Classic newspaper Volume 1 Issue no. 2

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Vol. 1 No.2

75-40 Parsons Blvd., Flushing, New York 11366

April,1985

Borough President Manes ' Visits Townsend Harris

Mayor Edward Koch

Koch Confers with DiJ(h, School Stuaents ' .

By Carol Cespedes Mayor Edward Koch's annual high school press conference was held on January 18th, in the Blue Room of City Hall. In the past, these conferences have taken place to educate young people on runn ing a newspaper and to actually give the students a feel of what it's like to attend a press conference.

All New York City public high schools were invited and allowed to send a representative, namely the editor of the school paper.

The press conference was delayed a half hour and began at exactly .

4:30 P .M. Among the topics discussed were discrimination, the improvement of the Board of Educa tion, an honorary city holiday for Martin Luther King, the Supreme Court decision to search students, teachers' salaries, the controversy over Bernhard Goetz, the mayor's bestseller, Mayor and Nathan Quinones.

When asked how he felt about the new right to search students in the prevention of drugs and weapons , Mayor Koch replied that he believed this action was , necessary for a safe school atmosphere, " How many of you think it' s exactly what we need?

Give me one good reason that makes it acceptable for a student to push drugs. Any student who is destroying himself and his colleagues at a school is in desper ate need of help and should .go to jail." .

Education was also a popu lar topic. When asked what he thought o f New York City School Cha ncellor, Nath an Qu inones,

Koch replied that the Chancellor was doing a job that deserved recognition rather than the criticism he has recently received.

The Mayor was also asked if he thought the New York City school system was in need of improvement. To this, Koch stated t hat ever since his election in 1978, the quality of education and learning has improved. "Do you know that our city's children now read above the national average of other children in the country? I have tried very hard to supply New York City's children with the education they deserve and according to the recent polls, I believe I have succeeded ."

When asked about our school , Koch immediately recognized the name and replied that the problems of our official school building were unnecessary and that he would try to investigate and correct the delay.

The press conference came to an end after 45 minutes, but not before the Mayor reminded those present of the need for students to continue their education after high school. "The more you learn, the harder you study, the better you will do when you leave school. You should not look at school as something tha t you are being forced to do, ' but you shou ld see it as an experience that will be cherished. Education will supply all of you with knowledge so tha t when you leave, you will be the most experienced person and live the best life you can by getting the best possible jo b you can.

By Holly Hatcher, Brad Mayer Mathew Sultan, and Marcia Valentine On January .l Sth, Borou gh President of Queens Do na ld Manes , visited Town send Harris and toured several classes in progress. Afte r the tou r, Princi pal Dr. Malcolm La rgmann an d President of Queens College Dr. Saul Cohen attended a student meeting where they were questioned abou t present and future events dea ling with Townsend Harris .

Speaking on behalf of the school's student body, Michelle Miller welcomed the Borough Pr esident to the school meeting.

A ft er the intr o du ctio n , the students asked Manes several questions. One question concerned the construction of a new building to house Townsend Harris. Manes sta ted that in approximately four to , five years a new building would be constructed on the Queens College campu s. Until that time , howe ver, Townsend Harris will probably be housed in an older building on the College campus.

Another question involved the use of the swimming pool at Queens College. Cohen admitted that he was unaware that Townsend Harris students were denied use of . the Co llege's pool.

However, he said that he would clarify the matter immediately . In addition, Cohen assured that he would make sure we would be able

to use other facilities for dance s or other gatherings. One of the Townsend Har ris Social Studies teachers , Mr. Myron Moskowitz, ended the meeting by saying , "We are now able to conclude that Manes has a positive attitude towar d Townsend Harris High Schoo l at Queens College."

that Cohen was leaving Queens College.

Manes returned to Townsend Harris on January 22, 1985 to answ er th e questions of the Parent/Teachers Association . The q uestions asked by many of the parents were much like the questions asked by the studen ts. Many of the paren ts were concerned with the school ' s future locatio n.

Townsend Harris President Diana Zickhur presented Manes with a scroll officially making him an hon orary member of Townsend Harris High School. Manes was accompanied by his brother-inlaw, a gradu ate of Townsend Harris Hall.

After refreshments , Manes was presented with an official To wnsend Harris mug and became the first to sign his name in the school's' Book of Distinguished Guests. The tour an d meeting certainly seemed to have been a great succe ss. However, Townse nd Harris students were sorry to learn

Judge Shorter Shares his Story ,

Gy Doreen Soo-Hoo On Th ursday, February 28th , during an enrichment band, Judge Shorter and Lewis Dummett of the graduating class of 1930gave a presentation in the . library for Black History month.

During the presentation, Shorter spoke about his many careers: lawyer, factory worker and other minor occupations, until he was finally satisfied with being a member of the New York City Supreme Court. Even though

Hsrrisites Exchanged for Japanese Students

By Karen Greenberger President of Queens College Dr . Saul Cohen and the Alumni Association of Townsend Harris High School have designed a foreign exchange program for two Townsend Harris students and one staff member to travel to Japan and attend Ashiya University.

The Townsend Harris Alumn i Association has graciously provided the airfare for the students and staff member. It is expected to be a two to three week trip in early July. Before the students leave for Japan, they will receive training to increase their knowledge about the Japanese ways.

While in Japan, the stude nts will be hosted by Japanese families who will provide them with room and board. In return, the i amilies of the participating studen t s a r e e xpected to reciprocate by hosting Ja pan ese students.

