5.7.15
Issue 5
Volume 50 @JCPatriot
@JCPatriot
Index
News 2
Lifestyles 4
A&E 7
In-Depth 8
www.jcpatriot.com The JC Patriot
The JC Patriot
Opinion 11
JCPatriot
JCPatriot
Sports 14
Lauren Wallace (left) and Jo Taylor (right), two Fallston natives, hold signs in front of the Bel Air Circuit Courtroom building. Protesters gathered in Bel Air on Thursday, April 30, to further extend the peaceful protests happening in Baltimore.
Death sparks controversy
Photo by Tona Rimpel
For more coverage on the Baltimore protests and their effect on the local community, go to News 2-3, Opinion 12, and jcpatriot.com
2
NEWS
May 2015
Photo courtesy Mike Ionescu
Lining behind fences, police officers barricade the streets of Baltimore following the riots and violence that transpired in certain areas of the city. Riots broke out despite the pleas of the Gray family to keep peace in the streets. The recent outbursts have damaged the image of Baltimore, but things are improving with the mayor’s recently lifting the city-wide curfew on May 2.
Police, protesters clash in Baltimore The Patriot contacted people who experienced the unrest in Baltimore Harford County police officer The Patriot contacted the Harford County Sheriff’s office to get a first-hand account of their officers’ experiences in Baltimore during the protests. Corporal Craig Shaw replied with a direct account of his time at the forefront of the violence Sat. April 26. The following is a direct quote from his statement: “When I arrived with a small contingent of deputies, I really did not know what to expect. When we arrived, we were put on the front line in a ‘hot zone’ in the Western District to relieve some exhausted Baltimore City officers. Upon taking the line, we had multiple people in
our faces giving us the middle finger, screaming profanity, and calling us all murderers. This was tough to handle as we were just there to keep the peace and assist and we did not murder anyone. “The screaming eventually turned into a violent assault consisting of large rocks, pieces of curb, and bricks being hurled at us. I took a brick to the left knee which was quite painful and several deputies took direct leg shots. I have been directly involved in multiple high-speed pursuits, foot chases, and physical altercations with combative subjects, and I still had not experienced anything quite like that night.”
JC and C. Milton Wright students JC junior Ky’el Hemby and C. Milton Wright senior Gerrod Maddox also experienced the unrest firsthand. Maddox was in the protest May 2 and was interviewed live by CNN. Hemby was visiting the area where he used to live to see what was going on. “It was nice seeing everyone come together from what was a dangerous riot to a peaceful protest. I’m used to the area because I used to live down there so it wasn’t really scary. It was
really a great experience because gangs that were rivals actually came together showing unity. I was never involved in the gangs, but I know people who are involved,” Hemby said. “It was great to see a group of people getting together for one cause. I was nervous but excited to be on national television. I felt it was necessary for people to hear the emotions of young black people,” Maddox said.
Kishan Patel Sports Editor
A retirement home in flames, businesses looted, and the eyes of the nation glued to Baltimore, a 30-minute drive southwest from Bel Air. This unrest, uncertainty, and vandalism occurred in direct opposition to pleas of peace from the family of Freddie Gray. On April 19, Gray, a 25-year-old African American male, passed away in custody following his arrest. The death has rekindled public protests of the national issue of recurring police brutality towards African American males. The protests have affected the entire nation and even reached international headlines. According to MSNBC, Gray was arrested for carrying an illegal switchblade. Gray attempted to run away from the police officers when they tried arresting him, but he was eventually caught and brought down by the officers. The details are still unclear and the judicial system is currently deciphering the situation. We know Gray died as a result of spinal cord injuries. Gray was in a coma for seven days after his arrest until he passed away. Currently, the six police officers involved with the arrest of Gray have been charged for the manslaughter and murder of Gray, according to The New York Times. Members of the Baltimore community feel as if they are being portrayed unfairly. “We did not come together against the cops. We’re not about to allow you all to paint this picture of us. We got soldiers out here right now that are dirt – we dirty. They threw bombs at us to try and stop what’s going on right now. You all are not about to do that to us,” a member of the Bloods gang told WBAL in an interview. The rioters have made known that they feel as if they are treated unjustly by the government. “To the people of Baltimore and the demonstrators across America, I heard your call for ‘no justice, no peace,” state prosecu-
tor for the case Marilyn Mosby said in a statement. “To those that are angry or hurt or have their own experience of injustice, I urge you to channel your energy peacefully.” Baltimore Mayor Stephanie RawlingsBlake made a public statement on April 25 regarding the violence in the community. “We know that the vast majority of the men and the women in the Baltimore City Police Department serve our city with pride, with courage, with honor and with distinction. But to those of you, who wish to engage in brutality, misconduct, racism, and corruption, let me be clear, there is no place in the Baltimore City Police Department for you,” Rawlings-Blake said in a public statement. Law enforcement has been enforcing a citywide curfew that was lifted on May 2. Alongside the curfew and police officers coming from as far away as Pennsylvania, 1,700-2,000 members of the National Guard were deployed in Baltimore to assist in managing the situation and to keep the city stable. The city has been under a state-of-emergency since April 25, and it will be lifted once the last of the National Guard leave the city, according to WBAL. Since the first two nights of riots, the unrest has given way to largely peaceful protests. In total, there have been 46 arrests because of the enforcement of the curfew. According to the official Baltimore City Police Twitter account, “they are overwhelmed with the amount of support received in the past week from the community.” The main concern of the Baltimore authorities is to keep the citizens of Baltimore safe. Since the curfew has been rescinded, the National Gaurd has also began to withdraw. “We’re going to bring whatever resources are necessary, whatever assets are necessary, whatever manpower is necessary to let the citizens of Baltimore know that their neighborhoods are going to be safe,” Gov. Larry Hogan said in a press conference.
For more on the unrest in Baltimore, check out jcpatriot.com.
NEWS
May 2015
Key dates in Freddie Gray case
April 25
April 19 Gray passes away following his arrest
April 12
Rioters attacked police while the Senior Prom was at the National May Aquarium
Six police officers involved with Gray’s 1 arrest are charged with homicide
City-wide curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. goes into effect
Peaceful protests held in Gray’s honor
Freddie Gray is arrested
3
April 28
April 20-24
Maryland community responds to unrest Protests interfere with daily lives of Baltimore City Catholic high schoolers Kishan Patel Sports Editor Fires blazing, men cursing, and police marching all in one night. Individuals scared to leave the comfort of their homes, families of law enforcement officers praying for their loved ones, and mothers praying for their sons to come home in one piece. All of this in a single night. The following morning, a short walk away, equivalent of that from JC to Safeway, students file into Baltimore City schools. These nationally-covered dangers occurred just blocks away from several schools, including Institute of Notre Dame, St. Frances Academcy, and The Catholic High School of Baltimore. Baltimore City schools were closed on Tuesday, April 28 due to a concern of safety. These concerns have impacted the lives of students attending these schools. Located only a block from a riot area, students from St. Frances Academy can attest to the struggles and concerns.
“It made us realize we shouldn’t own. “Educated people will protest take opportunities for granted. 96 percent of our school is African- these things. Uneducated people American males, which gives us riot. Growing up in the heart of two strikes to start out with,” ju- the city, I understand why these nior Keyon Smith of St. Frances people are doing what they are doing. They are uneducated and Academy said. are trying to The rivoice their opinots affected ion. Because of more than It made us realize the lack of eduone school rioting in Baltimore we shouldn’t take cation, and looting is the City. The Institute of opportunities for only way they know to voice Notre Dame is also locatgranted. their opinions,” Smith said. ed near the Junior Keyon Smith of St. Frances However, epicenter of even in the lives the riots. of high school stu“It’s scary because our school is located right dents, opinions vary and there are next to the projects,” junior Aa- stark contrasts in their opinions. “I feel like it’s nonsense and liyah Dee of IND said. “I was so scared for a sister who lived at amplified. The riots don’t really our school, but luckily she stayed relate to Freddie Gray and his case for justice,” Dee said. over at someone else’s house.” “The voices of Freddie Gray The situation, besides instilling fear in students, has also made are coming from those people who are peacefully protesting them think. These young students, like ev- and making their voice heard that ery person, have opinions of their way.”
