The Warrior January 2015

Warrior Sherwood High School 300 Olney-Sandy Spring Road, Sandy Spring, MD 20860

37th Year, Issue No.3

January 30, 2015

the

Inside: News: 1-3, Immigration: 4-5, Features: 6-8, Humor: 9, Spotlight: 10-11, Opinions: 12-14, Wondering Warrior: 15, Entertainment: 16-17, Sports: 18-20

A Look Inside the Life of a Rising Musician

The End of an Era?

Will Colbert Carry His Comedic Persona to Letterman’s Slot? pg. 6

pg. 17

Bitcoins Attracting Tech-Savvy Teenagers

Legal cryptocurrency has some concerned that teens across the country have access to the so-called “Dark Web” and its related illegal activities.

by Ankur Kayastha ‘15 Bitcoins are a relatively new form of digital currency that emerged on the market in early 2009. The main attraction of Bitcoin is its anonymity and lack of government-tracking.

With the claim that there are no ‘middle-men’ or banks involved in the regular currency transactions, Bitcoin is emerging as one discreet way teenagers, including at Sherwood, can gain access to drugs, weapons and other dangerous items on what is commonly known as the Dark Web. The Bitcoin exchange is similar to that of stocks, in which the prices of each Bitcoin varies by the economic status of the market. However, it fluctuates much more often than the NASDAQ or the New York Stock Exchange.

Not nearly on the same financial scale as these institutions, Bitcoin is still not as universal or utilized as other forms of payment.

Rather, Bitcoins are obtained by ‘mining.’ Since Bitcoins are a form of cryptocurrency and have no material value, blocks of sustained Bitcoins are decrypted by special computer software. After

In News

Updating Course Registration Methods In an effort to remain technologically resourceful, Sherwood is switching from a paper to online registration system. see pg. 2

Sharing ‘Ideas Worth Spreading’ to Students

blog.TED.com

TED Talks are beginning to be used in schools as educational tools by Sherwood teachers. see pg. 3

mining, Bitcoins can be sold, exchanged and bought on the Bitcoin exchange. That being said, Bitcoin is usually attributed to tech-savvy computer users. One Bitcoin is currently worth about $305.42 according to Google’s currency exchange calculator.

The legality of Bitcoin has already been tested and it was deemed lawful. However, Bitcoin also encompasses a world of black market items. A major drug marketplace that exists on the Dark Web is called The Silk Road. This marketplace allows for the facilitation and exchange of illegal items, most notably marijuana and its various forms. The Silk Road was shut down around this time last year by the FBI, but like all grand illegal schemes and practices, the marketplace has returned with a 2.0 version.

Some students here at Sherwood have gained access to the Dark Web and have been involved in these illegal exchanges.

Once again, only the ‘tech-savvy’ are able to utilize the benefits of Bitcoin, which means that perhaps only around 5-10 students

Jack Armstrong ‘15

A screenshot of the Bitcoin mobile app shows the user’s account information and current Bitcoin balance.

see BITCOINS, pg. 3

MCPS Initiates Plan To Increase Staff Diversity

by Ketki Chauhan ‘16

As a step to decrease the racial gap between students and teachers, Superintendent Joshua Starr released a four-point plan outlining his approach towards creating a more diverse workforce in the county. The Board of Education accepted his plan and believes that MCPS staff should be reflective of the diverse students in the county.

Board of Education President Patricia O’Neill believes that with the right support and the right attitude the county will make progress. O’Neill adds that diversity of staff is important in all schools because students will be exposed to adults of all races, ethnicities and background in roles of authority and mentoring.

“We will be monitoring the initiative closely to ensure we are cultivating diverse applicant pools for our school system. We will be expanding our dragnet to all colleges and universities and of course targeting HBCUs [His-

torically Black Colleges and Universities]. We would not be doing it in isolation of our traditional outreach, so it would not be based on race,” O’Neill explained.

Michael Durso, Vice President of the Board of Education, agrees that the selection process will not largely be based on race.

Instead, he thinks that is a false concern because the county is not just looking for teachers who are of color.

“I don’t speak for the board, but I think [targeting HBCUs] is a reasonable way of attracting black teachers, and if those teachers meet all the qualifications, then I think we ought to go after them. If the purpose is to increase diversity, then I think it makes sense to go where the diversity is,” Durso continued.

Both board members agree that the process to increase diversity in the county will be gradual and that the lack of diversity is a problem nationwide. Durso adds that the school system may not always be seen as welcoming,

noting that some people either felt that they couldn’t get into the county or that the county took too long to respond back to applicants on the status of their job.

Principal Bill Gregory believes that location is another reason for the racial gap between teachers and students and sees it as a possible explanation for the gap at Sherwood. He adds that for many people, Sherwood may be far from their home and people try to go to school that is closest to their home.

In the past two years, three black teachers transferred from Sherwood to schools with a larger percentage of black students.

Gregory explained that some of those teachers wanted to be closer to home. From what he was told by those teachers, there were no problems about feeling underrepresented.

“A big reason why our teacher population doesn’t mirror our student population is because the county doesn’t have a similar pool,” Gregory said. “We do look

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to interview a diverse group of candidates that apply for our jobs and if possible, we recruit these people to apply for a position at Sherwood. We can only interview from those that apply to our school.”

Gregory serves on a committee that is addressing diversity in the teaching force and in the county. At Sherwood, 75 percent of teachers are white whereas only 54 percent of students are white. Based on 2013 data, the overall teaching staff for MCPS is 75.7 percent white with only 33 percent of the county’s student population being white.

Other statistics regarding demographics in MCPS may be found online at the MCPS website where the link to Starr’s memorandum was also posted. The memo was the basis of the board’s discussion at their December 9 meeting. A news video regarding the initiative can also be found on the website with staff commenting about it and their hopes to see a more diverse county as a result of it.

The Warrior•News 2

January 30, 2015

From Papers and Pencils to

S W E N in brief

Monitors and Mice

by Samantha Schwartz ‘16

AP Environmental Science classes have made the switch to computers as most of the class work is now done online. The students, under the guidance of science teacher Laura Dinerman, are using McGraw Hill Education Connect, which includes the course’s virtual textbook, practice, homework and assessments.

The online program strengthens students’ understanding and retention of the course’s fundamental concepts while providing the teacher with key insight into students’ progress with real-time reporting on individual student and overall class performance.

Students are expected to complete their homework and assessments via the program at home to allow for more valuable use of class time and to ensure a level of student preparation. Dinerman is pleased with the effects in the classroom as it results in more intrigued and stimulated students, as reflected by their quiz and test scores. “I am very excited that I’ve found a tool that makes difficult texts accessible to more students. I’m thrilled to be teaching students skills that I know will help them significantly as they pursue higher learning in college and in other AP classes,” said Dinerman.

McDonald’s Testing BuildYour-Own Burger Program

by Allie Pino ‘15

Responding to a 21-percent decline in global sales, falling stock prices and a shrinking base of younger customers, McDonald’s, the world’s largest fast-food chain, has announced plans to vastly expand its “Create Your Taste” test platform.

Create Your Taste lets customers use an in-store tablet-like kiosk where they can customize everything about their burger. However, the price isn’t cheap—a customized burger with a medium drink and fries would cost $8.29. Additionally, the customized burgers will take too long to be made at the drive-thru, which is problematic because that is where many McDonald’s franchises do up to 70 percent of their business.

McDonald’s hopes to regain customers from fast-casual chains such as Five Guys and Chipotle, which offer perceived healthier menu items. McDonald’s plans to expand Create Your Taste to 30 locations in five more states, and 2,000 locations by the end of 2015.

MCPS Considers New Start Time Options

by Catherine Jou ‘15 Last year, MCPS Superintendent Joshua Starr proposed a 21 million dollar plan to change start times, but his proposal was rejected. On January 6, Starr presented the board with cost-free options to change bell times, shifting all start times to 20 or 35 minutes later, as well as offering other options costing less than 10 million dollars per year.

Other options include having elementary schools start before high schools and middle schools or having middle schools start first. More options the Board is considering are having a split high school day starting and ending at two different times. However, students would have to find their own transportation for the second wave. MCPS is also exploring the possibilities for high school students to have shortened schedules and opportunities for online courses in lieu of changing start times.

Starr recommended that there be the 20-minute shift in start times, stating that the cost would be inconsequential. Though many critics, particularly activist parent groups, still argue that this proposed change is insufficient, Starr believes it is a step in the right direction.

Security Focuses on Nonviolent Methods

by Stacey Wells ‘15

In light of the continuous police brutality and the controversy surrounding it, the issue of how schools deal with restraint has been brought front and center.

MCPS has an extensive policy on how staff members should handle potentially threatening students.

In the MCPS document Classroom Management and Student Behavior Interventions, it is stated that security and a five-member crisis team can perform restraints on excessively violent students, though only as a last resort. The crisis team, composed of a select few staff members, is annually chosen by the principal and receives professional training on how to correctly handle and restrain students. However, these regulations only apply to MCPS staff, meaning that police officer Mauricio Veiga, Sherwood’s School Resource Officer (SRO), does not follow these rules; instead he abides by federal law.

Upon hearing the term “restraint,” one most likely thinks of a staff member breaking up a fight, but that is actually not the case. According to MCPS guidelines, physical restraint does not include stopping a fight, briefly holding a student or moving a student from one area to another. A staff member pulling one student off another during a fight would be classified as “intervention” and would not have to follow the rules under the restraint policy.

Restraints are only permitted in extreme situations. “We would

Classroom Management and Student Behavior Intervention

The use of physical restraint is prohibited in MCPS unless: 1.

There is an emergency situation and physical restraint or seclusion is necessary to protect a student or other person from imminent, serious, physical harm after other less intrusive, nonphysical interventions have failed or been deemed inappropriate 2.

The student’s Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP) describes the specific behaviors and circumstances under which physical restraint or seclusion may be used, and the specific methods of physical restraint or seclusion to be employed 3.

The parents of a non-disabled student have otherwise provided written consent for the use of physical restraints or seclusion while a BIP is being developed -MCPS Classroom Management and Student Behavior Interventions only restrain when a student is a violent and physical threat to others or himself … [or] school property,” said MCPS Field Security Coordinator Michael Jones. If such a situation should occur then security or the crisis team would be called to the scene in order to correctly handle the student. The restraint of the student must be done in a humane manner, must have no intent to harm and can last no longer than 30 minutes.

After the restraint is over, the student is required to be examined by health room staff in order to document any injuries or distress.

“We would only restrain students if we just don’t have any other choice,” said Sherwood Security Team Leader Patrick Rooney.

Staff members must take multiple steps before moving on to such drastic measures. During a fight, staff members are re-

quired to take action—whether it is calling for security or intervening physically. But in the case of restraining a student, security and the crisis team are taught nonviolent intervention methods, such as how to talk to a student who may become a potential threat and how to correctly lead a student away from the situation. On January 19, Sherwood’s security staff attended a four-hour nonviolent intervention workshop to refresh their skills and strategies. “The last thing we want to do is put hands on a student,” said Rooney.

SRO Veiga acts as a support role for security, and the law grants him the right to automatically restrain students if he needs to do so. Normally, Veiga lets security handle any problems, but he does have the discretion to choose if he wants to get involved in the situation or not.

Class Registration Switches to Online System

by Connor Loughran ‘15

Beginning next week, students will register for classes using a new online system called PowerSchool, which has replaced the paper registration cards that students filled out by hand.

An overview of the new system was presented to students by counselors this week in the Ertzman Theatre through English classes. Students are set to register for courses February 2-6, though the system will be accessible to students until February 11.

After that, any changes to course schedules are to be made through the counseling department.

Students were originally supposed to start registration on January 26. Assistant Principal Karen Rose, who is the administrator running the new system, said the reason for the delay was to “give the counselors the opportunity to meet with each grade level … to go over the requirements and to give [students] the big picture of registering online.”

According to Rose, the reasoning for replacing the old way of registration is that the new system is part of MCPS’s recent efforts to use technology more efficiently and effectively. “I think the program will be a major improvement for several reasons,” said Rose. “The students will be making their own decisions; they

Haley Whitt ‘15

English teacher Christiane Lock discusses her film course to a group of underclassmen before they register for classes. She was one of many teachers or students to advertise elective English courses in January. will see what they have signed up for immediately and [be able to] take home a print-out.”

Although the PowerSchool system will not give students an individualized list of earned and required credits, Rose said that graduation and other requirements will be explained in the printed school course bulletin that students received this week.

To help students with course selection, more than 130 seniors

were selected to visit the Advisories in grades 9-11 on January 27 to share their personal experiences and advice to help lower grades with class selection. According to Rose, this was done so that students would have “multiple sources of input in order to make the best decisions.” Rose tested the online program with a few students, and concluded that overall their responses were generally positive.

