T he L og thelog@taboracademy.org
Tabor Academy’s Student Newspaper Volume 90, Number 2
November 2016
Photo by Photo Pool
Mr Quirk and Mr Peck hoisting the Holderness Day trophy for the last time.
The Last Holderness Day A tradition ends as another begins by Danielle Plunkett
As many people know, this year marked the last Holderness Day for Tabor students. As we acknowledge the end of an era, it is only appropriate to bring ourselves back to where all these the traditions began.
At the end of every fall season, all of Tabor’s field hockey, soccer, and occasionally football teams competed against our rivals from Holderness in a grand event of athleticism, sportsmanship, and community pride: Holderness Day. The rivalry was started in 1995 by Tabor headmaster Jay Stroud after he realized that many faculty members at Tabor, including himself, had come from Holderness, and that there were former Seawolves working at Holderness as well. Together with Holderness headmaster Rev. Brinton Woodward, Stroud initiated a contest between the schools and started a tradition to celebrate friendship and rivalry through athletic competition.
A main focus of Holderness Day was the inclusion of all athletes, varsity to sub-varsity. In creating the event, Stroud wanted to highlight the fact that JV and varsity teams are equally important to achieving a schoolwide championship. When it came to tallying the wins and losses for each school, he decided to give the JV games just as much weight in the overall score as the varsity games. “While it is natural to pay attention to varsity teams,” said Stroud in a Log article he wrote for the fifteenth anniversary of Holderness Day, “Tabor/Holderness Day celebrates the reality that every team is equally important and every team plays an Please recycle this paper.
Peer Counselling, p. 3. Poetry Corner, p.8.
equal role in the spirit and outcome of the day.” Holding every team to the same expectations and importance inspired everyone, fostering a greater desire to win and to support each team, no matter their level.
Tabor developed many Holderness Day traditions, including Spirit Week, banner-making, t-shirts, fight songs, chants, pep-rallies, and the burning of the blue bull, Holderness’ mascot, on Hoyt field. These traditions got students geared up for the event before game day, and created a sense of school spirit and anticipation as everyone prepared for a day of heated (but friendly) competition. Perhaps the most anticipated of these traditions was the handing over (or keeping) of the “Surf and Turf” trophy. Made by Tabor carpenter Rodney Fielding, the trophy has models of both schools’ mascots that can be moved to represent the winner of that particular year. After the winning mascot was raised above the other, the victorious school would keep the trophy until the next year when the competition begins again. Now Tabor is back in the ISL, and all of these traditions are coming to an end. After 21 years, Tabor and Holderness battled one last time for the revered trophy before putting away the rivalry for good. Ending such a big chapter of Tabor history may be sad for some, but now we are turning the page to a new opportunity in the ISL. Holderness Day will always hold a special place in the hearts of Seawolves who got to experience it, and its themes of pride, athleticism, and sportsmanship will undoubtedly continue to influence Tabor athletics. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram!
Peer Counselling Put on Hold as Tabor Develops New Program by Abby Park and Alexandria Coffin For most Tabor students, their first introduction to Dr. Petrocelli occurred during All-School a few weeks ago. Although he is one of the newest additions to the Tabor staff, this isn’t his first time working at a boarding school. Dr. Petrocelli calls himself a “huge believer” of the private school atmosphere, claiming “there’s no setting like this, not even college” where students can learn and develop as individuals. As a teenager, Dr. Petrocelli struggled to form his own identity, but boarding school taught him “how to overcome different emotional struggles,” which led him to his passion of helping high-school students through their own issues. Previously, the Tabor counseling program consisted of a head counselor and fellow peer counselors, but Dr. Petrocelli has decided to put this project on hold for now. He believes that this “type of program needs to be supervised closely,” and on top of raising a family and adapting to a new environment, he doesn’t think
by Jack Shakin he has enough time to give the program the attention it deserves. Dr. Petrocelli worries that a student counselor “getting in too deep with another student” without the proper training could “potentially lead to a really emotionally heavy situation.” Jack Gordon, one of last year’s peer counselors-in-training, confesses that he was slightly “shocked and distraught” when he learned that the peer counseling program had been put on hold, but he said that members of the student body “are still open to helping students.” Dr. Petrocelli admits that “there’s a way students can reach each other that adults can’t,” and that these connections are what make the boarding school environment so successful. Hoping to reduce the stigma associated with counseling, Dr. Petrocelli’s door is always open to students who want to sit down for a simple chat or to have a more serious discussion.
