June 2014 by The Classic

GENDER RELATIONS

IVY LEAGUE RIP-OFF?

THE PHOENIX AT 30 -

The -

Phoenix

to act.

> SPECIAL FEATURE PAGES !"-!!

> A&E PAGE 16

> NEWS PAGE 12

CLASSIC Townsend Harris High School at Queens College

the June 2014 - Volume 30 No. 10

THE CLASSIC

Her Parting Lesson

BY RACHEL CHABIN FEATURES EDITOR

FOR TOWNSEND HARRIS, February 4 was chaotic: as search-

www.thhsclassic.com

Ms. Wallace's final year at THHS took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with breast cancer this past December. Now in remission, she shares her story and her hopes in an effort to spread awareness to the school community.

amination where initially, the test results were normal. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The -

story. On December 19, 2013, Ms. -

Fortunately, the cancer was

cancer, breast cancer is the most

treatments on March 17 at North tal in Manhasset. Her treatments

> NEWS PAGE 7

The Classic

NOW ONLINE AT HTTP://ARCHIVE.THHSCLASSIC.COM/

2 June 2014

THE CLASSIC

NEWS 2014 Valedictorian and Salutatorian share thoughts on dreams, accomplishments, and wonderful wastes of time FACTS

worth your time personally? Michelle: In the last month before the AP U.S. History test, ating games that would help us review. While most groups went with the typical powerpoint Jeopardy!, my friends and I decided to design an actual board game. We styled it after Candy Land, with multi-colored spaces, and blended that with Trivial Pursuit. I doubt the game

the people in my group a lot better. Some of them are still good ject at someone’s house turned into hanging out, eating homeing about life. Even the board game itself turned out to be something I was really proud of.

Poonam Dass STAFF WRITER THIS YEAR’S Valedictorian and Salutatorian sat down with The Classic ing the typical questions at this time of year (“What are your plans for the future?”, “How did you do it?”), we thought it would be better to do a Q&A that alternates between typical and atypical questions, allowing us to get a better view of their personalities. Both Cla ss i c editors, Michelle Gan, valedictorian, and Magdalena Grabos, salutatorian, shared their thoughts below. QUESTION: What have you done that was the biggest waste of time academically, but

Magdalena: Definitely going on Kingda Ka during the physics trip. I normally love roller coasters, and I’m the person that will drag friends on rides, but neither of the two friends I was with even considered going. The physics trip coincidentally fell on my birthday, so I was trying to use that as an excuse to get them to come with me because I did not want to go by myself. I was about to give up when a huge group of our friends came up and announced they were going. I jumped at the opportunity, and they even convinced one of my two friends to come. through the entire experience. It turned out to be the best ride in that we got out of it was priceunforgettable birthday. QUESTION: What was the best assignment that you produced during your four years at THHS? M ichel le: In f reshman English class, my teacher deliver an oratorical speech and examine the rhetorical devices

that made the speech effective. I chose “Equal Rights for Women” by Shirley Chisholm because it focused on something that I was and still am passionate about today. I remember feeling anxious standing up in front of collateral didn’t require us to memorize it, but as I launched into my speech, I realized that the words had ingrained themselves into my brain. At the end One person’s hand shot up, and when called on, the person praised my performance, noting that he felt the genuine passion behind my words. Magdalena: Sophomore year English with Ms. Rizzuto was one of the most challenging

about getting through the next four years? Michelle: rules too seriously, as long as Find friends who don’t spend all People at Townsend complain a lot, and I’m no exception. So grain of salt, and form your own opinions. Magdalena: Hang in there and experience everything that THHS has to offer. As Ms. Assante always says, “You never regret doing something, you the most out of everything and years are hard, senior year is wor th the wait.

QUESTION: Which fictional character would you and why? Michelle: Phineas and Ferb. They manage to innovate an endless amount of ways to pass creating the world’s largest roller and traveling much more than is fair. Magdalena: to choose Hermione Granger. Not only is she a wizard but she to time travel. She gets herself into so many different situainteresting. Photo by Kari Iocolano

well was always that much more rewarding. I remember that one of the biggest collaterals we had was writing a research paper on A Tale of Two Cities. There were so many details to pay attention to follow that I always felt that I was missing something. to hand it in, I was relieved that I could stop stressing out about it for a while. The nerves came in with the graded papers. She started reading the introduction paragraphs from a few papers that she sa id w e r e excell e n t . A f ter h e a r ing the first three or four, I wa sn’t expect i ng mine to be read, but then I heard my QU E STION: What would you tel l a f reshman

VALEDICTORIAN AND SALUTATORIAN STATISTICS FROM THE PAST FIVE YEARS Gender Ivy League to Non-Ivy League A!endance

Valedictorian

Salutatorian

Total

4 females, 1 male

3 females, 2 males

7 females, 3 males

Valedictorian 3 Ivies, 2 non-Ivies

Salutatorian 1 Ivy, 4 non-Ivies

Total 4 Ivies, 6 non-Ivies

THE CLASSIC

June 2014

NEWS

Former Queens College liaison honored in library Sarah Iqbal and Ann NEWS EDITORS FAMILY, FRIENDS, and colleagues gathered in the Malcolm G. Largmann Library to commemorate the life of Marvin Leiner. Dr. Leiner was the Queens College liaison for THHS from the early 1990s until his retirement in 2004. He passed away on May 21, 2013. The ceremony consisted of both scheduled and spontaneous comments from participants who shared their memories of Dr. Leiner. It concluded with all of the guests paying tribute to him with a plaque featuring a bridge representing Dr. Leiner’s success in running the Queens College Senior Bridge Year Program. Dr. Leiner himself attended THHS in 1944. He was devoted to expanding its focus on humanities, creating the election humanities seminar at THHS. With the help of Richard Lewis, founder and present director of the Touchstone Center for Children, Dr. Leiner introduced the Imagination Dialogues, engaging students and teachers in the exploration of creativity. “It was really Marvin who made it happen,” Mr. Lewis said. this city...that was doing this

Photo by Kari Iocolano

interest in Latin America, living in Cuba for two years, and publishing Children Are the Revolution: Day Care in Cuba (1978) and Sexual Politics in Cuba: Machismo, Homosexuality and AIDS (1994). Everyone at the memorial Leiner. “He was a scholar,” English teacher Judy Beiner said. “He was a humanitarian and a fascinating individual.” Engl ish teacher Joseph Canzoneri met Dr. Leiner in 2003. He said that he will always remember him as “somebody [who] went out of his way to cipal of the reopened THHS (1984-2001), commented that Dr. Leiner was a “very good reader of human nature.” Dr. Leiner’s diplomatic personality was further emphasized by Paul Longo, the current Director of the Center for the Improvement of Education (CIE) at Queens College. Mr. Longo together since the late 1960s, beginning in the Department of Elementary Education. “He was just an exceptional ing that Dr. Leiner’s personality aided in his desire to have good relations with others. “Mar was a special person,” he said.

Shakespeare class holds charity show Aayush Beri STAFF WRITER THE “SHA K ESPEA R E: From Page to Stage” class prethe show on June 12 raised $756 for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The show consisted of two acts with segments from various tion to an improv troupe.

The audience directly participated in the show by filling out sheets in order to set the parameters for the improv were a clogged toilet scene, a battle between a dinosaur and Romans, and a Game of Thrones cruise. Junior Christina Sue said, “I enjoyed how many of together and given a modern twist. The selections were

interesting, humorous and easy to relate to. The fact that it was all for such a great cause made it even more enjoyable.” Drama teacher and show organizer Joseph Canzoneri thought the show was a huge success and is grateful for the support it received, saying, “The TH HS com munit y’s every single person who was willing to support the cause.”

C-SPAN comes to THHS First Photo by Kari Iocolano

Dr. Leiner held an avid Photo courtesy of the Touchstone Center

Common Core test administered STAFF WRITER ON JUNE 3, freshmen who began their high school mathematics studies in Algebra

StudentCam winners being honored at the C-Span ceremony.

NEWS EDITOR

Dr. Leiner at a meeting in the principal’s conference room.

SI X S E N IOR S H AV E received StudentCam prizes from C-SPAN’s national student documentary competition. Nicholas Castro, Vinay Khemlani, Afrida Khurshid, Jennifer Kim, Rebecca Lee, and Adit ya Samaroo won honorable mentions for their films. All members of Social Studies teacher Alex Wood’s Participatory Democracy class, the students produced documentaries focusing on NSA spying and increases in tuition. According to a C-SPAN representative, the goal of the StudentCam contest is to allow students to express their views on current government issues. The topic of this year’s contest was “What’s the most important issue Congress should consider in 2014?”

A f ter at tending the ceremony at THHS, Congresswoman Grace Meng describing the selected issues as being “very much on the minds of young people all throughout America and in the minds of Congress right now.” Assemblywoman Nily Rozic agreed, mentioning that the StudentCam contest has the same goal as she does: to get teens involved in the government and to really form a participatory democracy. About this exper ience, Nicholas said he learned that “[teens] need to be aware and critical about the government.” Mr. Wood have future students participate in this contest so they can “address important them.”

Algebra I Regents adjusted to the Common Core Standards, which are state guidelines for math and English. This was to be administered at THHS since the initiative’s launch in 2009. The students also have the Regents exam in addition to the Common Core one. The higher of the two scores may be put on transcript. Freshman Alyssa nity “because it gives students two chances to do well. They get an idea of what the next test will include.” When comparing this exam to past Regents exams, freshman Michelle Pao felt the Common Core was easier, explaining “I was able to complete the entire exam in two hours, which was much faster than I had imagined.”