The Warrior•News

3

January 30, 2015

TED Talk Phenomenon Rapidly Spreads Across Classrooms Nationwide

by Ryan Deal ‘16

A phenomenon has quietly but surely been occurring at Sherwood in the form of TED Talks. TED Talks, a recorded set of fast-paced conferences in which an individual speaks upon a given subject based upon experience and expertise, have caught the interest of many teachers here at Sherwood who find the talks to be educative and informative as it pertains to lessons.

TED Talks are often grounded in the speaker’s own personal experiences, which many teachers believe captivate students more than a regular lesson.

“TED Talks offer a unique and personal account that I cannot offer my students,” said social studies teacher Karen Sinclair, who shows around one Talk a month. “You don’t have to be a PHD or a ‘professional’ any-

thing to be an expert in one’s own life experience,” she added.

Sinclair, who saw her first TED Talk six years ago at a class to renew her teaching certification, was excited about the potential that the Talks had of helping students grasp concepts. “I am a firm believer in the belief that we can learn something from everyone that walks this planet. People from all walks of life have something interesting to offer, and by sharing these people’s experiences with my students, they receive a unique perspective,” said Sinclair.

The topics from which a TED Talk can range are extremely expansive. When browsing potential videos the user can choose from an array of topics including how to save rainforests, how to deal with depression, how to travel to the South Pole and even how to turn a trash cart into a piece of beautiful artwork. With such in-

teresting, vibrant and extensive topics, it is not a surprise that many teachers find the lessons to be beneficial for their students.

Health teacher Matt Parsons got hooked on the videos after a friend recommended them. “The people that give the TED Talk presentations are inspiring, interesting and very well prepared,” Parsons said. “They are great speakers, who give great presentations. You won’t find these types of presentations anywhere else.”

The continued use of TED Talks to inform and expose students to the vast events they are learning about will only continue to expand. As TED Talks becoming more and more popular, with many videos having over 10 million views, it would certainly not be a surprise if this internet-based information resource becomes much more prominent in future lessons.

A

by Dalton Sanchez ‘15

ton Wizards organization, which will be providing light shows, a DJ, prizes and more for the event. The Wizards organization has sponsored dances at numerous high schools in the past, including Blake and Northwest.

The SGA formed the idea to throw a Sadie Hawkins dance from a request from an Advisory representative. After discussing the idea with SGA sponsors Christine McKeldin and Catina Wist, the SGA met with Principal Bill Gregory, who agreed to let the dance happen.

“We’re all excited for the dance and can’t wait to see its success,” said SGA President Katarina Stephanos. “This dance will be a great opportunity for all the students to have one last ‘hoorah’ before finishing

‘Crash Course’ for Teaching Students

by Ryan Deal ‘16

If you have been in any history, biology or psychology class, chances are you have stumbled upon “Crash Course” videos. The videos, which average out to about ten minutes long each, attempt to summarize a large topic of discussion in a very short period. The largely animated videos, made by brothers Hank and John Green, have firmly entrenched themselves into classrooms across America since their inception in 2011. John Green also is the author of the bestselling novel, “The Fault in Our Stars.”

Sherwood, along with thousands of other schools, embrace the unique videos. Social studies teacher Beth Shevitz commonly shows “Crash Course,” citing their entertainment value as a major positive. “The videos entertain and educate at the same time. The Green brothers deliver the material in a very unique way. I think students respond to this sort of learning better,” said Shevitz.

The videos are not just limited to in-class viewing but are posted to YouTube, making it accessible for students at home.

“I promote it as a solid means of reinforcement. It can be very effective for reviewing and even previewing material,” Shevitz added.

Dark Web Fuels Black Market ‘Sadie Hawkins’ Dance Scheduled for February further states that he has made money through Bitcoin quite refrom Sherwood are avid users. cently as well. “There have been “Bitcoin [can be] used to a few people this year that have make a decent profit,” said a se- paid me for my Bitcoin so that nior who uses Bitcoin regularly. they could buy edibles off of the He agreed to be interviewed only Dark Web and sell them here.” if he could remain anonymous Bitcoin is essentially being used as a profit-maker “In Sherwood last year, a se- “In Sherwood last year, a senior for students. Not nior made a few made a few thousand dollars by only are illegal thousand dol- putting some money in while drugs exchanged lars by putting the value was down, then sell- for one student, some money in ing his Bitcoin when the market but money is made in the while the val- was up.” ue was down, -Anonymous Senior process for the other. Most nothen selling his tably, Bitcoin is Bitcoin when the market was up. In addition emerging as a way to get around to the gain of profit for teens as the law, but it is mostly used by Bitcoin’s primary users, it also the people with the capability to allows for ‘illegal bartering.’” access and manage wired money This same anonymous source rather than the average teenager.

from BITCOINS, pg. 1

Traditionally, Sherwood annually has the homecoming dance, which is held for all students, and prom, which is meant for the Senior Class. In accordance with these dances comes the stereotype that the boy is expected to invite and pay for the girl. This upcoming semester Sherwood will put a twist on traditional high school dances with its first ever Sadie Hawkins dance, where girls will ask boys.

The dance will be held on Friday, February 27, in the cafeteria, and tickets will be sold in school starting Monday, February 9 as well as online on the Sherwood website. Preparations for the dance are largely being taken care of by the Washing-

out another great school year.”

The tradition of the girl-askboy dance originated from a comic strip that first was published in 1937. In the famous cartoon Li’l Abner, there was a designated day in November when unmarried women could chase bachelors around the town in hopes of catching them for marriage, a social commentary on the traditional ideas of marriage. As the comic gained popularity, a holiday inspired by the perpetually single character Sadie Hawkins was created. Schools across the country drew inspiration from the quirky new holiday and began throwing dance events, named after Sadie Hawkins herself, in which the girl asks a boy of her choosing instead of demurely waiting for a boy to ask her out to the dance.

The Warrior thanks its many wonderful patrons: Allen Family, Armstrong Family, Bardach Family, Brady Family, Bray Family, Brigham Family, Bush Family, Matthew & Louise Cahill, Calles Family, Chauhan Family, Copeland Family, Corman Family, Cosca Family, Cosgrove/Romeo Family, Cudd Family, Deal Family, Dowrick Family, Dymond Family, Feinroth Family, Rosanne Ferris, Lynn Fields & Steve White, Ganey Family, Glaudemans Family, Glickman Family, Gormley Family, Gun Family, Robert & Lynette Hall, Stacey & Taylor Harris, Hierholzer Family, Hoyt & Karen Hughes, Joe & Kathy Hughes, Jou Family, Steve Kanstoroom & Susan Mize, Kayastha Family, Keilsohn Family, Kendall Family, Kress Family, Kyber/Loughran Family, Lampshire Family, Betsy & Mark Levy, Little Family, Macrae Family, Mezebish Family, Moeller Family, Murphy Family, Nemes Family, Nnabue Family, Paholski Family, Paidas Family, Patanwala Family, Pohk Family, Roberts Family, Laura & Craig Sanchez, Santini Family, Robyn & Joel Schwartz, Siberry-Reody Family, Josey & Chris Simpson, Singer Family, Sousane Family, Spillman Family, Sundell Family, Sussol Family, Sutherland Family, Loana Thorndahl, Tom Family, Townsend Family, Van Gelder Family, Cindy & Mike Weitzner, Wells Family, Whitt Family, Wilpon Family, Cal Wilson, Todd & Renate Wilson, Witkin Family, Wondimu Family, Yates Family If you are interested in becoming a patron, contact Peter Huck at Peter_J_Huck@mcpsmd.org or go to the Warrior Online at www.thewarrioronline.com

The Warrior•Immigration 4

January 30, 2015

White House Launches Immigration Reform

by Betselot Wondimu ‘15

Who is Protected Under the Law? Total: 11.2 million people

60 Percent of Undocumented Immigrants

In late 2014, President Barack Obama announced that he would begin implementing executive actions to help combat the United States’ broken immigration system. During a November 20 televised speech, Obama explained that his actions will entail providing border patrol personnel with additional resources, facilitating economic contributions from highly-skilled immigrants and dealing responsibly with the current 11 million unauthorized immigrants in the country.

Obama has been clear that the scope of his executive actions do not constitute total amnesty, as they apply to only about five million undocumented immigrants.

The largest group that will have a chance of avoiding deportation are the undocumented parents of current American citizens who previously reaped the benefits of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.

The White House released a fact sheet further detailing the president’s executive actions, which highlighted the centralization of border security, deportation of dangerous illegal immigrants rather than peaceful individuals, and accountability of illegal immigrants who have been in the country since 2010 with background checks and income taxes. Obama’s executive actions come after a highly unproductive Congress failed to pass any meaningful legislation dealing

“Our goal here is to fund the Department of Homeland Security. And our second goal is to stop the president’s executive overreach.” ~ Rep. John Boehner [R-OH]

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“I will fight to ensure American taxpayers aren’t forced to pay for the addition of millions illegal immigrants to the rolls of our assistance programs.” ~ Rep. Martha Roby [R-AL]

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“It’s possible we’ll come up with more narrowly crafted bill language that would restrict the president’s ability to enforce his executive order.” ~ Senator Susan Collins [R-ME]

Parents of Parents of Already Citizens over Citizens under Protected by 18 18 DACA

Source: Pew Research Center with immigration reform.

Shortly after Obama’s speech, congressmen reacted differently to the declaration of executive actions. One representative, Republican Ted Yoho of Florida, introduced a bill called the Preventing Executive Overreach on Immigration Act in order to combat Obama’s efforts.

The bill hopes to set a rule of construction clarifying the limita-

Ineligible for Executive Actions

Undocumented Status tions on executive authority. The bill passed a vote in the House of Representatives but failed to pass in the Senate before the previous session of Congress ended on December 4. It was promptly reintroduced on January 6.

Republicans in the new session of Congress, who won the majority of seats in the past midterm elections, have begun to take measures against Obama’s

“Tearing families apart does nothing to secure our borders, fix our broken immigration system or strengthen our economy” ~ Senator Harry Reid [D-NV]

executive actions as well, stating that they overstretch his power as president and do very little to strengthen the relationship between the president and Congress. Republican representative and Chairman of the House Rules Committee Pete Sessions of Texas has stated that a bill to block Obama’s efforts could possibly emerge for a vote by the end of January. However, it is known

that the White House will likely veto such bill, and Republicans will probably not garner enough support to override it. Furthermore, Republican congressmen may use funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which must be decided by the end of February, to gain leverage over Obama’s decisions and the extent to which he pursues his initial goals.

Cardin Calls for Immigration Bill

by Annie Feinroth ‘15

U.S. Senator Ben Cardin has served Maryland for eight years as a member of the Senate Committee on Finance. The Warrior interviewed Cardin about President Obama’s executive order for immigration and how it will impact Maryland.

What actions do you favor taking to modify the President’s order?

“My strong preference is that Congress sends the President a comprehensive immigration reform bill that he can sign into law.

This would provide a more thorough and more permanent solution. I voted for, and the Senate passed, such a bill in June 2013 by a bipartisan vote of 68 to 32.

More than 18 months later, the House of Representatives has refused to vote or even consider this legislation.”

What are the impacts for Maryland?

“In Maryland today, about one of every seven Marylanders is foreign born. According to the Urban Institute, immigrant households pay nearly one-fifth or $4 billion of all taxes collected in Maryland, including federal income taxes; Social Security; Medicare taxes; state income, sales, and auto taxes; and local property taxes, income, sales,

uneditedpolitics.com

Maryland Senator Ben Cardin addresses Congress on May 22, 2014. auto, and utility taxes. is fair.

Immigration is very import- “Border protection alone ant for our state, our country and will not fix all the challenges our economy. We need highly facing our immigration system. skilled workers who innovate, Immigrants should come legally create, and help move our coun- through a door, not over or untry forward. All of our workers der a fence. Visa holders should should be protected under our leave when their visas expire. But laws and not just some. At the balance also must cut off the desame time, we also need strong mand for undocumented workers border security. We need to know by strengthening E-Verify for emwho’s coming into this country ployers, to make sure employers and we must make sure that we only hire those who are in this have a legal system that protects country legally. Balance must the homeland. We need a bal- provide a tough but fair way forance.” ward that allows some 11 million individuals and their families to What are your current views on come out of the shadows, get leimmigration? Do you believe it is gal status, and earn a pathway to a “broken system”? citizenship. Balance must reduce “Comprehensive immigra- the legal immigration backlog tion reform is long overdue. No and promote family reunification. matter what side of this debate And balance must continue to you are on, most of us agree that welcome refugees and asylees to America’s immigration system is our shores who are fleeing natural badly broken. What we need is a disasters and persecution in their balanced immigration system that home countries.”

The Warrior•Immigration January 30, 2015

Journeys from Distant Shores Students from around the world contribute to Sherwood’s diverse student community.

Gi Kim

Senior Gi Kim came to this country from South Korea in fourth grade because his dad got a new job and his parents wanted to get him a better education. His first impression of America was that everything was bigger. He did not just mean buildings and roads. He also thought the people were very large too.

