Classic newspaper Volume 19 Issue no. 6

Vol. 19, No.6 June 2003

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aSSlC Townsend Harris High School at Queens College

149-11 Melbourne Avenue, Flushing, NY 11367

Honored seniors look back, look forward

by Angela Hom lutatorian.

Clapping and cheers filled the Sunayna Ramdeo, senior, thought evening as smiling seniors walked The Baccalaureate "was great because onstage to receive it was one of the last a variety of awards chances we had as at this year's BacHarrisites to celebrate calaureate. The our accomplishments two hour and and share them with twenty minuteour parents and long ceremony friends."

Rachel held Tuesday, June agreed, and added, "It 3 in the auditoshed light on the varic rium, was fol] ous and diverse tallowed by a catered · .~ ents that are represenreception . ~ tative of the students Each year, the & at Townsend Harris different depart~ High School." ..D 0 ments of the This year's cer0 school honor the 5: emony ran more senior class for smoothly than those Roselle Vittorino their four years of in the past, according academic, service, to Adam Stonehill, and sports-related achievements. history teacher and Coordinator of StuRoselle Vittorino was named Valedic- dent Affairs (COSA). "It was shorter, torian and Rachel Schitlman is the Sa- and I didn't think it was that competi-

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tive. Some of the speakers were kind of funny," he said. "It's important to recognize students who have put in four years of effort."

Senior Advisor Franco Scardino helped Assistant Principal of Guidance Janet Solomon coordinate the Baccalaureate. "It was a lot of work, a lot of preparation, but I think overall, it went very well," he said.

This year's graduation ceremony will be held at 9 A.M . on Wednesday, June 25 at Colden Center Auditorium, but the idea of graduating soon has some seniors experiencing Rachel mixed emotions. "I'll definitely be happy that these four long years are now over. But at the same time, I can't help but also feel sad we're leaving friends, a secure environ-

Visitors from European Union stress importance of diplomacy, understanding

by Jamie Gullen Several members of the European Union (EU) visited Marc Greenberg and Franco Scardino's economics classes, as well as Maureen Lonergan's American History class, and donated 250 books to the library on Monday, June 12. The goal of their visit was to strengthern ties between Europe and America and dissolve any negative stereotypes that each hold about the other.

The participants included George Cunningham, Head of Press and Public Affairs of the European Commission from the United Kingdom; Sabine Dinse!, Pedagogical Liaison Officer, the Goethe Institut Inter Nationes; Peter Sarkozy, Deputy Consul General from Hungary; the Honorable Martha Mavrommatis, Consul General of the Republic of Cyprus; the Honorable Dimitris Platis, Consul General of Greece; and Nikos Nikolidakis, Counselor of Education for the Greek Con-

sulate.

In Mr. Greenberg's class, the visitors explained what the EU does and what brought them to Harris. They had formerly displayed 750 books at Columbia University, and then these books were divided between Bronx High School of Science, Stuyvesant High School, and Townsend Harris.

After the class visits, the guests, accompanied by Principal Thomas Cunningham and Assistant Principal of Humanities Susan Getting, presented the books to librarian Valerie Billy. ''I'm thrilled and grateful for their generous gift. We're very fortunate to be the recipient of their generosity," said Ms. Billy. .

Mr. Platis commented on the stereotypes that the U.S. and Europe hold about the other. "Many times in the past we have seen that Europeans have a very different view of what Americans are and vice versa," he said.

Fashion Show p.4

Alumni Marriages p.6

ment, memories," said Lorena Acevedo .

Sunayna is "counting down the days until graduation ."

However, "I ' m dreading it because it means saying goodbye to many of the best people I've ever known," she said.

"I really enjoyed this year and a large part of it was because of the students," said Mr. Stonehill. He described the Class of 2003 as being "close" and observed "people treatin~ each other with respect."

"I think it's a Schiffman pretty enthusiastic group," added Mr. Scardino. "They have good spirit among them. For the three years I've been here, they're certainly one of the most fun classes as a group."

Potential budget cuts create uncertainty among community

by Daniel Bloch Ever since Mayor Michael Bloomberg unveiled his city budget proposal, many Harristies have been wondering how their daily lives might be affected.

Principal Thomas Cunningham is one of those people. "It's difficult to say how the budget cuts might atlect our school," he said.

"There is certainly talk that there may be a reduced budget for afterschool activities and other events, but [cuts] will not affect instruction per se."

Information from the website of the Mayor's office (www.nyc.gov) details how budget cuts could affect the Department of Education. In addition to the elimination of 864 paraprofessional positions and 767 school aide jobs, the proposed cuts would also scrap "all after-school educational programs and summer

Public Displays of Affection p.8

school for all remaining students who are designated as needing improvement."

The best-case scenario, Mr. Cunningham said, would be that "with a minor reduction in funding, the school would continue essentially as it has," and clubs, activities and events such as the school play would remain fixtures of the school. In the worst-case scenario, "All those quality of life issues might suffer greatly. Funding for clubs and after-school activities could be impacted, but it's difficult to say to what extent," he said.

Despite the uncertainty, Mr. · Cunningham remains hopeful. "We have a dedicated staff and students, and somehow we will provide [those activities] that we need to help keep us functioning as a school. And I know that the PTA and Alumni Association will support us," he said.

Diving p. 10

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The Classic

June2003

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'What's in a name?': Everything Selected juniors and seniors were inducted into the newly established THHS chapter of the New York State Science Honor Society on May 28.

While the event marked a welcome new addition to the many honors annually bestowed on Harrisites, the special character of the ceremony was partially marred by frequent mispronunciations of the honorees' names. This is not to say that the organizers didn't try; a few teachers even apologized for their mistakes.

What made this situation particularly frustrating, though, was that it could have been so easily avoided. In fact, steps were taken to make sure it was: at an after-school meeting a week prior to the ceremony, cards were passed out to the inductees-to-be, asking them to clearly write out the correct pronunciations of their names. As mispronounced names were read to call students to the stage on the 28th, however, the cards might as well have never been filled out. Such a situation is unfortunate, especially in our community where sensitivity to and respect of students~ different backgrounds is the norm.

The faculty members who read the names at the Science Honor Society induction should have· been better prepared, and the same must hold true for any future school event, such as the upcoming Commencement ceremony on June 25. This is probably the biggest moment in the high school career of the senior class, and their relatives and friends will join them for this special occasion. To ensure that each student is given his or her due respect, some measures need to be taken to make sure that the graduates' names are pronounced correctly.

The index caro method should be utilized at Commencement. Also, perhaps language teachers should assist in reading the names, as they are probably more familiar with "foreign" names than most people.

Happily, at another recent event, readers did an excellent job in pronouncing names. This success at the Baccalaureate, held on June 3, was not totally a result of chance. Assistant Principal of Humanities Susan Getting said she chose English teacher Harriette Blechman to announce the Humanities ·award winners "because I know she knows the names from Senior Attendance. I chose someone [to read] who I knew knew the kids well and the names well."

Our names are our truest form of identification. Someone can imitate your clothing style or you can get the same colored contact lenses as your friend, but nobody can wear your name quite like you can. Your name is like a modem Coat of Arms for yourself and your family, and for this reason it is so important that both your own and others' names be treated with the utmost respect. A mispronounced name can be embarrassing, but as long as the name-bearer is willing to educate, and as long as the namecaller is willing to learn, embarrassments can be avoided.

In a school like Townsend Harris, where everybody is a branch from a tree rooted in different cultures, few names are as simple to say as Smith or Kim. It's apparent that the administration is sensitive to this fact, as shown by their good intentions in asking for transliterations of names and in picking teachers to read who are familiar with the names of the students. Such excellent ideas should become fixtures when planning future events.

Reaching out before it's too late America and many Europea~ countries have been allied throughout the course of modem history, but recent events seem to have stifled intercontinental connections. The war with Iraq elicited many differing opinions and concerns from country to country. Because many European countries feel that America went against the wishes of the United Nations and discounted the opinions of some allies, the good-standing diplomatic relations between America and many European countries has been threatened.

On Monday June 9, members from the European Union (EU) came to Townsend Harris to donate 250 books to our library and talk to students about the importance of breaking down stereotypes and fostering ties between America and Europe. The gift is an appropriate symbol of their message, for the books will provide information and ideas to the people who need to carry this message into the next generation of international relations: intelligent young students.

