heroes Around the World ex- has overcome Baxter said.

Every one of hibit. obstacles to do the 55 heroes great things.” has contributed to society either by The exhibit also depicts what it his or her brilliance or new discoverfeels like to have one’s liberties tak-

en away. Such is the case of Nelson Mandela, South African civil rights activist. This exhibit helps viewers to have a better understanding of how important it is for everyone to have equal rights.

This exhibit specifically is very relevant to Philadelphia because the city contains people from around the globe that are represented by these heroes.

“Liberty is not just an American ideal. It is important for everyone,” Baxter said.

This, she feels, is reflected through the exhibit.

Additionally, museum visitors may connect to some of the stories personally. Another purpose of the exhibit is for people who visit to find the hero in themselves.

The museum truly exemplifies heroes that have done something in order to be recognized for their “courage, outstanding achievements or noble qualities.”

This is all under the umbrella of what the exhibit is trying to convey.

The National Liberty Museum administrators want exhibit-goers to be empowered to make changes in their own communities.

February/March 2016

COMMUNITY EASTSIDE

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Esteemed ice cream shops share a mutual love for frozen treats respect for each other.

“The rivalry [between Eastside Community Editor The Franklin Fountain and Bassetts] gets its healthy heir of competition.

Located just a few blocks I think all it does from each other are Philais create a mutual delphia’s two most covrespect, pushing eted ice cream shops: The one another to creFranklin Fountain, located ate better products at 116 Market Street, and and to just really be Bassetts Ice Cream in the our best. The rivalry Reading Terminal Market definitely helps us at 45 North 12th Street. sharpen our skills,” The two shops “battle” said Benson. back and forth for the Strange, who atnumber-one spot for Philatests to having a delphia’s top ice cream. Almutual relationthough the shop’s locations ship with the Berare so close to each other, ley brothers, agrees it is a common perception that the two shops that they would be rivals. are very different, It is actually the opposite, and each focuses on as the two shops use each different aspects of other for support and enthe ice cream induscouragement. try.

Back in 1861 in Salem, “Although you Courtesy of Michael Strange New Jersey, Bassetts beBassetts Ice Cream at the Reading Terminal Market serves ice would think that we came America’s original ice would be competicream all year round. cream, founded tors, [Bassetts] acby current protually collaborates prietor Michael in the Reading Terminal tique aesthetic that you see with [The Berley Brothers] Strange’s greatMarket, which bein the shop,” said Franklin quite frequently. For examgreat grandfather. came the first ice Fountain employee Jacob ple, [Bassetts] hosted an ice “He was a farmcream shop in Benson. cream festival in the Reader and a school America.

The Franklin Fountain ing Terminal Market,” said teacher and Located only a lives by its motto, which Strange. was messing few blocks away, states that it “aims to serve The ice cream festival is around with next to Shane Conan experience steeped in an annual July event that making fectionery, resides ideals, drizzled with drollshowcases different eatersomeThe Franklin ery and sprinkled with the ies around Philadelphia. t h i n g Fountain. Owned forgotten flavors of Ameri“For a number of years, that was relby brothers Ryan ca’s past,” which is exactly [Bassetts] would invite outatively new and Eric Berley, what the famous shop does side ice cream shops to truat the time: The Franklin Founwith lines out the door even ly make it an ice cream fesice cream,” said tain has an antique on a cold winter day. tival,” Strange said. “Ryan Strange. feeling although it is While a common misand Eric [Berley] were alThe business a relatively new shop, conception of the two top ways the stars of that by has since been having only opened in ice cream shops bouncing bringing in artifacts and passed down to 2004. The shop is wellfrom first to second place giving presentations on the Strange’s great known for its flavors, inis that they would be deep history of ice cream.” grandfather, his cluding Whirley Berry, rivals with a past story to The two ice cream shops great grandmothand its gourmet sodas. explain how it came about, that are only separated by a er, then down to “Every ice cream employees of Bassetts and couple of blocks aim to have his grandfather place in Philadelphia The Franklin Fountain the same goal: to serve tasty and, lastly, to his wants to deboth agreed that they have ice cream without a brutal mothliver a quala mutual relationship and competition. er be- Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director ■ By Brooke Greenberg (‘17)

fore being passed down to him. The business was relocated to Philadelphia, and in 1892, the shop opened

ity product. [The Franklin Fountain] differs because of how we package the product, which is the an-

Friendly’s looks to reinvent itself after closings with the concept of an [open environment]. You get to actually watch [the employees] make the ice cream.

On December 21, 2015, a [The ice cream is] what new Friendly’s restaurant Friendly’s is all about. [The opened up in the Voorhees owners] wanted [the ice Town Center. The restaucream] to be the main thing rant, which offers hamthat people see when they burgers, french fries and come in… It’s the same sandwiches, Friendly’s, as well as just a little its most famore modmous item, ern,” said ice cream, Harris. first opened Accordin 1935 in ing to HarSpringfield, ris, since the Massachurestaurant’s setts. opening in Since then, December, Friendly’s business has has opened been good. nearly 400 The restaurestaurants rant’s prime across the location in eastern Unitthe Voored States. Afhees Town ter filing for Center has bankruptcy worked to its in 2011, the advantage, East Coast since many comfort food customers restaurant live in the Jenna Myers (‘17)/ Eastside Community Editor a p a r t m e n t chain has tried to rein- The new Voorhees Friendly’s has a carryout counter buildings in where customers can see their ice cream being made. vent itself. the shopping “[The owncenter. ers] are getting [the restaupart of the owners’ plans “[Business is] good. [The rant’s] name back by reinto reinvent the Friendly’s restaurant] keeps getting venting themselves and the name. busier and busier by the brand. They have really “I think that with [the week,” said Harris. been putting a big emphasis owners] trying to reinvent Although the restauon that for the next couple [Friendly’s], they came up rant’s busiest meal is din■ By Julia Rothkoff (‘16)

Eastside Editor-in-Chief

of years,” said Colleen Harris, the Voorhees Friendly’s General Manager.

The newly opened restaurant features an open, spacious environment.

When customers walk in, the first thing they see is the ice cream bar. This new, modern environment is all

ner, many come to Friendly’s with one item in mind: ice cream.

With 22 ice cream flavors, with favorites like mint chocolate chip ice cream and the peanut butter cup sundae, many people come to Friendly’s solely for their ice cream fix. According to Harris, not only do families love Friendly’s, but also many 17- to 20-year-olds go to Friendly’s for a night out.

Although Friendly’s has been in existence since the Great Depression, the new Voorhees Friendly’s is different from the others.

With a new concept, the chain’s Voorhees location distinguishes itself from its fellow locations.

“The new concept is definitely different from any other Friendly’s. [The Voorhees Friendly’s has] a brand new kitchen set-up, which is new to the whole company, and we are the first [Friendly’s] in New Jersey to get it… We are just working on keeping our families happy and getting them in and out,” said Harris.

Since filing for bankruptcy, the restaurant has closed 100 of its doors. Ever since January 30, 2013, the chain has found its way out of bankruptcy, and it has been coming up with new ideas ever since.

■ By Brooke Greenberg (‘17) Eastside Community Editor

The Franklin Fountain

The Franklin Fountain was a lovely ice cream shop with excellent ambiance from the moment I walked into the shop. The number of flavors was incredibly overwhelming. While I was there, I ordered a cup of “Hydrox Cookie” ice cream.

The ice cream is a basic vanilla bean ice cream infused with hydrox cookies.

The ice cream was smooth and creamy despite having cookie pieces included. I am not the biggest fan of chocolate, so the chocolate load was a bit much for me, but overall the ice cream was incredible with its flavor and quality.

I also tasted the “Franklin Mint Chip,” and at the first bite, I felt awakened by the strong mint flavor.

The chocolate chips were small enough for me to handle without having a chocolate overload. Although the store is famous for its classic sodas, I could not fathom myself drinking a lavender flavored drink, which is one of their options.

Nevertheless, the service at the store was below average. Even on a crowded winter day, it was understaffed.

The same employees that were scooping the ice cream and running the cash register made for an unpleasant and long wait for my ice cream. Even though the price tag is steep at five dollars per small cup and an extra dollar for sprinkles, the wait and the price were well worth it for the quality of the classic ice cream.

Bassetts

When I stepped into the the Reading Terminal Market and saw the line at Bassetts ice cream shop, I knew I would be getting some solid quality ice cream. After waiting in the line that moved rather quickly, I was overwhelmed by the number of modern flavors the shop had to offer. I tasted the Cookies and Cream, which was a simple but delicious ice cream.

I wanted to try something unique so I settled for something outside of my comfort zone of Cookie Dough and went for Guatemalan Ripple. Once I had one bite of the dessert, I was speechless. The ice cream consisted of mocha ice cream with mocha truffle pieces and chocolate ribbons. There were no words to describe it but “incredible.” The service was fairly quick, and it was well worth the drive for the delicious treat.

Logo by Kevin Chen (‘17)/ Eastside Staff

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February/March 2016

February/March 2016

SPECIAL EASTSIDE

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For full coverage, visit eastside-online.org to learn more about the LGBTQ+ community at East. Below are three quotes from Eastside’s interviews with these students.

“I always looked at the other boys in my grade and wanted to look like them.”

-Alex Rudin (‘19)

Screenshot by Jenna Myers (‘17)/ Eastside Community Editor

Once 18, Alex Rudin (‘19) hopes to undergo Sex Reassignment Surgery (SRS), therefore allowing him to truly live as a full-time male.

“A lot of people don’t really understand, so it’s hard to go to people.”

Screenshot by Jenna Myers (‘17)/ Eastside Community Editor

Though Luke Shin (‘19) faces daily struggles as a transgender student, he maintains an optimistic outlook toward the future.

-Luke Shin (‘19)

“If I’m not out as transgender, I’ll be unhappy.”

-Blake Weiss (‘19)

Screenshot by Jenna Myers (‘17)/ Eastside Community Editor

Having come out to his family and friends in eighth grade, Blake Weiss (‘19) has been openly transgender for two years.

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February/March 2016

Out of the Vault: Tech Decks kickflip the toy marketplace ■ By Ben Goldsmith (‘17) Eastside Multimedia Director

Originally homemade wooden toys in the 1960’s, “fingerboards” would become widely popular.

Also used as 1:8 scale model skateboards, the novelty grew into key chains.

Tech Deck, the first company that mass-produced the toy, would later improve upon their “rideability.” The company would make it so actual tricks could be performed by the user.

Teck Deck then added exaggerated beveled lips on each end of the board to get more air off of an ollie (jump) and real grip tape to sustain stronger contact with the board.

By the late ‘90s, Tech Deck had already partnered with several ma-

jor corporations such as X-Concept, a fingerboard company from Spin Master. They used these urban brands to develop designs for the board’s decks.

These designs were not solely responsible for the spark of sales.

The detail that Tech Deck used in creating its boards was what made them stand out over its competitors.

Oftentimes, in their full kit form, Tech Decks came with a set of miniature tools—real, useable skateboard tools. Using real trucks to hold the board upon the wheels, the brand was able to give fingerboard skaters the ‘real deal’ experience of owning a full-on skateboard.

If a wheel came loose, the screwdriver came in handy to tighten the king pins; if a truck was not fully fastened, the extra nuts and bolts could fasten it into place. Along with a plethora of other tools and equipment, Tech Decks brought to life what previously was strictly ex-

clusive to only real skateboards.

