The Classic newspaper Volume 14 Issue no. 6

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Vol. 14, No. 6. June, 1998

Townsend Harris High School at Queens College

tive officers and senators through the possible addition of a judicial branch.

Among the decisions made by the end of the convention were that a screening committee of election candidates would no longer exist and more communication is needed between students and their senators. Two documents would be ereated - one, a general constitution stating government structure and election procedures, and the other, a listing of bi-laws. Above all, it was concluded that government processes, especially the election, should be more democratic but still feasible in a high school setting.

According to Ms. Garcia, it was originally decided in a March student senate meeting to change the present constitution, which was written in 1984 when the school first re-opened, because it was "outdated" and "it referred to a situation that was not [in existence] any more." Specifically, Ms. Garcia referred to Section 2 of Artiele III, which mandates tbiit tbe $.lJ.J>residef1!"mi.!S~ b!;,a junior during his/her year in office."

This provision was originally included because, when Harris was located in the old building on Parsons Boulevard, seniors were completely removed from the other grades, having all ~f their classes on the Queens College campus.

During the weeks preceding the Constitutional Convention, as the June 2 election was approaching, students circulated a petition, written-by junior Peter Venech, calling for the postponement Coninued on page 7

Ice Cream Shops page3 JE

ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

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PAID Permit No. 163 Commoc!<. N.Y.

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S.U. revises Constitution byAianFu Amid controversy over election procedures set forth by the present constitution governing the Student Union (S.U.), Coordinator of Student Activities (COSA) Odile Garcia and the Executive Board held a Constitutional Convention to form a new constitution which would update the previous one and correct its faults.

This two-week conference took place every morning at 7:00A.M. from June 2 to June 16, headed by Ms. Garcia and this year's S.U. President, senior Vicki Realmuto. Students of all grades, though dominated by juniors, voluntarily attended, in hopes of making a difference in the student government. AIthough they did not achieve the goal of creating a finalized document which could be proposed to the rest of the school, "it was absolutely wonderful;' said Ms. Garcia, since most, if not all, controversial issues of the present constitution were brought up and opened to suggestions for change. Ms. Garcia plans to re-assemble the convention in the beginning of the next term and have a completed proposal ready by October, when the -student senate first meets.

Working in several committees, students in the convention discussed and debated such issues as the general struclure of the entire government, procedures for choosing election candidatesand senators, the exact powers of the COS A and faculty members in the gov- _ ernment, and the disciplining of execu-

N~ffiOFIT

Chinese Dissident pageS

149-11 Melbourne Avenue. Flushing, NY 11367

Bidding fareweU to family:

Leroy retires after 27 years

by Carolina Pruss and Jeannemarie Hendershot Recent graduates congregate around the front desk of Townsend Harris as the students are dismissed. They're back to see all of their former teachers, but one person in particular is always on their agenda - se- curity guard Leroy Howard. The end of this school year marks his eighth year as a security guard here, as well as his retirement.

Leroy, as he is referred to by staff and students alike, has formed a special bond with most of the stu-dents at this school, which he calls his "second home." Nearly every student can relate one anec-

Leroy will be a lot closer to his family. ''I'm tired of just looking at pictures of my granddaughters," he said. Once in Florida, Leroy plans to rest for two months, work on his new house, and then get back to work. "I'll either do

dote o~ has s,.ome!!l!~g..ffi.r,c~

to say about great to walk in every morning and have Leroy be the first person you see - it puts a smile on your face," said senior Kristin Candan. Senior Natasha Foy agreed. "Leroy is more than just a security guard; he's a friend. We're Security guard Leroy Howard teases junior Helen Jan in going to miss the friendship we have with somethe hallway. one who wasn't a student," she said. computer programming, or I'll get a job It's not only students who appreci- as a security guard in Walt Disney ate the warmth that has become synony- World, protecting Mickey, Minnie, and mous w~th Leroy's name. On June 9, he Goofy," said Leroy. was given an award for excellence for As Leroy leaves, students have only working with students from Queens Su- positive things to say about him and perintendent Margaret Harrington. As he funny stories to recount. "Leroy is alproudly displayed the yellow pin on his ways intrigued by my daily sandwiches badge, Leroy, who has been a security · and juice boxes; he always makes fun guard for 27 years, said, "I thank of me and asks me if I'm going to deTownsend Harris for this." He described vour my lunch," said senior Norma the atmosphere here as very different Tin eo. Freshman Diedrian Williams · from the other schools he has worked said, "He always gets you out of trouble in. "You guys made me watch my p's when you're late for class, he cheers you and q's; at other schools, I'd be yelling up, and he always keeps me updated on for 20 minutes for the kids to get to The Jerry Springer Show.'' class," he said.

On the last day Leroy plans to hand Avon Park, Florida is Leroy's desti- otit business cards with his new address nation after retirement, where he'll be so that he can keep in touch with the living in the only house on the block. students. "I may not act like it, but I'll With a brother in Miami and four grand- be sad inside," he said. "Can I take you children in North Carolina and Georgia, all with me?''

Class of '98 page 10

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Summer Entertainment page t5

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The Classic June 1998

How NOT to change the system During the two weeks before the reform, their energy was misplaced.

Student Union (S.U.) elections on Petitioning right before the student June 2, controversy, began brewing elections was completely counterwith an anonymously written peti- productive when Coordinator of Stution demanding that 1) the elections dent Activities Odile Garcia and the be postponed indefinitely, 2) the Executive Board had already begun present constitution of the S.U. be efforts to re-write the entire consti· nullified, and 3) the entire S.U. be tution in March. Working with, impeached. According to junior Pe- rather than against, these governter Venech, who revealed to The · ment officials would have furthered Classic that he was the author of the their cause more effectually. petition, all demands were made on In the process of petitioning, varithe grounds that the present S.U. was ous other inappropriate choices were "corrupt" in that it was undemocratic made. The demands of this petition and was elected illegally by proce- are in themselves inappropriate bedu.res not set forth in the S.U. con- cause they are infeasible. Accordstitution. Although this petition ing to Ms. Garcia, the S.U.'s elec-. brought up justified criticisms of the tions simply cannot be postponed student government which are wor- antil the fall, for training of elected thy of being pursued by the student officials and the planning of the S.U. b_ody, the means by which the peti- agenda normally begin during the tioners worked toward reforming the summer recess. An early start is essystem were ill-conceived. pecially needed for organizing the The petition is entirely on target Mixer. Postponing the elections in wanting to reform the S.U. con-. pending a reform of the constitution stitution, for it is, indeed, in dire need would prevent the S.U. from servof an update. Written in 1984, when ing the student body. Nullifying the the school first opened, the consti- constitution without a ready placetution, for example, still mandates ment (which the petition does not that the S.U. President be a junior provide) only adds to this problem. during his/her year in office; this proSimilarly, the third demand, to imvision was only applicable to our peach the entire government, is inschool when we resided in the old appropriate simply because the curbuilding on Parsons Boulevard. Se- rent student officials do not deserve niors could not be President because to be impeached. When they ran for they had all of their classes on the their offices, they were only followQueens College campus. Here, the ing governmental procedures which petition is clearly correct in wanting had become tradition, or "common reform. Its signers are also justified law," by that time; in fact, these in their criticism of. the presence of newer practices, such as having the a screening committee, for nowhere · S. U. President be a senior during his/ in the constitution is such a commit- her year in office, were attempts at rectifying the same faults of the contee mentioned.

The petitioners' initiative in seek- stitution that the petition criticizes. ing change is a refreshing sign that Once in office, this year's officials students still believe in the power of did a fantastic job all year. Among their government and their own their many achievements were nupower to make a difference. How- merous dances (including guest ever, if they wished to achieve true ·dances) and various ball games (be-

Briefly Senior Natalka Palczynski was awarded the Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Circle Certificate of Merit for news writing.

Junior Jenny Mandell won $500, and seniQf Jeannemarie Hendershot won $200 in the Darcy Curwen Essay Contest.

Karen Devita won third prize, $200, in the second annual City Colleg~ Essay Contest.

Linda Kim's video "Flushing: the Cradle of Religious Freedom" won top prize in the State at the New York State History Fair. She will now compete in the Nationals in Washington.

At the seventh annual New York Science Talent Search seniors Kate Rube and Jamie Tong received high honors, while Alex Arriaga, Megan Dwyer, Linda George, and Pratik Patel receiv~d honors.

The New York State Bar Association has given senior Jason Postelnik the 1998 High School Community Service Award for his work with handicapped youngsters.

Social Studies teacher Anthony Sc-arnati has been selected to be honored on Teacher Recognition Day as on of two nominees from the borough ef Queens.

Peak-wei Choong, Tania Lee, and Shiela Raj won flrst place for an exhibit they made to commemorate Japanese History Day. Continued on page 3

tween grades and between students Perhaps what is most disturbing and faculty), not to mention their fre- about this petition incident is the fact quent efforts toward spirit days. that so many Harrisites willingly Furthermore, this year's officials signed their names, without being took the extraordinary step of initi- adequately informed about the facts. ating the reform they acknowledged According to three separate accounts was needed. .of the Classic staff, many students While the petition complains of just signed sheets which circulated how the present S.U. is illegal in its without identification or did not officials and operations, the petition · bother to read an explanation when itself is also illegal. According to it was available. In effect, the cause Ms. Garcia, all materials which are is further compromised by this lack circulated and presented around the of true support from a well-informed school, such as petitions or advertise- student body. From now on, we must ments, must · receive a faculty learn from this entire incident and member's signature for· approval, read and thoroughly inform ourwhich this petition did not have. selves about a petition's cause before This petition process was most signing our namess. Presumably the faulty, ironically, in that it was never new s.u. constitution, when it is in handed in to Ms. Garcia or any other place, will preserve the rightto petiproper authority. What good is a·pe- tion. Let us use this right not only tition if it is not submitted? · responsibly, but courageously.

Editors' Goodbye Amidst homework and collaterals,·club meetings and team practices, all of us found ourselves returning to Room 511 to work on The Classic time imd again. At times it seemed like an unrewarding task, but every time an issue arrived straight from the printer, we couldn't have been prouder. After four years, we now know that every day spent writing, editing, laying-out, and revising The Classic was well worth it because we have back issues to mark all of our hard work and growth as writers, editors and people. And, although in the immediate future, we may not miss long afternoons spent at the computers, trying to imprpve The Classic, it has impacted and changed all of our lives, and given us some of our greatest memories at Harris.

To this end, we extend our deepest gratitude to Ms. Cowen, for teaching us how to produce an award winning newspaper and always demanding perfection.

Thank you for all of the countless hours you have spent with us, and of course the pretzels. You !}ave not only improved otir writing, but also our character, and you have been like a second mother to all of us. We will miss you. Thanks to Ms. Polansky for always helping us when our computers were sick, no matter how busy she was. Thanks for all of your' ideas, and just for being there. We can't remember how we produced The Classic last year without your help. We are also grateful for the freedom to exercise our own judgement to print what we deem suitable, and we thank Dr. Largmann for that right.

A spec,:ial thanks to whoever it was that figured out how to make the CD player in Room 511 work, and we apologize to Ms.Polansky for The, Cranberries, Sublime (and the barking dogs), and the Dirty Dancing Soundtrack. A big.thank you to the technology squad and Mr. Tiffen, for trying so hard to make the computers work, and for always picking the day that we're going to the printer to try to reinstall the network. Thank you to Mr. Ratti en for always supporting us, and for staying after school when we needed to work and Ms. Cowen couldn't. Thank you to all of the individual faculty members who have been so patient and kind with us when we ran after you in the halls, soliciting interviews.

Lastly, we wish Alan Fu, our successor, the best of luck in keeping up the quality of The Classic next year. We know we're leaving it in extremely capable hands.

-Beth, Hope, Kate, Jeannemarie, Erika and Natalka If•

Natalka Palczynski Editor-in-Chief

Townsend Harris Hizh School at Queens College 149-11 Melbourne Avenue, Flushing, N .Y. 11367

Hope Villella

Beth Citron

Kate Rube

News Editor

Feature Editor

Sports Editor

Jeannemarie Hendershot Erika Zwetkow Editor at large

Photography Editor

Romina Perrone

Alan Fu

Julia Kohen

Business Manager

Managing Editor

Circulation EditOr

Readers are invited to submit letters to the editor. Letters should be placed in Ms. Cowen's mailbox in the general office. The Classic reserves the right to edit all letters. ·. Letters must include name and official class. Names will be' withheld upon request.

News Staff: Bosede Adenekan, Afton BatT, Andrew Goldberg, Christina Lesica, Stefan.Muehlbauer, Maggie Yuan Feature Staff: Paul Bruno, Noreen Bukhari, Surabhi Jain, Lorraine Kapovich, Danielle Lord, Adam Mingione, Chris Munde, Aliza Nadi,.Rachel Nobel, Annette Orzechowski, Lauren Paley, Ramsey Peele, Carol Pruss, Catherine Santos, Steven Seidenfeld

Sports Staff: Justin Fox, Brian Griffimg, Tabitha Hsi, Jarvis Lagman, Mark Von Ohlen, Sara Yun Photography Staff: Laura Bassilino, Frank Cherena, Jason Freedman, Arielle Freeman, Sara Gross,

Alice lofescu, Athena

Ledakis, Nancy Luo, Sofia Panagiotakis, Karen Parada, Joseph Pasoa, Lisa Schapira. Eric Trager, Marco Trauzzi, Audley Wilson, Henry Wong, Dawn Wing, Young Yoon

Artists:

Vivian Chang, Lucy Hong, Rachel Sperling

Advisor - lisa Cowen

Principal - Dr. Malcolm Largmann

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The Classic June 1998

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ditors' Adventures: · Ice cream shops to cool the summ.er heat

Serendipity

Lemon Ice King

lyn," on the menu at Jahn's Ice Cream Parlor, this could only be a very special

by Beth Citron

by Kate Rube place.

Those "Tummy Ticklers" menTucked into a typical brownstone on The Baskin Robbins of Italian ices, tioned above are just a few on a long list East 60th Street, Serendipity is anything the Lemon Ice King of Corona offers of cold treats to cool the summer heat. but ordinary. In addition to its dinner 30+ flavors to satisfy the appetitedly adJahn's is 101 years old. The story bemenu, American food served with a venturous, or the most decidedly picky. unique twist, Serendipity's dessert If you're content with your local gins in 1888 when John Jahn (PapaJahn) menu, consisting mainly of ice cream, pizzeria's standards of rainbow and arrived in America, and opened up shop. is out of this world.·Everything on the chocolate, perhaps the tripisn't worth At one time, there were four locati9ns, menu is excellent, from the it- stopping in to order a cup of but now only two remain, only one - in 'Mmmm Sundae' - vanilla cherry or lemon is almost Richmond Hill - being complete!y auice cream covered in peaakin to ordering French thentic. Jahn's isn't only a really oldnut butter sauce, hot fudge, fries in aChinese restau- fashioned, cute soda fountain, they have marshmallow, and rant. So taste, try, and de- a full menu of "dinerish" foods for you whipped cream, to its falight in the King's water- to eat before you fill up on some of the mous 'Frozen Hot Choco- . melon or grape or peach best homemade ice cream in Queens.

Their list of flavors include: blacklate,' served with eight . ices or, for those who raspberry, banana, peach (with real desire something more straws. It's perfect for sharchunks of peaches in it), walnut, and all ing; don't attempt to finish it exotic as ices go, peanut of the traditional flavors.

I must say all butter. Nothing beats an Italalone. The 'Forbidden Broadof the flavors are very creamy and origiian ice on a sticky hot evening: way Sundae,' served with a large nal.

The wide variety of toppings inpiece of rich devil's food cake, is its water-based sweetness clude: blueberry, fruit salad, marshmalalso sure to satisfy. Besides the ice quenches thirst and heat like no cream, the pecan pie, served ala mode ice cream can. Arid while your low, walnut, hot fudge, hot butterscotch, upon request, is sublime. tongue works its way around and sprinkles.

Another item to consider making a Serendipity's quirky and comfortyour ice of choice, wander over trip to Jahn's for is "Everything But the able atmosphere makes it the ideal ice to Joseph Lisa Square, the park Kitchen Sink," which includes scoops across the street, to check out a. cream shop. Be sure to look through . ofevery flavor, and some of every toptheir collection of toys and interesting bocce• ball game or two. ping in a big bowl. It serves eight people Even if you can't understand Italgadgets at the front of the restaurant on ($32). ian, the language of choice in these your way in or out. Its a good way to Just sitting there at the counter or in keep yourself entertained while waiting parts, watching old men bicker and to be seated which, during peak hours, shout over the proximity of balls to each a red leather booth is an experience. The tends to be long. The best times to go to other, a determinant factor in the game, old fashioned jukebox plays in the background (10 cents a song) and wooden avoid the rush are 3:00 to 5:00, or after is a sight not to be missed. barriers between booths are covered in 9:00P.M., when the restaurant fills with carved initials, love tags, and messages people who aren't there for dinner, but Jahn~s that date back to its opening in 1897. only dessert. The only drawback to Serby Erika Zwetkow So, take a trip to Richmond Hill Jahn's endipity is the price - desserts range With items such as "The Brooklyn for the full experience, or if you're just from $5 to $10, although once you taste Bridgeshut up and eat," and "The Tree in the mood for the same good food and the ice cream, you'll know that it's well this one grows in Jahn's, not Brooksoda fountain without the atmosphere, worth it. visit the Jackson Heights branch on 37th Ave. between 31st and 32nd Street.

'Cominueda· At the National

won a'Wafas. seor.es, 4(}stutfewt~O(l·l:J

silver.

AanieYa'n was awarited a. sik-wfor Undets·tau~g" based on an ~y she·WrOte. Yvette Hao, :Marissa. Lee, 1o'fumy·Wong. a.nd LeOn~d Fuk aJ;l received honorable mention in the Asian Paci:fle American Law Student Association Essay · Contest.

A graduate fe&wship for Hispanic Literature and Language at Qu~ns Callege was awarded t<> Spanish teacher Suzanne Iordanou.

The Sugihara "Do the Right Thing" essay centest awarded prlies te five students. Ciarra 'lhomey won second place and $1()()(), Noreen Bukhari won t:bird place and $500, and Michael Taylor,.Jerry Gmciano, ahd Nick KavaUieratos won Honorable Mentions and $50 each.

Rebeeca Silver and Lisa Schapira placed in the top 16 in the intermediate division of the State Finals. Novices Vivian Intermont and Alice Iosifescu placed in the top 32.

The Pepsi/Essence contest awarded Dawn Wing 1st place for her rendition of a Chopin piece.

