Newspaper of Summit High School November
2011 Volume 12 Issue 2
Introducing Hilltopper Points
INSIDE this issue of Verve:
Snow Storm Coverage Page 8
By CARLY NYMAN and LINDSAY LEITER Ten points for Gryffindor – oh wait, be earned in the hallway decorating compe- to answer trivia questions about Summit. we mean the junior class! Summit High tition, which is set to take place around the By correctly answering the trivia question, School is beginning to resemble the hal- Semi Formal Dance. Additionally, points points will be tallied for the individual’s lowed halls of Hogwarts. Similar to the can be given to the class that contributes class. Student council members will conschool of witchcraft and wizardry, each most to various charity events during the tinuously be creating new ways to win Hillgrade is collecting points through various year such as the Thanksgiving Food Drive. topper Points throughout the rest of the year. events throughout the entire school year. Rumors have been circulating regardThere are some cool prizes in the works. ing the grand prize, but we’re here to put a The 2011-2012 school year will be filled stop to this nonsense. Junior Jess Sanyour with spirit due to the new Hilltopper Points heard the award was an all-expense-paid competition. One of the student countrip to Hawaii. Hate to shake the rumor cil advisers, Ms. Winifred Caetta, shares grape vine, but no such trip is in the works. that the goal of this friendly competition The details of the prize are bewill “create an excitement in the school ing finalized. There will also be and a bond within the SHS community.” smaller prizes for runner-up classes. This contest will be sure to spark interest and Student Council president, Sharon participation in future school events. Also, Kwak, believes “Hilltopper Points will it will hopefully revitalize school events The student council formulated new con- benefit our school by bringing us closer that have died down in the previous years, tests to gather points. For example, the together. The more students that get in(cough, cough…the Halloween assembly class with the highest attendance record at volved and branch out to other groups and the infamous Homecoming Dance). different checkpoints throughout the year of kids, the better connected our school Besides October’s Spirit Week and Pep will be rewarded with Hilltopper Points. will be.” This competition is sure to spark Rally, there will be multiple ways for your Also, during the year, students from dif- school spirit and encourage all students class to earn points. For example, they can ferent grades will randomly be selected to get involved in our SHS community.
Hallway Decorations By EMILY WILLS
Photo By Andrew Mandelbaum
Globe.....................2 Buzz.................3&4 S&S.......................5 Turf.......................6 Opine.....................7 Special...................8
What's Up:
November 13: World Kindness day November 17: Homemade Bread Day November 23: Fibonacci Day
The disappointment of the cancelled homecoming dance is old news, and now many students have noticed the lack of a senior class mural painted in the back hallway by the art wing. In previous years, Spirit Week was brought to a close with the gathering of each class to decorate their assigned hallway. The seniors would leave their mark on SHS by painting a mural of their hallway’s theme on a wall. Students would put their creativity to the test, bringing art supplies and ideas to compete to create the best hallway. Everything from Finding Nemo to The Pirates of the Caribbean to Monopoly and Harry Potter have found their place in the SHS hallway gallery. So, the question remains: will there be hallway decorations this year or not? Student council president, senior Sharon Kwak, says, "the decorations will make an appearance the week before Thanksgiving" this year. Pressure's on for for the classes to come up with this year's themes. Speculations for this year's hallways include the ubiquitous Jersey Shore cast, and the closely related 2012 Apocalypse. Until then, let the race to capture Spirit Year begin.
Steve Jobs: Remembering a Tech Icon By NATE COHEN
On October 5, most of us found out about Steve Job’s death via the Apple homepage screen. A thoughtful, healthy looking Jobs stared us all in the face and seemed to say frankly, “I’m gone”. There was no headline, no melancholy, just the dates of his birth and death to the left of his face. This all gave the announcement a particular shock value. It let you stare at the cool black numerals until you got the message. This, on the day of his death, was classic, quintessential Jobs. Even his death was announced in as sleek, simple, and striking a way as possible. The visuals, basic; the message, shocking; the delivery, genius. Consumer, you have been captured yet again. Hopefully, Steve Job’s legacy won’t be limited to this hypnotizing portrait. As brilliant as it is, it hardly captures the man that is its subject. Jobs founded Apple and pioneered Pixar. He brought us the iPod, the iPhone, the iPad, the Apple Store, and even the mouse. He gave us the means to put the universe in our pockets. He brought us out of the age of bulk, CDROMS, and keyboards. He also was the executive producer of the first computeranimated film, Toy Story. To every baby of the 90s, Steve Jobs was the modest, yet omnipotent bestower of media. Clearly, Jobs was, at the very least, a massive influence on the world. But unless you rooted for the PC in the “And I’m a Mac” commercials, you would say that Jobs was a visionary, a genius, even a hero. And this is not so because of his skill or intelligence alone. No, this is so because Jobs, perhaps unlike Bill Gates or Mark Zuckerberg, was not a robot. This tech-
icon was also, at one point or another, an adopted child, a Buddhist, an LSD user, a romantic, a husband, a father, a cancer fighter, an intellectual, and a dreamer. That is not calculation you see in the steely eyes on the Apple homepage, that is vast experience, emotion, and depth. From the time he was a young adult Jobs truly had a vision to change the world. I don’t have to tell you that Jobs did one semester of college, or that he founded Apple from his parent’s garage, or that he voluntarily accepted an annual salary of $1 as CEO. What I might have to tell you is that he did have this goal, and that he wasn’t foolish for it. There really is no catch: Jobs wasn’t a sellout or a lucky break; he was never scandalized or corrupted; he was never just in it for the wealth. This immaculately pure motive, ironically, seems to have been the very key to his success. If he’d had any other motive he just might have failed. Apple’s 1997-2002 “Think Different” advertising slogan read: "Here’s to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. They’re not fond of rules. And they have no respect for the status quo. You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them. About the only thing you can’t do is ignore them. Because they change things. They push the human race forward. While some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do "
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Verve Views
What's your take on No-Shave November?
