Newspaper of Summit High School
April 2012 Volume 12 Issue 7
Teen Arts Festival Displays Local Students Talent
INSIDE
Photo by Alex Arias
this issue of Verve:
Freshman Matt Greenstein jamming at the Maroon Room, more coverage on the Backpage
Globe....................2 Opine....................3 Buzz.................4&5 S&S.......................6 Turf.......................7 Maroon Room.....8
What's Up:
May 3: Director's Showcase May 7-18: AP Exams
May 18: Senior/Junior Prom May 22: Senior Athletic Banquet
This year's Teen Arts Festival, taking place at Summit High School, featured a variety of works from Summit High School and other surrounding schools. Artwork by SHS students Clockwise from Top Right: Senior Delgerjaral Enkhbat, Junior Josh Smith, Junior Will Kaplan, Sophomore Emma von Haas. See story page 4.
Major League Baseball Preview By LINDSAY LEITER
American League EAST The Tampa Bay Rays are a surprise team every year, due to a lower payroll and a very creative manager, Joe Madden. James Shields and David Price lead their stellar young pitching staff. However, the Red Sox and Yankees should lead the way in the AL East. The Boston Red Sox’s success lies in the strength of their three big pitchers: Josh Beckett, Jon Lester, and Clay Buchholz. Additionally, All-Stars Adrian Gonzalez, David Ortiz, Dustin Pedroia, and Jacoby Ellsbury are the main offensive threads in a potent line-up. Every year the New York Yankees showcase a line-up overflowing with All-Stars, which is a result of having the highest payroll in baseball. Last season Curtis Granderson had a career year with 41 home runs, Derek Jeter reached the 3,000 hit mark and still looks and plays like he is not aging, and Mariano Rivera, the best closer to ever play the game, continued to shine with over 40 saves. Pitchers Michael Pineda and Hiroki Kuroda should improve their pitching staff.
American League CENTRAL All of the teams in the AL Central will be subpar to the Detroit Tigers, who should run away with the division title, and will be one of the more dominant teams in MLB. The Tigers boast last year’s MVP and Cy Young winner, Justin Verlander. The team will continue to shine with the offensive assistance of 3B Miguel Cabrera and acquired first baseman Prince Fielder. The Tiger’s closer, Jose Valverde, was perfect in saves last season with 47. The Kansas City Royals are a young exciting team that will likely become a force in the next couple of years led by OF Alex Gordon and 1B Eric Hosmer. The Minnesota Twins have felt the impact in the wins column because of the injuries of two hot shots Justin Morneau and Joe Mauer, who need to have bounce-back years to revive the team. The Chicago White Sox and Cleveland Indians will likely struggle in the division. The Tigers should dominate in the AL Central.
American League WEST The Angels and Rangers are far superior to the A’s and the Mariners in the AL West. The Los Angeles Angels look to be the strongest team in the American League West with the addition of 1B Albert Pujols, who signed a 10-year contract for $254 million, and pitcher CJ Wilson. This team has one of the best rotations in baseball led by Jared Weaver along with Danny Haren and Ervin Santana. The Texas Rangers are the two-time defending American League Champions, so they are expected to have a strong 2012 season. Their big pickup was Japanese phenom pitcher, Yu Darvish, who solidified their pitching staff. Additionally, the Rangers have great offensive players in Josh Hamilton, Adrian Beltre, and Michael Young. The AL West could easily be a tossup between the consistently productive Rangers and the stacked Angels.
Continued on Page 7...
Verve Views:
What is your ideal way to be asked, or to ask to Prom?
“I would want someone to give me a goldfish and say, 'out of all the fish in the sea, will you go to Prom with me?'” - Mujai Austin ('12)
“I would dress up in a gorilla suit and say, 'if you don’t go to Prom with me I am going to go bananas!'” - Andrew Oristanio ('13)
“I want someone to write 'Prom?' across a tractor holding a boom box playing country music as they ride across my lawn.” - Tess Badenhausen ('13)
"I hope I'm not too late, Carly...Prom?" - Matt Maier ('13) “I would write 'Prom?' with my date's name on a huge banner and ask the custodians to help me hang it off the side of the high school.” - Jake Sergeant ('12)
“I want someone to spell out 'Prom?' in chicken nuggets and cheese because I’m lactose intolerant and a vegetarian.” - Emma Standing ('13)
Viral Kony Vid Misleads and Informs By NIKO NYKTAS
On March 5, Invisible Children Inc, a charity that donates to conflicts in Africa, released a short film about Ugandan war criminal Joseph Kony. The video went viral, but it has been criticized heavily since its release, with critics stating it was full of “misinformation” and “blown up facts.” In addition, on March 15, the video’s narrator, Jason Russell, was detained for masturbating in public, which did not help the charity’s effort to collect funds. The fact of the matter is that Joseph Kony is not as dangerous as Invisible Children makes him out to be. Kony’s group, the Lord's Resistance Army, was at its height over ten years ago. That was when they mutilated and kidnapped children. They haven’t been active for quite a few years. Most of the footage
Summit High School 125 Kent Place Blvd. Summit, NJ 07901 Principal: Mr. Paul Sears Assistant Principals: Mr. Tony Akey Mrs. Stacy Grimaldi English Supervisor: Mr. Corey Walsh Adviser: Mrs. Anne Weisgerber
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shown in the Kony video is old and outdated. In addition, there is hardly a voice for the people the video is trying to help “save,” with a Ugandan named Jacob being the only speaker from Uganda. If one is trying to save someone, one should find out what, if anything, is needed. That is not to say that one shouldn’t help them, although Joseph Kony’s actions were not admirable and this organization was attempting to help, donating to a more reliable one may be more sufficient and helpful in the end. Although the video’s reasons may have been inaccurate, it still managed to shed light on a criminal that nobody knew about before. This is always a good thing, and in spite of the Kony video being viewed as imperfect, that is something good it did do.