Bertelsmann 's World of Expression Scholarship Program awarded four students, Betty Chen second place and $2,.000 in the literature and poetry category, Daisy Chung $2,000 in the area of Literature-Fiction an'd Drama, Julie Block: second place and $2,000 in Music and Vocal and lastly Tara Berger was awraded third place and $1,000 in the area of Literature and Poetry. $3,600 were raised by students who participated in ''AIDSWALK New York."

Freshman Larry Manis was selected as the winner in the "Save the Children Tie Art Contest." The tie which be designed will be sold in department stores throughout the country.

Where to find them ...

Serendipity 22'5 East 60th Street · (212) 838 .. 3531 '

Eddte's Sweet Shop Forest Hil1sMetropolitan Ave. (718) 520- 8514

Jahn's Richmond Hill Hiltside Ave'"

Jackson Heights - · 37th Ave. between 31st & 32nd streets Lemon Ice King 108 Street at

52nd Ave~, Corona

ft~!tn.:~P·-4. .~-4

249th Street and

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Jamaica Ave., Bellerose the atmosphere if not the chance to sit on the trunk of your car with an ice cream soda and pretend you're one of The Pink Ladies or The T-Birds from Grease.

Frozen Cup

by Jeannemarie Hendershot Eddiels Sweet Shop Located on Jamaica Avenue and by Natalka Palczynski 249th street in Bellerose, Memories of Walking into Eddie's Sweet Shop is Arthur's burger joint on the television about as close as one can get to tasting show "Happy Days" are synonymous Victorian elegance and '50's , whimsy with the facade of this 1950's style ice simuftaneously. The architecture is cream hut. A huge ice cream cone sus- reminiscent of the 19th century, but the pended above the store welcomes teen- stools and counters make poodle-skirt agers, couples, and families as they drive and saddle-shoe days come alive. up to the two windows. No, you can't Eddie's ice-cream is all home-made, go inside The Frozen Cup. which explains the delectable flavors In the tradition of skating waitresses ·and rich variety. They also make their who served car to car, this place still has own whipped cream. Try their banana those windows, minus the skating wait- or coffee-chip ice cream if you want resses. And this ice cream shop isn 'tjust something different, or an old standard decorated to look like it came out of the like Eddie's vanilla milkshake.

50s, the Banana Float signs look as if One of Eddie's distinguishing feathey have been hanging in the windows tures is its glass case filled with ceramic since then. But the history of The Fro- goodies, porcelain dolls, and all sorts of zen Cup adds to its charm and its nostalgic gifts. Gaze at the treasures as uniqueness. It boasts homemade ice you eat your dessert. All of them are cream in classic flavors such as cherry- available for purchase. vanilla, mint chip, and butter pecan. But Eddie's is conveniently located near burgundy cherry sundaes and pineapple a recently-refurbished movie theatre (or floats, along with decorated cakes show perhaps the theatre is conveniently lothat this Ice cream shop can compete cated near Eddie's). It's the perfect place with its rival chain shops such as Carvel to "catch something to eat" before or and Baskin Robbins. Take the trip for after going to the cinema.

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Fi·rst musica-l produ-ction in Harris hi-story debuts ~:e~':::c

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by Hope Villella w w o -.mrwom - •·• Spurgeon, Technical Director; Lois Debuting the first musical producPolansky, Graphic Designer; and senior tion in Townsend Harris history, Guys Henry Wong, pianist. and Dolls opened in the Townsend HarCast members expressed enthusiasim ris Playhouse (auditorium) on Friday about the experience. "It was a great way May 8. to end my senior year," said Jason, "I "I was very impressed by the whole learned a lot about the underclassmen production: the live music, scenery, and ~ and I got to know them, which was reabove all, the acting," said junior Chris~ ally nice because seniors are often very tina Lesica. "Everything was profession~ separated from them. I was already ally handled)and designed. I felt as if I ~ friends with Jenny but doing the play had watched a production on Broad~ made us really close, and now we'll alway." ways be friends." Brian added that he The play, which ran for two days, was .[ might be reluctant to do it again, saydirected by English teacher Harriette ing, "I enjoy doing shows; it's just doBlechman and her assistant, English ing them at the same time as school that teacher Judy Biener, as well as student drove me crazy." Leslie also felt that director Annemarie Dull. Lynne being part of a play was an experience Greenfield, Assistant Principal of Huthat everybody should try, but she added manities, was the producer. that students should "bring review books Nathan Detroit (Jason Freedman) talks to his fellow gamblers about his next crap game, in the Guys and Dolls is the story of Nathan school's first play, Guys & Dolls. and food to practice."

Detroit (Jason Freedman), the leader of The cast members suggested some "the oldest established permanent float- entire spring break, "from Sunday to Lustig of the morning rehearsals. He tips for aspiring Harris thespians. "What ing crap game in New York," who is rac- Sunday," in their efforts to be ready in added that some of the dance numbers you h~ve to remember in any show is ing against time to find a place to hold time for opening night. were very difficult for the band and "Ha- that the director is God and that's it ... his nightly game and is also trying to , Musical Director Peter Lustig and vana" ended up having to be played off what they [the directors] say, goes," said find a way to prevent his fiancee of 14 the band also worked long hours, often of a tape. "It was real Broadway music Brian. Michael Inwald, who played years, Miss Adelaide (Jenny Esses), coming in early in the morning to so it was difficult for everybody, myself Nicely-Nicely Johnson, added, "Go with from finding out and leaving him. Mean- - practice. "It was rough on everybody be- included," he said. the flow, try your best, try as early as while, he needs $1 ,000 to rent the cause we also do Jazz Ensemble and a Others who contributed countless · you can to learn your lines and just have Biltmore garage and makes a bet for that lot of people were on teams," said Mr. hours to the production included Jeff a good time." amount with Sky Masterson (Brian Gruber) that Sky will never be able to get the uptight missionary girl, Sarah

by Jeannemarie Hendershot Melbourne Ayenue Pub when the lights sings "No one ever blames the girl" to Brown (Leslie Rosa), to go with him to What do you get when you put a racy go out and Kenny is found dead on the the tune of the Beastie Boy's song Havana, Cuba. The play evolves into a Southern prostitute, a gay football floor. 'Kenny's murder is a mystery and "Girls." love story between Sky and Sarah. player, an air head cheerleader, a melo- the cast of characters spend the rest of The confusion was intensified by Ms. Blechman explained that she dramatic Mafioso, a silly drunkard, and the play trying to discover the culprit, several blunders made by the actors; chose the musical Guys and Dolls for a James Bond with a sexual identity cri- making everyone in the bar a suspect. however, this only seemed to enhance the first Townsend Harris productjon in _ sis in a bar together? - "Murder on Sounds simple enough, but the plot the slapstick humor. And although nu- . the new building because it was a play Melbourne Avenue," the first ever senior takes several complex twists and turns, merous sub-plots made this comedy a that a lot of people knew and liked and . show directed by Arielle bit hard to follow, because the music was written by HarFreeman and Meredith they definitely ris alumnus Frank Loesser. She felt it Topper. Using humorous added some hyswas a good choice for their "inaugural allusions, song parodies, terical acting opproduction." "Although Guys and Dolls and a crazy mix of characportunities for the is one of my favorite musicals, I was a ] characters, such as ters, Arielle, who wrote the bit surprised at this choice for a Harris script, added some original ~ when Pablo Lars production, mainly because ofthe strong twists to a classic who~ announced his hofeatured male roles. However, I thought dunit style plot. ·~ mosexuality and the players pulled it off with amazing The plot goes like this: .,e love for James panache, crossdressing and all," said seAnnette, the Southern ~ Bond, crushing nior Kate Rube. prostitute, played by Erika ....>. Sara Lee, and also Hours of work went into putting on .

Zwetkow; ' Pablo Lars ~ Annette, who saw the large-scale production. Brian exRodriguez, a closet homo] Pablo Lars as a plained that often cast members had to sexual and football player "" possible client be there even when they were not perfor Princeton, played by who would bring forming because it was not always posPhillip Porzio; Theresa her enough money sible to know which scenes would be Vita, the daughter of a to return home to practiced on which days. "Practice was Long Island crime family Kansas. Among very strenuous because we had to keep who sells big pants on the ''Come down to Melbourne Avenue and have a drink with us:• sings senior Lara all the madness ... going over things again and again until black market, played by Rios as Shawn Sweeney accompanies her on piano during rehearsaL and confusion, we got them right," added Jason. Still, Natalka Palczynski; Sara song parodies to Leslie felt that the long rehearsals were Lee, a high school cheerleader with an which makes it a little difficult to fol- the tunes of "Sandra D," "Oon't Cry . worth it, saying, "We got to know each obsession for Pablo Lars, played by Su- low. At the halfway point, after several for me, Argentina," "Hernando's Hideother best during practices." san Cunningham; Bob, a bartender try- suspects have been eliminated, Kenny away," and the theme from "Cheers" The hard work was not limited to the ing to work his way through medical jumps up from the floor yawning. The along with a choreographed "fight cast, however. Many hours were also put school, played by Andre Williams; characters learn that he suffers from scene" between Sara Lee and Bob to the in by the art squad and the band to be Chris, a drunk who complacently narcolepsy, a condition that causes deep tune of "Kung Fu Fighting" completed prepared for the show, with only two watches the madness of the play except sleep. But Kenny laughs and tells the the show, and were arguably the best months to get ready. Artistic Director for several humorous interjections, audience that if that were the case, there parts.

Anthony Morales explained that beginWhat the show lacked in perfection, played by Eric Baez; James Bond, a would be no mystery. So Kenny plays ning in mid-March, he and the art and detective making his first stop in the bar, dead again and the hunt for the murderer it made up for with very professional scenery squad worked intensely for five played by Shawn Sweeney; and Kenny, resumes. By the end of the play, every- scenery (a wood paneled bar room) deto six hours each day. He added that the quiet clone of the famous "South one has been blamed and then elimi- signed and built by Orli Sharaby with 'many members of the art squad as well Park" character of the same name who nated, except for James Bond. James help from art teacher Anthony Morales, as himself, his son Ian and his son's deals Vita big pants underground, played Bond turns out to be "Jamie" Bond, the an interesting, fast-paced plot, and hifriend Ives Neil worked throughout the

by Lara Rios are all sitting in the murderer played by Kate Rube, who larious actors.

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5

SPAA sponsors show to send AI OS, patients to camp

by Rachel Nobel "Ding Dong, Largmann 's gone.

Where'd he go? I don't know. Ding Dong, Doctor Largmann's gon-n-n-ne," sang 14 teachers to the tune ofThe Wizard ofOz's "The Wicked Witch is Dead" at the opening of the second annual Townsend Harris talent show. The noncompetitive event, held on June 1 in the school auditorium, presented 11 singing, dancing, and instrumental acts to create what was described by SPAA advisor Ilene Marcus as "an afternoon of mystery and fun." Sponsored by Stu-

dents Promoting AIDS Awareness (SPAA), this year's 'show continued the I . tradition of usil}g the proceeds, $800, to send fl child with AIDS to Camp Heartland, a camp where children with the disease enjoy a week of fun-filled days.

The 'mystery' portion of the show began with a skit that set 14 teachers in a meeting called by principal Malcolm Largmann (played by Sal Marino), who announced that he was disturbed at what appeared to be a growing trend of indifference among staff members. While English teacher lisa Cowen buried her-

Townsapalooza ·showcases musicians' own bands stage and accompanied by only her

by Julia Perratore Rap, reggae, folk, punk, classic rock, accoustic guitar, she then gave a repeat and "alternative" music resounded performance of a song she sang at last through the auditorium on Friday, May year's S.P.A.A.-sponsored talent show.

22, during Townsapalooza (a.k.a. "the P.A.R., whose name is formed from Battle of the Bands"). Hosted by se- the initials of each member's first name, niors Daisy Chung and Melissa appeared next, and when introduced as Gibilaro, this yearbook-sponsored event a_n alternative band, junior Roman highlighted the musical talents of The Bohdanowycz, the band's singer and Shy Guys, Julie Block, P.A.R., Killah bass player, insisted, "We are not alternative. We are new age Norwegian folk Prophetz, and R.P.O.D. Townsapalooza was the second an- music!" Juniors Paul Sideris on drums; nual band extravaganza. Originally Anthony Pavlo on guitar, and Roman, called "Battle of the Bands," it was re- made up the band. P.A.R. first played named because the event is not a com- "Purple Haze" by Jimi Hendrix and then petition between groups but rather a went on to play their original songs. 1bis showcase of talents. '"Palooza" comes segment of the show also featured a guitar solo by junior Frank Cherena from 'lollapalooza,"' explained senior and a surprise appearance by Gina D'Andrea. ''Lollapalooza is a senior Yong Taing who large gathering of bands from "stripped," taking off his different genres of music." belts, shoes, and socks.

The first group to take After a short intermission, the stage was The Shy the rap/reggae ensemble, Guys. "Just so everyarmed with. microphones, one knows," senior greeted the crowd. Each mem- · Jon Vafiadis exber of plained, "we're Killah not a real band." · Prophetz The trio joined de I i vforces only ered a solo, days before to addressing varitake the place of ous contemporary issues a last-minute through their songs. The encancellation, and semble featured juniors Barry consisted of Jon Games and Terell Lovell, seniors on bass, senior Chadwick Stewart and Eric Baez, Kevin Woo on and sophomore Derwin Sisnett. guitar and vocals, The music festival ended with and junior R.P.O.D. They sang some cover Michael Inwald songs as well as their own tunes, on drums. They and mixed music with running performed "all commentary. The only Harrisite covers" ranging member ofR.P.O.D., senior Jason from "Rock and Postelnik, performed with Roll High School" by Senior Julie Block Jl!:rfonned on her accoustic Thomas Clavin and Jam~s guitar at Townsapalooza.

Herbsdt of St. Francis the Prep, also seniors.

Ramones to Freshman Janine Petrovits enjoyed "Teenager in Love" by Dion. Jon had performed in last year's concert with his this year's "battle," and felt that "all the own band, Triple Bypass, which recently performers were really talented." Junrecorded its music onto compact discs ior Albane Arcuri agreed. She was dismayed at the rather small crowd, sayfor .marketing.

"We should support Illuminated in blue light, senior Julie ing, Block sang a "folk rendition" of Bob [Townsapalooza] because if we don't, · Marley's "Redemption" and three songs it will die out, and these musicians will of her own. Staying to the side of the not be encouraged."

self in a book, gym teacher Robin _ Winczner and Alison Park, and sophoFigelman jived to step aerobics, and more Josh Deely's rendition of "Bring yearbook advisor Maria Vita schmeared Him Home," from the Broadway musia bagel, Dr. Largmann suddenly disap- cal Les Mise rabies. peared. 'Pink Panther' detectives Felipe Alison and junior Rick Calabro took Gomez, David Pirozzi, and Anthony to the piano to round out the musical Prince, juniors, led the school-wide acts, performing Zez Confrey's "Dizzy search for the principal. Their "interro- Fingers" and Chopin's "Fantasie Imgations" of witnesses interspersed stu- promptu." And four mystery guests apdents' performances. "I was going to do peared as the Village People performit [kidnap Dr. Largmanil]!" confessed ing YMCA as a "special treat" for the English teacher Michael Carbone. "He SPAA members and participants who wouldn't let me play techno music on worked to make the show a success. the loudspeakers any more!" "[The show proved that] our school "The missing Dr. Largmann returned has a wide variety of talent," said senior at the end of the show, confiding to the Susan Carroll. "Everyone worked really crowd that he had been in his office the hard, and it showed," said sophomore whole time and was so happy to see the Krystal Roopchand. school cared about him. "Now I'll never The idea for the talent show came leave!" he said. about when Ms. Marcus saw Camp The show featured a wide variety of Heartland featured on The Oprah acts. The newly-formed Dance Club Winfrey Show's "Day of Compassion." played a large role in the event, its mem- The purpose of the event, and SPAA's bers performing everything from a bal- mission in general, was to "[raise] let number to a Mortal Kombat suite, as money and promote AIDS awareness," well as solo dances by sophomores said Ms. Marcus. "I'm very proud of Kristina Poulous and Stephanie Demas. SPAA and all the people who particiOther dance acts included tap dancing pated in and helped with the show. Now to Frank Sinatra's "Luck Be a Lady" by one child who's sick will be able to go juniors Kelly Sabbagh and Casey Corsa, to camp for a week tor free," she said.

For the finale, the audience and the and 'stepping,' a form of dance in which the perfomer uses hand-clapping and entire cast sang along as juniors stomping to create rhythm, by freshmen Madeline Cruz and Michael Inwald performed "When You Care" from the play Audrey Austria and Collette Spalding.

Singing acts included a performance The Last Session, a song about living of "I'll Remember" by juniors Jessica with AIDS.

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BY THE NeWVOAKSTATE EOIJCATlON DEPARTMENT

COLLIQ£ EHTRAHCE

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COURSES PREPARATION FOR TESTS , NEW S.A.T. • VERBAL (ENGLISH) flEW S.A.T. • MATH NEW P.S.A.T. • VERBAL (ENGLISH) NEW P.S.A.T. • MATH ENGLISH for ENTRANCE EXAMS lqr Special High Schools • S.S.A.T., CO·OP MATH for ENTRANCE EXAMS for Special High Schools • S.S.A.T., CO·OP T.O.E.F.L.

ENGUSH . · ENGLISH 12th GRADE ENGLISH 11th GRADE ENGLISH 1Oth GRADE ENGLISH 9th GRADE I.S. & Jr. High School ENGLISH ENGLISH for FOREIGN BORN • E.S.L REMEDIAL R~DING COURSE READING SKILLS COURSE SOCIAL STUDIES GOVERNMENT ECONOMICS U.S. HISTORY AND GOV'T. GLOBAL STUDIES WORLD HISTORY I.S. & Jr. High School SOC. ST. SENIOR ELECTIVE • INDEPENDENT STUDIES

PREPARATION FOR R.C.T.'I WRITING R.C.T. READING R.C.T. MATH R.C.T. SCIENCE R.C.l GLOBAl STUDIES R.C.T. U.S. HISTORY & 60V1 R.C.T. GIFTED 5th AND &Ill &RAilERS ENRICHMENT CLASSES IN All SUBJECTS

MATHEMATICS SEQUENTIAL MATH I MATH II SEQUENTIAL MATH Ill 9th GRADE MATH (Eiem Alg) lOth GRADE MATH (Geom) 11th GRADE MATH (I.A. • Trig) 12th GRADE MATH (Pre-Gale) A.P. CALCULUS FUNDAMENTAL MATH GENERAL MATH BUSINESS MATH PRE-ALGEBRA I.S. & Jr. High School MATH SEQUE~TIAL

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SCIENCE BIOLOGY CHEMISTRY A~I\:LE PHYSICS .

