Vol. 38 Issue #4
December 7, 2012
The Knightly News Pace Academy 966 West Paces Ferry Road Atlanta, Georgia 30327
p. 3 Five Minutes with Lizzie
p. 6 Fifteen Gifts Under $15
p. 7 Legalize Marijuana?
Students Treasure Holiday Traditions Photo: Carolyn Propst
By: Hayley Silverstein News Editor ‘14 In the weeks leading up to winter break, as the temperature drops and the smell of pine and peppermint become all too familiar, the holidays always bring about a sense of excitement and anticipation. Students and teachers at the Academy treasure their unique holiday traditions that help to spread the holiday spirit. With the end of the semester nearing, students become increasingly anxious as the final barrier of exams is the only thing separating them from the holidays and a much-needed break. However, not even the weight of exams is enough to stop students and teachers from celebrating the holidays with their own traditions inside and outside of school. New students bring in an ornament of their choice to adorn the Christmas tree in the Castle’s rotunda, which is covered with Stars of David, the smiling faces of Lower School students, snowflakes, and brightly colored objects that catch the sunlight. Sophomore Carolyn Propst said that she still gets excited seeing
Current sophomore girls get into the spirit at the ice skating rink last holiday season. her pre-first ornament on the tree in the Castle each year. Many can remember watching “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” in Middle School, or performing in the Lower School’s Holiday Program as an angel or a singing animal. The Upper School has its own holiday traditions. Chorus, Strings, and Band members perform at holiday concerts in the FAC during December, and the Upper School Chorus sings holiday music in the Inman Center every year in a program
called “Sing in the Season.” Mr. Canfield brings out his tree and menorah to adorn his classroom in celebration of both Christmas and Hanukkah, and teachers wear holiday-appropriate clothing in the form of ties, jewelry, and sweaters. Many students play Secret Santa and exchange gifts outside of school. Junior Sam Downey recalled that his favorite holiday memory at Pace was playing “munchkin ball during exam week, when I jumped and hit my head on the little rim and my
judges. However, with the new, pristine Upper School building, will these traditions continue? Spirit Week began years ago as a celebration of Homecoming week, which happened during basketball season since the football team did not exist. The week culminated on Friday with a big pep rally and the Homecoming basketball game. Originally held in Boyd, the Friday Spirit Week celebration was much more low-key. Much like our current Homecoming pep rally, every grade had one theme: Blue and White. Only the seniors decorated, and the competition was about grade participation in the week-long dress-up days, as well as basketball game attendance. Recently, though, the festivities have grown massively. Banners now extend across the Inman Center track, even the toilets are decorated, and Pace students are exhausted after
late-night dance practices. The Student Council even had to introduce a spending limit for each grade to prevent the festivities from getting blown too far out of proportion. Next year, however, there will be no Upper School building, and in its place will be the “academic village.” This opens up a world of opportunities, with a new layout for decoration that nobody has ever seen. Pace students will have the chance to decorate the open courtyard, the outside of the trailers, and “deck out” the interior of this temporary space. The following year in the new Arthur M. Blank Family Upper School, Pace Academy will face a drastic change. It is still under debate how the school will handle the future of Spirit Week, but there is no doubt that the administration will want to maintain the perfection of the
head hurt with Christmas cheer.” While Sam looked to holidays past, junior Hallie Bedol is looking ahead. She said, “My favorite holiday tradition at Pace is the Holiday Program. I see it every year and it gets me in the holiday spirit! I also can’t wait until we are seniors when we go and stand behind the character we played in the program.” Students don’t just love the holiday season because it means a break from school; the holidays are beloved because they liven the atmosphere, bring about ex-
periences that are solely reserved for this time of year (Christmas songs on the radio, and peppermint hot chocolate at Starbucks), and give students an excuse to be merry for no reason. Outside of school, students embrace the holidays in ways ranging from spending time with just the family to celebrating multiple holidays with an array of family and friends. Some students travel, like sophomore Tracy Knight, whose family goes down to Jacksonville to visit her aunt and uncle, and Sam, who treks to California to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s with his entire family. Hallie said, “Every year we have a little holiday party, and since my mom is Christian and my dad is Jewish, we call it ‘Chrismukkah’ because it is half Christmas and half Hanukkah.” Other students uphold family traditions of seeing “The Nutcracker” at the Fox Theater, Christmas caroling around the neighborhood, or playing dreidel with younger siblings. No matter how students choose to embrace the holiday spirit, the hope of snow and the excitement of having time off from school to spend time with friends and family are common throughout the student body during the holidays.
Future of Spirit Week Remains Unclear By: Sam Rubenstein Staff Writer ‘14
With the planned demolition of the 60-year-old Pace Academy Upper School building, the existence of another Pace legacy has been called into question. During the first week immediately following winter break, high school students work within their grades to put on Spirit Week. During this time, the Gardens may turn into a Native American village, the Inman Center could resemble scenes from “Super Mario Bros.,” and the Upper School building has the possibility of being transformed into an Arabian street market. The week reaches a climax on Friday, when each grade displays their themed banner and performs their dance for the
Photo: Lee Wilson The 2012 junior banner was the largest free-standing banner ever created for Spirit Week. new building. One very likely possibility is that specific areas will be designated for Spirit Week. The Upper School may very well be off limits from the spirit of Spirit Week.
Has Spirit Week gotten too big? Will this tradition endure? Will Spirit Week return to the old days of a dinky pep rally in Boyd? Only time will tell the future of this glorified tradition.