The books were donated to the top three specialized high schools in New York City: Bronx High School of Science, Stuyvesant, and Townsend Harris. We are the leaders of tomorrow who will become responsible for keeping peace in a time that will most naturally lend itself to enmity. As technological advancements and civil discord both ascend to

Daniel Bloch Jamie Gullen Co-Editors-in-Chief

Jessica Wang Feature Editor

Diane Tiao Entertainment Editor

Angela Hom Managing Editor

Jennifer Gong Sarah Schnee

Marlo Dublin

Co-News Editors

Food Editor

Hilary Homier Jennifer Sheth

Karen Hendershot

Rachel Schiffman Emma Xiao

Photography Editors

Editor·at-Large

Art Editors

Steven Lee

Josh Fox

lisa Cowen

Online Editor

Sports Editor

AdVisor

Principal • Mr. Thomas Cunningham

new levels , striving for a harmonious world has never been as essential for mankind to prevail. Only through attending to the differing views of all countries can we ever hope of attaining this goal. Stereotyping certain countries, or condemning them for having dissenting views from our own, is just about the most effective way of ensuring discord in the future.

Economic ties are becoming more important than ever as well. Many of the goods sold in America are foreign imports and are essential to our economy. In addition, natural resources such as oil are vital on a world-wide scale. Only if countries are on good terms with each other can these goods be used to benefit everybody, rather than tear to pieces countries fighting over them.

America, as ·a superpower, needs to reach out and make these connections, and when possible, assist other countries in making peace as well. It is our responsibility as the next generation of politicians, lawyers, activists, or just as voters, to do everything within our power to build a solid foundation for peace. The future without these ties would be Matthew Barbery a very scary place full of hatred, discrimination, and global dispute. We must take charge and leave the generations to come a world that is, at the very least, safe, and at the very most, is a cooperative and cohesive community.

News Staff~ Samira Annabi. Jessica Bader, Jessica Berger, Nataliya Binshteyn, Chloe Chao, Alyssa Chase, Mimi Chung, Lina .Lee, Linda Luu, Francesca Pizarro, Tanaz Talebpour Feature Staff: Christopher Amanna, Jennifer Bhuiyan, Margo Kakoullis, Sangsoo Kim, Ann Margaret Santa-lnes, Alexis Serra, Nisha Singh, Stephanie Vance, Maria Wojakowski, Tina Wu Sports Staff: Stephen Berger, Lauren Korzeniewski, Elyse Lee, Michelle Montgoris Artists: Matthew Barbery, Amy Blauner, Stacey Lee, Doris Ortega, Vivian Shibata, Andrea Shlisdberg, Samira Zaman, Stephanie Zapata Comic Strip Coordinator: Jonathan Perez Online Staff: Diane Lee; Umair Shaikh, Waqas Shaikh Photography Staff: Penny Chak, Laura D' Amato, Diana Deng, Vera Hendrix, Bryan Kirschen, Marion Mercado, Deepti Nair. Cristin Strining, Julia Stutz, Leticia Wainer, Annabel Zaharieff Layout Staff: David Belsky, Pamela Chan, Matthew Kaufman, Katie Kogan

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

The Classic is an open forum for the expression of student views. The opinions expressed therein should not be taken to represent those of the administration or faculty or student body as a whole.

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.

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The Classic

Elected officials ready to fill new posts

by Nataliya Binshteyn Colorful posters, promotional stickers, and heated debates marked the arrival of student government elections on May 26. This year's bid for office of the Student Union (SU) as well as the Senior and Consultative Councils was characterized by an increase in voter turnout.

Representitives were selected for both the Student Union (SU) as well as the Senior Council and the Consultative Council. Junior Shanay Freeman was chosen to be the next SU President.

The position of SU Vice President will be filled by junior Chloe Chao.

"I am humbled by Maryann Tan's excellent job as our current Vice President and her shoes will be hard to fill. I intend to improve on school poli-

cies so that life here will be more endurable and I want to

lie Relations executive Selena . School Leadership Team and Singleton, and Queens Student Consultative Council member, Action Committee (QSAC) respectively. representative Vanessa Leon, all of whom are junIOrs. The position of Freshman-Sophomore Vice President went to Liya Shuster, while Grace Lee will be the new Junior Vice President. Margo Kakou! is ran unopposed for the Senior Vice President post. ] Senior Council winners ~ ::2 include Kristin § Angelopoulos for Presit~ dent, Nina Mozes for Vice £ President, Melissa Wong for Secretary, Kathy Mu for Treasurer, and Demetra Chloe Chao Spalioras for Executive-atLarge. lsissa Komada-John Predominant issues in this and Sharon Lim ran unop- year's elections included the posed for the posts of Junior school policy on referrals and

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Shanay Freeman represent the least heard voices in the school," said Chloe.

Other SU winners include Secretary Kenisha Calliste, Treasurer Rachelle Solis, Pub-

'Red Violin' plays part in U.N ... club success

by Nisha Singh sues. The club members preThe model United Nation's pare for these conferences durthird presentation in their film ing their weekly meetings by festival series featured The Red examining relevant current Violin on Thursday, May 30 events. afterschool in the auditorium.

"Our model UN fundraisers It attracted approximately 35 have been successful down to viewers. the last one. We have raised a The movie is about a crafts- significant amount of money. man who made a red violin in the 1600s.

He wished to display his love for his wife by meticulously making the instrument. Although his wife dies, the legacy of this violin lives on forever by being passed on to different owners.

Sophomore Anna Kim, member of the Model UN club, said that the turnout was very good. Model U.N. advisor Susan Getting, Assistant Principal of Humanities, said that successful ticket sales helped to raise money for the We are greatful for the support future model UN conferences. of the students and teachers At these conferences, who have encouraged their stuTownsend Harris delegates. dents. We hope the film festimeet with various representa- vals in the future are as, or tives from other schools more, successful than the ones throughout the city to discuss so far," said senior Preeti Dixit, and debate important global is- vice president.

the lackluster success of student events, such as dances and class trips. Several candidates cited lack of information as the root of student apathy.

Many urged voters to exercise their right to vote, regardless of for whom. Some felt that the candidates' hard work in campaigning was disregarded by those who had no intention of voting.

Others disagreed with certain aspects of the candidates' methods for getting elected. "Campaigning with stickers or other expensive modes of propaganda results in disadvantaging less affluent students," said junior Radha Patel.

All winners will officially assume their positions in the fall of the 2003-2004 school year.

Directors display films at third annual festival

by Francesca Pizarro The third annual Student Film Festival featured the talents of directors Anna Kozanecka, junior, and Evan Muehlbauer, senior, who each created two films , all varying in their subject matter and style.

The event took place after school on Friday, May 30 in the auditorium and received mixed responses from the audience.

This year's Film Festival was Anna's first time featuring her dramatic film shorts.

Her first piece, entitled "Lodge Pole Pine," deals with the impact of the September 11 events on three young children who clean the rubble at Ground Zero.

In its most poignant shot, the film shows a young girl holding a snow globe of the World Trade Center. The other short, "Mr. Konopnicki," depicts a schoolteacher's chance to buy the chocolate he had wanted as a child but couldn't afford in Poland during the country's martial law. The film was personal for Anna, who attempted to place her "family's stories of harsh economic times in perspective to [her] life in the US." Anna had emigrated with her family from .Poland when she was two.

Evan's film, "The Slacker," which he created for his Media 200 Queens College course,

was a comedic look at one student, a "slacker," and the consequences he suffers when he doesn't study for a'tr-exam. His other film, entitled, "Vincent Bramblebee," was inspil'ed by the filin noir, The Maltese Falcon, directed by John Huston.

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With humorous dialogue and Vincent Bramblebee's running catch phrase, ''I'm a woman," the film received laughs from the audience. Evan had previously 'submitted film shorts in the past two film festivals.

Along with works by student directors, a professional short was also featured. Provided by senio~ Joseph Miller, "To Build a Better Mousetrap," is a digitally animated film.

Despite the lack of sound in some of the films that resulted from technical difficulties, the films and the directors' efforts

were praised for their choice of subject matter and creativity. "I thought their plot lines were really creative. They put a lot of work into the films," said sophomore Janaile Spence.