“This year, I going to make my famous homemade ABC soup and spell out 'Prom?'” - Austin Carbone ('13)
All Photos provided by Felisa Delli Santi
Savvy Degrees Required By KAYCE D'ONOFRIO
While growing up, almost every child either dreams of being a doctor, lawyer, teacher, policeman, or a firefighter. Nearly every child, especially in this day and age, intends to receive good grades in school and then graduate from an acclaimed college or university. However, an ignorant and naïve child does not take annual salary into account when deciding their career path. Although it may be obvious that certain occupations yield higher salaries than others, what is not obvious is that certain majors yield higher salaries than others. With the collapse of the economy in 2008, the unemployment rate skyrocketed, thus university majors began to have more significance. Because of the fierce competition in the labor force, businesses began to choose the most qualified, leaving the rest in the dust. But what deems one to be “more qualified” than someone else? According to a study done by Georgetown University professors Anthony Carnevale, Ban Cheah, and Jeff Strohl, majors
in engineering such as chemical engineering, aeronautics, and physics on average yield the highest annual salaries at $155,000, $102,000, and $101,000 respectively. These majors are believed to yield the highest salaries due to fact that our modern world is engrossed in advancing technology. Although the study claims that these majors yield the highest salaries, the study also states that the jobs in “education, healthcare, business, and professional services” have the lowest unemployment rate at 5.4%. Certain majors in these fields, however, yield higher annual salaries over others such as international business ($83,700), and education ($54,000). While money certainly is an important aspect in deciding a career, it isn’t the only component. Doing something that is of your interest should be considered when choosing a career path. After all, they always say that money can’t buy happiness.
Verve Staff
Editors-In-Chief:
SCREEN AND SOUND Section Editor: Emma Kramer
FRONT PAGE Section Editor: Andrew Mandelbaum GLOBE Section Editor: Miriam Meller
BUZZ Section Editor: Carly Nyman
OPINE Section Editor: Nate Cohen
CIRCULATION MANAGER: Andrew Kaufman
Kayce D'Onofrio & Nikki Theriot
TURF Section Editor: Kelly Delaney
Backpage:
Section Editors: Alejandra Arias and Stephanie Ollom
REPORTERS:
Alejandra Arias, Thomas DiSibio, Felisa Delli Santi, Andrew Kaufman, Lindsay Leiter, James Macpherson, Lina Mockute, Nicholas Nyktas, Gwen Rogers, Drew Schwendiman, Emily Wills
April 2012
think of it, I’ve heard that making jokes about sex, food, and/or oppositional defiance (What’s the difference between February and Amy Winehouse?), or a classic Dimitri Martin statement like, “If you have a pear shaped body, you should not wear pear colored clothes, or act juicy” helps achieve in-crowd status. By making crude jokes, teenagers also release stress through laughter. However, teenage jokesters may not always have the self control needed to edit the time and placement of a wisecrack (thus the fateful retort: “please report to Ms. Grimaldi’s office.") Adults, to no surprise, have the most mature sense of humor. Mr. Brain from howstuffworks says that an adult has experienced more emotions and situations in their life that they are able to turn into a joke or funny story. Adults have more subtle and understanding senses of humor, and so they rely on not only their experiences but also their intelligence to make people laugh with a joke free of crudeness and possibly offensive material (Conan O’Brien can even lampoon the president, saying, ("A man jumped the White House fence, but after a brief chase, the Secret Service was able to talk President Obama into coming back and finishing his term.”) However, there are still comedians who make crass and unintelligent jokes. So if you think what you’re saying is funny but only your twelve-year-old nephew (Do you like fish sticks?) lets out an embarrassed and self-conscious giggle, then you need to grow up.
