The Churchill Observer- May 2016

Montgomery County Public Schools Winston Churchill High School 11300 Gainsborough Rd. Potomac, MD 20854

thechurchillobserver.com

Volume 40 - Issue 8

May 26, 2016

A National Blue Ribbon School

MCPS Unveils New Grading System

By Arielle Gordon Editor-in-Chief

I

nterim MCPS Superintendent Larry Bowers announced May 10 that MCPS will be ending the administration of two-hour semester exams and altering the calculation of semester exams for certain classes, effective at the beginning of the 20162017 school year.

Semester exams will now be calculated from the average of two quarter grades; grades will not follow existing trending patterns. Students will take marking period exams each quarter in classes that previously had county-created semester exams. The marking period exam will account for 10 percent of the quarter grade.

The changes are not expected to affect the way that teachers will teach their classes because the curriculum and required content of classes is not changing.

According to English teacher and CHS Lead MCEA Building Representative Valerie Mainwaring, the quarter assessments “should more closely match the curriculum.”

However, there has been concern and confusion regarding the new calculation formula of semester grades.

Teachers were surveyed for their input on the proposed changes, but the final decision by the Board of Education did not appear to reflect the survey.

With the removal of traditional two-hour final exams, there is concern that students will not be prepared for

Transgender Policy Update

By Eugenia Cardinale Editor-in-Chief

INFOGRAPHIC BY EUGENIA CARDINALE.

comprehensive, content-based exams at the college level.

“There is legitimate concern that students are not learning how to sit and study for a two-hour exam,” Mainwaring said.

Though these changes will not be implemented until next school year, for the current semester, CHS will follow the new MCPS policies regarding second semester final exams.

The changes affect students in Algebra 1 and 2, Biology, English 10 and U.S. Government. Because these students took corresponding HSA or PARCC exams this month, they will be exempt from a standard two-hour final exam in June.

“The Board felt that there was too much testing, so they decided that they were going to try to relieve some of the stress,” Principal Joan Benz said.

The changes are expected to reduce stress on both students and teachers as

there will only be one assessment on course material.

“Generally speaking, teachers prefer not to have students tested twice on the exact same material,” social studies resource teacher Rodney Van Tassell said.

The plans and subsequent decision were made after input from various community groups including principals, teachers and parents, along with several focus groups.

As this is the first year of the new policy, it is still a work in progress. Its success will be evaluated and a firm decision regarding the future will likely be released over the summer, once Dr. Jack Smith assumes his role as superintendent in July. The current plan will stay in effect until further changes are announced.

“It’s a flexible situation and they’ll make decisions as time goes along,” Benz said.

President Barack Obama sent a directive May 13 to all public school districts in the United States stating that they must allow transgender students to use the gender-specific facilities of the gender that matches their gender identity.

As a public school district, MCPS is required by law to follow President Obama’s directive. This puts an end to the confusion some may have regarding use of gender-specific facilities by transgender students in MCPS. “MCPS is already closely aligned with the federal government’s new guidelines on this issue,” said Derek Turner from the MCPS Department of Public Information and Web Services.

According to a May 16 New York Times article, Obama’s purpose in passing this directive was to protect children and young adults in schools who may be targets of bullying or discrimination in their schools due to their sexual orientation or gender identity.

“MCPS is committed to a safe, welcoming school environment where students are engaged in learning and are active participants in the school community because they feel accepted and valued,” Turner said. “The federal guidelines seems to imply the same commitment.”

Staff Changes Bring New Leadership to Student Groups

By Emiliana Cardinale Production Manager Eugenia Cardinale Editor-in-Chief As the 2015-2016 school year is drawing to a close, many leadership changes are coming to the groups at CHS. Class of 2019 Honors Matter and Energy teacher Jonathan Lee will be taking over as sponsor for the Class of 2019 as current sponsor, English teacher Shelley Perrett will be running the SGA. This will be Lee’s first leadership position at CHS. During his time as the class sponsor, he hopes to add a new perspective to the current SGA. As Lee is a new teacher at CHS, this new, and deeper involvement with the class of 2019 will allow him to become more involved in and help the CHS entire community.

“When it became clear that I would be given the opportunity to work at CHS, it was a career dream come true,” Lee said. “Thus, naturally, I would enjoy any opportunity to become more invested in the CHS community so that I can become more of an asset to the school and to the students. I am most excited about new opportunities for myself to grow as a community leader, and for the opportunity to see my students devote themselves to something that they care greatly about

and to see them grow throughout the entirety of their high school careers.”

According to Lee, his experience as a former member of the United States Army Ranger Special Forces has provided him perspective on the importance of leadership.

“I can attest that leadership responsibilities changed ownership on a fairly regularly [basis] due to various circumstances,” Lee said.

“In that respect, and despite the clear differences in context, I am less nervous about taking on this role than I am eager to. I know that I have the resources and expertise of my fellow class sponsors and of a very capable and spirited student body to rely on.”

SGA English teacher Shelley Perrett is stepping down as the Class of 2019 sponsor to lead CHS’ Student Government Association (SGA) after current sponsor, Orly Santos, stepped down.

When the CHS SGA position was made available to staff at CHS, Perrett applied and was selected for the position.

“I am looking forward to continuing the traditions here at CHS and hopefully implementing some new ones,” Perrett said. “After Homecoming Week, school spirit and student involvement are at their peak, but then students and staff become busy with academics.”

Perrett hopes to add a kickoff event such as a carnival or race to begin the school year in order to improve school pride and spirit and get more student and staff participation. She also wants to make a social media account that all students follow so everyone can be informed about school events.

Overall, she is “looking forward to positive changes, bringing staff and students together, and improving turnout at all events.”

The Observer The Observer’s current adviser Kelly Knarr is stepping down as the newspaper adviser and Journalism teacher at the end of this school year.

She will remain as an English teacher at CHS. English teacher Mary Dempsey will be the new Observer adviser and Journalism teacher.

Dempsey is hoping to bring a larger arts and photojournalism perspective to the paper.

“I’m excited to connect with more students and to work with them on creating a product that is an essential part of school communication,” Dempsey said. “I’m hoping that I can help the Observer continue to be a trusted and valued source of information and entertainment for students. I’m also excited to learn more about InDesign, editing [and] publishing.”

PHOTOS BY EMI CARDINALE.

Jonathan Lee, Shelley Perrett and Mary Dempsey will take on new leadership positions next year.

2

News

May 26, 2016

CHS Bids Farewell To Memorable Staff Members

By Vicky Gunawan Contest Manager

PHOTO BY VICKY GUNAWAN.

Jeanne Touzeau

After 27 years of teaching, Honors French 4 and 5 teacher Jeanne Touzeau is retiring. Touzeau has taught French at CHS for 14 years and has served as the French Honor Society sponsor.

“The group of seniors I have had the privilege of teaching these past four years are like family to me,” Touzeau said . “I held off retiring so that I could graduate with them.”

Touzeau’s French students will miss her passion for the French language and her willingness to help her students learn the material.

“Madame Touzeau is such a great teacher,” said junior Samantha Redlich, a French 4 and 5 student of Touzeau’s. “She helped me explore my love of French by recommending summer programs, books and movies to me, and also strengthened my French skills in class with her lessons.”

Touzeau has also spread her warm and friendly nature to her students and co-workers.

“Madame Touzeau is committed,” said French and world languages resource teacher Lois Laclef said. “I hope that she will enjoy her retirement and her reflections on the many years and relationships that she will leave behind.”

After retiring, Touzeau hopes to catch up on her sleep, travel, read, see friends, exercise more and do volunteer work.

“I hope that my students will continue to appreciate learning French, and that they will all be able to spend at least a semester abroad in a Francophone country when they are in college to solidify their French skills and become fluent, as well as live in the culture,” Touzeau said.

By Rebekah Sklute Online News and Observations Editor

PHOTO BY REBKAH SKLUTE.

Patricia Eaton After 22 years of teaching, 17 years of which have been at CHS, Special Education teacher Patricia Eaton will be retiring this year.

Eaton is a special education case manager, co-teaches with four teachers and works with many students.

“I have watched my students grow and would like for all of them to continue doing well and to graduate,” Eaton said.

Students appreciate and recognize Eaton’s affectionate and supportive nature, and many have had the privilege of learning from her throughout their four years of high school.

“She is really outgoing, helpful, kind and really attentive to students’ needs and concerns,” junior Evan Lutterman said. “She is one of the best staff members at CHS.” Aside from the CHS students, Eaton has formed bonds through her caring and warm nature to other teachers and coworkers. This year, Eaton co-taught Honors English 11 with English teacher Jennifer Miller.

“I think what people love about her is that she is really easy to talk to and incredibly supportive,” Miller said. “She truly believes in every kid and truly wants them to be successful.”

“Use your experience and education to make an impact in your community, state or country,” Buel said.

“Definitely live your life to the fullest and let your passions guide you.”

doing, and try to make the world a better place,” Kraus said.

By Ethan S. Miller Fact Checker

PHOTO COURTESY OF FINEST HOURS.

PHOTO BY REBEKAH SKLUTE.

Douglas Kraus

PHOTO BY REBKAH SKLUTE.

Bridget Buel Honors Chemistry teacher Bridget Buel plans to retire at the end of this year after 38 years of teaching, 12 of which have been at CHS. Prior to teaching in Maryland, Buel taught math and science in Virginia for eight years, Pakistan for one year and Israel for three years.

“I’ve had a lot of different kinds of experiences,” Buel said. “My favorite part of the job is having a classroom full of students who work hard to achieve, which makes my job fun and fulfilling.”

Buel helps guide her students to learn and absorb the chemistry material. She checks on her students’ progress daily to make sure they are keeping up with the class and don’t fall behind.

“Mrs. Buel’s encouragement for success is what I’ll remember the most,” sophomore Sheerin Naimi said.

“She made her students feel so good about themselves when they answered a question correctly.”

In addition to her interactions with students she has also forged strong friendships with other CHS teachers. Science resource teacher Clinton Brown appreciates everything she has done to contribute to the science department and will miss having her around next year.

“Her teaching techniques, her leadership, her advice will be missed by the science department and especially the chemistry department,” Brown said. “CHS needs as many teachers as possible who have Mrs. Buel’s caring personality.”

Though Buel already participates in community service work as a volunteer at USO Warrior and Family Center Bethesda, she plans to volunteer more in retirement, take more bike trips, travel and sleep later than 6:30 am. She is excited and looks forward to finally having the time to pursue her hobbies and enjoy retirement.

“Fishing is one of my big hobbies, and my husband and I want to do that,” Buel said.“I also read and cycle.”

Buel had some words of wisdom to share with her students:

After 32 years of teaching, 25 of which have been at CHS, Ancient History, AP Human Geography and Modern World History teacher Douglas Kraus plans to retire at the end of this school year.

Kraus has taught a variety of classes at CHS this year. In the past, he has taught Honors US History, Honors NSL, ESSO NSL, AP Government (before it became NSL) and AP Comparative Government.

“Having Mr. Kraus for two years was awesome because he’s so passionate about what he teaches, which makes the class a lot more fun,” senior Emily Birnbaum said.

Kraus decided to become a teacher because he likes teenagers and history, so he combined the two.