"I'm struck by the themes our students choose to investigate," said English teacher Debra Michlewitz, who along with Classic Films and English teacher Judy Biener has organized the film festival every year.

"I'm gratified that our students are interested in film," said Ms.Biener. "[The Film Festival] is something I look forward to every year and I'm always dazzled by the professional quality of the films our students produce."

However, some students said they did not enjoy the film festival. One senior described the films as "tedious results of overzealous amateur efforts." Sophomore laisha Smith complained about the plots, the number of films shown, and the sparse attendance. The lack of audience attendance was an issue that others noted as well. "One thing we want to do next year is to advertise ... earlier," said Ms. Michlewitz. Sophomore Tricia Ramrup said that she would have gone to the festival if she had known about it.

"I think a lot of people missed out on it," said senior Bernadette Cruz.

The Classic

i ~ _ _ _ __ , __ _ J 4 Models, ·dancers strike pose at fashion show June 2003 ·

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from stores such as Beginnings, 0 Bouby Jessica Berger Despite the chill and persistent rain tique, Oz Boutique, Lulu's Boutique, outside, the atmosphere in the audito- and Diva Boutique, all in Queens, and rium during the second annual clothing from Stephanie Fields of Slide Townsend Harris Clothing. Outfits Fashion Show was were also displayed heated. The show, as costumes for the which took place on many dance numFriday, May 2, perbers. petuated a new The first few Townsend Harris models captured a tradition begun last casual, summery year by current setheme, wearing an "'0 nior Sara Koenig. 'g assortment of flowSenior Elana -c/.i ing skirts and blue Stanley spoke about ~ jeans. At the concluthe show's charity ·B"c: sion of the show, the of choice, the 8 female models wore '0:>. prom dresses, as Rachel Cooper Foundation for chil~ they were escorted dren with heart dis8 down the aisle by ease . Last year's ~ their male class..c c.. mates in tuxedos. show sponsored the same charity, which Dancers of all grades performed was created by the several times over parents of senior Junior Grace Lui struts down the runway Jodi Fierstein in modeling a new prom fashion at this the course of the evening. One of the memory of their .year's Fas.hion Show daughter, Rachel unique elements was a ballroom dance in which the modCooper.

The event featured clothing from the els from the prom segment waltzed students' own w~drobes and on loan across the stage. Other dances featured _

Girls learn all the right moves in Biener's self-defense class

by Alexis Serra How many times have you found yourself walking down the street thinking, "Uh-oh, am I being followed?"

Maybe you have wondered about your ability to defend yourself against potential attackers. Such situations may now seem a little less frightening for the girls who attended an after-school self-defense class on Monday, June 2.

Run by English teacher Judy Biener, it took place in the gym after being postponed three times due to inclement weather and staff meetings. The focus of the class was to provide girls with methods of protecting themselves in dangerous situations. "Every young woman should think about being safe and sometimes it's up to us to find ways to defend ourselves," explained Ms. Biener.

Ms . Biener, who has had training in martial arts for the past I 0 years, made it clear early on in the class that the techniques she taught were not to be misused. "These moves can seriously hurt someone, so you can't go home and practice them on your brother or try to show your friends what you can do," she warned. Instead, Ms. Biener encouraged practicing in front of the mirror with a pillow and even taking follow-up courses elsewhere.

Among the moves that the girls learned were how to block hits coming at their heads, how to use the palm of the hand to hit sensitive parts of a potential attacker, how to pull out of a tight .grasp, and how to use powerful kicks to stop attackers from chasing you. None

of the girls actually made contact with each other.

In addition to the physical movement, Ms. Biener also taught the girls techniques that could scare potential attackers off without laying a finger on them. "You have to project a confident appearance and let them know you see them," she explained. Making a loud noise, screaming, and using a stern voice are other ways to catch an attacker off guard and possibly make them back off, she added. "Fortunately, I have never had to use my moves on anyone, but I am always alert and prepared for anything," she said.

By the end of the class, the girls felt more confident about their self-defense abilities. "This was an informative sample of both physical and non-physical techniques that empower young women," said sophomore Katie Seidler.

Coming to the class, the girls were very much aware of the reality oftoday's world for women . "Many women, young and old, are raped and abused every day. This emphasizes the importance of learning self-defense and always being alert and careful," said Bonnie Chan, sophomore. However, there was some disappointment about the fact that there was only one class this year. The participants agreed that more than one class would have been better, but this was not possible because of the tight schedules of some students. Ms. Biener said, "I usually schedule two classes per year, but since we couldn't do it this year, next year that might be possible."

less formal attire, including one performed by juniors Janelle Char:les, Faith Cummings, Shanay Freeman, Amoy Frost, Justine Jackson, Yerneika Lopez, Jeannette Maharaj, and Selena Singleton, all wearing sporty combinations of pink and white capris, sweatshirts, and shorts by Juicy. "I think we were good, especially since we didn't have much practice, but we could have been better," said Justine.

Some of the songs used Were "Get Busy" by Sean Paul and "Hey Sexy Ladies" by Shaggy. Senior Katrina Yee, choreographer of some of the evening's other dances, and senior Eun Kwak, made mix tapes of songs like "Apache (Jump On It)" by Sugarhill Gang.

Katrina said, "I felt that my dances went really well. Everyone loveb the "Jump On It" dance because it is really funny to watch. However, I thought the variety was lacking this year because unfortunately, everyone did reggae and hip-hop. The ballroom da,ncing was really nice, though."

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"Certain aspects of the show were definitely better this year, especially the use of a better sound system," commented Sara. "Unfortunately, we did not have as big of an audience as last year, but that was understandable because the SATs were the following morning. Other than that, the dancers and models were fabulous and put on a really great show."

The show would not have been possible without the help of faculty advisor and Spanish teacher Orquidea Luna, Coordinator of Student Activities (COSA) Adam Stonehill, Assistant Principal of Foreign Language Lisa Mars, and the teachers who came to chaperone.

Next year's show is uncertain because Sara is graduating. However, she says, "I hope that even though I am graduating next year, someone will want to continue organizing our school's third Fashion Show. I have already talked to some of this year'sjuniors who have expressed interest in doing so, and if anyone is willing, they can definitely drop a note in my mailbox."

_,riefly .•.

S,o'Jiflil:ornores R.oh.in,~' Ahmadi, Mariam Ab:m,ad andl ARH!Hlha Balaraman won first pl'4We and received special recogniti<>n for their piece ..hqa: Unveiling the Op)ilress•wn of an Afghan Tradition" in the Group Documentary catJgory at this year's New York State ~story Day Com~on. Other winn~rs included sophomores Liz Feder and Joanna MlilOOz, who pl~cel!l tmfd f©~ their work @D AtomJ(: Wadare tn the Group l?e-rform'anee ca~ory, and SOJil'ROmores Nicole Valore and .JeanM,arie .Krowicki, who pl~ced thir<l in the Group Ex.lrlbi't oate:g~ry for their prqject on Cmld Labor. J>tojects were spQonsoced by Mistof\y teacher Cristobal Hackney.

Sophomores Prance$'ca Pizarro and Winifred Hu bad ~ writilligs dtsp~ayed at the Jiipan &oc.iety for Japane-se History Day. francesea's snort story, ''Of Wat'rio~ an€1 Tea," won fn:st place WiRi.ed's essay, 'Tile Art of Japan's Gold-en Age,'' won third place.

and

La Guardia Cemmuni:ty Co,llege hosted a "Stop, Look, Peel" art fU'esentation on Monday, May 19 in wh.ieh the artwork 0f ju~,ors Kristin Angelopou·los, Carla Oun:ther, Maggie Passione, Diana J;.ee, s-ophom«es Gaitl Oold:s1iel Ashley Rafalow a.nd senieri MiclteUe !.ooinson was display". The art can be viewe€1. until July 11 in the Atrium Building B located on Thomson Avenue in Long }stand Cit~.

and

S.eniors Jonaotball Kamler and Diane Park. attended dle l~ational.

Scieoce ana En~i\fteer""g Fair in Clevel-. Ohio, &em ~ay 12-11.

Jonathan's project plac~ third ill the

PI:Jysic.s categpry, and Diane's project placed second in me Mictob:iolo-gy category.