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Specify below lhe course or courses you think you wiW lake. Final dedsion of coums can be maclelfter you receive your report card in June.

BUSES: Q12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 25134. 26, 27, 28, 44, 48, 58, 65, &li, and OBX 1.

M.S.B.A. But ffi.ZO or21 llong Northtm BoUieYard Irom Roslyn, Mlllhasset and Great Neck.

TRAINS: L.t.R.R. or IRT 17.10 M&ln Street Aushing Stolion.

Reduc:ld-llrt bus passes and tialn passes are-wailable.

DRNER EDUCATION: Tuition $450.00. FW out special Driver Educallon form. You Cll\ take Driwr Education alone, or l131 be taken llith ooe, t'Ml or tne courses.

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6

The Classic June 1998

March of the Living educates seniors about Holocaust Heather, Meredith, Ari and went through, then the millions now, and how it should be in the which changed their lives.

by Beth Citron and Danielle future," said Heather.

"You go on this trip and you Eleanor all commented that who died, died in vain."

Lord - "The Holocaust was always "When we first arrived in don't know what to expect.

Four seniors, Meredith Top- even 50 years after the Holoper, Ari Gershman, Heather caust, there is still anti- something I tried to make sense Israel, ... we stood by the West- When you leave, you're amazed King, and Eleanor Levy, em- Semitism in Poland. According of," saidAri. "You can't under- ern Wall, a symbol of eternity at what you've seen, and you barked on a journey this past to Meredith, it was very disturb- stand it by hearing about it or and hope .... You realize that know it's going to change you April through one of the grav- ing that even young children, reading about it. Even after be- there's still some hope and that somehow. It's not about a twoest times in history, the Holo- "who really didn't know what ing there, I can understand it human decency can never be week trip; it's about the rest of caust. For two weeks, they·trav- they were doing," shouted anti- only to a certain extent. It was fully destroyed. We have to fo- your life,'' said Meredith.

The March of the Living orelled through Poland and Israel, Semitic remarks and cursed at devastating, and everyone al- cus on something positive, so aiming to gain a greater under- the marchers when they real- lowed it to happen." The March that we can move in the direc- ganization has headquarters in of the Living provided them tion of something better," said New York and Israel. Further standing of the horrors of the ized that they were Jewish. information about the March of On the same day they toured with a different education on Ari. Holocaust and rejoice in the All four seniors agreed that the Living may be found on the 50th anniversary celebration of Auschwitz, the group left Po- the Holocaust, about "how the land and went to Israel, arriv- world was, how the world is the two-week experience is one Internet at Http://www.motl.org Israel.

On April 20, Heather, Ari, ing in time to observe Eleanor, and Meredith began Yom Hazikaron (Israel their trip, spending first a week Memorial Day) and in Poland commemorating the Yom Ha-Atzmaut (IsHolocaust and visiting Jewish rael Independence landmarks throughout the Day).

"The atmosphere in country. The students toured the Warsaw Ghetto and numerous Israel was completely concentration camps such as different from that in

by Ramsey Peele Treblinka, Majdanek, Poland," remarked AfteT four m-onths of Birkenau, and Auschwitz. "I Meredith. "In Poland preparation, Conductor Peter wasn't sure what I was going it was hard, seeing hisLustig and Chorus Director to feel seeing the camps," said tory !ight up in your Plerence McKinley orought Meredith. "Then t was stand- face, but when we went their students into the limeing in front of the death wall at to Israel, it was like a light at the Spri-ng Concert Auschwitz, and it suddenly hit tremendous burden was where they performed a wide me: this was where millions of lifted off your shoulvariety of selections in the auJews died, and this wall was the ders." Heather added, ditorium on Thursday, May ~ last thing they saw. It is in- "I was so happy that we 22. Perfc6rmers inel:uded the ! grained in my head forever, and were getting out of PoChorus, Intermediate Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Concert I'll remember it for the rest of land. We knew that it < was time to go." my life."

Band. £ g Heather recalled, Unlike previous concerts "It was so emotional when I _g that were bas.ed mostly, if not realized the magnitude of "My best experience on "' solely, on a specific theme (the where I was," said Heather. "In the trip was in Israel, on Winter Concert, fer instance, some camps, there was nothing Independence Day tangible left to see, but others Israel's 50th anniverwas built around the theme of There was a "The Wonderful World Of were left . totally intact. sary. celebration.

Disney"), this year's S-pring Majdanek could actually start huge Cencert "was more eclec'tic," being used again tomorrow. There were fireworks, said Ms. McKinley. It showThe worst moment of the trip like on the Fourth of cased an array o:f mood-s, was when I walked into one of July, but it was so much styles, rhythms, and beats. the barracks in which the pris- more intense and S.ophom•o,re Ste:ph-an oners were housed before be- meaningful, more perMu-ehlbauer described the ing killed, ~nd saw hundreds of sonal. You could feel concert as a "fantastic demonsmall leather shoes all lined up, the energy around you. stration of the various talents and realized that they were I was happier and more of the school." children's shoes." Meredith at peace than I've ever "I do a lot of research and Musk teadter Peter Lustig dltects saxophonists at the Spring Concert. said the image that left .the felt before."

"The whole trip was listen to a,lot of material," Ms. greatest impression on her was McKinley said. ''This term I The chorus finished their two- the years. The Jazz Ensemble a large room filled with the hair an amazing experi. ence," <:om men ted had six males and I e:hose my part performance with "The played ''Cara'van,'' "Someone of the Holocaust victims. music in tenns of voices (so- Power of a Dream,'' by Tu Watch Over Me," and "Soul Holocaust Remembrance Eleanor. "It definitely prano, alto, tenor)!' The voices Baby-face, David Foster and Man," and featured at least l 0 Day, Yom HaShoah, was de- left its mark on me. It soloists. The Concert Band folof the chorus, similar to the in- Linda Thompson. voted to making the march from was hard to see the Holowed with the Broadway ~ong, Afterwards , sophom• o Te struments af a band, are ameng Auschwitz to Birkenau. The locaust so close in Po"Seventy-Six Trombones;' conElizabeth Mo played "Fantasy t:he resources considered when marchers followed the 'death land, but there was so ducted by senior flutist Henry in D Minor'' by Mozart.

"I've cboosing music. march' route taken by concen- much support from the Wong and featuring a combinabeen doing solos since I was The chorus' sele<:tions tration camp victims on the way others. It is so imporof the Intermediate and tion very young,'' said Elizabetll ...

In ranged ftom a contemporary arto execution. This march was tant that we never forConcert Band's Low Brass secthis performance I had to decide rangement of "The House I one of remembrance- a 'March .get what happened. In Live In;• to a Russian folk between Claire de la lune and tions. Mr. Lustig accompanied of the Living.' Seven thousand I 0 or 20 years there song, "The Legend of t'he Mozart. Mozart was simpler the trombones. people, including 1000 Holo- won't be any Holocaust "This was the most enjoy· Twelve Bandits.'' 1his perfop. and the mood was much better:• caust survivors, all wearing survivors left alive ·to able concert I ever had," said Intermediate Band" s The mance included a solo by Latin blue jackets, made the expedi- talk about the experiMr. Lustig.

According tt> Ms. pregram included two songs teacher Richard Russo, a. feation. Heather commented that ence, and we '11 need to McKinley, tt accomplished the that were once pm:t of the Conture Ms. McKinley called ..a you could see "an ocean of carry on their memo~ gi>al bebind every concert cert Band's program five years These people treat." blue," and that there wasn't any ries. which is to "feature what the Also included in the Cho- ago. Mr. Lustig pointed this mit talking. "It was the most incred- weren't supposed to students have been learning for rus' perfnnnance was a .gospel, to the audience, showing how ibly unifying experience,'' she survive, but they did.

If we forget what they "Melody is From Heaven." the bands have improved over the term." said.

Spring cqnce·rt adopts music var·iety; abandons them,e perform.ances

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The Classic June 1998

7

Butrym fulfills Girl Scout. promise; receives gold award tigious Gold Awaid, but was awarded found that the rewards were worth her the Dr. Harry Britenstool Scholarship at efforts. "I was happy to see the little girls .

Fulfilling the Girl Scout promise: "On my honor I will try to serve God the ceremony as well, an aware total- become Daisies and to see that all the and my country to help people at all ing $750 which she will use towards tu- hard work paid off," she said. "If it's times and to live by the Girl Scout Law," ition at Binghamton University this fall. something you want to do, you have to senior Leigh Ann Butrym received Girl Receiving one of only 12 such scholar- make the time for it; senior year was Scouting's highest accolade, the Gold s ships was "the icing on the cake" for tough, but scouting was just great." AfAward. Leigh was one of 40 young ter Leigh leaves for college, Lauren will ~Leigh. women in the city to receive the honor &!l Although often strapped for time continue working with the troop as they which was awarded to her at St. Peter's ~ with the pressures of senior year, Leigh move up to become Brownies.

Church in Manhattan on May 16. ~ ~--~----~------------------~----------------------------~ Leigh, along with fellow Girl Scout Lauren D'Angelo, established a new 8"' eo.n.tinued from page 1 Bntifil"ed ..You Are About to Vote in a Daisy Girl Scout troop in Glendale, ]c.. of the el¢c:tions, the itnpeac:hment Rigged S. U. Blectio,n,.. this Queens, a neighborhood which had no of the entire student goveJ,'Rmeat, and anonymoqsfl~er urg~d the student girl scouting program available. Daisy tbe aull(fieation of the o0nstittltinn. body net t0 vote so that ..a low turnis the first level of girl scouting, followed Ms. Guoia.alf'fianed that it was merely out wll show the schoers arlrninisby Brownie, Juniors, Cadets, and Sea coincideaee ~!kat t:he conventi:OJl was trators that we are unsa1lsflied widlr f.b.is niors. Leigh was inspired to create the held rlJht after the ·~·n af the year's undemoeratie Q:lectton." Hownew troop by Lauren's mother, Linda, pell:fan. and d'W it was already de~ ever, voter tum0ut was.high. wim only who liad formed Daisy troops in several cided in March to hoW tbec0nventi0n. thr,ee. blank ballots, acoording to Ms. church parishes. Leigh's baisy troop, Petitioners were outraged by the u- Gard&, The flyer fUrther ut:getl, which consisted of kindergarten girls Senior Leigh Butrym holds the American .istence of a screening com:mittee, s~f"' "S:PRBAD T.W.IE WORD. ages ftve and six, met Friday nights from flag at the Girl Scout award ceremony.

The current administration won't i.ng the .eonstitmion does not pr<Wide 6:15 to 7:30 at the Ascencion Lutheran and geography. "I thought it was a great f« such a c~. Ct>mprlsed of let anyone speak 0ut ag~st them at Church in Glendale between the months way to briQg all the different nationaliassemblies, or over the louclspeaker, th~ Counci-l of Pres~nts and Ms. ties together. We taught the Daisies how of September and May. Gru;oia, the committee had-interviewed so this is the only way to let people Eight years as a Girl Scout gave to count to 10 in several languages; in a and se'lected the candidates who were knew how we £eel. ... The mot:e peepie Leigh the experience to plan appropri- way, it was both educational and recreallowed t0 run. Although hundl:eds of know about the probtoms, the harder ate activities for her troop. "There were ational," said Leigh. they are te cover up." Ms. Oarci'a students siped dire peti:tion, it wiJ1 Leigh hoped that the girls in her lots of games planned," she said. "At ignored, acco:rding t<> Ms. Gat.oi-3; commented, '"lllat flyer] really uptimes we had activities based on certain . Daisy troop not only had fun, but learned since it was never handed in, nor did it set me; it was absolutely l0w... and themes. Once our theme was nature, so more about the Girl Scout ethic: to know ever receive a:ppr0val fi:om a facwlty very cowardly not to sign it!' 'The auwe took the girls on a nature walk." The right from· wrong, to be kind, and toredlror <d" me £lyer has not revealed his member f'0r circulation.

Daisy troop also held an International spect authority. "There's always a moral Students also spoke aut again'S! tbe 0r her 'ldentity yet, but Ms. Garcia Night in which the girls shared ethnic underlying the activities," said Leigh.

S.U. elet>tions through a handt'Jut dis- said, ..1 trust that smneone will come Not only did Leigh receive the presfoods and learned about different flags

by Surabhi Jain

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who can troubleshoot su~cessful­ ly. Most important, though, is that · you get to share in your professors' passion for the adventure.

You see their minds at work and benefit from their knowledge and experience. You also have someone who knows you academically, how you learn, what excites At Hobart and William Smith you, what your interests are, and can lead and direct Colleges more than half of c>ur students spend at least one term studying some place other than our idyllic campus in the Finger The definition of education now includes time lakes. Among the most popular ·spent immersed in a new environment or . off-campus study options at .

Hobart and William Smith are out culture. We're not talking about sitting around own unique programs Jed by our the Champs Elysees drinking Bordeaux, HWS is unusuOWn faculty members. It's different when you travel with a profes- al in that we encourwearing a beret, and reading de Beauvoir. age students from all disc.isor from your own college in an We're talking about off-campus immersion plines to take advantage of ~ff­ experience of his or her own design. For one thing, when facul- campus study-with no extra in· genuinely challenging learning situations. instructionaJ·o(program costS. ty members know.you-and • An indigenous language of Senegal-one of the places where you can find Hobart know the locale-you're also bet- Our off-campus courses span and William Smirh students and faculty in an African history and cultr.Jral studies every discipline and include stuter prej:>ared before you leave. dents from·every major: architec:You also have someone on site deeply at art and architecture. ou learn a lot when Your confidence will increase. you're not on terra Your appreciation of democracy, firma-not just the cuiliberty, human rights, and educa-· tur~l, academic-ky things . that you ·expect. When you're sur- tion will grow, and you will Lovtilg it. WiS}I you were ,here!

What oovountink! become more sensitive and rounded by people whose lanHof?artand'William Slljiti\Coll~~ · This is the seventh in 1J serles of thoughtful with respect to probguage you don't yet speak; when essays fr6ffi Hobart and 'WiHi~ht ate highly selective, ;liberal ;irts ins fie Smith Colleges·acldre5$irig ctiiital , ' tutkms of 1,700 student§' in GeneVa, you don't recognize the local flora lems of international politics and topits in coliege life tOday. These New Yark. til~ Colleges §trongly or fuuna, when the food makes . economics. In shon, you'll never essays are ap~arihg in the papers fhcourage stud~nt~ to in chide' a term se~ things the same way again. you weep, it's so good-that's ofrriany of the na!ibi\'5 top public or mo~e oi ofk~mpus wotk in their The changes are good. They when you see things without your arid independent schools, studies and have develope~ on of add cqmplexity to your being and own cultural blinders. th~ rnost exten-sive arrays offatuhy~ give you stronger inner resources-· Whaf~~ You Have When you are out df your Say? led off-dmpus opportunliies av~il­ element, you stan to change. You · confidence, acuity, ef11Jathy, This is where we stand, bul what abl!" anywhere. fetelve Jur 'VIewabout ydll? What's your perspec- might not notice it all at once, but adaptability. In an increasingly book and application, or to learn tive? We're interd!ed ih hearing global society, this type of educa. you do acquire subtle differences more aboutthe Colleges and their from you. If you miss any of the in habit, manner, and perspective. tion and experience-'-and these tradition of innovative education,. essays in this series, let us know For example, you will look more · resources--are invaluable. please call, e~tnail, or Write: and we'll send you a copy.

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ture in london; Eastern European literature in Krakow; film in los Angeles; international politics in ·Geneva (Switzerland, not N.Y.); latin American economics in Quito; women's studies in Japan; and Vietnamese culture and history in Hanoi. As one pre-med student said, "I thought I would have to stay on campus the whole time-1 never thought I'd be taking a biostatistics

Queensland, Australi.a.n When most colleges talk about the size of their campus, they typically riumber their ac.res in hundreds .. At HWS we like to use billions-3.43 billion, in fact; the world is our campus.

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The Classic

8 Hu interviews exi~led Chinese diss·ident June 1998 P':if;z_'f'7t:~t;Uit!!l1

audience of rights activists, supporters, led were just as much heroes," said Pan. much attention to the outside world. It

by Aliza Nadi and Maggie Yuan The democratic world rejoiced at the and journalists, he said, ''Any movement "There are hundreds and hundreds of is important to [pay attention] because April release of Chinese dissident Wang that results in the death of people, even others like [Mr. Wang] from Tiananmen China will be the most important counDan from prison after serving time for if it's just one person, raises the ques- Square," he said. Pan emphasized that try the United States will have to deal his involvement in the 1989 Tiananmen tion of the moral role of the partici- the working class and people of all ages with in the future," said Pan. "We have to make sure China will go on the right Square protests. Junior Pan Hu, his fam- pants." However, he still believes the fought for this cause. ily, and especially Pan's father, road for the benefit of the US ....

The whole world is inter-depenwho has strong ties with the Chinese pro-democracy movedent." ment, welcomed the 29-yearPan says that making his peers aware of China's condition is the old Chinese activist to America at their home on April 25. most he can do to help the human rights movement right now. "I'm Pan calls Mr. Wang ·~ne of already too American to be [dithe most famous Chinese imrectly] involved in something that migrants .... He is a hero in the :::0 X is almost exclusively Chinese,"· sense that he was a top leader, ~ said Pan. "It is hard to talk about a leader of a movement," he ~ this situation with my parents besaid.

Mr. Wang served four years . ·.- "r ~ cause I'_m too involved in Ameri~ 8 can society." in prison (from 1989 to 1993) ~ "I think it is important to be for his part in the demonstra-& aware of human rights everytions which took place in where," said Pan. Human rights is Tiananmen Square in Beijing exactly what the students at on June 4, 1989 as a protest Tiananmen square were fighting against the government's polifor. "It has more importance for cies on human rights and a call people than they realize," he said. for political reform in China.

Pan believes that Mr. Wang will The demonstrations ended be one of the future Chinese leadwhen the Chinese Army arers and will become very influenrived at Tiananmen Square tial as long as he stays on his curwith troops and tanks that Junior Pan Hu talks with Chinese dissident Wang Dan at Pan's home about Mr. Wang's role in the rent path. . Those of "the crushed and killed hundreds of 1989 Tiananmen Square Protests.

Tiananmen Square generation are people.

Pan's father, Hu Ping, strongly be- the future leaders of China," he said.

