Merionite May 2008

The Merionite May 2, 2008

Volume 79, Issue 7

The official student newspaper of Lower Merion High School since 1929

LM’s own Hughes named principal C. Chou/L. Jacobs

Class of 2009

Assistant Principal Sean Hughes was appointed principal of LM at the School Board meeting on Monday, April 28.

Hughes has been a part of the LM community for over ten years, teaching social studies before becoming Director of Athletics and Activities in 2002. He has been in education for 17 years and became an assistant principal in 2005, following the class of 2008 through their junior and senior years.

“Mr. Hughes is the ideal choice to lead the

school through the construction of the new high school while continuing and expanding the excellence in programs that is expected in LM. I have great confidence in his skills and ability to involve all constituents in his new role as principal,” said outgoing District Superintendent Jamie Savedoff.

The Principal Search Committee, comprised of students, administrators, staff, and parents, went through two rounds of interviews before selecting Hughes for the position, the first round yielding no results. Interim Principal Nort Seaman covered the post for the whole year despite his original plans to leave after the

Redistricting to take place in fall 2009

post was filled following the first semester.

“The feedback provided by students and other stakeholders who met with the candidates was highly valuable,” said Director of Pupil Services Michael Kelly. “We are all confident that Mr. Hughes will build upon the successes he achieved as a teacher, athletic director, and assistant principal, and that he will continue to be an outstanding educational leader as building principal.”

Many people are excited about Hughes’s new post and respect his dedication to LM and education.

“It is very exciting to have someone who is

already so close to the student body as well as the staff and community become the principal.

I am confident that he will continue to work to improve our school and promote a positive, respectful tone at LM,” said Student Government President Sam Helfaer.

Hughes is honored to begin his time as principal next year.

“I look forward to continue building upon the success of this extraordinary high school both academically and in the extensive extracurricular activities while still upholding the long standing traditions that make LMHS one above the rest,” said Hughes.

PA Primary brings candidates to the Main Line

Sivahn Barsade

Class of 2010 Beginning in the fall of 2009, 350 LM students and some teachers will be redistricted from LM to Harriton to achieve an equal population of 1250 students at both schools. This move is a part of the plan to create two identical district high schools.

While the physical boundary lines of attendance areas have not yet been decided upon, the school board has worked to develop the process of redistricting. They have created a set of parameters known as “non-negotiables” that must be adhered to in the final plan and are prepared to bring in a consultant to help with both the redistricting and community involvement. The board intends to have a plan in place for the redistricting by December 2008.

“The board is engaging right now to create a process that makes sense and works efficiently to get us to the end point,” said outgoing District Superintendent Jamie Savedoff.

“We intend to have two schools of equal size from ninth through tenth grade.”

The redistricting will not only equalize student and teacher population at the high schools but it will also alleviate crowding at the elementary schools. Both Gladwyne and Penn Wynne elementary schools are currently overcrowded and the other elementary schools are also nearing overcrowding.

“In general, children are very resilient. Kids will be able to overcome a redistricting—it’s the parents who tend to be more emotional,” said Director of School and Community Relations Doug Young.

The school board met recently to discuss the variety

See Redistricting, page 4

Photo by Dot Goldberger/ Staff

In the race to win the Democratic Pennsylvania primary on Tuesday, April 22, Democratic front-runner Senator Barack Obama made a “Whistle Stop” at the Wynnewood train station on Friday, April 18. Senator Hillary Clinton visited Radnor High School the same day. Presumed Republican presidential nominee John McCain was interviewed by “Hardball” host Chris Matthews at Villanova University on Tuesday, April 15.

Tech Dept. researching one-on-one laptop initiative Liz Jacobs

Class of 2009 The LM School Board is currently gathering research to make a decision about the Technology and Information Services Department’s proposal for an initiative that would assign all high school students at Harriton and LM a personal computer to close the digital divide in the District and to emphasize “21st-century learning skills.”

The District is currently equipped with enough computers to provide every high school student with a personal laptop for next year, starting September. The Pennsylvania Department of Education funded the purchase of these laptops under the Classrooms for the Future grant. No additional computers need to be purchased.

The big idea behind the initiative is to move away from

How do teachers get to school?

See teachers who have pimped their ride!

See Features, page 11

the factory-based system that schools have employed for the past century, creating more dynamic, personalized learning in the 21st century. The District also hopes to close the digital divide between students with Internet access at home and those without it.

“It’s about creating a 21st-century environment for 21stcentury learning that is student centered, where students be involved in their own learning,” said District Director of Technology Virginia DiMedio. “You have a lot of information on the Internet, like library subscriptions and eBoards, and students who have access to it are learning 24/7. Students without it, however, are not receiving the same level of learning.

“I think about 96 percent of District students have computers, which makes it even worse if you’re in the four percent who don’t. I think giving students laptops is the first important step

in eliminating the digital divide. All students deserve access to the same resources.”

Some students received the initiative with animosity, feeling that it was not necessary in a system that “already works,” just adding another thing to carry and additional responsibility to students in a tumultuous time of reconstruction and a new schedule.

“I think the system we have is working and I’m against the whole laptop thing because I think it’s an abuse of resources—we have them sitting in math classes unused. It’s really unfair to students—it puts more pressure on us with the new schedule and construction. It’s our fault if we lose it, but stuff happens and I don’t think they should inflict more

See Laptops, page 3

Chipotle vs. Qdoba

Hollywood comes to LM

The Merionite compares the best burritos. Yum!

Luke Wilson stars in the upcoming movie “Tenure.”

See Features, page 10

See Arts & Entertainment, page 13

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May 2, 2008

NEWS

The Merionite

Mock Democratic primary exposes LM students to electoral process Samantha Hershman

Class of 2009 On Monday, April 21, LM students had the opportunity to participate in a schoolwide mock primary that simulated the Democratic Pennsylvania Presidential primary the following day. Organized by Honors US Government classes, the primary gave teachers, custodians, administrators, and students—many of whom are minors and could not vote in the real primary—the opportunity to experience the voting process.

“Everyone in the school community was allowed to vote,” said US Government teacher Mark Levy. “The campaigns visited many Advisories to pitch their position and answer questions.”

“I’m 16, and I can’t vote in the regular primaries, so I was very excited to participate in this election,” said Sophomore Anna Menaged.

LM’s overwhelming support for Illinois Senator Barack Obama was reflected in the school results—he received over 600 votes, which translates to approximately 74% of the vote, while New York Senator Hillary Clinton garnered the other 26%, about 200 votes. The official primary results of the next day were much closer, with Clinton receiving 55% of the Pennsylvania vote and Obama earning the other 45%.

“I was surprised by the uneven results of the election,” said junior Pam Kubiak. “I thought it was going to be a closer race between Obama and Hillary.”

“I had heard that Obama usually gained the support of the younger voters,” said junior Rachel Kitchenoff. “It was interesting to see that proved at our school.”

Both of Levy’s government classes were assigned a different candidate.

“We decided which class was the head of which campaign by a game of Family Feud, Mr. Levy’s favorite game of all time,” said Clinton campaign manager, senior Elka Peterson-Horner, who actually supports Obama. “My [set 5] class is always telling me that I’m wrecking the image of our campaign because of my Obama pins.”

Levy’s set 6 class chose seniors Dot Goldberger and Rachel Eck to head the Obama campaign.

“I’ve been interested in politics for a while. I’m actually planning on majoring in Political Science next year,” said Eck. “The main reason [why] Dot and I chose to lead was because it sounded like a fun project, and we’re both experienced in managerial duties.”

Set 5 first began campaigning for Senator Clinton by visiting freshman Advisories.

“I have always been interested in politics, and the whole mockprimary really brings the power and organization of the real campaigns into perspective,” said PetersonHorner. “We wanted to reach a larger population, so we prepared information tables and sessions throughout the week.”

The Obama campaign also rallied during Advisory, and spread the message of “why Obama should be president,” said Eck. “We would start Photo by Dot Goldberger/Staff off these rallies by first Seniors Chrissy Kempf, Lisa Weinberg and David Price cast their votes at the schoolexplaining the campaign,wide mock primary on Monday, April 21. The primary was open to all LM staff and and then asked the stu-students, regardless of age. dents ‘what is the most Each campaign chose different points to emphasize about important factor in deciding who to vote for?’”

Both classes worked diligently in researching their can- their candidate.

“We really wanted to capitalize on Hillary’s experience didates. The Clinton campaign found information through sources including CNN, news programs, and Clinton-sup- in politics, and contrast that with Obama’s lack of experience” said Peterson-Horner. “We believed that her ideals porting students in their own class.

“It was really great to have people, such as Allison and legislation would bring our country together.”

On the other hand, the Obama campaign chose to focus Bobzin, who really believe in the Hillary campaign. They informed us on a more casual level about their [political] on health care and the war in Iraq.

“We found that these are key things in this election,” said beliefs,” said Peterson-Horner.

Set 6 approached the campaign by splitting the class Eck. “We polled LM students to find out the most important into three groups: media, research, and endorsements. The political issues to guide our campaign. We decided to use a responsibility of the media group was to organize post- mixture of comedy and informational media tactics to reach ers, commercials, and other announcements. The research everyone in the school.”

Apparently, their efforts worked. group found information relating to Obama’s views on “I think the mock primary was a great idea. I was comcontroversial issues.

“The point of the endorsements group is to go to the pletely in support of Obama,” said junior Signe Luther.

“Something important to remember is that this was just teachers, who are playing important politicians, and ask them for funding,” said Eck. “We were initially given a set a primary,” said Peterson-Horner. “Both of the candidates amount of money to be [distributed] as we deemed neces- in this mock election are Democratic, and they hold many sary. [However], if we ran out, the only way to continue of the same values, and strive for many of the same things. campaigning was through endorsements from teachers. We It is just the small little things, like experience, that can did our research for a few class periods and then hit the change a person’s mindset on which candidate they ultimately decide upon.” streets, or rather, the hallways.”

Eveslage to leave at end of the year Carolyn Chou

Class of 2009 Director of Athletics and Activities Scott Eveslage will be leaving LM at the end of the year to accept a vice principal job at Cheltenham High School. He is departing LM after two years in his current position.

“This is clearly not a case of me not being happy in my position,” said Eveslage.

As an aspiring high school prinicpal, a vice principal job is a natural step toward this goal. Cheltenham is not only the high school Eveslage attended, but also the school he worked at for seven years prior to coming to LM, both as a special education teacher and as the Director of Athletics and Activities for two years.

“Cheltenham is the only place I would leave LM for,” said Eveslage. “I did not pursue any other jobs.”

Although Eveslage has only been at LM for two years, he has impressed faculty and students with his dedication.

“Mr. Eveslage has had such a positive impact in only a short period of time on the students, faculty, and community,” said Assis-

tant Principal Sean Hughes. “He is a dedicated individual and an inspirational leader. I wish him much success in his new position. He will be greatly missed.”

Similarly, Eveslage has been impressed with LM, both the students and faculty, and their level of involvement in activities. He described the LM community as “philanthropic, goodhearted, and full of positive spirit.”

“There is a community-wide commitment to learning here that is admirable,” said Eveslage.

Eveslage’s decision to leave LM was difficult for him, but his position at LM has kept him away from his children and family, who reside in Cheltenham.

“The school is seeking stability, and I do not want to contribute to the instability,” said Eveslage.

While the school board has not officially accepted his resignation, it is expected to do so in the coming weeks, after which a search process can begin.

“I hope to be a part of the process,” said Eveslage. “I have a vested interest in being an advocate for the kids.”

Schedule revisions in place for ‘08-’09 Chloe Bollentin

Class of 2011 After an experimental year with a semi-block schedule, administrators have made revisions to class length and the advisory period setup. These changes come as a result of LM and Harriton teacher and student feedback regarding the current schedule.

“We [LM student government] have been pushing along with Harriton Student Government to change the schedule,” said LM student body president Sam Helfaer. “The changes will definitely ameliorate many of the biggest problems with the new schedule, but there will likely still need to be some tweaking of minor things.”

A meeting, which Student Government representatives, administrators, teachers and students attended, was held to reevaluate the current schedule and consider possible revisions. The actual changes include an advisory

period at the end of each day—three days of Academic Recovery and one day with Connections Advisory. The advisory period move was made to alleviate the effect of early dismissals due to sports. All class periods will also be 55 minutes long rather than the current varied length classes. The 105 minute lunch ‘block’ will remain the same with three sections, two for class and one for lunch.

“I am not happy that they changed the schedule again but at least this time it is for the better,” said sophomore Adam Saltzberg.

So far there has been a positive response to the new schedule.

“Everyone seems to be pretty happy about the changes that were decided upon and most received fairly unanimous support,” said Helfaer.

“I think this is a good compromise,” said 10th grade Assistant Principal Douglas Arnold.

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May 2, 2008

The Merionite

After long search, District welcomes new superintendent Molly Rowe

Class of 2011

On April 14, the LMSD School Board approved the appointment of Dr. Christopher McGinley as Superintendent of Schools after an extensive search conducted after the course of the school year.

“After two long and exhaustive searches, we’re very, very excited to welcome McGinley to LMSD,” said Board President Diane DiBonaventuro. “He has a passion for education. As soon as we got him talking about education, he had a wealth of information and a passion and desire to discuss it. He’s well-positioned to help us get through redistricting. He’s also noted for initiating a partnership with Photo by Dot Goldberger/ Staff the University of Pennsylvania.”

Above, new District Superintendent, Dr. Christopher McGinley.

He will be re“We believe that Dr. McGinplacing Dr. Jamie Savedoff. ley is the ideal candidate to lead our schools. He brings a wealth of experience that will serve him well in Lower Merion.” physical differences. Also while Dr. McGinley was at CheltenMcGinley held the position of the Executive Director of the ham, he developed a partnership with the University of PennDelaware County Intermediate Unit (DCIU), which aids in the sylvania. In this partnership, he formed the Delaware Valley development of educational programs and provides direct instruc- Achievement Minority Consortium, which is now made up of tion to students. He also served as the Superintendent of Schools twenty-seven schools and is in its forth year. The goal of the conin the Cheltenham District among other leadership positions. sortium is to provide opportunities to children in the minority.

Aside from holding positions in management, McGinley The members of the School Board are excited to have the opporhas worked in the field of special education, aiding mentally tunity to be working with someone of such experience in the field disabled children, handicapped children, and children with of education and noted his strengths at the School Board Meeting. learning difficulties and disorders, and later as an elementary “We saw lots of qualified exciting candidates. But within and middle school principal. When McGinley moved to the the first few minutes of talking with McGinley, I knew we Cheltenham Schools as Superintendent, his efforts made more had a match,” said Jerry Novick, one of the School Board room in the curriculum to challenge children with mental or directors. “I’m very excited to be working with him.”

Laptop initiative still up in air From Laptops, page 1

responsibility on us,” said junior Charlotte Weisberg.

“Responsibility will also be key here. How many times have you opened up a laptop in the library and found missing keys, or gotten a laptop in class only to have one out of four lights of battery left since the class before used it?,” said senior Ben Toll, who frequenty works with the Technology Department. “Students will have to take better care of their laptop since it will be theirs for all four years of their high school life. The laptops will be insured.

If your laptop breaks and its not your fault, chances are it will be fixed for free.

“People think it is a waste of money for the school to place laptops in student hands when actually the school is saving money. If we were to have laptop carts in every classroom, there would be more laptops than students!

Another misconception is that having to carry around a laptop in addition to other books will make students’bookbag loads heavier, when in reality, LMSD is trying to move to a paperless environment so the only thing you may find in your bag is a laptop.”

Weisberg worries that with a laptop available in every class, teachers will depend on them to “teach for them,” and there will be an overall decrease in teacher-to-student interaction.

“School is a time to have social skills and interact with our peers. We don’t have interactions with our peers. We don’t need technology to have discussions, which maximizes different types of learning. Our parents pay taxes to pay teachers to teach in school, so we should be interacting with them while we have the chance. I think there are some teachers who would abuse having computers and rely on them to teach for them. In this case, I could learn just as much at home on my computer.”

Weisberg, and many other students, thinks the District should provide laptops with an insurance fee to those who demonstrate a need, but sees the issue of internet access at home as a separate problem.

DiMedio obtained a $10,000 grant from Verizon through which she purchased laptops and cameras, installed at the Bethel Academy.

The technology staff connected the laptops to an internet service provider so that District students could access the internet from the Academy.

The District wants to consolidate and streamline learning by providing each student with a laptop. With a single laptop, students can avoid file incompatibility and have easy access to the laptop at all times, cutting down class time wasted on setup.

But other students disagree—sophomore Jacob Adenbaum thinks the initiative would have a positive effect on learning.

“It would allow students who use laptops in every class to consolidate and facilitate more effective learning, providing continuity for those who take notes on computers and laptops to those without them at home. It would help to allow teachers to be more flexible in their lesson plans and would eliminate many of the problems that arise as a result of switching between computers at home computers at school, like file incompatibilities,” said Adenbaum.

