The Voice - February, 2013 by Pembroke Hill Voice

VOICE Alumni

February 2013 Volume XXIX, Issue VI

the Meet the

As of Jan. 31, 2013, more than half of our alumni live in Kansas and Missouri. California and New York follow. Almost 100 alumni live abroad.

There are 2,776 men and 2,186 women in the alumni association. Pages 2, 3, and 4

The Official Newspaper of the Pembroke Hill School Inside the Issue Mourning the Loss Global Online Academy . . . . . . . . . . Page 8 of Adele Giving Middle School a Voice . . . . Page 17 Hall

Love Letters The Voice publishes its annual Love Letter spread in honor of Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. Pages 12 and 13.

Athlete of the Issue: Bill Doane . . . Page 20 From the Archives: Bomb Scare . . . Page 22

Page 5

Raider Bands Middle School students are given bracelets to show character traits. Page 16.

2 Feature

Kate Berkeley Managing Editor

Pia Howell

Whether she’s designing new patterns for BAGGU or having her art featured in galleries throughout the United States, Pia Howell is making her mark in the art world. Howell, who graduated from Pembroke Hill in 2004, is the Director of International Distribution for BAGGU, a company that makes popular high-quality, durable bags. She is also a photographer who has had her work shown in New York, Chicago, and Philadelphia and featured in the New York Times and Artforum. The Voice talked with Pia this month to catch up and find out more about her art and design career and life since PHS. I designed last year for Urban Outfitters.

How did you get started at BAGGU? After college, I knew that I wanted to stay in New York and continue to make art. The summer after graduation, I found my job at BAGGU through a friend of a friend. I moved to Brooklyn and have been here ever since. When I started working at BAGGU I was the first employee, working alongside the owner and the Creative Director in an apartment they shared (they were childhood best friends). Since then, the company has grown to include 18 employees, 2 offices, a retail store, and distribution across the world. I basically worked in every position as the company grew, learning each aspect of the business along the way. Last year BAGGU’s owner moved to San Francisco to establish and run our second office there, and now, in addition to being Director of International Distribution, I’m also the head of our New York office. You are also a successful artist- what kind of art do you do and how do you balance your work as an artist with your work at BAGGU? I make c print [prints made in color darkroom by exposing light-sensitive photo paper to light] photographs in the color darkroom. Rather than printing from traditional negatives, though, My

How is what you’re doing now different than what you thought you’d be doing in high school? In high school I really wasn’t sure what I would be doing after college. I expected to be doing some kind of creative work, but I never imagined I’d develop such a genuine interest in business. Did anything that you did while at Pembroke lead you to doing the things you are doing now? I’m so glad I had the chance to learn photography in high school. I think starting to print in the darkroom so early on allowed me to get to a point where I wanted to start experimenting, leading to the process I use now.

work as an artist and my job at BAGGU are pretty separate, though definitely not incompatible. At BAGGU I do a bit of creative work- I’m involved in product development and have gotten to design patterns that are adapted from my personal work.

What advice would you give to art students at Pembroke? Make as much work as you can and be uninhibited. n Top photo: Howell with prints she designed for Urban Oufitters. Left: Howell in New York. Photo credits to Pia Howell.

Feature

Morgan Dameron

Cynthia Wang Managing Editor Guess what? I have a copy of the entire screen- while filming. She explains that she feels fortuplay for the new Star Trek movie! Just kidding, but nate to have so many amazing opportunities, one I do know someone who does: Morgan Dameron. of which was an event known as Five Dollar FriDameron, who graduated from Pembroke Hill in day. “A tradition among our crew was for a PA 2007, works at Bad Robot Productions in Califor- (production assistant) to go around with a bucket nia. The company, owned by renowned director and collect five dollar bills from each of the crew and producer J. J. Abrams, is responsible for the members,” she says, “You can enter as many times creation of series and films such as Lost, Mission: as you want, but your $5 bill acts as your lottery Impossible – Ghost Protocol, and, most recently, Star ticket. At the end of the shooting day on Friday, Trek: Into the Darkness. one lucky person wins the entire pot. Here I was, a After graduating high school, Dameron stud- lowly intern on this incredible production, and my ied Film and Television Production at the Uni- name is drawn out of the bucket!” versity of Southern California, and in the fall of In terms of the future, Dameron says she wants 2011 Dameron managed to secure an internship at to write, direct, and eventually have her own Abram’s company. In “...collaboration, patience, and a posi- production company. “I the spring of 2012, she have always loved storybegan working as an tive attitude are essential for taking a telling, and filmmaking assistant in Abrams’ project from conception to the big or is something I’ve wanted office and on the set to do since I first picked little screen.” of the new Star Trek up a camera when I was movie. Dameron does eight years old,” she says, everything from answering phones to organizing “Though this business is challenging, the rewards schedules; basically, making sure that the day of working creatively and with such amazing, runs smoothly. She says of her experiences, “I’ve smart, and talented people make it worthwhile.” learned that collaboration, patience, and a positive She advises students with the same aspirations to attitude are essential for taking a project from con- “work hard, learn as much about film history as ception to the big or little screen!” you can, and start creating as much as possible.” Her days are filled with a variety of exciting This May, you can catch the newest Star Trek events, but Dameron says that her favorite thing movie in theaters. Be sure to look out for Damerabout the job is being able to spend time on set on’s name in the credits! n

Left: Sketches from Morgan’s Bad Robot Productions notebook. Above: Dameron smiles from behind her desk at work. Below: Morgan prepares to enter a very dusty set, fully equpped with the scarves and googles they were required to wear. She has documents she needs to get signed strapped to her back.

4 Feature

Alex Parker Pembroke Hill Alum and Journalist on the Rise

Kathleen O’Keefe and Aden Macmillan Staff Writers

“My PHS experience definitely prepared me for college. I had wonderful teachers who inspired me to learn more about history and literature; Successful journalist, Alex Park- the analytical discussions we had er, attended Pembroke Hill from his about books like On the Road, A Clockeighth grade year (1994) until his work Orange and Heart of Darkness, to graduation in 1999. After earning a name a few, helped me not only unbachelor’s degree in journalism from derstand the books, but also taught Miami University of Ohio, Parker be- me how to really read, making for a gan his career in public relations. Af- much richer experience. I left Pemter working at two P.R. firms, Parker broke Hill knowing that I could excel came to the conclusion that his real academically, that I could be a leader aspiration in life was to be a jour- in the classroom and on the sports nalist. He thus packed his bags and field and that, even though I would moved to Lawrence, where he began never be a mathematician or a Spangraduate school at KU. Parker start- ish teacher, that I could excel at whated working for the Lawrence Jour- ever I put my mind to.” He thinks nal-World as back to his mema part-time re- “I left Pembroke Hill knowing... orable experiporter, cover- that I could excel at whatever I ence as a Raider, ing the police explaining, “My put my mind to.” force, fires, friends and I events and any other odd jobs that would loudly cheer on the girls’ socwere asked of him. In 2008, while still cer team. I even brought my trumpet in graduate school, Parker was hired to try to inject some flair.” by MTV News to cover the presidenBut Parker is only getting started. tial campaign in Kansas, as part of His goals for his future include conMTV’s Street Team ‘08 project, which tinuing in the field of journalism for used a reporter in every state to re- as long as he can and enjoying the port on youth and politics. Armed “simple pleasure life can offer, espewith a video camera and a comput- cially in a city like Chicago.” Parker’s er, he filed weekly dispatches from token of advice for aspiring journalacross the state. Parker reminisces, ists: “This is a great career. Every day “I learned a lot about Kansas, and is different. One moment I might be how young people in the state-- no editing a story, the next I might be matter their party affiliation-- want- sending a reporter to a crime scene. ed to make it a better place for future [It’s] fun and it’s important. And you generations.” Parker went on to gain never stop learning.” n experience in numerous other positions, acquiring a more than impressive resume, before taking the job he has now as a news editor at DNAinfo Above: Parker interviews Toni Reed Preckwinkle, the current Cook County Board Chicago, a new news site covering President and a former alderman in the Chicago’s neighborhoods. Chicago City Council. When asked about his experience Left: Parker interviews U.S. service memat Pembroke Hill, Parker responds, ber on his experiences overseas.

