Verve Vol XIV Iss 2 Nov 2013 by SHSVerve

What to give and to receive? Verve’s annual Holiday Gift Guide is here to help!

Marathon runners cross the GWB Page 2

Pages 6 - 7

Summit High School

November 2013

Volume XIV Issue 2

125 Kent Place Blvd. Summit, NJ 07901

Chromebooks enable student collaboration in the cloud

Coaching update: boys’ Varsity b’ball preseason By Cam Fuoti Staff Reporter

Davidson said he knows that “The kids have done a nice job in the offseason and working in the weight room and going to open gym.” The season opens Dec. 17 against Passaic Valley. Many players are looking forward to the start of the season including junior power-forward, Jackson Sidebottom. “We have potential, we have lots of good pieces and we could really be good if we gel Fun and Effective Learning! Seniors Tommy Kane (L) and Blaise together,” said Sidebottom. Even though the team lost Johnson enjoyed working on Google Docs in Mr. Lawrence Seid’s its two top scorers, Ba’Shawn (seen in background) AP European History Class. Stephanie McIntyre, said, Mickens graduated and Ryan By Tommy DiSibio “As applications and proSweeney transferred to South Editor-in-Chief cesses move more toward the Kent, other players such as seThis is the first year the high cloud, it makes sense to get niors Robbie Walsh and Mac school is using a new technol- the equipment that capitalizes Wiesner, look to lead the team ogy, Google Chromebooks, on that trend, especially if this year. Come support the boys’ and English and history class- they are more cost effective.” rooms now have better access The Chromebooks, costing a basketball team and its new to the Internet with the abunthird of a Macbook Pro, hercoach this year as they look to dance of these web-surfing ald an opportunity for more achieve a state championship devices. laptops for the classroom. run. Chromebooks are manufacWith each student having a tured by Google, and can be Google docs account, workused to access the Internet, to ing on assignments has beopen and create word docu- come a lot easier. ments, and to print instantEnglish supervisor Mr. ly. They do not have a hard Corey Walsh said, “The drive, therefore making them Chromebooks have been a unable to save documents, great addition to our technolbut this gives the advantage ogy resources and integration of making them ultra-light- in the classroom. It allows a weight. smooth transition for students New technology teacher, Ms. who participate in a writing Determined! Coach Davidson is preparing for an exciting season. Photo by Nic Lalicato

Photo by Tommy DiSibio

Guidance Counselor James Davidson accepted the head coaching job of the boys’ Varsity basketball team. Many know him as the coach that has led Summit to numerous championships in boys’ Varsity lacrosse, which remains true; however, Davidson said he is excited about his new job, and his new focus in the winter on basketball. Davidson said, “No matter what sport you’re coaching, I think the work ethic is what we really need to try and instill in the program. If you can do that in any sport you’re going to be successful.” He replaces Mr. David White, who led basketball to its outstanding 18-6 record last season. With a talented group of seniors, the team looks to repeat its success and hopefully win a county or state championship.

Students drop gym, pick up school work

All sophomores, juniors and seniors will be able to drop one day of gym per week for a study hall period this year, as opposed to only students in a Varsity sport being exempt. Most students have been reacting very well to the news that they will receive 40 minutes more of studying, a.k.a. playing Candy Crush, during the week. And, no, hour periods cannot be used for a study hall. Seniors do not get an extra unassigned, but are allowed to leave early if their study hall period falls on the last period of the day. With much complaint about the exclusivity of last years’

policy, when only Varsity athletes could drop a gym period, now all students, except freshmen are eligible. The convincing arguments were that most theater students spend twice as much time in their activity as the athletes and some students participate in club sports outside of school. Over the summer, a series of about ten meetings were set up with assistant principals, teachers, parents and students to decide how the gym policy would be set up for this year. Gym teacher Mr. Brian Erickson said, “Summit always seem to strive to be the very best at everything, but it seems for PE they are satisfied with the bare-minimum.”

Athletes exempted from on period of gym per week will also be granted four more days of a study hall period during each marking quarter in addition to their existing drop day.

Students interested in taking a gym exemption day can request a form from P.E. teachers. Forms must be completed and handed in on the Thursday prior to the requested drop day.

Photo by Nic Lalicato

By Stephanie Ollom Editor-in-Chief

Studying Hard... 22 students take a P.E. exemption for some extra study time during period 1, Tuesday Oct. 29 in room 108.

workshop in class to go home and open the same document to keep working.” New group activities teachers are creating with the Chrome books can entice students to learn more and to work harder. Senior Danny Childers described his group English project on “Of Human Bondage” as, “incredible, because we all were typing on the same page from different computers. Getting our work done more efficiently has given us a better opportunity to do well on assignments.” Chromebooks are not without complaint. Senior Gillian McIlroy said, “They can be annoying because they can be slow and sometimes irritating when the screen freezes when I need to take notes.” Relying on the Internet, Chromebooks would not be too useful during a power or network outage, but those times are rare. Assuming the Internet is working, Chromebooks are the new classroom kick this year. With their lightweight build and great productivity opportunities Chromebooks are the future of learning.

Inside this issue of Verve Globe... 2 Opine... 3 S+S... 4 Teachers... 5 Holiday Gift Guide... 6-7 Buzz... 8-9 Turf... 10-11 Halloween... 12

Globe Marathon regains its stride

Verve 2

November 2013

Government shutdown threatens national vitality

By Ellie Schaffer Opine Editor

Managing Editor

Photo by Anna Fre

Every year since 1970, New York City exceeds its usual buzz upon the upcoming of the New York Marathon. The race, which is 26.219 miles in length, is run by over 45,103 people. On Nov. 3 the starting gun fired once more, and the runners were off, leaving the big city in their dust. The race is organized by New York Road Runners (NYRR) and, with the exception of 2012, has been run every year since 1970. In recent years, it has been sponsored by the financial group ING. It is held on the first Sunday of November and attracts professional competitors and amateurs from all over the world. Last year the race was cancelled because of the turmoil around the tri-state area following Superstorm Sandy. According to the Huffington Post, “Last year’s NYC Marathon never happened. The damage from Superstorm Sandy forced its cancellation, but not before

By Gwen Rogers

Ready, Set, Go! Runners took their mark in anticipation of the 40th annual NYC marathon.

many New Yorkers decried city and race officials’ initial plans to go on with the event. And not before thousands of entrants from around the world flew to the city, encouraged by those first assurances that the race was on.” Sadly, their efforts were to no success. The New York Times has already asserted that “the marathon expects close to 48,000

finishers.” The marathon, which is one of the largest in the world, courses through the five boroughs of New York City and attracts fans and participants from all over the world. Every year, the world watches as thousands of people tie their shoes and take their marks, and New York City again becomes home to the world’s most famous foot race.

