St. Luke’s School
377 North Wilton Road - New Canaan, CT - 06840
October 2011
From the Oval Locker Kelly Seaver Student Government President
The new space in all it’s glory. To the left, CFL head Jim Foley is pictured teaching in the global classroom.
A New Space For A New Year
Caroline Hopkins Contributing Writer
It’s what you’ve waited for all summer, SLS. The one and only “New Space” has finally arrived! The building project that had our hilltop crawling with construction crews for three months this summer has drastically exceeded the expectations of students and faculty alike. I believe I speak on behalf of the entire Saint Luke’s community when I say that I was genuinely amazed upon entering the building on the first day of class. Everywhere I turned there was something new - cafeteria carpeting, elegant wooden tables, a working fireplace, rainbow bathrooms- it was like I was a little kid on Christmas morning. Now a month into school, I am still discovering new and outstanding features in the space, and find that I look forward to school if simply for the enjoyment of relishing in the new environment. (I have actually declined several invitations to go off campus for the sole purpose of enjoying my free periods by the fireplace) Recently, I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to speak with the architect who designed the new space, James Rogers. During a brief twenty minute conversation, I discovered an extraordinary amount about the space’s design and features, not to mention the extent of effort and hard work that the school, partnered with Turner Construction, underwent in creating the space. My initial question to Mr. Rogers was one that many of you may have likely wondered about. What was the goal in embarking on this construction project? Simply put, why the new space? As many of us know, our school takes pride in its sense of community. We are an remarkably unified student body, and thus it is only fitting that we spend our school days in a unified environment. As
Inside this issue...
Blues Band Preview
Mr. Rogers explained to me, the goal of the project was to combine the student commons with the cafeteria, creating a unified center of community that would give the school character. The idea to create the Center for Leadership and Global Classroom came later on in the project, when, in considering the possibility of extending the ceiling of the dining commons another story, Mr. Rogers envisioned a second story classroom with a transparent, visual connection with the space below. The space’s design, brilliant in and of itself, was perfectly executed with over 3500 total hours of labor. Upon hearing this statistic, my jaw nearly dropped; it’s easy to forget that this great new environment did not simply appear as we walked through the front doors on the first day of school. Not only was this project highly labor intensive, but it also posed many challenges to the workers involved in its creation. Combining the sixth grade hallway with the history wing, for instance, required the construction workers to essentially mine their way through a preexisting foundation as well as an underground staircase of unknown origin. The exquisite zig-zag design of the glass within the global classroom, moreover, was actually constructed as a solution to a problem involving the acoustics in the global classroom. Mr. Rogers explained to me that, if the glass were to have been constructed in a curved formation, the room would actually echo, as the speaker’s voice would resonate directly back to them. This piece of information I found particularly interesting, as my assumption had simply been that the school wanted to give the Global Classroom an aesthetic appeal. Ultimately, I found the most compelling feature of the New Space to be its complete devotion to “going green,” a process that involves
See New Space page 2
Girls In in Germany
An authority figure is essentially a person who has the power and mental astuteness to tell others what to do. I, on the other hand, am currently lacking both qualifications and so instead would like to divert your attention to those goals I think are most appropriate for the upcoming year. Or rather, for however long it takes to transform this governmental system into some semblance of a dictatorship. While we wait for the official takeover, however, I think it is important we establish our aspirations for the next several months to come. One of my top priorities of the year- alongside the measly concern of getting into college and managing to graduate in one piece- is to prove that the senior class, and the 2011- 2012 upper school as a whole, can act as a hybrid of both the spirit class and respect class (something that has been a struggle in the past). But what exactly does that entail? Essentially, in its most basic form, we harness that excess ra-ra energy and channel it into caring for the school community around us- especially in keeping the new space looking pristine for the entirety of the year. As a student body, we can unleash our dual personality: think chest-painted super fans by night and caring, respect-mo-biles by day. Even further, another objective is to work to encompass spirit not just at sports games, but
Our lady Madame President
also in our overarching pride for our school and all it has to offer. From concerts, to clubs, to plays, to games, to dances, the more fans and enthusiasm surrounding them, the more enjoyable they’ll be. Finally, we must maintain that golden rule that people so often neglect, albeit usually without meaning to. It is essential that we really do treat the school (and our fellow students and teachers) as we would like to be treated. We have to keep in mind that everybody has bad days, but it does not give us the right to forget how we should act as members of this community. But more than anything else, integrity is the name of the game. For student government as
See Oval Locker page 2
U of SLS
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HILLTOP NEWS
Pendulum Gets Gold Harold Pecks Random Human
New Spaces from page 1
an extraordinary amount of effort and attention in order to attain certification. The crazy rainbow stalls in the cafeteria bathrooms do not, contrary to popular belief, exist for the purpose of enlivening our bathroom experiences, but rather are constructed of 100% recycled plastic bottles. The carpeting within the cafeteria is made of recycled material as well, as is nearly the entirety of the dining commons. (Speaking of the carpeting, I was impressed to hear that the material is specially designed to block out spills- a feature entirely imperative for a fully carpeted cafeteria). However, the project was not entirely smooth sailing. Hurricane Irene made an untimely arrival just as Turner Construction was struggling to finish up the new space prior to the start of school. With the extensive power outage, the school had to fight to finish the project, and so accomplished this feat with little time to spare. In the midst of the power outage, Mr. Rogers noted that there was actually enough light entering into the space through the cafeteria windows to allow the project to ensue, demonstrating to him that the goal to provide added natural lighting had truly succeeded.