“It was most fun when I built the Ancient Medieval curriculum from nothing,” Kraus said. “It was really fun to develop it myself.”

Over the years, Kraus has formed relationships with his co-workers who have appreciated his humorous personality and guidance.

“I will miss his words of wisdom,” Modern World teacher Evan Rosenthal said.

“We call Mr. Kraus ‘the sage’ in the social studies department because he is always willing to give advice on all topics whether we ask for it or not.”

During his retirement, Kraus plans to travel, play golf, be a guide at the Smithsonian Museum and perhaps, work part time.

He is excited to retire, but he will miss the student’s “company and enthusiasm.”

Kraus has one final message to CHS students: “Keep your eye on the goal, always try to do your best, find something you enjoy

Robin Moore

After 30 years of teaching and counseling, 10 of which were spent at CHS, former internship coordinator, resource counselor and current director of Counseling Services, Robin Moore, plans to retire at the end of this school year.

Moore will be remembered for her over 30 years of veteran leadership and a decisive, take charge attitude.

“She is compassionate and endearing,”counselor Gary Carter said. “If a meeting ever ran long she would give the rest of the counselors lunches and always catered for parties and celebrations.”

Moore plans to take the summer off and spend time with family and friends and eventually, for the first time in 30 years, take a vacation during the first week of September.

While this decision takes Moore away from the day-to-day aspect of students lives, she feels she will make an impact in the private sector through her Neuro-Counseling work.

Neuro-Counseling, a new “cutting edge” type of therapy, targets weak spots in the brain and can help to improve timing and reduce anxiety and stress.

“I feel like I’m just starting a different chapter in my life,” Moore said.“If I can do anything to help students or people be able to deal with stress or anxiety better, then I feel like I’m making a real contribution to people.”

After 30 years of long hard work, Moore is ready to turn the page on CHS and start anew.

“You can be sad to leave one thing and happy to start another thing,” Moore said.

“I’m just looking forward to a change of venue. I think it will be good.”

3

News

May 26, 2016

Starbucks Program Donates Food

PHOTO COURTESY OF STARBUCKS.

A Starbucks employee bags leftover food for the FoodShare program.

By Becky Wolfson Online Arts Editor One in seven Americans struggle with hunger, and in the U.S. alone, 70 billion pounds of food are wasted annually. Starbucks recently announced they would begin adding perishable food to their pastry donation program, which the company began in 2010.

Starbucks estimates that five million meals will be donated in the first year of their FoodShare program.

“This is a great program,” Starbucks Montgomery Mall shipping supervisor Greg Carrido said. “I felt bad that we

had to toss food before and am glad the food can go to good use now. There is a lot of waste in the food industry, so I am glad this is for a good cause.”

Prior to the start of the FoodShare program, Starbucks’ employees were required to throw out all unsold perishable food every day if the items were past the ‘best by’ date. However, the food being thrown out was still safe to consume.

Currently, Starbucks has begun implementing the FoodShare program at only a few stores, but plans to spread the program to every one of their 7,600 U.S. stores by 2021.

“Right now we have received guidance on how to make sure the food is fresh, stored at the proper temperature and that there are no contaminants,” Carrido said. “We do not want to serve bad food to anybody.”

According to Carrido, Starbucks is still in the process of trying to find appropriate agencies to donate the food to within each store’s radius.

“I am thrilled to hear about Starbucks’ program and that such a large company is stepping forward to better our community,” said Environmental Club secretary and senior Gilbert Lau. Lau hopes that Starbucks’ policy will inspire other companies to implement similar actions to reduce food waste.

Here at CHS, members of the Consumption Junction club are also addressing the issue of local hunger and food waste by collecting food prepared by students and donating it to homeless shelters.

“Starbucks has a fresh food reputation to uphold, but this means a lot of daily waste,” said Consumption Junction club member and senior Alexandra Conway.

“For some of that waste to help the homeless is a definite win-win.”

Members of the Consumption Junction club make a pan of food for every food drive and bring it to a nearby shelter, similar to how Starbucks is donating their excess food at the end of each day.

First African American History Museum to Open

By Rebecca Jackson Online Features Editor The National Museum of African American History and Culture was established by an Act of Congress in 2003 and will open Sept. 24.

It will be the only museum in the world solely dedicated to displaying both the past hardships of African American life and celebrating African Americans’ successes and contributions to U.S. history.

“I believe it is about time that we have a museum that focuses on American history through the lens of the African American experience,” assistant principal Maniya Jules said.

“It is necessary to preserve the African American journey so that its challenging

and rich history is not forgotten.”

The museum will play a vital role in reminding citizens of America’s history of discrimination and violence towards blacks, so that people do not forget it and repeat it.

“As much as things change and progress is made, our communities still struggle with many of the same challenges,” Jules said.

The museum will include pictures, media, and personal documentation that display the changing history of African Americans from the 1700’s to present day. To walk through the National Museum of African American History and Culture is to walk through time by reliving life through the eyes of a slave, an abolitionist, a free rider, a biracial couple, a singer, an artist, an entrepreneur, and most recently the

U.S. President.

Accodring to Ngwu, he is looking forward to seeing the important achievements many African American achievements have made in addition to addressing head on the severity of slavery and racism, something that textbooks tend to gloss over.

Although the museum is four months from opening, the announcement of the opening date has generated much excitement and discussion.

“The museum portrays the hardships that African Americans had to endure, generation to generation, facing racism and discrimination,” sophomore and member of the Black Student Union Ciana Hoggard said.

“We’re still standing.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF TISHA THOMPSON.

Journalist and CHS alumna Tisha Thompson will be the graduation speaker for the Class of 2016.

Graduation Speaker

By Brandon Li Circulation Manager

Journalist Tisha Thompson will speak at the Class of 2016 graduation May 27 at DAR Constitution Hall.

Thompson, an alumna, graduated from CHS in 1995, and is currently an investigative reporter for the NBC News4 I-Team.

“Speaking at my high school must be one of the best honors of my life,” Thompson said.

Before working for NBC News 4, Thompson graduated from Princeton University and then attended the University of Missouri Graduate School of Journalism, where she earned her Master’s degree. Thompson then worked at MTV News, where she started her journalism career.

Thompson has worked all around the country, including in Paducah, KY and Columbia, MO. Thompson also worked at channel 2 in Baltimore and at channel 5 in Washington, DC before joining NBC News4.

“The stakes are higher,” Thompson said. “I do investigative reporting, and it’s tough because I’m dealing with very complicated stories on a daily basis.”

Class of 2016 sponsor counselor Jennifer Oristian is excited to have a former CHS student to speak at the graduation.

“It’s always fun when someone comes back to speak after they graduated,” Oristian said.

In 2015, Thompson won the Gracie Award for Best Reporter in the nation.

Thompson has received 21 Emmy Awards, 12 Associated Press Awards and is a five-time Investigative Reporters and Editors finalist.

“It’s amazing to be back,” Thompson said.

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Opinions

4

The Churchill

May 26, 2016

Observer

Editors Editors-in-Chief Eugenia Cardinale Arielle Gordon Online Editor-in-Chief Nathan Deychman

Chief Production Manager Emiliana Cardinale Production Editors Camila Camp Eli Gordon Will Hyland Dani Miller Sofia Williamson

Opinions Editor Maya Rosenberg* Observations Editor Sai Sreenivasan Features Editors Sara Heimlich* Emily Wang Arts Editors Sarah O’Brien* Balbina Yang Sports Editors Ben Dross Kyle Emery Fact Checkers Bryan Fletcher* Ethan S. Miller Matthew Sun Social Media Editors Jake Herman* Julia Lescht Laura Sneller* Drew Ingall Anna Baranko* Joe Raab Sophie Liss

*also Production Editor

Managers

Advertising Manager Max Kandel Business Managers Eliza Asbury Megan Park

Circulation Managers Brandon Li Jenna Greenzaid* Contest Managers Vicky Gunawan Nora Holland Adviser Kelly Knarr

Our Policy The Churchill Observer is published monthly by the students of Winston Churchill High School, 11300 Gainsborough Road, Potomac, Md. 20854.

Advertising and subscription rates are available by e-mailing churchill.observer@gmail.com.

Advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinion of staff, faculty or the student body.

Every effort has been made by the staff to ensure that the news is accurate and free of bias.

Editorial opinions are those of the Observer staff, and personal commentaries and cartoons reflect the opinions of their writers. Letters to the editor must be signed, and assertions must be documented upon request. Send letters to the editor to churchill.observer@gmail.com The Observer is a public forum for the purpose of expressing the views of and informing the Churchill community.

The Blame Game: Nobody Can Win

Co

News Editors Thomas Atkinson Lauren Roseman *

CARTOON BY KEVIN HO.

Two suicides in three months. This simple sentence cannot even begin to describe the pain and suffering felt by the entire CHS community. Why did this happen? What could have been done to prevent it? What do we do now?

Many people have tried to identify the contributing sources of these tragedies, whether it be personal struggles with depression or other mental illnesses, or student and staff apathy.

However, there is no single cause of these deaths.

A blame game of what administration did or didn’t do, or what the counseling department or student body should or shouldn’t have done, cannot be played when trying to decide the determining factor in such tragedies. It should not take two suicides in a span of three months to push mental health awareness; it should be a constant focus of our community to prevent such tragedies from occurring. Everyone in the CHS community must be doing more to raise the level of awareness of mental health, from administration, to counselors, to teachers, to students and parents.

Before the tragic passings of sophomore Alex Baumann and junior Maya Castillo, the extent of the discussion of mental health at CHS seemed limited to the UMTTR signs in counselor’s offices.

According to a recent student survey, some students felt that the assistance the counseling department has offered is insufficient; however, the counseling department’s recent implementation of the Sources of Strength (SOS) day suggests otherwise. The day was administered by both the counseling department and SOS and had a rotation of activities centered on different sources of strength that students could turn to, such as healthy activities and their friends and family.

According to a survey asking students whether they thought that SOS day should become an annual event, 89 percent surveyed stated that they believed SOS day should occur annually.

The day itself was successful in help-

ing students relax; however it did not put as much as an emphasis on mental health awareness as it could have. Out of the eight rotations based on the different sources of strength, only one of them was centered on suicide awareness.

While SOS day was not quite successful in educating and raising consciousness for suicide and depression, it was

BSERVER O OPINION certainly a step in the right direction.

Additionally, administration must be doing more to push mental health advocacy and awareness.

Yes, there is a stigma of secrecy and shame attached not only mental illness but its discussion. However, the only way to break this stigma is to be able to openly discuss this topic without the fear of repercussions or judgment.

Involvement by administration is necessary for things to change. Students have shown that they are already willing to make a change when they coordinated U-nite on their own; now it’s time for the administration to make one as well.

Administration may have distanced themselves from U-nite in order to avoid glorifying suicide, however it instead created the assumption that they did not want to support the student body in standing up and unifying CHS. Administration must take part in creating a more open and accepting environment. They need to confront the issues of suicide and depression head on, instead distancing themselves from student-led efforts to unify the school.

Parents are also an important part in creating the change that CHS needs.

If parents teach their children kindness and acceptance at home, students will take those values and instill them at school.