Photo Credit to Alex Parker

Feature

Pembroke Hill Mourns Passing of

Elizabeth Gerson Staff Writer

Adele Hall

On Saturday, January 26th, one of the most philanthropic people in Kansas City and one of the most avid supporters of Pembroke Hill passed away. Adele Hall, who lived to be eighty-one years old, left a mark on this city that will never be forgotten. She dedicated her time to being a leader and volunteer and working to benefit this community. She was the first woman president of the Heart of America United Way, served as board chairman of Children’s Mercy Hospitals and the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, was active with the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and was on the boards of the Salvation Army, Starlight Theatre, and American Red Cross. For her generosity towards the city she was the first woman named Kansas Citian of the Year in 1990. Alongside her great efforts in making Kansas City a better place, she also served Pembroke Hill in an extraordinary way. Hall was a board member with both Sunset Hill and Pem-Day and served as chairman of the board for Sunset. She also was president of the Parents Association at both schools. Hall lent her assistance wherever needed, including serving for a time as the volunteer typing teacher at Pem-Day. In 1984, following the merge of Sunset Hill and Pem-Day, Hall became an Honorary Trustee of Pembroke Hill, and during Alumni Weekend in 1989 she was named an Honorary Alumna. Dr. Steve Bellis, Headmaster of Pembroke Hill, has worked personally with Hall on projects for the school: “When I met with Mrs. Hall she told

me how important the school had been to her family, how significant it was to Kansas City, and how pleased she was with our direction. Adele Hall was an an extraordinary woman (starting with being a Phi Beta Kappa and cheerleader at the University of Nebraska) who cared deeply about her city and our school. Perhaps what impressed me most was how kind she was and her amazing generosity of spirit. She always seemed most interested in how she could help, and making sure the other person knew how much she appreciated them and what they did. This school is much the better because this smart, hard working, kind, thoughtful woman was part of our school.” Adele Hall left her legacy as a woman who was committed to the lives of others and the improvement of our city and school. She will be dearly missed, but the monumental positive effects she has had on our society will surely live on for generations to come.n

“Adele Hall... left a mark on this city that will never be forgotten.”

6 Student Life

The Wheels on the Van Go...

Emily Dema and Tammy Lee Staff Writers Pembroke Hill is excited to announce its first transportation service, reaching out to students in Johnson County and southern Kansas City. Starting in the 2013-2014 school year, a 15-seat van will make 4 stops and then drop students off at both the Ward Parkway campus and the Wornall campus. Additionally, there will be two van runs after school, one at the conclusion of classes, around 3:00, and then one closer to 6:00, allowing students to stay later for sports and other after-school activities. There will be an extra price for families participating in this service, with the option of a one-way or round trip ride on a semester long basis.

This new service is just one example of Pembroke’s efforts to broaden the student body and make things a little easier for families that live further away and have busy parents. Parental responses to this new con-

convenience to people who live out in those areas.” However, high school students have questioned whether it will even affect their daily commute. Paige Pepitone ‘15 says “I don’t think we’ll use it. Especially

This program will open the doors for prospective students. venience have been glowing. Kristin Kessler, parent of Maura ‘15, Rebecca ‘18, and Owen ‘22, says “It’s a great

Emily Beasley Staff Writer In order to capture the essence of Valentine’s Day, Kemper Library has a special collection of love-themed books on display in the reference section. The books are Kemper Library’s most notable love stories, with origins from all around

since most high schoolers can drive. But...it would be beneficial to parents.” While upper school students

the world. The stories cover an array of time periods, including The Art of Love and Other Poems by Roman poet Ovid to New England Love Story, an exchange of love letters between a couple in the 1950s. There are even a few offbeat novels, such

may not take part in this convenient service, busy families with younger students will benefit from no longer having to drive their children to school every morning. Additionally, this program will open the doors for prospective students who have previously been unable to attend because of a lack of transportation offered at Pembroke. The addition of a transportation service will impact the entire student body in multiple positive ways. From the additions of new peers to parents who have a new weight lifted off their shoulders, everyone in the Pembroke community will be bettered by this new van service. n

as Amy Sutherland’s What Shamu Taught Me About Life, Love, and Marriage. The collection is truly fascinating to see, so stop by Kemper Library to examine some of the love-themed books. n

Student Life 7

Club of the Issue:

Jon Chu

night vision...

on this... Recently I’ve been thinking about night vision and how cool it would be to be able to see in the dark. If we could see in the dark like animals I guess there wouldn’t really be any need for lights at all; maybe we could do away with our energy crisis. Unfortunately, humans evolved to see quite well during the day, but not so well at night. Many mammals, like cats and dogs, have a layer in the eyeball called the tapetum lucidum, which allows them to see in low light by reflecting light back through the retina. Apparently it’s also what makes their eyes glow in photographs. Maybe it’s possible for me to get these implanted in my eyes? Maybe not. Other than that, I suppose there’s always the option of buying night vision goggles. They really do make any person look awesome. I would expect them to become the new trendy eyewear if they weren’t so ridiculously expensive, not to mention cumbersome. It must be the price I would have to pay in order to become nocturnal…For now I think I’ll just sleep at night. n

International Club

Maya Patel Managing Editor For one week each year, the halls of the Upper School are filled with students from across the globe. Short stay is a main component of International Club because, as officer Sarah Sampei ’14 explains, “all members of International Club are invited to share the experience even if they aren’t hosting.” From Wednesday, January 30th to Sunday February 3rd, international students who have been attending other Kansas City schools for the year will be staying with Pembroke families. International Club officer, Liana Hudson ’13, describes the few days, saying, “Short stay is a fun opportunity for AFS students to come to a small private school that gives them a different environment than their big public schools. It’s also a great opportunity for the Pembroke students to learn about other cultures and meet international students.” This year, Pembroke will host 18 students from Russia, Spain, Argentina, Pakistan, Italy, Austria, Germany, Brazil, Japan, Finland, Denmark, and Thailand. Club

officer Eli Fromm ’13 explains some of the festivities: “There will be a pizza party, we’re going to a boys’ basketball game on Friday, ice skating on Saturday, and each short stay student will prepare a dish that afternoon to be enjoyed at the International dinner that night, which is quite a feast.” The International dinner is an important tradition, where “each student and their family makes an authentic dish from the student’s home country and brings it to the dinner,” according to Hudson. As one could only imagine, the food is amazing. While International Club has lots to look forward to with short stay, they also had lots of fun earlier this year, including hosting a big welcome party for Benedetta and Benedicte, the two year-long AFS students, going to a pumpkin patch in the fall, going bowling, going out to breakfast, and holding other small get-togethers. With lots of exciting activities, International Club is one of the most important clubs the school has to offer, so students should definitely consider joining not only because it’s fun, but also because, as Hudson adds, “It’s important for students to widen their view on an international basis.” n

“It’s important for students to widen their view on an international basis.”