Simply put, the members of the Litmag staff are Masters of the Universe. Not once, but twice in as many years, The Pendulum has won the gold medal from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association, the premier rating agency in the country. Technically, the Pendulum is a “LiteraryArt” magazine, meaning that it is judged not only on the writing but also on graphics, art, and overall layout. The 2011 edition, the brain-child of thensenior Sam Fomon, has the theme of “effervescence” in reference to the fleeting years of childhood, or more specifically, young adulthood. Other staff members included current Seniors Paige Hart and Emily Bergmann (now the Art Editor and Managing Editor), along with Gabi Horowitz, Nicole Bennett-Fite, Charlotte Hopkins, and Christian Langalis. The judges were particularly impressed with the quality and reproduction of the artwork (kudos to the SLS artists and art teachers), and they singled out an essay by Ben Klein and a story by Alex Robertson as the most impressive literary entries. Faculty advisor Mr. Flachsbart was of course proud of his students’ achievements. At the same time he was slightly reticent about the honor, explaining that he believed success in the arts should not be a competitive matter. “At least the award shows we’re on the right track and keeping up with ‘best practices,’” he noted. MrF went on to say he’d like to see more poetry reading events here and arrange meetings with literary-minded students from other schools. For those interested in becoming part of orginal drawing of the new space. this awesome organization, the literary magazine Roger’s meets every day 3 and 7 during upper school lunch in Room 332. When Mr. Rogers inquired about my favor Activities include judging submissions as ite feature of the new space, I admittedly told him well as writing and reading spontaneous mini- I would have to choose the fireplace. Smiling and prompts. All students in grades 9 to 12 are wel- nodding his head, Mr. Rogers responded, “good.” come. “Fireplaces bring people together,” he told me, The Pendulum is published in May of each “and the goal of this project was just that, to bring school year. Submissions should be given to Emily the school together.” Bergmann or your English teacher.
Want to be part of this award winning club? THE LIT MAG meets in room 332 on days 2 and 7
I want to join
October 2011
The Sentinel Staff Editors in Chief Nicole Bennett-Fite Ben Klein Layout Editor Nicole Bennett-Fite Sports Editor Mack Dowling Arts Editor Alex Robertson World News Editor Sam Fuller School News Editor Caroline Hopkins Staff Writers Sebastian Bates Tommy Champion Andrew Walker Caroline Hopkins Contributing Writers Kelly Seaver Caroline Parsons Lauren LaBanca Evan Kenagy Contributing Photographer Caroline Chadwick Faculty Advisor Mr. Flachsbart
Oval Locker from page 1
a whole, the faculty, the students, and myself, lack of integrity will be just no good in these dark and twisted times as we head toward the end of the world (but probably not). To utilize a typical St. Luke’s colloquialism, let’s make this year ruthless.
Meeting For The “Injured By Way of Being Trampled In the Rush to Start a Club” Club
Join The Sentinel Do you like to write? Take pictures? Then The Sentinel wants YOU. Find out what you can do for The Sentinel. The unfortunate results of excessive “clubbing”
October 2011
3
HILLTOP NEWS
Fireside Chat:
Miles Gaines Andrew Walker Staff Writer
Since day one of his transfer from Fairfield Prep earlier this year, Myles Gaines has been a breakout star not only on the football field, but in the hearts and minds of all St. Luke’s students. Myles’ athletic flair, zeal and sheer dominance on the football pitch have kept him on everyone’s radar. His swift ascension to St. Luke’s fame, leaves many students curious about the man behind the helmet. Essentially, who is Miles Gaines, off the field? The Sentinel sat down with Gaines to shed light on some alternate aspects of his personality, as well as, of course, some football talk.
Sentinel: Do you see yourself playing football in college? Gaines: Of course, I definitely see myself definitely playing football in college. That’s why I lift hard and play hard. Sentinel: And on that note, do you see yourself playing football for the NFL? Gaines: Well, we’ll have to see. Do I want to play football for the NFL? Of course, that is every kid’s dream! I’ll have to get into that mindset and if I’m not good enough to play, well then that’s just too bad because I won’t settle for anything less. Sentinel: Alright, now for something a little different. As Einstein once never said, “only the most inane and trifling questions will reveal a man’s true character,” so on that note, if you could fuse two fruits together, which ones would you choose and what would the fruit be called?
