The Voice - May, 2016

THE VOICE VOLUME XXXIII | May 2016

The AP Program: A

Hurts less affluent students

B

Inhibits in-depth learning

C

Makes our teachers “teach to the test”

D

All of the Above

The AP Program: A

Earns us hours off college

B

Shows our potential

C

Gives us acess to advanced material

D

All of the Above

APs: WHO DO THEY BENEFIT?

Table of Contents 17

Isabella Way ‘17 takes us through the benefits and the downfalls of APs during one of the most stressful times at Pembroke Hill.

She got the opinions of alumns, students, teachers, and college admissions officers. Here’s everything you wanted to know about APs.

20

Natalie Dameron ‘17 is taking over the column “Dam Straight.” She’s kicking off the issue with a piece about one of her favorite shows: The Office.

4 In a new column we’re calling “What’s the Word,” we are going to interview students from each grade about popular subjects around the school. This month’s topic? The back parking lot.

Nathalile Kiersznowski ‘17 and Ellie Miller ‘16 recently created an Esty store in which they sell prints from their business “Print for Daughters” to raise money to prevent and raise awareness about female genital mutilation.

3

buzz [Summer]

CONCERTS Friday June 3- Tyler the Creator at the Midland Tuesday June 7- Macklemore and Ryan Lewis at the Midland Friday June 10- The Lumineers at Power and Light Tuesday June 21- Bob Dylan at Starlight Friday July 1- Selena Gomez at Sprint Center Saturday July 16- Buzz Beach Ball Sunday July 17- Glass Animals at Sporting Park Wednesday July 20- Weezer, Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, and Panic! At the Disco at Starlight Saturday July 23- Drake and Future at Sprint Center Sunday August 7- Weird Al Yankovic at Starlight Wednesday August 17- Walk the Moon at Crossroads

Scientists argue that summer babies are significantly more likely to suffer from mood swings than babies born in other seasons.

A classic summer treat is watermelon. Watermelon is part of the cucumber, pumpkin, and squash family and consists of 92% water.

On average, Americans consume 15 pounds of watermelon annually.

The frequency of a cricket’s chirps fluctuates with the temperature, so if you count a cricket’s chirps for 15 seconds and add 37, you will have the approximate outdoor temperature (in Fahrenheit).

In the summer heat, the iron in France’s Eiffel Tower expands, making the tower grow more than 6 inches.

SUMMER FACTS The “dog days of summer” refers to the weeks between July 3 and August 11. They are named after the Dog Star (Sirius) in the Canis Major constellation. The ancient Greeks blamed Sirius for the hot temperatures, drought, discomfort, and sickness that occurred during the summer.

In the United States, over 650 million long-distance summer trips are made.

In the United States, the top 5 most popular summer vacations are 1) beach/ocean (45%), 2) a famous city (42%), 3) national parks (21%), 4) a lake (17%), and 5) a resort (14%).

Ancient pagans celebrated midsummer with bonfires. It was believed that the crops would grow as high as a couple could jump across the fire. Additionally, bonfires would generate magic by boosting the sun’s powers.

Studies show that men are more likely to cheat on their partners during the summer months.

According to tradition in the United States, a person can wear white pants only during the summer, or between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

3 Student

Life

What’s The Word?

Views from Each Grade on School This Month’s Issue: The Back Lot

Alaric Chen Columnist

Freshmen

When people think of Pembroke Hill, they hopefully think of its grandeur, its great education, and its typically mediocre sports teams. I bet they don’t ever picture, however, the fact that the parking lot is constantly filled to the brim. Literally. In fact, the parking lot is almost positively overflowing with cars. The late people won’t have spots; thus, they are forced to park on the side of the road.

Consequently, the blaming ensues; everyone blames the freshman. (I even bet the freshman blame other freshman.) Either way, the problem that’s happening in the parking is seemingly a big deal, and it’s probably going to get worse. But what do I know?! I’m just a freshman. I can’t even drive. n

Sophmores Caroline Salzman Columnist There are not enough parking spots in the back parking lot, which forces students to create makeshift spots along the side of the lot, or park in the neighborhood behind the school. Often times, students have to hike an entire half mile uphill before entering the school. This task is extremely difficult, especially early in the morning with a heavy backpack on students’ shoulders. This problem reached its height after winter break, when all the freshmen came rolling in with their new cars from Christmas.

There needs to be a hierarchy implemented for parking spaces in the back parking lot. Juniors should have the first two rows of parking, followed by the sophomores in the next two rows. Freshmen should park in either the remaining spots in the back row or on the neighboring streets. The freshmen are young, so the long hike to school will serve them well. n

Alex Hrinya Columnist

Juniors

At the beginning of this year, all juniors (except Daniel Duffy and a few others) have been able to drive to school everyday with a parking spot waiting for them in the Pembroke Hill lot. There were no sophomore drivers in sight. Yet, as the year progressed, and more and more juniors started showing up to school later than usual, something rather odd occurred. On the off-chance that Daniel was actually ready at the designated time for pick-up, I, like many juniors, arrived early to school one particular day, yet I still couldn’t cop a good parking spot.

I was flabbergasted to find that, in my usual spot, there was a Jeep just sitting there, reeking of Starbucks and Lilly Pulitzer.

Instead of doing something drastic, I remained calm, and I parked in the back handicap spot, no biggie. The next day, my spirit still intact after witnessing that abhorring sight, I found a different Jeep in my usual spot, with the same smell radiating from its tailpipe. As this pandemic continued, the Jeeps, Acuras, 1970 BMWs, and Ford Raptors started to dissipate into other spots. By April 20, all Juniors were forced to park in residential streets up to a block away, solely so the underclassmen could park their cars. This dilemma has affected Junior Hank Graves significantly, to the point where he has started taking an Uber with his brother to arrive at school everyday. Clearly this is an exaggeration, but the point has been made. The Juniors control this parking lot. Until further notice, they have dibs on every spot in the back row, no questions asked. n

Print for Daughters:

Grace Lattan and Maggie Burke Copy Editor and Staff Writer

Student Life 4

A Student’s Attempt to Raise Awareness

Traveling home from the World Affairs Challenge her sophomore year, Nathalie Kiersznowski ‘17, was frustrated, yet motivated to make a change. The World Affairs Challenge, or WAC, is a national competition taking place in Denver each year. Pembroke Hill has competed twice, and won first place both times. In 2014, the theme was the global gender gap. With this, Kiersznowski first became aware of the global problem that she would later support with her Etsy business, “Print for Daughters.”

Female genital mutilation is an issue that affects more than 200 million women worldwide, primarily in parts of Northern Africa and the Middle East. FGM harms mostly young girls, and can cause severe injuries and complications.

Although most occurrences of this may seem far from home, there is a growing number of cases in America and Europe, due to different cultures and customs making their way west. Kierzkowski states that: “Sometimes, people don’t understand different laws in their new home countries, which is a reason that “hundreds of thousands of girls each year suffer from this in Europe.”

Kiersznowski initially became interested because she was shocked to have learned about it so late in her life, as it affected girls her same age. She began to research it more after her time at WAC, and became frustrated by its lack of media and publicity. She hoped that by creating an Etsy business, she could not only raise money for the cause, but also raise awareness.

Donating to organizations centered primarily in Europe, like Forward UK and 28 Too Many, Kiersznowski established her business on Etsy because of its simple outline; the responses to her endeavor, however, have been anything but simplistic or complacent. Since “Print for Daughters” was first established, Kiersznowski has been in contact with many people on Facebook who leave comments like: “‘What is this?’ ‘I’ve never heard of this before.’ ‘I didn’t even know it was happening.’”

Kiersnowski realizes that her prints will “most likely only make a couple hundred dollars a month,” but, for her, it isn’t just

about profit. It’s about bringing knowledge to a concept that isn’t publicized.

With the help and artistic talents of Pembroke Hill sophomore, Ellie Miller ‘18, the duo sells prints. Their designs are printed on book pages from famous female authors, “or from authors with strong female leads, or who support women’s rights.” Both feel this promotes women’s empowerment and education.

Kiersznowski and Miller inevitably faced a few challenges when launching their business, “Print for Daughters.” Friends and family expressed tremendous support, but many never contributed directly by purchasing a print, or donating to the cause.

They also struggled to create their eight original works of art, considering they took on this project in the middle of third quarter.

However, the two were incredibly excited to finalize the project during Spring break, and take the final steps toward a worthwhile, charitable initiative. Since then, the business has taken off, earning over four-hundred dollars in just two weeks.