“The One to One Initiative will allow students to be even more productive in class and at home, having all the software they need to complete their work at their disposal,” said Toll.

But Weisberg thinks that the problems the laptops solve are less troublesome than those they create.

“They would have to modify the network and provide more outlets for charging, and it’s just one more thing to carry. There are some science programs that are exclusively

Windows compatible,” she said.

“The science department is one of the most technologically advanced departments,” said LM Science Department Chair Lawrence McAfoos. “Virtually all of our teachers use technology in some way, ranging from web applications to data collection, to computer simulations of various phenomena. Many of these applications are PC specific and would be unavailable if the only computers in our rooms were student Mac laptops. I am concerned that this might have the effect of decreasing the use of technology in the science classroom, not increasing it.”

Weisberg also feels that student voices were ignored in this process, although a survey was distributed to a random sampling of students and a Harriton-LM videoconference was open to all students during Academic Advisory on April 15.

“The random survey handed out during Connections was too small a selection, and doesn’t reflect the mood of the entire student body,” said Weisberg.

In response to what she saw as a skewed survey, Weisberg created a petition protesting the initiative to “find out how people really feel about it.” She found that the majority of people that she talked to were opposed to initiative— 100 signed the petition in two days—and felt that those who supported it were uninformed and “just thought it would be cool to have their own computer. They weren’t informed enough to have legitimate reasons.”

“As long as I know people are against this, I will stand up for their opinion. If they try to defy their opinion, it shows how they don’t pay attention to the student body,” she said. “I realize they’ve put in so much time to come up with this plan, but they’ve gone overboard—there are simple solutions and they’re paying more attention to the school image as a whole, not the individual.”

NEWS

NEWS IN BRIEF With appointment of new contrator, Ardmore revitalization moves forward

On March 19, the Lower Merion Township commissioners unanimously chose Carl Dranoff of Dranoff Properties to organize the restoration of the Ardmore area, with an estimated price tag of $150 million.

The revitalization plans, which have been under discussion for the past few years, recently took a turn when the previous contractor, Edward B. Lipkin, withdrew his $300 million project plan due to financial difficulties in February. Construction to renovate and reinvent the Lancaster Avenue shopping district of Ardmore is expected to begin at some point over the next few months and last for about five years, occurring in four phases.

“We need to kick-start Ardmore,” said Township Commissioner Mark Taylor to The Philadelphia Inquirer at the March 19 township meeting.

The renovation includes plans for a public amphitheater, the construction of a new train station, and the formation of a pedestrian walkway over the train tracks from Suburban Square to Lancaster Avenue. Dranoff has also proposed a “mini Main Street” along the train tracks, new apartments, 60,000 square feet for stores and restaurants, and over 1,000 additional parking spaces, including 650 for public use.

--Hana Rouse, ‘10

Parking lot to open in May

Construction of the new temporary parking lot on Arnold Field is on schedule and will be ready for use by May 1. The new lot will not offer any parking spaces for students--student parking will not be abailable until the new school is open.

The lot accessible from Montgomery Avenue and in front of the Ardmore Annex will continue to be used until school’s end on June 13.

“Thus, when school begins in September 2008, all parking will be on Arnold Field,” said Guinnane.

Pickup and drop off of students will also take place on the temporary parking lot on Arnold Field. To help with the flow of traffic in the lot, LMSD is hiring parking aides to man the parking lot for the 2008-2009 school year. Since pedestrian traffic crossing Montgomery Avenue will rise considerably, pedestrian count-down timers have been added to provide pedestrians with a better sense of how much time is left to cross the street.

Once construction of the new high school is finished in late 2011, the temporary lot will be removed and the area will be turned back into grass playing fields.

--Matt Rublin, ‘11

Back-to-back swastika incidents shake elementary schools During election week Swastikas were found outside of Penn Wynne and Gladwynne elementary schools.

Poll officials found swastikas chalked on west end walls of Penn Wynne on Election Day morning, and on Thursday, April 24 several fifth grade students found identical symbols in a boys’ bathroom stall at Gladwynne Elementary.

In a letter to Penn Wynne parents Principal Shawn Bernatowitcz wrote, “Lower Merion police took photographs of the offensive symbols. It is undetermined as to when these drawings were made or by whom.”

Lower Merion police also responded to the Gladwynne incident. “An investigation is underway to determine who is responsible for the graffiti,” wrote Gladwynne Principal James Johnson in a letter to the Lower Merion community.

District spokesman Doug Young said, “The when and the who are still undetermined, and we still may never know.”

According to Johnson faculty from Gladwynne have used this incident to address “the hurtful, offensive and unacceptable nature of these symbols.”

Penn Wynne faculty held similar discussions with their students.

Both schools have contacted the Anti-Defamation League, an organization focused on fighting antiSemitism.

--Hana Rouse, ‘10

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May 2, 2008

NEWS

The Merionite

Record-breaking Drugs shock BCMS showing at TSA states Anna Menaged

Conor Ferguson

Class of 2011

On April 9, the LM Technology & Engineering Club made an impressive showing at the annual Pennsylvania state Technology Student Association (TSA) conference, at which a record-breaking 25 individuals and teams placed in the top ten of their event. The conference was held over four days at Seven Springs Mountain Resort in Champion, Pennsylvania.

“I had a wonderful time at the state conference,” said TSA State Conference officer Sharonne Holtzman. “Except I hardly got any sleep! The officers were the last ones awake and the first ones up in the morning.”

The events cover various areas of design and technology. Events range from engineering-related projects to on-site building competitions to taking tests on various topics.

“Over 50 students from LM’s TSA chapter competed in numerous events,” said 2007-2008 PA-TSA vice president and LM TSA member Daniel Zollman.

LM students medaled in seven events and placed in the top ten in

Photo courtesy Jessica Scolnic/Staff

TSA State Officers spell out ‘Imagine It,’ the conference theme, at the opening ceremonies. another 24 projects. All resulting finalists of the state conference are eligible to attend the national conference that will be held in Orlando, Florida at the end of June.

“I joined TSA in seventh grade because of my interest in technology,” said freshman John Sniffen, who placed in the top ten in both Electronic Research and Experimentation and Cyberspace Pursuit at the state conference. “TSA is awesome, and I can’t wait to attend nationals.”

TSA allows students to explore areas including engineering, technology, and the sciences through group competitions at regional,

state, and national levels. By participating in these competitions, club members master advanced computer software programs such as Computer-Aided Design (CAD). The club also offers seminars on leadership and stresses the importance of teamwork.

“I have learned all about group dynamics and further developed my leadership skills by joining TSA,” said freshman Rachel Newell, who won third place in Prepared Presentation and Agriculture and Biotechnology. “I’m very excited to attend nationals—it’s cool competing with kids from all over the nation.”

School board creates non-negotiables From Redistricting, page 1

of options redistricting presents. The Board decided to hire a professional consultant to aid in the process and to create some type of committee comprised of teachers, administrators, and possibly students as well. Community involvement will be an integral piece; meetings will be open to the public to discuss the process.

“A very important part will be the public engagement piece administered by professionals for the community to share their thoughts,” said Savedoff.

At a public board meeting on Monday, April 21 the school board agreed on the non-negotiables and decided to not spend more than $60,000 on the entire process.

The “non-negotiable” criteria are threefold: there must be equal enrollment at the two high schools and the two middle schools; the elementary school population will not overcome the capacity; and seniors will be “grandfathered.”

Grandfathering means that the current seniors would not have to switch schools. Therefore LM’s current sophomores, the class of 2010, will not be moved their senior year. However, the fate of the current freshman has not been decided’ there is a chance that some will have to switch to Harriton for their junior year.

“I think anyone who already attends LM shouldn’t have to move. They should begin redistricting the people who have not attended LM yet since it is unfair for students to have to move after being at LM for two years,” said sophomore Rebecca Plotnick.

The choice to grandfather seniors was decided after school board member Jerry Novick led a motion to approve of this as a non-negotiable. As the board could not decide unanimously on this component, each member voted individually. Despite Novick’s support he actually decided not to vote because he could not be impartial due to the effect on his daughter, sophomore Sophie Novick.

The outcome was a 5-3 vote in favor of grandfathering seniors.

“I don’t think any of us [school board members] think a student should have to switch schools their senior year,” said Novick.

Grandfathering eighth graders and fifth graders was

discussed, but the board decided not to declare it non-negotiable. One possibility for eighth and fifth graders who do not want to be moved in their final year of middle and elementary school, respectively, is that parents would be required to provide transportation if the students wished to stay at their current school.

“I wouldn’t want to switch my eighth grade year since I don’t like Welsh Valley but I think the high schools are kind of even,” said Bala Cynwyd Middle School seventh grader Olivia Lindy. “I think that some people might be a little angry if they couldn’t pick their high school. Some kids might be looking forward to LM since their siblings go there.”

As the process continues, other factors regarding redistricting will be considered. Clustering minority students will be discussed with professionals and the community.

Clustering means that certain minority populations, like the African American community of Ardmore, would all attend the same school together. Redistricting is not the first time clustering has been suggested at LM. Currently foreign language classes cluster minority students to create a more comfortable atmosphere and further their language studies. The board has not made any decisions regarding clustering but it is going to carefully investigate the legality behind one such program.

“There is a study that shows that you can not have less than 15 percent of a minority in a school or in a class, otherwise they become token icons of their race.

That [clustering] is something that needs to be addressed during the redistricting,” said board meeting attendee Patty Smith.

Many students are upset over the choice to redistrict.

Few students want to switch to Harriton.

“By junior year I will have made a lot of friends at LM and it wouldn’t be fair to make me start over at Harriton,” said freshman Itai Doron. “It’s almost like going to a new school even though it’s in the same district.”

Nonetheless, students realize that redistricting would only seriously influence the current freshmen.

“It is an extremely difficult situation and there may not be one single right answer,” said Chemistry teacher Glenn Brooks. “But it is a very difficult and emotional process.”

Class of 2010

On April 11, a group of Bala Cynwyd Middle School (BC) students approached BC administrators to inform them of a drug ring at the school. Lower Merion Police and staff members were immediately informed, and, following and, gathered enough evidence to identify the students involved. These students were punished by the principal and may face expulsion.

Soon after these students were apprehended, BC students created a group on Facebook, the popular social networking website, with the express purpose of threatening the students who originally reported the drug ring. This group aimed threatening and hateful remarks at one student in particular.

The administration was alerted of this group and a letter sent home to parents on April 4 made them aware of the issue.

“Students have made inappropriate, threatening statements on this Web site,” wrote BC principal Patricia Haupt in the letter. The school plans to address the problem of Internet bullying to ensure that threats like these are not made towards students over the Internet again. Administrators held an as-

sembly on April 4 in which they informed students and teachers of what occurred and asking for their help in creating a safer, drug-free environment at their school.

“I was really surprised,” said BCMS seventh grader Matthew Lindheim. “I didn’t think that this was going on with kids at this age, especially not in my own school.”

The district has decided not to release the names and number of students involved, or their punishments. Although there are no police charges and no students have been yet expelled, the involved students were turned over to the S.T.A.R.T. team for a counseling program that began April 15.

The middle school is also working to better promote the S.T.A.R.T. program so that it is more widely utilized by students in the school. Administrators believe that there are possibly more students involved in marijuana use who have not been reported, and BCMS staff members hope that by properly promoting the S.T.A.R.T. program these students will also be able to receive help. The administration has placed S.T.A.R.T. boxes around the school with the hope that they will help students now and in the future.

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May 2, 2008

Editorial

The Merionite

EDITORIAL

Declaration of Journalistic Principles We publish this manifesto to answer reThe Opinion/Editorial section of this newspaper has always been a vehicle for sponses we have received for many artithe publication of opinions within our cles this past year. There have been calls community. Whether or not these opin- for us to censor the material we publish in ions are popular, contributing writers have our newspaper. There has been criticism the right to hold them. And our readers are against the choice of articles we publish. fully within their rights to oppose and re- But we believe there is a distinction between spond to opinions they find disagreeable. constructive and destructive criticism.

We encourage dialogue As long as the opinions of We do not pass and for our readers to reour writers are portrayed correctly, we will not apologize judgement on which fute the opinions they find for their publication. It is our opinions are correct offensive. This is constructive. Calls for censorjob to serve as a vehicle for ship, on the other hand, are such opinions; we do not pass judgement on which opinions are correct. simply unreasonable. Suppression of Just as this is so, opinions published in speech is never a practical form of petithis section do not necessarily represent tion, because it avoids directly addressthose held by the staff of The Merion- ing an issue. It is our duty as a commuite. At the same time, however, it is our nity to not only voice our opinions, but duty to ensure that what we publish ex- also to discuss how we disagree with hibits journalistic integrity. If our read- those of others. The Merionite will coners find error in our publication, we en- tinue to open its mailbox to your views. courage them to communicate this to us. We hope to hear from you in the future.

Unsigned editorial on this page reflect the general opinion of student editors, not the views of individuals.

The Merionite Published since 1929

Editors-in-Chief Jon Blistein, ‘08 David Faich, ‘08

Arts & Entertainment Editors

Sophia Hirsch, ‘09 Jenny Smolen, ‘09

Managing Editor Samantha Rosen, ‘08

Layout Editor Sam Blum, ‘09

News Editors Carolyn Chou, ‘09 Liz Jacobs, ‘09

Business Manager Marissa Presser, ‘09

Op-Ed Editors JC Chou, ‘09 Niklas Thompson, ‘09 Features Editors Samantha Rosen, ‘08 Emma Saltzberg, ‘09 Jessica Scolnic, ‘09 Sports Editors Lex Carlin, ‘08 Jodie Eichel, ‘08 Elie Peltz, ‘09

Photo Editor Dot Goldberger, ‘08 Copy Editors Matt Taylor ‘08 Corinne Zucker, ‘09 Advisor Mr. Chad Henneberry Business Advisor Mr. Sean Flynn

The editors believe all facts presented in the newspaper to be accurate. The paper acknowledges that mistakes are possible and welcomes questions as to accuracy. Inquiries regarding accuracy should be directed to the editors of the paper. Editors can be contacted via e-mail at merionite@gmail.com or in Room 116. To represent all viewpoints in the school community, The Merionite welcomes all letters to the editor. Letters can be sent via e-mail or dropped off outside the Merionite office. The Merionite reserves the right to edit letters to the editor for length or clarity.

Congratulations to the 2008-2009 Merionite staff Editors-in-Chief Carolyn Chou, ‘09 Liz Jacobs, ‘09 Managing Editor News Editors

Op-Ed Editors

Features Editors

Arts & Entertainment Editors

Emma Saltzberg, ‘09 Sivahn Barsade, ‘10 Samantha Hershman, ‘09 Hana Rouse, ‘10 JC Chou, ‘09 Ethan Cohen, ‘09 Niklas Thompson, ‘09

Sports Editors Elie Peltz, ‘09 Xinran Wang, ‘10 Corinne Zucker, ‘09 Layout Editor Sam Blum, ‘09 Graphics/ Noah Zuares, ‘10 Web Editor Business Marissa Presser, ‘09 Manager

Hannah Goldberg-Morse, ‘10 Bina Peltz, ‘10 Photo Editor Esther Hoffman, ‘09 Jessica Scolnic, ‘09 Sophia Hirsch, ‘09 Jenny Smolen, ‘09 Hannah Weilbacher, ‘10

Copy Editors Isaac Lindy, ‘10 Emily Sorensen, ‘10

High-fives all around.

6

May 2, 2008

LETTERS

The Merionite

We have received an overwhelming response to Les Schaevitz’s letter concerning the article “Our heteronormative society,” and, as a result, feel that it is necessary to clearly define The Merionite’s role in our community. The Op-Ed section of the paper is an open forum, in which anyone within the school community—student, staff, or parent—can express an opinion. We encourage those who wish to share their opinions to use this newspaper as a vehicle for their thoughts. Accordingly, we have published the following letters in an attempt to accurately represent reactions—to the letter, the article that prompted it, and the questions they raise—from a broad range of viewpoints.

Sexuality should not be an issue To the Editor, I was first struck when Mr. Schaevitz claimed that “societies are…created by humans (for) the continuation and increase of the species.” He then used this idea to claim that “homosexuality contradicts this most basic function of societies.”

Evolutionary biology and common sense tell us that proliferation of the human species came before societies. These societies were not, as he claims, meant for the continuation of the species. One generally agreed upon reason for society’s creation is that the discovery of agriculture, as opposed to hunting, led to the ability of humans to be non-nomadic and to create culture in addition to the basic needs of life. This means that our society is not, and has never been, about procreation.

When Mr. Schaevitz argues that “society is forced to accommodate [homosexuality] with abnormal actions” that “undermine the basic functioning of the society and its institutions,” he fails to mention any case where this is true. Homosexuals just want to be treated just like everyone else in society. They want the right to be openly gay in our army.

They want the right to marry and be financially dependant. They want to be legally allowed to have children.

