The Nevarmore, March 2012 by Ravenscroft

Student Cars

New Teacher

Page 12

Page 14

Fight Childhood Cancer

Madness Trivia

Krispy Run

Page 15

Page 3

Pages 10 & 11

THE

Nevarmore Ravens Fly To Victory First State Championship in 32 Years

2012 3A State Champs - Bottom Row: Hannah Leahy, Catherine Green, Amanda Lampuri, Mike Hutter, Matt Quesenberry, Garrett Bird, Anton Gill, Bennett Dotson Second Row: Coach Dover, Coach Brill, Travis White, Quinn Billerman, Coach Rob, DJ Langley, Isaac Copeland, Avery Edwards, Marcus Bryan, Madison Jones, Andrew Franz, Coach Billerman

madison jones R

STAFF WRITER

avenscroft entered the tournament with a record of 27-3 and just needed 4 wins to accomplish what they were working for all year. The Ravens’ first game was Tuesday versus North Raleigh Christian Academy who they cruised by and won 53-37. Thursday afternoon at 2:30 the Ravens would face Charlotte Latin. Madison Jones, ‘12, led all scores with 27 points and great help from Anton Gill, ‘13, with 12 points. The Ravens won 81-49 and moved on to the semi-finals. In the semi-finals, the Ragin’ Ravens took on powerhouse Christ School, State Champions for the past five years. Gill and Jones were determined not to let them win again by playing good defense and both scoring 22 points. Ravenscroft defeated Christ School, 74-55, and moved on to the State Championship. The Ravens faced Greensboro Day, a tough team who defeated them earlier in the season 60-56. Wanting much revenge and driven to win the State Championship, the Ravens came out on fire with a 14 point lead in the first quarter. Greensboro Day rallied back and would not go until late in the 4th quarter. Ravens big three, Marcus Bryan,‘13, Gill and Jones, all had big games with 17, 14, and 22, respecitively. This is Ravenscroft School’s first State Championship in 32 years.

Photo by Susan Washburn

BREAKING NEWS

RAVENS ARE IN ESPNHS TOURNEY

2 Table of Contents Page 1 State Championships Madison Jones Page 2 AP Courses Drew Gagnon Page 3 Krispy Kreme Challenge Paige Schafer Page 3 Python Problem Ian Hicks Page 4 Presidential Service Awards Page 5 Winter Informal Alexus Baldwin Page 6 Mainstream Mitt Eric Iseley Page 7 Editorial Page 8 Tea With Tran Editors Page 8 The Perfect prom Brad Ehilegbu & Layla Tanik Pages 9 Welsh 101 Lauren Grady & Corinne May Page 10 & 11 St. Baldrick’s Catherine Green Page 12 New Teacher Carroll Cathleen Pruden Page 12 From Hogwarts to Ravenscroft Emily Swallow Page 13 St. Patrick’s Day Kate Sweeney Page 13 Movie Reviews Katherine Finney Page 14 Cars at the ‘Croft John Hockman Page 15 March Madness Alex Bowen Page 16 Junior Lady Ravens tAYLOR nEWCOMB Page 17 Idol vs. Prodigy Madison Jones Page 17 Gill Flies From Raven To Cardinal Isaac Copeland

News

THE

Nevarmore

AP Courses: You Choose Your Path Students weigh in on their choices and their experiences

Drew GAgnon J

STAFF WRITER

unior year is generally considered the most important in the life of a high school student. With this in mind, students either try to take as many difficult classes as possible or take courses they believe will yield the highest scores. As a result, a lot of stress follows, especially at a school like Ravenscroft with high academic standards and a high percentage of students involved in co-curricular activities. Not only do we have a hundred percent college acceptance record, but our normal college prep classes are already more difficult than the same classes at another school. So, the addition of Advanced Placement (AP) classes in a Ravenscroft

student’s schedule is especially challenging. Some wonder if it is critical to take AP classes and if they can succeed in them at all. As part of the college counseling process, freshmen students and their parents attend an evening presentation of representatives from different college admissions offices. It is not unusual to hear basic facts about how many AP classes are needed to be admitted to different universities. Statements like, “If you have a C as a semester grade as a freshman, it is unlikely that you wil be admitted to (insert college name here).” With all of the speakers students have heard by the time they are juniors, it is not surprising that many are wondering if it is okay not

to take AP’s during such a critical year. Some students decide the best idea is to not take APs at all and to do their best in the required classes to boost their GPA while others believe they will not get into the school of their choice if they don’t take APs. Layla Tanik, ‘13, thus far has not taken any APs and is happy with her decision. She believes that she made the right choice for herself. Next year, Tanik is considering enrolling in AP Biology. “My workload junior year has been a lot lighter compared to previous years. I just have more studying to do,” said Tanik. Lee Massey, ‘13, has taken two APs duirng her high school career. She took AP Macro Economics sophomore year, and this year she is

taking AP Environmental Science. Massey is planning to take one more AP class next year. “I’m very happy that I decided to take APs. I have enjoyed both of them,” said Massey. Cathleen Pruden, ‘12, has taken eight AP’s over the last three years. Her favorite class was AP Macro Economics because of her classmates. Considering the subject matter alone, AP Psychology was her favorite. “I would always recommend taking a regular course over taking an AP course if I had any concern about a student progressing at the AP level. I recommend APs for students who are following a passion or if they need a AP level and pacing for a particular course,” added Lee Owen Academic Skills Instructor.

Ravenscroft AP’s and Honor Courses AP English AP English Language and Composition

AP History

Honors English

AP Comparative Government and Politics

Honors Fine Arts

AP English Literature and Composition

AP European History

AP Fine Arts

AP Macroeconomics

AP Art

AP Microeconomics

AP Art History

AP Psychology

AP Biology

AP U.S. Government and Politics

AP Chemistry

AP U.S. History

AP Environmental Science

AP World History

AP Science

AP Physics

Honors English I, II, III

Honors Languages

Honors Choral Ensemble

Honors French II, III, IV

Honors Drama

Honors Greek I, II

Honors String Ensemble

Honors Latin II, III, IV

Honors Wind Ensemble

Honors Mandarin Chinese II

Honors Science Honors Astronomy-Solar System

Honors Astronomy-Stellar and Galactic

Honors Spanish II, III, IV

Honors Math

Honors Biology

Honors Algebra II

AP Computer Science A

AP Languages

Honors Chemistry

Honors Geometry

AP Math

AP French Language and Culture

Honors Engineering A

Honors Precalculus AB

Honors Engineering B

Honors Precalculus BC

Honors Physics

Honors Multivariable Calculus

AP Calculus AB

AP Calculus BC AP Statistics

AP Latin: Vergil AP Spanish Language

Honors Computer Science

Championship Ravens Take Home A Piece of History! Please visit http://nevarmore.ravenscroft.org/ or simply scan the QR codes

Page 18 Joe Paterno Mike Fagan Page 18 New Training Room Baraka Mutisya Page 19 Spring Sports Preview Jamie Herakovich & Caroline Margolis Page 19 Winter Sports Recap Jamie Herakovich & Caroline Margolis Page 20 Beyond the Season Cathleen Pruden

Scan this QR code for instant access!

News

THE

Nevarmore

An Extreme Feast: The Krispy Kreme Challenge Students reflect on their experiences running one of Raleigh’s toughest races

Paige Schafer

STAFF WRITER

On a dreary morning in early

February, the annual Krispy Kreme Challenge took place at 8:30 at North Carolina State University. Thousands of participants arrived on campus ready to complete the grueling challenge of running 2.5 miles, eating a dozen doughnuts, and running another 2.5 miles to the finish line while forcing themselves to keep the doughnuts down. The money raised in this event was donated to the North Carolina Children’s Hospital. A few Ravens who were brave enough to compete in this event eagerly shared their experiences. For first time runner Lexy Bader ‘12, running the five miles was “fantastic.” However, downing twelve doughnuts proved to be the real challenge.

“Agonizing. It took me almost as much time to eat twelve doughnuts as to run five miles,” said Bader about this face-stuffing experience. Another first time runner, Kyla Babson, ‘13, agreed that eating the doughnuts seemed to be the hardest part as well. “The first 18 minutes and 5 doughnuts were great,” Babson recalls. “But soon it became gross, nauseating, and towards the end I almost threw up. I ate the first 5 with ease, but after that I had to slowly force myself to eat the sickening doughnuts. A couple of times I felt like I was going to throw up but I made it through without puking.” Fortunately, the runners were strong enough to keep down the doughnuts during the last 2.5 mile stretch.

Dripping hot glazed doughnuts roll off the line at the new Krispy Kreme Doughnuts location in Fort Worth, Texas. The chain has quickly created a cult following nationwide. (nk) 2003 PHOTOGRAPH BY RODGER MALLISON/FORT WORTH STARTELEGRAM (DALLAS OUT) (February 27)

Both Ravens had different methods of training for the race. “I did my normal running workouts and practiced eating a couple of doughnuts,” Babson says. “I went six years without eating doughnuts so that I would be craving them by race day,” Bader confesses. No matter what training method one practices, gulping down a dozen doughnuts, totaling a nutritional nightmare of 2,400 calories, is no piece of cake. People have been known to make the experience quicker by stacking several of the pastries on top of each other and flattening them. Some are even willing to dip them in water to take off all the sugar so they would be able to eat more. They will do whatever it takes to make the experience less unbearable. However, the Krispy Kreme Challenge’s difficulty did not stop people from participating. Although the course was more challenging this year being five miles instead of four, thousands of people showed up on the rainy Saturday morning. The event was a success, raising $100,000 for the North Carolina Children’s Hospital. The Nevarmore wondered if they would consider participating in this race again. “Maybe as a casual runner (a runner who competes without having to eat doughnuts) because I don’t think I could eat 12 doughnuts,” added Babson. Bader, on the other hand, would “absolutely” do it again. “With a year to recover, of course,” she added.