From there, the fingerboarding industry was born, and Tech Deck became a widely popular and inexpensive toy. Just as the early 2000s came around, sales worldwide were estimated at an astounding 120 million dollars.

The company would grow even more as many “YouTubers” and Internet celebrities on other video sharing sites began to film their tricks and post them. This new media outlet during the rise of video sharing in 2006 gave the industry a new source of exposure.

Alive and well, Tech Deck and several other makes would implement accessories, opening a new door of tricks for users.

Coming as close as the brands could be to the real skateboarding experience, they developed fingerboarding parks; plastic bowls, halfpipes, even stairs and rails were included. Along with several other park features, fans wanted more.

Immediately, they took to making their own parks, ramps and such of their own.

These new sets sold almost as

much as the boards themselves.

This popularity is because the brand gave fingerboarders the ability to master just as many tricks open to real skateboarders.

There are thousands of tricks and combinations of two or more tricks.

In fact, new ones are still emerging today.

With popularity growing as 2010 approached, Tech Deck informally marked a slowdown in production.

Not having updated its website since 2011, the once booming company entered reruns, being resold on websites like eBay and Amazon.

Throughout its run, Tech Deck opened the door for other finger-inspired toys such as bikes and snowboards.

As the spotlight grew dim on fingerboards, people began to forget about Tech Decks. Nevertheless, a reasonably large group of fingerboard supporters remain steadfastly devoted, even to this day. It is not too late to get involved as competitions and events still continue.

ative writing class in college. Even now, Ribay is not entirely focused on simply his writing career, doubling as both an author and English teacher at an all-boys charter high school in West Philadelphia.

The conception of An Infinite Number of Parallel Universes originally surfaced from a simplistic concept: friendship.

Through his novel, he hoped to delve into the inner workings of friendships, through revealing each of his characters’ “true selves.”

“I really wanted to explore this idea of friendship,” said Ribay. “I feel like a lot of times you can be really close to people and see them all the time but kind of get this sense that they don’t really know you.”

Always having been “a nerdy child and still being a nerdy adult,” Ribay holds a deep personal connection to this novel.

“As a nerd I often felt like I was on the outside, so friendship was really essential to me as I was growing up,” said Ribay.

Summing up to a sizable 240 pages, Ribay’s initial novel focuses on the lives of five teenage friends,

Archie, Mari, Dante, Sam and SarThe novel is formatted into five ah, who are quickly approaching sections; the initial section of the their senior year. Though diverse, novel does not focus on any one these friends are united through character, but instead provides an their weekly meetings of Dungeons overview of their overall friendship. & Dragons. The four friends are just The other four sections, however, now beginning follow each one of the to face real-life four characters indiissues, ranging vidually, expressing from divorce their unique stories. to sexuality, The key factor despite having that Ribay wanted known one anto focus on through other for sevhis novel was divereral years. In sity. the latter half “I myself am biof the novel, racial, so it was the four emvery important for bark on a road me to portray that trip of epic in the book. When proportions to I was growing up I help one of the never really saw a friends solve whole lot of that,” his problems said Ribay. “It was and to help the important for me to others avoid kind of display that theirs. reality that has been For his writmissing from books Courtesy of Randy Ribay ing style, Ribay Ribay enjoys writing young for a very long time.” chose to stick adult novels.

Ribay’s college powith a close ems can be found at third person, which has a “limited” sieveandsand.com/author/rcribcharacteristic to it. ay/. Also, check out An Infinite “I very much try to capture the Number of Parallel Universes on voice of the character in each secAmazon, Indiebound or Barnes and tion. I try to look at the world and Noble. describe the world as to how that Logo by Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director character would see it.”

Chef and McDonald’s with their kiddie meal concept. Kids’ meals took over the fast-food marketplace and most, if not all, fast-food chains followed suit in this new kiddie craze.

Why are kids’ meals such a big deal? The sales of kids’ meals contribute a significant amount of revenue to all of these restaurants. Vanessa Wong, a writer for Bloomberg Business, said that ten percent of total sales at McDonald’s come from Happy Meals alone. Without kids’ meals, some of these fast-food restaurant chains might have gone under many years ago.

Why are kids’ meals in such high

demand? It has to be due to the toys inside, of course.

Whether it’s a Nerf squirt gun or a Monster Jam truck, the toy inside of the box is what brings in the sales. The toy is a marketing tool used by fast-food corporations to bring in customers.

Surprisingly, kids aren’t the only ones fascinated with these toys. There is an entire Facebook page devoted to kids’ meals toys, entitled “Happy Meal Toys.” With over 7,000 likes, the page has a large following of kids’ meal toy lovers who enjoy talking about their collections and the pieces that make them up. Some

Logo by Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director

Randy Ribay spreads quirkiness through his YA novel ■ By Ashley Cooper (‘17) Eastside Underground Editor

Quirkiness and eccentricity oozing from every fiber of his being, Randy Ribay identifies as a selfproclaimed “teacher and nerd.” On October 16, 2015, the Young Adult (YA) author published An Infinite Number of Parallel Universes and has no plans to stop writing anytime soon.

Ribay first became dedicated to writing in his college years. Through poetry, he was able to successfully express himself as a writer.

“In college I got together with a friend who also wanted to write, and we made a blog called the ‘Sieve and the Sand.’ We kind of forced each other to post one poem a day,” said Ribay.

Despite the fact that this blog hooked Ribay on the pursuit of writing, his future career as an author was not always a clear choice.

“I originally started college as an engineering major,” said Ribay.

While he did eventually switch majors to English Literature, Ribay was still only able to take one cre-

Decades of smiles thanks to kids’ meal toys ■ By Jared Fisch (‘18)

Eastside Underground Editor

Since the early seventies, children have needed their fast-food fix.

To entice children to come to their restaurants, many fast-food chains came up with an earth-shattering concept: kids’ meals.

In 1973, Burger Chef, a once renowned American fast-food restaurant chain, introduced a revolution to the industry: the first-ever kids’ meal, which was known as the “Funmeal.” Burger Chef’s kids’ meal was all-inclusive, even containing a toy.

The rise of McDonald’s took over the fast-food restaurant world and left Burger Chef running on empty.

Burger Chef would later sue McDonald’s for its unoriginal Happy Meal but promptly lost that lawsuit. Eventually, all of the chain’s restaurants were sold off in 1982, many of them becoming Hardee’s restaurants.

Many fast-food chains like Burger King and Wendy’s copied Burger

even use the page as an online market, buying and selling kids’ meal toys to add to their collections.

Matt March, the man who created the Facebook page, is the proud owner of a kids’ meal toy collection amassing to around 2,500 pieces.

“Technology [like phones and tablets] has caused kids to desire kids’ toys less,” said March. “There are still collectors, like myself, but the golden age of kids’ meal toys, [the ‘80s to early ‘00s], is gone.”

For collectors like March, it is a sad reality that kids’ meals and their toy counterparts are slowly dying. Technology is taking away the need for the toys, and health concerns are slowly bringing down the food inside the kids’ meal.

These kids’ meals might be a thing of the past in years to come, but the toys they leave behind will never be forgotten by the children who once enjoyed them so dearly.

Art by Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director

February/March 2016

UNDERGROUND EASTSIDE

Page 11

Moto 360 vs. Pebble Time: battle of the smartwatches of the smallest smartwatches, and screen is much easier to see in diit goes haywire. The Pebble Time is only measures 1.5 inches by 1.61 rect sunlight, which will appeal to definitely better for those who like Eastside Staff inches. Although this may seem users who spend lots of time outto swim while wearing a watch. about the same as the Moto 360, doors.

In terms of software, The Moto the Pebble Time’s actual screen is The Moto 360 takes two hours to 360 operates on the Android smartIn the past few years, smartmuch smaller than the full body of wirelessly charge, and it can last watch interface, whereas the Pebwatches have become the new the watch. for a day. The Pebble Time takes ble Time operates on its own unique fad. Differing from traAs far as screen size goes, the three hours to charge with a magPebble system. In terms of compatditional watches, smartMoto 360 has a nearly full circle netic cable and lasts for a week. ibility, the Moto 360 is obsolete, as watches can send messcreen with a surface area of The Moto 360’s screen is not conit is only compatible with Android sages, download apps and 1.56 inches; however, at the stantly on, and it will need to turn cell phones, while the Pebble Time take pictures. However, very bottom of the watch, on when it senses motion from the is compatible with Android and with so many expenthe screen cuts off, so it user’s wrist, but the Pebble Time is Apple cell phones. Only the Moto sive smartwatches can house a light sensor, always on whether you are looking 360 can send reminders to the user, on the market like which will automatically at it or not; the battery still lasts and while neither smartwatch can the Apple Watch, it adjust the brightness seven days. make phone calls, they both can is difficult to decide of the screen if enBoth the Moto 360 and Pebble alert the user of an incoming call to which smartwatch abled.Instead of a cirTime have voice control. However, his or her cell phone. Both smartis the right one to cular screen, the Pebble neither has speakers, so there are watches can download applications spend hard-earned Time has a rectangular and games, and money on. But what screen. The Moto 360 has their faces can about two relatively a touch screen, but unbe customized unknown smartlike most smartwatches, the and changed. watches? If the Motorola Pebble Time requires the use of Both watches Moto 360 First Generation buttons on the side to navigate. have a starting and the Pebble Time are Users may find the button inprice of around compared, which will come terface on 150 dollars. out on Purchasing top?

Courtesy of Droid Life the Pebble add-ons like I n i - The Moto 360 sports a sharp black wrist band. Time confusing, as new colors and tially, they are new straps may the bodused to the touch screens on their raise the price ies of the two smartwatches greatly smartphones, while others may on the Moto differ. The Moto 360 has a common, enjoy the buttons because they are 360, which can stainless steel build, while the Pebsimilar to traditional watches. exceed 200 dolble Time is cased in plastic steel.

In terms of resolution and graphlars.

The Moto 360 has more luster, but ics quality, the Moto 360 has 205 Overall, the some users may like the sturdy pixels per inch (ppi), while the PebPebble Time plastic build of the Pebble Time. ble Time has 180 ppi, making the would suit those On both smartwatches the default Pebble Time significantly more pixwho have an iPband can be swapped. The ability to elated than the Moto 360. Trans- Courtesy of Forbes hone but do not swap watch bands is great for users lated into English words, the Moto The Pebble Time closely resembles the Apple Watch. want to cough who like to change their style often.

360’s graphics look significantly up hundreds of The Moto 360 is approximately 1.6 better than the Pebble Time’s. Aldollars for an inches in diameter, one of the widthough the Moto 360 has higher no sound alerts like one would hear Apple Watch, or for people who just est smartwatches on the market. graphics quality, the Pebble Time’s from a cell phone. The Moto 360 is want a smartwatch for convenient The Pebble Time, however, is one more designed for fitness, as it has use and not all the fancy features a built-in heart monitor and step like touch screen. The Moto 360 is counter, while the Pebble Time has probably better for those who like neither. Both watches are water reto exercise and enjoy many special sistant; however, the Pebble Time features and like a stylish, shiny can be submerged in water up to watch. Both smartwatches hold 98 feet and remain fully functional, their share of pros and cons, but while the Moto 360 can only funcwhich one to purchase is ultimately tion three feet underwater for a a decision that is up to the prefermaximum of thirty minutes before ence of the buyer.