Imagine a loved one in the hospital and not being allowed to see that person because you are not legally connected to them. This is what gay people want to change. There is nothing forcing anyone to do anything either beneficial or harmful. It is in fact saying that society should see past “gay” and look at homosexuals as the people that they are.

Schaevitz continues to say that gays are attacking “societal norms and institutions”, turning “our most basic societal institutions, like marriage and the concept of the nuclear family, inside out.” This is an interesting argument and I shall explain why by giving a brief summary of the history of marriage that anyone reading Nectar in a Sieve would know. Marriage was only recently based on love. Marriage has always, throughout the history of human culture, been about family connections and stability and was almost always arranged. The very concept of marriage for love is radical and has effectively decimated the “traditional marriage.” It is also ridiculous for heterosexuals to claim that homosexuals are the factor causing the decline of marriage as an institution when heterosexuals essentially created divorce, having children without being married, and any other factor that has, until this point, “hurt”

the institution. Not that any of that is hurting our culture anyway. It is up to the individuals involved to make decisions regarding their love life and family life. Why can’t people see that applies to gay people too?

Another disturbing idea from Mr. Schaevitz is that of marriage turning into “a random domestic union of consenting adults.” This and the rest of Schaevitz’s hyperbole serves to show how thin his argument truly is. He continues to say that he will not stand for “family to be defined as any group of people who decide to live together.”

Again, he makes an ungrounded and hyperbolic claim. Marriage will still be people who decide to get married, and their families will still be the same families we see today.

In his conclusion, Schaevitz calls members of the gay rights movement “heterophobics” and claims that “if not withstood, (they) will significantly weaken and de-

moralize our society and degrade our way of life.”

Those in favor of homosexual rights are not afraid of or opposed to heterosexuality. In fact, they merely want to have sexual orientation be a non issue. It should not matter who a person loves, it should matter who they are. And as far as his latter comments, the idea that we are still oppressing groups of people and denying people rights and acceptance is the true factor which shows a degraded way of life. It is society’s issue with homosexuality that is degrading. This speaks poorly of us as a culture.

Although I clearly disagree with Mr. Schaevitz on the argument itself, the biggest problem I have is that he is one of many people who think that homosexuality is the force weakening us as a nation and a people and destroying our culture.

People in our country are dying because healthcare in our country is too expensive. We are fighting a war and that is a fact whether you agree with the war or not. We have gangs running our streets and prisons. We have unequal education systems for the youth in this country. There are so many issues that face us as a society and homosexuality is the battle people choose to fight. We are wasting time and money in the battle to prevent gays from experiencing all the same freedoms and problems that everyone else faces. Tax money has been spent removing homosexuals from our military. We have parents disowning their children simply because they are gay. There are children who kill themselves because they are told that they are dis-

gusting human beings, or not even human. This is the battle against homosexuality. Has this protected our country? Has it made life better? Has it strengthened families?

Instead we should focus on the real issues. When they have been solved, then we can argue about this. And when that day comes, check your facts first, and don’t use inflammatory wording to mask the weakness of your argument. Society needs all the help it can get, so why not let everyone be part of the solution?

Nadav Hirsh Class of 2009

A forum is no place for hate

To the Editor

I was disappointed in the editorial by a parent, Les Schaevitz, in response to Celeste Lavin’s honest, disclosive and risky opinion piece in the previous Merionite. I will not weigh in on the gay rights debate or the value of questioning hetero-normative assumptions—too complicated and rooted in personal values. I will, however, weigh in on adult responsibility to adolescents, and the power asymmetry that underlies any sort of contest, whether personal or intellectual, between adult and teenager.

Mr. Schaevitz’s piece appeared because the Merionite extends the courtesy of allowing parents a voice in the student newspaper.

Mr. Schaevitz used this courtesy to publish a biting response to Ms. Lavin, one whose visceral revulsion is thinly disguised behind a façade of reasonable, logical discourse.

He may not have intended it to be personal, but it was personal. How could it not be for a teenager whose defense of her identity has just been publicly and articulately equated with an assault on the institution of family, by an adult from the community?

Mr. Schaevitz is entitled to his beliefs about sexual orientation and a society’s appropriate stance towards sexual minority behavior; he enjoys the right to promote his values in his home, his community and his political life. But a student newspaper is a place for students to discover and fight out the issues. In my view, it is inappropriate for an adult to enter a forum for student voices and take on an adolescent.

There’s something else Mr. Schaevitz does not seem to recognize. In the context of a school, Celeste Lavin is not an emissary of family decay, but a young woman speaking out on a volatile subject that is a frequent source of social ostracism and scorn. Students with minority or uncertain sexual identities are particularly vulnerable to the rough edges of adolescent culture—a problem whose “deleterious effects” have been documented in mountains of literature. I suspect that Ms. Lavin, rather than attacking the nuclear family, was trying to give a voice to the alienating frustra-

tions experienced by these students.

Adolescents with sexual minority identities know that the majority of our society is antagonistic to them—they knew this without Mr. Schaevitz’s loud reminder. I hope they also understand that in this school they can find supportive adults and peers to help them navigate the tensions thereby created. I also hope that other students with minority views will not hold back from sharing them, fearful of being sniped at by classmates--or publicly rebuked by hostile parents.

Mike Segal English Department

Only bowling for equality

To the Editor,

We take issue with Mr. Schaevitz’s letter, “Invested in our ‘heteronormative’ society” in the March 14 Merionite, which mainly states that because homosexual relationships do not directly result in biological offspring, homosexuality is unacceptable in our society. We wonder what he would say about those people who are not able to have children or straight people who choose to not have children. We wonder how he would categorize the inventors, the artists, the teachers, the architects and people in other professions who have enriched our culture and civilization but perhaps have not had children. We wonder why he begrudges consideration given to gay people, seeming to consider it “special treatment”; in our eyes, it is just equal treatment, given to someone who has the dignity of simply being a human.

Homosexuality has been evident throughout the ages, in human civilizations as well as animal populations. In the past half-century, our culture has undergone much growth in terms of civil rights. Why is it that a naturally occurring part of our population still has difficulty in being accepted?

The Gay-Straight Alliance

Les Schaevitz, More Tolerance

To the Editor,

As a recent LMHS Alum, I am writing to respond to Les Schaevitz’s letter in the March 14 edition of the Merionite, “Invested in our heteronormative society.” In it, Schaevitz accuses “homosexuals and their advocates” of endangering society’s growth and prosperity. He writes as a “nominally responsible adult.”

Schaevitz’s main argument is that homosexuality fails to support our fundamental “reason for being,” in that it “does absolutely nothing for the continuation of the species.”

This can’t possibly be his complaint.

If Schaevitz really opposed things that did nothing to continue the species, wouldn’t he be against bowl-

ing? And art? And public schools?

I wonder what he would say about Woody Allen or Leonard Bernstein.

Does he think that the parents of single children at LM have wasted their lives? This argument is insulting. With the population of our globe rapidly approaching its limit, I have trouble accepting that my only “reason for being” here is to breed.

Throughout, Schaevitz milks this premise, referring ominously to “deleterious effects” he never identifies. The closest he comes to an actual concern is when he charges homosexuals with defining the family as “any random group of people who decide to live together.” Why do they decide to live together, Mr. Schaevitz? They love each other, and they love their children, adopted or otherwise. That sounds like a family to me. Many children in this world don’t have even that.

The gay members of our society have been teased, bullied, ostracized, misunderstood, and, perhaps worst of all, pitied. Half-baked rationalizations are no excuse.

We need to be honest about why.

And Mr. Schaevitz, sadly, has not been honest. If he really thought society existed just to reproduce, then our children “randomly sleeping together,” would probably be the best way to accomplish it. But he doesn’t think this. Nobody thinks this. It doesn’t make sense.

The truth is that Les Schaevitz finds homosexuality repulsive.

That’s all it is. Gays disgust him, and he can’t fathom society allowing something that disgusts him.

In fact, many of Schaevitz’s fellow citizens feel the same way, and there’s not a whole lot we can do about it.

But “nominally responsible adults,” as Schaevitz describes himself, know how to separate their emotions from their opinions. They know the difference between a feeling and something they should act on. When they don’t, we see demagogues and lynch gangs—hate-speech and violence. I am not accusing Mr. Schaevitz of violent intent, but it is his same visceral hatred of homosexuals—and not some pseudo-rational argument—that has fueled decades of homosexual oppression.

We cannot judge Les Schaevitz, or anyone, by their emotions.

But we can ask that he come out and say what they are. We can’t fight what we can’t talk about. If Schaevitz continues to feed us these Swiss-Cheese arguments about “population growth,” some people, especially children, might take them seriously. And the risk is not that he will convince those of us who know better, but that he will help rationalize the hatred of people just looking for an excuse.

Social change frightens everyone, Mr. Schaevitz. It’s nothing to be ashamed of. But try to keep your hatred in the closet—not everyone is as responsible as you.

David Klumpp Class of 2006

7

May 2, 2008

The Merionite

OP-ED

What you can do for your country Unappreciated endeavors, wasted science Community service is not a surrogate for political activism If there’s one thing that can be said about the kids at LM and many other teenagers across the country, it’s that we’ve truly got the community service thing down. It’s so rewarding to see our own individual efforts help others, and there is that patriotic warm feeling that comes after serving Rachel Cohen your commuClass of 2010 nity.

People are opting to spend their summers building schools in Costa Rica, or repairing damaged homes in Vietnam. Even those with busy AP class schedules and tons of extracurriculars find time to tutor inner-city students on weeknights.

So clearly that is not the problem.

The problem is how in the past 30 years, politics has been replaced by community service as being the cool and socially acceptable thing to do.

Community service is a great output for energy and idealism as well as a way to grow a sense of leadership.

When community service becomes the alternative for political activism— that’s when we have a glaring issue.

In the 60’s and 70’s, young people across the country joined togeth- er to protest the Vietnam War. They felt it was their dire duty. Contrast that to the War on Terror in Iraq. Youth involvement is next to nothing.

I’d bet money that a lot of people have opinions on the war but you’d be hard pressed to find someone willing to act.

There are clear, understandable reasons why kids our age feel disconnected. However the misconception and hypocrisy that goes along with their feelings is too urgent to ignore.

When people start to believe that public service can replace political activism in creating change, a great deal of nothing occurs. While tutoring inner-city kids is a good service, it accomplishes little in the long run of actually improving the quality and funding of the public schools. Unless people rally together and protest and demand change, those same inner-city schools will need tutors for years and years to come. Serving soup in a soup kitchen is a very kind and selfless thing to do, but it is not going to get the government to help end hunger. Cleaning up parks may be rewarding when it’s finished, but a week later, when no one has lobbied for better environmental conservation laws,

the problem will have returned quicker than we sign onto Facebook at night.

So why is being involved with politics so unpopular in the first place?

Think about how you personally react to these two scenarios. If I told you I spent the past two days helping underprivileged kids learn how to do long division, chances are looks of admiration would come my way. If I told you I spent the past two days campaigning for Hillary Clinton or John McCain to help draw attention to education reforms for the 2008 election, chances are eyes would roll or I would be instantly tuned out. Why? Why is it such a turnoff?

It is no doubt that a huge amount of LM kids feel no connection to the government. And why should they? Odds are they have had no person- al experiences with it, and if they have attempted once or twice, they were probably ignored. It’s gotten to the point that to walk down the hall wearing an Obama sticker, or to proudly declare that you’re a Republican is seen as “ Excessively Aware”. And that needs to change.

Definitely a big reason that kids stay away from politics is that they fear they don’t know enough on a topic to make a good statement.

And admittedly following up on current events can be a time consuming, daily task. Kids are going to have to be more tolerant to the fact that we don’t know everything. Don’t just cut someone off if they are trying to speak. If they don’t know something, tell them. Don’t just shut them up. The last thing we need is more kids to be turned off.

A third and common reason to not care is the “I’m too young to vote, why should I care.” mindset.

This apathetic view needs to disappear. It’s just much too hypocritical to do community service but think writing letters to public officials, or rallying for change is out of our control. You don’t have to be 18 to get involved. When you get enough support from enough people, the government has no choice but to listen.

So what I’m saying is we’re doing an amazing job at treating the symptoms of the issues, but not enough to actually find a “cure”. Not enough people seem to be looking for the root of the problems anymore. If we really want to help people, which I think we do, we’d do what would help them the most. And that is to contact people who have real influence in creating change.

Support a candidate that endorses what you believe in. Keep volunteering but don’t forget that community service just cannot replace political activ-

It’s official—cell phones cause cancer.

This shouldn’t be too much of a shock to the general public. While Dr. Vini Khurana announced his findings just a couple of weeks ago, it seems pretty obvious that placing an electronic device that receives transmissions from distant towers and satellites miles away directly against one’s head can’t Hana Rouse be entirely benClass of 2010 eficial to one’s health. Cellular devices are bad for you—add this to the long list of important, health related research that the general public will continue to ignore.

Over the years, scientists and researchers have blessed humanity with a variety of warnings and caveats elaborating on how to lead a healthier lifestyle. While some have been incorporated into modern laws and daily life, the large majority of health facts are cast aside as people continue to embrace their id, rather then follow their ego.

Aspartame, the chemical found in diet drinks and many sugar substitutes, causes cancer and mental damage, and may even cause a person to gain weight, but people continue to pick up a Diet Coke rather then a bottle of water, and pour multiple packets of NutraSweet into their morning brew.

Alcoholism can cause serious health problems, and even lead to death, but people still binge drink on Saturday nights, and even harm their unborn children by drinking while pregnant.

Insomnia stunts growth and harms mental retention, but people continue to forgo sleep in favor of partying into morning hours, or engage in intense all-nighters to finish work, or write newspaper articles at 12:30 in the morning.

Gas pollutes the environment. Styrofoam contributes to global warming. Cigarettes cause cancer. Excessive eating causes obesity, and obesity leads to further health risks. Thirty minutes of rigorous exercise,

5 times a week is ideal. Certain deodorants cause cancer. The list is infinite.

Now, I’ll admit that increased awareness has allowed the world to address these and other problems to some degree. Laws now limit access to substances like drugs and alcohol, and the search for the perfect renewable energy and the solution to the global warming crisis continues—but it’s not enough.

Ours is a nation of hypocrites. We say we desire research; we fund countless scientific endeavors, provide grants for particularly “noble” causes, and hold fundraisers ranging in size from lemonade stands to full-scale five-k runs to raise money. And then we largely ignore the vast majority of research that becomes available to us as a result of our efforts. People, appreciate the product of your money and labor!

I don’t claim to be noble or above the hypocrisy of the average human being.

I guarantee that even after writing this long tirade promoting the appreciation of research, I will continue to stay up until 2:00 AM and wake at 6:00 AM, eat that bag of cancer-causing potato chips, and hold that carcinogenic cell-phone against my ear. I do, however, believe that we have a duty to, at the very least, become more aware of the information that years of research and billions of dollars have made available to us. Countless times, I have heard people discuss the modern injustice that actors are paid far more than the people that are working to cure cancer. Well, not only are these honorable academics underpaid, the products they work relentlessly to create are largely unacknowledged. People buy and obsess over movies, and idolize actors, but few purchase and treasure research papers, or build closet altars to scientists searching for any harmful side effects of graphite.

Rather than simply throwing money at research endeavors, people need to begin recognizing the importance of results.

Man’s ability to think is his one true advantage over beast: appreciate this talent, and those who use it to its full extent to better the quality of life and humanity.

An endless political drama

You may have noticed just how long the current presidential campaigns are dragging on. To date, the candidates have been busy campaigning for almost two years. As the voters become more familiar with the candidates—and as the media grows tired of talking about their policies—the race for president of the United Sean Salazar Class of 2009 States has started to focus more and more on their personalities and other meaningless distractions.

The current Democratic debates are becoming less important as opportunities to compare candidates’ stances on what really matters. News organizations are more focused on the drama that will turn these debates into entertainment.

The media’s sensationalistic coverage encourages the public to judge candidates on trivialities that do not relate to the real issues facing the American public.

One may notice that in many other countries, presidential or prime minis-

terial elections last only a few months: just enough time for the candidates to present themselves to the country, say what they have to say, and be judged.

Although an extended campaign presumably allows voters to become more familiar with the candidates’ stances, it is inevitably the less important features of the candidates that spring to front stage.

Honestly, how important is it that Clinton was nicknamed “Frigidaire” as a high school girl, or that Obama bowled a 37 at a Pennsylvania bowling alley?

This endless drama is hurting American democracy in more than one way.

Not only are the (fairly small) policy differences between Clinton and Obama getting short shrift; the (glaringly huge) differences between the Democrats and Republican nominee, John McCain. McCain is barely mentioned anymore; Clinton and Obama are taking up all available airtime on the television sets at home that every American is hungrily watching.

So while you tune in to the next mudflinging soap opera, think of the things that matter. What exactly do each of the candidates stand for? And what would they realistically achieve in their White House tenure?

Who will make the best president?constant shallow media coverage is just distracting voters from what is important.

