May 2010

Highland

The

Fling

May 2010

Buh-Buh-Buh-BUDGET Debate

By Amy Wang and Steve Zheng

25 students were polled on budget cuts happening next year. Students were asked,“If you had to choose between cutting administration (staff and teachers), music/art programs, summer activities (such as summer school) and school trips, or extracurriculars, which one would you cut?” Here are their answers:

Administration 17 Students 68%

Music/Arts 2 students 8%

Summer activities/school trips 5 students 20%

Extracurricular 1 student 4% Continued on page 3

The Final “Bye-Bye” For Birdie

By Charlotte Finegold

Even though HPHS’s production of Bye Bye Birdie was technically March 18-20th, members of the cast gave a small encore performance on Tuesday, May 4, 2010, to a very special group of our community: the senior citizens. Right after lunch, several characters from the show, including Rose Alvarez (Jess Nolan), Albert Peterson (Oliver Suskin-Santarelli), Conrad Birdie (Manny Diaz), and Kim MacAfee (Evelyn Chapman), along with many others, dropped their bags and books in Center Hall and walked across town to the Senior Center. Upon our arrival, the fragment of the original cast was greeted with wide smiles, questions from the seniors like, “Are you from the school?” and “You’re performing the songs for us, right?”

We smiled and nodded, and the seniors began to trickle in from bingo games and mystery novels to the main room to watch us. They seemed very enthusiastic- Ms. Jessica Van Etten and Ms. Jennifer Lugo, who worked hard to organize us gaggle of teenagers had made bright posters, and the sign-up sheet for watching us was filled!

Manny Diaz singing “Sincere”

Continued on page 5

It’s Junior Prom! See the full spread on pages 8 and 9

The Mile Long Boyz

Inside...

By Nicky Rawlinson

Feature

10 Things to Do In the Sun p. 1, Son, if you really WARNING, Spring Allergies: want something in p. 2 this life, you have to Entertainment

Iron Man 2/Clash of the Titans work for it. Now quiReviews p. 7 et! They’re about to the Final Bye to Bye-Bye Birdie announce the lottery p. 5 numbers.

From Concert to Concert: Coverage of Jazz Band p. 10 -Homer Simpson

Sports

What’s up in Track, Softball, and Baseball p. 15-16

I can’t say I’ve met too many rappers in my time, but I’ve heard more than enough of them on TV and the radio to know what they are like. Ashton Burrell, or TC-1 as he goes by, is an exception. When Ashton sits down with me to discuss the Mile Long Boyz (comprised of him, AJ Haskins, and Reak Havoc) he smiles, talking about why the Mile Long Boyz are so unique. “The three of us have always been passionate about music,” he tells me. “I wrote my first full song when I was 12, and I knew that when I combined my skills with AJ’s talents we’d have something special.” And special it certainly is.

Just as unique as their down to earth attitude is the Mile Long Boyz’ music. It combines melodic R&B flow with a Hip-Hop beat, and just as their songs catchy, they’re also deep. “We talk about everyday situations,” Ashton says.

... And More!

Volume LX, No. 10

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Continued on page 12 Highland Park High School

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102 North 5 th Avenue, Highland Park, NJ 08904

2 News Rutgers Model Congress 2010

By Saskia Kusnecov

After the devastating cancella- filmed Highland Park Junior Camila tion of February’s Philadelphia Model Marcone for the show of R.M.C. The UN, our Highland Park High School show will include the full package: delegates weren’t sure whether they slow motion entrances, dramatized could get back into the thick of things interviews, scandalous debate details, once the replacement invent was in- and an inside look at our award-wintroduced. Rutgers Model Congress ning delegate at work in her commitseemed a respectable but anti-climatic tee. “It was really cool, you hardly substitute conference for the snowed- ever noticed them. You’d turn around out one we were all so ramped up for. one second and it was like- oh! There’s Going from the United Nations simu- a camera!” Marcone says on the expelation a simularience of being tion of the Amerfollowing by ican government video-cameras simulation, and men adstepped out on justing the tiny their own withmicrophone out a partner, hidden in her wrote two posicollar.

A comforting tion papers, and thought as we chose a Republican or Demoall prepared crat stance in was that we would be rethis CongressioLook-a-likes line up. Mladnick, the class advisor, nal simulation. siding in our is in the background.

With a slight lag beloved New in their step from the disappointment Brunswick Hyatt once again. This that still resonated when they heard years Rutgers Model United Nations the words “Model UN”, the delegates also experienced some technical difpulled their socks up for the April Rut- ficulties, and IDIA ended up hostgers Model Congress. ing the conference in the Holiday Inn

Besides the topic changes, one and Double Tree Hotels in Somerset, novel aspect was that MSG Varsity where we were all locked in an overly

air-conditioned committee room for over 72 hours. This time around, the students were able to go to and from restaurants at meal times, or at least leave the building to get a healthy dose of fresh air.

The theme of the conference was sustainability; the “green movement” is indisputably gaining pace around America as well as around the globe.

It shows up on water bottles, produce, t-shirts, and in the back of our minds it’s there when we’re debating whether the natural disasters devastating millions of lives are a result of global

RMC 2010

warming. The opening ceremony of the conference stressed the importance of the issue not only in the environment, but in politics, economics, and the United States’ social vitality. It was our job, going into this conference, to maintain our country’s historically dominant position in the global community as well as its home land.

Continued on page 4

Spring Allergies

By Xuewei Ouyang

Spring is a great season. The leaves are growing, the flowers blooming. The weather is almost perfect. School is also ¾ of the way over. However, there is one flaw in the season. As the chorus of sneezes and nose-blowing shows, an explosion of flowers also brings an explosion of allergies.

This spring has been an extremely itchy season for those allergic to the yellow dust-like substance from trees. The pollen count constantly stays high up in the charts.