“
”
Who is Freddie Gray?
Bel Air protests produce minimal turnout Eleanor Werneke Lifestyles Editor Protesters gathered in Bel Air on Thursday, April 30 to further extend the peaceful protests happening in Baltimore. The protest was rumored to start at 5 p.m. A little after 5 p.m., protesters Jo Taylor and Lauren Wallace, both 21, of Fallston came walking up Main Street, Bel Air, with signs and they stopped right in front of the Circuit Courtroom building. Taylor had much to say about why the recent events have been taking place in Baltimore. “I think the Freddie Gray incident was the incident that made the people snap. There were always injustices in Baltimore, [but] this just started the protesting,” Taylor said. Both girls were raised in Fallston and had strong opinions on how citizens of Harford County are reacting to these events in Baltimore. “We are raised in a 80 percent white community, and we are raised to think that black people here are fine, but inner-city kids are not. We view them as worthless, which is not okay,” Taylor said. The idea of the peaceful protest in Bel Air all started because of a simple post Taylor saw on Facebook. “I started messaging people on Facebook to get them to come out. A lot of people wanted to come but couldn’t because of complications,” Taylor said. “One of my friends wanted to come but her boss was against it and she didn’t want to get in trouble with work.” Although the girls were the first protesters there at 5 p.m., more came later. There was also a prayer group right near the protest, praying for safety and no violence.
Freddie Gray, a Baltimore native whose arrest was captured on video, died in police custody causing national controversy. The Patriot surveyed 40 random students between April 30 and May 1 asking who Freddie Gray was.
He was an African American man who was put in the back of a police car. His hands and feet were tied together, and there weren’t seat belts. He hurt his spine and died.
“
Gray was someone who was arrested and put in police custody and fatal injuries occurred.
“
“
“
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“
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I don’t really know… he was arrested, and he was killed by police.
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He’s a guy that was a violent, looting criminal, and he went to jail a lot. Then they abused him enough to die.
He’s the man who got shot in Baltimore and taken in a van.
BLINDEDLIGHT 4
LIFESTYLES
by the
May 2015
44 percent of students think people look “somewhat better” after tanning. However, the overwhelming majority of melanoma cases for 18-29 year -olds are caused by tanning beds. Elizabeth Driver
it was deep enough that it could spread and kill you,’ your heart Copy Editor drops. It’s like, I did this to myJunior Alice Cumptson takes self [...]” Cathell said. off her goggles as she exits the “More than one million Ameritanning bed. Glancing down, cans use tanning salons,” accordshe sees her skin isn’t all that ing to the Skin Cancer Foundatan. Cumpston isn’t discouraged, tion. however, knowing that in order to Some of those million are in make a noticeable difference she JC. Cumptson, who only visits needs to visit the salon roughly the tanning bed for school dances, 3-4 more times. hits up level two. According to the Skin Can“Level two is where you don’t cer Foundation, visits like have to go in as long because it Cumpston’s can pose risk of can- has stronger lights,” Cumpston cer. Tanning beds were the cause said. of 76 percent of cases of melanoCumpston started using tanma, a serious kind of skin cancer, ning beds a year ago, and is aware in 18-29 year olds in 2010. of the risks of tanning, but “[she] Registrar Sue Cathell is famil- just [doesn’t] think that just goiar with the effects of tanning. As ing for two weeks [out of a year] a teenager, she “was out in the sun is going to make much of a difall the time, [and] didn’t know ference when there are plenty of about sunscreen.” people susceptible to the same When she was 34 years old, risks just going outside and tanshe turned to ning or not even tanning beds. tanning at all.” “[My husCumpston When you get that call, band] died in isn’t the only ‘Oh it was malignant student who February [1996] and then that melanoma and it was tans with a tanspring and sumbed. Of 59 deep enough that it ning mer I had this respondents in could spread and kill a survey conintense need to look healthy you,’ your heart drops. ducted by The because we had Patriot with nine It’s like, ‘I did this to percent indicatspent so much time in the hosmyself.’ ed that they use pital,” Cathell Registrar Sue Cathell tanning beds. said. “So, I Senior Antanned in a tannelise Lang once ning bed and used them, but that summer at the pool I was no longer participates. out [in the sun]. I was very, very “I felt kind of weird doing it,” dark.” Lang said. “A lot of the people She received a phone call years that go there are old and wrinkly, later declaring that she had ma- and that made me not want to go lignant melanoma, a result of her anymore.” tanning. Additionally, about 44 percent “When you get that call, ‘Oh of students stated they believe it was malignant melanoma and that people look “somewhat bet-
“
”
Tanning just
once with UV light
increases the risk skin cancer by 67 percent.
ter” after tanning. Sophomore Payton Taylor tans as well, although she says she is aware of the risks. “Tanning is fine, as long as you don’t do it too often and don’t go for a long amount of time,” Taylor said. “Spray tanning is bad [though], it makes you orange.” Contrary to popular belief, “spray tanning may be just as dangerous as every other form of tanning, but for different reasons,” according to the Baseline for Health Foundation. A chemical called DHA that is in the tanning spray can be absorbed by multiple layers of the skin. Even if DHA isn’t inhaled when the spray is applied, the chemical can reach in the deeper layers of skin and cause damage.
1Americans in 5 will
develop a form of skin cancer in the course of a lifetime.
That danger is a mutation of cells that can lead to cancer. Senior Brady Fritz experienced a different negative of spray tanning when he got one for JC’s production of Aladdin in 2012. “It was horrendous. It looked good at first, [but] it was kind of sticky and gross. As I [showered], it kept coming off and it looked like I had a skin disease,” Fritz said. “I was told I didn’t exfoliate, but I’m a guy so I don’t know what to do before a spray tan.” Unfortunately, the sun isn’t a safe way to get that glow either. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, “about 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers and 65 percent of melanomas are associated with exposure to UV radiation from the sun.”
Photo by Claire Grunewald
However, despite its popularity, there are still students who don’t support tanning. “People don’t need to tan because they already look so beautiful,” junior Carly Lyon said. While Cathell doesn’t condone tanning, she understands that “in the end, it’s everybody’s choice.” “I appreciate teenagers and young adults who think that they’re invincible and that it won’t happen to them,” Cathell said. “Because I thought that. Even at 34 years old [...].” Junior Evan Moore doesn’t understand why girls tan even though they know about the risks. “Why would you want to do that to yourself just to look more ‘attractive,’ by being tan?” Moore said. “Is it really worth it?”
63%
of students have participated in a form of tanning (artifical, spray, natural etc).
All results and responses presented are from a combination of interviews and 59 JC students who responded to a survey conducted by The Patriot via surveymonkey.com.
LIFESTYLES
May 2015
senior project
5
SPOTLIGHT Members of the senior class give more than themselves for their senior projects
Julia Lee’s
Ethnic music brings money Project: Lee recorded a CD of her playing a traditional Korean instrument called the gayageum. What: Selling copies of the CD for $3 each, Lee will donate the proceeds to Liberty in North Korea (LINK), an organization that supports North Korean refugees. Lee sold her CDs at the JC art show and any who still wish to buy one may go directly directly to Lee.
Senior Julia Lee plays the gayageum, a traditional Korean instrument with 12 strings. Lee recorded a CD of herself playing the gayageum and is selling them for $3 to benefit Liberty in North Korea, an organization that assists North Korean refugees.
Why: Lee wants to help spread awareness of her Korean culture in the world, as well as help the people of Korea whom she views as “family.” Inspiration: “People know that I play [the gayageum], but it’s become a bigger [part] of my life. I feel like I’m doing something beneficial [for] the world.”