"It's a fun tradition, I don't have a razor anyway!" Matt Casagrande '13
"I still can't grow a beard..." Mike Wills '14
A Second Glance at October in Summit
Summit High School 125 Kent Place Blvd. Summit, NJ 07901
By STEPHANIE OLLOM
In the town and on the field, this is what the Verve finds exciting in Summit.
Principal: Mr. Paul Sears Assistant Principals: Mr. Tony Akey Mrs. Stacy Grimaldi English Supervisor: Mr. Corey Walsh Adviser: Mrs. Anne Weisgerber
Verve Staff
"Only the cute guys can do it." Mujai Austin '12
By GWEN ROGERS The kings of finance, who play with lives and money in the skyscrapers surrounding Zuccotti Park in NYC, have taken notice of the many protesters on the streets below them. This protest that started on Sept. 17, 2011 has swept the nation. Protesters have been living in the New York City streets and waving signs, hoping that their opinions will be heard. This protest, Occupy Wall Street, began heating up a month and a half ago, when a significant number of protesters began speaking out against greed. Their rallying cry is "We are the 99%," referring to US income inequality. The point of contention is that the top 1% of earners control notable, increasing, and extraordinary wealth. The protestors at Zuccotti Park have yet to come up with a set of demands. Although, a few lists are circulating the Internet, an official list has not been published. It seems the main goal is to advertise their opinion that the government and economy have been corrupted by money and now the rest of the population is in trouble. On Tuesday, October 11, many protesters took action in what they call the “millionaire march.” This march entailed walking up to where many millionaires live. It began on fifty-ninth Street and Fifth Avenue at about 12:30pm and ended on the Upper East Side. Local media reported that there have been approximately 500 activists arrested, all for different reasons, ranging from drug use to disturbing the peace. Complaints have erupted from neighboring businesses and pedestrians, stating that the area surrounding the park has become loud and disruptive. Bloomfield Properties, a neighboring real estate company, who owns Zuccotti Park, has been one of the main sources of complaints.
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The state of New York, on Thursday, October 13, 2011 addressed the protesters. He told them that they must clear out for the park so it could be cleaned. Many of the activists were suspicious of this order and considered it just another attempt for the state of New York to try and push them away. As a result of Mayor Bloomberg asking them to move out of the park temporarily, the protesters took it upon themselves to clean up the park. Although, many still are complaining, Bloomberg notified protesters that they are no longer allowed to use tents, tarps, or sleeping bags. This is all in attempt to have the people of Zuccotti Park leave sooner. Mayor Bloomberg explains his concern for the protesters during his interview with WOR radio, "The longer this goes on, the worse it is for our economy. You just go down and talk to the stores in the neighborhood. Most say this is really hurting them." This protest has also inspired many others in different cities including , Washington D.C., Austin, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Boston, and Philadelphia. to join in against what they believe to be corrupt. This outbreak of protesters was endorsed by labor organizations all across New York City. This protest is seen as a small-scale community, and is equipped with a food, water, and a medical care station. They come together to provide one another with basic staples, such as food and water, by organizing such stations. National Nurses United, which is the largest nurse labor union, came forth to aid the people of this protest by providing them with medical supplies and an on-site nurse. Protesters on wall street are staying strong and will continue their fight to end government corruption.
Photo from www.summitpatch.com
Protesters Take Over
Under the lights. Summit kicks off Hilltopper Weekend with a crushing win against football rival Governor Livingston with a score of 63-21.
Union County Tournaments. Mens' varsity soccer takes on Dayton in the first round. One of the many games during Hilltopper weekend on October 15th.
Photo by Stephanie Ollom
Photos by Andrew Mandelbaum
A new café! Mondo is set to open this year. It is located right next to the Promenade in place of the old clothing store, Studio.
Photo from www.summitpatch.com
"I think it's kind of gross." Caroline Bearden '12
Photo by Stephanie Ollom
Editors-In-Chief:
Red Tomatoes and Fresh Vegetables. The Summit Farmer's Market continues to flourish.