8

May 2, 2008

The Merionite

OP-ED

The China question

Elegy for the annex

Olympics should not be a leverage for political agendas

LM will soon lose a vital part of its unique building, an aspect which lends to the spirit of the school and causes distress among freshmen, who must struggle to find a room numbered AA02. Come June, the Annex will be demolished, along with years and years of unforgettable memories, and innumerable square footage of walking space.

Isaac Lindy The Ardmore Class of 2010 Annex, connected to LM’s main building by a marathon of a hallway, has served a triple purpose throughout its heroic history: it was the Ardmore Junior High School, it has housed countless freshman Humanities classes, and also has provided the façade necessary to fool people into thinking that LM truly does have a main entrance. During the frigid winter months and beastly May/June, students in the Annex have slaved away at tests and homework, all the while figuring out strategies to get back to the main building on time for their next class.

Despite the ridiculous distance from the remote Annex to the rest of the world, it does have a few benefits. Freshmen, who feel lost and generally hated at the beginning of the year, have a “home base” to go to, a place where at least two of their classes are next door to each other and where the building is populated mostly by people their own age.

Besides protecting the frosh, the never-ending corridor leading to the Annex significantly increases the amount of walking space at LM, consequently decreasing the mass of students flooding other hallways and stairwells.

But besides the Annex’s physical and architectural benefits, it has nostalgic value, too. Whether it’s hobbling down the hallway to the Annex on crutches, out of breath, every morning for about two and a half weeks at the beginning of my freshman year; or sitting at my desk, literally fighting with my English midterm while convincing myself of failure; or filming scenes of Romeo and Juliet wearing incredibly embarrassing costumes, the Annex for me, (and I’m sure for many others) holds a plethora of memories.

When next September rolls around, and students enter LM to find the Annex demolished, I’m afraid that LM will face some serious issues. Now, I am entirely for the new high school, and also agree that the Annex is far outdated, but the thought of all the students, who occupy the Annex during the day, cramming into the main building slightly terrifies me.

Next year, the freshmen won’t have the “home base” of their Humanities classes, and will be tossed in with the majority of the LM population, free to be terrorized. The gym classes won’t have a place to go, and instead will have to participate in cafeteria food badminton or library book dodgeball. The memories forged during so many freshmen years will be lost.

Truthfully, these consequences are unavoidable if the school district wants to progress construction for the new high school. The administration, however, could inform the students about the construction, and what rules and regulations will exist next year to control traffic in the hallways that are, and will always inevitably be immensely crowded.

Not that students need to know all the goings-on of LM, but we are absolutely entitled to know what our physical school environment will be like next year. Without this information, achieving healthy closure to such an extended relationship as that between students and the Ardmore Annex will be hard to obtain. And, seriously, we stressed LM students don’t need the added emotional scarring.

The Olympic Games have been bringing countries together to lift heavy things and to run really, really far for almost 3,000 years (with a couple of breaks). In a perfect world, this summer, everyone would join together to play some fun games in Beijing, China where the 2008 Olympics are being held.

Americans would congratulate the Sivahn Barsade Cubans on their Class of 2010 discus throw, Syrians would cheer for the Israeli windsurfing team, and then everybody would hold hands and sing kumbaya while passing the Olympic torch around. And, best of all, the host country, China, would lift the media “blackout” and release all of their prisoners being held without due process. But the world isn’t perfect.

China continues to violate human rights, unjustly imprison hundreds of reporters, and attack minorities in Tibet.

Clearly, this is problem, so how should the world deal with it? Some people believe the Olympics are the perfect place

to tell China that the world will not stand idly by as censorship blankets the most populous nation in the world. Groups are proposing that countries should boycott the opening ceremony and even the games themselves. While the world definitely should not condone the actions of the Chinese government, the Olympics are not the place to stage that type of protest.

The Olympics are a special series of events that enable the athletes and fans from all over the world to come and enjoy sports in the face of adversity. No other event represents the unity of our world and the connection we all share as human beings better than the Olympics.

Even though we may all speak in different languages, wear different clothes, and believe in different religions, we all, as humans, possess that mutual desire to determine who is the biggest, fastest and strongest. While you may think you share nothing in common with a 96-year-old woman from El Salvador, a fierce soccer (fútbol) match will prove you wrong. No, you and abuelita wouldn’t hang out on a Friday night, but realizing that you cheer for Landon Donovan with the same vigor as a 96-year-old grandmother who cheers for Alfredo Alberto Pacheco might break down that feeling of total disconnect a bit.

So even if people are cheering for opposite

teams, the passion everyone brings to the Olympics helps to chip away at the mentality which presumes that people from different countries share nothing in common. Also, the Olympics allow that Israeli windsurfer and the Syrian swimmer to meet and talk without thinking about politics or war. And then, later, they go back to their own country and help to eradicate the stereotypes that fill their nation.

Let’s suppose that the United States boycotts the Olympics; what will happen in two years at the Winter Games in Vancouver? Some people don’t like Canadians; some may feel that Quebec should be its own country. Who decides which country to boycott? There lies the crux of the matter: at no time in any of our lives will the entire earth ever be at peace. One country will always want a little more land or a little more money or a little more oil. But should we let those issues come in the way of the one thing that brings us all together, despite those always-present conflicts?

No! The Olympics reminds us of the joy we can experience when we forget about recessions and politics, focusing instead on an athlete who can run a mile in under three minutes. The issue in China needs to be dealt with; however, the Olympics is not the place to do so.

Misconceptions of the Middle Kingdom It is crucial to understand, when thinking about the issue of Tibet, that the English word “Tibetan,” like “Cantonese” or “Taiwanese,” is not a term of nationality but rather a descriptive term for the region, culture and ethnic group.

The misconception that all Chinese are of one ethnic group creates the logic that Tibetans are not Chinese. This Richard He Class of 2009 is false. China consists of 56 ethnic groups, including Han, Tibetan, Mongolian, and Korean. Most people usually refer to Chinese as Han, but in reality, the English word “Chinese” and the Chinese word for China literally means “the people of the middle kingdom”.

Tibet was part of China and was selfgoverned throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties. In 1904, Britain invaded Tibet following the Opium Wars with China and asserted control over Tibet. After its establishment, the Republic of China soon regained Tibet, and the People’s Republic of China maintained that control.

When Buddhism was first introduced in Tibet during the sixth century, Tibet began a long and complicated relationship with China. It became an official part of China during China’s Yuan Dynasty in 1247, and the Mongolian emperor of Yuan granted the title “Dalai Lama” to Tibet’s Buddhist leader.

In 1951, the Chinese government entered Tibet and abolished the slavery serfdom system, helping the impoverished majority. But as a result of this positive development, the Chinese government engendered resentment from a small percentage of the wealthy and the privileged, including the Dalai Lama and his regime.

The Chinese government has re-

ceived heavy criticism for its “invasion” of Tibet in the 1950s, and it has been accused of killing millions of Tibetans. But it is unfair to single out the “repression of religion and culture” perpetrated on the people of Tibet without pointing out that the same harsh reforms were made throughout all of China during the 20th century under Mao. Isn’t it ironic that a feudal leader is now viewed as the embodiment of the potential for Tibetan democracy? The Dalai Lama has appointed most of his own family members to high-ranking positions in his government-in-exile — hardly the beginnings of a meritocracy.

Though the Dalai Lama has been successful in marketing his people’s actions as a “peaceful, non-violent protest,” the recent riots in Tibet and surrounding Chinese provinces paint a much less pleasant picture.

What is happening in Lhasa is proportional to the acts of terror perpetrated by Middle Eastern terrorist groups. The extremists in Tibet and its neighboring provinces attacked anyone and anything that looked “Han” Chinese. They beat innocent Han civilians, some to death, burned shops, destroyed public buildings and road signs, and bombed important city sites. Yet the Western media has only focused on the Chinese government’s speech about the issue,

the response of the Chinese police, and the supposed history of repression.

But repression could not be further from the truth. The Tibetan people, like the rest of the 55 ethnic minority groups in China, enjoy minority-only benefits such as affirmative action, exemption from the “one-child” policy and economic development programs which pour hundreds of millions of Yuan into Tibet each year to help develop build schools, hospitals, and infrastructure. In fact, impoverished Han peasants from poorer provinces have been moving to Tibet in search of a better life. This hardly sounds like “cultural genocide.” On top of it all, the Dalai Lama repeatedly stated on many occasions that he only wants autonomy, not independence. It’s ironic that the official name for Tibet in China is called “The Autonomous region of Tibet” like the other four autonomous regions, such as Inner Mongolia.

No one wants conflict. The Chinese government has set economic development as its priority, and the country is not the same place that the Dalai Lama remembers from 50 years ago. This young, vibrant country with booming cities has the fastest growing economy in the world. Activists like to chant “Free Tibet,” but freedom would not benefit the actual people of the region — rather, it would simply exacerbate already existing imbalances.

With mere months until the Olympic Games, the world has its eyes set on China.

However, they should also make sure to keep an eye on the sometimes-brutal actions of certain Tibetan agitators. It takes two to tango, and this is far from a blackand-white issue with China solely to blame.

9

May 2, 2008

FEATURES

The Merionite

Exceptional Acceptance:

Bina Peltz

The lowdown on low acceptance rates for class of 2012 Class of 2010

It’s not just a rumor. It is harder to get into college these days.

Years of preparation, countless SAT tutoring sessions, AP exams, and high participation in extracurricular activities seem to amount to nothing as colleges continuously reject even the sharpest tools in the shed.

This year, the Ivy League has accepted a record low number of students. The New York Times reported that Harvard only admitted 7.1% of the 27, 462 students who applied, which means that 93 of every 100 applicants were rejected. The applications received this year increased 18% from the 22,995 applicants last year. Yale accepted 8.3% of the 22,831 who submitted applications.

Columbia offered spots to only 8.7% of the applicants.

All the admission rates that have been announced by six Ivy League schools, including the ones mentioned above, are record lows.

As the applicant pool increased dramatically this

year, the universities, in turn, were forced to accept fewer students. In addition, the applicants are presenting higher SAT scores and increasingly

usual in order to avoid overfilling the allotted spaces for the incoming freshman class.

“This year, in order avoid over-enrolling, many schools accepted less people and instead waitlisted more students. Waitlisting

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extensive academic credentials. The increase in college applications can be attributed to the financial aid initiatives that were recently introduced in many colleges, simple online applications, and the elimination of early decision programs at Harvard and Princeton.

Such changes made it difficult to predict how many students would choose to enroll once accepted. Therefore, colleges accepted fewer students than

was huge this year, it helped the schools fix the yield,” said senior Elissa Cohen. The waitlists at colleges have grown larger than ever, as schools try to control their class size. Yale currently has a waitlist consisting of 1,052 applicants, an unusually large number. In addition, the Class of 2008 is the largest class to apply to college yet. They are

LM’s fabled Fagles passes

Chris Frederick

Class of 2009 Three years ago, students in Patty Thornton’s Honors English classes met teacher and translator Robert Fagles in the LM library and heard him read from his translation of Homer’s Odyssey. This was Fagles’s first (and last) visit to LM since his graduation in 1951, 54 years earlier.

Robert Fagles passed away this March, leaving behind his highly-praised and best-selling translations of three of the most famous classical epics, Vergil’s Aeneid and Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey, along with other original works, translations, and the legacy of his years of teaching as a professor at Princeton.

Latin students at LM may know Fagles from his translation of the Iliad, required summer reading for this year’s Latin IV class, but Fagles himself never actually studied Latin in high school. He chose German instead in order to get LM’s popular German teacher of the time. He entered Amherst College as a pre-med student; however, Fagles began to learn the classics on the side, teaching himself Latin and Greek as a junior while working towards a degree in English.

Magistra Jill Alexander explains why she prefers Fagles when it comes to epics: “They truly capture the spirit, language and style of the original but in a way that speaks to a contempo-

part of the echo boom generation, the children of those from the baby boomer generation.

This has significantly affected the increase of applications.

At LM, the low admission rates did slightly affect the application and acceptance process, but overall LM maintained its usual upstanding college acceptance rate.

rary audience. And yet I believe they will speak with equal power to subsequent generations.”

Magistra Alexandra first heard him speak at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, and remembers especially “how erudite and of gentle spirit he was, and how beautiful

Fagles (1933-2008) his reading of ancient Greek.”

Fagles, an only child whose father died when he was 14, remembered being truly captivated by the classics when he read Andromache’s lament for the death of her husband Hector and for her son now without a father. As often occurs with epics, Fagles discovered a universal image that resonated strongly with him: “When I read that passage, it wasn’t just that I could identify with the situation, but that

the text took that situation and made it seem universal,” he said.

Fagles continued to work “backstairs” on his Latin and Greek, and soon after graduating from Yale University with a Ph.D. in English, Fagles joined the Princeton faculty as an English teacher, later creating Princeton’s Comparative Literature department and serving as one of its professors.

Robert Fagles visited this area again two years ago to speak at Bryn Mawr College. I went to the event and heard him read from his award-winning translation of The Odyssey. He even read some of the Odyssey aloud in Greek, providing me with an introduction to his dramatic writing style and to the Greek epics themselves. Since then, I’ve bought copies of each of his translations of the Aeneid, Iliad, and Odyssey. Fagles’s English translations of The Aeneid and The Iliad are both recommended by LM’s Magistra Alexander to her students.

Robert Fagles brought ancient literature off the bookshelf and into the modern world with his vivid, elegant English versions of some of the world’s greatest stories. For that, Latin and Greek students, and anyone who opens up one of his books, will forever be grateful.

unrelenting drive to provide their kids with outstanding opportunities really helps the admission process. We are a product of our environment,” Cohen said. The amount and quality of the preparation that LM gives to its students resulted in mainly satisfactory results. Though some did not get into the school of their choice, most students were accepted into at least one of the schools they were considering.

As Senior Sophia Perlman stated, “In terms of acceptance, there were a lot of surprises, good and bad, but nobody was flat out rejected from every school that was of interest to them.”

With the Ivy League schools

cutting down on acceptances, a new slew of schools became popular. Now, with more students having to confront the reality of their situation, good schools that were previously overshadowed by the Ivies, like Tufts and Northwestern, as well as many Pennsylvania schools like Lehigh, are gaining more recognition.

During the application process, seniors submitted applications to many schools with the knowledge that their chance of being admitted was unpredictable and lower.

“A good amount of seniors applied to large amounts of schools this year, not necessarily because they liked the school a lot, but because they were aware that the stakes were higher. This year, the low number of students admitted to the Ivy League schools definitely affected our class, but a lot of people got into the ‘second tier schools’ like Tulane and Goucher,” senior Ma’ayan Hachen said.

At the same time, there were some unusual surprises that were especially atypical with the craziness of this year.

“Oberlin usually only admits two students from LM. This year, they accepted at least seven applicants,” Senior Jon Cicoski said. This goes to show that with all these changes, nothing is predictable or certain. The admissions process seems now to be more of a game of luck with a large side order of stress and competition.

10

May 2, 2008

FEATURES

The Merionite Chipotle packs the heat

Avi Chatterjee

Class of 2011 Few things in life compare to the sensation of sinking your teeth into a Chipotle burrito. Outside of reading Shakespearean literature, nothing is more satisfying than the savory succulence of Chipotle’s perfect blend of meat, rice, and the essential accoutrements. “Delicious” is an understatement. “Incredible” fails to do it justice.

“The best meal I’ve ever eaten” doesn’t quite cut it either. To put Chipotle’s immortality into perspective, freshman Eric Lieberman explains: “Chipotle is like Santa Fe Burrito, Qdoba, and (highly-esteemed, Emmy-award winning actor) Steve Zahn’s greatness put together.”

For many Lower Merion community members, however, a trip to Chipotle often requires a special occasion or is a mere weekly or even monthly occurrence, which is nothing short of blasphemy. The nearest current location is far down City Line Avenue, a trek for far too many. Yet, a quick stroll down Lancaster Avenue through the heart of Ardmore gives hope to Chipotledeprived stomachs throughout the Main Line. A new Chipotle is opening nearly around the corner from our very own high school.

Indeed, this will be the biggest restaurant opening this area’s seen since the Chipotle on City Line opened last year.

Words cannot express the totality of this restaurant’s magnificence, but Chipotle certainly transcends the monotony of the commonplace fast-food joint. The restaurant exudes a different atmosphere than in most other eateries of its kind, an atmosphere of caloric heaven. The aromas are invigorating, and the fact that the food is cooked in front of you only heightens your sense of anticipation.

And unlike so many other competing restaurants, which obsess over providing their customers with hundreds upon hundreds of choices, Chipotle relishes in its simple menu. In fact, such simplicity is paramount to the corporation’s success. A customer can choose between a Burrito, Fajita Burrito (which has sautéed vegetables) or Tacos. Then one must decide whether to stuff their caloric conglomeration with steak, chicken, carnitas (pork), barbacoa (specially seasoned shredded beef) or vegetables. Once the preferred salsa is drizzled over top, the burrito or taco is impeccably folded and ready to be devoured. Freshman Lieberman expressed his admiration for the menu’s simplicity, claiming, “The simple menu just makes me want to break out during some Elton John and just boogie.”

