For last-minute Valentines Day gifts and ‘ideas...
Who wore what to this year’s Semi-Formal?
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Summit High School
February 2014
Volume XIV Issue 5
125 Kent Place Blvd. Summit, NJ 07901
On Jan. 14, at 7 p.m., many models were getting ready for the fashion show that was going to raise money for Operation Smile, a worldwide organization that funds surgery on children with facial deformities, namely cleft lips and palettes. Along with club adviser Mr. Wole Ogunkoya, the two presidents of the club, juniors Grace Totman and KK Newsham, worked very hard to have the fashion show happen. Totman said, “The show raised money for over 50 surgeries and is looking forward for next year show!” She added that more than $10,000 was raised that night to support the good cause. “It was successful and a good
turnout for both students and parents,” Ogunkoya said. There were raffle prizes on the side to earn bunch of gift cards for places in town, such as Willow Street, Nail Plaza, Starbucks, etc. The big auction items included New York Jets tickets,
a signed hockey jersey, and a Rebecca Minkoff bag, said senior, Erin Trindell who attended the event. Between show sets, there were some technical difficulties where the models had to deal without music, microphones, and limited lighting
Photo provided by Lisa Berkery
By Alice Kim Staff Reporter
Senior Jake Groskoph presents classmate Jessica Martins flowers at the Operation Smile runway.
Photo provided by Lisa Berkery
Club raises $10K for surgery
15 minutes, but Ryan McDonald, Peter Gangi, and Liam Dwyer were able to get the music back on. Sarah Elia, sophomore said that “despite the difficulties, it went smoothly because Grace and KK did an amazing job!” Going fourth! Sophs Malcolm Feeney and Adriana Numer- Yozzi modeled patriotic outfits. ous talented models got into the clothing Show directly benefitted the sponsored by Bloomingdales, Operation Smile organization. but the winner for the Smile More information about this King and Queen were fresh- charitable organization can be men Philip Angelo, and Cecily found on the web at operationStabler. smile.org The Operation Smile Fashion
Student survey reveals favorite snow day activities There’s absolutely nothing better than hearing that muffled phone call early in the morning, the slow footsteps walking into the room, followed by the words, “there’s no school today, go back to sleep.” Snow days are unquestionably the most glorious days of the year. However, there comes a point where one must ask: how much is too much? As of Feb. 7, there were five snow days called, which means no make-up days in the school calendar for the rest of the year. Since five days have been used, Monday April 13 has been added back to the school calendar. If a sixth snow day is needed, school will be in session Tuesday April 15. At this point, the last day of school for students is June 25. However, even in light of the
Tally up. Poll of 250 Summit High School Students conducted via polleverywhere.com Jan. 9-10.
consequences, there are plenty of people who would gladly give up a few days in April for a much needed surprise in the middle of a very cold winter. These days off serve not only as a much needed break in the week, but are also the possible
This month’s Verve.... Semi-Formal.... 4 Globe......... 2 Valentine’s....... 5 Opine......... 3 Buzz.............. 6
savior from a huge test, and really just a day to kick back and relax. “Snow days are one of the reasons I’m really grateful to live in the North” Stated Junior Emily Chin, “They are such a great surprise and
Screen + Sound... 7 Turf........ 8
Illustration by Meredith Robertson
By Meredith Robertson Buzz Co-Editor
can really break up the workload of the week.” When surveyed, the students of SHS concluded that the greatest part of snow days is purely sleeping in. A simple, but much needed rest is one of the greatest perks
of the day at home. This is followed in the ranking by simply hanging out and relaxing, as well as Netflix. Consequences... Tunnel into the snow bank of relaxation, however, and you may find a cold truth waiting. With more snow and ice in the forecasts, it looks like the Spring recess break (scheduled for April 14-18) is in danger of being significantly clipped. Snow days racked up thus far include: Dec. 10, Jan. 3 and 22, and Feb. 3 and 5. Superintendent Nathan Parker said in his letter to parents dated Jan. 28 that “In the event that more than 4 snow days are used, it will be necessary to adjust the Spring Recess. Days will be taken from the beginning of the Spring Recess, due to April 18th being Good Friday.” Additional snow days will continue plowing more days off spring recess.