In order to beeligible for the ex-

. change program, the students were told to write essays on their knowledge of Townsend Harris (the man) and on the Japanese way of life. In all, 31 essays were Continued on page 7

he could have been content with his past careers, he seems to most enjoy being a renowned judge. " Being a judge is a very stimulating experience. Being in the Supreme Court is like being in a classroom. I gain new knowledge every day and I am informed of what's happening in the world by all the outstanding cases that I encounter each day. But being a judge is not all fun and games; you must be responsible in order to make the correct decisions and you always have to like . people."

At the conclusion of the program, Judge Shorter gave some advice to the enthusiastic students of , Townsend Harris. He suggested that the students try to avoid subtle prejudices of their . own, control their impulse images and build up superior self attitudes.

Lastly, Shorter agreed to take two Townsend Harris students for internships.

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THHS Students Placed on Chancellor's Honor Roll

By Christine Holowinsky tion to the school paper.

On Monday, March 4, 1985, Diana Zickuhr was given the students of Townsend Har ris Leadership Award for her school High School were recommended spirit and service as Chairperson and accepted for the Chancellor' s of the Student Union.

Roll of Honor Citations.

Jinny Kim received the Fine Suman Gupta was nominate d Arts Award for winning the Porfor a Schola rship Award for trait of Asia contest. achieving the highest acade mic Xavier Mendoza received the average du ring the fall o f 1985.

Ath letic Award for his sportsmanHeather Nash was granted the ship and cooperative spirit, as well Jo urn alism Award for her dedica- as his athleti c skills.

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Students to In te rn at Hall of Scienc e

Ms. Warner addressing student in

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By Haera Hwang Selected students at T ow nsen d H arris will be given op port unities e for an intern ship program during i th e ir 路 Easte r vaca t io n. O n ~ February 21, Pe ggy Col es, an ~ ed ucat ion a l director of the Hall of ~ Science, d iscussed a pproximately ~ 30 possib le internships wit h ~ students ch osen by th e school' s f scienc e teachers.

Library.

At the time , the H all of Science , located in Flushing Meadow Park, was expecting a project from Toronto sometime in the middle of March . This project , "Science lecture were asked to express their Circus," includes exhi bits, the future goals . The students lat est experiments , and robots . responded eagerly with replies Since many of the visitors will be ran ging from doc tors to lawyers, thera pists to psychoanalysts.

T here was even a dream of becoming a co nquerer o f a small world.

Warner Offers Inspiration

By Ho lly H atch er and Audrey H ouston Deput y Executive Director of Curricu lum in New Y ork Cit y ' Ms. Pearl Wa rner , visited o ur scho ol on Ma rch 7th. The top ic of her disc ussion focused o n the ro le of black women in teachin g.

New Program Accomp a nies

New Term

Wa rner was welcomed to Townsend Harris by st uden t Da ketta Marsh hurn, who welcomed her in French, and student Linda Carroll , who greete d he r in Spanish .

T he two st udents presented Warner wit h pins and pink flow ers.

Warner showered words o f inWarner is th e yo ungest of three child ren . Ed ucatio n has played a , sp iratio n up o n the a udience. " We very impo rtant ro le in her are living in ;'. complex world tohousehold . "A great love of day ; we cannot be viewers , but fo reign language was transmitted doers. We have to take care of to me," said Warner as she those around us and contribute. remembered her first encounter P er haps you may fin d an antidote with a foreign language at the age for th e hatred, viole nce and war of five. Warner recalled that her that so many gene ra tions have livelder sister (by nine years) was stued through. Yo u may find the key dying Latin and decided to prac- -tha t unlocks the door of peace tice in on Warner. and mutual understanding ."

Warner told the students to abide During Warner's high school by the Cartesian Theory, "I think , career, she studied French and therefore I am."

Latin. When she took her Latin Regents, she received 100010 but ' Warner in troduced theaudience this did not happen or her French to an inspirational statement Regents on which she received worth pondering , "Dare to 97010 and ' was greatly disap- "dream ." Warner went on to say, pointed .

"What would the world be like When Warner entered college , without the dreams that lie she majored in French and ahead?" She noted that there minored in Spanish and her "love were three rules to follow in order of language never died ." Warner to realize a dream : one must he studied at the University of Paris prepa red for hard wo rk, for a period of time . She has a perserverance and determination . basic love of people and a desire , Wa rner closed the meeting to disperse knowledge among stating, "Our great purpose on students and her peers. earth is to contribute to make our The students who attended the lives wo rth so much to others."

By Hyun-su Yi The second term began on February lst, marking a new beginning for all. Every student and teacher was assigned a new program for the term. The person behind it all is Biology teacher, Mrs. Sandra Eiseman. As if teaching science isn't enough, she has been kept busy preparing for the coming semester. After much work, she has completed the new master program .

Two hours of enrichment per week is again included in every student's program. The student is still required to be ready to begin work at 8:20 A.M. and will be dismissed at 2:30 P .M. on Mondays and Fridays, and 3: 11 P .M . on Tuesdays, Wednesdays , and Thursdays. T his master program still includes both hour and 40

By Sa ndy Wang minute bands . The major difMany o f the Townsend H arris ferences are that there are students may have been wonderthree 40 minute bands which will ing who the ohservers in some o f meet every day of the school their classes are an d what they are week. They are bands E, F and G. doing there. They are the newly There are also -two days when arrived student teachers from all classes meet.

Queens College. So far , they are With the new master program observing and teaching in the comes individual personal pro- Ma t h , English and Science grams for every student. Eiseman, Departments. who is also in charge of programThe student teachers wish to ming, noted that it isn't easy . If learn various methods of teaching one mistake is made, she must in one subject area. Similarly, the start all over again . The students students at Townsend Harris are are placed in a class not on their basically lea rn in g the same ability or previous grades, but material while being taught by difrather at random. There is a good ferent teachers. possibility that some students will Interviews with three of the stuhave some of the same teachers dent teachers, Miss Karen Biederthey had last term. Eiseman must man, Mr. Barry Cirol1i and Miss also be cautious not to place more Kathleen Crowley revealed that than 34 students in a class. Town- , they love doing their field work at send Harris students will soon be Townsend Harris. Biederman completing another great, fulfill- considers Townsend Harris "the ideal environment." Her ing term , thanks to Eiseman and cooperating teacher is Mr . Polizzi her staff.