What does all of this mean for Lower Merion students and our neighbors throughout the community? No longer will we have to compromise our taste buds for food more mundane than standardized testing. This marks the end of an era of McDonald’s and Peace of Pizza every Friday after school or during frees. The opening of the Ardmore Chipotle will do more than just provide our mouths with an explosion of spice and flavor; this restaurant will galvanize our community, a community sure to be more appreciative of quality food and service than ever before.

Chipotle’s website currently does not have an opening date for this newest franchise. But rest-assured, when Grand Opening Day arrives and the ribbons are cut, we will be opening the doors to something much more than a restaurant.

Chipotle will spice up the Main Line. Will you handle the heat?

Burrito Showdown

There’s a fierce battle raging within the LM community—a rivalry even more acrimonious than Democrats vs. Republicans, Spartans vs. Persians, and Montagues vs. Capulets. It’s a divisive issue that forces students make an incredibly important decision and could potentially ostracize a student from his or her peers. The question is simple, but the answer can be difficult: where do you want to eat, Chipotle or Qdoba? As Chipotle prepares to open a restaurant in Ardmore, this question will only get more and more relevant to LM’s hungry students.

Over the past year, both Chipotle and Qdoba have gained much popularity among LM students. Both serve reasonably priced fine Mexican cuisine. Yet at their core, Chipotle and Qdoba are far from similar. While Chipotle specializes specifically in the burrito-making arena, Qdoba has a wider variety of selections spanning quesadillas, nachos, and everything in between.

The Merionite decided to settle this dispute once and for all . To keep the playing field level, we ordered comparable items Please note: the below burrito rankings are out of a delectable five burritos. The ratings are a combined average of ratings given by four Merionite editors. Also note that the Merionite editors are seasoned professionals when it comes to choosing the primo burrito.

Chicken Burrito

“The ratio of rice, beans, and chicken was roughly even. The immediate spiciness of the beans kicks in with the first bite, while the smoky flavor of the chicken is overly stimulating.”

“I had an end piece so there wasn’t much actual chicken.

The rice and salsa were very good.”

“Refreshing kick, special and fresh.”

“This burrito has a good mix of ingredients. It’s spicy and more flavorful than the other one. Good quality rice serves as a solid base with a high quality tortilla delivering the trump.”

Steak Burrito

Chicken Burrito

“The ratio of rice to chicken was leaning towards too much rice. The flavor of the rice does not begin to sink in until a few seconds later—a little off-putting. The chicken, however, is merely decent.”

“The first bite was a bit spicy but the chicken was good.

The rice wasn’t as good as the previous one. I could taste the cheese in this one.”

“Wow, the piece is 2/3 tortilla, 1/3 everything else. I took a bite and it tasted like cafeteria food. Mushy and kind of gross.”

“This burrito is not well wrapped, and it’s bland: I can’t taste the sauce and the meat is kind of flavorless. The beans are fine, though.”

Steak Burrito

“This burrito definitely had the most diverse mixture of flavor, although it was not overly delicious. Although not disappointing, it was not all that memorable.”

“The overall flavor of the burrito was predominantly that of steak, albeit slightly bland. The aftertaste, however, lasts for a few minutes.”

“I had an end but it had the right amount of everything.

Still somewhat spicy.”

“Again there wasn’t much of the main ingredient. This time I could taste the cheese but the beans were overpowering.”

“Good set up inside the burrito, separated by its kick. The rice is really good but there’s a little too much of it. It’s a little overwhelming.”

“The meat is smoky. The tortilla is a little soggy, but sufficient. The lettuce is poor. The flavors of the beans and the steak were immediately noticeable, and the rice and salsa came in next, creating a good mix.”

“Tasty, solid burrito. What you’d expect and nothing more. The steak is really good.”

“The ingredients are of an overall higher quality. The burrito is greasier than the other steak burrito, but in this case, that works in its favor. Overall, a better burrito.”

And the winner is...

Emma Saltzberg sums up the results

Well, as you may have deduced from the article directly to the left of this one, there was a clear winner in our burrito battle, and it was Chipotle.

Chipotle not only bested its competition in the taste test, it held its own in the other categories The Merionite rated.

Busy editors that we are, the staff of The Merionite placed our burrito orders online. Chipotle’s website is user-friendly and beautifully designed. When you add guacamole to your burrito, it chirps, “Guac’s a little extra!” Basically, it’s a joy. It brings light to our otherwise dark, dull, ink-stained existences.Qdoba’s website, on the other hand, is pretty cumbersome. It does its job, for sure. But it’s nowhere near as pretty as Chipotle’s and it definitely doesn’t have any awesome sound effects. Instead of building your burrito as you would at the restaurant, you fill out a form. It’s more like putting your name on the SATs than constructing a delicious dinner.

It must be said, though, that Qdoba’s menu features a far wider variety of meals than Chipotle’s does. While Chipotle can only satisfy cravings for burritos, tacos, and salads, Qdoba offers all of the above plus quesadillas, nachos, tortilla soup, and Mexican gumbo. So Qdoba wins in that department. If, you know, you like variety, and having choices, and that kind of thing.

Our intrepid burrito-procurers reported back to headquarters after their mission that the atmospheres of the two restaurants differed more in style than in substance. “Chipotle feels more modern— light and airy. Qdoba feels more warm and cozy. But they both have a very California-y feel.” So we’ll score that one a tie.

So, in the end, Chipotle didn’t quite trounce Qdoba. The friendly rivalry between the two is likely to continue to the end of time. But The Merionite has come down firmly on one side.

11

May 2, 2008

FEATURES

The Merionite

J. Scolnic/L.Sutton

Class of ‘09/’10

Although many high schoolers like to buy into the whole “teachers don’t exist outside of school” mentality (life is generally easier when you don’t have to contemplate the possibility of running into your AP Chemistry teacher at Wawa) now is the unfortunate time to confront the truth. Teachers live outside the hours of 7:30 and 2:30.

They eat at restaurants, go out in public, and yes, even own cars.

In fact, some own cars much cooler than ours. Physics teacher Mr. Schanne drives a 2005 Sebring convertible. “It’s a fun car – summertime, top down, wind in your hair. Guess it says I like to have fun.” He rented one on vacation and was immediately drawn to it.

Likewise, Spanish teacher Senora Betegh thinks that her BMW 323CI says a lot about her “tough, strong” personality. “It’s sharp,

strong, lasts for many years, gives you a smooth ride and as the commercial says: it’s the ultimate drive/driving machine.”

Mr. Feeney, who teaches math, drives a Hummer and believes that this showcases his alpha male personality and disregard for

the other small cars on the road. While Hummers are very safe, the cars that may be involved in accidents with them have no chance.

Mr. Haglund, a track star turned Eng-

lish teacher, drives a new Mazdaspeed3 when he doesn’t run the ten miles to school. “It is the less-wealthy man’s version of the Audi RS4, the ultimate wolf-in-sheep’s-clothing car. It doesn’t look all that fancy but it really jumps when I say jump. It has more torque than John Lundy’s Mustang GT but lacks the bad looks and the poor engineering. It has a bit more room than Dylan Chou’s BMW 325 and still beats it from 0-60mph. It also burns more gas than Bill Dolton’s Prius but its total energy cost (from production to disposal) is far lower and I eat way less meat than I used to so I think it all balances out in terms of environmental impact.” He loves driving, and values his car’s performance over appearance.

It’s no shock to hear that Madame Allen

drives a stick shift, enjoying the control she has over her 2002 Subaru Legacy.

Mr. Moeller, a ninth grade humanities teacher, drives a 1999 Nissan Altima.

Though it has over 148,000 miles on it, driving a car that is completely paid off has benefited him: “Money in my pocket,” he says.

Likewise, Mr. Seaman believes in practicality over style.

At his age, he philosophizes, “Material things aren’t as important as practicality. I am older and want to spend more time with my wife, our children, and our ten grandchildren.”

Gym teacher and badminton champion Mr. Pavia sometimes drives a pickup truck, which he says reminds

him of his childhood growing up on a farm.

Comparatively, a few teachers at LM do not drive to school: for example, ninth grade Challenge teacher Mr. Ghodsi enjoys biking to work for its energizing effects and the fact that it saves gas and is more environmentally friendly. “I don’t particularly like cars. I’d rather

ride my bike than drive to work. When I drive, I drive a Subaru Outback.

I can carry 4 bicycles with it, 2 on top, 2 in the back,” Similarly, when he isn’t drivi n g , M r.

Pavia also likes to bike to school.

Considering that he lives about 40 minutes away by car, this is quite a feat.

Haglund thinks similarly: getting ten miles done before the day even starts is a huge accomplishment and keeps him in shape.

“Plus I still harbor dreams of actually getting back in shape one day and running fast before I become a jogger for life.”

While many teachers believed that a lot could be said about them from their cars, history teacher John Grace disagreed. “I am one of 500 million Ford Taurus drivers. I am my own person, don’t you think?”

Photos by Dot Goldberger/Staff

Bonkers bells and cuckoo clocks

E. Sorensen/H. Goldberg-Morse

Class of 2010 A bell rings loudly through LM’s halls and classrooms. Students look up, bewildered, for the nearest clock.

Class must be over, right? Wrong. It’s 2:05 PM: the middle of last period. The clocks at our school each have their own special way of keeping time, so it’s no wonder the bells don’t know when to ring.

Whether the clocks are off by five minutes or six hours, it’s always annoying. Even three minutes makes a big difference when you only have five minutes to change classes. While the bells were never quite exact, they used to be somewhat accurate before the PSSA testing. Since then, they’ve been unpredictable.

“It’s ridiculous,” said sophomore Laura Sokil. “How are we ever supposed to know when we need to be in class?”

Well, even the teachers don’t know the answer to that question. Some hesitate before starting to teach, because

they’re not sure the period has started yet, and most have taken to letting their classes go without the bell, since it always seems to take so long to ring.

“The bells are important and need to ring on time,” said chemistry teacher Glenn Brooks, “but they seem to be erratic at best.”

According to sophomore Molly Engel, the clock in chemistry teacher Lawrence McAfoos’ room is “off by like six hours.” When she’s in the room, he’s always wondering, “should the bell have rung yet?

Should I start teaching?”

In a recent survey of the various clocks around the school, just two out of six accurately displayed the time.

The clock just outside of the girls’ gym runs an astonishing sixty-three minutes slow.

“It’s irritating,” said freshman Sarah

It certainly is.

If you went to BC, you may recall the clocks all ticking in perfect harmony. If they weren’t, you’d see them all adjusted at the same time.

If BC can have coordinated clocks, why can’t we?

The clocks’ inaccuracy doesn’t affect some. “I can’t read clocks,” said a freshman who would rather remain anonymous. “I always have to look at my cell phone.”

Since cell phones get their times from satellites, they’re bound to be accurate. Unfortunately, cell phones are banned during the school day, but hey, at least they give us the right time. As for the Art by Noah Zuares/Staff bells, just don’t expect them Eisenlohr. “I never get to class on time to be right and you won’t be and then I get in trouble for it, and it’s disappointed. not my fault!”

LM can seem like its own little world Sophomore Sara Murray said, “I sometimes, but one thing is for sure: it don’t know what to say. It’s just sad.” could have its own time zone.

12

May 2, 2008

FEATURES

The Merionite Yunica Jiang

Class of 2009

Earlier this year, I was appointed officer title “Female” in the Facebook group “Bearded LMers United Against Shaving (BLMUAS).”

Not only did this honor elevate my self-esteem by about 27.18%, it also awakened me to the presence of something so ubiquitous that it often goes unnoticed—the beard.

For those of you unaware, a beard is the collective growth of hair on a human—male or female—above the upper lip or on the chin, cheeks, and neck. Beard growth usually commences after a male reaches puberty (okay frosh, get the giggles out now), and until death do a man and his beard growth part.

Throughout history, beards and facial hair in general have been associated with high social status, wisdom and virility. More negative traits such as filthiness, crudeness, and eccentricity have also been associated with the possession of facial hair. Here at LM many post-pubescent students are sporting the bearded look. Beards have a long religious and social history that many are unaware of. From aversion to adoration, LM students express a wide variety of opinions on beards.

Senior Richie Stark, whose bearded face is the cover photo of the BLMUAS group, says:

Jordan Cooper

Class of 2010 Lower Merion juniors Meredith Guss and Katherine Seitel returned from spring break with more than just a great tan. The students left for Mali on March 3 with a group of teens from the Philadelphia area as part of “Trek for Knowledge”, a program run by Building with Books.

The “Trek” is designed to introduce students to life in another part of the world, and to provide opportunities for meaningful community service. The group settled into the small rural village of Blombadougou with the aim of building a school.

The group of American high school students was well

Men and their beards “Personally, I grow a beard for voices his fervent opposition: “I I think they’re gross! Occasionally different reasons. Sometimes it’s think that beards should be punish- a little facial hair looks good on hot too much effort to shave, sometimes able by death. They bring shame to men, but nerds should stop with that I grow it because I like the rough mankind.” rugged not-shaven look because it’s feel, and sometimes I grow it because I like how it looks and its scruffiness.

Beards are definitely manly as they can be rough, tough, Photo by Dot Goldberger/Staff rugged, Some proud members of Bearded LMers United Against Shaving (BLMUAS). and just plain good looking (or hold your power The freshman’s opinion ironi- just disgusting.” if you’re Samson). There are some cally brings to mind the statement “I don’t quite like them,” senior beards that are just more intimidat- of an ancient Persian king. Persians KJ Tian simply states. “I think ing and manly, like the awesome were extremely fond of long beards. they’re a bit too mature for high lumberjack beard or the handle- A Persian king who oversaw the ex- school students.” bar moustache or the Fu Manchu. ecution of a steward yelled out that But of course, we cannot get in Some beards are not as attractive it was “such a pity that a man with the way of people who truly appreand more trashy.”

Sophomore such good facial hair had to die.” ciate beards. In fact, some girls reBob Chase, who has a partial beard, Senior Monica Puri shares a ally dig guys with beards! agrees with Stark: “Beards are awe- lighter, but still strong reason for “When they get to the point of some because they’re a sign of disliking beards. “I hate beards!” making the person look like Noah manliness.” says Puri. “Being Punjabi, I’ve from the Bible, then they can be However, freshman Sam Raper seen so many men with beards and too big and unnecessary, but a man

with a nicely trimmed beard is very handsome,” says senior Sarah Jovinelly.

Junior Robin Schweitzer says, “I love beards! And I love grunge. I think that beards make the man. But not too long or anything like that but some scruff. Scruff shows that they don’t care too much about their appearance, but they care enough.

Plus, scruffy men are just better.”

An Afghani saying supports her opinion: “A woman with a beard looks like a man. A man without a beard looks like a woman.”

Junior Drew DeSantola, who dislikes the idea of looking like a woman, says, “If I had facial hair, I’d grow one.”

“Generally, beards are a plus,” says Stark. “They store food, but some girls don’t like kissing guys with beards. Beards can also be viewed as one of the things that marks the change from boyhood to manhood—if you can grow it.”

Sadly, nature already decided the fate of most men’s beards. But there are always clip on beards at the Halloween store if you feel the desperate urge to sport a beard either for appearance purposes or for the purpose of declaring true manhood.

For further information about beards and their fascinating history and societal importance, please consult a pogonologist.

periences included visiting a market and learning about other Malian traditions.

one of the necessary adjustments the volunteers made.

The Building with Books stu-

Building in Africa

received by the people of the village. “They greeted us very warmly,” said Seitel.

Over the two weeks the students grew close to their hosts, and felt as though they were family. Students lived and worked with the people of the village, building a school for the children with money raised by Building with Books in the United States.

The group walked the three miles from the village to the current school, also a Building with Books school, which helped them to realize the importance of the school being built.

“It definitely helped us know what we were working for,” added Guss.

Once the building is com-

pleted, the children of the village will have an easily accessible school.

The volunteers labored in temperatures that were often over one hundred degrees, adding to the difficulties of the work. With the help from men of the village, the “trekkies” were able to make faster progress on the schoolhouse. They only worked during the mornings, doing tasks such as lifting and carrying bricks. Afternoons were devoted to cultural learning. The most rewarding part was the dances they learned, especially the “boy’s dance,” which Guss and Seitel became expert at (much to the amusement of the villagers). Other ex-

Photo Courtesy of Meredith Guss

Junior Meredith Guss spending some quality time with children in the village of Blombadougou.

It wasn’t just the work that was hard; adjusting to the new environment was also challenging. The trekkies were introduced to a new diet, in which the staple was rice.

The living arrangements were

dents slept on thin foam mattresses in huts with a latrine outside.

“The hardest part was pooping,” Seitel admitted.

Guss disagreed: “Peeing was harder.”

13

May 2, 2008

The Merionite

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Meet Mike Million When the Merionite staff found out about “Tenure,” the movie being filmed at LM, we jumped at the opportunity to interview part of the cast or crew.

We were fortunate enough to snag an interview with Mike Million, the movie’s writer/director.