Akey Responds
I just don’t get it. Why is a boy supposed to find some cute way to invite a girl to the prom? Isn’t it enough that he’s going to drop a small fortune on the night? I can’t believe you guys have succumbed to this social pressure. I’ve never seen you so distraught. Cupcakes that spell out invitations, flowers doing the same. Yikes. How about, “How would you like to go to the prom with me?” You’re all lovey dovey now, but in my crystal ball I look in to the future. I see a few of you have married your childhood sweetheart. The weary husband comes home and the lawnmower blocks the front door. A poster is taped to the handle that says, “Mow the lawn?” Or the appreciative husband who puts a note on the fridge that says, “Chicken yet again?” I see there is a little carping about some science field trip that might not happen this year. The voice of indignation moves me to, well, laughter? I’d respond in person, but I’m in Washington for the next 4 days with 185 of you and a half dozen teachers and a dozen parents on a music trip. It’s really a shame how little is done for you hardworking kids. Boo hoo. Mother’s Day (just a notch below Christmas) is around the corner. Nice article on potential gifts for Mom. The best gift of all is simply spending time with Mom, being sweet and appreciative. Just pretend you’re not a senior for a few hours. And remember, Father’s Day (or, as we call it, Mother’s Day Light) is coming in June. Interesting article in Verve about Titanic coming out in 3-D. I can’t imagine sitting through that unspeakable tedium again. I mistakenly saw that the first time around and after two hours of watching the upper crust behave so boorishly, I was rooting for the iceberg. Nice Teen Arts Festival. There were some genuinely wonderful paintings and creative works. To everyone who contributed, well done. To the spring athletes who complain nobody comes to their games, thank you to both Athletes who attended Teen Arts!
By ANDREW KAUFMAN
Although allergy season is among us Now that April is at its close and the and tissues are in high demand, that is end of school is around the corner, not what students are referring to when the fever is spreading again and it is they say they have the “spring fever.” stronger than ever. In almost every Typically found in class, teachers can most students in late catch their students April and early May, daydreaming about this phase hit Sumthe warm weather mit High School unoutside. Instead of usually early back in listening to a hismid-March, with the tory lecture or comthermometer topping pleting thought80º Fahrenheit. required math In that untimely week, problems, students male students broke have been cravout their Nantucketing Magic Blends red shorts, pastel from Magic Founpolo shirts and boat tain and have been shoes while the girls’ longing to go to the fashioned radiant beach. The rest of Spring is in the air. Andrew makes a sundresses and espa- wish that Spring will never end. the school year is going drilles. But as soon as to be very difficult for all the winter clothes were swapped the many people awaiting the end of for shorts and skirts and we started to school. And if the weather remains as get comfortable with the early spring nice as it is, there is not going to be anawakening, the bitter weather, more other break away from “spring fever” characteristic of the month of March, any time soon, unless we have another hit full-fledge. untimely "Snowapocalypse" that is...
Science Field Trips Vanish By ANDREW MANDELBAUM
For the first time in years, both the reconsideration it was cancelled. Physics classes and AP Biology classes However, the regular Biology classes will not be going on their traditional an- will still go on their field trip to Six nual field trips. This is outrageous! For Flags Animal Kingdom. Is this how we years, the Physics classes went to Six reward our students who put in the extra Flags in Jackson, New Jersey to study effort all year by taking a harder science how Physics affects the motion of roller class? We make them watch the other coasters, and kids go on a the AP Biolfield trip?! ogy classes As for sehave been niors who going to The choose to Bodies Mutake Physseum in New ics as an York City. elective, The reathey are son why the also being Physics class awarded will not be with disgoing is beappointcause, “there ment. is just too America much going is a merion at the end Whee! One of the many rides the seniors won't be rid- t o c r a c y , ing this year. of the year,” where those said AP Physics C teacher Mr. Jeremy who work the hardest are supposed to Mormon. be rewarded for their effort. Our school For years, the Physics classes have should not be taking away the science been going on this trip and it is some- field trips from the students who are thing all seniors who take Physics as a spending their year working extra hard. lab science senior year hope to take part It is not fair to the students that at the in with their classmates. last minute they are being told that these The AP Biology trip was originally re- trips are canceled that they were expectscheduled for after finals, however, after ing to go on all year. Photo provided by www.sixflags.com
By JACKSON SIDEBOTTOM
Two peanuts walk into a bar; one was assaulted. Who gets this old joke? If you do, is it even funny? I have heard this same joke almost a hundred times and I never find it funny. I have friends, however, who find it hilarious every. single. time. I often find myself of an impatient mindset, a consistent and nagging nuisance for me, when it comes to jokes; I blame it on my mature sense of humor. Humans are one of the rare species on the whole planet to have the wonderful gift of laughter, and scientists do not yet know why. The general belief, says Dr. Lisa Rosenberg, is that laughter relieves stress and helps us feel more comfortable in our social settings. The aptly named Marshall Brain, founder of howstuffworks.com, says a sense of humor depends on one’s life experience and intelligence. Children find potty humor (Why did Tigger look in the toilet?) and jokes that victimize others (Knock knock! Who’s there?) hilarious because this is all that they understand at this point, and a recondite joke about sex or politics ("The U.S. Senate is considering a bill that would tax Botox. When Botox users heard this, they were horrified. Well, I think they were horrified. It's difficult to tell." --Craig Ferguson) would make their heads explode. Then there are unfortunate teenagers who lack a ready supply of jokes, or don’t get them at all, like me. Teenage years are when we come of age, and tension and lust—for romance, food, rebellion, and social acceptance—are all prime fodder for joking around. Come to
Spring Fever Reboots
Photo by Kayce D'Onofrio
Missing the Joke
Peace Love and The Woodstock Nation. 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.