Computer Students ,Study at Queens College

By Christine Holowin sky and H aera Hwang Computers never arrived at Townsend Harris and students who were interested in learning basic computer skills were assigned to computer classes at Queens College. The first session of these classes lasted approximately six weeks and concluded in December.

The students were separated into three groups. The groups at tended on different days and were taught by different teachers : Ms. " Irene Brovey and Messrs.' Dan and Andy Brovey. The classes were offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

In the computer classes, two students shared each IBM Personal Computer . At first, the students spent much of their time becoming acquainted with the keyboard and the monitor. They were given introductory discs that contained important in formatio n

Future Teachers Study and Practice at TUUS of th e English Department.

Biederman spends her afternoons at Town send Harris , five days a week. She is prese ntl y observing Polizzi's litera ture and linguistics classes and occasionally teaches a class as well. She feels that Townsend Harris is di fferent from other high schools in that the students are friendly and the teachers are enthusiastic and concerned enough about the stu dents to take the time out to ta lk to them about vario us topics of interest. Biederman feels that it is "very hard for beginning teachers to train to think and listen to students" and so she gains practice by observing.

In a conversation with student teacher, Mr . Cirol1i, he stated that he is "learning the tools of the trade" by observing and teaching.

His cooperating teacher is Mr. Wagner of the Science Department . Cirol1i is here, like Biederman, in the afternoons . He teaches Wagner's G Band In-

teenagers, th e museum dir ector th ought it wo uld be best if tee nage rs were pre sent in the muse um to give scientific exp lanations. He o ffered 10 To wnsend Harr is stude nts the opportunity to do so . The job inclu ded giving d ir ections and help ing lo st ch ildren . T he 10 students who worked for th e mus eum were chosen acc ording to recommendatio ns from th eir science teac hers . hi p reparation, the sel ected students first attended a five-hour lesson on March 19t h which provided them w ith the necessary ma terials the students must kno w in order to answer any inquiries made by visitors .

tegrated ' Science cla ss and also tuto rs math classes . He said he is here to learn "how to be the best teacher he possibly can, to be able to teach science classes effective ly and to earn his New York State cert ification. " T he third student teacher interviewed was Miss Crowley. Her cooperating teacher is Mrs .

Blechman of the English Department. Unlike Biederman and Cirolli, Crowley spends her mornings at Townsend Harris . She observes two classes, teaches the B ba nd class, and, in another band, converses with Mrs. Blechman on the methods of teaching. Crowley said, " Mrs. Blechman is an excellen t teacher. She watches me and evaluates my teaching methods." She also added, "I love the students and teachers at Townsend Harris High School."

All the visiting student teachers will remain here until at least the middle of May.

about the IBM Pc. As the class co ntinued, the students were taugh t some of the main features o f " logo , " including some importa nt programming ' concepts. The students learned how to combine simple steps into 'co mplex procedures and how to break complex procedures down into simple steps. " The students were encouraged to experiment; this allowed ,them to learn t hro ugh d iscovery .

"Logo" also enabled them to generate computer art. Using the " logo" concept, students created their own graphics. After that, they were permitted to use the pr inters to print out what they had created. The Townsend Harris students also had a chance to learn a little about word processing.

This program lets students write , erase, and rearrange.

The second session of computer classes has already begu n. These new classes consist o f students who could not ta ke classe s the first te rm due to class size limita tions . These classes are being taught by th e same teachers who taught the first session .

Alumnus Donates School Van

By J ackie Ro man Townsend H arris H igh School got its first mini- van on Febru ar y 28th . It was donated by alumnus Joseph Flom for the 50th ann iversary of his graduation from the old Townsend Harr is. F10m sa id he wanted to aid the school in its transportation problems.

The mini-van is a grey Dodge Ram that seats 14 people. It is parked at Queens College and teachers who want to use it will have to go there to pick it up .

There is no definite use for the mini-van as o f yet, but it will be used to take students to Queens College when necessary. It may also be used to take small groups o f students on local school trips.

The school van has yet to be named.

flueens College Drama Prof

Wor k s With Drama

By Marcia Valentine and Holly Hatcher On January 3rd, Mr. Frank Harland, a drama professor from Queens College, visited Townsend Harris. On that day and in the next two enrichment bands , he taugh t and lectured the Drama Club abou t the componen ts of drama: communicat ion, behavior, and acting. Harland told the students they need one important ingredient before they could have drama . The ingredient is "a problem. " At the first meeting, Harland discussed the meaning of drama.

The club acted out some ideas.

Finally, at the end of the band, Harland gave us a challenging assignment. We had to connect five different objects to one specific place. These items were a prayer book, a kango hat, $1.50 in coins, three keys and three bread rolls.

When Harland visited the Drama Club for the second time, he discussed the "challenge" assignments and then had the students act out different situations. A person would think of a place in his or her mind and then act this place out without talking until somebody guessed the place.

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When a student guessed the place, he or she entered it and continued acting with the first student actor until three students entered the place. After this, the students were allowed to talk while acting out the specific place. The club learned tha t though ts, silence, and motion contribute to drama.

On the final day, ending his lesson on drama, Harland told the club that there was so much to learn about drama but that they now know the basis of drama the creation of a prob lem. The club also acted out a scene which concluded the lesson on drama.

