T he L og thelog@taboracademy.org
Tabor Academy’s Student Newspaper Volume 88, Number 3
Growing
February 2016
Green
Environmental
Action Plans by Hannah Frisch
Photo by Photo Pool
Alexis Jones speaks with students about her cause.
I AM THAT GIRL Opens Chapter Photo by Photo Pool
Trinity Monteiro Galvanizes Change among Girls on Campus by Danielle Plunkett
A boarding school campus offers an ideal environment to implement sustainability practices. Over the past five years, Tabor has substantially improved its sustainability. Mr. Quirk sees sustainability as an important issue at Tabor and has put leadership behind creating a more sustainable school.
The focus on sustainability started when students returned to school this year and were provided Tabor Nalgene water bottles that could be filled in one of several newly-installed filtered water bottle stations. By using reusable bottles, students are helping to minimize trash and/or the recycling energy that is the result of plastic water bottles.
Another long-term push for sustainability is coming this spring, when Tabor is inserting solar panels that will be placed on top of the Fish and the Acky, subsequently cutting Tabor’s electricity bill by 40%. One of Tabor’s future goals is to compost food to reduce the school’s food waste. What currently keeps Tabor from purchasing and installing a composter is the $50,000 price tag, as well as not having a viable site for the composted matter. Until the school purchases that composter, Tabor students can learn more about how they can reduce waste and stay green by visiting the AP Environmental classes’ sustainability page on the Tabor website.. Please recycle this paper.
After Alexis Jones’ inspiring presentation to the school in October, Tabor’s own Trinity Monteiro (‘17) worked with the organization that Jones co-founded to start an I AM THAT GIRL chapter here at Tabor. IATG is a nonprofit organization that was founded by Emily Greener and Alexis Jones in 2008 with the mission of helping girls love, respect, and celebrate who they are. IATG wants to turn “self-doubt into self-love,” teaching girls to see the positive in themselves and to empower the girls around them to do the same.
“I am THAT girl,” says Trinity, “because I took one of the hardest parts of my life and turned it into one of the best things in my life.” She was interested in joining Alexis Jones’ movement as soon as she watched her speak. “[The application for IATG] was one of the applications that really makes you think instead of just writing down your birthday and where you are from,” she notes. “I had to reflect on parts of myself, some of the IATG morals, and what my mission really was for the future.” After a lot of self-reflection and communication with both Alexis and Mrs. Millette, Trinity finally got her plan off the ground.
Trinity launched the Tabor chapter on December 12 with a kickoff event in the Admissions Living Room. Many female students and faculty came by to show support for the IATG movement and for Trinity, who worked hard to put it all together. Faculty and students alike are eager to be involved in Trinity’s project. “I have been getting more of a reaction from the community than I had ever expected,” says Trinity. “Both guys and girls have stopped me to tell me how excited they are and how much they encourage and support me.” At the meeting, the girls were encouraged to feel not only
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The Back Page.................8
secure in who they were, but empowered by themselves and their fellow girls as they pledged to embody the IATG ideals of love, support, truth, and community. Everyone was able to share what IATG means to them and why they were THAT GIRL in a space where they received only support and love, without fear of judgement.
From now on, the chapter will be meeting at least twice a month to discuss important social issues and projects that “really matter to us.” Trinity is focusing on the issues that the girls are interested in. “What happens with our chapter is really up to what the girls want, and I am just there to help them get to it.” She has personal goals, as well. “I want to really work on creating a family vibe within our chapter, building a relationship possibly with Our Sisters’ School in New Bedford, doing something with the faculty daughters, and so much more.”
Trinity underscores the necessity of such an organization on campus. “I knew having something like IATG was important even before Lex came,” she says. “However, I did not realize how important it was until after I had girls who I had never spoken with before telling me they needed this and they were waiting for it.” Even just in its early stages, Trinity’s organization is making quite the impact on the Tabor community, with both guys and girls expressing their excitement and engagement in the cause. Her work reflects a growing level of student activism within the community, as more and more people are taking action to pursue social issues that they care about. Trinity especially has become a leader in sparking feminist conversation and increased interest amongst students in joining the cause. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram!