Kayce D'Onofrio & Nikki Theriot FRONT PAGE Section Editor: Andrew Mandelbaum GLOBE Section Editor: Miriam Meller OPINE Section Editor: Nate Cohen SCREEN AND SOUND Section Editor: Emma Kramer BUZZ Section Editor: Carly Nyman TURF Section Editor: Kelly Delaney CIRCULATION MANAGER: Andrew Kaufman
STAFF REPORTERS: Alejandra Arias Felisa Deli Santi Thomas DiSibio Amdrew Kaufman Lindsay Leiter James Macpherson Lina Mockute Nicholas Nyktas Stephanie Ollom Gwen Rogers Emily Wills
"Steve Jobs; Changing the World" continued from front page No one can be sure how much Steve Jobs had to do with the writing of this slogan, or if he was involved at all. But if he didn’t write it, it’s likely that it was based on him. After all, Jobs said over a decade ago, “I want to put a ding in the universe”. Today, it’s clear that he did. So no, to all you South Park fans, Steve Jobs wasn't just the rich guy in the black mock-turtleneck. He was or maybe ought to have been, in every sense of the word, a hero: To every parent, to every businessman, to every Mac-guy, creative mind, one-ofa-kind, and dreamer. Steve Jobs lived a life of only 56 years, yes; but he most certainly put a ding in the universe. He may have wanted nothing more.
November 2011
Blind Date
z z u B
New Love Flourishes at Party City By KAYCE D’ONOFRIO
street, Nate was still clueless as to Nate asked Rachel what she was whom his date would be. However, going to order. Rachel said that she as we pulled up in front of Rachel’s likes Peanut Butter Perfection. Nate house, Nate immediately knew who replied, saying that it was a great his date was, seeing as it was also the choice. How adorable! After Nate home of senior Levi Glick. As Rachel and Rachel received their ice creams, approached the car, the two exchanged Rachel reached for her wallet, but “hellos” as Nate graciously opened the Nate offered to pay for his date. What car door for his date. After everyone a gentleman! Now it was time to sit and enjoy our ice was situated in the cream. Seeing as car, Nate immediately Coldstone only took out his phone, has tables set for only to text Levi two, Nate and saying, “Dude, I’m Rachel shared a on a date with your table that situated sister.” The date had them across from officially begun. one another. The first stop of While watching the date was a short the couple enjoy trip to Coldstone their ice cream, in Chatham, yet it I noticed them seemed light-years having a simple away due to the conversation and awkward silence in Nate and Rachel play dress up. Masquerading at Party City. actually make eye the back seat of the car. contact a few times…I To break the awkward silence, I asked Rachel how her could tell a relationship was brewing. After we finished our ice cream, the transition from Indiana to Summit has been. She replied saying that she “likes four of us debated where our next stop Summit, but still misses Indiana.” would be. I suggested bowling, but Nate then began to ask Rachel some Nate said it was too much work. Hallie questions, which created a short suggested apple picking, but Nate conversation between the two. Success! said it was “too lame.” So demanding. While we all were looking at the But, after much discussion, somehow signature Coldstone combinations, we decided that a trip to Party Photo by Kayce D’Onofrio
As many of the loyal Verve readers may remember, I was assigned to write a blind date article last year that featured then-junior Nate Cohen. However, considering Nate is a topdog-senior this year, I knew that I needed to find someone compatible with what he describes to be his “illustrious beauty.” Although there certainly is a plethora of eligible bachelorettes, I knew that I needed someone more than just competent. After narrowing down my choices, I decided that sophomore Rachel Glick was the perfect choice. As 4:00pm rolled around on a crisp October day, I left to pick up Nate, as I did not want to keep Rachel waiting. As Nate motioned to open the front door of the car, he was surprised to see that senior Hallie Burke was sitting in the front seat. He asked why she was coming on this date and Hallie explained that she had so much fun on her blind date with sophomore Niko Nyktas that she wanted to come back for more. Nate simply laughed at Hallie’s outlandish response and sat in the back seat. On our way to Rachel’s house, Nate was nervously asking a wide range of questions about his blind date, only to be answered with “maybe” or “I don’t know, you’ll have to wait and see.” As we turned on to Rachel’s
UnSung Hero: Go Green or Go Home By ALEX ARIAS
Photo Provided by Claire Harrison
To most of Summit High School, many high school Key Club volunteers Claire Harrison is a sophomore in band over its three years of existence. This and a member of the Women’s Junior program helped the L.C.J.S.M.S green Varsity soccer team. What most of us status. She is currently a member of the don’t know is that that she is a devoted City of Summit Recycling Advisory environmental Committe and in the a c t i v i s t . summer she works Every since elementry as an environmental school, she has intern for the been involved in City of Summit. protecting the planet. “Part of the reason In fourth grade she I am so active began campaigning to environmentally is eliminate Styrofoam because all of our trays from the planet’s problems cafeterias of Summit are going to fall on public schools. our generation. I Not only were the know we hear this a Styrofoam trays lot, but we really are Reducing, reusing, and recycling non-recyclable, but makes a difference. Claire helps the future. It’s important also they contained save our planet one box at a time. to step up now to begin carcinogens that the process of positive could harm students’ bodies if they leaked into their food. change, because it is going to be a long In middle school she was a member road to success. Our decisions will of the Summit Free Market, a student- make a huge difference in the world of run initiative that utilized the help of future generations” explains Harrison.
