The Pitch
Walter Johnson High School
Volume 57 Issue 6
March 16, 2012
6400 Rock Spring Drive, Bethesda, MD 20814
Occupy AP Registration
WJ’s Young Dems, Reps Express Opinions in Political Clubs By Julia Cinquegrani
Photo by Danielle Markowitz
On March 13, hundreds of students waited to register for AP tests at lunch and lines spread into the Student Commons. This resulted in hours spent waiting in line and some students leaving classes early to attempt to beat the rush. To read an article detailing the problems with AP registration, check out wjpitch.com.
WJ Raises Over $58,000 for Pennies for Patients
By Claudia Nguyen
WJ students raised a total of $58,263.53 throughout the months of February and early March to donate to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, which supports cancer research. WJ’s total was the most raised by any school in the D.C. Metropolitan area. Whitman High School ranked second in the area by raising approximately $51,000. WJ’s total this year is well above the amount the school raised last year, which was approximately $38,000. The increase in the amount of money that WJ students raised can be attributed to the expansion of many Pennies for Patients events that were held in previous years. Pong for Pennies for Patients was expanded to include 100 teams, and a new color of Paw Prints were sold that were specifically designated for teachers. New Pennies for Patients fundraisers were also added this year, such as T-shirt sales, rap battles, ninja tag and a movie night. Furthermore, Flippin’ Pizza held many new lunchtime fundraisers whose proceeds went to Pennies for Patients, and WJ GLOW had more students attend than any previous winter dance, which were all factors that contributed to WJ’s fundraising success.
The It’s Academic team competed against Landon and St. Albans high schools in the playoffs on Sat. March 3. The team competes in two different types of competitions, It’s Academic and Quizbowl. “[It’s Academic] is going on TV to answer Jeopardy-
Feature, pgs. 5-7
Political Clubs continued pg. 2
From WJ to the Small Screen, It’s Academic Team is Making a Buzz
By Julia Cinquegrani
Inside, Check Out:
Sophomore Kendra Allgood, a member of WJ’s Young Republicans Club, was in fourth grade when she experienced her first brush with political dissension. Her family had recently moved to the area from Texas, where her parents’ Republican values were consistent with most of their neighbors’. “I always knew that my family was Republican, but I didn’t know what that meant,” said Allgood. “When I moved here, one of my classmates said ‘Ew, Republican!’ when I told them what my family believed.” Allgood has grown accustomed to being in the minority with her political views, but this has not prevented her and other members of the Young Republicans Club from expressing their views. “Especially around here, Republicans don’t evoke a positive image in people’s minds,” said sophomore Nevo Magnezi, the president of WJ’s Young Republicans Club. “But if you really look at the Republican philosophy, I think people would understand it more.” The club, which has existed sporadically in previous years, was revitalized by Magnezi this school year.
style-type questions and you compete against other schools and you buzz and people can watch it; it’s fun,” said coach Stuart Safford. “And then there’s [Quizbowl, where WJ competes] against other teams. It’s similar, but the difference is the questions are more academic questions, more like things you’d actually study in high school classes as opposed to trivia.” In order to prepare for these competitions, the It’s Academic team practices three times a week. They meet Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays in Safford’s classroom during lunch. Due to there being only one girl officially on the team this year, Molly Narkis, senior co-captain Seth Gottlieb said the team dynamic could be loosely compared to a boys’ locker room because the team members often joke around with each other. However, once practice commences Photo courtesy of Seth Gottlieb the team becomes instantly focused. Members of WJ’s It’s Academic Team, center, competed against teams from T.C. Williams HS and Wheaton HS at a taping of It’s Academic. From left, junior Grahme Taylor, senior Seth Gottlieb and senior Ilya Zhitomirsky.
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It’s Academic continued pg. 2
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MARCH 16, 2012
It’s Academic Team Makes a Buzz on the Small Screen
It’s Academic continued from pg. 1 During practices, Safford reads aloud various trivia questions that are approximately the length of a short paragraph, and the answer is a specific title, name or term. Individual team members try to answer the questions as quickly as possible. “[Practices] during lunch [are] mostly for speed’s sake,” said Gottlieb. “But you really do learn a lot of facts just by going to practices.” Additionally, students put together note packets and independently study common subjects that have appeared in previous competitions. “We run through a lot of question packets from other tournaments and on our own we usually study a variety of subjects,” said Gottlieb. “Some of us study literature, some of us study science, [others] study history, battles [and] the Roman empire- things like that. And that’s fun to do; it’s exciting.”
Other “A”-team members this year include senior co-captain Cameron Keyani, senior Ilya Zhitomirsky, and junior Grahme Taylor. Safford said that he has been proud of the team’s performance as it has been doing well. However, all members, not just those on “A”-team, are integrated onto the team. Everyone has a role and contributes. “People can do a lot of different things,” said Safford. “One student… Molly [Narkis] has been working on putting together a packet of previous Quizbowl questions.” Team members will research certain topics on their own, even over the summer. Gottlieb said that this past summer he researched sculptors, architects and famous books. Since there are so many subjects that can be covered in a tournament, sometimes one stu-
dent will act as a specialist for a given subject area. “The team knows [I’ll get] anything [related to] Kurt Vonnegut,” said Gottlieb. “I won us a [match] one time. We were tied [and] I got a Kurt Vonnegut question. I got it within five words.” Being an intellectually-based competitive team, there are sometimes stereotypes that the team faces. A few of the team members poked fun at this subject, and Safford clarified that most of these preconceived notions are not true. “We joke about it a lot, but we’re not like your stereotypical nerd[s],” he said. “It’s just cool knowing things that other people don’t. The part that makes it fun is the competition.” The It’s Academic playoff that the team competed in on March 3 is set to air on NBC4 on Sat. April 14, at 10:30 a.m.