4 June 2014

THE CLASSIC

NEWS

GlamourGals foundation honors Harrisites Zion Kim and Rebecca Kwon STAFF WRITERS

knowing what I do know, I want to push myself to be the best person that I can.” Club Advisor and English teacher Raquel Chung believes the girls deserve the awards, saying, “I am so proud of the leaders this year, both Mijin and Crystal. We doubled the number of visits and the number of active members, and we had

GLAMOURGALS CO-President senior Mijin Park and Rally Girl senior Crystal Harrilal are the first students from THHS to receive the Glammy Scholarship Awards. The Glammys, an awards ceremony held in New York, presented Mijin and Crystal with trophies and a $1000 scholarship recognizAlong with volunteering, Mijin and ing their hard work and dedication to the Crystal had the responsibilities of promotclub. They each accepted their honorable ing and arranging nursing home visits mentions at the podium, giving a speech as well as maintaining club harmony. to encourage their peers with their own volunteering story. APs, the two devoted their Each year, one “!ey deserve this ences recognized not only C l u b P r e s i d en t , o n e award more than Co-President, and one by Ms. Chung and the anyone due to their Glammy Awards commitR a l ly Gi rl receives a hard work.” G l a m my S c ho l a r s h ip tee, but by the club members Award. Members of the themselves. ners based on essay applications represent- makeover planning, holding a fundraising ing the GlamourGals mission to connect bake sale, to GlamourGals awareness day and empower two generations of women. on April 1, the club would have crumbled For Mijin, serving the community has without [Mijin and Crystal’s] dedication.” always held value in her life. As president, The initiative Mijin and Crystal took Mijin sought “to build a family within the to get to know the members, ensuring club and work together [with her peers] that everyone could contribute ideas and to bring joy to the senior ladies.” organize events, impressed freshman Crystal joined GlamourGals in an Samridhi Chauhan. “They deserve this - award more than anyone due to their urally reserved and soft-spoken, the club hard work and time they spend not only helped her realize that “deep down I am in making this club fun and enjoyable, but a leader and I do have a voice. I’ve come a way to give back to the community.” a long way since my start in the club and Regardless of all recognition, Mijin

Photo by Stephanie Loo

Sherin Shibu STAFF WRITER

The coffeehouse started with a “Singspiration,” or songs of worship. The song “Love is War” by Hillsong United ON MAY 30 in the cafeteria after was performed in addition to a testischool, the THHS Seekers Christian mony of how God’s presence helped Club held its annual coffeeto overcome obstacles. Two house. The event was open dances were also performed, to the whole school and followed by a skit. Towards featured a wide range of the end of the event there “!e...passion performances. The theme was a collection taken for of each Seekers “Armor of God” was high- member really came the Walk for Water charlighted throughout the ity, which Seekers memacross in each event. bers had been actively act.” fundraising for all year. outreach event for the year “I am so grateful for - it’s a chance for us to show everyone’s contributions and God’s love to the Townsend Harris kind donations, but most of all community at large and also to connect I’m thankful that so many people parwith other Seekers groups through- ticipated,” said senior and co-president out New York City,” said co-president Joanna Wong. Stephanie Loo.

Photo by Rebecca Kwon

Mijin Park and Crystal Harrilal at the Glammys awards ceremony.

and Crystal remain humble, stating that they received more from GG than they gave. Mijin commented, “Not only is GG a gift for the elderly, but it has also given me something big that cannot be given by just anyone. The visits to senior homes despite the rain and snow have not only

has dwelled in me.” In agreement Crystal adds, “One of the greatest feelings in the world comes when you serve a cause greater than yourself. I’ve had the privilege of giving back to my community and I can honestly say that feeling I get knowing I made someone happy, is better than anything materialistic.”

THE CLASSIC

June 2014

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6 June2014

THE CLASSIC

NEWS

Traveling far from tests Asmaaul Chowdhury STAFF WRITER The dream of summer that keeps bleary-eyed Harrisites arriving. No one understands the true value of a long vacation better than students here. After all, what’s more exciting than a vacation far, far away from teachers and collaterals? Michael Berchansky, a junior, will be leaving the country. “I’m going sightseeing in Japan for two weeks,” he commented. He will be accompanied by an aunt, a cousi n , a nd another fami l y. For B erchan sk y, going to J a p a n will be an enriching experience. “Traveling to Japan will allow me to become a more well-rounded person because I will be exposed to new culture,” he explained. Sophomore Marcus Barbu plans to spend part of his vacation in Southeastern Europe. “I’m going to stay with some family in Serbia for a few weeks,” he explained. Though he’s been there many times before, he still enjoys the visits and said that he is “really looking forward to it.” Junior Gerald Mariscal is going on a seven-day cruise to the Bahamas. He looks forward to a week of father-son bonding with his dad, who will be his sole a cruise, and I can’t wait. I get to explore new places, unlike when I stay here and sit around doing nothing,” remarked Gerald. The best part? “I’m planning on getting an amazing tan,”

Gerald cheekily added. Some students are taking advantage of the long vacation by traveling with student organizations. Freshman Kortney Coburn is headed to the Middle East this summer with the Jerusalem Journey, which brings Jewish teenagers from public schools to Israel in order to learn more about their cultural homeland. She’s hoping that it will be an “awe -

Artwork by Claudia Chang

Art by Claudia Chang

some experience,” and is excited learn more about [her] heritage.” Others plan on traveling within the United States. Freshman Samantha Jaloza will be traveling with West Coast Connections for forty days, touring areas such as Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, Catalina Island, and parts of California and Western Canada. Samantha says that she wants to “meet people that are [her] age from all around the country.” In true THHS spirit, some students will take advantage of the summer to prepare for their

futures and pursue their passions. One such student is junior Karen Su. For the second year in a row, she will be attending a Junior State of America program at Georgetown University in Washington D.C. for the program for politically active students, Karen will study international relations. “I honestly loved everything about it. I was so impressed by the Georgetown program that I decided to go for a second time,” she raved. Karen expects exciting new changes for this year’s program. “ I t w a s ju s t a n nounced by one of the program directors that we have the opportunity to visit the Wh ite House during our time at Georgetown. It’d be great to see the President,” she commented. Senior Elizabeth Williams will be embarking on a bus tour of Maine this summer. She will visit zoos and aquariums along the way, spend time in Acadia National Park, and might even go whale-watching on a cruise. As this is her last summer before starting university, she is excited. “I just want to have a fun trip with my friends before we

Jason P. Yale

Stephanie Geier EDITOR-IN-CHIEF A large group of seniors became the laughing stock of the school on May 27 after word spread that their attempt to cut school on Senior Cut Day was time in THHS history. On cut day, certain seniors went to Rockaway Beach with about half of them taking cars and the others taking Q53 buses. Those taking buses, however, used student Metrocards. “The bus driver got suspicious and I guess called the police saying he had a bunch of teenagers on his bus with beach attire,” said senior Katherine Kulesza. As the buses reached the Cross Bay Bridge, the police pulled them over, boarded each one, and asked teenagers for IDs. Upon realizing that the seniors were high schoolers, the police “We could see fellow students in cars passing by and laughing,” recalled Katherine. “We were so upset.” The seniors explained that they were allowed to cut school

THHS but then drove the seniors back to school in vans. Some students then spent the rest of their cut day on campus while others once more ventured to the beach-this time with success. Dean Robin Figelman said that when the police came into her office with the first batch of students, she put on a “disciplined face.” left, I just laughed at [the seniors],” she said. Though she told the seniors that they wouldn’t get in trouble, she reprimanded them for telling the officers that they were allowed to cut school that day since the administration isn’t legally allowed to let this happen. While some students were upset, senior Josh Martinez claimed to have no regrets. On the class’s failure to successfully cut, Josh said: “We, as a class, have failed countless times, including roll call, and I just thought how great of a story this makes… It’s funny how a situation’s mood changes just because you weren’t the only one in it. You just tend to laugh about it.”

The idea of long, hazy summers spent lying around in bed may be appealing to many exhausted Harrisites, but the workload hasn’t stopped some and traveling for unforgettable memories. Posts about the attempted Senior Cut Day went viral on Facebook and Twitter.

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Mr. Canzoneri was a member of the U.S. Chess Federation as a child, plays guitar with his right hand despite being a lefty, has been to the opera over two dozen times, and his birth was covered by the local media.

THE CLASSIC

June 2014

NEWS Photo by Kari Iocolano

HEALTH TIPS

Breast cancer awareness comes to THHS > CONTINUED FROM PAGE !

While the experience was far f rom pleasant at some points--a painful infection resulted from her surgery--Ms. Wallace describes her journey as incredible. “The whole experience was amazing--I met so many professional, smart, kind people every step of the way, from the diagnosis until now. They treat you with such dignity. It’s a calling, to treat people with cancer. They were wonderful, reassuring.” Throughout her ordeal, Ms. Wallace kept her spirits high, making sure her students didn’t have any reason for undue concern. She also remained devoted to her classes, going every day in the afternoon so the treatments would not interrupt her teaching. Throughout the process, she missed only four days of school. Many of Ms. Wallace’s students remarked that her class diagnosis.

“She missed a few days here and there, but when she was in class she was exactly the same as I remembered her to be,” recalled sophomore Joanne Zulinski. A s s i s t a nt P r i nc ip a l o f Humanities, Rafal Olechowski, was similarly impressed. “As far as cancer treatment goes, I think Ms. Wallace’s experience was as seamless, between work and private life, as one can possibly imagine,” he said. He also explained his obligations to her throughout her cancer experience. “My role is to try to do whatever it takes to make her life easier . . . it’s not a question of if, just what I can do . . . I hope she felt that she was supported by me and the school, because I really hope we did everything to do that.” English and Writing Process teacher Katherine Yan also commented on Ms. Wallace’s good spirits. “I was surprised by her resilience, the fact that she stayed so cheerful in school,” she said She also remarked on Ms. Wallace’s dedication to her teaching, explaining that Ms.

Wallace acted as though her cancer was “just an inconvenience.” Now cancer-free for almost two months, Ms. Wallace stresses the importance of taking care of yourself. “When people asked what they could do for me, I would tell them to go for a mammogram or sonogram,” she remarked.