November 2011
City would be the next stop on our itinerary. And so the date continued. Upon parking at Party City, Hallie began to “sing” to The Band Perry’s “If I Die Young.” As we entered the store, Hallie continued to sing, only to have younger kids laugh and comment saying, “that’s embarrassing.” However, Hallie ignored them and continued to sing up and down the aisles while collecting costumes for Nate and Rachel to try on. After walking through nearly every aisle, we garnered a costume for both of the lovebirds. But, after a few laughs and pictures, we decided that we better return home. On the car ride home, Hallie searched the radio with hopes of finding another song that she could “sing.” She came across Chris Brown’s “Forever,” cranked up the volume, and belted the song, using her plastic Voss bottle as a microphone. I eventually joined in, however I changed the lyrics, dedicating the song to Nate and Rachel’s blossoming love. Little did I know that Nate was videotaping us on his phone. As we entered Summit, we all realized that this meant the date was coming to a close, thus deflating our spirits. We reached Rachel’s house and the two love birds said their goodbyes, hopefully meeting again soon.
Upcoming Events: Thursday and Friday: 11/10-11/11 No School, Teacher Convention Saturday: 11/12 Boys Varsity Football Sectional Quarter Finals against Roselle (At Investors Bank Field) 1:00 pm Wednesday: 11/16 College Night 7:00 pm Tuesday: 11/22 Hallway Decorations Wednesday: 11/23 Half Day, Powder Puff Game 4:00 pm Thursday and Friday: 11/24-11/25 Thanksgiving Break Thursday and Friday: 12/1-12/2 Spring Musical Auditions
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More Fresh Faces at SHS
SHS.
Mr. Weinfield: Math
Photo by Tommy Disibio
When you’re frantically searching Out of the classroom, he has a lot for the answers in math, feel free of interesting hobbies. He loves to to ask Mr. Brian travel and has his eyes set Weinfield for help. He on Japan because of his is a new math teacher recent study of Japanese. at Summit High He played hockey in high School, and so far he school, and is a huge loves it. He finds all of New Jersey Devils fan. his classes enjoyable He plays ultimate frisbee, which are Foundations and is an experienced of Algebra, Algebra guitarist. So far he loves 3 Trigonomtry, and where he is, but someday Introduction to hopes to teach a statistics SHS’s new mathmatician. Computers. This is his class. Whether you see Smiling with style. first official teaching Mr. Weinfield in the job since he graduated from Rutgers math wing or jetting off to Japan, University, where he recieved his feel free to introduce yourself. Undergraduate and Graduate degree.
Exclusive Verve Interview with Juicy Bee By EMMA KRAMER
Photo proided by Juicy Bee
As reported in the last issue of this EK: Where do you like to shop? newspaper, there was to be no 2011 JB: I like to shop at thrift stores, Halloween assembly at Summit High Abercrombie & Fitch, and Forever 21. School due to ongoing renovations. EK: What do you like to do on Sadly, that translates to no performance the weekends? Where’s your place to hangout? by Juicy Bee. For the past three years, favorite his vivacious dance moves have been a JB: I like to go shopping with friends, highlight of that entertaining assembly. go to typical house parties, but definitely go shopping. Verve’s Emma Kramer EK: What are your sought out Juicy Bee, plans for next year when a.k.a. senior Elijah you graduate? And Griffiths, who dispensed further into the future? some philosophical JB: I plan to major in words of wisdom communications and in lieu of his usual focus on public relations. Halloween high jinx. And in the future, I guess In this Verve exclusive I want to be famous. interview, Juicy Bee’s I don’t know how or dauntless disposition why, but I’d like to get shines through. there just to be famous. Emma Kramer: Juicy Bee strikes a pose. EK: What things So, how did you Sharing his style with Verve. annoys you the most? come up with the name “Juicy Bee”? JB: It annoys me when people stare Juicy Bee: Well, my friends came at me without saying anything. If up with it. It just kinda happened. you’re going to stare, say something. EK: How do you feel about not having EK: Who’s your idol and why? a Halloween assembly? You wont get JB: Lady Gaga. She’s different. your last hurrah performance at SHS. Everything she does is so unexpected JB: I feel neutral. I’m still going and she is still respected for it. Who has made the to dress up and do me of course. EK: EK: What do you think you have biggest impact on your life? left at Summit High School? Do you JB: My uncle. He went to Summit think you have influenced anyone? High School too. I don’t think he JB: I think I’ve influenced people to came out of the closet until after be more confident about who they are. he graduated, but we’re twins.
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Photo by Tommy Disibio
When you have a social problem, or to Summit High School, she worked want to talk to someone in Passaic County as a one-on-one, Ms. Vanessa middle school counselor. Rueda, in the guidance She can speak fluent office, is here to help you. Spanish, and enjoys She was born in Ramsey, going to the movies and NJ and in high school she dancing. Additionally realized she wanted to be she loves singing, yoga, a guidance counselor. She and working out. She got her BA in psychology helps with Spanish night, from Fairleigh Dickinson the HISPA program, and University, and then got SHS’s new counselor. loves to help others. In the her masters in guidance Ms. Rueda guides her mornings she is at Washington from Montclair State elementary school, but in the students. University. Before coming afternoons works at SHS.