April 2012
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Cars for Less Cash By EMMA KRAMER
Photo provided by www.carconnection.com
Newly licensed drivers in search of the find your sweet future ride, beware! Not most affordable car have two options: only should you be concerned about new or used. The less affordable option buying from honest people, especially is the new car. If budget is not an issue, over the Internet, but also be sure by all means splurge away on a car that you actually see your car before you will gets heads turning as you exit the purchase it. Ask if you can give it a test dealer’s lot. But, if you don’t have money drive. If you can take it for a test drive to spare and still want that new car thrill be conscious of acceleration from stop, there are new cars that might fit your visibility (blind spots), engine noise, budget. The least expensive new car passing acceleration, hill-climbing options on the market for are the Nissan power, breaking, cornering, suspension Cube, Kia Soul, (around $16,000), (how the car rides), and cargo space. Honda Civic, Kia Forte, Kia Rio, Mazda Also, in case you haven’t seen the 2, Scion XD, (around $15,000), Honda commercial, check out carfax.com Fit, Chevy Aveo (around $14,000) or autocheck.com. You never know Hyundai the actual Accent, Ford condition Fiesta, Toyota of a used Yaris, Nissan car or what Versa (around it might $12,000), have been and last but through. not least, Make sure Smart for the car Two (around is up to $11,000). date on its Keep in inspection, mind, if Want to cruise in a new ride? The Honda Fit is just or at you’re paying one of the many small sized sedans avaliable at a least has reasonable price. for insurance, been recently new cars have much higher rates than inspected. If you know anyone that used cars, especially for young drivers. is car savvy (friend, parent, or if you However, if you find yourself tighter happen to know a mechanic,) bring on cash, pre-owned cars are not a him/her along with you to check the car bad option and finding the right used out. Beyond the inside body of the car car does not need to be a challenge. with the engine, gas tank, breaks, and You can scope around your town and numerous other things to be concerned write down the phone numbers of the about, be observant of the upholstery advertisements you see on cars for sale, and mileage. You don’t want any car peruse through local car dealerships that’s been abused in anyway. On a final and gas stations, or use websites such note, don’t forget to try and haggle for a as craigslist, usedcars.com, autotrader. better price, even at dealerships where com, or cars.com. you can come up with a payment plan! With all these locations and websites to
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Teen Arts Festival Displays Local Students’ Talent By LINA MOCKUTE
On Friday April 20 and Saturday April 21, Summit High School hosted its 40th annual Teen Arts Festival. From sixth graders to seniors, students in Summit, Berkeley Heights, New Providence, and Mountainside displayed their creative works: pottery, paintings, photographs, musical performances and more were showcased at Summit High. Sophomore Deborah Lee comments, “I just think that it’s really good to get a chance to showcase yourself without any competition. So it really doesn’t matter how much skill you have. It’ll still be put up along with everyone else, whether it’s a drawing or a performance.” However, many of these pieces were submitted to get critiqued by professionals in the field of creative writing and video and visual arts.
Artwork done by Freshman Marcia Varela
Artwork done by Freshman Grace Totman
Spring Forward with this Season’s Fashion
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By EMILY WILLS
It seems that stripes have always been trend are in a shirt or dress, pairing it a classic statement, so apply this basic with an identical-colored undergarment. trend to fit appropriately with the rest of A not-so-feminine touch to add is your spring/summer wardrobe by picking the denim shirt. Denim button-downs out the bright, fun color combinations. are quickly becoming a must-have Also hitting the stores, is an array of staple in the wardrobe. Pair a shirt like unexpected this with any patterns. Take colored pair of a risk with a pants or shorts. bold-patterned For example, blouse or dress. a great Junior Grace combination Newcomb says, to match the “I really like denim shirt the global prints with would being used. be a pair of The patterns white jeans, and colors are nude wedges really fun and or flats, and can make a Jeans, shorts and wedges, oh my! These spring either a set of simple dress clothing items are essentials this season for all gold bangles or fasionistas. or skirt really an oversized gold interesting.” watch. A feminine touch to add to the Shoes are the most fun part of putting shopping list is crocheted clothing. an outfit together. There are so many Popular ways to incorporate the crochet options to choose from, depending on Photo by Emily Wills
This spring and summer don’t be afraid to take risks when it comes to fashion. Expect to see neon colors as well as the pastels and neutrals. Espadrilles, flats and cute sandals are popular this season. Also, crocheted fabrics as well as the classic stripes and bold patterns are in style. The spring and summer seasons of 2012 are all about fun and bold fashion combinations. Color is definitely something to take into consideration when assembling your spring and summer wardrobe. A major color trend to look out for is pastels, especially mint green. It’s almost impossible to get away with light neutral colors and pastels in the colder months, so definitely take advantage of them this season. Also, neon colors are going to be a very popular color trend to add to your shopping list. These color fads can be applied to just about anything. The pastel and neon trends will work well not only when applied to shirts, shorts, and shoes, but also for your nails and handbags.
your mood. Depending on the style, they can dress a casual outfit up, or they can dress a formal outfit down. Espadrilles are a great option for spring and summer. They have a wedge heel, giving a girl some height while also providing a lot more support . Also, boat shoes and moccasins are not only very comfortable shoes, but they also match well with almost any outfit. Most people will deal with the pain of an uncomfortable shoe as long as it “makes the outfit.” However with these spring trends, you won’t have to cast off comfort for looks. The most important fashion tip is don’t stress. These are only guidelines, and the important thing to remember is that you don’t have to abide by them if you don’t want to. If you’re more comfortable wearing something completely opposite of the aforementioned trends, then go for it! The great thing about fashion is that it’s really all up to you.