One of the first things that shocked him about Montgomery County schools was how diverse they were. Kim thought there was

just going to be an abundance of white people, but he was surprised when he saw a plethora of different nationalities at school.

The other big culture shock was that fighting was not widely accepted by other students. “In South Korea fighting was the main way problems were solved between boys,” he explained. He was surprised how that was not the go-to problem solving method in America, but he agrees that it is probably for the better.

Amina Yahaya Senior Amina Yahaya came to the United States in April of 2011 from Ghana. At first, she was very shy because she was cautious that people would taunt her due to her accent. Unfortunately, many students that come to America fight self-consciousness due to their lack of fluency in English. To continue embedding her culture with new influences, Yahaya still cooks Ghanaian food and enjoys the company of her

Xiaojun Wang Senior Xiaojun Wang, originally from China, moved to America at 14 years old because of her parents’ eagerness “to expand the probability of [her] success.” Before coming here, she believed that America was the most cosmopolitan country with significant advancements. Wang moved to America without speaking any English, which made it difficult for her to find friends that would not belittle her due to her lack of fluency. To acclimate to

Senior Derrick Aggrey was born in America, but moved to Ghana at eight years old. He recently came back to the United States two years ago, but it was not difficult for him to assimilate to the culture or weather.

Since the values he attained back home are very important to him, Aggrey does not believe that American culture would have a heavy impact on him. He continues to express his manners appropriately. He thought that the

~Ashley Nnabue ‘16

~Ashley Nnabue ‘16 Freshman Jose Dymond was adopted from Colombia when he was nine years old. Before he got here he thought of the United States as a large, intimidating place. While the United States was as big as he imagined it, he was glad it was not as intimidating as he thought it would be. For the most part, the people were very welcoming. He was also pleasantly surprised that the food was so good here.

Dymond had trouble adapting

Derick Aggrey

other Ghanaian friends.

In her case, she did not have a choice to move. Her father, a diplomat, was transferred to America by the government. She had to leave her friends behind and could not enjoy the boarding school experience for junior high as most of her peers did. It has been a few years since and Yahaya has assimilated more with the American culture she has been exposed to.

her new world, she explains that she “didn’t do anything special.

It’s like a newborn baby just came to a new world. Just make [yourself] get into it, accept it.” Four years later, at 18 years old, Wang thinks that the United States generally reflects her preconceived notions, but there are more challenging courses provided for students that she had originally thought. Wang works hard to take advantage of this opportunity by being successful in her classes.

Jose Dymond

Ethnic Names Can Prove Challenging For Teachers

by Ankur Kayastha ‘15

~Zach Stubblefield ‘15

to Montgomery County schools when he first came here because he did not know English well, so many things were confusing.

Once he started to get a grasp on the language, he realized the kids here were just as nice, if not nicer, than the kids in Colombia, which was a relief for him.

He stays in touch with his Colombian roots through playing soccer and listening to Latin music. These things help remind him that home is never too far away.

~Zach Stubblefield ‘15

American lifestyle would be simple with various opportunities and easy ways to get money. However, he soon realized that to acquire sufficient wealth, hard work, persistence and determination are the key to success. He keeps in mind that it is important to stay focused and avoid what he calls “fast money.” Aggrey has joined the track team for Sherwood. He balances school and track along with working laborious hours on his spare time.

~Ashley Nnabue ‘16 ~Photos by Jack Armstrong ‘15

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Ethnic names are seen all over classrooms in the United States, so it may not come to be a surprise that there may be inherent bias when teachers tend to call on easier-sounding names like ‘David’ than, for example, my name, ‘Ankur’ (un-koor). Originating from western India, my name has proved difficult to pronounce for nearly all of my teachers I have had to date. Ranging from ‘anchor’ to ‘uncle,’ the struggle of others trying to pronounce a student’s name commonly happens to those with an ethnic name.

Of course, this is not something to get angry at – it is a name that is from elsewhere in the world and it is completely understandable to mispronounce, but the issue emerges when teachers avoid saying my name to deter embarrassment.

Teachers undoubtedly have one of the most difficult professions in the work force. They deal with kids each and every day and have to follow a strict curriculum in order to stay on schedule with students’ learning in class.

Unfortunately, in the classrooms of some teachers, some students may be at a disadvantage in class not due to their effort in school or background knowledge, but rather their name.

I am not alone in this observation. Senior Dotun (doetoon) Adegbite also shares his

insight on the issue and his experience of mispronunciations.

“In all seriousness, I have been called Daquan. My name has been butchered so many times, I gave up trying to correct it,” said Adegbite.

There are teachers that attempt to learn one’s name and its pronunciation so that they can treat you as a part of the class and perhaps make you feel more comfortable in the classroom, and then there are teachers that are simply unable to pronounce names and therefore resort to not making eye contact in class so that mutual embarrassment does not ensue.

Junior Ashmiu (ash-mew) Koroma has had his fair share of nicknames created for him throughout his school career. His name has been known to being shortened to ‘Ash’ by teachers and substitutes (a whole other phenomenon), which is fine if preferred, but not being able to pronounce a name is not an excuse to assign a nickname to an unwilling person. “Teachers have resorted to calling me ‘Ash’ because apparently my name is too complicated,” said Koroma.

Students with ethnic names are proud of their names for the most part, and their names offer a new cultural aspect to classrooms.

Most teachers are intrigued by the uniqueness of some names, but a few struggle with what to call a student.

The Warrior•Features 6

January 30, 2015

Being ‘Liked’ in the Virtual World

by Sara Casareto ‘16

www.extremetech.com

The Lexus RX450h car has software that guides the vehicle without any human intervention. The range finder mounted on the top is a Velodyne 64-beam laser, generating a detailed 3D map of its environment.

Self-Driving Cars Closer to Reality

by Jack Armstrong ‘15

A few years ago no one could have imagined the possibility of a self-driving car. A real functioning car that uses sensors and computers to drive to its destination without the assistance of a human driver. The Google Self-Driving Car Project has been underway since 2010, when Google first announced it was developing self-driving car technology. As of mid-2014 these cars have driven more than 700,000 miles mostly on open roads in California and Nevada. Even though the car is still in testing stages, it has shown its tremendous potential for the future of cars.

However, there are many obstacles and questions that still arise, as one would expect from anything revolutionary, including who would be held liable in an accident, the retail cost of the cars, and most importantly, will people feel safe?

Teenage drivers are the most easily distracted behind the wheel. A text, a call, a late night or driving with a group of friends—teens are the most likely to make bad decisions impacting others on the road. In general, people aren’t good drivers. They get road rage, violate traffic laws, are easily distracted and become tired while driving long distances.

In the United States, drivers kill more than 30,000 people every year, with 90 percent of the deaths attributable to human error. Simply, self-driving cars are safer.

They may even be able to communicate with other self-driving cars on the road.

The first big leap towards the availability of self-driving cars is due in 2017, when Google aims to have its integrated system ready to market. Major automotive manufacturers are likely to follow by the early 2020s and start offering autonomous vehicles. It is unlikely Google will manufacture cars, but rather license the technology. Mercedes-Benz has also been developing driver-less technology called ‘intelligent drive’, which is a driving assist with manual override already available

What It Can And Can’t Do • Google’s self-driving prototype vehicles logged 700,000 autonomous miles by April of 2014 without one incident • On a full charge, the car will have a range of 100 miles • The self-driving cars are limited to a max speed of 25 mph • The cars have yet to drive in snowy conditions and it’s not yet safe to drive in heavy rain either • The vehicle has to be insured for $5 million to safeguard against personal injury, death or property damage in 2015 model cars.

The possibilities of self-driving cars extend further than just safer roads. It also could mean better gas mileage by having systems that are able to monitor and control usage to be most effective depending on the conditions. Travis Kalanick, CEO of San Francisco-based taxi service Uber, expressed early interest in Google’s technology, saying he sees practical use in Uber’s business. The use of driver-less vehicles could also be of use to UPS, FedEx and other delivery services in assisting deliveries during peak delivery times, and help with same-day deliveries.

Insurance costs for self-driving vehicles are unclear. No one knows how insurance companies will respond to self-driving cars, but in the long-term, insurance is likely to go down due to increased safety. It is also unknown how much self-driving cars will retail for, but it is likely that as the demand for safer vehicles begins to grow, the costs of manufacturing will decrease.

The bottom line is self-driving cars are now a reality that could be only five years away if testing goes well. It is clear that the progress Google has made within the past few years has pushed the limits of what was thought possible; hopefully five more years will be worth the wait.

The icons of this generation have become the like, retweet, reblog, and share buttons. Over 90 percent of those on Instagram are under 35. This is 90 percent of 150 million people worldwide.

Seventy-one percent of all internet users have a Facebook and of those, 84 percent are 18-29 years old.

For many, social media is an integral part of the everyday life.

Nine out of ten American teenagers have created an online profile for at least one social site, the most popular being Instagram and Facebook. However, for those not born in the ‘like’ generation, social media is a new development that brings worries regarding an obsession with conformity and peer approval.

“I have social media accounts probably to connect with old friends from my childhood, but also because of the conformity,” said junior Eric Fryer. “If social media wasn’t ‘the thing to have’ I probably wouldn’t use or have it at all.”

Fitting in, especially in the

teenage years, exists in every generation. Social media is the Me Generation’s way of conforming to other’s expectations.

People have become vocal on social media by posting pictures of friends, posting pictures of vacations or using it as a method of expression. Social media has become its own world that this generation merges with the real one. One key interaction on social media sites is the granting and receiving of approval, all through getting followers and of course, the ever famous “like” button.

“I think in today’s society it is very important to be liked because a lot of people want to be accepted,” said junior Andrea Fox. “Kids are very judgmental and want the approval of others.

People will do anything to be liked by others; social media is just an extension of getting that approval.”

The word “like” connotes the very need to “be liked.” And numbers are everything. Likes are given and received by everyone on social media, and the numbers are all there to be scrutinized.

Seeing how many likes or follow-

ers one has allows others to employ the “like to follower ratio” and compare results.

PBS Frontline’s recent broadcast special on ‘Generation Like’ investigates the way social media has allowed teenagers to put themselves out there making it easier for marketing machines to use them. It also addresses how likes are “instant gratification” and “have become the social currency of this generation ... the more likes you have, the better you feel.”

“Having a lot of followers is kind of important to me. I’d say it feels nice knowing you have a lot of followers,” said sophomore Wilson Danny Vo. The like culture does aid one’s self to be propelled through the World Wide Web. It allows people, even Sherwood students to stand out. Junior Doron Tadmor has 17,717 followers including a few famous names.

“Lindsey Lohan has commented me before and liked some of my pictures. Drew Phillips, a wellknown Viner, and his sister follow me on Instagram and Twitter,” said Tadmor.

Jack Armstrong‘15

FOR AN INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE, DOWNLOAD AURASMA

IN THE APP STORE. THEN, FOLLOW ‘THEWARRIORONLINE’ AND SCAN THIS PHOTO

Sophomore Caitlin Deerin strokes her guitar to the tune of her new original song “Puzzles.” With many positives reviews on the song, Deerin continues to write more in hopes of making it big one day on the stage.

Young Star Rises with Hit Single on iTunes

by Kaleigh Homer ‘15 Sophomore Caitlin Deerin has had a passion for music ever since she was little. She has been playing the guitar and piano since she was seven years old. At the age of nine, she started singing professionally with the help of a voice coach.

Her music career really set off when she started getting involved with musical theatre. At first, Deerin started out in the musical theatre in Rockville. She moved on to other places like the Olney Theatre and Ford’s. Deerin found this very helpful for her musical career because it introduced her to many new people and gave her lots of experience.

“I was surrounded by a lot of musicians, which started my

love for music,” said Deerin.

As of now, Deerin has written five original songs, but only one of them has been produced.

This song is called “Puzzles,” which was released on iTunes on August 27, 2014. The song is also on Spotify, Amazon, Google Play, Rhaspody, iHeart Radio and Shazam. Deerin has made it this far by having a positive outlook and having fun.

“I’ve definitely tried to emphasize the fun in the whole experience and I’ve really tried to focus on just doing what I love rather than stressing about anything,” said Deerin.

As a young artist, Deerin has many musicians that she looks up to. Colbie Caillat, John Mayer and Sara Bareilles are her three favorite artists. “Their

different styles of music have inspired me and helped me create my own style,” said Deerin. She also likes to look at what type of instruments they use in their songs to inspire her.

Deerin is currently starting the production of her music video for her song “Puzzles,” she plans on posting her video on to YouTube. Her next step in this process is to find a male to star in her music video with her, and to find professionals to help her produce it. She has written multiple songs, but if she is to release anymore, she wants it to be on an album.

Deerin loves singing but is not sure if she wants to do it for a living. She is more of an actor, but she wants to see where her music career takes her.