After Mr. Wang's release in 1993, he responsibility lies with "the government Pan sees Mr. Wang as a role model, continued to write about the advantages that did the killing." He said his years lieves in the future of China. He has a of democracy and the problems the Chi- in prison living in a cell with five crimi- reputation among the Chinese-Ameri- saying, "Wang Dan should be up there nese people continued to face. He had nals, only getting to eat meat once a cans as a strong leader and human rights with the Presidents." He said that the his articles published in Hong Kong and week and shower once a month, were activist. Mr. Hu is the editor-in-chief of experience of interviewing Mr. Wang abroad. In 1995, he was arrested again, difficult but, "I want to stress that my Beijing Spring, a magazine for Chinese- was "unforgettable." "I just learned how and was convicted of trying to overthrow conditions were obviously better than American dis~idents. He received a important it is to keep aware of current scholarship from Harvard, but only at- events and international affairs," Pan the government. He was sentenced to 11 most political prisoners in China."

Pan describes Wang Dan as tended for one year due to his devotion said. "Most kids can't learn the imporyears in prison, but was released this spring, ostensibly for medical reasons. "friendly" and "pleasant to talk to." He to China's pro-democratic movement. tance of these things till a late age."

After the interview, Pan said, "I was When he arrived in the US in April, seems to be "pretty much a teenager." His father's decision to leave Harvard he held a conference at the City Univer- Human rights, the conditions in China, for the movement "was the right thing just glad I could talk to a famous person." sity of New York. Mr. Wang said, "If I and future plans for peace were the fo- , to do," said Pan. Source: One of Pan's aspirations is to make had known in advance that so many cus of Pan's conversation with Mr. Gargan, Edward A. "For a Dissident, Too classmates more conscious of his people would have died, I would have Wang. "He is a hero; that doesn't mean Much Fame and Freedom." The New York China's situation.

"We students are very done things differently." Speaking to an he is the only hero.... Those people he Times 28 April 1998. young and the majority of us do not pay

Pan Hu's interview with Wang Dan Q: Would you like to send any particular message to American high school students concerning human rights in China?

A: I would like to sa,y that" the protection of hwnan rights in every country in the world, China being only one, will play an import'afit oo~ in the establishment of international pea~. Therefore, I stongly bel!eve that teenagers in the United States should be as aware as possible of tlie latest developments in the struggle for human right-s.

Q: Is there anything you would want ooncemed American high schoel stuclents to do to help?

A: I would not want to place too much of a responsibility on those interested in the human rights movement. In my opinion, the greatest help that young students here can give is simply to be aware of the human rights movement. There is nothing I would appreciate more.

Q: What do you think a~out current US policy towa«ts China. particularly concerning human rights?

A: For me. it is understandable that American policy towards China is construct~ primarily to serve Anwrican political and economic interests, and I cannot blame anyone f.or that. H-owever, I would lib to see to it that Sino-US relations in the future will contain a strong moral basis as well. In other words, human rights should become more influential in shaping the Ameriea.tt government's Ch:inese policy.

Karate impacts Hanson's life Continued from page 18 sport into his new teaching position, running a six-week instructional karate and self-defense section annually until last year. Currently, he practices the slower-. paced and less intensive martial arts form of Tai Chi, which he says is "better for me now at this stage of life." He described the art as "more meditative and cerebral." It is a practice which, according to Hanson, is "Eighty percent . mental - it is about trying to build an internal energy."

Hanson has not abandoned the fundamentals of the Shoto kan style of ka-. rate that he once studied, though. This includes the "Bushido," or way of the warrior, which denotes that practitioners must defend the weak if necessary, even if this means sacrificing oneself. Another "rule" of the Bushido i~ that you "Must never fight anyone you have to see again," said Hanson. In what rings of a superhero's code of ethics, his black belt expert techniques are reserved .for

muggers, rapists, murderers, and for defending little old ladies.

For all of his muscles and bulk now, though, Hanson can never forget the kids who forced him into karate in the first place: his classmates who would taunt and harass the small freshman he was then, one of few African American~ in an overwhelmingly white school.

However, he feels no bitterness towards them. "I thank them," said Hanson. "I may never have gotten into karate, had it not been for those kids at Molloy - it made me a better person."

Karate, he says, "changed my whole perspective on life. It gave me a great ·deal of self-confidence, which I had lacked, and this has carried over into everything I've done in my life since."

Having the motivation to improve in karate, he progressed with his study at an astounding rate, learning a lesson that he would later apply to other areas of his life: that if you have the desire to obtain something, it will be yours.

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The Classic

9

• ·· • June 1998

Peace accord comes to fruition in ·Ireland

by Annette Orzechowski To American students, the term I.R.A. may conjure up a faint thought of some retirement fund that they do not have to think about for the next 20 years. On the other hand, if you were to travel some 3,000 miles over the Atlantic to Ireland, uttering this seemingly harmless acronym, which stands for the Irish Republican _Army, you would stir up memories of violent bombings and political _ radicalism that have torn a people apart for centuries. If you breathed the word "peace" or "truce" before May 24, 1998, you probably would have met , with an incredulous look or a sarcastic laugh. But 1998 brought into existence a longawaited and bitterly fought for c·ompromise establishing peace. Granted it is a new and uncertain peace, but it is peace nevertheless.

The two main players involved in this conflict, the Irish Republic and Northern Ireland, voted "yes" in a combined vote of 84% to lay to rest the sectarian conflict between Catholics and Protestants. Northern Ireland, predominantly Protestant but with a strong minority of Catholics, had a 74% yes to 29% no vote, while its southern Catholic neighbor, the Irish Republic, left the ballot boxes stuffed with a nearly unanimous vote, 94%, in favor of peace.

"I was mad that they weren't making any attempts .. . [at peace] and that it took so long to finally reach [an agreement]," said sophomore Clare Marks. Clare, who has family in Ireland, would rather see the · unification of Northen Ireland and the Irish Republic but is content with peace for now.

Assistant Principal of Science Brendan Curran has always followed the situation in Ireland. "It's my ethnic heritage and identity," he said . Mr. Curran, who beliyes that an eventual unification of Ireland would · make "sentimental sense," hopes that the peaceful majority will prevail. "There are individuals on both sides that have made a life-long commitment to making sure the violence continues," he said. The problem of violence looms over this tentative peace, which is still shakey and vulnerable to attack.

"From now on, .no one who turns to violence to make their case can do so other than in the open defiance of the will of the people,'' said Prime Minister of England, Tony Blair (New York

Times, 5/24/98). It has been this will of the people, unbendable and infused with pride, that has circumvented. countless attempts at reconciliation. The heated confrontations which made head-line news all over the world intensified· in 1969 when Catholics launched a Civil Rights Campaign to bolster their rights in a dominant Protestant Northern Ireland.

What followed was a series of clashes prompting the British to . advocate a policy of "internment without trial of suspected guerrillas," placing troops in Northern Irish towns, and foreing a direct rule from London.

For almost three decades, guerrilla warfare was a way of life.

Global History teacher Chris Hackney lived in London for two years during this time."I remember being around Belfast. when a Protestant church was blown up," he recalls. Mr. Hackney, who grew up in South Africa under Apartheid, mentions that individuals involved in Northern Ireland's struggle were sympathetic to the one going on at the opposite end of the world. "There was a mural built in Belfast [to commemorate the fight] against Apartheid," he said. Personally experiencing how the religious schism between Protestants and Catholics affected Northern Ireland's residents, Mr. Hackney pointed out that not all members of these religions were hostile toward each other.

"What I found fascinating was that two of my friends from Northern Ireland, one an ardent Catholic Republican, and the other a Protestant Unionist, were very close. When it came to' politics, they were on completely different grounds, yet they... [had a] good hiendship."

Rising from this ..internal strife, internationally known Irish rock groups, such as the popular band U2, infiltrated American pop culture with their songs dealing with Ireland's struggle. Their 1986 hit, "Sunday, Bloody Sunday," dealt with the situation of English troops in Northern Ireland. In 1972, the killing of Catholic marchers in Londonderry by British Paratroopers, referred to as the "Bloody Sunday" incident, where 14 people died, led to the one-day car bombing-in Belfast by the I.R.A. In the song, U2's frontrnan, Bono, son of a Catholic parent and a Protestant parent, commemorates the event. The band has toured around the world spreading awareness of the crisis in Ireland and taking up other na-

tions' struggles, such as the former policy of Apartheid in South Africa and conditions in the Communist bloc of the 80's.

The Catholic Nationalist's campaign for greater political rights has been largely met in the provisions of the peace accord. More involvement .in Northern Ireland's government has been granted to the Irish Republic and demands for "equality, police reform, and prisoner release" have been met. The Protestant Unionists' largest objection to these concessions was aimed at the provision allowing the "accelerated release" of political prisoners. Concerning the Protestants, a guarantee that Northern Ireland will remain a part of the United Kingdom "as long as a majority of its residents want it to" was granted, and the Irish Republic was made to remove from its constitution any territorial claims on the North. New legislation creates a "cross-border council of ministers" from Dublin and Belfast governments, a provision fought for by the Catholics, and a "consultative council" unifying officials from England, Wales, Scotland, · and Northern Ireland, a provi-

sion desired by the Protestants.

This policy of compromise officially began in 1996 when the aritish and Irish governments sponsored the first round of peace talks, which were headed by former U.S. Senate majority leader, George J. Mitchell. A notable exclusion from the talks was the political wing of the Irish Republican Army (I.R.A), Sinn Fein. Due to its continued radical attacks, mostly in the form of bombing, Sinn Fein was ousted from the conference.

The topic of Irish unity, a policy strongly advocated by the Irish Republic but rejected

by Protestants in Northen Ireland, has been a volatile issue since 1949, the year the Irish Republic was established. "I feel that the country has the right to determine for itself wheth~r or noL. [the nation] should be unified," said Assistant Principal of Second Languages, Joan Walsh, who is considering the possibility of buying a house in Ireland for her retirement.

The controversial issue of unification is being put aside for a while as the Irish people near the date for the first test of

this new peace. The June 25 elections for a new assembly in Northern Ireland, and the anticipated Protestant marches, which have sparked much violence between the two religions in the past, are forthcoming events that have people holding their breaths and crossing their fingers. Expectations are high and, according to Mr. Mitchell, "[The Irish people] have said they prefer respect and tolerance and will not succumb to appeals of bigotry and hatred, which have been so effective in the past"(New York Times, 5/23/ 98). June will be a crucial month in determining the validity of this statement.

Sources: Berke, Richard L. "In the End, Voters Found, a Real Chance at Peace Was Irresistible." The New York Times 23 May 1998.

Clarity, James E. "Eloquent and Elated: 'Great Day for Ireland."' The New York Times 24 May 1998.

Hoge, Warren. "Irish Voters, North and South, Give Re sounding 'Yes' to Peace."

The New York Times 24 May 1998.

Lewis, Neil A .. "Clinton Leads America's Cheers on Irish Vote." The New York Times 23 May 1998.

Dolls teach lesson in parenting

by DanieHe Lord and Alan Fu In the past few decades, teen pregnancy has become an epidemic in Atnerican society; in fact, President Clinton has called it ..the nation's most seFious social problem." From April 21, to the end of the spring term, an elective called Family Living was involved in a new program designed ~Ia to teach students the realities of beE ing a teen parent. Students were .s0 given "Ready-or-Not Tots,'' five-a pound computerized babies and w~re rbquired to care for them fer 48 hours.

The students carried the babies around throughout the school day.

The babies were progranuned to cry at random intervals throughout the day and night.

Junior Karen Castellano explained how it works: "You attend to the baby's needs by inserting a special ~eacherEIItnSch~~~oldsa"ReadyorNotTot'' •· · · b k v: h . , 1n front of her Fanuly Ltvmg class. ,.ey mto tts . ac . 10U ave a certain amount of time to find out why it is crying. The baby could have a wet diaper, want food, or attention. If you can't stop the baby from crying, a light goes on in its back, signaling that we ·' abused' or 'ignored' it, upon which, we automatically fail the assignment." The tots cost $300 and two were purchased by the school, a black male and a white female. Junior Tara Principe said, "The program really teaches teens about the responsibility factor in taking care of a newborn baby. We only keep the baby for 48 hours; a real teen mom has to deal with the consequences for a lot longer. Students were asked to obtain permission from their teachers to have the babies in class and promised to leave the room if the baby began to cry.

They ·had to find someone to babysit for them if they had gym and couldn't care for it." And just as in real life, the project is voluntary; students choose to care for the babies. '~It's a great teaming experience," commented Ellen Schwartz, health and Family Living teacher. "It's important for teens to realize ho.w much time an infant will take out of their lives. Hopefully, this program will help them see that a baby is· a lifetime commitment that they aren't ready {or."'

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Who's Going Where? The Class ·of 1998 Nazanin Abdulwali JiYoungAhn Rachel Altman Robert Ambalu Deepti Ambooken Jeanette Aponte Linda Aponte Tracy Aquino .Carolyn Arcella Alex Arrriaga Rudy Ash Eric Baez Cara Baker Simon Bauerle Dominika Bednarska Tara Berger Meredith Bettenhauser Sheroue Bisram Lyle Blackwood Julie Block Alex Blunt Michael Breen Leigh Butrym Kristin Candan Susan Carroll Chanda Casas Adrian Castro Melanie Chakmakjian Matthew Chang Mindy Chang ~zeJui Chao Betty Chen Margaret Chen Dimitri Christoforou Daisy Chung Linda Chusei Beth Citron Heather Cohen Rebecca Corales Grace Marie Cortez Raluca Cotoi Susan Cunningham Gina D'Andrea Ely De La Cruz Morgan Desaussure Katrina De Venecia Nahil Dhanji Nicholas Diunte Annmarie Dull Carlene Duncan Megan Dwyer Sabeen Edwin Jason Eng Michaela Erana Jennifer Esses Debra Failla Olga Faldamis Lina Fan Tammy Fang Michael Farina Ray-Ann Farris Arline Faustin Jessica Fettinger Kalliope Fillos Kimberly Finneran Daniel Fisher Justin Fox NatashaFoy Jason Freedman Arielle Freeman John Galbo Despina Ganis Greta Garcia Danielle Gatewood Jennifer Gee Linda George Maria Georgiades Chris Georgiadis Ari Gershman Michael Giacalone Melissa Gibilaro Frank Giglia Chrissy Giordano Dominick Giovanniello John Glavina

Boston University , NYU Cornell University NYU CUNY Hunter CUNY Hunter CUNY Bklyn/BAMD · CUNY Hunter University of Michigan Columbia University Carnegie Mellon Hofstra University SUNY Albany SUNY Oswego Brown University .

University of Delaware Fordham University CUNY Baruch University of Michigan SUNY Stony Brook Rutgers University CUNY Hunter SUNY Binghamton Vassar SUNY Binghamton Marymount College SUNY Albany Bryn Mawr College NYU University of Chicago NYU Fordham University St. John's (Pharmacy) NYU SUNY Binghamton School of Visual Arts University of Virginia Wesleyan University of Maryland Culinary lnst. of Amer.

CUNY Queens SUNY Binghamton Hartwick College SUNY Stony Brook Northwestern CUNY Hunter Rensselear Springfield College Adelphi University SUNY Stony Brook Georgetown University NYU Rutgers University CUNY Baruch Boston University SUNY Binghamton Fordham University NYU Cornell University SUNY Stony Brook CUNY City College Sophie Davis Medical CUNY Queens St. John's University SUNY Stony Brook SUNY Buffalo CUNY Queens University of Delaware Cornell University Cornell University St. John's University Fordham University · Hofstra University University of Michigan SUNY Albany Cornell University NYU Rutgers University Univ. of Pennsylvania Northeastern University St. John's University Fordham University CUNY Queens SUNY Binghamton

NYU

Christina Gochna Daniel Gold Evelyn Gong Matthew Gottlieb Sara Gross Aaron Grossman Jessica Guijarro Danielle Hammett-Cohen Warren Hargett Helen Haritos Althea Harvey Gina Hayes Jeannemarie Hendershot Delima Hernandez TimothyHo Melissa Hogan Emily Homier Bryan Howell Elena Hyman Eleanor Hynes Hedy Iankelvich Janelle Iglesias Samlm Sandi Intraub Ashika Jain Amber Johnson Rena Joseph Georgia Kalamotousakis Lesley Kaminitzer Helen Kaporis Nick Kavallieratos Samantha Kelly Scott Kent Carolle Kim Han )o Kim Hellen Kim Paul Kim Raul Kim Heather King Laura Kong Jason Koo Adrian Kulpa Lina Larri Chrsitine Lee Hae Jin Lee Selina Lee Brian Levine Stephanie Levine Eleanor Levy Helen Lim Dara Lipsman Marina Lyaunzon Kimberly Lydtin Ronina Lyons Helen Maliagros Abby Manishor Mohamed Mansour JohnPaul Manzolillo ·Mike Marchione Melissa McCarthy Birsen Memet Jose Melgar David Mizrachi Robert Mohamadeen Jennifer Molina Christine Murphy Tracee Ng Keith Noroff Enyinna Nwachuku Karen Oh Mahany Ortiz Priscilla Paez Marlon Palache Natalka Palczynski Sofia Panagiotakis Maria Panayiotou Alexia Pantelides Hana Park Kimberly Parrett Nina Pascal Neeral Patel Pratik Patel Tara Paterson Jeraida Perez Romina Perrone

Art Inst. of Philadelphia SUNY Binghamton Univ. of Pennsylvania SUNY Binghamton SUNY Binghamton Boston University University of Maine Hampshire College Florida A&M .

St. ,John's University NYU SUNY Buffalo Loyola of Maryland . SUNY Stony Brook Univ. of Calif. -Davis Boston University · Manhattan College Univ. of Fla. - Gainesville SUNY Binghamton SUNY Stony Brook University of Delaware Emory University SUNY Buffalo Brandeis University Brandeis University SUNY Stony Brook SUNY $tony Brook NYU University of Delaware Fordham University Boston University Pace University Delaware Valley College NYU University of Michigan Smith College NYU CUNY Baruch George Washington Univ.

SUNY Albany CUNY Queens SUNY Stony Brook NYU St. John's University NYU Cornell University SUNY Albany Smith College Washington University York College Suffolk University NYU St. John's University University of Maryland NYU Boston University SUNY Stony Brook Pace University SUNY Albany Marist College CUNY Baruch St. John's University NYU St. John's University St. John's University American University Brandeis University Univ of Mass. - Amherst SUNY Stony Brook Cooper Union NY In st. of Technology Polytechnic University SUNY Stony Brook NYU NYU NYU St. John's University CUNY Queens .