Ms. Cataldi: Physical Education
When you need a spotter in the gym, helped win a NCAA Division III or rules for a game, Ms. championship. She loves Laura Cataldi will be there being active, which also to help. She is one of the helped her become coach new physical education for the Women’s Varsity teachers here at Summit soccer and, hopefully, High School. She comes lacrosse. She loves SHS, to Summit from Abraham and takes part in various Clark High School in activities outside of Roselle, where she gained school. She loves to cook experience as a coach and healthy foods and shares it teacher. She went to The New coach and teacher. with everyone in her family. College of New Jersey A real score for SHS. Make sure to welcome Ms. and majored in health and exercise Cataldi when you’re in gym class, science. She is most proud that she study hall, or health to show her what was recruited there for lacrosse, and Summit High School is all about. Photo by Tommy DiSibio
Photo by Tommy Disibio
When you are struggling with Algebra 2, and Geometry 2 here at math Ms. Crystina SHS. Ms. Mincey speaks Mincey is there to help. fluent Spanish, and a good She graduated from amount of Portuguese. Rutgers University Before teaching, she was a where she was a Math dance instructor in South Education major. She Plainfield for five years. was a student teacher Whether you see Ms. at Carteret High School Mincey on a dance floor for a semester, which or working through an helped her graduate with equation, in room 104, be Dancing through a Bachelor’s degree sure to meet her and make in Math education. decimals. Ms. Mincey her feel welcome here at SHS. She teaches Algebra 1, is a great addition to
Ms. Rueda: Guidance
SENIOR COLUMN: The Awkwardness Continues By ANDREW KAUFMAN
In last month’s issue, I didn’t head as a person and would stop from get around to explaining the title closing. To my surprise, it didn’t. I of my article, “The Adventures spent several minutes with my head of Awkward Andy.” For those of stuck in the doors alone until airport you who know me well, it is pretty security came by to assist me. clear, but for the large portion of the When I was in middle school, Verve readership that doesn’t know I had the unfortunate tendency of me, this title might have sustaining incredibly caused some confusion. stupid injuries. Like So let me clarify: I am the time I clumsily indeed awkward. I’m fell out of a car and I notorious for going hit my forehead on a for high fives that are pole, with the car in meant for the person park. Or the time I behind me, saying accidentally cut my “good thanks” when finger at a cooking someone says “what’s camp, and proceeded up,” and exclaiming to pass out at the sight things at the absolute of my own blood. Not again! Awkard Andy worst moments. So Besides having the when my friends point strikes again as he spills misfortune of injuring out my awkwardness, his papers all over the myself, I have had some hallway. I can remember pretty awful experiences each example distinctly. with animals. Like one time, I For instance, one time when was attacked by a swarm of wasps my family was at an airport, my at the Arboretum. I didn’t have brothers went to go check out the a ride to the emergency room planes in the terminals. I got bored so, I ran to the hospital with of it quickly, so I played with the over 25 stings all over my body. automatic doors. For some reason So yes, I am awkward Andy. But I had the bright idea of seeing if the at least I don’t crack bad jokes. I’ll door sensor would recognize my leave that to Andrew Mandelbaum. November 2011 Photo proided by Tommy Disibio
Ms. Mincey: Math
By TOMMY DISIBIO
La Familia
Lights, Camera, Cabaret!
By EMMA STANDING
By LINA MOCKUTE
and horrified that Haley would even consider marrying Dylan who in their eyes will never be good enough. What is ironic about this is that like Dylan, Phil is constantly feigning for the attention of Jay who he feels does not value his hard work as a father and a great husband. This disastrous idea of marriage between these two teenagers quickly turns into a bigger problem when Dylan leaves the group and no one can find him. The new season of Modern Family promises to be as good, if not better, than the first two seasons. It’s reassuring to see that its storylines are still hilarious while touching, with each character as strong and unique as ever. Viewers of this Emmy-winning comedy starring Ed Harris can definitely look forward to future episodes of one of the best modern-day sitcoms.
Upcoming Concerts The Kooks Katy Perry Jay-Z & Kanye West Mac Miller Wu Tang Clan
Webster Hall Madison Square Garden Boardwalk Hall Best Buy Theater Starland Ballroom
11/16 11/16 11/19 12/02 12/15
A lady was happy to keep her hus- Mr. Wayne Mallette, the chorus diband’s dinner warm, a nerdy couple rector, and Mrs. Anne Poyner, the wanted to change, and a talented drama director, organized the event, actress shared her scandalous secret but there was also an unexpected to success. On October 21st from 7 performance this year by principal PM-10 PM, these confesSears. A highlight at the sions and many more berehearsal included Mr. came open to the public, Mallette, Mr. Rapp, expressed through singand Mr. Sears performing, acting, and dancing "Fatherhood Blues" ing during Summit High from the musical BABY School’s annual Cabaret. , a crowd-pleaser due Here at Summit High, to the combination of students try out with cersinging, dancing, acttain numbers from muing, and bat-throwing. sicals and perform those Most students insame songs in the cafvolved in theater are eteria a few weeks later. very enthusiastic about Preparing can be difficult, the night and generally but junior Cece Flanaenjoy it. Junior Josh All Smiles!Junior Emily Claypoole gain explains that the rejoices after her performance of Smith said, “I love secret to Cabaret is, "You Can Always Count On Me." Cabaret!!” "You have to have a For a fee of fifteen song you like, and you dollars, Cabaret promust be confident with yourself." vides food, including drinks and apShe applies this rule to Cabaret, as petizers, and a great talent show that well as with anything else she may raises money for SHS's drama properform. gram. This year, students and songs Teachers working with the students ranged from solos, to freshman trios, helped make the program even bet- to a lovely Dalton sister-duo, makter than it has been in past years. ing the program a great success. Photo by: Lina Mockute
