Verve Vol IX Iss 1 Oct 2009

Newspaper of Summit High School

October 2009 Volume 9 Issue 1

Eating Right Will Enhance Athletes’ Performances

this issue of Verve:

Get Fit to Stop Stressing!

Photo by Aaron Brody

INSIDE

By LAUREN MEYERS After an arduous practice, athletes usually come home and eat everything and anything in sight to replenish their famished bodies. They generally don’t think about what they are consuming because everything, healthy or not, sounds good to a hungry stomach.

Many athletes fail to recognize that it is crucial to hydrate and replenish their bodies with the right foods and drinks before and after practice in order to achieve an optimal performance.

The Varsity coaches at Summit High School are stressing the importance of eating properly to their players. During preseason, sports nutritionist Julia Picinich came and gave the women’s tennis and soccer team a lecture on sports nutrition. "Thanks to Ms. Picinich, we now see food as fuel and everyday we train, we add that fuel to

Summit Spirit. SHS band members march with a maroon and gold banner at the Summit vs. A.L. Johnson football game on September 26. successful," explained women's soccer coach, Christine Bohan.

It is essential for athletes to consume a high carbohydrate meal and about two cups of water three hours prior to a competition. During a strenuous game, athletes need these carbohy-

Schools Go Green

Page 6

Globe.............2&3 Opine..................4 S&S.....................5 Buzz....................6 Turf...............7&8

What's Up: Oct. 5: Start of Spirit Week Oct. 9: Friday Night Lights Oct. 10: SAT Oct. 12: No School Oct. 17: PSAT Oct. 23: Cabaret Oct. 31: Halloween

It seems that ever since Al Gore pro“Going green” has not always been claimed that we, the human species, our planet’s top priority. Before this were facing a planetary emergency, eco-friendly revolution, recycling bins the world has suddenly taken an inter- seemed scarce, or at least invisible, and est in protecting our planet. Winner of when people said the word green, only the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 for his grass and the color came to mind. Now, authoritative campaign against global not only does describing something as warming, Gore’s beliefs made the world green suggest that it is environmentally aware of the impending danger of liv- friendly, but also almost everything is ing on an unhealthy planet. He forced becoming green or related to “going us to ask the question, “What can we do green.” Supermarkets are selling green to save and protote bags to tect the earth?” shoppers so Now “going they can carry green” is one of their purchasthe most impores instead of tant and funded repeatedly uscauses today. ing and throwThe Environing out, or, in mental Protecother words, tion Agency wasting, plashas become tic bags. Ceran incredibly tain cars now prominent govrun on water, ernment organileaf compost, zation and Presor electricSaving the earth one Snapple can at a time. ident Obama ity to decrease has called for Sophomore James DesMoine helps the environthe use of oil Americans to ment by recycling his Snapple can from lunch. and the readopt a greener lifestyle. He also is lease of toxic fumes. Even clothing has striving to get hybrid cars out on the become organic, and on some organic road, make green jobs available, and cotton T-shirts phrases such as “Green provide more clean energy. Many in- is the new black” are standing out and dividuals, whether they are activists, spreading the message. The world does scientists, or normal people who sim- seem to be turning a healthier shade of ply use a recycling bin in their house, green, but what are schools doing to are also determined to help out, world- contribute towards helping this ecowide, cross-country, and in our own friendly movement? community.

Continued on page 2...

Photo by Ian Cunningham

Photo from aa.psu.edu

By ZOE RHINEHART

drates to keep their brain and muscles fueled. The reason for this is that carbohydrates consist of a high level of glucose, which is the primary energy source for the nervous system.

Continued on page 7...

Coronation For The New Kings of Rock

By SPENCER DUKOFF air at the sold-out Izod Center in East Rutherford, New Jersey, stayed at a near-lethal level. The band, Kings of Leon, whose newfound dominance in the States has brought them from under-appreciated next-big-things to mainstream rock gods, kept the intensity going throughout the entire show.

Composed of the three Followill brothers, singer and guitarist Caleb, drummer Nathan, and bassist Jared, along with their guitarist cousin Matunder the radar since 2003 when they released their rowdy Southern-rock debut, Youth and Young Manhood. Along with 2005’s Aha Shake Heartbreak and 2007’s Because of the Times, the band has had an ever evolving sound. One of the most popular groups in Europe (namely the United Kingdom), Kings of Leon have had a tough time gaining that level of success in their home country, the United States.