8 Feature

Pembroke is now

Lizzie Whitney and Maren Johnson Copy Editor and Staff Writer Recently, Pembroke Hill joined the Global Online Academy, a league of independent schools around the world that collaborates to offer to their students a greater number of classes and a more worldly view on relevant topics. Here is a brief explanation of the program by GOA representative Michael Nachbar, “Global Online Academy is a consortium of the world’s leading independent schools. We offer rigorous online courses and provide critical twenty-first century skills students need for success in college and beyond. We elevate academic excellence—our curriculum is developed and taught by teachers at our member schools and we build on the proven, exemplary education these schools have provided for generations. Students have a unique opportunity to take classes with students from around the world, connecting them with new ideas and fostering a truly glob-

tries. I think joining Global Online al perspective.” Next fall, along with other stu- Academy will provide PHS students dents from GOA member schools, with the chance utilize technology Pembroke students will be able to in order to explore new classes that take GOA courses, which are created are enhanced by the many perspecand taught online by teachers from tives of the students from around member schools. According to rep- the world. It will be interesting to resentative Michael Nachbar, GOA see how Pembroke integrates the curricula “take[s] advantage of the GOA into its curriculum. The unique structure of the different local seems and personal “Students have a unique classes like it would perspectives this diversity af- opportunity to take classes help me to hone fords on topics with students from around c o m m u n i c a skills that ranging from the world, connecting them tion would be bene9/11 to bioethics to media stud- with new ideas and fostering ficial in the real ies.” a truly global perspective” world.” Michael Most PemRubel ‘15 combroke students are excited by the idea of taking ments that, “The Global Online Acadclasses through the GOA, but each emy will give Pembroke a lot more student has his or her own reasons. course variety and let students learn Paige Pepitone ‘15 says, “In a world more unique subjects from experts in that is becoming increasingly more those areas. [I]f I take classes offered connected, it’s important for students by the GOA, that will probably give to be aware different countries and me a less common class structure cultures, but also to learn to cooper- that could be really interesting. Also, ate with students from those coun- I know some kids who go to other

some previous GOA students say... 81%

Their teacher provided feedback that helped identify areas for improvement

80%

Their technology skills improved from taking this course

89% identified areas in which they were doing 82%

Collaborative activities helped them appreciate different perspectives

Their teacher provided feedback that well

teacher helped guide the class to96% Their ward a deeper level of understanding

94% The work was engaging and intellectually stimulating

66%

The geographic location of their classmates contributed to their learning

87%

There were ample opportunities to collaborate with their peers

schools in the GOA and it would be cool if I ended up taking classes with them.” Charlotte Johnston ‘14 shares her opinion Pembroke’s joining of the GOA, and how she believes she and other Pembroke students can benefit from this program: “I think it’s a great way to encourage a more global outlook, and really understand the different issues that people in other counties face. With this program we will all have the opportunity to broaden the way we look at things, and be challenged to push ourselves, competing not only with the familiar, but with those of different skill sets.” Some students, though, such as Quint Underwood ‘14, are more leery of the new program. He says, “If Pembroke can integrate the courses into classes, there could be some pretty interesting electives next year. Otherwise I doubt many kids will use it on their own time. I hope Pembroke didn’t pay too much money [to join]...” For more information on GOA, visit their website, globalonlineacademy.org or talk to Mr. Burke. n

95%

The collection of activities and assignments piqued their curiosity about course topics

97%

There were opportunities to apply the topics covered in the class to current, real-world problems

100% They learned new ideas they will be able to use in the future

66%

Their study skills and habits of learning improved due to the online format of the course

Feature 9

Middle School Elections Isabella Way Middle School Staff Writer After many long weeks of writing speeches, doing research, and making advertisements, the student council election came to a close. On Thursday, January 24, during a weekly assembly, the Student Council winners for president, vice president, and secretary treasurer were chosen. Twelve Middle School students ran for office, and after the assembly, students were allowed to use their smart phones to vote for who they believed was the best fit for each position. Creatively decorated posters and elegant flyers adorned the hallways for weeks, urging people to vote. The candidates or their friends made the posters. The posters were hung on bathroom doors, next to drinking fountains, and in sixth, seventh and eighth grade hallways. Clever slogans were everywhere. The student council officers have influence on issues that affect the students. Because of their position, they were able to reach agreements with Dr. Leonard. During Jack Mitchell and Eddie Kim’s term, the tradition of a Middle School fun day was started. The fun day included beach volleyball

Student candidates created campaign posters during the elections. Photo credit to Isabella Way.

with a giant, inflatable beach ball, and many other fun and memorable activities. Ballots were sent to everyone in the Middle School through gmail so students could vote anonymously. Jason Cobb and Grace Parkerson became president and vice president, and Jay Mehta became the secretary treasurer. We are looking forward to seeing the wonderful progress that will happen with the Middle School over the next se-

mester. Overall, this semester’s candidates were very impressive. All the candidates put in a huge amount of effort in running for president, vice president and secretary treasurer, and as a school community. We are all very proud of each and every one of them for the outstanding job they did. n

Students Raise Money for Shawnee Indian Mission

Above: The Middle School made collection boxes that are replicas of the Mission and sent them to Johnson County Schools. Photo credit to Isabella Barnes. Left: QR code for the Shawnee Indian Misson’s Website.

Isabella Barnes Middle School Staff Writer Once again the Shawnee Indian Mission and the students of Pembroke Hill have teamed up to raise money to preserve and restore the Mission. Seventh grade Civics teacher Dan O’Connell and the Mission have come up with a creative way to raise money for the Mission. “We are sending out these small replicas of the Mission to Johnson County’s principals and their students, in hopes that they will donate whatever they can,” says O’Connell, holding a small replica of the Mission’s main building. In the last few years, the state of Kansas has not been able to provide all the financial support to meet the growing needs of the Mission. The Mission plans to restore their West Building, a feat which will cost 1 million dollars. The West Building will be used for weddings, performances, and other similar events. The Mission also plans to add an elevator to their site so that it is accessible to everyone.

The replicas have a slot in the top for donations and are able to carry a sizeable amount of change. “There are 100,000 students in the Johnson County school district, so if each were to bring a dollar, we could raise $100,000 which is close to the yearly budget of the Mission,” O’Connell added. The replicas and information about the Mission were sent out to the schools on Friday, January 25th. Hopefully, the students will donate as much as they can to help restore the buildings of the Mission and to preserve a very important site for the state of Kansas and for generations to come. You can help preserve the Mission by donating or volunteering. More information about the preservation of the Mission and how you can help will be found on the Mission’s website at http://www. kshs.org/shawnee_indian or simply by visting the Mission and speaking with Mrs. Anita Faddis, the Site Administrator. n

10 Arts Artist of the Issue:

Emily Trenton

Saurabh Goel Staff Writer Emily Trenton, class of 2014, is an exceptional artist. From her early childhood, she has loved art. As a freshman in Drawing I, she was awarded a silver key in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for her blind-contour charcoal drawing and collage of a chair with a tin watering can resting on it. As a freshman, she also took Sculpture I and made a bust of a younger Queen Elizabeth, for which she also won a silver key in the Scholastic Awards. Emily finds her main artistic interests lie in 3-dimensional projects because they do not “limit [her] ideas to a certain size, area, or boundary.” She especially likes sculptures of dresses and installations because they are freestanding, meaning that they can be viewed from all sides. She admires Lesley Dill, also a three dimensional artist, and she often draws her inspiration from Dill. One of her projects was a wall piece designed to transform the viewer’s idea of a space. She made her installation from a variety of different colored paper and used an exacto knife to create the negative space, which created shadows that reflected onto the wall, making the piece so much more in depth. Clearly, Emily is passionate about her work. However, Emily also uses her artistic talent to help others. During her sophomore year, she was asked by a local photographer Gloria Baker Feinstein, who has a charity called Change the Truth for children in Uganda, to decorate one of the twenty banana leaf dolls she had brought back from Uganda (made by the children there). These dolls were then put up for auction and all of the proceeds went to one of the villages in Uganda. Although Emily is not sure whether or not she wants to attend a solely art-based college, she is confident about wanting to attend a school with a very strong visual arts program. As for now, however, Emily will be making many more outstanding Top: A unique 3-dimensional project made by Emily Trenton ‘14. It utilizes metal sheets and relies on shadows to add emphasis to the negative space. Bottom: A collection of Trenton’s unique dresses. The first dress is pieces in AP Studio Art 3D. n made out of wooden blocks, the second out of rope, and the third out of bottle caps.