Experts recommend that all women over age forty have an annual mammogram screening so that everyone has the chance to catch the disease early and none of Ms. Wallace’s current students are at that age, students can still be proactive by encouraging family members and friends to make appointments for an annual screening. School nurse Linda Carter agrees. For adults, “it’s really the best thing, to get a mammogram,” she said. Older women run the highest

risk for developing breast cancer, as well: though the risk is comparatively slight for men, the American Cancer Society predicts that about 2,000 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014. It is also important to know that breast cancer is not a death sentence: the American Cancer Society reports that the chance that a woman will die from breast cancer is only three percent. Treatment options such as mastectomy, lumpectomy, radiation, and chemotherapy have lead to the declining of mortality rates from the disease. Breast cancer survivor and expert Fern Reiss is the author of The Breast Cancer Checklist, a guide to help patients keep track of information and advice before, during, and after their treatments. “Get organized. The worst thing about going through illness of any sort is the lack of control you feel when your world spirals out of control because of

doctor’s appointments, hospital visits, surgery and chemo,” she told The Classic. Ms. Wallace felt similarly strong about the need to be organized and to self-advocate. Regardless of whether or not you’re dealing with cancer, Ms. Wallace explained that a big part of taking care of yourself is making sure your voice is heard when it comes to medical decisions and treatments. Had she not mentioned the pain she felt during the sonogram, the cancer might not have been detected until later, which would complicate and prolong the treatments. “You k now your body, and you need to speak up,” she advised. On June 1, people all over the world celebrated National Cancer Survivors Day, honoring those who won their battle. Wallace was able to join in the celebration. “I think she is an inspiration to everyone,” concluded sophomore David Zarowin.

8 June 2014

THE CLASSIC

!"#$-!"#& RETIREMENTS

Ms. Wallace retires after over two decades at THHS Elizabeth Tum STAFF WRITER

Photo by Yash Sharma

E N G L I S H T E AC H E R Georgette Wallace, who was hired to teach at THHS in 1990, years of teaching here. In her time here, she’s taught numerous English courses, the Humanities

mom. She’s been a second mom to a lot of people. What she contributes goes beyond the classroom.” Social Studies teacher Jamie Baranoff added, “She will be missed, she’s made a tremendous A s s i s t a nt P r i nc ip a l o f

After her battle with breast cancer this year, the birth of her grandson and changes in the education system, Ms. Wallace felt that it was time to retire. Although she will be happy to rest during her retirement and Wallace expressed great disstudents. together,” she said. “I had a hand in it because of my education.” For many of her students, Ms. Wallace was more than a teacher, but a close friend. “When I wore

emphasized Ms. Wallace’s dedication to her students: “She really has this relationship with stuties, and it goes far beyond the classroom.” Initially hesitant to become a teacher, Ms. Wallace didn’t commit to the profession until the principal of a school she was aged her to obtain a degree. After her retirement, Ms. Wallace plans on spending time with her family and friends, particularly her grandson in Albany. She will also pursue her own interests again, such as needle“Those important aspects in

wear on dates,” she said. English teacher Raquel

hold because of the demands of

teaching,” she said. Another reason that Ms. Wallace felt that it was time to retire was due to the numerous changes brought about by the city and the school that she disagrees with. “We’re following a formula that we don’t need to follow here,

Photo by Fran Horowitz

Hebrew students celebrate Ms. Cooperman’s retirement in class.

Ms. Cooperman concludes teaching career Noreen Mohsin STAFF WRITER AFTER WORKING as a language Hebrew teacher Ruth Cooperman has decided to retire. foreign trade. She realized she wanted to

gram, Ms. Cooperman applied for a job at Francis Lewis High School. To her great surprise, she found herself teaching her She then taught at Cardozo High became the Assistant Principal of Foreign Languages there.

temple, she bumped into a Hebrew student from THHS. To her delight, the student told her the school needed a Hebrew teacher and Ms. Cooperman decided to apply for the job. Townsend Harris High School with the fondest memories of all the wonderful Classical Languages teacher Sara Laderoute shares an office with Ms. Cooperman, and she called her colleague an amazing teacher and person. She was also impressed by Ms. Cooperman’s small.” Ms. Cooperman already has a list of what she plans to do after her retirement. Some of these plans include swimming friends more often, and of course, sleep-

just has to do this for no apparent reason,” she commented on such a good school. We didn’t need to be told what standards Despite her issues with the system, Ms. Wallace remains

enamored of the time she has been able to spend with her students. She shared that “When any of one of the things I always say is: ‘I already did. I spent it with my students.’”

THE CLASSIC

June 2014

!"#'-!"#$ EDITOR FAREWELLS

The Classic

EST. 1984

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 of the student body as a whole.

THE EDITORS-IN-CHIEF

MEET THE !"#$-!"#& EDITORS

Passing the Baton

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Stephanie Geier Amanda Yan

Katherine Maradiaga EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

MANAGING EDITORS Nina Leeds Harry Petsios

H E N S U S WA NA

editors-in-chief, I am certain that we both had grand

NEWS EDITORS Sarah Iqbal

LAYOUT & DESIGN Christina Wang

FEATURES EDITORS Rachel Chabin

PHOTOGRAPHY EDITORS Kari Iocolano Yash Sharma

when we were freshmen who only wrote the occasional article or juniors inspired by the trend of experimentation that Mr. Sweeney Our discussions (and arguments) almost always resulted in true progress. In fact, it was our own form of bonding. Intellectual

OPINION EDITORS Vincent Chu Zac Ooi

Outgoing editors Daniel Restifo, Magdalena Grabos, Michelle Gan, Suswana

This year, more people than The Classic. -

fund our new computers and our

SPORTS EDITORS Natalie Gomez Eleni Sardiña

A&E EDITORS Jason Lalljee Jennifer Walsh

COPY EDITORS

ONLINE EDITOR

what made the editors willing to end of the year, a photo editor

course, this literal expansion of operations would not be possible without the support of our school’s

unheard of. We became a family, of.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

requests from our writers. Awards from elite institutions dation as the support and interest of the community, and that is what The Classic worth it.

We welcome letters to the editor. Townsend Harris High School 149-11 Melbourne Avenue Flushing, NY 11367 thhsclassic@gmail.com

ADVISOR Brian Sweeney The Classic reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and concision.

PHOTOGRAPHY

SPORTS

Anna St. Clair A&E EDITOR

Michelle Gan and Daniel Restifo SPORTS EDITORS

PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR

a chance on us, and we

opportunity to become a member of The Classic’s Photography editing team, I was eager to accept it. Fast forward a year and I am proud to say my co-

R EM EM BER a few d ays before

RIOR TO our senior year, The Cla ssi c existed peripherally as a student publication, but not much else. When Mr. Sweeney offered us the positions of sports editors,

me to be Arts and Entertainment editor, I considered quitting The Classic in my senior Being an editor on The Classic truly made my senior year one of the best years of high school.

he made the right choice. Without a doubt, this has been among the highlights of our school careers. whom we could always turn to for comfort, discussion and laughter.

possible without the help of many. of my co-editor, Jennifer Walsh, the A&E section would sports. We, along with our co-editor Bianca Dilan,

N MY junior year, I remember hearing an announcement

that The Classic was hiring. I decided on a whim to join as a staff photographer. When Mr.

in helping us expand the role of photography at The Classic. With the addition of so many photographers, the Photography department has helped Mr. Sweeney’s The Classic

I am excited to see the direction the new editors will

journalism gods they agreed. And of course she has an unparalleled sense of pun. The A&E writers, of course, are the heart of the sec-

good hands with Kari Iocolano, Yash Sharma, and of course, Mr. Sweeney.

writers has multiplied this year. Your sharp and witty

months than our predecessors had in one year and more articles than any other section this year. In addition, we extend our congratulations to the entire Townsend Harris athletic community, students,

From selling ads, to organizing the middle school jouron some particularly challenging layouts, there were many times when I thought “There is no way this is

forthcoming issues to be published and will be sure to see how this more than capable group of editors handle

The Classic my only regret is that I didn’t join sooner. My past semester with The Classic will miss dearly. Under the noble guidance of the dazThe Classic is headed down a path to glory. Finally, a message to Mr. Sweeney: no matter what always remember to “forget the horror.”

we couldn’t do.

10 June 2014

COLLEGE LEVEL CONCERNS:

THE CLASSIC

SPECIAL FEATURE

OPINION:

PHOTOGRAPHY BY NINA LEEDS

POISON IVY

As a freshman, I was intent on enjoying the next four years of my academic career. Not even three months after admission, however, my mind drifted toward college. Anywhere in America, it is the dream of parents to see their children in an Ivy League institution. Certainly, Harrisites and their parents are no exception. And indeed, many of us are capable of gaining entrance to these schools. However, one, even if we get in, one fact remains: these schools cost about $56,000 a year. Is this tremendous educational opportunity truly worth such an immense fee? As my parents often said, more successful graduates come from these eight school than anywhere else. Above all, nothing surmounts the prestige one gets when one says: “I am a Harvard alumnus.” However, this is simply not the case anymore; more than ever, state schools provide greater undergraduate opportunities for students. The “Public Ivies,” which include eight public colleges, rank on par with Ivies. Among these are University of North Carolina and the College of William and Mary.

The list has since expanded to include more ucation to more students. While these schools are similar to Ivies, age cost for in-state students at these institutions ranges from $10,000 to $25,000. Although a bachelor’s degree serves as a foundation, it cannot support you in the modern job market. To

Are the ivy league colleges even worth the money in the america of 2014?

determines your future to a larger degree than your undergraduate experience. However, graduate schools are also extremely expensive. Unfortunately, not all

such an education for eight consecutive years. The money saved from attending a public university education adds up. Now, the nearly debt-free undergraduate can attend an Ivy League graduate school with less tend an Ivy League and your grades permit it, then go ahead. However, for the majority of American students, that is an ideal; if you’re interested in attending graduate school and saving many thousands of dollars, Public Ivies are the place to go.

“DON’T APPLY TO A COLLEGE JUST FOR ITS NAME. APPLY BECAUSE YOU ACTUALLY LOVE THE SCHOOL AND THINK THAT IT COULD BE YOUR HOME FOR THE NEXT FOUR YEARS. YES, YOUR TEST SCORES AND GPA MATTER, BUT IT’S ALSO ABOUT HOW YOU PRESENT YOURSELF AS A PERSON AND HOW WELL YOU CAN EXPRESS YOURSELF AND YOU INTEREST IN THE SCHOOL THROUGH YOUR ESSAYS.”

SAMANTHA VELASQUEZ “START

ALL

COLLEGE ESSAYS AT LEAST A FEW MONTHS IN ADVANCE AND YOU WILL BE SUPER HAPPY. DON’T TAKE AP COURSES JUST BECAUSE THEY LOOK FANCY, TAKE WHAT MOST INTERESTS YOU. IT MAKES A BETTER STORY FOR YOU TO SHOW YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT SOMETHING THAN TO JUST SAY YOU TOOK A HARD CLASS.”