The Crisis of the Great Barrier Reef by Abby Park and Alexandria Coffin
“No, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia is NOT dead. But it is in trouble,” a Los Angeles Times reporter stated in a recent article, clearing up the misconception of the reef’s declining health that made headlines last month. Although most people had been unaware of this crisis, the reef’s health has been declining for more than 30 years. What is thought to be the greatest cause of this decline is global warming, but a local business, though less well known, is equally as dangerous. The sale of Triton shells, which become beautiful household decorations, has created a serious problem for the ocean ecosystem.
For the First Time, Tabor Offers Classes in the Evening
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This year, two night classes were introduced into Tabor’s curriculum: visual history and creative writing. The classes meet Mondays and Thursdays from 7:30 to 9:00 in the Academic Center. Students who take night classes have mixed feelings about this new addition to their schedule. On one hand, they gain an extra free during the academic day. However, some students find the 90-minute classes to be tedious, especially at the end of the day, and are frustrated that the class cuts into study hall. Visual History student, Tanaay Shah ’17, is on the fence about his night class. “I like the free,” he said, “but I hate the 90 minute class period.” Though these classes take an
hour out of study hall two days a week, completing homework for the night classes is relatively easy for students because there is no nightly homework. Instead, assignments are due the next class block, which gives students a couple extra days to complete their homework at their own convenience. The extra free block also gives students some time during the day to do other work, alleviating issues caused by the loss of study hall time.
The newly instituted night classes have both benefits and shortcomings, but, because these classes are not required, students can decide whether night classes work with their schedules and workload.
Tabor’s Newest Technology: 3D Printing for All by Abby LaCasse
Triton serves as the main predator of the Crown of Thorn Starfish. Since the Triton population has decreased, the Crown of Thorn Starfish population has experienced exponential growth. The increase in Crown of Thorn Starfish has lead to a decline in coral populations because the starfish prey on the animals in and around the coral. This threat, as well as the threat of global warming, is caused by human interactions with the environment. Although the declining health of the Great Barrier Reef is a bigger problem than can be solved by one generation, experts agree that, in order to save the reef, this generation must begin to take care of it.
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Ashley House was recently transformed into a 3D printer lab, and this new technology has quickly become a special part of Tabor. The printer is a versatile tool that can print virtually any template into a 3D model made of PLA, a durable plastic material that keeps printed objects intact. However, when students use the printer, they must have time to spare because printing can take upwards of five hours. Dr. Kistler likens the printing process to “decorating a cake.” The printer deposits very thin layers of material on top of one another as it prints, so an object can have thousands upon thousands of layers depending on its size.
Students use the maker lab both during the academic day and on the weekends. Dr. Kistler’s engineering classes use the 3D printer to learn how to design and print objects as part of their curriculum. There are also ample opportunities outside
of the academic day to learn how to print. Students can go to Open Maker Lab on Sundays, where they can either work on a project or be introduced to the printing process. Students can also schedule a meeting with Dr. Kistler during one of their frees to see if 3D printing interests them. Before students come into the lab, Dr. Kistler encourages them to look on thingiverse.com for ideas about what they might want to print. Once a student has an idea in mind, Dr. Kistler then supplies the student with a program called TinkerCAD which gives tutorials on how to start printing. According to Dr. Kistler, this printer gives students the opportunity to “visualize their own work in three dimensions” and bring their creative ideas to life. New House, and Wee House, which are not in prime condition to serve as dormitories.
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4 Pumpkin-palooza
by Annie Waters
As we all know, pumpkin is everywhere. There is the infamous pumpkin spice latte, pumpkin bread, pumpkin pie, and the list goes on. However, the rich flavor of pumpkin does not have to be confined to these traditional staples of our fall diet. The presence of pumpkin in a recipe can really spice things up and add a nice fall touch! Here are 7 different ways to eat pumpkin this fall: Pumpkin ginger waffles with maple butter are a great option for a fall-themed breakfast.