Upon realizing that twelve doughnuts is actually a lot of food, Lexy Bader, ‘12, and Aaron Sugar, ‘11, doughnut know if they will ever eat a doughnut again. Photo by Caroline Hirl

The 2012 Krispy Kreme Challenge raised $100,000 for the North Carolina Children’s Hospital.

Python Problem In The Everglades Overpopulation of an invasive species leads to trouble for some Florida residences Ian Hicks STAFF WRITER

nakes on a plane? How about on your back porch? In Florida, residents face a new threat, in addition to the gator. A snake invasion is underway as the 12-foot

Burmese pythons are striking in alarming numbers. They eat almost anything in sight and everything they can catch. Some snakes have even been caught eating a whole adult deer or alligators. As residents who live near the ‘Glades fear the worst, as

Map of the effected area Photo from public domain

loved pets and animals disappear because of the snake. Parents are even concerned about these snakes attacking small children, let alone the gators nearby. Like something out of the movie Anaconda, the snakes have caused major damage to the native rodent and mammalian populations. “Road surveys totaling 56,971 km from 2003–2011 documented a 99.3 percent decrease in the frequency of raccoon observations, decreases of 98.9 per cent and 87.5 percent for oppossum and bobcat observations, respectively, and failed to detect rabbits,” the study published in the journal for the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), officials said. The Burmese python, originally a true native to Southeast Asia, is the snake that has recently become an invasive species in our American wetlands. Thriving in our Everglades’ ecosystem, the great snake is ravishing the

An American alligator bites into a unwelcomed neighbor in the everglades. Photo from public domain

native organisms and eating almost anything it can catch. Brought in by hurricanes and careless pet owners, the snake escaped to the marshes of the Everglades like it were home. Currently the most popular way people are trying to get rid of the snakes is by hunting them. Permits are given out during a period of the year where tags must be filled to eliminate the pythons. But this year, most have appeared to have been killed off by the cold weather the

state has had recently. The threat is still not being contained by current efforts. However, “The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is considering a ban on the import and transport of Burmese pythons into the country, along with eight other giant constrictor snakes.” Some officials even consider bringing in a new invasive species to eliminate the threat. If the gators were considered a problem before, then the python is just one more problem to deal with.

Service

THE

Nevarmore

2011 Presidential Service Awards President Barack Obama is continuing the

volunteer recognition program initiated in his 2002 during the State of the Union address by President George W. Bush as he challenged all Americans to make time in their lives to assist their neighbors, communities, the nation, and the world through service. As a result of this challenge,The Presidential Volunteer Service Award program was developed to thank and honor citizens who met President Bush’s challenge. The council believes that recognizing and honoring volunteers sets a standard for others and encourages them to answer the President’s call to service.

Gold Award Recipients Caroline Gainey, ‘15 Lauren Grady, ‘12 Cameron Litcher, ‘12 John Pupa, ‘15 Sarah Pupa, ‘13 Laura Naslund, ‘15 Ashley Suh, ‘15 Andrew Watters, ‘11 Caroline Zuckerman, ‘13

The awards are based on the calendar year, not the academic year. The four levels of this award are as follows for students between the ages of 15-25: Bronze Level – 100-174 hours Silver Level – 175-249 hours Gold Level – 250 or more hours Lifetime Recognition – 4,000 or more hours

Silver Award Recipients Austin Edwards, ‘12 Margaret Edwards, ‘13 Jordan Jeter, ‘12 Rachel Landers, ‘12 Josh McCoy, ‘14 Eryn Murphy, ‘14 Humza Rizvi, ‘14 Elisabeth Schricker, ‘13 Wes Stroud, ‘15 Benjamin Suh, ‘12

Bronze Award Recipients Davy Babson, ‘15 Kyla Babson, ‘13 John Bailey, ‘15 Laura Beacham, ‘12 Axel Barth, ‘15 Emily Bedsole, ‘13 Mary Grady Bell, ‘14 Chris Brajer, ‘13 Caroline Browning, ‘12 William Carter, ‘12 Sydney Cass, ‘14 Mathew Colwell, ‘12 David Dameron, ‘14 Virginia Douglas, ‘14 Bryant Dowd, ‘13 Chase Duncan, ‘13 Ryen Frazier, ‘15 Alex Finley, ‘12 Grant Glenn, ‘14

Caroline Hirl, ‘12 Jay Hirl, ‘14 Winston Holloway, ‘12 Eric Iseley, ‘12 Sara Kasbekar, ‘14 Arash Kasebi, ‘13 Sam Kasierski, ‘14 Ford Layman, ‘15 Alexandra Lee, ‘15 Robert Lippitt, ‘14 Shane Litcher, ‘14 Corinne May, ‘12 Vanessa May, ‘14 Calley Mangum, ‘13 Allison McAdams, ‘13 Matt McDowell, ‘12 Kristen McCarthy, ‘14 Claudia Meyer, ‘13 Will Ormand, ‘13

Andie Park, ‘11 Sterling Price, ‘15 Dillon Ragusa, ‘13 Rashaad Ratliff-Brown, ‘13 Trey Shearin, ‘12 Thomas Sigmon, ‘13 Max Sminkey, ‘13 Morgan Stafford, ‘12 Lewis Stocks, ‘12 Elle Stumpo, ‘13 Jessica Sullivan, ‘15 Sydney Sweeny, ‘15 Lindsay Thompson, ‘14 Andrew Wiehe, ‘13 Alfre Wimberley, ‘13 Andrew Yochem, ‘13 Courtney Youngbar, ‘12 Mariel Ziperski, ‘13

News

THE

Nevarmore

First-Ever Winter Informal Boasts Something for Everyone Dinner catered by Moe’s, Duke-Carolina game, and dancing to tunes with Senior DJ Connor Tung ALEXUS BALDWIN STAFF WRITER

n March third, Ravenscroft hosted the “Winter Informal” with a neon theme and techno music in the back gym. But this time, the DJ was one of our own, the one and only Connor Tung, ‘12. Bill Pruden, at the last dance, wasn’t surprised when the students sat down and protested against the song that was chosen when the faculty demanded a song change to prevent grinding. Pruden understood why the students weren’t happy, because he knows what type of music would like to be played. Tung says that it was hard to determine whether the turn out would be better, but he did agree that this dance was planned well. He was assured that the music would be a lot better than before. Tung took requests for songs from students by email or by Facebook to play at the winter informal. All dances at Ravenscroft are planned by the elected representatives of each grade in the Student Government Association (SGA). Each SGA representative from each class sold tickets to the ones that want to go starting on February seventh. The attendance of last year’s Winter Formal was 250, and the lowest attendance ever was under ten people! The Carolina vs. Duke Game was the day of the dance, and there were a lot of mix ups and confusion with where and when it was. Pruden is hoping that with the changes SGA made, the attendance increase. Homecoming’s attendance is usually greater than the winter formal simply because after going to the first dance and seeing how it was, few usually want to go back. The attendance for this year’s homecoming was 350. But the dance does not only consist of students - the teachers are an important part as well. Having chaperones to prevent grinding is what makes the dances Ravenscroft dances possible. Most teachers agree that they do not enjoy chaperoning at the dances, but it’s something they have to do. Mr. League, Upper School english teacher, doesn’t enjoy the dancing and understands that it’s a new generation and students would like to dance the way they want. League says that chaperoning is an easy job, it’s just that the dancing is a problem. But the hardest part is breaking up the dancing. Mrs. Welsh, Upper School biology teacher, chaperoned at Winter Formal. The easiest part for her is hanging out with her fellow chaperones, but the hardest part is watching the inappropriate dancing. Welsh says she is very old fashioned and would love if the students danced face to face. The most awkward part of her job is to check the bathrooms to make sure there aren’t any inappropriate actions partaking there. But the most serious infraction she ever witnessed was when someone tried to escape the dance before the forty five minute rule. Mr. Chissoe claims he ‘is worried about whoever likes to chaperone.” On the same night as the dance, the epic battle of UNC vs. DUKE was sched-

Senior girls decked out in neon pose with friends at Winter Informal Photo provided by Emily High

uled. SGA decided to project the game at the dance on one side where Moe’s was stationed. On the other side there was the dance and Tung playing music. With this as a bonus, it was possible that we could have reached an attendance higher the homecoming and change the statistics of homecoming attendance being more than Winter Formal attendance. In preparation for the Winter Informal on February 17th, in morning meeting the Upper School students had a preview of what the dance would look like. Students with neon clothing jumped down the aisles to the stage. The upper school was also able to have a dress down day if they wore neon. Final sales of the tickets ended on February 17th. Many enjoyed the difference between this year’s Winter Informal and last year’s Formal counterpart with free food, free music, and fun with friends. What could be better?