Junior Katherine S'hi was the tlrst place winner in this year's Qualoity of Life oom.petition for her project, "Feeding -the Hungry - Meeting Needs with Rec-ognition and ltesu;lts.'' K-athtlrine. won $17,500 for her first-pl·a c. einis11. Seniors ltach~l Sclliffman a~d Maryann Tan were semi-finalists £o.r theiT project, "Nutrition-a) Awareness in NYC PubHc Schools.'' a pl-ar~ wmcn wtfl be implemented th.r.ough legislation by a state senatOF. S-i i,v er medalists ittcchtd"ecl ju<niors RosaLind Aela·ms, Jillian DeChavez atld Er-iik S-cott, whose projects atrer ~oml:nateGI. for fundi'ng l>y y-o~dl-venfu~e-~orn .. <;>tn~r silver me.daltsts were JUntors 'WtMte Cheng ~nd Zora S:z'¢. :Bronz'6 medallists i-ncluded junii<!lrs Grace Lui, Slava Vaynberg anl41 Micll,elle Wang.

Bronze me1:faHst Nily Rozic's p110ject, ..Sohjr powered Lights: flilu• minating the future,''' wm be imp:lementecl in Rochester. HistQcy teacher Franco Scard~no men:tored aU the en~ ; trants.

Seniar Jessica Wang wan the $25,000 fkst'place prize in the Literature/Poetry category of this year's Bertelsmann ~Foundation's Wbrld of Expression S~holarsm:p Pr©gram for her poem ''To: be Continued.'' Seniors Daniel Bloc~ and 'falya Lieberman wan $1,000 fBest of t:he Borough;' awards for poetry and musical composition, r~sp•ectively. Sen,i-or Steji1hanie Correa won a $500 Artist Reco,gnitio.n ~ward for poea:y. Hone~mtible mell't$olls inc:-lu.d'ed sen,i on Janice Olan, ~oetry; Marlu Dublin, memoir; ancl ~ioattna fiN¥~. poetry.

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The Classic

6 'Course of·true love': After ups and downs, June 2003

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by Diane Tiao date after he moves and for six months, Did you ever watch one of those mov- James travels back and forth from New ies where a couple of high school kids Jersey to New York without a car just meet, fall madly in love with each other, to visit Karen and his friends. Howbecome high school sweethearts, over- ever, since they are only 16 and Karen come some type of obstacle and end up feels James is not adjusting to his new getting married and living happily ever home because he is spending too much after? Did you ever think to yourself that time trying to get back to New York, that kind of stuff never happens in real they break up.

Although they go life? Well, just keep reading because it their separate ways, James doesn't happened for the following three give up on Karen and for years, talks Townsend Harris alumni couples. ·about her to his friends . She ends up All three women faced it; each one getting married in 1991 to someone thought it was pretty bad her year. For else, but is then separated in 1994. She Karen Vandenburg '88, the male to fe- moves to Manhattan, decides to reconmale ratio was one to four; for Shari nect with people she has lost touch

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can change the course of your life," she said, and added, "Rejec0 tion is easier to accept than regret. ..c: c.. !flames and I had just opened our mouths earlier, we probably would have saved each other years of the wrong people."

Shari has her own insight on dating. "I went through all the usual high school crushes on various cute guys that I didn't know well at all ... then found love in a guy I had never seen in that light and became really good friends with over a long period of time. The most important thing is to be friends with someone and know them well before deciding to date. It felt like real heartbreak every time I didn't get the guys I thought I was interested in, but looking back, I don't know what I was thinking,'' said Shari .

Although she has a happy marriage now, her story begins a little differently. ::l

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Stromberg '92, it was about one lo three; and for Erika Brown '91, it was one to six. How then, did each woman beat the odds and find her "Mr. Right" among the already few "Mr. Wrongs"? As the story of each couple will prove, it was not easy for any of them.

Picture young Karen sitting next to J a m e s Curzio '88 in the music room. Immediately she takes a liking to this boy and offers him a piece of gum . He, however, says no; he says he already has one . Later on, he will go on to tell Karen that he moved his delaney card so that she would be able to see it and write down his phone number. She never does .

One day, a classmate tells Karen his friend has a crush on her, but thinking it's all a joke and that all her classmate wants to do is make fun of her, says, "So do my four boyfriends."

Again, the relationship is put on hold.

But fate works in mysterious ways, and sophomore year, Karen discovers James is moving. She decides to tell him how she feels, that she has had a crush on him for quite some time now, and it turns out he feels the same way. They have a mock wedding to break the tension of finals before he leaves for southern New Jersey during his junior year. They start to

much closer senior year. However, they are both dating different people.

The opportunity for sparks to fly between these two is not yet gone. The summer after graduation, they see each other at Jason's birthday party. At this time, both are unattached. He asks a few days later if they could hang out and after their first date at the movies where they timidly touch hands without actually holding hands, these two shy teen-

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Already a couple, James Curzio '88 and Karen Vandenburg '88 embrace in a dasssroom in 1986

each other: his patience and diplomacy versus· my drive and passion (that is to say, my weirdness). He showed me how incredible a healthy and giving relationship could heal and grow," said Karen .

"Never be afraid to tell someone you like them when you feel it," she advises, "and make an effort to keep in touch with those who are special now- it has made all the difference in our lives . It's notalways just the person, but the timing that

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Fourteen years later, James and Karen tie the knot.

with, and sends out Christmas cards, including one to the last known address of James . She forgets to put her phone number or address on the card, but James remembers her mother's phone number and calls her. She remembers him and gives him Karen's telephone number. They meet at ·a mixer and begin to date right after that.

At the end of a

'Never be afraid to tell someone you like them when you feel it.'

agers find themselves falling in love.

Within a couple of weeks, Shari knows Jason is the one .

They attend separate colleges but spend every weekend together. Although Shari and Jason break up in the fall of 1998 over commitment issues and deciding whether or not' they are ready to get married, they decide to get engaged that December. Shari knows that Jason has already ordered a ring, but does not know when she will be getting it. One day, he asks her to look in her · coat pocket for something_, and there it is. They are married in 2000.

The.y have a baby girl, who was born in March 2002, and "Jason and our daughter Sydney are the most important part of my life; they are my life . We rarely fight," said Shari, "but marriage does take work. In general, I would say we have a happy and successful one."

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friend ' s wedding, in front of his entire family and with the bride's permission, James gets down on one knee and with a microphone asks Karen if she will . 'iii', ib.i, "rl " - - share her life with him.

Shar i Stromberg '92 and Jason Nocer a '92 spend time in a park during their senior year in 1992.

They are married in 2000 and their first child is born in_ January 2003 . Currently James is in the el- The scene changes and now it's time to evator union and Karen is a market- picture a young Shari . She has known Jason Nocera '92 all through high school, ing associate at Ernst & Young .

"James is the best thing that I could but only becomes friends with him durhave ever wanted. We have become an ing their junior year when he starts datincredible partnership and life has be- ing one of her friends. They as well as come a lot more enjoyable and much their group of friends spend time in a tuless dramatic than my past. We balance toring room in the morning and become

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T he Nocera family is all smiles with their new addition, one-yearold daughter Sydney.

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Currently she is working part time as a speech pathologist.

While Shari and Jason already have a one-year-old child, Erika and Michael Scheiman ' 90 are still enjoying being newlyweds. The scene will change one last time, as thei r story is unraveled .

Picture young Erika sitting in the

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The Classic

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high sc.hool sweethearts finally tie ·t he knot cafeteria eating her lunch when Michael comes over to say hello. She can't help but think that he is the best-looking guy that she has ever seen, and in fact, still is . They date on and off all throughout high school, but attend different colleges. Erika goes to SUNY Albany and Michael is in Oregon.

They break up during Erika's freshman · year in college after a fight. She tells him never to call her again, and he doesn't.

Nine years later, Erika i.s out on a date at a new restaurant three doors from her apartment in Chelsea. She looks at the menu and sees Michael's name at the bottom as the executive chef. She cannot believe it. She decides to go and say hello. They are both inrelationships with other people, so they decide just to be friends .

A couple of months later, she finds out that she is being transferred to Silicon Valley and calls to invite Michael and his fiancee to her goodbye party. He doesn't go, but a few weeks later, the

day before she moves to San Francisco, gives her a call.