To illustrate her long-term and short-term goals for this project, Kiersznowski referred to one of her favorite books, The Cloud Atlas, claiming that: “Even though we are teenagers, we can still make a difference.” She feels that, even at a relatively young age, “everyone should do as much as they can” to make a positive difference in the world, “even if it’s not that much because a little change is everything.” Overall, Kierznowski’s goal is to educate people on global issues that matter “more than just the money we make.”

To help support the cause, she hopes people will share the Etsy site, “Print for Daughters,” on social media, and buy a print for just eight to ten dollars. Even if the cost is too much, individuals can “read up and get educated to understand the problems in our world today.” Through organizations like Kiersznowski and Miller’s, others can contribute to the aid and understanding of a tragic and pressing worldwide concern. As David Mitchell wrote in The Cloud Atlas: “My life amounts to no more than one drop in a limitless ocean. Yet what is any ocean, but a multitude of drops?” n

5

Student Life

Catie Franano and Kaitlyn Storm Copy editor and Staff Writer

May: In Review

Pembroke Hill students appreciated and enjoyed the Earth Day Celebration held in the Quad, featuring snow cones and bubbles. Also, Visual Arts students took a fun and informational field trip to the Nelson Atkins Art Museum.

AWARDS/CAPSTONES

Pembroke Hill celebrated students’ accomplishments and retiring teachers in the annual Spring Awards Ceremony. Afterwards, the seniors presented their Capstone projects on a variety of topics ranging from synesthesia to stand-up comedy.

EARTH DAY

PROM

The Alice in Wonderland themed Prom took place at The Terrace on Grand, and was a huge success. In addition to a DJ, seniors Spencer Thut and Evan Peterson’s band Wingnut dazzled the crowd with original songs and rock favorites.

Alice Rowland was named May Queen at this year’s May Day celebration! The Senior Lifers, who have attended the school since kindergarten, were also honored.

The 2016 Showcase was a huge success. It featured songs from the musical Matilda, a medley of Abba songs, power ballads of the 80’s, and many other great numbers.

SHOWCASE 2016

MAY DAY

The Pembroke Hill Choir traveled to Chicago where they performed and earned the opportunity to sing at Carnegie Hall in New York next Spring.

CHOIR

Student Life 6

7

Student Life

Nice guys A new Era

Catherine Dema Contributer

2016 will be known as a major year for elections. As many students are advocating to “Feel the Bern” or “Make America Great Again,” the upper school student body has united to vote Momin Tahirkheli into office as student body president. Momin will be taking over from Tripp Dearborn, the popular 2015-2016 president. Tripp won the election at the end of the last school year, after just one year at Pembroke. He made an effort to reach out to everyone in the school and allow each student to have a voice because he views his election as an acknowledgement that true confidence and character are shown “through kindness, not aggression.” When asked about the most important part of representing the student body, he said that it was vital to “be a positive role model for the underclassmen,” so

the upperclassmen also followed his lead.

Tripp views his presidency as defined by the collective integrity of the student body, and he thinks his most significant role has been leading students with kindness and positivity because students have realized how powerful the act of being nice is.

Tripp has led the student body charismatically, engagingly, and graciously, and his successor is excited to undertake the challenge of following in his footsteps.

Momin’s motivations to run stem from an experience in his freshman year where he became paralyzed due to an illness.

Throughout the sickness, Momin realized the outpour of kindness and potential of the student body to care for one another; he was thus moved to give back to the school. He believes that the presidency re-

lies on expressing respect and openness towards all students and their ideas.

Hoping to continue Tripp’s legacy of kindness and leading by example, Momin will try to lead with humility and will work to be the voice of the collective student body. He is “excited to work with [Student Council] to make a difference in not only the students’ lives, but the lives of people beyond the walls of Pembroke by coming up with fun ideas to raise money for the less fortunate” in order to share Pembroke’s kindness and generosity with the larger Kansas City community. Momin seems to be in a perfect position to receive the torch from Tripp and lead the student body into another exciting, generous, and successful school year. n

2016 - 2017 Class Presidents

Student Life 8

Paolo Laskero & Ellie Ruland Staff Writers

Senior Class President Vishesh Patel

What are your worries now that you are class president?

VP: I don’t think my worries have really changed since Freshman year.

Class presidents don’t usually have the toughest jobs given to us by the school, we generally just have to decorate/plan dances and certain events like the Harvesters trip. Planning stuff like that isn’t all that difficult, so I feel that for things to really happen, I need to make more work for myself by coming up with lots of ideas that can help benefit the school.

Also, we have to win Color Wars again to finish off our streak.

MB: Definitely physics next year.

NF: I worry that I won’t live up to the expectations of my dope classmates.

What are you most excited for?

VP: I’m pretty happy with all of the chosen reps for next year. I’m confident that the group of people we’ll have in STUCO next year will work well together and better than any of the other STUCO groups. I have a growing list of ideas that I’ll finally be able to get passed with the support I’ll have in STUCO. MB: I am most excited for us to win Color Wars next year and end the Class of 2017’s dynasty.

Junior Class President Matthew Berkley

NF: I’ve been talking with my slate, and we’re very excited with the great ideas we have for student council. Just wait and see.

What is your overall goal for next year as a class president?

VP: I have a few goals for next year. For one thing, I need to make sure that all the events we’re in charge of, like the Harvesters Food Drive, don’t go terribly. I also need to make STUCO meetings happen regularly so that new ideas can become reality more frequently. I really liked all the ideas that the student body president candidates brought up, so hopefully we can make every single one of those happen. Obviously we have to win Color Wars again, but the most important goal that I have, by far, is bringing back Josh Ochs for a Q & A.

Sophomore Class President Nick FitzGerald

What are you going to do to ensure that your class is successful?

VP: Keeping them informed. The secret to our success is participation, which is why I try to send a lot of emails. I’m lucky to be president of a class that always participates.

MB: I plan to get many ideas from my classmates to ensure that everyone has a voice so that we can make it as enjoyable a year as possible.

NF: I have good relationships with the people above me on student council, and I will make sure they hear my ideas.

How are you going to represent your class and help them stand out?

MB: Hopefully we can create and pursue ideas in STUCO that will be beneficial to the school. Also, I hope to make it a great and fun year for the Class of 2018.

VP: As senior class president, I’ll have a lot of influence in STUCO, which I haven’t had in previous years. But, we’re going to have the best senior prank in the entire history of the school. I have no clue what it’s going to be yet but I’m open to ideas.

NF: My overall goal is to exceed the expectations of my classmates. I want to do so well that they drop me and my slate a vote next year.

MB: I know the Class of 2018 is very talented and an overall outstanding class, so I believe that it will not be very hard for us to stand out.

NF: I’m going to make sure my class’s voice is heard! Trust me, we’ll stand out.

9 Middle

School

Middle School Graduation

Class of 2020

Ellie Burke Staff Writer At last, the eighth graders are finally able to escape the watchful eyes of Mr. Hennessy, Dr. Leonard, and Mr. Carolan. May has finally come, and the last of the blue caps and gowns are being fitted. Lessons are wrapping up, Showcase has ended, and the dreaded finals packets are being dished out. Adults are sharing their wisdom, and kids are just barely paying attention, for the summer sun is catching their eyes. The end of the year is approaching. Eighth grade graduation has come.

Sounds pretty exciting, right? Yeah... no. Although many teachers liken eighth grade graduation to a life-altering accomplishment, the majority of students see it more as a way to, well, finally grow up. In our eyes, we can at last enter the doors of Jordan Hall, rendering us full-blown, capable citizens.

Oh, yes. We are now high-schoolers. In our book, we can do anything. Or, anything within the classroom.

Despite the fact that the end of eighth grade year really is an exhilarating time, the biggest alteration we will experience is a change in building. Yes, we will be highschoolers, but we will be reminded of our middle school past every single day, when

We are now “high-schoolers.

In our book, we can do anything

.“

we encounter our old favorite teachers in the quad.

Not to mention that the middle school does an eerily thorough introduction to high school. By now, most eighth grade students know what to expect, for they have sat through countless informational sessions and, most of the time, have older siblings at home.