The government shutdown caused over 800,000 government employees to go without pay until there was resolution made. The mail continued to come. The military continued to fight. And Social Security checks were still paid. Not all government operations were stopped. Which includes Social Security, Medicare and other so-called entitlements, continued without interruption. The second group entails functions “necessary to protect life or property.” But if one needed a federal loan to buy a house or needed a gun permit or a passport, that didn’t happen quickly. For a select group, the shutdown was a valuable marketing tool. Small businesses prospered from the closing of big museums and parks. Luckily, a compromise was struck, ending the shutdown of 2013 on Oct. 16.

Weeks into the government shutdown, with the debt ceiling just around the corner, Republicans continued to hammer President Obama to negotiate to resolve both problems. ‘I’m exasperated, because this is entirely unnecessary,” Obama said to a CNBC interviewer. He explained that this is because Republicans want the president to delay a major piece of his new health care law in order to reopen the government. Obama refused the offer. The government froze because, under the Constitution, Congress must pass laws to spend money. If Congress can’t agree on a spending bill, the government does not have the legal authority to spend money. The last government shut down was in 1995 and lasted for 21 days. Since 1979, there have been 17 shutdowns.

Is it right to bear arms? Staff Reporter

In a little over the past year there have been seven tragic instances, most notably the events at Sandy Hook Elementary and Washington Navy Yard. The total amount of fatalities in the past year was seventy-one. Such a large number is appalling and many would think it might motivate congress to pass much more restrictive gun laws. American gun laws are disturbingly lenient, especially concerning private sales at gun shows and flea markets. Private sales do not require screening a buyer for felonies, drug abuse, or mental illness. In addition, the amount of guns and nature of the gun should both be restricted. Harvard School of Public Health did a study showing that wherever there are more guns, there are more murders. America has a murder rate

that’s unprecedented for such a wealthy country. In Britain, since guns were been banned several years ago, there has been a sharp decrease in gun related murders. So why are they not being implemented by the American government? Are guns such an important part of American culture and history that we would rather have multiple mass murders a year than have to give up our right to own a military grade weapon that will most-likely never be used in self defense? The answer to gun massacres isn’t making guns more available to the public. This isn’t a distorted NRA fantasy world where the solution to everything is “just shoot it” or “carry a bigger gun.” This problem isn’t going away, there will inevitably be another mass shooting unless the government cracks down. Unfortunately, no tragedy thus far has inspired such a movement.

Principal: Mr. Paul Sears Assistant Principals: Mr. Tony Akey Mrs. Stacy Grimaldi Adviser: Mrs. Anne Weisgerber English Supervisor: Mr. Corey Walsh Editors-in-Chief: Tommy DiSibio Stephanie Ollom Managing Editors: Alex Arias Gwen Rogers Photo provided by ricochet.com

By Jackson Sidebottom

Summit HS 125 Kent Pl. Blvd. Summit, NJ 07901

Under Heavy Fire. The 2nd Amendment preserves the right to bear arms, but this right has been scrutnized as more and more people ask the question, at what point do we compromise our rights for our safety?

Verve Views: What celebrity do friends say you look like? By Nic Lalicato

FRONT PAGE: Tommy DiSibio GLOBE: David Meyers OPINE: Ellie Schaffer SCREEN AND SOUND: Carly Leiter BUZZ: Megan Shaw & Meredith Robertson TURF: Jamie Macpherson & Niko Nyktas NEW TEACHERS: Laura Pasquale HALLOWEEN SPECIAL: Anika Becker GIFT GUIDE: Cam Fuoti & Ethan Mandelbaum ART DIRECTOR: Nic Lalicato CIRCULATION: Jackson Sidebottom

Junior Emily Chin: “Everyone tells me I look just like Miranda Cosgrove.”

Soph. Callie Humphrey: “I’ve been told that I have a slight resemblance to Emma Stone.”

Senior Jordan Brown: “I’m a mix of Will Ferrell, Seth Rogan, and Syndrome from ‘The Incredibles.’”

Junior Peter McKinlay: “I’ve been told multiple times that I look like Johnny Manziel.”

STAFF REPORTERS: Cam Fuoti, Emily Gao, Alice Kim, Nic Lalicato, Bobby Moriarty, Ethan Mandelbaum, Anna Tselvich, Ashley White, Nate Bowyer, Anika Becker, Laura Pasquale, Dan Montgomery

Opine

November 2013

Is tenure worth the trouble? By David Meyers Globe Editor

With the recent government shutdown and the massive debt and deficit, discussions of government waste have become common, as have talks of cutting spending. On the state level, a conversation about tenure always seems to emerge as one of the first things politicians look to cut. Therefore, the question becomes, is teacher tenure worth it? Tenure has been prevalent in America since the early twentieth century, with college professors being the first teachers to receive tenure. The idea then reached the state levels and became popular, because it protected teachers from being fired too easily in order to accommodate school budgets. Today teachers can receive tenure after valuable service for 1-7 years in the same school district, with the

norm being about three years according to the United Federation of Teachers. It has become clear that the issue with tenure is the power that it has over the states. Advocates for and against make strong cases. Those in favor of tenure say that it protects teachers from unwanted firings and unnecessary demotions. Dennis Van Rockel, president of the National Education Association voiced his opinion on the issue and said, “These laws were passed in state after state to protect good teachers from arbitrary actions.” However, opponents of the law say that it does more harm than good. Sandy Kress, a policy adviser to President George W. Bush, argued that most teachers are effective and their job security is protected by their continued performance. She says the problem with tenure is that it “has proved to be just a horrible barrier to getting

rid of that small percentage of teachers who are just not effective.” What is worse than educational problems with tenure is the cost. According to a bill passed by the Illinois state legislature several years ago, the cost to fire a tenured teacher is $219,000. The cost is truly astonishing and a bit unreal. Junior Michael Brown commented, “That’s ridiculous. I had no idea that tenure was that expensive. I knew it was a lot of money but that is much more than I expected.” So with the state in some economic trouble and the federal government pushing for higher education standards, the question remains: is tenure worth it? It seems that the answer is both yes and no. Yes, because it does protect teachers from unnecessary firings. But no, because it protects too many teachers, and is a bit too much for the wallets of New Jersey taxpayers.