They meet later that night and he tells her that he has always loved her and thinks that they are destined to be together. This is exactly what Erika is thinking as well. When she moves to

'Never pretend to be something you're not in order to please someone you like.'

California in May 2000, they try to get to know each other again through phone calls and e-mail. About seven months later, Michael flies out to see her and as soon as she picks him up from the airport, she knows he is definitely the one.

They travel back and forth from California to New York at least once a month for four months. By the end of May 200 I, Michael moves out to California to be with Erika. He proposes as soon

as they return from the airport to her being a chef at restaurants such as The apartment, which is covered with Soho Grand Hotel, Picholine, and Tribeca boxes, because they are about to move Grill, has returned to school to study into a new apartment. Four months criminal justice. He intends to obtain a later, they are married, barefoot, on the Master's degree in national security. beach of Virgin Gorda in the British Erika's only advice is: "Never preVirgin Islands. tend to be some"It took thing you're not in more than a deorder to please cade and many someone you like. more experiThat core part of ences for us to you will never figure it all out. change, and you [Married life] is will only be happy crazy!

And if you are being il: "' e wonderful . .. you true to yourself a:l learn a lot about and the other per·c: ""'~'" son is yourself. As in love with ....0 newlyweds, you who you really >. get the chance are, and vice~::> 0 u to create a versa," she said.

80 whole new life; Whoever said if you couldn't find you begin to create Erika Brown ' 91 and Michael everything you've the person you Scheiman ' 90 snuggle together on ever wished were a were meant to be the beaches of Virgin Gorda in part of your life-towith for all eterthe British Virgin Islands during gether. And you get nity in a high their honeymoon in 200 I. to experiment and school friend or make mistakes- together," classmate was obvisaid Erika. ously wrong. Each one of these alumni Currently Erika is a staff writer at couples is living proof that anything is Forbes magazine covering Silicon Val- possible, including finding "the one" as ley busines~. Michael, after I0 years of a teenager.

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The Classic June 2003

How much is too much?

Community speaks out on public displays of affection

by Andrea Amorillo "There is no exact rule. PDAs are ferrals and a call home to try to Holding hands. Hugging. Kissing. well. .. not strictly prohibited," stated Inchange this behavior. Chronic violaThese are all forms ofPDAs, otherwise terim Acting Assistant Principal of Ortion of the rules results in suspension known as Public Displays of Affection. ganization Wanda Nix, who is taking a for refusal to accept the school policy.

Such displays are considered inappro- temporary break from her priate in school by the officials and are usual position as dean. "It's punishable to a number of degrees . Se- rather s u b j e c t i v e . " Q · curity guards, teachers, and other The rules for public dis/' • · ... school staff members are permitted to plays of affection are deter,. .,..••" break up inappropriate conduct and is- mined by a committee, which sue referrals where necessary. Regard- is formed by the principal, asless of this, most students have seen sistant principal, teachers, public displays of affection in the build- and mostly students, but the ing and have different reactions to principal has the last say. The them. general opinion of the com"There is definitely a limit. Kiss- · mittee is that PDAs are not ing, hugging, and hand-holding is OK. appropriate, and the age of I see a lot of couples hugging and hold- the individuals definitely facing hands and that's fine. If it shouldn't tors into this decision. be done on the street, it shouldn't be "School isn't the time or Jonathan Perez done in school," stated senior Leah place," said Ms. Nix. "I think Capitini. "It depends where. Outside, it should be kept outside of school," Even so, not many get referrals. Acsure." said freshman Monica Kutil. "I agreed Robin Figel man, who is currently cording to Ms. Nix, "generally speakdon't think you should be punished for serving as Dean of Students. "I don't ing, handholding is OK," as long as it but you should be informed that think [it's appropriate here] because this you are not "making a nuisance out people can see you." These sentiments is a place of education." of yourself." · seemed to dominate the majority of the Though referrals aren't usually given "I don't have a problem with hold28 willing to be formally interviewed for a first or minor offense, after a warning hands or something," said junior and quoted. ing or two, the individuals are given reDemetra Spaliaros. "If couples are going at it in the middle of the hallways, it's inappropriate." Emmanuel Smith stated, "There's nothing wrong with it, as long as it's nothing obscene."

Senior Carlos Romero

by Diane Tiao agreed, "It's all right, but to a certain Representing the greater visions of stitute freshman portfolio. art club members, this year's art show, , Advisor of the art club Anthony Mo- extent. No groping. You can't grope Visions of Fantasia, opened on Tuesday rales added, "This event went very sue- in public," he said. Michael CassAn tony, a freshman, said, "As long May 27. On display as they're not in front of my locker." were representations

Art show creates 'visions' in imaginations of spectators

of various art media, including paintings, sculptures, visual arts multimedia and digital photography.

Faculty, students

by Jamie Gullen and parents attended Thoughts of Einstein's theory of the reception. Rerelativity, balancing chemical equafreshments were tions, and disecting pigs floated served. around the minds of the juniors and "The food got deseniors honored at the first ever New voured in 30 seconds, York State Science Honors Society but hopefully people Freshmen Anamaria Bonner and Ewelina Kara admire some of (NYSSHS), which took place on stayed for the art," the artwork on display at Visions of Fantasia on May 27.

Thursday, May 29. said photography Townsend Harris became the 69th teacher Margherita Wischerth. The ex- cess fully if you consider the fact that stu- chapter of this science society. To be hibit was left up for the Baccalaureate dents are developing works that are in- inducted into the society, a student so parents could view the artistic talent dependent from regular class assign- must have a 90 cumulative average of Townsend Harris. ments, enabling self-expression and the in math, science, and overall acaCo-presidents Bryan Kirschen, seimagination to explore personal interpre- demic studies. Other requirements nior, and Carla Gunther, junior, were tation. We hope to invite other staff mem- include community service and two both very pleased with the outcome of bers as well as alumni to join in one of recommendations from science teachthe show. "The art board put a lot of the most creative displays of artwork." ers. Only juniors and seniors were work and dedication into the event, and inducted this year. the results were phenomenal," said ,o Brian. "Our club members and the work they displayed were very diverse and TEL (718) 281-0262 FAX (718) 281-0876 showed a lot of talent. I'm very proud ' (718) 281·0283 WWW. NY AUTOSCHOOL.COM. of our members," said Carla.

Included in the exhibit were never before displayed works, including one involving the collaboration of English teacher Helen Rizzuto with painters and photographers Rachel Schiffman, Tif38-15 BELL Blvd., Suite 202 fany Luo, and Natalie Spielberg, seBAYSIDE, NY 11361 HARRY PATEROULAKIS niors. Also on display was alumnus Ryan Dennie's (Class of '02) Pratt In-

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Some students, however, do find publie displays of affection to be more of a problem. "I hate them because it makes me depressed," said sophomore Dorothy Kuznia. Freshman Denise Martinez feels that "if two people are comfortable with each other and engage in public displays of affection, it's good," but, she added, "they should have respect and realize that not everyone is comfortable seeing them."

Sophomore Venus Cheung believes that "PDAs are inappropriate if it's done in an enclosed place, for example in schools. However, it is fine if it is outdoors, for example, in the park. People that are single feel uncomfortable when others conduct PDAs." Zoie Blackwood, another sophomore, shared the same sentiment, saying, "On one hand it doesn't bother me, but on the other hand, it makes me envious."

All of those interviewed stated that no one should get in trouble for public displays of affection. "Let them show their true affections. They shouldn't be punished for it," said freshman Ulysses Kalladoryan. "I think that people are naturally inclined to express themselves physically, and therefore as human beings, we hold the natural right to do so.

Absolutely not," responded sophomore Jorge Cubas. Junior Calos Romero said, "Why involve the security guards?

There's no need. Why be punished for your freedom?" In many cases, those who are against PDAs are not in relationships themselves, according to sophomore Dorothy Kuznia, who admitted, "If I had someone, I'd do that too."

New science honor society inducts juniors, seniors At the ceremony, Assistant Principal of Science Susan Brustein spoke of students' scientific accomplishments, achieved despite the school's reputation for excellence in the Humanities. Several members of the science faculty presented students with their certificates, and in the seniors' case, their pins.

Physics teacher John Tsai brought his baby to the ceremony and he received "ooohs" and "ahhhs" from the audience members as he crossed the stage to reach his father. In addition, there was a musical performance by Nina Mozes on the flute.