I don’t mean to totally bash the system, though. Personally, I have two high schoolers and a Pembroke administrator living in my house, but I still find the prospect of Upper School terrifying. The classes seem harder, the hallways longer, and the commons a weird forbidden land of juniors and seniors. But, even with this in mind, I am confident that the transition to high school will be exciting and memorable. Frankly, I can hardly wait to walk the fifty feet to my shiny, new life. n

KC Top Ten

Middle School 10

Carmon Baker Staff Writer

Kansas City, our city, has both good and bad things. Let’s take a moment to focus on the good things.

Here are the top ten things about Kansas City:

1. The sports teams: From our boys in blue, Sporting KC, and the Chiefs, we have sports covered.

2. The Sprint Center: Our downtown venue that hosts everything from Justin Bieber to Bruce Springsteen, and everything in between. This shows the diverse entertainment interest of our citizens.

3. Barbecue: Kansas City Barbecue is known for its deliciousness, and we have so many options to choose from. We have Kansas City Joe’s, Jack Stacks, and Gates Barbecue. People pick their favorites, but they are all so good!

4. The Plaza: The Plaza has amazing shops and great restaurants to choose from. The Plaza also hosts the Plaza Art Fair, a great way to see art from the city.

5. Power and Light: Is there a better place to go to watch a Royals game? The giant screen is perfect for that. Power and Light also offers great live music to choose from.

6. Worlds of Fun/Oceans of Fun: Have that craving for adrenaline? This is the place for you. And if roller coasters and water slides aren’t your thing, you can always play fun carnival games or hang out in the pool.

7. The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art: Its giant shuttlecocks and other awesome art pieces show the appreciation for the arts that is held in this city.

8. Crown Center: Crown Center is the home to a great ice skating rink, great restaurants, and great shopping! The Coterie Theater is also located there, providing theatrical experiences to families in Kansas City.

9. Fountains: We are the City of Fountains, after all. The Plaza has some great ones!

10. Kauffman Center: Another awesome theater space, hosting the nutcracker among other spectacular shows.

8th Grade Cultural Day Ellie Burke Staff Writer

Finally, all of the terms have been memorized, the hard-to-pronounce names mastered, and the tests passed. At last, the real joy of eighth grade world cultures can begin.

Undoubtedly, the most memorable part of both Mrs. Culp’s and Mr. Wilson’s classes are the famous, elaborate cultural days that the two teachers put on. From captivating speakers to equally mesmerizing food, each day is a whirlwind of festivities, which have given us eighth graders a close-andpersonal view of what the world holds beyond the confines of our classroom.

Although it is difficult to encapsulate entire continents in a single diurnal course, the majority of the class of 2020 agrees that these cultural immersions have given them a broader perspective of their surroundings. Sometimes it’s hard for a fourteenyear-old to imagine that not everyone has Apple watches or an XBox. More than that, however, is the fact that the cultural days show students sides of their classmates that they didn’t even know existed. From parent speakers to demonstrations performed by friends, eighth graders are given a baffling glimpse of their peers’ lives outside

of school. The days bring the student body closer together because they allow us to discover whole different sides to buddies we thought we knew so well.

Including Southwest Asia, India, China, and Japan, students have used their cultural days to truly discover the vast expanse of earth around them, from all the way across the ocean to within their very own communities. They can be seen simply as days with no homework, but in the end, the eighth grade cultural festivities have shown us that, one by one, we are all just pieces in a uniquely diverse puzzle. n

11 Student

Life

PHOTO POLL: Gina Pepitone Managing Editor

Maya Hill:

Grace Lattan:

“Ellie Gorny’s Date” Brycen Saunders:

“Alex Hrinya” “Nazr El-Scari”

Student Life 12

Who was the best Dancer Molly Logan: at prom?

Senn Boswell:

“Ms. Callie Duhig” Estu Pawestri:

“Natalie Dameron”

“Molly Logan”

13 Feature

Teacher Feature: Mr. Justin Romick

What Am I Doing? Why Am I Doing It?!

Justin Romick Faculty Contributer These questions vex the minds of educators the world over.

Teachers seem to have a particular vulnerability to existential crises. The reasons behind this phenomenon are numerous – and really the subject of another article entirely – but the fact remains that those whom are tasked with the hefty responsibility of preparing the minds of ensuing generations have the tendency to constantly question our own pedagogical methods and philosophies.

Are the skills we are attempting to mold useful for navigating the academic and professional landscape of the 21st century? Does the material we choose cultivate a sense of imagination and engagement necessary to practice these skills? Am I the appropriate conduit for encouraging this level of engagement?

From a personal perspective, these questions haunt me because of a latent fear that all of the effort, time, money, and energy that is directed towards our collective goal still does not yield the outcomes we desire. Those outcomes are up for debate, of course, but there are some relatively objective measures for worldwide, edu-

“ A student at Pembroke Hill could be devoting ten to twelve hours a day to classes, extracurriculars, and homework, Finnish students tend to spend half that amount. ”

PISA Test Results 2015 PISA tests globally rank 15 year old students’ abilities in reading, math, and science

1. Shanghai (China) 2. Hong Kong (China) 3. Singapore 4. Japan 5. South Korea 6. Finland ...

23. United Kingdom 24. United States

cational success. Frankly, the United States has proven to be fairly average in the field of education when compared to other countries around globe.

Amanda Ripley, in her book The Smartest Kids in the World, chronicles stories of success and failure when it comes to specific educational approaches. Her research stems from the results of the PISA test, an exam administered every three years to fifteen-year-olds from all over the world that assesses students’ ability in reading, math, and science.

In 2012, American students from all demographics and education systems scored twenty-fourth in reading, twenty-eighth in science literacy, and thirty-sixth in mathematics. Meanwhile, countries like Finland, Poland and South Korea have far fewer resources – and they spend less on education per pupil – yet they have achieved top-level results on these exams on a consistent basis.

Ripley’s book examines distinguishing features of each of these three systems, but because of the shared cultural and demographic characteristics between Finland and the U.S, the Finnish model is the one that remains a source of inspiration.

Granted, some features of the Finnish system are culturally systemic, and implementing those elements would require a sea-change in thought concerning education.

However, other features of the Finnish system represent direct analogs with methods and approaches that exist in the U.S., leading us to question the fundamental philosophy behind our methods.

Feature 14 Finland’s high-achieving educational system. On the American side, one cannot even conceptualize an educational landscape without those defining features.

Thus the existential crisis, how does a teacher-coach-club sponsor reconcile the objective truth that a system exists where less is more functions as a watchword for success while American stand-

One of the most distinguishing characteristics of the Finnish educational model is the amount of time students spend on school.

Whereas a typical student in the upper school of Pembroke Hill could routinely find themselves devoting ten to twelve hours a day to classes, extracurriculars, and homework, Finnish students tend to spend half that amount. That discrepancy in time stems from several factors, chiefly among them is the amount of coursework students confront on a daily basis.

Finnish teachers generally cover less material when compared to American educators, and the phrase that is commonly repeated when describing the Finnish approach to education is “depth over breadth.” Instead of racing through countless mathematical topics, historical periods, or literary novels, the students spend time mastering less material. The effect renders students who understand the value of profundity in education. Skills matter more than content.

As stated earlier, educational systems are often reflective of their culture, therefore it follows that an American approach to education reflects the collective, cultural obsession with excess.

For example, sports, advanced placement courses, student clubs, leadership initiatives, and technology are noticeably absent from

“ I’m fairly convinced that our desperate need for more is a quixotic, misguided path to cultural erosion.” ards of educational professionalism value excess over all else? I’m fairly convinced that our desperate need for more is a quixotic, misguided path to cultural erosion. I also know that many others share this opinion, but the fascinating, inescapable question still remains. Do we have the courage to follow our convictions? My guess is, probably not. n

Thank you Megan and Elizabeth!

The Voice staff would like to thank Megan She and Elizabeth Gerson for a great year as editors-in-chief. They developed the magazine in a major way, initiating more engaging articles, refining the design of the pages, and producing clever covers. They were helpful, accepting, and admirable leaders for the Voice. Here is what they have to say about their time as editor-in-chief.