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News Editorials Arts & Features caution. (New York Times, The Week)
World News January 2016
by Stephanie Zou 1. In the past year, nearly 4,000 infants in Brazil have been born with a severe form of brain damage, where the head is unusually small in comparison to the rest of the body. This defect is attributed to the spike in a mosquito-borne virus known as Zika. This virus has made its way into Brazil and, according to the New York Times, “spreads rapidly throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.” However, infants are not the only ones affected. Scientists and health officials suspect that the Zika virus may be be a large factor in the spike of an extremely rare syndrome known as Guillain-Barre. Hundreds of cases have emerged in Northern Brazil. Patients experience immediate fever, rashes, limb immobility, paralysis, and in severe cases, cardiac arrest and comas. Pregnant women are advised not to travel to Latin America, the Caribbean, or Brazil at this time, because of the risk of contacting the Zika virus. However, all travelers should exercise
2. On January 17, 2016, Iran delivered on its commitment to the nuclear deal with the United States and other major powers to remove the more dangerous elements of its nuclear program. As reported in the New York Times, “The International Atomic Energy Agency verified on Saturday that Iran has shipped over 8.5 tons of enriched uranium to Russia so Iran can’t use that in bomb-making, disabled more than 12,000 centrifuges and poured concrete into the core of a reactor at Arak designed to produce plutonium.” These measures effectively render Iran incapable of building and experimenting with nuclear bombs. President Obama released a press statement shortly after the exchange and declared the world a safer place, and noted that, “we’ve achieved this historic progress through diplomacy, without resorting to another war in the Middle East.” (New York Times, CNN)
3. The Chinese stock market crashed on January 4, the first trading day of 2016. According to The Economist, “The CSI 300, an index of the country’s biggest stocks, fell by 7%, the worst-ever start to a year for Chinese markets. Small-cap stocks fared even worse, many falling by the daily maximum of 10%.” However, one must keep in mind that a 7% drop in China is not the same as a 7% drop in U.S. stocks. The Chinese market is fundamentally different. The U.S. market and other mature markets are dominated by institutional investors, who thoroughly analyze the companies in which they would invest, so their decisions are more rational. On the other hand, the Chinese market is dominated by individual investors. These investors often make their investments based on rumors, news, etc. Thus, if they see others exiting the market, they will flee and cash in – creating a highly volatile market. These oscillating shifts in the stock market are not uncommon for China. However, it is important to observe that oil prices are dropping rapidly, Dow stocks are plunging, and global markets are fluctuating. Perhaps China’s economic scare is a harbinger
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of a larger, global economic bubble, ready to burst. (The Economist)
4. As 2015 comes to a close and the world launches into 2016, alarming data regarding climate change surfaces. According to the New York Times, “scientists reported that 2015 was the hottest year in the historical record by far — a burst of heat that has continued into the new year and is roiling weather patterns all over the world.” A recent poll in December 2015 conducted by New York Daily News shows that 40% of Americans consider climate change to be a minor issue. However, if global temperatures rise an additional 2 degrees Celsius, that increase may trigger the entire Greenland ice sheet and the West Antarctic ice sheet to melt. Pollution and environmental damage are worsening. Climate change has contributed to a recent spike in natural disasters: floods, storms, droughts, desertification, severe weathers, and the rise of sea levels. These events lead to global catastrophes such as migration, famine, and an increase in poverty as fleeing refugees try to escape the severe consequences of climate change. Climate change is one of today’s most serious issues. (New York times, New York Daily News, Al Jazeera America, Washington Post) 5. The British parliament is required to consider and host a live session to debate any national consensus or movement with a petition of over one hundred thousand signatures -- On January 18, the topic of banning Donald Trump was on the floor of the British parliament. An overwhelming number of British representatives took this opportunity to, unabashedly, express contempt towards Donald Trump: his words, actions, and political rhetoric. Members of the British parliament describe Trump as racist, dangerous, hateful, and misogynistic. However, it was evident to everyone that placing a ban on Donald Trump, the GOP front runner of the US presidential race, would be a political gaffe on Britain’s part, and a ban was not placed. (Marketwatch, Time)
Photo by Photo Pool
Winter Musical Preview: Thoroughly Modern Millie by Alex Weimer Everyone knows that the winter musical is Tabor’s biggest production of the year. But what goes into making such a large scale production work by the time the first note is sung on opening night? Having the chance to experience first hand what goes into the making of the musical, I can assure you that there’s a lot more than meets the eye.