Townsend Harris Continues to Make Friends

By Heather Nash Friendship at Townsend Harris is contagious; not only do we have friends in the alumni, but a new organization is underway: Friends of Townsend H a r ris . The organization is being created by some of the people who were responsible for the reestablishment of the school .

Martha Lisser , wife of alumnus , Morton Lisser , is one of the organizers of Friends of Townsend Harris. Lisser stated that the organization carrie into existence since the old Townsend Har ris had an all male student body. The organ ization enables the wives of Townsend Harris alumni , and others who have an interest in the school, to support the needs of our school. The organization is strongly interested in dealing with the needs of the students and the school.

To discuss some of the school's needs with interested parties, an open meeting was scheduled for January 13. In addition to dealing with the needs of the students, Friends will also participate in the

interviewing of future applicants. "and you have a certain path to The organization, in addition to take. All of what was, was great , the alumni, consists of many pro- . but what is, is even greater." fessional people who are willing to In a message to the students, volunteer, to share, and to lecture Lisser said, "The students should to the students.

Mrs. Lisser has indicated that feel that they have some input inany activities between the students their education..if the education and the alumni should be initiated does noth ing else, it should direct by the student body. "The school the students to ask a lot of quesis different today than it was tions . The answers are easy; just many years ago," said Lisser, never stop asking questions."

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Student Gov't Ensures Event - Filled Davs

By Carol Cespedes to miss school in order to attend. and Marc Malkin In addition , a group of TownAnother government-run event send Harris students including planned for this semester is a Heather Berman, Lauren special day commemorating Nussbaum, Marc Malkin, Adele Townsend Harris. This will take Dwek, Scott Siegel, Jeanne place at Queens College and it will Salehi, Jennie Kosak, Yasmin be called Townsend Harris Ap- Santiago, Sayeeda Clarke and preciation Day (THAD). It will in- Felicia Schpall, under the leaderclude lunch and a seminar for ship of the Coordinator of Student which students will be permitted Affairs, Mr. Myron Moskowitz, decided to take action to aid the starving people in Ethiopia. There have been two student government projects to help raise money.

The first one was the idea of a collection box circulated during the lunch bands. The amount donated . from the students was an unbelievable $192.15.

Although this project was a sue-

Students Take 2nd Place and Honorable Mention in Queen~ Science Fair

By Martha Douvogiannis Students throughout the borough of Queens from grades 7-12"were asked to participate in a Science Fair project. Six Townsend Harris High School students entered their creative work in the science fair.

The Science Fair was held on Friday, March I and Saturday, March 2 at John Bowne High School. All students, as well as Mrs. Susan Appel, our Science Coordinator, were anxious as the judges examined the projects. The participants were Faria Pereira, Ruth Beattie, Edward McMahon,

cess, the committee knew they could raise more money. They decided on a cake sale. The cakes and cookies were donated by the students and the sale took place on January 16th during the lunch bands. The cake sale raised an additional $117.85. Thus, the committee raised a total of $310.00 This money will help buy wheat for those starving in Ethiopia. The committee would like to thank the lunchroom staff for helping them set up and organize the cake sale.

They would also like to thank the entire student body for their wonderful contributions.

Lastly, the second faculty volleyball game is in the planning process, along with a possible GEO Drive.

Pen-Pal Program Successful

Denise Corsi, Minsha Ho and Hyun-su Yi. On March 2, the Awards Ceremony took place and gram. Blechman's first term B we are proud to say that Faria

By Christine McGrath band class has been writing to Pereira and Ruth Beattie came in You can learn a lot about other Soumakis' class for four months second place and won $10.00.

Faria's project was "The Effect of people by having a pen-pal. One and has received four sets of letAntibiotics on Bacteria," and of our writing classes at Townsend ters.

Ruth Beattie's, "Sex Att ractants Harris has started a pen-pal pro"The program is really working" of the Cockroaches. " Another gram . The program was proposed student, Hyun-su Yi, received by Mrs. Renee Soumakis, a out great. The students are plannHonorable Mention. Her project teacher from Farmingdale, who ing to get together with their penwas "The Effect of Thyroxin on came to Townsend Harris to learn -pals sometime soon and I really Fruit Flies." We are very proud about the new school. After think it's a great idea and I'm and delighted for these winners meeting with Ms. Ha rriette looking forward to it," said because not many 9th graders won Blechman, both teachers came to Blechman. the decision of forming a new proWhen the term ended, prizes in the Science Fair.

Blechman's class realized that they had a problem. When would they get together to write back to their pen-pals when the new letters arrived? Blechman's class decided that when lett ers arrive they will meet during enrichment to write back.

It is not easy to begin a program like this. One has to make sure a pen-pal is issued to each student and that the inspiration to continue to write never dies.

P a ge 4

EDITORIAL PAGR'--r':

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Let's Be Recognized!

The Classic strongly believes that Townsend Harris sho uld organize basketball, baseball , volleyball, football, and other athletic teams, so that the school will gain spirit and acquire adequate recognition in -sports . Allow us to interpret recognition. If a team practices sufficiently and plays adequately, it will be capable of competing against other high schools. It will undoubtedly win and we will be recognized not ju st for our intellectual abilities but also for our athletic capabilities, spo rtsma nship, and school spirit. We believethat there' are many students that would enthusiastically participate in the se sports; therefore, recruiting people for teams would not be a problem.

The Classic does not understand why a greater variety of school teams cannot at least be attempted. In the event that more teams are not offered , The 'Classic is sure that the students at Townsend Harris would greatly appreciate at least an explanation as to why we have limited participation in athletic competitions.