Modern Family hit the ground running in its season premiere. Seen every Wednesday at 9:00 p.m. on ABC, Modern Family did not disappoint in its first, hour-long episode of its third season, and brought back some of the best writing and realistic characters on TV today. The series addresses problems and issues common to many families in modern America, but does so with realistic dialogue, sharp humor and witty intelligence. In the season opener, the entire family ventures off to a dude ranch retreat to relax and spend quality time together. The biggest and most surprising event that takes place while on this vacation is when Haley (Sarah Hyland) Claire and Phil’s oldest daughter is proposed to by her longtime boyfriend. The whole family is extremely shocked
Fall Play '11: Southern Fare on Menu By MEGAN SHAW
November 2011
themes of love, loss, the meaning of and Sheila’s (Junior Beth Ann Powhappiness, and the worth of friend- ers) awkward yet charming relationship. ship, but they nearly cried as Barry After a brief intermission and des- (Sophomore Jack LeGoff) was abused sert, The Boys Next Door cast took the by his father (Senior Sebastian Madristage, chronicling the daily lives of gal) and moved to an institution. A fifour mentally disabled adults living to- nal key scene of the show, happened as gether senone roomsitively and m a t e , with, kindLucien ness and wit. (FreshJack Palmer m a n (Junior Brad Keenan Przedpelski) Buckley), a dedicated tells an social workout-ofer, portrayed character compassion m o n o and commitlogue, ment, while saying responding while he to his clients, Cast of "The Boys Next Door" flash a smile. is a simple man, sometimes seen From left: sophomore Greg Archer, junior Beth Ann he is simply a as his closest Powers, sophomore Aiden Proshuto, junior Brad man. Although friends, with Przedpelski, senior Chris Sinunu, junior Emily the audience dignity and hu- Claypoole, freshman Keenan Buckley, and sopho- laughed at the more Jack LeGoff. mor. The audiidiocies of the ence laughed as characters, it one man, Arnold (Sophomore Greg Ar- was clear that the roommates' struggled cher) declared he was moving to Russia with the universal emotions of pain and while wearing a Soviet hat, or smiled at joy. Norman (Sophomore Aidan Proshuto) Photo by Nikki Theriot
Photo provided by Nikki Theriot
Summit High School presented an with the lighthearted topics of gosoutstanding fall production. Fighting sip and hair, balanced with the poiagainst the brutal storm, and lacking gnant story of young Shelby’s (Freshan auditorium, the theater department man Samantha Theriot) struggle with still pulled off a fantastic dinner the- medical problems, eventual death, and ater event on November 4th and 5th. M’Lynn's (Senior Mariah Dalton) final The show took place in the cafeteria, tear-jerking scene of losing her daughwhere dinner ter. Comic and desserts relief was were served. provided This closeby Ouup seating iser’s (Seadded a cozy nior Nifeeling to the cole Mion) performance, acerbic of two oneattitude act plays, clashing Steel Magnowith solias by Robphisticated ert Harling Clairee and The Boys (Junior Next Door by Cast of "Steel Magnolias." (From left) senior Nicole C r i s t i n a Tom Griffin. Mion, senior Nikki Theriot, junior Christina Tsanas, Tsanas), as junior Lynsey Newsham, freshman Samantha Theriot, Both shows well as Truand senior Mariah Dalton. were sensitive vy’s lively portrayals, utip e r s o n a l i t y, lizing humor, and broaching delicate and Annelle's (Senior Nikki Theriot) issues and mature themes. an employee at the salon, sweetness. As the audience dined, they watched The cast portrayed their characters the southern Steel Magnolias, a story, with authentic southern accents. As the taking place in Truvy’s (Junior Lyn- seasons change, the audience watched sey Newsham) beauty salon, dealing as six very different women deat with
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World Series Madness
BY FELISA DELLI
Photo from Summitpatch.com
Holly Confalone steals the ball in the 1-1 tie against Westfield.
The womans soccer team's current record is 7-3-3, and has put in a lot of time and effort in order to get to where they are right now in the season.
Photo from Summitpatch.com
Serve it up. Junior Tasha Kewalramani serves a ball on the womans Varsity Tennis Team. The womans tennis team stands strong with a record of 9-3 and a ranking of 4th in the county.
of five series, eliminating them from the playoffs. The most shocking of the two being the Phillies who had the best starting pitching rotation of Cole Hamels, Roy Halladay, Roy Oswalt, and Cliff Lee. Those two teams, along with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and Arizona Diamondbacks, were all eliminated, leaving the Detroit Tigers, St. Louis Cardinals, Milwaukee Brewers, and Texas Rangers. The Cardinals and Rangers then advanced to the World Series. Then after seven close games the Cardinals were able to pull out the victory. It was a stunning year in Baseball with many ups and downs but it is now over.
Photo by J.P. Lucaci
Snapshots of Summit Sports
The Summit mens soccer team currently has a record of 8-61, and is on its way to improving upon last year’s record.
The womans Cross Country team is currently ranked 16th in the state.