Middle School Arts 11

Natalee Merola: Art From the Heart

Olive Honan Middle School Staff Writer For young, middle school artists, having their art travel in a national art tour may seem like a distant dream, but for Natalee Merola ‘17, it recently became reality. Merola won a Gold Key Award in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards competition last year for her self-portrait monotype when she was a seventh grader. Four other Middle School students won the Gold Key (all eighth graders at the time), and they advanced on to the next round of the competition. Merola went to New York last summer where her art was put on display in Parsons School of Design along with all of the other Gold Key winners across the nation. Meryl Streep was there in Carnegie Hall at the next r o u n d of the competition, and she gave a little speech! In this final round, Merola won a gold medal, qualifying her art to tour the nation along with the other gold medal winners, the oldest being eighteen. Her self-portrait is touring with the Art.Write.Now tour, and it is currently in Kansas City at the Leedy-Volkous Art Center in the Crossroads. It will be there until February 22nd when it will move on to Fort Worth, Texas. In the Leedy-Volkous gallery, one can see the diversity of the competition along with the unbelievable talent that young artists possess. There are pencil drawings, paintings, photographs, ink drawings, and even one sculpture. Kindles are available

on coffee tables, and the reader can settle down in a bean bag to view the writing portion of the competition. There are also a few small screens that display the award-winning videos. The Scholastic competition is an amazing opportunity for students, and an amazing opportunity for the public to view young talent. Mrs. Amanda Stockman was the seventh grade art teacher who entered Merola’s work in the competition. Mrs Stockman and Mrs. Loeb, the eighth and sixth grade art teacher, enter students’ artwork in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards competition every year. There are three awards in the first round: Honorable Mention, Silver K e y , a n d G o l d K e y . O n l y the students w h o receive t h e G o l d K e y m o v e on to t h e next round. Mrs. Stockman said that during the four years that she has been entering her students’ art in the competition, Merola was the first seventh grader to have won the Gold Key or the Gold Medal. Sadly, Mrs. Stockman could not go to New York to see Merola advance any farther, but she will be going to the gallery to see the artwork on display. Anyone who knows Merola, or who doesn’t, should go downtown to the Crossroads to see the art show. The talent that the artists have at such a young age is truly indescribable, and the only way to really appreciate it is to see the art with your own eyes.n

“The talent that the artists have at such a young age is truly indescribable, and the only way to really appreciate it is to see the art with your own eyes.”

Above: Natalee Merola’s self-portrait that won the Scholastic gold key and is displayed at the Leedy-Voulkos Art Center (Above left). Photo credits to Olive Honan.

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Letters

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Dear Madelin

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Querida España,

Hacía tanto tiempo que no nos habíam os visto. Pensaba que no iba a regresar a verte. Eras mi primer amor y me enseñaste mucho, pero la verdad es que pensaba que había encontrado otro amor para los países más al sur del mío. Es verdad que tienen más cosas que representan la naturaleza como selvas tropicales, cata ratas, y animales y flores exóticos. Y también tienen lugares históricos y arte muy interesante. Pero la verdad es que no hay arte ni arquitectura tal como los tuyos. Cuando regresé a verte, me dio tanta sorpresa cuánto te eché de menos. Desde el arte en tus museos hasta la arquitectura en las calles, siempre estaba con una sonrisa grande y un corazón lleno. Y para compartirte con mis estudiantes y mos trarles tu belleza fue una experiencia inolvidable par a todos. Pues, espero que me disculpes por hab erme olvidado de ti por tanto tiempo. Aunque no puedo dejar mi pasión por mis amigos antiguos al sur, te lo prometo que siempre serás mi primer amor y que siem pre estarás en mi corazón. Con mucho cariño, Sra. van Zanten

Dear

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t time w all of tha derstand. un Kevin. I ay have m Sure, I en fused wh ed been con ferr s n a tr e n Madeli d a u h to in and yo . And coln go to Lin der The Won yes, once anceled we sc Years wa art, drifted ap I e v a h n may a e oesn’t m g but that d in k in ped th ever stop It’s always u. about yo . u o y n e be , Devoted ier th lo C Dr.

that for all While I know I’ve said s of these year per was oo C e that Winni , I’ve come my first love it’s reto realize that all of these u yo ally been rst time you years. The fi in Arnold’s entered Kev I knew that s, French clas ould never be my world w ure, Winnie the same. S together, up and I grew ways be a and she’ll al but she’ll great friend, It’s always u. never be yo been you. Devoted, Dr. Clothier

Roses are red vi olets are blue One day I know my wish will come true. The love that I ch erish, So please as I w ish, Will you be my valentine?

eare

st Th at, Your pres neve ence r misc seem to in my es sa h e not b ievous p scape m ys drive Even though yo l s e u don’t know in th . You ar aces wh e, sneak me craz I exist, ere y ing i e the e En nto t y. You ou s glish usag eigh i ho Somewhere you m e t l h are out there. wron should anguage most c ply shou se be a , o My love you will g ab gree one wo mmon ld out t a sen be missed, wo d ul h t Don’t hide in th a extra ence ar t, That! upon, bu d think y rd e shadows e t o n I c please don’t be cleve eous (a ountles say tha you wou ur unfair. s in t l s r litt d be y . our u But, the p over le de y s o e r u v t s e h i v I am writing this out u ere--th l!). How ious se can sti in poem just to ll a n s let you know, whet ing you, t hat, th can I de tence, y be a s o her I m t c u r dog yg ibe That I am here as my f eelin love you ood frien , that pe an obje lonely as g c r to w d one can be. rite s for you or hate y . I cann son--wit t y o h o o t a u I will not sign m u thi y name, nor s let re strong , but, no conclude Y t ne ours er. will I tell you its enou me. gh to theless, That Truly, lead Engl me ish S Because that’s th tude e best part of n t v-day, The person you love is shy as can be So why not send an anonymous letter But remember do n’t hate the player hate the game. -Anonymous Mi

ddle Schooler

Dear Dr. Bellis, I wonder if you know how deeply we all care about you. The love we feel is inexpressible in mere words. Someone with such dedication to our education is truly a beautiful human being. What would anyone want with a snowday anyway? Safety, happiness, and reduction of sleep deprivation should come second to a day of class! Anyone who says otherwise clearly needs to examine their priorities. Blizzards of love, The students of PHS

My D

Dear Snow, I love you. You give me chills. Why have you left me? Have I done something wrong? I hope we can get together. ....WHAT HAVE I DONE?!? I will do anything to get you back!!!!!!! Your True Love, Natalee Merola

Dear Coffee, WPA? Love, Corrinne!

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Letters

e Adams,

Dear Madelin

at we I know th en each e s haven’t t while, bu other in a d to let nte I just wa that I still w o you kn e . I forgiv love you g in pend you for s ith

Querida España,

Dear

er,

nie Coop

Dear Win

Admir

Roses are red vi olets are blue One day I know my wish will come true. The love that I ch erish, So please as I w ish, Will you be my valentine?

eare

ddle Schooler

My D

Dear Coffee, WPA? Love, Corrinne!