At left: Seniors Ilya Zhitomirsky and Cameron Keyani and junior Grahme Taylor joke around in a break from taping. At right: Taylor, Keyani, senior Seth Gottlieb, Zhitomirsky and It’s Academic coach Stuart Safford pose after finishing the show.
Photos courtesy of Seth Gottlieb
LETTER FROM THE EDITORS Dear Pitch Readers, As usual, in this issue of The Pitch, we are highlighting student talent in the form of singing. With features on Mr. and Ms. WJ, WJ’s open mic show “Feedback” and WJ’s spring musical Les Miserables, The Pitch is yet again taking note of the vocal chords on several of the same students. You will also find The Pitch’s annual March MakeOver Madness in this issue. Our feature editors channeled Stacey London and Clinton Kelly for their very own edition of “What Not to Wear” at WJ. Hopefully this version of March Madness can cheer you up whilst you are overly absorbed in brackets and conferences and goals and touchdowns. You may notice this issue of The Pitch is a little shorter than a normal issue, but don’t be alarmed. You may find an additional issue before we leave for spring break. Enjoy! Sincerely, Ali (Your in-house therapist)
Photo by Steven Groobert
Sincerely, print-editors-in-chief Rosie Hammack, Hannah Flesch, and onlineeditor-in-chief Ali Jawetz
Young Democrats, Republicans Express Diverse Political Opinions in WJ Clubs Political Clubs continued from pg. 1 He wanted to organize a place where students could freely express their opinions, even if they were different from the majority. Junior Molly Narkis, president of WJ’s Young Democrats Club, had similar motivations for revamping the Young Democrats Club this year. She got excited about the idea of starting the club as a way for students to create change and make a difference politically. Magnezi and Narkis agree that the ongoing presidential primaries have generated more political awareness among students, but they have not necessarily encouraged more students to join the clubs or be more politically active “There’s a good sect of students that is politically aware... but there’s such a plethora of clubs at WJ; it’s hard to dedicate your time to anyone of them,” said Narkis. At lunchtime meetings, members of theYoung Democrats Club meet to debate current issues and brainstorm ideas for new activities in which to participate. Earlier this year, club members held a letter writing campaign against the Stop Online Piracy Act and the Protect IP Act, which they sent to Barbara Mikulski, U.S. Senator for Maryland. Club members plan to volunteer for Obama at phone banks later in the year. During Young Republicans Club meetings, members debate current political issues and discuss the merits of the various Republican presidential candidates. Soon, Allgood hopes to organize a debate with theYoung Democrats Club. Many of the club members support Ron Paul, but Magnezi and Allgood favor Mitt Romney. However, neither is very enthusiastic about Romney’s campaign.
“Romney’s a flip-flopper,” said Magnezi. “He contradicts himself a lot. But he will definitely get the [Republican Party’s] nomination.” Because the metropolitan area is quite liberal, it is unsurprising that the number of members in each club is unequal; the Young Democrats Club has approximately 25 members, whereas the Young Republicans Club has approximately nine members. It can also be a challenge for Allgood and Magnezi to generate interest among students in joining the Young Republicans Club. “We’d be standing outside the classroom before a meeting, trying to get people to come into it, and they’d just say no. Like, ‘just no,’ ” said Allgood. Ironically, the existence of the Young Democrats Club was part of Magnezi’s motivation for starting the Young Republicans Club. “I was taking a quiz one day in [social studies teacher and the sponsor of the Young Democrats Club Steve] Miller’s room during lunch, and the room was [filled] with people there for the Young Democrats meeting,” said Magnezi. “And I thought, ‘Why isn’t there a Young Republicans club?’ It was also a personal thing for me; I wanted to become more politically involved.” While Narkis believes students are very open to different political ideas, conservatives Allgood and Magnezi do not believe that to the same extent. “You can definitely be criticized for your views if you raise your hand in class and say something conservative,” said Allgood. “[I wish] people would be more open to different political views. People should consider both sides. I honestly don’t care what side people would align with, as long as they know the issues.