Finally, it is the responsibility of the

CHS community to be more proactive with mental health issues as it cannot rest solely on administration or the counseling department. The student body itself must step up and address this issue head on, as it is truly impacting them.

High schoolers are typically known for being judgy and apathetic, but we all have it within ourselves to create a more open and appreciating environment. An open environment is built on kindness and friendliness, two simple qualities that all students are capable of expressing.

According to an anonymous student, CHS needs more acceptance.

CHS desperately needs actions that strive towards equality in our student body. From simply saying hello to someone in the hallways to inviting someone new to sit with one’s group at lunch, these actions help to create an accepting environment.

These actions are incredibly simple to achieve. They just take the open minds of students and their willingness to be a kind and non-judgmental person, qualities that we all have and are able to harness.

U-nite showed the CHS community that the student body is capable of being inclusive. It was an event organized by the sophomore class to unify the student body and open up the discussion of mental health issues.

However, events such as U-nite, Wellness Week and UMTTR-sponsored activities cannot be one-time events; they should be held annually, and more student lead events like them should occur. Students truly do have the power to create change--we’ve started to see the potential this year Our school needs change. It cannot just come from administration, or counseling, members of the community or the student body. It must come from all three working together, in order to truly change the environment from one of apathy and secrecy, to one of care and acceptance.

A Letter From the Editor To our readers: If you read a sentence in the Observer last month and thought you found a grammar error with our subject-verb pronoun agreement, it was not a mistake.

With the support and agreement of our staff, we have decided to start using “they” as a singular pronoun.

What does this change mean? It means in sentences where the subject is singular but not specific (everybody, everyone, somebody, etc.) instead of using

“his” or “her” as a pronoun, we will use “they.”

An example sentence would be: “Every student should pick up their pencil.”

Traditionally, this sentence would be seen as incorrect because “every” is a singular subject, so “his” or “her” would have been be used. However, here we are using “they” not as a plural, but rather as a singular pronoun.

The main reason for bringing about this change is to be more inclusive. Not every student at CHS identifies as gender binary. This is the newspaper of CHS, and it should represent everyone.

The idea of using the same pronoun as a singular and plural is not uncom-

mon. “You” is used as a singular and plural pronoun, for example.

Additionally, many professional publications use “they” as a singular pronoun. The Washington Post adopted the use of “they” as a singular pronoun in 2015.

The Observer’s main goal and purpose is to represent the student body of our school while being inclusive, which is why this is an important change.

If you have any comments, questions or concerns about this new editing change in the Observer, please contact us at thechurchillobserver@gmail.com Eugenia Cardinale Co-Editor-in-Chief

May 26, 2016

5

Opinions

Top Ranked School in Academics or Stress?

High Ranking is Good for Everyone

By Sara Heimlich Features Editor Rebecca Jackson Online Features Editor CHS was ranked number three on The Washington Post’s Most Challenging High Schools in the D.C. Area list, following Washington International, a private school, and Poolesville High School, located in MCPS. Nationally, the Washington Post ranked CHS number 88. This ranking is good for the student body, right?

Right.

CHS students are fortunate to go to a high school that falls on this prestigious list; most students in the county and country would be lucky to get the opportunity to go to a school that pushes its students, has incredibly high success rates, and prepares students for the rest of their lives.

According to head of counseling Robin Moore, the rigor at CHS comes from the extensive AP courses the school offers and the drive of students to take those demanding classes.

However, CHS isn’t necessarily ranked for the actual scores we receive on those tests.

According to an April 17 Washington Post article, schools are placed on the list based on the number of Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate tests given at a school during the year, and by the percentage of graduating seniors.

Though stress-levels may be high for CHS students, these four years pay off in the success by our students.

According to the rankings list, CHS has a four-year graduation rate of 99 percent. This is considerably higher than the average high school graduation rate, 81.4 percent, of American high schoolers, according to the 2015 Building a Grad Nation report.

Many CHS students apply to Ivy League schools, and due to their low acceptance rates, it is quite a feat to be accepted by even one. Just last year, CHS sent 19 students to Ivy League schools, a large amount, especially for a public school.

However, going to an Ivy isn’t the only way students can display their success. Everyone goes to a college that is the right fit for them, whether that school be Harvard or another, potentially lesser known university.

College shouldn’t just be about the name of the school, and students thinking that they should go to the top school they can possibly get into is not the right mindset.

CHS’ top-tier college acceptance comes partially from the fact that colleges look at CHS students, knowing that students they choose for admittance are ready for college and will do well.

According to Moore, CHS students talk each other up and fall into a competitive mindset when it comes to grades and choosing levels of a class.

However, competition is a good thing. The world is full of competition, from getting into college to getting a job. Feeling challenged by peers pushes students to do better than what they thought was their best work.

According to the MCPS website, the average CHS student SAT score in 2015 was 1838 (out of 2400), compared to a county average of 1650 and to a national average of 1497. With such high scores, CHS students are put in the best positions for colleges to look at them.

Besides its scores, the rigor of CHS

prepares students for what’s to come, specifically in college.

According to Moore, some students in college report back to her saying that while many around them are working hard, college is not nearly as hard as CHS. Students of CHS set high goals for themselves. Not only are they smart and have a strong education foundation, but their goal-oriented mindset makes all the difference in the long run. It doesn’t hurt that teachers, parents and peers expect the same, adding positive peer pressure to the equation.

High Ranking Only Increases Stress

By Nathan Deychman Online Editor-in-Chief Sofia Williamson Online Opinions Editor You go out for dinner with friends but finds it difficult to enjoy yourself. You spend the whole time nibbling at your food and trying to stay active in conversation, but your mind wanders.

All you can think about is how stressed you are for the pair of tests, four quizzes and

FACE OFF

Churchill Ranking

Grading with high expectations comes with the expectation that students are able to reach them. The fact of the matter is that students at CHS prioritize their education.

Many would argue that our high placement on the list strongly correlates to the high stress levels, but perhaps think of it this way: CHS is a feast. There’s an entire array of food laid out on the table, just like the classes we offer. There is a diverse selection, because not everyone has the same taste. Everyone has a different appetite. Some can handle more food, others become stuffed after one serving.

The same goes for high school. Not everyone needs to fill their plate and go back for seconds. The goal is not to eat as much as you can; moderation and balance is key.

The Most Challenging List should be a sense of pride for students.

When students graduate from CHS, they know that they are coming out of high school prepared for college. This should, in fact, lower the stress for college because the fast-pace feel of high school could turn out to be more rigorous than college.

If they choose to, every student at CHS will go to college. They will succeed wherever they go, whether it be an Ivy, which is some students’ cup of tea, or any other college or university, which other students have more of a taste for.

You know how much food you want. Don’t overstuff yourself and don’t under eat.

summative writing you have at school tomorrow. Sound familiar?

CHS ranked number three on The Washington Post’s Most Challenging High Schools in the D.C. area list, following Washington International, a private school, and Poolesville High School. Nationally, The Washington Post ranked CHS number 88. This is good for the student body, right? Not exactly.

While this ranking may serve as justification for CHS’ high graduation rate and the rigor of study in the school, we must ask ourselves if the consequences of this rigor are really worth it.

According to U.S. News and World report, CHS is the 94th best high school in the nation and the second best in the state, behind only Whitman.

Although CHS is down from being ranked 69th nationally last year, i t still boasts the same expectations of high academic achievements. Students continuously feel overwhelming pressure and stress throughout their four years at CHS. According to head of counseling Robin Moore, CHS rigor comes from the extensive AP courses it offers and the drive of students to

take those classes.

So who is to blame for this drive to have a difficult course load?

It can be argued that CHS’ culture is naturally inclined towards high competition and academic accomplishment given its location.

According to CNN Money, Potomac, MD has the highest median household income of any other city in the country, with the median income being 48% higher than the average income for all Americans.

With parents making more money, it can be assumed that most received an excellent education, and therefore will wish the same for their children.

So, added pressure may stem from parents.

Parents who put academic pressure on their children must realize the results of their actions and understand that with no limitations on rigorous classes students at CHS are allowed to take, it is easy to become too overwhelmed, which can lead to lower grades in the most difficult courses. It also does not determine their child’s success as an adult.

Last year, CHS sent 19 students to Ivy League schools, a notable accomplishment considering that the acceptance rates of Ivy League schools range from just 5-15 percent.

However, attending an Ivy League school does not determine future success.

According to a March 2011, US News article, a study by economists Alan Krueger at Princeton University and Stacy Dale at Mathematica Policy Research concluded that Ivy League students did not enjoy an advantage in salaries as compared to those who attended less selective or public schools.

A student could either spend more time stressing over a perfect GPA to attend an Ivy League, or enjoy their four years in high school without the added stress, and attend a good public or private school.

When students are left to manage hours of schoolwork every night, extracurriculars and a social life, it becomes difficult to enjoy everyday activities not related to school like family dinners.

Comparatively, Whitman ranked 12th in the D.C. area, yet remains more than 30 spots higher than CHS in the U.S News and World Report list of top schools.

This goes to show that the most challenging and high-pressure academics do not make make for the most educated and academically achieving school.

Sure, it can be very rewarding and beneficial in the long run to attend one of the best high schools in America, but when its students are miserable, mental health outweighs academic achievement.

CHS is full of bright, determined students, but these top rankings are putting unnecessary pressure on them to outperform their peers.

Let’s put the rankings aside. If everyone at CHS acted as if it were a normal high school rather than a demanding institution, students will remember the place where they spent four years in a positive way.

They will remember it as a place where they learned from supportive teachers and were surrounded by cooperative students, not a pressure cooker in which they were given piles of work every night and faced competition from their peers.

6

May 26, 2016

Observations

Choral Music Awards

Nat’l Honors Society Induction PHOTOBY MAYA ROSENBERG.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PABLO CARDINALE.

Superintendent Bowers presents seniors Natalie Hwang, Anna Votaw and Valerie Weitz with awards for theater excellence.

By Sai Sreenivasan Observations Editor Seniors Natalie Hwang, Anna Votaw and Valerie Weitz received theater excellence awards to recognize their commitment to theater through their high school career.

Drama teacher Naomi Ratz nominated these three seniors to honor their active participation and starring roles in past productions. Each student has

had prominent roles: Votaw played Hedy LaRue in Little Shop of Horrors; Hwang played Hope Cladwell in Urinetown, and Weitz played Essie Carmichael in You Can’t Take it With You. “I felt very proud about winning this award because it shows that all of my hard work and preparations for each of the shows I have been in have been extremely worth it,” Votaw said.

“It was a great ending to my senior year.”

By Maya Rosenberg Opinions Editor Eighteen juniors were inducted into the National Honors Society (NHS) May 10. Congratulations to the newly inducted members of the NHS. “This year had another small class of inductees, but those who were admitted [to NHS] were still held to the highest standards of academics,” NHS sponsor Jamie Frank said.

List of Inductees: Thomas Atkinson Sheila Gaur

Spencer Ghais Jacob Glassman Kailyn Grossier Chloe Heller Jaclyn Heller Semira Kehnemouyi Carli Needle Samantha Redlich Julia Reicin Jared Robinson Dana Ronin Lauren Roseman Sarah Sachar Madeline Schupak Siddhika Sreenivasan Melis Tumanoglu

Junior Recognized For DNA Essay

By Emily Wang Features Editor

PHOTO COURTESY OF YURI ACHILLE.