Pace News
December 7, 2012
The Knightly News - Page 2
‘West Side Story’ Students Excel at Pops on Stage Ceramics Competition Photo: Diane Duvall
By: Hayley Silverstein News Editor ‘14
The Jets sing their hearts out in ‘Officer Krupke.’ By: Natalie Camrud Editor in Chief ‘13 The only time you will see the parking lot full at the Academy on a Friday night is when Pace Theatre is putting on one of their fabulous productions. I went on Friday, Nov. 9 to see the much anticipated musical, “West Side Story.” The audience was obviously excited to see the show, and as soon as the lights went down, an eager hush fell over the FAC. The show started off with a bang with the Jets and the Sharks singing, dancing, and fighting each other at the same time. Everybody danced better than I expected, and it was clear that they had put a ton of time and effort into learning the dance numbers. As the show continued, we were introduced to Maria and Tony, the main characters who were played by seniors Megan McCurry and Joey Capelouto. From the moment they met at the school dance, their onstage love was intense and convincing. Senior and theater veteran Alex
Paré popped on scene as Anita, a spicy and sassy Puerto Rican. Her main number, “America,” made me want to run onto the stage and dance with the actors, and it practically stirred the audience to their feet. The whole cast was very energetic, and it was clear during intermission that it had rubbed off on the audience as people enthusiastically discussed their favorite scenes while getting snacks in the FAC lobby. “Officer Krupke” was probably the most popular musical number of the night, getting some laughs and thunderous applause. The set was fantastic and well-built enough to hold up Megan and Joey on a balcony; it was even sturdy enough to hold Tony climbing up the ladder to Maria’s window during one scene. The final scene was intense and touching as Maria held a dying Tony, and I even saw some misty eyes as I left the theater. I wasn’t the only one who loved “West Side Story,” though; many who saw it raved about it later on Facebook or Twitter, proving once again that Pace Theatre is incredible.
Pep Band’s First Season Resonates By: Wilson Alexander Staff Writer ‘14
Usually at football games, teams bring bands that rule the air with a big brass sound. For the first time in Pace history, Pace has a band to represent our Knights. Though small, the program continues to grow and hopes to one day be big enough to play at football halftimes as a marching band. Band director Danny Doyle said, “We just have to continue what we started this year, which is having the band respond to the situations in the game with music... It’s an evolutionary process and it will
evolve into something big and popular with all age groups. So, we’re going to have something for everyone.” Dr. Doyle earned a scholarship to play in the band at the University of Southern Mississippi and he was the director of the marching band at the University of Alabama-Birmingham for 11 years. He taught at Daniel Middle School before coming to Pace last year. Dr. Doyle has a vision for the band that he’s determined to one day achieve. He said, “We’re there to help with the game experience and have a really good time doing it. We want the crowd to have a really good time no matter what the outcome is, so that they want to come back to the next game.” He hit the ground running
While the Scholastic Arts competition may be the only major arts awards contest that Pace Academy pays close attention to, this past November, the Georgia Ceramic Arts Awards and Symposium accepted nine Pace students’ works for exhibition in the disciplines of pottery and sculpture, and four Pace students won major awards for their respective works. The Georgia Ceramic Arts Awards and Symposium is a statewide ceramics competition and symposium with 35 participating high schools from all around Georgia. It was created to award young ceramic artists for their accomplishments and encourage students to continue studying art. Each year, a well-respected judge selects the show from over 800 entries, which are narrowed
down to 140 accepted works. Mr. Dorman said, “Being selected for the exhibit is prestigious in and of itself.” The 140 ceramic and sculpture pieces are displayed in The Centre in Newnan, Ga. and go through a second judging process for awards. A ceramics professor from a state university does the final selection for awards. Along with the awarded pieces, all 140 selected works are displayed on an annual poster that will be distributed early in 2013. Mr. Dorman said, “Our ceramics sculptures are large and ambitious. They usually take a full semester to complete. The technical and aesthetic considerations of making a large sculpture are substantial. I think our sculpture students are incredible in terms of their diligence and perseverance. They have produced work that is well beyond the typical ceramic work seen in most high school ceramic programs.” Last year, Josh Baron ‘12 won a first place pottery
award and an outstanding portfolio award, Kate Kolbinsky ‘12 won the obsessed artist award for labor intensive detail, and junior David Martos won third place in the competition for his sculpture of a baseball glove. This year, seniors Jack Assaf, Robert Brooks, and Jake Silverstein each had two works accepted for pottery; junior Jessica Castro and seniors John McCrea, Tate Schreiner, and Sara Smith each had one work accepted into the competition for pottery; and Josh Rogers and Hayley Silverstein were accepted in the sculpture category. Out of the students accepted, seniors Robert Brooks and Jake Silverstein, and juniors Josh Rogers and Hayley Silverstein won major awards for their respective works at this year’s competition. Mr. Knott said, “this is the biggest and most competitive ceramics competition in Georgia for high school students. All who got work in should be extremely proud of their accomplishment!”