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March 16, 2012
Curveball R-E-S-P-E-C-T
By Rosie Hammack
It was a scene taken straight out of a peppy ‘80s high school dramedy, complete with the grossly nonsensical exaggerations of the stereotypical ‘teenager’ that the genre entails. The scene was surreal; so much so that, had someone retold it as I am now, I might have thought it an obvious and ridiculous exaggeration. The curtain opens on a full classroom. In the center stands a small-statured Asian man. He has to shout over the students to bring the class down to a simmering noise level, and even then he can’t have more than 25 percent of his audience’s attention. His thick accent immediately garners a few malicious snickers, as does his declaration that he has two Ph.D.S: one in Calculus, the other in Chemistry. It is right after this that the substitute makes his fatal mistake: he divulges his name, and a student shouts, “Nice to meet you Dr. Shit!” The class boils over in uproarious laughter. Fast forward 45 minutes. The bell rings, and as I pack up I notice through the corner of my eye a grimace seize the man’s face. End scene. I understand that preaching is offputting and ineffective in any persuasive argument. For that reason, and as a general rule for my monthly column, I try my best to avoid it. But I must say I’m finding the preachy angle difficult to sidestep, when the topic at hand is basic human decency and respect (or lack thereof). Any motivating reason for treating an adult – a fellow human being – with such flagrant disrespect is unfathomable for me. I am not going to pretend to be some kind of saint, but I just cannot comprehend taking pleasure in humiliating a friendly, mild-mannered, middle-aged man, who obviously expects respect from the throng of judgmental young adults he has volunteered to teach. It all boils down to that one word: respect. A substitute, like every other person out there, deserves respect. I understand this may fly in the face of age-old high school tradition, but it’s true. Some kind and intelligent people doom themselves to adulthoods of ridicule in exchange for their valuable services to the public. Imagine expecting uninhibited derision each day at work; imagine coming home with the weight of contempt on your shoulders. It’s no wonder that some subs overcompensate, and that some have created shields of strict rules and swift punishments. We mock them for it, but we are the reason for that overcompensation. I can’t help but wish the scene above had played out differently, and that common decency had won out over lazy, cruel humor. The curtain opens on a full classroom. In the center stands a small-statured Asian man. He calls the class to attention, rolls through his list of academic accomplishments, and receives polite acknowledgment – the students hold their peace. Forty-five minutes later, he leaves the classroom with a smile on his face, having avoided one class period of nauseating racism and scorn. End scene.
EDITORIAL
A Step to Equality
By Anders Norberg
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geous. Marriage is a ceremony allowing one person to spend his or her life with another person they truly love, and if these two people happen to be the same sex, they should still be able to have the same rights as those who are straight. I honestly can’t see why allowing same-
I think allowing same-sex marriage is good for everyone. Sure, people can disagree, but allowing people to get As of March 1, Maryland will bemarried doesn’t hurt anyone. Though come the eighth state to allow sameothers might disagree with me because sex marriage in the United States, they don’t feel that same-sex marriage Connecticut, New Hampshire, New or even same-sex couples should exist, York, Vermont and Iowa being others. these people should reThe bill has caused alize that gay marriage quite a ruckus in the does not hurt anybody. state. The supporters Same-sex marriage are ecstatic about this 2004: Massachussetts Legalizes Samehas always sparked huge development. One Sex marriage debates in states across more state means that the country. Whenever LGBT groups are that a state passes such a law, 1998: Bill Clinton signs Executive much closer to having Order 13087 that bans discriminathere are two very dissame-sex marriage nation based on sexual orientation in the tinct reactions, ranging tionwide. Of course, workplace. from joy to utter outthose against the idea rage. California was once of same-sex marriage the second state to allow 2003- Supreme Court strikes down all are angry and upset and same-sex marriage, but Sodomy laws. have started to gather discontinued it in 2008. signatures for a referIf such a thing could hapendum on the 2012 pen in one state it can election ballot. 1976- Harvey Milk is first openly gay happen in any state. So, man elected to public office. Such an event is preteven though the law has ty extraordinary and passed in Maryland, it monumental, considdoesn’t mean it is perering that before 2004 manent and it could sadno same-sex marriage ly be repealed at any time. was recognized by the national governAlthough there are already some peoment.To see such a rapid change in only sex marriages would be such a big issue. ple setting up opposition to the law, I eight years is a true testament to the To deny people a certain right is equivahope that their efforts don’t succeed. I dedication of the members of LGBT, lent to racism or sexism in its effects, think marriage is something everyone and shows how strong and powerful and denies rights that are explicitly statshould be able to have and to share with the LGBT community has become. ed in the Constitution. Denying love is another person they love. Personally, I am completely in favor of the bill. The idea that a certain type definitely disregarding the unalienable of person can’t get married is outra- right of “the pursuit of happiness.”
I Only Want a Trip to the Park By Danielle Markowitz “FIELD TRIP TIME!” should shout a chorus of overly-energetic high schoolers, each regressing back to his or her inner child. But alas, the above statement is rarely heard, if heard at all. Back in elementary school, there was a field trip about every two months. We would go to the Kennedy Center, the National Opera House, the Baltimore Aquarium and the Building Museum. In middle school, the field trips became sparser, but we still managed to go to the National Zoo. Now, as we reach an age where we want to go out into the world (you know, spread our wings and all), we are kept in the confines of the school. A select few students in AP U.S. History get to go to the National Portrait Gallery and a few other students in Child Development get to go to the zoo. Besides
these small groups, field trips have become virtually non-existent in high school. Budget restraints are completely un-
educational experiences. The benefit of such hands-on learning is so valuable that learning through this is something the county should strive for. There is no better time than now to take advantage of the wonderful area we live in; from the Smithsonian museums to the myriad of places in the area dripping with historical value, field trip opportunities are basically in our backyards. We’re only a short bus ride away from the epicenter of the free world, and this is not something we should take for granted. In a world of AP classes and continuous Scantrons, it is hard to schedule time to step outside of the classroom, but this shouldn’t discourage teachers from attempting to make learning more hands-on and interesting for energetic teenagers. The break Photo courtesy of flickr.com The image of a bus taking high school stufrom the norm of learning dents on a field trip is a rare occurence. truly creates lasting memories and imderstandable in this recovering econ- prints knowledge, and that alone should omy, but it is truly a travesty that we be enough reason for the high school no longer get the opportunity to go curriculum to include more field trips. outside of the classroom for genuine
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EDITORIAL
March 16, 2012
Sarah Norkola- Smith
Junior
Benedict Cumberbatch- “We would have fun going to a crime scene and deducing who the killer is. Then I would touch his cheekbones.”