However, with their latest debut, Only

By The Night, they have become megastars, both commercially and critically, largely due to their singles “Use Somebody” and “Sex On Fire.” If there was any doubt who the new “Kings of Rock n’ Roll” are, the band decided to celebrate their coronation in front of thousands of screaming fans on September 12.

Continued on page 5...

By SAM DENSEN

Caption. Caption

Photo by Caroline Welch

Photo by Caroline Welch

Uncle Sam Wants You… To Stay in School

Photo from minnpost.com

Yum! Students wait in line for the new sandwiches.

Be cool, stay in school. Obama encourages students to continue their education.

During a roughly eighteen-minute speech to America’s students on September 8, President Barack Obama spoke about students’ responsibility to their country, and to themselves, to get an education.

President Obama spoke to students ton, Virginia. He began his remarks with an anecdote about waking up at 4:30 in the morning in order to receive lessons from his mom before she went to work. Throughout his speech he spoke about the tremendous opportunities that are available for young Americans, but he also noted the hard work that is requisite in achieving success. He encouraged are good at and allow their talent to be nurtured through education.

The President encouraged schools to show his remarks to all returning students, from kindergarteners to seniors. Several politicians quickly interpreted President Obama’s speech as an attempt to push his political agenda on America’s youth. Many schools chose not to show the speech to their students.

Summit High School history teacher, Ms. Wendy Donat, wondered why some schools decided not to air the President’s remarks, saying, “I’m not sure why people are afraid of a speech where the President tells people to stay in school and work hard.”

Our forty-fourth President promised to do everything he could to provide a quality education, then concluded with the question, “What’s your contribution going to be?”

..."Schools Go Green" continued from Front Page What actions has Summit High School taken to “go green?” The world does seem to be turning a healthier shade of green, but what are schools doing to contribute towards helping this eco-friendly movement? What actions has Summit High School taken to “go green?” for cans and bottles are dispersed throughout the school and nearly every classroom has a box to recycle papers in. When we aren’t recycling paper or plastic, some SHS teachers are utilizing technology to teach in a green way. Using websites and wikis they have created to assign homework and discuss topics, hundreds of pieces of paper are saved that would have been turned into worksheets and quickly thrown away. Also, Environmental Science classes educate students about all aspects of the environment and how to contribute toward the cause of preserving it. Of course the gorgeous senior garden is another example of how

Summit High School 125 Kent Place Blvd.

Summit, NJ 07901

Verve Staff EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Melissa Mandelbaum & Caroline Welch

Principal: Mr. Paul Sears Vice Principals: Mr. Tony Akey Mrs. Stacy Grimaldi English Supervisor: Mr. Corey Walsh

FRONT PAGE Section Editor: Chelsea Nyman Team: Ian Cunningham & Sam Densen

ADVISOR Mrs. Danielle Cameron McGinley

GLOBE Section Editor: Arielle Spinner Team: Aaron Brody & Chris Meier

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New Food Service Improves Quality in the Cafeteria

By MELISSA MANDELBAUM On September 8, when Summit students returned to school, they were surprised at lunchtime to notice the subtle differences to their cafeteria, the result of the district’s switch from Chartwells to Pomptonian Food Service. To SHS students, this meant the addition of colorful signs throughout tions to the traditional food options.

“We’re trying to elevate the quality of what is being served and give you more variety, while following the state’s guidelines on nutrition,” said the new Director of Food Services Ms. Tina Marie Cappello.

The change has been made after seven years of using Chartwells.

The Summit Board of Education was impressed by Pomptonian’s nutrition program and did not allow price alone to dictate their choice. The Board was also impressed by Pomptonian’s stress on community and the extensive experience they have had serving school lunches in New

Jersey for 47 years. Pomptonian Food Service operates cafeterias in Berkley Heights, New Providence, Scotch Plains, and Fanwood schools.

Students should expect to continue to see alterations in the cafeteria’s offerings as the lunch staff adjusts to Pomptonian’s standards. So far, beverages, yogurt, and frozen treats have all experienced brand changes. There are new specialty pizzas, French fries have returned, and the popular Au Bon Pain soups have been replaced.

The sandwich line has undergone the largest transformation; it now only offers whole wheat breads and Boar’s Head meat. On the changes to the cafeteria, senior Tanya Sushkova commented, “Even the pre-made sandwiches are fresh; the lettuce and tomatoes aren’t soggy like before.”

It seems as though the shift has been welcomed by students; hopefully, throughout the school year.

much our school appreciates the earth.