After the ceremony, a reception was held in the lobby where cookies and soda were served and faculty, students and parents had a chance to converse.

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June 2003

Astoria boasts fine Colombian cuisine, ethnic flare

by Marlo Dublin Tierras Colombianas 330 I Broadway Astoria, NY Ill 06 (718) 956-3012 Call for hours of operation Although many areas in Queens offer some of the best in global cuisine, Astoria truly can be considered a culinary melting pot. There is no other neighborhood where one can find a string of Greek restaurants amongst a smattering of authentic Italian, Mexican and Chinese eateries all within a twoblock radius. Tierras Colombianas, an intimate establishment featuring savory Colombian fare at modest prices, is just one of the many hot spots dotting Broadway, where one can enjoy authentic fare while basking in the sights and sounds of the world.

I visited Tierras for lunch with my Advanced Placement Spanish class, teacher Maria Rodriguez and several other Spanish 4 students on May 28.

With enough room for over I 00 patrons, the restaurant is adorned with intricately painted murals of gardens, villas and

birds that are bursting with color and helped to brighten up a rather dull eating environment. Although the chairs are not conducive to sitting in for extended periods of time, I fought off any discomfort by gazing at the beautiful cherry-red parrots trapped on the walls in front of my table.

I decided not to start with an appetizer, for I was told by a few waiters that portions were large enough to feed two people. Excited to be trying a new type of cuisine, I ordered pechuga empanizada, a well-balanced combination of breaded chicken cutlets, mixed salad, plantains, rice and beans. The cutlets were sliced thin and rolled in a succulent combination of herbs, spices and breadcrumbs and then fried golden.

Neither greasy nor overly spicy, the chicken was crunchy and full of flavor; however, it probably would have tasted even better had it been accompanied by gravy or another type of sauce to add moisture to its rather dry consistency.

The salad, when doused in red wine vinegar, was quite savory, but a friend did not think so after finding a piece of plastic within her heap of lettuce and assorted vegetables. This was one of the

few unappetizing parts of my meal at and flavorful, while the pork was exthe restaurant and it caused me to think tremely salty and fatty. Before sampling about what would have happened had a this concoction, I had never tried an younger child eaten that remnant. An arepa but was pleasantly surprised by incident like this proves that quick and its bland yet doughy consistency. Furcareless preparation can cause major thermore, it functioned wonderfully as damage, be it a tainted reputation or _ a means to mop up any remaining sauce appetite. left on my plate.

The plantains I was served were soft, For dessert, I was offered a small sweet and incredibly delicious. Sliced serving of warm rice pudding that was in quarters, these chunks of fried fruit sprinkled with cinnamon. Tasting somemelted in my mouth and were surpris- what like traditional rice pudding with ingly filling. The rice and beans that a hint of eggnog, this treat was quite encame alongside my towering platter joyable and neither heavy nor extremely were somewhat of a disappointment. rich. I would have liked to try a few however. Bathed in a sauce tasting other desserts in order to taste the true somewhat like Progresso soup, the essence of the Colombian confectionbeans were completely saturated and ery; however, after thinking about the void of the rich taste characteristic of meal I had enjoyed, I was happy to have most dry legumes, while the rice, too, sampled such a hodgepodge of flavors. harbored much of this commercial taste.

Being able to experience the sights, While enjoying my meal, I was able sounds and tastes of Colombia at Tierras to sample one other dish that was of- Colombianas was a real treat. Although fered on our $13.50 prix-fixe menu. The certain aspects of my dining experience bandeja campesina featured a few slices were tainted by disappointing flavors of grilled beef marinated in garlic and a and consistencies, I enjoyed being able variety of spices, fried pork, arepa, avo- to dine with my classmates in an authencado, plantains, a soft-boiled egg, rice tic Colombian environment filled with and beans. I found the beef to be the best color, a friendly and helpful staff, as component of this dish, for it was soft well as enticing aromas.

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Spring-board diving ,makes a splash

by Andrea Amorillo our divers," said freshman Randi Citron. to choose from, there are bound to be You stand on the board and begin "Diving gives swimmers a time to rest favorites among divers, my personal your approach. Everyone's eyes are on and recover from their events. They can favorite being a reverse summersault you now and the only things to be heard sit back, cheer and enjoy the team spirit. in the tuck position and my least faare the faint sound of the water in the It always gives us an extra seven points," vorite being a forward dive with a halfpool and the loud beating of your heart. said junior Kristin Angelopoulos. Div- twist. For Beth Schuellein, "anything As you begin your approach to the end ing "is exciting to watch. It gets the team to do with twisting" will do. Her faof the board, you measure your steps ex- hyped and gives us more points," agreed vorite dives include forward summersaults to which three full actly and make sure all of your timing sophomore Laura D' Amato. twists are completed after the is perfect as you leave the springboard.

Many people believe that diving is a summersault and before entering the For a moment, you are flying through "new" sport. It does, however, date back water, and a backwards one and one the air using every muscle in your body to 17th century Europe. During these half summersault with a one and one to keep yourself in a tight dive. Every- times, gymnasts took to the water to polhalf full twist.

"I did a handstand one thing is going perfectly until you hit the ish their skills. Later on in time, around and a half off the ten meter [the board water completely on your back. Almost the 1900s, diving was made an official unfazed, you get out of the pool laugh- sport in Britain and the U.S. with the for- is elevated lO meters above the pool]. ing and waving to everyone as they stare mation of set at your now strawberry-red back. Such rules and methis the story of many springboard divers, ods of diving. including me.

There are "It takes guts and courage. You have currently five to be a bit crazy to be a diver. Only varieties of psychotic people would be willing to do springboard that," said Beth Schuellein, my first div- dives, the first ing coach and Townsend Harris English of which, acteacher Janet Schuellein's sister. "It's cording to like tlying until you hurt yourself."

USAdiving.org, "I like it because it's different and is the forward fun," said junior Nicole Schnell, one of variety. . In orTownsend Harris's divers, who started der to do fordiving in her freshman year. wards, the diver Diving, however, is not a much must complete publicized or emphasized sport. "I feel a successful forswimming isn't even as publicized as it wards approach should be. You only see it [diving) on to the end of the '" ,';.路 - 路 -..- - c . _ . television during the Olympics every board and exI ;:;... . four years or if they happen to show ecute a dive facNCAA competitions. They only play ing forwards. that at night time," stated Beth The second vaSchuellein. "For New York City kids, riety of dives is there's not enough opportunity... to learn done backwards, and is called "backs" That was scary," said Ms. Schuellein how to dive as of now. All of the pro- by most divers. These dives require the calmly, while most would never even grams are in Long Island. Swimming diver to stand on the edge of the board consider diving from such a height to is definitely more televised than diving. with his or her back to the pool. An- begin with. "I like the forward dive Most people think I scuba dive .... [Div- other type of dive is called a reverse. To tuck [forward dive in which the legs ing is] a lot of fun but needs to be rec- properly execute a reverse, the diver of the diver are tucked in towards his ognized." must approach the end of the board as or her chest]," stated Nicole. When Nicole also feels that diving is not with a forward dive, but rotate back to- asked what her least favorite dive was, publicized enough, saying, "Barely any- wards the board when in the air. In or- she replied smiling, "Inward, because one knows we have a diving team at der to do the next variety of dives, which I hit my head."

"I teach safety first, no matter Townsend Harris. In general, not many are inward dives, the diver must stand at what," said Beth Schuellein, who is people know how to dive or even know the edge of the board, back facing the about diving as a sport. The only people pool, and perform the dive by rotating currently coaching the St. Francis I know that dive are people that I've in the direction of the board in mid-air. Prep. diving team, and is also a certiThe last springboard dive variety is the fied official, which gives her the aupracticed with or competed against."

The members of the Townsend Har- twisting dive group. To execute a twist- thority to judge dives at competitions. ris Turtles [swim team] happen to be ing dive, one arm is held tightly across Safety is the most important rule in well aware of diving. "Diving adds an- the diver's chest while the other arm re- diving, the second being to compete other element to swimming. It is excit- . mains locked and bent behind the diver's with only the most polished dives in the diver's line-up. There is a scoring ing and adds points for our team. It's head. system of zero to I 0, I 0 being the fun to watch and I enjoy cheering for With so many dives and combinations

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highest, which is why only the best dives should be used in competition. According to Ms. Schuellein, the judges look at the entire dive, including the approach, the execution, and the entrance. A balk, or hesitation at the end of the board results in a two point deduction from the diver's score. Two balks are equal to a failed dive, and if a diver fails two dives, he or she can no longer compete. Ms. Schuellein also added that the judges look to see if the diver's feet are pointed and if the legs are together upon entry into the water.