Josh Bernstein
Cole Miller
Freshman
Senior
Ms. Baker- “Because I get lost in her eyes.”
Taylor Swift- “Because she looks like my girlfriend.”
Up Bat at
Leah Altekruse
Sophomore
Ashton Kutcher- “He’s tall and attractive.”
We all dream about having a perfect date, with boys or girls who are just so far out of our league. Therefore, we ask you, students of WJ, who is your dream date and why?
Frank Yang
Junior
Edward Cullen- “I don’t like Jacob, and Edward sparkles.”
Q: If you could go on a dream date with anyone, who would you go with and why? Stephany Aguilar
Zeke Green Sophomore
Sophomore William Levy- “He’s a really good dancer and he’s really fine.”
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Sasha Gzirian - “Because she is a very attractive young lady.”
STAFF
All photos by Steven Groobert.
Editors-in-Chief Hannah Flesch Rosie Hammack Ali Jawetz*
Arts & Entertainment Editor The Pitch is published eight times a year by the students of Walter Johnson High School, 6400 Taliah Dommerholt Rock Spring Drive, Bethesda, Md. 20814. Advertising and subscription rates are available by Cameron Keyani* calling 301-803-7302. Editorial opinions represent those of The Pitch staff and do not neces-
News Editors Julia Cinquegrani Girard Bucello*
Assistant Arts & Ent. Editor Emily Cosentino
Assistant News Editor Editorial Editors Nathaniel Rees Claudia Nguyen Danielle Markowitz* Sports Editors Phillip Resnick Feature Editors Daniel Thaler* Jenny Deutsch Sari Amiel Megan Chun*
Staff Writers Anders Norberg Matthew Morris Ellie Jorling
sarily reflect the opinions of the staff, faculty, or student body. We welcome letters, articles, photographs and artwork, to be submitted to room 193 or e-mailed to eics.wjpitch@gmail. com. The Pitch is an award-winning paper that works towards providing the student body with Photo Editors Emily Cosentino accurate, as well as credible, information.
Steven Groobert
Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Medalist 2009
Maryland HS Journalism Award Best Newspaper Overall Third Place 2009-2010
American Scholastic Press Association First Place 2010-2011
Photographers Anders Norberg Girard Bucello Cartoonist Michael Matthes *Online Editors
Copy Chief Sari Amiel Copy Editors Megan Chun Nathaniel Rees Claudia Nguyen Artists Anders Norberg Emily Cosentino Business/PR Manager Claudia Nguyen Advisor Sylvie Ellen
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MARCH 16, 2012
FEATURE
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Cast, Crew and Orchestra Prepare for Spring Musical Les Misérables By Claudia Nguyen with, the ones that everyone is in… with all the dancers and the singers.” Beaty added that practicing for “Les Mis” has been especially difficult because the music is more complicated than that of other shows. “‘Les Mis’[is] a very music-driven show,” she said. “The music is a really, really important part of it, and just to pull it off and make sure it sounds like the recording… takes a lot of practice and it takes a lot of focus.” While preparation is hectic, with students having to balance work for the show with school, Hamel said it is enjoyable. “The process [is] all fun,” she said. “There’s a lot of crunch time before the show. [It’s] not so much procrastination, but people have school work and stuff like that.” Set in 19th century France prior to the French Revolution, “Les Mis” tells the story of Jean Valjean, a man who has just been released from prison. Valjean resolves to betThe orchestra practices for Les Misérables at a Saturday rehearsal, with the cast lis- ter himself, and tening to coordinate its performance. This rises to become
“It’s a very, very dark show,” said Hamel. “There are a lot of deaths; there are a lot of sick jokes. There are definitely hu-
For this year’s spring musical, WJ S*T*A*G*E has been preparing a performance of the popular Broadway production “Les Misérables.” Auditions were held at the end of January, and parts were cast at the end of February. As part of her responsibilities as assistant to the director, junior Sarah Hamel acts as bridge between cast and crew. She described the work that S*T*A*G*E has been doing to prepare
for the show. “Right now, we’re working on the set [and] we’re about a quarter done with [it],” she explained. “The cast right now has learned all of the music, because ‘Les Mis’ is an opera, so it’s completely musical. They’ve learned the entire show, [they] have staged quite a few scenes and they are in the process process is called a sitzprobe. of staging other scenes.” Rehearsing nearly every day after school and even during some weekends, the cast will continue its busy schedule up until its first performance on April 20. Hamel added that, for the next few weeks, they will be doing a “sitzprobe,” which is when the cast and orchestra work together to figure out how to combine the music with what is happening onstage. Senior Andrea Beaty, a cello player for the WJ S*T*A*G*E pit orchestra, explained their preparation for the performance. Dec. 5-9 “We always start out sight reading every single one of the pieces,” she Music Pickup said. “But now that we’ve gone through them… we’ve been focusing on the pieces that we have the most trouble
Photos by Steven Groobert
morous parts, but if you want to see a light, hia factory owner and the Les Misérables’ cast and crew pre- larious show, this is not mayor of a small town. pare for the April show by rehears- the show you go to [for] However, as the story ing and constructing a set onstage. your jollies.” Although S*T*A*G*E progresses, Valjean has has been putting a lot of time and efto overcome many hurdles, including fort into the performance, there is still being pursued by a policeman and having to care for the daughter of one of his much to be done. Hamel still expects the show to be great. workers. “It’s got an amazing score, amazing “’Les Mis’ is a very well-known show,” said Hamel. “Even if you don’t know music, and in this show there is so much what it’s about, you probably have heard talent in the cast,” said Hamel. “The set is already looking incredible. I highly the name or heard about it.” Hamel also added that before com- recommend that every WJ student go ing in, the audience should know, while out and see it. It’s going to be awesome.” the show is not all serious, it is definitely not lighthearted.