ANTHONY CHIARENZA

TIPS FOR

ADMISSION SUCCESS

THE CLASSIC

IVIES, RECS, AND GETTING IT ALL DONE

June 2014

SPECIAL FEATURE

What the

R EC?

SENIOR

sound off

ELIZABETH

WILLIAMS

“While I never got involved my comrades in the ranks.”

how the process works BY NINA LEEDS

Teacher recommendations, often called “recs,” are a key part of any college application. They allow

lier and earlier. Many juniors started requesting letters of recommendation in March. Humanities teacher Joseph

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Stephanie Loo

PEACE OUT

comrades THE CLASS OF 2014 GIVES ITS ADVICE ON COLLEGE ADMISSIONS

BY ANN KOCHUPURACKAL AND SANDHYA SEWNAUTH Canzoneri,“Every year the students start asking earlier and earlier. It used to be that no one asked for a rec until late September [of senior year].” In regards to recs, Mr. Canzoneri says that he usually feels more obligated to write for students who have had him for multiple classes. Similarly, LOTE teacher Dr. Marianthe Colakis received forty requests. She said, “There’s no minimum grade. Sometimes people don’t have A averages but show improvement over the course of the year, or make outstanding collaterals, or just show a positive attitude when learning Latin.” To write a recommendation is no simple prowhelmed, often trying to balance grading schoolwork, enjoying their own time, and writing recommendations at the same time. Many try to schedule interviews or ask the students With the looming competition for letters on students’ minds, even underclassmen feel pressure. Guidance Counselor Justine Singer advises students to “be proactive and their own advocate.” When asked if she has been thinking about the college process, sophomore Sherin Shibu responded a poll conducted on underclassmen, 72% of respondents had already started thinking about who would write their recommendation. Mr. Canzoneri said, “It feels like writing recommendation letters has become a year-round job, and I hate to say it that way. There used to be recommendation letter season.” throughout in the year for things like Questbridge, scholarships, and early decision, it’s no wonder that teachers and students are feeling the stress and competition for recs, pushing them to act sooner.

cceptance letters have gone out, tears have been shed, and most seniors are ready to start the next chapter of their lives. Now that seniors have made their college decisions, they can to underclassmen. “We associate a lot with the underclassmen, and I think that’s important; we are here to help advise them on their way towards senior year,” remarked senior Danielle Williams. For instance, a majority of them believe that the best way to decrease college stress is to start early. Senior Catherine Vozikis said, “Start in the summer, think about what colleges you want to go to and visit the campuses as soon as possible. Start the college essay during this time as well, and it might even help to make multiple drafts.” Other seniors began to reminisce about their experiences at Townsend Harris, recounting old memories and analyzing their four years here. Senior Sanela Begani

said, “I’m going to miss the friendships I’ve created over the years in Townsend. I’ve met a few people who I can honestly say have shaped me into the person I’ve become.” niors considered the Ephebic Oath, which they took in freshman year. Senior Elizabeth Williams noted, “While I never got involved enough to leave my city greater than I found it, I think I’ve done a good job of helping my comrades in the ranks.” Other seniors found the oath to be a simple, noble mode of conduct. Senior Anthony Chairenza commented, “The easiest way to to help your friends in little ways.” All in all, the seniors are thankful for their experience here at THHS. Senior Samantha Kwok, who is attending Pratt Institute next fall, is among them. These past four years have taught her to develop a “strong work ethic and a sense of responsibility that set [her] apart,” something that many Harrisites remain proud of long after graduation.

12 June 2014

THE CLASSIC

“CLASSIC” CONTROVERSY: GENDER RELATIONS AT SCHOOL

Feminist activism follows heated debate A SURGE OF support for gender equality is on its way through Townsend Harris. In response to a recent op-ed piece published in The Classic and the ensuing arguments on its content, the feminists of THHS have decided to get organized. In late May, students created a Facebook page called “Feminism at Townsend” in order to spread their views and act on their beliefs. On the page, which sophomore Angelina Liu created, users can post thoughts, pictures, videos, and articles in defense of the movement. Angelina says the purpose of the page is “to raise awareness about sexual discrimination and to challenge any institutions or systems that foster gender prejudice/bias.” The page debuted in the wake of controversy surrounding an op-ed in The Classic called “THHS boys are so not fetch,” written by junior Ross Cimagala. Ross’s piece argued that the girls of Townsend Harris unfairly label the

boys in the school as “undateable,” and complains about girls who ignore the romantic gestures of “nice guys.” The article sparked a number of reactions, with numerous Facebook arguments sprouting between students from all grades. At least one Facebook thread reached as many as 600 comments. Sophomore Jensine Raihan shared what was a common critique: “[the] article screamed male entitlement...[a woman] is never obligated to date or pursue a romantic relationship with [a man] because it is her own life and her own body.” While many students criticized Ross’ arguments, others jumped to his defense. Junior Dimitri Perdik said, “There really is no debate. Many students evidently don’t know how to read. It is obvious that they have taken his article out of context.” Junior Woo Jung Yi had a completely female students were “labelings all girls as feminists.” R o s s described

the response as “unexpected,” particularly accusations that his argument promoted “rape culture.” Emilie Buchwald, who culture as “beliefs that encourage male sexual aggression and support violence against women.” Most responses to Ross’s article acknowledged that his piece lacked mentions of violence. One characteristic post argued, however, “rape culture and violence against women doesn’t come from a void” and indicated that Ross’s arguments suggesting the entightlement of men promote rape culture all the same. In response, Ross commented, “There are people who I feel misread my article because they have a topic they want to discuss [rape culture], which I’m glad they’re discussing, but that’s not what my article was trying to promote.” Soon debates over Ross’s article evolved into debates over gender relations at the school in general, and the dress code quickly became the focus as a source of sexism that, its detractors maintain, unfairly targets females. Dean Robin Figelman commented on the dress code debate: “I think the whole thing started with Catherine Moskos last year, she wrote a Classic ladies from dressing the way they want to dress. I just don’t a g r e e with it. I ju s t think that

Most Viewed

1 2

“Code behind the dress code: boys matter more ,” by Catherine Moskos Published: June 15, 2013 Page views: 1, 367

A sample protest poster from June 2

you should dress like a professional.” The feminists of THHS protested the code via the Facebook page and posters. They distributed posters June 2 for students to place on their lockers. The posters read in part, “Doesn’t it make more sense to teach boys to keep their eyes to themselves rather than to tell the girls to hide their bodies.” Ms. Figelman removed the posters. She commented: “I took posters down. I just think that it’s enough already. The dress code is the dress code.” She added, The student body has had varying responses to the controversy. While some students support the movement, others choose to remain quiet about their opinions. Senior Nicholas Castro said, “I didn’t annoying, but I think that some people

Classic Articles “THHS boys are so not fetch,” by Ross Cimagala. Published: May 28, 2014 Page views: 1, 452

Photo from the “Feminism at Townsend” Facebook page

Sharon Chin, Alexa Luciano, and Amanda Ruggieri STAFF WRITERS

people. Many of the things said by both men and women angered me.” “Honestly, I don’t know if [the movement] will last,” said junior Eli Betts. “Things tend to die down fast in Townsend. People get too consumed in their own lives.” On future plans, Angelina said, “Right now, we’re focusing on promoting awareness and sharing resources on the [Facebook page].”

Artwork by Christina Wang

editorial

From the editors: on opinions in The Classic OVER THE COURSE of this year, our expanding Opinion section has brought about controversy, with concerns about articles voiced by students and teachers. In light of the recent article regarding dating at Townsend Harris, two discussions have emerged. One is the contentious debate surrounding the contents of the article itself and the other is whether such an article has any place within the pages of The Classic. Here, we would like to address the second concern that has arisen. In no way would we ever consider pulling out an opinion article because we disagreed with its content. A newspaper is a forum for opinions to be aired in the hopes of leading to a wider discussion within the school community. In the two years that The Classic has been online, we’ve published over 700 articles.

Within one week, Ross’s op-ed on dating at THHS became the most viewed article on the entire site. Love it or hate it, the article clearly focused on a topic worthy of discussion, as it has gripped the mind of many a student. Previous opinion pieces were much less successful in generating a response from the readership. Though many vehemently disagreed with the article, many others also called for it to be taken down or questioned why we’d publish it. Disagreement, however, is no cause for refusing to publish a piece. The Classic is a place where any and all topics may be written about, due to the ter. In this case, the disagreements on this The Classic,

pulling it based upon that content. We do believe that a thorough discussion of social life at Townsend Harris is valuable and desired by our student body. Oppor-

its content. None, however, considered

from becoming “dead dogma.”

The Classic are abundantly available: letters to the editor, comments on the online league’s argument. There will always be articles that offend some portion of the population. Readers of the opinion pages of major publications have at times been intensely An opinion piece is not written to please, but rather, as the philosopher John Stuart Mill argued, to lead to discussion of

It is perfectly acceptable to take into question the writer’s point of view or the quality of the writing itself, but such potentially caustic articles cannot be deemed unworthy simply because of their stance. So, we want to make our policy as clear as possible: We at The Classic will never refuse to publish an opinion piece because we disagree with its point of view. Barring anything slanderous, obscene, or language that would be considered hate-speech, we will consider any and all topics for publication in our opinion section. Moreover, we invite all readers to take advantage of this openness and will institute an open submissions policy for op-eds from now on. Anyone wishing to write an op-ed (as opposed to a letter to the editor, which responds to published articles), may send it for consideration to thhsclassic@gmail.com.