Anyone who suffers from spring allergies understands the annoyances. Freshman Jess Reyes says, “The most annoying thing about spring allergies is not only waking up to a runny nose but also when you go to school and there’s that one class that doesn’t have any tissues and you just have to sit through class hoping your runny nose doesn’t get worse.” Spring allergies are not only affecting students and teachers during class. According to Ilyssa Schwartz, a junior on the softball team, “Spring allergies are very annoying during sports.”

Spring Allergy tips: 1. Bring your own tissues! Everyone should know by now that the class tissue supply is used up quickly, but can take days to be replenished.

2. Wash your face often. By washing your face, you also wash off the pollen that was stuck to it.

3. Avoid touching your face. Your fingers might also have pollen on them. Touching your nose or rubbing your eyes will only start your allergic reaction. Self-control is the key. Rubbing itchy eyes will only make them itch even more.

Even if your spring allergies don’t improve with these tips, you can at least feel better knowing that spring is nearly over.

Spring Tulip

The Highland Fling

BACK TO THE BUDGET! Christie Crucifies HP Budget

Steve Zheng Typically, a change in leader School After-School Homework means a change in policies and Club. Overall, these reductions goals. Governor Chris Christie, will amount to a $1,053,339 dewho has held his position for less crease in spending. than four months, has already

On April 20th, the citizens of therefore exceeded expectations.

Highland Park voted on the budget.

One of the major changes he Both Asbury Park Press and nj.com has implemented is a sharp cutting confirmed the results that the budof state aid to public schools. More get passed with a vote of 1065 in faspecifically, he has cut $475 million vor and 748 against. What do these dollars in state aid, affecting more results mean for students? Under than 500 school districts, includthe budget, there will be a tax levy ing Highland Park. Highland Park increase of 3.9% and 10 staff employees will be cut. Students may received over $4 million in state aid during the 09-10 school year, find fewer extracurricular activities to participate in next year, an but will only receive around $2.9 million for the upcoming year. As increase in the number of students a result of this rapid decline, the per classroom, along with a slight Highland Park decrease in school district familiar adult faces in the has been forced to make changes hallway. But in its own budget these changplan. es are all di Due to the rectly linked substantial cuts to the $1 in state aid, the million dolproposed budget lar decrease includes numerin state aid.

Even though ous cuts, mainly the new buddirected towards get contains staff members. numerous Under the proChristie, what do you think you’re playing cuts that may posed budget, at? the assistant affect our edprincipal of high ucational exschool will serve as assistant prin- perience, the board maintains that cipal for high school and middle it has tried its best to reduce spendschool. Also, the middle school ing while minimizing its impact on dean will be eliminated. Two secHighland Park schools. retarial positions will be cut, one

As governor, Chris Christie in the central office and one in the brought about enormous change school. A CST social worker will to the education system of New be reassigned to the Middle School Jersey, and Highland Park was in Guidance. Two paraprofessionals the minority when it passed its will be cut, along with a part-time school budget. As of now, it is too speech staff member. Additionearly to state how the budget will ally, six teaching positions will impact our educational system. be cut, though the board ensures Nonetheless, we can be sure that that these positions will not relate Governor Christie’s decisions have to any of the core classes. A part drastically changed New Jersey’s educational policies. time G&T (Gifted and Talented) teacher position will be absorbed into the enrichment program, and Visit the source (http://hpschools. the 3rd grade strings program will net/2010_2011budget.html) for be eliminated as well. Other reduc- more information tions include co-curricular organizations such as WISE and the High

May Issue

News

3

Junior Prom

By Saskia Kusnecov

The class of 2011, renowned for its dysfunction, was not as enthralled for the annual junior prom as those in years past.

Class president, Jess Nolan, took on the battle of campaigning for the prom’s attendance. In noisy class meetings you could hear her scream the benefits, as a slew of skeptical non-contents rambled on about the expensive tickets. At $30 per couple, not even the reminder that it was a fundraiser for our real prom seemed to calm their financial protests.

Nevertheless, the charm of the dresses, the dates, the dancing, and the concept of getting away from the stress of school for one night coerced a growing crowd of juniors into buying tickets. Easily threefourths of the class of 2011 showed up for the night’s festivities. The room’s Under the Sea theme was completed by the parents’ committee, who deserve a commemoration for their hard work. The tables had blue table cloth with fishy-favors such as Goldfish crackers and Swedish Fish gummies. The ample food, donated by the parents, stretched across the wall left to the entrance from the outside. continued on page 4

Above: Senior Josh Gaines with the ladies Below: Freshman Jessie Dominick and Junior Evan Farmer caught in the blur of Junior Prom

4

Entertainment Rutgers Model Congress 2010

Despite the lack luster feeling of being ill-prepared for the conference, Highland Park still dominated. Nine delegates from our committee took home individual awards for their performance either in committee or on

(continued)

their position papers. Sophomore Nicky Rawlinson, Junior Asa Zuberman-Leibman, and Freshman Charlotte Finegold all won Best Delegate, for their performance in each respective commitee. Junior Simon Davis and Junior Camila Marcone also won Outstanding Delegates, and Senior Wendy Pan, Junior Luke Millers, Sophomore Justice Heir, and Junior Sam Lobel all received Position Paper Awards.

Despite the lack of vivacity going into this conference, H.P. still maintained its reputation as a Model UN/ Model Congress Highland Park superpower in the 2010 RMC conference. And we can rest easy knowing that even though we don’t have the best delegation certificate hanging in our hallway, we left the Hyatt that weekend with a resounding: “PARRRRRRRRK!”

We’ll miss you seniors!

Junior Prom (Continued) Donna Nolan discovered where everyone was involved. “It was a lot better than I

that she still had Costcosized boxes of food forgotten in her freezer when she got home later that night. It was a shock to the mother, who says: “The amount of left over food was incredible!” In addition to the food, refreshments were served in the form of an iced tea fountain and bottled water; both were very much needed once the dancing began.

