The Pulse 2020 - 2021 Issue 5

May 2021 Volume 21 Issue 5

Harvey’s Super Spring Sports: COVID-19 Edition

By Amanda Mohamad

After the cancellation of afterschool programs since Spring Term 2020, Harvey is finally able to extend its day for its notable after-school programs. As of Monday, March 29, 2021, Harvey incorporated after-school sports and arts into the daily schedule.

The after-school options are as follows: Baseball, Blacktop Basketball, Boys and Girls Lacrosse, Boys and Girls Rugby, Boys and Girls Tennis, Golf, One-Act Plays, Outdoor Exploration, Softball, and a musical performance of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.”

Featured in this issue: l Reports l Sports News l Reviews

The Harvey community has greeted the return of all of the programs with loads of excitement, and a significant amount of the student body is participating in sports. While the sports seasons are a bit different this year, many student athletes will be playing against other schools. However, the number of games and matches will be limited, as not all of the schools that are part of Housatonic Valley Athletic League (HVAL) have chosen to incorporate an after-school program due to the pandemic.

In regards to pandemic protocols, practices have been a large adjust-

ment for both athletes and coaches. The Pulse interviewed Mr. Gary Dunn, Upper School dean of students and assistant boys varsity baseball coach, who shared his thoughts about the return to sports at Harvey.

Mr. Dunn said, “I love it! I wish we could do more, and I wish we could’ve done it sooner. But I’m glad we are out there now.”

He continued by describing new protocols on the field, saying, “We are masked and mainGirls Varsity Lacrosse Player, junior Ella Cohn (#11), with Coach Jataining social distancing, nos’ son, Chase, on the field. Photo courtesy of the Harvey Instagram. which is difficult in a team setting, but we’re making it work. We have excited for it. It’s nice to get outside, various stations, so not everybody is see the field alive, and see everybody doing the same thing at the same time, playing their sports. Exercise is always crowded around each other.” healthy, but mentally, it’s nice to get out there and just be doing something

Mr. Greg Janos, longtime again.”

Harvey girls varsity lacrosse head coach, was also eager to express his enthusiSpring Sports cont. on page 6. asm about being back on the field. “I’m

Meet Mr. Mena

By Lauren Grauer

responsibility of admitting students during a pandemic, all while being a new staff member.

Mr. Willam Mena.

Photo courtesy of The Harvey School website.

For the past school year, Mr. Mena served the Harvey community as the Director of Admissions and Financial Aid.

The Harvey School 260 Jay Street Katonah, NY 10536

Mr. Mena started his position at Harvey during a global pandemic, and he has done a fabulous job of understanding the culture at Harvey. “My favorite part of Harvey so far is the unconditional support teachers give their students. Even during these times, teachers are going above and beyond to care for their students.”

Admitting students to Independent Schools is always a challenging process. But now, Mr. Mena has the

When Mr. Mena accepted his position at Harvey, he hoped to make some changes in Harvey Admissions. One of the big challenges he comes across in Harvey Admissions is portraying Harvey as a more “balanced” school. He would like prospective Harvey families to understand the opportunities Harvey students are given academically and artistically, while highlighting Harvey’s teachers.

With the pandemic, admissions look different. The primary way families are looking at Harvey is through Zoom webinars. On these webinars, prospective students and their families are given the chance to connect with current Harvey students and faculty while also learning what Harvey has to offer.

Mr. Mena had a tremendous amount of valuable experience before coming to Harvey. He previously worked at Sandy Spring Friends School in Ashton-Sandy Spring, Maryland. At Sandy Spring Friends School, Mr. Mena

was the Director of Auxiliary Programs and the Director of Boarding Admissions.

The Harvey admissions office plans to host events at Harvey over the summer so that touring families have the opportunity to physically walk on the Harvey campus.

To try and get a grasp on what life is like at Harvey, Mr. Mena has started doing lunch duty to help him build relationships with students. Mr. Mena is excited to see what Harvey is like without a pandemic, which will hopefully be soon.

Mr. Mena started his career at Harvey along with his daughter Jennifer. Jennifer is a current ninth grader.

The Pulse asked Mr. Mena what it was like to work at the same school where his daughter attends. He said, “I try to stay out of the way and let my wife get involved with things regarding school for Jennifer.”

Mr. Mena also has an older daughter, named Erin, who is working in Meet Mr. Mena cont. on inside cover.

OP/ ED

Page 2

Dear Editor,

Should Seniors Be Able to Go Off Campus for Lunch?

I am writing to you on behalf of my senior classmates. Due to COVID-19, The Harvey School administration decided that seniors could not leave campus during lunch time.

The Pulse Staff

During our four years at Harvey, some of us seven years, we have watched seniors have the special privilege of going off campus for lunch. Students would come back with delicious lunches, and our stomachs would grumble.

Going off campus during lunch time has been something we always expected to be able to do as one of our “senior privileges.”

We understand the Harvey Administration may have to take extra steps to allow us to go off for lunch. Our temperature would need to be taken when we leave and come back from lunch, and we would need to complete another COVID-19 quick screen.