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News Editors: Holly Hatcher , Heather Nash Feature Editors: Gia Anne MaIka, Doris Sachs Business Editors: Marc Malkin, Marcia Valentine, Sandy Wang Reporters: Dawn Cabage, Carol Cespedes, Russell DeCastro, Debra Dermack, Martha Douvogiannis, Sophia Georgio u , Michelle Gnyp , Kar en Greenberger,

Christine

Holowinsky, Au dr ey

Houston, Haera Hwa ng, Jackie Korman , Brad Mayer , Scott Siegel, Dorene Soo-Hoo, Matt] Sulta n, Pamela Vee Faculty Advisor: Mrs, Sheryl Rubin

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ... ... .,:::.::::.:.:.::::::~.~.:.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;.;:;.~;:;.;:;:;:;;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:::::::::::::::;;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;:;;;;;;;:;:;;;;;;;;.;:::;::::::.:....

The Walkman: An Unnecessary Restriction To the Editor s: Humanities... .isn't that the main s tr essing point of this sc hool? Mu sic is part of humanities, and personal stereos such as the Walkman, make music. My question is simple and clear: Why can't we utilize personal stereos? The students should be, of course, restricted to use them in classrooms or during any kind of learning expe rience .

Still Awaiting Computers To the Editors: This lett er pertains to the computer situation at Townsewnd Harris. Many of the student s who were accepted to Townsend Harris were anxious to use the school's computers but when we arrived, we learned that there were no computers. The students at Townsend Harris have been patiently waiting for delivery, but weeks and weeks have passed and still we are without computers.

At a PTA meeting in late October , those present were told that the comp uters would arrive in March . One semester is already over and if the computers do arrive in March, about 40 percent of the second semester will be gone . I think it's wrong that we, the first graduating class of Townsend Harris, have to wait a semester and a half for our computers to arrive.

- -Rene Stuart

However, jogging around the gym for thirty minutes or eating your lun ch ar e not lea rning experiences. Therefore, I don't see how a Walkman poses any kind of threat to the students engaging in these non-learning experiences so why are they restricted? This is one of the many unnecessary freedo m restr ictions at Townsend Harris. It doesn't matter what type of music is listened to; it could range from Mozart to Pink Floyd. The crux of the matter is that music is a very important factor in our culture. It provides entertainment, relaxation, and is an excellent antidote to stress.

Since it's not harmful or abusive in anyway, why restrict it? .- Pamela Vee

Come One, Come All! To the Editors: I'm writing this letter in response to a recent editorial , "Whose lunchroom is it anyway?" which appeared in the 'December, 1984 ·issue of The Classic. I feel that students and teachers sharing the same lunchroom is beneficial.

At Townsend Harris it is obvious we have a better teacher /student relationsh ip than at most othe r schools. Having the teachers eat lunch with the students strengt hens the ties between stude nts and teachers and makes it easier to discuss problems the studen ts might be having in their class. I feel teachers don't impose on student time and certain ly don't make the lunchroom too crowded . We should welcome the teachers into the lunchroom rather than close the doors on them !

- J ulie Tromberg

WilNTED: 'Sports TeatDs To the Editors: I feel that our school shou ld begin organi zing several athletic teams. A baseball team, a football team , and a basketball team, in particular, could be . formed. I, alone, know at least 15 people who would be interested in trying out for the basketball team . Next year we will have fifteen more. I . feel that altho ugh we may lose the first 'or second year because we'll be playing against big twelfth graders, we'll get better with practice. By the time we're in the twelfth grade , we may have one of the best teams in the borough or even the city.

- Vadim Rubinstein

A Final Thank . You To the Editors: Finals are over and everything's well. Th is has been a very difficult, stressful, and rough time for the students at Townsend Har ris. The teacher s were also "on the go" every day of the term.

H o wev er, t hey we re very thoughtful and helpful in taking a big "load off our shoulders." They greatly considered the amount of homework given to us and , as a result, our finals have been a success. We, the 'students of Townsend Har ris, dearly appreciate the hard work that was put in by the faculty and staff members of our school.

- Vana Stotland

Page 5

A Student's View:

G Svndrome .

The . ym ., Hits Townsend HarrIS

By Cheryl Schustack An army base? Basic training?

Drill work? No. What Townsend Harris students endure three times a week is just our gym class. Since gym class meets three times a week for a total of two hours and forty minutes, it shouldn't have to be a class that most students dread going to . On the contrary, it should be eagerly looked forward to as a break in the day's work.

The basic curriculum as it is ad- . ministered is a good one . It incorporates many exercises that are purported to have long term benefits to your health . The many

activities we do: increase our cardiovascular . fitness, build our strength and muscular endurance, and improve upon our flexibility, speed, and coordination. So, you can see how vital this program really is; but "vital" doesn't mean it can't be fun.

There are many ideas that can be introduced into the program to make it more interesting and enjoya bl e . The aerobics and calisthenics that we do can be put to music. The music will complement the exercise thus making it more pleasurable . Also, for one band a week, a few students could

lead the exercises. This would create leadership skills as well as enthusiasm among the par- ' . ticipants.

Another innovative idea would be to include competitive team sports . Basketball , handball and volleyball teams among others would make for excitement and school spirit .

One of the most popu lar sports today is tennis. Why not have a tennis clinic as part of our gym curriculum? The techniques and ' skills developed in gym could then be practiced at Queens College campus courts.

Instrumental

PERSONALS...

Ellen Cauliflower, My mother .is not pleased! Freckles Forever.

Happy Birthday to a wonderful, terrific, fantastic person.

Dear Joe R-Y-E, Apple cheeks Alice!! talking serious? Guess who?

To Miss Capogna: Thank you for your advice, encourgement and dedication. From Mrs. Rubin and the Staff.

Many thanks to a special staff of super reporters - Mrs. Rubin.