■ By Samuel Grossman (‘19)

Unknown Holidays

Everyone knows the “main” holidays such as Easter and Saint Patrick’s Day. However, most people have never heard of these unknown holidays:

March 1

March 1

National Pig Day

Peanut Butter Lover’s Day

March 3

If Pets Had Thumbs Day

March 10

Popcorn Lover’s Day

March 11

Worship of Tools Day

March 17

March 23

Submarine Day National Chip and Dip Day

March 25

Waffle Day

March 26

Make Up Your Own Holiday Day

March 27

National “Joe” Day

March 28 March 31

Something on a Stick Day Bunsen Burner Day

Make sure to celebrate at least one of these lesser known holidays during the month of March!

UNDERGROUND

Goodwill Hunting

Page 12

EASTSIDE

February/March 2016

February/March 2016

EASTSIDE

Page 13

Four members of the Eastside staff and editorial board went on a mission to the nearest Goodwill store on Route 70. With no more than 10 dollars in their pockets, they kept one goal in mind: to find the best possible deal. These are their stories...

■ By Luke Hinrichs (‘17)

Eastside Sports Editor

I journeyed down Route 70 with a single goal: to hunt for “diamonds in the rough” at the local Goodwill Store with a budget of 10 dollars. Optimistic about my prospects on the other side of the Goodwill welcome mat, the old saying, “one man’s Goodwill donation is another man’s treasure” ran through my mind. Although I was free to buy anything within the 10-dollar budget, I restricted myself to items that would likely be useless to the less fortunate and unemployed.

Initially, I was drawn to the electronics section (an aisle filled with the miscellaneous knickknacks), with hopes of finding something interesting and unique— perhaps even collectable. Instead, the section was made up of a sad-looking collection of unwanted toys that I remembered from my childhood, unfit for some-

one of my age. My spirits were lifted when I spotted a classic boom-box. A movie scene played out in my mind: standing under the bedroom window of the girl of my dreams, I’m lifting this dusty machine over my head, and the sentimental song booming from the box wins her heart… but it was 10 dollars over budget.

Undeterred, I realized it was time to expand my search and leave the electronics section of the store.

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare caught my eye due to its impressive size and scope, but I left it behind. There was little opportunity for me to read Shakespeare in my non-existent spare time, and I did not want to appear pretentious. I put the book down and made my way to the abundant clothing racks.

I was encouraged by a sign that read “one T-shirt for 1.99” and was not disappointed. Here, I found irresistible deals. Goodwill makes it easy to look through items by organizing the clothing racks by color. This organization is truly impressive and creates a cared-for atmosphere. I dove into the first rack of clothing and was surprised to find a “vintage” 2005 Cherry Hill East

graduating class T-shirt with the phrase “Sexy since 1987-1988” inscribed on it. I felt as though I had found a treasure at last. I gripped the shirt and kept moving.

I continued to search through the first rack when I caught a glimpse of a Sixers logo; it was a team jersey in passable condition. Upon further investigation, I found my second buy of the day, a Glenn Robinson Sixers jersey. Robinson no longer plays for the Sixers, but when tailgate season comes along, I will happily wear it.

With six dollars left to spend, I continued through the green clothing section with little expectation of discovering more finds. But, much to my surprise, I spotted two worn-out Eagles jerseys that had seen better days.

I did not feel inclined to buy both, so I had to make a decision: should I buy the jersey of Michael Vick (an athlete with a questionable past) or the jersey of David Akers (an accomplished kicker)? It was a hard decision; Vick showed promise early in his career, but Akers had been unrightfully traded away. After spending some time weighing the choices, I made the decision to show

Akers some love even though the youth large jersey is extremely small on me, and that’s an understatement.

I had finished picking through the racks of clothes, and a portion of my 10 dollars was still intact. I decided to double back down the aisle one last time just to make sure I did not overlook any hidden treasures. As I made my way back to my starting point, a sleeve seemed to reach out to me. Fate had intervened, and out of the rack, I pulled a hockey jersey of a team called “Prestige Worldwide.” I recognized this name; it was the name of none other than the company formed by the characters Dale and Brennan in the hilarious film Step Brothers.

The possibility, no matter how small, that the shirt was a piece of original movie merchandise made it a mustbuy.

With that final find, I was out of money, and my journey was nearing its end. Accomplished and triumphant, I made my way to the register to pay for my uncovered treasures. I walked in to Goodwill as just a teen with 10 dollars; I walked out a conquering champion with a couple of jerseys and a shirt.

Emelia Keller (‘17)/ Eastside Photo Editor

■ By Jared Fisch (‘18) Eastside Underground Editor

“Goodwill appears to be an unlikely place to find any sort of treasure.”

If your views of Goodwill follow the last sentence, you’ve got it all wrong. Goodwill is a nonprofit organization that sells primarily used goods to the consumer for extremely cheap prices.

On a sunny yet cold day, I went to Goodwill to see what treasures I could find.

I rummaged through some old video games, Tshirts, speakers and cameras. The list could go on and on. The inventory at Goodwill was superb, making it hard for me to narrow down my choices, considering I only had 10 dollars to spend, which can go a long way at Goodwill.

Eventually, I came across a dartboard,

which is essential for the average man years, so I decided to update my Tony cave. The box of the Halex Alpha DartHawk collection with this three-dollar board was not in the best condition, game.

Surprisingly, but the dartboard itself was. AlTony Hawk’s Underthough the dartboard did not come ground can be found on with darts or batteries, I was able Amazon for a whopping to grab it for a slim four dollars.

45 dollars. So, apparI later found the same dartboard ently, I saved 42 bucks on eBay for 25 dollars. That put on a 13-year- old video me at ease, knowing that I had game—not too shabby. saved 21 dollars and could The second game use that savings to purI came across was chase darts and batStuntman. I had nevteries. er heard of this game I had six dolbefore, so I decided lars left, so I to take a look on the made my way back cover, and I was over to the immediately interestvideo game seced. In the game, you tion and imare a stuntman, and mediately had you get to drive cars my eyes on a and blow up stuff; who few PlayStawouldn’t enjoy that? I tion 2 games. found the 14-year-old Although the game on Amazon for seletion of 14 dollars, but I only games was spent three at Goodsomewhat will, saving me 11 big weak, Goodones. will provided Clearly, Goodwill a range of is the way to go. If games from you are tight on cash NCAA Football to Tiger or just enjoy saving Woods PGA Tour 2002. First, money, take a trip I spotted Tony Hawk’s Underdown to your local ground. I own Tony Hawk’s Pro Goodwill; you never Jared Fisch (‘18)/ Eastside Skater 4 for the PlayStation 2 know what treasures Underground Editor and have enjoyed it for many you may find.

■ By Bethelly Jean-Louis (‘17) Eastside Staff

On a typical school night, I am usually home on my laptop doing homework. However, this time, I decided to switch it up. I never imagined I would be walking into a Goodwill

store, but I did. I was shocked to see the items, stacked upon the shelves, at such ridiculously low prices. From the clothing to the home appliances, board games, s h o e s , bridal gowns and furniture, I was simply in awe. I like a good bargain, and Goodwill had plenty of those to offer.

I found an iHome speaker/alarm clock for 10 dollars at Goodwill. I had to check the price tag twice to make sure my eyes weren’t deceiving me. Usually, iHome products can range from

20 dollars to 100 hundred dollars; this specific iHome speaker/alarm clock is typically sold for 80 dollars. The alarm clock/speaker certainly was not in perfect condition, but it was not worn out either.

I have to admit, I was a little skeptical that I would not find anything in the store. However, when walking into Goodwill, I realized that I had underrated the thrift shop. My visit proved to me that anybody can walk out of the store with a t r u l y amazing purchase.

I was q u i t e happy with my Goodwill purchase.

M y opinions about the store h a v e c o m pletely changed since my Wednesday night visit; I walked in thinking that I was just going to find some random knickknacks, but I walked out with a decent speaker. I don’t think this will be my last time visiting Goodwill.

Photo by Emelia Keller (‘17)/ Eastside Photo Editor

■ By Jacob Borowsky (‘16)

Eastside Editor-in-Chief

Thrift stores are sort of like amusement parks for hoarders; or, for some, a great place to buy quality used clothing for pennies on the dollar. Personally, I love thrift stores for this exact reason. This is why, when assigned the task of finding the best thrift items I could, using only 10 dollars, I felt I had a difficult task ahead; on a normal thrift run, I can spend double or triple that.

Yet, unlike my other thrift experiences, the selection available to me at Goodwill seemed limited. The interior of the store gave off a sad, ominous vibe, as if the items inside wanted to be there even less than the employees working in the nearly empty building.

Still, I journeyed on, determined to give Goodwill my 10 dollars one way or another.

This diligence proved worth it after I found my first item—a massive piñata in the style of a tequila bottle— for only 3.99 dollars.

“When are you ever going to use a piñata?” you might wonder; well, I will have to get back to you on that. But regardless, I deemed my first of three items a majorly successful find.

Next, I returned to the front of the store, where I first came across a selection of wool scarves. These scarves looked nothing like my grandmother’s; though they were probably made with less love than gramgram’s, they were certainly far more comfortable. A fairly stylish red one with the emblem and name of German soccer club FC Bayern München stuck out to me as the most fashionable

one there. Though the scarf cost only 2.99 dollars, the purchase came at a much bigger cost: I will now have to pay attention to German soccer. Luckily, I picked a world class team.

With just over three dollars left to spend, I walked over to the video game and movie section to make what I knew would likely be my final purchase. With few worthwhile DVDs to pick from, and even fewer Xbox 360 games (but plenty of original Xbox and PS2 games), my options were very limited. Still, I persisted in my search, skimming through the 17 different copies of “Tiger Woods PGA Tour 2002” and finally happening upon a game I had actually been looking to buy: MLB 2K11. Not only does the game work with my console, but it even also features one of my favorite athletes ever on the cover–former Phillies pitcher Roy Halladay. It was definitely a steal, as for only 2.99 dollars, I could pretend that my Phillies were good again.

It was here that my journey ended, having bought three items I was quite satisfied with for only 9.97 dollars. Checking out, I remembered the words of Theodor Herzl–“If you will it, it is no dream”–a reminder that a little persistence goes a long way toward achieving one’s dreams. In this case, my dream was a piñata, a video game and a scarf for under 10 dollars. I guess I just have some weird dreams.

Photo by Jacob Borowsky (‘16)/ Eastside Editor-in-Chief

Who do you think got the best deal?

Go to Eastside’s Twitter and vote NOW!

Scan this QR Code to read two more Goodwill Hunting stories!

EDITORIAL

Page 14

EASTSIDE

Editorials represent the views and opinions of the Eastside Editorial Board.

Elimination of R track is detrimental to students Since Regular-level classes are being removed from different courses, over a multi-year time period, Eastside is concerned that perhaps Central Administration plans to remove all R-level classes from East’s curriculum. As of now, students’ option to enroll in R-level classes has already been removed from the History and Science Departments.

According to East Principal Dr. Lawyer Chapman, after exploring other schools’ class structures, Administration believed many of the more “successful” schools were moving towards only offering Honors and Accelerated-level classes.

“Some of us feel, including me, that school should be a stretch. It should not be just in your comfort zone... School is a full-time job for students. That’s all they do, that’s all they’re supposed to do. So they have a lot of time. And if it is [too much of] a stretch, then you seek help.”