Now for fashion. Stefanie Perez rocked a fedora with a black dress and Go Sean, Go Sean! slinky black heals. Camila Marcone went vintage in a blue oriental dress from a thrift store in Washington D.C. Luke Morgan also made an appearance in black dress pants, a white button down, a black vest, and signature black converse to top the outfit off. These are just three fashionista’s among dozens.

What was more exciting as opposed to the actual quality of the outfits was the fact that everyone took the chance to make it their own. Eve Gabel-Frank stated as the couples were arriving, “It’s really cool that everyone’s outfits match their personality,” especially in a grade as refreshingly diverse and unique as this.

The DJ took personal privilege over Jess Nolan’s pre-planned play list, but as the night went on the particular song began to matter less. The songs ranged from Peanut Butter Jelly Time to the token hip-hop songs. Whether you were bouncing around in a group of friends or one-on-one, there were points in the night

expected,” says Junior, Ben Leibowitz-Lord.

Not only was the commonly disconnected class together in one room, but if you stopped and looked around for the usual cliques of kids, you wouldn’t find them.

Can’t put a price on that, can you?

Slide to the left

The Highland Fling

Couple spotlight!

Entertainment The Final “Bye-Bye” for Bye Bye Birdie (continued) We were there to fulfill a promise to the seniors and Dr. Wood, who had visited the senior center earlier in April to speak about the budget. The superintendant spoke about the importance of Highland Park activities and programs, and eventually promised the seniors a special performance with the cast of the musical, because most hadn’t been able to make it to the actual performance.

We squeezed into their lounge for ten minutes to review (because even talented HP Drama kids need to go over “Sincere” and “English Teacher” after a month-anda-bit break), and then trooped out onto the improvised stage. Jess and Oliver hit it off with “English Teacher,” the opening number to the show. Then Manny showed off his vocals in “Honestly, Sincere” which had a very confusing chorus the karaoke version added. Isabel Sherell did not come, so Matthew Webb took her spot and did the honor of jumping into Manny’s arms for the line, “hug me!” It was hard to continue without cracking up from that point on. “One Boy” was next, featuring Evelyn, Jeremy Fisher, Selina Garcia, and Shanna Cole. Then

5

“Great Taste in Music (II)” The Highland Park Music Department Fundraiser

By Michael Chernin

“Hey Mr. Colmon, we searched and finally found a percussion ensemble piece. Let’s order it.”

“I’m sorry, man. My budget’s been frozen. We can’t afford it.”

This brief conversation I had with Mr. Colmon, our HPHS band teacher, stuck with me. I had been hearing about potential budget cuts in our district. Although as people tend to think, “It can’t happen to me(us).”

Wrong.

However, the resiliency and creativity of Highland Park parents, teachers, and students manifested itself on Saturday, April 10th, in a unifying effort dubbed “Great Taste in Music (II)” (Get it? Taste can have two meanings!) The event brought together good food, dedicated chefs, fifth grade singers, sixth grade violinists, Middle and High School jazz ensemble members, private combos, HS and MS vocal ensembles, clarinetists, family, friends, and supporters of the arts. This music fund raiser provided the Highland Park Music Department

A tearful goodbye

Vinnie Troiani, Luke Miller, Evan Levine, Jess Nolan, and Michael Chernin served as entertainment for the night

came “What Did I Ever See in Him?” where Jess and Evelyn mourned the time they wasted on silly men and boys. We finished properly with “Rosie,” and the seniors thanked us with their applause, as well as complimentary grapes and cookies.

But the truly memorable part didn’t come until after the medley, when we went to mingle with the senior citizens The Broadway Version and were all immediately drawn to one woman, who was dressed in a flashy red coat and had been the most attentive throughout the songs. She introduced herself as Ida, and the woman next to her told us about her as Ida was busy reminiscing to Manny.

with the much-needed resources to continue singing and playing without the stress of financial deficit.

Perhaps unbeknownst to the larger Highland Park High School community is the small group of extremely dedicated parents willing to spend hours planning and executing fund raisers, all for the benefit of our previously slowly dwindling (monetarily) music department. While the music played, our supporters enjoyed gourmet meals and deserts generously provided by chefs Bob Chant, David Bell, and Jamie McCrone.

In order to help convey an understanding of the feelings associated with this collective effort headed by Ellen Leibowitz explained “The thing I love about it is the kids, the students, are so involved. Not only in performance, but their help. Setting up, serving, babysitting, cleaning... Everyone was so eager to help and be a part of it, and its great just to see them applying their boundless energy in such a positive way. None of this ‘OH NO! Do I have to?’

continued on page 5

continued on page 6

May Issue

6 Feature It was more like ‘what else can I do?’ They did it simply because they love the music program, and they want to do their part. We also had a large number of parent volunteers. They helped in the same way. One crew stayed late to clean up, one helped get raffle prizes…etc. They were all happy to do it because they value music.”

She concluded by discussing Mrs. Catherine Bull.

Mrs. Bull’s involvement al-

“Great Taste in Music (II)” (continued)

lowed our fund raiser to not only have such diverse options for potential gift raffle items, but the organization which aided in the smoothness and execution of our event.

I also spoke (or rather emailed) with Ms. Bunce, our charismatic vocal instructor, who had only positive comments regarding the event. She explained the fundraiser was, “Incredibly useful in enhancing the mu-

sical opportunities and experiences that are available to HP kids. This town is very lucky to have a supportive community that is not only willing, but eager to plunk down some cash in support of the arts for kids. HP is full of engaged, motivated self-starters who, given the opportunity and resources, can make really great projects happen.” Bunce, who participated by singing a solo number, helped or-

ganize and coordinate the various vocal groups the performed the night of the event.