Dear Miche, Dawnie Jeanine , Gandi, Doris - Love you Soapie Scott.

Dear Tanya T: Jesela Tanya O. Naomi, You're great friends.

Martha Douvogiannis , Happy Easter Norman, Darlene, Chris, Linda, and Venettao Love, Marcia Valentine

do the exercise anyway for fear of having to come in and make it up.

In additio n, students returning from an illness want to make up the class as soon as possible where rest would be a wiser prescription.

You might think that the written exams are irrelevant to a gym program. However, they are really quite important The tests - reinforce the reasons for doing exercises and what exerciseswe are doing.

In conclusion, our presentgym program is basically a good one, but with a few improvements it can be outstanding.

Literary Mag Lauds .Nine

Mosie is

By Russell DeCastro "Hopefully, you will become the audiences of the [musical] future," stated Mr. Bob Nelson, the music instructor at Townsend Harris . Addressing his first in-: strumental music students at Townsend Harris, Nelson made this comment on the last day of the term.

The students came to this new school in September with some instruments stored away, while others were on order. They didn't have any music stands so they were obligated to use the instrument .cases to hold their music.

Some of the students were unable to sit because of the lack of chairs.

The instrumental mu sic students, along with some students from the enrichment bands, advanced enough to perform more difficult pieces. They have demonstrated their hard work and dedication by performing in a fall

The grading system is a deterrent to many students. As it stands now, points are deducted from those who cannot keep up physically. This is unfair - they should be encouraged to maintain the standards, but at their own pace.

The make-up classes present a hardship to many students . Travel makes it hard for students who live far away to do make-ups in the. morning . Lunch band makeups present "indigestion problems!" The "make-up class syndrome" has become overwhelming. People who are sick tend to

A

Mr. Robert Nelson humoring Felicia Sphall. concert which was 'presented to the students and faculty. It included such pieces as Joyous Christmas Spirit, Star Spangled Spectacular, The Coronation March, and New York, New York. The performance even included a solo by fellow student, David Uson, called the Trumpeters Lullaby. David has been playing for over six years and has participated in organizations such as the Queens Community College Symphonic Band, as well

as his church .

Even though the performers are only in the ninth grade ; Nelson wishes to conduct a spring concert with students from both his fall and spring classes, and have it performed like any other New York City high school band.

At the end of the term,Nelson thanked his students for their hard work and wonderful performances. Expressing his feelings, he stated, "Hopefully, you've learned something."

Magazine was the first prize. A

By Martha Douvogiannis A contest for creative writers movie pass and a free hamburger, g was sponsored by the Literature french fries, or coke were the se~Magazine. This contest was open cond and third prizes. Those _,to all student s who wished to sub- papers which were not chosen for l imit short stories, poems or essays. the first, second, and third prizes i The students who chose to write will be hung in the school library . ~i poetry and short stories were Polizzi said, "We're thinking of j allowed to present their own having this contest as a regular ' .... material: However, certain topics feature which will be held in the . were suggested to those who chose fall and the publication will take to write essays: (1) Friends, (2) place in the spring."

Why are parents never satisfied?

On February 26th, the papers and (3) Does music move you? were judged to determine the winThe essays and short stories had to ners. First prize in the short story be between 250 and 40Q words. category went to Linda Caroll After the students finished their while Linda Facinelli and Lorna assignments, they had to submit Chan took second and third prizes them to the coordinator of the respectively. The winners for Literary Magazine Mr. Frank poetry were first, Heather Nash, .Polizzi. The students chose to par- second, Scott Monroe, and third, ticipate of their own volition Cheryl Shustak, The winners for because various prizes were of- essays were first, Robin fered. A . digital watch plus Mendelsohn, second, Adele Dwek .publicat ion in the Literary and third, Lauren Nussbaum.

The Problem of Stress: A Proper P erspective

By Doris Sachs Stress is a major problem for many students. At Townsend Harris, however, the problem seems to be a great one. Stress is defined in the dictionary as "pressure, strain , intense effort and exertion." However, students of Townsend Harris know that it means this and so much more.

Stress in school is produced by various factor s including peer pressure, teacher pressure, parent pressure, and even self pressure.

All these pressures result in one very stressful school experience.

As a result of stress, many students experience mood swings and depression.

There are many ways to handle stress. Some students are capable of dealing with it, and therefore are able to focus on their school work and homelife. However,

other students are not as fortunate and go into a state of depression.

This can lead to low self-esteem and sudden mood changes.

There are various reasons why stress is such a big issue in this school. Since Townsend Harris is a reopening of a school that was once considered to be excellent, it is the students' job, along with the teachers' and administrators', to maintain that standard. Along with maintaining this' standard comes the hardship of going to a new school, starting all over again, and making new friends.

This can bea very hard task, and without the support of a friend or family, it is almost impossible to fulfill. Yet, there are students who are struggling to reach their personal goals to get good grades while encountering family problems and peer pressure.

One kind of peer pressure consists of having your peers pressure you into doing something which you do not feel is right. This can result -in either going along with your peers because you are afraid to be left out and made a mockery of, or your refusing their pressure and therefore keeping your pride, but losing friends. Through this experience, stress can build up in-) side, making you a very unhappy person.

Since this school has such a good reputation, the work is more difficult and challenging than in . other public highs. Each student is committed to work very hard to maintain the school's reputation.

However, the students can only push themselves so far before they must either say stop or collapse. , The pressure of thinking that you are the only one that isn' t able

to go on can cause stress. This feeling of stress might be telling you, "maybe 1 don't belong here after all," which can result in your pushing yourself more 'and more.

In order to maintain a good image . of school and life in general, you must first have a good self image.