Photo courtesy Julia Lee
Alex English is
Bringing light to darkness Project: 5k Glow Run/Walk When and Where : May 9, 8-11 p.m. at the JC Track
Senior Alex English calculates the total amount of money businesses have donated toward his Senior Project 5k Glow Walk/ Run. The race, to be held May 9 from 8-11 p.m., will benefit the organization To Write Love on Her Arms.
Why: English wants to raise money for depression awareness and the program To Write Love on Her Arms. This organization provides help for those who stuggle from depression, addiction, self-injury, and suicide. Inspiration: “My cousin, who likes to run marathons, showed up covered in glow sticks and started talking about a benefit run she did a few days before. While she was talking, I just got the idea to combine the run with the glow sticks and make it my Senior Project.” Photo by Kathy Deaver
For more information on the Senior Projects of English and Lee, go to jcpatriot.com.
6
LIFESTYLES
Early Birds
May 2015
VS
Night Owls
Artwork by Holly Driver
Whether you prefer rising early or staying up late into the night, sleep patterns and preferences can positively influence creativity and productivity Claire Grunewald and Mike Moxley Lifestyles Editor and Multimedia Editor Junior Matt Becker carries his body with zero hours of rest into his AP English class the day after Thanksgiving break, unfazed by his lack of sleep. Whether he was running on fumes or his body was robotic, late-nights are nothing new to this notorious night owl. “There have been nights I haven’t slept,” Becker said, “and mornings are terrible. On weekends I don’t get out of bed until like 12 p.m.” People distinguish themselves as either a night owl or an early bird, although which one is more beneficial in the long run is controversial. Popular opinion suggests that waking up early has the most benefits. It has been proven through a study quoted in an article by Women’s Health that people who wake up earlier are happier and in better moods than those who wake up later. “I usually wake up around 6:30 a.m.,” junior Drew Isennock said. “I like to watch the sunrise, and I just feel more alert. I can accomplish more in the mornings.” Waking up early allows you to accomplish many things, and it gives your body more time to wake up. Health Ambition says that eating a substantial break-
fast gives you those nutrients you need throughout the day, but if you try and get those extra 30 minutes of sleep you can’t “break the fast.” Math teacher Courtney Von Lange is an “early bird” as well, and she enjoys running in the morning and getting things done around the house. “Waking up early is nice because I can get an early run in and get chores done around the house,” Von Lange said, [I only stay up late] to watch sporting games [and it] is only worth it if my team wins. If my team loses the whole next day is a drag.” Although it is said that early birds get the worm, many studies have shown that night owls have some advantages over early birds. Researchers from the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan found that night people are more likely to develop original and creative solutions to problems than morning people, according to The Huffington Post. Not only do they have more creative problem solving techniques, they also have higher energy throughout the day. Early birds’ energies decreases throughout the day while night owls’ energies remains constant allowing them to finish their work, according to ASAP Science. “I do feel a little less energetic, but [I still feel most] focused at
night. I’m more productive [with my homework]. There’s a sense of urgency,” Becker said. According to a survey by The Patriot, 39 percent of students go to bed between 11 p.m. and 12 a.m. every night. Sophomore Emily Schiavone, however, stays up even later. “I usually go to bed around 1:00 a.m. on average, usually because of homework,” she said. “I can get distracted a lot. Usually by Netflix.” Like Becker, Schiavone feels that the nighttime atmosphere provides the necessary pressure for productivity. “I feel more motivated at night,” she said. Studies have also proven that night owls like Becker and Schiavone need less sleep on average, and are more flexible with their sleeping patterns. However, it is not always personal preference that determines whether you wake with the rising sun or stay up into the next morning. Genetics, like always, is at play. According to ASAP Science, differing sleep patterns is an evolutionary survival trait developed so that someone would always be awake for protection. Whether you are the type of person to live by the moon or thrive in the sun, both lifestyles have negative and positive aspects on the body and mind. But in the end, we can all thank our ancestors for our sleep patterns.
The Gene Impact Info courtesy ASAP Science
A single change in the genetic code can result in an hour difference in waking time. A correlation was also found between the same set of genes and time of death. Early birds were more likely to die around 11 a.m. while the night owls were more likely to die around 6 p.m.
Which concert
A&E
May 2015
VIBES with you?
Read the four reviews to find out which summer concerts will fit your personality
Concerts reviewed by Editors Mitch Hopkins and Sydney Kirwan
Featuring Featuring Pop singer Taylor Swift Indie Singer Vance Joy
Audience Audience
The venue allows variety, and the dual stage setup allows the rootin’ tootin’ country lovers to take one side while the techno-loving fans take the other.
Taylor Swift’s performances offers a fun and energetic experience with upbeat songs. Her older songs have a country twang, but her newer music offers a pop vibe.
Date Dates
May 16 at the Preakness
June 12-13 in Philadelphia
Price Prices $70
Sam Smith Featuring Soul singer Sam Smith
Audience If you enjoy having your heart touched with personal lyrics and soulful voices, then you’ll love every song Smith performs.
Date July 24 at Merriweather
Prices Range from $59-$659
by Lauren Glase
iREVIEW
Benefits of Walkr are a shocker
InfieldFest Taylor Swift Rapper Childish Gambino Country band A Thousand Horses DJ Armin van Buuren Folk band Trampled Turtles Country artist Easton Corbin
7
Start at $100 and rise as seats get closer to stage
Sweetlife Featuring Rapper Kendrick Lamar DJ Calvin Harris Indie singer Vance Joy Alternative artist Tove Lo
Audience Sweetlife is a festival for the upbeat person who wants to have some fun.
Dates May 30-31 at Merriweather
Prices
$100 for a one-day pass, $175 for a two-day pass.
For the latest, follow
The Patriot online at jcpatriot.com.
@JCPatriot
JCPatriot
The JC Patriot
This app is made for walking and that’s just what I’ll do. In a society filled with Fitbits and other expensive pedometers, I was on the look out for a less expensive way to track my walking. The App Store gave this to me, for free. The app Walkr is not a normal pedometer, and Fitbits pale in comparison. Walkr takes walking and makes an intergalactic game out of it. The app has an outer space theme, allowing you to explore the universe, discover new planets, and care for the alien species that live there. It is a “galaxy in your pocket.” Walkr tracks your steps and the more you walk, the more your planets thrive. The planets’ populations grow with the more you walk. (Though this is a bit ironic due to the lack of gravity in space, which would make it quite difficult to walk there.) All you have to do is open the app, put your phone in your pocket, and carry out your day as usual. The app tracks your steps and lets you know how close you are to your daily goal of 10,000 steps. However, as you level up in the app, you can increase your goal. While the app should be downloaded for the purpose of staying active, the app can also be enjoyed for the game involved. Combining health and games is perfect. Here’s the downside though: it’s hard to be sure that Walkr is properly tracking your steps. It calculates your steps based on your movement. How can we really be sure that it is getting an accurate measurement? While I typically have my phone with me all day, there are points throughout the day when my phone is not in my pocket. When it’s dead or charging, none of your steps get tracked. Additionally, the app drains my phone’s battery. When I first downloaded the app, it took me a long time to figure out how it worked. Although it wasn’t user-friendly to begin with, once I got the hang of it, I was able to fully enjoy its functions. The app has its downsides, but if you want to be more active, Walkr can give you the motivation to get up and move. And you get to control space. Which is pretty out of this world.
8
IN-DEPTH
May 2015
# / * $ oh, The benefits of
cursing
ARE THERE ANY? 1. It reduces pain
3. It is entertaining
In a study led by Richard Stephens of Keele University, 67 college students submerged their hands in ice-cold water. The students who were allowed to curse while submerging their hands were able to endure the cold water for an average of 40 seconds more. Stephens concluded that swearing triggers a fight or flight response, nullifying the link between the fear of pain and the perception of pain.
“The Wire” and “The Wolf of Wall Street” are two critically acclaimed pieces of entertainment. Monika Bednarek, senior lecturer of linguistics at the University of Sydney, analyzed the use of swear words on TV shows. Bednarek found that HBO’s “The Wire” has the most number of obscenities per episode, averaging out at more than 100 per episode. In addition, the film “The Wolf of Wall Street” blasted off 509 obscenities in just 179 minutes.