Mini pumpkin whoopie pies with a maple filling are a great way to make a cute and snackable fall dessert. Pumpkin and oreo cheesecake is a perfect take on this classic dessert with a touch of fall spices. Pumpkin swirl brownies are a great option for all the chocolate lovers who are craving fall flavors. Pumpkin spice truffles spice up any party or gift bag for a fall celebration. Pumpkin scones are perfect to enjoy with a cup of coffee.
Pumpkin chocolate chip bread adds chocolate to an already classic recipe, which can only be a good thing.
by Lillie Lovell and Abby LaCasse Fall break can be fun and relaxing time off from school if you take advantage of the season’s best activities. Here are some ideas about what to do over break to make sure it is filled with fun!
Bake some fall dishes. The choices are endless: pumpkin bread, apple pie, apple crisp, pecan pie—the list goes on and on. Take advantage of this time to make these dishes before they go out of season!
Make sure to spend time with your family. They’ve missed you (even if you’re a day student), and you have a nice break from your busy schedule, so give them some air time. Although it might be tempting to hole up in your room and watch Netflix all break, make sure you spend some quality time with your parents, too! Hang out with friends. You have been working hard these past few months: make sure you laugh, relax, and spend time with your friends, especially those you don’t see very often.
Go to a parade. Thanksgiving Day parades are a great way to celebrate the holiday. Enjoy outdoor celebrations while you can— before winter comes. Go apple picking. Fall is the only time where you can pick your own apples, so go outside to a local farm and harvest this delicious fruit for yourself. Added bonus: you can use the apples you picked to make your favorite apple treats!
Stop by a corn maze. Spend time with friends or family embracing these old fall traditions and making great memories. Corn mazes are also great opportunities for the perfect fall-themed Instagram picture! Go relax by a fire. Nothing beats sitting by the warmth of a fire on a cold fall days. Plus, you can toast marshmallows and make delicious s’mores and pretend it’s still summertime.
Go for a walk. Pretty soon, the trees will all be bare, so get outside and enjoy the beautiful foliage while it lasts.
Most importantly, whatever you decide to do on your well-deserved break, remember to relax, have fun, and make some great memories with the ones you love!
5 Fall Fashion How to stay cute and cozy as the temperature falls
by Lillie Lovell and April Mihalovich
As fall rears its chilly head once again, Tabor students are beginning to dig out their warmer layers from the backs of their closets. However, the cold weather is no reason to let yourself fall by the fashion wayside. Here are some tips for staying cozy and stylish this fall. 1. Sweaters Are A Must
Sweaters keep you warm and snuggly on those chilly fall days, so make sure your closet is full of them! Sweaters can styled with skirts and boots, or the look can be extended in a sweater dress; and the quarter-zip sweater over a button down and tie is a cute and cozy look, too! 2. Silly Socks
Don’t let your socks be boring this season. Anyone can wear a pair of silly socks and still be in dress code! Try a pair of fuzzy socks peeking out above your boots. It’s time to ditch the mid-calves for a season and wear some socks with fun patterns and colors that match your shirt or tie. You can pick from any number of fun socks for only a couple dollars at Target, and fall is a great time to rock some cool socks, whether they’re fuzzy or patterned! 3. Layers, Layers, Layers!
Layers are the easiest and best way to stay warm as the temperature drops. Try layering green military jackets, jean jackets, or leather jackets over a sweater or a long-sleeve shirt this fall.
Fleece-lined jackets and flannels as a top layer also keep you super warm and stylish as the temperature falls below freezing. 4. Break out the Scarves
These accessories not only make your outfit look more fall-festive: they keep you nice and warm as you walk around campus, too! Bundle up with a cozy red, orange, or yellow scarf that matches the trees before all the leaves fall.