THE CLASSIC

June 2014

OPINIONS ON THE CONTROVERSY

Understanding what Femin-isn’t Nina Leeds MANAGING EDITOR RECENT CONTROVERSY has emerged over feminism at THHS. This struggle has yielded an article, Facebook page, many confessions, and a slew of outraged debates at lunch tables. However, the idea of feminism seems to be moving away from its general idea of equality to a heightened conception of feminists as bra burning, non-leg shaving, man haters. These two ideas are not synonymous and this confusion has led to countless arguments that are hurting the cause. With the I’m here to remind you of what it actually is-the desire for equality. Webster that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities.” The Fault in our Stars star Shailene Woodley said, “I think the idea of ‘raise women to power, take the men away from the power’ is never going to work out because you need balance.” But that is the main argument of feminism: balance. When an actress in a popular movie doesn’t understand the idea of feminism herself, her ignorance can only This new generation is growing up praising people who have a shocking misconception of feminist ideology. This creates extremists on both sides of the gender equality spectrum who undo the work that real feminists have been

doing for years. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a fan of Beyonce’s “Who Run the World” as much as the next person. The song is meant to empower women to rise up to men in order to have equality and not send women running towards traditional values because they are afraid to be viewed as man haters. There is a middle ground between the extremes-women are not dragging men down but rather rising to meet them. Some people arguing for egalitarianism say that the use of word “feminism” to promote equality is a contradiction in itself because the word is derived from the word “female.” The term is not so much aboutstressing the word “female” but rather about empowering women, who of the two sexes, clearly need the extra push. As a feminist, I don’t look forward to the day when people cheer because a woman is the primary breadlook forward to the day when she can be the primary supporter of a household and it is a perfectly normal occurrence. That, is true feminism.

Christina Wang LAYOUT & DESIGN EDITOR THERE’S ONE phrase I’ve heard repeated continuously throughout my existence: “Nice guys finish last.” Although I’ve always thought this to be male entitlement towards females. I agree with Ross’s overall point that it’s unfair to label all Townsend males as “undatable.” However, I can’t help but lose myself in the article’s many contradictions. For example, Ross states that girls fail to “see what’s right in front of them,” as if walking girls to class suddenly makes men boyfriend material. Although he claims that women aren’t forced to reciprocate a man’s feelings, he still expresses frustration when his “perfectly nice and datable male friends” are ignored by the women they pursue. I’m sure most women appreciate friendly gestures, but what Ross fails to realize is that those gestures aren’t interp r e t e d a s romantic actions. No one would disregard the kindness and consideration behind walking someone to class

or buying them a present, but you are the ones who choose to invest your time in these endeavors. Not only is it unfair, but it reveals a lot about a man’s character when his kindness has ulterior motives. A genuinely nice guy lives up to his name because Regarding boys’ irritation with not recieving payout for “nice guy” actions, what did you expect in return? It’s one thing to feel underappreciated, but it’s another to substantiate one’s “datability” solely based on acts of kindness. Believe it or not, some like to believe that people do good for others out of compassion. Also, although declining a gift may be interpreted as a sign of underappreciation, girls do this to clarify what Ross urges ladies to tell his fellow male students: that we are not interested. Placing the blame of one’s unrequited petuates the dangerous assumption that woman’s genuine appreciation for a good deed isn’t enough and that they are to blame if they don’t jump at the chance for a relationship. There’s no denying that some of the males of THHS are kind, but that doesn’t mean these boys are ready for a relationship. Instead of strategizing each kind gesture that will bring them closer to a relationship, they should try

Artwork by Amanda Yan

In social media arguments, accusations go too far Kari Iocolano PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR

I DON’T LIKE Ross Cimagala’s article, but Ross wrote an article about the treatment and generalizations made about he did not write a misogynistic article or express murderous tendencies. Despite this, numerous commenters on social media have compared Ross’ statements to those of Elliot Rodgers, the 22-year-old who recently murdered six people in Santa Barbara, California. Rodgers was motivated by women sexually shunning him, which he expressed in a 140-page manifesto and videos uploaded to YouTube. One response to Ross’ column noticed a strong connection between Ross’ ideas and those of Rodgers. Yes, Elliot Rodgers and sex to other men, but never to me. I don’t know what you don’t see in me, I’m the perfect guy… and yet you throw yourselves at these obnoxious guys. I don’t know why, I’m the perfect gentleman.” Admittedly, this does sound a lot like Ross’ article. Compare what Rodgers said to what Ross wrote: “Apparently the guys who walk their crushes to their next class aren’t good enough. Neither are the guys

me why a girl would return a gift, let alone free food.” On the surface, the comparison is chilling, but this is shameful cherry-picking. Rodgers also said,--amongst many other hateful and violent things--“Those girls deserved to be dumped in boiling water for the crime of not giving me the attention and adoration I so rightly deserve!” Another piece concluded that Ross’ article shares “the kind of opinion that got four men and two women shot in Santa Barbara this past weekend.” Nothing even remotely close to the numerous violent and openly misogynistic comments Rodgers made is even hinted at in Ross’ article. I agree, Ross’s article and Rodgers’ statements exist in the same spectrum, but on opposite ends. Elliot Rodgers’ case was one of extreme misogyny. Suggesting that Ross will become a mass murderer because of his article presents an extreme case of illogicalto such statements. Known as the “slippery slope,” it avoids engaging with the issue at hand, and instead shifts attention to extreme hypotheticals. More than being illogical, accusations such as these are far more ridiculous than anything Ross said in his article.

I disagree with Ross suggesting that the females of THHS owe the men who pursue them some kind of explanation, but I think we can have a more productive conversation. For instance, Ross begins his article stating, “Although I’ve always thought [nice statement, lately I’ve noticed it is a truth.” He continues to express that he doesn’t want to feel like a candy bar, but that’s exactly what females everywhere feel like anywhere in the world. Perhaps because he is now in a female-dominated school, it’s a bit of a shock for him to be in the position that women everywhere are in on a daily basis. As a female, being whistled at like a ing down the street is the norm. Being treated like I am being picked from a selection, like a candy bar, is degrading and uncomfortable. The unique thing about Townsend Harris is that we are now in a setting where we can evaluate these problems from a different perspective. Now the male students of our school may experience some form of treatment typical for females outside of school. Sure, I don’t think the boys of THHS have yet experienced the full extent

any of the male students in our school had their butt smacked or were harassed for their number on their way to class. Yet it is genuinely interesting that because of their minority status, the boys here do have to deal with a sense of constantly being on display. The problem I have with Ross’s argument is that he sees this potential objecticommon ground: it’s obvious that no one wants to be treated this way, no matter your gender or orientation. No one should be treated like they are picked from a herd or one owes anyone anything. The problem I have with how our student body responded to Ross’s article is that those calling for responsibility in public discourse forgot to take any care to show some themselves. It is each of our individual responsibilities to look at each other as human beings and to treat each other with respect. Period. The wider world may always have to turn every little disabut we should be able to show that we can disagree in a way that builds up rather than tears down.

A&E SPECIAL FEATURE 14 June 2014

THE CLASSIC

OPINION

The death of traditional dating Ross Cimagala COLUMNIST

sake of getting to know you -not your tongue. There’s a clear

“HEY! SO, I’VE noticed you walking into the lunchroom every day this past semester, and I was wondering…Would you like to go get dinner with me some time? There’s this great new restaurant over on Irving and 17th Street. I could pick you up this Saturday around 6, and I promise I’ll have you back by 10!” These are the makings of a traditional date, which is something that this generation doesn’t comprehend. It’s when a guy goes out of his way to ask out

a between-class stairwell hook up. For the love of God, I uning, but I’d rather not have them

Image altered by Yash Sharma

way down to Weight Training. It seems as if we’ve devolved and are lusting, rather than loving. The Internet, while making the world closer, has also managed to somehow make us grow farther apart. A “date” is now limited to a conversation between two people separated by two screens. Well, “conversation” is a bit of a stretch. In reality, Facebook stalking is replacing actual talking as

her up from her house, take her “Boys, become men. out more about out (and pay the Ask that girl you’ve your crush. With bill, of course) to been admiring in get to know her so much inforclass out on a date.” mation available better, and return her home safely, at the click of a without expecting anything button, it’s easy to see why one more than a “thank you and would shy away from gathering goodnight” hug. the courage to talk to said boy With “hooking up” becom- or girl. The thing is, you’re not ing commonplace these days, - with someone while sitting being to get to know you for the hind your desktop monitor.

The current generation of teenagers is too dependent on phones and computers to partake in more traditional and personal dating activities.

Boys, become men. Ask that girl you’ve been admiring in class out on a date. A real date. Rejection, albeit scary, is a part of life and helps one grow as a person. Girls can do the same. I am just sick and tired of Artwork by Ariana Stergiou

seeing the idea of love being mocked. Forget making a fool out of the person getting into a relationship expecting more than the physical. You’re making a fool out of Cupid himself. Dating is supposed to be a

We may not be pledgers, but we’re still patriots Brianne Futerman and Hallie STAFF WRITERS

Jane Smith

Frankie Nicolazzi ONLINE EDITOR

Moreover, the conditions under which teachers adminis-

on a level of study far above that of the Regents. A past Regents

MID-JUNE IS the king of academic deception. No more

actual Regents. Three hours for a Regents exam that can be done in two is not the same as

Most teachers have a pre-AP exam the week before that class’s respective AP test; this should be

your schedule once again became cluttered with exams, but these weren’t just regular final exams: they’re Regents doesn’t make any sense and the requirement that teachers must reconsidered. In practice, the requirement leads to some teachers using a previous Regents as a final to ensure students can ace the Regents. Thus, rather than concluding the course with both a Regents, students end on the same note twice.

in procedure only succeeds in making students complete their Regents more quickly and sit in a silent room for longer; it doesn’t give them a useful simulation. However, some teachers do administer difficult finals, explaining: “This is an honors class, and the Regents are far too easy.” Some AP classes in THHS also have a Regents, namely AP U.S. History and AP World History. Unlike their Honors counterparts, however, studens in these classes should

This would be an acceptable solution for all parties: students ers avoid pointless end-of-year grading. Freeing teachers from additional time to conclude courses in June without rushing. Additionally, rather than burdening Regents teachers and their students with an additional test, administrators should simLet the Regents count as the culmination of the year’s topic, because that is exactly what it is meant to be.

time when you get to know the other person, but now, people who date are viewed as already being in a serious relationship. My question is: Why so serious about being unserious, Townsend Harris?