By evaluating your capabilities and goals, you will be able to eliminate many of the impossible goals you've set for yourself and focus on the more attainable ones.

You are also able to recognize that there is something wrong and begin to deal with it when you talk about your feelings rather than ignoring them. In any event, the best way to minimize the amount of stress you are faced with is (1) to recognize your situation (s), (2) determine your capabilities, (3) evaluate and reevaluate your goals, and (4) work on changing things for your benefit.

MORE

Mr. Moskowitz Make s History

By Carol Cespedes Mr. Myron Moskowitz, one of the three Global History teachers at T ownsend Ha rris, has quickly become one o f the students' best friends.

Moskowitz attended George Wingate High School in Brooklyn

R oaches at Home at THHS

By Haer a Hwang About five years ago, when Mrs . Appel and Mr. Wagner were teaching at Jamaica High School, they came across a news article dealing with various experiments on roaches . They were intrigued by the article and immediately ordered some roaches for their science club.

Appel and Wagner came to Townsend Harris with approximately 50 roaches of three different varieties. The roaches that you see in their room are not just ordinary roaches. They are experimental roaches which are as big as a quarter of a foot. These creatures dwell in luxurious glass cages in rooms 200 and 204. They eat practically anything smaller than they in size. Believe it or not, their favorite food is dog food.

Although the students pay heed to the roaches, student David Uson is officially assigned to be in charge of these creatures . Appel, often called "the roach lady, "enjoys working and experimenting with roaches with the help of students fro m the. Science Club .

PERSONALS...

H appy vacation! Ralph and Charlie . Love Always , Holly and Gia .

and went on to Brooklyn College where he stayed for 10 years and received both a degree in history and a master's deg ree in guidance and counseling.

Moskowitz first found out about Townsend Harris last year while at Tilden High Scho ol in Broo klyn . He soon learned that the Chairman of Tilden's English Department, Dr. Malcolm Largmann, was going to .be the principal of the new high school.

Moskowitz looked into the new school , found it an exciting teaching possibility, and, along with several other hundred teachers, applied for a teaching position at Townsend Harris.

Mo skowitz feels that Townsend Harr is demands more from him as a teacher than did all the other ' schools in which he has taught. He added that the work, in some ways, is harder because he has to prepare the lessons and think them out thoroughly to bring out the best in the students . " A teacher has to work much harder.

In some schools you can get away with a lot less. The atmosphere is different; the teachers really care," he commented.

When asked to compare the present students to those currently being interviewed to attend the school this coming year, he

L. N., You 're the best ! Best friends forever. Love ya, H .B. Cheeky, Keep 'em red and puffy. Yo u're the best! BF Guess?

David, Squeak Squeak. ' Love

.!: Always, Hi ppy! !

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Coordinator of Student Affairs, Mr. Myron Moskowitz repl ied: "The students here are Activities . . Therefore, he often wonderful as people . A lot of the speaks on behalf of the students to students that were interviewed will Largmann . This term Moskowitz fit in very nicely . They look like is teaching three classes. His nice people. The most important syllabus includes the last years of quality to have in a humanities Ancient Greece and Rome, Chrisschool is to be a good person. tianity, the Middle Ages, possibly That's the most important quality the Renaissance, and if time perin anyone ." mits, exploration and discovery .

Moskowitz is aware.that not all Moskowitz turns the concerns schools, or students for that mat- of the students into his concerns ter, place importance on Global and is always willing to talk to any History. However, he noted the student who has a problem. " I difference at Townsend Harris. couldn't be happier he re. This "In a humanities school, Global school is every teacher's dream H isto ry is a key subject. It gives because of the students and my an idea of where mankind has colleagues. The thing I like best and the biggest thing about our been and where it will go ."

Moskowitz is also the advisor of school is that it really is a family . I the Student Government Enrich- know no other school like us ," he . ment and Coordinator of Student concluded.

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Str aw, Freckless! Siamese Twi ns attached at the waist. B.F. Ellen H.B. , Five years of great friendship !! Best friends forever, L. N. Freedom of the press is alive and well at THHS. Congratulations! - Mrs. Horowitz.

Hail! Voice of the People!

You wield a powerful instrument - Dr. Largmann.

Whatever you wish for, may it come to you! - Mr. Rossman .

To T he Classic: Best of luck always ! - From Miss Capogna To Sheryl: Thanks so much for all your help! - Theresa To "Miss Crowley": You're gonna knock them dead! - "Miss Capogna" Our best to you Lisa. Enjoy your school. Mom and Dad T he secretaries wish you a bunny with candy for Easter.

A SADDStory

By Gia Anne MaIka Most of you have heard of Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD) . How many of you have thought about it? Taken it seriously? Many students have made comments about the organization, such as, "It's good . when you're older. We can't drive yet, so it's a waste." Not really!

Briefly, I'll tell you how SADD was born. Unfortunately, it wasn't such a "beautiful birth."

The students of a high school saw the effects of driving while intoxicated when they lost two very special, well-known, and wellliked classmates. Yes, we are too young to drive, but our older brothers, sisters, friends, and parents aren't too old . You could be the innocent victim in the back seat while the driver is drunk .

Then again, how "innocent;" are you if you know the driver is drunk and you put your life in his/her hands?

The first of SADD's weekly meetings is expected to take place shortly. It will expand to such things as teenage suicide, drugs, and stress. In addition, special guests are expected to speak, listen, and help SADD in any way possible . When SADD is ready for you, you'll know. Try it out before it's too late.

David, Joey's spirit lives on !! !

~ Friends Alw ays, L. N . and H.B.

Rock Rules, Crue Lives, Headbangers #1, Rock ain't noise pollution.

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I took the one less traveled,by, And that has made 'all the difference.