I would like to extend sincere, and serious gratitude to all who participated in the fundraiser. Whether you helped clean up dirty plates or played on behalf of a great cause, my feelings are the same. From everyone in the Music Department, we appreciate and thank you.

The Final “bye-bye” for Bye Bye Birdie (Continued) Ida is 102 years old, but she lives by herself, refuses point blank to use her walker, and whenever there are dance classes for the seniors she’s the first one up and wiggling! She told us we had made her feel young again, and started singing her own songs she grew up with. Whilst singing “I’m in the Mood for Love,” she grabbed Manny Diaz’s arm and started waltzing with him. We all laughed and thought she was terrific!

This encore performance was really an excellent way to encourage more community involvement in school activities. Our budget may have passed by more than three hundred votes, but Highland Park citizens and students are still valuing our unique activities and programs, since we could have lost them, and because other nearby schools are cutting many of their programs. Senior citizens are a major group of the community who need to catered to, but there are others, and HPHS should make itself as open to the town as possible with its activities. Dr. Wood attended our medley as well, and she passed out packets with a list of schools events and passes to get into them, so that the seniors won’t be left out. The dress rehearsals for all future shows have also been reserved for the seniors, so this way they’ll see the full cast with all the extra bits- costumes, make-up, and sets. And as one senior put it, “We’ve got awful acoustics in here, so the auditorium will be just great!” Ida promised us that she’ll always get a front row seat…

A mixture of the cast from this year’s musical, several scenes of which were performed at the senior center

The Highland Fling

Entertainment Iron Man 2, The Review

By Simon Davis

If I had to describe Iron man 2 in one word, the word that comes to mind is sleek. The film had a polished feel that compliments the witty dialogue, dramatic counter plot and exciting explosions and violence. The film was well done, it had every component of a super hero flick, an arch nemesis with the sole attempt of killing our hero, attractive females, cool gadgets, comedic interactions amongst characters, and of course loads of action. Robert Downey Jr. did an exceptional job at portraying the playboy, who has personally privatized global peace. Downey’s punch lines almost equal his punches; his clever lines matched his killer moves, expert counter attacks and deft abilities in terms of air travel.

Downey played across Gwyneth Paltrow, who also played the concerned hard working CEO of Stark Industries. Her performance was mediocre, her coldness was excessive, and held back emotions that could have led to a more convincing performance. The rest of the cast was exceptional, Don Cheadle and Mickey Rourke, a close friend and Russian arch nemesis respectively, both had great performances that made a man flying around the globe in a metal suit appear that much more plausible. One complaint about this film was it felt like a buildup for a prequel. And And I was a fan of the vibe of “taking our precious two hours and setting us up for the next segment in the series.” Both Samuel L Jackson and Scarlett Johansson made brief appearances, yet actors of their caliber obviously will have a larger role down the road.

Yet for those who don’t want to analyze the character development and cinematography, the film is more than sufficient. Iron Man 2 contains every component the average movie goer craves, fun, action, laughs, suspense, and explosions, lots of explosions. The film is a must see for anyone looking to spend their hard earned 10 dollars on an entertaining film that will keep you hooked throughout it’s duration. Jon Faverau’s film leaves the viewer satisfied with the film, but also anxiously awaiting the sequel only two years down the road. Note to viewers, be sure to watch past the credits, New Mexico’s desert holds a glimpse into the sequel...hint hint.

7

Clash of the Titans Movie Review

By Gregory Burdea

Clash of the Titans directed by Louis Leterrier was one of the most anticipated fantasy movies of 2010. The movie was a remake of the classic produced in 1981. Now that it has been reproduced approximately 30 years later, critics expected better acting, drama, and special effects. The movie tells of a demigod, Perseus, played by Sam Worthington, who innocently lost his parents because of Hades. When Hades threatens the town of Argos with the monstrous Kraken, Perseus most do all he can to save the town and the captured princess Andromeda.

This remade Action/Fantasy did not please the critics as it was probably meant to. Many critics disagreed, some saying that the movie was a complete failure while others said it was an entertaining film. Critics on Fandango averaged a rating of 39 out of 100 while non-critics averaged a “Go” rating. As noted by Critic Robert Ebert the climax was classic and he would certainly recommend this movie, so what could be the problem? However, according to another critic Brian Lowry, “building a more elaborate mousetrap doesn’t necessarily produce a more entertaining one.” He also agrees with some other critics that there was absolutely no humor in this film! Though the critics’ reviews were not phenomenal, fans disagreed.

The fan reviews on Fandango showed “Go” as the most frequently voted option, and “Must Go!” as the second. Fans claimed the movie to be, “Just what (they) expected, and a good movie with few complaints.” Some issues were still brought up in the forums though. For example, the ending was one of the most highly deFace off between box office heroes bated parts of the movie.

Many fans felt that the movie rushed towards the end and ended awkwardly. Other fans enjoyed the movie purely for its non-stop action and special effects; at any moment it could be expected that some creature would erupt from the ground and challenge Perseus. According to Freshman Elvin Rivera, “Clash of the Titans was epic! Sure it was kind of short but it was non-stop suspense and action. Clash of the Titans is a must-see movie for action lovers because you will love it!”

Another freshmen of the class of 2013, Jacqui Pscolka said, “The Clash of the Titans movie was pretty interesting! I really enjoyed the layout of events in this movie. I feel that this movie was worth the buy.” Though there are mixed opinions, Clash of the Titans is a movie that any Greek mythology lover should watch to experience the awe-inspiring power of the gods!

May Issue

8

Entertainment

JUNIOR PROM

The Highland Fling

Entertainment

PHOTO SPREAD

May Issue

9

10

Entertainment

From Concert to Concert

By Charlotte and Sam Finegold

Rather than the annual, repetitive jazz concerts, Mr. Colmon’s extra efforts made this year’s concert and additional jam session with jazz guitarist Larry Coryell more exciting for the members of the jazz concert audiences.