2. It signifies importance
4. It gives people control
Whether it be excitement, anger, surprise, or more, swearing shows how a person is feeling. Swear words are immediately linked to emotions, which most likely has to do with the fact that they are considered “taboo.” They insert a direct emotional component to the conversation. Instead of saying, “this is cool,” an insert of a swear word can immediately emphasize the importance of the statement.
Although swearing may be considered aggressive, most people can tolerate hearing other people say swear words. Without letting out pent up anger in the form of swear words, some people can resort to physical violence. Swearing is a “punch” in speech, and taking emotions out by using swearing limits the amount of negative physical outcomes.
May 2015
cursing
IN-DEPTH
9
One of the most divisive forms of speech, cursing has become commonplace. But is cursing an inappropriate and unintelligent vice or is it a fitting expression of emotion?
p m u J y l l i B r o it d E h t p e D n I y B n o s i r r A e l o c i N r o t i d E o e d i V d n a
Dang it! As you look up at the clock, you know you’re going to be late. You have one minute to make it from your locker on the third floor to math class on the first floor, and there’s bound to be a gaggle of dawdling gossipers in the hallway. You slam your locker shut, but it gets caught on your book bag, jamming your locker. Too bad, you have to pick your battles wisely, and making it to math is more important. As you leap from the last step onto the second floor, the bell rings. Shoot! Right as you’re making the turn on the stairs, your calculator goes flying and the batteries scatter all over the stairs. CRAP! Just as you see your math teacher about to close the door at the other end of the hall, you yell out to them, letting them know that despite all the odds, you’re not going to miss the class. You sit down, open your binder, and see nothing but Spanish work. “Oh, $*/#” So what happens next? Does the teacher yell at you for your profane language, or rather do they understand your frustration and anger? Cursing, swearing, cussing, dropping bombs – it’s all the same, a language that expresses emotion and gives depth to a specific set of words. To some, this aggressive language is offensive and a sign of low intelligence. However, the freedom associated with cursing is what
attracts some people to the language. “I absolutely love cursing,” freshman Adam Brig said. “You need to be able to drop a couple of cuss words every now and again. I think it’s great. We live in a society where we can express ourselves through specific words.” Curse words can become a part of a person’s natural diction and give them a sort of placebo effect for stress relief, helping both alleviate pain and gain control of a situation. “I try to handle things calmly,” senior Jen Linsenmeyer said. “Sometimes it’ll just slip out, but a good scream can do the same.” “I understand how people get emotional and caught up in the moment, but it doesn’t excuse it,” social studies teacher Rodney Johnson said. “I’m careful with what I say and how I say it, but sometimes you just gotta say it, put it out there.” Many argue that cursing is a release for anger or pain and that it is no indication of low intelligence, as it expresses emotion rather than eloquent articulation. “People don’t know how to curse, the French do, but we don’t,” religion teacher Joseph Gallen said. “Cursing isn’t unintelligent, but when I hear vulgarities, I hear a representation of a person being uncouth.” However, regardless of what it represents, some just don’t want to hear it. “I’ll curse only when I’m angry, and a lot of times it’s just in my head,” sophomore Caroline Barwick said. “Peo-
ple should keep it on the down low, you sound like you’re just trying to be cool when you say it.” But to some it can be “just as bad as a racial slur or homophobic comment,” Johnson said. Cursing is defended as a freedom of expression and an emotional language. However, expectations to stay “ladylike” or “classy” prevent some women from feeling free to curse. “People always say ‘be lady-like’ or ‘act classy.’ I hate it,” Linsemeyer said. Of 56 students surveyed, 15 students said that it is not okay for women to curse, which is over 26 percent. In comparison, only five students said it was not okay for men to curse, or around 10 percent. According to senior Jessica Napoli, “women look bad when they cuss. It’s just trashy.” Instead of cursing, Napoli likes to use “cute animal names.” Keeping women from using profane language is not something that everyone expects, though. “I like a woman who cusses,” Brig said. “Cursing is something that everyone should be allowed to do, and everyone should do it.” While whether cursing is right or wrong is divisive, students agreed that one thing is crucial for cursing: age. “Midde schoolers definitely shouldn’t curse,” Brig said. “It’s disgusting to see middle schoolers curse,” Napoli said. “It’s just not right and it’s evidence of bad parenting.”
10
A&E
May 2015
Here’s the
1
Scoop
The Patriot staff reviews three local creameries and highlights the negatives and positives of each creamery.
Prigel Family Creamery
Claire Grunewald
Review
The menu is limited to ice cream, but the flavors ofPrice fered are varied from vanilla Ranging from $3.45 for a single scoop to and chocolate to Zeke’s cof$5.45 for a triple scoop fee, cinnamon, and caramel Address pretzel. When I went, I got a 4852 Long Green Road, Glen Arm, MD mixture of Zeke’s coffee and 21057 cappuccino chip, which had Drive Time a natural coffee taste. I could Approximately 20 minutes from JC feel the texture of the ground Atmosphere up coffee beans on my The building itself resembles a barn, and tongue, a nice change from once inside customers can see the process basic, store-bought mixtures. of making the homemade ice cream behind While the ice cream was satisfying, the prices were high. glass windows. Lifestyles Editor
Photo by Claire Grunewald
Inside Prigel Family Creamery, customers can find cases with large quarts of ice cream. The creamery does not have a public restroom so there are legal restrictions on the amount of seating available to customers, but Prigel lets customers borrow blankets to sit outside in the surrounding fields.
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Keyes Creamery
Mitch Hopkins
Review
Keyes Creamery’s flavors range from chocolate Price and lemon to coffee chip An average sized ice cream costs little more and vanilla-fudge swirl, than $3.00, and a small milkshake costs known as goose feathers. about $4.00. When I went, I tried the goose feathers, and I Address still wish that I had gotten 3712 Aldino Road, Aberdeen,MD 21001 a whole pint. With their normal cups of ice cream, Drive Time they also sell pints and Approximately 15 minutes from JC quarts. The milkshakes are also delicious, but are a Atmosphere It is a little bit off the beaten path, but is little more expensive. Photo by Mitch Hopkins Keyes Creamery, located on 3712 Aldino Road in Aberdeen, is a small dairy shop that sells a well worth it. A gravel driveway, a heavy During the summer, delicious variety of ice cream. During the summer, Keyes is a perfect place to go with friends door, outdoor seating and livestock all add Keyes is a perfect place to if you are in the Havre de Grace, Churchville, or Aberdeen area. to the atmosphere of Keyes Creamery. go with friends. News Editor
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Cold Stone Creamery
Erica Kelble
Review
Cold Stone Creamery sells ice cream signature creations Price which are fun and have silly A“like it” (small) for the signature cretitles such as “Germanchokoations is $5.29, the “love it” (medium) latekake” or “All Loving No is $5.79, and the “gotta have it” (large) Oven.” The signature creations is $6.49. are a preset combination of ice Address cream and toppings, and they 1200 D Agora Drive Bel Air, MD 21014 have about 20 to select from. If these aren’t for you, you Drive Time Approximately 3 minutes from JC can even create your own ice cream combination with one Atmosphere free topping. If you want more, Inside, the sitting area is a little small it’s 79 cents extra. I suggest with only about four tables to sit, but Photo by Erica Kelble sticking with the signature cre- Cold Stone Creamery sells ice cream signature creations and has about 20 to choose from. there is a section of tables outside for ations because they are fun and Along with the signature creations Cold Stone Creamery has create-your-own ice creams that additional seating when the weather is are $1 cheaper. are generally delicious. nice. Multimedia Editor
OPINION
May 2015
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PATRIOT DEBATE A B
JC lacks proper honor for earning good grades Will Bolton Opinion Editor A QPA of 36 means what exactly? An awkward walk on stage, a handshake with the principal, and a paper certificate for the recycling bin. As far as incentives go, this is barely above a pat on the back and far below anything worth working toward. The First and Second Honors distinctions are supposed to incentivise hard work, push students to achieve academic success, congratulate students who are more than average, and to be a goal for students who have not done so. At this point the distinctions are almost laughable. It is apparent from all the certificates in recycling bins on the way back from the assembly that students place no credence in what is supposed to be a goal to achieve. This is why the administration should provide students who receive First Honors with benefits. For instance, underclassmen could be extended the traditionally senior-only gym privileges if they receive First Honors or be allowed the senior privilege of leaving early. Seniors who reach First Honors could be given an out of uniform day. Alternately, more incentive would be to only allow First and Second Honors seniors to leave early or come late.