IN “SAYING THE Pledge of Allegiance is worthy of your effort” from the May edition of The Classic, Harry Petsios puts forth several arguments for standing and reciting the pledge every morning. While Harry’s reasoning is persuasive, we are not in agreement on the matter. He states, “When you stand oring an ideology that upholds the personal liberties of millions of citizens.” The truth that Harry artfully neglects to acknowledge is that unfortunately, the United States today is not yet an exact image of the ideology put forth in the Preamble to our Constitution. The Pledge of Allegiance is designed to be an oath that every citizen of the United States can take and know to be true. If there was an undeniable truth behind the words “liberty and justice for all,” then reciting the pledge at the start of every day would be the least we could do to proclaim our allegiance to such a country. This, however, is not the case. Although the Declaration of Independence, on which our own nation has its beginnings, states that “all men are created equal,” this ideology has not been upheld by the United States

government. Throughout histor y and even in present times, every citizen has not and still does not have equal protection of liberty and justice under the law. This is seen in our nation’s inability to completely guarantee equal rights for all people living in the United States. Harry also cites a survey that states that ten percent of Harrisites don’t recite the daily pledge, calling this “a problem.” We don’t believe this is a problem. Rather, it is an example of democracy being alive and well in the classrooms of Townsend Harris. One’s decision to skip the pledge is simply an example of exercising the constitutional right to decide how to conduct oneself in a democracy. A democratic government relies on the willing participation of its constituents to voice an opinion. Not only is criticism welcome in an ideal democracy, it is necessary in order to maintain the bedrock principles of the nation. These principles do not include a blind and unconditional pledge of allegiance to a less-than-perfect government. They do include the notion of free choice. The bottom line is, think before you stand. And if you think you don’t want to stand, thank our founding fathers that you don’t have to.

THE CLASSIC

June 2014

16 June 2014

THE CLASSIC

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT First BookCon draws crowds Jennifer Walsh A&E EDITOR

THOUSANDS OF bookworms flocked to the Javits ever BookCon, a public extension of Book Expo America, the publishing industry trade show. BookCon featured book signings, author panels, and a particular, the event focused on most panels to the subject and presenting exhibitors targeting younger readers, a strategy that

Student-produced art and photography taken from the Spring 2014 editition of the Phoenix.

The Phoenix celebrates its 30th issue Jensine Raihan STAFF WRITER

Olechowski remarked, “In the last few years, The Phoenix magazine and, more importantly, the community that creates it grew beyond my wildest expectations. The quality and range of the submitted works speak to the many talents our students possess. In recent years, we have managed to triple the amount of pages and more than double the amount of Phoenix members.” The Phoenix’s editors and advisor hope to foster an environment where students at THHS are able to cultivate their talents and thrive artistically and creatively. Essential to this is creating a safe community where students are comfortable with sharing and submitting intimate works. The editors of this year’s edition write, “this issue

EARLIER THIS month, the members of Townsend Harris’s literary magazine club released the latest edition of The Phoenix, which celebrates the magazine’s three decades of existence while showcasing the work of THHS’s artistic and creative community. The 30th issue revives the work of alumni and past advisors, as well as featuring the latest from current Phoenix members. Editor-in-Chief and junior Yelena Dzhanova explained, “Volume 30 of The Phoenix features artwork, photography, prose, and poetry from the past 30 years to showcase the talent and creativity held within the literary and art community [at THHS].” unique, creative talent among Adv i sor a nd A s si st a nt the current student body, but Principal of Humanities Rafal also that The Phoenix has been

past few years The Phoenix has won the Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Medal (CSPA) award twice, the silver medal once, and the gold crown award.” In addition to a selection of literary and artistic contributions from all grades, the thirtieth edition features spotlights on the work of two artists (senior with The Phoenix: “I think that Angel Song and freshman Marie the book looks gorgeous, but Kessel), one photographer (senI’m most proud of the changes I’ve seen in the community ( junior Sarah Iqbal). When it comes to supporting since I started. The Phoenix has The Phoenix as it begins its next grown into this amazing and decade of existence, Jillian said, vibrant community of about 40 “I think the Phoenix is so significant in the school because it’s a ent grades. The members are place where creativity is encourequally as talented and passioncant in an education, I believe, family now.” The Phoenix has also been and the Phoenix tries to foster awarded multiple accolades the ideal of combining passion throughout its thirty years and inspiration with academics.” existence. Jillian said, “Over the a haven for creativity over the past thirty years.” In addition to creating the magazine, members of the club hope to engage their readers through periodic readings hosted in the school’s library and through contests that are open to the student body as a whole. E d itor-i n- Ch ief Ji l l ia n

teen attendees. BookCon’s panels included appearances by actress Amy Poeh ler, Humans of New York (HONY) photographer Brandon Stanton, Divergent author Veronica Roth, and author and video blogger John Green. A massive number of fans lined up for Green’s panel, centered around the movie adaptation of bestselling book The Fault in Our Stars, and crowds nearly rioted when turned away from the packed auditorium. The panel itself included Green, director Josh Boone, and actor At the HONY panel, moderated by Tumblr CEO David Karp, Stanton demonstrated the process of shooting a subject for his blog. He promoted Little Humans, his new children’s book, and announced a second Humans of New York book for adults. Stanton doled out career advice to young attendees as well: “Never have a ‘zero’ day. Always do something to work - no matter how intensive towards your completing you goal.” Org a n i z er s have not announced whether or not BookCon is here to stay for another year.

Art show awards Harrisite talent at Met Sasha Balkaran STAFF WRITER

Finally, Isha’s award goes to a freshman or sophomore who “has shown the most

THREE HARRISITES recently joined the ranks of those who have been honored for their exceptional achievements. At the 105th Annual School Art League’s Award Ceremony, hosted at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, senior Samantha Kwok received the St. Gaudens Medal, freshman Isha Malik received the Haney Medal, and senior Zayed Haq received the Alexander Medal. Zayed’s award honors a senior for completing an art program “with distinction.” Samantha’s medal goes to a senior who has completed an art program “with excellence in drawing.”

“I’ve always been ‘the art kid’ all my life, and I kind of gave up my chance to pursue art when I chose to go to Townsend. I’d been very close to choosing LaGuardia High School,” says Samantha. She creates in many mediums, from drawing to sewing costumes. She will attend the Pratt Institute in the fall. Isha Malik had never taken art classes until she came to Townsend Harris. Although she sees her sister as her artistic inspiration, Isha thanked art teacher Margherita Wischerth who only when I came to Townsend, did I

hands for more than just writing,” she says. Senior Zayed Haq said of her photography, “Not everything is visible to the human eye and with the right equipment a photographer can make something uninteresting...into something creative and imaginative.” He too credited Mrs. Wischerth for helping him hone his skills. “I could not believe it –– so many had found true meaning behind my photograph just as I did,” said Zayed, summing up a sentiment expressed by all three winners. “I will always be proud to say a photograph of mine was once a part of the Met.”

Artwork by Samantha Kwok

THE CLASSIC

June 2014

A&E

Review Central

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NETCLIQUES: SUMMER FLICKS

MOVIE REVIEW The Fault in Our Stars

lic backdrops and dreamboat male lead aside. Contemplations on mortality and life work to

book adaptations are better than other YA book adaptions. Clever, funny, and earning the tears it elicits, Fault transcends being simply a good book adaption, emerging as a stellar, evocative

source material, not so much an adaptation as a translation. Despite the numerous failed adaptations that Fault leaves in its wake, it’s ultimately successful--the story begs absolution for all the clichés that its premise implies, and it earns it with sardonic wit, skillful use of pathos, and a star-making performance. from Shailene Woodley.

Jason Lalljee, A&E Editor

Joanna Wong A&E COLUMNIST

The Series (2003 - 2006, available via most Internet sources), covers Lilo and Stitch’s new mission to rescue Stitch’s fellow experiments

THE SUN is up more during the day, but we all know that the wildness starts as soon as it sets. In I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997, available via most Internet sources), four teens hit a stranger on the road and ditch the body, fearing the police won’t believe it was an accident. Afterwards, strange things begin happening to them, forcing the group to confront their wrongdoing before they are killed. This is perfect for a sleepover and will remind you to make wise choices on cool summer nights. What do you get when you cross a popular vacation spot with aliens from outer space and Lilo & Stitch:

able for all audiences. Celebrate freedom with Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986, available everywhere). Ferris Bueller (Matthew Broderick) gets his best friend and girlfriend out of school and spend time at Chicago landmarks. This classic captures the joy of not being at school beautifully. As we say our goodbyes, don’t forget that your binge-watching can be diverse. Embrace the hidden gems of Hollywood, and keep on giving the lesser known beauts a chance. Have fun, and happy summer watching!

TOWNSEND TRENDS

White-Hot Summer Styles FEATURES EDITOR A NEW SEASON is a clean slate, a fresh start, a new beginning; so what better way is there to usher in the coming season than with a wardrobe A blank canvas always allows plenty of fashion possibilities. Speaking of blank canvases, one of this season’s easiest and breeziest trends is, quite simply, white. With all the snow we’ve had this year, white could be the farthest thing from our minds when thinking in terms of the warm summer months ahead. However, says senior Mateusz Chrobak, “Darker colors absorb more heat while light stead of absorbing the heat, incorporating this trend into your daily ensemble will leave

you far cooler than if you were to wear black. Students are wearing the

the label of “teen movie” is almost an insult. This is a moving odyssey that masquerades under the skin of teen romance, idyl-

FOOD REVIEW Is Teaus true quali-tea? Sabrina Yu, Food Critic

Nothing is more refreshing in the summer than a tall glass of iced tea. Fortunately, Teaus is a tiny tea shop on Union St. in Flushing known for selling allnatural tea in chic corked glass bottles. Teaus serves fresh fruit teas like the Sunset Green Tea, which is popular because of its vivid colors. Despite the dazzling presentation, this drink is mediocre. It mostly consists of orange juice and it has a hint of

While some utilize the crisp, opt for a more laid-back style, incorporating white high tops, white denim, or everyone’s alltime favorite staple: the everfaithful white tee. Tuck it, tie it, accessorize it or just let it be-any way you wear a white tshirt, your satisfaction is guaranteed. In general, this trend based on color (or on its absence) goes with practically everything (and yes, this does include more white), so one or two pieces is enough to create several white-hot looks for the summer, whether dressing for a graduation party, an actionpacked day out with friends, or just some relaxing time spent at the beach.

obnoxiously sweet, almost like liquid Smarties. Though it looks great on Instagram, it falls below expectations in reality.