April 2012
Mother’s Day Gift Guide By CARLY NYMAN
Mother’s Day is a day to celebrate your mom and it is is only a few weeks away! If you’re struggling to think of that perfect gift, here are some ideas:
The Classic Gift: What mom doesn’t love jewelry? The price on these gifts can range depending on the item. There are various stores in town, the mall or even online such as Frederick Goodman, or Tiffany and Co. If you don’t know your mom’s style, maybe you can buy a gift certificate to her favorite jewelry store. Photo provided by alljewelery.com
Photo provided by fashiontrend.com
The Relaxer: If you’re looking to spend a little more money, think along the lines of a spa gift certificate. Manicures and pedicures are available for $25-30 in downtown Summit, at stores such as Kim’s Nails, JPM and Nail Plaza. Other spa gifts could include: candles, lotions or maybe even a massag.
The Active Gardener: Does your mom like to get outside in the warm weather and garden? If so, consider ordering monogrammed gardening gloves for only $35 on gifts.redenvelope.com. Other options are a new gardening tool set or even a simple bouquet of fresh flowers. Photo provided by gifts.redenvelope.com
Photo provided by wwwamazoncom
The Tech-Savvy Mom: Everyone has an iPhone these days, even your mom! So why not get her a fun case? This gift is inexpensive, usually ranging from $1535, and available in all types of stores, such as J.Crew, RadioShack and of course, the Apple Store. If you prefer shopping online, it’s so easy to order one from websites such as amazon.com.
On the Road to College Success
Beat Spring Allergies
By MIRIAM MELLER
By TOMMY DiSIBIO
April 2012
percentage of student are in grad-school or have jobs after graduation? When you are on a tour of a college campus, it is important to look at a few things. First, you should look at the buildings, the size of classrooms, and the size of the lecture halls. Some schools have lecture halls that can seat over five hundred students. You have to figure out if you could see yourself in such a large classroom. Next, you should visit the library and see if it has quiet and private study areas. Many schools also have huge computer labs with printing options open to the students. Another important place to look at is the dorms: How many students in one room? How many students share a bathroom? Are the residence halls coed? How are roommates selected? How quiet are the dorms? Also, talk to other students on campus, it may seem nervy, but you should find out what other students think of the school. Finally, another important aspect to visiting colleges is remembering them. It seems silly, at the time, to jot down notes or even take pictures, but it is surprising how quickly colleges start to blend together when you’ve visited so many. You may want to consider taking notes after a tour or debriefing with your parents in the car. Make a list of pros and cons of each school so you can compare each college. Although it is an overwhelming process, visiting colleges is exciting and gets you geared up for the future especially if you make the most out of your campus visits.
As spring has dawned upon us this drowsiness, which is a problem for month, so have a wave of allergies students since it makes it even harder that have taken over the Garden State. to stay awake and focused in class! Many students are hit hard with various If having allergies makes you feel symptoms. Sophomore Jake Paytas uncomfortable, don’t worry, you’re not painfully said, “my eyes turn very red!” alone. Junior Corbin Jacobs says, “ I To avoid sneezing uncontrollably and get so many allergic reactions from the remain allergy-free, hand sanitizers and spring pollen and it is the worst!” tissues are helpful but the medicines are Odds are, most of the other very preventive kids in class in keeping are sniffing, the immune and sneezing system strong. as well. In fact, A c o m m o n the school nurse defense weapon Jean Fay says, in the allergy “over the past prevention couple years arsenal is a nasal allergies have spray. They are been on the rise common, but and in the past effective because five years the they target amount of kids the nose, and with itchy eyes, help minimize or runny noses the amount of has doubled.” mucus in your Some expert system. The nasal tips start out spraying should with finding out Tissues and purell are essentials this season. start a few weeks Sophomore James Tully uses yet another exactly what you before the heart of tissue in an attempt to conquer his spring are allergic to. An the season to help. over-the-counter allergies. The other kind of prevention is the pill, or a prescription nasal spray can classic decongestant pills that try and make all the difference. If you are the reduce the symptoms of sneezing, kid with the sniffles, buying a nasal stuffy and runny nose, and itchy eyes. spray or Claritin type capsule could be The only problem with the pills is just what your doctor recommends. that they have side effects such as Photo by Tommy DiSibio