Sure the cast is essentially the face of the production, but what about the people behind the scenes? The ones who really bring the musical to life are the costuming and technology crews. Costuming transforms the students you see walking around campus into their characters on stage. Thoroughly Modern Millie is set during 1922, so Lululemon leggings and Patagonias are a bit ahead of the times–even for an era that was known for more risqué fashion statements. The costuming crew spends afternoons hunting down costume pieces for each cast member, taking measurements and ensuring that each piece is suited for the individual and the specific role he or she is playing. While the costuming crew is busy bringing each character to life, the tech crew is working hard to turn Hoyt into places like Hotel Priscilla, Speakeasies in New York, and Trevor Graydon’s business office. The students on the tech crew work with lighting the stage, furnishing the backdrop and other large scale props in the woodshop, and ensuring that the show has the right scenery to make it run smoothly. The tech and costuming crews provide the production with the bones that allow it to function. So what’s actually happening on stage while the other crews are busy creating the
magic behind the musical? If anyone says you don’t do anything during musical, that person obviously has never been in the musical. On the first day of choreography the entire cast was up on stage stretching. When we stood up, I assumed we would get right into learning the steps until suddenly the dance captains called out that we were doing jumping jacks to warm up. Alright, I told myself, I ran cross country. I can handle a couple jumping jacks. Little did I know we were about to do over two hundred of them all at once. By the end of practice, I was sweating from attempting to do runs, leaps, and high kicks, all while singing out lines to the song--nearly impossible when you’re out of breath. The hardest part behind all of it is making people believe it’s easy. Despite feeling like you just ran a marathon, you strike a pose and smile at the end of it anyway. On top of the highly demanding dance routines, we spend hours learning the songs. My singing has never really extended much farther than the shower, so when faced with the task of having to harmonize, I failed quickly. I either sang the completely wrong pitch or I sang that of another section, usually bass. (I’m not entirely sure what to think of that, either.) And if you complain after seeing the musical once that all the songs are stuck in your head, just imagine what it’s like having to sing them since December. What I’ve seen from doing the musical this winter is that there is a lot more work put in to ensure there’s a show on opening night than the audience sees, and that the people loaded with talent are both on the stage--and behind it.
News Editorials Arts & Features
The Back Page
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The Legends of JVB The Road to Varsity
Photo by Photo Pool
by Owen Sughrue
Where Are They Now? Alum: Marco DelVecchio by Joslyn Jenkins Marco DelVechhio: the infamous football player turned drama kid. He is a legend at Tabor for his performance in the musical “Legally Blonde” and in dance recitals, but Marco’s fame now extends beyond campus: He has a burgeoning acting career. After graduating, Marco and his family moved to Tampa, Florida, while he took a gap year. In Tampa, he worked at a gym and took acting classes. He eventually signed with a theatrical and commercial agent who helped him get into “high-end independent films and sports/fitness shoots,” which allowed him to focus on acting and modeling. One of his biggest print jobs was a cover shoot for Augusta Sportswear, and his largest film job was his work in the upcoming horror film “Crazy Lake.” Marco began auditioning for theatre training schools across the country and was accepted into California Institute of the Arts. Before starting at CalArts, he appeared in a found footage horror film. Three months into CalArts, he realized it wasn’t the place for him and decided to leave to follow other pursuits. He moved to Hollywood to find work and began taking classes at Upright Citizens Brigade improv. He is currently working with an agent to start auditions again and is focusing on staying in shape. Tabor was the place that sparked Marco’s love of acting and the stage. He says, “The opportunities available and the accepting environment really allowed me to stray from the norm and try something new.”
The JV-B soccer team, in recent years, has become one of the biggest teams on campus. When thinking of this team, the word “legends” comes to mind. The JV-B squad has provided several edge-of-yourseat experiences, such as the win in penalty kicks over Holderness a few years back, but it has also become a factory for producing varsity players. Numerous players have made the incredible leap from JV-B to varsity, working on their skills to earn a spot in the varsity program. As former JV-B standout Willy Tardif says, “Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard.” Clearly, Willy has used this work ethic to move up from JV-B to varsity, even though anyone watching him knows that he has a ton of talent. Another JV-B legend, Thomas Kelly, says, “I attribute 100% of my success to puberty.” TK was a big contributor for the varsity team, landing himself a spot in the big leagues. In fact, TK says that “freshman year, varsity looked like the pro leagues.” Ollie Sughrue, another former JV-B player who has climbed up the ranks, says, “I wasn’t passionate about soccer until I came to Tabor. Now, I really enjoy the beautiful game.” It is a select group of people that play on the JV-B soccer team, but moving up from JV-B to varsity is an entirely different type of honor.