The Warrior•Features January 30, 2015

7

Students and Teachers Find Fun in Trivia Is Junior Year That Difficult? said it’s about “trying to be smarter than your friends.”

QuizUp, which boasts over 20 million users from 197 countries since its release in 2013, has 673 distinct topics to choose from, ranging from Indian Mythology to The Sopranos. TriviaCrack has a less specialized format structured almost identically to Trivial Pursuit. There are the same six broad categories and colors as Trivial Pursuit. Players must answer the crown question correctly in each category to win. While QuizUp attracts

and reject most of them. Because the majority of questions are sub The rise of smartphones and mitted by users, incorrect and irsocial media has created and relevant questions are sometimes forgotten countless fads. Social approved by mistake. competition and ease of access Trivia apps are not only fun combined has paved the way for competitive games, they are mengames like Flappy Bird, Words tal and scholastic exercises, and with Friends and Clash of Clans. teachers have picked up on this.

It may sound surprising, but anSeveral teachers play trivia, espeother type of smartphone game cially TriviaCrack, and even get has become immensely popular competitive with their students. among both teens and adults — History teacher Scott Allen nottrivia. ed how playing trivia helps with “Trivia,” popularized in the test-taking. “It requires critical 1980s by Jeopardy and the Trivthinking. Many times you may ial Pursuit board get a question and game, literally “It’s a fun way to apply the con- have to use a strategy means worthless cepts you learn in the classroom.” to answer them,” said or unimportant Allen. “If I could get ~ Senior Chris Takiar my students to carry details. The trivia game market, once these strategies over confined to long-lasting board trivia players who specialize in to their unit exams and quizzes and computer games, has boomed a specific topic, TriviaCrack has they would do much better on recently on smartphones, giv- drawn in the masses with its col- multiple choice questions.” ing students and teachers alike orful app and its easier questions Senior Chris Takiar, state an outlet for all of their useless based on common knowledge. champion in QuizUp’s Name the knowledge. The two largest triv- While it launched in Argentina Element category, said the benefit ia apps are QuizUp and Trivia- this summer, where it has its own of trivia is that “it’s a fun way to Crack. What is distinctive about television show and board game, apply the concepts you learn in these games is their connection to its American launch in November the classroom.” Other teachers social networks. Both games con- pulled in over 65 million users af- who play trivia apps against their nect through Facebook, email and ter only a month. students include math teacher others so users can play against To keep players from getting Tim Altaner, social studies teachtheir friends in real time. too many repeat questions, these er Beth Shevitz and foreign lan QuizUp and TriviaCrack games must have thousands of guage teacher Maria Peterson. have become enormously popular accurate questions. Since both Portable and social trivdue to their short game lengths, games are run by relatively small ia games have a lot of potencompetitiveness and fun topic app developers—QuizUp in Ice- tial. They entertain and teach at categories. This allows for quick land and TriviaCrack in Argenti- the same time, make fact-based between-class gaming. Junior Ty- na—it would be impossible for school topics more enjoyable, and ler Golsen, who is currently sixth them hire the necessary ques- could possibly replace the current in the state for QuizUp’s “The tion-makers. Instead, both games Jeopardy format for in-class reBeatles” category, as well as an use a Wikipedia-like method of view. Only time will tell whether avid TriviaCrack player, says the using questions submitted by social trivia will recede into obappeal is in the competition. Ex- players. TriviaCrack claims to scurity or continue to challenge plaining why he plays, Golsen receive 200,000 questions a day players for years to come.

by Steven Witkin ‘16

by Kira Yates ‘16

Generally, junior year is portrayed as the most stressful year of one’s high school career, especially for students who are taking at least two AP classes—which is nearly half of Sherwood’s Junior Class. To uncover the validity of this generalization, 65 juniors in AP Language and Composition classes were surveyed on how they felt about the workload in eleventh grade.

Two-thirds of those surveyed feel overwhelmed, although the level of stress varied. Many students mentioned that participating in school activities, including sports, holding jobs, maintaining a social life, studying for the SAT and ACT and worrying about college contribute to their stress.

“I feel overwhelmed because I am never able to go to sleep at a reasonable time because I’m balancing activities and homework,” explained junior Tony Niverth.

A few students, however, find a way to do it all and without stress. “I’m not overwhelmed because I study, do my homework on time, and never procrastinate.

So I’m never stressed,” said junior Doron Tadmor.

78 percent of students feel that junior year is more stressful than past years pointing to factors like an increased amount of AP classes and the upcoming SATs and ACTs. When asked if this year was more stressful and why, one junior responded on the survey, “Yes, I am taking three APs. Need I say more?” Other responses included “As the clock runs out, I’m attempting to raise

my GPA,” and “There is way too much information and way too little time.”

Because the majority of juniors are feeling overwhelmed, it’s no surprise that 62 percent of the students surveyed feel that their large homework load is affecting the amount of sleep they’re getting.

While one hour of homework for an AP class sounds fairly reasonable, multiply that by three, four, even five AP classes, and the student’s whole night is spent doing homework. On average, students in two or more APs have three to four hours of homework each night and the overwhelming majority feel that it is way too much, especially after spending seven hours in school.

Interestingly, 63 percent of the juniors surveyed feel that the quality of their work suffers because of the large amount of work they are assigned.

One suggestion that students had for reducing the stress of AP classes was teachers from different subjects coordinating different tests days. “I think we don’t coordinate with each other because we don’t even associate with each other. It is easy for me to walk over to Ms. Games’ room and ask what she’s doing but the other teachers are farther away, and I don’t even know who some of them are,” explained AP World teacher Beth Shevitz.

Some more practical ideas for making students feel better about AP classes included doing less busy work, taking more concise notes, and teachers checking for understanding.

Understanding the Science of Love

by Haley Whitt ‘15

Though we tend to believe that we choose our partners for ourselves, it is quite possible that we are pawns of nature’s exquisite plan. With an enticing blend of chemicals released in our brains during a total of three different phases, we fall in love.

The three phases of love are lust, attraction and attachment.

Lust, the least emotional of the three, is a phase driven by sex hormones. Testosterone, in men, and estrogen, in women, are the sex hormones that fuel our desires during this phase. Attraction, known as “the cupcake phase,” is the phase when we are considered “love-struck” and cannot think about much else. This is where many of the chemicals, such as adrenaline, dopamine and serotonin, become very involved.

These feelings fade, however, as we enter the attachment phase; our bodies actually develop a tolerance to these pleasurable chemicals. Researchers from Loyola University Health System suggest that all of these chemicals flow through the body at this point, resulting in “an overall sense of

well-being and security that is conducive to a lasting relationship.”

When we begin to experience feelings of love, our stress response is activated, increasing adrenaline levels in our blood.

This is commonly symbolized by sweaty hands, flushed cheeks, a racing heart and butterflies in the stomach, especially when we see and spend time with our partners.

The brains of love-struck couples also contain high levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine.

Dopamine stimulates desire and reward by initiating an intense blast of pleasure. Remarkably, it has the same effect on the brain as taking cocaine. As Helen Fisher of Rutgers University explains, “couples often show the signs of surging dopamine: increased energy, less need for sleep or food, focused attention and exquisite delight in smallest details of this novel relationship.”

One of the other major chemicals in our brains is serotonin.

This chemical is the reason why our partners continue to pop into our thoughts. As an effect, we find it difficult to concentrate on anything other than our partner

Hormones decide who we fall in love with? early on in a relationship.

So, what does this mean for high school relationships? Unfortunately, according to author and podcaster Dr. Nerd Love, “relationships that form quickly—the ‘love at first sight’ kind—burn

out quickly as well.” He suggests that “this is why high school is so often a rolling morass of relationships, with couples getting together and breaking up seemingly within weeks, if not days” Teenage relationships rarely make it

to the attachment phase, and are based off of falling in love with the surface of the person, not the core, so the appeal is bound to disappear quickly. This is something to consider before you spend too much for Valentine’s Day.

The Warrior•Features 8

January 29, 2015

The Warrior•Humor January 30, 2015

9

Man Takes No Issue with Government New Classes To Teach

by Leo Corman ‘15

Robert Jones, a 43-year-old Rockville native, is an ordinary American man by all appearances. He works in finance, has two kids and loves to watch football.

Inside, however, Jones harbors a stunning secret: he is extremely satisfied with the current state of American politics. He counts himself among the only 15 percent of Americans who approved of Congress in 2014.

According to Jones, what many Americans view as gridlock and inefficiency, he sees as patience. “I’m a man who prefers quality over quantity,” said Jones.

“I appreciate that Congress is willing to take the time to really make sure they do things right.

It’s fine if this is one of the least productive Congresses in our nation’s history because I at least know that every law they do pass will be well thought-out and effective.”

Jones identifies as an Independent because he admires both parties so much that he often can’t decide between the two. He is impressed by the Republican party’s consistent and single-minded devotion to one purpose (hindering President Obama at every turn), but he respects Democrats’ flexibility as well, as demonstrated by their willingness to abandon their former stances and their President in the name of political self-interest.

In addition, Jones finds an interesting positive amid concerns about politicians’ prioritization of their own reelection over improving the country. “The fact that they pour so much time and mon-

Real-World Concepts

by Brian Hughes ‘15

www.alwaysaboutsmiles.com

Robert Jones flashess two thumbs-up to express his persistent and profound pleasure with the job Congress has been doing. ey into keeping their seats in Congress shows that they really love their jobs,” observed Jones. “I’m glad the people at the top truly enjoy what they do—I know I’d never make that much of an effort to cling to a job that I’m clearly not qualified to carry out.” Jones also agrees with the Supreme Court’s equation of money in politics with free speech, considering outrageous campaign spending a fundamental American right, arguing, “Some people just talk a lot louder than others.”

Furthermore, Jones takes no issue with the growing predominance of style over substance in the political sphere, even as it allows politicians to hide their astonishing ignorance behind a thin veil of vague rhetoric and buzz words. “I’m a firm believer that what you don’t know can’t hurt you, so I think it’s a good thing

that politicians don’t want to hurt me,” said Jones. “They say ignorance is bliss, and bliss sounds pretty darn nice to me,” he added.

Jones countered assertions that a group of mostly privileged, older white males might not be best suited to represent the voice of a diverse nation by saying, “that’s how the Constitution was made, and it’s not like we’ve had to change it since then.”

When explaining why members of Congress receive exorbitant compensation for accomplishing next to nothing while millions of unemployed Americans suffer, Jones responded, “I think that shows why these are the men and women that are leading our country. These people have managed to find a job that pays them not to do anything, while some can’t even get a job.

That’s the American dream.”

We have all been there before. You sit in class while the teacher drones on, until suddenly the loudmouthed girl sitting at the back of the room shouts, “When are we ever gonna have to use this?!” It seems to be a growing argument among the group of students who scoff at the idea of paying attention and learning something in the classroom.

Recently, I have begun to understand this argument, one brought up by those who fight the system in the form of pulling out their cell phones or abruptly leaving the room instead of sitting through a social studies class, because it’s not as if history teaches us about mistakes we shouldn’t repeat or why international relations are the way they currently are. That being said, I have taken it upon myself to recommend new courses to Sherwood’s administration that would supplement real-world skills students can actually use to enrich and expand their minds in order to navigate through the dark world they know nothing about.

Students will always complain about school not teaching them enough about how to manage their finances. A great way for today’s kids to get ahead of the game would be to learn how to launder money. The economics classes, for example, could be redesigned to teach students the ins and outs of Bitcoin and Dark Wallet to keep their money safe from taxes, or maybe to hide from the

law their money trail pointing to illicit actions they had to commit because they aren’t capable of holding on to a real, steady-paying job.

Here at Sherwood we should also reinvent the communications class, in which students would learn to network with corporation heads and build up a contact base.

Seniors, for instance, could pick up ways to schmooze admissions officers at the colleges they applied to into accepting them over a golf outing, mainly because their grades are subpar as a result of not paying attention in the other needless classes that have no application to the outside world.

Again, it is a skill more applicable to real life than any grade that gauges your intellectual ability.

Now let’s say there are some kids who actually got to the level where they can afford to run their own business. Too bad they never learned how in high school. I’m all for schools training students to take advantage of resources and maximize profits. Take the entrepreneurship class, for instance. It could be molded to fit in time for students to venture out and hire young children overseas for a few cents an hour to build a product or deliver a service that the students developed in class. You know, real world stuff.

But above all else, it’s English classes that really hurt students. Putting more emphasis on the ability to recognize and understand satirical writing is what will benefit students at the moment.

Beach Volleyball Course Offered for 2015-16 School Year

by Chase Wilson ‘16 There is to be a one-semester beach volleyball elective available for eleventh and twelfth graders beginning in the fall of next year. Sherwood has decided to extend its physical education program to now involve more “realistic and useful” activities for the student body.