St. Luke’s University Emily Bergmann Contributing Writer
The college process is a huge component of any St. Luke’s senior’s life, and during the colder months, the huddled masses convene on the College Counseling Office’s couches, begging for snacks left from visiting schools and attempting not to procrastinate. This is the time when all sixty-six of us write essays, fill out paperwork, and cry manly tears over the decisions of institutes of higher education. Some people are extremely secretive about their lists to avoid “competition”; others share theirs and find overlaps with others. Come September, most people are happy to find one or two other people at college that they can have as friends in their first couple of weeks in a new place. Alumni of St. Luke’s who are currently freshmen at Bucknell, however, won’t have to look far to find an old friend. Out of ten that were admitted, seven
Gaines: That’s a hard one. I’d choose watermelon and kiwi. Kiwimelon? No, that’s too easy…Kiwelon! Sentinel: You’re trapped on a deserted island. What three items would you want most? Gaines: First of all, I’d take deodorant; a guy’s gotta stay fresh after all. After that, I would take a stove so I can cook, and finally I would take a cellphone so I can tell people where I am.
Sentinel: So how long have you been playing football? Gaines: This is my 9th year playing. Football has been a big part of my life for a long time. Sentinel: Got any football memories that you are particularly fond of? Gaines: Off the top of my head, winning the Pop Warner State Championships. That’s a moment I’ll never forget. My worst memory is going 0 and 10 during my sophomore year at Fairfield Prep. That moment taught me to never to take winning for granted. Sentinel: Many have been dying to know the secret to your success in football. Do you have any good luck rituals before a game? Gaines: Before a game I get off by myself and focus. I just zone in for at least a few minutes, no real rituals. I think about my last games and how I could have improved. Then I apply it to the upcoming match. Sentinel: Got any advice for up-coming St Luke’s football players? Gaines: This may sound cliché, but go hard and practice. It doesn’t go unnoticed by the coaches.
Gaines in the game against Hamden, 9/28 Sentinel: If you could time travel, where would you time travel to and why? Gaines: I would love to time travel to when my parents were born. I really want to see how they grew up and how they were raised. That would definitely give me more insight. Sentinel: And finally, you are attacked by your evil twin. How do you respond? Whatever the attack is, I’d attack him twice as hard because it’s not about getting mad, it’s not even about getting even: it’s about getting ahead.
Three of the Bucknell seven, keeping SLS ties alive. accepted a spot at the home of Bucky Bison this fall. On the map of where seniors were going outside of the College Counseling Office last spring, there wasn’t enough room for all of the Bucknell flags. Bucknell has been affectionately nicknamed “St. Luke’s University” by a select few, because of the volume of people that have chosen to attend. I imagine it’d be a little strange to see your former classmates around campus so often. Imagine doing a bio lab with your sophomore chemistry partner. The “Bucknell Seven,” as they’re called, probably didn’t choose Bucknell to stick together. This brings us to the ultimate question: why Bucknell? None of the current freshmen could be reached for comment, (although Kevin Quindlen ’11 did promise he’d “get back to me”) but Ms. Bell had some thoughts. “I think they all [the “Bucknell Seven”] came to the decision that Bucknell was their first choice school separately. Some were friends but they did not plan to attend the same school. This class had a lot of school spirit so I am not surprised a lot of them chose Bucknell. Bucknell appeals to a lot of students. It has almost everything anyone could want. It feels like a small liberal arts college but it has 3500 students, a school of management and a school of engineering. It has Division I sports, a small town feel and a great academic reputation. What’s not to love?” says Ms. Bell. What’s not to love indeed? Thje school seems like an ideal choice for many students, and it doesn’t surprise me that in the past five years, eleven students have enrolled at Bucknell. However, Ms. Bell notes something else interesting about the class of 2011: “With all the talk about the Bucknell seven, we tend to forget about the Colby four, the NYU three, the Wake Forest three, the Villanova three…this was a close class!” Their character has rubbed off on the current senior class, which is making an effort to continue their famous school spirit. It’s also rumored that the class of 2012 has a “Bucknell” of its own; rumor has it that Elon University in North Carolina and Dickinson College in Pennsylvania are pulling many applicants into their respective pools. We’ll have to wait until spring to see if there will be another “St. Luke’s University,” but until then, we’ll all still be having nervous breakdowns in the College Counseling office.