Production Timeline
Opening Night Apr. 20
Mar. 12 First Sitzprobe Jan. 3 & 5 Rehearsals begin
Dec. 14, 15, 21, 22 Audition Workshop
Jan. 20 Cast list released Jan. 13 Callbacks
Apr. 14-19 Hell Week Jan. 24 First rehearsal
Walter Johnson All School Booster Club We are here to support YOU! TEAMS AND CLUBS CAN EARN MONEY FROM BOOSTERS IN THESE WAYS: 1) Sign up to work the concession stand at any of the events posted. All groups who work will receive $100. 2) Sponsor, create and run a fundraising event that is co-sponsored with Booster. Take advantage of the events we already use to raise funds, or ask us to help you with your own fundraiser. 3) Direct request for assistance. Request assistance through our Funding Request Form. TO JOIN THE BOOSTER CLUB – look for our flier ONLINE at www.wjboosterclub.com. GOT BOOSTER?
MARCH 16, 2012
MARCH MAKE
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Bryan is shopping in the aisles at Pacsun in Montgomery Mall.
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OVER MADNESS NO NO NO!
Fashion Consultants Jenny Deutsch
Danielle Markowitz Elise peruses the clothing options at Forever 21 in Montgomery Mall
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Sari Amiel
Beautiful! That will not do.
Much better!
Before being made over, Bryan often was found wearing dirty sneakers, Tshirts, and track shorts.
After the makeover, Bryan is sporting a fresh haircut and some casual yet modern attire.
Elise arrived to her makeover sporting a comfortable, stretchy. unpolished look and well-worn Birkenstocks.
Byran England Bryan is trying on shoes at Pacsun in Montgomery Mall.
After her makeover, Elise is wearing a tribal outfit with a splash of color, courtesy of Forever 21.
Elise Rudt Bryan gets a fresh haircut at Bubbles Salon in Montgomery Mall.
Danielle Markowitz expertly styles Elise’s hair.
Elise gets her makeup done at Sephora in Montgomery Mall Photos by: Sari Amiel, Danielle Markowitz and Jenny Deutsch
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
MARCH 16, 2012
Third Base Feedback: WJ’s Open Mic Show The Humor Column
“We usually decide which songs sound best and are the most professional-sounding, so that people will think that we’re a real band,” said Brodnick. “I think Once a month, usually on a Friday afternoon, WJ’s original songs are easier and I prefer them because halls are filled with the sound of organic talent issuing you’re not up to a standard. It’s also a little more fun from the Student Commons: the sound of Feedback. because you can feel it more.” Feedback is an open mic show that senior Helena KlasIn order to stage the shows, Klassen has needed sen organized for her senior project, and the oppor- sponsorship from WJ faculty and approval from adtunity to participate in it is open to any student who ministration to utilize the Student Commons. There would like to take center stage and perform in front is usually an entry fee to get into Feedback shows for of an audience. adults and all of the “It’s really improceeds go to the portant [for kids] By Cameron Keyani Children’s Inn at to have the ability NIH, though at the to express themmost recent show, the proceeds went As the interminable blizzards and frost of this ardu- selves,” said Klasto Pennies for Paous winter melt away, the bees start buzzing, the birds sen, who feels that tients. start chirping and the Wildcats start prowling. There’s even if students “I think—as arnever a better time to turn over a new leaf than when don’t take music as a class, they tistic as WJ is—it new leaves are sprouting. is great to have a For underclassmen, spring means a continuation deserve the opforum for art outof hard work and yet another round of AP and class portunity to share their talent with side of the classexams. room,” said EngBut for me it means summer is right around the an audience that is lish teacher and corner, with just a few more months until college, a ready to listen. Klassen had the faculty sponsor of career, marriage, children and divorce. one of the shows, How did the years disappear like this? The spring- idea when she saw Jonathan Bos. “It’s time of my life is over, and it flashed by in an instant. the student-run Photos by Emily Katz encouraging for I’m practically an old man now; I might as well start open-mic show Conor Brodnick and Helena Klassen perform “Come Back” by the kids to get up in eating prunes and scolding the youth for how low they at Sidwell Friends Seniors Born Ruffians. front of peers and get that immediate Feedback.” wear their trousers (though, to be fair, they are getting School in Washington, and was amazed at the talent of the student perKlassen plans on having two more Feedback shows VERY low). In order to prevent my hair from going gray, I’ve formers. She was immediately inspired and figured this year, and one will probably be sometime after devised a plan to seize the day, every day. It doesn’t WJ had as much talent to display, if only there was a spring break. “Feedback is awesome for myself and my band as take much to seize the day, only an open attitude and proper occasion. “After I had musicians—it’s definitely helped us because it’s our a lot of Enya. seen open mics proving ground,” said Brodnick, who also feels that it Seizing the day works like this: every day, when the at Sidwell,” is an excellent event for students who may not have weak voice inside you tells you that you cannot, should said Klassen, “I had the same chances to perform as he has. not, will not do something, you do it anyway. thought, ‘Why Feedback has been a place where unknown and This is not an invitation to skip every class and endon’t we have known artists alike have come together in front of an gage in a myriad of illegal behaviors, but rather a push one of these at eager and attentive crowd, to share their passions and to conquer your fears, which are in the end based on WJ?’” improve their skills. nothing. So far, Klassen “What’s interesting about WJ’s talent is not that it’s Leave it to Worldstarhiphop.com, a site inundated has organized there, but that it’s exciting to see how free students are with freestyle