Verve 3

From the Editor’s Desk It’s getting cold out and winter fashions, epitomized by the days of Timberland boots (Timbs) and flannel, are here. They say one should only wear white jeans between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekend, but the popular wisdom in these halls dictates that Timbs are worn from Halloween to St. Patrick’s. Although it is covered in one of David Meyers’ many articles, we must address the parking craze that occurs every morning. When we USED to buy homecoming tickets, it was first-come first-served basis. When we buy lunch at school, it’s also first-

come first-served. But now when you apply for an on-campus parking spot, it’s… a lottery system! We are scratching our heads wondering who came up with that idea? Is a lottery better than getting paperwork in on time? Is a lottery better than rewarding students with exemplary grades? or without any lates or detentions? Because the lottery has excluded a lot of seniors from getting their own numbered spot. One thing we are very happy about, however, is that sign-ups were good and the student council and administration worked diligently to revive the Halloween assembly! Congratulations Hilltoppers for coming together for a terrific performance.

Photo by Nic Lalicato

Senior Column: You only play volleyball once more

By David Meyers Globe Editor Like unassigned study halls and on-campus parking spots, one of the hallmarks of senior year is the senior column. In the past, the mantle had been taken up by cheerful Jemma, awkward Andy, and the legendary Tom Garvey, and the class of 2014 has me for this

issue. As a short haired, obnoxious baseball player, I think it’s clear that I am not the best person to represent the senior class. Nevertheless, I will try my best to make sure we can all get a couple of laughs, but I don’t want this column to be about me, so let’s talk about school. It has taken six months for the unthinkable to have finally happened: the TVs outside the library and auditorium work! Unfortunately, they aren’t really doing much more now than when they weren’t working. It seems to be getting repetitive to look at the same three pictures of the girls’ hockey team,

boys’ hockey team, and boys’ freshmen baseball team over and over again. The TVs seem to have a lot of important dates as well, but I have no idea why those dates are important. The only thing we are really getting out of the TV’s is an update on the lunch schedule. Now I don’t know about other kids, but the lunch schedule isn’t so important that I can’t wait until I actually go to lunch to find out what is being served. Call me crazy, but it seems like the TVs are a bit unnecessary. Shifting gears, let’s talk to the freshmen about something important. With November here, the first quarter is ending soon and the second quarter

means the start of volleyball in gym class. As freshmen, this may not mean much right now. However, in a month, when upperclassmen are screaming at the top of their lungs over every single point and people are sacrificing their bodies for every last win, you will realize something: this is more than a game. Volleyball is the heart and soul of the entire school. It is a magnificent time where friends turn enemies and territory is claimed as each team strives to reign supreme as the best volleyball team in the entire gym class. If you think I am kidding, think again. Above anything else I write this year know this: the holi-

Teacher, admininstrative plans tilt to meet Governor Christie’s student growth objective mandates By Nate Bowyer Staff Reporter While students enjoyed a beautiful Columbus Day off from school on Monday Oct. 14, teachers across New Jersey developed their first ever Student Growth Objectives. The SGO policy was implemented this year, according to the NJ Department of Education, with a goal to “recognize those who excel, identify those who need additional support, and provide meaningful feedback and professional development to all teachers.” The program itself is called “AchieveNJ” and was created by the NJDOE, under Governor Chris Christie’s adminis-

tration. Teachers are required to develop SGOs, which are goals that can be assessed with quantitative data. They need to show evidence that the students have learned the material with strategies such as preand post-tests. The new policy has received mixed reviews by teachers. “It’s an easy way to measure student growth,” said Mr. Schauer. “It’s not much different than what we have been doing,” he said. Other teachers are ambivalent about the way the AchieveNJ system works. “Teachers write the tests, grade the tests, and decide the

tests,” said physics teacher Mrs. Cynthia Retotar. “It will

“We can answer the critical question: ‘How much academic progress did a child make during a given school year?’” Achieve NJ, FAQs

have no effect on students.” “It’s overkill,” said Industrial

Arts teacher Mr. Adam Fern. “Good teachers will be good teachers. It may be helpful in underachieving districts, but in higher achieving districts like ours, we’ve been doing things like this for years.” Senior Jake Paytas had a thoughtful counterpoint to the new SGO system: “You can’t teach a kid that doesn’t want to learn.” Readers are encouraged to read more about the AchieveNJ program, including some informational Frequently Asked Questions and answers, at http://www.state. nj.us/education/AchieveNJ/ to develop their own opinion on the new policy.

day volleyball tournament is the best moment in the school year. All right, so with the freshmen adequately frightened, I sign off for the first time. I leave everyone with a message: don’t let the year slip away, in one blink, it will be June, so let’s enjoy this year while we have it. Remember seniors; this is the only senior year we have, so make it count! P.S. At least we’re having the Halloween assembly this year; bring on the ridiculously dressed freshmen... should be good. P.S.S. Well...if all the weather is in our favor.

Verve Letters and Publication Policy: Verve is a publication open to opinions of its readers. Please submit all letters 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 the writer’s intent. Libelous and inappropriate writing will not be published in the Verve. If Verve has made an error and a correction is warranted, the editors take reader feedback seriously and will promptly deal with concerns. Reader corrections welcome at shsverve@ fc.summit.k12.nj.us.