Special Olympics Bringing Olympians and Tabor Students Together by Bridget Lattimer New this year to Tabor is the Young Athletes Program, started by Molly Bent, a senior, and Mr. Cleary. Mr. Cleary, who worked with Special Olympics Connecticut, wanted to continue his work in the Special Olympics program at Tabor. He and Molly Bent run a program where intellectually impaired athletes are able to come and have fun with Tabor students. Every Sunday from 1 p.m to 3 p.m., Tabor students set up different gym activities to get the kids active and engaged. These activities range from T-ball, soccer, air rockets, and basketball. So far, the Young Athletes program has had 50 student volunteers and around 20 athletes.
The central mission of this program is to positively impact the athletes’ lives. This impact has been
evident, as Mr. Cleary and the rest of the program have received nothing but praise from the grateful parents whose children have participated. As one parent pointed out, “The work is hard to do and a lot of people get uncomfortable; however the Tabor volunteers have been nothing but welcoming and kind to the athletes involved.” One parent was happy to note her child’s burgeoning confidence. “I can’t believe [my daughter] left my side!” she said. “She’s normally so shy and timid.” Getting each and every kid involved in what they are doing is a difficult task, however, the Young Athlete volunteers have met and exceeded the challenge. The whole Tabor community should look forward to getting involved with this new initiative during April’s Day of Service.
Since 1987
Soccer celebrate its best season in 39 years
by Nicole Fernandes
Photo by TAPhotopool
This past fall was a season worth remembering for the boys’ varsity soccer team. Boys’ soccer worked hard in what was their most successful season since 1987, finishing with 10 wins, 5 losses, and 3 ties. Playing one of the toughest schedules in New England and finishing with a great record, the team was on the edge of earning a berth in the Class A NEPSAC Tournament, but, unluckily, was not granted the opportunity. Season highlights include a 2-1 win over rival Cushing Academy, their first defeat over Cushing in four years. Much of the team’s success was due to the coaching philosophy: using soccer as a means of developing teamwork. The concept of “As One” emphasizes collective over individual success. “[The successful season] was definitely the work of the whole team,” says Coach Muther. “We had a lot of talent that worked really well together.” One player who brought exceptional talent to the field is Captain Binjo Emmanuel ‘16. Binjo settled in the boys’ soccer team as soon as he first stepped foot on campus in the fall of 2014. As a captain this year, Binjo led the team with both his spirit and his skill. As a defender, Binjo has tremendous pace that allows him to deny the chances of the opposing
team. His technical ability and strong knowledge of the game open up chances to score for both his teammates and himself. Coach Muther lauds his “speed and calmness” on the field. His involvement with attacking and his clinical finishing, even as a defender, impressed his teammates as well as other coaches. A testament to his forward involvement, Binjo scored the winning goals in both of the team’s wins over rival, Cushing Academy. Binjo was recognized for his commitment to the team and his hard work throughout the fall by being granted the “Tabor Soccer Award,” for both “excellence in performance and team spirit.” He earned a spot on the Boston Globe’s All-Scholastic team and was named defensive MVP for the New England Preparatory Athletic Conference (NEPSAC). He has made the AllStar team both his junior and senior years. He was named the Male Defense Player of the Year, a huge honor, and the first Tabor player named for such an award. Next year, Binjo is headed to Hobart to continue his soccer career. “I just want to keep doing what I’m doing,” he says. “Become a better person and player every day.” His love for soccer and dedication to his team will guarantee him success in college, and his great attitude, for life.
Netf lix & Chill
“ Looking for something to watch on Valentine’s Day? ”
New Romantic
Classic Romantic
The Longest Ride Paper Towns Midnight in Paris Remember Me One Day The Proposal Easy A
When Harry Met Sally Pretty Woman The Notebook Sleepless in Seattle Ten Things I Hate About You Titanic Casablanca
New Non-Romantic
Classic Non-Romantic
The Martian The Big Short Inside Out Star Wars: The Force Awakens Side Effects The Revenant The Guard The Other Guys
Miracle The Good, The Bad and The Ugly Pulp Fiction Remember the Titans The Silence of the Lambs Men in Black The Matrix Dead Poet’s Society Gladiator
By Claire Brito & Hayden Mann
Conleyisms Vs. Beckerisms Teachers, Friends, Co-coaches, and Brothers-in-laws. Some classic sayings from your favorite dynamic duo. by Bridget Lattimer
“Put the emphasis on the wrong syllable.”