The Merionite: How did you come up with the idea for the film?

Mike Million: Well, I wanted to make a movie about a college campus, and I started doing research and found out about the tenure process. It just seemed like something very easy to lampoon and still have a movie that has heart.

TM: We know that you both wrote and directed this film.

Which did you prefer, writing or directing, and why?

MM: Well, that’s a good question. They are very different processes. Writing is very solitary and you have all the time in the

world, and you can really take your time with it. Directing is all very scheduled, and there are tons of people around. I would say that directing is a lot more exciting, but I like them both equally.

TM: Did you have any difficulty getting your film made?

MM: Yes, of course. I wrote the script three years ago, which actually, by Hollywood standards, is not that long of a time to wait.

I guess we ran into all the typical difficulties—trying to get money, trying to get actors. We got very lucky with the producers and the actors that we lined up, so it was fairly smooth once we got them on board.

TM: So, what exactly are you using LM for?

MM: We’re at the end sequence of the movie here. I don’t want to give away the ending, but basically, the college professor, played by Luke Wilson, decides to become a high school teacher, so we are shooting the high

school scenes here, which is just the very end of the movie.

TM: And what is the gym being used for?

MM: We have a fictional college that [Luke Wilson’s character] teaches at, called Grey College, which we used Bryn Mawr and Rosemont for. Your gym is being doubled as the Grey College gym. I described it in the script as similar to a high school gym. It’s not a big athletic school so...

TM: Have you had many difficulties shooting here at LM, with the students being around and all?

MM: No, not at all, actually.

There were some kids yelling out the window in the morning, but they calmed down. Its fine, we expected it, so it’s been good.

TM: Do you have any advice for students hoping to break into the industry?

MM: I think that for me, the way in was writing. You can control your destiny a little bit more if you are the writer as well, so that’s always my advice to people. If you are interested in film

and you can write, I think its really good if you just keep writing as much as possible, because then you can control your own product a little bit more and it’s really just persistence over everything. You just have to keep at it.

TM: What did you want to do when you were in high school?

Did you know this was your calling?

MM: Um, that’s funny. I don’t know what I wanted to do in high school. I just wanted to get into college and get a job, you know?

So, I didn’t really. I mean, I loved movies growing up. I went to see all the movies, but I grew up in Arlington, Virginia, right outside of Washington DC, and there are no connections to the movie business at all there. I enjoyed movies, but I had no idea how I would be able to get into it. It was really after college that I started really seriously thinking about movies.

TM: What do you know now that you wish you had known when you were in high school?

MM: Geez, you guys are hardballing me here! My parents

will probably kill me for this, but I would say that you should value your time during and after college. You don’t necessarily have to jump right in to a career. I have a lot of friends who did and learn

Photo courtesy of A. Schoneveld

First time writer/director Mike Million answers The Merionite’s questions. and take time traveling and that kind of stuff. I feel like people should take the time to do more of [that], if you can. So um, that’s some advice?

TM: Thank you so much for your time!

MM: No problem.

Major feature film comes to LM

Hannah Weilbacher

Class of 2010 Finally getting its 15 minutes of fame, LM will be featured in the 2009 major motion picture “Tenure.” Currently in production, a few scenes were shot at LM, featuring the main gym, parking lots, room 110, and first floor hallways.

The collegiate comedy follows a stressed college professor, about to come up for tenure, as he battles with the new female colleague for a permanent spot on the roster at Grey College (fictional, but depicted on the campuses of Bryn Mawr and Rosement Colleges). As the movie progresses, it seems that he is competing for something much greater than tenure: love.

The all-star cast includes Luke Wilson, a prominent actor in Hollywood and a handsome celebrity. From the chick-flick “Legally Blonde” to the comedy “My Super Ex-Girlfriend” to the thriller “Vacancy,” Wilson has proven his versatility.

Playing the attractive rival is Gretchen Mol, whom you may recognize from the recent movie “3:10 to Yuma”. Funnyman David Koechner, a regular on the hit TV comedy “The Office” and actor in other comedies such as “Semi-Pro,” “Talladega Nights,” and “Anchorman,” co-stars as Wilson’s sidekick. Andrew Daly, also from “Semi-Pro,” plays the boyfriend of Mol’s character.

Although most students are proud of the school for being featured in this movie, many have asked, “Why us?”

Director of School and Community Relations Doug Young said, “We have developed relationships with several location scouts in the area thanks to our registration with the Greater Philadelphia Film Office.

A few months ago, one of the scouts called to see if he could come by LM to check out a few areas of the building, including the gym. The crew liked the old-school feel of the gym, with the wooden bleachers. They also liked...the bright, comfortable, wellworn feel of the hallways.”

The construction and demolition of the school also became an issue with some people, as it seems odd that they would want to film at a school undergoing construction.

However, this proved not to be an issue for

proud of. Our friendly attitude was one of the things that thrilled the scouts.

Young said, “During their visits to LM, the crew members were especially impressed by the students and staff at Lower Merion. One of the producers remarked how friendly and ‘with it’ everyone seems; he said he would have loved to have gone to school at a place like Lower Merion.”

Crewmembers were amazed with the school as well, especially the displays of student artwork.

Photo courtesy of Anneke Schoneveld

From left: Mike Perkel (‘07), Pete Lucas (‘06), Luke Wilson, Gregg Downer, producer Tai Duncan, Young, and Sal Cuccinotti (‘05) on the set of “Tenure.” the crew, who only filmed in locations still intact. In fact, the scouts liked the archaic feel of the school.

“The irony is that if we already had the new school, they probably wouldn’t have taken to the site with the same enthusiasm,” said Young.

LM students have another thing to be

The excitement in the air of LM was tangible during the filming after school on Thursday, April 17. Students clumped around the corners in hope of catching a glimpse of Luke Wilson in action. Despite constant reprimands from the crew, there were the select few who stayed hours, desperately trying to see Wilson.

Most students were thrilled to host the production. Some lucky students and faculty members got the exciting chance to be extras in the movie. Sophomore Marlee Madora was one of the few who got the chance to play a student in Wilson’s character’s class.

“It was a great experience being around all the professional equipment and people,” she said. “Being Luke Wilson’s English student was awesome. He seemed like a really down to earth person and had a great sense of humor.”

The filming happened just in time, since many parts of the school will be soon be demolished. This movie will preserve our memories of this soon-to-be-gone school, beyond the graying yearbook photos and fading images in our minds. Young said, “I think it’s a...unique way to memorialize the old building when it’s gone in a few years.

We’ll be able to watch ‘Tenure’ and say, ‘Hey, that was my old school.’”

Mike Million will make his directorial debut in this comedy, which he also wrote.

Produced by Paul Schiff, Tai Duncan, and Brendan McDonald, this film will be released by Blowtorch Entertainment sometime in 2009. Filming began the second week in April, and will continue for a few months, so you can look forward to seeing the crew all over the Main Line.

We are lucky that, of all places, the crew of ‘Tenure’ chose our school to film.

In spite of doubts about the building’s aesthetic attractiveness, the Hollywood crew though it was an amazing school with great students and an ideal environment for this movie.

Make sure to see “Tenure” when it comes out in theaters. You never know, you might see your locker.

14

May 2, 2008

The Merionite Harold and Kumar return to the big screen

Jake Wellens

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Players releases its inner Nerd

Emily Sorensen

Class of 2011

Class of 2010

It’s been four years since we left them, snacking on endless tiny White Castle burgers. This month, we finally got to catch up with our favorite multi-racial slacker duo, Harold and Kumar, on their latest adventure.

Back in 2004, America’s youth was blessed with the hilarious instant-classic “Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle”. The movie, starring Kal Penn and John Cho, follows Harold, a shy, serious Korean-American accountant, and Kumar, an Indian-American party animal, on their journey to satisfy their craving for some White Castle burgers. The movie tells the comedic tale of their misadventures, and became a big hit among teenage audiences across the country. The duo makes for a very loveable pair to whom we can all relate (although, the real main character in this movie is, let’s just say, green and illegal).

Now, four years later, on April 25, 2008, the adventure picked up where it left off, with “Harold and Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay”. After stuffing themselves with a plethora of White Castle burgers, our heroes, Harold and Kumar, go on another adventure, this time to Amsterdam, in pursuit of Harold’s dream girl. On the plane to Amsterdam, due to a combination of racial profiling and an incident involving marijuana, the duo is mistaken for terrorists and placed into police custody. A series of unfortunate events lands them into a cell at Guantanamo Bay, from which they must escape. This adventure is full of the raunchy comedy that made the original film so popular.

Harold and Kumar’s stoner humor can only go so far, but according to many reviews, the sequel’s more in-depth plot and edgier humor provides for an even more enjoyable experience. “What it loses in innocent intentions though, it makes up for with a tighter script filled with sharperedged jokes,” said John Tyler of Cinema Blend Reviews.

Despite their adventure being a little more far-fetched than the simple burger quest, the sequel still delivers everything teens loved about the first one, including explicit language, sexual content, violence, nudity, and a whole lot of drug use. The movie’s slogan pretty much explains it all: “This time they’re running from the joint.”

Take a relatively normal dinner party, add an outrageous, out-of-control “nerd” who does not know how to behave at a social function, and what do you get? “The Nerd,” a comedy by Larry Shue, which LM Players put on last week.

As the title suggests, the play revolves around an encounter with a stereotypical nerd, Rick Steadman. While fighting in the Vietnam War, Rick saved the main character, Willum’s, life, but the two never met. Through letters, Willum had promised Rick to help him if he was ever in need. But he was not expecting Rick to show up at a dinner party for his boss. Rick’s appearance wrecks the party, and his awful manners drive Willum and his guests to crazy schemes to get rid of him.

According to senior Sarah Braverman, Players’ secretary, “The Nerd” was chosen because it was “a great opportunity to let actors explore traditional slap-stick comedy.”

In addition to the acting advantages, it “allowed for different and exciting design opportunities for student designers and crew members.”

The show was directed by senior Chesney Polis, who “always wanted to direct a comedy because [she loves] to be silly and crazy.” She thought “the script [for The Nerd] was hilarious and [she] immediately fell in love with the characters.”

To Polis, those characters all had an “element of an inner-child discovered or revealed.” Using that, her vision “was to highlight that childlike spirit,” and hoped that “everyone [would] come to the show and leave understanding that you can’t take life too seriously; sometimes you just have to be a kid.”

As for the cast of seven that she directed, Polis said they were “outstandingly creative and funny every day.”

Junior Sam Fineman, starring as the titular Nerd, tried out for the show “because it sounded like a lot of fun.”

When he read the script he thought it was “hilarious, and knew [he] wanted to play Rick, the nerd.”

Playing such an outrageous character had its advantages—since “Rick has no limits” and “there’s no end to what [Fineman was] allowed to do in rehearsal.”

“It’s like a circus,” said sophomore Peter Johnston, who

played Willum, “the fun never stops.”

Junior Beverly Johnson said that she “almost [wished she] could watch the show instead of be in it.”

Sophomore Zoe Benditt had a unique opportunity playing Thor, a young boy who likes to hide in closets, and was “proud to be the only cross-dressed eight-year-old in the cast.”

The cast also included junior Nadav Hirsh, junior Laura Piccoli, and senior Jon Cicoski.

The set, designed by senior Kellie Liston, looked like an average house, with wood paneling coating the walls.

The paneling was supposed to evoke a treehouse-like feel, since Willum’s apartment is on the Photo Courtesy of Tom Simon second floor, and the script said that Junior Sam Fineman as the Nerd Robinson Crusoe in Players’ newest comedy. would feel at home.

Liston also wanted it to look like “ugly ‘70s” and “not overly ornate.” Overall, Liston was “proud of [her] second set being so different from [her] first, which was for ‘The Crucible.’”

If you remember people walking around school wearing Cheerio necklaces, boxer shorts, or pig noses, rest assured that they were not random acts of insanity, but rather spirit days for the cast and crew, inspired by the script.

“The Nerd” ran for three nights—April 24, 25, and 26 and featured a lighting design by junior Rachel Keleman, a sound design by freshman Chloe Bollentin, and costumes designed by freshmen Ella Schwamm and Larz Goldsmith.

Director Chesney Polis also said that “some people are under the impression that a theatrical comedy could not possibly really be funny,” but she guaranteed “that ‘The Nerd’ [would] disprove that ridiculous notion.”

LM students and local music groups raise environmental awareness

Itai Doron Class of 2011 During the lunch periods on the week of April 7, LM students could hear the musical stylings of local bands. This burst of music was more than just enjoyable—it had a purpose as well, raising funds for Music For Relief.

Music For Relief is a non-profit organization originally founded by the band Linkin Park in 2005 to help victims of tsunamis in South Asia. They gathered donations from fans during their tours and told fans to collect donations in their communities as well. As a Linkin Park fan, senior Lorenzo Errico first learned of the organization and the concerts to raise money for Hurricane Katrina victims through the band. Errico soon contacted the Music For Relief coordinator and got permission from the organization to raise money during a Linkin Park concert in Baltimore on February 19 with his friend Alex Balush.

“We had an amazing experience raising funds,” says Errico, “and we also got to

science teacher Glenn Rosazza. “Mr. Rosazza put a lot of effort into making this happen,” said Errico, “and I think he was excited to help.” With the help of Mr. Rosazza and the environmental club, Errico finalized the dates for the fundraiser and started picking bands.

“I knew a few stuPhoto Courtesy of Lorenzo Errico dents who Environmental science teacher Mr. Rosazza, event organizer Loren- had bands, zo Errico, and Jake Framm take donations for Music For Relief. so I went straight to the sources and approached my classthe organization first and they gave him mates who I knew were musicians,” he the freedom to set it up. This gave Errico said, “[Seniors] Ellie Kurlansik and four weeks to prepare everything for the Kelly Karivalis were the first I approgram. He contacted the sponsor for proached, I knew Ellie had a band and the Lower Merion Environmental Club,

see a free concert afterwards.”

This concert influenced Errico so much that he wanted to hold Music For Relief concerts at LM. He approached

she asked Kelly to play with her.” Other additions to the list of musicians were seniors James Margolis, Boya Gao, and Bobby Martin. The rest of the musicians came as the event approached.

The event brought in $420 and, in the eyes of the coordinators, was extremely successful. The music during the lunches got many good reviews from the students listening to them. “It was something interesting, new, and different,” said freshman Abel Finta. Many students were inspired by the performing bands, asking about the Music For Relief organization and making donations.

With the money gathered from this event, Lower Merion planted about 400 trees. But Errico does not plan to stop there. “If the students took the time, the school could create a spring jam for the lunches,” said Errico, “We could even host it outside in the warmer months. It would be awesome to have, and imagine all of the trees we could plant as a school.” Along with the environmental club, he hopes to run this event next year and earn more money for the cause.

15

May 2, 2008

The Merionite

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The Barnes belongs in Merion Carmelle Yaari

An A&E Commentary

a series of roadblocks, including navigating the scant operating hours and parking, and the The Barnes Foundation is strict appointment policy. It is not just an art collection. unabashedly counterproductive I was taught this the very for it to be so hard for visitors first time I visited with my to visit. These faults can no lonclass in elementary school, ger be blamed on the township, when we learned about the the neighbors, or any other outstrong connecside force. tions between The art and nature. conceptual Dr. Barnes value of carefully chose the Barnes the property is pricewith an arboless, but retum for this the art that very reason. it contains The art collecis worth tion is just one upward of element—a visix billion tal piece, but dollars. just one part Those who of an interconare pushnected design ing for the

by Dr. and move are Mrs. Barnes. doing so Thus the artwith their Photo courtesy of Dot Goldberger work cannot be eyes on the transferred to This sign and others can be seen dotting local lawns in protest of the prestige another place and tourist Barnes Foundation leaving its current location in Merion. and still be the dollars that Barnes. Excising the art col- amassed his pieces and careful- they think the art would bring lection destroys the symbiotic ly placed every detail, all with to Philadelphia; however, no relationships forever—the very the intention of imparting this thorough study has shown that opposite of “saving” it. This gift to the public. The Barnes the economic benefits to the crusade in the name of “the av- is in the book 1,000 Places You city would outweigh the onenue of the arts” is comparable Should Visit Before You Die, going costs of operation. The to attempting to transplant a and rightfully so. current deficit in Merion is, on heart with a single valve, leavIn order to view the collec- average, less than one million ing behind the rest of the organ, tion, patrons must go through dollars per year, whereas the Class of 2010

and greatly diminishing the usefulness of both components.

Unfortunately, many people, local and otherwise, are unaware of the Barnes Foundation and the immense treasure it contains. Such a treasure should be cherished and shared universally. Mr. Barnes

deficit projected for running the facility downtown would be more than four million dollars a year. It is clear that the Merion site is in a greater position to thrive than a very costly venture in the city.