Despite administrative concerns, R-level classes do not have to be removed for a school to earn success. According to U.S. News & World Report, Millburn High School is ranked as the fourteenth best school in New Jersey, and it was also named one of U.S. News’ Best High Schools, earning a “gold” ranking. East earned a silver ranking. In Newsweek’s 2015 “America’s Top Schools,” Millburn placed as the thirteenth best high school in the nation out of 22,000 schools. East was ranked number 85. Millburn offers four course levels for English, science, social studies and mathematics. It certainly qualifies as a “successful’ school despite offering its students a wider variety of course levels to take.

The removal of R-level not only deprives students of an environment more conducive to their success, but also carries ramifications to students and teachers in higher level courses. In classes where the change has already been implemented, specifically biology, negative effects have already been felt.

Last year, Eastside ran a story on East’s continually rising biology state test scores, which were some of the highest in our state category.

Yet, in the 2014-2015 school year, with only A I walk through the student entrance of Cherry Hill High School East at 7:00 a.m. Much to my delight, it’s Eastside day! I buy a coffee, walk into an office and look at the front page that reads “IT’S ALL TOO MUCH.” I then go on to read several articles about how stress impacts students at East, including one that implicates institutional stress as the cause for cheating. The article reads, “…the competitive and intense nature that East provides for students does not necessarily breed academic honesty. It in fact appears to be producing just the opposite effect on students.” I ask that we leave our shallow understandings behind and explore the deep end of this metaphorical pool of stress.

Stress is normal. Stress

and Honors-level classes available, East’s average score plummeted seven percentage points.

R-level classes teach the same general, required curriculum material as their Accelerated, Honors and Advanced Placement counterparts.

In this case, R is an abbreviated form of regular, not remedial. R-level classes are categorized as standard level. It does not make sense to eliminate courses that are intended for students who prefer to take standard level classes. These courses simply take a less accelerated pace to teach the same material in a different way in order to better accommodate students’ ability levels.

R-level students do not have substandard intelligence or below average potential. A-level courses should not be treated as the standard, as this would force R-level students to move up to a differently structured, faster-paced learning environment.

Seeing as many students have dropped from A to R-level classes, it is evident that not all students are capable of, or comfortable with, handling the work and material of A-level classes.

Taking away their ability to move down a tier and forcing students in R-level to move up will serve as a detriment to them.

Additionally, this action will prove problematic to students and teachers in A, and possibly Honors and AP-level classes. A-level courses are very diverse in comfort and ability level.

Some students are closer to the Honors level, some are closer to the R level and some lie in between. Incorporating a large number of R-level students into A-level classes would create an even wider disparity in students’ ability levels in the same courses. A potential result of this outcome could see many high performing A-level students moving up to Honors, which is intended for a smaller percentage of students.

Another factor is that this decision appears to be image and reputation based. Many nearby schools offer a diverse course load variation. For example, after consulting websites of 19 nearby schools, Eastside determined that 12 of them offered at least three course load options for all core

happens to each one of your cells every minute of every day. Stress is a physiological response to an external factor (stressor) that attempts to alter a cell, tissue or organ from the normal homeostatic condition. Over time, cells have evolved many coping mechanisms— intricate mechanisms to deal with this stress. These mechanisms, which result from an acutely complex relationship between the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system, collectively called the autonomic nervous system, are involuntary. This means that we cannot control these responses. They are cellular physiological responses that follow all laws of science. Evolution has worked to select for those nervous responses that are

Letter to the Editor most successful (survival and reproduction, etc.).

One of these reactions is the fight or flight response.

This involuntary nervous response has been integral in the success of the human species. But what does this have to do with stress at East? What does this have to do with cheating?

Involuntary stress responses, or coping mechanisms, must follow the laws of nature—physics, chemistry, biology, etc. Thus, science is the judge of involuntary coping mechanisms and the reason why our autonomic nervous system reacts in the way that it does.

However, granted that free will exists, voluntary stress seems to be missing a judge.

I argue that as nature is the judge of involuntary actions, so there must be a judge for how voluntary

February/March 2016

Cherry Hill High School East

subjects. Howev1750 Kresson Road er, seeing as East Cherry Hill, NJ 08003 ranks very highly, Phone: (856) 424-2222, it makes sense for ext. the Administration 2087 to want to mainFax: (856) 424-3509 tain this ranking in comparison Eastside Online with other highhttp://www. performing schools eastside-online.org in the area. Haddonfield Memorial High School offers Publisher three levels for Fort Nassau Graphics math and English, Thorofare, NJ neither of which are R- level or ConLetters to the cept-level courses.

Editor From an evaluative perspective, Submit signed letters to it seems that AdF087 ministration is following the trend of other high-ranking schools by taking Haddonfield’s approach, as it has already eliminated its R-level math and English courses.

This decision to eliminate R-level classes is an unjust and misguided mistake. Administration should not enact a policy that improves apparent reputation at the detriment of its students’ wellbeing. The idea that students in R-level classes are not adequately prepared for further education is a misconception. Like any other level, R aims to prepare students for college by providing them with the knowledge they need in the form best suitable to their learning. All students’ academic comfort, success and development should not be sacrificed in order to preserve or attain a ranking.

If Administration truly cares about what is best for the students whose education it has sworn to oversee, Cherry Hill East and West should enact policies that are contributory to their success, not their detriment.

stressors are managed. This judge must be ethics. The laws of ethics, however, are much more subjective than the laws of nature.

There is no equation for integrity or honesty. For example, you cannot beat gravity, but you can make immoral decisions. So you, the student, must be your own judge. But remember, evolution is still working.

Stress does not stop. If anything, the amount of stress (environmental pressure) will increase dramatically when you leave this place and will increase even more throughout your lives as you accumulate more responsibilities. As the number of stressors increases and as you continue to break the laws of ethics, just remember that those behaviors are being selected against. And while biological evolution

selects against traits via biological success—survival and reproduction—ethical evolution will select against unethical behavior via moral success—happiness.

So what is a student to do? What modes of coping will ethical evolution select for? I argue that you should choose the one that raises your self-esteem. Choose the one that makes you most happy. Choose the one that your parents would be proud of. And if, for whatever reason, you don’t do well on a test or you forget to do your homework one time, it’s OK. Your moral success will outweigh those small, minute mistakes over time.

You will still be successful.

You will still be loved. You will still be happy.

Managing Editor: Kaitlyn Boyle Online Editor-in-Chief: Sonia Kim Editors-in-Chief: Jacob Borowsky, Julia Rothkoff, Liza Rothkoff 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

Underground Editors Ashley Cooper Jared Fisch

Opinions Editors Shari Boiskin Matt Nussbaum Hope Rosenblatt

- Mr. Nicholas Wright East Biology Department

Photo Editors Rachel Becker Emelia Keller

Art Directors Tammy Stahl Sydney Steele

Video Editor Madeline Bowne

Webmaster Gabriella Friedman

Entertainment Editors Allison Grossman Leah Korn

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: tammy. stahl@ eastside-online.org.

Editorial Assistants (Note: There is a dash Alon Goldfinger between “eastside” Drew Hoffman and “online”) Josh Sodicoff

February/March 2016

OPINIONS EASTSIDE

A faulty experiment: new science curriculum fails students

■ By Matt Nussbaum (‘16)

Eastside Opinions Editor

As eager Cherry Hill eighth-graders begin to fill out their course selection sheets for the next step in their educational experience, there is one glaring omission under the “Science” category.

For the upcoming school year, the Cherry Hill Public School District has decided to remove Quantitative Physical Science H (QPS) and Conceptual Physical Science A (CPS) from the curriculum at Cherry Hill High Schools East and West.

This change will make it so that incoming freshmen will take biology, then moving on to chemistry, physics or any of the other courses the science department has to offer.

The decision to remove QPS and CPS from the curriculum is one that will undoubtedly hurt the students more than anyone. The change is coming in order to better align the curriculum with New Jersey science requirements; however, the unnecessary change actually hurts the average Cherry Hill student.

“The idea is to utilize information and not just learn it,” said Ms. Katie Boyle, an East Biology teacher in regards to the New Jersey science standards.

The new curriculum does not allow for that utilization to happen because students will need more class time to learn material.

QPS and CPS were classes that allowed for

freshmen to gain a solid The main issue is that, ence courses. Not many base of the basic chemdue to the standards, Biclasses provide the rigor istry and physics princiology is changing its curthat is provided by AP ples that they would need riculum, and on top of that, Chemistry. However, the for their future courses. the district has decided to new curriculum poses a They also acted as a make it a freshman class. threat to the success of “shock” for students that The double-whammy of AP Chemistry students. had previously breezed new curriculum and a new “The concern is at the AP t h r o u g h middle school pool of students will most level. Students have most sciences. likely lead to a rocky first of their time now dedicated T h e elimination year for many freshmen and to classroom knowledge beof QPS and a rocky year cause of their background CPS means in QPS and the elimiChemistry nation of H,” said Mrs. a year of Susanne building Casey, a successful chemistry science and former s t u d y QPS teacher. habits East canand a not expect year of to maintain gathits high ering level of sucbasic cess at the y e t AP Chemcritical istry and scientifAP Physics ic knowllevels withe d g e . out providT h e ing stuobvious dents with biggest hit the basic will be knowledge on the were Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director they Biolo- East students are becoming the guinea pigs of a new experi- given in gy De- ment within the Science curriculum.

QPS. Teachparters will ment, now have which will need to craft for the Biology Department. to cover this informaa new curriculum based The buffer and shock of tion in their Chemistry on the fact that students QPS and CPS is no longer 1 and Physics 1 courses. enrolled in biology will there, and the district is not Students will be unno longer have the preplacing that responsibilprepared for biology and vious experience of a ity on eighth-grade science. have no basic knowledge high school science class.

Not only will the impact of physics and chemis“Biology is a demanding be felt in the biology classtry going into the first course and students will rooms, but also in the chemlevel of those courses. need to prepare,” Boyle istry and physics classrooms.

But despite all of that, said. “We have a committee East prides itself on the school district really rewriting the curriculum in its high level of studenthas the students best inpreparation for next year.” learning, especially in sciterests at heart, right?

Disney World measures take safety too far ■ By Brandon Weinberg (‘16) Eastside Staff

Walt Disney World has always been known as the “Happiest Place On Earth.”

Millions of people, ranging from young children to senior citizens, flock to Orlando, Florida, every year to experience this place for themselves—a place that saw some major changes this past December.

According to the New York Daily News, Disney World has installed various metal detectors at park entrances, prohibited toy guns from being brought into the parks, seized the selling of toy guns within the parks and banned everyone over the age of 14 from wearing costumes starting in December.

As for the metal detectors, they are a necessity for Disney World to have.

Everyone that enters the parks needs to feel safe at all times, and having a more heightened security presence at the front gates will help promote that.

Also, over the past year, there has been so much gun violence throughout the world. Disney World, a place that sees thousands of people enter its gates each day, could be viewed as a prime target for someone to attempt something horrible. This possibility

was seen about a so many activities to go to character, regardweek before while at Disney World? less of age, these poliHowever, banthat person cies were ning everyone should be made, over the age able to when of 14 from do that a man wearwithw a s ing a o u t caught cosany int r y tume terfer ing to ence. bring a I f gun into people go Disney’s through Magic Kingthe metal dom Park. He detectors with claimed that he no problems and do purely forgot the not pose any sort of gun in his bag, immediate threat, but it was found they should defithat his gun linitely be allowed cense had exto wear Disneypired in 2005. related costumes.