MUSIC REVIEWS Ed Sheeran plays live

Check out Nina Nesbitt

UK native Ed Sheeran went quintuple platinum on his debut album “+” in 2011 and quickly became a sensation in the U.S. in 2012. Despite having a similar fan base as One Direction, his music has sophisticatedly blended hip hop, pop, and folk into a unique sound in a way that 1D’s cardboard pop doesn’t. He played at Hammerstein Ballroom on June 14th as part of his Multiply Tour and delivered a solid performance.

Nina Nesbitt, an up-andcoming artist from Edinburgh, brings a pleasant mix of pop and acoustic sounds to her music. While her songs are easy to listen to, with a vibe reminiscent of Ed Sheeran, she runs the risk of fading next to more popular artists, as it seems she has yet to

Anna St. Clair, A&E editor

Abygail Rampersad, Staff Writer

Overall, Nesbitt’s songs are relatable and catchy, and she shows a lot of potential as a singer-songwriter.

THEATER REVIEW Les Mis tears up the stage Morgan Wu, Staff Writer

A war story. A love story. A story about pain, redemption, right, wrong. When it comes to a story like Les Misérables, you won’t have to choose. Currently in its second Broadway revival, Les Mis tells the story of Jean Valjean (Tony nominee Ramin Karimloo), a former convict in mid-1800s France who has spent nineteen years in prison for stealing a loaf of bread, and for subsequent

escape attempts. After his release, having broken parole, the people he meets – a kindly bishop, a working-woman-turned-prostitute, an orphaned child, and a group of young revolutionaries – shape Valjean’s life. A ut hor V ic tor Hug o’s characters are brought to life through Alain Boublil’s and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s stunning score. Les Mis does not disappoint in any respect, and audiences will depart the theatre teary-eyed but reminded of the tenacity of the human spirit.

18 June 2014 Name

College

Class of 2014

THE CLASSIC

State

COX RICHARD

SUNY - New Paltz

Marist College

ABBASSI SAAD

CUNY - John Jay College

CRIFASI JAKE

ABDIN SHABINA

St. John's University

DABIEDEEN KIMBERLY

SUNY - Stony Brook

ACEVEDO ASIA

Tufts University

DANG RAYMOND

New York University

AHMED AMNA

Carnegie Mellon University

DAS DEVANAND

SUNY - Old Westbury

AHMED SHAWON

CUNY - Hunter College

DAS SYON

Pace University

AKANDA TAHSIN

New York University

DASARI KAVYA

St. John's University

ALARCON JESSICA

Cornell University

DAVYDOVA KSENIYA

St. John's University

ALEXIS ROBERT

SUNY - New Paltz

DEAP JELENA

CUNY - Baruch College

ALI SADIQAH

SUNY - Albany

CUNY - Hunter College

ALKOZAI SEPORA

Fordham University

DHESPOLLARI THEODHORA

ARIAS JESSICA

SUNY - Binghamton

DILAN BIANCA

University of Connecticut

ARTUN CHRISTOPHER

Fordham University

DIXON DOMINIQUE

CUNY - Baruch College

AVERKIOU MARIA

Brown University

DOMINGUEZ DANIELLE

University of Delaware

BABOOLAL ALEESA

Mass College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences

DOOKEERAM AMANDA

CUNY - John Jay College

BABU MARYBETH

Macaulay Honors College - Brooklyn College

DOWNES CYDNEY

Manhattan College

BAKER KIRSTEN

CUNY - Queens College

DRAGUCA BRIANA

Barnard College

BAWALAN RIANE

Fashion Institute of Technology

FEI AUGUSTUS

SUNY - Stony Brook

BEGANI SANELA

New York University

FEINSTEIN LINDSAY

New York University

BELLOT GENESIS

New York University

FENG SELINA

New York University

BELTRAN NICOLE

Cornell University

GAN MICHELLE

University of Chicago

GHANI MAHAM

CUNY - City College (Sophie Davis)

BENNETT ALIYAH BERKEL SIERRA

Haverford College

GONZALEZ JOCELYN

Nassau Community College

BETSCH BRANDON

SUNY - Binghamton

GONZALEZ LEANNE

Macaulay Honors College - Hunter College

BHARDWAJ KARUN

SUNY - New Paltz

GOODMAN MICHELLE

SUNY - Stony Brook

GOZUM NIMROD

SUNY - Stony Brook

SUNY - Binghamton

BIELECKI NICOLE BLUMNER OPHIRA

Barnard College

GRABOS MAGDALENA

BOODHAN VIVAKEANAND

CUNY - City College

GRODZKA MAYA

Boston College

BORZ SONIA

CUNY - John Jay College

GU JANIS

SUNY - Stony Brook

BRANDWEIN JORDAN

Israeli Army

GUPTA SHWETA

SUNY - Stony Brook

BRIJRAM STEVEN

CUNY - Hunter College

GUZMAN CHRISTINE

CUNY - Brooklyn College

Adelphi University

BRUSZEWSKI MATEUSZ

CUNY - Baruch College

HAN SARAH

BUDHAI MANJEKAR

Macaulay Honors College - City College

HAO AMY

Harvard College

BUDWAH ANTHONY

New York University

HAQ ZAYED

University of Hartford

BURZYNSKI ALEXANDER

SUNY - Binghamton

HARBHAJAN MELINDA

SUNY - Stony Brook

CABA LAURA

SUNY - Stony Brook

HARRILALL CRYSTAL

St. John's University

University of California at Davis

CABA YAELIN

New York University

HEIFITZ DAVID

CANTILLO CHRISTINA

SUNY - Binghamton

HO JANICE

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

CASSIDY BRIANNA

CUNY - Hunter College

HOROWITZ FRAN

University of Maryland, College Park

CASTRO CHRISTIAN

Brandeis University

HU CHRISTOPHER

University of Michigan

CASTRO NICHOLAS

Columbia University

HUYNH ELLEN

CUNY - Queens College

CHACHLANI KARAN

Macaulay Honors College - Hunter College

ITZHAKI DIANA

Syracuse University

CHAI CHLOE

Macaulay Honors College - City College

JAFFER MUMTAZ

Barnard College

CHAI DEBORAH

SUNY - New Paltz

JAVID NOOR

CUNY - John Jay College

CHALLAPALLI JOTHIKA

Drexel University

JAZGARSKI MICHAEL

Polytechnic Institute of NYU

CHAN ALLISON

CUNY - Hunter College

JOENG ANNIKA

CUNY - Hunter College

CHAN CHRISTOPHER

SUNY - Stony Brook

JOSEPH IRENE

Siena College

CHAN NICOLE

SUNY - Stony Brook

JOU ESTHER

University of Pennsylvania

CHANG REON

CUNY - Hunter College

JUNEAU MORGAN

McGill University

CHANG SIN JIN

SUNY - Stony Brook

KAUR AMANPREET

CUNY - Hunter College

CHEN ALECIA

Cornell University

KAUR KIRANJOT

Macaulay Honors College - Baruch College

CHEN ANTHONY

CUNY - Hunter College

KHALID NIKITA

Macaulay Honors College - Baruch College

CHEN CARIE

Boston College

KHAN AKHTRA

CUNY - Baruch College

CHEN DARREN

St. John's University

KHAN SHAYAN

Hofstra University

CHEN ELESE

Brandeis University

KHATUN AFRIN

CHEN LINA

New York University

KHEMLANI VINAY

Boston University

CHEN VICKY

CUNY - Baruch College

KHURSHID AFRIDA

CUNY - Hunter College

KIM JENNIFER

CUNY - Hunter College

CHEN WANLY

CHENG NATHANIEL

Boston University

KIM YOOJIN

SUNY - Albany

CHENG TRINA

SUNY - Stony Brook

KO WAN-CHING

SUNY - Binghamton

CHI HA EUN

Northeastern University

KO WAN-YAO

SUNY - Stony Brook

CHIARENZA ANTHONY

Swarthmore College

KOUMIDES REBECCA

St. John's University

CHIN STEPHANIE

St. John's University

KULESZA KATHERINE

University of South Florida at Tampa

CHIU JUSTIN

Boston University

KWOK SAMANTHA

Pratt Institute

CHOI MARY

Georgetown University

KWON HANEUL

Northeastern University

CHOWDHURY ASIF

St. John's University

LALLMAHAMAD IMRAN

CUNY - John Jay College

CHOWDHURY SUSWANA

CUNY - Baruch College

LAMBURINI KRISTINE

Pace University

CHROBAK MATEUSZ

New York University

LEE ADRIENNE

Cornell University

CHUDZIK RAFAL

Boston University

LEE REBECCA

Macaulay Honors College - Queens College

CHUNG HOW-YU

Vassar College

LEZCANO BLAS

Brown University

CORONA ARYANA

Northeastern University

LI ABBEY

Columbia University

College Decisions

THE CLASSIC

June 2014

LIANG XUELIN

SUNY - Stony Brook

RUIZ JUAN

Fordham University

LIN HELEN

SUNY - Geneseo

SADIQUE NUZHAT

CUNY - Hunter College

LIN JANICE

SUNY - Stony Brook

SAHAI SHARIFA

Union College

LIN SHIRLEY

Northeastern University

SALIMBANGON ANDRE

Macaulay Honors College - Baruch College

LONDONO DIANA

St. John's University

SALMON SHONTAE

New York University

LOO STEPHANIE

University of Pennsylvania

SAMAROO ADITYA

Adelphi University

LU EDWARD

St. John's University

SARKAR JHUMPA RANI

Penn State University, University Park

LUI KAREN

SUNY - Binghamton

SAWH NAVINDRA

New York University

MAHABIR DILLON

SUNY - New Paltz

SAWHNEY KIRANPREET

CUNY - Baruch College

MAHIN MARIA

Macaulay Honors College - Hunter College

SCHOB KATELYN

University of Connecticut

MAHIN SOPHIA

Mount Holyoke College

SCHRADER SAMUEL

Washington University in St. Louis

MAKRIS VASILIKI

CUNY - Baruch College

SCHURR FRANCESCA

SUNY - Purchase

MAMPILLY JOEL

Babson College

SEBASTIAN SOLLY

CUNY - City College (Sophie Davis)