Volleyball nets will be set up in the upstairs auxiliary gym, and it will be sealed and filled with sand to create a sand court. Students are not only instructed in techniques of beach volleyball but also taught “life strategies,” such as proper sunscreen application, tanning positions and jelly fish treatments.

“I wanted to teach the kids something that they could take home and use every day,” said future beach volleyball instructor Pete Siarkas. “I offered the idea and administration jumped right on it. I think beach volleyball will be the new sport of Sherwood.”

The past successes of Sherwood’s girls’ and co-ed volleyball teams and the popularity of current volleyball courses are expected to have an effect

in the popularity of the class.

This semester, a trial class was offered to those who did exceptionally well in volleyball courses. The single-period trial class was such a success that administration fast-tracked the program and planned on offering up to three periods of beach volleyball.

Junior Chad Riggs was one of the few students selected to enroll in the experimental new class this year. “I liked being able to perfect my volleyball skills on a sand court. This is really going to help out with my spring break trip this year,” said Riggs.

“I enjoyed dressing up in my bikini every day for the class and all the practice I got sun bathing.

Those indoor lights have given me the best tan I’ve ever had,” said sophomore Lauren Hope.

Hope has competed in multiple beach volleyball tournaments all over the east coast from Florida to New Jersey, so Siarkas picked her to provide feedback to help with how the new class is run.

“I think every student will find something to enjoy from this class, not just the beach volleyball,” said Hope.

www.dreamstime.com

These happy go-lucky teens participate in a high school beach volleyball course at James Earl Jones High School in Daytona Beach, Florida. The school is one of the first to offer the course, and it created an educational trend that is beginning to pop up throughout the country. Although Sherwood does not have access to a nearby beach like these Florida shredders, it will attempt to create an environment that resembles an actual beach as closely as possible … but without a real ocean.

s f e i l e B s ’ d o o w r She

1-

Do you think religion as a whole is increasing or losing its influence on American life?

3-

Why is your faith important to you?

“Faith is so unique to the human experience. Humans have always had faith in something and it’s eye opening to each individual. It’s what makes you, you.” ~ Willam McDonald ‘17

“Religion is dying out. As science increases, there’s more explanation for earth’s effects.

Social media and technology has also distracted us from our care for religion.” ~ Sammi Agranov ‘17

On a scale from one to ten, how important is religion in your life?

5-

7-

10%

7% - 2

7% 20% 9%

9-

6% - 4 7% - 6 16% - 8

5%

13% - 10

Do you believe in a higher power?

15

%

85 %

Do you plan to raise your own children in accordance with your religious beliefs? yes

no

70 %

30 %

*100 students surveyed

Atheists Still Believe in Kindness, Just not God

by Meagan Barrett ‘15 Think about it: if someone told you he didn’t believe a god existed, how would you react? Think he’s stupid?

Agree with him? Question his morals? According to statistics, religion has become so integrated into American society that people who regularly practice a religion are assumed to be better people.

In fact, the University of Oregon did a study that asked its subjects a hypothetical question: If a teacher hit a parked car and failed to leave his insurance information, is he most likely to be a Muslim teacher, a Catholic teacher, an atheist teacher or a rapist teacher? Almost no one suggested it was a Muslim or Catholic teacher. So what does that mean for the atheists, or those who don’t believe in a god? Unfortunately, they were guessed just as frequently as the rapists to have committed the unethical act. Statistics taken from across the United States reflect the same information. In the eye of society, atheists are seen to have less morality.

The logic behind this is that people glean morals— the ability to determine right from wrong—and values— things which are important to an individual, such as family, freedom, education, etc.—largely from the religions they are raised in. The assumption is, if you have never had a religion or reject the religion your parents taught you, you lack all of the morals and values that come with it, as if it is a package deal. However, Christian novelist

Billy Sunday popularized the notion that going to church and claiming to follow a religion do not automatically make you a good person. It’s your actions which dictate that. In the same way, being an atheist doesn’t automatically make you a bad one—it’s your choices towards others that decide that. The average atheist will still be respectful, responsible and morally upright as long as he or she is raised that way.

People almost universally agree that seriously harming or killing another person is morally wrong. Surprisingly enough, many European countries, which have much higher rates of atheism than the United States, also have much lower rates of homicide. Obviously, many factors influence a country’s crime rate, but the number of religious or non-religious citizens does not appear to be one of them.

What’s important to consider is that perhaps morality varies by the individual based on his or her own personal fibers and what they’ve been taught and experienced. And what many people overlook is that learned experiences don’t necessarily need to have been colored by religion. While a religious person may watch a kind act and tell their child it was inspired by the love of God, an atheist would say that it was simply a kind act, and that in itself can be inspiration enough to do good things.

While different, the effect is the same, and produces the same moral action in each individual.

Spirituality Linked to Increase in Wellness

by Marie Moeller ‘15 As learned in health class, spiritual health is one of the five factors that significantly impact your well-being. It is often overlooked as a critical factor to the health of high school students due to the connotation of the word “spirituality,” which is generally thought to be synonymous with “religion.” While partaking in a set religion is one way to actively engage in a spiritual journey, one does not need to believe in a supreme force or god to be spiritual. Put simply, spirituality is a discovery process in which you gain a sense of self through introspective thinking, allowing you to understand your own thoughts and your relation to the world which includes your family, your friends and the environment. Spirituality is proven to be an important aspect of people’s health. For high school students especially, spirituality should be emphasized as much as the mental, physical and social aspects of their health.

Since spirituality deals mainly with developing self-identity, one’s self-esteem, which is linked to how one perceives oneself, is greatly influenced by spirituality. A low self-esteem plays a contributing factor in many psychological problems such as depression and anxiety. Without a strong sense of self, one becomes more susceptible to the influence of others, which may lead to unhealthy relationships.

Spirituality helps people to deal with everyday stress and maintain good habits that promote their self-esteem and, accordingly, their mental health.

On an even larger scale, spirituality is important to those dealing with death. Many go through spiritual

distress when they are, for example, diagnosed with cancer or experienced the death of a loved one. They may be angry at a higher power or question their own self-worth and meaning of their life. However, strengthening their spiritual health can give them the support they need to cope with such events. The belief in an afterlife, such as a heaven, can reassure those that are dying and their loved ones that once deceased they will go to a better place. Also, taking the time to grieve and perform personal rituals, such as memorials or spreading ashes, is very valuable in coming to terms with a death.

In addition, a growth in spirituality can strongly influence a desire to become physically healthy.

Many established religions have certain traditions that advise members to avoid unhealthy behaviors and treat the body with respect. In addition, since one’s spiritual well-being reduces stress and helps to combat depression, the physical effects of such can improve. For instance, one may get more sleep, eat a more balanced diet, become less susceptible to colds due to a strengthened immune system and have less aches and pains.

A spiritual community can also be extremely beneficial. The sense of belonging and security that spiritual fellowships, such as church attendees and mediation groups, often strengthens one’s social health by forging strong relationships with people that can provide support, comfort and advice.

Consequently, one study has proven that increased church attendance correlates with an improved mood and health.

The Appeal of Youth Groups: United Synagouge of Youth

by Emily Gilburt ‘16 United Synagogue of Youth (USY), an organization for Jewish middle and high schoolers, proves the importance of forming lasting friendships created through the eyes of religion and similar beliefs and ideals. USY, despite educating its members on Judaism, primarily focuses on building friendships and finding a safe place to be yourself. Due to the open and welcoming environment and with the help of friends and countless deep discussions pertaining to important and controversial topics, it is easy to discover oneself and develop qualities of a leader.

In USY, each member tries to be warm and inviting. The staff and preexisting members make an effort to ensure new members and shy peers feel more at home and accepted. “USY has taught me that not only do we like to be included, but everyone else wants to be included as well.

With that knowledge, I have come from being shy and timid to being overly joyed and loud,” explained junior Elon Kline.

USY shares the importance of friendship and acceptance

throughout each event. “I just think it’s a good environment to be in,” added junior Molly Bayewitz. “Everyone is so understanding of each other and everything is so relaxed. I’ve been in USY since 6th grade and it’s always played a huge role in my life.”

There is something about being a part of a youth group- that special “X-factor” that makes the entire program so special. “We kinda develop a family, I guess you could say,” noted junior Jacob Ginsburg. Although throughout the year there are only a number of events, Bayewitz said that members continue to return in order to revisit the relationship they make.

Friendship is the greatest aspect of USY. The experiences of weekends away at the beach, rock climbing, color war, countless dances or going to Hershey Park and Kings Dominion with other USYers is priceless. “My friends got me into it [USY] and I made new friends. I’m still in USY because that first time I attended an event, I made friends for life. And, I go back whenever I can to make new ones and see the old ones,” said Kline.

Techniques To Improve Spiritual Health There are many ways to exercise your spirituality with meditation and prayer being the most common. Another form of spirituality is yoga, which can help strengthen the body and relieve stress. Journaling is a more plausible method for high school students because it can be done at any time of the day, and it takes very little time to jot down and reflect on your inner thoughts. Several studies show that writing during strenuous periods helps you to qualify and overcome the challenges you face in life. Even little things, such as going outdoors, grounding yourself and eating healthy can improve your perspective on life and yourself, allowing you to strengthen your spiritual well-being.

www.algemeiner.com

The Warrior•Opinions 12

January 30, 2015

Staff Editorial:

In Our Opinion

College Rankings Shouldn’t Be Only Factor How influential should college rankings be?

Should the governm ent create their own ranking system? ation rm fo in e us ts en ud st How should websites? from college ranking In December of 2014, President Obama released information about the Department of Education’s plans to publish a new college ratings system by the fall of 2015 to help students compare the quality of different colleges. The plan includes policies concerning monetary aspects of college, such as tying federal financial aid to schools’ rankings, and its conception has spurred debate about the value of college rating systems in the context of the college application process.

Despite criticisms, an overwhelming majority of students clearly find existing college ranking websites such as U.S. News and the Princeton Review helpful, and rightfully so. They provide vital information about universities across the country that is greatly beneficial to students, such as schools’ academic opportunities, student activities, financial aid policies and campus environments.

Nonetheless, when these rankings become the main source of judgment of institutions of higher learning, misguided choices by high school seniors tend to proceed. There are some students who solely use online ratings as their frame of comparison for different universities instead of taking part in important activities to find the best educational facility for them—such as visiting campuses or researching programs on schools’ websites. And even for students who do participate in these activities, ranks still lurk in the back of their minds, constantly making them second-guess themselves because of the prestige attributed to a particular university or lack thereof to another.

Considering these existing sentiments toward college rankings, the White House’s system will probably be redundant and unnecessary. Current online rankings already provide a huge amount of information to students, and a government-sponsored scale will bring no new facts—rather, it will probably recycle existing information. Furthermore, Obama’s plan will allow Congress to link federal financial aid to school performance, which will likely only allow highly ranked schools to improve their performance and schools ranked lower on the scale to remain stagnant. Due to general mistrust in government by the larger American society, it is also difficult to encourage the government to take on the non-urgent issue of rating colleges and universities when even the most basic of tasks—like passing a budget without the risk of shutting down the government—cannot be completed.

There are thousands of colleges across the country, encompassing an almost limitless variety—from big to small, liberal to conservative, party hard to study hard—meaning that any given student will likely be able to find several schools at which he or she could be happy. The idea of the perfect college arises partially from the overemphasis on the effect any particular school has on an individual. If you’re a motivated, high-achieving student, you’ll be successful no matter where you go to school. College doesn’t change who you are—it merely provides opportunities to learn and grow. Whether you take advantage of those opportunities is up to you.

Warrior P

the

ublished seven times a year, The Warrior serves as Sherwood High School’s premier news source. Over the years, it has received numerous state and national honors. With a staff of 35 students and one advisor, The Warrior keeps the Sherwood community apprised of local and national events.

All opinion articles represent the viewpoint of the writer. The unsigned staff editorials solely represent the opinions of the newspaper staff. These articles do not necessarily represent the views of Sherwood High School.

The Warrior welcomes Letters to the Editor of 250 words or less. They may be submitted to room C268 or emailed to thewarrioronline.shs@gmail.com. Letters must be signed, and all content received by the newspaper is subject to editing.

The Warrior staff invites feedback and corrections to printed inaccuracies.

The Warrior reserves the right to refuse advertisements.

Staff Print

Layout and Production Directors ................. Marie Moeller ‘15 Betselot Wondimu ‘15

News Editors .............................................. Connor Loughran ‘15 Samantha Schwartz ‘16

Specials Editor ................................................ Steven Witkin ‘16 Features Editors ............................................