14 Opinion

NCONDITIONALLY

Zach Helder Contributor “The Pursuit of Happiness” is, perhaps, the de facto force behind human activity of any other presupposed motivation. We have all heard that happiness is the ‘journey’ rather than the ‘destination’, and while this may be true, it is all but irrelevant in the context of our current crises. We live in a world that has, in history and prehistory, been plagued by the ‘mindless menace of violence,’ torn by war, and always more divided by hate than united in love. It is this observation by which we should immediately perceive, insofar as our ‘happiness’ is concerned, that the methodology through which we conduct our ‘journey’ is flawed too. Some being, or some humanity, calls us to love one another. So if fear, that same fear by which we

hate or harm, should be our driving force, then we are pursuing happiness in the wrong manner. Out of these two decidedly opposite methodologies, it has become clear to me that by the former, we will almost certainly conquer the challenges of our world; it is said: ‘Love is patient, love is kind. Love is not envious, or boastful, or rude. It does not insist on its own way.’ Yes, when we love unconditionally, fearing nothing but our own capacity to hate, we do right by ourselves and the world. We love that person whom we are predisposed to hate because they deserve our love as a human being, and we deserve to feel like a human being in our loving. We forgive the transgressions of our most despicable fellow beings because none of us should feel like a transgressor, and none of us are ever really happy in feeling transgressed upon. Indeed, to

hold artificial power over another, by their debts, social, economic, or otherwise, also provides artificial happiness. To emulate individualism is to be capable of providing for ourselves and the selfselected constituents of our loving, and have little skill in the art of providing for strangers. Love persists; its memory reminds the rest of us to do for all the world that which was done for us. Fear leaves with life; the men who lived and ruled by it remain in our history books, but not in the primacy of our hearts and minds. So love without reserve. Give the unbounded heart to all of your peers, however dislikable you may find them to be; because happiness is not far away, it is not in a bank account, nor is it measured in how easily you can take away the happiness of somebody else. It is closer and more accessible; it is love. n

An Armed Nation

The Second Amendment and Thomas Jefferson Sarah Koch Managing Editor “A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.” Origninally, every man was, by law, to be a member of his state militia, armed and ready to defend his liberty. In the face of tyranny, it still is a citizen’s duty to rise against his oppressive government. With a gun, a man can protect his family, his property, and his rights. Jefferson adamantly be-

lieved in the necessity of an armed nation. If Madison’s checks and balances were to fail, the population would be the last defense. He claimed no freem a n would be barred the right to arm himself. Restricting gun ownership would not create a safer nation. “Laws that forbid the carrying of arms . . . disarm only those who are neither inclined nor determined to

commit crimes . . . Such laws make things worse for the assaulted and better for the assailants; they serve rather to encourage than to prevent

However, even Americans who reject the security of gun ownership in the twentieth century should still fear an overreaching government. For, as Jefferson said, “‘When the people fear the government there is tyranny, when the government fears the people there is liberty.” No matter the best intentions of our leaders, “‘Experience hath shown, that even under the best forms of government those entrusted

Remember Jefferson: “Resistance to tyranny is obedience to God.” It displays a true love of liberty and country homicides, for an unarmed man may be attacked with greater confidence than an armed man.” Jefferson was quoting Cesare Beccaria in On Crimes and Punishment.

with power have, in time, and by slow operations, perverted it into tyranny.” Yes, we are a modern nation. A man’s duty seemingly does not encompass his participation in the state militia. Yet, an unarmed nation cannot revolt. What would the country do in the face of oppression? Endure it at the hands of the president and his armed forces. Remember Jefferson: “Resistance to tyranny is obedience to God.” It displays a true love of liberty and country. n

Opinion 15

Safety First? “Yes, we are taking safety measures, but do these measures also represent a lack of safety?”

Megan She Staff Writer On December 14, 2012, the shots heard around the world shattered the lives of many in Newtown, Connecticut, and shook our nation. The Newtown tragedy brought to our attention a major issue that the United States currently faces: gun control. In the 2012 Legatum Prosperity Index, the United States dropped from the list of the top 10 most prosperous nations, falling in 88% of the categories, including economy, entrepreneurship and opportunity, governance, health, safety and security, personal freedom, and social capital. For being the so-called “leading nation of the world,” we are not exactly leading, and what is especially concerning is the decrease in safety and security. The reason for the drops in these two categories are numerous, but I believe the key issue is gun control. Gun control is a sensitive issue. People stand on either the side of freedom or the side of safety, and I’m not going to get into the argument over whether or not it’s the culture or the gun’s problem; it’s virtually impossible to compromise and balance all sides, and this is the dilemma that President Obama is facing. While he aims to make America safer by banning assault weapons, his proposition still has to filter through Congress, and many people predict that it will not pass there, but this should does not stop communities from taking measures into their own hands and trying to help make progress towards becoming a safer nation. Here at Pembroke Hill, we are taking preventative measures to ensure the safety of our students. Pembroke Hill is planning on adding numerous safety protocols; the most recent began on January 29, 2013. During one of the high school’s weekly Monday assemblies, Kevin Tempel, the head of security, announced, “In an effort to make Pembroke a safer place, Boocock and the Upper School will be equipped with a keypad, buzzer, and a camera.” This new system will eliminate most potentially dangerous encounters, but does it only benefit

“ “

Student Voices

“ ”“ ” ” ”

I don’t think [the school’s new security system] will do anything. I don’t feel that security is very important to the school, but they make us and our parents feel like it is. -Lizzie Whitney ‘15 “[The new system] seems a lot safer but doesn’t make too much of a difference to me.” -Shea Radel ‘14

in the immediate, obvious way? Yes, we are taking safety measures, but do these measures also represent a lack of safety? Why does this keypad mechanism have to be here in the first place? It’s because the world outside is not safe. The fact that we even have to install it is depressing. Why? It shows how unsafe our world is and how little we can trust people in our own community.

I hate the new security system and I believe it is an infringement of my right to privacy. -Lucy Davis ‘14

It is all for show; the security system is only at a single entrance. -Cormac Chester ‘16

While the school’s actions are necessary and should serve as a role model for other schools, the government should still take action instead of building up a growing pile of defenses. The United States has to stop shoving its problems under a rug and start facing the problems themselves. n

16 Middle School Opinion

Raider Bands Devon Dietrich Middle School Staff Writer

The new year at the Pembroke Hill Middle School has brought more than just a list of resolutions... it has brought action. A new concept has been introduced to the Middle School “to help students understand that being excellent is a daily commitment, an unending process,” according to Dr. Leonard. This program involves students wearing bracelets as a reward for their good behavior. This incentive was inspired by a national program, “Compassion It,” based on the idea of encouraging daily compassionate actions. To find a way to encompass all three Middle School mantra words (integrity, scholarship, and compassion), instead of just compassion, Dr. Leonard and Mr. Carolan invested time and money in the idea of handing out these bracelets to students demonstrating one of the three words in action. Sporting the Pembroke Hill blue and red colors, the bracelets are all etched w i t h “Integrity + Scholarship + Compassion.” Teachers and staff, when they observe students with positive be-

havior, reward them with a bracelet. Students are then to wear the bracelets daily. The students that have received bracelets wear them to school with the blank red side turned out. If and when the stu-

d e n t believes he/ she have exhibited one of the virtues on the bracelet, he/she flips it over to the blue side with the message. This new program has been piloted with the hopes of allowing Pembroke Hill students to “internalize the message” by identifying and

taking advantage of all the opportunities to act with integrity, realizing the benefits of scholarship, and being compassionate to others. When asked if there has been a positive change in the students’ behavior di-

rectly correlated to the presence of the bracelets, Dr. Leonard replies, “I don’t know that I’ve seen drastic changes, but I do know that the pride I see in students’ faces when I give them a bracelet is real.” Hopefully, these bracelets will

motivate the students to be more aware of their actions. With time, however, maybe students will be reminded of the three words without a bracelet. But, this new concept may be a double-edged sword. Yes, the bracelets act as a daily reminder of the three words, the bracelets can make students more aware of their actions, and may act as a positive motivator. However, these bracelets have become a status symbol and a means of putting others down as students who have bracelets brag about their bracelets to the students who do not have one. Hopefully students will progressively become more aware that the reason for these bracelets is not to compete with each other about having or not having one, but instead to remind everyone to do their best every day to ‘earn’ or ‘re-earn’ their bracelet. If a teacher or staff member catches someone with a bracelet acting poorly, they should take it away. This would ensure that everyone owning a bracelet is an appropriate representation of the school’s goal with this program. n