Senior Nathan LeBauer, junior Alison Li and sophomore Maria Shapiro modify toy cars for use by children with special needs.

Go-Baby-Go Workshop

By Becky Wolfson Online Arts Editor

Senior Nathan LeBauer, junior Alison Li and sophomore Maria Shapiro attended the Go Baby Go workshop May 7, representing CHS. Along with other high schoolers who attended the workshop, these CHS students modified six toy cars to aid specific children with special needs. The modifications included

June 14 Pd. 1 & 2 Exams

adding buttons for easy control and seatbelts for safety. Li won a raffle for an additional toy car which will be altered in the future.

“It was fun and interesting because we got to help make a difference for a child and it also fed my interest in engineering,” Li said.

June 15 Pd. 3 & 4 Exams

Junior Sarah Sachar recently received an honorable mention in the American Society of Human Genetics’ (ASHG) 11th Annual DNA Day Essay Contest for her paper encouraging the postponement of adolescent testing for myotonic dystrophy.

The theme of the contest was to choose an adult onset condition or disease and to determine whether adolescents should be encouraged to participate in predictive testing.

“I was pleasantly surprised to find out that I won anything,” Sachar said.

“I was just planning on doing it to complete my MTS requirements.”

Sachar entered the contest with the intention of merely fulfilling the MTS (Math Science and Technology Signature Program) contest requirement.

She received $100 and a certificate for her achievement.

Molecular Genetics teacher Virginia Brown helped by reviewing the paper and sponsoring the entry for the contest.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALEX ZARYNOW.

Junior Sarah Sachar with Molecular Gentics teacher Virginia Brown.

Sachar recieved an honorable mention and $100 for her essay.

“We read through it together, but she did all the research and writing,” Brown said. “I’m very proud. She did an excellent job both with the writing and with the science.”

Exam Schedule

June 16 Pd. 6 & 7 Exams

June 17 Period 8 Exam

June 20 Exam MakeUps

May 26, 2016

7

Features

Math Plus Music is a Sure Formula for Success

By Jenna Greenzaid Circulation Manager

Although it may seem that because math and music are different subjects they would have little correlation, math and music have more in common than one may think.

Math is a huge part of life inside and outside of CHS. Students begin learning math when they first begin school, and it is usually taught in the same, generic way. Now, after having been brought into the equation for a while now, the idea of using music to teach math has been getting more attention throughout the United States.

“This is not a new connection,” math resource teacher Audrey Phillips said.

“I have heard there is a connection between math and music [and] certainly see the connection with fractions, whole notes, half notes and fourth notes.”

According to an April 2016 Washington Post article, jazz composer Herbie Hancock has discovered that there is an intrinsic link between playing music and building objects and ideas. Other researchers have also experimented with music and rhythm to teach fractions and proportionality in classrooms.

The reason math and music are so similar is because they are built on the same concepts of repeating patterns and matching.

According to a 2016 Scholastic Math in Music and Movement article, the acquisition of math skills follows a developmental sequence where students learn structure by seeing the relationship of two mathematical concepts.

In music, children use perceptual and auditory skills to match pitches and tempos; these connections can be made by changing the variables in a song or call and repeat, similar to changing the variable in a math or science problem.

Because relationships in both music

and math are fundamental in understanding the topic, the relationships link the two subjects together.

According to the website Math Central, a site developed by the University of Regina and The Pacific Institute for Mathematical Sciences for math students and teachers, musical pieces often have repeated choruses or bars, similar to patterns, and musicians look for notes they recognize to find high or low notes, similar to when students look for patterns in math to explain and predict the unknown.

Students at CHS who are able to recognize patterns among musical pieces tend to be better at linking math and music together due to the way the patterns of music and math relate to one another. Moreover, their ability to multitask with music translates into an easier ability to work more efficiently in math.

“With both hands going on piano, you need to know what both hands are doing, [and] it forces your brain to work more efficiently,” freshmen Eirena Li said. “It’s like the whole idea of sight reading that helps to multitask and work faster with [multitasking] in math.”

Because some are more apt at picking up music than math, the hearing component of understanding music and then using that to connect to math benefits students. The whole concept of math and music being entwined will help them to learn to their strengths.

According to an April 2016 Washington Post article, Susan Courey, a professor of special education at San Francisco State University, the teaching style of using music to teach math “goes across language barriers, cultures and achievement barriers” as well as “offers the opportunity to engage a diverse set of students.”

Though they may not realize it, musi-

PHOTO BY JENNA GREENZAID.

Freshman Danielle Menkart practices the piano. Recent studies have linked the use of music while learning math skills to an improvemnt in basic math proficency. cians use math and music together all the time when rehearsing music and practicing new sounds.

According to the Kennedy Center Artsedge website, beneath the sound of the notes are math concepts and rules, such as when a musician counts out the number of beats per measure of written music. Because setting the pace and counting helps musicians to play by themselves and with other musicians, math has a huge role in facilitating their ability to carry out this action.

The idea of music and math being intertwined, although not yet implemented at CHS, is an eye-opener into the future ways of teaching mathematics.

According to a Teacher Vision website which provides teaching material and resources for teachers, math can be implemented as schools like CHS by teaching students patterns in music that relate to mathematical sequences, such as the Fibonacci Sequence, in order to help them learn how to solve music and math problems by recognizing patterns, or by tasking them with deriving a mathematical formula from pieces of jazz music.

“With all the discoveries being made about mapping brain activity, this may become something important in the future,” Phillips said.

Observer Patrons Victor Miller Mr. and Mrs. Donald Herman Judith Gordon Bryan Fletcher Hannah Yasharoff Ronna Rosenberg Lena Hernandez and Michael Kidney Jonathan Beiser Donna Goldberg Beth and Peter Maser Nick Visnich Cindy and Pete Gibson The Roseman Family Jennifer and Justin Dross Sara Deychman Julie Gertler The Cardinale Family Julie Fox Fran and Steve Rotter John Menkart Lynn and David Fanaroff Meredith and Tad Asbury Ellen Lescht

Evy Gunawan Sandy Haass Vidyanand and Anuradha Swaminathan Katie Crouch Lelia Durand Rari and Vasant Joseph Mrs. and Dr. Whang Cholvibul Family Winny and Tim Hurr Lynn Liss Roger Saunders Faye O’Brien Nina Paulavan Barbara Barclay Beth Freedman The Raab Family Emily Raab Peggy Davis Aaron Schneider Joni Williams Cyndy Mamalion Melanie Mason Staci and Gary Weetmann Bob and Barbara Appelbaum

Karen and Liran Gordon Dylan Appelbaum Kim and Mohammad Baten Jeff and Karen Lipson Linda and Jeffrey Weiner The Lukin Family Stephanie Srour The Adelson Family Laura Mollard Michael R. Daniels Kyra Frederick Kathleen Eruin Cathy and David Certner Laura and Joel Greenzaid Holly Gladd Andres and Laura Lavarte Mariana and Luis Cestari Robert and Judy Trachtenberg Leslie R Janis Emily Feigen Patricia Shultz Melanie Twomey Kristie Trusdale Kristi Welter

Thank you for your support!

8

Features

May 26, 2016

Celebrities Leave World, Leave Behind Legacy

By Megan Park Business Manager Several artists died this year but left their mark on the souls of many.

Prince, Alan Rickman, Harper Lee and David Bowie: all beloved from the start of their careers to the end. With wide ranging talent and expertise, they made a huge impact within the entertainment industry, and outside of it as well. All of these artists will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many and continue to influence many artists in a positive way.

David Bowie David Bowie passed away Jan. 10.

Considered a musical legend, Bowie was widely known throughout the rock and roll community for his spontaneous style and major influence on all music genres. In the 1970s, according to an All The Tropes article, Bowie launched an age in reinvention and visual representation, inspiring many by his personality and work. Many CHS teachers grew up listening to him and look up to Bowie and the positive impact he’s had.

“I was shocked and saddened to hear about his death,” AP NSL and Global Issues teacher Paul Jacobson said. “He had just put out a new album, which was great, and it reminded me of how his music is still so important. So many punk, post-punk and new wave bands looked to Bowie for inspiration. He was androgynous, which influenced style and made it okay to be different.”

Bowie was strongly dedicated to change and and new ideas throughout the span of his career. He incorporated jazz into his music and performing in stage musicals, not wanting to be defined by one sub group of the musical industry and always looking for a way to change whether it be his physical or musical style.

Alan Rickman Alan Rickman, who died on Jan. 14, is considered one of the most influential British actors of our generation today by his fans and is widely known for his

wide variety of his appearance in plays and cinematography such as Die Hard (1988) and Love Actually (2003).

There’s no doubt that CHS community contains a large fan base dedicated to the Harry Potter series and has grown

“I was sad to hear of his passing,” junior Nina Hazra said. “I believe Alan Rickman’s most significant achievement was his role as Snape in Harry Potter, as it brought him worldwide fame. I think he positively influenced the series

PHOTO COURTESY OF CREATIVE COMMONS.

Clockwise from top left, David Bowie, Alan Rickman, Prince and Harper Lee. to love the character of Severus Snape, Rickman’s character in the Harry Potter series. From Sheriff of Nottingham in Robin Hood, to Judge Turpin in Sweeney Todd, many fans would agree Rickman played all of his characters flawlessly, proven by his winning of an Emmy award, Golden Globe and many more.

because his character was somewhat of a mystery until his true loyalties were revealed in the last movie.”

Harper Lee Talented and well-known, Harper Lee, who died Feb. 19, is most often recognized for her 1960 novel To Kill A Mockingbird. Lee won a Pulitzer Prize in 1961 for the novel along with many

other awards such as the Presidential Medal of Freedom and Best Novel of the Century.

As part of the English 9 curriculum, CHS students read this book, and many students have fallen in love with the book and were impacted when they heard about her death.

“It was a nice book,” freshman Abby Sachar said. “I thought it had an interesting perspective on segregation in the South. The book itself was heartwarming and made a lot of people, including me, happy.”

According to “19 Things You Never Knew About Harper Lee and ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’” a Reader’s Digest article, Lee spent six to twelve hours a day at her desk continuing to write the famous novel and in total, spent two and a half years writing and perfecting To Kill A Mockingbird, wanting to make sure every word was just right.

Prince Prince, an American singer, songwriter, record producer, actor and one of the best-selling artists of all time with over 100 million records sold worldwide throughout his career, died April 21.

Prince was known for his wide ranges of not only style, but stage presence as well. The progression of today’s music such as soul, rock and R&B owes much to many artists, but none more than Prince himself.

“I was sad and surprised when I heard of Prince’s death,” AP World History teacher Jamie KimbroughGroves said. “While I was at Coachella, bands of different genres paid their tributes to him. It shows how open-minded his music was. Prince was different and reveled in it. He was so talented, and I was connected and surrounded by his music, especially because my uncle and cousins were as well.”

All of these artists have left their mark on the world in one of the most positive and influential ways. From expressing emotion through acting, writing or singing, they have helped others in all types of encouraging ways.