These are only a few reasons why the environment is so important, but they are all why Summit High School and the rest of the world today still cares so much about preserving our home, planet Earth. We are getting greener every day and maybe soon, with our help, the earth will be the greenest it has been in a very long time. teach in a green way. By using websites and Wikis to assign homework and discuss topics, hundreds of pieces of paper are saved that would have been turned into worksheets and quickly thrown away. Also, environmental science classes educate students about all aspects of the environment and how to contribute toward the cause of preserving it. the senior garden is also another example of how much SHS appreciates the earth.

The world is getting greener every day and SHS is fully involved in this budding environmental movement.

OPINE Section Editor: Tommy Cummins Team: Kayce D' Onofrio SCREEN AND SOUND Section Editor: Zoe Rhinehart Team: Sammy Kanter BUZZ Section Editor: Alex Newman Team: Spencer Dukoff

TURF Section Editor: Lauren Meyers Team: Kevin McNany & Nikki Theriot Circulation Editor: Sara Escudero

Thank You To Our Sponsors: Carolyn G. Fine, Maureen McKay, Maria Pasquale, and Maureen Tully

October 2009

Verve Views

What do you do to help the environment?

“I recycle and don’t print out things until I’m sure it’s what I want.”

Quinn Baldacci ('10)

and put it back in the canister instead of spreading it across the grass.”

"I reuse paper bags for lunch."

Maddie Kaplan ('10)

"I turn off the shower when I I put shampoo and conditioner in my hair."

Claire McKenzie ('12)

“I'm taking environmental science this year and I recycle as much as possible."

Stephen Fernandez ('10)

or aluminum can, I throw it in the recycling bin."

David DiFede ('12)

"I have environmentally friendly lightbulbs in every room, and I shorten my shower times."

Ava Perkins ('11)

"I turn off the lights whenever I leave a room."

Anne Catipon ('13)

Tony Lopez (’11)

New Teaching Staff Welcomed to SHS

By SARA ESCUDERO This year Summit High School welcomes six new teachers to its faculty.

Ms. Nicole Fotiades has joined the Science Department and is thrilled to be teaching at the high school she attended. "It is exciting to be back at Summit. The students are bright, inquisitive, and eager to learn. I am looking forward to a successful year. " Mr. Jeremy Morman has returned to the Science Department after a year of teaching abroad.

Ms. Tina Lee also joins the Science Department teaching chemistry and physical science.

The Mathematics Department welcomes Ms. Crystal Dahlhaus who substituted for Mrs. Pugliese who was on maternity leave last year.

Mr. Michael Magdalenski is another new face at SHS. He has joined the English Department, teaching English I and English II. The World Language welcomes Mrs. Joan Lu who is teaching Chinese. "She's very passionate about the subject and she relates her passion to her students," says sophomore Matt Scheer.

The student body is excited to see what these new teachers will add to SHS.

October 2009

"We try to use fans instead of the air conditioning system in my house."

Mr. Rapp

“I recently purchased those reusable grocery bags.”

Ms. Velez

"Whenever I brush my teeth I turn off the sink after I put my toothpaste on."

Kevin Fries ('13) Photos by Aaron Brody, Ian Cunningham, and Caroline Welch

Page 3

A Cure For the Common Plan

A Powerful Obsession

By ALEX NEWMAN

By CHELSEA NYMAN

"It will provide more security and stability to those who have health insurance. It will provide insurance to those who don’t.

And it will lower the cost of health care for our families, our businesses, and our government." President Barack Obama’s plan, as stated in his speech, is taking bold steps in trying to do something that many presidents before him have failed to do: create a health care plan that satis-

Photo by Caroline Welch

health insurance and people who do. He is attempting to provide it to those who

AHH A ZERO! SHS senior Chris Meier stresses over his grades after checking Powerschool in between classes.

Summit High School has jumped on the bandwagon with other technologically advanced schools by offering their students online grade books, called Powerschool. This website is linked to teachers’ grade books and is updated with each new grade entry. The purpose is to allow students to keep up-to-date with their grades.

However, the grade averages seen on ing based on the various grades that are entered daily.

SHS students are often seen examining their virtual report card. If a teacher makes a mistake entering a grade onto the computer, a student can quickly identify the error and inform the teacher. SHS students can also see the results online of an exam they might have taken in the previous period, even before the test has been handed back.

However, students are becoming frantic over a grade that slips from a

is hurting students more than helping.