Upcoming: Valentine’s Day Friday 2/14 Winter Break Mon. 2/17 through 2/21 HSPA Testing: March 4, 5, 6
Globe
Verve 2
February 2014
Ben Bernanke, the Federal Reserve chairman since 2006, stepped down from his position on Jan. 31. To fill the empty role, the Senate confirmed former Federal Reserve board member Janet Yellen to head the government agency. Yellen, who was considered one of the most influential people on the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, has been the driving force behind several controversial policies implemented to generate strong economic growth. She was central in the decision to make overnight interest rates 0 percent and the program to buy more than $4 trillion worth of bonds. Economics teacher Stephen Ertz explained, “The Federal Reserve has been instrumental in turning around the economy,
Summit HS 125 Kent Pl. Blvd. Summit, NJ 07901 Principal: Mr. Paul Sears Assistant Principal: Mrs. Stacy Grimaldi Adviser: Mrs. Anne Weisgerber English Supervisor: Mr. Corey Walsh Editors-in-Chief: Alex Arias Gwen Rogers Managing Editors: Tommy DiSibio Stephanie Ollom FRONT PAGE: Gwen Rogers GLOBE: David Meyers OPINE: Ellie Schaffer SCREEN & SOUND: Carly Leiter BUZZ: Meredith Robertson Megan Shaw TURF: Niko Nyktas & Jamie Macpherson ART EDITOR: Nic Lalicato CIRCULATION: Jackson Sidebottom STAFF REPORTERS: Cam Fuoti, Emily Gao, Alice Kim, Bobby Moriarty, Nate Bowyer, Ethan Mandelbaum, Anna Tselevich, Ashley White, Anika Becker, Laura Pasquale, Dan Montgomery
their policies have caused substantial economic growth.” In its 100-year history, the Federal Reserve has had fourteen different chairman, all of them men. However, Yellen has made history as the 15th person to head up the bank, and the first woman to do so. President Obama released a statement saying, “With the bipartisan confirmation of Janet Yellen as the next Chair of the Federal Reserve, the American people will have a fierce champion who understands that the ultimate goal of economic and financial policymaking is to improve the lives, jobs, and standard of living of American workers and their families.” With control over the entire United States banking system, the Federal Reserve is a key player in the economic world. With the ability to stimulate the economy through the ma-
nipulation of interest rates or by removing barriers to borrowing money, the Federal Reserve keeps tabs on the growth of the economy and financial markets. The chairman has the power to assert himself or herself as a dove or a hawk. A dove is someone considered more lenient in policy, hoping to create economic stimulus through by letting the free market dictate the state of the economy. A hawk, however, is stricter in his or her policy, attempting to enact stimulus through direct government intervention. Though Yellen has yet to make policy as chairman, many are under the impression she will assert herself as a dove, hopefully catching up the economic growth of the country with large financial gains in the stock market and a boom to the economy.
By Ethan Mandelbaum Staff Reporter Several months ago, the Wendy’s right past the Summit border, in Short Hills, was torn to the ground. Fast food fans were scrambling, wondering what was up with the burger joint. A couple of weeks ago, it reopened, completely rebuilt and entirely different than before. The new interior design is much more modern, most notably, a monitor with the image of a fireplace. According to Business Weekly, these “fireplaces” cost between $4000 and $6000 and will be kept on at all business hours, including in the summer. Sophomore Tim Childers
was very impressed with the renovations commenting, “The new Wendy’s interior is a testament to fine modern architecture. It is truly a sight to see.” According to Wendy’s spokesman Denny Lynch, sales at renovated locations are up 25 percent. Sophomore Liam Lawler thinks that it is nice that the building was redone, but does not see much of a difference. “I was upset when it closed; I love Wendy’s. The new design is really nice, but, the only thing I really care about is how the food tastes,” Lawler said. Lynch later explained that these changes were to improve
Soaring High! Whether she proclaims herself a hawk or a dove, new Federal Reserve Chairman Janet Yellen is set to lead the charge towards a vibrant and healthy economy for the US and the world.
The biggest problem facing Yellen will be controlling the economic recovery while shrinking the Federal Reserve’s balance sheet. A drastic change to reduce the
$4 billion balance sheet could throw off the economic recovery. Finding a balance between the two will prove crucial to Yellen’s success as the new chairman.
Renovated Wendy’s opens its doors
Photo by Ethan Mandelbaum
By Jamie Macpherson Turf Editor
Photo by cdn.ph.upi.com
Janet Yellen confirmed as new Fed Chairman
Sleek! After a massive renovation, the Wendy’s in Short Hills has reopened for business with a new stylish interior including a fake fire, wood tables, and a brand new soda machine.
the atmosphere to encourage people to eat in instead of drive through or carrying out. Freshman Jack Bonomo likes the feel of the new Wendy’s.
“It’s more like a café now rather than a fast food restaurant,” Bonomo said, “and I also like the new [Coke Freestyle] soda machines.”
Verve Views:
What is the best way to ask someone to Semi? By Gwen Rogers Editor-in-Chief
Tyler Bowlin ‘14 “It would be cool to get asked on the roof of the school with a poster and glow sticks.”
Leila Paytas ‘15 “I asked someone by putting a note in a bag of chips.”
Patience Baldacci ‘17 “I wrote an essay that I had him read and in the middle of it I asked him.”
Alex Guior ‘14 “I would like someone to spell it out on brownies and give them to me.”
Opine
February 2014
Super Bowl for dummies (by dummies)
By Ellie Schaffer and Carly Leiter Opine & Screen and Sound the lights went out at the SuEditors perdome and the game was delayed? While all you crazed footballers were hysterical over whether or not the game would go on, we just wanted to make sure Queen Bey was okay backstage. And more time for commercials? We call
Image provided by billboard.com
We know what you’re all probably thinking, “Why the heck are two girls with little to no sports knowledge writing the Super Bowl recap?”Well relax, because we aren’t here to write anything about the actual NFL football league [or the actual sport of football]. (But if we were, we’d probably say the Oakland Raiders should’ve made it and Tony Romo will always be hot to us.) What we do know is that there was a showdown between the Denver Broncos and the Seattle Seahawks at MetLife stadium on Feb. 2. Do people refer to it as a showdown? We’re not really sure. For some people, the Super Bowl is a night all about football, a night to cheer way too loudly for their treasured team, a night dedicated to worshipping sweaty, overly-tattooed men in tight pants for 3 hours. To others, Super Bowl Sunday is a night solely based on [or fueled by] beverages, spicy wings and homemade guacamole. But from where we’re sitting, it’s a night of hilarious commercials and a kick-butt halftime show. That’s all we really care about. Remember last year when
Happy feet! Bruno Mars and his jazzy dance moves rocked the stage with the halftime show.
that a win-win. Since the Super Bowl is such a cherished time for football fanatics, it is common for them to become irritated with faux fans. Junior Pat Beljan vented, “I watch the Super Bowl by myself in my basement every year so I can avoid ignorant football ‘fans’ who have no idea what they’re talking about.” Harsh, but we get it.