Editor-in-Chief Max Edelman

Dean of Students Mr. Gary Dunn told The Pulse that all of the reasons why seniors cannot leave campus during their lunch slot pertain to “COVID protocols.”

Assistant Editor Lauren Grauer

Head of the Upper School Mr. Phillip Lazzaro said, “We’re trying to keep the campus as closed as possible. We need to limit exits and entrances.”

As mature seniors, we can understand the rules and these reasons. However, we propose going off for lunch only during the last few weeks of school.

Antonio Emmanuel Emma Galgano Kevin Li

On average, there are a limited number of seniors who attend in-person school. In the past, there would be approximately 70 seniors on campus each a day. Being that there are so few seniors in person, it would be manageable to take a headcount of those who leave campus.

Amanda Mohamad Alexia Roisenvit Jeremy Stewart Razi Tanksley Rocky Zhang

The Pulse interviewed several seniors about how they feel about not being allowed to leave campus during lunch time.

12th grader Spencer Hellinger, who has been at Harvey since middle school, expressed his thoughts, saying, “It does not make sense to me why seniors can’t go off, because Harvey has students coming from all different geographic areas, and we are not allowed to drive five minutes off Harvey campus.”

Senior Adama Abdul-Wahab, who is in her fourth year at Harvey, suggested a safer way for students to leave campus.

Abdul-Wahab said, “The Harvey Administration should allow for us students to go to designated places within a 10-mile radius of Harvey. For example, if we wanted pizza for lunch, we should only be able to go to La Familia Pizza & Pasta of Katonah.

The administration could give us a list of places we are allowed to go.”

Harvey would benefit from seniors being allowed to leave campus for lunch time. The Fenstermacher Athletic Center, otherwise known as the “Flex Space,” would be less populated during lunch time. Also, 11th graders would be granted more freedom to eat outside on the quad every day, instead of having to alternate with the 12th graders.

Faculty Advisor Virginia Holmes

Aside from seniors not being able to go off campus for lunch time, the Harvey Administration has gone above and beyond to keep campus open five days a week while allowing for a safe learning environment, and we are extremely grateful for all of this hard work.

Even with the current safety precautions, Harvey has remained a welcoming place for students and faculty. Harvey has even allowed for students to learn beyond the classroom by taking part in spring sports and the performing arts. As students, we are so thankful that Harvey has given us the opportunity to channel our creative or athletic side while participating in muchloved activities.

Spring 2021 Pulse Staff

To allow for senior year to be special, The Harvey School administration and Parent Association even planned a fun ice-skating party for seniors which even featured a Walter’s Hot Dog truck.

The Pulse would like to thank The Harvey School administration, faculty, and parents for putting forth their greatest efforts to make senior year special for the current 2021 group of seniors during these uncertain times, and we respectfully ask that they consider allowing seniors to leave campus during lunch for these final weeks.

Sincerely,

Lauren Grauer UPDATE: Congratulations on your successful interviews and article, Lauren! Seniors are NOW allowed to leave campus for lunch!

Meet Mr. Mena cont. from cover.

Manhattan for Ralph Lauren as a Digital Designer. With Erin’s job in New York, it was an easy decision for the Mena family to move to the Tri-State area. Mr. Mena’s wife Michele will be continuing her career as an elementary education teacher. She previously worked in elementary education for 20 years.

The Mena family is currently renting their home in Danbury, Connecticut. They plan to move closer to Harvey to make their commute easier.

In his free time, Mr. Mena enjoys doing anything regarding sports and being active. Jokingly, Mr. Mena said that he does not plan on coaching at Harvey because he would likely turn all of his attention to coaching and get way too into it.

Missing from photo: Rocky Zhang and Alexia Roisenvit

The Pulse would like to thank Mr. Mena for his great insight on Harvey. We look forward to seeing the impact Mr. Mena will have on The Harvey School in the near future!

Sports News

Page 3

Dragged into the Gutter

By Jeremy Stewart

Bowling alleys were heavily impacted by the guidelines and restrictions from the COVID-19 virus. Like restaurants and some stores, the majority of bowling alleys had trouble staying open due to the substantial decrease in sales from lack of customers. Social distancing also took a toll on how many people could be in the alley at once, along with mask protocols.

According to the Nutmeg Bowl protocol, mask guidelines are harsh compared to other locations and facilities. Masks must be worn at all times, excluding a bowler being alone on a lane or if bowlers are actively eating or drinking. Failure to properly follow these protocols first results in a warning, and if violaters continue to ignore the warning, they will be escorted out.

In an article on Eater.com Ms. Emma Orlow writes, “Bowling...unlike other recreational sports venues or even other types of bars, the interior nature...is less adaptable to the constraints of COVID-19.

Nevertheless, some business owners are trying to make it work.”

In the early times, after opening back up, the temperature of each member was checked, and hand sanitizer was used upon entry. There are two main doorways, one being assigned as an entrance and one as the exit. The bowling lanes are set up in groups of four to properly allow social distancing. Masks must be worn at all times, excluding a patron bowling alone.

Bowling alleys were required to restrict the number of people in a building at a time. Reservations were necessary to allow others to plan ahead of time due to limited capacity.