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ARTS
Bates On The Russian Greats
Play Previewed Alex Robertson Arts Editor
If there’s one word that could describe St. Luke’s’ theatre productions in the past few years, it would be “variety.” Many theatre programs claim to have such a quality, but at St. Luke’s the proof is in the plays: Anything Goes, The Uninvited, Lend Me a Tenor? These were all performances so distinct in both content and execution that it was almost impossible to believe they came from the same school-- let alone many of the same cast members. St. Luke’s upcoming fall play, Michael Frayn’s 1982 Noises Off, looks to be a production that will add yet another layer to the multifaceted theatre program here atSLS. Though I don’t want to spoil anything for those who want see it for themselves, the play is essentially about a group of actors scrambling desperately to put on a play called Nothing On before opening night. If you’re a big fan of self-referential and clever comedy like I am, this premise should already sound exciting--a play about the difficulties of putting on a play! But cast member Patrick Quinn promises a huge surprise even beyond the interesting premise: a change in perspective from the front of the stage to the goings-on behind the curtain. I’ll leave it up to you, the reader, to see the play and fill in the blanks for yourself. Also promising is the cast, featuring SLS Theatre veterans Emily Bergmann, Zach Batson and Colin McIntire as well as newcomers Malcolm Joung and Emma Citron Also in the play are Patrick Quinn, Clare Livingston, Thomas Hecker, and Sanjana Chintalapudi. And let’s not forget that the alwaysdependable Jereme Anglin will be directing. As I mentioned before, Noises Off seems poised to be another play both completely different from anything that came before it in the SLS Theatre catalog, and yet also inextricably linked with that St. Luke’s sense of professionalism and entertainment. It premieres on Friday, November 11th with an additional showing on the 12th. I don’t think it’s too early to give a preliminary “bravo!”
October 2011
Sebastian Bates Staff Writer
Summer reading: that most excellent of programs, which allows us lucky students to read the best that literature has to offer over the summer…and so forth, and so forth. I’m sure all of the English teachers would be only too pleased to harp on the merits of summer reading if you asked them to. All I know is that I ended reading A Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich, the story of the day-to-day routine of survival in the bleak and snowy gulags of Siberia in Stalin’s USSR, on the beaches of the sunny Maldives. Talk about mixed messages! This year, the list was formatted rather differently- though it seems like only a few of us noticed (I certainly didn’t), rather to a few teacher’s disappointment. Scouring the list for books I hadn’t already ready, I settled on what might be termed “the big three” of Russian literature. The first, as I already mentioned, was A Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich, by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn. Solzhenitsyn, a Nobel Prize laureate in Literature and one of the Soviet era’s most celebrated writers, crafts a powerful narrative in A Day in the Life which never the less is exactly what it says on the tin: it follows its main character, Ivan, from when he wakes up to when he goes to bed. I have no qualms in admitting that this was chosen mostly because it was probably the shortest book on the list. Despite that fact, I think it was also one of the most powerful: it served as a scathing indictment of the Soviet system of sending dissidents to languish in these Siberian prison camps. Solzhenitsyn wrote, of course, from personal experience- he was imprisoned for eight years in a gulag for commenting derogatively on Stalin and his conduct in World War II. Short and strongly written, with fascinating characters and an important message, A Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich comes highly recommended- of all three, this was my favorite. Read it!
The St. Luke’s players practicing for Noises Off
Have You Seen It? The Sentinel Online blogs.stlukesct.org/sentinel or digitalsentinel.org
The next book- read on a cramped, vibrating plane about twenty years old, hurtling across the sky from a former British army base (long story)- was Crime and Punishment, the great novel by the even greater author, Fyodor Dostoyevsky. Like Solzhenitsyn, Dostoyevsky was a student of human nature whose fascination with the mind was sharpened by personal tragedy; like his countryman, he had been exiled to Siberia by the government of Russia. Crime and Punishment was his second novel, written after his return from a five-year spell in an Imperial labor camp. It focuses on the moral dilemma of Raskolniv, a young university student in St. Petersburg, who commits murder. His intended victim is Alyona Ivanovna, a cruel moneylender, but, during his clumsy attempt, he ends up also killing her sister Lizaveta. Again, like A Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich, the main story is helped along by strong secondary characters who, unlike those of that rather shorter novel, generally each have a well-developed subplot to themselves. Dostoyevsky uses several viewpoints and excellent descriptive language to paint the internal struggle of Raskolniv, set against the
wider life of the less-prosperous middle classes of the vast Russian Empire.
The third novel, which I enjoyed safely at home, is also probably one of the finest recent Russian novels easily found here in America. Fathers and Sons, the politically-charged novel by Ivan Turgenev, was not only one of the best novels I read this summer, but also a fascinating portrayal of life among the upper middle classes of Russia just before the emancipation of the serfs. Kirsanov, the main character, is one of the many students, liberal and activist, who shaped Imperial Russia right at the cusp of its fall. Influenced by his charismatic friend Bazarov, he comes into conflict with his middling noble father and his eccentric uncle, even as he feels contempt for the fashionably socialist salons which spring up all over Russia’s towns and cities. With irony, affection, and a fascination for the human condition (which he shared with Solzhenitsyn and Dostoyevsky), Turgenev paints a highly realistic picture of the growing divide between the “fathers”- the largely conservative, paternalistic older generation of nobles and farmers, and the “sons”, the increasingly liberal, even socialist, university graduates who are expected to succeed them. Perhaps most interestingly, Turgenev does not take a side. While this was criticized at the time- the Right thought being he was too good to the liberals, the Left, too forgiving to the reactionaries- today, this not only distinguishes him from some of his contemporaries, but also allows for rich interpretation of all his fascinating characters. Again, this is another short, but excellent, read.