MS: For me, my favorite memories are the little things, bits and pieces that came together to really make these last four years working on the Voice in general my favorite memory (is that cheesy?). I love how soothing the photoroom is in the morning at the beginning of Paste-ups. I love the excess of pumpkin pie and the scarcity of Pam for our waffle maker. I love discussing a design for a cover or a page and seeing it come to life on InDesign. I love it when Dr. Banion brings her son and

Elizabeth Gerson

when Dr. Clothier starts jamming to his tunes in the middle of Pasteups, and I love being able to hear and discuss their frank trains of thought. I even find the monthly ordering lunch struggle and suddenly font-less computers endearing sometimes. I love being able to hear the voices of our community, and I love being able to be part of the process that synthesizes it all together into one. My favorite part of being Editor-in-Chief was definitely the distribution of the magazine when it comes in at the end of the month. While it is a struggle lugging around such a heavy box,

it’s all worth it when I crack open a box (is it weird I really like the smell of freshly printed Voices?) and pass them out around school and hear little choruses of “Oh, the Voice is here” when people enter the commons or the library and start flipping through them. Seeing people point at themselves in the issue, trying to figure out the crossword, and discussing our content makes me feel like we are truly part of one extraordinary student body, and I’m honored to be able to be part of it.

EG: It’s definitely hard to narrow down my time on The Voice into specific memories. It’s been such a huge part of my high school life that there are too many moments and meaningful experiences to sort through.

Some of my favorite moments, however, often come from paste-ups. It was so much fun to always see what different creative ideas our staff would bring to the table. While the workwas tedious at times, I truly enjoyed paste-ups not only for work but also be-

Megan She

cause of the “team bonding” aspects they brought forth.

We spent hours upon hours of designing, stuffing our faces with food, oftentimes complaining, harassing Clothier or Banion (or Causey), but most importantly, creating something we’re proud of as a community. My favorite aspect of being an Editor-inChief was definitely the moments when we would distribute the magazines at the end of the month. As I mentioned before, after paste-ups, the whole staff was incredibly proud of the magazine

(or else we wouldn’t send it to print). When I would walk through the hallways and see so many members of the Pembroke community reading the latest issue and discussing the content, it always made the countless hours of work a million times more worth it.

My least favorite aspect of being an Editor-in-Chief would be filtering content. Our staff and even student body bring forward such creative ideas for new articles and topics, it was always difficult to decide which pieces of writing would fit the issue best.

15 Feature

Political Bias:

Do friends have similar political views?

Ethan Starr Contributor There is no doubt that Pembroke is a diverse school with all sorts of opinions and perspectives, but students’ divergent philosophies are often most visible in the subject of politics.

Our high school has students with Bernie bumper stickers, “Make America Great Again” hats, and even the occasional vintage Romney-Ryan conservative’s club T-shirts. Because of our school’s diversity, many students are prone to pick friends with political views from across the aisle; whether that one friend of yours that is a Trump supporter, or a plurality of selfdescribed socialists to whom you can claim as friends, political ideology varies among different people’s chosen group of friends.

So should political preferences play a role in people’s friend choices? Is it problematic to have friends with dissenting po-

litical views? “No,” Ashley Bough ‘17, says, “it only makes the friend group more fun.

We argue, but we always put friendship before our views.”

Senn Boswell ‘17, a conservative with a number of liberal friends, thinks “it’s refreshing and interesting to hear differing opinions. Constructive arguments can lead to understanding and finding common opinions.”

In a Voice student poll, however, almost 50% of respondents said that over 75% of their immediate friends held the same political beliefs. When asked about the alignment of views between themselves and their extended group of friends, Pembroke students consistently reported having more differences of opinion.

Teacher respondents echoed the same trends, favoring exclusivity slightly more.

A teacher’s bias: Percentage of immediate (best) friends that have the same political views:

Percentage of extensive (broad) friends that have the same political views:

While a small number of students reported their friends’ political leanings as unknown to them, many more were aware of where they line up ideologically among peers, and perhaps considered what role these views had in their process of finding friends.

Should we have more diversity of opinion in outer circles of friends? Are we being too exclusive by not closely befriending people of all ideologies? Some students may find it difficult to ascertain the effect of political views on their friendships at school, but for those who are yet unaware of their friends’ political leanings, I advise that you pay careful attention. Be aware of whatever dissention or agreement, and channel it positively.

A student’s bias: Percentage of immediate (best) friends that have the same political views:

Percentage of extensive (broad) friends that have the same political views:

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17

Feature

A Look Inside the AP System Learning a College Curriculum or Limiting Our Education?

Isabella Way Managing Editor You’ve seen them wandering aimlessly through the hall, carrying their stacks of books with blood-shot eyes. No, I’m not talking about zombies among us. These are juniors and seniors after a late night of cramming for AP exams.

APs mean something different for each student. For some, these tests offer an opportunity to earn college credits while pursuing their interests more deeply. For others, however, mentioning APs sends shivers down their spines. When examining the efficiency of this controversial system, we must consider both its pros and cons. To further understand both sides of this subject, The Voice interviewed an admissions officer from William Jewell College, PHS students, teachers, and a college

students can earn college credit and bypass courses that would be repetitive for them in college. This can allow students to have greater flexibility with their college course schedules.”

Besides giving students the skills they need to succeed in college, APs give colleges a glimpse of a student’s caliber. Poskin continues: “AP tests and scores are standardized, so it provides colleges with additional reference points about a student’s academic ability.”

One teacher agrees, writing: “Our AP offerings help us make a statement that we are an academically rigorous school. These classes make it very easy for students to showcase their academic versatility to college admissions departments.”

So, looking at the pros of APs, it can be argued that these challenging classes do provide students with the skills to succeed in not only college, but life.

Now, onto the negative sides of College Board’s AP program. AP classes can be “evil” because they put an outrageous amount of stress on students. They cost money, and they have the potential to limit learning. In the online poll, most students admitted a con of the AP program is that it pressures them to take rigorous classes that do not align with their interests.

Becky Poskin agrees, saying: “I think the AP system puts a ton of pressure on students to take as many AP courses as possible. Students overload their schedules with multiple AP classes, and tend to wear themselves out with all the homework and studying. This results in students who are stretched too thin, sleep deprived, and stressed out, and does not foster a passion or love for learning.”

Several teachers also thought that AP

“” “ I have been motivated to learn material for life by taking AP classes

student.

There are two major advantages of the AP system. For one, APs are college-level courses that prepare students for future academic studies. Also, AP scores help colleges see an applicant’s potential. Some students at Pembroke would agree that APs, if taken for the right reasons, enable students to become learners for life.

The Voice recently conducted an anonymous poll, and one student wrote: “I have been motivated to learn material for life by taking AP classes.” Students that chose to take AP classes are given the chance to dive deeper into the subjects that interest them, while experiencing the rigors of college classes in high school.

Becky Poskin, admissions representative for William Jewell College, agrees that APs can prepare students for their future academic pursuits. She writes: “It is known that AP courses are rigorous and cover college level material, so they are great way for students to prepare for the academic rigor of college. Additionally,

Our AP offerings help us make a statement that we are an academically rigorous school.

classes put way too much stress on students.

One teacher wrote: “The tests are way too difficult and [there is] way too much material [to learn] in a year. They are more than one would encounter in a freshman semester course in many of the subjects.”

I was curious to see what a Pembroke graduate thought of the AP tests, so I asked Sid Goel ‘13 his opinion: “AP classes were really useful for getting college credit, so I could skip introductory classes and take more advanced/interesting classes. However, from the few intro classes I did have to take, I felt that APs didn’t always match the difficulty of college classes.”

Another negative of College Board’s AP classes is they cost a lot of money, harming disadvantaged students. Poskin believes this is a problem she sees when looking over applications, writing: “Unfortunately, not all schools and districts across the country have the ability or resources to offer AP courses. This means that excellent students from some schools and districts are not getting access to the same opportunities as students from schools and districts that do offer AP. They do not have the chance to earn college credit, or showcase their academic abilities.”

Students that attend under-funded schools are given an unfair disadvantage in the college admissions process because they can not compete with students from wealthier districts. At the end of the year, the College Board charges more money for testing, adding to their growing “monopoly.”

Vishesh Patel, class of 2017, says: “I don’t really like the whole AP system because I feel like they have this whole curriculum just to make money off of us, because they charge like 90 dollars per class. But at the same time, it’s a necessary evil because without APs, there is no exact way to get credits. It messes up the whole college admissions process.”

Finally, AP classes may limit the intellectual growth of a student. Poskin writes: “The AP system often results in teachers teaching to the test, and students studying/learning in a way that is not lasting or meaningful.”

One teacher reported that he/she has felt pressured to limit engaging classroom discussions to teach the curriculum, admit-

Feature 18 ting: “In my own AP course, I often have to put an end to spontaneous and in-depth academic conversations about the material so that we can get through the immense amount of material we need to cover. In my opinion, this is indefensible.”