Annie Feinroth ‘15 Allie Pino ‘15

Humor Editor ................................................. Hunter Moore ‘15 Spotlight Editor ......................................... Emma Hierholzer ‘15 Opinions Editors ................................ Julia Gajewski-Nemes ‘15 Will Van Gelder ‘16

Wondering Warrior Editor............................. Lauren Cosca ‘15 Entertainment Editors ................................. Ketki

Chauhan ‘16 Ryan Deal ‘16

Sports Editors ............................................... Jack Armstrong ‘15 Sammie Spillman ‘16

Online Online Managing Editor ................................ Brian Hughes ‘15 Online Page Editors......................................... Catherine Jou ‘15 Ashley Nnabue ‘16 Stacey Wells ‘15

Content and Copy Managing Content and Copy Director ....... Meagan Barrett ‘15 Content and Copy Editors ............................... Leo Corman ‘15 Madison Dymond ‘16 Ankur Kayastha ‘15 Kira Yates ‘16

Managing Photo Editor ................................... Haley Whitt ‘15 Photographers .............................................. Jack Armstrong ‘15 Chase Wilson ‘17

Cartoonist ....................................................... Helen Schmitt ‘15 Pollster .......................................................... Kaleigh Homer ‘15 Morning Announcements Script Editor............. Allie Pino ‘15 Staff Reporters ............................................ Gianna Bartolini ‘15 Emily Gilburt ‘16 Emma Izzo ‘15 Stephen Luckey ‘15

Business and Publicity Directors................. Dalton Sanchez ‘15

cartoon by Emma Hierholzer ‘15

Zach Stubblefield ‘15

Advisor.......................................................................... Peter Huck

The Warrior•Opinions January 30, 2015

13

Being First Isn’t Always Best

by Julia Gajewski-Nemes ‘15 the older child to accept a sibling

Procrastination

Recent studies have found that procrastination is on the rise due to the accessibility of more distractors. Many students complain about their problems with procrastination while some even brag of their expertise in the subject which raises the question: how prevalent is it in our school? The Warrior conducted a survey to find students’ opinions on the topic.

In which subject do you procrastinate the most?

E

% ive 10 lect

16%

Social Studies

% ence 1 1 i Sc

20% Math

43%

English

*153 students surveyed

Underclassmen:

8% of freshmen generally

Upperclassmen:

26% of seniors generally

begin working on summative presentation projects the night before they are due

begin working on summative presentation projects the night before they are due

51% of underclassmen

30% of upperclassmen

generally begin working on summative essays within the first 3 days of receiving the assignment

generally begin working on summative essays within the first 3 days of receiving the assignment

12% of underclassmen

17% of upperclassmen

generally begin working on completion homework during school the day it is assigned

generally begin working on completion homework during school the day it is assigned

How has the worth ethic of juniors and seniors changed since the beginning of high school?

39%

Improved

40%

Worsened

21%

Stayed the Same

What serves as your biggest distractor when trying to get schoolwork done at home?

“My cell phone” “Television”

“Video games”

“The internet”

“Food” “Sleep”

“Hanging out with friends”

“The opportunity to have fun “Netflix” “Family duties” instead of doing schoolwork” “Lack of motivation”

“Sports”

When most parents have their first child, they feel the need to prove that they can be good at parenting and want to raise the perfect child in order to reflect those parenting abilities. They have the time to read up on the best parenting methods, research which stroller is the safest and buy the best mobile on the market. For years, they have been dreaming of this moment and have thought of everything they want their child to be. The second that the child is born, he or she already has dozens of expectations riding on his or her back. He is going to be daddy’s football star; she is going to be valedictorian of her class; their child is going to change the world and they will provide all the tools necessary to ensure his or her success in life.

Though the first-born child, who is generally structured, reliable and an achiever with involved parents, seemingly has the ideal life, he or she faces difficulties that remain unnoticed.

As a first-born child with three younger siblings, I have experienced, and still struggle with, the burdens of being the family guinea pig.

Don’t get me wrong, having high aspirations for oneself and his or her children is important.

However, children can easily perceive these expectations as too much pressure, stressing them out in a way that does more harm than good. This stress becomes especially evident when a younger sibling is thrown into the picture.

At a young age, it is difficult for

because up until that point, he or she had been the center of their parents’ lives. In an attempt to gain full attention back from their parents, they often work extra hard to meet the expectations of their parents. This then becomes aggravating to the child because the second child is often raised with less strict expectations and is praised for being happy-go-lucky.

However, high expectations and strict enforcement of rules are not the only things that are tested on the eldest child. The first-born also gets to explore uncomfortable situations such as how parents react to dating, friends, puberty, breaking curfews, drug and alcohol use, lying and moving out. No matter how a parent may approach it, conversations on any of these topics are guaranteed to be awkward–younger siblings do not understand how lucky they are to be learning from the sidelines.

Alongside this, the eldest child is expected to figure out which high school courses he or she should take, how to do the math homework for a course that his or her parents took thirty years ago, how to prioritize and how to apply to college on his or her own. Not to mention the fact that it is then his or her responsibility to teach the younger sibling(s) how everything works after finally figuring it out for him or herself.

With all of this being said, being the eldest has its perks.

There is nothing I find more rewarding than waking up in the morning and knowing that I have three young admirers that hope to one day be like their older sister.

Technology Credit Is A Burden

by Morgan Hill ‘16

The Maryland State Department of Education requires all students who attend a public high school to earn a technology credit in order to graduate. MCPS offers four classes that satisfy the technology credit requirement: Introduction to Engineering Design, Designing Technology Solutions, Foundations of Technology and Principles of Engineering.

Due to the limited number of classes that offer credit for the technology requirement; many students find themselves stuck in a full year class that they are apathetic about. This prevents students that are not interested in technology from taking another class that may interest or benefit them. With busy schedules filled with important academic classes, students find it difficult to fit in a required technology credit.

MCPS also requires students to earn one fine arts credit and one physical education credit. However, the same problems with the technology credit are not an issue with these required credits. There are 65 classes offered by Montgomery County that a student can earn a fine arts credit in, ranging from dance to photography classes. There are 22 classes where a

student can earn physical education credit, giving students a much broader spectrum of choice.

Although not all of these classes are available at every school, a school that offers even a fraction of them provides a larger margin of choice in how students spend part of their school day.

Montgomery County offers numerous other technology classes, such as Digital Electronics and Civil Engineering. These classes are more specific and target students who are especially interested in technology. Although these classes offer half a credit, they are supplemental and do not satisfy the technology credit requirement. Students that are interested in one of the supplemental classes are likely to opt out of them and instead take one of the other classes that offer credit.

With the busy schedule many students have, there is no room for students to earn the required technology credit. This causes many students to be trapped in a class that has little value to them.

While it is important to offer classes covering a wide variety of subjects, students should be able to choose whether or not they want to take a technology class, and should have a variety of technology classes to choose from.

The Warrior•Opinions 14

January 30, 2015

Being Financially Knowledgeable Now Is Better in the Long Run

by Jack Armstrong ‘15 Investing is now fun. That’s because it now requires little effort and doesn’t look anything like traditional investing. And it’s all thanks to a new app called Acorns that automatically monitors linked accounts, rounding up purchases, and investing the change into securely managed Exchange-Traded Funds. In addition to apps like Acorns, once you turn 18 you can start a retirement (IRA) account as well as apply for a credit card; the first steps to becoming financially independent.

There are many reasons to start investing early. First, let your money make money. The earlier you start saving, the more compound earnings and dividends can be reinvested, growing exponentially in the years ahead.

Second, the ability to set up automatic monthly, weekly or daily transfers with Acorns makes setting aside money effortless. You can also link a debit or credit card to the account and it can monitor purchases and round up each purchase to the dollar, automatically investing it into your account.

Acorns accounts are no longer invite only; users sign up within the app. Portfolios are managed by a team of experienced economists. Fees are low, only $1 a month, and accounts are securely encrypted. The process to create an Acorns account is incredibly easy. After entering your name, address, social security number, a bank account and some personal financial information, your investment account is opened and a portfolio is recom-

mended to best suit your needs.

While Acorns is no get-rich-quick solution, it offers a solid starting point by making the process of investing quick and simple by replacing the per-trade commission on traditional brokerage accounts.

There are many other ways to become financially independent when you turn 18, including opening a personal brokerage account, an IRA or applying for your first credit card. Learning how to wisely manage, spend and invest your money really isn’t as hard as it seems, but make sure to make smart decisions because they will impact your financial history for years to come.

Credit cards can be valuable tools to demonstrate responsible spending, but they can also be especially risky for young adults.

Depending on your spending habits, debt and interest can accumulate rapidly. However, there are many benefits to having your own credit card, assuming you consistently pay your bill in full and on time. With a high credit score you may qualify for low-interest rates on loans and big-ticket items down the road, which can save you a lot of money.

It is recommended to seek advice from a parent or experienced adult when dealing with opening financial accounts under your name. Investment accounts, with the exception of IRAs, are subject to taxes at the end of the year.

Acorns, IRAs and credit cards aside, the significance of investing and wisely spending early can have a profound impact in the future. Finding easy ways to start small can make all the difference.

Marijuana Legalization Poses New Danger

inevitable that some individuals would re-sell their marijuana to The 50 United States are ofunderage users. According to a ten times called the “laboratories report by the Rocky Mountain of democracy.” Although this High-Intensity Drug Trafficking expression was meant to highArea, Colorado teens, by 2012, light the innovative structure of were 50-percent more likely to American government, it also abuse marijuana than their peers points out an important fact that in the rest of the country. not all political experiments work Despite the inherent risk and that many fail quite and mounting possibility destructively. In the case A second opinion: of teen drug abuse, many of failure, it is often times people will still argue the Tom Tancredo is a former libertarian logic of: “I’m hoped that any such danRepublican congressman a consenting adult, why gerous experiment can be from Colorado, one of stopped at the state level can’t I do what I want?” four states that has of government before it And yet the best customers legalized the recreational for marijuana are not even can affect the entire nation.

Today, state-by-state mariadults. In fact, the majority use of marijuana. juana legalization is failing of adults who try marijua“Our nation is spending tens of before our eyes—failing, na quit by age 30. Adults in particularly in states where billions of dollars annually in an at- their twenties are less likelegalization has been imtempt to prohibit adults from using ly to smoke marijuana than plemented most boldly. high school students. a substance objectively less harmful In addition, proponents Despite this failure, marthan alcohol. Yet marijuana is still ijuana legalization over of marijuana legalization the course of the past three widely available in our society. We often question why the years has been rapidly exlaw bans marijuana but not are not preventing its use; we are panding, easily winning drugs such as alcohol or tomerely ensuring that all the profits bacco. The important difstate referendums in what has become a dangerous from the sale of marijuana (outside ference is that alcohol and trend. use is declining. the medical marijuana system) flow tobacco In November 2012, Since 1980, consumption to the criminal underground.”

Colorado and Washingof alcohol has dropped alton were the first states to most 20 percent. One-third legalize the sale of recreational abuse. In 2000, Colorado voters of Americans smoked tobacco in marijuana to any adult consum- had approved a short term exper- 1980; less than one-fifth smoke er. Proponents of legalization, iment with medical marijuana. A today. backed by a couple million dol- complex series of government de- As for the people, the real lars and a brilliant campaign slo- cisions that followed in the mid- question should be focused not gan, “Drug dealers don’t ask for 2000s overthrew most restrictions so much on the short-term effects ID,” carried the day with an im- on the dispensing of marijuana. of state-by-state marijuana legalplied promise: legalization would As a result, between 2009 and ization, but rather on the realistic help keep marijuana away from 2012, the number of licensed long-term consequences. With minors. After all, in a recent study dispensaries sky-rocketed past potentially dangerous and serious by researchers at Duke Universi- 500 and the number of medical risks to the future of our children, ty, persistent use of marijuana cardholders jumped from roughly Americans should ask themselves among adolescents was found to 1,000 to 108,000. whether or not marijuana legalreduce IQ scores by up to eight With so many medical card- ization’s supposed benefits outpoints. In one study by the Jour- holders walking around, it was weigh the substantial risks.

by Christopher Sung ‘17

nal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, researchers found that between two identical twins, the twin who started using marijuana before age 17 was over three times more likely to commit suicide as an adult.

People in Colorado had good reason to worry about teen drug

To The Point Unhealthy Romanticization

The World Will Not End

Need To Appreciate Foreign Languages

by Julia Gajewski-Nemes ‘15

by Stacey Wells ‘15

by Madison Dymond ‘16

Over the past couple of years, anxiety disorders and depression have presumably impacted more teenagers nationwide than ever before. While these mental illnesses need to be taken seriously and awareness of them has spread rapidly, social media websites such as Twitter, with pages such as “@cuttingquotes” and “@depressingthoughts,” and Tumblr, with blogs such as “depressingquotesforyou,” have undermined their importance through the romanticization of these illnesses.

Depression and anxiety were once treated as stigmas and now, in their own strange way, have become popularized and cool. When they were treated as stigmas, nobody wanted to come clean about their illnesses because they feared being shunned; now that they have become normalized, those who suffer from anxiety and depression still are not seeking the help that they need because the very real problems that they are facing are being treated so casually.

Society has swung back and forth between two unhealthy extremes and needs to find a middle that will allow for those that need help to be helped and those that do not to step back and support those who need it.