Here’s Sebastians list, but what’s yours? Send a com ment about summer reading, or anything else to The Sentinel online at blogs.stlukesct.org/sentinel or digitalsentinel.org
October 2011
ARTS
Blues Band Preview
Top 10 Rejected Clubs
Tommy Champion Staff Writer Every year around Thanksgiving, St. Luke’s musicians who are part of the after school activity “Blues Band” put on an exciting and well rehearsed concert for the students and faculty. Although the name “Blues Band” implies that the music, as one would guess, consists predominantly of blues tunes, over the past few years the concert began to incorporate an even greater diversity of musical genres. Rock, Funk, 80’s music (for lack of a better word), and even rap are now becoming commonly suggested and rehearsed during the first week of practice. However, Mr. Leinbach and Mr. Valera, the two faculty members in charge, have made sure that the necessary blues tunes will still be played; it is always important to remember your roots! As many of you know, performing on stage is one of the most petrifying experiences out there; look at how many people place public speaking above death on their phobias list. Not only is the player the object of everyone’s attention, but a performer is also vulnerable to anxiety and stress about mistakes played or the quality of the concert. Much like playing in a varsity game or performing role in a play, the so called “rocking out” that Blues Band entails has its challenges. But so far, the Blues Band members seem to have things under control. This year, the 5th and 6th grades were given the option to join this previously exclusive 7th-12th grade program. So far, the Middle Schooler’s have handled themselves very respectfully. They seem to be working cohesively and, for the most part, have a tremendous sound for only three weeks of work. As a junior, I think that this extension to the Middle School was an excellent idea. They get to work alongside Upper Classmen and learn how to perform at a young age. This also means that they will continue the program and hopefully, when veteran Blues’ Banders are in college, put on a better show than the present members could possibly imagine. Another difference this year in the program is the division of the bands. Instead of several small combos (usually consisting of 4-5 people), Mr. Leinbach and Mr. Valera decided to make two bands: one for the Middle School and one for the Upper School. By having the ability to use the appropriate musicians for certain songs, the quality of the performance should be remarkably better. In addition, it gives almost everyone more playing time, especially the singers and horn players who often have had a lack of stage appearances. So far, this division has worked well. The two groups practice songs collectively, “wood shedding” (musical lingo for gettng kinks out of), each one. Recently, a meeting has taken place discussing the direction of the bands. Since many of the performers are also part of different activities, scheduling rehearsal hours can be tricky to say the least. Mr. Leinbach and
10. Planking for Everyone (nope, it’s for no one) 9. Students for Sarah Palin 8. Dave Matthews Fan Club (Tommy Champion actually tried to get this one going) Kamau Burton ‘13 flashing that heart melting smile Mr. Valera, however, have worked out a master schedule to help with the efficiency of the groups. This dynamic duo has been, for several years, the lynchpins of the program. From teaching songs to working extra hours, Mr. Leinbach and Mr. Valera have been extraordinary and Blues Band members as well as SLS musicians are forever indebted to them. Their ability to help a student realize his or her own musical potential is truly remarkable. Currently, the song list is still being finalized, but a vast majority of the tunes have already been established. Over the next few weeks, the groups will be figuring out what works, what doesn’t, and the best “crowd pleasers.” Artists like Lynard Skynard, John Legend, Dave Matthews, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Metallica, Bob Marley, and even Taylor Swift have been suggested and worked on. Although none of these ideas have been confirmed, the performance should have a wide variety of songs and styles. All in all, the program is moving along quickly and we should expect a stellar show in November.
6. In Da Club 5. Help the Sentinel Staff Make Up the Top Ten Club 4. Twitter Club 3. High School Bird Watching Club 2. Night Clubbing 1. Clubs Club... oh wait!
Movie Review 50/50 Ben Klein Editor in Chief
OBB- Orginal Blues Band, back in the day (2009)
7. Martian-Human Alliance (from unfortunate lack of martians)
Verdict: Worth the trip.
Courtesy of Caroline Chadwick
5
In the artistic community, mediocrity is often disparaged. However, sometimes a mediocre film can be touching, funny, and loveable without ever transcending into greatness. 50/50 is one such film, a new “dramedy” directed by Jonathan Levine. The film boasts an excellent young cast including Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, and Anna Kendrick. Gordon-Levitt and Rogen shine as Adam and Kyle, a pair of best friends who work together at a radio station. When Adam (Gordon-Levitt) finds out that he has a cancerous tumor growing in his back, the two struggle to find ways to stay optimistic in a seemingly hopeless situation. Director Levine manages to breathe new life into the “cancer-movie” trope by balancing tender emotion with a sharp wit. Rogen’s trademark “every-
man” appeal works nicely here, although he may soon find himself typecast in the “friendly stoner” role he’s played so many times before. Gordon-Levitt on the other hand has done an excellent job of taking on a range of distinctly unique characters thus far in his young career. 50/50 is probably the best showcase of Gordon-Levitt’s talents so far, supporting the growing consensus that he’s one of the best young talents in Hollywood. Anna Kendrick delivers a solid performance as well, playing Adam’s inexperienced new therapist. The tension between the two is palpable, standing in stark contrast to the instant chemistry between Gordon-Levitt and Rogen. Overall, the film succeeds in capturing the desperation and heartbreak that cancer can bring while avoiding the sappy pitfalls that could have dragged it down. After leaving the theater I was not compelled to rave to my family and friends. However, sometimes a mediocre movie that leaves you feeling content is enough. 50/50 is well worth your time, but I’d be shocked to see it garnering many awards in the future.