May 26, 2016

9

Features

Harriet Tubman Replaces Jackson on the $20 Bill

By Eliza Asbury Business Manager The US Department of Treasury decided April 20 to make modifications to the $5, $10 and $20 bills by adding new leaders to the bills.

Harriet Tubman will replace Andrew Jackson on the front of the $20 bill, but an image of Jackson and the White House will remain on the back of the bill. The $10 bill will have womens rights activists Lucretia Mott, Sojourner Truth, Susan B. Anthony, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Alice Paul on the back, and Alexander Hamilton will remain on the front. The $5 bill will feature Martin Luther King Jr., Marian Anderson and Eleanor Roosevelt, with Lincoln still remaining on the front.

According to the US Department of Treasury website, the currency of the country represents what America values and honors. The multitude of feedback from many Americans helped the treasury redesign the bills.

Americans played a role in choosing the candidates for the new dollar bills through social media posts, web campaigns and debates. The input was taken into consideration, and ultimately the choice was made by measuring what each person meant to the country.

Freshman Lauren Hando believes that the new faces on the bills were chosen to shed light on equality and some underappreciated yet significant events in history.

“Money has such a huge impact in society.

We use it every day, so I think it’s a huge honor for a women to be represented on it.”

-freshman Lauren Hando

PHOTO COURTESY OF WOMEN ON THE 20.

Harriet Tubman will be featured on the front of the new $20 bill. The changes coming to the $5, $10 and $20 bills were made using public input and are meant to bring more representation to U.S. currency.

According to an April 21 Washington Post article, the $20 bill, with Tubman on the front, will be a big step in the nation’s road to gender and race equality.

Tubman helped many slaves escape to freedom and supported women’s right to vote. Tubman will not only be the first African American to be on U.S. paper money, she will also be the first woman to be on paper currency in 100 years.

“Money has such a huge impact in society,” Hando said. “We use it every day, so I think it’s a huge honor for a women to be represented on it,” According to the Washington Post article, Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew’s first plan for the redesign of the $10 bill was to remove Alexander Hamilton and replace him with a woman. However, he received

complaints due to the popularity of the hit Broadway musical Hamilton.

The musical Hamilton received a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, along with other widespread critical acclaim.

“I think Hamilton deserved to stay on the bill because he created the entire monetary system, also he’s a better example of the ‘American Dream,’ immigrating to America and being successful, than a lot of other people,” junior Isabel Berard said.

According to the U.S. Department of Treasury, the $10 bill will lead to more recognition for the 1913 March and leaders of the women’s suffrage movement who helped influence the

passing of the 19th Amendment.

“The change will help women’s rights because pretty much 50 percent of the population is female, and there isn’t much money with women on it.

The lack of representation on money currently is bad.” Berard said. “This is big step for women.”

According to the Washington Post article, Lew promised that the designs of the new bills will be finished by at least 2020, the 100th anniversary of the passage of the 19th Amendment. The design and production of the new bills is already underway, and the premiere for the new bills will take place on the anniversary of the passage of the women’s right to vote.

Thought You Had Seen the Last of Them? Cicadas Return

By Drew Ingall Social Media Editor Nature is filled with so many beautiful things: flowers, trees, birds and butterflies. But those aren’t the only things that rise from the soil...

This month, after 17 years under the radar, Brood V Cicadas, disruptive, big, and noisy, are expected to hit certain parts of Maryland as well as other areas across the U.S. According to an April 15 Washington Post article, the cicadas will emerge in the billions in certain areas of Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia.

They come out of when the soil temperature rises to 64 degrees. However, it is still unclear whether cicadas will hit Montgomery County.

According to a cicada-dedicated website called Cicada Mania, Garrett County is a definite target for the cicada invasion, but this year, the D.C./ Metro area may get lucky and avoid their path.

Marking their mating season, these insects come out of the ground on a 17-year cycle, swarming by the billions.

According to the Washington Post article, cicadas will get bigger over time and issue “deafening” cries as the males attempt to find female cicadas to mate with.

Cicadas are characterized by their

hard shell, huge wings, and big red eyes that pop out of their heads, and no matter how many times people see these bugs, they don’t seem to get any more comfortable with them. Even adults, who have seen them before, are disturbed by their appearance.

“I am not a fan of cicadas,” CHS parent Dara Freeman said. “Their big red eyes creep me out.”

Each cicadas can lay up to 400 eggs, according to the Washington Post, and then die, leaving behind exoskeletons in the streets. Hear that crunch beneath your feet?

“I couldn’t even walk on my driveway to get to the main road for fear of them crawling on my feet,” Freeman said. “Our driveway was covered.”

As gross and bothersome as they are, cicadas also provide many benefits to the environment. They are a link in the food chain, providing a feast for other animals in the ecosystem every 17 years.

“A lot of people don’t realize that there are both annual and cyclical cicadas,” AP Environmental Science teacher Gary Rogers said. “They are a part of the food web every year, though some years more abundant than others.”

While some people might be dreading the resurfacing of this breed of cicadas, others are having an opposite reaction.

“I’m not sure what it is about them, but ever since I was little, I’ve been interested by them,” sophomore Riley Albert said.

Cicadas are also considered a delicacy in some cultures, so if you’re looking for something new to eat, you can try the big bug with bulging red eyes.

According to Rogers, if someone were to eat a cicada, it would be “a great source of protein.”

They may be nutritious, but that doesn’t mean they taste good.

“One flew into my mouth once,”

freshman Jimmy Jin said, “At first it was sweet, but then it became bitter.”

Whether they are a delectable treat for some, or a noisy intrusion for others, get ready CHS. The forecast for these giant insects is still up in the air --they could miss us or swarm us.

“I’m super-excited,” Albert said. “I think it will be fun.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS.

Brood V Cicads will be reappearing after 17 years underground.

10

May 26, 2016

Features

Becca’s Closet Promises The long gowns that most girls

By Julia Lescht Social Media Editor

purchase and wear can be expensive.

Dresses from popular designers and brands such as Jovani and Sherri Hill can cost between $50 to $500, with the most popular dresses lying somewhere in the middle.

Not everyone can afford such expensive dresses, and the pressure and cost of doing so may prevent students from attending prom. Many girls purchase the “perfect” dress, wear it once

It’s finally the end of the year—the

for the occasion, then put it in their

seniors are nearly gone by the way of

closet where it won’t be looked at

senioritis and are gearing up to leave

until 10 years from now to reminisce

CHS for good, all symbolized by the

over old times. Instead of letting the

ultimate high school cliché of all high

dress collect dust, an alternative is to

school clichés: prom.

donate used dresses to a charity that

May 20 was senior prom, which marks the end of high school for se-

BLIZZARD F BRYNN URTESY O CO TO O PH

collects and passes them on to high schoolers who cannot afford one.

“A dress is an aspect of prom or

niors. It’s an event for which girls of-

Becca’s Closet is a nonprofit orga- homecoming that should not be ig-

ten spend an enormous amount of

nization that is dedicated to donating nored,” said Walter Johnson junior

time preparing; they need the perfect

new and gently used formal dresses Brynn Blizzard, president of the Mary-

Craft Cleaners, Walter Johnson High

shoes, perfect makeup, perfect hair,

to high school girls who cannot afford land chapter of Becca’s Closet. “Our

School, Crest Cleaners and Starbucks

and most importantly: the perfect

one. They have chapters, which are goal is to help those girls feel comfort-

on Darnestown Road in Gaithersburg.

dress.

school clubs that collect dresses from able and happy with the dress they

Going to high school events is an

“It’s definitely important to find the

drop boxes at different locations in have on.”

opportunity that many people lack

perfect dress and one that you love,”

the area, all across the U.S. The closest

The Walter Johnson chapter has

the resources and money to do, and

senior Danielle Marks said. “The first

chapter to CHS is one at Walter John- several drop-off locations in the area

simply donating one’s dress provides

thing I think of when I think of prom is

son High School. The chapters hold including My Best Friend’s Closet, On

other girls such opportunities.

the long dress you get to wear.”

donation drives to collect dresses.

LE MENKART PHOTO COURTESY OF NICO

Nicole Menkart.

Seniors Mark Weinstein and

Cloud 9, Zohra Hair Salon, Fashion

“I would definitely consider donat-

d Sahara Mokhtari.

Seniors Kayla Mazer an

MOKHTARI PHOTO COURTESY OF SAHARA

May 26, 2016

11

Features

s A Memorable Night has embedded itself into the overall experience.

“Having the memory of going to prom is more important than the dress,” Marks said. “I think the dress does have some sentimental value and if I did still have it when I was older it would be fun to see it and think of the night, but I’ll always remember the night with pictures and by reminiscing with my friends.”

There are other objects that can replace the dress as a souvenir that can carry more sentimental and PHOTO C OURTES Y OF BR YNN BLI ZZARD

nostalgic value such as pictures, which not only capture the dress itself but the exact moment in which

who do not have much control over

it was happening. The dress itself

their income,” Blizzard said. “This

can remind one of that night, but it

allows the girl to enjoy her prom

does not distinctly show a girl the

The dress is embedded into the

night as every girl should.”

way she looked in it or who she was

experience, though it does not de-

Movies and pop culture have al-

with, nor does it show her the fun

fine the experience nor does it solely

ing my dress afterwards,” Marks

most romanticized the idea of prom

she had. The only detail it distinctly

symbolize the memory. To provide

said. “Otherwise it could just be sit-

being the “perfect” night, with mag-

illustrates from prom is that she

someone a dress who otherwise

ting in the closet.”

azines such as Seventeen focusing

wore that dress.

could not afford one provides them

from the night.”

The chapters across the country

especially on the quest for the “per-

“The memory of prom will al-

collect and distribute dresses locally.

fect” dress. While it is not complete-

ways be better than keeping the

“I know what it feels like to dress

Each one depends on individual do-

ly crucial to have the most amazing

dress,” senior Nicole Menkart said.

up for a night,” Blizzard said. “It’s

nations whether in the form of dress-

dress in order to have an amazing

“Of course the dress can serve as a

beyond amazing to see how happy

es or even money.

night, it has become a component

memento but so can other things

the girls get when they try on their

that many girls look forward to as it

such as the prom ticket or pictures

dress.”

“The organization helps those

the opportunity of the experience.

IELlE MARKS PHOTO COURTESY OF DAN

Zoe Glick, lle Marks, Emily Lundin, nie Da i, ar th Ko na Ni rs Senio ison Kanstoroom.

Emily Birnbaum and Mad

PHOTO COURTESY OF MEREDITH SROUR

Seniors Meredith Srour and Chloe Levy.

12

Features

May 26, 2016

Student Art Spotlight: Alex Zarynow

By Sarah O’Brien Balbina Yang Arts Editors For some people, it’s all about the music, the dance moves or the food.

However, for senior Alex Zarynow, it’s all about the pictures.

Although he is in Photography 1, Zarynow is self-taught and began taking photos during his junior year at CHS. Ever since, he has won awards, such as in the Congressional Art Competition, and garnered attention in the community for his photos.

“I am inspired by the little things in life,” Zarynow said. “I love details and trying to see the little things that no one else really notices.”

Zarynow focuses on reality, and his captions are based on either his own thoughts or the subjects he takes photos of.