Nutmeg Bowl, located in Fairfield, Connecticut, which is about 45 minutes from The Harvey School, developed many limitations relative to government guidelines. These rules were enforced onto both the staff and the general public. Nutmeg Bowl was very strict about the rules to ensure safety and allow it to stay open.

The Professional Bowlers Association (PBA) developed protocols in order to ensure safety. Normally, around a hundred or so people would be on the sidelines watching as two bowlers or teams compete.

There was a restriction in addition to the tournaments in the PBA, stating that the only people allowed to be present will be the individuals/teams who are bowling.

As stated by Mr. Johnny Campos, Journal Star for the Wash-

ington Times, “The PBA League Draft, scheduled for Sunday afternoon, has been postponed and will be conducted at a later date.”

In a letter, Mr. Colie Edison, the PBA’s ceo stated, “We made the decision in March to postpone the rest of the regular season... out of...caution Barriers were placed every four lanes for social distancing for the safety and at Nutmeg Bowl in Fairfield, Connecticut. well-being of our Photo is courtesy of Jeremy Stewart players, our staff, and our fans. We

COVID-19 has heavily afcontinue to make this our No. 1 prifected the bowling industry, shutting ority as we determine the best way to down many alleys from the inability move forward with the tour’s remain- to produce enough profit. Nutmeg ing competitions in a manner that is Bowl was fortunate enough to stay safe and enjoyable for everyone.” open even with heavy restrictions.

From limited capacity to strict pro As time advances, the contocols, bowling had to adapt much ditions have become less strict but more to the restrictions compared to are still in use. Masks are still manoutdoor sports. dated to be worn at all times, with the exception of immediate family and players who have remained with their teammates in scenarios resembling “pods.”

CBA Reopens After All-Star Event

By Rocky Zhang

As COVID-19 keeps striking and giving countries around the world a harsh time, many people are irritated by not being able to socialize and live normally like they used to. However, the love and passion for the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) from fans has not been reduced a single bit. According to the CBA, the fourth stage and playoffs of the 2020-2021 CBA’s regular season will also be reopened to audiences after the all-star weekend’s first attempt of opening.

By the end of the all-star weekend, the CBA League in the 2020-2021 season has successfully held all the games in the first, second, and third stages in Zhuji, Zhejiang.

The provisions by the State General Administration of Sports stated that the on-site audience should not exceed 50% of the capacity of the auditorium, meaning that the stadium at any time should not be filled as it was in the past, and the maximum it can take is half of the original amount.

To ensure the safe and smooth operation of the event, the proportion of seats open to the audience in the fourth stage of CBA will be gradually increased in three steps.

According to CBA’s “Weibo,” which is a social media platform similar to Instagram, in the first step, from

March 24 to April 2, the number of spectators will be limited to 800; in the second step, from April 3 to April 13, the number of spectators will be no more than 1,200; in the third step, from April 13 to May 1, the number of spectators will be limited under 2,000, as the maximum number of the people the stadium can hold is around 5,000.

As the games in the fourth stage of the regular season and the playoffs of this season will gradually be open to an audience, the fluency of the process and safety of players and fans are huge challenges in its way.

audiences to purchase more than one ticket per person, which they established a new rule on using your legal Chinese identification number from your social identification card to register for the game you want to enroll in and watch. It is called the “one card one identification one person” rule.

As the curtain slowly closed on the 2021 CBA All-Stars event, the audience witnessed a great match between the North All-Stars and the South All-Stars, with the South eventually beating the North 123-109.

CBA All-Star game dunk contest with the spectators.

Photo courtesy of the CBA official website.

As more fans come into the stadium, the government and officials will still give serious attention to the prevention of the COVID-19 pandemic. Masks and the disinfection process of the virus will be needed.

According to the updates on CBA’s official Weibo account and sports news of Xinhuanet Cn, a huge Chinese online news platform, the inner stadium area will also upgrade security measures to ensure strict separation of different areas of the stadiums in to avoid direct close

contact between the team, players, and the entering audience, and to prepare a detailed contingency plan for various contingencies to ensure that the remaining games of the season are held safely.

As for ticket purchases, according to the rules established officially by Chinese Sport Department and CBA, adopting the free touch and safety rules, they will be in a non-paper form.

As fans are purchasing tickets, the officials will not allow

After the big game, Liaoning Leopard, starting point guard, who is also voted for the All-Stars event this year, and Zhao Jiwei posted on their personal Weibo excitedly, knowing the plan for the reopen of the fourth stage of CBA: “I must say for a long time no see to the basketball game and all, it feels so good to have an audience back! Another great all-star game which I want to say thank you to my audience! Hope all is well with everyone! See you soon!!!” We can truly see the passion of players put into the game and their strong eagerness for audiences to return and watch them compete.

Harvey News

Page 4

Harvey Goes to NAIMUN

By Emma Galgano

The Harvey School’s Model United Nations (U.N.) team went to the first-ever virtual North American Invitational Model United Nations (NAIMUN) held by Georgetown University from Feb. 12 to 14. There are 41 committees at NAIMUN, and The Harvey School Model UN team represented The Harvey School admirably.