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October 2011
OPINION Does Obama Deserve Reelection?: Fuller vs Bates
Sam Fuller World News Editor
Sebastian Bates Staff Writer
As the 2012 elections draws closer and closer, St. Luke’s students would do well to remember that the majority of the Senior class will be eligible to vote for our next president. The importance of staying informed about the candidates cannot be overstated. So, for those of us not as politcally versed as the two intellectual gods to the left, here’s a quick list of the frontrunners in each party. We encourage you to research each individual to get a better idea of their stance on important issues.
In 2008 Barack Obama was promising the American people “Change we can all believe in.” In the past 3 years Obama has truly given the American people “change to believe in;” the unemployment rate skyrocketed past 10%, our national debt rose another $4.2 trillion putting it over $14.8 trillion, and polls show that the American people don’t believe we are succeeding in the war in Afghanistan. Obama’s approval ratings have dropped below 20% and Obama has admitted to the media that he believes the American people are “worse off than they were four years ago.” Obama’s brainchild healthcare program deemed “Obamacare” has received some of the strongest opposition of any government program in the past decade and is currently being disputed, with 26 of the 50 states appealing to the Supreme Court after the Court ruled that only part of the healthcare bill was unconstitutional. Ladies and gentlemen, how can a President who based his campaign on solving our nation’s problems be reelected after severely worsening them? How could voters have any confidence in a man who has tried to pass a bill that is clearly unconstitutional? Democrat or Republican, it is evident that the American people need a leader who is willing to make the difficult decisions to save our nation’s posterity. America needs a leader with a successful political background (should I even bother to mention Obama’s lack of political experience?) with a firm plan of action that keeps American constitutional values close to heart. In the 2012 election I believe Mitt Romney is the man for the job. Romney has a wealth of background experience as a successful businessman and governor of Massachusetts. This man knows not only what the economy needs but also how to go about fixing it. Romney’s moderate platform will also reach across party lines to find a solution that doesn’t work for just the Republican part but for the American people. Sorry Barack, your time is up. Someone please get this man out of the White House before he does any more damage.
Should Obama get a second term? Debatable. Is there anyone even half as qualified to replace him? Absolutely not. Consider what Obama has achieved- in less than three years; he has rammed the necessary health-care reform through Congress, gotten us out of the interminable war in Iraq, taken the fight with al-Qaeda to the point of assassinating both Osama bin Laden and his immediate deputy, Anwar al-Awlaki, successfully persecuted a brushfire war- with the assistance of our NATO alliesin Libya, repaired our international reputation enormously, and, last but not least, tried (and succeeded, to a certain extent) to restore the lost art of statesmanship to our political discourse. Impressive achievements, wouldn’t you say?
Republican Candidates
Former Governor of Massachusetts and private sector business executive. Mitt Romney
Current Governor of Texas. “I full well believe I’m going to win” Rick Perry Businessman, Politician & Media figure. Host of WSB’s “The Herman Cain Show”
`
Herman Cain
What’s the greatest achievement of current GOP frontrunner Herman Cain, according to the Florida straw poll? Becoming Chief Executive Officer of Godfather’s Pizza. Honestly- why are we still talking about this? Obama has more than earned a second term. He came into the job with enormous goals and the knowledge that the Republican Party was set incontrovertibly against him, and, three years later, he has fulfilled many of those goals- along with those of the Republicans. His opponents charge that he is soft on terrorism. His opponents charge that he does not care about the middle classes and the American people. His opponents claim that he is ineffectual. And on every one of these charges, they have been proven false. He has taken the situation he was given- an America locked in two foreign wars, teetering near bankruptcy and bereft of international support, and he has turned it around. Today, we no longer face the inevitability of a double-dip recession, we have ended our military involvement in Iraq, and he has simplified and reformed a tax code that prefers large, multinational corporations to the small, mom-and-pop stores which were once found everywhere. Do we want to entrust the future of these sucesses into the hands of people who are openly hostile to them (Perry or Romney), hostile to the very idea of an active federal government (Bachmann or Paul), or, frankly, simply inexperienced and unqualified, politically speaking (Cain). No, I think not. America must continue to bring change, around the world and at home- and only Obama will bring “change we can believe in”.