These potential changes could go a long way in changing the student body’s attitude toward getting honors. Students who previously scoffed at getting a certificate would begin looking at getting honors as a real achievement as opposed to a meaningless excuse for an awards ceremony. For the last three weeks, seniors have been scrambling to do well on the final tests and quizzes of the year. In contrast, at Bel Air High School, senioritis is seeping through the halls. “My senioritis is so bad that I haven’t even started my 1,000-point project that’s due in two days. Every morning I debate whether or not to get out of bed when my alarm goes off,” Bel Air senior Sean Vono said. Statements like this, which are prevalent in most schools, are conspicuously absent from JC seniors as a result of the current incentives. The success of allowing seniors to be exempt from final exams shows that JC students can be incredibly motivated if given the right reward. It is clear that incentivising students motivates them to work hard and succeed. At the end of the day, the students who earn the 36 QPA have worked hard and achieved success. They deserve a reward for their studies and effort, and by providing it, JC helps them learn and move on to future success.
Patriot Answers Freshman Nicole Hunter
Sophomore Jeff Geier
“If you work for it then you “Yes, because they are smarter deserve a reward. Plus, it gives than the average person.” an incentive for other students.”
C D F
YOU MUST BE
THIS SMART TO RECEIVE
PRIVILEGES
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Good grades alone exemplify rewards Mike Moxley and Kathy Deaver Multimedia Editor and Online Chief It seems that everything in high school revolves around QPA, GPA, or class rank. Students should be less concerned about rank and more focused on just doing their best and putting effort into their school work, without extra motivation or incentives. The main reward of succeeding in your academic work should be the benefit of gaining valuable knowledge and skills. Possible rewards proposed for students who earn First Honors include gym and circle privileges, leaving early, or coming in late. These are currently reserved for seniors and should continue to be for seniors only. If students can earn these rewards at a younger age and grade level, it will not be a special hallmark of senior year. Instead students should breathe a sigh of relief when becoming a senior reflecting upon the various accomplishments they earned. Doing well in school is what we are all supposed to work toward, regardless of what classes we take, what social group we are in, or how “smart” we are. Receiving First or Second Honors should be incen-
tives in and of itself. Using extra rewards as bribery is excessive and unnecessary. Students don’t take AP and honors classes to get rewards, but rather to challenge themselves and potentially earn college credit. The students who are willing to go the extra mile will do so, regardless of extra privileges or rewards, so adding irrelevant incentives to the honors system is ineffective. People should strive to be successful and do well for no other reason besides being successful. Adding mundane incentives will not significantly motivate students more than their immediate grades and the long-term goal of college. People who are self-motivated are more successful in school and in life, so cultivating students to rely on external motivation sets them up for failure. Ironically, the perks of leaving early and coming late are rewarding them for working hard in school by letting them leave it. Additionally, once students get to college, they will no longer have those incentives on which they have come to rely. The consequences of this may be dire. Freshmen are free from parental supervision for possibly the first time in their lives and, without that extra push, may be tempted to skip classes and not turn in assignments. Laziness like this would interrupt learning.
Should students who earn First Honors receive privileges for their accomplishments? Junior Grace Glinecki
Senior Chris Almony
“No, because all students are capable of First Honors, so I do not believe they should get special privileges.”
“Yes. It depends on what kind of accomplishments, but they are stand-outs from the rest of the class.”
Faculty Dave Huber
“Yes, I think getting First Honors is an achievement and the students that work hard should get a small privileges.”
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OPINION
May 2015
Social media offers new perspectives on the violence of Baltimore riots
by Will Bolton
bolton’s BIASES Thank you, Fareed Zakaria Fareed Zakaria recently wrote a book entitled “In Defense of a Liberal Education.” He defends the studies of English, communication, philosophy, and all other areas of study that fall under the umbrella of a liberal education. Zakaria has drawn attention to one of the most harmful developments in schools: the abandonment of a liberal education. This national trend is clear from the decline of humanities and liberal arts programs at America’s top universities. According to reporting done by the New York Times, Harvard has had a 20 percent decline in humanity majors over the last decade. The same article reported that due to low numbers of students interested in the humanities, Stanford and Princeton have recently adopted special admission programs that attempt to recruit more humanityminded applicants. This is not just a college-level problem. JC has created a STEM program with no counterpart focused on highlighting the humanities. It is even clearer what the school’s priorities are, given that students can earn diplomas with distinction in science but not history. The Fine Arts Diploma is a start, but it only covers a small segment of liberal education. This problem is serious because liberal educations make a strong society. The ability to clearly communicate, think critically, use common sense, and learn from previous generations through reading are the staples of a healthy society and a healthy economy. In a predominantly service sector economy such as ours, 41 percent of the jobs have to do with interaction between people, according to businessinsider.com. Liberal educations are best at preparing students for such jobs because they teach students communication and eloquence. These educations are the hallmark of leaders, lawyers, teachers, writers, poets, philosophers, artists, musicians, military officers, philosophers, lobbyists, and so many more professions. Even one of the most influential scientists in the world, Rachel Carson, was as much writer as she was scientist. Liberal educations are of paramount importance for strong societies. If you still don’t believe that, think about the education of the most powerful men in the world over the last 200 years. Heres a hint: half were lawyers.
The Patriot Staff There is no question that the rioting in Baltimore is tearing the city apart. The video of an injured Freddie Gray screaming in agony sparked massive rage in the city of Baltimore. The video highlights the issue of police brutality that has recently come to light in Baltimore and the rest of the nation. The conflict finally exploded on April 25. Freddie Gray’s death acted as the catalyst for riots, which caused fires and put the entire city on edge. Many media reports have portrayed Baltimore in a bad light. Much of the media coverage includes videos and pictures of rioters burning buildings, throwing bricks at police officers, smashing police cars with burning trash cans, and looting businesses around the city. Rioters damaged communities that were already fragile. The impact of the protests kept impressionable youth out of classrooms
and on the streets in a heightened environment of violence. This media perspective has tainted the world’s view of Baltimore. However, through the lens of social media, we have been able to see new angles of the story that don’t always receive traditional media coverage. There are witness accounts that help us to sympathize and to empathize with both sides of the conflict. There are pictures of young men and women giving water to police officers, cleaning up the mess left behind by rioters, and standing between the officers and the rioters. Additionally, there are people who can be seen performing music in the streets. These accounts leave the nation and the world with a special, behind-thescenes view of events. These people remind us that no
“In the middle of a burning city, there is a spark of hope.
Report Card Water fountains disgust JC
matter what side of the issue we fall on, we are all human. Acts of violence have been tearing the community apart, but perhaps without social media the acts that have been bringing people together would not have been shown. What’s unique about social media coverage is that it is controlled by the people. Contribution isn’t restricted to paid reporters. Peaceful protesters and violent rioters alike are able to tweet, post videos, and share their witness statements with the world like never before. In the middle of a burning city, there is a spark of hope. We should focus on these compassionate acts by the people of the city, not the crimes that have been committed in the name of justice. Ultimately, social media has
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brought a new aspect to the news industry, and its effect on the coverage of Baltimore is a prime example of this. It sheds a personal light on the situation that the nation wouldn’t receive otherwise. It’s easy to focus on the the violence that is coursing through Baltimore. It’s easy to talk abstractly about bricks being thrown at police and the damage that the entire city is receiving. Social media, however, helps put a new face to that damage. Through personal accounts by citizens fighting for justice, trying to maintain order, or caring for others, it becomes apparent that this is happening to real people. And while it’s impossible to ignore the impact that the physical damage has on the city, we should also celebrate the light shining from the perseverance of the human spirit. Of people, who despite living in a the midst of the violence or riots, decided to be constructive rather than destructive and focus on peace instead of violence.