NYU Art Institute of Boston SUNY Stony Brook CUNY Queens Gettysburg University CUNY John Jay Rutgers University

Alicia Pollard Pauline Poon Deeangelee Pooran Phillip Porzio Jason Postelnik Sungsook Pyo Mohammed Quaizar Annie Quinones Shanti Radkar Runa Rajagopel Victoria Realmuto Catherine Redkin Joseph Regen Rachelle Reyes Lara Rios Naira Robles Margarita Rodriguez Stephen Roxland Lorry Rozman Kate Rube Yvette Sanchez Rachel Sandweiss Lauren Saposnick Claire Schnabel Adam Schoenfield Lia Schofield Stephen Schuh Stacy' Shanahan Liron Shapir Orli Sharaby Maureen Sheen Kimberly Sheldon Bijal Sheth Susanne Shivickas Sarah Sidar Jennifer Silverman Justine Sinkler Johnny Skumpija Michelle Sokolowski MoahSon Steve Spanolios Rachel Sperling Sharifya St. Hill Peter Stampfel Nikisha Steele Nicole Strippoli Ilissa Strolovitz Linda Sulsona Shawn Sweeney YongTaing Amanda Teitler Jacqueline Thomas NormaTineo Jamie Tong Meredith Topper Michael Tramantiny Jennifer Tramonte Steven Trilivas Maria Triolo Joann Tsempelis Bobby Tsioutas Tamika Turner Jon Vafiades Gordana Vasic Helen Vasilopoulos Limevis Vidal Michelle Villagomez Hope Villella Geraldine Vinci Joanna Wasserman Bethany Waugh Courtney Weiser Michael Weiss DaynaWhite Jessie Wiener Andre Williams Michelle Wolman Henry Wong Kevin Woo David Worth Juan Yanez Helen Zorbas Erika Zwetkow

Hofstra University NYU Washington Universtiy SUNY Binghamton Rutgers University St. John's University SUNY Stony Brook Marymount College St. John's University SUNY Geneseo SUNY Binghamton McGill University Washington University Fordham University Yale University Hofstra University Paqe University SUNY Binghamton SUNY Oneonta University of Virginia NYU Vas.sar SUNY Stony Brook Boston College Cornell University · SUNY Buffalo SUNY Albany St. John's University Washington University Brown University NYU SUNY Binghamton St. John's University CUNY Baruch SUNY Buffalo SUNY Buffalo Pace University NYU CUNY Hunter NYU SUNY Stony Brook Smith College Morgan State University Polytechnic University SUNY Stony Brook SUNY Albany SUNY Albany Farleigh Dickinson Univ.

CUNY Hunter NYU Cornell University SUNY New Paltz CUNY Queens NYU Cornell University NYU Hofstra University Webb Institute Penn State University CUNY Baruch Boston University NYU NYU SUNY Binghamton St. John's University Fordham University St. John's University Boston College "' SUNY Oneonta Polytechnic University Vassar · SUNY Buffalo Dartmouth SUNY Albany SUNY New Paltz University of Virginia Wesleyan Columbia University LIU-Southhampton SUNY Buffalo CUNY Hunter Fordham University James Madison Univ.

1-1 Early applicants fare -better in college process The Classic June 1998

by Aliza Nadi If the early bird of the college admissions process gets the worm, then Early Decision applicants may have an edge over those in the regular applicant pool in hooking the college of their choice.

Students apply early to their top choice schools in order to gain a presumed: advantage. Colleges deny that students get an edge; however, in 1995, Princeton University's acceptance rate was 38% for the early pool and 8% for the regular pool. In 1996, the University of Pennsylvania's early acceptance rate was 43%, which is 20% more than it accepts from its regular pool. Applicants who apply through regular admissions receive the results by April, whereas, early applicants know by December.

The two ways to apply early to college are early action and early decision. Both plans typically require students to apply to their first choice college by November 15 and applicants usually receive' responses by, December 15. Early decision, otherwise known as binding early admission, requires students to attend the school once selected.

Early action is non-binding and students have until May 1 to accept or deny the offer. Another version of early decision which is also binding is early decision 2. It has a later application deadline (although still earlier than the regualr admissions deadline), so students have more time to decide whether or not the

school is for them.

Many distinguished universities have chosen a large percentage of their 1998 freshman class through early decision and early action. According to the December 27, 1997 issue of The New York

of Chicago. Students' options are widened when applying through early action. Since students are not obligated to accept or deny the offers of admission until receiving other college responses in the spring, they have the op-

The Classic asked 143 seniors, if they had a first choice college.

71 째/o answered yes.

Out of those that had a first choice school, 20째/o said they had applied early.

Out 'of those that applied early, 76o/o said they were accepted.

Times, Harvard University has accepted more than 50% of its class early; Columbia: 45%: Dartmouth and Yale: 35%, and University of Virginia: more than 30%. For the Class of 1996, Columbia had only chosen 33% of its freshman class early and only 18% ofYale' s freshman class was chosen early from the Class of 1995. , Colleges must choose whether or not to have early action or early decison plans; they don't use both. There are 134 colleges with early action -plans; these include-Harvard, Brown, and University

portunity to compare financial aid pack" ages and weigh other factors. However, early action encourages students to ponder their decision before the May 1 commitment date. , There are 230 colleges with early decision plans including Cornell and Dartmouth. Yale, Princeton, and Stanford switched from the early action plan to the early decision program because many students who were accepted did not attend. Through early decision, they are guaranteed a specific number of students.

Twenty-three of the 44 seniors who applied early to college were accepted from Townsend Harris' Class of 1998.

Townsend Harris'largest early applicant pool was in 1996. College advisor Marilyn Blier says,"[Early action and decision] works for students who are well motivated to start early."

Some students feel that applying early reduces the stress of senior year.

Accepted to Brandeis University, Sandi Intraub sajd, "There is much ,less pressure on me now, and I am relieved it is over." Sandi was positive Brandeis was the place for her and that is what made applying early - decision less overwhelmi-ng. If a student is not accepted early they are generally not rejected but deferr~d meaning that the college admission Deans will view the early application with the regular pooL Some students knew from the start that they weren't applying early. I didn't want to have the ultimatum of going early," said D' Angelee Pooran. Taking the early decision route leaves no room for doubt about your first choice college.

"Applying early is really for students who fall in love with [a particular] school," said Ms. Blier. Sandi said, "I wouldn't recommend [early decision] unless you're totally sure and the key to being sure if a certain college is for you is when you know you wouldn't want -to spend the next four years of your life anywhenH!lse."

SATs increase in importance, stir contrOversy

by Maggie Yuan Although the College Board has administered the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) for nearly 80 years as an indicator of students' overall abilities and preparation for college, some students, parents, and college officials question the merit of the test.

According ta Eugene E. Garcia, dean of the Graduate School of Education at the University of California at Berkeley, who recently wrote a New York Times article on the matter, SAT scores are "at best ... 25 percent accurate when it comes to predicting the variation in first-year college grades. Also, they have not been shown to predict whether someone will graduate from college." He points out that scores correlate highly with parents' income and education level, not with students' college success.

Created by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the SAT was developed in 1927 as a way for colleges to objectively compare students' academic performance. The test is meant to indicate how well - one will do with college-level work by testing one's p~rformance on specific mathematical. and verbal skills. "Colleges need a uniform test in' order to compare students' academic abilities, and they think the SAT is a good indi, cator," said college counselor Marilyn Blier. "Because our country does not have a national curriculum as a way of

judging students' abilities, colleges look to the SAT, with its national percentile ratings, as a way to guage student potential," she said.

However, some students don'tagree that the SAT is a fair way of evaluating the overall academic performance. Jun-

search, women in general score 45 points lower th~n men, but they have higher first-year college grades. The university also researphed the causes of its poor record in attracting Latino students, and concluded that the percentage of Latino and Africa-American high

said Ms. Blier. "There are scores that certain colleges are looking for." For example, she noted that NYU is now looking for scores close to or above 1300 and Ivy League schools are looking for scores in the 1400 range.

According to the College Board, students who take prep courses _earn higher scores on the SAT. "The whole process of SATs is becoming too 55% of the 143 seniors we surveyed said they took an SAT course. commercialized," said junior Sara _Yun. "It's turning into a race to see % that took it Course % that said it was worth it who can invest more money into a three-hour test."

Princeton Review 32% 76% Two of the best known nationwide test preparation centers are Kaplan and Princeton Review. JunKaplan 24% 47% ior Nicole Zuchelli said, "I went up I by taking Princeton Review. It proTownsend Harris vides structure for studying for the 25% 26% SAT." Junior Julia Kohen, who took course Kaplan said, "Kaplan has goocl, techniques so you can beat the SAT. You other 18% 50% become familiar with the test, so when the time comes to take_ it, you i won't get nervous and panic." JunOut of the 45% that didn't take an SAT course, I ior Monika Singh who took the 23% said they regret not having taken one. course run by School for Student I Advancement which is offered at ior Lisa Schapira says, "The SAT shows school graduates in California eligible Townsend Harris said, "This course may how well people take standardized tests, for admission would double if the SATs be cheaper bt!_t it is worth paying more not whether they will be successful in were eliminated. for a better prep course like Princeton Despite these criticisms of the test, Review or Kaplan." Junior Jennifer life." Junior Scott Stein agreed "A single test can't demonstrate how hard the stu- the SATs continue to play a large role DiNubila, who did not take a prep dents work," he said. in the college a<;lmissions process. "The course, says, "Prep courses really don't Statistics published by the University _ SAT seemed to have more importance help because you can learn all there's to of California show SAT scores have this year for judging admission than ever know from a SAT prep book." Someostutheir limitations. According to this re- before. That's the view from my hat," Continued on page 12

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Continued from page 11 for the SAT over the summer would be ethnic background, legacy (having rela- applies to), and many other things all dents think it doesn't matter which a good idea if you plan to take the test tives who have gone to the school one have an impact on the college process. course. one takes. Junior Sabrina Chin in October," says, "Any course can help as long as While the SATs are you work hard on your own and take important , other factors time to do the materials they provide." come into play with colMs. Blier stresses the importance of lege admission. High preparing for the test. 'It's more impor- school grades, work ex- · We as'ked the above question to the graduating seniQrs.• and these were the most tant than it used to be. It's worth put- perience, application espopular responses: ting in time and effort to make your · says, leadership qualities, -Applied for more scholarships! scores the best they can be .... Studying admissions interviews,

What about the college appUcati·on process would you have done differently?

We asked 143 seniors what they thought was their most impressive ·credential.

-Given more time to writing my essays.

-Thought ·more realistically about the affordability of certain colleges.

-Mayi>e applied to another school early.

-Visited more schools.

-I would have applied to fewer schools, only ones I really wanted to go to, with a safety school and a school I could afford regardless of financial aid.

-Applied to more schools.

-Applied to fewer colleges. .

-Taken SAT lls earlcier, research scholarships over the summer...

-I wouldn't have been part ofit. College is a business, nof an educational institution.

-I would have worked harder senior year.

-Getting ••Away We Go'' (Ms. Blier's pamphlet) bef<Ore June of Junior year.

-I would not have appHed to so many colleges for the sake of being accepted. ·I would have started in the summer instead of stressing out at the last minute.

-I would have researched the colleges MORE before applying.

-Would have started writing essays in the summer ! !

-Taken SAT again + applied to more schools.

-Applied to Ivy's. I didn't because I thought non-Ivy's would give me more money. They didn't.

-Taken SAT lis earlier.

-I wouldn't have gotten as stressed out about it as 1 did because everything works out in the end. Also, I would have used the common application, it lessens the amount of work you have to do.

-Applied early to my :ftrst choice instead of the school my parents wanted me to.

Studies blame schools for sleep deprivation

by Christina Lesica school." The Journal of the American In two minutes, a tenth grader was Medical Association noted that, "the out cold and snoring. A ninth grade stu- amount of sleep students got was redent fell asleep in five minutes. These flected in their grades." Students who results come from a study conducted by received A's and B 's went to sleep an Professor Amy Wolfson from the Col- average of 35 minutes earlier per day lege of the Holy Cross in Worcester, on both weeknights and weekends comMassachusetts. When the ninth and pru:ed to those who got D's and F's. tenth graders were asked to try to fall Sleepless in Townsend Harris? asleep during the day, it took 9.5 minA survey conducted in Townsend utes and 8.4 minutes, respectively, on Harris of 240 students reported that most average .. That was faster than the. I5 to students (2IO) did not get 9.5 hours of 20 minutes it takes most people to fall sleep, even though I86 knew that 8-9 asleep, showing that teenagers are sleep hours were recommended. The most deprived. commo"n amount of sleep on a In a study of 3, I20 students from I3 schoolnight was 6-7 hours (143), and to I9 years of age, the mean amount of then 4-5 hours (57). sleep was 7.3 hours. Twenty-six perThe Harrisite results are similar to cent slept for 6.5 hours according to this those from a survey given in late I997 study by Dr. Wolfson and Mary and early I998 by the National Sleep Carskadon at Brown University in Foundation, a non-profit organization Providence, Rhode Island. They con- based in Washington that supports recluded that 85% of the students were search and education. Most of the I027 chronically sleep-deprived. Americans, adults- surveyed slept.for seven hours, on average, accumulate a sleep debt of while almost one-third received six 500 hours a year; according to Dr. hours or less during the work week.

Stanley Coren, a neuropsychologist at Before technology brought television the University of British Columbia. and the Internet into homes, the averLack of enough sleep can decrease alert- , age adult slept nine hours every night. ness and productivity~ hurt motor skills, Studies have shown that when people creating delayed reactions and poor co- are allowed to sleep as much as they ordination; and decrease mental capac- want and do not see what the time is, ity. they sleep I0.3 hours a day, the same According to Professor Carskadon, amount that monkeys and apes sleep.

"Teens should get about 9.2 hours of Reasons Harrisites gave for staying sleep every night in order to do well in up late ranged from finishing homework

and collaterals (I 55), the most popular it as an everyday occurrence.

"There nave been many times when excuse, to just not feeling like going to bed, the second most common excuse I have fallen asleep and have woken up with 92 people. Other reasons included to an empty classroom: my classmates 8I students going out at night, 65 watch- did not bother to wake me up," wrote a ing the late night shows, and 5 students female junior. tallking on the phone.

According to the National Sleep Since 9.5 hours may be difficult to Foundation, "Boredom doesn't cause get, Dr. Carskadon suggests students sleepiness; it merely unmasks it." Feeltake an afternoon nap. By sleeping ing sleepy when you are bored, sitting more, "they'll feel better in class, find in a warm or dark room, trying to read, studying easier, and be more alert and or to listen to a concert or lecture are productive," she said. "Because I'm so signs of sleep deprivation. exhausted after school, I have no choice Though 27 of the surveyed Harrisites but to take a nap. Then I'm awake at use nothing to stay up, 69 students and night," wrote one female junior in the faculty members drink coffee, 67 drink survey. soda, 62 drink anything with caffeine, Harrisites' most common complaints 59 eat anything with sugar, and 47 eat associated with little sleep include dif- chocolate in attempting to stay awake ficulty concentrating (180 students), late. Eighty-nine students defined"stayfeeling weak ( II5), feeling grouchy ing up late as I2:00 to I :00 AM and 89 (97), and suffering from headaches (95). more considered 2:00 to 3:00 as a late One male senior wrote about "hearing bedtime. Thirteen students each said voices," while a sophomore girl said, I 0:00 to II :00 and not going to beo at "My brain feels like it's shrinking and all was late to them. then my heart hurts."

Schools have been identified as part Little sleep can lead to falling asleep of the cause of teen sleep-deprivation. in class. Though 48 Harris students said In the fall of I95)6, high schools in they never fall asleep in . class, 63 ad- Edina, Minnesota, decided to start the mitted to sleeping or almost sleeping in school day later, at I0:30 A.M., so that class more than three times. The aver- · students could sleep more. The Minneage number was five times. A total of sota Medical Association (MMA) noted I92 students admitted to sleeping or that "puberty resets the internal biologibeing very near it at least once. Out of cal clock, prompting teenagers to go to the I99 students who said they have seen bed later and to need to sleep later than other students sleep in class, 47 reported Continued on page 13

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Krasner combats political apathy among youth

by Hope Villella. schools where Dr. Krasner says students In a society in which the public has were excited about the project, explaincome to believe that it has no influence ing that as long as there is a basic strucin politics, Queens College political sci- ture in the school, freedom within the ence professor Michael Krasner is bat- structure is a successful tool for learntling the general current in an effort to ing. "I think [this freedom] releases teach students that their opinions can have an impact on American politics.

Dr. Krasner, the co-director of the Taft Institute, an organization dedicated to promoting political activity among America's youth, was responsible for suggesting the idea of a mock election simulation as a means for Harris' senior Participatory Democracy classes to actively lear~'~; about the political process. In September of 1996 the program was successfully piloted in the form of a presidential election simulation. The third such s_imulation Queens College Professor Michael Krasner often teaches Townsend Harris students in his will take place next fall for the gu- introductory classes. bernatorial election.

A survey which was done of partici- people's best energies. As long as the pants showed mixed results about the task isn't impossible I think you'll get effectiveness of the simulation. It indi- great results," he said.

"When you're 18 you don't automaticated that the project had increased students' knowledge about the government, cally become a good citizen; you must but it was inconclusive in determining be trained," Dr. Krasner said."Our main if students had a more positive attitude strategy is to get people when they're young." toward politics. · The simulation, though new to Di'. KI:,asner attributes voter apathy to Townsend Harris, was not Dr. Krasner's various political conditions. He says first experience with hands-on learning. thatbesides the fact that young people After becoming co-director of the Taft aren't taught to be good citizens, the Institute, which was founded in 1961 to . complicated process of registering to honor the memory of Republican sena- vote, and the poor behavior of politicians tor Robert Taft of Ohio, when its na- turn people off from politics. Primarily, tional headquarters were transferred to however, he ·sees the reason for voter Queens College in 1996, Dr. Krasner, apathy as a general alienation - a feelalong with his co-director Jack Zevin, ing of individuals that their opinions the chairman of Queens College's edu- make no difference in American polication department, led the Taft .tics.

Institute's mission to inspire political Dr. Krasner's concerns about this isparticipation in America's youth. The sue extend particularly to his students Institute holds seminars for elementary at Queens College as well as to all stuand secondary school teachers in the dents throughout the City University of hopes that by getting teachers excited New York (CUNY). Recently the about politics and by showing them how remediation programs for students at to be creative in teaching <it, their stu- CUNY who could not pass all three dents will become 'involved in the po- CUNY Assessment tests have come unlitical process. It is a non-profit organi- der attack by both Mayor Rudy Giuliani zation which raises money to promote and Governor George Pataki, causing the cause of political involvement.

CUNY's Board of Trustees to vote for a Adapted versions of the simulation . ban on remedial courses in all four-year have also been implemented in New CUNY institutions.- Though the resoluYork City elementary and intermediate . tion at first failed, a vote on May 26

enacted the ban for the coming school year. "I saw the headline when I was driving down [the day after the resolution was passed]," said Dr. Krasner, "and I sort of felt like I was kicked in the stomach."