The High School Jazz Band, consisting of 18 high schoolers directed under Band Director Werner Colmon plays annually in a spring concert after meeting on Tuesday nights through out the year, and tries to play at a number of other events, including the NHS induction ceremony. Mr. Colmon’s discovery of

Family and friends of the now older Kafafian came to support their relative and to hear some of his musical legacy. A change in location to the media center benefited listeners due to the lower ceiling and more comfortable seating arrangements. To top it off, Mr. Colmon laid original trumpet parts of a table for audience members to peruse. The concert launched what may continue to be a trend in the jazz band: using linked music and experimenting in choice to teach the students beyond the page and about the history of some of the music.

old charts played by his neighbor Edward “Duke” Kafafian inspired him to select several of the pieces the band played during the “Dance Band” era.

Duke Kafafian’s background gives an idea of the musical richness of America. He started his career playing trumpet. During his military service, he then headed a “show band” which traveled to multiple army bases to entertain troops. After the army band, Kafafian settled down as a “family man,” and continued playing with the band on the side of running his own family business. As Mr. Colmon phrased it, “the Edward ‘Duke’ Kafafian story is an American story of music” because it shows the change through major eras of music - from big bands to rock - and relates the story of a man able to continue his love for music while supporting his family through his own dry cleaners business.

Duke’s presence throughout the students’ preparation for the concert

Left: Mr. Colmon guiding Junior Luke Finaldi through a solo. Top: Colmon with Max Jacobs. Right: The enssemble. Bottom, Larry Coryell.

The second major jazz function came as a surprise to many high school students. After Mr. Colmon and Ms. Brown received a small grant from the Highland Park Education Foundation, they decided to invite legendary Jazz guitarist Larry Coryell to work with the middle and during the concert gave a richschool jazz ensemble for the mornness and unity to the jazz band’s ing periods and then work with the work. The hand-written charts uncombined middle and high school derstood only by the dance band jazz ensembles in the afternoon, itself had to be deciphered by Mr. culminating in a joint performance Colmon. Whole sections which may in the high school auditorium. Larry have served as solos were changed. Coryell’s illustrious past ranges from The experimental process the stuhis playing with the likes of Billy dents and Mr. Colmon underwent Cobham and publishing several solo definitely impressed upon the stualbums to teaching at the University dents an idea of musical knowledge of Washington. His ability to teach needed play in a “dance band.” and virtuoso guitar ability would The actual concert itself even make for a special afternoon. brought a larger crowd than normal. Continued on page 16

The Highland Fling

Ice Cream Report Card

Feature

11

By Eve Cohen, Xiaotong Li, and Wendy Pan

Ever wondered how the three main ice cream shops in town – Dairy Deluxe, Carvel, and Baskin Robbins – stack up against one another? Eve Cohen, Xiaotong Li, and I have, which is why we ventured into each of these stores as innocent consumers, when really, we wished to investigate how the ice cream at these three places compare.

Dairy Deluxe Ice Cream Variety

A. 21 flavors of hard ice cream, A+. 24 flavors of hard ice cream! and a handful of soft flavors.

A+. The only place with chocoOverall late covered bananas, fruit tea Product smoothies, sherbet, and gelati Cre(mix of soft serve ice cream and ativslush). ity and Variety

Price

Carvel

A+. Well, the stuff here isn’t free, but it’s still the cheapest of the three shops. The cost for a small soft cone is $2.50 and a small order of hard ice cream is $2.75.

B+. Pales in comparison to Dairy Deluxe Has the usual flavors and Carvelanche (a signature smoothie that combines ice cream flavors and toppings). The Carvelatte does come with a decent selection, though – mocha, coffee, hazelnut, caramel macchiato, and irish cream!

Baskin Robbins A-. 18 flavors of hard ice cream.

B+. Lags behind the others in terms of ice cream variety, BUT there is a wide array of ice cream cake! Cakes come in different shapes, from present boxes to watermelons. Oh, and there was one decorated like a tennis court.

A-. Around a dollar more expensive A-. More expensive than Carvel than Dairy Deluxe. $3.27 for a small by a few cents. May get you 1/8 soft serve, $3.50 for small sample of of a brownie. hard ice cream. Hey, that $0.75 could buy you a brownie at the next Global Awareness Group bake sale.

Custom- B. Nothing out of the ordinary. B. Ditto. er Service

B-. The employee mixed up our ice cream order and accidentally gave us something else.

Our Pick A-. We ordered a gelati com- A+. We bought a scoop of cheesecake posed of rainbow slush, twist and a scoop of mango (both were hard ice cream). The cheesecake was extremely flavorful while the mango was fruity and refreshing.

B+. Maybe since we sampled Baskin Robbins last, we were a tad tired of ice cream by the time we tried their mocha blackberry chocolate chip and Reese’s peanut buttercup scoops. (But hey, that’s what happens when you’re situated two miles from the school). The ice cream did not live up to their fancy names.

BELOW: The three face off. of the ice creams

May Issue

12

Feature

AP: Advantageous Paranoia

The Mile Long Boyz

By Saskia Kusnecov

Highland Park High School has become known over the years for possessing some of New Jersey’s brightest minds and hardest-working bodies.

In addition to more workwhat differentiates AP classes from honors or CP classes is that their curriculum is based around the AP test at the end of the year.

Only with your score from that test, can your sparkling “Advanced Placement Literature & Composition” course be truly administered credits by most universities. As many students are coming to realize this in the turn of the seasons, they bury their heads in their Princeton Review study guides.