Verve 4

November 2013

Screen & Sound

By Ethan Mandelbaum Staff Reporter

No spoilers. Don’t worry. “Breaking Bad” ran 62 episodes, spanning from the pilot on Jan. 20, 2008 to the finale, Sept. 29 of this year. It spread like wild fire across the nation in its fifth and final season, when its ratings doubled from the prior season. “Breaking Bad” is about an average high school chemistry teacher, Walter White, who lives in Albuquerque, NM. When White is diagnosed with untreatable terminal lung cancer, he decides to switch

to a life of crime and crystal meth manufacturing, due to the fact that he has no money, and he wants his family to have something when he dies. “Breaking Bad” is one of the most critically acclaimed shows of the past few years and also has an enormous fan base. It is the highest rated television show ever for any given season, its fifth season receiving a 99/100 from Megacritic. Avid fan of the show, Junior Doug Huneke, has been watching since season one. Huneke said he can’t imagine life without his favorite characters. “I got quickly attached to the

Series fans starve for new “Hunger Games” film

By Alice Kim Staff Reporter

Panem. The 75th Annual Hunger Another fight to the death? Games is going to be held, After the success of the Twi- also known as a Quarter Quell, light trilogy, fans are anxious which happens every 25 years. to see how the next big set of Bringing back all the existblockbusters will fare. The ing victors, Katniss and Peeta second installment of The represent District 12 and are Hunger Games trilogy, Catch- determined to win when they ing Fire, will be in theaters on realize that President Snow is Nov. 22. against them. However, there is controverTen new members were just sy as fans speculate whether cast in the movie. Sam Clafthe second movie will meet lin, playing the role of Finnick the high expectation set by Odair, already made an apthe book. Sophomore Kayla pearance in the magazine EnHoesly says, “I hope the sec- tertainment Week and grabbed ond movie will be as good as all the fans’ attention. the first one because the first Other important characters one was exciting.” appearing are Lynn Cohen as Succeeding Katniss and Mags, Jenna Malone as JohanPeeta’s win in the last Hunger na Mason and Amanda PlumGames, both of them cannot mer as Wiress. return home and have to go Sophomore Emani Miles on the Victor’s tour, leaving stated,” The new cast is amazbehind friends and family. ing and I can’t wait for JenniThe plot also senses a fer Lawrence to come out as a new rebellion simmering in powerful actress.” Catching fire! Katniss and Peeta in the upcoming new “Hunger Games” movie, wearing their infamous fire costumes at the parade.

Photo by http://stories.illinoisstate.edu

“Breaking Bad” finale break-down

Finale! Jesse and Walt sit back and relax as the final season of “Breaking Bad” came to a close.

characters, especially Jessie. Jessie didn’t quite feel like a brother- but maybe a close cousin. And the actual plot of the story is crazy, you never know what’s coming next!” Another follower of the show, Freshman Alex Brown, started watching the show re-

cently, via Netflix, and says he can’t handle the cliff-hangers in between episodes. “I finished the first four seasons in less than like a week and half. Every episode leaves you hanging, each one leads you into the next; you can’t stop watching!” Brown said.

An interesting fact about the finale is that it was episode 62. Element 62 on the periodic table is Samarium, an element that is crucial to the treatment of lung cancer. After five strong seasons, producer and creator Vince Gilligan decided it was time to wrap it up. Something for fans to look forward to, however, is a spin-off prequel coming out next year called Better Call Saul, which will follow the story of Walt’s corrupt lawyer Saul Goodman and how he ended up where he is. To anyone who hasn’t yet seen the finale, get ready for closure. It’s all there; enjoy the rest of the ride!

Cabaret: A night with the stars

By Ashley White Staff Reporter

Senior Allison Scott sang “Don’t Rain on My Parade” from “Funny Girl.”

Faculty members (L to R) Director Anne Poyner, Wayne Mallette, Francois Suhr, Dan King and Paul Sears performed “Mama Says” from “Footloose.” To end the number, Poyner was pulled up on stage.

Seniors Aidan Proshuto and Emily Drake performed a hilarious rendition of “Buddy’s Blues” from “Follies.”

Senior Greg Archer performed an incredible version of “Monticello” from the new musical “Edges.”

Photo provided by www.ryanseacrest.com

Senior Jack LeGoff dressed up as the comical Mrs. Trunchbull from the musical Matilda and sang “The Smell of Rebellion.” This number was a crowd favorite and had audience members laughing throughout his performance.

Upcoming Concerts Ed Sheeran- Nov. 7 at MSG Justin Timberlake- Nov. 9 at Izod Center Macklemore and Ryan Lewis- Nov. 13, 14 & 15 at the Theater at MSG Kanye West- Nov. 19, 20, 23 & 24 at MSG MGMT- Dec. 13 at Barclays Center John Mayer- Dec. 17 at Barclays Center Beyoncé- Dec. 19 & 22 at Barclays Center

Freshman Sean McManus sang “Corner of the Sky” from “Pippin” and left the audience astonished by his vocal talent.

Photos provided by Jim Poyner

Verve Special

November 2013

Verve 5

Enthusiastic new teachers welcomed ... continued from Issue 1

Stories and photos by Laura Pasquale, Staff Reporter

Diana Palermo Art

Adam Leaman Mathematics

John Procopio Special Education

Elizabeth Buettner English

Caitlin Botti Science

Diana Palermo, the new face in the arts department, attended Kean University and obtained her Masters in Fine Arts Education last January. Outside of school, Palermo likes to work in her art studio on weaving and printmaking projects. Palermo said, “I am excited to see all of the wonderful art that my students will create.”

Welcomed into the new mathematics position is Adam Leaman. He has experience working on a grant-funded research project in STEM education at Montclair State University, where he received his teaching degree. Leaman enjoys running, playing tennis, and going to the movies.

The Special Education staff welcomes John Procopio. He is an alumus of Seton Hall University and said, “In my free time, I enjoy anything with high adventure such as backpacking, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, etcera.” In addition, Procopio loves the television series “Criminal Minds” and “The Big Bang Theory.”

Filling the new English position is Elizabeth Buettner. She previously taught fifth grade at Franklin Elementary School after earning an English degree from Rutgers University. Buettner shared that she finds pleasure in gardening. She said, “This school year I am excited to have the opportunity to teach books that I love to my students.”

Caitlin Botti is another addition to the science department. She graduated from Bucknell University before pursuing her career as a teacher and soccer coach.. “I love to coach and play soccer,” said the enviormental sciences instructor. Botti also added that she enjoys going to concerts and watching a variety of sports.