A few Pembroke students said that they felt the same way. One wrote: “It can hinder classroom discussion. In a few of my AP classes, we had to cut discussions short because we needed to get through the curriculum, which often feels too broad and doesn’t allow time for depth of understanding.”

So, as a school community, we must ask ourselves this question: “Should the AP system at Pembroke be changed, or is it a great system the way it is?” There is evidence to suggest that colleges and high schools may alter the way they approach AP tests.

Student Responses

Teacher Responses

Is the AP System a good system?

Is the AP System a good system?

Should Pembroke Keep AP Classes?

Should Pembroke Keep AP Classes?

“I don’t really like the whole AP system because I feel like they have this whole curriculum just to make money off of us” Poskin is hopeful that there may be positive change in the near future. She writes: “I do think there are some changes that could be made to the system to help alleviate the pressure AP courses impose on students, and to further level the playing field in terms of equity and access. I’ve heard that there has been a recent shift in some of the AP courses to promote greater emphasis on analysis and critical thinking and reduce the emphasis on content and memorization. I think that is a positive trend and would like to see it continue across all AP courses. I also think that there is a positive shift in the way that colleges and universities are evaluating students - looking less at test scores and AP courses, and more at what makes students excited and passionate.” n

“AP classes may limit the intellectual growth of a student”

19 Columns

Roxy Reasco and Bella Barnes Columnists

4001 Broadway Blvd.

Kansas City, MO 64111

Ruby Jeans Juicery

Located in the heart of Westport at 4001 Broadway Boulevard, Ruby Jean’s Juicery radiates positivity. The vivid colors of Ruby Jean’s are hard to miss and instantly drew us in. Initially, the bright facade of the juicery seemed tiny, but once we stepped inside, we felt like Alice in a wonderland of vibrant juices, eclectic customers, and gorgeous staff. Seriously, everyone was beautiful! We can only assume it’s because of the juice. Here, customers can enjoy an assortment of healthy, yet delicious snacks, play a game of bean bags out front, or grab a fresh pressed juice after a workout in the attached gym, The Port KC. Normally, we would have been hesitant to visit a juicery/gym, expecting an intense, super buff crowd. However, we were pleased to find that Ruby Jean’s has an all inclusive vibe, granting everyone access to a healthy lifestyle. Although a bit skeptical, we tried a “Vine Street Greens,” Ruby Jean’s most popular juice, and avocado toast (highly recommend!).

After, we sat down with owner Chris Goode to discuss KC’s #1 juicery.

V: Who is Ruby Jean?

CG: Ruby Jean is my late grandmother. She died at 61 from diabetes and high blood pressure. She was everything to our family. She was our glue. I tied my grandmother’s name to the juicery because losing her so early was ridiculous. But it was because of what she ate, and how she cooked. So, I took my passion, growing knowledge about juicing, and her lack of knowledge, and made Ruby Jean’s.

V: What would you say is Ruby Jean’s mission?

CG: To provide a focal point to a very eclectic community, gathered around something that adds longevity, love, and life.

V: Why Juice?

CG: Before, I just worked out, and didn’t pay attention to what I put in my body. As I got older, I became conscious of what I ate. I went to LA about five years ago, and my friends were doing a juice cleanse. The next day they explained it to me, and it [juicing] really resonated with me. I started to think about the juice bars we have in KC, and how they seemed to be in affluent areas. So I decided I wanted to create a

place where it doesn’t matter what you look like, or how much money you make. You can feel comfortable no matter what.

V: What is the best thing about being located in Westport?

CG: It’s the heart of the city. Westport represents the spot with the most diverse people you can get in KC. We get students, professional athletes, gym goers, an affluent audience, and kids who skateboard by and see the colors and stop to play with the bags.

V: When you returned from LA and wanted to start a juicery, did you always have the gym in mind?

CG: That was God’s doing. I started to look for a concept in this area, but there were different hurdles in finding one, so I stopped for a few months. Then, the gym owner and I crossed paths. I thought “This is it!”

V: If Ruby Jean’s was a music genre, what would it be?

CG: (Laughs) That is a very good question! I would say it would be a mix between a Caribbean vibe and soul.

Columns 20

DAM

STRAIGHT

WITH NATALIE DAMERON Being that I am continuing the Dam Straight legacy, I felt it only necessary to start off with a quote from my predecessor and brother: “Go away.” Print, however, takes away the endearing intentions with which Dylan delivered these words. To be fair, the quote actually reads, “Go away please and let me watch The Office.” I can’t think of a show more worthy of such a request. Through my life, many shows have come and gone.

From my most impressionable years of zero to three, Dora the Explorer, Teletubbies, and Power Rangers were my go to’s, of course. But as my sense of humor matured, I found my own comedic

voice, and The Office emerged with perfect timing. My mom, dad, brother, two sisters, and I all fell head over heels for each episode, character, witty line, and cringey Michael Scott quote, proving the simplest of plots, following a paper company day to day, can be transformed into original comedy material. With each episode comes an exponential amount of opportunity. Fire drills to party planning committees to CPR training sessions, The Office creates humor out of every possible situation. I think we could all learn a little something from Michael Scott and his employees; though not the most factually correct or the least confrontation-

al, they do know the importance of being able to laugh. More than having a sense of humor, it’s important to take note of the seemingly random and silly, but also, in some sense, very realistic relationships that are created in Dunder Mifflin.

In high school, you’ll meet some people you like and some you don’t, but learning to deal with different personalities is part of life. Beneath the punch lines and pranks, The Office can actually sum up all of our high school experiences in one quote: “And I knew exactly what to do.

But in a much more real sense, I had no idea what to do.” n

21

Columns

Wil Rowland Columnist

Where we stand:

Imagine a scenario where an African-American woman gets on a bus after a long day of work and sits in the front. After a couple of stops, the bus begins to fill up, and the woman is forced to move from her seat in the front, to the back of the bus in order to accommodate the new white passengers. No pretext is given, the women is required to move only because she is not considered equal to those with lighter skin than her own. Imagine again a scenario where a group of young people could go to a lunch counter and be turned away simply because of the color of their skin. It is astonishing to think that at one point, this was the reality. And although you have undoubtedly heard it before, it is impossible to think that people were once denied rights and services wholly on the color of their skin. This was the way our country was run, but the laws of segregation seem so far away that it is almost impossible to believe that they existed.

In recent months, a new craze of bigotry has been sweeping the nation as many southern states have been signing bills in order to give businesses and churches the right to refuse service to members of the LGBT community. Though these laws target new individuals and claim to protect religious rights, they are simply another form of discrimination. Currently, many states are passing laws in which they give back religious rights to business owners, allowing them to deny services to gay, lesbian, and transgender individuals because of religious belief. Not only does this fail to convey the full extent of the law but hides the true consequences.

The laws are designed to give back religious rights to individuals; however, they are, in reality, letting an average citizen dictate the rights of another. The 1964 Civil Rights Act promised all people “the full and equal enjoyment of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, and accommodations of any place of public accommodation . . . without discrimination or segregation on the ground of race, color, religion, or national origin.” This law was created in a different time, so it shows the timeless nature of this debate. Headlines about the right to refuse service have gained particular notoriety in recent months; however, the issue of religious freedom versus civil rights is not new. Through the

years, our country has evolved, growing and changing culturally.

Issues of civil rights have always been a part of our history: from women fighting for the right to vote to minorities fighting segregation. Time and time again, progress has won. Some continue to fight for the “old way,” using many different pretexts and excuses to justify their irrational hatred of those different from themselves.

However, these people always end up on the wrong side of history labeled as the inhibitors, racists, or bigots that have held down those who fought for equality. Although these haters, as I shall call them, always seem to fail, there are always those who are more than willing to take up the banner and fight the war against equality. I implore all of you to not be on the wrong side of history. n

Where the students stand:

Should businesses be allowed to refuse services to LGBTQ individuals?

Columns 22

Grace Parkerson Columnist I’ve got a tricky assignment here. As you’ve all come to expect, Where We Stand argues the liberal and conservative viewpoints of assigned issues. The liberal stance on legal discrimination based on sexual orientation is clearcut: no way; it’s never going to be okay. That unambiguous position assumes conservatives similarly embrace a consistent stance, but that assumption would be false. No doubt the position arguing for legal discrimination against the gay community is coming from a conservative con-

are legally able to refuse service to specific groups of people. However, businesses cannot randomly refuse service to people; there must be a substantial reason. This debate on discrimination is different because it is not a case by case judgment; the discrimination is usually not based on choosing your clientele, but it is based on practicing a religion.