According Whether it is a to The Guardteenage girl wantian, if anyone ing to be like Cinhas a toy gun derella or a grown in the parks, man wanting to people could feel dress up as Jack Sparvery threatened, row, everyone should and that is not what have the right to dress Disney wants to have up in a costume when happen. In today’s world, going to Disney World. gun control is a massive isDespite the controversy sue, and that could these Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director s u r r o u n d new pol- Security guards now have to take the fun out of Disney World these new icies will due to the park’s new regulations. policies, ensure they will that Disnot preney World is a totally gunis absurd. Children and vent Disney World from free environment. Besides, adults of all ages adore Dismaintaining its status as why would anyone want to ney’s iconic characters, and one of the most successwaste time playing with toy if someone wants to dress ful theme parks in the guns when he or she has up as his or her favorite world for years to come.

Page 15

Euthanasia: murder or moral?

■ By Steve Mirsen (‘16)

Eastside Multimedia Director

Euthanasia: “the act or practice of killing or permitting the death of hopelessly sick or injured individuals in a relatively painless way for reasons of mercy.”

Euthanasia is one of today’s most hotly debated topics.

In theory, euthanization is a last resort taken only when death is already inevitable. In real life, however, the circumstances are rarely so black and white.

Proponents argue that euthanasia provides a welcomed end to suffering. It is a painless means of ending a life, and in humans’ case, is usually voluntary.

Opponents say a physician’s job is to increase patients’ comfort and improve life, not take it.

In non-human cases, many advocates for animal rights argue that the reasons for euthanasia, for example, opening space in shelters, are not acceptable reasons for ending animal lives.

Despite the arguments against its morality and merits, euthanasia is undoubtedly justifiable.

By ending the suffering of someone who is already dying, euthanasia does individuals and their families good, not harm.

In the case of domestic animals, whom many also view as family members, the decision belongs to owners. As long as the animals are euthanized legally by a medical professional who has given true and understandable advice and counsel, it is no different than a family’s choice to “pull the plug,” for someone on life support. This is also voluntary, as the sufferer either indicates this desire in a living will, or otherwise communicates his or her wishes to his or her family, who should have more say in their loved one’s life than a regulating government.

Arguments against euthanasia are often based on isolated incidents instead of common practice.

For example, doctors marooned by Hurricane Katrina’s floodwaters in New Orleans’ Memorial Medical Center came under fire for lethally injecting over 12 patients. However, this occurred under exigent circumstances; the hospital had lost power, running water, and the building’s interior temperatures had exceeded 100 degrees.Nevertheless, the doctors and nurses involved were arrested for murder for their questionable choices.

This particular incident does not represent the practice as a whole. Laws and limits which outline what is and is not acceptable prevent potential harms while preserving the practice’s overall benefits.

Euthanasia is an overall beneficial act motivated by morality. The practice being outlawed causes more suffering than it prevents.

OPINIONS

Page 16

EASTSIDE

Hallmark Holidays promote non-traditional celebrations minder that everyone deserves to be praised and everyone deserves a chance to celebrate even without traThe traditional holiday ditional or historical reason season comes to an end for behind it. most people in January.

Some may argue that However, no one has to days such as Mother’s Day wait long for a different and Father’s Day are type of holiday season to unnecessary due to make an appearance in the fact that parents not only houses of worshould be celebrated ship, but also on televievery day. However, sion, social media and, realistically, people are of course, on greeting busy and having a specards. cific day that reminds Hallmark, the largone to do a little extra est manufacturer of for the people around greeting cards in the them is helpful. As for United States, is a prithe commercialization vately owned company of these holidays by that has been around Hallmark and other for over 100 years. outlets, holidays canDue to its immense not simply be created success in the greeting by one corporation; it card industry, Hallmark stems from what the creates many prominent people want. In fact, greeting cards for holimost holidays, not just days such as Valentine’s “Hallmark Holidays,” Day, Mother’s Day and are widely commerFather’s Day. The term Rachel Becker (‘16)/ Eastside Photo Editor cialized too.

“Hallmark Holidays” is Hallmark sells many types of cards for Valentine’s Day and other So whether or not usually used in a derog- non-traditional holidays. one considers them atory sense, referring real holidays, days of to a holiday purposely celebration including made up for commercial “Hallmark Holidays” purposes with no historical many still choose to conafter numerous holidays give reason to show love or traditional value. sider them legitimate and and causes for celebration, and kindness just because Hallmark recognizes this worthy holidays. Just beso a holiday like Valentine’s one can, which in the end phenomenon on its website cause schools are not canfollowing in the next month is even more important in a statement which clearcelled and there is no event could be valuable. than only showing love and ly reads, “Hallmark doesn’t behind them does not make Hallmark Holidays give kindness for the purpose invent holidays.” More midays like Valentine’s Day people something to look of historical or traditional nor holidays also referred any less meaningful. forward to and are a rereasoning.

■ By Hope Rosenblatt (‘18)

Eastside Opinions Editor

to as “Hallmark Holidays” are Sweetest Day, Boss’s Day and Secretary’s Day. While many choose to ignore these days of celebration out of protest of the immense commercialization involved within them,

In fact, an entire day dedicated toward the celebration of love could quite possibly be the most important holiday of the year.

January is often the most dreaded month of the year due to the fact that it comes

Zoos create a harsh environment for animals ■ By Eugene Kim (‘18) For Eastside

Humans have been fascinated by wild, exotic animals for centuries. Back as early as the early thirteenth century, King Henry III would reveal his small collection of royal animals to the public for a small admission fee.

Today, the thriving zoo industry is generating an increasingly large profit from its tens of millions of annual visitors.

Zoos take a portion of their profit and contribute to conservation groups and organizations that work for the welfare of animals in the wild.

In addition, researchers at zoos conduct lots of research that enables them to come up with medicines and treatments that increase animal health.

But if all of this is true about zoos, then why are animal welfare organizations around the world condemning this common attraction?

Zoos are educational; they raise awareness about endangered species and environmental issues.

“Our research on behavior, reproductive biology, nutrition, animal health and genetics is valuable to wildlife managers, field researchers and other scientists,” a statement on the St. Louis Zoo’s website said.

Visitors can be emotionally impacted and convinced to help animals in the wild after having firsthand ex-

periences with animals in zoos. However, rather than capturing and confining animals at a zoo, working on making efforts to reduce and eliminate the causes of animal endangerment is a more direct and logical method of helping the conservation of wild animals.

Habitat destruction, introduction of non-native species, pollution and overconsumption of natural resources are all humanly induced sources of animal p o p u l a t i o n deterioration.

Animals h e l d c a p tive in zoos far from their natural habitat often suffer from a condition called “zoochosis,” a t e r m coined in 1992 by former screenwriter, director and animal rights activist Bill Travers.

Travers filmed a documentary exposing the symptoms of zoochosis which include pacing, bar-biting, body twisting, head-bobbing, swaying, rocking, overgrooming, self-mutilation, regurgitating and coprophilia/coprophagia (unnatural activity involving feces).

Some members of the scientific community believe it comes from brain damage caused by stress of living in an enclosed, extrinsic environment and

others think it is a coping mechanism for surviving in such surroundings.

Animals like lions and elephants can have difficulty adjusting to zoo habitats that are as small as one millionth of their natural ranges.

Oxford University scientists Ros Clubb and Georgia Mason said that in general, “elephants in European zoos are unhealthy, endure stress and have significantly shorter lifespans than wild elephants.” In this study, small groups of elephants within zoos were not able to have natural family structures or normal social relationships, which contributed to lethargy and obesity.

National Geographic reported that animals t h a t lived in zoo captivity had a l a c k of natural instincts and social skills which led to their dissolution. Finding mates, competing with rivals, escaping from predators and capturing prey did not come easily to most of the zoo-raised animals.

The Costa Rican government, globally known for its active conservation and biodiversity policies, is fighting to shut down some of its public zoos. Five hundred animals would be released into the wild or rehabilitative rescue centers.

“We are getting rid of the

cages and reinforcing the idea of interacting with biodiversity in botanical parks in a natural way,” said Environment Minister René Castro in a press conference.

Rehabilitative rescue centers prepare animals to be reinstated into their natural habitats; when they are ready to commingle with the rest of their species, they are released with a much greater chance of survival than if they had been released from a zoo.

In the animated movie, Madagascar, Marty the zebra offers viewers a comical yet believable take on an animal’s perspective of zoos in comparison to their natural habitats.

Listless from zoo life, Marty devises a plan to escape and visit the grasslands and savanna woodlands in Africa.

The entire time, he dreams about living with all of his other zebra friends in a vast, exciting environment. This mindset is bound to be prevalent among many other zoo animals.

The world should follow Costa Rica’s example in initiating the cessation of zoos

and the rehabilitation of animals into their rightful homes.

Art by Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director

February/March 2016

This issue’s topic is on the new Netflix series, “Making a Murderer,” and Steven Avery’s verdict.

Guilty

■ By Shira Resnick (‘17) Eastside Staff

The Netflix documentary series “Making a Murderer” centers on a man named Steven Avery who was released from prison for a wrongful assault conviction in 1985, but then later arrested for the murder of photographer Teresa Halbach. The question presented in the series is whether he is guilty or wrongfully accused.

The documentary presents many compelling arguments that strongly suggest Avery’s innocence. However, after reading articles about the trial and hearing from the “other side,” including the prosecutor and Avery’s former fiancée, it is clear that many evidentiary issues supporting a conviction were omitted from the documentary. Disregarding his shady past behavior, the facts and evidence of Halbach’s death clearly prove Avery’s guilt. No innocent person stalks a young photographer by calling her through a concealed phone number. No innocent person has a dead girl’s DNA on a bullet from his gun and his DNA on her car. No innocent person has a dead girl’s belongings in his fire pit. No innocent person has a murdered girl’s charred body in his burn-pit. Without a doubt, Steven Avery is guilty.

Innocent

■ By Sebastian Duva (‘16) Eastside Staff

If you have seen “Making a Murderer” on Netflix, you have seen the story of Steven Avery, a Wisconsin man who was falsely convinced of rape and then released after 18 years. Avery was in trouble again with the law after the murder of 25year-old Theresa Halbach.

Avery was sentenced to life in prison, but there are holes in the testimony that I believe could lead to Avery’s innocence. First, Avery had no clear motive. What would lead him to brutally rape and kill a woman in the middle of a 36-milliondollar settlement case, after being wrongly accused and convicted of rape? Also, Avery’s nephew and Avery’s brother-in-law had conflicting alibis about Theresa Halbach’s time on the Avery property, and Avery’s nephew had scratches on his back from “a puppy” when questioned. However, it is also not conceivable that the Manitowoc County Sheriff’s office framed Avery to avoid paying the settlement. Therefore, Steven Avery is undeniably innocent.

OPINIONS

February/March 2016

EASTSIDE

Page 17

“One nation under God” is not democratic ■ By Shari Boiskin (‘17)

Eastside Opinions Editor

In the first amendment of the United States Constitution, it reads: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.”

According to this phrase, there must be a separation of church and state. The two must remain like water and oil; they can both be present, but they must not mix. If this statement is true, then it does not make sense that there are at least 68 different references to God in the United States code, including the Pledge of Allegiance, which is said in every public school every school day.