Before Powerschool, SHS students knew what their grades were for the quarter when they saw it printed in bold on their progress reports and card. Three years ago Summit High School began allowing students to retrieve their grades at home. Now, some students couldn’t imagine a world without Powerschool. This has become an increasingly widespread selves trying to restrain from logging on and checking on their most recent averages. “I check [Powerschool] all the time, at least twice a day,” says senior Brianne Richson. The fact that students can access their grades at anytime of the day from their Blackberries, iPhones and laptops means that progress reports have become obsolete; they only represent a grade from a moment in time a week before they are received in the mail.

However, like all obsessions, a Pow-

period of the morning. Their obsesas they change with the constant updates to teachers’ gradebooks. They

detrimental to a student’s brain. One who uses the program wisely will be able to ensure their grades correctly

already do.

In a nutshell, President Obama is making health insurance a public affair. Now, while this does ensure that, if the President’s plan passes, all Americans will be able to afford to be treated by doctors and at hospitals. Skeptics say that there are many downsides to this plan. For one thing, the institution of public health care could potentially put private health care corporations such as United Health Care and Blue Cross Blue Shield out of busiomy no company can afford. Also, they argue that if this plan passes, the quality of health care will lower because now it will be readily available to everyone.

Actually, this is very similar to an issue that the country has faced before: public education. If the skeptics’ argument were

to be applied to that situation, after public education was established, enrollment in declined. This is clearly not the case, as even in this area, where the public high school is considered top-notch, many parents still pay tens of thousands of dollars to enroll their children in private schools each year. Just as there will always be people looking for a better education, there will always be people looking for better health care, in which case they can turn to the private organizations.

There is clearly a problem with the current health care system, and we are far behind the times, as many countries in Europe and Asia provide their citizens with free health care. If Obama’s plan passes, only good would come from it, and a problem would be solved that has In America, millions of people are without health care, and these people get sick and need to be treated. Just because they can’t afford it doesn’t mean they have less of a right to it than someone who can. Obama’s health care plan will make sure that every American gets equal treatment, and, as is human nature, those who can afford it will always be looking for greener pastures, keeping the private companies in business. In the end, this plan will cure what is currently an ill system.

Better Policies, Better Year

By SAMMY KANTER are a sophomore paying attention to the reading of the rules in the agenda is a rare thing. However, this year while the rules were being read aloud and I was dozing off, I heard an interesting change concerning the consequences for forgetting one’s ID tag.

Previously, penalties for forgetful behavior, or the unwillingness to wear an ID tag have been harsh and what many have called unfair. The policies in place last year made it virtually impossible to avoid at least one detention, as well as making the possibility of suspension a reality for students who never thought they’d hear that word associated with their name. Fortunately, for these students and the rest of the school, the policies have been revised. Last year, three times without a badge meant to two after school detentions; four, two after school detentions, loss loss of parking privileges; and at six, suspension and a readmit conference with the student’s parents.

The policy put a strain on many students who found themselves accumulating detentions which caused them to miss after school activities. However, times have changed. This year, four times without a badge results in only one after school detention; six times, two after school detentions and loss of unassigned study; eight times, three after school detentions, loss of parking privileges, and a letter to parents; and ten times will result in a one day suspension and a readmit conference.

ID tag policies are now much more relaxed and better for everyone.

Vice Principal Mrs. Stacy Grimaldi explained that the administration had agreed that the school was focusing too much time on punishments for not wearing ID tags rather than on more important issues. This realignment in focus was a great choice. The students will understand the importance of ID tags without it becoming overbearing, and the administration can focus more on other problems. The new policies will make for a happier, more successful year.

their average for the quarter at every moment of the day. Because parents ularly aggravated. Peers, remember can also gain access to the webpage, that the grades online are not always some always seem to be breathing down students' necks over slipping boost your grades. So for now, let’s grades due to a changing average take a break and not let Powerschool consume our lives. based on one bad test grade.

Some may argue that Powerschool Verve Editorial Policy: Verve is a publication open to opinions of its readers. Letters to the editor are welcome, and must be signed, but requests for anonymity will be respected. Verve reserves the right to edit letters due to space constraints, but all effort will be made to preserve the writer's intent. Nothing obscene or libelous will be published.