Spanish Exchange Program Last month, Ravenscroft students visited Spanish to live the life of a Spaniard.

Last fall, Spanish exchange students visited Ravenscroft School to experience life in America.

Spanish students enjoy the life on the Ravenscoft campus. Photos by Susan Washburn

THE

Nevarmore

Opinion

Mainstream Mitt: The Right Fit ericiSeley T

Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney Taken on January 25, 2012 by Joe Burbank

Grand

Old Politicians

Still in the race...

Rick Perry

has a serious, possibly incurable case of foot-in-mouth syndrome.

Photo by Tracy Glantz

Newt Gingrich

How can we as a country trust this man if his own wife can’t?

Photo by Jeff Siner

Rick Santorum’s

social beliefs such as being staunchly anti-abortion make him unelectable. Photo by Jason Getz

STAFF WRITER

he Republican’s best hope for winning the presidency is Mitt Romney. We saw the rise of Caine, Perry, and Gingrich, only to see Romney take over in the polls. Can Romney be stopped? That is the question everyone is asking and the field is getting smaller by the day. Bachman and Huntsman have already dropped out. In Virginia, Romney is one of only two candidates who are on the ballot. The rest of the candidates were too unorganized to meet the deadline in the state. This is one of Romney’s strengths. Romney has a very well formed organizational structure. This was particularly true in terms

of fundraising. Romney outpaced the other candidates by a very large margin in fundraising, and has the added advantage of having a sizeable personal net worth to contribute to his campaign if necessary. This however has proved to be a slight problem. Gingrich has criticized Romney’s sizeable net worth and income, attacking specifically the point that he does not pay his fair share in taxes. What Gingrich fails to mention is the fact that Romney gives millions to charity every year, and when added to the taxes he does pay, it more than covers the amount he, quote on quote, should pay according to Gingrich. Romney is the pre-eminent nominee. Many candidates have risen, and we will probably see the rise of other candidates

before it is all said and done, but Romney is a virtual lock for the nomination. Not only is he the most likely to get the republican nomination, he is also the republican’s best hope at beating Obama. Obama cannot touch Romney’s economic strengths. He is far more competent in that area than is Obama. Romney only has two major vulnerabilities, his wealth, which makes him susceptible to class warfare, and his religion, which could also be a drawback. There are those that argue Romney made his money on the backs of blue collar workers, and there are also a number of people that have a problem with Romney being a Mormon.

Iseley’s Note:

Graphs such as the one below are misleading. At first glance, it appears as if Romney is paying substantially less in taxes. This is NOT the case. Romney’s money has ALREADY been taxed. In reality, he is paying an

ADDITIONAL 13.5% in capital gains taxes; NOT being taxed at 13.5%.

editorial

THE

Nevarmore

Let’s Get Siri-ous About Technology

The sophomores have their noses buried in Chromebooks, but will the “technology way” lead to a life in the slow lane and a head-on collision? While technology continues to push the boundaries, our youth has hit a psychological and mental roadblock.

More Face Time

t any given time, you are likely surrounded by students with screens illuminating their faces. The ability to communicate face to face with peers has been compromised by the invention of texting. When there is a convenient way to reach everyone you know within seconds by cell phone, the easiest way to communicate is usually by text. Calls are a hassle, and texts mostly eliminate any potential awkwardness. A grammatically incorrect text has now replaced a physical conversion and even a phone call. But this positive celluar revolution has caused antisocial behavior. According to the The New York Times, Gary Small, a professor and neuroscientist, has spotted a pattern in the ways that technology has caused teens to interact. He believes that kids who have grown up using their computers have great technological skills but lack skills for human interaction. The New York Times also reported the ways in which social networking sites are facilitating those who might be shy or anti-social by presenting a bypass for face-to-face conversations. Many parents, including Laura Shumaker, a San Francisco Bay Area resident, have noticed this trend. Shumaker said that her son was much more reluctant to hold a conversation with someone without technology.

The Evolution of the Conversation Fa

Ca ce ve ma Tim e n St : yle

Facebook Depression

ow does your “150 friends” compare to her “1,500 friends”? Could the competitive side of Facebook be drawing teens into depression? According to “Docs Warn about Teens and ‘Facebook Depression,’” Dr. Gwenn O’Keeffe, the head of the American Academy of Pediatrics social media guidelines, believes that Facebook may be doing just that. O’Keeffe thinks that there are parts to the social media website that may be hurting teens with already low self-esteem. She also believes that because Facebook lacks the ability for users to understand context or tone, a distorted view of reality is presented. In the same report, Dr. Megan Moreno, a University of Wisconsin adolescent medicine specialist, describes that the effect of Facebook is not the same for all. Those teens who are “well-adjusted” have no problem with the competitive aspects such as number of friends, pictures, and frequency of updates. However, teens who may not be “well-adjusted” may fall into “Facebook depression.”

e: m i e

T tyl e c S

Fa 50s 19

Google It

hen someone asks you a random question, is your immediate reaction to search for your smart phone and Google it? If so member, you most likely belong to the “Google Generation.” After a study led by Betsy Sparrow at Columbia was conducted, Jonah Lehrer presented the information regarding Google and memory on Wired.com. He concluded, “If we know a fact is only a Google away, then we are not going to waste precious synaptic space on it. Better to let a server remember it.” Betsy Sparrow of Columbia University shared the same research. She states, “We remember less through knowing information itself than by knowing where the information can be found.” Many people, teens in particular, love the ease of just “Googling” the answer to a question. This may make everyday life easier, the process takes its toll on long term memory. How will we know how to solve bigger problems when we can’t use Google to find the answer? While technology is helpful, teens should also use analytical skills rather than turning to Siri at every bump in the road.

Tod Fac ay’s eT ime ?

THE

Nevarmore

Editorial Content:

This paper serves as a communication link within Ravenscroft School and between the school and the local community. The Nevarmore staff strives to produce a professional-quality publication that follows the Code of Ethics of the Society of Professional Journalists. Our overall objective is to print the news for and about our students and other members of our school and community in a fair and objective way with the utmost regard for integrity.

Wire Service

The Nevarmore subscribes to MCT Campus, which provides photographs, national news & entertainment services to high school newspapers.

Faculty Advisor: Helen Velk

Cartoon by Zawadi Mutisya

Editor-in-Chief

Sarah Collins

Associate Editors Katherine Finney & Caroline Scales

The unsigned editorials in this issue are a reflection of the combined opinions of the editorial team. Responses in the form of a letter are welcomed and will be considered for publication.

Nevarmore Online Editor Garrett Bird

Design Editor Angelika Barth

1) The students on The Nevarmore staff will print articles which have been researched to the best of their ability to obtain the most complete information. 2) The information will be presented in an objective, truthful and fair manner. 3) When personal commentary is given it will be in good taste on issues that have been researched, analyzed and where expert opinion has been sought, and then presented to the best ability of the writer. 4) No material which is obscene, libel or anything that will cause a “material and substantial disruption” of the school day, according to accepted legal definitions, will be printed.

THE

Nevarmore

Feature

Tea With Tran katherine finney, sarah collins, & caroline scales

Lihn Tran, who is in her second year in the Upper School and teaches World History II, Global Issues, and Editors

AP Comparative Gov., sits down with Nevarmore editors over iced tea and donuts to learn her history.

A: Favorite Albums

(In no particular order) 1. Slanted and Enchanted by Pavement 2. Avalon by Roxy Music 3. Fox Base Alpha by Saint Etienne 4. Odelay by Beck 5. From Here We Go Sublime by The Field

What do you like about the school? I like the students. I think you guys are fantastic. Q: What was it like growing up?

I come from a traditional Vietnamese familiy. I’m ethically Vietnamese and culturally American. I come from a very traditional immigrant family. Q: Have you always lived in Raleigh?

No, I’m from Houston, TX. It’s a city of 5 million, very diverse compared to Raleigh.

Q: A: Q: A:

Fast Faves

Where do you shop? Locally. Bevello, Adam Peele, Raleigh Denim, and if I can, Anthropologie - they’re unique, different; it’s my demographic. If you could teach a class about anything you wanted, what would it be?

I’d like to teach a design class, probably an industrial design class.

Anything directed by Wes Anderson

MOVIE

Tilda Swinton and Ryan Gosling - “I think he’s hot”

ACTOR

South America

TRAVEL DESTINATION

Jeff Koons

ARTIST DESIGNER

Céline, Carolina Herrera, or any young Asian designer A Confederacy of Dunces by John Kennedy Toole

BOOK

Non-fiction, “I don’t like poetry”

GENRE

“I don’t have any favorites. I see everything with value and intention.”

Interesting Facts “I speak Vietnamese fluently and Spanish and French, sort of.” “I can tango.” “I really like ‘Ganster Rap’.”

Tran’s favorite artist, Jeff Koons, is known for his balloon puppies, constructed from metal. “I love anything that has to do with architecture.”