Most people think diving is not a "real" sport, but it is more complicated and even

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Hollywood Image Maker 136-53 Roosevelt Avenue Flusing, New York 11354 718.661.1616

Andrea Shliselberg dangerous than it seems. Not only must one have good form, but one must also keep in mind that if one enters the water with open eyes or on one's ear from certain heights, one can go blind or deaf.

Needless to say, there are other injuries that can result, such as broken bones.

When the risks are realized, the sport becomes more beautiful and captivating for those watching.

Sources: Newman, Gerald, ed. The Concise Encyclopedia of Sports. Ed. Gerald Newman. New York: Franklin Watts, 1979.

Ditchfild, Christin. Swimming and Diving. New York: Children's Press, 2000.

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42nd Street & Orchard Street Manhasset, New York 11030

516.365.1966

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The Classic

11

June 2003

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'I don't try to be like anyone':

Amorillo shares her skills in the pool, distinct personality

by Samira Annabi As she passes through the congested hallways to get to class, she stands out in the crowd. A student with a distinct look and personality, Andrea Michelle Amorillo is known by many students to "speak her mind and express herself."

She is also known for her swimming and diving abilities. As an accomplished athlete, she has contributed to the achievements of our school's swim team.

Being a valued member of the Turtles, Andrea has helped our school win third place (after Stuyvesant and Bronx Science) in the citywide swimming and diving competition. She won the diving division that supplied seven points to the team and swam in the winning 200-yard meadly relay, even though she thinks she was the slowest person in her lane.

Andrea has been swimming since she was four years old, starting out in pools that ranged from five to ten feet deep.

As a young child, she started taking lessons at a Queens College swimming and diving program that she still attends to this day. Andrea's instructor, Harold, joked with her when she was little by

telling her that she couldn't swim. An- "I don't try to be like anyone, but I don't drea was forced to attend these swim- go out of my way to be different. I'm ming and diving lessons by her parents all about having fun but I wasn't always despite the fact that she did not want to like this." at first. She eventuAndrea says ally began enjoying her fun-loving naswimming and divture emerged ing more as she imwhen she-changed proved. She defiher appearance. nitely did not want "My mother used to take part in any to dress me in competitions. Her preppy clothes parents, nevertheil when I was less, encouraged her ] younger. With my to do so. second ::t: glasses and a mulgrade, she started ~ let, I looked like a ::t: competing against >. nerd. I actually .0 other swimmers.

B had a mullet from Andrea has always ~ age three to about won either first or eleven. My mom second prize in such Andrea Amorillo did it to me. She competitions, provsaid it was 'fashing Harold wrong, even if he was jok- ionable' but apparently, she was wrong. ing.

When I was in sixth grade, I cut my hair In addition to being talented, so that it was even and pretty short. It "Andrea's just got a great personality," was also around that time when I started sai<:f sophomore Shantey Baboumian. wearing what I wanted to wear." Before ''She's just herself." Andrea agrees with dressing the way she wanted, Andrea this description. ''I'm myself," she said. was "really quiet." "But after I started

In

dressing how I like, no one could shut me up," said Andrea. "It's all about confidence and what you like. I'm known for wearing blue/turquoise and purple pants with neon yellow stripes, a black shirt and pink arm warmers. Some people think I'm color-blind, but it's really fun and that's what counts."

In her fre.e time, when she isn't doing homework, studying and working on a collateral, Andrea enjoys spending time with her friends. She also enjoys writing, which explains her choice of journalism as an elective.Andrea is also a talented artist, and anyone who wishes to see a piece of work by her can find it on the art bulletin outside of art teacher Anthony Morales's classroom. A fie\d that Andrea enjoys now, and hopes to take on as a career, is technical -work with computers. As an intern with the Agency for the Advancement of the Blind and Retarded, she fixed and updated their computer databases and was inspired to continue this work in the future. But whatever the future holds in store, this is not what Andrea has on her mind these days. "For now, I'm too busy being a teenager," she said.

Close game strikes Hawks from playoffs

by Stephen Berger first game back from the injury, he made a With two outs in the sixth inning, second dramatic diving catch in the outfield. Later baseman Michael Schwartz, junior, hit a deep in the season, he moved to shortstop and drive that rolled all the way to the wall. The excelled there. ball was then bobbled on the infield, but not Even though the Hawks would have liked enough for Schwartz, who was left stranded to advance deeper in to the playoffs, the at third base, to advance team was very wellhome to score what rounded, which contribwould have been the tyuted to their 9-7 record ingrun. "We should have during the regular won that game," said season, good for fourth Schwartz. The Boys' place in the Queens CenVarsity Baseball team tral "B" standings. The lost that heartbreaking team was very well game on May 29 at the coached by head coach High School of Graphic Steve Lieberman and asCommunication Arts, by sistant coach Nicholas a slim 3-2 margin that • ~ Diunte, and received -:: :~ :~:._:~.-.-~.;;; •-. clutch performances elimi.nated them from the first round of the A determined Chris Fuchs, team from many players. captain and junior, winds up a pitch.

Pitcher Christopher playoffs.

Despite the early playoff exit, this season Guillou excelled by posting a record of 6 was certainly a breakout year for junior Nick wins and I loss with an ERA of3.75. Catcher Kaloudis, who was named MVP of the team. Joe Kresse, junior, was sparkling behind the Not only did he overcome an arm injury that plate and batted .375 with 17 RBI; junior he suffered early in the season, but he came Jesse Franco was steady with a .278 batting back to lead the Hawks in nearly every of- average and junior Maurice Stevenson profensive category. He batted .456 with 26 hits, vided the impetus on the bases by stealing 16 runs scored and he drove in 14 runs. In his 19 bases and scoring 15 runs.

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by MtdteUe Mentgom

After an up anti <:town Iteplar season, f~ only forfeit vi0t0ries ana tbmnatin& defeats, tme Beys' Handbalt squad ooncluded loo3 cauipaip by winning tmeir last two gaanes arAd posting their best record; of seven wins and dwee l;osses, i,n the last two years. A 5-0 Win against Angust Martin, ft>Jiowe.d by a futitit apinst Martin Van Btltetf, led the Hawks to a mird place finislt in the Q&eens division III slaadings- a strong reb-ound -from last season's last place 1\msh.

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The Hawks won five games this season on account of forfieitiS, wliUle their t>.tller two wins wer~ from blowouts, winning 4-l and 5-0 against fourt:tt place finisher A-U'gust Martin. Their only three losses came against 'first pl~ Cardozo and seeon place Francis Lewis. .

Senior Jonathan ~erez, who racked up three ooes and eighteen kill$ in six matcltes, led tile team as wen as senior Matthew Barbery, wbo managed six aces and nineteen klls in five matches. BarOO!y also posted a 3-2 record as a singles player. Other ~or conuibutors inc'lu-de freshman David CIW (tmee aces~ fifteen kitts in five matches),_sophomore David Lee (1.;.0 in one matcb, ' two aces, six kitts), and sophomore- Eugene 1b (1·0 in two matches, seven kills two matches).

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Look for coverage of the girls' sports teams in the Summer issue of The Classic, which will come out at the end of the month.

Volleyball players serve up improved scores

by Michelle Montgoris A two-game shutout victory for the Boys' Varsity Volleyball team against John Bowne was the ideal way to cap an improved regular season campaign.

The Hawks concluded the year by winning their last three matches against John Bowne, Martin Van Buren, and ·Bayside.

In the team's final effort to finish the year with an over .500 record, senior Benjamin Seo and freshman Jason Yeoun each served for an ace, and senior Alvin Gattoc managed four kills.

Seo and freshman Kevin Kwak also

racked up seven assists each to lead the squad to victory.