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October 2009

D N U S D N A N CREE

S

Me and Orson Welles: Coming to a Theater Near You

By IAN CUNNINGHAM

Photo from i.indiewire.com

Many people know by now that the hit and is currently streaming on YouTube, novel by Summit High School’s own at one minute and ten seconds long. The Robert Kaplow, Me and Orson Welles, teaser captures the feel of the story by has become a big screen production. including the big-band jazz music of the The story of a charismatic seventeen- time period. Kaplow is particularly proud year-old, named Richard Stevens (Zac of this teaser. He likes how it doesn’t reveal too Efron), who m u c h decides to seek about the excitement movie, on Broadway, leaving Me and Orson the auWelles is about dience his chance waiting in encounter anticipawith an acting tion to see company and the “real Orson Welles deal.” He himself (Chrisalso entian McKay). joys how Playing off of A chance at stardom. Richard (Zac Efron) gets help there is Welles’ ego, rehearsing lines from Sonja (Claire Danes). barely Richard manages to bluff his way into the role of any dialogue and how it is driven by the Lucius in the Broadway production of energetic music. However, do not expect Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. It is then this teaser to be the last thing you see that he is coupled with Sonja Jones, the before the movie’s debut. Kaplow says gorgeous production assistant (Claire that there will be an extended trailer for Danes) for rehearsal. When it is discov- the movie coming out soon. Already, the ered that Richard has virtually no acting ability whatsoever, chaos ensues, at guardian.co.uk on September 18. So resulting in a comedic, fast-paced, and keep your eyes peeled for the trailer and when November 25 rolls around, check entertaining story.

The movie is set to premiere on Novem- out Me and Orson Welles at a theater ber 25, 2009. A teaser has been released near you.

MusicFest At Its Best

By JOE WEIL The Annual Union County MusicFest has become one of the state’s most popular musical events. It was a hit again this year on September 12 and September 13. While thousands attended Sunday night’s performances with artists such as the Grammy-winning band They Might Be Giants and Pete Yorn, the headliners of the event were in Saturday night’s lineup: Uncle Kracker and Third Eye Blind.

The country musician was at his best, playing his critically acclaimed songs such as “Follow Me” and “Drift Away” that have become country classics. He also played one of the new sensational singles “Smile” which is featured on his new album Happy Hour leased on September 15.

The alternative rock band Third Eye Blind, however, drew the largest crowd and elicited the most hype. With many expecting them to start out with old songs, the songs from their new album Ursa Major, which was released on August 17 after a six-year hiatus. such as “Semi-Charmed Life” and “Jumper.” This ultimately saved the concert from an encore. And they got exactly what they wanted when the band came back to play “How’s It Going to Be” before departing for good. While Third Eye Blind did provide an exhilarating performance, perhaps their best music is behind them. the 5k Rock and Run in partnership with the Love, Hope, Strength Foundation for the the most quality care for their children with cancer and blood disorders. And while rock fans were able to attend great shows, it is those families in need who enjoyed the concert most of all. ..."Coronation For The Kings of Rock" continued from Front Page

Photo from 4.bp.blogspot.com

Shakespeare arrives at SHS with Twelfth Night

By AARON BRODY As a new year unfolds at Summit High School, the Drama Club takes the stage for their fall production of William Shakespeare’s witty comedy, Twelfth Night.

Twelfth Night tells the story of Viola, a young woman from Messaline, who is shipwrecked on the shores of Illyria and separated from her twin brother Sebastian, whom she believes to be dead.

Posing as a young page with the name Cesario, Viola enters the court of Duke Orsino. The Duke is in love with the grieving Lady Olivia, whose father and brother have recently died, but she will have nothing to do with any suitors.

Orsino decides to use Cesario (Viola) as an emissary to plead with Olivia on

October 2009

his behalf. Olivia, believing Viola is a man, falls in love with the handsome and charming messenger. Viola, in turn, has fallen in love with the Duke, who also believes she is a man.

With a hilarious love triangle and an all-star cast including senior Christine Conigliaro as Viola, senior Peter Corley as Duke Orsino, and sophomore Mariah Dalton as Lady Olivia, the play is sure to be a true comic treat. “I’m pumped; even though it’s Shakespeare, it should be ridiculously hilarious,” said senior Michael Gorman, who will be playing the role of the jester, Feste. The play is set to open on November 17 and run through November 19.

They deserve the crown. The Kings of Leon are solidifying their reputation with successful performances and hit songs.

After a rousing opening set from anthem rockers Glasvegas, Kings of Leon took the stage to a chorus of screams and cheers. Starting off with “Closer,” a killer cut off their new album, the band blew through their entire catalogue, busting out hits, such as “The Bucket” and “Fans” and rarer fan favorites like “Charmer,” “Soft,” and “Trani.” Caleb Followill, who has one of the most unique voices in rock n’ roll, raised his beer to the sky in a toast, pointing to the banner in the rafters honoring Bruce Springsteen’s run of sold-out shows. After a long swig, the

band launched in to “On Call,” arguably their biggest anthem, leading plenty of audience members to scream their lungs out, raise their lighters, and sway back and forth. The enwith “Use Somebody” and “Black Thumbnail.”