SUMMIT, NJ: The staff of this student-run newspaper received accolades from the Columbia University Scholastic Press Association (CSPA), which awarded Verve a silver medal for the nine 2012-2013 issues published in Volume XIII. “Students have a lot to be proud of in terms of improving the paper’s style and design,” said Mrs. Anne Weisgerber, faculty adviser. “The paper increased 52 points overall on style and layout, and Columbia made a point of praising the students for making ‘great strides’ in design,” she added. Senior Alejandra AriasHerrador, co-editor-in-chief for this year’s Volume XIV, is taking the CSPA’s critique to heart, and said, “feedback from Columbia University is really helpful. It gave the editorial board its three big goals for this year.” Verve’s editorial goals for Volume XIV are: to increase objectivity and adhere to the AP style guide, to increase the number of quotes and sources in each article, and to find ways to connect every story to Summit. The reporting staff of Verve

Photo by Anne Weisgerber

Verve 2013-2014 staff wins CSPA award, sets new goals

Sweet Vervin’... Verve’s 2013-2014 Reporting Staff and Editorial Board. Pictured front L-R: senior Globe editor, David Meyers; senior Editors-in-Chief, Thomas DiSibio, Gwendolyn Rogers, Alex Arias, and Stephanie Ollom; senior Turf editors Jamie Macpherson and Niko Nyktas. Center row from left: sophomore Emily Gao, junior Anika Becker, junior Buzz editors Megan Shaw and Meredith Robertson, sophomores Ana Tselevich, Alice Kim, and Laura Pasquale. Back from left: juniors Opine editor Ellie Schaffer, Cameron Fuoti, seniors Bobby Moriarty and Photo Editor Nic Lalicato, junior circulation manager Jackson Sidebottom, senior Nate Bowyer, junior Dan Montgomery, sophomore Ethan Mandelbaum, juniors Ashley White and Screen and Sound editor, Carly Leiter.

generates all reporting and content for each edition, in addition to getting hands-on training in Adobe InDesign,

the layout and design software used in the publication of the paper. “It’s a great learning op-

portunity,” said junior Megan Shaw, “to improve my writing skills and become more involved with the school. Also,

I can see how knowing my way around InDesign can be a really useful skill after high school.”

Yoga Pants

Roku 3

Water Speakers

iScanner

Photo by http://asperkids.com/

Photo by http://brookstone.com

Photo by abcnews.go.com

Photo by roku.com

Photo by http://money.cnn.com/

Verve 6

Mustache Buds

By Teresa Brennan Contributing Writer

By Claire Schaeffer Contributing Writer

By Spencer Frey Contributing Writer

By Matthew Mormile Contributing Writer

By Sterling Sidebottom Contributing Writer

Ladies would love to receive a pair of Lulu Lemon yoga pants this holiday season. They are comfy and stylish and can be worn anywhere, and they’re great for lazy days. You can order them online at www.lululemon.com, or you could pick them up in town at their store in Summit at 402 Springfield Avenue. These pants come in all different styles and colors. The Astro Pant is ankle length and retails for $98, while the Dharana Crop falls just below the knee, $88. Yoga pants are a sporty gift to give to a friend, a mom, or a sister this season.

Looking for the perfect present for your technology-obsessed college student, brother, or friend? The Roku 3, a quick entertainment streaming system, offers over 1,000 channels delivered to any TV in stunning 1080p. It also offers Netflix and Hulu streaming, among others. This device comes with a remote allowing headphone use, and enjoyment of programs without disturbing others: a great feature for late-nighters. It works with virtually any HDTV, and is available for purchase from the Roku website for $99.99, including free shipping and a 30 day money back guarantee.

Music is a big part of teen life, and an interesting gift for any music lover would be the Water Show Speakers, available at Spencer’s in the Livingston Mall. As music plays through the speakers, there is water that surges up and dances to the music in a unique water and light show. For the low price of $39.99, this is a really cool gift that you might not buy for yourself, but you really wish someone would give it to you as a gift. Ideal for brothers, sisters, friends, and anyone who really enjoys listening to music.

The holidays are coming, and it is a good idea to have some gift ideas in mind. One great and easy gift is the iConvert scanner. The iConvert scanner is a portable scanner for an iPhone, iPod touch, and Ipad. It is a great gift for any person trying to minimize his or her papers. Quick and easy to use, a person can scan anything they want on the apple device of choice. This scanner costs $150, and is available at the Brookstone store in the Short Hills Mall, or online at www.Brookstone.com.

Most people have a friend best described as a “hipster,” so what gift do you get this cosmopolitan sphinx? Why not the Mustache Buds, Stand and Wrap? It’s three things in one: earbuds, an iPhone / iPod stand, and an ear bud holder. The Mustache Buds, Stand and Wrap is perfect not only for traveling, since earbuds always get tangled, but also for hanging around and surfing the web. This gift is perfect both music and mustache lovers! So why not give your hipster friend something ironic. This mustachioed device is easy to find online at www.perpetualkid.com and costs $14.99.

PowerLine Power Cup Any older teen or adult knows what it is like to lack a proper car charger for their phone. The PowerLine PowerCup Inverter is a novel and easy way to simplify and power-up when you are on the go. At first glance, the accessory appears to be nothing but a take-out coffee cup, but the clever truth is that

the cup has two outlets and a USB port, allowing connections to numerous regular phone chargers. After plugging the PowerCup into the car outlet, it plugs in and then rests snugly in the cup holder. Phone, TV, Computer… the PowerLine PowerCup Inverter charges anything in an organized

Headline illustration art provided (c) Ideal Home Garden

November 2013 Volume XIV Issue 2

fashion, and becomes a great gift road warriors and commuters, parents and teens. It’s lowest price on Amazon? $27.71.

Photo by http://www.geekalerts.com/

By Liam Lawler Contributing Writer

Lush

iPhone 5s

Nerds!

By Delaney O’Dowd Contributing Writer

By Claire Schaefer Contributing Writer

By Kevin Gettings Contributing Writer

Is cold weather a downer? A refreshing new outlook can start with the “You’re a Star” gift basket from Lush Cosmetics. This basket is bursting with everything needed for the perfect bath and home spa treat during the dreary winter months to come. Full of refreshing, natural beauty products that can be used in the bath or shower, or for a daily facial routine, it’s available at the Lush store in the Short Hills Mall, or online at lushusa.com. A perfect gift to give the female spa enthusiast or bath and body beginner, this gift basket retails for $74.95 and contains out of the ordinary products like bath bombs, body butter, dusting powder, creams and melts – everything needed, packed up nicely in a pretty hat box.