The Perfect Prom

A guy’s step-by-step guide to finding the perfect date brad ehilegbu and Layla Tanik W

STAFF WRITERS

ith 2012 Prom sneaking up on us, it is time to start making plans and considering options. One of the main parts of prom is finding the a date that you can have fun with! This can be stressful and nerve racking for a guy, but following these guide lines would be helpful to finding the girl you want to share the magical night with! Firstly, don’t wait until the last minute. Plan ahead so you have ample time to weigh your options and/or befriend your potential date. Possibly make a mental list of candidates you would consider asking, in order of who you want to ask the most. From there, you can decide how to get around to asking her. If you aren’t very good friends with your target date, begin to form a tighter friendship with her! This includes friendly conversation at first to get to know her, and finding common interests. The more you talk, the more comfortable you will become with each other. This is why planning ahead is such a key component to finding a date, it takes time to build a friendship. After establishing a solid foundation of friendship, it is time to casually mention prom to plant the seed. This does not mean blurt out if she wants to go to prom with you, but more along the lines of, “So, are you excited for prom?” This way your lady knows you are thinking about her and prom but doesn’t create an awkward situation. Also, you should be able to pick up on hints from your friend if she wants to go with you, read into prom related things she may say as they might be hints of her wanting you to man up and ask her! Try to ask in a creative and cute way to show you care about the girl you are asking! This doesn’t mean to be extremely extravagant and make her feel uncomfortable but maybe flowers and some candy would be nice if you are just friends. In addition, this sweet gesture makes it hard for her to say no! Worst case scenario you get rejected, but don’t fret. There are plenty of fish Alex Hom, right, pictured January 9 2012, found a unique way to ask Brooke Drury to the upcoming winter formal at in the sea and you can always try again! Just don’t be hasty in asking a second South Pasadena High School. He gathered 20 friends to create a flash mob dance with 18 roses and signs. Teens are using creative ways to ask dates to formals, proms, and other high school dances. (Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times/MCT) candidate because that can be perceived as desperate and borderline creepy.

Feature

9 WELSH 101: THE

Nevarmore

A Beginners Guide to Understanding the Wonderful World of Welsh Oh Sha’läh, Sha’líh

Junior Lloyd Mallison demonstrates the signature Sha’läh hand motion with evident zest.

Hello (with international flavor)

“What the what?!”

Photo by Corinne May

Jilly Jally

Synonym for “thing” (“but j’s are so jazzy and ‘thing’ is so pedestrian...”)

Holy Ca-Cocoa!

Holy Moly! What is going on here?!

“That is Significant” Depending on the tone, “Fantastic!” or “Unimpressive/ I don’t really care…”

General expression of shock

Gravy/Gravy-Train “Wow! Oh my goodness!” (derived from certain cowboys on the Amazing Race)

Ear Jollies

Ear phones, head phones, etc

Bananas-Town

Denoting “yahoo” behavior; combination of “bananas” and “crazy-town”

corinne mAY & lauren grady

STAFF WRITERS

“C

aw Caw!” Every Ravenscrofter has heard this notorious cheer ringing through the school, from the halls, to morning meeting, to athletic events. However, you may not know that the woman who coined the phrase is none other than famed AP Biology Instructor, Zoe Welsh. Besides the “Caw Caw!” she also spreads her infectious enthusiasm around campus with a whole other set of lesserknown expressions. These “Welshisms” are usually heard only in the AP Bio classroom, but in this exclusive article we reveal the meaning behind her unconventional terminology. “Many of my expressions evolved from a need to say a crazy expletive while remaining appropriate. Others are just space-fillers,” Welsh explains. While some people appreciate the humor of Welsh’s language, others find “Welshisms” unnecessary and ridiculous. New student Lloyd Mallison, ‘13, reports in his British accent that “Mrs. Welsh’s international flavor really makes me feel more at home.” Math Instructor, Mike Erikson, on the other hand, holds a different opinion.

“Where is this so-called Bananas Town and why does everyone keep talking about it???” - Mike Erikson Mike Erikson remains baffled by the Welsh dialect. Photo by Corinne May

For a LIVE class in Welsh 101, please visit Nevarmore Online! Scan this QR code for instant access!

Caw Caw! Caw Caw!

2011 Before

‘Croft Kids Kick Cancer:

Raven Comm Comes T for the

cATHERINE g

For past three years, Ravens

Senior Angel Barth’s Story A

ngel was diagonosed with cancer at the end of third grade. She had to stay home during chemo and radition and be home schooled to stay in school. Angel got to make a wish with the Make-a-Wish Foundation. She went to Austrialia with her family. Angel describes why this foundation and donating her hair means so much to her. Angelika Barth, ‘12, has a direct experience with cancer. Angel thinks back about the harsh reality that she was going to lose her hair. “I cut my hair before I began chemotherapy. I donated a 16-inch ponytail to Locks of Love before completely shaving it all off. I never wore a wig, but I appreciate the thoughtfulness of women that donate their hair to organizations like Pantene; they are acting out of pure kindness and unselfishness.”

Angel Barth, ‘12, shares her story Photo by Catherine Green

Angelika Barth, ‘12, in fourth grade with cancer. Photo provided by Angelika Barth

in the St. Baldrick’s Foundatio research to help find cures for around the world ask friends shave their he ‘12, is heading as a new one their hair to m that is under Satur Saints 900 Sprin Perry Dubow, ‘12 Photo by Ra Catherine Green

Cancer Touches Lives Through Family Connections Ravenscroft’s J contributions a ust like Angelika, many people have direct experiences or stories for why they are donating their hair for wigs and shaving their heads. Many people had family members that had cancer and want to remember them by giving back to others that have cancer.

2012 GOAL

Current Tot

“My grandfather died from cancer when I was 5 years-old; so I never really knew him like I would if he was alive now. So, I want to do this in memory of him,” shared Daniella Solovay, ‘15.

Daniella Solovay, ‘15, shares her story about why she will cut her hair. Photo by Dr. Watters

he maintenance team is also participating this year and they have a competition going on about who can raise the most money. Chris Farrow, Director of Buildings and Grounds, delivered a heart-felt speech to the Upper School about his experience with cancer. Farrow shared that every female in his family has had some sort of cancer. He is shaving his head in honor of them to show support for the strength they demonstrated as they managed their way through this disease. Cancer affects everyone and is a terrible disease. By donating to St. Baldrick’s, we can help find cures and aid research for childhood cancer.

Participants and Donors: Make sure to fill out the form given to you by Perry Dubow and either turn it in at the U.S. Main Office or bring the form on the day of the event!

How do I donate? Go to stbaldricks.org, and search the donor’s name! You can even use a credit card safely on the site.

2011 - $ 2010 -

Chris Farrow, Director of Buildings and Grounds Photo by LifeTouch

St. Baldrick’s Foundation children w Press Release from St. Baldricks Foundattion

his year, both the Middle and Lower Schools are getting involved in helping raise money for St.Baldrick’s. The goal for this year was to get everyone involved whether that means raising money or cutting/shaving our hair.

St. Baldrick All Kids and

Megan Ragusa, ‘16, and her Aunt Cindy. Photo provided by Debbie Ragusa

“My Aunt Cindy has cancer at the moment. She lost all of her hair from the chemo, and then it started coming back! When I first learned about my aunt, I cut my hair for Locks of Love. They thought that they had gotten all of her cancer, but then it came back. She is starting back with the chemo now and so I decided to cut my hair again; but this time with St. Baldrick’s/Pantene,” explains Megan Ragusa, ‘16, who is one of the first Middle School girls cutting their hair for Pantene and is helping to encourage others members of the Middle School community to participate.

DURHAM, N.C. (February 13, 2012) – It takes life-saving research and access to clinical trials to help children with cancer. The St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a volunteer-driven charity dedicated to raising money for childhood cancer research. raising money for grant of $50,000 to Duke University Medical Center. The Foundation’s infrastructure grants provide institutions with resources to enable them to conduct more research and enroll more kids in ongoing clinical trials – their best hope for a cure. Worldwide, more than 160,000 children are diagnosed with cancer each year and it remains the leading cause of death by disease among children in the United States. With only 4 percent of all federal cancer research funding dedicated to pediatric cancer research, and more than 70 percent of children receiving treatment through clinical trials, St.

2011 After

nscroft munity Together e Cause

Girls Get Involved

green

STAFF WRITER

scroft School has participated on to raise money that funds childhood cancer. Volunteers to donate money for them to eads. This year, Perry Dubow, g the traditional event as well e in which girls can donate make a wig for an individual rgoing cancer treatment on rday, March 31st at & Scholars Irish Pub ng Forest Rd Suite 106 aleigh, NC 27609

Caroline Margolis shows her long hair that she will donate to Pantene on March 31st.

ot only will many of the high school boys be shaving their heads, but many girls have agreed to donate 8 inches of their hair to make wigs for cancer patients. Pantene is the sponsor of this idea, and it gives many girls a chance to give back without having to shave their heads completely. There are millions of kids around the world that are affected by cancer, and a major side effect of the treatment is hair loss. Every girl that cuts her hair contributes to making a girl feel special again. Hair is very important to people, especially girls. If we challenege everyone to do their part, whether it’s donating money, shaving their heads, or cutting inches off their hair, then, together, we can make a great difference for childhood cancer.