Model UN was originally called the International Assembly, the first of which was held at Oxford University in November 1921. The President of the First Oxford International Assembly, Mir Mahmood, traveled to Harvard in 1922 to further spread this idea. Since then, countries around the world have held Model UN teams.

The Best Delegate website, describes the Model UN as, “an academic simulation of the United Nations where students play the role of delegates from different countries and attempt to solve real-world issues with the policies and perspectives of their assigned country.”

As stated by NAIMUN, Model U.N. is an excellent way for elementary schoolers to college students to develop the art of public speaking and persuasive rhetoric through speech drills while also learning how to research and create solutions to complex issues.

Georgetown University has hosted NAIMUN since 1963,

and its goal is to achieve the highest quality committees available for high schoolers. NAIMUN is the largest student-run Model United Nations conference in the world. NAIMUN has been called the “high school championship” of the Model U.N. circuit, a reputation earned through years of excellence.

NAIMUN prides itself on providing a safe and enjoyable environment. High school students worldwide (including those from The Harvey School) come together for a weekend and listen to each delegate’s viewpoints, ideas, and policies to invent creative solutions to real global issues.

NAIMUN provides a variety of different committees. For example, NAIMUN offers committees from the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) to The Tensions and Trials of Tunisia: Cabinet of Caïd Essebsi, 2011. All of the committees that NAIMUN provides can vary from 20 to over 150 people per committee.

Although NAIMUN invites some of the most skilled and motivated high school students globally, they also welcome new students.

NAIMUN provided a series of YouTube videos that would explain to new students what Model U.N. is and offer some tips and tricks to make individuals stand out within their committee.

The Pulse interviewed Ms. Falcon, teacher/advisor for the Harvey Model UN team and Zachary Treseler, head delegate for the Harvey Model UN team.

Treseler told The Pulse, “I have been doing Model UN Since eighth grade. I started back in my old school. I played with the middle circuit there and then jumped to the high school circuit, and now here we are.” Ms. Falcon learned the ropes of Model UN through her high school speech and debate team experience.

Treseler said there are several benefits from doing Model UN. He said, “You gain a bigger appreciation for what’s happening in the wider world about issues that may not affect us. It gives the ability to empathize and relate with other people around the world. Also, you gain the ability to find solutions.

You also get more comfortable with public speaking and advocating for yourself.”

Ms. Falcon stated, “I am encouraged to see more female students join. Compared to last year, there was a greater proportion of female delegates. As a feminist myself, it will become a greater representation of our Harvey population such as yourself.”

The Harvey School’s Model UN team.

Photo courtesy of Ms. Jessica Falcon.

NAIMUN offers a variety of different committees that can highlight every student’s strength.

Treseler specializes in and enjoys The British House of Commons. “I was in The British House of Commons this year (Sir Robert Smith, a Scottish Liberal Democrat.). I thought that committee was the most beneficial for me. Then the World Health Organization would come up a close second.”

Treseler represented The Harvey School excellently during closing ceremonies, receiving a Verbal Commendation, which is quite impressive, especially since over a hundred delegates were in his committee.

Overall, The Harvey School’s Model UN team did fantastic work at NAIMUN. The Model U.N. team lives strong and will continue to participate in more conferences going forward!

Artistic Adjustments

By Jeremy Stewart

COVID-19 was a very sudden barrier to Harvey, requiring many changes to be made. Protocols, schedules, lessons, and media became top priorities when it came to worrying about the restrictions.

Luckily, the majority of classes could simply have desks socially distanced and disinfected between classes, but some subjects have heavier restrictions than others.

In particular, the pandemic protocols hit the arts hard. Teachers had to change their curriculums and approaches to keep social distance and prevent the spread of the virus.

From sculpting to singing, teachers in the arts are making do with the current circumstances to ensure the safety of students.

The Pulse interviewed Mr. Vinny Alexander, chair of performing arts, for his feedback. Mr. Alexander said, “The current COVID-19 restrictions really impede our ability to exercise the full nature of the arts. Despite this, our teachers and students have taken on the challenge and have figured out ways to teach, study, and hone student craft.”

Ms. Gambino and students in the after-school performing arts program. Photo courtesy of The Harvey School Instagram page, @theharveyschool.

The heavy restrictions that have encroached onto the art community at Harvey have prevented many opportunities for events like art shows and plays performed live in front of an audience. Although there were controlled class environments where students could work almost like they used to, final presentations could not occur, at least not in the fall and winter terms.

Mr. Alexander also told The Pulse, “All of Harvey’s classes have been manipulated in one way or another to overcome the challenges of the pandemic…In the Performing Arts, we tried to keep the classes as close to normal as possible...

We were not able to share our work with a live audience, so we sent videos home to share our efforts.”

Luckily, art classes as a whole are able to occur despite the pandemic and a few restrictions.

Mr. Alexander said, “We have been able to run all of the performing arts electives.” He added, “While many of our classes typically conclude in some sort of performance, we used this year to develop performance skills.”

In Mr. Alexander’s Stagecraft class, for example, the students have learned to work and adjust to the new manipulated protocols.

Remote students take supplies home and give updates through Zoom, while in-person students work separately on their own projects in class.