Dr. Krasner feels that the passage of this resolution by the Board members, who are primarily selected by the gov. ernor and the mayor, was a "purely political step which makes nosense in educational terms." He explained that the first colleges to. have to implement these changes (of which Queens is one), will only have a month to do so, and that there is no plan for the students who · need remediation and will no longer be accepted into the four-year universities.

- The suggestions, he said, that they be - sent to the community colleges or to private tutoring programs are not viable options because the community colleges don't have the resources to deal with such a high influx of students and the private organizations simply don't exist. He explained that if students and their families had protested more, the politicians, in fear of being voted out of office, might have backed off from passing the ban.

Dr. Krasner believes that the ban is simply an attempt by the mayor and the governor to downsize CUNY because "they don't like anything in the public sector," and their supporters generally favor the private sector. He says that

"5. whyyou

Sources: Brody, Jane E. "Facing Up to the Realities of Sleep Deprivation." The New York Times. 31 March 1998:F7. • Brown, Jordan. ''Snoozzze news." 3-2-1 Contact. June 1996: 20 Hodle, Sharon Fangohr. "Tired? Instant energy boosters." Teen Magazine. July 1995:39.

Lamberg, Lynne. "Some Schools Agree to Let Sleeping Teens Lie." Journal of American Medical Association. 18 September 1996:859.

Martin, Cate. "Dozing at your desk?;.."

Science World. 8 March 1996:11.

"Not learning? Sleep in." Industry Week.

4 December 1995: 19.

"Teenagers in high school need proper amount of sleep to excel in school..." Jet. 10 February 1997: 12.

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Junior Xiao Lin Wu says, "Schools should be more sensitive to the sleeping needs of the students, but students shouldn't take advantage oftheir time in school to sleep because teachers notice. Yesterday, my Latin teacher said she noticed that the boy sleeping in class the day before was actually awake today" "If the school did not give so much work and if they weren't so inconsiderate to our needs, the world would be a better rested place," said sophomore Shirin Aboujawade. Agreeing, one junior girl "Xak Zombo," wrote, "As I fill this survey out, I am ready to fall · asleep."

there is a false perception that minorities have taken over the CUNY system and that the mayor and governor are appealing to the white working class which feels that they should be tough with minorities. Also, he feels the mayor and the governor aren't concerned with a backlash because though one-third of CUNY students are members of minority groups, they vote in very low numbers and therefore do not have the ability to change the outcome of the elections.

Dr. Krasner says that the plan is basically an excuse for taking away resources. By lowering the headcount; less money will be allocated to CUNY, forcing the layoff of professors, which means that fewer courses will be offered and students will have to go elsewhere to get the courses which they need. He believes that ending the CUNY system's 35-year tradition of open admissions will ruin the chances of students who were formerly able to take remedial classes to bring them up to college standards.

Even though Dr. Krasner travels from Vermont to teach at Queens College, he · does not entertain thoughts of leaving.

He explains that the diversity of the college, the freedom to teach the curriculum in his own way, the talented faculty and the fact that it is a public university are all attractive reasons that keep him , teaching at Queens College.

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The Classic June 1998

Secular Bible studies straddle church I state realms

by Jeannemarie Hendershot Noah's ark, David and Goliath, the crucifixion of Jesus Christ _- no, this is not the lesson plan for this week's Sunday school class. These are among the stories that can be found in nearly every syllabus for Bible history and literature classes across the nation. Arguably one of the most influential texts ever written and certainly the best selling book every year, the Bible has been a part of the senior Humanities seminar since the reestablishment of Townsend Harris in 1984. Recently, the historic writings have been the subject of heated debate and lawsuit in the Lee County school district of Florida.

This case has attracted national attention because many people fear that the line separating church and state has become thinner, and in some cases, indistinguishable. Many parents have res_ervations about their children reading the literature of a religion that may not be their own. For these reasons, educators hesitate to delve into any piece of art or literature with religious content because such action has become synonymous with lawsuits.

Controversy in Florida \ Bible History, an elective course created for eight high schools in Florida's Lee County last March, has been surrounded by legal battles between parents, civil liberties groups, and religious leaders. Opponents of the course argued that it was difficult to teach the Bible as secular history and claimed that teachers would be promoting religion in their discussions. The course originally included study of both Old and New Testament scripture, but a judge ruled in January that only the Old Testament would be permitted as material for the class, based on the reasoning that it would be difficult to portray events such as the resurrection of Jesus Christ as history. Even with this material excluded, ~he judge ordered placement of surveillance cameras in all of the Bible History classes to ensure that teachers of the course were not violating separation of church and state. These cameras, according to teachers and students in Lee county, hamper any type of free flowing discussion, and create a sense of uneasiness among students and teachers. For example, students who choose to read on in their Bibles and come across stories such as the one of Cain and Abel, which i~ not in the syllabus, cannot have their questions answered or explained because that story is related to creation and teachers might be accused of imposing values.

Church/State Separation Issues Religious controversy in the classroom is not new. Adherents of a literal interpretation of the Bible were infuriated when Charles Darwin's theory of evolution was introduced in classrooms in the 1930's because they saw it as challenging the way creation was described in the book of Genesis. Since scientists have come to the consensus that Darwin's theory is basically correct, many members of the religious right

have been vying for equal time. Cur- tors in the Southern Bible Belt use they had entered their college or univerrently, some communities and politi- courses such as the Bible History one sity. Famous literary critic Northrop cians are trying to find a legal way of offered in Lee County as a mode of Frye once wrote, "The student of Enbringing religion into the classroom. bringing religion into the schools, un- glish literature who does not know the Among the means on their agenda is like here, where the intentions are to Bible does not understand a good deal allowing prayer in schools. Most re- present the material as history and lit- of what is going on in what he reads; cently, a teacher in the Bronx was fired erature in the most objective way pos- the most conscientious student will be for preaching her beliefs to her students. sible. Principal Malcolm Largmann continually misconstruing the implicaAll of these issues have made the credits the difference in agenda to the tions, even the me"aning .... The Bible is public wary of having the Bible fact that "some communities have very clearly a major element in our own strong religious imaginative tradition, whatever we may read and discussed in school. commitments." think we believe about it."

In order to teach their con~ troversial class, the Lee Books I As for those who resist study of scripCounty instructors wen~ re~and II of tures, Ms. Blechman said she finds that quired to take a 30-hour Samuel and after the initial introduction, they repre~ - the Gospel ac- sent only a small percentage of the stutraining course. The original curriculum, cording to Mat-_ dents. Many of the problems faced in which included the thew are studied Lee county arose because, as Dr. New Testament, was z by all Humanities Largmann said, "There are many Fundrafted by a non- ~ classes, with the oc- damentalists who see the Bible as the profit organization casional addition of direct word of God, too holy and sacred called the NaPsalms. "The books of to be discussed."

2 ' Samud and the Go•pel of _ . tional Council While special training for the teachI on Bible CurMatthew were the chosen ers in Florida was required for instructpieces to read because they ing the Bible class, Dr. Largmann finds riculum, which give some historical back- that such preparation is not necessary works with many school districts to create course work that does not over- ground and a sense of the language and because he has full trust in the teachers .step any legal boundaries. At Vanderbilt the way the stories unfold," said Dr. _ here. "I also have full trust in the stuUniversity in Nashville, Tennessee, Largmann. "Make no mistake, the study dents to understand where it is coming there is a First Amendment Center dedi- of the Bible here is intended to be purely from," he said. Ms. Miehlewitz added cated to training public school educa- literary and historical." that "our students are able to handle the ~ tors to teach religion within constituHowever, this concept of examining intellectual, historical, and literary value the Bible as literature is new to most stu- of the Bible." tional guidelines.

What exactly are these thin lines that - dents and causes some initial discomStudents had mixed reactions after schools must not cross? In July, 1995, fort to some. "I have always faced re- discussing Bible selections with their President Clinton released a memoran- sistance when I introduce the Bible in classmates. "I benefitted from reading dum on Religion in Schools, which Humanities, not from the parents, but it; it has such a great effect on mankind, sought to clarify this much- asked ques- from the students," said English teacher but [the discussions] were totally Harriette Blechman, "probably because unobjective. People were getting oftion.

"Public schools may not provide re- it is very hard to get atound the religious fended and making vicious attacks on ligious instruction, but they may teach association." Many complaints arise, ac- one another," sa id sen ior Jason about religion, including the Bible or cording to Ms. Blechman, when non- Postelnik. Senior Julie Block did not other scripture: the history of religion, Christian students are asked to read the encounter the sa'?e atmosphere in her comparative religion, the Bible (or other New Testament. "You are allowed to class. " I didn't find that anyone was scripture) as literature, and the role of read the New Testament if you're not taking offense to the discussions. I religion in the history Of the United Christian," she said. Dr. Largmann didn't. I'm Jewish and reading about States and other countries all are per- agreed. "How can you live in the United Jesus didn't offend me at all ... My class missible public school subjects," he said. States, in the 21st century, and not know mostly talked about the plots and the The course in Lee County, renamed the story of Jesus' life? It is all around characters, n5t the religious aspect," she Introduction to the Bible ("History of you; you absorb it -just as you don't said.

Many students came into the discusthe Bible" might imply that it was defi- -have to be Jewish to know that Passover nite truth), adheres to the guidelines is a holiday." Beside the gain in literary sions never having read the Bible begiven by the President. As a result of the knowledge, English teacher Debra fore. "I'm not Christian, so I_ was unfalawsuits, further requirements were Michlewitz sees this as "an excellent miliar with the Bible," said senior Henry made of students opting to take the Bible exercise in understanding differences in Wong, "but I took it as a historical docucourse. A supplementary course in ei- point of view; I think it's great that stu- ment, and I discovered the Bible as a ther world history or comparative reli- dents share each others' understanding source of knowledge, not religion. The only part I disagreed with was when gion is now mandated to help students of religion,'' s.he added. people brought their own religions into distinguish the Bible as only one posWhy we study the Bible sible view of history.

But studying the Bible is not purely the discussion. It's not that it is offento expose people to what they may or -sive, but it creates uneasiness. In the real The Bible at Townsend Harris For the past 14 years, seniors here at may not believe. According to Dr. world, speaking about religion in pubTownsend Harris have dealt with the Largmann, "If you really want to read lic is not really kosher."

Bible in their studies of Western thought Western literature, you have to know through the Humanities seminar, a references from the Bible." In the HuSources: course co-taught by a Queens College manities seminar alone, students enNavarro, Mireya. "Florida Case Highlights professor and a Harris Humanities counter Biblical references in other Conflicts on Use of the Bible as a teacher. The syllabus, which was 'devel- readings such as the poetry of John Textbook." New York Times. 1998 Feb oped by former Queens College liaison Donne and William Butler Yeats and in 17. Al, late ed.

Dr. Robert Haan and a group of teach- Dostoyevsky's "The Grand Inquisitor." Wachlin, Marie Goughnour. "The Bible: Why We Need to Teach It; How Some ers from the Humanities department, has "My sense is that to be a well-educated, Do." English Journal. 1998 March never been faced with legal challenges articulate, scholarly person-, you have to like that experienced in Florida. At read the Bible," said Ms. Michlewitz. A "Dispute on Bible Course is Settled." New York Times. 1998 Feb 27. A20, late ed.

Townsend Harris, a scrupulous distinc- national survey of college English teach"Text of President Clinton's Memorandum tion is maintained between the Bible as ers found that the Bible was the one on Religion in Schools." New York a literary and historical work, and are- book nearly all mentioned as something Times.l995 July 13. ligious work. In contrast, some educa- they wished students had read before

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The Classic guide to summer entertainment byAlanFu From a meteor bringing Armageddon to the movie screen to the return of the Beastie Boys to the music scene to the re-launch of Lilith Fair, there's more .than enough entertainment to occupy your time this summer.

MOVIES NA =Action/Adventure C =Comedy D =Drama F= Family HIS = Horror/Suspense S/F = Science Fiction/Fantasy June 26: Baby Geniuses (C); Buffalo 66 (D); Cousin Bette (C); Doctor Dolittle (C); Gone With The Wind (D); Out of Sight (N A); Smoke Signals (D).

July 1: Armageddon (NA).

July 3: Talk of Angels (D).

July 10: The Governess (D); How Stella Got Her Groove Back (D); Lethal Weapon 4 (NA); Small Soldiers (NA).

July 17: 54 (D); TheMask ofZorro (A/A); Polish Wedding (C); There's Something About Mary (C).

July 19: Madeline (F).

July 22: My Favorite Maitian (C).

July 24: Saving Private Ryan (D); What Dreams May Come (S/F).

July 29: The Parent Trap (C).

July 31: BASEketball (C); Dance With Me (D); Dead Man on Campus (C); Ever After: A Cinderella Story (D); The

Thirteenth Warrior: Eaters of the Dead (NA).

August 7: Blade (NA); The Negotiator (D); Payback(NA); Snake Eyes (NA).

August 14: The Avengers (A/A); Force ,Majeure (D); Jane Austen's Mafia (C); Rushmore (C); Virus (NA).

August 21: Disturbing Behavior (HI S); Wrongfully Accused (C).

MUSIC June 30: 12 Rounds, My Big Hero; ; Cowboy Junkies, Miles from Our Home; N'Dea Davenport, N'Dea Davenport; Def Squad, The Album; Imajin, Imajin; M.O.P., First Family 4 Life; Maxwell, Embrya; Rancid, Life Won't Wait; Soundtracks: Armageddon, Dance With Me. July 7: Barenaked Ladies, Stunt; Big Daddy Kane, VeteranzDay; Cleopatra, Comin 'Atcha!; Lucinda Williams, Car Wheels On A Gravel Road; Soundtrack: The Avengers.

July 14: A Tribe Called Quest, The Love Movement; Beastie Boys, Hello Nasty; Color Me Badd, Awakenings; Counting Crows, Across A Wire - Live in New York; Des'ree, Supernatural; Fat Joe, Don Cartagena; Primus, Rhinoplasty; Vanessa Mae, Storm; Voodoo Glow Skulls, Band Geek Mafia; Soundtrack: BASKEketball. " July 21: JD (Jermaine Dupree), Life

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Don.'t settle for less than you're worth~ favor of a money-driven, get-mine, survival of the richest.

Something's got to give. We need people who are driven by values and not valuations,. dreams, not dollars, ideas, not interest rates. We need people who care about how we live, how we treat .e.ach other, howwe tune our · moral compass. We need inspired and inspiring people Who have the minds and hearts to lead us into · the next century..

Leaders need mO<jels, and we ur society n.ow bristles believe that the college experi·· from its own superheated rhetoric, and as ence ought to be one of those models. A good college should a nation we seem to have turned the dock back on what be a realcommunity, it should stand for something, should have used to be fundamental American real values. It should teach you values ofequal opportunity and abouttruth and beauty, kindness fairness, a love of truth and excel- · and respect; Cc_?peration and lence, and community cohesion in

The future is not what · it used to be. Our economy no longer holds the promise of long-term job security.

Our culture is now fragmented by racism, sexism, poverty, violence, and intolerance.

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in 1492; Mark Lanegan, Scraps at Midnight; Gerald Levert, Love & Consequences; Rasputina, How We Quit The Forest; Soundtracks: The Parent Trap, The Wedding Singer II. July 28: 12 Rods, Split Personalities; Adam Cohen, Vague Assumption; MC Lyte, Seven and Seven; N-Tyee, All Day Every Day; Luther Vandross, I Know; Soundtrack: Snake Eyes.

Tentatively scheduled for August release are new albums from Squirrel Nut Zippers, KoRn, Merrill Bainbridge, and Dish walla.

CONCERTS /TOURS Lilith Fair (feat. Sarah McLachlan, Paula Cole, Bonnie Raitt, Erykah Badu, Missy "Misdemeanor" Elliott, Queen Latifah, Natalie Merchant, et al.): July 10, Finger Lakes Performing Arts Center (Rochester, NY); July 12, Saratoga Performing Arts Center (Saratoga Springs, NY); July 15-16, Jones Beach Amphitheatre (Wantagh, NY); July 17, Blockbuster Pavillion (Camden, NJ).

H.O.R.D.E. Festival (feat. Blues Traveler, Ben Harper, Barenaked La,dies, Smashing Pumpkins, Paula Cole, Fastball, Marcy Playground, et al. ): July 26, Finger Lakes Performing Arts Center (Rochester, NY); July 31, P.N.C. Bank Arts Center (Holmdel, NY); Aug. 2, Saratoga Performing Arts Center (Saratoga Springs, NY); Aug. 5, Jones

Beach Amphitheatre (Wantagh, NY).

House of Blues Smokin' Grooves Tour (feat. Public Enemy, Cypress Hill, Busta Rhymes, Wyclef Jean, the Refugee All-Stars, et al.): July 26, P.N.C .

Bank Arts Center (Holmdel, NY).

The Vans Warped Tour (feat. Rancid, NOFX, Bad Religion, Save Ferris, et al.): July 28, Le Bois Park (Buffalo, NY); Aug. 1, Randall's Island (New York, NY); Aug. 2, Stone Pony Lot (Asbury Park, NJ).

Other acts include: Spice Girls: June 29, Jones Beach Amphitheatre (Wantagh, NY); July 1, Madison Square Garden (New York, NY).

Tori Amos: July 28, Madison Square Garden (New York, NY).

Celine Dion: Aug. 30, Continental Arena (E. Rutherford, NJ); Aug. 31, Nassau Coliseum (Uniondale, NY); Sept. 3-4, Madison Square Garden (New York, NY) . .

Backstreet Boys: July 17, Radio City Music Hall (New York, NY); Aug. 27, Nassau Coliseum (Uniondale, NY); Aug. 29, Continental Arena (E. Rutherford, NJ); Sept. 2, Nassau Coliseum.

Prodigy: June 29-30, Hammerstein Ballroom (New York, NY).

Sources: http://www.ticketmaster.com http://www.moviefinder.com http://www.billboard.com America Online keyword: SPIN

Indonesia, or Gertrude Stein. No wonder less than half of these students will ultimately graduate from · these institutions.

There is an alternative. It's the experience offered by the intimate community of a liberal arts college, a community whose hall- · marks are a genuine warmth and a · collective expectation that encourages intellectual risks and personal transformation.

leadership. It should transform you forever. It also ought to be dynamic-over here, a sophomore is writing her first novel, over'·· there, those junior$ are doing things with DNA. ... Those students are starting a literary magazine, while others are organizing a folk mus,ic festival. · About half the students graduating from America's high schools within the neid few weeks will be attending mega-versities-leaming malls of 30,000 plus. They'll listen to their professors via vid~o assists and sign their finals with social These are places security numbers. The dorms where dialogue they'll live in will be more like · thriveS, and compassion, warehouses than warm, inviting places of learning and study. judgment, abstract reasoning, and They'll be eating in fast-food imagination are stretched and courts instead of sitting around strengthened. At small colleges, dining tables having.conversations such as Hobart and WiUiam Smith, faculty members do not about Kurosawa and computer animation, for example, or only hold r~l office hours-

they also hold dinner parties.