Photo: Hayley Silverstein Senior Jake Silverstein works on a piece for the ceramics competition. last year by giving the band custom polos and custom hats to wear at the two pep rallies they played. Playing at the pep rallies has helped create support throughout the school and the Parents’ Club for the band. Dr. Doyle said, “I have to put credit where credit is due. Without the support of the Parents’ Club there wouldn’t be a pep band. There’s a large talent pool here, but without the proper equipment, you can get people together, but it won’t sound good.” The Parents’ Club supplied the program with money to buy much-needed new instruments. It’s evident that the new instruments have made a difference, as the band was clearer and louder at the football games this year. “The overall experience is much better and it helps get us more excited to go and watch the games. They’re improving each year and they’ll get even better as they expand,” said sophomore Cooper Drose. The up-and-coming program
is helping to create a culture at the football games that resembles that of large high schools. “Whenever you go to the games, the other team has a band that plays at halftime like it’s their own stadium. Not to mention
they usually have more fans than us. I think the pep band could help change that,” said junior John Morrison. That’s certainly the band’s goal as they continue to rapidly progress and strengthen their foundation. Photo: Fred Assaf
Senior Sam Schaffer helped pump up football fans at the games.
Pace News
Vol. 38 Issue #4
The Knightly News - Page 3
Five Minutes with Lizzie Dupree Math Photo: Natalie Camrud
By: Natalie Camrud Editor in Chief ‘13 Knightly News: Hey, Lizzie! Lizzie DuPree: Hey, there! KN: So, how is it, being new at Pace Academy? LD: It’s OK... It’s like a nice, big old community here. KN: Did you come to Pace because your dad works here, or did you just really like the school? LD: I liked Pace a lot. It’s got an awesome art program, and it’s just a great school. KN: What was the most difficult thing about transitioning to Pace? LD: Transitions, because it takes away free periods. KN: (laughs) Yeah, that’s a good point. Do you have any extracurriculars? LD: I’m not really doing anything this semester, just trying to get used to high school right now. I like theater and art, and I’m considering doing rowing. KN: Do you have any hobbies? LD: I like to draw and paint. KN: What is your favorite thing to draw? LD: People. I like the movement
Lizzie chats with The Knightly News on her way through the Gardens. of bodies. Faces is what I’m best at, because I paint portraits, so faces would definitely be my strong suit. KN: So, are you taking an art class here? LD: I will next semester. I’m in public speaking right now. KN: OK, that’s cool. How is it having your dad here as a teacher? LD: It has its uses, I suppose. At some points it can get kinda awkward, but it’s all good.
KN: Do you see him in the hallways a lot? LD: (laughs) Yes, quite a lot. KN: Do you think you’ll have him as a teacher next year? LD: Oh gosh, I hope not! I would fail. He would give me an F on everything. KN: Really? He wouldn’t be nice to you? LD: No, he’d be like, “This isn’t double spaced -- F.” KN: Do you have any pets? LD: I have three cats, and a baby
of her artwork on an application, Madison actually displayed her portfolio on a website, which she coded herself “from scratch.” Despite their obvious passion for the arts, many of these talented artists are choosing to forgo art school in favor of a regular university. Asante said that she has always known that an artspecific university was not for her. “I never ever, not once, considered art schools, even though people have been pushing me in that direction for years... I still want my hobby to be fun, not a profession,” she said. Madison, who aims to become a video game designer, said, “I want to be able to do the artistic side, being concept
art, modeling, rendering, etc., and the computer science side, which would be the actual coding.” However, she hopes that by sending a portfolio, she will be more likely to get into her college’s art department. Brianna also intends to pursue art in college, but not at an art-specific university, which would limit her options to only art-related careers. Brianna also described art as a “hobby,” and she hopes to double major in art and neuroscience. “I have always wanted to be a neurosurgeon, ever since I had back surgery when I was twelve... and after working in a hospital and going into surgeries in Mexico,” she explained. Senior Sara Mullally, on
brother. KN: (laughs) He’s considered a pet? LD: Yeah, especially since he has a lot more hair now; he used to be pretty bald. KN: (laughs) He’s a pretty cute baby. LD: Yeah, he is. I have a lot of siblings. KN: And you’re the oldest? LD: Yeah, which means I have to watch all of them. KN: Do you wish you had a dog? LD: No, not really, because I’ve had lots of dogs so there isn’t like this gaping hole in my life. KN: Alright, well, random question: what is your favorite season? LD: Winter. KN: Why? LD: Because it’s nice and chilly outside. You can always get warm, but you can never get cool in the summer. It’s nice and easy to breathe, and there’s always, if you cross your fingers really, really hard, the chance of Snowmaggedon again. KN: OK, final question: What is something that people don’t know about you that they would be interested to know? LD: I’m a ginger, but I have a soul.
Artists Add Some Color to Applications By: Suzanne Monyak Editor in Chief ‘13 It’s 7 p.m. on the deserted Pace campus, but senior Brianna Cochran can’t go home yet. Brianna spent up to three hours daily in the art room in the weeks leading up to the dreaded Nov. 1 deadline, painting new pieces and preparing her 13-piece portfolio to send to colleges. Art students like Brianna spend countless hours creating and assembling these portfolios. Brianna explained, “If you spend a lot of time in the arts then you should send a portfolio. And I mean I do and I have a lot of passion for it... That’s a big part of my life so I wanted to show them what I’m about.” Senior Asante Crews, also a painter, described her portfolio as “incredibly random and all over the place, but still classy.” She said, “I thought that creating a portfolio would make me seem like a more interesting candidate. It helps me stand out in the massive applicant pool. Brown [University] is, of course, highly competitive, so I’ll take any edge I can get.” Senior Madison Thorne created an online portfolio to showcase to colleges her own unique style of art: digital animation. “It reflects the traditional side of art, such as realistic drawings, as well as the creative side of me. It shows my interest in digital art, animation, web design, and costume design, which are more uncommon skills,” she said. Instead of uploading photographs
Photo: Suzanne Monyak
Senior Brianna Cochran finishes her painting, ‘Float Away Fishies.’