It is not just physical changes that occurred, but emotional changes, too. The art teachers all love their jobs and supporting students along their art journey, and the regulations have weighed heavily on their hearts. Mr. Alexander said, “It is my hope that we will be able to return to The Harvey stage and do what we love to do. I miss live music. I miss performances. I miss our community.”

The Pulse thanks Mr. Alexander for his time for the interview, and hopefully the protocols for the arts will revert to normal shortly.

Reports

Page 5

When the Oceans and Politics Collide

By Kevin Li

According to The New York Times, Japan experienced a big earthquake in 2011 that “killed more than 19,000 people.” As a result, three nuclear power plants were destroyed. The Times said that the incident caused “the worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl.”

On April 9, the Japanese government announced that it will release the wastewater into the sea.

According to the BBC, more than one million tons of contaminated water will be released.

kushima generally believes that the incident will weaken their brand’s public image, and further on, it might lead to interests shrinking.

The BBC reports that the “rational levels are below those set for drinking water,” which means people do not need to worry about getting infected after drinking the water.

On the other hand, America has a different opinion. According to Insider.com, the U.S. supports Japan’s releasing the radioactive water.

Climate envoy John Kerry says that he’s confident Japan will continue its plan.

The Chinese government and the South Korean government strongly disagreed with the decision.

The foreign ministry spokesman replied, saying if the Fukushima polluted water is harmless, the Japanese government would not have to worry about its safety.

More citizens, such as those in the local fishing industry, put pressure on the Japanese government.

The fishing industry in or nearby Fu-

Japan Today reported that 30 South Korean college students shaved their heads to protest against Japanese government. South Korea’s oceans minister nominee also said that he will “spare no efforts to protect the public from any harm stemming from the anticipated release of radioactive water from the Fukushima plant.”

The South Korean Foreign Minister then replied to John Kerry, trying to change his mind. According to Japan Times, Chung Eui-yong, the foreign minister of South Korea, told John Kerry that the U.S. should work to persuade Japan to “provide information to the international community more swiftly.”

According to the BBC, scientists argue the water is only

harmful to humans in large doses.

The polluted water contains tritium, which is radioactive, but the tritium will disappear after 12 years (half-life).

In addition, tritium “emits only low Storage tanks for treated water at Fukushima. Photo courtesy of Reuters. energy beta particles,” the precautionary evacuations did and the Fukushima water won’t do cause unexpected social and health harm to the human body, according problems.” to Science Magazine.

Substances like ruthenium, cobalt, strontium, and plutonium are also contained in the Fukushima wastewater. Those substances might be ingested by ocean animals after years, and that might cause another problem Japanese government needs to worry about.

Science Magazine reports, “The Fukushima radiation had a minimal impact on humans, though

Nigel Marks, a nuclear materials scientist at Curtin University, stated, “Although ‘the optics are terrible, releasing the water into the Pacific Ocean is the right thing to do.”

During the pandemic people are more cautious, so this incident will attract more discussion.

How Are Animals Helping Us Cope During COVID-19?

By Alexia Roisenvit

COVID-19 has affected us all physically and mentally due to the loss of our daily routines. Not being able to live a normal life has been difficult, but animals have been there during this stressful time.

Animals are really amazing creatures and are always by our side.

During this pandemic, we have been able to appreciate their company even more. At the beginning of the pandemic, going for walks was one of my favorite things to do, and now it is just part of my routine.

I take my dogs with me, because I try to keep them active and healthy. Drake Centers Blog, a website run by veterinarians, says, “When it comes to your dog’s physical and mental health, daily walks and play sessions are key. Besides keeping your pet in shape, exercise acts as the equalizer against all bad behaviors, helping to keep a variety of problems—like inappropriate elimination, anxiety, eating disorders, attention seeking, aggression and barking.”

Due to COVID-19, my parents have decided that we as a family have to stay at home. Taking online classes is difficult, but having a pet nearby makes it 10 times easier.

My pets are with me all the time, and they don’t bother me at all. When I’m in need of a hug, they are there for me.

Learning about the different types of species that exist in the world is fascinating and unbelievable. At the beginning of the pandemic, one of my hobbies was to watch different YouTube videos of different animals and how to take care of them.

While watching one of the videos, I saw this adorable Japanese fish. It had an egg-shaped body with a deep belly and a bubbly head. It caught my attention, and I had to know the name of it. It was a Ranchu.

I started looking for that specific breed but couldn’t find it. It was impossible to find. Eight months later, I found this goldfish breeder that sold me a Ranchu. Ranchus are really delicate animals and need a lot of special care. They are adorable creatures, but if you don’t know how to take care of them, they could die.

Ranchus have to be in at least a 20-gallon tank, and there has to be more than one fish. It also has to have decorations and some type of

cave so they could rest.Also, 80% of the water in the tank needs to be cleaned every week for them not to catch any fungal or bacterial disease.