Americans often strongly voice their opinions about controversial issues, but it would be more beneficial if they would stop overreacting to every little thing. During the NFL Playoffs, McDonalds aired a commercial that depicted different towns and their local McDonald’s signs.

The signs contained messages, such as ‘We Remember 9-11,’ ‘Boston Strong’ and even personal messages like ‘Happy 95 Birthday Woody We Love You.’ Most of the messages referenced tragedies to advertise McDonalds as a restaurant that promotes patriotism and strong communities. While many saw this commercial, smiled and moved on, others vocalized their opinion that the restaurant inappropriately utilized American tragedies. While these people are understandably looking out for America’s best interests, the commercial was meant to support communities and remember catastrophes—not devalue them. It was never meant to offend anyone. Besides, it is completely acceptable for fellow Americans to reference these events; ignoring them will not make them disappear. Sometimes criticism is better left unsaid, and in this case, some people need to relax and go eat a burger.

When it comes to foreign language classes, most students are lazy. They have no real desire or motivation to speak anything other than English, and these classes are treated merely as obligations.

Many students study a language for six years and are unable to hold a conversation in that language. They rarely take these classes seriously, and often walk away having nothing to show for their time spent in them.

The most widely spoken non-English language in the United States is Spanish. When walking through the halls of Sherwood, one will almost always here it being spoken by native speakers. French is also very often heard. One will also hear the occasional mocking of non-English languages and ethnicities due to ignorance. The diversity in our school and country will only increase with time, and today’s adolescents need to be able to communicate with people around them.

There are so many other languages and cultures in the world. Learning at least one other language may seem “boring,” but it will help get rid of the ignorance and prejudice that some have toward the rest of the world.

The Warrior•Wondering Warrior

15

January 30, 2015

m o v i e s

Who is your favorite actor/actress and why?

“Jennifer Lawrence because she is entertaining on screen and overall a great and down-to-earth person.”

-Greta Leissa ‘17 “Emma Watson because she is an activist for important issues like feminism and animal rights.”

-Tal Adashek ‘18

What do you think is the most important aspect of what makes a good move?

Other Theme

9%

45%

Plot 26%

Casting

7%

Music

9%

3% said Never 32% said 1-3 Times 35% said 4-6 Times 30% said 7 or More Times

18% 42% of students watch The Golden Globes

4%

Acting

How often do students go to the movies a year?

of students watch The Academy Awards

What is your favorite genre of movie?

42% said Comedy 24% said Action

14% said Romance 8% said Other

12% said Horror

What is the best movie you have seen this year and why?

53% 47%

of students prefer movies

of students prefer TV

*100 students surveyed compiled by Lauren Cosca and Kaleigh Homer

“Interstellar, it has a very complex plot.”

-Clinton Bissell ‘17 “Fury, because the whole movie really put me into WWII.” -Madison Lilly ‘16

The Warrior•Entertainment 16

January 30, 2015

Shows ‘n Shindigs Concerts KONGOS (9:30 Club) - Feb.10 Chris Brown w/ Trey Songz ft. Tyga (Verizon Center) - Feb. 22 Echosmith (9:30 Club) - Feb. 26

Kingsman: The Secret Service Feb. 13

Jupiter Ascending Feb. 6

Kevin Hart Rings Your Bell as the Best Man for the Job in ‘The Wedding Ringer’

by Allie Pino ‘15 Weddings can be terrific, fun and slightly dysfunctional events that people feel they have to put all their time and energy into.

In the bromantic comedy “The Wedding Ringer,” Kevin Hart and Josh Gad team up to portray a forged friendship that turns real as the “player” discovers his own life may be as pitiable as that of the “losers” he services.

Doug Harris (Gad) is the likable but awkward groom-tobe, who’s about to marry his dream girl, Gretchen (Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting). Trouble is, Doug has no actual male friends, and has been lying about it. On the verge of being exposed, he is directed to the slick Jimmy Callahan (Hart), natural hustler and CEO of Best Man Inc., a company that provides wedding day wingman services for the friendless. Doug hires Jimmy to fill out his side of the wedding party and play “Bic Mitchum,” his imaginary best friend from college, who is a hipster clergyman in camo pants and

claims to have done everything from Vatican sightseeing to sky diving with his pal Doug.

Jimmy’s skills at public people polishing are put to the test when Doug not only approaches him with the task of being his best man, but helping him find seven additional groomsman and fabricating an extensive friendship with all of them, a service Jimmy refers to as the “Golden Tux.” Considering that Jimmy is choosing his actors from among the ranks of fellow con artists and convicted criminals, it’s clear the elaborate ruse is shaky at best.

Written by Jeremy Garelick and Jay Lavender, the film gets some fairly funny moments out of Doug and Jimmy’s interaction with Gretchen’s family and the “Goonie” looking groomsmen-gang. But a couple of extended sequences show the serious moments that emerge as Doug and Jimmy begin to bond and go beyond the levels of a business relationship.

The rest of the comedy rises and falls on Hart and Gad’s co-

medic and dramatic connection, and I don’t want to oversell it, but they make a very good double act. There’s a great deal of chemistry between the two leads. Hart and Gad really hold together “The Wedding Ringer.” They create an enjoyable comedy—one that includes a number of laugh-outloud scenes couched in an often clumsy story.

Fans of Hart will be happy to know the comedian brings his trademark energy and gives “The Wedding Ringer” a much-needed shot of humor. Gad is also funny in his role as the socially awkward Doug. The actor’s musical theater background is also put to good use in the movie, especially during a dance number. Together, Hart and Gad make a great pair on-screen.

There’s an entertaining movie in here, one with a smart idea and a lot of twisted characters with even a couple of catch-yourbreath surprises. Granted, the plot is a bit hard to follow, but in terms of lowbrow comedy, the film is actually pretty funny.

Performers Face Challenges in Balancing their Passions

by Gianna Bartolini ‘15 The performing arts are sectors of entertainment that involve intensive training from a young age with the goal of perfection.

Many students in our school, those striving to become professional entertainers or who simply have a passion for performing, face the challenge of balancing their schoolwork between their training, rehearsing and performing schedules.

Many times when we think of students who carry a heavy load, the first thought that comes to mind may be an athlete, a high-achieving AP student, or someone with a demanding after-school job. Student performers, however, do not always have as much to show superficially for all their efforts, and most people don’t know, or don’t care, about the secret lives of these performers.

Sophomore Julia Lo has been dancing for the past eight years, averaging three to five hours per day and up to 30 hours per week.

She is part of a pre-professional program for classical ballet at Berrend Dance Centre in Olney and a long-time member of Olney Ballet Theatre and performing in “The Nutcracker,” “Petrushka” and other productions.

“I have been dancing since a young age and it’s become a part of my life,” said Lo. “It allows me to express myself in ways that aren’t possible in daily life.”

Although she has decided to pursue a more traditional career, Lo intends to continue dancing throughout high school because of the amazing opportunities it has offered her throughout the years.

“Every performance I’ve ever done is pretty cool to me. I think it’s amazing that I have an opportunity to show my abilities.

My dancing has allowed me to travel to other states such as Flor-

ida to attend summer intensives [concentrated dance training over the summer] … it has also allowed me to meet my best friends and share many fond memories,” said Lo Junior Paul Lee has loved music for as long as he can remember. He plays the drums and guitar, practicing up to 10 hours a week and performing at Oakdale Emory Methodist Church’s 707 Sunday night youth service.

“Music is something that I find freedom in,” said Lee. “The restrictions of everything else don’t apply.” He certainly finds plenty of opportunities to play, whether it is in a band, at church or in Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Even though music is his passion, Lee will not pursue it as a career option due to the instability the job would offer, as well as the music industry’s tendency to support pop music groups over alternative styles of music.

Junior Danny Santiago sees it in a different way. Not only does he love performing, both as a musician and an actor, but wishes to study musical theatre in college and continue with it as a possible career.

He rehearses 18-20 hours per week, dividing his time between theatrical productions and different bands he is a part of. He recently completed “My Fair Lady” at the Olney Theatre Historic Stage in November, where he played as one of the leading male characters.

Although he already has a lot on his plate, Santiago is going to be performing in Rock ‘n’ Roll in March and recently auditioned for the Rockville Musical Theatre’s production of “Next to Normal.”

Although being a part of all these extracurricular activities can be draining, so many students dedicate themselves to the cause because, as Lee said, “you love the art and what it does for you, not … any other reason.”

The Warrior•Entertainment January 30, 2015

17

Final Episode Signals End of an Era

by Leo Corman ‘15

December 18 marked a bittersweet moment for myself and almost 2.5 million other viewers: Stephen Colbert’s final performance on “The Colbert Report.”

Colbert will take over the “Late Show” for David Letterman on September 8, but he will leave his hilarious alter ego behind.

For those not familiar with it, “The Colbert Report” was a fake news program hosted by Colbert, who masqueraded as an aggressively ignorant right-wing pundit meant to resemble Fox News anchors like Bill O’Reilly and Sean Hannity. According to Colbert, the character was a “well-intentioned, poorly informed, high-status idiot.”

Part of what made “The Colbert Report” so appealing was Colbert’s ability to fully immerse himself in his satirical character. It was one thing for Colbert to assert ridiculous, exaggerated conservative views on subjects like gay rights and immigration in scripted segments, but it was an entirely different and more

remarkable matter for Colbert to carry that persona into live interviews and off-air appearances, turning the Colbert character into a larger-than-life figure truly unlike anything else in the world of comedy. Colbert wrote two books (using the same self-important tone he employed in every show), the most recent being “America Again: Re-becoming the Greatness We Never Weren’t.” He also spoke at the 2006 White House Correspondents’ Dinner, testified before Congress in 2010 and routinely interviewed members of the House of Representatives in his “Better Know a District” segment, all firmly in character. He (sort of) ran for president and created his own real Political Action Committee (Super PAC), “Americans for a Better Tomorrow, Tomorrow.”

In short, the Colbert caricature evolved beyond anything he could have imagined when the show first aired in 2005, and he fearlessly brought that character with him into normally serious and professional situations.

Colbert even developed his own

pseudo-language, which includes the show’s fundamental concept of “truthiness” (a truth conceived from one’s gut, requiring no logic to support it), as well as gems like “freem” (freedom without the “do”), “mantasy” (male fantasy) and “engayify” (probably self-explanatory). In fact, Colbert has an entire Wikipedia page devoted solely to his cultural impact. In addition, Colbert often utilized the power and influence he gained from the show for altruistic purposes. In his final week, Colbert raised over $300,000 for charity by raffling off his “C”-shaped desk and iconic self-portrait.

Of course, Colbert’s bread and butter was wonderful sarcastic satire, at which he was incredibly adept. Not only were his scripted segments extremely clever and funny, but his interviews were also demonstrative of his quick wit and intellect. Colbert was brilliant enough to make his character seem so inane. Like all good satire, Colbert’s work additionally served the important role of uncovering and ridiculing ignorance. His “truthiness” was

Colbert’s Nuggets of Wisdom

n the gree with me o a is d ho w le p peo the “I cannot stand I believe is about ch hi w ... e d a W issue of Roe v. cross a lake.” proper way to “ There’s

“Twenty-two astronauts were born in Ohio. What is it about your state that makes people want to flee Earth?” (to Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones) not a far stretch from the actual tactics used by TV personalities and politicians, and Colbert exposed the illogic and hypocrisy of figures across the political and news-media spectrum.

However, my favorite moments on “The Colbert Report” occurred when Colbert broke character, when he found his

material so ridiculous that he couldn’t maintain his usual deadpan. I enjoyed those brief insights into the person Stephen Colbert, separate from the character he created. While it pains me to have to write this article in the past tense, I look forward to getting to know the real Colbert in the next chapter of his legacy.

Monochrome

Proportions Get The Look: •Oversized •Layering

•Cropped Sweaters •Big Scarves

About The Look: Staying warm in the winter involves layering, but there’s no reason to make it boring!

This season’s trend of mixing and matching short and long pieces gives depth to any outfit. Combining cropped sweaters with oversized jackets, short skirts and woolly tights, and matching delicate earrings with an edgy haircut really brings an interesting twist to average winter wear.

Model: Samantha Berger Photographer: Gianna Bartolini

90s Throwback

Model: Emma Izzo Photographer: Gianna Bartolini

Get The Look:

Get The Look:

About The Look:

About The Look:

Common knowledge and oldwives tales suggest that black is the most flattering color on any woman. When worn right, black can be so classy, and for that reason, black and white monochrome makes the cut for the season’s top trends. A great ways to wear this look is by mixing different textures and fabrics. Leather jackets, flowing blouses, sneakers and boots, and those blogger famous wide-brimmed hats are timeless pieces to take you through the winter and possibly into spring as well.

It’s been coming for a while, but a full-on 90s throwback is finally happening. A signature staple? Plaid, especially in skirts and oversized flannels. Not feeling the whole “schoolgirl” vibe?