MARADIAGA KATHERINE

Marist College

SENAT SAHIM

CUNY - Queens College

MARKEVITCH ANTHONY

Georgia Institute of Technology

SEO JIN WON

Macaulay Honors College - City College

MARROQUIN DONALD

CUNY - Baruch College

SEONG A YEONG

CUNY - Hunter College

MARTINEZ JOSUE

CUNY - City College

SHALIM BRYAN

CUNY - Queens College

MC ANDREW ALISON

University of Delaware

SHTAB BRIAN

New York University

MCFADDEN OLIVIA

SUNY - Binghamton

SILVER SOCRATES

CUNY - Hunter College

MCGEE CHELSEA

Northeastern University

SIMONYAN ANNA

CUNY - Hunter College

MEAH TAWHID

CUNY - Hunter College

SINGH AMANDA

Eureka College

MEDINA ANNE

Dartmouth College

SINGH ANTHONY

CUNY - New York City Technical College

MEKHAELOV VICTORIA

Marymount Manhattan College

SINGH ARMINDER

St. John's University

MERAI JOSHUA

SUNY - Stony Brook

SINGH MANVIR

New York University

MEYERSON NICHOLAS

University of New Haven

SINGH TALWINDER

Adelphi University

MIAH SUMAIYA

Vassar College

SONG ANGEL

New York University

MIHALIADIS ATHINA

Adelphi University

SPANG AMANDA

St. John's University

MIKETIC IVAN

Adelphi University

SPANOPOULOS VASILI

Adelphi University

MILONAS SOPHIA

New York University

SPRINGER IMANI

CUNY - Hunter College

MIR ZAREEN

SUNY - Stony Brook

ST CLAIR ANNA

McGill University

CAN

MIRZA MAHNOOR

CUNY - Queens College

STAMOULIS NICHOLAS

Adelphi University

MITCHEL ANDREW

University of Michigan

STELLATOS ELENI

Macaulay Honors College - Queens College

St. John's University

MO MARIA

Tufts University

STEWART CHRISTOPHER

MODI RITIKA

Northeastern University

SU KYLE

University of Pennsylvania

MOREL ALANA

Pace University

SUKNANAN JASMIN

SUNY - Stony Brook

MORENO JULIE

CUNY - Hunter College

SULLIVAN THOMAS

CUNY - City College

MOSTAQUE NUSHRAT

St. John's University

SUVASIA ANITA

St. John's University

MURILLO FERNANDA

Adelphi University

TABOADA ALESSANDRA

Cornell University

NAJAVEED SUHA

CUNY - City College (Sophie Davis)

TAN NICOLE

Cornell University

NARAIN LEANNA

LIU - Brooklyn

TEU JASMINE

SUNY - Binghamton

NARAYANASAMY KERISHMA

The Culinary Institute of America

THAI AUSTIN

CUNY - City College

THAKUR NIRVANA

Susquehanna University

NGUYEN VERONICA

St. John's University

TOGHER STEPHEN

SUNY - Binghamton

University of Rochester

NUKHAI ROHANIE

CUNY - Queens College

TORRES DEMEARA

OBRUSNIK ISABEL

SUNY - Binghamton

VAN BRIAN

St. John's University

ONEILL JOHN

St. John's University

VAWDA SUMAYYA

New York University

ORTIZ CAITLIN

CUNY - Hunter College

VELASQUEZ SAMANTHA

Columbia University

PANAGAKOS JILLIAN

Macaulay Honors College - City College

VOZIKIS CATHERINE

New York University

SUNY - Stony Brook

NY NY

PARK MI JIN

Boston College

WAGNER MICHELLE

PARKER MARGARET

Ithaca College

WASEEM MAHWISH

New York University

PATEL JAY

CUNY - Hunter College

WEN STEVEN

U.S. Marine Corps

PERSAUD CHANEL

St. John's University

WILLIAMS DANIELLE

Macaulay Honors College - Hunter College

PFEIFFER JAMIE

St. John's University

WILLIAMS ELIZABETH

SUNY - Stony Brook

CUNY - Hunter College

PINKHASOV MARIA

Macaulay Honors College - Queens College

WONG JOANNA

PLOTKIN DANIEL

CUNY - Queens College

WU JASMINE

Northeastern University

PREVOT SAMANTHA

Quinnipiac University

WU LINDA

New York University

QUINN HARRY

Northeastern University

WU MORGAN

Barnard College

RADA HUNG LILLY

New York University

WUEST DANIEL

Quinnipiac University

Bard College

RAM AMIT

Adelphi University

YACAR DANIEL

RAMHARACK ABIGAIL

SUNY - New Paltz

YAKUBOV MICHELLE

St. John's University

RAMPERSAUD RAVENA

St. John's University

YAKUBOVA ELIZABETH

Macaulay Honors College - Queens College

RAMPERTAB TINA

CUNY - Hunter College

YAM ALEXIS

CUNY - Baruch College

RAMSAROOP AMANDA

St. John's University

YE XUYAN

CUNY - New York City Technical College

REBEYEV ELIRAN

SUNY - Albany

YEUNG ANDY

SUNY - Stony Brook

REN XINYAO

Carnegie Mellon University

YEUNG MATTHEW

U.S. Marine Corps

RESTIFO DANIEL

Fordham University

YEUNG VINCENT

LIU - Brooklyn

RIZZUTO ALEXA

Lesley University

YUAN JACK

New York University

ROBERTS ZULIKHA

CUNY - Baruch College

ZHANG AMANDA

SUNY - New Paltz

ROSALES MATT

CUNY - John Jay College

ZHAO HETINCE

University of Rochester

RUGGIERI AMANDA

SUNY - New Paltz

RUHANI WASHIKA

Fordham University

20 June 2014

THE CLASSIC

SPORTS Photo courtesy of Ethan Nittolo

SPRING REVIEW Eleni Sardina SPORTS EDITOR

Boys Badminton Record: 3-7

Girls Badminton Record: 6-4

Baseball Record: 12-4 8-1 Townsend Harris 2-4 vs. Transit Tech CTE H.S.

Softball Record: 10-2 13-3 vs. Queens H.S. Complex 10-11 vs. H.S. Health Profession/Human Services

Ethan Nittolo’s poweful forehand helped him earn the title of “Best in the City.”

Nittolo wins Mayor’s Cup

Freshman breaks record

Noah Silversmith STAFF WRITER

Natalie Gomez SPORTS EDITOR

ON JUNE 8, junior Ethan Nittolo defeated his opponent William Trang of Brooklyn Technical High School to claim the Mayor’s Cup singles championship. Out of a total of 128 competitors, Ethan outlasted all Looking back, Ethan felt prepared going into the match. Regarding his competition for that I was going to win comfortably.” He proved this by winning both of his sets 6-3 and 6-0, re-

surreal experience, dubs Ethan the “Best in the City.” Ethan expressed his happiness, saying, “It was great. In my freshman year, this year, I wanted to win extremely badly, and it thankfully Also competing at Mayor’s Cup singles tournament was sophomore Daniel Corona, who said, “It’s great to have a teammate win. Since Ethan will be on our roster next year, the win is With a Mayor’s Cup championship marking the end of this season, the boys tennis team looks forward to the following season.

Winning Mayor’s Cup, a

AFTER FIVE ROUNDS of competition, freshman Stacey minton’s Individual City Championship on June 8. Along with making THHS history, Stacey also left her mark on PSAL by male badminton champion. Stacey and sophomore teammate Belinda Wong were the only two from their team to qualify for cities. Although Belinda lost in the tain Ellen Huynh cheered Stacey on to victory. Stacey said, “Belinda and El-

AS SUMMER VACATION slowly advances and the sports seasons approach their end, Townsend Harris senior athletes are faced with the somber reality that they will be participating ing their teams for the last time. They are compelled to reminisce on the past seasons, the memories they made, and what it really means to be part of a team. For by the close-knit bonds between teammates. Stephanie Loo, captain of the girls track team and rising freshman at University of Pennsylvania, explains, “I feel like a mother to these girls, being so invested in the team. I don’t think I’ve ever dedicated so much of myself to anything I’ve done.”

Fencing team captain Andy Yeung agrees that there is a certain familial bond within a team: “My team is my family, and they are the ones I can rely on, whether it’s getting a touch in a fencing match, or sharing my secrets and feelings.” As for their futures, many of the senior team captains plan on continuing their sport in college. Daniel Yacar, captain of the boys soccer team, plans on playing Division 1. Sierra Berkel’s passion for basketball will drive her to continue playing at Haverford College, saying, “I am continuing basketball in college because I love the sport and being a part of a team. I started playing basketmy dream has always been to play at the next level. College is that level.”

Record: 6-0 36-44 vs. Benjamin N. Cardozo H.S.

Girls Flag Football Record: 1-9

Girls Handball Record: 11-1

In addition to playing on the team, Stacey also trains and competes at the College Point Badminton Club. Junior teammate Mirza Ahmed said, “Stacey’s training inside and outside of school has

2-3 vs. Forest Hills H.S.

Boys Handball Record: 4-6

Boys Tennis Record: 8-4

way she has during the season and at cities.”

5-0 vs. Fort Hamilton 0-5 vs. Bronx Science

Girls Tennis

Captains say goodbye Kimberly Rodney and Sarah Yu STAFF WRITERS

len’s support really helped me. It relaxed me during my games.” Stacey felt calm in each round because she was able to watch her opponents’ games. After placing, Stacey said, “When I won, I was really happy and proud of myself, because it showed my work throughout the

Girls Fencing

Photo by Yash Sharma

Record: 2-10 0-5 vs. Eleanor Roosevelt

Girls Table Tennis Record: 2-7

Girls Outdoor Track 1st in Queens Champs

Boys Outdoor Track Senior captains pose together at the Sports Awards ceremony.

Other captains intend to continue their sports even beyond college by passing on their love for their sport to the next generation. Soccer captain Mateusz Chrobak said that he thinks it would be “fun to coach” in the future; girls soccer Captain Athina Mihaliadis hopes to expose her own children to soccer at a very young age. “Hopefully when I am old-

er and become a mother I can watch my children play or even coach their teams.” Being on a team, playing, sweating, and laughing with the same people everyday forms an unbreakable connection. While their teams will miss them greatly, the graduating senior captains will serve their college teams with the same passion that they have at THHS.

3rd in Queens Champs

Boys Volleyball Record: 8-2 2-0 vs. Franklin D. Roosevelt H.S. 1-2 vs. H.S. Environmental Studies

Girls Wrestling Record: 4-5