“It is also important to leave My Ranchu fish. Photo courtesy of Alexia Roisenvit. some of the old water in the tank as Ich, Anchor Worm, Trichondia, fin to maintain some of the good bacterot, or dropsy. ria that the fish has produced,” stated Luke’s Goldies, the goldfish breeder

My fish and dogs have who sold me the Ranchu. Cleaning helped me during COVID. I had the the whole tank every week can stress honor of owning a Ranchu, but unthe fish because it is like changing fortunately, she died from a disease its environment, causing it not to feel she caught. It was a fun experience like home anymore. having a Ranchu, but my recommendation is to do diligent research

It is also important to before purchasing or adopting any check the Phl, ammonia, and nitrate animal. levels of the water before putting the fish back into the tank. Ranchus

Animals can provide you are also carnivores, so you have to with great companionship, but it is have a balanced diet including blood also important to know that they worms/shrimps and also some types need to be taken care of, as some are of vegetables such as peas. very delicate and need extra good care.

If owners don’t do deeper research on how to take care of Ranchus, the fish could get some of the common or deadliest diseases such

Page 6

Reports

Lockdown on Guns

By Razi Tanksley

On April 7, President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris’s administration announced their initial strides to combat the gun crisis in America. This is the first major leap that the president has made to increase gun control in the United States since his inauguration in January.

This is a solid start for the Biden administration, but much more work must be done to ensure proper gun control. According to NBC reporter Rebecca Shabad, advocates and experts on gun control believe that the president’s “unilateral actions could lead to some reduction in gun violence but that congressional action would be needed for substantial changes — a prospect that appears dim in the closely divided Congress.”

Many of these advocates have voiced their opinions louder recently due to the massive rise of violence and death guns have caused.

Shabad has reported from gun experts that “in 2020 alone, 19,000 people have died in gun-related homicides.”

One of the most recent gun control implications from President Biden was when he proposed to the Justice Department to stop the sale of what experts call, according to The New York Times, “ghost guns, which can be built at home from kits to create working firearms without serial numbers, making serial numbers and

from Republicans. When asked what Congress’s response was for his proposed laws, Biden stated “They have offered plenty of thoughts and prayers, members of Congress, but they have passed not a single federal law to reduce gun violence.”

An example of a Republican who is delaying these laws from being passed is Tennessee Governor Bill Lee. As reported by The New York Times, Lee has recently signed legislative acts that allow more people to carry handguns publicly without comprehensive background checks or firearm training.

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris addressing gun violence prevention at the White House. Photo courtesy of Andrew Harkin- Associated Press.

also requiring no background checks for purchasing them untraceable.”

Guns like these are one of many reasons for reasonable gun-control laws.

In studies conducted by the Bureau of Firearms and Explosives, about 10,000 ghost guns were apprehended by the government in 2019 alone. These guns are highly popular to criminals and extremist groups because their lack of serial numbers makes them untraceable.

Ghost guns are one of the deadliest types of guns and the most important guns that regulation supporters have wanted the government to show more concern about. Another

example of a deadly type of gun law that needs to be implemented soon is regulation on semi-automatic guns. These types of weapons are important because, according to Annie Karni of The New York Times, “semi-automatic weapons are often used in mass shootings.”

The main problem with passing these gun safety laws is in the political divide in the United States. Regulatory actions, such as mandatory background checks on purchases and banning the sale of assault weapons, have been paused because of the divide in the Senate, which hasn’t given the necessary 60 votes for approval, including votes

Because of these laws and other actions taken by certain Republicans, Biden’s administration has been receiving outstanding support for the recent steps in the guncontrol movement. John Feinblatt, the president of Everytown for Gun Safety, says “President Biden ran on the strongest gun safety platform in history, and he proved he’s going to govern like it.”

While the recent moves by President Biden have been initially proficient, there is still a long road for complete gun control that will protect us all. Everyone must remember all the atrocities that guns have caused and unite together in the fight against gun violence.

Spring Sports cont.from cover.

Varsity sports at Harvey are open to all grades and often have senior athletes as captains. However, even players who are not captains but have lots of experience in Harvey’s athletic programs tend to act as mentors to other players.

Coach Dunn added, “We make a point to address our seniors and returning varsity players that are role models and leaders of the team. It is their job to incorporate the younger underclassmen with skill development and teamwork.”

This year’s boys varsity baseball captains are seniors Spencer Hellinger, Aaron Shyer, and Diego Urreta. Hellinger and Urreta are also players for the New York Nighthawks, which is headed by Coach Luis Lopez, who is also the head coach of boys varsity baseball. All three seniors were members of the 2019 HVAL championship team.

Girls varsity lacrosse is led by captains senior Keegan Glucksman and junior Elianna “Ellie” Kalman. Both girls are “Harvey Lifers,” having attended Harvey since the sixth grade, and longtime varsity players.

Coach Janos took time to recognize Glucksman. “She is a good leader and a heck of an athlete,” Coach Janos said. Glucksman also helped lead the team to victory in the 2019 HVAL Girls Lacrosse Championship as a sophomore captain.

Nevertheless, like all Harvey teams, the Girls Varsity Lacrosse team is very family oriented. Coach Janos continues, “We all look out for each other and take each other under the wings.”

Many of the senior captains have already committed to college.

Glucksman will be attending Berklee College of Music. Hellinger and Shyer are going down south to Elon University. Urreta will be heading to Cisco College in Cisco, Texas.