That being said, there is definitely no shortage of devoted football fans around. Junior Dahlia Musallam gushed “I’ll rep the Dallas Cowboys until the day I die, go Tony Romo!!!” In this year’s Superbowl, the Seattle Seahawks took on the Denver Broncos and championed the NFL league as victors, winning their first NFL championship ever. We were planning on writing a little bit more about what happened in the game, but literally nothing did. Moving on. On the topic of the adbowl, David Beckham reminded us why we love commericals, Budweiser made us want to be best buds with a horse, and Oikos brought back Full House childhood memories of the dazzling John Stamos. So no, you didn’t get an article filled with information about plays and blitzes and sacks and other football terms that we just Googled. But wasn’t this way more entertaining?* *If you responded “no” to our rhetorical question and really did want a serious Super Bowl rundown, we apologize, maybe you should check out ESPN.
Faculty voice: Calendars sure fill quickly 2/4 Create a Vacuum DaySuck it up or... STBY
Photo by Nic Lalicato
2/6, Lame Duck Day, enough said
By Ms. Christine Bohan Physical Education Teacher I am honored to contribute to Verve this month. My first thought involved the usual car safety tips, or the benefits of WHOLE Grain. And then, all at once, it dawned on me: February is PACKED with Holidays! For instance, the Rescue Rabbit Foundation is preaching get your bunny a buddy month. Here are the best, IMHO.
Verve letters and editorial policy: Verve is a publication open to opinions of its readers. Please submit all letters
2/7 Wave Your Finger at your Neighbor Day- make it all five and just wave! 2/ 8 Go Fly a Kite -TTFN.. aka take a hike day 2/11 Don’t Cry Over Spilt Milk Day – two sides of this coin, are you an optimist... or a freshman? 2/12 Plum Pudding Day your guess is as good as mine here. 2/13 Get a New Name Daysuspiciously close to Valentines Day 2/14 Ferris Wheel Day – Not to be confused with Ferris Bueller day (I Skipped School, My Bad) 2/16 Do a Grouch a Favor Day- make a hater smile
to shsverve@fc.summit.k12. nj.us. Letters must be signed, and will be subject to editing for space, grammar, and factual accuracy; however, all efforts will be made to preserve
2/18 Thumb Appreciation Day! Just imagine how slow our texting would be without this gem of a digit! Hats off to phones on this day! 2/20 Hoodie Hoo Day. At Noon wave your hands over your head and yell HOODIE Hoo This one makes me think a BOHAN Day is just around the corner! 2/26 Carnival Day – GO Clown Around 2/27 – No Brainer Day- duh dude just chillax 2/28 Public Sleeping Day – tough one b/c my students snoring keeps waking me up.
So there it is…..my advice for this month….buddy up, suck it up ya lame duck, and go fly a kite……. Sincerely, Ms. Bohan the writer’s intent. Libelous and inappropriate writing will not be published in Verve. If Verve has made an error and a correction is warranted, the editors take
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From the Editors’ desk Semi was a success! All the ladies didn’t fail to disappoint and gentlemen, things did look interesting. Combos of 70s flashbacks and some wild ones such as cheetah print shirts; great way to get yourselves cleaned up! After such a great night, Spring Fling looks like it could be a possibility. Can we discuss the Superbowl? What are the chances the first play is a safety and it goes all down hill for Peyton and the rest of the Broncos. Sorry boys better luck next year. The half- time show was all right, but really: they picked Bruno Mars to represent the great state of NJ? Another thing the Superbowl was in NEW JERSEY, not in New York, it’s no one’s fault that the Big Apple doesn’t have room to fit a football stadium. Global warming has certainly taken its toll on Mother Nature, which is clearly evident by the abundance of snow that has hit in the past few weeks. Governor Christie has declared not one but two states of emergency so far.
I know what you’re all wondering, and I’m wondering it too...Will spring break happen? I guess we’ll find out. Congrats to the SHS girls winter track team for winning the state championship! This is first time in four years that we have taken home the championship. I hope you’re getting rings, girls. Now I know that all of us are heart-broken that our childhood (and teenage) crush, Justin Bieber, has gone off the deep end. The man-child is facing possible deportation, or so rumors say, because 100,000 people signed a petition to give him the boot. :( Valentines Day, ah the most loveable day of the year. The day that costs a fortune to get red roses for someone and where every place you want to go to eat is taken up by cuddly couples in their loving bliss. This Valentine’s Day will be a real treat since it will be on a Friday and it kicks off our winter break. So to all our love birds out there, happy loving.