“I take real life pictures more than abstract because there is beauty in our reality that most people just don’t see, and I want to show them what it is they are missing,” Zarynow said. “Anyone can take a photo of something random and abstract, but it takes the right eye to see real life.”

According to Zarynow, his captions are based on his emotions of that photo and the emotions he wants the viewer to get from the photo, After only about a year and a half, his photography has developed into a new stage; one of Zarynow’s pieces, titled “Gentle Reminders,” won the Congressional Art Competition hosted

by Congressman John Delaney. The photograph, of the canal at Great Falls in Maryland, will also be featured in the United States Capitol for one year.

Moreover, his photography has been showcased at Johns Hopkins University at Shady Grove during its “Color Me” photo contest.

With such success after a short period of time, Zarynow credits his friends and family for helping him reach new heights in his work.

“My friends and family have been a huge part of my work,” Zarynow said.

“Whether they help me come up with ideas, be my assistants on photo shoots, let me use them as models, or critique my work so I can become better, they truly have been the backbone of my photography, and I can’t thank them enough.”

According to Zarynow, Vincent Van Gogh is his favorite artist because of the intricate, meaningful details that his paintings have, and the way that every detail is significant to the overall effect of the piece.

Zarynow’s first photography teacher, Amy Gilbert, enjoys having him as a student.

“He’s very passionate with getting his work to look the way he wants,” Gilbert said. “He has great ideas and works really hard to make them the way he imagined.”

Fellow photographer and senior Lucy Bedewi has been working closely with Zarynow for various projects, from Consensus to Midnight Writers.

“Alex is pure passion,” Bedewi said. “Everything he does comes from his heart, especially his photography.

When he is behind the camera you can feel his love and commitment both during a photoshoot and again when you look at the beautiful photo he creates.

Alex as a person, separate from his photos is kind, generous, loyal and the best friend you could ever ask for.”

Zarynow plans on pursuing his passion at Slippery Rock University, as he will be minoring in the fine arts.

PHOTOS COURTSEY OF ALEX ZARYNOW.

Zarynow poses with Congressman John Delaney at the Congressional Art Competition. Zarynow’s photography is pictured below.

May 26, 2016

13

Arts

Beefsteak Brings Vegetables into the Spotlight

By Anna Baranko Social Media Editor A new restaurant in Montgomery Mall is not a new phenomenon, but Beefsteak, set to open in the food court this summer, is trying to set itself apart from other restaurants by offering vegetables as the main focus of its meals.

“The philosophy behind Beefsteak is that vegetables can be the star of the show,” said Beefsteak’s Director of Operations Jim Biafore. “They’re colorful, bold, flavorful and packed with nutrients. Our goal is to bring veggies to the center of the plate and deliver good food, fast.”

At Beefsteak, customers can make a bowl, similar to that of Chipotle or Cava, or they can opt for a “burger” with a vegetable as the patty. If the customer chooses a bowl, he or she selects a grain, some vegetables, a housemade sauce, a protein and some extra toppings. The proteins offered at Beefsteak include salmon, poached egg, mozzarella cheese, chicken or avocado.

“Whether you are an avid meat eater, vegan or anything in between, Beefsteak is so customizable that anyone can enjoy it,” Biafore said. “We love vegetables, but above all, we love good food, and our concept is about letting those vegetables shine to showcase their unique fresh flavor.”

Beefsteak is the creation of celebrity chef Jose Andres. Andres has many other popular restaurants in this area including Jaleo, Minibar and Zaytinya.

There are currently two Beefsteak locations, one in Dupont Circle and one at George Washington University. Another location is set to open in Tenleytown.

According to sophomore Isabel Hertz, there are not many restaurant

options for vegetarians like her, so she really likes the idea of having a restaurant that focuses on vegetables rather than meat.

The vegetables and the “burger” patties at Beefsteak change to accommodate the season. They are currently serving a tomato patty, while in the

winter they serve beet patties.

One might wonder why the name is Beefsteak since it seems quite odd for a mostly vegetarian restaurant to name itself after a cut of meat, but the name Beefsteak refers to a beefsteak tomato, not meat.

“People who are meat-eaters just

don’t think you can have a good meal that is vegetarian.” English teacher Mary Dempsey said. “So if they try it out and have a good meal that’s vegetarian, they’re more likely to cut back on their own consumption.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF CREATIVE COMMONS.

Beefsteak, which takes its name from beefsteak tomatoes, is opening soon in the Montgomery Mall food court. It currently has locations in Dupont Circle and at George Washington University. Created by Jose Andres, Beefsteak’s menu focuses on vegetables but still provides options for those who eat meat.

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Arts

May 26, 2016

‘Lemonade’ Quenches Beyoncé Fans’ Thirst

By Dani Miller Production Editor

With Beyoncé’s sixth solo album, Lemonade, she proves once again why she is “Queen Bey.” Similar to its predecessor, the 2013 self-titled full-length release, Beyoncé, Beyoncé’s Lemonade is a visual album as much as it is auditory. Preceded by the feminist anthem, “Formation,” as the lead single, Lemonade veers from social commentary and tackles personal issues head on, proving that everyone, even pop culture’s unofficial royal family, has to deal with their own “Becky with the good hair.”

Lemonade transcends genres, ranging from reggae to synth-rock to country.

Over the course of her career, Beyoncé’s fame has risen to such incredible heights that many people view her as untouchable. Perhaps that is partly why this album resonates so deeply with CHS students. Through Lemonade, Beyoncé, a woman of divine status, grapples with one of the most timeless, universal and human struggles: infidelity.

Beyoncé wastes no time revealing the overlying subject of this album, opening up the first song of Lemonade, “Pray You Catch Me,” with the poignant lyrics, “You can taste the dishonesty, it’s all over your breath.”

These words not only provide insight into how honest and raw the rest of the album will be, but they also paint a vivid picture.

In “Pray You Catch Me,” Beyoncé is singing from a state of utter desperation, where she’s hoping, even praying that her implied husband Jay Z, acknowledges the pain he’s inflicted on

her. However, the next four songs on her album steer into a completely different direction.

Beyoncé changes the pace of the album with the song “Hold Up.” Unlike the previous song, in which she feels empty and broken without him, “Hold Up” assures Jay Z that he is never going to find a woman like her, promising him “They don’t love you like I love you.”

This same mindset is evident in the next two tracks, “Don’t Hurt Yourself,” featuring The White Stripes

are undisputably the weakest part.

The least memorable track off of the entire album, “6 inch,” featuring The Weeknd, is, memorable only for The Weeknd’s transcendent vocals, and the video paired with it. With the next song, “Daddy Lessons,” Beyoncé adds diversity to the record with a country track about her father. This song is a love letter of sorts to her father, but it also confronts the parallels between his infidelity and Jay’s infidelity. Although this song alone is strong both lyrically and vocally, it feels misplaced on an

PHOTO COURTESY OF CREATIVE COMMONS.

Lemonade is currently in the top 10 of downloaded albums on iTunes . frontman Jack White, and “Sorry.” Not only are these songs the most angry, raw, and unapologetic on the entire album—Beyoncé actually croons “I ain’t sorry”—they are also the most sonically adventurous. The sound is as loud, pounding and as relentless as the lyrics it accompanies, adding to the narrative being told.

“Sorry” also gifts us with the most memorable one liner off the entire album, when Beyoncé warns Jay Z that she knows about his side girl—¨you better call Becky with the good hair.”

The next two songs on the album

album solely about her relationship issues with her husband.

The pure anger, mistrust and lack of foundation that a marriage should be built on is so evident in the first half of the record that it would be foolish to believe Beyoncé’s planning on staying with Jay Z. At one point in the HBO special, she even claims that she “regrets the night [she] put that ring on.”

However, it is not until the second half of the album that you realize that Lemonade is not about breaking up, but rather about moving forward, even in the hardest of times.

On “Love Drought,” Beyoncé does one of the hardest things to do for someone who has hurt you--admit they’re trying. She assures Jay Z that “you and me could stop this love drought,” inferring that their love for each other is so strong that they can overcome the hardships their relationship has been facing lately.

While the bulk of Lemonade is about overcoming personal struggles, the next song, “Freedom,” featuring Kendrick Lamar, is about overcoming political struggles. With this track, Beyoncé demands America to start respecting black people. Lemonade is rife with allusions to black resistance movements throughout history.

Beyoncé uses a Malcolm X quote in “Hold Up,” and later, she is dancing atop the seats of a public bus, insisting she “ain’t sorry,” drawing parallels to Rosa Parks.

The album ends with her single, “Formation,” an upbeat song about loving yourself and your heritage. It also brings the project full circle, as Beyoncé starts off with a feeling of worthlessness and emptiness without her husband, and ends with a message of self love and female empowerment. ​On a surface level, Lemonade does exactly what good music is supposed to do. It tells a dynamic story and connects with the listener. However, this album does so much more.

Athough Lemonade tells a story that is personal to Beyoncé, it tells the story in a way that is honest and so real that it simultaneously tells the story of millions around the world. Lemonade is more than music. It is both universal and timeless, and will be a considered a coveted classic for years to come. All hail Queen Bey.

May 26, 2016

Arts

15

‘Observer’ Sits Down with Actor Ben Feldman

By Thomas Atkinson News Editor Sarah O’Brien Arts Editor

PHOTO BY SARAH O’BRIEN.

CHS alumnus Ben Feldman is a television and film actor in such shows as Mad Men, Silicon Valley and Cloverfield. Though he has done endless interviews, the Observer had the privilege of interviewing Feldman recently.

Feldman jogged to CHS from his father’s house in the Inverness neighborhood of Potomac for the interview. His bubbly attitude exuded and as a result, the interview felt as though we were talking to an old friend rather than an actor who has appeared on Broadway.

Because Feldman was eager to see where he started in the spotlight, we conducted the interview in the auditorium in order to bring back the memories of his teen years. As a performer in Blast, One Acts, several plays and even a brief stint as a soccer player, Feldman was active in the CHS community.

“Everything looks different,” Feldman said of CHS. “Money has been put everywhere except for the auditorium.”

Feldman asked about changes to Blast and how the shows have been in recent years. He explained to us how, back in his day, the show would feature skits in between numbers and would have student hosts.

“We did little skits in between songs,” Feldman said. “My buddy Randell and I started writing stuff for it, and it became these long monologues and told stories about the ‘50s and ‘60s and jokes.”

Although he may not have been certain about becoming an actor, Feldman knew he would pursue some career in the arts.

“When I was a little kid I was obsessed with dead rock stars and painting,” Feldman said. “I thought I would be some type of visual artist.”

Feldman had some doubts about his future in acting when he nearly did not get a part in the CHS student-actedand-directed skit show One Acts.

“The theater teacher would not cast me,” Feldman said. ”When I was a freshman and sophomore, I auditioned and auditioned and auditioned,

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FINEST HOURS.

Top: Feldman pictured during his years at CHS, featured in various school productions and spending time with friends. Above: Feldman in the CHS auditorium during the interview. reminiscing about high school. and never got anything except for like background, background, background. One Acts came around and I remember being like ‘I’m going to bail on this acting thing if I don’t get something.’ There’s like a million parts, and children are casting them. If I don’t get into one of those, I’m saying ‘Forget it, I’m done with acting.’ Everyone else was the main character and then I was the weird one that came in for like a second. And then from there, I started doing slightly bigger parts in musicals or plays and then Blast.”