Photo by Catherine Green

St. Baldrick’s are as follows:

L - $40,000

tal: $19,026

$20,671 $8,620

k’s Supports d All Cancers

Heckman Helps Heckman smiles with her hairdresser after the head shaving event. Photo by Susan Washburn

Before

Photo by Susan Washburn

Heckman Shaves Head for Cancer Last year, Susann Heckmen, Science Instructor, challeneged our school to raise $30,000 dollars. Her propsal was

n awards $50,000 to help with cancer

Baldrick’s Foundation infrastructure grants are critical to finding cures for all childhood cancers. “Advanced stage neuroblastoma is a cancer in desperate need for new therapies. New discoveries made in the laboratory require translation into clinical use,” said Dr. Michael Armstrong, Duke University Medical Center. “Support from the St. Baldrick’s Foundation has allowed us to develop an early phase clinical trial program here at Duke to facilitate entry of promising therapies into treatment for children with neuroblastoma.” The infrastructure grants, combined with the more than $19.6 million awarded in June, bring the St. Baldrick’s Foundation’s funding total to more than $21 million awarded in 2011. Infrastructure grants were awarded based on the philanthropic need of the institution and its patients, anticipated results of the grant and local participation in St. Baldrick’s events

Susann Heckman right before her hairdresser starts to shave her head during a special Morning Meeting last year as other St. Baldrick’s participants show their support behind her on stage.

if the school came together and met this goal, she would shave her head during a Morning Meeting in front of the entire Upper School. The day that she shaved her head, news cameras and kids flooded the theater. Everyone was truly touched by the fact that she was going to selflessly shave her head to raise money for cancer. She was an inspiration to all and helped to motivate other girls to cut their hair.

Mark Laskowski, History Instructor Photo by LifeTouch

If the Ravenscroft Community Raises

Laskowski Leads the Way After??

$50,000

for St. Baldrick’s,

Laskowski will SHAVE HIS HEAD! T h a t ’s r i g h t , his hair will be H I S TO RY ! !

Mark Laskowski’s face with hair Photoshopped away Photo by LifeTouch

Details When: March 31 Where: Saints and Scholars Pub and Tavern Time: 11 am to 5 pm E-mail: Perry Dubow for details pdubow@ravenscroft.org You can donate at www.stbaldricks.org Under the Saints and Scholars Team

THE

Feature

Nevarmore

Another Carroll in the Equation

are happy and the students are comfortable,” said Carroll, in reaction to her first two weeks at Ravenscroft. STAFF WRITER Her students seem to be aren Carroll, Math adapting well to a new teacher and Instructor, may be new to have been helpful teaching her more Ravenscroft, but not to teaching. about the technology, as well as Carroll started at Ravenscroft helping her immerse in the school on January 17th, the first day of the community. second semester, to replace Charlie Catherine Green, a senior in Benoit after his midyear retirement. Carroll’s AFM class, thinks that “She She has taken over his classes: genuinely wants her students to do Algebra II and Advanced Functions well and enjoy math.” and Modeling (AFM). “She offers a wealth of “Its a great place. The teachers experience and expertise, and we thought she would be a good fit with the Ravenscroft community,” added Bill Pruden, Head of the Upper School. C a r r o l l ’s favorite thing about Ravenscroft is how much technology is available. She likes incorporating technology into her teaching and thinks that the school provides her a great opportunity to do so. “Since I’m teaching Algebra II with her, I’m excited about the new ideas Karen Carroll talks to Corey Garity, ‘12, she’ll bring to the about the lesson. curriculum,” said

Cathleen Pruden K

Photo by Catherine Green

Katherine Belk, Carroll’s assigned mentor. The biggest challenge Belk sees for Carroll is learning the day to day operations unique to Ravenscroft from the copy machine to Veracross. Before coming to Ravenscroft, Carroll taught at Raleigh Charter High School, and in Atlanta and New York. Most recently, though, she was a graduate student at North Carolina State University. Carroll studied Statistics with a concentration in genetics. She enjoys the cognitive sciences as well, a category which includes classes like Artificial Intelligence, a topic she would someday like to create and teach a class in. Along with her interest in science, Carroll has always been a math person. It was her mother’s academic focus, and she thinks she had a predisposition to the subject. A great seventh grade math teacher who made the class a lot of fun reminded Carroll how much she enjoys math. In high school, Carroll was an army brat in Germany, but attended essentially a “typical public high school. I was a soccer player, so that occupied most of my time,” she added. Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, soccer, and tennis. Carroll also spends time caring for her two children- a 6 year old named Leah and Alex, who is almost 2 years old.

Karen Carroll uses her Smart Board in her Advanced Functions class. Photo by Cathleen Pruden

From Hogwarts to Ravenscroft Exchange student Emily Swallow shares impressions of life in England as compared to life in the U.S.

Emily swallow STAFF WRITER

oming from a school in England, I have been able to experience high school in both the U.K. and the U.S. as well as the difference between the two different countries, first hand. There are many differences that I have seen, the most obvious being that students at Ravenscroft do not wear uniforms. My school uniform consisted of a white shirt with a black and red tie, as well as a black blazer and black skirt or trousers. My school was very much like Hogwarts but without a Quidditch team! I also noticed there is a lot more team spirit and emphasis on sports at Ravenscroft. The whole school seems to get involved when it comes to supporting the sports teams. Language barriers have also become a problem for me at times. If I say “boot” I mean the “trunk”

of the car. “Rubbish” in England means “trash” in America, and I also recently found out that “shagging” was something completely different than what I first thought it was, thankfully! After being here a month, I am used to the blank looks I receive when I say a typically English saying. When other students try to copy my accent, it never fails to make me laugh (especially when Sarah Fritsch shouts “Hello Poppet” at me.) All students seem involved in the running of the school, especially due to the Student Government Association, whereas there was hardly any student input at Hymers (the school I attended in England.) Here the day feels longer, seeing as in England my school finished at four, which didn’t give much time to do anything after school. At Ravenscroft, it is easy to make plans to meet with friends after school. I have also noticed that students are much more willing to study throughout the year and make

Standing on the Field with : Emily Swallow, Claire Sampson, Greg Lound, Jordan Sharp, Marcus Lyon, Will Overvorde, Henry Kilpatric and Charlie Weatherill. Photo provided by Emily Swallow

My English School--Hymers--in the snow. Photo from Hymers website

sure all their work is completed in time. In England, the work we do throughout the year does not really count so many people do the minimum possible and just make sure they study for their final exams in May which is what our grades are based on. However, because in America, final grades are based on a mixture of homework, test grades, class participation, and exams, I can see how important it is to put in a

great deal of effort for the whole of the school year in order to keep your grades high. The similarities I have seen include the style of teaching and how teachers and pupils interact with each other. At Hymers and at Ravenscroft both pupils and teachers seem to have quite close relationships and get along well, feeling comfortable about approaching one another if they are experiencing any problems to do with

work or anything else. Overall, I have enjoyed my time in the U.S. so far, and I’m sure it can only get better. The weather is also a big difference. Currently, where I live in England has about 20 centimeters of snow, so the warm temperatures and sun here is a nice change! I am also looking forward to experiencing some big occasions that happen here at American high schools such as Prom and Graduation.

Nevarmore 13 Saint Patrick’s Day: A Closer Look

Feature

THE

kate sweeney D

staff writer

Katherine Finney L

editors

ooking for a good flick to see this weekend? If you’re in the mood for a creepy thriller, The Woman in Black will exceed expectations with haunting children and disturbing drama. Daniel Radcliff (yes, Harry Potter) portrays Arthur Kipps, a lawyer who is sent to a remote village to sort out a deceased woman’s affairs. Kipps, a widower, promises his young son that they will reunite in the countryside at the end of the week. During his stay in the town, Kipps meets much resistance from the mysterious locals. His encounters at the delapidated estate shock the audience, and are good for a few popcorn-spilling surprises.

The Nevarmore

also recommends...

on’t get pinched! Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated on the 17th of March every year, but there’s more to the holiday than wearing green and throwing huge parades. St. Patrick’s day has been celebrated since before the 1600s and was originally a religious holiday to commemorate the patron saint of Ireland, Patricius Magonus Sucatus. Saint Patrick himself was not Irish, but rather British. He was born in England and was raised a pagan. Once he was captured and enslaved by the Irish at age 16, it is fabled that in a dream God spoke to him and told him how to escape a life of enslavement. Saint Patrick escaped, devoting the rest of his life to converting people to Christianity. Saint Patrick’s Day started as a celebration to recognize the man who brought Christianity to the once pagan country of Ireland. It is celebrated on the 17th of March because Saint Patrick was said to have died on that day in the year 461 A.D. The clover is a major symbol of Saint Patrick’s day and Ireland. A legend about Saint Patrick dictates that he used the clover’s three leaves in his sermons to represent the holy trinity. This was an effective technique for converting the pagans to Christianity because Saint Patrick was comparing religious ideas to a common object that people could relate to. Through his sermons and dedication to converting pagans, Saint Patrick earned quite a large following. Ireland is a very lush and green country, which earns it the nickname of “The Emerald Isle.” Green is also one of the three colors that appear in the Irish flag, along with orange and white. Another reason green is

Saint Patrick stained glass window from Cathedral of Christ the Light, Oakland, CA. associated with Ireland is the fact that in Irish lore, green is the color that faires wear and also the color that promotes the growth of crops. Many myths and stories surround the history of Saint Patrick’s day, including one that mentions Saint Patrick driving all the snakes out of Ireland. It is true that today, there are no snakes in Ireland, but it has also been proven that there never were. The climate and topography is

such that snakes cannot thrive in or travel to “ The Emerald Isle.” Many legends also portray Saint Patrick as a magical being who could raise people from the dead. Regardless of whether Patricius could raise the dead or eradicate entire snake populations, he truly was a Saint, and his actions should be remembered.