“Do SOMETHING!”
“Department of redundancies department.”
“Do the problem, stop being the problem.”
“Here, look at this MIT physics video.”
“Four! For the golfers in the room.”
*Pulls out Rubix cube* *Tells joke* *takes deep breath after punchline* *Makes sarcastic comment about dress code* *Listens to podcast during lab* *Makes disparaging comment about Apple products*
“Remember the Alamo!” “Class hitter… Please hit them!” “Doctor…” “Ahhhh, shift.” “Biscuits.” “L.N.…..Degeneres. Or Park.” *Makes disparaging comment about non-Apple products*
Tips from Thibaut by Thibaut DeLuca-Verley
As most of us have been reminded recently, winter is not at all over. But one way to counteract the cold weather is to get the perfect winter jacket: a pea coat. Now part of our dress code at Tabor Academy, the peacoat is allowed under dress code instead of a blazer. The change is a great opportunity, but it is quite hard to find a nice and simple pea coat that is affordable as well as stylish. One of my favorite websites to head to is JackThreads. Having a great pea coat at an affordable price for a durable coat that will last a couple of years is a no brainer. Find a peacoat that is a very neutral color, i.e. Black, Grey, Khaki/Tan, Navy. These colors allow for a lot of maneuverability through informal, semi-formal, and formal settings. Wear it for normal dress code--very simple. A scarf is great to pair with a peacoat
A nice sweater looks great with a pea coat for a semi-formal occasion Try to have the pants match nicely with the pea coat Black Pants - Black / gray pea coat Grey Pants - Black (matching color grey) pea coat Navy Pants - Tan/Khaki pea coat Khaki Pants - Navy pea coat Maroon Pants - Black/dark grey pea coat White Pants - Navy/Tan/Khaki pea coat With these tips and this one site, the average cost for a nice peacoat is from $160-$200. Even though this may seem expensive for a jacket, if it is something that you like and something you can use for informal, semiformal and formal occasions it is a worthwhile purchase.
The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Students by Nathan Vail and Aurelia Reynolds
Edition II
Seek Extra Help
Experience the Arts
Clear Your Plates
Going in early in the morning not only will help you understand a topic better, but will show the teacher your dedication to the class. Extra help is the time to ask questions and clear up any topics you are unsure of. It’s a great way to be proactive, make sure you are on top of the material, and develop a good relationship with your teacher.
The variety of art programs at Tabor allows you try something new that is not academic or athletic, as well as check out other Seawolves’ talents. The arts open your eyes to a different side of Tabor. The galleries and performances are a good interruption from our daily grind. Whether you are a participant or an onlooker, the arts can be a great way to plug into the community.
Keeping Up with the Clock
Leave Your Room
Do what you oughta do when you oughta do it. Don’t leave things to the eleventh hour. You’ll find you are most proficient when you are not under the stress of getting your assignment in on time. Leaving time to ask questions about an assignment will keep your stress levels down and your work quality up.
You should not stay in your room for extended periods of time when you are not studying or sleeping, especially in the winter! Cheering on a hockey game or just chilling in the Beebe playing pool is a great way to make friends that you’ll always have around. Spending time alone is great, but make sure you are balancing your Netflix time with social time.
Never be the culprit of a messy table. It is easy to pick up your dishes and put them in the dish pit and it saves the dining hall staff from doing extra work. This habit is also applicable beyond the D-Hall: push in your chair in the classroom, return the bikes to the bike racks, and pick up trash on campus. Not only should you keep campus clean, but remember to be grateful for the grounds and all the faculty and staff. They all do a lot behind the scenes that allows your life at Tabor to run smoothly.
Photos from Free Source
Beat the Winter Blues February is notoriously long at The Academy, but here are a few tips to get you through the winter weeks. Exercise. Make sure you are eating healthy. Listen to upbeat
music. Get out with friends and participate in weekend events. Drink warm tea or grab a hot latte. Do something nice for someone else. Smile! Take a Grain of Salt In a small community, information can be passed around quickly and the information might
not always be accurate. Consider who is telling you this information. Consider what effects spreading this information has on others and decide if you are going to tell the next person you see. Rumors can spread almost as fast as the Tabor Plague and can be just as detrimental.