Although the CHS theater department may wish that they could have been the first person to introduce acting to Feldman, he actually started at a local summer camp.

“I was maybe like 7 and obnoxious and this counselor was like, ‘This kid is loud and obnoxious, do you want to do that in front of an audience?’ And so I was Rooster in Annie. From then on I was always doing that stuff,” Feldman said.

Feldman attended Ithaca College in New York and pursued a major in the arts.

“I loved it there,” Feldman said.

“Their theater department is fantastic.

I go back and speak there all the time. I love those kids.”

While in his senior year of college, Feldman auditioned for The Graduate on Broadway and made it all the way to being one of the final two picks. He lost the role to How I Met Your Mother’s Josh Radnor, but ended up becom-

ing his understudy.

From there, Feldman continued his passion and went on to star in different TV shows and movies.

He came back to Gaithersburg, MD in 2013 to marry Maryland native Michelle Mulitz, who went to Carnegie Mellon to also pursue acting, but later decided to pursue interior design and architecture. He now lives in Los Angeles with Mulitz.

While some of the work may be tedious, he still enjoys his profession to this day.

“I like make-believe; I like pretending to be other things,” Feldman said.”You get to live a lot of lives when you are an actor.”

16

Arts

May 26, 2016

CHS Students Have Their Eyes on ‘Hamilton’

By Dani Miller Production Editor

Prepare to learn about our founding fathers as you never have before.

Based off the novel Hamilton by Ron Chernow, composer and lead actor Lin Manuel Miranda’s Broadway play Hamilton humorously and poetically delves into the life of America’s often forgotten founding father, Alexander Hamilton. Blending the history and language of the Revolutionary War era with the music and politics of today, Hamilton becomes a timeless cultural masterpiece.

Hamilton has already made history.

It recieved the Pulitzer Prize for best drama, and currently holds the record for most Tony nominations, with a staggering 16. It undoubtedly deserves all the recognition it has receieved.

The curtains open to an energetic and informative hip hop number, “Alexander Hamilton.” The musical number sets the exposition and describes how Alexander Hamilton went from his immigrant orphan life to that of an American hero.

Hamilton has a brilliant soundtrack.

With standout songs including “Satisfied,” beautifully sung by Renee Elise Goldsberry (The Good Wife), and “The Room Where it Happens,” sung by Leslie Odom Jr. (Smash), this audacious soundtrack infuses traditional Broadway music, hip hop and poetry to create a cutting edge sound with something for everyone to enjoy.

Following our founding fathers, this play takes risks that separate it from any

other musical.

One of the biggest risks that Hamilton takes is casting well-known historical figures as different races and ethnicities. Most of the lead actors are black, but portray white characters, such as Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Aaron Burr. Miranda, who plays Alexander Hamilton, is Puerto Rican. The only white lead in the play is Jonathan Groff, who portrays King George III. According to freshman Josie Bourel-

ly, Hamilton “breaks all the stereotypes.

The play tells history by the people of the present.”

Since the nature of this show is political, it makes sense that this musical’s cast is so diverse. While the play does delve into the politics of the Revolutionary War era with great depth, it also highlights the issues facing our current nation such as immigration. Although inserting politics in a play is bold and often polarizing, if done right, it adds cultural significance to the show and

connects the past to the present.

Hamilton connects the Revolutionary War era to modern times in a way that Broadway has never seen before.

Hamilton succeeds in breaking down the wall of time, portraying these historical figures who lived so long ago as interesting characters rather than old white men from a textbook.

The character development in the musical plays a huge role in breaking this wall. Hamilton, Jefferson and Burr were not perfect, contrary to what one’s history teacher may say. In the play, these men deal with issues relating to rivalry, relationships and jealousy, among other conflicts that many people today can relate to. They got themselves into just as many bad situations as they did good, and they evolve as the play proceeds.

Hamilton has also changed the way teachers teach history.

According to AP U.S. History teacher Rodney Van Tassell, he used the song, “Cabinet Battle #1” to help his students understand Hamilton’s fiscal plan.

AP U.S. History teacher Amanda Marshall used clips from Hamilton as well in her class.

“The students really enjoy these clips,” Marshall said.

A question that was echoed by every character throughout the play was the question of who will live, who will die and who will tell their story. Director Thomas Kail, Miranda and the rest of the cast told the story of Alexander Hamilton in the most accurate and heartfelt way possible, and Alexander Hamilton can now rest easy, knowing that his story has been told.

Bethesda or D.C. The Irish-theme of Lahinch Tavern and Grill is based on the owner’s heritage.

“We wanted a similar concept as the Irish Inn,” Nolan said. “Three of the owners here are Irish.”

The name “Lahinch” also comes from the owner’s Irish roots. Lahinch the name of a a famous golf course and town in Ireland that is known for its surfing.

“We have lots of pictures on the walls of the restaurant of Lahinch golf course and several other golf courses around the country,” Nolan said.

Lahinch, despite being Irish-themed, also has an American influence. A majority of the restaurant’s menu is regional American food.

Lahinch has a variety of different options including steak, fish, soups, sandwiches and even some vegan options.

A section of their menu is also dedicated to traditional Irish food.

The restaurant itself also has a strong Irish vibe. The restaurant’s wooden

walls and large wooden bar closely resemble a traditional Irish pub.

According to Nolan, the restaurant also hopes to include live entertainment

with local country and folk acts.

Lahinch offers visitors to the Cabin John Mall not only new food but also a new experience.

PHOTO BY DANI MILLER.

Hamilton is currently playing at the Richard Rogers Theatre on Broadway. It is coming to the Kennedy Center for the 2017-2018 season.

Irish Restaurant Lahinch opens at Cabin John

By Joe Raab Social Media Editor Cabin John Mall’s new restaurant is bringing a new dining concept to the Potomac scene.

Taking over the area formerly occupied by Benny’s Bar and Grill, Lahinch Tavern and Grill opened April 20 and is an Irish-inspired restaurant and bar founded by the same owners of the Irish Inn at Glen Echo.

“We’ve been looking for a second location for a similar concept restaurant and bar for the last couple years,” owner and general manager Barry Nolan said.

The Cabin John location suited all of their needs, including a large bar and separate restaurant area.

According to Nolan, this area was also chosen for the large number of parking spaces right outside the restaurant, which helps to make the restaurant more appealing to people who do not want to struggle to find parking in

PHOTO BY JOE RAAB.

Replacing Benny’s Bar and Grill, Lahinch Tavern and Grill opened April 20 and features American, traditional Irish and even vegan cuisine.

May 26, 2016

Sports

Tennis Wins Singles and Doubles County Titles

By Sophie Liss Social Media Editor

The boys tennis team won Counties May 9-16, beating out Wootton, Whitman, and other schools in division one of MCPS boys tennis.

Sophomore Drew Ingall won his individual bracket for singles, and senior captains Mark Dager and Ethan Kauffman, senior Austin Yang and freshman Petar Djekic won their doubles brackets.

“Overall I think the season went really well,” Kauffman said of the team’s 10-1 regular season record. “We had a very strong lineup, and even though we lost to Whitman, it was a very close match.”

The players and the coach of the team have had confidence in the team since the beginning of the season. At the end of the season, the team was ranked second in the county behind Whitman.

“At tryouts I believed we were the best team in the county,” coach Neale Castillo said.

With a roster of 28 players, the team was quite large, compared to last year when there were only 16 players at the beginning of the season.

“The team this year was big, so that affected the ability for all of us to bond well,” Dager said.

While singles players on the tennis

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARK DAGER.

Senior Mark Dager serves the ball during a match. Dager and his doubles partner senior Austin Yang won their doubles bracket at Counties. team play alone, the team still practices together.

According to Castillo, in order to prepare singles players for matches, he works with them on fitness and on-court skills. To prepare doubles partners, he tries to build a connection between players as the season

progresses.

Following a successful regular season, the team did not modify much of its training to prepare for Counties.

“Nothing really changes in terms of preparation,” Castillo said. “I try my best to help keep everyone focused on each match rather than looking ahead

17

and underestimating any early round opponents.”

Five players on the team were ranked the number one seed in their separate brackets for counties. Ingall was ranked number one for bracket four of singles, Dager and Yang were number one in bracket one of doubles, and Kaufmann and Djekic were ranked first in bracket two of doubles.

“All of these players were undefeated in the regular season,” Dager said. “Our team is really deep this year, so people were able to play lower positions when they usually would play higher, so it was easy to beat teams, especially in our doubles.”

Although the team had great success throughout the entire year, players can point out a few specific wins that meant the most to them.

“We beat BCC, 7-0, and they beat us last year 5-2, so it was a great redemption win,” Dager said.

The team is already looking ahead to next year’s season and hoping to be as successful as this year.

“The team will improve because of the freshmen coming to Churchill next year,” sophomore captain William Karpinski said. “A lot of kids got to practice with the team and play in some matches so we will be one of the deepest teams in Montgomery County.”

Female Ice Hockey Player Commits to Play in College

By Ben Dross Sports Section Editor Senior Madison Farrand has committed to the Rochester Institute of Technology to play women’s ice hockey.

Playing for the CHS Varsity I ice hockey team, Farrand had 15 points in 16 games for the Bulldogs this season, which is impressive considering she missed the beginning of the season with a concussion. Her reliable output helped

the Bulldogs go 21-1-1 this season on their way to their third state championship in four years.

“I was really excited,” Farrand said. “RIT was the best fit hockey and academic wise.”

With many major hockey prep schools in the northern United States and Canada, private schools in the area, and talent from across Europe, it is extremely difficult to earn a scholarship to a Division I hockey school.

Farrand is the only one on this year’s’

team to do it, and she’s excited to take the next step.

“Women’s scholarship players for hockey [are] extremely rare in Maryland,” athletic director Scott Rivinius said.

While Farrand did play for CHS for one season, she also primarily played for the Washington Pride, an all girls travel hockey team.

“I expect it to be a huge challenge for me,” Farrand said. “I’m excited to learn and [see] what’s to come.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF STEPHEN FARRAND.

Senior Madison Farrand signs.

18

Sports

May 26, 2016

Boys Lax Takes Home Regional Championship

By Ben Dross Sports Editor

The boys lacrosse team wrapped up an impressive season, making it all the way to the state semifinals in dominant fashion.

Unfortunately, the season ended with a disappointing loss in the state semifinals to Severna Park, 10-5, May 21.

“We had a great season with a lot of outstanding memories that I’ll remember forever,” senior captain Cristian Edwards said. “Although the team is losing multiple graduating starters, there is still a core group of young talent that I fully expect to make a run at states again next year. They’ll be riding a 25game county unbeaten streak into next season, and will be very fun to watch.”

Although their postseason performance fell short of expectations, the Bulldogs were dominant in the regular season. The team’s closest game against any public school in the regular season was decided by nine goals, resulting in a 14-1 regular season record. The squad’s 149 goal differential and 76 goals allowed ranked first in MCPS while their 225 goals scored ranked third.

“We have the talent, we have extremely motivated kids, great coaching, and support from the other kids in the school,” sophomore defenseman and Brown University commit Jack Taylor said.