The world is changing ... and the future depends on people who have the capacity to lead with vision, compassion, and ideas.

The sort of mind that can master a technological world's challenges is a hand-crafted one.

So ... don't settle for less than you're worth. Whatever college you ~hoose, demand a personal experience that matters-a face-to-

real scholar-teachers in classrooms that are not the size of e,(po halls, an education that will shape you, challenge you, support youand truly transform you from the tips of your toes to the fires in your heart. Do it.· •·

HOBART AND WILLIAM SMITH COLLEGES What ~o Yot; think? fliis is.the eigmh in a sehe~ of essayS fro.mHob.~rt. and Williarfi sinitk Cofleges fdcire5sing critical topiCs iri tel lege li(~ today: these .. ~ssay$ are a~~fing fn ltie p~pei'S ~Hnany oftfie n~tiori's t6p publk . and irrdependeiit school,s,:'

,what (jc) Vdti H~ve to s~y? . fhiS ·iS Where We stand, but whai about yoU? Wliat's your perspecc tive? We're interested in heating from you, If you miss any o( the essays i.n this ~erie$, let us know and we'll send you a copy.

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16

The Classic June 1998

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Broadway converts Rag_ time Celestine Prophecy offers from detailed Doctorow novel spiritual insight and answers

by Paul Bruno . behave the way they do. In doing so, ·to must-see musical Very rarely does a: book come along Redfield presents his belief that all

by Beth Citron Manhattan, with Tateh struggling to supAlthough I had only vague memo- port them through his work as a silhouries ofTateh, his daughter- the little girl, ette artist They first become linked with Mother, Father, Coalhouse Walker, and the affluent family from New Rochelle the plethora of historical figures that when Tateh and the little girl, and grace the pages of E.L Doctorow's Mother and her son- the little boy, cross novel Ragtime, I did remember that it.,. paths at the New Rochelle train station was one of my favorite books that I read as Tateh and the little girl are leaving as a student atTownsend' Harris. Since New York. Later, a closer relationship I had loved the book so much, my ex- between both the parents and children pectations for the musical were very evolves as both families are vacationhigh, and I was definitely not disap, ing at the Jersey shore. Prominent popointed. In addition to the elements of litical figures and entertainers, such as the carefully woven plot that made_ the Emma Goldman, J.P. Morgan, and Harry novel Ragtime unique, the mus-ical Houdini, all have integral roles in this boasts extraordinary choreography, cos- complicated story. tumes, and sets, lively music, and wonThe musical omitted certain parts of derful performances by the actors. the novel, but this did not detract from Ragtime is the story of three fami- / the story. Since the play was nearly three lies from very different backgrounds, hours long, anyadditional scenes would and how, by coincidence, their lives be- , have made it drag on. However, don't come deeply intertwined in the first Part . sei/Ragtime as an alternative to reading of the 20th century. The main charac- the book. The novel offers a much more ters are not given proper names, but are detailed, jntricate plot, and allows the referred to as Mother, Father, the little real:ler to feel a closeness with and a boy, Tateh, and the l{ttle girl throughout sympathy towards the characters that both the novel and play. cannot be achieved in the musical.

As the story opens, we become acIn a word, Ragtime is "spectacular" quainted with an affluent family living both because of the plot and because it in New Rochelle, New York as they pre- is visually remarkable. The music is uppare to send Father off to the South Pole beat and lively and the choreography is on an expedition to be the first person unparalleled. It is a must-see for fans of ever to travel there. Then, Mother finds the novel, as well as for all who enjoy an abandoned newborn African-Ameri- classic Broadway musicals. The show's can baby boy as she is gardening at their popularity has soared and tickets sell out home and the family forms a bizarre fast Expect to wait at least three months coimection with the baby's parents, Sara between time of ticket purchase and and Coalhouse Walker, Jr. show date, especially during the sumTateh and his "little girl" enter the mer months. However, Ragtime is defistory as we see them on the streets of nitely worth the wait.

that influences the lives of so many people. However, many would agree that the novel, The Celestine Prophesy, is one of those books. In a day and age when many aspects of humanity and spirituality are in constant question, The Celestine Prophesy provides in teres tin~ answers. · Author James Redfield, who also writes a monthly newsletter entitled "The Celestine Journal," expresses his opinion about spirituality through the plot bf the book.

The main character, who remains unnamed throughout the novel, finds himself in a constant state of restlessness with his life. The "coincidental'' chain of events begins when he reunites himself with a former girlfriend, Charlene, who is a journalist. Their discussion of her recent and adventurous trip to Peru leaves him even more restless and full of questions.

Charlene describes to him the discov~ ery of a~ ~ncie~t Peruvian manuscript composed of nine insights, insights that hold vital information to life itself. Human beings are predicted .to grasp these insights sequentially, one after the other, as humans evolve into a "completely spiritual culture on Earth."

The manuscript's insights, although they do not explain the meaning of life, open the reader's mind to new perspectives on the question. The insights relate to everyday situations and help the reader to make positive changes in his or her life. They may introduce some readers to such things as a new definition of energy found in all living things, or may help explain why some people

things happen for a reason and that there is no such thing as coincidence.

The character finds himself drawn to Peru, discovering the manuscript's insights one by one. "Coincidences" begin. happening more often, and he begins~to realize each one's significance.

He finds himself reunited with certain people, at times when he needs direction or help. He slowly begins to grasp a vision of a new meaning oflife through the "coincidences," people he meets, and the insights. ' The book contains an antagonist, the Roman Catholic church of Peru. The powerful Cardinal Sebastian wants the manuscript destroyed for fear that it will demolish .the Catholi~ religion. However, the manuscript does not remain whole and copies of each insight are scattered throughout Peru and the United States.

Redfield has also published a sequel to.;The Celestine Prophesy entitled The Tenth lnsight, -in which the character's adventure continues upon the discovery of the tenth and last insight, artd its continuation, The Celestine Vision. The Celestine Vision, unlike its predecessors, is not a novel, b~t an informative book written in Redfield's own voice and consists of his own spiritual beliefs.

The Celestine Prophesy pro-vokes thought about why different things happen, but is not aimed towards readers of any particular religion. The ideas which Redfield conveys are universal.

The book is enlightening and bursting with wise perceptions. The Celestine Prophesy is perfect for anyone who is restless and looking for direction.

Through compiE;!x plot, Bulworth mocks political correctness

by Steven Seidenfeld There is a fine line between satire and farce, between slapstick and silliness.

Bulworth straddles that line. Actor Warren Beatty, well-known as a Democratic Party activist with strong liberal beliefs, wrote, directed and starred in this movie which attempts to satirize the liberal Democratic establishment as nothing more than a carbon copy of conservative Republicans . His vehicle for portraying this message is a story about the last days in the primary re-election campaign of incumbent California Senator Jay Billings Bulworth (Warren Beatty).

This fi1m begins with a very inter~ esting contrast between the senator's words and the images beirig flashed on the screen. When. the distraught Bulworth, suffering from obvious emotional problems, meets with an insurance company lobbyist, he promises to kill an anti-insurance industry bill in return for a ten million dollar policy on his life. Having just lost his fortune in the stock market, the senator then arranges for his own assassination.

FoHowing days of food and sleep deprivation, Senator Bulworth engages in he~vy drinking. The result is a full-

blown psychological breakdown. He begins to act obnoxiously and becomes the exact opposite of the image-conscious politician he once was. He continues to pursue the remainder of his campaign in a most unorthodQx way.

Bulworth curse~s and raps his way through the bl<ick urban ghetto. He uses the quick beat and rhyme of rap music to deliver campaign speeches parodying mainstream political thought. This is done against a musical score of hits by LL Cool J, Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, and other well-known rappers.

Bulworth's outrageo'!s antics are frequently hilarious. For example, the senator insults a gathering of black worshippers in a South Central Los Angeles church, challenging them to get their act together or" ... you're never gonna get rid of a guy like me." Bulworth proceeds to a fund raising event sponsored by the movie industry and attacks his Jewish donors.

His next visit is to a Catholic church where he does nothing to spare the constituency's feelings. The senator's appearance at the· televised campaign debate is not any better. Appearing dirty and unshaven, he tells the viewers that

all politicians are the same ... puppets of Bulworth tries to stop his assassinacorporate America. Bulworth has tion in the middle of the film, realizing quickly become the poster boy for po- that he doesn't want to die. He tells his ·contact to stop the hitman, but the conlitical incorrectness.

Beatty's message, though exagger- tact suffers a stroke and falls into a coma. ated, is crystal clear. While white and Bulworth is left thinking that the conblack Americans are often pitted against tact has communicated with the hitman, each other, the true enemies are the · but the audience knows otherwise.

Needless to say, Bulworth's outlapdwealthy few who "own 85 percent of America." Beatty successfully uses his ish behavior results in a landslide vicsupporting cast to present the frustra- tory. The voters are clearly disgusted by tions of ghetto life, the hopelessness traditional politicians and want an honcaused by poor education and the op- est liberal ideology to save the day. pression of poverty. He is particularly Bulworth dared to cross the line ~e­ successful in a scene where local drug tween the political establishment and the lords use children as salesmen since they people and the ending reveals the ruling class' response to his actions. are too young for prosecution.

Editors' Picks Here is a list of our favorite recently released CO's: Tori.Amos- ''from the clroirgirl hotel" City ofAngels Soundtrack Garbage- "Version 2.0'' Godzilla Soundtrack Dave Matthews Band - "Before these Crowded Streets'' L. Pump1UJ1S l~!Smasu1ng - ·~Adore,, Swingers Soundtrack

Girls~

track team runs past records into ground

by Tabitha Hsi This year's Girls' Outdoor Track team worked its way up to make this season the most successful in the history of the school. "They exceeded my highest expectations," said coach Joseph Horn. "It was gratifying to see all the athletes doing their best."

A record number of girls, 10, qualified and competed in the City Championships on May 23 at St. John's University. The perfect · weather complimented the record-breaking accomplishments of the day for the Harris girls. Captain Vicki Realmuto, senior, led junior Dorcas Davis and sophomore Roseann Antonelli in the discus · event. They are now, respecitvely, the second, third, and fourth best throwers in school history. Junior Tabitha Hsi tied the school record in the high jump, clearing 4'6". In the 1500m walk, senior Sarah Sidar placed first, breaking her personal record by eight seconds with a time of7:37.4 and setting a new school record.

Freshman Chanelle Pearson has made her mark early on by breaking the school records in both the lOOm and 400m hurdles at her first two meets of the season. Her times qualified her for the City Championships, where she placed fifth in the lOOm hurdle event.

Sophomores Bosede Adenekan, . Clare Marks, Alexa Steinberg, and junior Heather Ibert each ran their personal best times in the 4x800m relay, placing fifth at the meet.

"We really built each other up as a team," said Realmuto proudly. This cooperative spirit helped the team come in fourth place in Queens at the May 14 meet, which was also held at St. John's University. The team was only two points away from third place which was taken by Richmond Hill. Adee Rasabi, sophomore, who shaved 35 seconds off her time for the 3000m run, helped the team by coming in sixth at the Queens Championships. The 4x100m relay team, which consisted of freshman Melissa Perre-Loius, sophomore Anjelique DaCosta, and juniors Davis and Christine Brady, also finished well with a time that is the third best in school history.

Next year, predicted freshman Nicole Arriaga, "we will beat Richmond Hill and come in the top three." Her determination is reflective of the entire team's attitude. "I know I am leaving the team in good hands," said Realmuto. "Each member has demonstrated so much strength, improvement, and potential [this year]." Coach Horn agreed, guaranteeing that this team will be "a team to be feared for many years to come."

Kilpatrick powers his way into sports drink commercial

Science sails into semis in bitter soccer repeat

by Kate Rube In a game that left a slightly bitter taste of deja vu in the mouths of the Girls' Soccer team, the squad let Bronx Science and a quarterfinal victory slip through their feet in a 2-0 loss. Outshot 18-4 by Science, the two goals that came, one late in the first half, the other early in the second, were nearly inevitable. From there, the Harris girls, who had played a fairly evenly-matched first half, saw things fall apart, as Science dominated the play for the remainder of the game, clinching the win.

The loss smacked oflast year's heartbreakingdouble overtime defeat by Science in the semis, and for the seven seniors on the team this year, it was a failed last attempt at -a championship run.

However, goalie Kristin Candan characterized the seniors', as well as the rest of the team's feelings, in saying, "Regardless of the loss, this season and the past three seasons have been about fun, friendship, and tradition. Some of the best moments in my high school career were on the fields of Harris soccer." · Coach Keith Hanson expressed similar sentiments about the graduation of more than half of his players, saying that "This will be the toughest part of the season." It will be a bittersweet end for

an otherwise decidedly and characteristically successful season for the girls, who ended with a final 15-1-1 record.

Sophomore forward Jessica Maidat ac· cumulated 40 goals, breaking the school's former record and claiming the title of Queens Soccer Player of the Year given by Newsday.

Most of the teams in Queens proved, as usual, no match for the girls. An early highlight of the season was a 9-0 blowout of Hillcrest where eight different players scored, and five distinct players had assists, which Hanson said showed "great teamwork." However, these unevenly-matched games also gave the team little competition and game play to prepare for the playoffs, a drawback which perhaps proved their down fail in the quarterfinals.

Next year may take the team down a slightly bumpier path than it is used to, but there are still enough talented players "to make for an enviable season, among them Maidat, freshman Rosemary Ferraro, sophomore Teresa Plaza, and juniors Vanessa Williams and Alban Arcuri. However, the recruitment of new players will be crucial; as it now stands, the team consists of a meagre six players, bereft of the 11 needed for league play.

Beach· Channel blows past Boys' Tennis team i_nto playoffs

known for his work in such films as by Mark Von Ohlen

by Annette Orzechowski created in 1996. "Every year it's a fight Vegetating on your couch, marvel- Amistad and The Lost World, was part Finishing their season with a disap- for second place among the other ing about how a~solutley nothing is on of the crew creating the commercial. pointing loss to Beach Channel, the schools," said Murray. the tube, despite the fact that you have "Janusz was greai to work with," said Boys' Varsity Tennis team missed the Next year, the battle for second.place clicked through 81 channels for the past Ian. "Everyone really got to know each opportunity to enter the playoff round will be fought by a slightly weaker Harhalf-hour, you suddenly see a flash of other." in what Coach James Murray felt was ris brigade, though. Two senior starters, Ian, who claims thatsoccer is his one an unfair match. The boys had defeated Danny Fisher and- David Worth, are to familiar crimson polyester. Upon closer examination, you notice the initials passion in life, is "owned" by Powerade Beach Channel beforehand, and Murray be graduated this year, leaving two T.H.H.S. etched in gold on a pair of gym for one year. This means that he must expected they would have done the em,pty seats in the starting position. pants you've seen a million times be- . work in any subsequent commercials for same, had the team not been short of · Murray says there is still hope for the fore. Don't worry, your mental well-be- which he is requested. According to the several starters due to the AP examina- playoffs next year, though. Juniors ing has not deserted you: you have sim- National Collegiate Athletic Association tions in school.

Elliot Einhorn and Robert Prince, along With a 3-7 final record, this was the with sophomores Ian Katz, Andrew ply come across a Powerade commer- (NCAA), no high school athlete who cial which features junior Ian Kilpatrick. wishes to play sports in a college or uni- second year in a row that Harris missed Franklin, and Divya Narrendra, will be "I wore the pants to plug the school," versity may receive payment for em- the playoffs, a surprise both to coach· expected to start in the '99 season. joked Ian, a rnember of the Harris soc- ploying his or her athletic talents in any Murray and the players, since the team cer team. Ian was discovered and re- form of media, but Ian.is not complain- had previously qualified seven out of cruited to star in a commercial by ing. The $44 an hour that he is paid is the last 10 years, always claiming the Powerade representatives while playing donated to a charitable organization of second league playoff position behind MERCEDfS DRIVING SCHOOL a state game on a Cosmopolitan league the company's choice. "It's fine with Cardozo. . ~ INSURANCE BROKERAGE, INC. he is part of outside of school. "They me," said Ian. "I think it's a very nice Categorized as the "best team in the GET .I FREE. LESSON Wl.TH. took pictures of me, and did interviews gesture and I would love to ... [act in an- city" by Murray, Cardozo has mainEVERY 4 LESSONS PURCHASED other commercial] again." on camera," he said. tained the first place position in the a.J.u't,a;VJt:t:a · A job doing production work behind league since a "Super-A" division was After he was chosen to be featured ·H UR PRE·LICENSING COURSE J in the commercial, Ian spent Tuesday, the camera is 't1'i &fl¥1 ;I i r;rler·ti ;ty.cq.t IJf_!hiWfi} May 26 and Wednesday, May 27 film- something that Ian ing under the 59th Street bridge. "The can possibly 5 HOUR CLASS ON PREMISFB Coot- I·' CARS FOR ROAD TEST PATIENT INSTRUCTORS concept was ... [centered] around inner- forsee in his fu•~nsunmce.

PACKAGfS FOR lESSONS city kids playing soccer," sai'd Ian. The ture. He will conTAKE A AUTO • HOMI filming, which required a 6 A.M. to 5 .. tinue to play socDEFENSIVE COIIIIIRCIAL P.M. time commitment, was difficult, cer throughout his according to Ian. Each play of a game, college career and g~DRIVING ARCELDRIVING SCHOOL INC. . ~ •· .

COURSE planned and coordinated beforehand, says, "An experiDOIM' Lar 'nilS JWINJI1'0 YOU ..had to be shot one scene at a time. "You ence such as this s-At Leut $400 On All Yow Collision a Auto Uabillty lnaurance Fot ThrM Ful v-. & Get you can't pass needed a lot of patience," he said. · A 4 Point Reclucllon On Your Driving Aeoorcl.

According to Ian, the atmosphere of over. The act itself ~1.51htl181vd., Suite 202; Bayside, NY 11361 169-12 HIUSIDE AVE. LEARNERS PERMIT API'I 111•• 281·0262 I 281·0283 the shoot was, very friendly. Director is far greater than .IAMAICA, N.Y. 11432 BIUNGUAL INSTRUC..1URS a! I I We acc:epl ATM Oetiit CaRll of photography Janusz Kaminski, any rewards."

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18

The Classic June 1998

From Ancient Asia to today...