Fantasy Football How to play?
by Max Gonye and Jack Shakin
Fantasy football is a game played primarily online, on sites like ESPN.com and CBSSports.com. You begin by drafting a team consisting usually of two quarterbacks, four running backs, four wide receivers, two tight-ends, one defensive team, and one kicker. Once you have formed a team, you start a certain number of players and bench others, depending on who you predict will do well that week. Scores are tallied based on the yardage of your players and touchdowns, and the person with the highest score at the end of the week wins. Advice for newer players for next year:
1. Look for consistency when drafting. Did this player do well? If so, did anything change with for that player over the summer? If he changed teams, changed coaches, or recently recovered from a big injury, maybe look elsewhere. 2. Look at the matchup once you have your team. A mediocre running back versus a bad team may turn out to be better than a good running back versus a very good team. Advice for experienced fantasy footballers:
1. Pick up Ty Montgomery. He plays WR/RB for a team that is without their starting RB for the rest of the year and must rely on their offense to win. Further, his QB can and will throw 50+ passes a game.
2. Before the trade-deadline, look for matchups in the playoffs. You may want to consider trading your RB1 if they have a bye-week in the playoffs. Nothing is worse than having to start a Matt Jones in a must-win game.
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pposing
Viewpoints: Mary Hanrahan’s View
Modern country music has become a staple genre in the American music industry, but there is a lack of justification for its strong presence and widespread consumption. While classic country music composed and performed by the likes of Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and many more served to share human stories and emotions, modernized country music has transformed the influential and powerful genre of music into a commercialized and generic conglomerate. Modern country music lacks the musical complexity and emotional individuality that is required to make music truly great. The country music industry has become a business that aims Hannah Frisch’s View
Country music does, in fact, belong to America. Artists sing about the red,
to manufacture a product that will appeal to the average American. The companies producing much of the modern country music today have figured out how to market a new type of “American Dream” consisting of the carefree, summery lifestyle depicted in many country songs.
The similar lyrical content and musical stylings displayed in many country songs composed in the last two decades make one song almost indistinguishable from the next. There is no experimentation, risk, or passion shown in modern country music. The commercialization of music such as this is a great shame and thus the modern country music genre should be viewed with disdain.
white, and blue, as well as their trucks, their love, and their heartbreak. Unlike those of rap or pop music, country lyrics are often patriotic and, more importantly, relatable to Americans.
Artists like Taylor Swift, Zac Brown, and Blake Shelton have brought the genre into the mainstream, often blurring the lines between pop and country. It is a genre that is immensely easy to listen and relate to. It has the ability to exude a sense of patriotic pride and to bring a smile to one’s face. So put on your cowboy boots and turn up the country!
Photo by Photo Pool
Country music isn’t just for country folk anymore. It is a music genre that has widespread appeal. This past summer, the Fenway area of Boston was mobbed with country fans dressed in cowboy boots and bandanas excitedly headed to a Zac Brown Band concert. In his hit song “Chicken Fried,” Zac Brown sings about thanking God for his life, for the “star and stripes,” for “a mother’s love,” “jeans that fit just right,” and fried chicken. Bluegrass legend, Bill Monroe patriotically proclaimed, “Country music belongs to America.”
Country Music
The Misconceptions of Veganism
Photo by Photo Pool
by Zoe Boardman
Zoe Boardman at Tabor’s dining hall.
Upon discovering that I am a vegan, people have reacted in many different ways. Many people are indifferent, but some have been skeptical, confused, or nearly aggressive. A close friend of mine was confused that my veganism didn’t negatively affect my personality in a way that would make me seem condescending to those with different eating habits. My friend did have a point; there are many misconceptions about vegans and vegetarians which are still widely believed. As a result, there are a handful of questions I get very frequently about the way I choose to live my life. I get more than enough protein, I am not constantly hungry, I don’t only eat salad, I go out to restaurants, I cook delicious food, and I don’t miss bacon. Also, despite the stereotype, I try not to push my beliefs onto others because I do not believe that I have the right to tell people what to put into their bodies. That being said, there is diversity among vegans and vegetarians and I cannot speak for them all. There certainly are people more aggressive about their views than I am who think that it is their duty to spread the word of veganism. Unfortunately, the good intentions of this minority have only made omnivores feel resentful and given herbivores a poor reputation. For those who are interested in the reasons for adopting a plant-based diet or lifestyle, I encourage you to look for credible, educational, and non-polarizing sources. Veganism is about spreading compassion for animals and humans alike, not shaming anyone for their choices.