the other hand, has seriously considered art school; however, like other Pace students, she is reluctant to so strongly limit herself. “A college experience is four years that I can never redo, and I am hesitant to give up that and dive right into art school. I see the benefits of both, so we’ll just have to wait and see where I get in,” she said. Sara’s portfolio, which is composed of photography, drawing, and painting, reflects her love of fashion. She said, “This describes me as an artist. It also has lots of collages and patterns, two things that I love working with.” Senior Healy Chait is applying to architecture schools and colleges with specific programs in industrial design. “I’m hesitating [to go to architecture school] because I don’t want to be locked into architecture then realize I hate it,” she said. Healy actually created several different portfolios for different schools, including an architecture portfolio, an art portfolio, and a sketch book. She said, “Ever since I can remember, my mother, who is also an artist, has told me I should go into industrial design, but it wasn’t really until I started exploring colleges that I realized that’s what I wanted to do.” While art school may not be in the cards for some of these Advanced Studio artists, the time and effort they put into their portfolios express not only their artistic ambitions, but also their genuine love of the arts. Brianna explained that her portfolio was really inspired by “whatever makes me happy.” She said, “I wanted to be able to create something and have a piece of work that was mine.”
Team Returns By: Elizabeth Roos Social Media ‘14 The Mathletes are back in action. Due to Dr. Kasilus’ busy schedule, Mr. Smith has gladly taken over this enthusiastic group of top-notch competitors. On Oct. 20 the team traveled to the University of Georgia where they battled against some of the state’s most talented brain jocks. According to Mr. Smith, “We were in the top 25% as a team. Given that we hadn’t practiced at all, and it was against everyone from [schools] Pace’s size up to Walton High School and the rest of those gigantic Cobb County schools, that’s pretty good.” Sophomore Erin Rawls said, “We even beat the group of students from UGA who competed in the competition.” Normally a tournament consists of three parts. The first part is an hour-long multiple choice test, followed by speed rounds in which each individual is given a problem to complete in two minutes or less. The third part is a team round in which teams of four are given complicated problems to work on together. Mr. Smith said, “Problems up through but not including calculus are valid questions. However, they phrase them in weird ways so you have to think about them. They are not straightforward like SAT-type questions. These math team tests are not designed like high school math tests. If you get a 90%, you did well in these competitions; if you make a 50%, you also did well.” Although the math team does not have T-shirts yet, Mr. Smith reflected upon the ridiculous ones that he saw at the last tournament: “They all have really horrible math puns. There is one school that has black T-shirts with gold chains with a calculator hanging from it.” Junior Josh Rogers said, “Even though I have only been on the math team for a short period of time, I can already tell that I made the right decision and that it is going to change my life. The people on math team are like my brothers and sisters of ‘math-hood.’”
Photo: Elizabeth Roos Josh basks in the team’s success.
Features
December 7, 2012
The Knightly News - Page 4
It’s All Greek to Me at Taverna Plaka By: Riley Muse Staff Writer ‘14 Nestled among the tattoo parlors and gentlemen’s clubs sprinkled along Cheshire Bridge Rd. lies a hidden gem: Taverna Plaka. Although the flickering neon sign out front doesn’t look like much, I had heard from numerous friends and family that the Greek restaurant was a must-go, guaranteed, fun time. So I grabbed a group of go-withthe-flow friends and decided to venture out on a Friday night to see what it was all about. We arrived around 7 p.m., which seemed to be exactly when the party gets started. The menu was large and foreign to us, so we decided to go family style and order an abundance of recommended food to share. Our Thanksgiving-esque feast consisted of a traditional Greek salad; house-made hummus with pita bread; chicken, beef, and lamb kabobs; moussaka (a sort of beef and eggplant pie); a savory flaming cheese dip; and my personal favorite, the gyro plate (shaved roast lamb with Greek
fries). Our food had been on the table no longer than 15 minutes when the peaceful Greek music that had been a backdrop to the atmosphere suddenly amplified to consume the entire restaurant. Before you could even finish chewing your pita, cries of “OPA!” erupted from the back of the room, followed by a dancing clan of authentically Greek waiters and belly dancers. As they weaved their way through the maze of tables, waiters threw showers of paper napkins and the dancers motioned with their fingers clad in miniature cymbals to join in the dance. Eventually the napkins settled and the dancers retreated, leaving the restaurant in a calmer state. But the fun was not over yet, not even close. Just after we licked the last bites of baklava and galaktoboureko (a Greek custard covered in filo dough) off our plates, the waiters and dancers emerged once more, this time to include the entire restaurant in the traditional Greek Syrtos dance. The Syrtos is the quintessentially Greek circle dance you see in all the movies, where the entire group links arms to dance laps around the room while kicking, shouting
Sallie’s Comics
Photo: Kate Thomson
Seniors Kate Thomson, Sydney Willis, and Jenna Blumenthal enjoy dinner and dancing at Taverna Plaka in February. “OPA!” and trying not to slip on their attention as to avoid the fun, loud, crazy, Greek time. We the now-thick layer of napkins gazes of the belly dancers and decided to completely immerse on the floor. This was the perfect the beckons to shimmy up on a ourselves in the experience, way to cap off the evening; the table. But you really have to aptrying every food, placing paper music was lively, everybody was ply the saying, “When in Rome, money in the sequined skirts smiling and having a great time, do as the Romans do” to dining of the dancers, loudly shouting and the fast-paced dancing was at this restaurant, just replacing “OPA!” and even embarrassing hopefully enough to burn off at “Romans” with “Grecians” and ourselves by dancing on tableleast three kabobs. “Rome” with “Taverna Plaka, tops. If you enter Taverna Plaka Some people suddenly found Atlanta.” with a hungry stomach, an open their gyro platter to be the single With the belly dancing, mind, and a sense of adventure, most fascinating thing in the the shouts of “OPA!” and the and prepare to unleash your Greroom when all of this enthusiflaming food, you really cannot cian self, you are guaranteed to asm and craziness commenced, have a great time. But as the saybe afraid to just let go of your and felt that it must consume all inhibitions and simply have a ing goes, “It’s all Greek to me!”