The current fight to uphold the right to discriminate is biblically based and is argued from the perspective of the Where the Teachers stand: right to practice religion freely without interference from the State. Without a doubt, religious freedom is a fundamental part of the United States, a bedrock on which our country was built.

The Puritans fled England to practice their Christianity in America. As early as 1649, the Maryland Toleration Act affirmed that “No person or persons . . . shall from henceforth be any waies troubled, molested or discountenanced for or in respect of his or her religion nor in the free exercise thereof.” The United States Constitution makes that sentiment the law of the land through the First Amendment, which states that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” One of the most important parts of the United States history is the freedom to practice religion.

How this translates to legal disstituency, but it is only a tiny portion of con- crimination is that it is argued that for servatives in the country; hardly a mainstream Christians to follow their religion, they thought. As I have been tasked with the job of must respect the Bible’s general though defending legal discrimination, a position that infrequent teachings against sexual acts between any but a man and a woman. A is a conservative outlier, here goes: There are no federal laws protecting people devoutly Christian bakery owner thus on the basis of sexual orientation; only state by might contend that by baking a wedding state specification has been made. Although cake for a gay couple, he is sanctioning numerous states have laws protecting dis- religiously banned behaviour. The bakcrimination based on sexual orientation, many er feels, in essence, that he is participatstates, like Kansas, do not. So many companies ing in behavior that goes strictly against

his religious beliefs. The baker isn’t actually choosing for himself to discriminate against individuals, which is against the law in many states; he is choosing to be faithful to his religious beliefs as spelled out in the Bible.

One thing to emphasize here: It would be wrong to suggest that even within the Christian community this is a widely-held belief.

Most Christians refute this interpretation of religious devotion with Bible verses of their own, particularly Mark 12:31: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” For them, the Christian way of compassion and love trumps the very few (mostly Old Testament) verses disparaging homosexuality.

Conservative thought, however, casts a much wider net than religious conservative thought. When it comes to deciding points of law, the United States Constitution is the definitive voice for conservatives. I count myself in this group and reference the Equal Protection Clause in the Fourteenth Amendment, part of which affirms that “No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; . . . nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.” This debate becomes a crossroads between freedom of religion and individual freedom and rights. The Constitution is the single document we all embrace as Americans. As much as I respect the right to practice religion freely, a right invoked by a subset of Americans, when that practice butts heads with the Constitution, our universally acknowledged set of guiding principles, I must go with the principles uniting all of us.

We are a country of diversity, and we have always considered that a strength and blessing.

Fortunately for us, our Constitution ensures we can live in harmony by protecting individuals from being subjugated by the beliefs, no matter how sincere, of others.

How about that . . . sometimes Where We Stand can be relatively be on the same page. n

23 Columns

UnBiased Opinions With Clay Lundgren ‘17 A Critical Look at Superhereos Today Superheroes have greatly influenced who I am today, and who many of you, the readers, are as well. I began this year with an article on superhero movies, and it feels only right to end with a critical look at these same characters. It’s odd, though, because sometimes it feels as though our culture blindly accepts most new superhero incarnations and movies without a second thought. These are the heroes from when we were kids, thus it only seems right to keep watching them stop some baddies. But, sometimes modern incarnations just don’t bring the same satisfaction that they did when as a kid.

The overarching reason for this is that the majority of productions are trying to adapt our favorite characters for a more mature audience; they often fail miserably. Excluding the Dark Knight trilogy, attempts like Man Of Steel, X-Men Origins: Wolverine, and Captain America were textbook missteps. The Dark Knight movies aren’t primarily superhero movies, but captivating action movies. Batman is a dark character, and those three movies were directed and casted so darn well. That’s why they work in this “mature hero” form. These other titles try to be something they aren’t. They want to be superhero movies with a big, bad hero, but they aren’t willing to embrace the superhero for who they are: silly, cartoony, action-packed, colorful costume-wearing, do-rights.

Sure, Wolverine is a little more of a rebel in comics and cartoons than most heroes, but he’s still a Saturday morning cartoon hero with a flashy yellow get-up. Yet, now we get a Wolverine in a tank top, jeans, and with an intimidating grin. BORING. We’ve seen a thousand characters like that in movies today! We want the hero we remember, the hero that inspired us to be daring and do stupid stuff! The yellow suit made him identifiable, and it also gave the creators the ability to have Wolverine do crazy stuff. The suit was silly so that he also could be.

The costumes made characters memorable. Now all of the X-Men movies have the characters in monochromatic, black suits.

The scripts are bad too, and not in a good way. If you want to know what I mean, The Avengers and Iron Man movies are steps in the right direction--jovial dialogue accompanying heroes who know they are heroes. They have trying, dark moments, but are always cracking jokes and being dumb. But we can still do better. Deadpool got it dead on. His costume is just like it was in the comics and cartoons, and the character is as self-aware and hilarious as can be. Now, I don’t think all superheroes should be breaking the fourth wall, per-se, but I do think that they should still be cartoon characters. They should resemble and act like the characters which we grew to know and love.

Read this next bit, then close your eyes and imagine it, if you will: You crawl into your bed on Friday night after telling your mom or dad to wake you up promptly at 8 A.M. As you pull the covers over your head, you think back on how your entire Friday at grade school was spent doodling that brilliant costume, and fantasizing about the new adventures you’d see your favorite hero get into on tomorrow morning’s cartoons. Recess was spent talking to your buds about the crazy powers you wish you had. You fall asleep ecstatic at the thought that you could turn on the T.V. in a few short hours and tune into your favorite hero saving the day. When you wake and skip breakfast to sit in front of that cathode-ray screen, you haven’t another care in the world. All that matters is how they’re going to captivate you this time.

Heroes don’t need to be dark and intimidating to capture a kid’s heart, and adults are just big kids who glorify themselves as something they aren’t. Go ahead and adapt the characters and scripts for a modern audience, but don’t lose the fun-spirited, silly, adventurous, heroes we need to make us excited!

And on that note, the year is over! I cannot wait to keep writing this column next year, and I hope you’ll keep joining me as I critically (over)analyze the media of today. Thank you for all of the kind words and support as I transcribed my brain’s words into these columns. Join me next year where more interesting takes are to be expected! n

Columns 24

This Month in History With Max Keeney May

Greetings, knaves. Because of (what I assume) was a devastating fire at the Voice headquarters, I have somehow been granted a column in this publication. I have been instructed to learn you all about history, but, instead, I will fill this page with my personal thoughts on the subject.

To start this month off, May 1st marks the establishment of the United Kingdom of Great Britain.

Previously, Scotland and England were united, but, after the disastrous failure of a colonial venture in Panama that bankrupted the Scottish parliament, they Continuing along, on May 5th, we can all celebrate the agreed to political union with England. This union is Constitution Day of the Kyrgyz Republic. This holiday commemorated on the original Union Jack, with the celebrates the ratification of Kyrgyzstan’s first constiScottish cross of St. Andrew superimposed on the Engtution in 1993. Like many firsts in a young country’s lish cross of St. George. Wales does not get a spot on life, this day was originally celebrated in the traditional the flag on account of somehow being less politically Kyrgyz fashion, with a decade of authoritarian dictarelevant than Scotland. Don’t worry though, they can torship. An interesting fun fact about Kyrgyzstan is comfort themselves with the fact that their lack of histhat nobody actually knows how to spell Kyrgyzstan. torical value is made up for with a language that has We can theorize all we want, but current technology over 400 consonants. simply can’t replicate the string of letters required to pronounce the Central Asian Republic’s name.

On May 9th, the Russians celebrate Victory Day. Like many former allied powers, the Russians commemorate their victory in World War II with a day of national observance, and, like the Russian equivalent of anything, Victory Day is a special mix of hilarious and horrifying.

Although the holiday was celebrated in all 16 constituent republics of the Soviet Union, it has taken on a new life under the presidency of Vladimir Putin, who expounds the sense of nationalist pride that the holiday represents.

To fight the declining Russian birth rate, Putin has also instituted a national holiday in September during which Russian couples receive a day off work in order to conceive more children. Coincidentally, this date is exactly nine months before Victory Day, assuring that thousands of lil’ Russian babies are birthed into the world in a blaze of patriotism that makes Putin shed a single tear. Russians also refer to World War II as “The Great Patriotic War,” a name which I will exclusively use to refer to that event from now on.