The Patriot turns the tables by grading the school on today’s issues
Stories by: Morgan Taylor, Copy Editor
Frozen yogurt brings joy
Air conditioning gets circulation
On a free mod, after practice, or just on an afternoon stroll, water is the perfect refresher to a long day. However, JC has a few issues regarding the plentiful fountains of water strategically placed throughout the building. Well, one issue really: the taste. The faint iron taste with a strong flavor of chemical mixes together to form a gross concoction within the pipes of our fountains. Water – usually a tasteless liquid – takes a turn for the worse. Whether it is in order to increase water bottle sales or to prevent meandering during class, JC has had worrisomely horrid-tasting water for quite some time now. As of now, no one has reported any growths or mutations from said water, so we may all put our worries aside. As math teacher Beverly Markel would say, plug and chug. That is, plug the nose and chug the water.
Coincidentally, as the weather warms, the sale of frozen yogurt increases. Student after student can be seen walking to the cash register with creamy chocolate or vanilla frozen yogurt towering over the white styrofoam bowls. They can be seen with sprinkles, candies, or syrups oozing out of the mound of yogurt. With the multitude of delicious toppings, this frozen yogurt is delicious. The consistency and texture of the yogurt is a high quality that is similar to the fro-yo you can buy at other yogurt shops, if not better. The flavors are rich and satisfying to every taste bud. This delectable treat is a great addition to any meal or after school snack with a flat rate that does not fluctuate depending on weight, which is also a huge plus. Ladies and gentlemen, the frozen yogurt is collectively a huge hit among the students and faculty.
JC finally stepped into the 20th century – a century late – by installing air conditioning in the cafeteria and the auditorium. However, select classrooms can still get a bit toasty while the cafeteria produces goose bumps, ultimately making an interesting but uncomfortable combination. Despite this, students are still ecstatic about the fact that we even have air conditioning at all. The auditorium has gone too long without air conditioning, and the addition of air conditioning has been a lifesaver for thespians and spectators alike. Furthermore, the cafeteria can get quite packed with students on common lunch mods, so a little bit of air conditioning really improves the quality of life. Despite some minor inconstancies in the temperature, the addition of air condition is all in all a great improvement to the quality of student life.
The Patriot
News Editors Mitch Hopkins Alex Rasmussen
Opinion Editors Will Bolton Justin Hawkins
Contributors Rachel Amrhein
The John Carroll School 703 Churchville Road Bel Air, MD 21014
Lifestyles Editors Claire Grunewald Eleanor Werneke
Sports Editors Eric Johnson Kishan Patel
A&E Editors Kristen Isoldi Nick Miller
Copy Editors Elizabeth Driver Morgan Taylor
Multimedia Editors Nicole Arrison Erica Kelble Mike Moxley Tona Rimpel
The Patriot is a publication of The John Carroll School. The views and opinions expressed in The Patriot are not necessarily the views of the Board of Trustees or the Administration of The John Carroll School.
In-Depth Editors Billy Jump Sydney Kirwan
Artists Rawlison Zhang Holly Driver
Moderators Mark Ionescu Nick Attanasio
A copy of each print issue is distributed to each of the 688 students and 110 faculty and staff members. Some of the remainder are sent out to exchanging schools with a return address. The
Volume 50, Issue 5, May 2015
Media Chief Lauren Glase Print Chief Hanna LeBuhn Online Chief Kathy Deaver Stories Chief Angela DeCarlo
remaining copies are shared in the Main Office, Library, Admissions Office, Office of Institutional Advancement, given out when needed, or archived. For more information, please visit jcpatriot.com/about. The editorial staff invites and greatly appreciates comments from readers on any issue. Please email comments or letters to editor@jcpatriot. comor submit them through our website: www.jcpatriot. com.
OPINION
May 2015
Staff Ed: Black and Gold Award requires revisions The Patriot Staff The Black and Gold Award is granted to a senior that ... well, no one really knows. The award is considered the most prestigious award that any Patriot can earn, but qualifications are cloudy at best. We believe the award lacks notoriety and clarity and has issues with the selection process itself. The biggest issue is the lack of notoriety regarding the award. Wouldn’t it make sense for the most prestigious award to be the one talked about the most? Unfortunately, a search on the JC website reveals a one-sentence blurb announcing winners from the Class of 2013. Additionally, the school “congratulates” all the past winners with a small, nondescript plaque outside the Upper Gym that you may have noticed one day while waiting for your ride, but probably not. Notoriety can easily be fixed with announcements and assemblies. From the beginning, underclassmen should be introduced to the idea of the award in order to attract attention to this great honor. Each year after the nominees are selected, an announcement over the loudspeaker should be made congratulating them. Then, right before the vote is to be cast for the ultimate winners, the seniors should meet in the auditorium to get an in-depth explanation of the award’s criteria. Another important fix to notoriety is to change the day in which the recipients are honored.
Currently the award is bestowed However, these shouldn’t be upon the winners during the Se- the be-all and end-all of requirenior Showcase, an event that not ments. An appeal process should all teachers and students attend. be formulated so an active, inspirWe propose to revise the system ing student who meets some, but by having the award be presented not all, of the requirements can be during the Senior Awards Assem- nominated under unique circumbly, when all other senior awards stance. are given. This would create exIn short, each nominee should citement and notoriety around the participate in multiple activities school, considering it is the last while still inspiring others, givday that the class comes together ing back to the school, and being before graduation. “compelling, considerate, and unHand-in-hand with notoriety compromising.” comes clarity. There is no specifAnother faulty area is the seic, concrete criteria that dictates lection process. It’s only natural what type of to nominate person is elisomeone who gible for the As such, it should not is your friend. award. To fix be about the comfort To prohibit stuthis, we prodents from bepose require- of the spectators, but ing in that posiments that about the experience tion and having each nomithe award turn nee should of the graduates. into a popuattain in orlarity contest, der to be conwe propose a sidered a viable candidate. change in the process. Each nominee should not reA complete list of academiceive a single demerit. An indi- cally eligible candidates should vidual must display variety and be given to the SAC and NHS commitment in a multitude of so that senior members of these areas. Whether a nominee is an groups can select 10 male and 10 athlete, a thespian, a musician, or female nominees. The two groups a member of student government, should meet behind closed doors he or she needs to have a strong to discuss the nominees, without presence in our school communi- teachers. ty. A nominee should be involved After these nominees are sein multiple clubs with varying lected, they should be announced degrees of commitment. The in- to the entire school. dividual must have been a student The next step includes the enfor at least three years, and have tire senior class, who knows their a cumulative QPA of 33 points or classmates better than anyone. higher. Additionally, each nomi- The class would be presented nee must also have more than the with the award’s qualifications required amount of service hours. before they elect three male and
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three female finalists. Again, these six finalists would be announced to the school. The teachers should have the final say in choosing the final two winners of the award, as the system stands currently. The winners would be announced during the Senior Awards Assembly. However, before the winners are announced, there should be a brief speech that fully describes the award, its prestige, and its qualifications so that the rest of the student body is aware of the importance of the award. The first year implementing this system will be the hardest, but you must climb a mountain in order to reach the top. In displaying the seriousness of this award and the difficult nature of the entire process, even The Patriot staff was split. There were contradicting theories on how the recipient should be nominated and picked. However, we believe that we have recommended changes to help make the guidelines more specific, the selection process more fair, and the award more established in the most effective ways possible. The staff hopes that the administration takes this proposal and thinks it over in order to strengthen the process. As voices of the student body, we want to advocate for a change in an award that we bestow upon a fellow classmate. We are happy to have the chance to do such an honorable thing, but we want to ensure the two most deserving individuals win.