By: Sallie Hays Staff Writer ‘13
The End of the World is (Possibly) Imminent By: Riley Muse Staff Writer ‘14 It was an ordinary Wednesday morning. I rushed down I-75 North to get school by the 8 a.m. assembly time, and the tedious Nickleback song “If Today Was Your Last Day” began to play on the radio. Just as I was about to change stations to avoid the crooning, it suddenly hit me: What if Dec. 21, 2012 is my last day on Earth? And I spend it taking my Precalculus Honors exam? Shouldn’t I be sky diving, or Rocky Mountain climbing? Or going 2.7 seconds on a bull named Fu Man Chu? It got me thinking, if today really was my last day, what would I spend it doing? When The Knightly News staff asked the student body how they would spend their last 24 hours, we received various answers. Some responses included travel, as students chose to live the day in places other than the ATL. Junior Symone Sommerville said, “I would go to Hawaii because I’ve always wanted to go there.” Sophomore Caillin Cooke decided she would go to the British Virgin Islands: “I’d stay on a sailboat, and spend the day on the beach with all my friends.” Some approached the end of the world with a bit more
sentimentality, making sure that their last day is lived with purpose. For example, junior Jordan Brown said that he would “say goodbye to the people I love, get the woman of my dreams, and listen to music under the stars.” Junior John Morrison said, “I’d wake up early and spend the day with my favorite people doing the things I like best.” Freshman James Sadlo took an alternative approach to the end of the world, saying, “I’d sit in my house and frown at the marauding zombies...or pack for my moon mission in the morning.” Other responses included freshman Lindsey Sample choosing to “snuggle” with her cat and junior Katie Lucke opting to “eat food the whole day.” But no matter how you choose to live your (possible) last day -- after the math exam of course -- whether it’s being with loved ones or eating your favorite foods, make sure to “Carpe diem!” and “Live like you’re dying!” and all of those other cheesy song lyrics and inspirational quotes you find on posters in children’s classrooms. Evidence suggests that we have nothing to worry about, as Mayans didn’t include leap years, the last “end of the world” didn’t actually happen, etc. But just in case it does, have a plan in mind. If you can’t come up with anything exciting, you can always turn to senior Caroline Powers who said, “I would throw a party and invite the whole world!”
Vol. 38 Issue #4
Dear Susie By: Sallie Hays Staff Writer ‘13
Dear Susie, Christmas is around the corner and I am contemplating whether to get this boy who I have just recently gotten involved with a present or not. I don’t want to get him a present and seem too serious, but I want to be considerate. What should I do? I am undecided. Dear Undecided, I think you should get this boy a gift! I don’t think you are moving things too fast; it’s sweet to show you’re thinking about him. Plus, everybody loves getting presents! You should give something small and casual like a T-shirt, gift card to his favorite restaurant, or something you’ve baked. Dear Susie, my mom went through my texts! She didn’t find anything inappropriate, but it’s still upsetting. This isn’t the first time she has invaded my privacy, and I want to confront her about it but I know she won’t listen. What should I do? I am insulted. Dear Insulted, I definitely think that you should confront your mom. Even though you are her daughter, I never think it’s OK to disrespect someone’s privacy. On the other hand, keep in mind that she was doing so as a protective and caring mother. Even though it is frustrating, her
intentions were probably for the best. When you say something to her, try and stay calm because I think that will help her take you more seriously (rather than coming across as a hot-headed teenager who is unstable). If you still don’t think you are getting through to her, you can always look to your dad, a sibling, or another family member or close friend to back you up. Dear Susie, I have been having problems with my teacher. I don’t think he/she likes me very much, and I’m afraid it’s affecting his/her grading. Some of my friends suggest I should talk to my dean, but I don’t want to be a tattletale. What should I do? I am worried. Dear Worried, I think it is better if you try and not think about grading. All you can do is try your best. As a student you should focus on your studying, and the rest will take care of itself. Try your best to be polite and respectful during class, and that will also help your cause. If you still feel that the teacher is biased, then you should talk to your dean. It is important to do what makes you feel better and more comfortable, aka what helps you sleep at night. If this is something that is seriously worrying you, then go ahead and speak to somebody. But if you feel confident enough to make it through a few more classes, then I think you should just wait it out.
Features
The Knightly News - Page 5
Three Looks with Kasia Omilian By: Wylie Heiner Opinion Editor ‘14 When thinking of Poland, what first comes to mind? Is it old grandmothers covered in
babushkas? Sausages and sauerkraut? At Pace, we automatically think of the Omilian family. Kasia is the second Omilian to go through the Academy. Her brother Arthur ‘11 is playing football at Northwestern University. Arthur may be known for
his football skills, but one of the many talents Kasia possesses is her unique sense of style. Whatever Kasia wears, she always manages to make it fun and true to her taste! Kasia’s biggest tip? “It’s essential to have a good pair of tennis shoes.”