Middle School Opinion 17

VOICE

the

The Official Newspaper of the Pembroke Hill School

Davis Brooks Middle School Writer Look at the paper you are holding in your hand. The Voice calls itself “The Official Newspaper of the Pembroke Hill School.” Finally, this slogan can ring true. As readers have noticed, the Voice has some new contributors to the paper from across campus. The new writers from the Middle School have covered a wide range of topics, including Cultural Days, iPads, and the Arts, trying to keep parents and students informed about what is going on at Boocock. The contributions to the paper are the first ever made by students from the Middle School. After talking to the co-editors-in-chief of the Voice, Jeffrey Rubel and Ritika Abhyankar, I agreed with them on some key points referring to the idea of Middle School student involvement in the paper. First off, the editors-in-chief and I discussed the fact that this year is the first chance that Middle Schoolers have had a voice in the Voice. The Middle School has a literary magazine, Collage, which publishes poetry and stories written by students, but Collage does not reach the same audience as the Voice. Collage shows Middle Schoolers’ talents in creative writing, but does not report the news. Even though Middle School news is often overlooked, Middle Schoolers still have opinions that should be heard.

Parker Ellsbery, Ross Copeland (above), Eddie Kim, and Victoria Wall (left) all read articles written by their friends and classmates. Photo Credit to Davis Brooks.

Middle School students can add a unique aspect to the paper. The journalists from Boocock offer completely different ideas, styles of writing, and topics from the Upper School. Variety is something the Voice finds very important, and now there is a balance between be Upper School and Middle School articles. Similarly,

parents with Middle School students are more likely to look at the paper to see a more in-depth look at what their children are doing at school. The addition of Middle School staff writers will increase interest to the Voice’s already faithful readers. As I move from eighth to ninth grade and continue my work for the

Voice, I will always try to involve Middle School students in the news. As more Middle School writers graduate to the Upper School, it is essential that other Middle Schoolers continue their work in the school paper. At last, the Middle School finally has a voice. n

18 Opinion

And in my completely unbiased opinion.... The World According to Riley Sloan

In Debt to Debt Why Our Deficit is Not Our Biggest Problem Why are people freaking out about deficits and debt? Yes, they sound bad. But are they? Most people don’t even know how the debt could affect them. The fact is, America is not like a corporation or a person (which are apparently now the same). America will not go bankrupt. Seriously, name an issue that we face due to too much debt. I hear a lot of concerns about China, as if owing money to another country magically makes them our majority shareholder. Even if China held all of our debt, it does not work that way. These securities are not like a loan from a bank. China cannot tell us to pay them back. The most they could ever do is sell the securities to someone else, but China will never do this. They want to keep the dollar strong so that we will keep importing their goods. Foreign nations cannot use our debt as leverage. And even if they could, China holds only 7% of our debt. In fact, foreigners only hold a third of our debt. Not a problem. The only other possible issues connected to the debt are that ‘inflation and interest rates will rise with debt’. Here is the funny thing about inflation: it has an inverse relationship

with unemployment. We are trying to create jobs, and the fact is, inflation will rise with job creation. And this is OK: there are no signs of inflation right now. Inflation does not start to take effect until we are past full employment. We are nowhere near full employment. As for interest rates, they are at historic lows. So why do we care so much about deficits when we are recovering from a recession? If anything, with the lowest interest rates in living memory, now is exactly the time for America to borrow money to invest in America. The fact is, the deficit and debt do not harm us. They sound scary, and both sides in politics cast them as the enemy, but they are not the greatest problem facing America today. Our greatest threat as a nation is not a “loan” that we constantly refinance and truly have no obligation to pay off. Our greatest threat is unemployment. Instead of worrying about phantom inflation or the spectre of rising interest rates, we need to take advantage of the low

rates today to invest in education, infrastructure, and healthcare. Many people talk about the fiscal mess we are leaving for our children. But the real messes we are leaving are subpar educational institutions, unemployment, and inefficient health care. So instead of recklessly cutting spending (which decreases GDP and employment), we have an obligation to get people to work by investing in them. Europe did not invest in their people, and they have paid the price. Spain and England were doing just fine until they started cutting spending: ‘austerity’ they called it. Now they’ve cut demand so much that unemployment has soared and tax revenues have plummeted. It may seem strange, but the key to a balanced budget is high employment, and when the economy is in a recession, only the government can increase spending to stimulate job growth. This increases tax revenues and decreases debt as a percentage of GDP. Low taxes on the rich in-

“The fact is, the deficit and debt do not harm us.”

crease saving more than anything else, thereby hurting the economy... but low taxes on the middle class and small businesses increase spending (which is why Obama has cut taxes on the middle class and small businesses more than any other president). Politicians need to understand economics. When Bush cut taxes, we were already at full employment, so little was accomplished except inflation. Right now is when the middle class truly could have used the Bush tax cuts. And politicians know that right now, in this economy, the deficit is not a true threat. They understand that government spending fuels the economy. And they are aware that tax breaks for the rich do not help anyone but the rich. But they want to get elected. So we need to tell them to shut up about the deficit and start investing in our future. This is not reckless spending. America is not an individual borrowing money to go on vacation or buy something shiny. We the people are paying for homes and education and quality care for our children. These are worthwhile investments.n

Off Campus 19

Gang Rape in India A global issue hits home for a Pembroke Hill student

Riya Metha Managing Editor Over winter break, I visited my family in New Delhi, India. During my time there, everybody was horror-struck by the same story: a 23-year-old physiotherapy intern was beaten and raped by five men and a 17-year-old minor aboard a moving bus in South Delhi. Every day, I followed the story’s developments in the newspaper and television. I read and listened to reports about the victim’s severe organ failure and serious brain injuries; finally, on December 29, I turned on the television to hear she had died. Two days later, it was New Year’s Eve. I have been in South Delhi on New Year’s Eve before, and usually people celebrate in the streets all night long with family, food, and firecrackers. This year, everyone stayed at home. I looked outside the window, and nobody was celebrating. Rather, some young individuals had gathered and were peacefully protesting. In fact, throughout New Delhi and other major Indian cities, thousands of people were gathering and organizing candlelight vigils in honor of “Nirbhaya,” a pseudonym for the victim that translates to “braveheart.” Televisions did not have a “New Year’s Countdown” but rather reminded viewers this New Year was not a happy one. As I continued to follow the story, I couldn’t help but wonder how long it would stay with people, and what permanent change it would bring about? The Indian government was promising to “ensure security and safety for women,” but in New Delhi, the notorious Rape Capital of the world, sexual harassment and sexism itself cannot be fought with such weak words. Upon returning to the United States, I was reassured to hear while a portion of India’s population remains narrow minded, the democratic system and the voices of India’s youth have pushed the Indian government to make concrete strides, including establishing five fast-track courts to try rape and sexual assault cases. Still, India has a long way to go in making the country safe for all of its citizens, and I hope that Nirbhaya’s death will continue to galvanize the people and the government to make the necessary changes. n

Data taken from the Wall Street Journal showing reported rape cases in various cities and regions of India.