Maroon Room #3 arrives March 19 By Megan Shaw Globe Editor
Events like Maroon Room, the second one of the school year, are truly a success for the student body. For those who haven’t attended these lax nights of performance in the cafeteria, it consists of various bands, musicians, and singers playing songs of their choicewith an occasional teacher performance (that happened at the end of last year). For students with endless amounts of homework the event is always a quick way to relax and just enjoy good music. On Jan. 13, Jordan Mao and Nick Della Salla performed. Although there typically are more acts for the night, the entire audience, cozied up in one half of the cafeteria still enjoyed the performances. When students are trying to balance homework, standardized tests, and extracurricular sometimes the most helpful
thing is to just relax at an event like maroon room. Alexa Krain, who as student council’s senior liaison helps run the event, said, “I like how supportive everyone is of their friends and the comfortable atmosphere to just hang out and listen to some talented students.” As part of student council myself, I know students are sometimes hesitant to come to events, but Maroon Room is truly not one to miss. Emily Vlass explained, “This was the first one I had attended and I really liked how calm and fun it was. I think everyone there really enjoyed it.” “I hope to see a lot more people come to the next few,” Krain added, “because it is a lot of fun and a great way to relax with friends during the week!” The next Maroon Room event is scheduled for March 19.
reader feedback seriously and will promptly deal with concerns. Reader corrections welcome at shsverve@fc.summit.k12. nj.us.
Correction: the photo caption on Turf Vol XIV Iss 4 mentions Ba’Shawn Mickens, but he is not pictured. The editors regret any confusion this may have caused.
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Semi-Formal
February 2014
Semi - Formal On Jan. 31, L’Affaire Fine Catering on 22 East in Mountainside was the spot for the annual semi-formal dance, sponsored by the Student Council. 425 students gathered at 7 p.m. and the party lasted until 11. The student council is advised by Mrs. Winifred Caetta and Ms. Erin Day.
Photos by Verve Staff
By Alice Kim Staff Reporter
Where: 84 Summit Avenue Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-7pm; Sat 8am-5 pm; Sun 10am-3pm. Staff Pick: Valentine’s Day Bouquet for $69. Nothing says “I Love You” like fruit on a stick. This is the perfect gift, combining chocolate-covered strawberries, heart shaped pineapples, and fresh grapes in a beautiful basket.
By Anna Tselevich Staff Reporter
Where: 3 Beechwood Road
Where: 26 Beechwood Road Hours: Mon-Sat 10am - 6pm Hours: Mon-Fri 9am - 6pm; Sat Staff Pick: The Dessert Sweet 9am-6pm ; Sun 11am- 4pm Tooth candy basket $40-$50, inStaff Pick: Bob Conway, co-own- cludes chocolate covered pretzels, er and chief baker, recommends the caramels, haystacks, pecan turtles, peanut butter cups, thin mints, Brownie Points specialty: “Dufbark, non pareils, toffee, and more. fins”- half doughnut half muffin. $2.75 each; Special Item- A bag of Sweet Nothings can customize in your price range. assorted cookies for $5.
Student blogger picks great <3 playlist
Señora Bartlett-Spanish Teacher “I will be going to Costa Rica with my partnerin-crime Señora Hermo.” Señora Bartlett, along with 17 other Spanish III, IV, and V students, will be spending their February vacation in the sun and on the beach. Photos by Anna Tselevich
By Maddy Ashmun Contributing Writer Whether you are getting together with someone special or sitting alone in your room eating a pint of Ben and Jerry’s, these 14 songs are the perfect soundtrack to your Valentine’s Day evening. From the soulful flare of up-and-comer Lianne La Havas to the classic crooning of The Beatles, here is an eclectic mix to match whatever you end up doing on Valentine’s Day.
Tweet me at @m_dash_in_city to let me know what you think of my picks, and give me yours! “Love On Top”-Beyonce “Is Your Love Big Enough?”Lianne La Havas “Crown of Love”-Arcade Fire “Do You Want to Know a Secret?”-The Beatles “Thinkin Bout You”- Frank Ocean “Gatekeeper”-Feist “Treasure”-Bruno Mars “400 Lux”-Lorde “Like A Star”-Corinne Bailey Rae “J’ai Deux Amours”-Madeleine Peyroux “Sunshine of Your Love”-Cream “Sparks”-Coldplay “Modern Love”-David Bowie “I Found You”-Alabama Shakes
Popular Valentine gift sale returns this week to raise funds By Alex Arias Editor-in-Chief The Sickle Cell Anemia Club will be hosting its second annual Valentine’s Day gift fundraiser. The event will be held Feb. 13 and 14 after school in front of the auditorium. The club will be selling numerous home-made baked goods, chocolate covered strawberries in champagne glasses, lots of candy boxes, chocolate roses, cake pops and more. Senior Khayani Reese,a co-president of the club said, “this year we’re planing on raffling off gift baskets filled with the perfect little Valentines Day gift. “This is our second year doing it,” she Reese added, “and it has been very successful. It’s like a one stop for many of the teachers and students to pick up a Valentines Day gift for
Photo by Alex Arias
Jay Winchell ‘15 “I have a low key night planned, we’re just going to watch the new season of House of Cards on Netflix and order in pizza. Valentine’s Day really isn’t about what you do it’s about the person you spend it with.”