raps that devolve into fistfights, to teach four open-mic about developing their talent and putting it out there me that fear is not real. A video on that site featured shows, which for others to enjoy,” said Bos. “I’m really happy that an Indian guru, who stated that fear and anxiety don’t featured per- Helena started it.” exist because, unlike happiness, they don’t exist in the formances by present moment. Fear is based on shame from your solo singers, past and worries about your future, one of which is bands, students done and gone and another of which may never come performing poto pass. etry or prose As a man filled with ridiculous fears and anxietpieces, a comeies, eliminating these narcotics from your life seems dian and even a like an impossible task. But they are truly nothing but crutches, allowing people to feel content and com- Senior Ryan Polk does stand up comedy. magician. Most performers sign fortable with achieving less than their full potential. up in advance, but in the past there have also been a With the past three and a half years at WJ under my number of impromptu performances. belt, there is a great deal of pressure to do something “Potential performers can contact feedback.wj@ radical before graduation. Spring is a time for instincts gmail.com if [they] want to perform in an upcomabove everything. The aforementioned birds and bees ing show,” said Klassen, “and I usually put up posters don’t apply much thought to what they do, they just around the school to advertise.” act. Sometimes it’s better to just be a dog chasing cars, Feedback has drawn in different talent from all four as the wise Joker from “The Dark Knight” put it. grades, and the outcome of each show has exceeded My treatise to do more has been echoed by various expectations. But, more importantly, the opportunity sayings, such as “Carpe Diem” and “Bark More, Wag is exhilarating for performers and their audiences. Less.” I must admit, what I’m saying is the height of “I love performing,” said senior Conor Brodnick, whiny first-world suburban ennui. There are people who has played guitar in multiple Feedback shows with on this Earth who would literally kill to have the cushy, his band, Minnesota. “I love watching people perform; self-important life that I do. But this spring more so than any other, I urge anyone reading this to start I like seeing how people react to my performance and something new, conquer your fears and live your life I like reacting to their performances.” Brodnick and the other members of his band are to the fullest.You don’t know how many more chances accustomed to putting on a show for live audiences, you’ll get. but this is the first year that they have actually formed an official band, taking everything to the next level. For Minnesota, Feedback is an opportunity to show Senior Madison Chase singing “Make You Feel My Love” by audiences what they have been working on and it is a Adele. chance to practice performing.
Spring is Springing, Don’t Miss It
By Taliah Dommerholt and Ellie Jorling
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Representing 2012: Mr. and Ms. WJ By Emily Cosentino On March 2, WJ students auditioned for the chance to be a part of Mr. and Ms. WJ. Representing WJ seniors are six guys and six girls who will try to take the crown and win the title. The students have two regular rehearsals scheduled and one dress rehearsal to prepare for the show in front of the school. On March 16 the 12 students will compete to be the winner, showcasing their various talents. The show will have a wide variety of students with many different talents. Some of the students will be using their instrumental skills to impress the audience, such as senior Madison Chase. who will be playing the piano. Multiple students will be using their voices in the competition. Seniors Taylor Swift, Bea Owens and Fiona Buckley will be singing for the title. Dancing is a major aspect Senior Bea Owens sings of this show. Seniors Elena during her audition for Mr. Johnson, Laura Dally, Leah and Ms. WJ. Holmes, Morgan Huffman,
Jacquie Maranville, Tyler According to Johnson, the rehearsal Cole and more are parwent better than expected and everyticipating in various types one seems prepared and ready to put on of dance routines. a great show. “[One reason I was “Everyone participating is very talinterested in performented and I think this year’s show is going was] because I could ing to be the best [show yet],” she said. perform onstage which I According to Johnson the seniors are haven’t done in a while,” trying to put on the best show that they said Buckley. can. Their expectations for themselves Buckley also tried out are high and the goal for the show is to for Mr. and Ms. WJ behave a fun, competitive experience, for cause she wanted to chalthe most memorable Mr. and Ms. WJ lenge herself and her taltalent show yet. ents. “Winning the title would mean a lot With this being their last to me,” said Johnson. “I would love to year in high school, be able to represent my school with a by Wahid Ishrar this challenge Senior Elena Johnson showing herPhotos dance rou- crown.” would be one tine for Mr. and Ms. WJ. way to end senior year with a positive experience. Some of the seniors participating in the performance have seen the previous shows put on by the past WJ seniors and known the people participating in them. Seeing people getting crowned and winning the title during the past three years can influence students and get them interested in participating. “Ever since I went and saw the show my sophomore year I have always been interested in participating,” said Johnson. With most shows or experiences where people have to perform in public in order to win something, people have anticipations, hopes and worries, especially when performing in front of their peers. “[I hope] it’ll go smoothly and I won’t forget the words because of my nerves,” said Buckley. Although it is a nerve-racking process, the students are still excited and anticipating great things for the Morgan Huffman (middle) auditions with friends Robyn upcoming show. Bernstein and Rachel Ferry.