As the concert-

there was a buzz during the walk to the parking lot. Said senior Kevin McNany, “They stacked their set list with big songs. They currently seem like one of the only powerhouses of rock.” But instead of rowdiness and shouts of praise, many discussed the performance with profound respect, as if they had just undergone some sort of religious experience. If the Kings of Leon are a religion, then on September 12, 2009, if only for a night, their cathedral of rock ‘n’ roll was the Izod Center.

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Who Rules Your School?

By KAYCE D’ONOFRIO and NIKKI THERIOT

Photo by Nikki Theriot

Spencer Dukoff

Goals for the Year: As the Student Council President, Spencer Dukoff hopes to improve school spirit. He plans on doing so, by “making school events cool.”

Some of Dukoff’s ideas include continuing the Mr. Summit, getting a more visible mascot, and creating a “Class Olympics.”

Why Join Student Council?

Dukoff joined student council because he “wants to have an active role in the community and help his fellow Hilltopper.”

Carey Fries

Goals for the Year: As the senior Class President, Carey Fries intends to raise money for her grade. She hopes to contribute the accumulated money to the senior banquet and other senior activities.

Photo by Caroline Welch

Role: Student Council President Year Graduating: 2010 Previous Experience: Two years on class council and one year on student council.

Role: Senior Class President Year Graduating: 2010 Previous Experience: Two years on class council

Stop Stressing!

By ARIELLE SPINNER

Feeling the stress of school yet?

Classes have not even been in session for a month, and already the pressure is overbearing. Amidst the demands of tests, quizzes, projects, college applications, and nagging parents anxiety levels are growing. Rather than moping around and getting aggravated with the demands of student life, it’s time to get physical.

Physical activity is a great way to combat stress. Going to the gym, for example, is an easy way to relieve that explains how this works.

Exercising releases endorphins into the blood stream. Endorphins are chemicals in one’s body that create a feeling of euphoria and block sensations of pain. Take a runner, for instance. After strenuous running, endorphins are released in the body, which make the athlete feel great. This effect is often referred as “runner’s

Photo by Nikki Theriot

Role: Junior Class President Year Graduating: 2011 Previous Experience: Two years on Class Council

Photo by Nikki Theriot

Matt Wong

Role: Sophmore Class President Year Graduating: 2012 Previous Experience: One year on class council

Goals for the Year: As the Sophomore Class President, Matt Wong intends to plan bigger events. He also wants to raise a lot of money to go towards a great prom for next year.

Why Join Student Council?

Wong has always enjoyed helping people, and what better way than joining Student Council? He also has always had an interest in student government which motivated him to run his freshman year.

only will keeping your body active alleviate anxiety, but exercise is also important to one’s physique and personal health.

If all else fails, clean up your bedroom or pull out the vacuum. Just get moving because almost any type of activity helps to combat stress.

Obviously some stress is inevitable, but try to keep things in perspective.

There’s only eight and a half months left until summer. Until then, stay

By CAROLINE WELCH

Goals for the Year: As the Junior Class President, Greg Vartan wants to plan a successful prom. He also hopes that his class to idolize, to respect, to admire from will prevail in the Homecoming afar. It felt like we would never be in Hallway decorations contest. their shoes, never reach that pinnacle Why Join Student Council?

Vartan joined Student Council because he likes voicing the opinion of his class to the administration.

He also likes planning events that his fellow classmates will enjoy.

high.” And it doesn’t stop there: endorphins are also motivational.

The hormones that help athletes feel energized throughout their whole day will transfer to school and to homework.

Of course, to some of us the thought of going to the gym itself is stressful.

Fortunately, swimming, aerobics, bicycling, skiing, rowing, and other

Step It Up, Seniors last, we’ve arrived in the grade that always seemed unattainable; just around the corner, but always out of reach. As incoming freshmen, the

Greg Vartan

Page 6

Why Join Student Council?

Fries joined student council because she wanted her class to enjoy their last two years of high school. Fries also wanted to create many more fun activities for her fellow classmates to enjoy.

z z u B

of superiority. But here we are.

We’ve made it through the abuse of ninth grade, the JV teams, the grueling work of junior year, and everything in between. Now we can drive into our own parking spots in the morning (well, most of us); we can eat lunch in the senior lounge and enjoy the freedom of our unassigned. Now, we can claim the highly coveted and well-deserved right of “Seniority.”