Photo by Trends Images
By Caroline Cranley Contributing Writer
Valentine’s Day can either be a favorite, least favorite, or maybe an indifferent holiday, but to most, it’s a time to show an appreciation and love for friends, family, or a special someone. It is the perfect excuse to have some fun with the people you love. Stephanie Chaves ‘16 “I’m crying alone in my room watching romantic comedies and eating a box of chocolates, and I plan on sending myself a dozen roses and maybe an Edible Arrangement.”
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Classic! Candy a la Sweet Nothings
By Ethan Mandelbaum Staff Reporter
Where: 13 Ashwood Avenue www.rekemeiersflowers.com Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; Sat 9am-3pm Staff Pick: “Dance with Me” Bouquet with Red Roses: $55. Cost range: $39.95- $125 Rekemeier’s can help with finding beautiful, affordable flowers, with delivery available.
Pals share lurve views
Yum! Brownie Points Bakery
Illustration by Brownie Points
Oh wow! Roses from Rekemeier’s
Photo provided by lounge.obviousmag.org
By Nate Bowyer Staff Reporter
Photo by Rekemeier’s
Sweet! Edible Arrangements
Valentine’s Day Survival Guide Photo by Edible Arrangements
February 2014
Ready to fundraise! Seniors Aja Christian (L) and Khayani Reese are ready to help customers pick out the perfect gift for Valentine’s day.
their Valentine.” All of the profits from this fundraiser will be given to the cause of finding a cure for sickle cell disease. For more information about this worthy cause, visit www.ascaa.org
Buzz
February 2014
Volunteering creates new opportunities for success By Emily Gao Staff Reporter By performing even the smallest good deed, anyone can make this community a better place. This is what the Key Club strives to accomplish as student members participate in various community service activities throughout the school year. “Key Club is an international student-led organization which provides its members with opportunities to provide service, build character and develop leadership,” according to the organization website. In the local branch, students partake in community service events all over town, such as within the schools and at the Red Cross Chapter House. Ongoing and future activities include an annual blood drive, pennies for patients collection,
and Little Black Dress Fundraiser (see article on this page) . “So far I’ve helped St. Theresa church for their Thanksgiving Drive and got people to sign up for Adopt-a-Family program,” said sophomore Nicholas Ritter, who is a member in the club. Activities are coordinated by students, community members, and advisers participating in opportunities provided by UNICEF, Red Cross and Key Club International. “The students learn the value in volunteering. The community benefits in supporting our efforts and becoming an integral part of our club. Students volunteer and donate to Bridges Outreach, the Arts Center, and TryCAN, which all benefit the community members who may have less resources available to them. Our club pres-
ents them with many resources (monetary, clothing, food, etc.),” said Ms. Amelia Petrocelli, the Key Club adviser. Key Club meets twice every month in the auditorium and is currently composed of nearly 120 members. At these meetings, students sign up for opportunities, averaging around 10-12 people per event. The president of Key Club, junior Grace Totman said, “I think it’s a really great way to get students to realize that c o m m u nity service is something they really like to do.”
News schmooz: Let’s talk about some amazing Tervis tumblers
By Nate Bowyer Staff Reporter
Want to know what makes you even cooler than carrying around a Dunkin Donuts coffee in the morning? Carrying it around in a Tervis Tumbler! The Tervis Tumbler was invented in 1946 when Frank Cotter and G. Howell Davis discovered the ability to use air as an insulator to keep hot beverages hot and cold beverages cold. Their new technology started a company that is still around today selling insulated cups, mugs and more. On the outside it may look like a standard cup, but the Tervis Tumbler is more than a mug. It has a double-walled
design and is made with BPA free plastic, safe for hot or cold drinks. The Tervis tumbler also comes in different sizes and designs to suit all your drinkware needs. There are 8oz 10oz 12oz 16oz and 24oz tumblers as well as mugs, goblets, water bottles or even ice buckets, all featuring Tervis’s double walled insulation technology. What really makes the Tervis Tumbler special however, are the over 1,000 designs they come in. Do you love golf? Are you “Too hot to handle”? Must you put your college logo on every accessory and article of clothing you own? With Tervis, you can do that! Show
Illustration by Tommy DiSibiio
Seems like yesterday... Super Bowl 2014
the world who you are not with what you drink, but with what you drink from. If none of the 1,000 designs fit your heart’s desire, Tervis offers the ability to customize any of their cups with your own photo or design. Junior Will Cassin, a Tervis Tumbler enthusiast, says “Tervis Tumblers are the best thing since sliced bread.” He also added, “I have more Tervis Tumblers than friends.” Finally the benefits of the Tervis Tumbler don’t end just there. With Tervis, there is no condensation! That means good-bye coasters. The Tervis Tumbler is the Alex Rodriguez in early 2003 of all drinkware: versatile.