Photo: Wylie Heiner
Look 1
Striped Sweater: Madewell Cargo Skirt: Columbia Shoes: Sports Authority
Look 2
Look 3
Dress: Urban Outfitters Flats: Steve Madden
Windbreaker: Aeropostale Pants: Urban Outfitters Socks: American Apparel Shoes: Sports Authority
Can Death Star Be Rebuilt a Third Time? By: Wilson Alexander Staff Writer ‘14 On Oct. 30, The Walt Disney Company announced the purchase of Lucasfilm Ltd. for $4.05 billion and, as some believe, the destruction of the “Star Wars” franchise. Disney plans to film an Episode VIII and Episode IX along with Episode VII, set to be released in 2015. “Star Wars” creator George Lucas will have a creative consulting role. It is rumored that his story lines will be used for the movies but his role will be minimal as he plans to retire with the 40 million Disney shares he received for the deal. The deal that’s handing over one of the highest grossing franchises in history to Disney has spurred mixed reactions from Hollywood and Pace alike. Junior Bobby Stonecipher said, “They’re going to ruin it! It was good the way it was. They didn’t need to add on to it and ‘Disneyfy’ it.” Some in Hollywood are even weary of new installments, like director of “300” Zack Snyder who said, “I just think doing [episodes] seven, eight, and nine is just a slippery slope. It’s a whole other mythological experiment I’m excited to see, but it’s a lot of effort.” And then there’s Quentin Tarantino who
seems to be very opposed to the idea of new movies. He said, “I could so care less, especially if Disney’s going to do it. I’m not interested in the Simon West version of ‘Star Wars.’” Others are of the opinion that
it has the potential to be another great installment to the already $27 billion franchise. Freshman Joe Loughran said, “I think it could be really good. I’m excited to see what Disney does with it and I’m hoping it’ll revitalize the
franchise.” Sophomore Maria Grenader agreed, saying, “I’ve always been a huge fan of the “Star Wars” series and I’m really excited to see what Disney does with them. So I can’t wait until it comes out and I’m looking
forward to it.” Episode VII is now in early production. The overall opinion of how it and the other movies will turn out is uncertainty, but many also feel a new hope for the continuation of “Star Wars”
Photo: David Martos Photo Illustration: Dean Papastrat
Juniors Josh Sloan and Wilson Alexander get psyched for the next ‘Star Wars’ movie.
Holiday
December 7, 2012
The Knightly News - Page 6
Fifteen Under $15 By: Annie Armstrong Features Editor ‘13
In a financial crunch? Want to buy something fun for your friends for the holidays? Here’s a quick list of gift ideas to please your pals and your pocket. 1. Essie nail polish - $5 each from Ulta 2. Kikkerland head massager $6 at Target 3. Fuzzy socks - $5 at Target 4. Southern Tide croakies - $7.95 from Southern Tide 5. “America Again” by Stephen Colbert - $15 at Barnes and Noble 6. SmartGrip pad - $10 at The Container Store
7. Whale-shaped coozie - $5 from Vineyard Vines 8. Giant gummy bear on a stick $10 on fredflare.com 9. Bobino cord wraps - $5 from The Container Store 10. Vosges Mo’s Bacon Chocolate Bar - $9 at Whole Foods 11. LOMO Pop Art color camera - $14 at Urban Outfitters 12. “Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (And Other Concerns)” by Mindy Kaling - $15 at Barnes and Noble 13. Bobble water bottle by Karim Rashid - $10 at The Container Store 14. Bullhorn iPhone speaker $10 from C. Wonder 15. Esquire’s “The Handbook of Style: A Man’s Guide to Looking Good” - $11 at Barnes & Noble
Students Celebrate Interfaith Holidays By: Aaron Wasserman Staff Writer ‘14 With the holiday season rapidly approaching, interfaith families everywhere are faced with a unique and perhaps puzzling situation: how to celebrate the holidays in a house where different beliefs have been alive for many years. This can often be a sensitive subject due to the unique traditions that people have grown up with, and the desire of parents to pass these traditions on to their children. With the growth of globalization and mixing of peoples and cultures, this is a trend that will only increase in coming years. In the Pace community, there are several students who spend the holidays in a home where two different religions are observed. Junior Bobby Stonecipher, half Christian and half Jewish by birth, said, “I only celebrate Christmas and don’t really observe any Jewish holidays.” Fellow junior Wilson
Alexander, also belonging to an interfaith family, offered a slightly different take on observing the holiday season: “I was raised Christian so we celebrate Christmas more, but for Hanukkah we light the menorah and say the prayers every night. But for my family, Christmas is definitely a bigger deal.” Junior Michael Sloman has had a similar experience during the holiday season, observing Christmas and Hanukkah. Michael explained, “I was raised Jewish, so every year I celebrate Hanukkah at home with my family and then go up to North Carolina and celebrate Christmas with my grandmother.” My personal experience, having grown up with a Jewish father and a Christian mother, has been to celebrate Hanukkah by lighting the menorah. Then when Christmastime rolls around, we head up to South Carolina to celebrate Christmas with my mom’s side of the family. This may seem like an unorthodox way of celebrating the holidays, but for many living in an interfaith household, it’s the only way.