Looking for a universal gift that anyone on your list could enjoy? Apple’s newest iphone launch, the iphone 5s, is on the top of everyone’s list this season. Equipped with the latest technology, including fingerprint detection for ultimate security, this gift is sure to excite technology lovers as well as the typical high school teenager. The iphone 5s has a sleek, elegant design and is available in gold, silver, and space gray. With prices starting at $199 and ending at $399, this gift is pricy, but definitely a great investment and will be used an infinate amount of times by your loved one. It is available at the Apple Store at the Mall at Short Hills, It can also be ordered online at apple.com with free shipping. The Apple iPhone 5s is most definitely going to be the hottest gift this holiday season!

Don’t know what gift to ask for this year? Look no further than “The World’s Largest Box of Nerds Candy”! This giant collector’s box, the size of a cereal box, contains multiple smaller boxes of the Nerds candy: sure to make that sweet tooth sing! Nerds is one of the best candy out there and this gift is sire to recieve interest. Consider it the ideal gift for the holidays because everyone loves Nerds! Gifting these bits of deliciousness tells the person on your list that they are sweet and fun, in a big way. The box is a whopping 13 x 9.5 x 2.75 inches. Find this big gift, priced at $22.99, at www.itsugar. com. This product is sure to put a smile on your face and make nerds your favorite candy.

Photo by stickstuffproducts.com

Photo by www.qvc.com

Photo by www.geekalerts.com

Photo by store.three.co.uk

Photo by agiftofsport.com

Verve 7

Quirky Outlet

Music Combo

By Kevin Gettings Contributing Writer

By Anthony Gallardo-Vega

Nowadays, everything is run by technology, technology that must be charged. Outlet space can be scarce when there is only one outlet and multiple devices need charging. Giving someone in your life a Quirky Pivot Power Strip may just result in you reaping some of the benefits for yourself. This power strip solves the shortcomings of modern surge suppressors, since it not only includes five outlets for recharging multiple devices, but it also bends, allowing it to adapt to any workspace. It can wrap around the legs of chairs and desks. Of course, it is also a surge protector, with all the safety seals of approval, so this gift would be unexpected, useful, and ideal for any household. Priced at $29.99, the Pivot Power strip is available at www.quirky.com

As the holidays are approaching, there are so many new products and gadgets hitting the market that it’s almost impossible to surprise someone with a great gift that’s not on their radar screen. This gift is different from others. Not many people would think of getting these drumsticks, however it is a great small gift. There is new and different music to see and hear, and new music is a great gift. A recommendation for a gift to give a friend or a sibling is the Arctic Monkeys new album “AM,” available at Scotti’s for $12.99. It’s a very chill album with catchy vocals and intricate instrumentals that would appeal to any music aficionado who wants to hear something new. It’s got tracks that are great for listening to while doing homework, and also tracks you’ll want to enjoy blasting in the car.

The Pill

Contributing Writer

Photo by coolmaterial.com

By Teresa Brennan Contributing Writer Have a music lover on your list? Get them The Pill, a streamlined set of speakers by Dr Dre—the maker of the popular Beats headphones. They come in black, red, white, green, pink, blue, hot pink, orange, and yellow. They can be used anytime anywhere--they’re so portable and small, they fit in a backpack or bag. They’re easy to get online at beatsbydre.com. They retail for $179.99 at the official site and on big retailers like Amazon, but if you shop at a eBay and enjoy the thrill of an auction victory, you may bid on the Pill when offered for $140$170. Volume XIV Issue 2 November 2013

Buzz

Verve 8

November 2013

By Megan Shaw Buzz Editor Junior Meredith Robertson created her own small business last spring and today celebrates reaching the thousand dollars mark in her donations. The business of inspirational quote jars was co-founded by Meredith, her sister Mimi, and her mom Pam Robertson to promote positivity to those around her. All of the proceeds are donated to the charity, Family Promise, whose headquarters are located in downtown Summit. Meredith’s Jars of Joy are

“In the depth of the winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.” -- Albert Camus small mason jars filled with a month’s worth of inspiration-

al quotes, designed so the readers can pick one quote every morning. Meredith explained that the idea behind the jars is that hearing an inspirational quote each day will make you grow and embrace life with a positive attitude. The reader is supposed to pick one slip of paper from the jar every morning and carry it around all day to try and apply it to their life. “Whatever you receive is exactly what you are meant to hear,” Meredith explained, “If one quote specifically speaks to you, tape it or keep it somewhere so you can reread it again when you need it! They’re a tool to help you grow, but only if you let them-be open to the advice each quote offers.” Explaining the origins of the business, Meredith recounted freshman year. She explained that when she had a tough time transitioning to high school, her mom placed a jar of quotes on her desk, and she began picking from it every morning. Eventually, the words of wisdom were taped all over her room and inside her phone case. “One day someone opened up my phone case to see why

Photo provided by Meredith Robertson

Student non-profit donates first $1K

Joy! To buy a jar full of a month’s worth of quotes, contact Meredith Roberston, at jarsofjoy13@gmail.com, or visit the Teapot downtown. The jars cost $10 each, $5 for refills.

it was so bulky, and to my horror all these tiny slips of paper floated out. I was mortified, but the reaction I got was so amazing. Everyone started asking for quotes of their own,” Meredith said. After seeing this positive reaction, Meredith, Mimi, and Pam packaged the jars and have been selling them across the country ever since. Meredith explained that the quotes helped her to grow so much, and it really just seemed like

time to give back. Each jar is sold for ten dollars and refills for five. All the proceeds are donated to Family Promise, an organization that provides shelter and resources to homeless families. Karen Olsen, President of Family Promise, recently wrote to the Robertson’s commending them for their most recent donation totaling one thousand dollars. “It’s been so amazing to watch this business grow,” ex-

plains Pam. “We’ve received so many beautiful letters and responses from people across the country. It’s incredible to see how far a little joy can be spread.” The jars are sold at the Teapot in downtown Summit, and orders can also be placed over email at jarsofjoy13@ gmail.com. Anyone in need of a little inspiration, be sure to stop by and check them out!