The original text of the Pledge of Allegiance read, “I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic for which it stands, one nation indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

In 1942, it was recognized by the United States government, and in 1954, President Dwight Eisenhower asked Congress to add the phrase “under God” to the pledge. Congress complied. The Pledge of Allegiance was written in 1892 by Minister Francis Bellamy. If a minister, a man of God, did not find it necessary to include God in this statement of pure patriotism, then why is it found necessary today?

The first major court case about the Pledge was filed

by Michael Newdow and began in 1998. It reached the Supreme Court as Elk

Grove Unified School District v. Newdow (2004) and was dismissed due to a technicality, although in the Ninth Appeals Court, the judge decided that saying

saying “under God” violates the children’s right to be “free from a coercive requirement to affirm God.” The most recent court case filed against the Pledge

saying that the words “under God” are not religious, but merely patriotic.

In an interview in November 2003 with American Jurist, Newdow, plain-

Rachel Becker (‘16)/ Eastside Photo Director

Another reference to God in the U.S. government is printed on the one-dollar bill, which states, “In God we trust.” “under God” in the Pledge is an unconstitutional “endorsement of religion.”

In September 2005, the recitation of the Pledge was ruled unconstitutional by U.S. District Judge Lawrence Karlton, from Sacramento, California.

He said that

of Allegiance was in 2014 in Massachusetts. The court ruled in favor of the Pledge,

tiff in the Elk Grove Unified School District v. Newdow and in Newdow v. U.S. Congress cases, said, “We have a democratic process, and the majority should do whatever it wants. But when we're talking about fundamental

“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

constitutional rights, we're in a different ballgame. In those situations, it doesn't matter what the majority wants...If the majority wants to have the government implicating a religious belief, too bad. You can't do it. [Our Constitution] doesn't allow you to.”

Newdow is correct. In a democracy, it is important for the majority opinion to be expressed. However, the Constitution sets boundaries for how these opinions can be expressed and how they can play out in United States legislature.

The Constitution clearly states that the government has no role in meddling with religion, so there is no reason for the words “under God” to be considered constitutional, if they are part of a mantra required in every public school in the country.

The Constitution does not want the government to be incriminating of religion, but rather neutral. The Pledge of Allegiance enforces a monotheistic religious view. The words “under God” have no real reason of being a part of the pledge.

A belief in God is not necessary to be a good American citizen and patriot.

To remain a democracy, the United States must maintain a separation between church and state.

The Pledge of Allegiance is a good place to start. Taking out the words “under God” from the pledge would not at all detract from the meaning of the statement; it would make it more welcoming and constitutional for all.

The Confederate flag: a symbol of racism ■ By Gregory Rothkoff (‘19) Eastside Staff

More than half a year after a massacre of nine people caused by racism in Charleston, South Carolina, there is still wide debate over whether or not the Confederate flag is racist. To understand the racist history of the flag, one has to go back to its beginnings.

One hundred fifty years ago, Abraham Lincoln was elected president in November of 1860.

One of Lincoln’s primary goals was to end slavery in the United States. By February of 1861, 11 states that were previously part of the Union created the Confederate States of America.

The Confederate States wanted a peaceful break-up from the Union, but the United States did not comply. This led to the firing of Fort Sumter on April 12, 1861, which marked the beginning of the Civil War. The war would last four years, ending in the spring of 1865.

It is worth noting that the Confederates went through three different flags during their four-year span, although none of them were the Confederate flag that is at the center of controversy today. The first flag created was actually called the Stars and Bars, which very closely resembled the Union’s flag, and it left soldiers confused on the smoke-filled battlefields.

The flag we know today was actually the flag of Robert E. Lee’s army.

This flag was first created as a symbol to all of the fallen soldiers during the

war.

Although the flag only had good intentions, it is undeniably intertwined with the Confederate government that wanted slavery to stay and ultimately a racist history to prevail.

The South Carolina massacre in 2015 was carried out by 21-year-old Dylan Roof, who was a member of a white supremacist group represented by the Confederate battle flag. The idea of hate and old values were what drove Roof to kill nine African Americans attending a bible study on June 17, 2015. Groups, just like the one Roof was a part of, still exist and carry on the same racist values as the Confederates.

The flag was finally taken down in front of the South Carolina capitol building on July 10, 2015.

"We're a state that believes in tradition. We're a state that believes

in history. We're a state that believes in respect, so we will bring it down with dignity, and we will make sure that it is put in its rightful place,” said South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley before signing the bill to take the Confederate flag down.

This move was a huge step in the racial gap that is still present in today’s modern society.

For many in the South, the Confederate battle flag is a symbol of heritage and history. They feel that putting up the flag is not a symbol of racism, but rather a symbol of unity and respect for the people who fought.

Others who are for the flag believe that the Confederates had good intentions and just wanted the government to stay the same way as it was when it was first founded. Though that may be true, democracy cannot thrive in a state where people are bought and sold as property.

The United States has developed new values which have kicked out old Confederate values. The Confederate flag represents inequality that is paramount to tradition, and it will forever be a symbol of racism.

Art by Lia Yamamoto (‘17)/ Eastside Staff

Other controversial flags: The Rising Sun flag, Japan - This

flag was typically equated with World War II and the Nazis. It was especially controversial because of Japanese atrocities like the Rape of Nanking; the imperialist Japanese flag is no longer flown.

Rainbow flag

This flag is a symbol of the LGBTQ community, designed in 1978 in San Francisco. The flag is still being banned in cities worldwide.

Apartheid South Africa flag- A sym-

bol of South Africa’s racist past, this flag is used by white supremacists around the

world.

Page 18

COMICS

The Wait For Snow by Lily Berrios (‘18)/ For Eastside

EASTSIDE

February/March 2016

Effects of QPS at East by Kevin Chen (‘17)/ Eastside Staff

Buried in Work by Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director

Love drawing comics? Interested in illustration? Find yourself doodling during class? Do you want to see your artwork in Eastside? Come to F087 during LB1 and talk to either Sydney Steele or Tammy Stahl to sign up!

February/March 2016

COMICS EASTSIDE

Dress Code by Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director

Red Zone/Green Zone by Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director

Trump and Palin by Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director

Page 19

ENTERTAINMENT

Page 20

EASTSIDE

February/March 2016

When a plain T-shirt just does not cut it anymore East students, past and present, take college apparel to a whole new level ■ By Abigail Richman (‘18) Eastside Staff

A growing trend amongst teens is handmade college gear such as sweatshirts, tank-tops, hats and sneakers. This popular business is booming with students at East. By handcrafting everything from T-shirts to sweatpants, students are transforming average college T-shirts into trendy, unforgettable clothing. No matter what school one chooses to go to after high school, it is all about school spirit and how much college apparel one can get before the start of freshman year in college.

Lauren Chiardio (‘16) actively fills orders for her business, Tailgate Szn Tees.

Chiardio also runs her own Instagram account, where she posts pictures of apparel to which she adds her flair. With a few snips of the scissors, Chiardio completely transforms plain apparel.

“It looked really fun and cool, and I just thought that since a lot of people in my grade this year are going to be getting into schools, it would be a fun hobby to take up to make sure everyone had cute college apparel,” said Chiardio.

Most students are start-

ing this business as a fun side activity as opposed to a job that requires standing behind a counter all day. Normal sweatshirts, T-shirts, shoes and hats are all being renovated to a cool new look that is attracting high school and college students.

East graduate Izzy Kaminer (‘15) also contributes to this growing trend.

Kaminer Kreations extends further than just apparel, including custom canvases as well.

“The sneakers have… been very popular this year because they're really fun for tailgates and other college events. It's fun because every time I share something new, I get more orders,” said Kaminer.

Depending on the request of the customer, Kaminer customizes each item, and not one item sold is ever the same. Likewise, East graduate Sami Zive (‘15), now at Syracuse University, sells her Styled by Sami looks on campus.

“I was bored, so I found a sweatshirt one day and starting cutting it. From there, I’ve been making all different sweatshirts and T-shirts in different cool styles, designing things anybody asks for,” said Zive.

In a competitive business like this one, where everyone is making the same apparel, it is imperative to have social media accounts to promote the business and products.

“I do anything school people ask me to make and not only design college apparel, but [also] I make apparel for students’ high schools as well. Each T-shirt and sweatshirt takes me around 30 minutes to an hour and a half to make depending on how much detail is needed,” said Chiardio.

After all, the responsibility of running a business is one of high magnitude, especially for a student. Yet, for some, like Kaminer, apparel customization is more fun than business.

“I see myself doing this for a few years at least. I really enjoy doing it, and I love how excited people get when I show them what I've created for them,” said Kaminer.

So, as the 2016 school year approaches the end, keep an eye out for funky customized college Rachel Becker (‘16)/ Eastside Photo Editor apparel in the upcoming Lauren Chiardio (‘16) creates unique college apparel. months.

most, if not every episode.

The “SNL” writers use real quotes and hot-button topics when writing these political sketches to make the story as realistic as possible. If an episode lacks a

Candidates like Trump often use “SNL”—an informal setting—to make themselves seem more appealing to American voters. Trump’s increase in viewership occurred due to

Saturday Night Live: more than just a comedy show

increase after an “SNL” appearance. After his NoEastside Sports Editor vember “SNL” appearance, The writers of “Saturday Trump jumped 17 percentNight Live” consistently age points in the polls. brainstorm ideas for politiMainly, the show allows cal sketches, sketches that for the presidential canmillions of Amerididates to laugh cans will eventually about mistakes watch on Saturday or criticisms they nights.

Commonhave without it bely, comedians like ing a political outKate McKinnon burst, and to adand Taran Killam dress viewers and will perform as the supporters in an current presideninformal setting. tial candidates and Throughout the mock recent political past decade, Amy controversies, hopPoehler, who acted ing to get a laugh or as Hillary Clinton two out of the “SNL” on “SNL” and Tina viewers.

Fey, who acted as Although laughs Sarah Palin, have are the least of been the most “SNL”’s worries, of prominent comecourse, these politidians in “SNL”’s cal sketches may ofpolitical sketches. fend some viewers.

During the 2008 However, for the elections, week afmost part, “SNL” ter week the two plays an informawould showcase tive, yet comedic role politics in a humorin politics. ous manner, and A political science they were talked professor at the Uniabout in the news versity of Missouri, and social media.

William Horner, has Since then, polistudied the deep imtics on “SNL” has pact that “SNL” has skyrocketed. Presihad on politics for an dential candidates upcoming book that are some of the he is writing. Horner show’s best hosts, claims that during and many politiPhoto Illustration by Rachel Becker (‘16)/ Eastside Photo Editor the 1976 election becal sketches go vitween Jimmy Carter Presidential candidates are frequent hosts of SNL, with hopes of boosting their popularity. ral online within and Gerald Ford, a mere couple of Chevy Chase’s impersonpolitical sketch, “SNL” fans people’s desires to see how ing in recent years, Barack hours. ation of Ford as clumsy and can get their dose of politics he would ridicule his comObama, John McCain, Hil“SNL” has not only afbumbling after he tripped during “Weekend Update petition on live television. lary Clinton and Chris fected people’s Saturday and fell on the stairs of Air with Colin Jost and MiIn Trump’s recent apChristie. nights by providing some Force One twice greatly inchael Che.” pearance, he talked about “Saturday Night Live” comic relief when it comes fluenced the election.