Three Harvey seniors have signed and committed to colleges to continue their athletic journeys. Lucas Chirico recently signed to play D1 Rugby at St. Bonaventure University. Joining him upstate at St. Bonaventure is Emily McKenna, who committed earlier this year for softball. Also playing softball is Kathryn Ogg, who will be attending Oklahoma State University.

The Pulse thanks Coach Dunn and Coach Janos for sharing their thoughts on the return to spring sports. We are excited to return to having after-school programs at Harvey after a year without them.

Reports

Page 7

Royal Family Run Down

By Emma Galgano

The British three other children, Princess royal family has faced Anne, Prince Andrew and extreme media buzz Prince Edward Earl of Wesand pain in the last sex.” few months, including Meghan Markle and Since Markle is pregnant, Prince Harry’s interview she cannot travel and thus with Oprah and the could not attend the funeral. death of beloved Prince However, Meghan was repPhillip. resented symbolically at the

ceremony via a floral wreath Originally, laid for Prince Philip and an Meghan Markle and accompanying card, which Prince Harry announced was handwritten. they would leave the royal family on January Prince William said that 8, 2020.They made this the funeral was just how announcement through Prince Philip would have Instagram, stating that wanted it. USA Today stated, they would “step back “Queen Elizabeth II sits alone as ‘senior’ members of at Prince Philip’s funeral; the royal family, split family says farewell at St. their time between George’s Chapel. A week the United Kingdom after his death, Prince Philip and North America, was laid to rest Saturday with The Royal Family watching a fly-past of aircraft by the Royal Air Force in London on June 8, 2019. Photo courtesy of and become financially a funeral fit for a royal, but Daniel Leal-Olivas. independent.” On Feb. 19, within the confines of Britain’s 2020, Buckingham Palace COVID-19 pandemic rules shots at Markle, such as how she was interview, Princess Diana said, “Perconfirmed that the Duke and in the ‘no fuss’ manner the ‘straight outta Compton’ and that she haps we need to look more closely and Duchess would relinquish their Duke of Edinburgh requested.” had ‘exotic DNA.’” at the cause of the illness rather than roles as royals. attempt to suppress it. To accept that

On April 21, 2021, Queen

Given that Prince Harry and putting a lid on powerful feelings

On March 7, 2021, Oprah Elizabeth II celebrated her 95th Markle criticized the royal family, a and emotions cannot be the healthy sat down with a pregnant Meghan birthday. This was the Queen’s first Markle and her husband Prince Harry few people in the royal family are re- option.” birthday in 73 years without Prince portedly upset. According to People.

about why they decided to leave the Philip. The occasion is usually

A month after the interview royal family. Prince Harry explained, com, Prince Harry’s brother, Prince marked publicly with gun salutes with Oprah, the adored Prince Philip “It was a really difficult environment, William, found their behavior to be in Hyde Park, Windsor Great Park, disrespectful. passed away, and the royal famas I think a lot of people saw. We all and London. However, this year it’s ily stated that “he died peacefully.” know what the British press can be postponed because the royal family Markle said that she sufPrince Philip died at 99 years with like, and it was destroying my mental is officially in mourning until April fered a lot of mental health issues his wife, Queen Elizabeth II, by his health.”

23. while being around the royal family. side.

Markle said she went to the royal

Meghan Markle said she

The royal family has faced family’s human resources department Before the funeral, Queen faced a lot of racism while in Buckits ups and down in 2021. Prince and said, “I need help.” Markle said Elizabeth II entered eight days of ingham Palace. Markle stated, “In Harry and Markle are now on better the response was, “My heart goes mourning. People.com stated, “The those months I was pregnant [there terms with the royal family, and out to you because I see how bad it monarch, 94, will refrain from carry- Prince Philip will be remembered were] concerns and conversations is, but there’s nothing we can do to ing out any royal duties during this about how dark his skin might be as brave and heroic. Rest in peace, protect you because you’re not a paid time. Affairs of state will also be put when he was born.”

Prince Philip. employee of the institution.” on pause.”

Forbes News states, “One

Markle and Princess Diana

Due to COVID-19 guideof the most repeated portions of the had similar experiences with their lines, fewer people attended the Markle interview concerns what a funeral. USA Today stated, “In member of the royal family allegedly mental health while being a part of the family. Princess Diana married attendance were the queen, Prince said when expressing concern about into the royal family and said she Charles, his sons, William and Harry, ‘how dark [Archie’s] skin might was not offered any mental health Charles’ and William’s duchess be.’ And before she married Prince resources during that time. During an wives, Camilla and Kate, and Philip’s Harry, the British media took racial

Reviews

Page 8

Coming Back 2 America A Review by Razi Tanksley

We Interrupt this Program: A “WandaVision” Review A Review by Max Edelman

After months of delays and waiting due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Marvel’s phase four, the first set of movies and shows following the events of “Avengers: Endgame,” finally kicked off. “WandaVision” was not only the first release of Marvel’s phase four, but it was also the first of 13 Marvel shows set to premiere on Disney+ over the course of the next two years.

Being the first Marvel content released in over a year, there were, like all Marvel movies and shows, large expectations for the show. “WandaVision” met those expectations in ways and methods unheard of from Marvel Studios.

Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall reunited in “Coming 2 America.”