School store adds dry-cleaning service, plans for take-out meals Top of the Hill, the new school store, celebrated a successful kick-off. Special education supervisor, Mrs. Mary Beth Reardon, explained that the store is an important addi-

“The store provides a great opportunity to gain not only community service hours, but also retail experience.” -- Mr. Rebholz tion to the high school. The store is currently managed by teachers Mr. Scott Rebholz and Mr. Gary Pascal, who have big plans for the future. Rebholz said he is looking at having full take-

out dinners prepared by the school’s foods classes, a dry-cleaning service for faculty, weekly giveaways, merchandise from Summit Boosters, and that’s just the beginning. In a recent press release, Reardon said the store has partnered with a local dry cleaner that has trained student interns in taking the orders. Customers can bring dry cleaning to the school store during regular hours, every Monday and Thursday. Every order is eligible for a raffle ticket to The Meathouse in Summit, or the Towne Deli. As of now, Top of the Hill is open every day after school and provides students with a variety of snack foods, drinks, pizza, and school supplies. Rebholz says that as the store grows it will become the “pulse of the school,” fueled by all the

student involvement. He also said that if any students are interested in helping out, it will provide a great opportunity to gain not only community service hours, but also retail experience. Those interested in more information can reach out

to Rebholz or Pascal by email, or in the mornings in Room 215. It took the persistent and successful staff a long time to finally get Top of the Hill up and running. The idea for the store was in the works for almost

two years by Reardon and career services coordinator, Mrs. Pat Walsh. The name for the store was created as a play on words on the Summitite nickname: Hilltoppers.

Photo provided by Meredith Robertson

By Anna Tsvelivich Staff Reporter

Yum! Sophomore Dylan Diaz chooses from a wide range of snacks, including clif bars, gatorades, chips, and even pizza at the Top of the Hill store, which is open at 3 p.m. everyday. Behind the counter are Mr. Scott Rebholz (L) and Mr. Gary Pascal.

By Jamie Macpherson Turf Editor Seven years ago, a group of ambitious high school students set out with a goal to help promote recycling. Their plan was to keep decent quality items, which others could use, out of landfills. The Summit Transfer Station granted the group a piece of property upon which to set up a large tent on three Saturdays last spring and three Saturdays this fall, where people could pick up or drop off items. These periodic events are now known as the Summit Free Market. More members of the high school began to join the program, and it picked up traction within the town and school. Key Club got involved, the Summit Green Commission made efforts to help, and par-

ents began to drop off and pick up items. What started as an organization run out of a tent has thus far saved over 10 tons of material from landfills in the spring events of 2013, according to organizers. Senior Claire Harrison describes the change as, “Amazing, when the attendance was very small it was hard to imagine it would ever grow as exponentially as it has. The transfer station becomes a traffic nightmare because people pack the area surrounding the event with their cars.” With such a large rise in attendance to events, the Summit Free Market planned to build a permanent structure at the transfer station. Funding for the permanent structure began when the New Jersey Sustainability fund al-

Buzz

Kool club offers new skits By Meredith Robertson

Buzz Editor

Photo by Jamie Macpherson

Student freecycling program creates new downtown exchange; receives new grant

Verve 9

Photo provided by Jamie Macpherson

November 2013

Volunteer! The Free Market, a free recyling initiative championed by students, shown here on Oct. 19 at the downtown Transfer Station. Any leftover items were donated to the LUPUS foundation.

lotted the town of Summit a $10,000 grant. All items that are dropped off at the event are taken by the LUPUS foundation. The grant, combined with a fundraiser held at Mayor Ellen Dickson’s house on

Volleyball sets up for winning season October 25, helped the program toward the target amount needed to build the structure. With building plans already decided upon and funds almost in place, the permanent structure is becoming reality.

Local grocer contemplates week- News from end midnight delivery service the English Hoboken Farms has proven to be a popular lunch spot for seniors who take advantage of their unassigned study. This local hot spot was established in Hoboken, but eventually opened locations around the Garden State. The business began in markets under canvas tents, selling at 30 farmers’ markets a

week. After 20 years of temporary business, the small company put a roof over its head and started a small sandwich shop here in Summit. Owner Brad Finkel revealed the secret to success. ”We do things as flavorful and as local as possible.” Finkel explains that he can drive to all of his vendors in under 30 minutes, which is about “as local as local can get.” Finkel works with New Jersey farmers to get quality and

healthy ingredients. Hoboken Farms differs from large grocer distributers because it works directly with its venders in order to ensure an exceptional product. Hoboken Farms is especially unique to New Jersey because the price of farmland in the densely populated state is outrageous. Finkel’s one of a kind shop has further hopes to connect with high school students by opening an extended delivery service until midnight on Friday and Saturday nights. Junior Brady Olcott encourages the idea, “On the weekends it’s always fun to grab a late night meal with friends, ordering Hoboken Farms is the perfect option!” The late night delivery service is not yet in place, but students can look forward to ordering a quick bite later than usual within the next few months.

department Legendary teacher Mr. Robert Kaplow’s 1991 young adult novel “Alessandra In Love” is now available for the first time as an ebook. This version is being touted by the publisher as a new and improved “director’s cut,” and the Kindle edition retails for $3.99 at Amazon.

Photo provided by Amazon.com

By Ashley White Staff Reporter

One of the newest additions to the school’s extensive list of extracurricular activities is the “It’s Kool to Be Kind Club,” which will hold its first meeting in November. The club aims to spread awareness of bullying to elementary school children, and is led by Juniors Will Currie, Justin Grange, Josh Osborne, Ben Powell and is advised by English teacher Ms. Asha Bailey. Club members will travel to local elementary schools, and spread awareness of bullying in third grade classes by performing various skits and activities. Throughout the year a group of club members will be sent during the school day to educate the kids. “It’s good for them to hear the anti-bullying explained by high schoolers,” said Currie, “Because we’re older, the kids look up to us, so they are more likely to listen. It’s definitely different than hearing a lecture from a teacher. Really, we’re trying to lead by example.” This club was originally started in Westport, Conn., where high school students were assigned as mentors to spread anti-bullying awareness to kids across the town. By using tangible examples and fun games, the advisers sought to make the anti-bullying lessons more engaging with a long-term impact. Grange explained that they came across the idea when talking about enjoying assemblies as elementary school students. “We thought it would be fun to have high schoolers do something entertaining like that for the kids, and anti-bullying struck us as the perfect message to convey,” Grange said. By serving as role models, the participants in the It’s Kool to Be Kind Club are spreading awareness to younger generations and bringing to life the message that being kind is always a good choice.