On November 7, 2015, his adverse style of camprovides a stage for candito politics, but also the reDuring election time Donald Trump hosted paigning and his businessdates to informally address nowned show has estaband campaigning, political “SNL” and increased the man background. A parthe viewers; thus, somelished itself as a universal sketches are often seen in viewership immensely. ticular sketch presented times candidates’ polls may political voice.

■ By Elissa Cohen (‘18)

Trump’s criticisms via Twitter.

Presidential candidates began to host “SNL” in 1976 when Gerald Ford hosted.

Since then, 16 others have made appearances, includ-

February/March 2016

ENTERTAINMENT EASTSIDE

Page 21

The Tanner Clan returns for “Fuller House” “Full House” premiered in 1987, and for 192 episodes, the Tanner clan captured the hearts of America. When the show ended in 1995, fans were not ready to say goodbye to the characters and continuously held hope for a “Full House” spin-off. Their wishes were granted when a Netflix spinoff of “Full House,” titled “Fuller House,” was announced to premiere on February 26, 2016. In a joint statement, executive producers Robert L. Boyett, Jeff Franklin and Thomas L. Miller said, “the continued support of ‘Full House’ fans of all ages for the past 28 years has been astounding.

It is an honor and a thrill to catch up with these beloved characters and explore their lives today.” In “Fuller House,” DJ Tanner is a recent widow, and she is left to singlehandedly raise her sons. DJ’s sister, Stephanie, and her best friend, Kimmy, both move in to help DJ care for her family.

“Fuller House” is set to air on Netflix for 13 episodes.

Check out where they are now: Andrea Barber “Kimmy Gibbler”

John Stamos “Uncle Jesse”

Since playing the role of DJ’s strange best friend and the Tanner household’s uninvited guest, Andrea Barber has strayed away from the spotlight. After “Full House,” Barber received her degree in English at Whittier College, and then her Master’s in Women’s Studies at the University of York in England. She is currently working in Whittier College’s Office of International Relations. Although Barber has said many times that she has no interest in returning to show business, she could not resist returning to her role of Kimmy Gibbler in the “Full House” spinoff.

American actor and musician John Stamos continues to thrive in Hollywood after his starring role in “Full House” as Uncle Jesse came to an end. Stamos has guest-starred in “Friends,” “The Andy Milonakis Show” and the television movie Wedding Wars. In 2010, Stamos took a major role in the hit series “Glee.” He has also appeared in “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and “Two and a Half Men.” He advocates for Dannon’s Greek yogurt brand Oikos, and he has been maintaining his music career.

Dave Coulier “Joey Gladstone”

Bob Saget “Danny Tanner”

After Danny Tanner’s role as co-host of “Wake Up San Francisco” and famous father ended, Saget continued his television career as host of “America’s Funniest Home Videos” until 1997. He continued on to direct the ABC Family movie, For Hope, which was inspired by the life story of his sister, Gay Saget, who died from scleroderma three years prior. Saget also directed the movie Dirty Work. Saget served as the voice of the future Ted Mosby, who narrated “How I Met Your Mother,” on CBS. Today, he stars in various episodes of “Grandfathered,” and he is heavily involved in charity work.

After “Full House,” Dave Coulier pursued a successful career in comedy. His character Joey Gladstone was known for his famous voice impressions, so it is not surprising that Coulier has continued this endeavor post-“Full House” era. He was a voice actor in Yogi Bear and the Magical Flight of the Spruce Goose and also acted in Disney Channel movies such as The Thirteenth Year and The Even Stevens Movie. Currently, he travels around the country with the Duck’s Breath Mystery Theatre comedy troupe.

Candace Cameron Bure “DJ Tanner”

The oldest of the three Tanner sisters, DJ Tanner was played by Candace Cameron Bure on screen. After “Full House” ended in 1995, Bure guest starred on “Cybill” and “Boy Meets World.” Bure gave birth to her children and took a hiatus from television for quite some time. In 2006, she reappeared on “That’s So Raven” and “Make It or Break It,” a teenage gymnastics series on ABC Family. Bure also appeared on Season 18 of “Dancing with the Stars” with dance partner Mark Ballas.

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen “Michelle Tanner”

Michelle Tanner, the sweet and sassy youngest daughter in the Tanner clan, grew up right before America’s eyes throughout the eight years of “Full House.”

Due to child labor laws, the twins had to take turns playing the role of Michelle. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, who began filming the show at nine months old, are not so little anymore. After “Full House,” the twins starred in multiple film series such as The Adventures of Mary-Kate and Ashley and You’re Invited to Mary-Kate and Ashley’s. Now, the Olsen twins are most active in the fashion world. They launched their own clothing lines called Elizabeth & James and Olsenboye. As of now, the Olsen twins will not be reprising their role as Michelle Tanner in “Fuller House,” but there is a chance of a guest appearance.

Jodie Sweetin “Stephanie Tanner”

From 1987 to 1995, Jodie Sweetin played Stephanie Tanner, one of America’s beloved sweethearts. After the show’s finale, Sweetin went on to graduate high school and attend Chapman University. Since “Full House,” Sweetin’s role on camera has dwindled. Sweetin also had a few run-ins with drugs and wrote a memoir called “unSweetined,” outlining her struggles with substance abuse. Luckily, Sweetin has been sober for a while and will reappear in “Fuller House.”

Art by Sydney Steele (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director Blurbs by Allie Grossman (‘16) and Leah Korn (‘16)/ Eastside Entertainment Editors

SPORTS

trials and tribulations Brandon Wons: The of a lifelong baseball player Page 22

EASTSIDE

■ By Sam Greenberg (‘16)

Eastside Sports Editor

Imagine the loose fragments of your bone continuously moving around as they latch on to cartilage and other parts of the elbow. Now, picture every time you move your elbow throughout the day listening for a locking and clicking sound created by this sensation. Just trying to visualize and fathom such an occurrence creates a nonexistent pain in one’s elbow.

East baseball pitcher Brandon Wons (‘16) does not need to try to conjure up an idea of what an injury like this would entail. Since December 2014, Wons has been living with a condition called Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) in his right elbow. The root of the condition can be attributed to years of stress on his throwing arm.

“You’re a l w a y s w o r r i e d about excess wear and tear on the arm,” said East Baseball Head Coach Mr. Erik Radbill.

Wons began playing America’s national pastime around the age of four. At nine, he joined his first Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) team and has since played in middle school, high school and other travel teams in between.

Most recently, Wons joined a showcase team in October of 2014 with the purpose of flaunting his pitching abilities while trying to catch the eye of a college baseball recruiter.

“That was the point of the showcase team. To kind of get myself out there [for college recruiters] in bigger tournaments,” Wons said.

Two months after joining the team, Wons experienced the first form of discomfort in his elbow.

“I was throwing, and I noticed some pain in my elbow… I kind of brushed it off,” Wons said.

The next practice, the pain returned with a vengeance, making the elbow more tender with worsening pain, but Wons kept brushing it off. Eventually, it got to the point where

February/March 2016

Wons could no longer throw anymore. Merely a few days after the initial discomfort, he was on his way to Rothman Urgent Care to have his elbow examined.

Wons was referred to Dr. Michael G. Ciccotti, who is the Head Team Physician for both the Philadelphia Phillies and St. Joseph’s University. After spending four months with Ciccotti and being prescribed inflammatory medication and a multitude of physical therapy exercises, the moment Wons had been dreading finally arrived.

Months of medication and strenuous exercises simply were not aiding in recovery. Ciccotti had no other choice than to refer Wons to a new doctor who specializes in elbow and shoulder surgeries, Dr. Joseph A. Abboud.

At the end of June 2015 and after six long months Courtesy of Brandon Wons (‘16) of locking and clicking, Brandon Wons pitches in a game for his club team during the recovery from his OsWons had a surgery teochondritis dissecans arm injury. on his elbow. The surgery consisttimes a week for the entire East. lowing Wons to pitch all ed of the aforeduration of the summer “It just shows you what of junior year, it is easy to mentioned with sessions lasting hours kind of character he has,” wonder about the “what bone fragat a time. said Radbill. “He’s a treifs.” ments being “The whole process was mendous kid, a tremendous “As a sophomore, he removed, just emotionally and... person you want to have came on the Myrtle Beach along with trip with us. We saw some Abboud ability and a chance for him shaving to really grow. Last year reoff part of “In kids and teens, OCD injury most ally hurt him just because the bone a full year of no varsity at the eloften affects the knee (high-impact it’s baseball experience, which bow joint. landings) and elbow (pitching, throw- he would’ve gotten a lot of This said Radbill. suring)...OCD can affect both boys and lastInyear,” terms of Radbill’s apgirls, but is most common in boys 10 to preciative feelings toward Wons, he has a message he 20 years old.” would like to be conveyed.

-ChildrensHospital.org “Work hard and don’t overdo it in the very beginning to impress us. We’ve seen you before. Don’t do part of your team… I’m very anything to jeopardize yourexcited to see him [play]. He self getting hurt again,” says he feels great.” said Radbill. “You’re young With the injury and you will recover. Just not albe patient.”

With the locking and clicking all but done with, the only locking Wons will do in the future is what he has been working for since December of 2014: locking up his well-deserved spot as an East Varsity Baseball starting pitcher. g e r y Art by Sydney Steele (‘16)/ physically hard,” prevents such excessive Eastside Art Director said Wons. rubbing that previously “It wasn’t occurred with the bone the easiand cartilage in the elbow. est thing, Within eight to nine months but you following the surgery, cartijust have lage would grow back fully, to keep an and the blood supply would optimistic be restored. attitude.”

For a total of three weeks W o n s following the surgery, Wons easily could had to wear a sling. have given “I really just had to up baseball switch up the way I did for good afthings,” Wons said. “It was ter such a tough all around. I really gruesome couldn’t do anything… I injury. Incouldn’t lift my hand bestead he hind my head to shampoo has worked my hair… I couldn’t even diligently to brush my teeth with my recover and right hand. Putting on gives himclothes was hard.” self a 60 to With the removal of the 70 percent sling, it became time for chance to Wons to devote his summer pitch again to becoming stronger. He in his final attended rehab and physiseason at cal therapy three to four

SPORTS Boys swim falls at States to Westfield February/March 2016

EASTSIDE

■ By Julia Langmuir (‘19)

Eastside Staff

The East boys’ swimming team returned to the state finals meet on Sunday, February 21, at The College of New Jersey. East competed against Westfield, the same team it beat in last year’s state meet.

East was ranked second in the state behind Westfield. Cougar fans filled the stands along the entire length of the pool. Family, friends, fellow athletes and future swimmers lined up to watch the meet play out. There were technical is-

sues with the timing touch pads that were fixed around halfway through the meet.

Despite East taking first in four events, Westfield won the title of State Champions. While East was taking first place in races, Westfield took second, third and fourth four events in a row, racking up points for a 102-68 victory over the Cougars.

Despite the outcome of the meet, there were plenty of fast races in the pool, and the Cougars fought until the end of the last race. Co-captain Duncan Brookover (‘16) won both of

his individual events, taking first in the 50-meter freestyle (21:58) and 100-meter freestyle (48:20). Fellow senior Nick Rosa (‘16) brought in a victory in the 500-meter freestyle (4:54.87), and Sean Finias (‘16) won the 100-meter fly with a time of 52.46.

The freshmen also brought a new edge to the team this season. Anthony Cheng (‘19), Charlie Hess (‘19), JT Funari (‘19), Ellis Schwartz (‘19) and Jack Watson (‘19) all swam in the championship meet. Watson swam two individual events: the 200-meter individual medley

Page 23

and the 100-meter backstroke. He placed second in the hundred back with a time of 53.76.