A New Milestone for Tabor Rowing
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Two Boats Compete in the Legendary Head of the Charles
Photo by Photo Pool
Tabor’s rowers competing in the Head of the Charles.
by Lillie Lovell On the October 23, Tabor competed in one of the world’s largest rowing events for the very first time: the Head of the Charles. Rowers from all over the world flock to Boston to compete in this 3-mile race on the Charles River every year, and this year two Tabor boats joined them. Taking on the Head of the Charles was no small endeavor for the eight girls and four boys who rowed for Tabor; they dedicated much of their time during the fall season to prepare for this race, which was over three times longer than an average high school rowing course. However, the planning for this event started long before any physical preparation for the rowers. Bryce Finley ’17, a member of the Boys’ Varsity Crew team, first told Mr. Muther about the idea to row a coxed four-person boat in the Head of the Charles in January of 2016. Unfortunately, Tabor did not have a four-person crew shell, but Mr. McClennon, the father of rower Sam McClennon ’17, generously donated a new four-person boat that allowed Finley’s idea to become reality. Rowers Bryce Finley ’17, Sam McClennon ’17, Jackson Hawkins ’17, and Jon Mabie ’17 along with coxswain Jack Gordon ’17 competed in the race, and were able to practice rowing the boat throughout the fall with the help of Mr. Pardo, one of the coaches
for Boys’ Crew. The boys placed 17th out of 85 boats in the Head of the Charles, securing a spot for Tabor in next year’s race.
The Girls’ Varsity Crew team was able to enter the Head of The Charles as well, but with an eight-person boat. Even though they had some technical difficulties with their equipment, their race was a great opportunity for the Girls’ Varsity Crew team. Maddy LaCasse ’18, a member of the girls’ boat, said “Even though we encountered a lot of struggles, like crashing and the cox box dying, we really came together as a team and worked together through the obstacles to cross the finish line enthusiastically.” The girls placed 70th out of the 85 boats in their race.
All the Tabor rowers agreed that the highlight of the races were all the fans cheering for them as they raced by. Bryce Finley explained, “Hearing all the fans cheering for Tabor really boosted everyone’s morale, especially at such a pivotal mark in the race when the adrenaline is starting to run low.” The teams thank all the Tabor Fans for coming out and supporting their fellow Seawolves--and look forward to next year’s Head of the Charles.
Photo by Photo Pool
Winter Sports Captains by Annie Waters The winter athletic season is fast approaching. Fall practices are ending earlier, the air is getting colder, and each team’s season is coming to a close. Athletes participating in winter sports have already begun to gear up for their long-awaited seasons, and Varsity captains are starting to think about their goals and aims for the season. Boys’ Varsity Hockey captain Eddie Hannon ’17 says, “My goal is to be a playoff team, just like last year, and to set the standards for the new guys and those returning. I am hoping I can teach the younger players that only determination, chemistry, and sacrifice can lead to success.”
Eddie also mentioned his desire to take what he’s learned from past leaders and use it as a source of direction for the upcoming season. He spoke about former Boys’ Varsity Hockey captain Ben Taylor ’16 and the impact Ben had on him. “Spending two of the best years of my life with him, I have learned what it means to lead by example and to always be at your best, whether things are going your way or not,” says Eddie. “I plan to incorporate a lot of what I have learned from Ben into my leadership style this year.”
Kat Mitchell ’17, Girls’ Varsity Squash captain, spoke about what it means to be a captain. She emphasized the importance of the role, saying, “Being a captain comes with great responsibility. I see myself as a liaison between the coach and the players. I am there for anyone on the team, whether it be on or off the court.” She also mentioned the need for maintaining a fun environment and making sure everyone on the team is able to enjoy their experience. Within the next few weeks, team members will all start to see the result of their own and their captains’ work.
Maho at work in the art studio.