According to legend, Saint Patrick used the shamrock, a three-leaved plant, to explain the Holy Trinity to the pre-Christian Irish people.

Surprising St. Patrick’s Day Facts:

The original color of Saint Patrick’s Day was blue, not green.

Pinching people who don’t wear green is an American tradition that started in the early 1700s.

The Irish don’t wear green on Saint Patrick’s Day. Instead they wear clovers.

In Seattle, green stripes are painted down the roads.

The largest celebration occurs in Sydney, Australia.

On Saint Patrick’s Day in Chicago, the rivers are dyed green.

There are about 10 000 regular three-leaf clovers for every lucky four-leaf clover.

The first Saint Patrick’s Day parade occurred in Boston.

There are more Irish people living in America than in Ireland.

10 13

The four leaves of the clover represent faith, love, hope, and luck.

Leprechauns are an American creation.

Irish is the second most frequently reported ancestry in America.

There are 4 cities in the United States with the name “Shamrock.”

The rubber band was invented on Saint Patrick’s Day

The highest number of leaves ever found on a clover was 14.

St. Patrick’s Day did not become a national holiday in Ireland until 1903.

Feature

THE

Nevarmore

Fast and Furious: ‘Croft Whips Students show off their wheels for The Nevarmore

Mom Mobile

John Hockman

Tokyo Drift

STAFF WRITER

The

Rachel Landers is a proud owner of a 2008 Toyota Camry.

She takes pride in having the safest vehicle on campus.

Personality Match?

Based on her Nevarmore Online appearance in the US Announcements LIVE! video for a drivers’ Ed class - Its a match! Link to video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTrkqeE1y6A

Ravenscroft Upper School parking lot can resemble a luxury auto showroom. For example, there are Mercedes, BMWs, Range Rovers and so on. There are many different types of special attributes to each car. However, the most expensive car is not always the best choice. The Nevarmore decided to take a closer look at the different categories of cars in the lot and shed some light on the owners of these award-winning vehicles. Does the vehicle match the personality of the driver?

ylan Williamson can be seen flying around North Raleigh in his 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X. He has the fastest car on campus and is heard from miles away.

All photos by John Hockman

Unlike his ride, Williamson is low key in contrast to his Hot Wheelz.

Green Machine

Large and in Charge E

ven in massive amounts of traffic, TR Vernal, ‘12, can be spotted in Old-Blu from a football field away. He drives his Chevy 2500 which is the biggest truck on our campus.

Personality Match?

Just like his ride, his personality attracts much attention.

Personality Match?

'Ole Reliable M

ost people have taken note on the old brown car parked in the back of the senior lot. Eric Norford, ‘12, owns a 1974 Cheverolet Chevelle Malibu. He has over 100,000 miles on it!

Personality Match? Survey says....Yes.

hile most people are complaining about the prices at the pump and the amount of times they have to refill their tanks, Nick Waring, ‘12, drives around with no care. He drives a Ford Fusion Hybrid which gets around 46 mpg making his car the most fuel efficient.

Personality Match?

Waring is practical and easy-going, just like his car.

15 March Madness: Cracking the Bracket Feature

THE

Nevarmore

A look back at the first Nevarmore Online March Madness competition in 2011

AlexBowen

STAFF WRITER

Kevin Billerman, Ravens Men’s Varsity Basktball Coach, in his glory days as a co-captain at Duke Ben Blevins Assistant Sports Information Director

ast year’s crazy tournament... Teams like VCU and Butler made the final 4 UConn wasn't even predicted to receive a bid until their unprecedented 5 wins in 5 days to sweep the Big East tournament... Connecticut winning the final over Butler in an almost unbearable game in which both teams shot below 40%. What are the odds of predicting the outcome in a bracket with that in mind? Slim to none. Yet, Mark Laskowski, History Instructor, was last year’s champ in the Ravenscroft Bracket. He won by using a method involving a random number generator. It was a program

he used, and therefore not his own knowledge. In a video interview posted to Nevarmore Online, he bragged to his 2nd place opponent, junior Allison McAdams, that while she used her own brain power, he “used Steve Jobs’ brain power, and, may the best brain win!” On the other end of the spectrum, Dr. Jonathan Avery, Latin instructor, used an interesting strategy of picking the underdog in every game scenario. Not surprisingly, he came in dead last. “I don’t know what strategy I’ll use this year. Maybe by the amount of syllables in the team’s name, or smallest animal,” pondered Dr. Avery about his strategy for this year’s competition. Hopefully, this strategy will help him at least help him choose a better national champion than Belmont this year.

The official seeding of the tournament this year is on March 11 with National Bracket Day on March 12, and this year’s upcoming tournament promises just as much drama as last year’s. With the Ohio State vs Kentucky and UNC vs Duke last second buzzer beater, previously unknown team Murray State in the top 10, UNC losing to UNLV early in the season, and Syracuse loaded again, March Madness will not disappoint. This year, the Nevarmore Online Bracket is expecting more participants since the website has grown in popularity with nearly 7,000 hits since October of 2011. The winner gets bragging rights and an interview video clip with Nevarmore Online. Everyone should sign up and see if they can even get the Final Four right, since only 2 of 6 million on ESPN.com did so last year. Good Luck!

Ravenscroft

March Madness Trivia

1 4 7

Marc Campbell, standout high school player, waving to the UNC crowd.

Marc Campbell/Robert Willett-Miami Herald-MCT

While anticipating the March Madness that will start in the next couple of weeks, see if you can post a winning score before the buzzer on this quiz created by Alex Bowen, ‘12, and Varsity Basketball Coach Kevin Billerman.

When did seeding begin?

1977 1978 1979 1980

Who is the all-time leading scorer in Ravenscroft’s history?

Ryan Kelly Marc Campbell Corwin Davis Travis White

Who had an Alum on both UNC (2009) and Duke (2010) when they won the NCAA titles, respectively?

Oak Hill Ravenscroft

Findlay Prep Dematha

2 5 8

How many times has the tournament expanded? 3

Who is the second all-time leading scorer in Ravenscroft’s history?

Anton Gill Marc Campbell Corwin Davis Rashad West

What is the lowest seed to win the championship?

6 8 9 11

Want the Answers?? Scan the QR Codes and find them under the “Athletics” tab on the “Ravenscroft Sports” page.

3 6 9

Ryan Kelly, former McDonalds All-American and current Duke player Chuck Liddy/Raleigh News & Observer/MCT

How many 15 seeds have beat 2 seeds?

What was the first year all four semifinalists played in the same city, creating the Final 4? 1952 1956 1960 1963

Who was Coach Billerman’s first high school player to play in March Madness? Rashad West Marc Campbell

Dom Parker Ryan Kelly

Sports

THE THE

Nevarmore

Junior Lady Ravens Committed for Athletics Taylor Newcomb STAFF WRITER

Evie Dole

n January 20, Junior Evie Dole verbally committed to play golf at the University of Virginia. Last year, Dole was the Independent schools individual State Champion. Dole was also looking at NC State, North Carolina, and Wake Forest as potential schools to attend. When asked why she chose Virginia, she said, “It’s a really great school, I love the campus, the coach is amazing, and I really like the team”. Dole is very excited about being apart of the Atlantic Coast Conference, and has a bright future ahead of her.

Savannah Story

Cameron Castleberry O

n July 11, Junior Cameron Castleberry verbally committed to play soccer at the University of North Carolina. Castleberry was TISAC Player of the year last year. She was interested in other ACC school and a few schools in South Carolina and Virginia. Cameron is very excited to have the opportunity to be a part of the ACC. She has met many of the players that she will soon be playing with and is very excited about her upcoming future.

n September 19, Junior Savannah Story verbally committed to play field hockey at Duke University. She has been playing field hockey since the seventh grade. Story has wanted to attend Duke since the eighth grade, and really likes the fact that Duke is “a good size, is a diverse school, has a very good pre-law program, and has a strong field hockey program with an unbelievable coaching staff”. Story did look at a few other schools but she really set her sights on a strong Southern ACC program. The ACC is the strongest conference when it comes to field hockey, and often has all teams making the NCAA top ten rankings.