Key Club plans 2nd annual LBD Event
By Anika Becker Staff Reporter
Key Club’s second annual Little Black Dress event is right around the corner, and is expected to be even bigger and better than last year’s event. The LBD party will take place on Feb. 28. The only criteria to participate in this motherdaughter event is to wear a black dress, in honor of Audrey Hepburn who created the classic LBD. Tickets are currently being sold for presale for $25 each or $30 at the door. Last year, the LBD event raised w e l l over $2,000, which was donated to UNICEF. This year the club hopes to raise even more and donate the proceeds to Dress for Success, an organization that provides
clothing and support for women looking to better their lives. This organization provides tools for women to learn to interview for the type of job that they dream of working. Key Club President Grace Totman explained, “We are really excited for the event this year. Last year it was a huge success and we raised a lot of money for a great cause. This year we hope to top that and get even more students and moms to participate!” The festivities that will occur at this catered event are dinner for the girls, and a silent auction. They will also be collecting lightly used suits and dresses at the actual event. The silent auction includes prizes like a spa day for two at Skin Deep, and a “Workout for Two”, a membership to Cando and the Bar Method. Maddie Simko who went to the event last year, not part of Key Club, said “I had a really great time because it was so fun to get all dressed up for a classy event with my friends and it was for a great cause too! This years event is anticipated to be a night full of fun, mingling, and giving back to the community. Key Club is expecting a large turn out this year, and is counting on the support of much of the school to attend.
Club Corner... Quintessence, Summit High School’s Art and Literary Magazine, has been honored with two prestigious awards for its 2012-2013 issue by the American Scholastic Press Association. It received First Place with Special Merit, a title only given to 15 schools within SHS’s enrollment range. Further, it also was considered
nationally among 23 other schools the Most Outstanding Liteary-Art Magazine. If interested in joining this successful club come to its Tuesday morning meetings or Thursday afternoon meetings in Room 235 or submit (all submissions reviewed anonymously) to Quintessence@fc.summit.k12.nj.us
Winning team! Last year’s editors (Left) Emily Vlass, Megan Shaw, Kahler Newsham, and assistant editor Julia Heckelman pose with the magazine at last year’s Coffee House.
Photo by www.summit.patch.com
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Verve’s staff invites all clubs to share news of meetings, events, and festivities. Representatives and advisers can e-mail information to the Verve editors at shsverve@fc.summit.k12.nj.us.
Screen & Sound
New season for fave sitcom
The new season of Modern Family premiered on ABC Wednesday, Jan. 7. The comedy has been a hit since 2009 when it debuted, and has gone on to win three Emmy Awards, with a viewership of 12.6 million people. The hilarious plotline of a typical modern family intrigues audiences because it is relative to many people’s lives. The show has made many of its actors prominent Hollywood stars. These include Sophia Vergara, Sarah Hyland, Jesse Tyler Ferguson and Eric Stonestreet. Senior, Kerri Hannigan said, “I love Modern Family because it’s so universal. I relate to it, my parents relate to it, and my little sisters relate to the show.” Modern Family premiered with a hilarious episode that included a pathetic attempt by couple, Cam and Mitchell, to
steel a potential wedding venue from two teenagers planning their sweet 16. Permit driving is relevant to all high school students and is touched upon in this episode, as Alex deals with her mother’s refusal to drive with her. The hilarious battles that a family faces are portrayed through the lives of the cast of Modern Family.
Photo provided by abc.com
By Ashley White Staff Reporter
High school students and families tune into the sitcom weekly. Junior, Hunter Wyckoff said, “Modern Family always has funny episodes because it is completely relative to my life. My dad always makes my whole family watch together, and we all enjoy it.” The Modern family cast is now one of the most wellknown casts in Hollywood due to the show’s success.
mature topics and scenes that are not suggested for younger viewers. In addition, characters’ personalities and actions are often exaggerated. In the third season’s eleventh episode, titled “Clavado en un Bar”, Jess is offered a job at a museum with a significantly greater pay than being a teacher. However, being a teacher is part of her identity, and Jess goes to her roommates and friends for help. This ignites a retelling of their pasts and the events that brought them
Image provided by www.fox.com
Hit comedy series, “New Girl” provides plenty of romance, laughs and sarcastic lines. It airs at 9 p.m. on Tuesdays on FOX. “New Girl” focuses on the everyday spectacles of Jessica Day (Zooey Deschanel), a young female teacher who is trying to get over a sudden breakup with her boyfriend. She moves in with three single males and has some help from her closest friend, Cecelia Parekh. Parekh (Hannah Simone), nicknamed Cece, is a professional model, and an on-off love interest of Schmidt (Max Greenfield). Coach (Damon Wayan Jr.) is the third roommate in the pilot episode but was replaced by former roommate. Winston Bishop (Lamorne Morris), who was playing basketball in Latvia but returned to the United States. At the end of the second season, Nick (Jake Johnson) and Jess begin a relationship. “New Girl” is jocular with lots of crazy behavior from the characters. Jess’s adventures portray the variety of people tshe encounters in life, making many of the events and conflicts relevant to the audience. The show does contain some
2014 Grammy show review
By Laura Pasquale Staff Reporter
The 56th annual Grammy Award Show was on Sunday, January 26 at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. This award show, which is the music equivalent to the Emmy Awards for television, the Tony Awards for stage performances, and the Academy Awards for motion pictures, recognizes outstanding achievements in the music industry. Each winner receives a Grammy Award, originally called a Gramophone Award, which is an accolade by the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences and the Grammy Foundation. Jay Z had nine nominations, which was more than any other nominees this year, but other hip-hop artists such as Kendrick Lamar, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Pharrell Williams and Justin Timberlake each had seven. Katy Perry,
Royal performance! New Zealander and songwriting phenom Lorde had interesting dance moves during her performance.