Photo: Annie Armstrong
Get into the Spirit with Holiday Movies for Every Mood By: Annie Armstrong Features Editor ‘13
Want to watch a movie to get you in the Christmas spirit, but can’t decide which one? Don’t get too frustrated, you’ll shoot your eye out. Here is a guide for the best holiday movies for any mood. Or, like me, you can just watch “Home Alone” over and over again until the DVD doesn’t work any more.
Photo: Aaron Wasserman
Junior Michael Sloman celebrates both holidays.
Graphic: Annie Armstrong
Opinion
Vol. 38 Issue # 4
The Knightly News
966 West Paces Ferry Road, NW Atlanta, Georgia 30327 (404) 262-1345 Knightlynews@paceacademy.org Published by students at Pace Academy Member of Georgia Scholastic Press Association Co-Editors in Chief: Natalie Camrud Suzanne Monyak Online/Tech Editor: Dean Papastrat News Editor: Hayley Silverstein Opinion Editor: Shaista Dhanesar Features Editor: Annie Armstrong Sports Editor: David Martos
Social Media: Elizabeth Roos Staff Writers: Wilson Alexander Julia Beck Max Greenberg Sallie Hays Wylie Heiner Riley Muse Sam Rubenstein Josh Sloan Aaron Wasserman Faculty Adviser: Ms. Lee Wilson Assistant Adviser: Mr. Matt Walker
The Knightly News Editorial Policy The Knightly News is the student-run newspaper of Pace Academy. For over 40 years it has reported the news that affects Pace, as well as the opinions of students. The Knightly News is published by the students of Pace Academy, and approximately 500 copies are printed by Florida Sun Printing. The Knightly News welcomes letters to the editor and
guest opinions, which may be edited for spelling and grammar, as well as space constraints. Neither Knightly News-generated opinion pieces nor guest opinions are reflective of the official policy of Pace Academy. Every effort is made to publish accurate facts, but if you recognize an error or omission, please email knightlynews@ paceacademy.org.
The Knightly News - Page 7
Legalize Marijuana: Yea or Nay? be legalized. The Nov. 6 election results do not mean that the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) can rejoice quite yet; states wishing to legalize the buying and selling of cannabis must first steer
tion of the drug will be regulated properly. One of the main reasons for opposing the legalization of marijuana is usually the fact that the drug is harmful to The legalization of the drug one’s health. While this is true, marijuana beyond medical use already legal substances, such as has been a controversy in the cigarettes and alcohol, are just country for 50 years. as risky. The government Perhaps you’ve seen Student Poll: Legalize Marijuana? has left the consumption of the occasional man these substances up to the dressed as a cannabis discretion of the individual, leaf carrying the popuwith legal enforcement of lar “Legalize me!” age limits (18 years of age to sign, or seen the green purchase cigarettes, 21 for cross marking an alcohol). I remember being establishment, or even educated at an early age a vending machine, on the potentially harmwhere marijuana is ful effects of alcohol and sold with a license and the possibility of addiction medical prescription. with cigarettes. If this same This somewhat cautionary and educational mythical idea of approach is taken with marilegalizing a drug many see as clear of conflicting issues with juana and it is treated with the dangerous and a huge point of the federal government. The same seriousness and responsicontention is in fact a reality. Controlled Substances Act curbility that alcohol and cigarettes Seventeen states have already rently allows for medical use of should be, then the legalization approved the buying and selling marijuana, not recreational use. of marijuana seems to have of cannabis for medical purThis leaves open the possibility more positives than negatives. poses such as the treatment of of intervention by the federal As with any new privilege, there glaucoma, chronic pain, and the government to shut down the are bound to be people who get effects of chemotherapy, and as newly approved recreational use excited and decide to abuse it; of Nov. 6 recreational use of the of marijuana in Colorado and but eventually marijuana would drug was legalized by voters in Washington. be seen as another responsibility, the states of Colorado and WashIn my opinion, legalization just like alcohol and cigarettes, ington for those who are 21 and of recreational use is not a bad while providing state governolder. This growing new attitude thing. The current illegal buying ments with new tax revenue. toward marijuana use could have and selling of marijuana is only Will legalization of marijuato do with the country’s devasfunding the drug cartels; by lena cause mass chaos in Colorado tating debt and its recognition galizing sales state governments and Washington, or will other of a potential new source of tax are able to open up a great new states follow suit? Will the U.S. revenue, but the increased tolera- source of tax revenue and could gain anything from its legalization of the drug as a whole is a potentially save U.S. tax payers tion? Will the federal governmajor contributor as well, raising the $10 billion spent each year ment consent to its recreational the question as to whether recre- to enforce the ban on marijuana. use as a whole? Only time will ational use of marijuana should This is assuming that legalizatell.
By: Riley Muse Staff Writer ‘14
Clockwise from top left: Freshmen Lauren Sullivan and Jack Walsh, sophomore Harris Quiner, Mrs. Camp, junior Ally Jones, Mrs. Culp, junior Tripp Conrad
Students, Faculty Share Wish Lists By: Wylie Heiner Opinion Editor ‘14
Many Pace Academy students get ready for the holiday season by thinking about what they want on their Christmas or Hanukkah list. Everybody has different tastes and opinions on what they wish to put at the top of their list. A lot of the students had very high expectations. Junior Tripp Conrad is
searching for a brand new pair of shoes to add to his collection, which has grown to over fifty pairs! Of his obsession with shoes, Tripp said, “They make me feel confident.” Freshman Lauren Sullivan was among many of the students who wanted the new iPhone5. When asked about her num-
ber one item, Mrs. Culp said, “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” because “who wouldn’t want diamonds under their tree?” Hopefully, Mr. Culp sees this article! Freshman Jack Walsh wants a Shetland pony to “ride to school when my mom can’t take me.” Junior Ally Jones has hopes
for a visit from Trey Songz instead of Santa. Sophomore Harris Quiner wants a signed photo of Mrs. Camp, the number one item on most boys’ lists who have come from the Pace Middle School. Mrs. Camp’s response? “Can I have a signed photo of Harris Quiner?”