As all juniors, seniors and parents know, college road trips can seem tedious and stressful. So many questions arise: like when to visit, what schools to see, and what to look for and ask. However, taking a systematic approach yields the best experience will alleviates the stress. The first thing that you want to address is where to go. If you are an underclassman, you should ask some of your older classmates where they recommend visiting and why they visited those colleges. In addition, if you are a sophomore who has taken the PSAT, you can narrow down schools by using the Naviance tools avaliable through guidence to compare your PSAT (or expected PSAT and SAT for Junior year) to a college’s average SAT score. Otherwise match your SAT and ACT scores to the college profile. You want to spend time looking at schools that are a good match for you or are a slight reach (colleges that your test scores and grade point average are a bit too low for). You don’t want to fall in love with a school that you probably won’t get accepted into or a school that is too far away or too expensive. Before you make the trip to the campus, you should think of a list of questions to ask, What is the 4- year graduation rate? What is the freshman to sophomore retention rate? Is this a suitcase school (one where most students go home on the weekends)? Is housing guaranteed for freshmen? How willing are the professors to help you and provide help sessions? What is the
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By GWEN ROGERS
Photo provided by api.ning.com
Over the course of her extraordinary decades. Interscope Records released three-decade career, Madonna has sold her new CD in late March – her first over 300 million albums and holds the album in five years. “Gimme All Your record for the most successful tours by Luvin',” was its first single. a solo artist. She is a She debuted this nine-time Grammy song at the half-time winning singer, songshow of Super Bowl writer, producer and XLVI. Following her grand entrance into a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee. the arena on a golden From the likes of chariot, pulled by “Holiday” to modern what seemed to be classics like “Music, Romans, before sing4 Minutes,” “Give It ing a remixed version 2 Me,” and the new of “Vogue.” Then single “Give Me a big dance atmoAll Your Luvin'," sphere was met with Madonna is a singles “Music,” and special machine who manguests LMFAO alongMadona Craze! Madona's ages to stay relevant side Madonna to sing thirty-six popularity streak stays through the years. “Party Rock Anthem" strong! Few performers are and "Sexy And I Know as shrewd about their careers as this It.” After this performance, it became 53-year-old singer, actress, producer, clear that we need to watch out for and now film writer and director who Madonna’s comeback because it’s gohas stayed buzz-worthy for three ing to be great!
Cameron makesTitanic boxoffice grosses By NATE COHEN
Photo provided by g-static.com
success, pioneering 3D technology Most of us have seen James Camand earning a slew of Oscar nominaeron’s Titanic, the thrilling romance tions. James Camstarring young and eron continues to rising stars Leonwork on other films, ardo DiCaprio and and just this year Kate Winslet. Raktook a record-setting ing in $1.84 billion journey to the deepat the box office est point any human in 1997 and 1998, has reached, the this blockbuster Mariana Trench, 7 received a record miles underwater. eleven Academy Cameron is also in Awards and has the process of creatsince become a ing Avatar 2. true classic. This It seems that his year, however, it re-release of Titanic is once again in is not slowing his theaters worldwide. momentum. Not Due to the origionly has money nal’s popularity been pouring in and critical acA Sinking Spectacular. Surfacing again from his audience, claim, Titanic in 2012 the Titanic is still a classic hit. but the reviews of is back for a the classic in 3D second round, are looking similarly positive. Called this time, in 3D. And after just over a week into its re-release it has joined “a work of art” and granted an “A” by CNN reviewer Owen GleiberCameron’s Avatar as the second film man, other critics and viewers have to gross a total of at least $2 billion. offered similar opinions. This verNow almost fifteen years since the sion, touched by the directorial green original release of Titanic, James thumb of James Cameron, appeals as Cameron’s success has in no way subsided. In 2009, Avatar became an a charming and timeless relic, only heightened and perfected by the magic historic and international cinematic of 3D.