Another reason given for the move is that the foundation’s endowment is gone. Montgomery County has offered the Barnes Foundation a purchase/leaseback arrangement that would provide an endowment without using taxpayer funds. The county proposes to purchase and then lease back the Barnes, its buildings, and property for approximately $50 million. The Barnes would invest this money, providing them with additional operating income and allowing them to repay the county at a moderate rate of interest. At the end of the lease period, the ownership of the property would revert to the Barnes. Yet the Barnes trustees rejected the proposal and their attorney told the judge it sounded very risky. In my opinion, this proposed plan sounds a lot less risky the moving venture.

Many others recognize the necessity of keeping the Barnes intact. “The snatch-and-grab solution of relocating the collection to Philadelphia is no solution at all. It isn’t salvation.

It isn’t even euthanasia. It’s

Weezer: In Memoriam

Jon Blistein

death by disembowelment,” wrote Richard Lacayo on the TIME magazine blog. Nicholas Ouroussoff wrote in the New York Times, “There are few places in the United States where art and viewer share a closer bond than the beloved old Barnes in suburban Merion, PA. Dismantling it is a crime.”

As a resident of the Main Line, I feel embarrassed to read about this situation in a national publication in which we come across as powerless and unable to stop the actions being taken against our community.

We high school students have yet to learn many of the ways of the world. Nevertheless, we can recognize injustice and hypocrisy when we see it.

If we know the facts, we will recognize this as an injustice and complete lack of respect for Dr. and Mrs. Barnes, for the artists like Henri Matisse, who said that his mural “La Danse” is “part of the building,” for history, and for all the people who would be deprived of the exquisite experience of the Barnes—the original Barnes, the only Barnes. Right now the judge who gave permission for the move is reviewing the situation and will soon decide whether to re-open the hearings. There is still hope to save the Barnes Foundation, if we show we care.

An A&E Commentary

Class of 2008

Rivers Cuomo has broken my heart. He has ripped it out of my chest and smashed it with a sledgehammer. For much of my adolescent life, Weezer has played a crucial role, which is something I’m not afraid to say. Weezer has meant the world to me at different points of my life. Every now and then the only album I can listen to for a few weeks is their first album Weezer (also known as The Blue Album).

My relationship with Weezer is probably one of my more important musical relations, but despite my best efforts, I’m starting to believe that our relationship has “come undone”.

I think it all began when I was in seventh grade. What you need to understand first is that I absolutely hated seventh grade. I didn’t like my teachers that much; I didn’t know most of the kids on my team because most had gotten into Communiqué; and, of course, I had just turned 13, so I was fairly certain that the world was out to punish me any way it could. At this stage in my life Rivers Cuomo seemed to be the only person in the world

who understood what it was like to be 13 years old and living in a rich suburban neighborhood. Eventually, The Blue Album became the sole album that would define my final two years of the hell that was middle school.

I’m not exactly sure what it was back then, or what it is now, that made Weezer so important to me. It might have been their quirkiness, or the idea that they were outcasts and proud of it, or maybe I just liked it when they sang about Buddy Holly and had a video with the Fonz. Ultimately though, I think the main reason meant so much to me was because of song “Undone (The Sweater Song)”. This song meant so much to me that I used a line from it as my eighth grade quote and I sang it at the eighth grade talent show.

For me, “Undone” represented every aspect of my life: the indifferent, detached voice of the “main character” in the dialogue, the lyrics themselves, and simply the fact that it was an awesome song.

But as they say, all good things must come to an end. No future Weezer album, aside from maybe Pinkerton, had the same effect as that of The Blue Album. To my untrained middle school ear, I as-

sumed that their latter albums Maladroit and Weezer (also known as The Green Album) were just as good. But as I matured and graduated into high school, I started to realize that these albums were full of trite, clichéd, and dull songs in which Cuomo tried desperately to proove his growth as an artist instead of sticking to the old formula that already worked.

As a sophomore though, I thought salvation had arrived. I anxiously awaited the release of Weezer’s fifth album Make Believe, hoping that this would finally mark the turn around for the band that had meant so much to me. Unfortunately, Make Believe was as bad, if not worse, as Weezer’s two latter albums. I wanted desperately to like it. I wanted desperately to get the same satisfaction out of that album as I did from listening to The Blue Album. But I couldn’t, because it was simply a god-awful album.

Now, as I leave high school, Weezer is set to release its sixth album aptly titled Weezer (or soon to be known as The Red Album).

One would think that with another eponymous album, Weezer would finally return to its much beloved roots. If this is what you’re hoping

for, well then frankly, prepare to be horribly, horribly dissapointed.

The first single off The Red Album, “Pork and Beans,” is simply one of Weezer’s worst songs and follows the horrendous pattern of songs off Maladroit and The Green Album.

While Weezer has once again failed to return to the band I once

fell in love with, I will always have those first two albums, which continue to remain among my all-time favorites. So, I think it’s safe to finally say goodbye to Rivers Cuomo and Weezer. While letting go is always the most painful part of losing a loved one, it has to be better than listening to Weezer’s new music.

16

May 2, 2008

The Merionite

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Television comes out of hibernation

Jordan Cooper

Class of 2010

Much to the joy of couch potatoes everywhere, the Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike finally ended in February,.

After five long months of reruns, you can now take comfort in new episodes of all your favorite shows.

The strike, which officially began November 5 and ended February 12, was Photo courtesy of starpulse.com prompted by conflicts between the WGA Although the writer’s strike is over, and the Alliance of Motion Picture and the future of ABC’s Pushing Daisies Television Producers over details concernremains uncertain. ing their basic contract, scheduled for renewal in 2007. Popular shows including continue without writers but returned with “CSI,” “Family Guy,” and even “The Daily all the original writers in February.

Show with Jon Stewart” had to be delayed, For fans of NBC’s “Scrubs,” the wait postponed, or cut short, leaving their view- has been harder than most. New episodes ers with nothing to watch but reality shows of this final season of the hospital comedy and “General Hospital” (which switched to were halted in December 2007 forcing its non-union writers). Fortunately, with the viewers to suffer through four months withstrike officially over, networks like ABC, out J.D. (Zach Braff) and Turk’s (Donald NBC, Fox, and others are back in produc- Faison) comical antics. It finally returned tion and new episodes have been popping for the last episodes on April 10 with the up throughout the month of April. rest of the line up for NBC’s Thursday Favorite drama-filled indulgences like night “Comedy night done right,” includ“Desperate Housewives” (ABC), “Broth- ing “30 Rock,” “The Office,” and “My ers and Sisters” (ABC), “Grey’s Anatomy” Name is Earl.”

(ABC), and “ER” (NBC) returned in late Unfortunately, for many shows, proApril, bringing their twisting storylines duction is still delayed while others face back to their weekly time slots. complete cancellation. “24,” “Heroes,” Popular teen drama “Gossip Girl,” re- “Private Practice,” “Pushing Daisies” and turned to the small screen with fellow CW others will return in Fall 2008, if at all. productions like “Smallville” in late April On the Disney Channel, new episodes of after being “Hannah Montana” could start anyabsent since time between September 2008 and January.

May 2009. Another popular DisThirteen out ney show, “The Suite Life of Zack of the twentyand Cody” was canceled, but will two episodes be replaced by a spin-off entitled in “Gossip “The Suite Life on Deck” that will Girl’s” first take the original “Suite Life” cast season were (except Ashley Tisdale and Kim filmed before Rhodes) on a luxury cruise liner Photo courtesy of technet.com owned by London Tipton’s (Brenda the strike.

Those Scrubs returns for its final season. Song) father. “Cavemen,” the show who need about the GEICO Cavemen on ABC, some comic relief can welcome the return and “Bionic Woman” (NBC), were both of “Ugly Betty” to ABC on April 24 for cancelled during the strike. the rest its season. “Family Guy” and “The Whatever shows you watch, you won’t Simpsons” are back on Fox as well. Plus have to settle for reruns any longer. So there’s always the double dose of comedy: dig out the remote control from under the “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart” and couch—you won’t want to miss a single “The Colbert Report,” which attempted to moment.

This month’s magic number: 21

Leah Rosenbloom

Class of 2011

and Laurence Fishburne, who plays the casino’s enforcer, Cole Williams.

The character development also flowed naturally. As could be expected, Ben’s relationship with his other school friends begins to fall apart after he joins the Blackjack team. He has to make a decision between money and friendship—between Mickey and friendship.

The film lays out relations between team members nicely throughout the film, and it focused on the drama between friends without it taking away from the overall plot.

The Statistics teachers at LM found

Enter the theatre as an average LM student fretting over your latest English grade or your SAT’s, and leave with a soaring, nervous excitement in your stomach like you had just taken Vegas for millions.

Follow Ben Campbell, (Jim Sturgess) a 21-year-old MIT undergrad as he is recruited by Mickey Rosa (Kevin Spacey), his Calculus professor, to take part in the school’s secret Blackjack club.

He agrees to participate in the hopes of making the 300,000 dollars he needs to attend Harvard Medical School. Ben learns to count cards for the team, which consists of his longtime crush Jill (Kate Bosworth), as well as fellow students Choi (Aaron Yoo), Fischer (Jacob Pitts), and Kianna (Liza Lapira). With the team he acquires the signals he needs to beat the house in Vegas. Busy during the week with school and jobs, he and the team use weekends to fly to Las Vegas, hitting the tables and Photo courtesy of mlive.com returning for Monday’s lessons.

Ben Campbell, played by Across the Universe’s Soon enough, Ben finds Jim Sturgess, at the blackjack table in the film 21. himself sucked into the thrills of gambling. Although he was ini- the mathematical aspect of the movie edtially only in it for the 300,000, he finds ucational, and scheduled a field trip to the it difficult to just stop there. After all, theatre. AP Stat teacher Thomas Swope, who wants set a limit on the profit when who helped schedule the trip, said, “We they know how to count cards? This wanted to see how the kids used math in turns out to be a dangerous choice in- real world application. They were able deed—as Ben soon finds out, Vegas does to solve the theory behind 21.” not like counters.

After seeing 21, you get a feeling.

Despite its natural charm and eye- Something makes you want to try. Percatching plot, every movie can go horri- haps it is this feeling keeping people so bly wrong without the right set of actors. enthralled. The movie’s witty lines and However, the semi all-star cast of 21 does bright lights are naturally appealing, but not have this problem. Up-and-comer nothing is more enjoyable than the thrillSturgess had his breakthrough role last ing, jittery sensation that fills your chest year as Jude in the hit movie “Across every time Ben receives the crossed the Universe.” Although he is still wet arms, “high-count signal,” and raises behind the ears, he has natural talent the dealer 100,000. 21 may not be high that was brought forth by seasoned ac- art, but it is fun and exciting, and worth tors like Kevin Spacey, Kate Bosworth, watching.

Ace’s Angels and Ace Harmony rock it a cappella

Danielle Moscow

Class of 2011

LM’s two a cappella groups performed Saturday night April 12 in the main auditorium. This performance was the send-off for 14 seniors.

Ace Harmony, a co-ed group of 16 singers, was formed in the fall of 2004 when Music Theory teacher Joshua Hunnex came to LM. Due to the high demand for a second, all girls, a cappella group, Ace’s Angels was formed the following year. This group was originally made up of 12 girls, but has grown to 16.

Ace’s Angels, dressed in black and white, sang a few familiar songs, including “ABC” by the Jackson 5, “Standing Still” by Jewel and “Breathe (2 am)”

by Anna Nalick. Ace Harmony’s performance included “Livin’ on a Prayer”

Sophomore Alexa Stango, a first time “angel,” said, “It’s great how instead of being in a group with instruments accompanying you, a bunch of people can come together and make the song complete.”

Junior Aili Klein said, “I love a cappella Photos courtesy of Alexander Keat singing, and we’re all Ace’s Angels (Left) and Ace Harmony performed at LM for the a cappella concert on April 12. really good friends!”

“It’s great how all The a cappella groups have been

by Bon Jovi and “Mad World” by Gary these people can come Jules, and all the performers wore red practicing hard all year, with rehearsals together and do what we want to do,” and black. Featuring LM alumnus Ben twice a week. said senior Becca Rosenbloom.

They produce all of the music in the Goldman, the “Singing Eye Dogs” of The a cappella groups have CDs New York University performed as performance, including the sounds of available for fans who enjoyed their guitars and drums, purely by mouth. concert. well.

17

May 2, 2008

SPORTS

The Merionite

Wing Bowl: LM chomps for cause Lenna Blistein

Class of 2011

Eating is an activity enjoyed all over the world. While the art of competitive feasting has a long and dignified past, Americans have persevered to refine this elegant event. From the traditional face-first pie eating competitions of county-fair fame to the Eaglesmere, PA Challenge (can you stomach 31 scoops of ice cream for a prize of one free cone?), battles of consumption of all kinds draw a sort of disgusted awe from spectators of every type. This phenomenon has made it to the Lower Merion School District for the Third Annual Wing Bowl.

Hosted at Harriton High School, the event pitted students from both high schools and teachers, from the high schools and middle schools, against each other in a raging war, leaving the bones of victims sucked clean. The rules of the wing bowl stated that the five competitors who could finish the most wings in three minutes—as opposed to five the previous year—would move into the second round. From there, the time was shortened to one minute. The top contenders would then be crowned the victors. The tournament was broken into three sections:

students vs. students for two rounds, middle school teachers for one round, high school teachers for one round and all teachers together for the last round.

The meat had to have been completely cleaned from the bone, or it wouldn’t count.

But the bowl was not just about watching someone stuff his or her face.

The nobility of this occasion was enhanced by the charity that went along with it. The proceeds have been donated to the Lower Merion Scholarship Fund and Team Trey, a pediatric cancer fund.

Admission was five dollars, and t-shirts were ten. The even managed to collect $1,500 dollars to split between the charities. Chad Henneberry, a history teacher at Lower Merion and secondplace finisher, said that he was “proud to help support the cancer fund.”

Freshman Justin Shapiro, who made it to the second round, agreed, saying he entered to “support the scholarship. I also wanted some good wings,” he added thoughtfully. And good they were.

Shapiro managed to finish 43 of them, only five less than the student second place, Manos Attaliadis of Harriton, with 48. The first place student was also from Harriton, Tony DiSalvo with 51 wings. In the teacher’s bracket, Brett

Davis, from Welsh Valley, finished first ing, but I just couldn’t swallow the overall with 56. Henneberry wasn’t far chicken fast enough.” Cook explained sadly. behind with 52.

So while most would hesitate to “It has made me kind of infamous even consider entering this battle of around school,” he noted. consumption, at least we have these On the other hand, Bala Cynwyd scicourageous warriors to step up to the ence teacher Jason Cook remarked, “I challenge and gorge themselves for only ate a pitiful 18 wings in 3 minutes, charity—and wings, good wings. but it was a lot of fun and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

I think I will bring a bottle of bleu cheese next year.”

“It was phenomenal,” Shapiro concurred.

After concluding the faculty competition, Henneberry, mistakenly believing there would be an additional round between faculty and students, was primed to eat even more wings.

Shapiro and Cook both agreed that they were still hungry after finishing: Courtesy of C. Henneberry “I hadn’t eaten all Mr. Henneberry is cheered on in the Lower Merion day.” Shapiro said. and Harriton Wing Bowl.

“I was still hungry.

I could have kept eat-

here, it’s thousands,” said junior Ben Furcht.

Last year, both the boys and girls track teams sent their 4x400 and 4x100 relay teams to the carnival, though neither of the teams placed higher than fourth in their respective heats. Once again this year LM was represented by both the girls and the boys in the 4x100 and 4x400 meter relays.

The girls were represented by juniors Emily Cohen, Alvida Clemons, Sammy Levy and Taylor Hayes in the 4x100, and by juniors Hayley Hanafee and Sara Ritterband, and freshmen Patty Neckowicz, and Laura Peterson in the 4x400.

On the boys side of the track seniors Sam Agoos and Matt Sokolic doubled up, running in both the 4x100 and 4x400. They were joined by junior Tim Reagan and sophomore Zach Ray in the 4x100 and by juniors Furcht and Jake

Perry in the 4x400 The boys struggled to find their stride Friday and Saturday due in part to some plain bad luck. In the 4x100, Sokolic was cut and knocked off course by a rather large competitor, adding unwanted time to their Friday event.

The following day a false start due to a timer malfunction at the beginning of the Central League heat of the 4x400, slightly threw off the team’s concentration.

“The false start really just took the wind out of my sails,” said junior lead off runner Jake Perry.

“Before the race you have this surge of adreneline built up which helps with your start, but the false start just stole that burst making it much harder to have the best possible start.”

Despite the struggles of the boys relays, the girls team held their own and found success amidst the craziness that is the Penn Relays. The previously mentioned 4x400 battled their way through the hectic nature

Penn Relays: girls 4x4 make districts, boys relish experience

L. Carlin/ E. Peltz

Class of ‘08/’09

Another year and another memorable experience for the boys and girls track teams at the historic Penn Relays. The LM contingent joined over 15,000 professional, collegiate, and high school level athletes at the prestigious event hosted by the University of Pennsylvania on the legendary Franklin Field.