Bonnaroo in Place of Beach Week By Taliah Dommerholt Come June 1, seniors will have graduated and will be ready to jump into the traditional beach week of unmonitored freedom, a much anticipated break from school, college enrollment stress and parents. However, this year an alternative option to beach week has arisen, one that many students are taking hold of and eagerly anticipating: Bonnaroo. Every year, 80,000 people crowd into Manchester, Tenn., to camp in relentless heat for the sole purpose of four days of constant music. This year, approximately 16 WJ students will be joining in on the festivities, and these music-loving students can hardly wait to enjoy artists such as Radiohead, Red Hot Chili Pepper and Bon Iver. “It’s such an awesome idea,” said senior Abby Adler, who will be attending Bonnaroo with five of her closest friends. “I think it’s just an absolutely amazing opportunity, to see almost 100 bands over a span of four days and do nothing else.” Though Adler and her friends are not sure how exactly they will get there, it has proved an excellent alternative to beach week and the problems that come with planning. “Our group was having trouble finding a house for beach week because we had such a large group,” said Adler. But when the Bonnaroo option came to play, the group was easily able to split between who wanted and were allowed to go to Bonnaroo versus who
would stay with the original beach week plan. For senior Adrian Ortiz, however, Bonnaroo has been his dream since freshman year and he never even considered beach week, as the two events overlap. Ortiz, an avid concert-goer and music fanatic, was the one who started the Bonnaroo craze at WJ, bringing to light how exciting it would be as an alternative. “It has one of the best line-ups in the country,” said Ortiz. “I always had planned to go senior year because we don’t have exams then and it’s an alternative that’s 50 million times cooler.” Both Ortiz and Adler are very excited for the camping aspect as well, and have even embraced the fact that the four days will be incredibly dirty. “I’m just excited to see awesome bands and go camping all weekend,” said Ortiz. “I can’t wait to go four days without showering—it adds to the experience of camping and being out there.” This will be Adler’s first time camping, and she is excited for the collective experience of sleeping in a tent and attending endless concerts. “I’m looking forward to it,” said Adler. “There are going to be 80,000 others who are going to be just as dirty. Cleanliness isn’t your priority; it’s about having a total Bonnaroo experience.” Although senior Aman Afsah had all of his plans together for beach week, when he saw the lineup for Bonnaroo, he was completely sold. Like Adler, he has never camped before; however, he is not as optimistic about it as she is. “From what I’ve heard,” said Afsah, “it’s just going to be ridiculously hot and I’m not looking forward to
that as much.” While some parents have hesitated to allow their kids to go so far away, others have been persuaded by the fact that the chances of getting in trouble at Bonnaroo are much lower. “They have their reservations because we’re going by ourselves,” said Adler, in reference to her parents, “but they trust us and know that we’ll make smart decisions. And this is the opportunity of a lifetime.” Though some parents are actually coming on the trip, others are just comforted by the fact that their kids will not be cooped up in a rental house with a bunch of other kids, experiencing unlimited freedom and almost no supervision. “There are obviously way more drugs around you,” said Ortiz, about Bonnaroo. “But in terms of the intentions, we’re not going to a house to get drunk, we’re going for the music.” With so many WJ students and a few parents going, most are certain that safety will not be an issue. “If something happens, there will always be someone you know,” said Afsah. “If you get lost, there will be a bunch of other people you can always reach.” And so these seniors are counting down the days until they can stuff their sandals and bandannas into canvas bags and enter the Bonnaroo bubble, a world where reality will cease and they can just sit back and enjoy the music with close friends. “For me, I love the beach, but you tan for the first two days and then what else do you do?” said Adler. “Four days of concentrated music and fun are just what I need.”
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What to Watch For This Season 4/11 at 7:00 p.m. Boys Lax @ Churchill 4/13 at 5:15 Boys Volleyball vs Wootton 4/21 at 1:30 Softball vs Churchill 4/24 at 7:00 Baseball @ Whitman 5/02 at 7:15 Girls Lax vs Sherwood
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Elad Covaliu is Wrestling State Champ
By Daniel Thaler
“I thought I had great potential as a freshman but never thought about wrestling at the state level,” said Covaliu. Stemming from his accomplishments, Covaliu has garnished much attention including numerous media interviews and recruiting letters from respected Universities such as the University of Maryland. Despite the recognition, Covaliu remains committed to play football at the College of the Holy Cross next year. Nonetheless, he plans on staying involved with wrestling in some way or form.