Turf

Verve 10

November 2013

Winter Sports Preview

Boys’ Basketball

Jim Davidson, the third coach in three years for the Varsity squad, takes the reins and looks to bolster the basketball program. With numerous returning seniors, including Robbie Walsh and Mac Weisner, goals include improving their 18-6 record from last year, winning the Union County Valley Division outright, and advancing far in the state tournament.

By Anika Becker Staff Reporter

Field Hockey The field hockey team has become a strong competitor in their conference, having ranked 19th in the state of New Jersey at the beginning of October, which has not been the case since 2010. The team began their season more closely bonded than ever before. Junior Kim Enriquez states “We bonded so much over the summer, which really helped us communicate better with each other on the field. This helped us to become a lot stronger of a team and allowed us to push each other during preseason”. The team’s final record was eight wins, four losses, and two ties.

Girls’ Basketball

Coach Erikson and staff try to turn around last year’s 7-18 campaign and avoid another first round exit from the Union County and State Tournaments. With an experienced squad, hopes are bright for a better season. Also, sophomore phenom, Cassidy O’Malley, is back for what figures to be an even better second season.

With a stellar group of long distance runners and sprinters, including Leland Jones, David Connolly, and Ryan Hughes respectively, the team looks to contend with some of the best squads in Union County and the state. Their sites are set on the Group 2 championships.

Wrestling In the recent years, Summit wrestling has been put on the map. They attempt to continue their success and put the state on watch as a rising team in Union County. With great competition around the area, the contests will be much anticipated throughout the season.

The boys’ soccer team ended their season with strong wins against teams such as Jonathan Dayton, Johnson, and Abraham Clark, ending the season with a record of nine wins, six losses, and three ties. Senior James Holtzer sums up the programs progression stating that since the beginning, “We’ve won four straight games with a state tournament appearance. We beat Scotch Plains for the first time in over ten years and Governor Livingston, which is always a tough game.”

Gymnastics

As a still emerging team, gym nastics has had a great record. Only in its second season, the team has ended with five total wins in meets, and only three losses.

Boys’ cross country

Boys’ cross-country has been a driven and talented team for many years, and this season was no exception. This team won all dual meets and placed highly in all meets. Led by Junior Leland Jones, who broke a school record for his race-time at the Union County Championship race on Oct. 23, the team won this championship meet.

Girls’ Soccer

Girls’ soccer has always been a popular sport, as it is an athletically rigorous sport. This season, the team triumphed, having ended the season with a close game against rival Oak Knoll. The girls’ soccer program ended with a final record of six wins, twelve losses and two ties.

Photo provided by summit.patch.com

With a strong crop of long distance runners including one of the state’s best in Gillian Mcilroy, the girls’ team looks to make a run in Group II and defend their numerous team, and individual Union County titles.

Photo provided by photos.nj.com

Girls’ Swimming

Lady Hilltoppers look to advance past the first round in the state tournament and make their mark as one of the best squads in Union County with the likes of Westfield, New Providence, and Scotch Plains. Although they have made six straight state tournament appearances in a row, they hope to advance farther than the first few rounds this year.

Fall Sports Wrap-Up

Boys’ Soccer

Girls’ Winter Track

Photo provided by summit.patch.com

Coach Luke Piede is back for a run at consecutive Public B state titles. With the exception of a few seniors, the team retains most of what made up the fifth best team in the state. This includes two of the teams, and the states best swimmers, Tommy DiSibio and Tim Kostalansky. Without a doubt, the chance of repeat is realistic. Photo provided by www.summit.k12.nj.us

The girls’ team looks to improve their already impressive 4th ranking in the state and look to climb further above the .500 mark this season. Showdowns with Princeton Day School and Morristown Beard are highly contested games to look forward to.

Boys’ Winter Track

phot provided by highschoolsports.nj.com

photo provided by nj.com

phot provided highschoolsports.nj.com

Boys’ Swimming

Photo provided by summit.patch.com

A core group of juniors and seniors led by Senior Liam McLaughlin, return to avenge their 1-0 defeat to Morristown in last years Public B quarterfinals. Much awaited matchups with rivals Westfield and Chatham are sure to be circled on the schedule, as the Hilltoppers look to return to their state championship form of two years ago.

Girls’ Ice Hockey

phot provided by highschoolsports.nj.com

Boys’ Ice Hockey

phot provided by highschoolsports.nj.com

By Dan Montgomery Staff Reporter

Football

Bowling The team looks to better their 7-7 record from last year, as almost the entire squad returns including leaders Brianna Boze, William Cassin, and David Berardi. With a few new additions, the team is poised for success and expected to make noise throughout the county.

Girls’ cross country

The football team, a part of the Mid State 38 Raritan Division, has had an outstanding season. After winning the Group 3 Sate Championship last December, the team has continued their winning streak. The team defeated competition such as Johnson, Cranford, and Rahway. The players continue to play hard and keep training, hoping to earn a spot back at the Championship game this post-season.

The girls’ cross-country team won every dual meet it participated in, against teams ranging from Union Catholic to Governor Livingston. Senior captain Gillian McIlroy attributes the team’s success to the amount of training. McIlroy states that “We focused a lot on getting stronger by doing abs and push ups everyday. Also, we did a lot of hill training and it has show off in our times this season”.

Girls’ Volleyball

Girls’ Tennis

The girls’ volleyball team ended their season with five total wins, and seven losses. Having beat teams including Plainfield, Johnson, the team played an impressive season.

The girls’ tennis team returned this season raring to compete. The girls ended with five total wins and twelve total losses, with games against tough competitors such as Scotch Plains-Fanwood, Kent Place and Oak Knoll.

Turf

November 2013

Athlete of the Month

Athletes of the Week- October By Niko Nyktas