Despite missing the playoffs, the team improved upon last year's 2-8 record and fifth place finish, to a 6-4 record and a third place finish in the Queens II division. Their only losses came at the hands of first place Benjamin Cardozo and second place Francis Lewis. They lost to Cardozo two games to none both times, but managed to win a set in both matches against Lewis, losing 2-1 in both matches.

According to freshman Kevin Kwak, the first match of the year against

Francis Lewis was the most exciting of the year. "It was the best out of three games and we were able to win the first game but unfortunately lost the last two games," he said. "The fact that we were able to beat the number two team in our division, though, made us excited. It was truly a nerve-wracking match because it went up to the third game and the points were very close." , Eight veteran seniors, who will be missed greatly by the team next season, led the way for the Hawks in the 2003 campaign, including Alvin Gattoc and Michael Huang, co-captains, as well as

Ashish Hansoty, Varun Jain, Tim Murphy, Benjamin Seo, Matthew Stuart, and Tarun Suri. Seo and Huang were the only four-year players on the roster, posting a combined 115 service points.

Managers Emma Huang and Woo Eun Kwak will al'so be leaving.

"Our seniors made the season very enjoyable and worthwhile and they were always eager to make practices and games fun," freshman Kevin Kwak said.

"The senior managers will also be missed greatly next year, because they have helped the team in every aspect throughout the entire season."

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The Classic

June2003

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Despite loss in playoffs, Boys' Tennis reaches goal

by Stephen Berger Furman by consistently winning his matches The Boys' Varsity Tennis team and astounding observers with his powerful made it into the second round of the serves and the preciseness of his shots. Howplayoffs, thereby achieving one of the ever, Gayer believes it is the Hawk's strong core team's goals, which was to advance of supporting players that propelled the further into the playoffs team further into the playoffs. than it had during the preThe Hawks benefitted vious season. However, enormously from its doubles the Hawks' playoff run teams, which continuously was short-lived, as the got better as the season proteam lost once again to the gressed. perennial division winner, "The more matches we Cardozo High School, on competed in, the more the May 14 by a 4-1 margin . doubles pairings got used to The Hawks reached playing with each," said that secondround playoff Gayer, who cited this familbout with Cardozo after iarity between the players as they defeated Tottenville one of the reasons for the betHigh School in their first ter play from the doubles round playoff match-up on SophomoreAri Gayer teams. The doubles pairings for this past season were the road on May 12 by a readies his serve. score of four games to one. sophomores Ethan Felder and Dain Lee, There were many bright spots for and sophomores David Joseph al'ld Matthe Hawks in the playoffs this year. thew Yu. Sophomores Ari Gayer and Sotiris The Hawks are optimistic that next year they Georgiou and junior Matthew will improve upon their 6 win, Kirschner all won their singles match- 4 loss regular season and go deeper into the ups against Tottenvi1Jeâ&#x20AC;˘. In addition, playoffs. "We should have a great team next Gayer, the team's first singles player, year because we are adding somâ&#x201A;Ź new, very defeated Cardozo's first singles talented players to our team,'' stated Gayer. player, junior Alex Dobrin.

The team hopes that incoming students Sean For the second consecutive year, Gayer Doerfler and Michael Malhame will have posiled the Hawks under Coach Howard tive impact on the team next year.

Strong performances highlight Boys' Outdoor Track season

by Stephen Berger The Boys' Track team ended its season in a fitting manner on May 28 at Newtown High School. The team ran very well, but midway through the meet, the competition was canceled due to inclement weather, which plagued the Hawks throughout the outdoor season.

The 4x800-meter relay team is made up of seniors Carlos Chincha, Mikhail Khaimov, and Seth Steinhoff, as well as junior David Bass, who won a silver medal for finishing in second place in the race.

Since there are many meets during the outdoor track season, there is less time for the team to practice. In order to try to combat this early in the season, coach George Rio had the Hawks run many of their developmental meets at Jamaica High School, which had a better division, and consequently the team ran against better competition.

When the Hawks returned to running their developmental meets against Newtown later in the season, they "dominated their competition," said Nick Kolios, sophomore.

Throughout the season, the strong core of freshman sprinters, led by Martin Gomez, A'van Hundley, Joey

Rodriguez and Oscar Orozco, as well as jumper Louis Elrose, junior, delivered outstanding performances. Elrose was the only team member to qualify for City Champs, and he did so in four events. Elrose was also named Most Valuable Player of the Outdoor Track team at the Awards Banquet on June 4.

One of the most exciting days for the Hawks was when they placed second on May I 0 at the Bruce Selman Memorial Meet at DeWitt Clinton High School.

The Hawks competed with teams from all over the city and held first place for much of the meet, thanks to the strong performances from the freshman runners and Elrose.

Among the highlights of this past season were the s¡t rong performances from sprinters John Kim and Andrew Rivera, juniors; the return from an injury of star distance runner Matt Duelka, sophomore; and the performances and leadership that seniors Zak Anolic, Carlos Gonzalez, Dmitriy Yukhvid, Chincha, Khaimov, and Steinhoff provided.

David Bass mentioned that "Going to DeWitt Clinton on May 13 with the distance runners to .do the steeplechase was a fun day to be a distance runner."

COMMENTARY:

Cheating - Who's to blame?

by Josh Fox One of the great home run hitters in Major League Baseball history, Sammy Sosa of the Chicago Cubs, was shockingly found to have "corked" his bat last week. According to baseball lore, a bat that has been hollowed out and filled with cork is supposed to give the batter a distinct advantage. The bat is supposed to be lighter and the batter will ultimately have greater bat speed and thus hit the ball farther. Although many scientists beg to differ and claim that a lighter and corked bat does not really give the hitter any advantage, Sosa had clearly cheated according to the rules of the game. The entire sporting world was stunned by this display.

Immediately, Sammy Sosa claimed he had mistakenly used a batting practice and home run exhibition bat instead of his regular one. After further investigation, it was clear that none of Sosa's other bats were filled with cork. Although Sosa apologized, Major League Baseball handed down an eight game suspension, and Sosa will also be scorched with a tarnished reputation.

Baseball, our nation's pastime and a true symbol of our country, has harbored cheaters long before Sammy Sosa. Gaylord Perry, a 300 game winner and a Hall of Fame pitcher, openly admitted to cheating. There is an ominous cloud lurking over the game concerning alleged illegal steroid use among countless ballplayers. Many retired stars, for instance, such as Jose Canseco and Ken Caminiti, have made blanket statements about rampant steroid use.

Over the last decade, home runs have increased astoundingly, and players have bulked up. Many brilliant and not so brilliant people can put the two together and arrive at the same conclusion. It is not my or anyone else's place to start accusing baseball players of anything where I lack substantial evidence, because that is tremendously dangerous to the integrity of the game and of sports writing in general. But I would be the first to admit that I would not be surprised if some of the great athletes of today have used illegal steroids.

The begging question that needs to be addressed with regard to cheating is: Can we really blame these athletes? Yes, of course these athletes are the ones to blame, but there are other sources that need to be held accountable as well. . The main objectives for all of these stars is to win and to make a load of money, not necessarily in that order. If you compare the ever-rising contracts of players who can hit th'irty home runs, which at some point in major league history was an accomplishment, and those who can hit fifty home runs in a season, you will surely see the marketable difference. It is a difference of sometimes 20 million dollars a season! If a player has to choose between hurting his body for a short period of time with a substance that he believes everybody uses anyway and risking the chance to make millions more to treat his family, I think I know what choice he would make.

Although each individual person ultimately has the choice to cheat or participate fairly, I think that society, which perhaps is an overused culprit, is greatly to blame. The game, in its purest sense, is a game for children, and children look up to their hero ball players and treat them as champions. Is it right to encourage these champions to cheat and abuse the system and, most importantly, their fans? That is certainly not the lesson we are trying to convey.

True, no one forced Sammy Sosa to cork his bat, whether it was a mistake or done purposely, and no one forces players to take steroids, but I believe it is time to look at ourselves and the ideals that we foster. This is not a perfect society and there will always be people who knowingly choose to take the easy way and abuse the system at the expense of others, but it is our job to expose them and others that cheating is not the answer. Our values in this economically and greedily driven society will not change in an instant. However, it is our duty to embarrass and vilify people like Sammy Sosa for the cheaters that they have proven to be, or else we will unfortunately be cheating ourselves, for society is the impetus that drives these individuals to the brink of this dangerous choice.