Teacher Voices “Looking back at many of the country’s ancient anti-woman Hindu practices, including female deaths through satis and more modern ‘kitchen fires,’ the situation for women in India today does not come as a total surprise. -Dr. Graves “The international impact of this particular case is what is going to start to bring about some change, but it will take a while. India is a democracy just like the United States and in our own history we tried to eradicate racism and slavery with the Civil War, the 13th, 14th and 15th Amendments. But racism is still present in the United States. Change will come, but gradually.” -Dr. Niermann

20 Sports

Athlete of the Issue:

Bill Doane

Cindy Wang Assistant Editor What comes to mind when you hear the name Bill Doane ‘13? Student body president? Well, that’s not all. Bill Doane is also the forward on the Pembroke Hill varsity basketball team. Doane started playing basketball in first grade and has been playing ever since. This year, Doane was named to the Academic AllTournament team at the Liberty North tournament. Doane’s presence on the team throughout his high school career has been key to the team’s success. Notably, last season the PHS basketball team won their first district game in years. This season, Doane has set an even higher goal. He comments, “I hope we make a deeper playoff run. We aim to beat Barstow and University Academy twice.” In addition to playing basketball, Doane plays center on the Pembroke Hill football team in the fall. With his commitment to both sports, Doane has been recognized with several athletic accolades. He has recently earned the Academic All-State honor; this year marks the second consecutive year that Doane has qualified for the Academic All-State team. The criteria for this award include scoring at least a 25 on the ACT or a 1740 on the SAT, holding at least a 3.5 GPA, and ranking in the top ten percent of the class. In addition, the athlete must be a starter on the offense or defense or be a punter in seventy percent of the games. When asked what his favorite part of playing Pembroke Hill basketball is, Doane replied,“I like the sense of dedication to a group of teammates. Especially this year, as the only senior on the basketball team, I’ve felt great continuity on the team.” He adds, “We don’t have many home games. Come to them!” n

Middle School Sports 21

Middle Teams School Basketball Have a Rewarding Season Eddie Kim Staff Writer With the Middle School basketball season just ending, players on both the boys’ and girls’ eighth grade teams reflect on their improvements and achievements. This year, turnout for basketball was much higher than expected. Nearly thirty people tried out for the boys’ team, leading the coaches to split the B-team into two separate teams in order to increase each player’s time on the court. All of the teams had successful seasons; in fact, the boys’ A-team ended with a record twelve wins and three losses. A-team Coach John Denny explains, “Ray-Pec and Yokum Middle School were the two toughest challenges. Both those losses were well played games by both teams. One major improvement was the passing and the full court press. I was very proud and grateful to have this talented group of eighth graders.” The teammates themselves were also very proud of their accomplishments, both on and off the court. Davis Brooks says, “Basketball has really brought our teammates close together. Even [the people] I usually don’t hang out with, I have grown close to all of them.” Curtis Lewis adds, “The improvement from our first game compared to our last game was tremendous.” The players attribute much of their success to their coaches. John Black, talking about B-team coach Ben Christian, explains, “Coach Christian was probably the best coach

ever because he listened to what we thought about each game and its progression.” Talking about the other B-team coach Matthew Prichett, Alex Hrinya says, “I had a lot of fun with the season. I was really glad to get to know each player and the coach. The improvement on our team was also huge, thanks to Coach Prichett.” Both girls’ teams also had rewarding seasons. Coaches Kate Pilgreen and Hilary McGee “made it possible to have fun and learn,” explains Jenny Levitt. Levitt adds, “As a team, we have grown a lot, both on and off the court. Some of us came into the season knowing only the basics of basketball, while others of us came with years of experience under our belts. Our determination to do our best definitely affected how well we did!” Ellie Gorny, a player from the B-team discussed their season, saying, “Even though the B-team didn’t win a single game, it was fun cheering on the A-team. Also, I got close to every single player because of all the hard games we went through!” Along with their dedication to basketball, the players also made time for team bonding. “The most memorable moment was when Davis and I played a two against two basketball game with Coach Christian and Joey Gamble ‘14,” comments Matt Bailey. Curtis Lewis sums up the feelings of many team members, “I really look forward to next year’s season” n

“

As a team, we have grown a lot, both on and off the court. . . Our determination to do our best definiately affected how well we did.

”

enny e i

Top: Girls basketball team poses after wining a trophy. Bottom: Boys basketball team smiles for the camera after a tough game. Photo Credit to Eddie Kim

Voices of the Court

Common Ground and Photo-Flim club present:

“ I was very proud and grateful to have this talented group of eigth graders.” -- Coach John Denny The improvement from our first game compared to our last game was tremendous.” -- Curtis Lewis “I was really glad to get to know each player and the coach.” -- Alex Hrinya “I got close to every single player because of all the hard games we went through.” -- Ellie Gorny

MissRepresentation

22 From the Archives

Bomb Scare on Campus

Josh Powell Associate Editor Reprinted from February 1998

“There’s a bomb in your school.” On the afternoon of Friday, January 23, an unidentified female caller spoke these words to the Pembroke Hill switchboard operator. It quickly became evident that school officials’ weekend would be delayed by a few more hours. The operator immediately called 911, and the Kansas City police were dispatched. Administrators were assured that ninety-five percent of all bomb threats are hoaxes. Despite these calming words, officials decided to evacuate all school buildings. Because the call came after classes had been let out, most teachers and students had already left. Every building on both campuses was evacuated with the exceptions of the security office and Kingman house, where intrepid Voice and Pinnacle staffers were hard at work.

KCMO police officers brought bomb-sniffing dogs to search buildings, beginning with the Field House on the Wornall Campus, followed by Phillips and Pierson gyms where girls and boys basketball games were scheduled. After these buildings had been searched, they were con-

situation. The generic plan was not used in this instance, as it was deemed unnecessary. “[Headmaster Dick] Hibschman was out of town at the time,” said Brant, “but we were in touch and felt that the situation was under control.” There has been no significant follow-up police investigation, due to the lack of evidence. Unfortunately, the phone call could not be traced. As a result, the motive of the caller remains a mystery. Rumors that the caller intended to disrupt the two basketball games scheduled for that evening were unconfirmed. School administrators are reviewing the possitbility of adding Caller ID to the new phone system, although this will occur sometime in the future. The administration is also examining the steps taken after the call was received and consdering whether the threat was handled efficiently and appropriately. n

The school does not have a contingency plan specifically for bomb threats, and the generic plan was not used in this instance, as it was deemed unnecessary. sidered to be safe, and the basketball games were held on schedule. According to Bryant, this is the first bomb threat received in the twelve years that she has worked at Pembroke Hill. Although the school does not have a contingency plan specifically for bomb threats, there is a non-specific crisis management plan which can be used in any emergency

Perspective from the New Boocock Toby Salinger Contributor Reprinted from February 2000

I cannot contain the great feeling of sorrow I possess from no longer being able to climb the stairs of Ashley Hall. I remember with great melancholy columns that obstructed my view, rooms in the infamous basement that were cold in the winter and warm in the spring, slanting ceilings that were just a bit too low on the top floor, and rooms that could seem dreary during the most perfect spring day. Having said this, I can’t emphasize enough the outstanding feeling of pride I feel when I enter the Boocock Middle School. It seems well worth the wait for construction of the building when one traverses the gigantic halls. When I think about all of the work that went into it, I can only smile because the whole place exemplifies this

community’s work ethic. Although some classrooms are a little smaller in size when compared to those of Ashley Hall, they make up for it in splendor. To me, the windows are one of the most important parts of this Middle School. They light up the room and keep the student (me at least) in a good mood. Also, everything in the Boocock Middle School seems shiny, clean, and working. In Ashley, it was a daily mystery whether drinking fountains and urinals were in working order. The middle-school commons rooim is equipped with a beautiful wooden floor and two large televisions. Many high schoolers have mentioned that kids our age do not deserve this

An Abridged Article

Hibschman Takes Voice Editors Out to Lunch Gordon Readey and Todd Lieberman Editors Reprinted from February 1996

honor, since they themselves don’t have a commons room. Although nothing is perfect, this building is pretty close. The building is a magnificient reward for all of the hard work everyone does at this school. n Photo of the front of the old Ashley Hall.