The Artistic Process by April Mihalovich Maho Tsutsumi ’18 can often be spotted in the art studio, working near the window with a brush in hand. As a student in Advanced Art, she is developing her portfolio and adopting a theme for her artwork. Although her work may be instantly recognizable to others, she says that she has been “trying to find [her] style, and [she] is still in the process of finding it.” Maho likes to work in many different mediums, though she prefers using a brush rather than a pencil. She will try anything involving paint; she admits, however, that “[her] most challenging medium is definitely watercolor.” When asked about her biggest inspiration for her work, Maho immediately said that she’s inspired by the artwork of other people in her class, as well as by simple conversations she has or books she reads. Her most recent piece reflects this kind of inspiration. She is using members of the Tabor community for a series that highlights the diversity of the human body. Surprisingly, Maho’s favorite part of the artistic process isn’t the creation itself, but the conversations she has with others about her pieces. She said, “I like talking to people about [my work] so they can give me more ideas and critique me and ask me questions.”
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Written by Aurelia Reynolds
Poets Corner
Thank you,
You,
And you are the lessons I take away.
Who believe that your attention is how I value my self-worth
For you are the people I have learned the most from,
Of course,
Who have cut my ankles to knock me to my knees You are the lessons I take away.
My mom and my dad taught me to
You have taught me
But be confident.
I don’t want to belittle anyone.
The ones that have never stayed long enough to see me grow
I don’t want to put myself before anyone else.
Be kind
Be humble But you,
The ones that have left before a “goodbye” was even fathomed,
What kind of person I don’t want to be. I don’t want to ignore anyone.
I don’t want to abandon anyone.
You are the lessons I take away.
And that is what I have learned from you.
Be kinder
My ex friends,
You have taught me to
So to all my ex’s:
And to be more confident in everything I do
My ex competitors,
Be humbler
My ex bosses, Thank you -A
Netflix Nook
Photo by Photo Pool
An Open Letter to the People I’ve Lost
Aurelia Reynolds began writing poetry on-and-off in the sixth grade, but over the last two years, she has started writing weekly poems about her life experiences. “I love using imagery and strong language to express my thoughts in creative ways other than straight arguments,” says Aurelia of her poetry. She uses the practice as an emotional outlet to work through any and all tough situations, and Open Letter is no different. “My inspiration for Open Letter was based on some relationships in the past that I have lost over my four years at high school,” she said. Though the poem was originally written in the context of Aurelia quitting a job after her boss gave her a hard time, it has become much more. She wants this poem to remind readers that there is always a positive takeaway from a bad situation if you’re willing to look for it and keep an open mind. As Aurelia said, “Every situation has a silver lining, and good can come in all forms.”importance of the role, saying, “Being a captain comes with great responsibility. I see myself as a liaison between the coach and the players. I am there for anyone on the team, whether it be on or off the court.” She also mentioned the need for maintaining a fun environment and making sure everyone on the team is able to enjoy their experience.
by Anastasia Chase
Batman is most often known as the Caped Crusader or the Dark Knight, but Fox’s TV show Gotham features Bruce Wayne’s alter-ego as his teenage self. The show’s main focus is crime in Gotham City. Season One, “Rise of the Villains,” focuses on GCPD’s Detective James Gordon and his partner Harvey Bullock’s attempts to curb corruption while providing exposition on the the villains of Gotham City. Jim Gordon and Bruce Wayne’s paths cross when Jim promises to provide Bruce with answers about his tragic past. Season Two is centered on the wrath of the villains. We learn more about how the villains’ power influences Gotham City while following Wayne as he tries to uncover the secrets of his past. Based on DC Comics’ long-standing comic book series “Batman, ” Gotham creatively fleshes out the background of each character in the original story. Comic fans will be excited to see how the characters from the Batman franchise are portrayed in the show. Besides Bruce Wayne, the most interesting transformation is Selena “Cat” Kyle, Catwoman’s alter ego. Gotham appeals to a wide variety of audiences, including those who like superheroes, action, and crime shows. Seasons One and Two are on Netflix, and Season 3 is currently airing on Mondays at 8/7 Central on Fox.
T he L og Editor-in-Chief: Danielle Plunkett
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 thelog@taboracademy.org. The Log reserves the right to edit submissions for space and/or clarity.
Managing Editors: Nicole Fernandes (Sports) Hannah Frisch (News) Mary Hanrahan (Opinions) Madison LaCasse (Arts/Features) Sydney Farrell (Layout) Photography: Photo Pool Faculty Advisor: Helene Sughrue