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News Editorials Arts & Features
pposing
Viewpoints:
Vienna’s View
The Back Page
Gun Control
Guns are far more destructive and powerful than other weapons. The argument that owning guns is a right under the Second Amendment does not hold. The Second Amendment was written in a time of political instability. Now that democracy has been secured, political problems are solved through legislation rather than physical fights.
“Rights” can be adjusted according to social needs. If the “rights” of one party harm another, then those rights should be taken away. For example, hate speech is not protected as part of the freedom of speech. While most citizens may use the guns properly, the results of misuse are tragic and irreversible. Even if only a small number of gun-owners abuse guns, the government should establish gun-control policies. Some pro-gun advocates may argue that citizens can use guns as protection from criminals. However, potential criminals can also purchase guns with relative ease. More guns do not make the U.S. any safer.
The criminal justice system suffers because of widespread gun ownership. The possibility of civilians carrying guns makes law enforcement officials more likely to shoot. If guns were controlled properly -- or eradicated completely -- innocent civilian casualties and tragedies like the one in Ferguson might be avoided. Moreover, citizens have mistakenly shot innocent people out of “self-defense.” People may not make clear judgements when they sense danger and are prone to overreact. Even if the attackers are truly aggressive, they deserve a fair trial instead of being shot dead or harmed by someone who does not have any legal power over them. Guns don’t provide safety; rather, they encourage violence.
Alexa’s View When the Founding Fathers sat down to write the Constitution, they considered it crucial that every citizen have the right to bear arms. The Second Amendment provided Americans with certain inalienable rights to protect ourselves, to target shoot, and to hunt. To take away our guns is to take away an aspect of our freedom, and I believe that it serves no benefit. As seen historically with the prohibition of alcohol, guns are still going to be around if made illegal, though lawabiding citizens will not be able to get their hands on them. This not only gives criminals an advantage, but also puts normal citizens in danger of not having the access to weapons that will protect them.
I speak from personal experience when I say that getting your gun license in Massachusetts, as in most of the United States, is difficult enough -- due in part to the new laws President Obama has worked to put into place. I predict that procuring a gun will soon be next to impossible; however, a large portion of the population does not agree with this change. However, for me, using a gun commands a kind of respect I have never felt in any other circumstance.
Guns do not kill people. People kill people. Sometimes people use guns. People also kill people using knives, baseball bats, and medicine. These things are not prohibited, and most of them are not even registered, or as hard to get as a gun. It is unconstitutional and unjust to take guns out of the hands of law-abiding citizens. And maybe, instead of worrying about taking the gun out of the hands of the shooter, we should begin to wonder why our country is raising so many shooters.
23 Minute Debate Reviewing A Rule in Review Starwars The by LuLu Ward
Internet access at Tabor has advanced light years since my arrival on campus in September 2012. In the dorms my freshman year, we used ethernet cords that had to be physically plugged into our computers in order to get internet access. During the two hours of study hall, these fateful cords would block access to any website that might be perceived as “social media.” Now, all internet access is wireless and boarders can peruse the likes of Facebook and Twitter to their hearts’ content during study hall—once they’ve finished all of their homework, of course. However, despite this technological advancement, there is one area in particular that the wifi accessibility is seriously lacking. As it stands, internet access cuts off at exactly 11:37 p.m. in Lillard dorm (11:38 almost everywhere else, but that’s beside the point) on weeknights, and 1 a.m. on Saturday night. For years, TASC has been pushing to get the wifi to stay on until midnight on school nights, a mere twenty-three minutes later, but the administration has yet to budge. Personally, I think the wifi should always be available 24/7, but maybe I’m too liberal with my expected freedoms. Concerns about this wifi change are that underclassmen are not responsible enough to restrain from browsing the web past 11:37 p.m., if the opportunity is presented, or that late-night wifi access would mean less sleep and more Netflixing. First of all, freshman lights out is at 10:30 p.m. That gives these young minds over an hour of tempting wifi to resist with the current cut-off time, so why does this extra twenty-three minutes make such a large impact? Secondly, high school— boarding school in particular— is tasked with teaching responsibility, molding today’s youth into the responsible and conscientious adults of tomorrow. Shouldn’t the molding begin with a little trust and a little self-awareness? If students feel wellrested enough to stay up until the wee hours enjoying an entire season of Scandal, let them! Lessons are learned through experience, and the experience of a long Tabor day after a poor night’s sleep is one that is hard to forget, I assure you.