Bruno Mars and Taylor Swift also received many nominations. The 2014 Grammy Award for Album of the Year was Random Access Memories by Daft Punk. Record of the Year was won by Daft Punk, “Get Lucky”, Song of the Year was “Royals” by Lorde, and Best New Artist was Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. Holding the record for the most Grammys ever won by a single artist is Sir Georg Solti with 31 Grammy
wins, while the most Grammys ever won by a group is U2 with 22 wins. Beyoncé and Jay Z’s much ancitipated performed at the show met its high expectations. Macklemore and Ryan Lewis performed their hit song “Same Love”, a letter to gay rights. During the performance, 33 gay and straight couples were married by officiant Queen Latifah, accompanied with a performance by Madonna and a gospel choir.
Confidential: “American Hustle” rates a big 9.5 on the Mordi Meter By Jordan Aaron Contributing Writer
Zooey returns to Fox By Emily Gao Staff Reporter
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Photo provided by raprehab.com
February 2014
to the present. In the end, Jess is inspired to keep her job as a teacher. A comedy with energetic and sometimes silly characters, “New Girl” gives its viewers plenty to laugh about.
“American Hustle” is about nothing other than hustling. It’s the story of a conman, Irving Rosenfeld (Christian Bale) and his con-girlfriend, Sydney Prosser (Amy Adams) who are caught by a con-FBI Agent, Richie DiMaso (Bradley Cooper). DiMaso has the couple help him bust Congressmen for dirty deals and for their help, they get their charges dropped. Meanwhile, they have to dodge other obstacles, such as Irving’s wife (Jennifer Lawrence) and her growing connection to the mob. The first thing you see after the throwback production companies’ logos is a title card that reads, “Some of this actually happened.” This is where the true conning begins. Was it just a clever joke by director David O. Russell or him challenging us to find out what is true or what is not? It’s a challenge that plays our own precedents for the full truth of the “true stories” set by movies like “Fargo” and “The Haunting in Connecticut.” It sets the tone perfectly for what is to come. David O. Russell also didn’t hold back on the soundtrack. It all just jumbled together this feeling that can
Photo of “American Hustle” cast by Laura Cavanaugh - © 2013 Laura Cavanaugh
only come from some of the greatest films I can remember, namely, “Goodfellas,” “Pulp Fiction” or “Rushmore.” Not only did I enjoy their high quality, but I had, to quote Chris Melka, “A rollicking’ good time at the movies!” That’s my favorite part of the movie. The movie starts off with Christian Bale, with his gut and glory (or lack thereof), struggling to perfect his fake comb-over, fighting his own pride and ego. The characters understand that there is a twisted humor to all these characters, which we have seen from O. Russell film time and time again. Jeremy Renner’s character, Mayor Carmine Polito, may be a dirty politician, but he is really a family man who just wants to save Atlantic City. Renner jumps into the role and he gives his all the whole way through. There is a scene at the end whose details I will not divulge due to spoilers, but I felt moved by Renner’s portrayal of the emotions going
through Polito’s system. Even Jennifer Lawrence, who had a smaller role than I expected, hit it out of the park with her act of being an unstable lunatic. She isn’t but as Irving says himself in the film, “We all con ourselves every day.” Another one of Irving’s lines is, “Always take a favor over money. I think Jesus said that as well.” The writing and directing of this movie are what brings the whole act together. Co-written and directed by David O. Russell, we are constantly reminded that everyone acts on his or her own ulterior motives. Even in the trailer this theme is pushed. “But we all hustle to survive,” it says. Ambition makes every character look ugly; pushing the more is less philosophy. This film should make a push when the Award shows come along and it’s already mentioned in the Golden Globes nominations. It’s rated R, and I can’t help myself but to give this film a 9.5/10 on the Mordi Meter.
Turf
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Athletes of the Week for January 26th to February 1
Brianna Boze! Senior Bowling Team Captain
Colm Dougherty! Senior wrestler 170 lbs.
Brianna Boze finished second in the Union County Tournament, and finished 6th out of 200 plus in the North Jersey Sectional Tournament, plus rolled a 594 and qualified for the meet of champions. “Brianna has worked very hard this season and has become a model of consistency, bowling 600+ series on multiple occasions this season,” Coach John Kratch said.
21-7 on the season, Colm Dougherty placed third in the Rahway Holiday tournament in December. Colm bumped up a weight class against Arthur L. Johnson this week and recorded a major decision to win the match for the team. He did the same against Millburn high school, assisting the team in another victory. “Colm has a Senior leadership role on our wrestling team. He keeps the team on task during practice and matches,” said Coach Ferrante.
Girls Winter team continues to sectional champs By Ellie Schaffer Opine Editor
Sectional Champs! Coaches Fern and Martins celebrate with team.