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Pros to Critique Director's Showcase By ALEX ARIAS
This year’s Director’s Showcase will geant, Sebastian Madrigal and Chris feature six thirty-five-minute cuttings Sinunu. I’m really excited to see what that will run from 3:30 to 8:30 pm they have in store.” on Thursday, May 3rd and should be Having the showcase a month early, a fun experience for all ages. Perfoin addition to the spring musical Oklamances include: The Drowsy Chaperhoma! Being pushed back two weeks one by Bob Martin and Don McKellar, because of delays in the auditorium Shadow Box by Michael Cristofer, The renovation, the summer production of Last of Urinetown the Red rehearsing Hot many times Lovers a week and by Neil the April Simon, music trip Mixed to AnNuts by napolis, SiMaryland mon J. has left the Donodirectors ghue with less and time than Nancy ever to put Manetheir shows ra, The together. "Mixed Nuts" anyone? From left: Senior Director Despite Rise Sebastian Madrigal and his cast: Pam Alvarado, these encumand Keller Gordon, and Abby Bier. Rise of brances, the Daniel directors and Rockette by Peter Parnell, and Chemi- cast are excited for the showcase. cal Imbalance by Lauren Wilson. “I’m really excited for about doing The spring showcase is being held this because usually I’m an actress May 3, a month earlier than usual. All on stage but now I get to direct and six shows are directed by the Adwork with the crew as well as all the vanced Theater students. They work actors,” says senior Madelein Molleur in teams of two or three directors who a director of The Drowsy Chaperone. are responsible putting together every Molleur’s co-director senior Mariah aspect of their show. They chose the Dalton adds. “Its fun to direct! This play, cast the roles, make the cutting, is my second year and it helps me and design the blocking, set, lighting, improve as an actor when I instruct costumes, make up and sound. other actors. It helps us get a glimpse Although the students are responsible of what our adult directors have to for making sure their shows come deal with when they direct the fall and together, Drama teacher Mrs. Anne spring productions.” Poyner mentors them every step of the On May 3rd, in addition to family way. “I believe it’s a great learning ex- and friends, the audience will also perience for the students, I personally include a panel of three theater profesthink the best way to be a great actor sionals organized by Mrs. Poyner. is to be a director,” comments Mrs. After the showcase the directors and Poyner about the project.“The seniors cast receive feedback on their acting that are involved in these productions and design. This helps the directors this year are Mariah Dalton, Madelein understand what their strengths and Molleur, Nikki Theriot, Jesse Serweaknesses were directing. Photo by Alex Arias
Madonna Takes Music Industry by Surprise
April 2012
MLB Preview
Continued from front page
Photo from Sportslogos.net
By LINDSAY LEITER
National League EAST Statistically and historically the Phillies should secure the NL East, but the Braves, Mets, Marlins, and Nationals all have the propensity to put up a good fight. The Miami Marlins made the biggest splash this winter with the signing of shortstop Jose Reyes, starting pitcher Mark Buehrle, and closer Heath Bell. They not only added these prominent players, but they also changed their name and logo and moved from playing in a football stadium to a beautiful state-of-the-art baseball stadium built in downtown Miami. Also, OF Giancarlo Stanton is expected to have a monster season and Josh Johnson is not only the ace of the Marlins’ staff, but he is also considered to be one of the best starting pitchers in the game. The key to the New York Mets’ success is Johan Santana and David Wright staying healthy. Santana looks to be back to full form recovering from an arm surgery two years ago. David Wright, who has been hurt off-and-on the last couple of seasons, needs to be healthy and produce. Additionally, if LF Jason Bay, 1B Ike Davis, and RF Lucas Duda put up big numbers, the Mets will surprise
April 2012
a lot of people and compete in the NLEast. The Washington Nationals are an up-and-coming franchise that has built from within and are becoming contenders in their division. Pitchers Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper are two rising stars who should have awesome seasons. Finally, All-Star third baseman, Ryan Zimmerman, leads an offense that is supported by Jason Werth and Michael Morse. The Philadelphia Phillies are a powerhouse club who year after year make it to the post season having won the World Series in 2008. Superstars Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, and Cole Hamels have led the team to success. The fact that they garnered ex-Red Sox closer, Jonathan Papelbon, will strengthen the Phillies’ bullpen. Ryan Howard, who will be out the first two months of the season, is going to be missed, but Hunter Pence, Shane Victorino, and Jimmy Rollins will have to step it up to compensate while Howard is on the DL. In conclusion, the Phillies have the best chance to win the division, but the Nationals or Marlins could definitely challenge them for the title.
Sophomore Leads Golf Team By JAMIE MACPHERSON
For the first time ever the Summit’s this year.” Skyler got into golf through golf team has a sophomore his dad and ever since he captain. Skyler Schlesinger swung his first club has had was named this year’s capa passion for the game. tain after playing the first Skyler describes his love position on the team as both of the game coming from a freshman and a sophothe “I got into golf when I more. Coach Keating says was around 9, and I picked after 22 years of coaching it up relatively naturally. It “I can’t remember anyone was a very different sport, improving from one year the mental game was very to the next more than Skyler.” Coach has very high different than other sports, hopes for Skyler in the upand I really enjoyed the coming season revealing challenge of golf." Skyler “It is evident that he has Skyler ready to go out is attending IMG academy, worked very hard on his for another round of golf. a golf-boarding school golf game over the past In Florida next year hopyear and I believe he can be one of ing to improve greatly on his game. the better players in Union County