Photo byTA Photopool
Wifi until midnight would allow me the freedom to work late on the nights I choose to and would provide me with the twenty-three invaluable minutes that I currently lack. So, I beg and plead with the administration: Make 2016 the year of change. Wifi until midnight for all.
by Harper McKerrow
A Force Awakens across the nation as we begin anew in 2016. The highly anticipated galactic adventure debuted on December 17, drawing fans across generations to witness the seventh installment in the series and breaking box-office records to become the highest grossing movie of all time. The story begins through the introduction to a new force of malevolence, the First Order, led by Supreme Leader Snoke, out of a new space station that is monstrous compared to the Death Star. This new force of evil intends to destroy everything, targeting the remaining Jedi masters. Fortunately, the Resistance led by Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) and with the help of newcomers Finn (John Boyega), Rey (Daisy Ridley), Resistance fighter pilot, Poe Dameron (Oscar Isaac), and the new droid BB-8, they are able to fight back. Director J.J. Abrams reintroduces original, iconic characters such as Han Solo (Harrison Ford) and his partner Chewbacca to help fight in the opposing struggle. Abrams restored the classic Star Wars conflict between good and evil. The new plot very much resembles that of the movie directed by George Lucas, A New Hope. Nonetheless, the plot is highly entertaining. Abrams is able to keep the plot full of excitement and humor, leaving fans anticipating the next installment due to hit theaters in May of 2017.
Photo from starwars.wikia.com
News Editorials Arts & Features
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A Week Without Social Media One student's opinion on media Fasting by Lillian Blouin I went a week without social media. Seven days; 168 hours; 10,080 minutes; 604,800 seconds. Why in the world would I send myself into self-imposed social media exile? Social media was taking over my life. I spent too many hours over break perusing the Explore page of Instagram, comparing the highlight reels of other girls to the stark contrast of my non-exciting, Netflix-binging life. I planned my posts and was disappointed by the results. Why didn’t I get more likes? Why weren’t there more comments? Why didn’t I look like those girls? Why didn’t my posts turn out as artistically and as enticing as those of the social media mavens? Why didn’t I have more followers? Why did I care?
After talking to a friend who had deleted her social media in the New Year, I decided to delete my Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Snapchat, and VSCO apps from my phone. It was harder than it should have been. I would absent-mindedly pick up my phone and swipe the screen, my fingers reaching for apps that weren’t there. The lack of social media showed me how dependent I was on it and how much more it impacted me than I had initially thought. It made me realize that I was searching for validation that should have come from within, not from double taps on a screen.
Instead of scrolling through Instagram posts before bed, I would plug my phone in for the night and roll over for some extra z’s. Instead of reading the “Skimm’ed” version of articles, I borrowed time from my routinely morning social media catch-up to read the full-length articles. I was more present. I had conversations without my phone in view. I watched Netflix without multitasking and scrolling through Twitter updates. I cared less about showing off my “life” and my artistic Uncle Jon’s caramel lattes to my Snapchat friends and started caring more about what was actually going on in my life. Instead of thumbing through my friends’ Snapchat story updates, I would ask them about their real life updates. I spent my time in a different type of fictional world, with my nose pressed to the paper of books that I rented from the library. Social media isn’t terrible and I’m not saying that those apps should have no place in our lives. I’ll probably even have my social media back by the time that this article is published. As the wise Tom Haverford from Parks and Recreation once said, “Three Words: Treat. Yo’. Self.” That is my advice: treat yourself to a break from your phone. Disconnect from your screen and connect yourself to the people around you. Capture your adventures in your memory, not through Snapchat. Treat. Yo’. Self.
Artist on Campus
maurawoods
Happy senior spring beelettjacket
Proud of our sea turtle lizhanson99
Meet Jon Mabie'17 by Jason Ma
When did you start practicing the visual arts and why? I started doing the visual arts in middle school. It was a mandatory class but I enjoyed it. My sister was very involved in art, and that sparked an interest in me to try something new. What do you enjoy the most?
I love the process of transforming merely an idea, a spark, to a finished piece. How do you usually get ideas and inspirations?