Photo by Ellie Schaffer
By Niko Nyktas and Jackson Sidebottom It would have been hard to imagine on June third, 2010, when the Los Angeles Lakers and Boston Celtics started what would become an epic seven-game series in the 2010 NBA Finals, that both teams would be projected to have rough seasons in 2013-2014. Yes, the Celtics and Lakers were already two of the oldest in the NBA. Yes, both were likely to lose some of their key players within the next few seasons. But did anyone think that both teams would be in the position they are today? Following Kobe Bryant’s injury and Dwight Howard’s decision to leave Los Angeles, the Lakers could have employed a conventional approach to the 2013-2014 season, accepting that the team would likely not compete for a playoff spot and tank so as to get their hands on a valuable 2014 lottery pick. Instead, they signed Chris Kaman and Nick Young, two mediocre additions to the team, and definitely not enough to help them become title contenders. The Celtics’ decision to trade away Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett, two players with quite a reputation but past their prime, to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for some draft picks was a shrewd move, but did it pay off? Although the trade favored the Celtics, their performance this season has been unimpressive. How long will it take for these once great teams to reaffirm their status as two of the greatest in the NBA? From the looks of things, I would say the Celtics will rebound first, probably in 3-4 years. They were smart enough to get rid of Pierce and Garnett, which freed up the salary cap so they could be more able to get better players. The Lakers, however, have continued to hold on to Kobe Bryant, who with a torn achilles tendon and way past his prime, doesn’t seem to be worth keeping. Although there is still uncertainty as to when these teams will rebound, they definitely will, and their epic rivalry will continue.
Photo by Robert Lockhart
Blocked! Pau Gasol is blocked as he goes up for a lay up.
Male Athlete of the Week
Photo by Robert Lockhart
Female Athlete of the Week
Photo from espn.com
Two basketball dynasties on the verge of collapse
February 2014
The girls’ winter track team has been on fire this season. At the State Sectional Meet on Feb. 1, the all-star squad took first place, making them State Sectional Champions. Notable performances by seniors Cara Brenn and Gillian McIlroy and freshman Emma Osborne garnered them state champ titles in the pole vault, 1600 meter, and 55 meter dash, respectively. Each of these individual victories coupled
with several outstanding relay performances totaled a score that put Summit on top, for the first time since 2011. Head Coach Adam Fern said, “This season has been a whirlwind of broken records, set records, young kids running amazing times, old kids leading the way, and an ultimate victory that summed up the season perfectly. I couldn’t be more proud.”
Lake Placid: An alternative to Sochi Steroid blame-game on rise again By Stephanie Ollom Managing Editor
The Winter Olympics in Sochi Russia open in under a week with stunning spectacles and an array of athletic excellence that will mesmerize the world. While traveling to the events may be out of the question for financial and safety reasons, staying at home in America might be the more enjoyable route. Not too far from here, only about a five-hour drive north, is Lake Placid, the home of the 1932 and 1980 Winter games. This Olympic substitute is nestled in the Adirondack Mountains and is plentiful for the souls that love the games in the frigid temperatures, and is open to the public. Visitors will have the opportunity to take part in events in the same location that history was made almost 35 years ago. The downhill trail for skiing and snowboarding
are plentiful with fresh snow from this week’s snowstorms. Herb Brook’s arena is open for public skate, the same sheet of ice where the USA Men’s Hockey team beat the Soviet Union in the Miracle on Ice. The 400-meter oval where American Eric Heiden won five gold medals will be open. Not to mention the endless other exhilarating venues, including the bobsled, ski jump and luge. For the ones brave enough to challenge themselves with the Olympic events, Whiteface Mountain will be sponsoring a “Winter Challenge” for the visitors to partake in. Various events will be available including, bobsledding, curling, ski jumping, the luge, skeleton, ice hockey, figure skating, and many more. A total of twelve events are available where participants receive a scorecard and record their times/distances for each challenge. For those who can’t go to Russia, there is lake Placid.
By Cam Fuoti Staff Reporter
Since they started creeping out of locker-room chatter and into the mainstream sports conversations, steroids have overtaken the system. From football, to boxing, to baseball, and now with headlines blaring that Alex Rodriguez of the New York Yankees is the latest alleged user, fending off accusations of using Performance Enhancing Drugs. A common form of PEDs is steroids; another drug used is Human Growth Hormones. These drugs give players an unfair advantage over other players who stay clean and capitalize on natural talent. A-Rod had admitted to using steroids earlier in his career, but this was a whole different magillah. A self-proclaimed doctor from Miami, Tony Bosch, was the head of a sport supplement and muscle-building clinic called Biogenesis. This clinic was first started to give adults an edge is working out. When players first started adopting the edge that steroids granted them, there was no thought of having professional
baseball players use Bosch’s small, unknown clinic to score PEDs. However, it ws the perfect place: a small, unknown clinic that no one would suspect of celebrity clients. Nobody is sure how it started, but professional baseball players, basketball, football players, and boxers got into the mix. Most notably, Alex Rodriguez and Ryan Braun. Braun, of the Milwaukee Brewers, was suspended 65 games for his admittance of steroids. A-Rod declined his use however. Tony Bosch said in a 60 minutes interview, “I injected A-Rod with PED’s”. A-Rod was suspended 211 games, nearly a season and a half. Luckily, for him, it was brought down to 162 games, one full season. He is currently suing to have the suspension overturned. Steroids and PEDs will always be in sports. Not only professionally, but at both the college and even at the high school levels. Athletes are always trying to gain the edge on their competition. So now the question becomes if everyone