The 114th annual event took place April 24-26 and allowed the LM participants to run in arguably the biggest relay carnival in the world. The relays provide the thrilling opportunity for runners to exhibit their skills before thousands of spectators, for many a once-in-lifetime experience.

“It was a lot of fun. It was very exciting to be around people who were very enthusiastic about track. Usually, you’re only around a few people, but,

Photo by Lex Carlin/ Staff

LM Boys 4x400 at the historic Penn Relays.

of the relays as well as the stiff competition, to qualify for the District One meet with an overall time of 4:09.94.

“The Penn Relays are the biggest relay carnival in the world and the biggest venue Lower Merion athletes will participate in. To compete in the Penn Relays is a thrill,” said head girls coach Sandy Hoops.

“You are in a big collegiate stadium with thousands of people watching. It is a real test of your ability to focus and stay controlled in your race. It is a hectic and fast pace and you better be ready to handle it. It is an experience that athletes talk about for years.”

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May 2, 2008

The Merionite

SPORTS

Spring Varsity Sports Schedule Softball: May 2 (3:45 PM) vs. Marple Newtown @ South Ardmore Park

Boys Lacrosse: May 6 (3:45 PM) vs. Penncrest @ Arnold Field Stadium

Boys Volleyball: May 7 (3:45 PM) vs. Cheltenham @ Main Gym

Girls Lacrosse: May 8 (3:45 PM) vs. Friends’ Central @ Arnold Field Stadium

Baseball: May 13 (3:45 PM) vs. Penncrest @ South Ardmore Park

From Girls Lax, page 19

streak was not where the girls envisioned themselves with six games remaining in the regular season.

“We play hard teams,” Buckman said, “so we can’t win them all.”

Still, as long as the team improves and works together, its members feel they have achieved something.

“Our new team has come together,” said Buckman, “we’ve bonded.”

In all, the team at the outset aimed to come together and work hard, and they certainly have. In order to fulfill their ambitions of becoming a tighter force, they played in a winter league that helped the underclassmen gain their place on the team and feel more a part of it.

“The winter league gave the younger girls a chance to show their talent, and made them feel more comfortable during the actual season,” said Lockhart.

The team has discussed participating in programs over the summer in order to help them coalesce even further. They hope these programs will help make next year’s team even better.

Every indication from their togetherness, spirit, and strong work ethic suggests that they will.

“Everyone’s best friends,” Boote said. “We know we’re a strong team, we just need to show it.”

A brief look at the LM sport stories you may have missed Volleyball: A midseason report With a scarcity of available opponents and a limited fan base, the boys varsity volleyball team has opened the season with a 2-3 record. Thus far, the team has registered wins against Glen Mills and Avon Grove High Schools while losing to Haverford, Salesianum, and Christopher Dock Mennonite High Schools. Since volleyball is not a Central League sport, LM competes in the Independent Volleyball League. The team is led by senior libero Ethan Hirsch, setter Bill Chinburg, and middle hitter Benny Kaufman. Senior Andrew King, a 6’5’’ first-year addition, notched a team high of 20 kills against Glen Mills and has been a tremendous asset to the squad. The players claim improvement will only come once they can better dictate the tempo of their games. Despite a mediocre record, hopes remain high for a playoff berth.

--M. Woidislavsky/E. Peltz ‘09

Athletic Office inaugurates new website This past month, the Athletic Office inaugurated its new website lowermerionathletics.org, an online resource completely devoted to LM athletics and containing updated schedules, rosters, and announcements for all LM sports teams.

The brainchild of athletic director Scott Eveslage and assistant athletic director Tom Kline, the website was instituted to provide the LM community with immediate information about athletics. The website allows coaches, players, and students to view schedules, game summaries, and photos. All are encouraged to utilize the website and offer any feedback regarding the website to the Athletic Office.

Crew opens season with Manny Flick races The grueling spring crew season has commenced, and for the LM crew team that means participating in the Manny Flick races, the preliminary events before the slew of regattas and championships that define the crew season. The team¢s results included victories by the varsity girls lightweight 4, varsity girls open 4, boys varsity 4 boats. The lightweight 4 squad, consisting of sophomores Julia Policastro and Leah Greenspan and juniors Gabby Mezachow, Danna Koren, and Aly Goldstein, captured first place in their divisions in two of the flicks and second place in the other two. Meanwhile, the varsity girls open 4, made up of juniors Sarah Committa, Paulina Marcucci, and Rebecca Wahrman and seniors Diana Levin and Amanda Robins, also finished first in two of the races. The team looks to build upon its early success in upcoming events, including the City Championships and the Stotesbury Regatta.

--Compiled by the Sports Staff

Merionite’s Monthly Health Tip: Mr. O’Boyle Myth or Fact: If you don’t have any symptoms, you don’t have an STD

Myth: Many STDs are asymptomatic – without signs or symptoms. The only way to know for sure if you are or are not infected is to be tested. If you suspect you have a STD, or if your partner has symptoms, you can go to your doctor or health department for testing. Talk with a knowledgeable health care provider or counselor both before and after you are tested.

The surest way to avoid transmission of STDs is to abstain from sexual contact. One may also choose to be in a mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected.

Image Courtesy of Google Images

The following STDs may be asymptomatic: Bacterial Vaginosis, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), Syphilis, Trichomoniasis.

19

May 2, 2008

SPORTS

The Merionite

Baseball swings for playoff berth M. Buchwald/ E. Peltz

Class of ‘11/’09

Baseball season is in full swing, and the boys of the varsity baseball team could not be more thrilled. With a strong returning core, including talented senior and sophomore classes, this year seems to be more promising than ever.

“We have good group of returning players, and we hope to go further than last season,” said junior Mike Joseph.

The 2007 campaign ended with a 12-8 overall record, a third-place league standing, and a qualification for the district playoffs. Despite the loss of key graduating seniors, such as pitchers Elliott Yodh and Luke Porter, returning players, including seniors Matt Siciliano, Mike Brown, Devlin McConnell and Anthony Fulginetti, are the lifeblood of the team—the seasoned upperclassmen who have experienced the rigors of an intense season under head coach John Hyman.

Hyman, who received the C o a c h o f t h e Ye a r award in 2005, believes that the team has great chemistry along with a distinct competitive nature that is needed to win tight games. He went on to say that there will many close games, for the Central League is more competitive than ever with no clear-cut powerhouse in the league.

“Central League is always competitive due to the quality of the players—especially pitchers—and the expertise of

the coaches,” said Hyman.

Despite the Aces’ high spirits and aspirations, the season got off to a slow start. The team opened with a sub-par record of 1-5 (1 – 4 in-league) with tough losses to league rivals Strath Haven, Conestoga, and Upper Darby .

“We’ve have a little bit of bad luck, but we’re still in the hunt,” said sophomore outfielder Sal D’angelo following the tough start for the Aces.

The most gut-wrenching defeat came at the hands of Upper Darby. Matt Siciliano pitched a gem, but the Aces could not manufacture enough runs with only a couple of hits produced, and lost by a score of 2-1.

But the team’s opening slump has turned around in a heartbeat, as the t e a m has gone on a six game winning streak with wins over Marple Newtown, Radnor, and Ridley, among others. In the 6-2 win over Ridley, Joseph recorded the win on the mound while knocking in three doubles. During the recent streak, the team has averaged close to nine runs per game.

“We’re starting to hit the ball better and taking it one game at a time, knowing each one is important,” said Joseph.

The team is aiming for a record at least above .500

along with a bid to the district playoffs. Yet despite a highly gifted group of underclassmen, Hyman believes that “inexperience is a problem,” and is unsure of the team’s ability to perform in high octane situations. But the Aces hope that rigorous practice regiment coupled with a competitive schedule can help them overcome this weakness.

“We never look ahead; we only focus on the next opponent,” said Hyman.

This mindset may just be the formula for success, as the team currently holds the thirdplace record in the league.

But in the unrelenting Central League, the recent surge may not be enough to guarantee a spot in the postseason.

The Aces might be forced to pull some m o r e tricks out of their sleeves if they want to prolong their time on the diamond.

Courtsey of Julia Buckman

Mid-fielder Michelle Lockhart defending a Merion Mercy player.

Lax hopes to end losing season on positive note Corinne Zucker

After losing thirteen seniors to graduation, the girls’ varsity lacrosse team anticipated a rebuilding year for the 2008 season. With only eight returning varsity players, and a predominantly young team, the girls have experienced some rough patches, suffering from losses to formidable opponents. More promisingly, they have defeated others in intense and tight games.

In an exciting win over Shipley, senior captain Katy Greulich scored the winning goal, her seventh of the game, with 6.4 seconds left in sudden death overtime. The final score was 12-11.

The Lady Aces also registered Matt Siciliano a high-energy, fierce win against hitting a few during an inside Garnet Valley under the lights, in another close game 9-8. The practice. The baseball team is players displayed strong comclimbing the cen- munication and confidence in tral league stand- one another. ings everyday.

Michelle Lockhart, a senior Photo by Dot Goldberger/ Staff captain as well, thought that the Garnet Valley game demonstrated

Goal: Hobbies:

Going to the beach and being outside Favorite Spring Activity: Riding my bike Quote:

“In the course of a lifetime what will matter? ”

Sports: Goal:

Hobbies:

Playing sports and hanging out with friends

Favorite Spring Activity: Playing baseball Quote:

Andrew King

Senior

Junior

Varsity Football Varsity Basketball Varsity Baseball Win Central League and go deep in the playoffs

“Listen to three people: your father, your mother, and you coach.”

Sports:

See Girls Lax, page 17

The best athletes that LM has to offer

Jamie Levy

Sophomore

Varsity Cross Country Varsity Swimming Varsity Track Improve upon last season

Connor Foote

Freshman

Julie Loeb

Faces of the Aces

Sports:

Class of 2009

the team’s true potential: “If we keep our heads in the game and work together as a team and really want to win, we can.”

“Usually, we let up once we’re down,” said junior Leah Sack.

“But, in that game, we all really wanted it and we just played hard in order to come back.

Junior Susie Boote found that “the whole team pulled together” to finally take the game away from Garnet Valley.

In fact, the importance of camaraderie was part of the girls’ initial goals. And they have certainly exhibited some signs of achieving this objective. Indeed, sophomore Julia Buckman, an attack-wing midfielder, thinks that as the season has progressed the team “has begun to meet its goals.

Despite actualizing some of its goals, the team cannot be too thrilled with its overall record thus far. Holding a 4-8 record in the midst of a six game losing

Varsity Field Hockey Varsity Softball

Sports:

Varsity Basketball Varsity Volleyball

Goal:

Make districts and beat Dock Hobbies: Sports, video games, and Hobbies: Playing field hockey and han just chillin’ ging out with friends Favorite Spring Favorite Spring Playing basketball under Activity: Playing softball and hanging Activity: the lights at Narberth and out in the sun. the Shack Goal:

Quote:

Hit a homerun

“Good, better, best Never let it rest until the good gets better and the better gets best.”

Quote:

“There are no shortcuts to any place worth going.”

-Beverly Sills

20

Volume 79, Issue 7

The Merionite

Boys Baseball

Despite slow start, boys hope for a succesful end of season.

LM Represented at Wing Bowl

Students and faculty stuff themselves for charity and a little fun.

See Boys Baseball, page 19

Xinran Wang

See Wing Bowl, page 17

Girls Lacrosse

May 2, 2008

SPORTS

Girls hope for a stellar close to carry momentum into next year.

See Girls Lacrosse, page 19

Tennis aims for third state title Class of 2010

After two straight years of sheer dominance, the boys varsity tennis team is back seeking its third consecutive state title.

For the past two seasons, the team has maintained a deep and talented roster, establishing the program as a respected state powerhouse.

After winning a state title in the 2005-2006 season, the team won its second straight

championship last year with a largely unchanged roster.

Over the past off-season, however, the team lost several key players due to graduation.

Last year’s number one singles player, William Zhang, is now off to college, playing first singles as a freshman for the University of Chicago. Brandon Savran, Dan Zakheim, Keith Goldner, Andy Ritterman, Mark Moosburner, and Pete Pelberg, all major contributers to the team last year, will be missed as well.

“As a result of them leaving, they have put much more pressure on our doubles teams to pull out the wins this year more so than last year,” said senior Courtney Scott.

Scott anchors the team at the number one singles spot, followed by juniors Robby Kay and Matt Savran.

With one of the deepest tennis programs in the state, the team has been able to fill the vacated spots with new additions from the junior varsity squad.

“Jason Kraman, Doug Blum, Ben Sataloff, and Ben Levit are all first year varsity players who have already proved that they can provide for the team,” said Savran.

“Many of our new players have played very well, and they give us a good chance to succeed this year,” echoed coach Joe Monaco.

The team aims to build off of the incredible success of the last few years. Having gone through two perfect regular seasons, the team has already set the Lower Merion record, as well as the state record,

for the most consecutive wins in any sport, with 54 straight wins. As another season commences, the possibility of a third straight title is very promising. However, the players are focusing on each match, and making sure that they concentrate on their game instead of looking ahead.

“We would certainly love to continue our streak and win a third straight title, but we still prepare for each match the same,” said Coach Monaco.

So far, the team has blown through its schedule with ease, never losing more than two matches out of seven, and shutting out the opponent in six of their ten matches. Currently, the team holds a 9-0 record with easy wins against other Central League rivals, includi n g C o n e s t o g a a n d R i d l e y.

Their road to a third straight state championship may seem daunting but the players are confident that they can pull off another title. Even with their impressive streak, the team still aims to get even better.

Many of the new varsity additions, for instance, are con-

centrating on improving their doubles game.

“Our doubles teams need to improve their overall doubles skills,” said Savran. “They all know how to play singles, but there are different strategies and skills necessary to be a good doubles player.”

Team goals aside, many of the individuals have also set high personal goals.

“I personally would like to win all my matches at states this year and help the team win [the state title] again,” said Kay. While the players work hard and focus on succeeding, they never forget what led them to the sport, the joy of playing the game.

“Within all this competition, we are just trying to have a good time,” said Kay. So far, the team has breezed through its schedule with a perfect record. And with the amount of talent and the players’ dedication, the team hopes to complete another perfect season, win a third state title, and continue its dominance.

Led by high powered offense boys lacrosse seeks league title

Boys tennis serves for another state championship.

Lex Carlin

Class of 2008

Just about every sports team goes through periods of rebuilding and reorganization. Sometimes it may take as little as one season or as many as several before the team sees a true return to form. Over the past three seasons, the LM boys lacrosse team has endured their fair share of growing pains, including everything from coaching changes to graduating seniors to loosing field space because of construction. Yet through it all the team stayed strong and they are now truly seeing the fruits of their labor.

With only five games left in the season the team currently stands at 12-3 overall and 3-2 in the Central League. At this point last season, the team only notched nine wins and accumulated six losses, three of which came at the hands of Central League teams.

“Overall the team is much stronger than we were last year,” said senior captain Dylan Chou.

This strength can be attributed to the long hours the team logs throughout the off-season.

“The guys have really dedicated themselves to becoming better lax

players on individual levels and as a team. They worked very hard in the off-season. Our team chemistry has been excellent,” said head coach Chet Laubach.

“We are much stronger especially on offense. Our attack as a whole is much stronger. We are scoring a lot more goals than we did last season which obviously is a huge help,” said Chou.

Last season the boys scored a total 125 goals, so far this season the team has put 167 goals past opposing goalies.

It’s not only the offense that is rising to the occasion but also the defense as well. Led by junior goalie Cody Hornung the strong play of the Aces defense has helped the team net key wins against strong area teams such as Garnet Valley, Radnor, and Episcopal Academy.

The team is currently on a four game win streak in which they have outscored their opponents 51-19.

“Our Man Down Defense has gone unscored upon in 5 straight games. This is an impressive feat.

Nowlan Montague, Marc Schaevitz, Asuo Thompson, Brett Redmond, Jake Eisenhard and Ari Weisband have been great defensively for us,” said head coach Chet Laubach.

Despite the recent success one game that sticks out in the mind of the team is their heartbreaking overtime loss to Central League rival Strath Haven.

“That game was really a shock to our system,” said Chou. “It was a huge reality check but we learned from it. Since the loss I feel that the team has really played much better.”

Year in and year out, the Central League is considered to be one of the most competitive in the state. Last year three teams, Conestoga, Penncrest, and Ridley, all finished within the top fifteen in the state. The league also produced three High School All-Americans in 2007.

As usual the Central League is once again one of the strongest in the state with currently four teams residing in the top fifteen, with the

Photo by Dot Goldberger/ Staff

Boys lacrosse improved both ends of the field and currently fights for the Central League top spot.

Aces occupying that fifteenth spot.

Four out of the last five games for the boys will be against Central League opponents, with each game equally as important as the last.

With the end of the regular season fast approaching the team looks to continue to play at their high intensity level with the hope that it will

carry them into the post season.

“One of our team goals is for us to finish at the top of the league. The next six games are crucial to how we will finish and get set up for the playoffs. I hesitate to say that one game is more important than another. They are all important at this time of the year,” said Laubach.