“I always remember the seniors and juniors talking about the AP tests and freaking out,” says junior, Jess Nolan, “I didn’t feel that way at all this year until I realized they are less than a month away... and now i know why everyone freaks out.” “If I didn’t pay for all of these AP tests to get into college, I could actually afford college,” says another junior, Camila Marcone, who is particularly baffled by the subtle correlation between wealth and academic performance.

For example, the study aid books for the AP tests alone cost around thirty dollars, and if you’re taking multiple AP tests, as Ms. Marcone is, then you are looking at nearly a hundred dollars for study material alone.

Add in the fee for the actual tests and suddenly you feel as if you’re forking out money to drive yourself crazy and get no sleep.

Nevertheless, our Highland Park scholars are persevering through the final push of the year.

If you happen to be one of those scholars, and you find yourself drifting into an AP oblivion, here are some tips to stay grounded:

1.

Sleep: I know, it seems useless right? Who needs sleep when you’re memorizing the entire Psychology text book in three weeks? Well, the truth is that we don’t function properly without at least a couple of hours of snoozing. So at least try to work it in between Calculus and Physics.

2.

Spend some time outdoors: The weather is looking a lot better than it did in the winter of many snow days, and you should take advantage of it. Fresh air might help you think more clearly and it’s just always nice to come out of the hole once in a while.

3.

Warm Baths: Feeling fresh and rejuvenated can alleviate fatigue and keep your mind and body awake.

4.

Exercise: Don’t wear yourself too thin, but when your rear is starting to cramp up from sitting on your desk chair for too long or your legs fall asleep, tucked under your feet, it’s a good idea to move around a little bit. Yoga, walking the dog, going for a run, and just doing jumping jacks in your bedroom can make

Ahhhhhhh! A stack of A.P. Books!

that chair seem less menacing.

5.

Eat healthy: Healthy foods help stimulate neuron activity and keep your body running.

Specifically foods high in glucose such as grain, fruits, and veggies.

You may think a plate of cookies will keep you going until the A.M., but unfortunately it will have a adverse affect.

(continued)

Clearly, the lyrics are essential to this music, and they mean more to Ashton than they do to most rappers. “Everything I’ve put in my bars I’ve experienced… I’ve felt. Nobody wants to hear about death.

People want to hear about growing up.

Life is too short to try and be tough all day, hard all day, and fight all day. It’s gonna be gone before you know it, so live it up.” Living it up they are, and hearing these sentiments from a rapper who can freestyle and spit just as fast and just as hard as anybody out there is incredible.

So how do they do it? “The lyrics come to me at all hours of the day and all hours of the night,” Ashton tells me. “I may be walking down the street or in class and a beat or a hook starts up in my head, and one thing just leads to the next.” Obviously none of this is easy, and for all the work it takes to get big, I want to know why it is that Ashton has committed himself to this kind of life. “I just love the music, just love the game,” he says, “All it takes is one song and you can change America. And I’m different too - I can’t really be compared to other rappers. The music speaks to me, and well, I just live to make music and perform. I love it. I never want to leave the stage.” And what does he think about the attention the Mile Long Boyz is currently getting? “Just to hear people say ‘that song is hot, that beat is cool’ it means so much. Our music can inspire people, and that is the goal.” Well, the Mile Long Boyz have not gone unnoticed. They have been contacted by real labels, and have spoken to big-time figures in the industry.

But as of right now they are focusing on getting their name out there without any contractual limitations. With a new mixtape, “A Mile In Our Shoes” now out, the future looks bright for the group. Anyone who listens to their music knows that these guys are the real deal, and that they

LOGO!

possess true talent not often seen in today’s artificial rap world. Ashton says the Mile Long Boyz are about to “Take the whole game by storm.” I for one know they are capable of it, and look forward to seeing this sensational group top the charts.

The Highland Fling

Entertainment 10 Things to Do in May

By Justice Hehir May is the month before June. It’s volve some effort… but the wonderful

that month before the wonderful hypnosis of summer, the sun cravings, and lazy, long afternoons with meringue clouds high in the sky. The last month of order before students, brows speckled with sweat, lusting after the other side of the window, escape the perimeters of school. But just because it isn’t June doesn’t mean it can’t have that same intoxicating blend of wonder and freedom, the wanderlust provoked by blue skies and air tinged with warmth.

So, all of these things being considered, I propose ten activities to do in May- ten things to try within a few afternoons.

Why let June have all the fun?

1. Go for a picnic. All it takes is a blanket, something to eat, and a friend who won’t mind being seen with you eating food on a blanket on a patch of grass somewhere. Whether in your backyard, the park, the lawn outside of the school during open campus… there’s three meals in a day, 31 days of May, and a whole lot of lawns. In other words, there are 93 times available to you to sit out in the rising, shining, or setting sun, eating your meal as the world goes by.

2. Take a walk. In the breezy, molten time after school, or the cool post-dinner atmosphere. It’s surprising how much prettier everything looks when you’re not carrying a backpack and a jacket and your science project and freaking out about that test that you’re about to take/ just took, walking to and from school.

It’s doesn’t need to be a long walk, but enough to get you out of the house for a bit. Smell flowers along the way (you don’t actually have to bend down and smell the flowers… taking note of the scent of the air along the way will suffice), walk down that gorgeous street that won’t get you to school but will get you to smile, down the avenue lit up at night. Bring a friend, have a chat, get some exercise. It’s all good.

3. Plant something. Get some dirt under your fingernails. Whether a petunia in a small pot, some basil in a box on your windowsill, or a tomato plant in your garden, try harnessing May’s optimal gardening conditions. A plant does in-

thing about May is that it provides most of the things you need to care for a plant.

Gentle sunlight, buzzing bees… all you have to do is add water.

Plant a tree!

4. Eat something new. Winter is gone and spring is here. Eat accordingly.

The produce aisle in the grocery store has been subject to variation, allowing for the presence of kiwis and plantains, strawberries and all other kinds of migratory fruits. Or, if you’re eating out, try going to that place that always smells good but you never go into. Swap Chinese takeout for spicy Thai, overpriced wraps/lunch food for the rainbow of offerings at A Better World Café; whatever it is you usually eat at lunch with something you don’t.