December 7, 2012
Moncinos Dominate Diving By: Julia Beck Staff Writer ‘15 It all started 10 years ago when current Pace sophomore Harrison Moncino and his freshman brother, Owen Moncino, signed up for the swim team at the Dunwoody Country Club. That was when they were recruited for their first diving team. Now, Harrison and Owen are both famous at the Academy for their diving prowess. They have dominated the Pace diving team, finishing with 264 and 211 points respectively in the first swimming and diving meet of the season on Nov. 15. When asked about his favorite part of diving, Owen said, “I like the Pace meets. When you go, everyone knows you because you’re pretty amazing at diving, and it’s just like, ‘Owen’s in the house.’” Despite the fact that both brothers started diving at the same time, they agreed that Harrison is the better diver, simply because he puts more time into it. Harrison and Owen both dive year-round on teams based at Georgia Tech. Owen goes to dive practice every Tuesday and Thursday at Georgia Tech with
his “high school” level team, although he plans on moving up to the “silver level” soon. Harrison practices with his “gold level” team every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday for three hours a day. Owen goes to Pace diving practices on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, while Harrison opts to stick with his Georgia Tech practices. Harrison goes to tournaments year-round with his travel team. He competes in the one meter and three meter spring board. Owen is planning on joining Harrison in tournaments beginning this summer, participating in the one meter spring board event. They have both been participating in diving meets for eight years. Harrison said, “My favorite part is the competition, like between all the people on my team and getting to go other places to dive.” Last year, Harrison was named an All-American diver and got runner up in the A-AAAA state championship meet. Meanwhile, Owen was in the eighth grade at Pace beating all of Harrison’s old Middle School diving records. The real question on everyone’s minds is, which one, if not both, will be going to the Olympics four years from now?
Sports
The Knightly News - Page 8
Football Ends on High Note Photo: Fred Assaf
Varsity players celebrate their win against Mount Vernon on Nov. 10.
By: David Martos Sports Editor ‘14
Although the Pace football team finished the season with a 3-7 record, the team had a rigorous schedule and faced a lot of superb teams such as Eagles Landing, Athens Academy, and Landmark Christian. The Knights ended the season on a high note on Nov. 10 with a 62-14 win against Mount Vernon Presbyterian. Head Coach Matt Hall said,
“Anytime you have an end to the season you have a number of emotions. The seniors all felt pretty sad, there was joy for the win, and there was closure for the end of a very long and hard season.” The players had to say goodbye to the seniors who provided tremendous leadership on the gridiron. “It was sad to say goodbye. I was depressed for most of that day,” said junior Nathan Sokolic. The seniors took up a lot of important spots on the depth chart and were vital to the team’s accomplishments. The loss of the seniors will be devastating, but
the current juniors are poised to lead the team to the playoffs next year. The 2012 season saw sophomore quarterback Kevin Johnson and juniors Kameron Uter and Denzel Franklin making strides, and at times they even looked unstoppable. Freshmen Jack Walsh and Mick Assaf also performed admirably in crucial positions. The team was very impressed with their hard work and their play under a lot of pressure. Kameron said, “The freshmen were really important to the team. We needed them to step up, and they did”
Pace Boys Basketball Off to Great Start
Photo: Mark Moncino
By: Josh Sloan Staff Writer ‘14
Freshman Owen Moncino pulls off the majestic reverse back somersault pike.
With the finale of the high school football season for Pace, enthusiastic Pace Academy fans can now focus their energy and attention on another major sport: basketball. The Pace basketball team annually induces exhilarating matches that draw the support of nearly the entire student population for almost every home game. The Pace team has been working hard since this summer to try and guarantee a successful upcoming season. Junior Nathan Sokolic said, “We are a strong team, we have great chemistry, and that will allow us to play tough and win close games.” Senior Djibril Diakite emphasized the importance of the team’s young and energetic bench this season. He said, “We have a lot of young talent and great new varsity players on the team and I really think they’ll make a difference in our games by providing some energy off the bench.” The players’ experience and time together help to create a base for their soon-to-be-great season. Juniors Kenny Selmon, Tripp Conrad, Aaron Simon,
Photo: Josh Sloan Juniors Tripp Conrad and Nathan Sokolic run agility drills during practice. Armani Lashley, Will Rucker, and Carter Draughon, along with Djibril, played together on an AAU team throughout the summer. The chemistry between the players has drastically increased as a result of playing in the offseason and all expect good things to come from the 2013 season. Aaron said, “I’m looking forward to this year because we have a strong core of players. We have been playing together for a while and our chemistry is great. We should expect a lot of wins this season.”
The Knights played their first game on Nov. 27 against Hapeville Charter. The Knights won 48-43 in the home opener with exceptional performances from many players. Kenny led the team in points scored with 15. After being down in the first quarter 13-11, the Knights regrouped and staged a comeback that led to a win late in the game. The Knights remain hopeful that they can continue to win on the court over the duration of this season.