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The Summit field hockey team has been having a great season so far. With a record of 8-7-1 and great teamwork, the team has managed to stay in the game and win
At press time the Summit Football team had a perfect record of 7-0.
November 2011
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Photo from thealternativepress.com
Varsity football comes together for a team picture.
At St. Peter’s, Harkins participated in multiple prestigious meets, includingin Hudson County Championship last October where he placed third overall. After transferring to SHS, Harkins decided to stick with his passion and joined Summit’s team. In early October, he competed in the Shore Coaches’ Invitational, achieving a personal record of eighteen minutes and ten seconds, only twenty seconds away from his aspired personal record. Although Harkins adores the sport, some aspects agitate him, such as the uniform choice. “I would like it better if the uniforms weren’t so small and tight. I think it’s a problem when my underwear is longer than my shorts.” As the season comes to a close, Harkins is stoked for his senior year on the team, and happy to have impacted Summit XC’s rookies. “I’m sort of their father figure in a way”, he stated. In a consult with Harkins, he revealed his favoritism toward the Summit XC team. “I like Summit XC better just because it is closer to home and there are more of my classmates on the team!”
This year in baseball has been insane, up until the last month of the regular season, it was a generic year; the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees fighting for first and the Philadelphia Phillies ahead of everyone by at least a few games. Then the Red Sox began to slip. By the end of the season, the Rays had pulled ahead by one game and clinched the American League Wild Card. Although this was the first stunning upset of the year, it was just the beginning. Come the first round of the playoffs, the league was shaken again when the two best teams in baseball, the New York Yankees and Philadelphia Phillies, lost their best
Photo from Summitpatch.com
Photo by Felisa Delli Santi
BY JAMIE MACPHERSON
Gearing up. Junior Neil Harkins is excited to be a new member of the SHS XC team.
When the word “running” makes its way into any conversation, many people tend to turn away and cringe. Sweating, panting, and exerting mass quantities of energy are not for everyone; however, some find it invigorating and refreshing. Running takes endurance, diligence, and the ability to trick your mind into thinking that your legs aren’t tired. One of the many running patrons in Summit High School is junior, Cornelius Harkins, who began running Cross Country in sixth grade and has not stopped since. Running is his passion and he really enjoys the competitive aspects Cross Country provides. His favorite feature of running occurs at the end of the race. “I like being able to claim my place and feel the fury of accomplishment through my veins, ”Harkins said. Before each race, Harkins enjoys the sounds of the "Survivor’s" hot single, "Eye of the Tiger" in order to pump him up, “It makes me feel like Rocky before a big fight!” Harkins is new to SHS this year; he previously attended St. Peter’s Prep in Jersey City.
TURF
Photo from Summitpatch.com
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Cross Country Star Leads the Course For XC Rookies
Harkins takes the lead at Warinaco.
The mens Varsity cross country squad led the team to a 2nd place finish at the Mountain Division Championship at Warinanco Park, an improvement to last year’s 3rd place finish.
Nicole Johnson serves it up at a home game verses Oak Knoll.
With a record of 19-1, the team has had an awesome season, regardless of their one loss to Kent Place School.
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Senior Lounge Snacks: College Is Killing Me By KELLY DELANEY
Photo by Kelly Delaney
What’s the hardest part of a being a ful because the walk to and from the senior? College Apps? No. AP Class- cafeteria eats up a lot of senior’s lunch es? No. Having to make the hike from time.” the senior lounge to the cafeteria for Mr. Akey has been pushing for a sethat one utensil you forgot? Yes. For nior express café for a long time. “The years, seniors have had to walk from idea of food kiosks for the seniors the senior lounge to the cafeteria every would be wonderful, and some time in time they need to buy a snack or forget the future it will happen. As the a spoon school for lunch. g e t s That’s m o r e why our popuschool is lated we in desperhave the ate need of chalan express lenge of café in feeding the senior everylounge. one in a The space roomy w o u l d envihave all r o n the snacks ment. Snack Sesh. Seniors hope to enoy a express café of their that the exThe senior own. press line in lounge has the cafeteria has, plus utensils and nap- made the traffic in the cafeteria more kins. This line would make the lives of manageable. In the future we will have all seniors less exhausting and save us to find ways to have larger numbers eat a trip down the never-ending hallway in the lounge. Obviously to have food to the cafeteria. sold/served there is a key.” Senior Matt Bauer thinks having the So let’s reduce the stress level of the express line would be a good idea. seniors by putting an express café in “Most people forget utensils in their the senior lounge. lunch. This line would be really help-
Akey Responds
God, I love the beauty of the fall. And it’s so much more enjoying when the Yankees have lost in the playoffs. There’s something so nice about seeing the carcass of Goliath rotting in the Bronx. In case you missed it, the guy who shot Khadafy was wearing a Yankee hat and the Post headline said, “Yankee Fan kills Khadafy. Had more hits than A-Rod.” We live in such a gentle and kind area of the world, don’t we? Hilltopper weekend was a big hit. Major props to the thousand of fans who showed up for the game. The band by the way was awesome, and the band front; you are the best I’ve seen in 32 years. Just awesome. The outfits look great and your timing is wonderful. Last year I gave the editors of Verve a hard time about not running stories on interesting topics in the school. How about a football team that is 29-1 over the last years? How amazing is that? Now boys, do me a favor and when you win the state championship this year, show up to school the next day. Remember athletes, winners on the field and in the hallways. All teams, great fall season. Major props also to the girls cross country teams. And the women’s volleyball team. What great seasons you had. Seniors, you really aren’t giving me too much ammo this year. You’re doing a great job with the parking lot and open campus when you have unassigned. You are showing up on time and I’ve only had to take away a few parking spaces. Is it possible you could actually make me sad at graduation? I was observing a senior class doing project adventure in the gym and a few of them offered to let me climb the wall, assuring me they would really hold on to the rope and keep me safe. That’s just what I want, my life in the hands of someone who didn’t get unassigned. I hear the over under for the powder puff game is 30…… Not points, but spectators after half time. Prediction. Seniors by 24 points in a major blow out. Hallway decoration winners? The custodians because you will put so little effort in to it (if the past three years are any indication), there will be little to clean up. Peace Love and The Woodstock Nation.