However, with all the privileges and esteem come some obligations we owe to ourselves in order to have an exceptional senior year.

Let’s face it; in the past we haven’t exactly been “enthusiastic” as a class.

Frankly, it’s an embarrassment. But it’s one that we’ve all merely come to accept. All the seniors are well aware that our class is severely lacking when it comes to spirit, but no one takes any initiative to change it.

Can we discuss how we always end up last in the ranks during SHS spirit week?

With almost three hundred people, we certainly have the capability to win at least one of

the contests. Come on, losing on class color day? Everyone owns at least one article of black or maroon clothing. It’s really not that hard. Yet somehow, at the end of the week, we manage to completely eradicate any element of spirit we possessed at the start.

Remember all the homecomings where we lost almost every competition? Each year the seniors have won undoubtedly, without any standards to live up to this year. If we lose, it would not only be humiliating, but downright degrading. The sad thing is that it’s entirely possible.

Dare we allow ourselves to be reminded of the disastrous defeat we experienced last November during Powderpuff?

It was basically a massacre of the junior girls. The annihilation was topped off with a total shut out and countless numbers of interceptions and turn-overs. If we get beaten this year, we’ll have It is these types of activities and events where we need motivation and unity to ultimately succeed. If we don’t, it will be both disappointing and disheartening. Our grade, and our grade alone, has the ability to make this year unforgettable. Hopefully, we will be able to step it up a notch (or a few) and leave Summit High School with legacy worth remembering.

October 2009

Genesis Steps Into Fourth In Nation

TURF

By TOMMY CUMMINS

Foods with a low Glycemic index, less for longer. Also known as complex carbohydrates, these foods are broken down into glucose at a slower pace, ger. Some examples of these foods are whole grain pasta, multi-grain bread, rice.

Hydrating properly is equally as important as consuming the proper foods.

By getting on a scale before and after a game or practice, athletes can see the

pounds of water weight. In order to prevent dehydration and fatigue during athletic activity, it is essential that athletes are have lots of water and sports

How Much

When to Hydrate Pre-event meal

2-3 cups of water

Two hours before event

2-2.5 cups of water

Half hour before event

2 cups of water

Every 10-15 minutes during event

.5 cup of cool water & sports drinks

Afterwards The next day The post -game meal is just as important the pre -game meal. The main purpose of this meal is to replenish the body’s glycogen, repair muscle damages through adequate nutrients, and retrolytes. By providing the body with a high carbohydrate recovery meal restore their exercise capacity for the following day.

(sports drinks) for each lb. lost up to 36 hours to rehydrate. drinks before and after events (see chart).

Summit High School has great athletics because of the hard work and determination its athletes put into their programs. Just by following these guidelines, each and every athlete’s performance will be that much stronger,enhancing their chances of taking home another state championship in the near future.

Chart provided by Julia Picinich

Day before

Every Summit High School student hard. However, the minute both teams who has ever attended a Varsity bas- hit the stage, their fears seemed to fade, ketball game has probably also eagerly and they truly seemed to enjoy the art waited in of stepping," their seat Ms. Bapuntil halftiste shared time for a about the special apexperience. pearance Genesis is for the step part of the team. The New Jersey step team, Step Associalso known ation, which as Genesis, is the orgais coached nization reby Ms. Stefsponsible fany Bapfor orgatiste and nizing and was recentscheduling ly ranked all of the fourth in step comthe napetitions in tion among New Jerother high sey. Prior school step to their teams. trip to DisThis past Holding it high and proud. Members of the step team ney, Genesis proudly hold up their fourth place trophy.

Labor Day placed third W e e k in the NJ end, Genesis, along with the middle state championships. school step team, The Hilltoppers, also The intricate and elaborate routines coached by Ms. Baptiste, traveled to that Genesis practices and performs are Disney World in Florida to compete actually choerographed by the team as against other step teams in the national well. The steps are thought of by the Disney Step Classic competition. Gen- coach, Ms. Baptiste, and members of esis placed an outstanding fourth in the the team. The ideas are discussed durnation, and the Hilltoppers came in an ing practice, and the actual formation of impressive twentieth. the steps is a mix between the coach’s This recent trip to Disney was a very ideas and the ideas of the members of - the team.

The next time Genesis performs for ers it her most fond memory she has the public, go out of your way and take ever had with the team. "The team be- the time to go watch them, because not gan the morning very nervous and up- every high school houses the number set. The magnitude seemed to hit them four step team in the nation.

Photo provided by Ms. Stephanie Baptiste

..."Eating Right" continued from Front Page

Upcoming Competitions...