Winter Varsity Sports Award Banquet The Winter Varsity Sports Award Banquet was held on March 1st. Boys Basketball

Boys Swimming

Girls Swimming

Most Valuable: Anton Gill ‘13

Most Valuable: Ryan Lanier ‘12

Most Valuable: Cathleen Pruden ‘12

Most Improved: Madison Jones ‘12

Most Improved: Jamie Mason ‘14

Most Improved: Caroline Margolis ‘12

Coaches: Quinn Billerman ‘12

Coaches: Ryan Carr ‘13

Coaches: Brianna Bryan ‘12

All Conference: Anton Gill ‘13, Madison Jones ‘12, Marcus Bryan ‘13, Andrew Franz ‘12

Cheerleading

TISAC Conference Player of the Year: Anton Gill ‘13

Most Outstanding Cheerleader: Casey Tompkins-Rhoades ‘12

All State: Anton Gill ‘13, Madison Jones ‘12

Most Improved: Andrea Gilliard ‘14

Girls Basketball Most Valuable: Elle Stumpo ‘13 Most Improved: Cailin Dorsey ‘15 Coaches: Morgan Stafford ‘12 All Conference: Elle Stumpo ‘13, Taisha Murphy ‘15

Coaches: Molly Hull ‘12

Wrestling

All Conference: 1) 200 Medley Relay 1) High, Madeline 2) Pruden, Cathleen 3) Mikles, Chloe 4) Fuscoe, Claire 2) 400 Freestyle Relay 1) Fuscoe, Claire 2) High, Madeline 3) Mikles, Chloe 4) Pruden, Cathleen Cathleen Pruden ‘12 – 200 IM, 100 Breaststroke Claire Fuscoe ‘14 – 200 Freestyle, 500 Freestyle Madeline High ‘17 – 50 Freestyle, 100 Backstroke

Most Valuable: Ian Hicks ‘12

Chloe Mikles ‘16 – 100 Butterfly

Most Improved: Jamal Carson ‘13

TISAC Conference Swimmer of the Year: Cathleen Pruden ‘12

Coaches: Matt McDowell ‘12

Sports

THE

Nevarmore

Idol

Prodigy

Madison Jones

STAFF WRITER

AIR JORDAN

nother name that should be mentioned in this conversation is Lebron James of the Miami Heat. Just like Kobe, he skipped college and took his talents straight to the NBA . From the time he was a sophomore in high school, he was dubbed the next Michael Jordan, and at a very young age he became a celebrity. He has a competitve edge that is unrivaled.

BLACK MAMBA

or the last 10 years, a majority of kids was inspired by the electrifying Kobe Bryant, number 8 for the Los Angeles Lakers. All of his career, he looked up to Michael Jordan and was that kid that never stopped working until Jordan showed him some respect. It was recently revealed Jordan acknowledged that Los Angeles Lakers star Bryant was the only NBA player he felt was able to attain his level of play, which takes a lot of wind out of the sails of the crowd who refuses to accept any comparison to Jordan. His competitive edge is one of the main reason that he is compared to Michael Jordan. Winning a championship is one thing everybody wants to accomplish. They don’t just get individual awards - the team is very important.

ichael Jordan was one of the greatest players to play basketball. His achievements are outstanding and he has done things throughout his career that not many can say they have accomplished. Attending the University of North Carolina at Chapell Hill, he later went on to play for the Chicago Bulls and won three NBA Championships with them. After a short hiatus testing out a career in the MLB, Jordan returned to the Bulls for four more seasons and three more championships. After retiring for a second time in 1999, he returned to the Washington Wizards for two more seasons. Every kid growing up wanted to be number 23, stick their tongue out while playing, chew gum on the court, and wear the latest Air Jordan sneakers.

Kobe Bryant’s Acheivements

Michael Jordan’s Acheivements

Kobe Bryant is a 5 time NBA champion, MVP of NBA in 2008, MVP of NBA Finals 2009, 3 time NBA All-star MVP, and 11 consecutive NBA All-star appearances. His competitive edge is one of the main reason that he is compared to Michael Jordan. Winning a championship is one thing everybody wants to accomplish and that’s what the greatest accomplish. They don’t just get individual awards but also the team is very important.

He is a Six-time NBA champion (1991-93, 1996-98); NBA MVP (1988, ‘91, ‘92, ‘96, ‘98); 10-time All-NBA First Team (1987-93, 1996-98); AllNBA Second Team (1985); Defensive Player of the Year (1988); Nine-time All-Defensive First Team (1988-93, 1996-98); Rookie of the Year (1985); 14-time All-Star; All-Star MVP (1988, ‘96, ‘98); One of 50 Greatest Players in NBA History (1996); Two-time Olympic gold medalist (1984, ‘92).

Gill Flies From Raven to Cardinal isaac copeland STAFF WRITER

Going into the oliday season, Ju-

Anton Gill, ‘13, finishes on the break. Photo by Dr. Watters

Gill Stats

The Ravens finished the season with a record of 31-3. The Ravens finished strong with a 12 point victory over Greensboro Day in the 3A state championship game. Gill helped lead the Ravens with 14 point performance. This has been the first state championship won by the Ravens in 32 years ago.

nior Anton Gill verbally committed to play basketball for Rick Pitino and the Louisville Cardinals. Gill is currently ranked the 44th best player in the class of 2013 by ESPN and is regarded as one of the top guards in the country. After a breakout sophomore season, his stock rose tremendously. He was recruited by top colleges across the nation such as NC State, North Carolina, Wake Forest, Xavier, and South Carolina to name a few. The 6’4” guard is great at attacking the basket, and his outside shot gives defenders serious problems. A proud Coach Billerman explained, Franz, ‘12, Bryan, ‘13, and Jones, ‘12, Watch as Gill, ‘13, is an“I feel it’s a great chance for him. He’s with nouced. one of the top coaches in America and at a Photo by Dr. Watters shcool where he can get a good education. The Louisville This will give him a chance to play high Cardinals are currentlevel basketball and reach his dream with the ly ranked 18th in the NBA.” country with a record Billerman helped Gill through theof 20-6. Louisville is decision-making process. The way Anton’s a member of the Big family wanted to go about making a decision East conference, one was by using Coach Billerman as a sounding of the premier leagues board for different schools. “We discussed in the nation. Players several aspects of colleges recruiting him such as Kemba Walkfrom coaching to acadmeics to distance to er, Carmelo Anthony, leaugue and to social life. We discussed all and Ray Allen all factors with Antons’s family. I think this played in this conferdecision free’s his mind and allows him to ence. focus on being both a student and an athlete Gill will be with less stress.” a part of a very hisGill is enthusiastic about his decision toric league and team. and is looking forward to making the move Louisville alone has Louisville Head Coach to Louisville. “I really look forward to sent 57 players to the playing at such a high level. Coach Pitino is Rick Pitino Ravens Head NBA and has made eight one of the best coaches in college basketPhoto from MCT Campus Coach Kevin BillerFinal Four appearances. ball, and he definently played a big part in man Gill is entering a me making my descision. The atmosphere Photo by Dr. Wat- very successful program and will be coached by one of the is like no other at Louisville, and the Yum ters best coaches in college basketball history. Center is just amazing.”

Sports Nevarmore 18 Ravenscroft Has A New Training Room THE

The facility is currently under construction with an expected completion date of March 2012 Baraka Mutisya STAFF WRITER

“I

Above: Scott Pavilion from the prospective of the football field that highlights the proximity of the room the track and football fields Left: Front view of the new training room Photos by Baraka Mutisya

have been dreaming about it! It’s really a great addition to our sports medicine program here at Ravenscroft,” said Coach Michelle Piette, Associate Athletic Director and Sports Medicine Instructor. Construction began on this new training room, which will be an addition to the Scott Pavilion, during Holiday Break in December and is expected to be completely finished by the end of February or the beginning March 2012. The funding for the training roon was made possible through the generous gift of current parent Mike Fagan. The training room can comfortably fit an estimated 7 athletes. The benches were just put in, and currently plumbing is in the process of being finished. Prior to this new training room, injured athletes would have to walk or be driven all the back to the indoor training room located in the Finley Center. The training room will make access for athletes much easier. Football players, soccer players, track athletes, and many other outdoor athletes could really use this new training room due to its convenient location between the outdoor fields and courts. Football players, for example, respect the fact that Coach Gonet expects his players to be on time for practice. Often, injured athletes are instructed to apply ice prior to practice in the training room, and it is difficult to do so and be punctual. This new training room will be helpful in these situations. Coach Piette also pointed out that it’s much easier for the trainers to see the field as they watch sporting events. This new training room makes it easier for sports medicine trainers to help an injured athlete from a field because of its close proximity. “The new training room helps more athletes, and it allows us trainers to have a quicker response to sport injuries,” added Tim Savage, P.E. Instructor and Coach Piette’s right-hand man.

Remembering A Legend Opinion

MICHAEL FAGAN STAFF WRITER

veryone knows the name “Joe Paterno.” He is an icon, a legend, and for many, a hero. He is one of the most respected and loved men in college sports history. He is a star, whose light has burned out. Legendary Penn State football coach Joe Paterno died just sixty five days after he was fired. He was fired by Penn State’s Board of Trusties from the head football coaching position. Behind all this was the height of the sex abuse scandal with longtime assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky and young children at the Penn State football camp. Joe Paterno, or “Joe Pa” as he’s known, was head football coach of the Nittany Lions for 46 years from 1966 through 2011. His lifetime foundational belief was honor;

A detailed image of the halo that was painted over the likeness of Joe Paterno on a mural in downtown State College, Pennsylvania, Monday, January 23, 2012.