Photo courtesy of K Austin Collins.

32 years after the release of “Coming to America,” Eddie Murphy and Arsenio Hall reunite in its marvelous sequel “Coming 2 America.” Original cast members like James Earl, John Amos, and Jones Shari Headley return in this film and take back the roles of their original characters. With this new movie also comes new characters, with cast members such as Leslie Jones, Wesley Snipes, and Jermaine Fowler.

As Akeem and Semmi return to Queens, the audience members who can remember moments from the original film will have a good time reminiscing about the scenes from the original that were brought back to life. Viewers like Matthew Nash Henderson, who also wrote on Google Reviews, felt that the movie, “like its predecessor is heartfelt, visually appetizing, and a different perspective of a magical love story.”

Since it began streaming on Amazon Prime on March 5, 2021, rated PG-13, Craig Brewer’s directorial masterpiece has risen to become a worldwide sensation. According to critic Alissa Wilkinson, many viewers found the movie to be “a weird snortlaugher of a comedy, a movie that begs to be watched in an audience where the guffaws coming from the row behind you just make you laugh harder.” Along with the original film, the sequel has earned its place as one of Eddie Murphy’s best films, along with hit movies like “Trading Places” and the “Beverly Hills Cop” franchise.

Some of the best parts of the movie was how “Coming 2 America” was an accurate sequel of the original. The storyline of “Coming 2 America” perfectly complements and connects to the plotline of the “Coming To America.” Some franchise sequels try to make a totally different film, which ruins the franchise. But because the storylines extended superbly, the whole franchise can be more appreciated.

Even though some viewers found problems with parts like the subplot, they still enjoyed watching the film. Chris Albert, an audience member who stated their opinion on Google Reviews, felt that it was “a risky proposition to create a sequel to a beloved film.

Especially if said film never needed a sequel to begin with. Some would argue that this movie was utterly unnecessary.” Even though constructive criticism can be made about how “Coming 2 America” could be better, the plot and other essential parts of the film make it well worth seeing.

As the plot continues from the original film’s ending, “Coming 2 America” opens with King Akeem Joffer enjoying his life with his beautiful wife, Lisa McDowell, and their three daughters. But he soon learns that he has a son that was conceived when he was living in Queens, New York, so now he and Semmi are returning back to America.

One of the most crucial parts of the film that was enjoyable is the cast’s phenomenal acting.

The depiction of the African nation of Zamunda was also incredibly realistic, and the depiction of all the characters, from Zamunda to America, were very accurate to the fictional plot. That was the part of the film that not only makes one want to keep watching, but also imagine what it would be like to live in the story. Each actor’s performance was so genuine, it was like the characters in the movie were actual people in real life.

This is an excellent film that anyone could enjoy, but we advise everyone to see the original film to be able to fully understand the plot. If you don’t have an Amazon Prime account, this film is a great reason to spend $12.99, the cost of a monthly subscription.

The show takes place immediately following the events of 2019’s “Avengers: Endgame.”

The show stars Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) and Vision (Paul Bettany), who live in the fictional town of Westview, New Jersey.

However, Westview isn’t like your everyday town in New Jersey. In fact, it’s not like any town in the world. The town of Westview is stuck in a sitcom. Every episode, the decade of the sitcom changes. The first episode is set in the 1950s, and the episode takes inspiration from 50s sitcoms. The second episode is set in the 60s, and so on.

Sporadically, throughout the show, episodes will take place outside of Westview from the perspective of SWORD (Sentient Weapon Observation and Response Department). SWORD is a fictional organization within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) responsible for dealing with superhuman and extraterrestrial life within the MCU.

Within the organization, Monica Rambeau (Teyonah Parris), Jimmy Woo (Randall Park), and Darcy Lewis (Kat Dennings) are all tasked to figure out what is going on in Westview.

All three of these characters are returning from past Marvel movies.

One of the great parts of the new Disney+ shows is being able to see the growth of characters we otherwise wouldn’t be able to see.

Following the events of “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Avengers: Endgame,” Wanda is still struggling with the death of Vision who vanished at the hands of Thanos in “Avengers: Infinity War.”

Because of the events of Thanos’ snap, the event that killed half of the universe’s population for five years, Wanda is still grieving from the loss of Vision, although it occurred five years earlier. Wanda, however, found a way to seemingly bring Vision back.

The official “WandaVision” Poster.

Photo Courtesy of Disney+.

The main plot of “WandaVision” is Wanda and Vision attempting to live a “normal American life” in the town of Westview. However, Wanda and Vision have a very different time concealing their powers, and it’s showcased in a unique and comical way.

Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany are truly the stars of the show. After being introduced in “Avengers: Age of Ultron” in 2015, Wanda and Vision were really only one-dimensional side characters with the occasional main storyline appearances, and having both characters star in their own show is a sight to be seen. The growth of both characters throughout their MCU run is amazing, and it culminates beautifully in the show.

Giving any other details away would take away from this magical show. From the first episode to the ninth and final episode, the show is full of surprises that you would never expect to see from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

I would recommend “WandaVision” to anyone. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, or someone looking for a show unlike anything ever seen before, “WandaVision” is a mustwatch.