5. Read your favorite book- outside. You know that book that you read two years ago, told all of your friends to read, but somehow can’t remember the main character’s name? Liberate it from the bookshelf and give it another go, soaking up the story and some vitamin D at

13

the same time. Or that book that you’ve been meaning to read, the book you borrowed from the library a month ago, the book your friend so eagerly lent you.

Winter is over… reading a novel in a cafe, cuddling with a cup of expensive coffee and wearing a turtleneck sweater is so January! Reading outside, on the porch or a bench, sipping an iced tea, the occasional, mischievous breeze flipping the page for you- that is an activity for May. Plus, it’s much greener than sitting in front of the computer or TV. 6. Open the windows. As you do your homework, let the sunshine and the perfumed May air seep in. Cut some flowers and put them on your desk or table or workspace. Reinvent your interior with the natural touches of spring.

7. Turn off your cell phone for an afternoon. Go techless. And no, techless is not a word- but it is a term I am coining as of this issue that means getting off your computer and your cell phone. Do something other than examining the virtual walls of your friends and see them in person. Turning off your cell phone, or any other invention that starts with “i”, is really not too hard. To be honest, I don’t really see the difficulty at all.

(I’m that friend who has a cell phone but never picks up nor ever has their phone charged; the one who refuses to text because they claim they can’t express them self in “lol” and “g2g”; the one who doesn’t have a Facebook (gasp).) But I know many people like their phones very much- the speedy text messages, the extra gadget thingies, etc. But sometimes, being disconnected can be good.

And when you’re not anticipating the buzz of your cell phone, sifting through e-mails or Facebook comments or tweets, you might be surprised to find that you have something else to do.

(Straight and Gay Alliance), and Student Congress are all clubs existing right now within the school- if you ask around, you’re sure to find someone who knows someone who’s in one of them and can give you more info. continued on page 16

Or...have a picnic

In 50 years, you’ll wish you bought one. So buy a yearbook now!

See Ms. Marionni in Room 126 May Issue

14 Sports Baseball Struggles

By Sam Finegold

With the already depleted lineup cut even shorter after the departure of Senior Louis Middleton, the Highland Park Baseball team found itself in a sticky situation. The competitive Blue Division, always a challenging group for Highland Park teams to compete in, has badly bruised the team. Relatively young, with only one senior (captain Mike Ryan), the team’s strength, or will-be strength, comes from its younger sophomores and juniors. Sophomore Gavi Reichman highlighted Junior Amir Muhammad’s pitching performance and spotlighted the first baseman, Mike Ryan, but overall, the scene for baseball with it’s grim losing record is uncertain. The possibility of a shift down to the Gold Division may loom on the horizon.

Asa Zuberman-Leibman Goes to G.M.C. Semifinals

By Carl Lin

The Highland Park boy’s tennis team gave a top-notch performance at GMCs on April 21st. Facing incredible players and teams from bigger schools and higher divisions, the HP tennis playersteam fought hard each and every match, leaving nothing on the courts but the sweat from their grit and the lasting intensity of their play.

The HP boys took their game to a new level and were undefeated in the prelims of the tournament. The boys gave no easy points, forcing their opponents and themselves to play their best; there were no regrets, and HP left an indelible mark upon every opponent that they faced!.

However, one player deserves speAsa reaches for the volley cial mention. The boy’s tennis team’s own superman, though small in stature, has in- and East Brunswick. “The J.P. Stevens guy credible skills to say the least. He ranked was like 6’ 4” and had crazy reach, and the among monstrous men twice his size, with South Brunswick player had power and beards twice as long, and racquets twice placement, it was ridiculous the way he his weight. Asa Zuberman-Leibman not could move me around the court,” recalls only took on these giants, he crushed them, Asa. and was the only Highland Park player to “Asa played at the top of his game,” reach the semifinals of the GMC tourna- commented Mr. Kertes, the boys’ tennis ment. His resume of opponents was not coach, “he held his own against extremely one to be taken lightly either. Asa played powerful opponents.” Asa himself attribopponents from upper higher divisions uted his success to his level head and atfrom like those of the giant schools like titude toward the games he played. His J.P. Stevens, Colonia, South Brunswick, consistency and astonishing speed and agility were no doubt helpful as well. “It was a terrific experience,” Asa admittedexplained, “and I tried to just play as I regularly play in practice.” Asa was the only unseeded player in the entire tournament to make it to the semis, and had an incredible remarkable run. His match against Colonia was his most memorable.

Down one set, and playing against an opponent with a style that mirrored his own, Asa held on and came back the next two sets to win the match.

Mike Ryan in stance Shots of Asa in action

The Highland Fling

Sports Back in Track It’s spring again, and if the groundhog refuses to come out of his burrow, another herald of spring’s arrival is the Highland Park track team. The team practices everyday after school; hot or cold and rain or shine. Lap upon lap, day after day, week upon week— the members of the team not only exhibit extreme physical endurance, but also psychological fortitude and strength. For the team, it is all about dedication, hard work, and pushing their personal limits everyday. Raessa, captain of the girl’s team, says commitment is of the utmost importance. “You can’t just miss practice, it’s essential for progress,” she stated. Talk

By Carl Lin

doesn’t amount to anything in track because if there’s one thing that doesn’t care for your ego, it’s the stopwatch.

This season so far has been going well for the team.

At GMC’s there were over twenty-five best times and the girl’s 4x100 relay placed 5th.