The team built off of a successful 2015 campaign, in which they finished as state runners up, losing to Howard High School of Baltimore County. Last year, the Bulldogs sported a 16-2 record en route to capturing the number one seed for the MCPS playoffs. This year, the team achieved that honor again. The team was determined to avenge last season’s defeat.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JACK TAYLOR.

Sophomore Jack Taylor (center), senior Markus Hurd (left) and senior Zach Ruvo (right) play defense during a game against Landon, the Bulldogs’ only regular season loss.

“We have all of the basics, we just need to fine tune our chemistry and communication,” Taylor said. “It’s all about polishing what we already have and showing the work that we’ve put in during the offseason.”

Taylor is one of three college commits on CHS’s league-leading defense, joined by Penn State commit sophomore Jimmy Rubino and Syracuse commit Edwards. The total roster boasts an impressive six players that have committed to play in college.

“Players like [junior] Spencer Knife [Towson University] and [senior] Austin Laborwit [Trinity College] have made huge impacts this year with both

their play on the field and their leadership,” said sophomore and Brown University commit Reed Moshyedi.

The team’s third-ranked offense has been a big reason for its success as well.

The squad boasts five of the county’s top 25 scorers, goals and assists combined, in senior Chris Higgins (68 points), Moshyedi (62 points), sophomore Brady Altobello (50 points), sophomore Ryan Leonard (48 points), and junior Spencer Knife (47 points).

As effective as its offense is, defense wins games, and CHS has proved that.

They have allowed the fewest goals of any team in MCPS this season.

“There is no doubt we have very

strong individual players, but just like the offense, everyone has bought into the team concept,” head coach Jeffrey Fritz said. “Our new defensive coordinator, Brian Megill, has done a fantastic job bringing new concepts to our team, but he really has the team communicating on the field very well so everyone is on the same page, resulting in very few defensive breakdowns during our games.”

A complete team top to bottom, the team earned a bye in the first round of the playoffs and defeated rival Wootton on their way to the semifinals.

“The experience we gained has and will really help us,” Moshyedi said.

May 26, 2016

Sports

19

Assistant Track Coach to Compete in Olympics

By Ethan C. Miller Staff Writer

CHS long jump and triple jump coach Muhammad Halim qualified to compete for the U.S. Virgin Islands at the 2016 Rio Olympics after competing at the Morgan State Legacy meet in April.

Born in St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, Halim moved to New York when he was 7 years old and began his jumping career in eighth grade. Since then, he hasn’t looked back, winning the 2008 NCAA triple jump championship for Cornell University, and in the same year setting the Ivy League triple jump record at 16.59 meters. Halim held this record for one year until it was broken

by Harvard student Samyr Laine. Additionally, Halim competed in the 2012 Olympic Games in London. Although he has lived the majority of his life in the U.S., Halim is proud to represent the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI).

“It’s always an honor,” Halim said about representing his country. “I have an understanding that it’s bigger than myself.”

Halim set a personal record of 16.99 meters at the Morgan State Legacy meet, breaking his USVI national record and qualifying him for this year’s upcoming Olympic Games in Rio. According to the St. Croix Source, an online newspaper in St. Croix, his jump tied him for the third best jump in the world this year.

According to Halim, his past success has given him the confidence to continue competing.

“If I hadn’t qualified for London, I’m sure I would have retired from the sport and moved on,” Halim said. “But because I had success there and knew that there was more in the tank I had the confidence in myself to keep going.”

However, confidence alone is not going to win him an Olympic medal.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ELISABETH KAN.

CHS long and triple jump coach Muhammad Halim (bottom) will represent USVI in Rio this summer.

Halim believes that he still has a lot of training left to do.

“I’m going back to a lot of general training, just trying to get a little bit faster and stronger,” Halim said. “I’m doing a lot of sprinting and lifting.”

In addition to his his own training, Halim has trained some of the long/ triple jumpers at CHS for three years and additionally is in his first year as an assistant track coach at Walter Johnson. Halim trained senior and long/ triple jumper Elisabeth Kan, who fully credits her success in the sport to Halim.

Arguably the best female long/triple jumper currently at CHS, Kan has performed exceptionally this season,

putting up the seventh best triple jump and sixth best long jump marks for females in CHS history.

“His love for track has rubbed off on me,” Kan said. “I found a love for the sport that not many people do.”

Halim also coached sophomore jumper Brendan Tan, who said his performance improved greatly this season as a result of Halim’s coaching.

According to Tan, Halim pushed him to work harder by giving unique workouts and drills at practice. Halim has also helped Tan improve by teaching him the mental side of the sport.

Halim’s coaching has enabled Tan to reach his personal best marks this season, which include the fourth best

triple jump and the sixth best long jump for males in CHS history. This season, Tan trails senior Ethan Liu, another one of Halim’s trainees, who holds the CHS all-time record for triple jump and fifth place mark for long jump.

According to Halim, his favorite part about coaching is seeing people achieve things that they did not think were possible.

Hopefully this summer, Halim’s mentees as well as the rest of his supporters will be able to see Halim achieve what most people believe to be one of the greatest and most difficult feats that an athlete can achieve.

“I really appreciate all the support that I get,” Halim said.

Ultimate Frisbee Petitions MCPS for Official Sport Status

PHOTO COURTESY OF JACOB GLASSMAN.

Last year’s team poses after its State Championship appearance. This year’s team is preparing for States.

By Will Hyland Production Editor The idea that ultimate frisbee would become a recognized MCPS sport has been tossed around for a while, and with the recent announcement by the

Olympic committee declaring frisbee an olympic sport, now may be the most likely time for a change to be made.

CHS ultimate frisbee captain junior Jacob Glassman recently submitted a proposal to the MCPS Athletics Department, asking them to make ultimate frisbee an official sport.

“I’ve talked to some County people, and they like it,” Glassman said.

CHS athletic director Scott Rivinius also believes ultimate frisbee should be considered an MCPS sport.

“I do see it as a sport,” Rivinus said.

“It’s a newer sport, but it’s exciting and incorporates a lot of skill and athleti-

cism.”

Although ultimate frisbee appears to have a valid argument in its attempt to become an official sport in MCPS, it has been hard for clubs to become sports in the past.

“You would be surprised at the number of different requests we have received over the years to add various sports,” said William Beattie, director of MCPS athletics.

However, there is some hope in ultimate frisbee’s chances in becoming an official sport as it meets many of the MCPS parameters.

According to the MCPS Athletics website, ultimate frisbee passes all of the criterion for becoming a sport except Section D, being approved by the chief operating officer, which is part of the proposal submission process.

It’s not only the CHS community that sees ultimate frisbee as a sport as shown in a recent survey.

According to a survey conducted

by Reddit, 80 percent of respondents believe that ultimate frisbee is indeed a sport which is a higher amount than six sports that are currently in the summer or winter Olympics.

If it were to indeed become an official sport in MCPS, ultimate frisbee would immediately become one of CHS’s top athletic teams as they finished runner up in the state tournament last year and all the starting handlers from last years team are returning.

“I think we have potential to win states this year,” Glassman said.

Montgomery County Public Schools Winston Churchill High School 11300 Gainsborough Rd. Potomac, MD 20854

thechurchillobserver.com

May 26, 2016

Volume 40 - Issue 8

By Kyle Emery Sports Editor The girls varsity lacrosse team won regionals this season with the help of senior captain Annie Moshyedi, who lead the team in overall points with 35 goals, 25 assists and 22 ground balls on the season, despite missing last season after tearing her ACL. “Annie provides leadership and is a great role model,” sophomore Faith Kean said.

“She helps run practice and incorporates drills to improve skills we need in the game.”

Moshyedi tore her ACL during a spring break lacrosse tournament, creating a void in last year’s leadership. Moshyedi has been a captain since her freshman year. Despite her absence, the team persevered throughout playoffs, making it to the semifinals where CHS came up short against Whitman.

“Starting this season without having played in a year was tough,” Moshyedi said.

“It took me a while to get back

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on my game, but now I’ve settled back into things, and I don’t even think about my knee when I’m playing.”

Moshyedi played for the MC Elite travel lacrosse team until her injury, where she was able to further improve her skills as well as knowledge on the game.

“Annie started her career focusing on feeding the ball to others, only in the past season has she really taken it upon herself to be the team’s high scorer,” girls lacrosse head coach Jamie Frank said.

Not many athletes at CHS have had the honor and experience of being a four-year varsity team captain. By having this extra component, Moshyedi used her experience for the benefit of the team throughout the playoffs.

“For me, Annie is a role model of what I aspire to be as a player,” Kean said. “She always encourages me and gives me advice in practice and in games.”

The team this year has faced a sufficient amount of competition throughout their 10-4 regular season, encoun-

149- The goal differential for boys varsity lacrosse, best in MCPS 5- Number of 3-0 sweeps for coed volleyball 8- Length of varsity girls lacrosse win streak in April 3- Singles or doubles who won their county brackets

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANNIE MOSHYEDI.

Senior Annie Moshyedi led the girls lacrosse team to a regional championship win over Urbana this season. tering close games with Whitman and Wootton and losing to each team by one goal.

“The team turns to Annie for guidance, leadership,

support and enthusiasm as we move onto the playoffs,” Frank said. “They want to follow her lead, and see where it can take them.”

12- Margin of victory for girls softball in their 17-5 win over Einstein 1- Boys varsity 4x800 relay team in the top 25 all-time at the MCPS championship meet

The ‘Observer’s Picks for Best Team Uniforms

By Jake Herman Public Relations Manager

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRADY ALTOBELLO.

Spring Best Uniform: Boys Varsity Lacrosse Best Look: Green Alternate The boys lacrosse team had several postseason appearances this season, meaning the return of the team’s green alternate jerseys usually seen in some of the team’s biggest games and worn during the state championship last year.

“The new look makes us feel like we have to live up to a certain standard,” sophomore Calvin Piker said. “It sets the tone for us every game to get our heads focused.”

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PHOTO COURTESY OF ELENI TRIANTIS.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PHILIP SATIN.

Winter Best Uniform: Varsity (I) Hockey Best Look: Primary White Uniform The Varsity (I) Hockey team didn’t just win the state championship, they won in style. The white uniforms, which cost extra money for the players due to hockey being a club sport, are a masterpiece.

Featuring a Bulldog with a hockey stick and sets of three widespread and well-placed stripes, the uniform manages to be busy, yet easy on the eyes.

“It has a classic color scheme but a modern logo,” senior Phil Satin said. “We are proud of our history, but it’s all about our future.”

TEAM RECORDS*

Coed: 10-3-1 Boys: 4-7

5-10

Fall Best Uniform: Girls’ Varsity Soccer Best Look: Blue Away Jersey Sometimes, less is more, and the girls soccer Nike away kit illustrates this principle. The look starts with a traditional CHS royal blue jersey, but with a couple of twists, including a new team crest. In lieu of having “Churchill” spelled out across the top, these feature a simple white ‘C.’ This ‘C’ is seen again on the fronts of the team’s green shorts, which contrast nicely with blue socks.

“If we look good, we feel good,” sophomore defender Bergan Babrowicz said. “The new uniforms are more comfortable and better-designed.”

Girls: 11-4 Boys: 14-1

*AS OF 5/23

Boys: 10-1