Marti·al a:rts maintains popularity with athletes

by Brian Griffing When asked about their favorite sports, the students of Townsend Harris predictably listed many of the old standbys as basketball, baseball, and football However, martial arts also found its way into the mix amid these popular and traditionally American sports. The ancient fighting methods of Asia have found a place among the students . here, as well as among individuals across the entire country. Why? "I like the discipline that it forces on your mind and body and the confidence it gives you," said Patricia Maloney, sophomore.

One of the arts that Patricia has practiced for two years now is jujitsu. Jujitsu originated in Japan and was used by warriors in combat. It is a form of martial arts that uses very few weapons, composed mostly of hitting, kicking, and throwing, as well as different kinds of holds.

Jujitsu declined in Japan a:fter the fall of its feudal government, but many of its components were passed on to more modern martial arts. One martial art that evolved from jujitsu is judo, which was created from the works of 19th Century Japanese educator Jigoro Kano. In this sport, opponents use different methods of throwing each other to the floor. Competitors are awarded points based on their ability to throw opponents to the floor and maintain a thirty-second choke hold.

Karate is also among the art forms that evolved from jujitsu.

Sophomore Ralph Marquez, who has been practicing karate for six months, enjoys the self-defense and combative aspects of the sport.

"I improved my flexibility through martial arts," he said. Flexibility is an important aspect of karate, which has risen to be the most popular of all martial arts in the United States. In karate, hand and foot blows are used; as well as numerous types of blocks to defend oneself. It is a unique martial art in that there are many different forms. Ralph practices shotokan karate, just one of many styles of Japanese karate.

Another very popular martial art is tae kwon do, which originated in Korea. Its aspects include kicking, punching, and blocking.

Punching is important in this art, but the ability to use one's feet can· determine ability level in tae kwon do. This is why in training, much time is spent strectching and strengthening the leg muscles.

Jumping is also a vital part of the sport. The flying kick, which is a

trademark of taekwondo, is very difficult to block. A perfected kick should reach head level. Few other martial arts fe~ture such a high kick.

Skill level in tae kwon do is represented by colored belts; white belts are for beginners and black belts for the most advanced students.

Aikido, arguably ·the most sophisticated of

Sophomore Nancy Kim, who has been practicing tae kwon do for nearly six years, said, "It's a sport as well as a means of self-defense."

Nancy used to watch her brother practice taekwondo in her backyard, then took on the sport and has stuck with it ever since. Like tae kwon do, many of the martial arts have multi-purposes.

Judo is broken up into two forms - one for self-defense and one for physical conditioning. Aikido is used for self-defense in addition to improvement of the mind and body the coordination. · martial "i think it's both [a sport and a arts, also re- means of self-defense]. I can learn sembles jujitsu. to defend myself while exercising This particular and developing my coordination," art was created says Maloney. Ralph Marquez by ·Master agrees that martial arts has more Morihei Uyeshiba than one use. "Nowadays more on the basis of cer- martial arts are competition oritain warrior tech- ented. However, a person can take niques. a martial art and still practice it traKendo, a mar~ ditionally or for self-defense," he tial art from Japan, said.

The popularity of martial arts specializes in weapons. In compe- has grown significantly in recent tition, a leather-bound years with the explosion of New bamboo sword is used. To score Age culture. People are attracted points you must be able to hit a tar- to the aspects of self"discipline and geted area on your opponent with self-defense. It is a popular activthe sword. ity in this school as well as around In their beginnings, martial arts the world. Judo has been a part of were used strictly .for self-defense. the Olympic Games since 1964.

Monks in China used these skills to . Tae kwon do will be part of the defend themselves against bandits. games in the future. "The fact that Japan used martial arts for military it is in the Olympics shows how training in World War II. However, popular it is," said Kim. today, people often pursue them for If you are interested in learning . other reasons: for exercise, for spiri- more about martial arts, learing tual purposes and for law enforce- centers include Tiger Schullman's ment. Martial arts has even evolved Karate and the Miyayaki Karate Ininto a widely popular sport. stitute.

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History with Hanson: Life, growth, and karate ...

by Kate Rube Keith Hanson, physical education teacher, three-season coach, and black belt karate expert, wasn't always the mass of muscle most see him as today. As a high school freshman at Molloy, he was "small, really scrawny, and constantly picked on." But it wasn't milk that transformed him into the man he now is- it was Shoto kan, a Japanese style of karate which he began learning during his sol'homore year.

At first Hanson found it extremely difficult handling the physically challenging training, but he "practiced religiously every day, at least several hours at the gym." "When I didn't have class," Hanson explained, "I went over my instructor's house to work out." He moved through the ranks of the art, designated by color-coded belts, with amazing speed: by senior year he was instructing his own class; by graduation he had earned his black belt, 'the highest honor in karate. . While in college, his intructor organized a team of young black belters to represent the United States in a Trinidad tournament. Hanson -came away with the title of Grand Champion. In the next few years, he would rack up several more prestigious titles, traveling throughout the country and world with his team to tournaments and championships organized by WUKA, the World United Karate Association.

In 1980, Hanson claimed second in both the New York state and national championships; the following year he clinched the victory and first prize in the State's, second again nationally, this time in the middleweight division. In the five state championships to come, Hanson would go on to win every one. By 1987, his body was starting to feel the effects of such an intensive schedule of training and fighting - "I knew it was time to take a break," he said. It was this year he began teaching at Townsend Harris. ..

However, karate had not vanished from his life; instead, Hanson incorporated his passion for the Continued on page 8

Biener instructs self-defense series

by Kate Rube Rising violence and attack rates in recent years, particularly towards women, have driven females 'j n droves to selfdefense courses and martial arts classes across the country.

Knowing this, English teacher Judy Biener decided to offer a self-defense seminar last month exclusively for female students at Harris.

Now a trained instructor, Biener's first interest in martial arts and self-defense was sparked five years ago, leading her to enroll in classes at the Brooklyn Women's Martial Arts Cen~ ter. "Being a small woman, I had always wanted to take a selfdefense course," said Biener, "Now, teaching the skills I have learned to others is extremely satisfying."

The seminar, which was sponsored by the feminist club Shakespeare's Sisters, included 20 girls who met with Biener for three after-school sessions. The classes focused on selfdefense techniques Biener has learned over the last few years, ones which are specifically geared for women. .

The lesson is that brawn doesn't necessarily equal power, ~nd that a lack thereof doesn't necessarily connote weakness, either. The basis of the techniques, according to Biener, lies in "using a hard part of your body against a soft part of [the

attackers]." Primary targets, or those parts of the body that are most vulnerable to attack, include th~ eyes, throat and knee, while secondary targets are less damaging targets.

"What's important to remember," said Biener, "is that these moves are not intended to be used to beat someone up. Instead, they are to stop someone in his tracks, or at least distract him, so that [the victim] can take off."

Inspired by the interest and enthusiasm the girls demonstrated throughout the classes, Biener has hopes of running a self-defense club next year, which would also incorporate karate teachnique and meditation. Otherwise, she anticipates instructing a follow-up class next fall or spring, which would be targeted at participants in last month's seminars.

"Karate and self-defense are the kind of things where you never stop learning," said Bii:mer, "Even the greatest master will always be learning." One of the most important lessons all of the martial arts have to teach is that learning is never over, which makes karate and other arts lifelong pursuits for many individuals.

"I hope to always have it be a part of my life," Biener said, "and now, I hope it will always be a part of these girls' lives, too."

19 parade The Classic June 1998

Inclement weather rains on

by Rudy Ash After a successful 4-2 start to their inaugural season, the Boys' Baseball team saw eight of their last nine games either postponed or canceled due to inclement weather, washing away their chances of playing a full schedule of games. Two of the postponed games . were made up after the end of the PSAL season, which ended May 20. Jamaica and RFK were defeated, bringing the Hawks record to 6-2.

The Hawks dominated play in their first three games, winning over Springfield Gardens, Campus Magnet and RFK each by an average of 13points. Their nextthree games resulted in two losses and one win, a 33-3 blowout of Springfield Gardens in a Saturday matinee game. .The Hawks have surprised a lot of people, including themselves. "[Maybe] the competition has been lower than we expected, or maybe we've been better than we expected," says senior third baseman Pete Stampfel. At the beginning of the season, an informal poll was taken by several Townsend Harris teachers that predicted a 2-10 season for the Hawks. Their record and consistent performance throughout the season has proved most critics and skeptics wrong.

The numbers speak for themselves.

bas~ball's

The boys racked up an impressive tally the playoffs next season. "There is a se- some offense and defense, they still have of 102 runs in their only six games this rious lack of pitching and fielding in the ·a good chance at competing in the playseason, which they attribute mostly to league. Although our team will lose offs," says the team's captain. their opponent's ineffective pitching and fielding errors.

Out of 46 attempts, they had 42 stolen bases, and managed a .367 overall team batting average, as well as a .557 onbase percentage. With their.

Following a winning tradition begun last year by former student Jose Melendez, sesolid defense and strong ofnior Nick Diunte was selected as the 1998 male recipient of the Aithur Ashe Vision fense, the Hawks proved a Award, an honor which is bestowed annually to two student athletes in New York City. tough team to beat.

Diunte's prize-winning essay revolved around his strugg•le and success in forming the The rain put a damper, first-ever Harris boys' baseball team, which carried out a successful debut season this. though, on what could have year. been an even better first seaDiunte had intended, and stated in his essay, that if he was chosen as a winner, h.e son. "[The weather] has rewould turn over the $5,000 prize to the team for next year's funds, as the boys' financial situation is, and has been, rather shaky. After learning this, however, a representative ally hurt the team," says Stampfel. "It made the from the PSAL promised Diunte that the team would have funding next year, and urged schedule erratic- we couldn't him to use the money for his college education at Springfield, where he will attend in the get in our practices."

Fall, or for some other purpose. At this time, though, Diunte still plans to give part of the The outlook for next money he is to receive to his team. year's season is positive, After already having his dream of a Harris baseball team in existence come true, this prize, seems the icing on the cake of what has already been an amazing year for Diunte, however. Juniors Ante having also been named MVP of the team. As he wrote in his composition, "We proved Mustac and Greg Lew will all of our doubters wrong, and this money will keep our dream alive." For Diunte, it was return as the aces on the his love of the game that drove him to undertake the two years of struggle, when he pitching staff. Other underclassmen will get their could have, perhaps much more easily, played for another public school. "I couldn't leave the rest of the guys behind, though," he said, "That's what this was all about chance to prove themselves in the field. They will repJace playing together in a game we all love." Diunte was formally recognized at the annual five of the starting seniors.

PSAL Iron Horse Awards Banquet on June 18.

Senior Nick Diunte is hopeful that the team will make

His field of dreams:

Diunte's vision wins recognition

Boys' team relay-s to third place 4x aoo finish in Queen-s Chiirllps

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Michael Kim, junior, rounds the Queens College track in a daily workout after school with Boys' Track coach Adam Stonehill.

by Tabitha Hsi The baton slapped through the hands of juniors Anthony Prince, Damon Swift, Michael Kim, and senior Steve Schuh, the members of the 4x800 relay team that placed third in th~ Queens Championshiips. The success of this relay team marked the highlight of the year's Boys' Outdoor Track season .. Coach Adam Stonehill was pleased with this season's group, taking pride in each of their individual accomplishments. "Every member improved tremendously. Despite our small size, we really worked together," said Stonehill.

Seniors Alex Arriaga and Shuh provided the leadership for the team. When asked how he felt about leaving the team, Arriaga confidently stated, "I know I am passing the torch to people that can bring the team to success." The large portion of this year's team is comprised of rising seniors. Kim, Prince, and Swift are joined by fellow juniors Felipe Gomez, Kisean Riddick, Eric Rodriguez, Marco

Playoffs escape girls' handball Close but no cigar was th~ case for tbe Girls' Varsity Handball team, which raHie'q for a possible playoff run, but came up one match short Df accomplishing the feat. The girls ended their seasnn wi.th an overall 6-3 record. For 11 meru~ hers of the team, however, the season has not yet come to a close, as they will pursue individmJ.} handball titles by competing in the Queens Championships. The two best handball players from that tournament wUl advance to the City Championsbjps.

Coach Jim J.ordan placed junior Helen Jan and sophomore Jessica Castro at the first singles positions this season. Jordan flraised Jan and Castro fur their "experience,, heart, perseverance, and will ·to do the best they can,'' which he credited for the success of the team as a whole. As for rookies projected to lead the team in the future, freshmen Julia Cohen and Aleitha Mendez ·at:e ''absolutely solid,'' according to Jordan.

In a sport that requires skills including stamina, hand-eye coordination and sound psychology, the girls had little tirne to perfect a~d bring these ski'Us together. The team was at a disadvantage against highly competiive schools ~ike Long Island City and Bey·ant, which enjoy the cenvenience of indoor courts. In addition, the season was plagued by rain, but still, Mr. Jordan feels that "my girls gave their one hundred percent."

Trauzzi, and John Zhu with the responsibility of leading the team next year.

Other high points of the season included Schuh's nearly-City Championship qualifying mile time of 4:47 and Swift's success in the 400m hurdles, in which he lowered his time by 5 seconds.

"The team is small, but motivated," said Stonehill, "They all look out for each other, and show a lot of comraderie .. lt makes it very pleasant for me to be around them." The team hopes to place in the top five in Queens next year, assured that their hard work will get them there.

20

The Classic

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Spotlight on: P·itcher Dina Parise

Girls' softball fumb-les in q·uarters

byKatekube Pitching at speeds that top 60 miles per hour, junior Dina Parise is, quite possibly, the best thing that has ever happened to the Girls' Varsity SoftbaU team. At the very least, she is one Qf the squad's bjggest assets, leading the team in hitting with a .454 batting average, and maintaining a 'l: 1 sttikcmt· to-walk ratio. Given these figures, as well as •e two ped'ect games she b~ked ~- her belt. .this

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though, Parise knew that second base was not fer her - she wanted to pitch. Sbe began practicing against a walt at her bouse, and del>uted as a pitcher for her team nearly a year later, at age 10. As luck. or perhaps fate, would have it, in one of her first games, known pitching trainer Jtdie Boldec re-cruited Parise to become a student of hers, saying that she had a gFeat deal of natural talent. The rest, as they say, is history.

Parise trains year-round with her travel team, the Long Island Lions, traveling up and down the East Coast for games and tournaments. She continues to train with Boldec, attributing to her much of her success a.s a pitcher. ··she taught me everythitlg I know;• says Parise.

The past few years have seen Parise perfeot ber windmill p~tch, adding variety to. her throws with specific types of pitches: fastballs, changeups, cu.rvebaUs, and riseballs. Still, she is not completely satisfied with her play. "For next year, I'd like to improve my pitthing speed by at least 3·5 mph;' she said, "And I'd like to have my BRA ( 1.16 this year) a litlle lower." Iter goals for the school softbaH te•am include advancing furtber than the quarterfinals, at which point the team bowed out to Midwood this year...I'd love to top off my senior year with the semifinals,'' said Parise.

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Huddling before a regular season game, the Girls' Varsity Softball team discusses strategy for the match.

by Justin Fox As the rain washed away two weeks of the Townsend Harris Girls' softball team schedule, so was Townsend . Harris' season washed away on June 1, with a 4-1 loss to Midwood in the PSAL quarterfinals. A stellar performance by junior pitcher Dina Parise (2-1 record,42 strikeouts in '98 playoffs) went to waste, as the Hawks committed four errors in the game. Coach Larry Ceraulo looks on the loss as "disappointing;' saying that the team "did not make the plays," ending up costing the team the game.

The loss overshadowed two previous impressive performances by the Hawks: wins against Lincoln and Hunter by a combined score of 12-3, with Parise allowing only 2 hits, while striking out 33 in the two games.

It was not enough, however, to ruin their impressive record, which included a seventh consecutive division title, 11-0 in the division and 14-3-2 overalL For this season's success, Ceraulo sings the praises of an outfield consisting of freshman rightfielder/ pitcher Arielle Frost, sophomore Kfisty Von Ohlen, and sophomore leftfielder Jessica Desposito. "I am pleasantly surprised with my outfield," said Ceraulo. "They were relatively new, but still did a great job."

Ceraulo also touts junior outfielder/catcher Lillian Bloch as doing a "nice job hitting" and as being a ''solid backup catcher." He singled out veteran first baseman Nicole Strippoli, senior, and junior second baseman Julia Heim as highlights of their strong infield, as well.

Ceraulo, however, always comes back to his pitching. "As long as Dina stays healthy, we'll be fine [next year]," he says. Parise has, as she did last season, amassed the numbers to prove Ceraulo right. Up to May 11, she racked up a 12-3-2 record, an ERA below 1.00, and a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 10-12. Parise has also been a "steady hitter," according to Ceraulo, batting third on the team. Besides Parise, Ceraulo relied on Frost, who has a 2-0 record and an ERA of about 3.00. Ceraulo is also trying sophomore third baseman Vanessa Matsis as pitcher. "She has a good windmill, but some trouble with control," said Cerau1o. "Yet she can definitely help us down the road."

Girls' tennis succumbs after-smashing season . bySaraYun The Girls' Varsity Tennis team cruised to a second place finish behind Cardozo in the Queens I division, bowing out in the quarterfinal round of the playoffs with a 1-41oss to Tottenville H.S. Coach Ellen Schwartz was confident from the start of the season that once again, the girls would compete at a topnotch level. However, Cardozo proved more than a formidable opponent for the girls, who won over most of their other opponents rather easily.

The rivalry over the best two teams in the division has long-established roots.

Next year, the competitive fire between them should only increase, as Cardozo will have to deal with the loss of severn! top-seeded senior players this Y'?~· The team battled a wide range of competition this year, from beginners to na- tionally ranked players. The starting lineup featured many of the same players as last year's team. Senior Ilissa Strolovitz and junior Jodi Horton occupied the top two positions, while third singles was filled by Erika Strochlic. Senior Melanie Chakmakjian and sopho-

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Substitute player junior Nicole Zuchelli, junior, played a significant role by being a reliable replacement for first doubles player Marina Lyaunzon, senior, who was unable to attend several matches.

Strolovitz and Horton were a much feared force as a doubles team in the Mayor's Cup three weeks ago at the .

United States Tennis Association (USTA) National Tennis Center. Coming in seeded ,. second, they walked away with second place in the city, which Schwartz called "fabulous."

Strolovitz and Horton, considered the "backbone" of the team, gained experience competing throughout the winter in USTA sanctioned tournaments.

The lone freshman on the team, Maya Fayfman, has three years of team play · ahead of her. Although this year's team was stocked with veteran stars, next year's squad will not enjoy that luxury.

Fayf~an's presence on the team may prove crucial, as the experience she gained . this year will help make her a stronger and smarter player in the seasons to come.