The girl’s team has many fast sprinters and is well balanced, a strong prediction for future success, claims Reassa. Many of the spring soccer girls also came out for the season and have been beneficial to the team. On the boys side, Coach Davis believes he sees a lot of potential in his runners. It’s a young team, with many new members and fresh legs; the

15

KEEP IT coach says that there have been some minor challenges for the UP SPRING SPORTS team this season. Due to the lack of a winter track program, TEAMS! FINSIH THE there’s been a large gap beSEASON tween cross-country and track.

STRONG! Therefore, some time was required for many of the runners READERS, to get back in shape and refocus.

SUPPORT There also have been injuries on both the girl’s and boy’s teams. SOFTBALL, “Injuries stand out a lot more TRACK, BASEBALL AND in a small school like Highland TENNIS! Park,” says Coach Davis, “We don’t have forty other people like the other schools do to replace injured runners.” However, despite some setbacks, the team still is still pursuing the dream to make and place at states.

Softball Going Strong: Among Gold Division Leaders Tied at the top of the seventh, H.P. Girls Softball was ready to take the game. Having come back to eight to eight against Timothy Christian, the girls then had an inspired inning.

Largely due to Senior and captain Samantha Bundy’s grand slam, the team scored nine runs to make the final score 17-8. Such a remarkable comeback is a tribute to the excellent level of play showcased by Girls’ Softball this year.

By Sam Finegold

In the Gold Division, the girls face opponents of variable difficulty. Like in any other sport, the Gold Division contains the tiniest schools, including Vocational Training high schools, which have smaller and less selective sports programs. Yet the softball Gold Division has a variety of teams, ranging up to the girl’s current nemesis, South Amboy. Not only have the girls managed to win the greater majority of their games against this ar-

ray of opponents, but they have also done exceptionally in out-of-league matches. Other than two losses (one to the loaded Princeton Day School), this relatively young team has managed to unify together and play good softball.

The varsity this year has its core in younger players, mostly juniors and sophomores. Julia Romero, Sam Bundy, and Sascha have still continued on page 16

Pictures, including Ilyssa Schwartz pitching a fast one and

May Issue

16

Sports

Softball Going Strong: Among Gold Division Leaders (Continued)

actively led the team and performed level performance and pushes girls to play their best. very well, yet young student base Overall, the girls have remained indicates strong, if not stronger highly competitive in the division. teams in years to come. As Assistant Coach Erin Rumor has it that the team Washington put it, girls coming in had has ambitions to move back up to “limited varsity experience.” The the Blue Division. team this year can Yet the success of the team in such count on “pitchers who can get a tougher group depends not outs on their own when needed, but only on the current squad, but can also trust their also on the supdefense behind them.” The level port the program of play, as pointed receives from the out by Sophomore community and Tali Petkov, also student body. has to do with the Without genuine greater number of interest in the Vicky Valenta tags a runner out girls playing and sport, this comcompeting for varsity spots. This plicated game quickly falls by the pressure increases the need for high- wayside. Support your Lady Owls!

Ten Things To Do Outside (Continued)

8.Watch a thunderstorm. One of those big, explosive ones that turns the street into a Venetian canal, with the muffled boom of thunder and claps of lightning searing a line down the horizon. If you have a porch, I suggest watching from there- but if not, the window works just as well. Taking a moment to see a thunderstorm, how incredibly incomprehensible it is, inspires a flicker of awe for the universe, the same one that you live in, that you’re a part of. Try ityou’ll understand.

9. Smile at someone. Someone you know, someone you don’t- just smile.

As you down the hallway and you meet someone’s eyes, or as you walk down the sidewalk and gazes clash, don’t do the awkward look-away thing; smile!

You never know how much a person may have needed that smile until you give one. And no, some people may not smile back- but that’s okay. There’s fifty more people in that hallway to try.

Probably at least one other person on (Continued) that block.

Larry taught for the entire day. After running the rehearsal in the mid10. Join the club that you’ve been dle school, Larry directed a massive jam session where both schools’ enmeaning to join. Clubs at this point are sembles squeezed into the high school band room. With six or seven bases often figuring out plans for next year, alone, the band’s sound filled the room. Some special parts of the session brainstorming activities- it’s the perincluded Junior Luke Finaldi soloing and Larry’s inclusive attempts to help fect time to join so you’ll be clued in for other students play with the band in tempo and with the right dynamics. next year. Global Awareness Group, The concert, which took place in front of the entire school, featured sevUP (United in Prevention, formerly TI), eral small songs featuring Larry Coryelle and accomplished bassist and Breaded Fish, Peer Mediation, the Fling, Highland Park alum Max Jacobs as well as Junior jazz pianist Luke Miller Dead Center, SAGA (Straight and Gay and Junior drummer Michael Chernin. These four experienced musicians Alliance), and Student Congress are traded solos in Autumn Leaves, making an excellent lead in for the big all clubs existing right now within the band. Middle school students were then able to solo in C-Jam, a song the school- if you ask around, you’re sure middle school band played in Hershey Park and won Superior for. to find someone who knows someone The two events made for an unusual spring Jazz season. Both events who’s in one of them and can give you were needed exposure for students, especially those looking for further op- more info. portunities in the jazz world.

From Concert to Concert

The Highland Fling Staff Advisor: Ms. Marionni Editors-in-Chief: Sam Finegold & Michael Chernin News Editors Steve Zheng Feature Editor: Saskia Kusnecov Arts & Entertainment Editor: Simon Davis Opinions Editor: Nicky Rawlinson Sports Editor: Carl Lin Layout Editor: Sam Finegold Reporters: Greg Burdea, Simon Davis, Charlotte Finegold, Justice Hehir, Carl Lin, Sylvia

Marks, Saskia Kusnecov, Xuewei Ouyang, Nicky Rawlinson, Lucia Schnetzer, Amy Wang, Sam Finegold, Michael Chernin Photographs from Google images, outside contributers, and reporters

Thanks to all who helped put this issue together!

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The Highland Fling