You can wear it in a pencil skirt. Adding an alt-type crop top and choker can tie a look together. Boyfriend jeans, ugly sweaters and scrunchies are really popular pieces as well. Guys, don’t worry, there are options for you too. Big, bold, colorful sweatshirts and windbreakers are a nod to the nineties as well.

•Black Leather •Wide-Brimmed Hats •Black Hi-Tops •Boots

an old saying abo ut those who forget history. I d on’t remember it, but it’s good.”

“You sa at th id in your e end b of the ook that politi c d about ian is huma ay, every n durin g the . What day?”

•Plaid •Overalls •Chokers •Boyfriend Jeans

It’s cold out there, and for some people that means sticking out the next three months of cold. Luckily, there are options to keep yourself warm and still look classy.

Model: Emma Hierholzer Photographer: Gianna Bartolini

Winter Fashion 2015

by Gianna Bartolini ‘15

The Warrior•Sports 18

January 30, 2015

Girls’ Basketball Prepares for Division Rival

by Hunter Moore ‘15 The girls’ varsity basketball team is off to an inconsistent start under first-year coach Tim Hobbs, with an overall 8-4 record. The girls’ division record is 2-2, which puts them in a tie for second in the division with Blake.

(The Warriors finish a three-game stretch tonight at Blake, following games the previous two nights against division-leading Paint Branch and Kennedy. The Warrior was unable to cover these games before this issue went to print.)

“Not being able to practice before all of these games because of snow will definitely hurt us a little, but we know what we are going up against and are prepared mentally,” said senior captain Stacey O’Neale. “I definitely believe that we are an improved team since our first round of divisional match-ups.”

Of the girls’ four losses, three of them were against teams with dominant records: Gwynedd Mercy Academy, a private school in Pennsylvania (13-2), Paint Branch (12-1) and Walter Johnson (12-1). The girls, however, did lose to Springbrook (3-9) on January 15 after the Warriors lost their starting point guard, sophomore Amanda Allen, to illness for the second half.

Senior captain Nicole Stockinger remained optimistic about the Springbrook loss and felt that it was a wake-up call for the girls.

“We went into Springbrook with

no energy, and with everyone trying to do their own thing rather than working together,” said Stockinger. “We took this game for granted expecting a win to be given to us; we now know that is never the case, which should help us in the future.”

The girls did successfully bounce back from the loss and beat Richard Montgomery by 18 points in their very next game.

The Warriors then beat Northwest by 40 points on January 23.

Against the Jaguars, junior Delaney McMenamin led the way for the Warriors with 12 points, along with sophomore Sammy Sundell who contributed 11 points.

“Hard work pays off; we are going to keep our heads on straight and continue to work hard and focus on practice. We are going to work as a team in order to bounce back for the rest of the season. One loss to a bad team isn’t going to get to us,” said Allen, who transferred from Good Counsel.

Allen has been a great addition to the Warriors this season.

She is second on the team in scoring and first in assists, helping to take some of the load off of Stockinger. O’Neale, who has committed to play basketball for Wesley College, also has been a major factor of the Warriors this season, providing much needed minutes and scoring.

The next major test for the Warriors will be at home on February 20 against Magruder who are second in their division.

Jack Armstrong ‘15

Senior Christine Black scrambles for a loose ball against the Northwest Jaguars on January 23.

The Warrior•Sports January 30, 2015

19

MONTGOMERY COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIPS

Athletes Deserve a Voice

by Will Van Gelder ‘16

Jack Armstrong ‘15

55M HURDLES Junior Paul Lee rushes to cross the finish line during the Montgomery County Indoor Track Championships on January 20.

Jack Armstrong ‘15

Jack Armstrong ‘15

PASS THE BATON Junior Amanda Hayes-Puttfarcken readies to pass the baton in the girls’ 4x800 relay.

PHOTO FINISH Junior Alyssa Moran leaps in the long jump, taking 9th for Sherwood with a jump of 15-07.

Boys’ Basketball Shows Potential

by Leo Corman ‘15 The boys’ basketball team fell to Northwest, 73-60, last Friday night, bringing their record to 6-6 for the season. (The team played two nights ago against a tough Kennedy squad—whom they beat by two points earlier in the season—and last night against Paint Branch, who beat the Warriors on a bank-shot buzzer-beater in December. Both games happened too late for The Warrior to cover in this issue).

Against Northwest, the Warriors led after the first quarter but were subsequently outscored 18-4 during the second quarter.

After mounting a furious comeback in the fourth quarter, which included scoring 27 points in the final period, the Warriors ultimately were unable to overcome their early deficit.

The loss to the 7-7 Jaguars came on the heels of three consecutive strong performances by the Warriors—victories over

Blake and Springbrook and a three-point loss to undefeated Richard Montgomery.

In general, the Warriors have had mixed results this season, producing a number of impressive games (winning at Magruder to begin the season) but some disappointing ones as well (losing to sub-.500 Einstein and Paint Branch). Part of this inconsistency can be attributed to a relatively difficult schedule, with half of the Warriors’ games so far against teams with records of 8-4 or better.

The Warriors are led in scoring by senior guard Xavier McCants at 15.5 points per game, followed by senior center Hunter Moore and junior guard Tyrese Williams, who both average double figures. As the team’s primary ball-handler, McCants balances scoring with making plays for his teammates, but his most effective weapon is his ability to attack opposing defenses and get to the rim. Moore gives the Warriors

an important inside threat with his rebounding and touch around the basket. Williams, who has made the most free throws on the team this season, earns many of his points through his aggressive driving on offense.

Junior guard Shawn Bliss has also brought a substantial offensive boost, hitting the second-most three-pointers on the team behind McCants. Despite the inconsistent season thus far, Bliss feels confident in the Warriors’ potential moving forward.

“We have a lot of chemistry, and we know that if one person messes up, we have four other people on the court that have our back,” said Bliss. “I believe we can make a big run the rest of the season into the playoffs and up to the state championship game.”

At the end of a stretch of three games in three consecutive nights, the team plays tonight at Blake (6-7), whom the Warriors beat earlier this month by a score of 73-57.

On numerous occasions throughout the last few years professional athletes have voiced their opinions on issues facing the nation. Most recently in December during a Cleveland Cavaliers and Brooklyn Nets game, the players on the Cavaliers removed their normal warm-up shirts prior to the game and played the entire pre-game shootaround in shirts that read “I can’t breathe,” which has come to symbolize the protest movement surrounding the deaths of black men Eric Garner and Michael Brown at the hands of police officers. Numerous other NBA players followed suit and wore the shirts during warm-ups.

This (unsurprisingly) has been causing controversy, as some were in favor of the NBA players wearing these poignant and timely shirts, while others were angry that professional athletes would presume to share their thoughts on actual issues.

Famous professional athletes are seemingly involved in everything; they are constantly on television and are the subject of various news stories that many people see almost daily, and thousands of people follow them on social media sites. Because many athletes are often in the public eye, they are in a perfect position to state their beliefs on issues that grip our nation.

Derrick Rose of the Chicago Bulls elaborated his reasons for taking a stand on the issues revolving around the deaths of Garner and Brown. “Usually athletes tend to stay away from this but I just felt as if I had to do some-

thing about it.” Rose epitomizes exactly what I believe most professional athletes were feeling at this time.

The players had every right to wear these shirts and state their viewpoints on this controversial and divisive issue. People tend to treat major league sports players as talented people who serve solely for their entertainment. This thought process places athletes in the unusual situation of being looked on as famous athletes who people enjoy watching but at the same time being regulated as simply entertainers.

While this may be true in literal terms, sports players are people just as we are, and they have every right to free speech that is afforded to all citizens of the United States. Their very public position on the national stage also gives them a prime position to take a stand on many issues.

Players on sports teams generally have hundreds of thousands of followers on various social media sites, which allows them to express their opinions with one simple click of a button. Many people do not want to read or see the opinions of others, particularly if the opinions are ones they do not agree with, but athletes are people who deserve to share what they want to share and to say what they want to say.

The Warrior•Sports 20

January 30, 2015

Swim and Dive Team Prepare for Metros

by Steven Witkin ‘16

Although being in the second division of four in the county, the swim and dive team has been known to outperform higher division teams in the championship season. With the regular season over, the Warriors are looking to do even better in Metro Champs and the state championships with a roster bolstered by new freshmen and improving upperclassmen.

The swim and dive team had one of its better seasons in the last few years, with the girls’ team finishing 4-1 and the boys’ team 2-3. After the regular-season meets, the best of the swimmers and divers go on to compete in Division II, regional and state championships, and most competitive of all, Metros.

The Metropolitan Interscholastic Swimming and Diving Championships is the only meet each year where both public and private schools compete against each other. Swimmers and divers must make a cut to be in the meet. This means that the top competition in swimming and diving from all high schools in the Greater Washington area are at one meet, usually attended by a packed crowd.

At last year’s Metros, the boys team finished twenty-ninth overall, and the girls came in seventh. However, several additions and improvements to the teams might be able to push the boys team into a higher standing and bring the girls closer to the third

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Jack Armstrong ‘15

ON THE FLY Junior Margarita Ryan swims the 100 fly in the Sherwood vs. Northwest meet on January 10 at the Olney Swim Center. The Warriors swept the event, Ryan taking first with a time of 59.65. Both the boys’ and the girls’ teams dominated the Jaguars (Boys’ 94-77, Girls’ 105-66). place they achieved two years ago.

Those who placed high last year as underclassmen have improved.

Junior Margarita Ryan, who finished sixth in 100 yard backstroke last year, ahead of many then-seniors, can come back and score big for the Warriors this year. After winning the 50 yard freestyle and breaking both the Metros and MCPS records in a speedy 22.97 seconds at Metros last year, junior Morgan Hill

Who will win?

Seahawks

In 1967, a 3 cost ab 0-second comm ou er first Sup t $40,000 durin cial g the er Bowl.

In 2015, $4.5 milli it costs on compiled by Sammie Spillman ‘16

the 200 and 500 yard freestyles.

Along with strong swimmers and divers on both teams, this year has seen a substantial and talented freshman class. Although freshmen and even sophomores rarely make the meet, a total of two male and five female freshmen swimmers made Metros.

Kennedy Nolan, who made the cut in five events, has been practicing six days a week with her club team to prepare for the meet.

Next year’s Super Bowl will be held in San Francisco and the NFL won’t be using roman numerals.

“I’m extremely excited for Metros,” she said. “I hope to make finals in the 100 fly and 100 back.”

Sherwood’s swim and dive team, with its capable core athletes and fast freshmen, is in a prime position to match or exceed previous performances at Metro Champs on February 7 and at the state championships February 21 to finish strong what Nolan describes as “an incredible season so far.”

Mo Mo st W in st los s: P se itts s: D bu en rgh ve r B Stee ron le co rs, 6 s, 5

Patriots

Heading into their sixth Super Bowl game together, head coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady have seen it all and will be well prepared for whatever the Seattle Seahawks’ defense throws at the Patriots. Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson threw twice as many interceptions in NFC Championship Game as Brady has thrown in five Super Bowl games. If Sunday’s game is decided by turnovers, the Patriots likely will come out on top.

For the third season in a row, the Seahawks allowed the fewest points in the NFL and only allowed 17 touchdowns during the regular season.

However, the Patriots were the fourth highest scoring team in the NFL, putting up 29.2 points per game. The biggest challenge for the Patriots in this Super Bowl will be to stop Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch. If the Patriots can stop Seattle’s run game and prevent Lynch from making big plays, Wilson and his receivers are prone to mistakes. ~Noah Rosendorf ‘17

The 2014 Super Bowl was the most watched U.S. telecast of all time with over 115 million viewers.

The saying goes, defense wins championships. The Seahawks’ passing defense could well lead to consecutive Super Bowl titles. Cornerback Richard Sherman has indisputable lock-down skills to go with the confidence that he is the best in the NFL at his position. Despite a sprained left elbow, Sherman is expected to play in the Super Bowl and will be determined to maintain a “No Fly Zone”.

Running back Marshawn Lynch is literally “All ‘bout that action,” as he once put it, when Seattle most needs his hard-hitting running game. Lynch ran for more than 1,300 yards during the season, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. He has proven ability to break off for a big run at critical moments in big games. If the Seahawks’ running game eats up time on the clock, Patriots quarterback Tom Brady could have limited opportunities to try to win his fourth Super Bowl. The Patriots almost solely depend on the passing game, and if Sherman and the rest of the Legion of Boom shuts that down, New England is doomed. ~Stephen Luckey ‘15

is looking to defend her title, as well as score in her other events.

Combined, the girls can put together an excellent 200 yard medley relay, as last year’s thirdplace team had only one graduating senior.

On the boy’s side, sophomore diver Cody Carlson is preparing to match his success last year, when he achieved sixth overall in the one meter diving. Senior Jake Ryan also has potential to score in