U.S. Representative from the State of Texas. Nortoriously libertarian leaning. Ron Paul
Democratic Candidates
Current President of the United States Barack Obama Pro-life Activist, anti LGBT. Planning to drop 3 million on superbowl commercial slot. Randall Terry
October 2011
JUST FOR FUN with NBF
RANDOM KID OF THE MONTH Anna Simpson ‘13 Favorite Sport: Crutching Favorite Activity: Pretending to have surgery. Favoite Color: Pink. “I can’t wear a pink shirt everyday! So I had to improvise- hence the cast.” Favorite Confession: “I’m a We’ve all seen her crutching total twi-hard. I even have a around school, begging for Team Jabob T-shirt. Too fun!” some help carrying her books or just generally evoking sym- Favorite Secret: “I keep money pathy. But is this sympathy that in my cast. Classic hiding spot.” she insists on evoking actually warranted? To the untrained Favorite Illness: Munchausen eye, her injury seems honest syndrome. (When you pretend enough, but Ms. Simpson took to have a sickness or injury for a few minutes out of her busy sympathy.) day to talk to the Sentinel and clear up some misconceptions. Anna pictured in the New Commons
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Top of the Hilltop
Website: www.digitalsentinel.org Band: Wonder Bear Game: Minecraft TV Show: Modern Family on ABC Movie: Moneyball Sport: Football Illness: Infectious Mononuc- leosis and Lymes Disease
Facts of the Month 1. 315 entires in the 1996 Meriam Websters dictionary were misspelled. 2. You may not swear in front of women and children in the state of Michigan (by law). 3. Americans collectively eat 100 pounds of chocolate per second. 4. The chances of making two holes-inone in a round of golf are about 1 in 67 million. 5. You will have to walk 50 miles for your legs to equal the amount of exercise your eyes get daily. 6. A bowling pin only needs to tilt 7.5 degrees to fall. 7. A rainbow can only be seen in the morning or late afternoon. 8. Astronauts get taller when they are in space. 9. Americans did not commonly use forks until after the Civil War. 10. 23% of all photocopier faults worldwide are caused by people sitting on them and photocopying their butts. 11. In 1998, Sony accidently sold 700,000 camcorders that had the technology to see through people’s clothes.
Horoscopes Aries (March 21- April 19): It would be greatly beneficial to you to be better. Taurus (21 April-21 May): I wouldn’t suggest the swimming anytime soon. Mars is aligning with Jupiter so you know the deal. Gemini (22 May-22 June):
:)
:(
:/ ?
>:D
Cancer (23 June-23 July) : Stop everything you’re doing and carve a pumpkin. What are you still doing here?? Leo (24 July-23 August): You will be involved in a wacky misadventure concerning international espionage. Virgo (24 August-23 September): You lose, unfortunately. Libra (24 September-23 October) : There are moments when you feel happy...cherish those moments. Scorpio (24 October-22 November): Get that metoer insurance yet?? You’re digging your own grave without it! Sagittarius (23 November-22 December): You will eventually die. Capricorn (23 December-19 January): Sometimes I watch you. Don’t worry about it. Here’s a pic Aquarius (20 January-19 February): You will find a golden locket. Congrats, that’s pretty cool. Pisces (20 February-20 March): If you do not come to a Sentinel meeting and write 12 articles you’ll have a bad hair day tomorrow.
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SPORTS
Soccer Girls Go To Germany Caroline Parsons Contributing Writer
This past summer I, along with other members of the past and current SLS girls’ varsity soccer team, had the opportunity to go to Germany for the Women’s World Cup. While on the trip we had many new experiences, such as attending the World Cup games and sight seeing throughout Germany. Our first adventure was through the town of Dusseldorf, which gave us the idea to nickname Lindsay Bralower and Erika Wohlman the “dusseldwarfs” (so if you see them in the hall, you know what to do).
hilarating moments of my life. The sense of being at the game and a part of the action instead of just watching it on the television was liberating and exotic. After the moment we had all been waiting for came to a conclusion we understood that our time in Germany was also near its end. The next day we woke up bright and early and departed for Dusseldorf International Airport where we would take our flight back to New York JFK. Germany as a whole was one of the most amazing opportunities I have ever had, and I know a lot of my teammates feel the same way. It really made me love the sport of soccer again, in a more raw and passionate way. Now all we can do is share our stories and hope to spread the soccer fervor!