On Thursday, January 11, the five top editors of the Voice joined headmaster Dick Hibschman in a luncheon at Houlihan’s on the Plaza. The outing occurred nearly five months after our initial luncheon at Gates Barbeque. Both meetings have served to keep Hibschman and the editors on the same page, so to speak. On this particular day, topics discussed ranged from the cancellation of Summerbridge [an old summer program] to the importance and future of Jan-Term. Hibschamn believes he has gained a better understanding of the students’ attitude toward the school and the pressures involved in order to achieve success. His improved knowledge of students’ thoughts and opinions can be attributed to the daily meetings he has held with small groups of seniors. The meetings have provided an open forum in which the seniors can speak to the headmaster on a personal, one-on-one basis and voice any complaints, compliments, or suggestions that have accumulated during their high school experience.

Voices 23

Super Bowl Trivia Recipe of the Issue Crossword Chocolate Lava

Cake Ingredients 4 pieces (squares) Semi-sweet Baking Chocolate Â˝ cups Butter 1 cup Powdered Sugar 2 Eggs 2 Egg Yolks 6 Tablespoons Flour Instructions:

Across 7. The stadium of which team has held the Super Bowl the most times? 10. The movie The Blind Side was based off of the life of what Super Bowl player? 13. Americans eat about eight pounds of this food on Super Bowl Sunday. 14. The two Super Bowl XLVII coaches share a last name. What is it? 15. Which team has the most Super Bowl wins?

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. 2. Spray 4 custard cups with Pam and place on cookie sheet. 3. Microwave chocolate and butter in large bowl for about 1 minute, until butter is melted. Whisk until chocolate is also melted. 4. Stir in sugar until well blended. Whisk in eggs and egg yolks. Stir in flour. 5. Divide between cups. 6. Bake 13-14 minutes until sides are firm and center is soft. Let stand 1 minute. 7. Invert cakes on dishes and enjoy!

Down 1. What city was Super Bowl XLVII held in? 2. Which player has won Super Bowl MVP three times? 3. Who sang the national anthem at Super Bowl XLVII? 4. In which city was the first Super Bowl held? 5. Who was the MVP of Super Bowl XLVI? 6. What team did the Baltimore Ravens used to be? 8. How many times have the San Francisco 49ers won the Super Bowl prior to 2013? 9. How many current NFL teams have never played in a Super Bowl? 11. Which team won the first Super Bowl? 12. What was the first team not to score a touchdown in a Super Bowl?

Paige Pepitone

24 Voices Letter from the Editors Dear Readers, We’re disappointed. Here we stand, with only two more issues left in our time as editors-in-chief, and, to us, the paper is only marginally better. We are moving toward a better paper, but there are still leaps and bounds to be made. So, we propose a solution. A solution that will not happen this year, or even possibly next year, but, nonetheless, we pose this solution: a Voice class. This class would be like any other class: it would meet once a day, for fifty minutes (and eighty minutes on the block days in the new rotating schedule) and students would get a grade for their work on the paper. This way, we could ensure the paper is up to standards and far from subpar. For many students, the simple incentive of “making a high quality paper” is not enough. As our time as editorsin-chief draws to a close, we’ve realized that having brownies at our staff meetings is not the best incentive for many students (though it may be the most delicious one). Instead, a lot of students need that perfect motivation of an A+ (something which still,

sadly, drives the motivations and actions of our student body). We are a gradedriven, success-oriented, getinto-college-and-make-a-lotmoney group of students. It’s not necessarily a good thing, but it’s who we are--it’s what our society has done to us. So, the best way to improve our paper is to use this simple fact and create a class--a class where that A+ can drive the pages of this paper to be the best they possibly can be. Secondly, Dr. Bellis, we would like to invite you to

feel our interests can sometimes be overlooked. We understand that this is not always the case! We have insights into Pembroke Hill from a different perspective we would like to share with you--the perspective of the people who are living through the changes you and your team enact. We can work to help you meet with various student groups-those students with an interest in the environment, student life, athletics, etc.--to start this discussion and “tear down this wall” that seems to stand between s t u d e n t s and the administration. We, the students, have thoughts on how to improve classes, curriculum, and even this very newspaper (things that could, in turn, affect admissions more than publicity videos or catchy slogans). So, we would like to take you out to lunch (your choice of restaurant!). Dr. Bellis, please join us, and let’s revive this tradition together.

Dr. Bellis, we would like to invite you to lunch.

The Pembroke Hill School 5121 State Line Road Kansas City, MO 64112

lunch. As you can see in our “From the Archives” section on Page 22, Dr. Hibschman (former headmaster) used to take select groups of students, including Voice editors, out to lunch to discuss the school’s strengths and ways to ameliorate its weaknesses. We would like to revive this tradition and we invite you, Dr. Bellis, to lunch (or dinner) to talk. We understand how hard your job is, as you try and balance many interest groups, but we, both as students at Pembroke and as editors of the Voice,

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid PERMIT NO. 3976 Kansas City, MO

theVOICE

Official Newspaper of the Pembroke Hill School

whispers

news blurbs about pembroke the voice... challenges the pinnacle to a bowloff. which publication will reign supreme? pamela robb... will be the early childhood principal for the 2013-2014 school year. marjorie townsend... made the usef young rider’s world cup team for horse-back riding. cj romious... was awarded the jack and jill of america best artist’s award for his artwork. aden macmillan’s brother, colin... is in a band that just released their first vevo music video for their single “san francisco.” ereka hunt... is a nominee for the mcdonald’s all american team for basketball. she also recently passed the 1000 point mark for career points! aria sabbagh... recieved first place at his most recent gymnastics competition. ellen munday... currently holds the school record for number of “kills” in volleyball - over 1000!

Website Update: The new password for the Voice website is “raider”, which will be the password for the rest of the year. .

In a desire to better our school and paper, Ritika and Jeffrey

The Voice is published monthly by the students of the Pembroke Hill School during the academic year to inform the Pembroke Hill Community about pertaining events and news. The paper is an open forum, distributed to the students, faculty, parents, alumni, and other members of the Pembroke Hill community. All decisions concerning grammar, layout, content, and photography are made solely by the editors themselves. All comments, concerns, and complaints should be forwarded directly to the Editors in Chief. As an open forum, The Voice encourages its readers to submit Letters to the Editors. The editors reserve the right to not publish letters. The Voice also accepts advertising and like articles. The editors reserve the right to not publish advertisements. Like us on Facebook at The Pembroke Hill Voice and follow us on Twitter at PHSVoice. The Voice is YOUR newspaper. Please read responsibly.

Editors-in-Chief Ritika Abhyankar and Jeffrey Rubel Head of Deisgn Wanda Czerwinski

Faculty Sponsors Matt Clothier and Joel Causey

Business Manager Miriam Swartz

Managing Editors Kate Berkley Taylor Carr-Howard Sarah Koch Anna Levitt Riya Mehta Maya Patel Riley Sloan Cynthia Wang

Photo Editor Kathleen O’Keefe Web Designers Sid Goel Michael Rubel Copy Editors Ellen Cagle Aden MacMillan Ben Shadid

Assistant Editors Raymond Fang Arianna Lane Neha Sahgal Cindy Wang