By ANDREW MANDELBAUM College applications are awful. I was told that I would love having the Common Application because it makes applying to college so easy. That is very true until you find yourself writing 3 supplemental essays for every school that you’re applying to. Writing an essay for college is like scratching a chalkboard with your nails, slow, painful, and no one enjoys it. After you finally think that you have a good draft and you show your mom, you begin to realize that this is just the beginning and that it's going to take a while to finish this first essay. After you finally finish that first essay you need to now write 20 more so the slow tedious process begins again. There are a couple upsides to the process, if you are a good enough student in your classes, perhaps your teachers will accept the homework of writing you a recommendation. All that you have to do is tell them where you’re applying and send them an email.
Transcript request forms are an interesting subject. We still follow a very archaic process of turning them in. This requires every student to fill out one form for each of the schools that they apply to at which point they write down every school you chose to apply to and then you initial them. I think a simple Internet form could make this process a breeze. What if every student had an account and they just plugged in the schools and when the deadline is. Then Mrs. Mahler could simply click on each students name and up could pop the list of schools they are applying to with the addresses. But the worst part about applying to schools is waiting to hear if you got in. After you turn in all of your materials you generally have to wait a minimum of a month to hear back. This time you spend in limbo is frightening; you are scared you might be rejected from your top school.
Introducing Spotify By DREW SCHWENDIMAN As social networking sites take over and in play-lists so they can be enjoyed the Internet, sharing begins to take whenever. over, too. People share photos, opinHowever, sharing music doesn’t apions, and embarrassing personal mo- peal to everyone. Social Networking ments all over the World Wide Web. sites are constantly becoming more Well, why not share music? Spotify is searchable, raising privacy issues. “I a music sharing service where students don’t like people knowing what I liscan view what their ten to. That’s just peers listen to, comweird,” senior Jubining music with lia Shaffer noted. social life. Sopho"I like to keep my more Will Elia says, music to myself be“It’s easy to use and cause I can actually has a lot of songs have something that I don’t have in of my own, since my iTunes, so I don’t I usually share have to buy them to everything with listen to them. I can my friends." Julia also see what other Washburn, a sophpeople like and listen omore said. Music to their music.” is a defining charOne might wonder, acteristic of people ‘why bother with and if everyone Spotify when there Listen Up. Users of Spotify can enjoy had the same muis YouTube and Facesic, then individuality their favorite music free. book?’ With a Spotify would be lost. account, it can be connected to your Will Spotify replace Ping, last.fm, Facebook account thus allowing one to or Pandora? Did people really think enjoy the music his or her friends are Apple would surpass Microsoft? It listening to with ease. On YouTube, doesn’t hurt to try anything that’s free. one has to search for the song he or she More details and an FAQ are available wants to listen to, and the music qual- at www.spotify.com. ity may not be up to par. With Spotify, music files are saved in one’s library Photo by Tommy DiSibio
Students argue the need for an Express Café in the Senior Lounge
Verve Editorial Policy: Verve is a publication open to opinions of its readers. Letters to the editor are welcome, and must be signed, but requests for anonymity will be respected. Verve reserves the right to edit letters due to space constraints, but all effort will be made to preserve the writer's intent. Nothing obscene or libelous will be published.
Page 7
November 2011
In Case You Missed It... "No School November"
Photo by Andrew Mandelbaum
Photo by Tommy Disibio
What's up with snow in October? What's up with no Halloween? On October 29, the East Coast was hit by a devastating snowstorm. The storm left over a million people without power. After a week in the dark, almost everyone has their power back and daily life is returning to normal, but the repercussions of the storm are not over. AP teachers are worried because a week of school has been lost and the AP exams aren't moving, the first marking period has been extended, all of the Summit Public School's snow days have been used, a day of spring recess has already been taken and the streets of Summit are still lined with debris from the storm.
Trees topple power lines bringing a blackout to Ashland Road.
Tree fall in backyard. Thousands of fallen trees and branches remain around Summit.
Photo by Andrew Mandelbaum
Photo by Andrew Mandelbaum
Transformer on Oak Ridge Avenue broke in half. Oak Ridge residents did not have power restored until Friday, November 4.
Fallen tree blocks Surrey Road.
Ultimate for The Cure
The Discjockey's toss some cool plastic.
Page 8
Photo by Andrew Kaufman
October 23, 2011
November 2011