(David Maialetti/ Philadelphia Daily News/MCT)

he will be remembered as not only a great coach but an icon for Penn State University and as an honorable man who was in the wrong place at the wrong time. Joe was the winning-est football coach in NCAA Division 1 college football history with 409 career wins and 5 undefeated seasons. He led the Nittany Lions to 37 bowl appearances and won 24 of them. Joe Pa died January 22nd, 2012 at 9:25 from complications with lung cancer. After a three day memorial service, Joe Pa was set to rest Thursday, January 26, 2012 with over 12,000 people in attendance showing their love and appreciation of the late and great Joe Paterno. Many former football stars coached by Joe Pa were at his memorial service. Joe Pa was said to be not only a great coach of football but a great coach of life. The former players expressed their love and passion for a man they spent four years of their life with Joe Paterno will forever be remembered by his strong Brooklyn accent, thick, square-shaped glasses and one of the best coaches in football history. But what he shouldn’t be remembered for is the child sex abuse scandal that involved one of his assistant coaches. Joe Paterno had no part in the scandal he did what he was supposed to do, report to the head of the school and A.D. Although he was fired he will be loved and remembered for all the positives and his dedication to the Penn State football team and community. He will always be respected and remembered as a legend.

A memorial grows around the statue of Joe Paterno in State College, Pennsylvania, Monday, January 23, 2012. (David Maialetti/ Philadelphia Daily News/MCT)

Records, Bowls, and Accomplishments Won 24 bowl titles and appeared in 37 bowls Record for most wins by a Division 1 football coach with 409 Inducted to the College Football Hall of Fame Offered Head Coach position with Pittsburgh Steelers and the New England Patriots

Former Penn State head coach Joe Paterno, in this 2010 file photo after winning his 400th game. (Nabil K. Mark/Centre Daily Times/MCT)

Sports

THE

Nevarmore

Winter Varsity Sports Recap Jamie Herakovich & Caroline Margolis

Girls Basketball The Girls Basketball

STAFF WRITERS

Boys Basketball T

he Boy’s Basketball had a very successful season, finishing with a record of 313. The boys won the conference and state championship. “We had a very successful season, winning the Highschool OT Holiday Invitational, winning the conference for the seventh year in a row, and winning the state tournament. “We are also proud to be ranked in the top 6 overall in the state by ESPN,” said Coach Billerman.

Boys Wrestling

he Varsity Wrestling team has finished a great season with a 17-11 dual meet record. “This is the most successful season we have had since the program was restarted in 2006. Ian Hicks has set the school record for most pins,” said Coach Durham. Matt McDowell fnished third at states, Ian Hicks finished second, and Jamal Carson finished fourth. Overall, the team finished eigth.

Girls Swimming

finished with a record of 1812 with only three returning varsity players to the team. The girls won the conference championship and made it past the first round of the state playoffs. Elle Stumpo led the team with 13.2 points per game. Strong leadership was given from returners and captains Morgan Stafford and Elle Stumpo. “The girls basketball team has grown from a young and inexperienced group of individuals, into a hard working cohesive team. Their effort and growth are commendable, which has translated into a successful season on the court. Our coaching staff is proud of them and their achievements thus far,” said Coach Hardy.

Boys Swimming

or the first time since 2008, the Girls Swim team captured the TISAC Conference Championship, ending what was a perfect regular season. Standout, five-year varsity letter winner, Cathleen Pruden was TISAC swimmer of the year and all conference along with Claire Fuscoe (10th), Chloe Mikles (8th), and Madeline High (7th). The girls finished third at the state swim meet.

he Boys Swim team struggled early on with tough losses to Durham Academy and Christian Community. Ryan Lanier and Ryan Carr were the leaders in the pool this season for the boys. Carr swam 100 fly and 200 IM most of the year, still managing to improve his 100 breaststroke. Lanier dropped a ton of time in the 100 free scoring in that along with the 100 back and 50 free.

Spring Varsity Sports Preview Baseball

Girls Lacrosse

he Girl’s Lacrosse team will come out strong with leadership and experience from returning captains Melissa Funsten and Caroline Margolis. After a disappointing finish in last years state semifinals, the girls are more focused then ever. “The JV and Varsity teams will be welcoming well up to 14 new players.The most important thing will be the ability of our players to be flexible, and be able to play in a variety of positions on the field depending on our team needs,” said Coach Norman.

Boys Golf T

he Golf Team has had many good finishes in previous years. The team finished with a 38-10 record and runner up in the state tournament. Max Dearinger was The News and Observer’s “Player to Watch” for the Triangle’s high school spring preview.

Track

team had a tough season last year finishing 3-13. The team will have a hard time replacing Emily McDowell, ‘11, but with help from Kelsey Hill the team will be off to a good start. Photos by Susan Washburn and Dr. Watters

Girls Soccer

Boys Lacrosse

Lead by Head Coach Sean

Softball The Girls Softball

he Baseball team is coming off an 8-19 season looking to improve as they have most of their starters returning. “ I am excited to start the season, the team and I have been working hard in the off season to improve,” said Brad Ehilegbu, ‘12.

Hardy, this year’s Varsity Track Team is shaping up to have a great season. Long distance runners Wesley and Ryan Frazier will be the stars to watch. After having standout seasons last year both will draw national attention competing in the two mile, one mile, etc. “I am excited about the track team not only because I am a senior, but also because Torin and I get to make cuts for pole vaulters, which will be extremely fun.”

Boys Tennis T

he Boys Tennis team is coming off a good season, finishing with a 16-4 record and making it to the semi-finals of the state tournament. “We lost a key senior last year, but have a good amount of returning players,” said Coach Debbie Peek.

he Varsity Boys Lacrosse team finished last season with a record of 12-7 and making it to the quarter finals of the state tournament. “We exceeded our expectations last year, and have ramped up the off season work outs so that we can beat DA and the Charlotte schools,” said Coach Kapatos.

fter a devastating one-goal loss in last year’s state championship to Charlotte Latin, the varsity girl’s soccer team is looking for payback. The Lady Ravens have an outstanding returning senior class including Ann Barnett, Grace Fuscoe, Sarah Fritsch, Emily High, Caroline Lindquist, Taylor Newcomb and Morgan Stafford. The team will struggle replacing graduated goalkeeper Leah Ling, but with 13 other varsity returners, they expect great things out of them. “They are a very talented group with incredible work ethic, and if they stay determined through the season it will be a very successful and enjoyable season,” said Coach JJ Rabe.

Sports

THE

Nevarmore

Girls Varsity Basketball: TISAC Champs The Lady Ravens beat Cary Academy 56-49 in the finals on February 17th. The Ravens’ leading scorers in the championship game were Liz Gulden, ‘14, with 14, Erin Kelly, ‘15, with 13, Elle Stumpo. ‘13, with 12, and Taisha Murphy, ‘15, with 9. Both Stumpo and Murphy earned All-Conference honors.

Cailin Dorsey, ‘15, Elle Stumpo, ‘13, Erin Kelly, ‘15, Morgan Stafford, ‘12, Taisha Murphy, ‘15, Liz Gulden, ‘14, Anderson Ivey, ‘15, Virginia Douglas, ‘14, Bryelle Muller, ‘12, Kianna Thorbourne-Jimenez, ‘13, Coach Kari Wong, and Coach Hardy Photo by Susan Washburn

Girls Varsity Swimming: 3rd in State

After winning the TISAC Conference Title, the Girls’ Varsity Swim Team placed 3rd in the NCISAA 3A Championships with 232 points, behind Charlotte Latin School with 244 and Forsyth Country Day with 251. Ten swimmers contributed points to the overall finish. They were:

Brittani Bryan, ‘14: 13th- 100 Backstroke, Brianna Bryan, ‘12: 9th- 200 Freestyle Relay, 14th- 100 Backstroke, Claire Fuscoe, ‘14: 5th- 200 Medley Relay, 5th- 200 Freestyle, 3rd- 100 Freestyle, 3rd- 400 Freestyle Relay, Madeline High, ‘17: 5th- 200 Medley Relay, 7th- 200 Individual Medley, 6th- 100 Backstroke, 3rd- 400 Freestyle Relay Caroline Margolis ‘12: 9th- 200 Freestyle Relay, Chloe Mikles, ‘16: 5th- 200 Medley Relay, 6th-200 Freestyle, 8th- 100 Butterfly, 3rd- 400 Freestyle Relay,Cathleen Pruden, ‘12: 5th- 200 Medley Relay, 5th- 200 Individual Medley, 3rd- 500 Freestyle, 3rd- 400 Freestyle Relay, Shannon Strong, ‘14: 14th- 500 Freestyle, 9th- 200 Freestyle Relay, 13th- 100 Breastroke, Meaghan Youngbar, ‘13: 8th- 200 Freestyle, 4th- 500 Freestyle, Mariel Ziperski, ‘13: 13th- 50 Freestyle, 16th- 100 Freestyle, 9th- 200 Freestyle Relay

First Row: Sydney Sweeny, ‘15, Brittani Bryan, ‘12, Alfre Wimberly, ‘13, Kathleen Brandes, ‘15, Nicole Knape, ‘15, Danielle Given, ‘13, and Parker Preston, ‘12. Second Row: Emily Bedsole, ‘13, Mariel Ziperski, ‘13, Meaghan Youngbar, ‘13, Chloe Mikles, ‘16, Claire Fuscoe, ‘14, and Madeline High, ‘17. Third Row: Coach Warren, Brianna Bryan, ‘12, Shannon Strong, ‘14, Cathleen Pruden, ‘12, Caroline Hirl, ‘12, Coach Sawyer Photo by Robert Lippitt