On May 21st, 2006, Montenegro held a referendum endorsing independence from Serbia. Apparently oblivious to how well that worked out for countries like Croatia and Bosnia, Montenegrins left Serbia that June, taking with them Serbia’s only coastline and the last remaining shred of international faith that anyone wanted to be a part of Serbia. If this trend continues, by the year 2050, every single Serbian will be living in the independent republic of his or herself.

Two days later, on May 7th, the French Surrendered at Dien Bien Phu in 1954. After winning independence from the Japanese following the collapse of the French government during World War II, the Vietnamese expected international recognition from the Allies. Instead, Truman and the French decided to maintain France’s colonial claims, setting off a guerilla war between Ho Chi Minh’s army and French colonial forces that culminated in the surrender of French troops after the siege of Dien Bien Phu. Afterwards, nobody ever invaded Vietnam again, because that would just be ridiculous.

Finally, on May 29th, 1453, Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Turks. After fifteen centuries of existence, the last successor state to the Roman Empire was annexed to the growing Turkish dominion in Anatolia and Southeastern Europe. The city was renamed Istanbul, the Turkish rendering of the Graeco-Latin name, and now you have that “Istanbul, not Constantinople” song stuck in your head. Interestingly, the independence of Greece in 1829 led to calls for the Greeks to take back Constantinople and the Ionian shore of Anatolia, culminating in unrest within the Greek minority in Turkey after World War I, and a series of wars between the two countries lasting into the past few decades. The Greek Golden Dawn Party continues to support the reclamation of former Byzantine land.

Anyway, I hope you’re all either enlightened, confused, or both. I’ll be back with more “history” next month. Please enjoy the Constitution Day of the Kyrgyz Republic responsibly; we all know how rowdy those parties get. n

25

Saying Goodbye: Senior College List Aidan Adler James Andrews Elissa Bamberger Tucker Bates Parker Beaham Ajit Beeki Thad Blevins Elodi Bodamer Griffin Brandmeyer Alexander Carolan Boston Cartee Trent Cartmell Varun Chadha Sarah Chamberlain Cormac Chester Andrew Cho Thomas Christianson Emily Cohen Jack Copaken Dylan Dameron Sergi De Anda Tripp Dearborn Shaina Desai Francesco DiMare Fiona Eckert Emily Ervin William Esrey Ka’Terra Faubion Mickey Ferguson Bella Foote Aymeric Foyer Kit Frazen Catherine Fredette Gunjan Gaur Elizabeth Gerson Lily Glenn Saurabh Goel Emily Green Alexis Haley Charlie Hamilton Yurie Heard Charlotte Hendricks Laura Hibschman Sophia Hickok Maya Hill

Tulane University University of Kansas Lake Forest College University of Kansas University of Kansas Boston University University of Kansas Texas Christian University University of Kansas Rhodes College University of Missouri University of Kansas University of Kansas Boston College Wesleyan University of Maryland University of Denver Bowdoin College University of Pennsylvania Columbia University Denver University University of Kansas University of California, Berkeley Cornell University Washington University in St. Louis Colorado University Denver University University of Tulsa University of Edinburgh University of Missouri Colorado College University of Missouri University of St. Andrews Dartmouth College Stanford University University of South Carolina Columbia University Vanderbilt University University of Missouri Southern Methodist University Pomona College University of California, Santa Barbara Washington University in St. Louis Texas Christian University University of Missouri

Attending University of Kansas: 13 Attending University of Missouri: 7

26

Elena Humphrey University of Kansas Bryan Jeong University of Texas at Austin Ford Johnson Rollins College Inkoo Kang University of Southern California Michael Keane Washington University in St. Louis Joshua Konowitz Syracuse University Kealy Kornitzer University of Georgia Izzy Laskero Northwestern University Charles Li University of Pennsylvania Kevin Li Washington University in St. Louis Anya Loboda Washington University in St. Louis Veronica Loskutova Jacobs University Bremen Jessie Lu University of California, Irvine Caroline McCray University of Mississippi Lauren McElhinney University of Arizona Drake Miller Southern Methodist University Trey Miller Iowa State Jack Mitchell Texas Christian University Steven Miyawaki Bowdoin College Claire Nonemaker University of Kansas James Parkerson University of Virginia Paige Penning Texas Christian University Evan Peterson Westpoint George Robertson University of Denver Ellison Rooney Notre Dame John Rosher University of Kansas Alice Rowland Barnard College Brycen Saunders Morehouse College Megan She Cornell University Elizabeth Shulman Duke University Daniel Stanley University of Chicago Robert Starr Unviersity of Denver George Story University of Kansas Kippy Terry Undecided Spenser Thomas College of Charleston Spenser Thut University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music Maddie Tolsdorf Elon University Grace Vedock Middlebury College Ben Wang Tufts University Kevin Ward Undecided MacKenzie Yearby University of Missouri – Kansas City Eric Zhao College of William and Mary Christine Zheng Wesleyan

International Students: 3 Attending Texas Christian University: 5 Attending Washington University in St. Louis: 6

27 Reviews

Media Reviews:

Throne of Glass and Lemonade

Victoria Wall Contributer Beyonce’s new album Lemonade, released on April 23, 2016, is the icon’s sixth full length album to date. Artists such as Kendrick Lamar, Diplo, Jack White, and The Weekend are featured on the album. While pop sensation, Beyonce, needs no introduction, this album, much like her last, was released unannounced and needed very little promotion. But rather than playing it safe with the typical go-to pop lyrics and sounds, Beyonce takes a great risk. Her single “Formation,” released a few months prior, laid the foundation for what would become Beyonce’s most personal works yet. While the single leaned toward conventional pop song with a lively, energetic beat, it was clear from the lyrics about her culture and heritage that this song was not simply about creating a catchy tune, and the whole album stays true to this philosophy.

Lemonade is overflowing with so many personal details and experiences; it is practically confessional. The tracklist is also quite diverse, and it is rumored that the main inspiration for this was her husband’s infidelity as many of the initial songs pertain to dishonesty and anger. Many of the songs, especially third track, “Don’t Hurt Yourself,” feature lots of instrumental experimentation that Beyonce has never used before. Her vocals are also slightly more aggressive than usual, though one negative is the distortion overlays used in a few of the songs. Rather than adding to the song, it tends to thin out her voice. The most endearing song on the album is “Daddy Lessons” which features organic percussion, acoustic guitar, and clean vocals. By the end of the album, Beyonce forgives her significant other as she realizes that their relationship is still worth saving. Overall, the concept and theme of this album was extremely creative from beginning to end. It provides personal details of a highly public relationship while not sacrificing any musicality. After listening, one could truly say that she was given lemons, but she made lemonade. n

Lily Jiang Copy Editor “Still the image haunted his dreams throughout the night: a lovely girl gazing at the stars, and the stars who gazed back.”

The first installment of Sarah J. Maas’s fantasy series, Throne of Glass, is filled with intrigue, adventure, and humor. The story is centered around Celaena Sardothien, a young girl who has seen and gone through unimaginable things. She is renowned for being the best assassin in all of Erilia and perhaps even the world.

For the past year, Celaena has been toiling away as a slave in the salt mines of Endovier as a part of her lifetime sentence to misery for the crimes she committed. However, an opportunity presents itself to her to gain back her freedom. Celaena must represent the Crown Prince as his competitor in a tournament to win the position of the king’s champion. She races against all odds to beat 23 killers, thieves, and mercenaries in a series of trials. If she wins the competition, then Celaena will serve four years under the king as his champion, after which she will be set free.

Throne of Glass is a breathtaking first instalment to the series.

You feel completely at home, immersed in the world. Maas eases you in by setting off with a fairly simple storyline of a tournament where the protagonist aims to be champion, but the underlying storyline takes off in book two: Crown of Midnight. The second book allows you to ease yourself in and fall in love with the characters gradually rather than tumble in head-first.

I hate to give books five star ratings, as I feel a book can always be improved. But, Throne of Glass will forever remain a firm favorite on my shelf as I find it appeals to everything I like: a strong female lead, a fantasy world, a deep and gripping storyline full of political intrigue and betrayal, and a dash of humor and romance, all leaving me wanting more. I can’t fault it.