NBA Lockout Evan Kenagy Sports Writer
Parsons, Butman, Joung and Seaver on the Rhine Before our walk through the center of Dusseldorf, we had the opportunity to go yachting on the Rhine. This was an incredible experience that that allowed us to truly immerse ourselves in the wonderful German scenery and become acquainted with the country that would be our home for the next nine days. After our yachting, the team decided to discover something perhaps even more daring- German food. Interestingly enough we found that we like salsa, cheese, sautéed onions, pickles, mustard, relish, and ketchup on our hamburgers! Who would have thought--it was quite the German spin on what we like to call our typical American staple meal. The next afternoon we attended our very first Women’s World Cup game. It was, for lack of a better phrase, absolutely amazing. We watched Japan destroy Mexico, foreshadowing the events to come. If we had only known that Japan would eventually beat out the US in penalty kicks to be the World champions, I’m pretty sure most of our team wouldn’t have cheered for them quite as hard as they were. The next morning after returning to Dusseldorf and exploring further, we had our first friendly game against a local German club team. This was quite the experience and we were ecstatic to come out of it with a victory. On day five of the trip we traveled to Wolfsburg, where we saw our second Women’s World Cup Game, Brazil vs. Norway. This match was no less exhilarating than the first one. As a person who enjoys watching soccer, I watched in awe as Marta faked out players left and right on the field to score an incredible goal. The next day we departed for the city of Celle, an alluring city with eccentric architecture and festive colors everywhere you turn. I wish we could have seen the city in winter in order to see the contrast between the white snow and bright buildings- guess we’ll have to plan another trip! In the afternoon we had our second friendly game against another local club team. This game was not as easy as our first and we were unable to come out with the victory. But the pain of losing quickly diminished once we learned the players on the other team ages ranged from 19 to 25. Day eight of the trip was the day we had all been waiting for: United States Vs. Sweden. For the past seven days we had planned what we were going to wear and how we were going to act watching the United States take down the Swedes. Unfortunately we ended up watching the United States lose to Sweden, a sore topic that no one really wanted to talk about after the game. But, personally, regardless of the loss it was one of the most exciting and ex-
Just when we think that the NFL Lockout was over and everybody is happy, the NBA canít get its act together. As if the sports world needs any more drama. NBA commissioner David Stern recently announced that the league would cancel the first two weeks of the 2011-2012 season after negotiations failed to produce a new labor agreement. While this would only result in the elimination of eight or nine games, which, over an 82 game season, would not be the worst thing in the world, it is very unlikely that this will be the greatest extent of the damage. NBA Players Union president Derek Fisher told reporters, “Weíre not at a place where a fair deal can be reached with the NBA”, indicating that more than two weeks will be slashed from the season.
October 2011
Girls Volleyball Lauren LaBanca Contributing Writer
After many years of “rebuilding,” the Varsity Volleyball team is ready to take home a few wins this season. The team has learned from their losses (numbering two so far) and with a solid win against Harvey, the girls are ready to take on Masters at Homecoming. There is strong group of core players, including Sarah Donovan, who despite being vertically challenged, is an intimidating player at the net as setter and isn’t afraid to take some kills for herself. Outside hitters and senior captains, Zoë Smock and Lauren LaBanca, help out at the net along with middles, Sasha Clark ‘14 and Marissa Ruschil ‘15. Sasha returns to the team this year with her trademark killer serve and aggressive hits, while Marissa stepped up as a new freshman to join the starting six. Marissa’s consistent, yet tough serve and an uncanny ability to put the ball down over the opposing blockers show a lot of potential for the coming years. Other upperclassmen on the team include Lexi Zargar, Sarah Dubisette, Christie Santoro, Annabbot Freeman, Madeleine Kerr, Cassie Christopher, Ally Fratterloi, Allie Ferguson , Katie Breck, all class of 2013. Regardless of wins or losses, the team always puts up an impressive fight, so be sure to stop by the game on Homecoming Saturday, October 22nd at 1:00 in the Athletic Center and support the girls and Dig Pink!
Junior Lexi Zargar having fun during preseason
Lebron James clearly very upset about the lockout As with any situation, there are a number of different ways to look at the lockout. Obviously, there are negatives be to taken into consideration, the first of which is the fact that there will likely not be any NBA season whatsoever. Millions of Americans love the NBA, and no season means no fantasy teams, no invitations to sit in your friendís luxury box at the Knicks game, and no put-back dunks on Sportscenterís top ten plays before school. The hearts of many loyal fans will be broken if these are absent this basketball season. Fellow St. Lukeís student and senior NBA analyst Chris La Bella has provided me with another, very popular view of the situation. His theory is simply “Who cares?” La Bella, though a die-hard Chicago Bulls fan, questions the true significance of the lockout. “Honestly, sports fans were worn out by the NFL fiasco. At this point, people are just happy to be able to watch football on Sunday; nobody wants to stress over the basketball season.” La Bella added that itís not just football keeping people happy: “Hockey has started, and college basketball has really begun to draw fans away from the NBA. Thereís just other stuff going on in sports that are keeping fans interested.” However you view this issue, whether you like the NBA or not, you are probably going to have to get your dose of basketball from somewhere else. But at least you can still play the video games.
For those of you who aren’t familiar with Dig Pink, it’s a organization that advocates for breast cancer awareness and funds research. Over the past two seasons, St. Luke’s Varsity Volleyball the team has supported this cause by wearing pink jerseys and holding a bake sale on Homecoming. In the past, the fans and other athletic teams have shown a tremendous amount of support by wearing pink, buying baked goods and donating generously. If you’re interested in more information or donating please visit: http://www.side-out.org/application/ous/fundraising_page/9307 This year, the Volleyball team has set a very admirable goal of 2,000 dollars, so let’s do our part to help them get there!