-R. Frost The DeMairo Family

Mrs. Rubin - I ju st want to say thanks. From Marcia Valentine.

To S.H .Y . - Should you be so shy? From C.R. J .O .

B.F.F.

We will always be Love Always C.P .

(B.C.) D,MDSDSJJ, RWAWLU .

CRF THRIH LALOF RTGFTB - Love Always Dawn Michelle Dear Julie, Ju st wanted to call and say - Click!"

Happy early early birthday Christine Holowinsky Love always, Heather.

Dear Suzanne, Guess who loves you, Your pretty Valentine.

To Mr. Morales from the staff: Thanks for our beautiful mas thead.

T he Classic thanks its adver- . tisers for their patronage.

To D .M .L. from everybody: A re we having fun yet?

m!

Let' s all SING together! Ms. Blechman, Mr. Briskin, Ms .

Mandell, Mr. Polizzi.

Page 7

Musiemaker's Medley Moves Many

By Debra Dermack Imagine This: The members of the audience take their seats. The room becomes silent as Yana Stot/and approaches the piano bench. The music starts, and smiles appear on the f aces of all who hear it.. .But this learned pianist did not achieve excellence overnight. It too k her many years of ' hard work and practice.

Influenced by her mother, Yana .Stotland began playing the piano at the age of eight. She started music lessons in Russia and continued her studies in the United States. Yana only had a one year interruption throughout her five years of practi ce when she and her family emigrated from Riga, Latvia. Her parents decided to move to the United States for a better future for their daughter. She has been in the United States for five years now, and has found a very good music teacher. She plays mostly classical music, and her favorite com poser is Bach.

Townsend Harris student Yana Stntland, Yana's music talents are put to work at Townsend Harris. During deal of school work, she does not playing because, she says, "Piano nonorable ment ion at the Queens enrichm ent she plays for the neglect her practic ing. On regular p lay ing is an art." Yana, Symphony Orchestra audition.

When asked how she benefited chorus. Yana has also played ac- school days, she plays app rox- however , does not want to pursue companist to Mr. Bob Nelson's imately two to three hou rs a day. piano playing as a career but says from playing the piano, Yana son at the music concert (see On the weekends she practices that music will always be a par t o f said, "I have a more enriched perabout five hours a day . Yan a her life. Her practicing paid o ff sonality which helps me at Townsideb ar on page ).

Even though Yana has a great doe sn't mind the long hours of last March when Yana won send Har ris High Schoo l."

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By Gia Anne Maika and Heather Nash On Thursday, December l lth, an overwhelming crowd of teachers and students lined the halls and Mr. Bob Nelson's room in order to obse rve and listen to the musical enrichment taking place . The recital began with Townsend ' Harris student . Jinny Kim at the piano playing e Beethoven's Sonata No. 1. Jinny ~ concluded her portion of the cone cert with Chopin's short but dif~ ficult Prelude No. 22. ~ The recital continued with ~ Vitalis' Chaconne for violin and j piano. The audience watch ed with ... awe as Joshua Nelson conque red the changi ng moods of the piece.

Accompanying Nelson's son was Townsend Harris stud ent, Yana Stotland (see sidebar on page ), on the piano. This soft piece was performed by Mrs. Nelson on the flute, Joshua on the violin, and Yana on the pian o.

The recital continued with David .Uson on the trumpet, as he played the difficult, wide-ranged Variat ions of Carnival of Venice.

Yana accom panied David. After playing the role of accompanist for four pieces, Yana finally received the opportunity to play solo as she played the varying soft , serene-high , register, and the sinister- like, low register in Prokofiev's Romeo and Juliet in three movements.

The recital was capped by an encore performance by Joshua on violin and Yana on piano, as they played Kreis ler's Praeludium.

Because of the number of tale nted stude nts at Townsend Harris, Nelson is look ing for ward to many more such recitals.

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.f French students with their teacher Mrs. Renee Sil ver.

By Heather Berman, Lauren Nussbaum and Russell DeCastro On Decembe r 12th, the Honor Roll students were rewarded by being entertained at the Broadway production o f DreamgirIs. Two days later, on December 14th, the four French classes were take n to Hunter College to see Le Petit Prince.

The ou tst and ing honor students of Townsend Harris had a funfilled day as they first stopped off at Rockefeller Center to take a glance at the famous Christmas tree. They . then began to head toward the Imperial Theatre where Dreamg irIs was being performed. The famous Broadway

play was enjoyed by all.

Supervised by the Fr ench teacher at Townsend Harris, Mrs. Renee Silver, the students were take n to their balco ny seats, where Le Petit Prince began. The play was abou t a young Prince's travels through the universe. The Prince and a spaceman from Earth embarked on their journey to other worlds and countries, one of which was the United States . As they traveled to Earth from the Prince's world, they observed many customs of different countries, including the new American custom of break-dancing. Each scene was first spoken in English and then translated in French, where the audience participated.

from page 1

submitted to Dr. · Largmann' s Secretary, Mrs. Betty Mar ina. The essays were then given to the schoo l librarian, Mrs. Valerie BilIy, who heads the judging com mitt ee. The committee consists o f five membe rs, including Billy. Th e essays will be judged on the writers ' use of grammar and punctuation , their knowledge of Townsend Harris (the man) and their insight of the Japanese way of life.

The essays will each receive a number from one to seven, seven being the highest. The students who have an essay with a score of seven will be interviewed along with their parents. The decision . will be made based on the interview and essay. The winners will be announced sometime in Apri l. Billy said, "It will be fun and I'm very excited about it! "

Page 8

Congratulations on the .First 0 icial Issue o.,

The Classic! â&#x20AC;˘

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-From the Parent/Teacher Association of Townsend Harris High School at Queens College