Rawli’s World: Summer plans Cartoon by Rawlison Zhang
What should I do this summer?
What I actually do:
Netflix
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by Rachel Amrhein
Rachel’s RANTS Sexist music harms society
Music is known as the window to the soul. It can inspire you, comfort you, and make you feel terribly sad or overcome with joy. So why does so much of it show hatred or disdain for women and portray them as objects made solely for men’s pleasure? There is misogynistic music in nearly every genre. Rap, pop, country, you name it. A few of the many offensive songs that I’m going to focus on are “U.O.E.N.O.” by Rocko ft. Future Rick Ross, “Literally I Can’t,” by Play-NSkillz, and “God Made Girls,” by RaeLynn. “U.O.E.N.O.” is a disgustingly popular song which promotes rape culture. This is repulsive because it’s literally about rape. Some of the lyrics contain parts like, “put Molly all in her champagne, she ain’t even know it/I took her home and I enjoyed that, she ain’t even know it.” How on earth can a song like this be popular? “Literally I Can’t” is just as bad, if not worse. The entire song and music video is about frat guys going to a party and telling the girls at the party to shut up and do what the guys say. Some of the lyrics include “you got a big ol’butt/ I can tell by the way you’re walkin’/ But you annoyin’ me’ cause you’re talkin’(Shut the [expletive removed] Up).” This song is downright disturbing. It is not okay to talk to women like that. It’s disrespectful and completely degrading. “God Made Girls,” by RaeLynn, is not nearly as in your face as the other two songs. It may seem innocent, but when someone stops to consider the lyrics, they are misogynistic. In short, the song basically says that God made girls to take care of men. It displays sexism towards both men and women. At this point, you might be wondering why sexist music is so terrible. It’s just music, right? Wrong. According to “The Influence of Rap and Hip Hop Music: An Analysis on Audience Perceptions of Misogynistic Music,” by thestudentpulse.com with studies conducted by undergraduates, young adults who consume misogynistic music, like rap and hip-hop, become desensitized to the lyrics about relationship violence and sexual aggression. This teaches people that aggression are closely linked to masculinity. Sexist music may never go away for good, but people have the power to make it less popular by not buying it
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SPORTS
by Eric Johnson
SPORTS reports Pete Rose almost receives justice In 1986, a legacy was shattered. Former Cincinnati Reds first baseman and manager Pete Rose was convicted of betting on baseball games that he believed his team would win, which resulted in not only being banned by a regulatory board, but also eliminated his hopes of being elected into the Hall of Fame. It’s simply outrageous to condemn Rose for gambling in favor of his own games, but have people still worship players like Tiger Woods, Michael Vick, Alex Rodriguez, Adrian Peterson, and Terrell Suggs. We grow up learning to be confident in ourselves, but when somebody decides they are going to be confident and bet money because he believes a team will perform well, he gets banned by the league. Vick endured the worst punishment for his crime out of all these criminals, which wasn’t even on another human being. Even still, the NFL banned Vick from the league for only three years. What separates Pete Rose from these other convicts is that he broke a rule specific to his sport, not an actual law, which is why he did not get in any legal trouble. Because he did nothing illegal, Rose merely violated a part of his contract that didn’t hurt anybody. Based on talent alone, Pete Rose still stands out above every other athlete regardless of sport. I admire Rose for his legendary skill, never batting below .300 and holding the record for over 30 years. My favorite aspect of Rose’s approach is that he would never swing for the fences, despite being a phenomenal power hitter. Of course there are the greats like Ty Cobb, Hank Aaron and Derek Jeter, but Pete Rose still holds the all time record for the most hits in an MLB career. It is truly remarkable because he played in the majors for 23 years, and for all of those years, Rose had above a .300 batting average. Rose also went on a 44-game hit streak in 1978, which would have guaranteed him a spot in Cooperstown and as the greatest hitter of all time. What’s even worse is the “favor” people believe they are doing by hiring Rose to be a part of the All-Star Game this year at Great American Ball Park. Rose deserves more than a publicity stunt, Rose deserves a shrine in Cooperstown.
May 2015
Golf drives into playoff race Kishan Patel Sports Editor
The pressure is on, all eyes are looking on junior Taylor Mezzatesta as he takes a deep breath. He clears the world from his mind and concentrates on one thing: the golf ball. In the midst of a championship drive, Mezzatesta focuses not on winning, but on having fun and playing the game he loves. The team has won five games, lost three, and had one tie, according to the MIAA website. Additionally, Mezzatesta, the number one golfer on the team, is attempting to win the MIAA individual championship. This team is about more than one individual, however. Every golfer contributes to the team and will be needed to pull off a championship season, especially when facing challenging teams on the way to the playoffs. “We have two tough teams in Severn and St. Mary’s, but if we play like we can, we’ll beat them,” varsity head coach Anthony Del Puppo said. “The talent is there, but we need every member of the team to show it when it comes down to gametime,” Mezzatesta said. However, winning is not all this team is about. This season,
Photo by Eric Johnson
With his second shot, senior captain and number two golfer T.C. Sanders drives the ball on the first hole at Maryland Golf & Country Club. The team is currently fighting for the gold in a close race for first place. the team has learned more than just how to swing a club. “Everyone encourages everyone on the team all the time. That’s really special. No one is ever putting another team member down at any practice or at games,” Mezzatesta said. Instead, the golfers help each other throughout the season. “The leadership is great on the team. [Senior] T.C. Sanders, our captain, has had a great influence on me and on the team in my opinion,” junior golfer Daniel Bonsack said. In light of the team’s recent
success and hype surrounding the players, Del Puppo is taking a realistic approach. “We are definitely not the favorites, but I know if my guys play their best golf, we have a realistic shot at the championship,” he said. The golfers on the team are excited to compete and be in the championship hunt, but they will not let it get to their heads. “We are grateful for the opportunity to know [that] if we play our best, we can win. Although we know we can win, we make sure not to let it get to our heads and be in the one-game-at-a-time mental-
Athlete Spotlight
ity,” Bonsack said. Golf involves commitment and dedication to truly succeed, and that is what this team has been doing. The sport requires the athlete to not only train the body, but also the mind. A golfer needs precision and pin-point accuracy which can be tedious to achieve. Even with the work involved in the sport, the team enjoys themselves while playing. “Being able to play golf four days a week is awesome,” Sanders said. “Especially with these guys, we just always have a good time together.”
Selina Petronelli
Grade: Sophomore
“[Petronelli] is a great asset to our team. She shares a lot of knowledge and experience with everyone.
Sport: Equestrian Years of Experience:
Sophomore Brooke Hare
13 years
Accomplishments: - Competes nationally in Interscholastic Equestrian Association (IEA) - Varsity captain since freshman year
Quick Facts: - Lives on the practice facilities - Mother is the coach Photo courtesy Selina Petronelli
Sophomore Selina Petronelli and her horse, Parker, clear a hurdle at a competition. Petronelli has been captain of the equestrian team since freshman year.
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I like my mom being coach. She understands how to actually train me because she has watched me ever since I was little.
Sophomore Selina Petronelli
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For more on Petronelli’s accomplishments, go to jcpatriot.com.