New Luxury Gym Opens In Summit By KELLY DELANEY Are you looking for a posh new members with almost everything they workout spot? You're in luck! Equinox could want in a gym. The clubs provide fitness is opening a new club in Sum- full service spas, private Pilates studios, mit. The new location boxing studios, will be on River Road daycare, pools, perand includes over sonal training, and 30,000-square-feet concierge service. of space and utilities. Memberships beThe gym is expected gin at $120/month. to have around 2,200 The Summit locamembers, and em- Equinox Gym set to be the rage tion will be the main amongst Summit residents ploy a staff of 50 - 60. branch in New Jersey Students and adults and is expected to bring alike are excited for the new gym, which members from a three-mile radius. provides luxury comforts close to home. Equinox’s mission is to bring a high-end Equinox however, is not your experience to health and fitness. The average gym. It is a luxu- club is projected to open in Fall 2012. ry fitness spot that provides Photo from Equinox.com
Photo from Wikipedia.com
Recently many New York Jets fans the end of the season. The Jet’s starthave been hanging their heads in dis- ing quarterback had less than an imgruntled disbelief that their favorite pressive year, missing the playoffs, team has just signed Tim Tebow in ex- after two straight AFC Championship appearances. Others bechange for 2 draft picks. lieve that Tebow might be The Jets had just signed put into the wildcat every their starting quarterback, once in a while. Even Mark Sanchez, to a 3 though the play is only year $40 million deal. So executed a few times what makes Tim Tebow a game, if that many. so special that they are Summit High School’s willing to spend milhead football coach, lions of dollars on a secfriend of current Jet’s ond string quarterback? head coach Rex Ryan Many sports analyst and a true Jets fan, say that signing Tebow Coach John Liberato, is strictly a business thinks that Time Tebow deal for the Jets. Tim Tebow became such a pre- J-E-T-S! Tim Tebow will make a great addition to dominant part of American will be sporting Jet's the team. “He brings a level culture last year during the green next season! of intense competition to the team that everyone can benefit time period when everyone was “tebowing”. The amount of jer- from.” Though not sure where Tebow seys that have already been sold is will end up by the end of the season, through the roof. He will most likely he is sure that both Mark Sanchez draw in more fans to games, creating a and Tim Tebow will compliment each larger fan base than they already have. other’s game and leadership qualiShortly after the trade, Jets Corner- ties. Bringing him onto the team creback, Antonio Cromartie tweeted ates more of a “hunger to win” in the that, “We don’t need Tebow. We sell Jet’s locker room that they can use to out every home game. Let him go get back into the playoffs next year. to Jacksonville, Tampa or Miami.” Even though Tebow’s stats last year Some might think that this would weren’t something to marvel at, he led have bothered Tim Tebow, but in- the Broncos into the playoffs and past the stead he looked on the brighter side Steelers in a thrilling overtime win off a stating, “He was sticking up for pass on the first play of overtime. He has his quarterback and good for him.” potential to be a good, not great, quarSo how will Tim Tebow be used terback in the NFL, but only time will exactly? Some believe that he tell where he will end up in the future.
TURF Photo from SummitPatch.com
By STEPHANIE OLLOM
40
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20 Tebow Time
National League WEST The NL Central is the most up-forgrabs division in all of baseball. With Albert Pujols leaving St. Louis and Prince Fielder leaving Milwaukee, the division is wide open. The Milwaukee Brewers have the strongest starting rotation led by Giovani Gallardo and Zack Greinke. MVP winner, Ryan Braun, will need to find offensive support from Ricky Weeks and Cory Heart. The St. Louis Cardinals are relying on Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright to hopefully pitch them
Hudson, and All-Star RF Justin Upton. The San Francisco Giants have Buster Posey, a young catcher who bounced back from a serious ankle injury. This team has some of the best pitching in the West with Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain. They also have Brian Wilson, “The Beard”, as a closer. The Colorado Rockies have always been able to hit, but have weak pitching. Carlos Gonzalez and Troy Tulowitzki lead their offense. In the NL West, the title will likely be won by the Giants or the Diamondbacks.
National League CENTRAL
It should be a two-team race between the Giants and the Diamondbacks in the NL West, but the Dodgers and Rockies could contend. Basketball star, Magic Johnson, and his partners bought the Los Angeles Dodgers for $2.15 billion. They are led by CF Matt Kemp and Cy Young winner, Clayton Kershaw. Two years ago the Arizona Diamondbacks had a losing record and last season they turned it around and ended up winning the division. This come-back team includes Ian Kennedy, Daniel
back into the World Series, but the great Albert Pujols will be missed, so David Freese and Matt Holliday must pick up the offense. Possible contenders are the Cincinnati Reds, although the loss of their closer Ryan Madson will greatly hurt their chances. However, their offense is still strong with 1B Joey Votto, Jay Bruce, and Brandon Phillips. The Chicago Cubs and Pittsburgh Pirates are in rebuilding years, and will fall short of competing with the Cardinals, Brewers, and Reds in the NL Central.
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Maroon Room Take Two
Sophomore Lina Mockute dazzles the audience by playing “Rialto Ripples“ by George Gershwin on the piano.
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Photo by Alex Arias
Photo by Alex Arias
Senior Maggie Lees on the piano and her sister Eighth grader Sophie on the vocals, play “Jar of Hearts” by Christina Perri.
Twin brothers juniors Brad on piano and Eric Przedpelskion the saxaphone played “Mad World” by Gary Jules.
Seniors Julia Shaffer and Olivia Gosselin sell baked goods to raise money for the senior class.
Photo by Alex Arias
Photo by Alex Arias
Junior Gillian Dukoff entertains the audience between performances as the host.
Junior Abby Beier on vocals and senior Taylor Kastenbaum on guitar, play “Poison and Wine” by The Civil Wars.
Photo by Alex Arias
Photo by Alex Arias
On April 24, Summit High School held their seond Maroon Room of the year. Talents, ranging from playing the saxaphone to singing, were put on display. Check out these pictures from the Maroon Room performances and make sure you come support our Summit High School extraordinary talents next time.
April 2012