Friday, 10/2:

Photo provided by Ms. Stephanie Baptiste

Women's Varsity Tennis vs. Elizabeth at Home 4:00 p.m.

Saturday, 10/3:

Football vs. Somerville at Home 1:00 p.m.

Saturday, 10/3:

Women's Varsity Field Hockey vs. Cranford at Cranford 11:00 a.m.

Preparing to win. The SHS step team gathers in front of Disney's Magic Kingdon as they prepare for a competition.

Saturday, 10/3:

Men's Varsity Soccer vs. Madison at Home 6 p.m.

Tuesday, 10/6:

Women's Varsity Soccer vs. Cranford at Cranford 4:00 p.m.

October 2009

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40

Coach: Denise Velez Captains: Natalia Angelo, Kelsey Hurley, Nina Lima, and Melanie Porras Quote from the Coach: “All the girls have been working very hard to turn the program around. They are all very motivated, and I have high hopes for the upcoming season.”

Men's Soccer

Women's Soccer

Women's Cross Country

Coach: Robert Grella Captains: Joe Callahan and Clayton Johnson Previous Record: 16-6-1 Quote from the Coach: "If we work together and play as a team, I believe we will have a successful season."

Look at that speed. Senior Mary Kelly dribbles the ball against her op-

Coach: Jen Schwarzenbek Captains: Sarah Cummings, Beth Dotten, and Clare O’Malley Previous Record: 15-4-2 Quote from a Captain: Sarah Cummings stated, “After a great offseason we are all really looking forward towards a successful and exciting season in the new conference.”

Photo by Devin Glassburg

Men's Cross Country

Photo by Stuart Humphrey

Photo by Chelsea Nyman

Coach: Brian Erickson Captains: Emily Koernig and Chelsea Nyman Previous Record: 13-7 Quote from the Coach: "The girls have worked really hard in the pre-season and I'm proud of what they have done. I feel comfortable with the senior leadership and [think] they have established good relationships with the underclassmen."

Hit it! Senior Clare O'Malley makes a pass to her teammate.

Coach: Antonio Martins Captains: Emily Hu and Megan Trindell Previous Record: 8-15 Quote from the Coach: “We are looking forward to a very promising and exciting season. We have a good blend of returning players along with some young and talented newcomers.”

Whammy. Senior Ryan Troy takes on an opponent.

Ace! Freshman Tasha Kewalramani sets up for her serve.

Junior Captain Thomas Chin leads the pack.

Coach: Neil Sharma Coach: Christine Bohan Captains: Thomas Chin, Steven Previous Record: 14-5-1 Smolyn, and Jesse Taylor Quote from a Senior: Sweeper Allie Previous Record: 7-2 Quote from a Captain: Thomas Chin: team will succeed in the new confer- Thomas Chin explained, "Although we ence and [because] we have a lot of only have two returning varsity runskilled players thatwho work well to- ners, the new guys have the potential gether." to contribute in a big way."

Photo by Devin Glassburg

Summit Faces New Competition in Union County:

Push it! The women's cross country team races against Dayton at Memorial Field.

Coach: David Field Captains: Nicola Hallenborg, Kearsley Olcott, and Julia Woods Previous Record: 8-1 Quote from the Coach: "With my returning girls from a North 2 Group 2 State Championship, I feel we're prepared to be a contender for another title."

October 2009

Go Summit! The Varsity cheerleaders show their Hilltopper spirit at the football game.

Photo by Ian Cunningham

Women's Tennis

Ready, set, spike. The women's volleyball team sets up for a play.

Field Hockey Photo by Ian Cunningham

Touchdown! Sophomore Phil Jefferson runs down the sideline.

Coach: John Liberato Captains: Joe Jaskolski, Kevin McNany, and Matt Rea Previous Record: 5-6 Quote from the Coach: “We have gotten off to a great start with a powerful statement over Hillside, and look to go 4-0 after our next game. But we will continue to take it one step at a time, and we’re very happy with the investment our players have put in during the off season.”

Cheerleading

Photo by Nikki Theriot

Photo by Ian Cunningham

Women's Volleyball

TURF Photo by Caroline Welch

30

20 Football

Benedictine Academy Brearley **Cranford Dayton Elizabeth **Governor Livingston **Hillside **Johnson Kent Place Linden New Providence Oak Knoll * *Teams in football conference

Oratory **Rahway Roselle Catholic Roselle Park Scotch Plains St. Mary St. Patrick Summit Union Union Catholic

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