May 2015
Softball makes solid contact
SPORTS
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Billy Jump
In-Depth Editor Ranked sixth overall in the IAAM A conference, winning four out of seven games overall, and having a close team bond, you would think that the women’s varsity softball team is no stranger to success. However, in past seasons, home-runs and strikeouts were the least of the team’s concerns. According to head coach Jack Westermeyer, at one point the team had only nine players, the minimum number of players needed to field a team. “We had three injuries and got down to only nine players,” Westermeyer said. “And we couldn’t take any players from JV because then they wouldn’t have [had] a team either. We had to work with what we had.” The players had little choice on what to do: they could recruit more players or risk losing the team. “I [worked] with my teammates just trying to encourage my friends to come out and try to play,” senior right fielder Emily Meyerl said. “During freshman year I got my friend [classmate] Grayce Moran to try out and play even though she had never played
Baseball clinches postseason spot Eric Johnson Sports Editor
Elizabeth Driver Copy Editor Photo by Morgan Taylor
Sophomore Gabriella Centi smacks a hit in the varsity softball game against Catholic High on April 29. Centi’s hitting has been a crucial part of the softball team’s four and three record, placing them sixth in the IAAM. softball before, and she still plays to this day.” Originally joining as the softball team manager, Moran decided to become an outfielder after numerous injuries took away several players on the team. Since then, Moran has played as an outfielder, hitter, and third base. “I wasn’t very good but they needed players,” Moran said. “I decided that I would play un-
til the injured people returned, which ended up being the whole season.” The team has won twice as many games as it did last year, and after going to Myrtle Beach over Spring Break, “there was a lot of team building, [and] we had a really great time,” Westermeyer said. While the team is seeing more success than in previous seasons,
some players still expect more in the future. “We have improved immensely in our skills and attitudes over the years,” Meyerl said. “but as a program we seem stuck in the lower end of the IAAM A Conference.” “We’ve been very competitive this year, but of course I want us to do better,” Westermeyer said. “I’m sure next year will be just as good, if not better.”
Lacrosse heats up on home turf Kishan Patel Sports Editor The clock ticks down in a tied game, with a crowd of students gathering for the Senior Game. Sweat dripping from her face, looking down at the ball in her stick, varsity midfielder and junior Kelley Reilley starts to sprint. She goes left, goes right, takes a half spin and drives in. Untouched, Reilley scores the eventual game-winning goal in a 13-12 game on April 23 against Maryvale. “This team is special. They work together as a single unit on and off the field and that’s really unique,” varsity women’s lacrosse head coach Abigail Swift said. Although it is Swift’s first year being a head coach at the a high school level, she has coached club lacrosse for several years. The team currently stands as the No. 4 seed in the IAAM A conference, boasting a 7-4 conference record and 11-4 overall record. According to varsity captain and goalie Katy Sharretts, alongside the coaching change, there
Staring down the batter, senior varsity pitcher Luke Schaffer begins his wind-up and delivers a strike on the outside corner. Thanks to Schaffer, on April 29 the baseball team won its 10th game of the season and moved into the number four seed, guaranteeing a spot in the postseason. Schaffer helped the baseball team achieve their postseason dreams in his first season of high school baseball. “I want us to stay healthy through the end of the year and into the playoffs,” Schaffer said. “It’d be nice for [varsity head coach Steve] Teter’s first fouryear players to make a run in the playoffs and compete with the top teams in Maryland.” As of April 30, the baseball team is 10-7 overall and sits in fourth place in the MIAA A Conference. Teter is proud of his team this year. “We’ve hit the ball very well, and we’ve had more depth this year,” he said. With two regular season games remaining this regular season against Mount St. Joseph’s and Archbishop Spalding, the baseball teams looks to enter the postseason with solid momentum going into the playoffs that begin Friday, May 8.
Men’s track places second at Patriot Games Elizabeth Driver Copy Editor
Photo by Eric Johnson
Senior varsity goalie Katy Sharretts saves another goal in the first game on the new turf on April 7. The women’s team lost 8-6 to McDonogh, but has an 11-4 record as of May 1. has also been a new-found vibe and charisma surrounding the team. “This year is different, we are a really close team. When the best players play well, the entire team catches that vibe,” Sharretts said. “Things happen, games don’t go your way, but that’s when I feel we come together the closest. That’s when we develop as a team,” Reilley said. The team this season is made up of 12 seniors, 10 juniors, and
two sophomores with no freshmen. “We really have great leadership on this team,” Sharetts said. The leadership is apparent to Swift as well. “[seniors] [Sharetts] and Caroline [Sdanowich] and Kara [Klages] are our captains, but they aren’t our only leaders,” Swift said. “[Seniors] Chantae [Simms] and Emory [Gaeng] provide leadership too. [Simms] really leads by example and [Gaeng] leads the attack for
our team.” In the midst of a successful season and the energy surrounding the program, it is easy to lose focus on the opponents at hand, by thinking about the championship too much, according to Reilley. “We take one day, one practice at a time and get better in that,” Swift said. “This team is definitely capable of winning the championship, but we need to take it a day at a time.”
Men’s track and field took second place in the B conference championships (or the Patriot Games) on April 29. There is still another meet left in the season, however. The remaining meet is the A conference championship that involves every school in the MIAA. “The guys came together to put on their best effort at yesterday’s meet,” varsity head coach Robert Torres said. “We had several [players] do very well.” The team won the 3200-meter race and the relay team for the 800-meter run. According to Torres, the only thing that “went wrong is we had too many on the team who missed too much, either practice or meets, for various reasons.” “Every miss is a reason why some [players] never reach their potential,” Torres said. “The track season was executed very well this entire year by everyone,” junior and varsity runner Rob Flynn said. “Next year we are going to hunt for the championship title and defeat the three-time champions at all costs because we are determined, [Archbishop] Spalding.”
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SPORTS
May 2015
YOU’RE ON OUR TURF NOW JC invites members of the local community to rent out the new turf fields
Photo by Kishan Patel
With his team on its way to an 8-7 victory, senior varsity defender Brad Smith knocks his opponent down in a crucial stop late in the fourth quarter against Saints Peter and Paul on April 17. Later that month on April 24, the lacrosse program hosted Youth Day for 175 local middle school lacrosse players to show that JC should be an option for them for high school.
Eric Johnson Sports Editor On Oct. 20, Dixie Construction began installing two turf fields in place of the football and field hockey fields. The fields were finished over the course of Spring Break and the first games were held in April. Women’s varsity lacrosse played the first game on Field 2 on April 7, and fell 6-8 to McDonogh. Men’s varsity lacrosse played the first game on Field 1 on April 10, and defeated Park School 10-6. Now that the turf fields are being used every day for spring sports practice, JC isn’t the only program to use the turf fields. Non-JC teams have rented the field for practice and weekend tournaments.
Local organizations rent the field as well. The Daily Bulletin lists who has rented the fields and what times they are being used during the day. Students are not allowed to use the fields unless they have rented the field with administrative supervision present because of legal obligations. Security cameras have also been installed to monitor the usage of the turf fields. On April 24, JC lacrosse hosted Youth Day where 175 middle school lacrosse players came to play on the new turf field. Then they attended a cookout and watched the Patriots play. The motivation behind Youth Day was to show that JC should be an option for Harford County middle school lacrosse players that will be attending high school. “We’re competing with some of the big
schools like Calvert Hall, Boys Latin, and St. Paul’s because the turf field brings the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth grade [prospect] teams to JC,” varsity lacrosse coach Brian King said. “It makes us a part of the community instead of being a secluded school, and it gives the kids in the Bel Air area a nearby place to play lacrosse.” Don Reynolds, class of ‘89, rents the turf field for his club program Thunder Lacrosse. He coaches the 4th-8th grade teams for the program. “It’s a beautiful facility, and it’s great to be able to have all four of our teams in one place for practice,” Reynolds said. “A lot of people have also come to campus for the first time in decades to see the progress.” Before the turf fields were installed, Thunder Lacrosse used to rent the grass field for practice.
“It’s been a learning curve for renting the turf. It was easier [to rent] with the grass, but it’s also more understandable because we practice on a great field now,” Reynolds said. Currently, three former Thunder Lacrosse players are in the freshman class and are involved in the lacrosse program. In result of the new turf fields and community involvement, King is building and expanding JC’s lacrosse program in the Harford County area. The 2019 age group for Thunder Lacrosse includes eight players coming to JC next year as freshmen that also plan to participate in the Patriot lacrosse program. “The field really shows [the school’s] commitment to expand in all sports,” Reynolds said. “It’s a commitment to the school and to the community.”