Although the East boys’ swim team lost to its rival this meet, the swim community looks forward to another great year in the 2016-2017 season. The state championship was the last meet of this season, and the team will have tryouts again late next fall. The 14 graduating seniors, including captains Brookover and Zippy Volm (‘16), will be leaving a legacy at East that the underclassmen should strive to continue in the upcoming seasons.

All photos by Atena Mojibian (‘18)/ Eastside Staff

The boys’ swimming team ended its season with a loss at TCNJ to rival Westfield High School in the State Championship. Before the loss at TCNJ, East won State Semi-Finals against Hillsborough High School.

Cucinotti impacts the success of boys’ swim ■ By Karli Wulwick (‘17) Eastside Staff

The East boys’ swimming team had a tough act to follow as its season last year seemed almost unattainable. Last year’s swimming team was able to pull off a state championship, and though this feat could not have been possible without the talented East swimmers, it definitely would not have happened without Head Coach Mr. Joe Cucinotti.

Cucinotti was acknowledged for his exceptional coaching when he received the New Jersey Coach of the Year award prior to this season.

Cucinotti described the title as very rewarding, and it was a true honor for him to be recognized among the myriad of other impressive coaches in the area.

“It is a nice accolade that really [personified] how good the team is,” said Cucinotti.

Cucinotti’s swimmers claim that there was no one more deserving of the admirable title than he, and that they idolize his character and coaching techniques, while Cucinotti credits the swimmers in return.

“The coach is only going to be as good as the team he has,” said Cucinotti.

Team Captain Zippy Volm (‘16) explained the effect that Cucinotti has on the team and praised his pep-talks that inspire the team prior to every meet.

“He really gets us up for every race,” said Volm.

Cucinotti habitually works with each individual swimmer by keep-

ing in touch all year round, not just during the school swimming season. Cucinotti sets a foundation of comaraderie and support by attending East swimmers’ out-ofschool club meets.

“He always checks in [to see] how we’re doing,” said Volm.

It comforts the team to know that they have such a supportive coach in Cucinotti, who enjoys encouraging Emelia Keller (‘17)/ Eastside Photo Editor them in their Cucinotti coaches East’s boys’ swimming team prior to a victory at home. other ambistrategies come from eclectic adWestfield, started and ended the tions outside vice, he said. meet strongly. of the East community.

Cucinotti had high hopes for this Prior to states at TCNJ, Cucino“I go, and I visit them at their season, although the team lost at tti said, “[The season] has already off-season swim meets and off-seathe state championship. Volm soshown some good promise with a lot son swim practices and their club lidified these expectations. of potential and a lot of hope that teams,” said Cucinotti.

“Our goal as a team [was] to win can come out of this year.”

Cucinotti enjoys the time the another state championship,” said Regardless of the outcome, the team has off, as he believes it gives Volm. swimmers know that with Cucinothe swimmers different points of Back-to-back championships aptti at the helm, they will always be view from different coaches so that peared plausible until East’s rival, steered in the right direction. their swimming knowledge and

SPORTS

February/March 2016

EASTSIDE

Page 24

East says goodbye to longtime AD, Mr. Hulme ■ By Drew Hoffman (‘18)

Eastside Editorial Assistant

All good things must come to an end. In the case of long-time Assistant Principal and Athletic Director Mr. Robert Hulme, that end is near.

Hulme will be stepping down from his post at the end of the 2015-2016 school year. Hulme has been a part of East Athletics since the early 1990s when he became the athletic director. He stepped down after 15 year and volunteered to take over again just last school year; his time adds up to total above 17 years in the East sports community.

After relinquishing his duties in athletics in 2008, Hulme never thought about taking over again, but when the opportunity arose for the second time, he seized it.

“They needed someone, and I had experience, so I volunteered to do it these last two years,” Hulme said.

During his time as athletic director, Hulme has contributed immensely to the track and field program. Most notably, to the jumpers. Hulme has a familiar background with track, which allowed him to give advice to the athletes.

“The track team years ago was not very good,” Hulme said. “Through development and new coaching changes, the team became one of the better ones in the area. A little bit of guidance here and there. I helped out with the jumpers and I gave them a lot of technical information.”

Girls’ cross country and boys’ spring track coach, Mr. Anthony Maniscalco is very thankful for the work Hulme has done.

“He is very knowledgeable about the sport in general,” Maniscalco said. “Knowing the sport and being a huge fan of it, [Hulme] always supported the track team.”

Hulme has been an important role model to Maniscalco, who coaches more than one hundred kids during the spring track season.

“Coaching track is overwhelming... to be able to talk to and ask advice from someone who knows a little bit about each event is really admirable.

I wish I knew as much as he did,” Maniscalco said.

Besides overseeing track, Hulme has seen it all. Whether it has been beating West in the annual “Boot” Game or the basketball team winning

its first sectional title, he has been there. Of all East leads the field as far as high schools are conthe moments he has seen, a few stand out. cerned,” he said.

“The boys swimming team winning the state At the end of this school year, Hulme officially championship with a come-behind underdog finwill pass the torch to a new athletic director, a ish in a 400 free,” he said was one of the more new beginning and a new tradition at East. A big memorable moments. He also said “the boys’ basfactor for his retirement is his 40 years in educaketball team winning the sectional championship tion. last year” was also one of the more memorable Hulme said that what he enjoys most about bemoments. ing an assistant principal is “interacting with the Aside from being busy with paperwork and students, watching the students and celebrating pushing athletes to turn in their paperwork, their successes.”

Hulme has learned many valuable lessons over With Hulme’s time almost up, the new athletic the years of serving as the athletic director. director can follow the advice of the retiree.

“Everybody thinks differently,” he said. “There “Surround yourself with good people and unare different thoughts and approaches and mindderstand that no one is perfect. There are going sets to different situations.” to be mistakes. It is inevitable,” he said. “Learn He distinctly remembers that at one point in from mistakes, but do not beat yourself up over his career, he thought everyone should have the an official that does not show up or a bus that same thought process. However, his experience does not show up. It just takes time to acclimate taught him otherwise. yourself to the position.”

“I have also learned that there is a lot of emoAlthough his years at East are coming to a tion involved in the athletic domain,” he said. close, Hulme is extremely thankful for the oppor“Student-athletes with their enthusiasm, partunity the East community gave him. ent and fan enthusiasm, it is an emotional environment.”

Luckily, Hulme has had the skills necessary to cope with these emotional outbreaks. Over the course of his tenure, Hulme has seen a lot of continuity from when he first started.

“Each class does a nice job of maintaining East’s outstanding athletic tradition and seems to take on that responsibility and perpetuate it,” he said. “As time goes on, there is more effort put into it.”

In contrast, Hulme has also seen a lot of change, whether it is for the better or for the worse.

“We have become more Rachel Becker (‘16)/ Eastside Photo Editor sportsmanship conscious in the last decade, and Mr. Hulme has served the East community for 17 years.

Golf seniors prepare for their last round ■ By Steve Mirsen (‘16)

Eastside Multimedia Director

As their senior year winds down to an end this coming spring, Justin Bryan (‘16), Kyle Ungerleider (‘16) and Justin Janney (‘16) will, as co-captains, lead East’s golf team down the course of what they hope to be their best season yet.

“Out of all my years here, I think this will be our best season… a hundred percent,” Bryan said.

Practice begins on March 7, and the team’s first match will occur in early April. Unlike contenders for other East sports teams, which have a time period specifically designated for tryouts, all golf players spend the first month of practice vying for only six “starting” slots.

These six chosen players participate in matches against other schools.

The top four scorers out of the six players are added together and compared with the top four scores from the other team’s six in order to determine a winner.

Naturally, the captains already hold three of these spots.

“After that,” said Coach Mr. Ryan James, “it’s up for grabs… We have some promising underclassmen coming up in all three levels.”

The team’s first goal for every year, James said, is to qualify for the sectional championship. The “second goal for us… after that, will be to win the [American division of the Olympic] Conference,” said James.

Last season, East qualified for sectionals but did not advance.

“It’s competitive,” said

Bryan. “The Olympic Conference isn’t a joke, it isn’t easy… We play all the tough teams.”

Nevertheless, Bryan has high hopes for this year’s performance.

He, Ungerleider and Janney all aim to build off last season, personally and as a team.

As the team’s leaders, the captains also seek to mentor the underclassmen, who will inherit the spots following the seniors’ graduation.

“As co-captains… we have to provide the example,” Ungerleider said. “We are the leaders of the team… I think that [the younger players] look up at us and think ‘this is what I want to be,’ as a golfer and as a person.”

“I think personally when they look at me, they’re like ‘wow,’” Ungerleider added, cracking a smile. “‘He’s the chosen one.’”

The example the captains seek to set, however, addresses much more than personality and performance.

“We’re taking on a role of teaching,” Janney said. “Not only the game but also the etiquette of the game, in order to show them how to conduct themselves as gentlemen on the golf course.”

James and all three captains are confident in their ability to reach sectionals again.

“My goal for the season is absolute dominance,” said Ungerleider.

“I want to go out there. I want to destroy every single team. I want to dominate everybody. I think we all have the same goals in mind.”

From Bryan’s point of view, he, Ungerleider and Janney have not reached their full potential in past years, but he expressed confidence they would all do so this year.

“I’m looking forward to just playing my best and winning every tournament that we

can,” he said.

James also expressed certainty that the captains have the potential to carry the team through rough and smooth courses by compensating for mistakes in difficult matches and building off each other’s performances during less tight races.

Whether they hit from the bunkers or from open grass, Ungerleider, Bryan and Janney possess the vital skills and experience to perform up to par.

“Experience is the biggest thing with this sport,” James affirmed.

In addition, he added their versatile skill sets also play an essential role in ensuring success from anywhere on the course, on and off the green.

“The three of them are experienced enough where they can overcome if part of their game is lacking that day, they can overcome their score with other aspects of their game,” he said.

The confidence, trust and fond feelings James holds for the captains, however, swings both ways. Their team’s leaders view their leader not only as a coach, but also as a fellow golfer, team member and friend.

“James is an awesome guy, awesome coach, such a funny, fun- loving per-

son,” said Janney.

Performance grows with closeness and companionship, and a comfortable, enjoyable environment acts as an essential key to fully opening athletes’ doors to their true, full potential. “[James] really makes golf so much more fun because he’s [really] part of the group,” Janney added.

In their time on the grass, the passion and emotion that statistics fail to convey play as big a role in the captains’ experiences as recorded wins, losses, birdies and bogies do.

Looking back on their earlier years at East, the captains recalled looking up to captains in seasons past.

“When I was a freshman and I would play in the matches, all the seniors took me under their wing,” Bryan said. “I had a really good time, and I’m sure I’ll do the same with [the freshmen this year].”

Aside from making the most out of their final season at East, the captains hold themselves personally responsible for the team’s future.

“I just want to be able to have the team come back and be successful next year, even with us three leaving,” said Janney.

After their departure, the team’s future success will depend on the juniors’ and underclassmen’s readiness to step into starting spots.

Regarding the season overall, Bryan said that he is confident that the team as a whole will give its best performance so far.

“I know for a fact that we’ll all strive for first place,” he said, “and [even] if we don’t get it, we’ll become much closer than we have been in previous years.”

Art by Tammy Stahl (‘16)/ Eastside Art Director