It had been 36 years since a WJ wrestler had finished on top until senior Elad Covaliu defeated Urbana’s Joe Rimel on March 4 to become the 182 weight class state champion. Covaliu credits his coaches and extreme dedication for this year’s success. “I worked harder in practice [this year] and was extremely focused and determined to win states,” said Covaliu. “My coaches pushed me to work on the championship level and taught me new moves and techniques to take to the mat.” Going into freshman year, Covaliu had never even wrestled and didn’t envision coming this far. In a matter of just four years, he picked up the fundamentals, won the region twice, won the county once, and broke the school record for number of career wins as well as wins Photo courtesy of Elad Covaliu in a single season. Senior Elad Covaliu (center) is crowned as state champion
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Check out inside:
What To Watch For on Pg.11
MARCH 16, 2012
Springing Ahead: Spring Sports Previews Baseball By Ellie Jorling
Volleyball By Ellie Jorling
Baseball is looking forward to a successful season. The fact that few players graduated last year made transition to the upcoming season much simpler. “Last year, we won 10 games, and I think this team is capable of winning 12 [games],” said coach Kim Ahearn. “Our Photo by Hannah Flesch team has gotten better this Senior year and our division has also Brad Hampton gotten easier with Gaithersburg not in the division anymore, so our only real competition is Whitman, but we always like to beat Churchill too.” This year, the team plans to avenge last year’s loss against their co-division champion, Whitman.
Girls Lacrosse
Both Boys and Coed Volleyball are gearing up for a reassembling season, with almost all of the players from last year’s teams having graduated. “This could be a rebuilding year…[but] there seems to be a very strong core of young players who will make an impact this year and in years to come,” said Coed coach Bill Morris. The Boys team is adding a new coach into their lineup, Brian Fairall. Though Fairall has not coached volleyball before, he is thrilled for this new experience. “[Boys and Coed] work together in practice and during games [and] I’m relying on [Morris] to show me the ropes ,” said Fairall. “I’m excited to use my teaching and coaching abilities on a new sport for me”
Senior Bryn Molloy
By Anders Norberg Last year Girls Lacrosse did very well during the season with a final record of 10-2. After losing eight seniors, all of which were team players, coach Chrissy Yetter says that this team of 21 girls is very hardworking and dedicated. This year’s team is very well connected and is able to work well together. Seniors Paige Keller, Charlotte Kirwan, Bryn Molloy and Paige Waqa are preparing to step-up this year for their team.
After a great indoor season, the track and field team is preparing for an even better outdoor season. Despite illnesses hindering a number of athletes during the State Championship meet, the Boy’s 4x800m finished fourth and senior Laura Dally came in third in the 55m hurdles. The boy’s distance team will be strong coming off of a state title last fall, led by Appalachian State commit and senior captain Josh Ellis and Cross Country state champion Scott Sheehan. The team has brought out a number of new jumpers and throwers to make Photo courtesy of Mocorunning.com the team more Junior Aldo Filas complete.
Photo by Wahid Ishrar
Junior Gina Fischetti
Last year, the softball team made a strong impression despite a 5-12 record in the regular season. This year, the team looks to be a contender for the division title. “Every year I expect improvement from the last,” said coach Jamie Ahearn. “We have a lot of returning players and some very strong seniors leading our team, Photo by Steven Groobert plus I have a good amount of younger players who are eager to Senior Bethany Buel play and win.” The team is led by seniors Bethany Buel, Sarah Bernstein and Hannah Flesch. Ahearn is also excited about the youth of the team and is looking for contributions from sophomores Kristen Scott and Sarah Duncan.
Tennis
Senior Jordan Krasner Photo by Steven Groobert
By Matthew Morris Photo courtesy of Paige Keller
“They are already confident in their teammates, and they aren't hesitant to make long passes, or pass to the new girls on the team,” said Yetter. The team is determined to push themselves and each other and win a division and possibly regional title. “Dedication, determination and hard work to be the best will be our goals through the season,” said Yetter.
Track
By Phillip Resnick
Softball By Matthew Morris
Boys Tennis has been a recent powerhouse at WJ, with winning records the last three years. This year, the team hopes to continue to build on its strengths and improve its weaknesses. According to returning senior singles player Wojtek Bieganski, the team is looking to be a more well-rounded and competitive team. “Last year we had a strong singles group but not as strong a doubles group,
Gymnastics By Anders Norberg
Gymnastics is an incredibly difficult and precise sport that requires the utmost precision and constant practice. The 19 girls part of this team have a high standard to uphold from last year’s victory at county championships. Coach Ursula Bright said the team’s Photo by Wahid Ishrar biggest challenge will be winning the regFreshman Mary ular meets. “We have lots of positive girls Svirydava who want to learn new skills and also have fun in the process,” said Bright. This year’s team will face the biggest challenges against rivals BCC and Blair, but Bright says that Sophomore Ella Wu will step up and the rest of the team will also be there to help. “We have a pretty good line up this year I feel our team will excel in many ways. We have lots of girls trying new skills and are excited about it. It will be a fun year,” said Bright.
which made every match a nail biter,” said Bieganski. “This year it’s a lot more evened out.” The team will be led by returning players including Bieganski, senior Tyler Hao and senior Jordan Krasner. The team is also looking for important contributions from younger players such as freshman Justin New, the younger brother of last year’s team captain, Michael New.
Boys Lacrosse
By Daniel Thaler
Photo by Stephanie Salvatore
Junior Chris McCurry
Despite graduating a stacked senior class last year, the lacrosse team seems headed towards another strong season. Anchored by a top notch defense, the team’s offensive production will decide whether they reach their full potential. First year attack starters look to gel quickly and stay strong until star senior Jake Verner comes back from injury and solidifies the line. “We are a very young team after graduating most of our offense last year,” said Verner. “It’s early and some of the kinks will definitely be sorted out as the season progresses.” WJ will be tested by formidable rivals Churchill and Wootton, two games that are key to winning the division.