5 Stars. n

Equal Play, Equal Pay Feature 28

Lauren Washington Head of Digital Less than nine months after winning the 2015 World Cup, an accomplishment the men’s team has yet to accomplish, five members of the squad- Carli Lloyd, Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, Becky Sauerbrunn, and Hope Solo- all filed a wagediscrimination suit against the U.S. Soccer Federation.

Although the women won the World Cup, the players received a team total of $2 million, whereas, in the World Cup in Brazil in 2014, the U.S. men’s team players earned a total of $9 million despite going 1-2-1 and being knocked out in the round of 16.

Individually, if it was a male soccer player who won a World Cup for the United States, their bonus would be $390,000, but for a female their bonus would be $75,000.

The men make almost $69,000 for making a World Cup roster, but the women receive $15,000 for making the World Cup team.

The team’s 2015 financial report also states that although the women’s team generated almost $20 million more revenue than the men’s team, the women are paid a quarter

of the men’s earnings.

The USWNT are not the only team with these problems, it’s a worldwide issue that they are taking a stand for. The Australia’s women’s national team have also battled

“Although the women’s team generated almost $20 million more revenue than the men’s team, the women are paid a quarter of the men’s earnings.“

their federation for years, even going on strike last year. Moreover, the women on the Colombian national team recently went four months without being paid at all.

When asked about the situation on the Today’s show, Hope Solo commented stating, “We continue to be told we should be grateful just to have the opportunity to play professional soccer, to get paid for doing it.

In this day and age, it's about equality. It's about equal rights. It's about equal pay.

We're pushing for that. We believe now the time is right because we believe it's our responsibility for women's sports and spe-

cifically for women's soccer to do whatever it takes to push for equal pay and equal rights. And to be treated with respect."

Although not everyone is in favor of the USWNT’s actions, Tim Howard, the U.S. men’s goalie, vowed his support for the team, and reiterated that on the men’s side they have been fighting the compensation battle for a long time and understands their frustrations. When I asked a few students about the issue they all highlighted to the obvious point, that there is definitely inequality in sports.

Vishal Beeki ‘18 believes that “the lawsuit is a smart move because the women’s team deserves equal rights and they won’t get it until they take direct action. Guys sports definitely have a higher attendance rate and that is because of society. Generally in society, girls sports aren’t as popular despite equal levels of quality and entertainment.”

It is unclear as of now if the Women’s National Team will succeed in their lawsuit, but one thing seems clear: it is a step in the right direction. n

USA Male Soccer Team Bonuses per player:

USA Female Soccer Team Bonuses per player:

Winning a World Cup: $390,000

Winning a World Cup: $75,0000

Making World Cup roster: $69,000

Making World Cup roster: $15,000

Personality quiz

29

Quien langue magister shì you?

(Which language teacher are you?)

Hunter Julo Managing Editor

What is your favorite thing to do in your free time?

1) What is free time?

2) Anything active 3) Hanging out with family and friends 4) Read

What is your spirit animal?

1) Ursa Maritimus (Polar Bear) 2) Poison Dart Frog 3) Wolf 4) Cheetah

Which celebrity would you love to hang out with for a day?

1) John Stewart 2) Cameron Diaz 3) Would not hang out with a celebrity 4) Either of the Obamas

If you had to pick any place in the world to be right now, where would it be?

1) Hiking in North Carolina with family 2) On a warm beach with friends 3) Home in pajamas 4) Spain

What is your favorite show to watch on Netflix or currently on television?

1) Don’t really watch TV 2) The Big Bang Theory 3) House of Cards 4) Grey’s Anatomy

Received mostly 1’s

Received mostly 2’s

Received mostly 3’s

Received mostly 4’s

You are most similar to Mr. Young! You prefer to be outside and with people, rather than engulfed in the internet and technology. You love to joke around, but you know when you have to get work done. People have fun around you, even when being productive, and you have a secret artistic side.

You are most similar to Señora Van Zanten! You love the great outdoors and being around family and friends. You expect the best from people and are similar enough to the poison dart frog that you have enough venom to kill 10 adult men.

You also may (only on occasion) do crossfit.

Your are most similar to Mrs. Dai! You are very kind to those around you, but you work hard and expect the same from the people around you. You tend to keep to yourself, preferring to read rather than socialize. But, you are easily more outgoing while around family and friends.

You are most similar to Señora Eshelbrenner! You move at a fast pace because you do not let life hold you back.

Your compassion is evident to those around you. You enjoy being active with family and friends, but you also love some time to yourself to read and reflect.

Crossword

ACROSS: 6. This recent Marvel movie made the biggest R-rated hit of all time 10. This year marks the _____ year that science olympiad has gone to nationals 12. This teacher and sponsor of Environmental Club is retiring from Pembroke 15. This form of transportation recently opened in Downtown 17. This iconic American singer, songwriter, record producer, and actor died on April 21, 2016 18. Chorale will perform in this noble hall next year 20. Popular musical about the first treasurer of the U.S.

30

DOWN: 1. Name of one of Dr. Cho’s dogs and a Star Wars character 2. The Pembroke band that performed at prom 3. One of the artists currently being exhibited at the Nelson 4. Number of times Vishesh Patel has won c 5. Name of the school’s spring play 7. Not Uber, but _____ 8. The celebrity chef that visited the cafeteria (first name) 9. The animal on the senior bookstore awards 11. Royal’s baseball player who was mobbed after the Justin Bieber concert 13. Bernie Sander’s tax plan will raise taxes by ______ percent 14. Annual Lower School May festival 16. This teacher is retiring after teaching at Pembroke for forty years 19. Peer Helpers recently began giving away character _______

Letter from the

Editors

Dear readers,

Hello from your new editors-in-chief! We are extremely excited to be a part of this magazine and to see what changes we can bring to it. We’d first like to thank Megan She and Elizabeth Gerson for all their hard work as editors last year. They truly made some major additions to the magazine, and we are excited to build off of them.

To us, working on The Voice began as a minor commitment of writing articles. However, each year, we began to realize the importance of the magazine and how it comes together. It is impossible not to want to be a part of the staff, the hectic paste-ups, and, of course, the waffles. Our passion for the magazine has grown each year, and now we’re honored to be able to contribute our own ideas.

Our bigger vision for The Voice is to create a more refined and unified magazine that is engaging for the reader. This magazine is written by students for the student body, so we want all of you to be a part of it. We will be having more polls in order to get a school-wide stance for you to voice your opinions. Pembroke has a funny, intellectual, and thoughtful student body that has a lot to say, and we want to accurately portray your ideas. We wish to make The Voice a strong platform that will inform our audience, provoke questions, and engage our readers in laughter and intellect.

whispers

news blurbs from around school nick klock ‘18. . .made a hole-in-one at the phs boys’ golf tournament against pius.

53. . . phs students received medals on the national spanish exam.

2016. . . was the last year of showcase april 28 . . . was national donnie day. kippy terry ‘16 . . . has a cat named the wizard. jay mehta ‘18 . . . qualified for nationals in the national history day competition Correction to April Issue: Anya Loboda and Isabella Laskero were meant to be included as featured artists

We’re excited to begin this journey.

Sincerely, Shannon & Davis

THE VOICE

The Official News Publication of the Pembroke Hill School The Voice is published monthly by the students of the Pembroke Hill School during the academic year to inform the Pembroke Hill Community about pertinent 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.

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. Find us online at issuu.com/PHSVoice.

The Voice is YOUR publication. Please read responsibly.

Editors-in-Chief Davis Brooks and Shannon Fang

Senior Designer Olive Honan Head of Digital Lauren Washington Photographers Bella Barnes Illustrator Olive Honan

Managing Editors Bella Barnes Hunter Julo Gina Pepitone Isabella Way

Copy Editors Lily Jiang Jacqueline Kincaid Grace Lattan Catherine Franano

Designers Gina Peptione Olive Honan Bella Barnes Hunter Julo Multimedia Editor Jay Mehta

Middle School Coordinator Jacqueline Kincaid

Staff Writers Maggie Burke Paolo Laskero Kaitlyn Storm Ellie Ruland

Business Manager Baylor McCray

Columnists Clay Lundgren – “Biased Opinions with Clay” Olive Honan – “The Buzz” Bella Barnes and Roxanne Reasco –”KC Crawl” Grace Parkerson and Wil Rowland – “Calvin and Hobbes” Natalie Dameron – “‘Dam’ Straight” Max Keeney – “This Month in History” Alaric Chen, Caroline Salzman, Alex Hrinya – “What’s the Word” Faculty Sponsors Dr. Matt Clothier and Dr. Kim Banion