I listen to a lot of music, watch movies, and talk to my friends. I think about things that happen to me. My ideas are mainly taken from everyday life, even though some of the finished pieces will have a sense of surrealness. How would you describe your style?
I don’t think I have a solid style yet. My style is still developing. The only thing that I am sure of is that I am trying to create thought-provoking pieces.
Love teaching the little nuggets the lifestyle jpreily7
What is your favorite piece?
The picture of two figures made out of paint brushes. What is the meaning of this piece?
I am trying to express that the drawing tools that we use every day here in the studio are not merely tools. They themselves also have spirits and feelings. Are you also involved in any other form of art?
I play guitar, and would like to get more involved in the music program here at Tabor.
What do you think your relationship with art will be in the future?
Art will always be one of my hobbies. I hope I will be able to implement it into whatever field I will be in, like engineering or the music business. Photo by Kayla Aimone ‘17
A surprise visit from Bozzi is always good, kinda shocked he’s allowed in the school zone with that Stache.
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News Editorials Arts & Features
The Back Page
Meet Ms. Angell Quick Questions New Media Arts Teacher
Meet Martha Peppes
Photo by Photo Pool
by Mary Hanrahan
by Madison LaCasse Ms. Angell is one of the two new Media Arts teachers this year. She is a graduate of the Rhode Island School of Design, majoring in Furniture Design. Ms. Angell was a long term graphic and studio art subsitute teacher at Somerset-Berkley Regional High School. She also worked as the Merchandiser of Live Goods for the Home Depot, which is as she describes “basically slinging shrubbery.” In her free time she enjoys a quality movie
or video game entertainment. Some interesting facts about her are that she has a love for cephalopods, her birthday is on Earth Day, and she lives in a “geodesic dome in the woods” in Rehoboth, MA. Here at Tabor you can find her teaching Intro to Photoshop or working on the Yearbook Committee on Wednesday and Thursday nights in the Academic Center. Her favorite thing about Tabor is “teaching all of her wonderful students.”
Highlights of
2015
Martha Peppes ‘17.
Q: What’s your favorite way to unwind? A: To have some late night talks with my roommate Nikki Zeien. Q: What’s your favorite Tabor sports team? A: Easily, the girls’ hockey team. Q: If you could be anyone for a day, who would you be? A: Mrs. Chaput, because her calves could crush me. Q: What’s your Uncle Jon’s order? A: Caramel Spice Apple Cider and a chocolate croissant. Q: What’s your biggest pet peeve? A: When people make short jokes. Q: How tall are you? A: Next question, please. Q: What is your favorite class at Tabor? A: Any marine class with Mrs. Leary. Q: What is your biggest fear? A: Getting in a really bad car accident. Q: If you could eat any food right now, what would it be?
1. Sammy Davis won the gold medal
A: Buff Chick dip.
2. Travis Roy’s Commencement Speech
A: The Climb by Miley Cyrus…obviously.
Q: What’s your favorite throwback song? Q: What makes you laugh?
3. Vietnam Service trip
A: Any Vines that MK or Austin Franklin tag me in.
4. Opening of Matsumura House
Q: If you could be a Tabor building which one would you be?
5. Great new faculty and students to the community
A: Hoyt, because I low-key sing a lot.
6. New Macbook Airs in the library
A: Charlotte.
7. Victory against Holderness
Q: If you could change your name, what would it be? Q: Do you have a nickname? A: Marty.
8. Uncle Jon’s in the Beebe 9. Special Olympics Club 10. Increased attention and action for student diversity and gender awareness
Want to write for the LOG? Come to the next meeting on Wednesday, February 3rd @ 8:15, upstairs in the library. All are welcome.
T he L og The Tabor Log is the student produced newspaper of Tabor Academy. The Log is distributed to students, faculty and staff. The Tabor Log welcomes letters to the Editors. Please send submissions of less than three hundred fifty words to taborlog@taboracademy.org. The Log reserves the right to edit submissions for space and/ or clarity.
Editors-in-Chief: Madeleine Gregory Claire Brito Faculty Advisor: Helene Sughrue Layout Editors: Jennifer Joung Wendy Liu Managing Editors: Jack Gorden Nicole Fernandes
Bridget Lattimer Section Editors: Stephanie Zou Joslyn Jenkins Jennifer Joung Wendy Liu Jason Ma LuLu Ward Nicole Fernandes Duhita Das Hannah Frisch