COVER FRONT
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Contents
Editorial
Letter to the Editor Editorial: Teacher Blaming
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Student Life
Club Spotlight: OMUN The Fall of Latin Club The CORE Team Perception No More OGTs Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Joseph Photo Spread
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Arts & Culture
Summit Dead End Job Stuff It!alian 2013 Movie Preview What is Love?
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News
Icelandic Revolution Government Restrictions and the People’s Rights
21 Review The Lumineers
22 Sports Voices Behind the Basketball Games The Colonel Online:
Facebook: /rhscolonel Twitter: @rhscolonel Web: rhscolonel.org
STAFF Editors-in-Chief - Marc Blanc & Sandra Creech Content Editors - Allison Kridelbaugh & Daniel McIlduff Copy Editors - Aundrea Bishop & Maddie Otterdaughter Layout Editor - Sydnie Barnette Photo Editor- Maddie Otterdaughter Photographer Matt Lewis Writers Alex Ledet Matthew Sunthimer Kyra Walker LaTessa Gray Guest Writer Jacob Neubert Advisor David Massucci
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Editorial
Letter to the Editor
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found the gloomy threat of pain and suffering woven through some articles in February’s issue of The Colonel distressing: Drug Use as a Coping Method: “You know you’re screwed when you think the easiest way to die is to inject an extremely dangerous drug into your arm because you’re too lazy to learn how to tie a noose.” Cutting to Cope: “It felt good to feel something.” Love Poems: “Nobody loves me. Life’s a limited black hole. I will die alone.” -- Anonymous I was left wondering: Have any of these struggling students sought a candle to light the dark, right here at RHS? At some point in this journey called life, each of us taste the bitterness of pain. When we become aware that ALL who walk among us (adults included) experience periods of darkness and despair, none of us has to suffer alone. Students may forget that guidance counselors, teachers, and other staff members, are
farther along on the path of life. To some we may just seem old. Nevertheless, we remember the long trail already trudged. We’ve learned that pain and frustration are inevitable in life, but long-term suffering is not. Having “been there,” we understand that storms don’t last forever but can be difficult to navigate. Rather than suffering in silence or committing acts of selfharm, consider one-on-one conversations or involvement in a school club. Reach-out and find the power of your own voice to communicate your experiences to others. The first to help you are the ones who know how it feels to fall down. --Anonymous Between the banks of pain and pleasure, the river of life flows. It is only when the mind refuses to flow with life, and gets stuck at the banks, that it becomes a problem. --Nisargadatta Maharaj My door is always open, Ms. Lyndee Wolf
On the Cover: From left, back row: Ben Gfell, Andrew Walsh and Noah Gfell of Summit; Rachel Favetta and Aaron Leclerc of Stuff It!alian In front: Marc Blanc and Danny Rickard of Dead End Job In the February issue of the Colonel, an important piece of information was missing from our exclusive piece on Mr. Yalli. The month of his departure was left out of the article. Correction: Mr. Yalli will be leaving the United States for his native Indonesia this May. April 2013
Teacher Blaming
Editorial
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Teachers are not at fault for students’ poor grades story | Marc Blanc & Sandra Creech photo | Sydnie Barnette
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ed ink scratched hastily into the margin of a paper. Disappointing. Thrilling. The range within the first few weeks of taking that teacher’s class. Then, the of emotions that small scrawl can flare is student can either drop the class or change teachers, or better yet, enormous. But at whom are those emotions stay in the class and prepare to work harder or get a tutor. In the aimed? The teachers, or you, the student? If the red work world, employees can’t just switch their bosses or “drop the marks are positive, all props to you. If you did poor- job” unless they intend to go broke. If you work a job and don’t ly, however, pull out the pitchforks and light the like your boss, sure, you can set up a meeting and complain, but torches. Your bad grade is all the teacher’s fault. this will most likely end with you going home unemployed. Whether A salient responsibilisubconsciously ty a high school has is or not, our first to prepare its students instinct as teenfor the world outside agers tends to be of the school walls. In to push all the “real world,” each possible blame and every one of us is Bad grade. But whose fault is it? away from ourselves and onto the going to have to work with a person we don’t connect shoulders of another. We students often avoid with in order to succeed. Therefore cooperation is a necessary taking responsibility for our poor marks by blamskill that should be developed in high school. ing our teachers because “they don’t know how to Students, stop blaming your teacher for your poor or teach.” Is this right, or even justifiable? True, some unsatisfactory grades. Somewhere along the line, you missed students don’t work well with select teachers’ partic- opportunities that could have boosted your grade. Whether it be ular educational styles, but when in life does every- transferring classes, getting outside help or talking to this teacher thing come served on a silver platter, catered just to one-on-one about how you can improve, it was you who chose to you? complain instead of act. An attentive student will know if he or she will not perform well under a particular teacher
Send press releases, guest columns and letters to the editor to:
The Colonel c/o Theodore Roosevelt High School 1400 N. Mantua St. Kent, OH 44240 All published material is protected speech adhering to the legal definitions of libel, obscenity and invasion of privacy.
Volume 84 Issue 3 April 2013 The Colonel is an open forum of student expression. It is not reviewed or censored by school officials prior to publication. Published material does not necessarily reflect the views of the Kent City School District or the publication as a whole. The Colonel is a member of the Ohio Scholastic Media Association and a 2010 All-Ohio Award winner. April 2013
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News
Club Spotlight: OMUN
story | Madie Otterdaughter photo | via Mr. Markulis
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any people believe too few students actually pay attention to current world issues. Having an awareness of what’s happening in the world around you is extremely significant. For the students who do care and do want to make a difference, there is the Ohio Model United Nations. Roosevelt began participating in OMUN to give students an opportunity to discuss global issues and to network with other students who have similar interests. OMUN meets on Fridays after school in room 116. The club’s host room belongs to advisor Larry Piccico. Teams within the group represent different countries, which can be as destitute as Zimbabwe or as prosperous as Luxembourg. The OMUN attends two conferences a year, one in Columbus and one in Youngstown, at which they simulate the real United Nations by teams bringing attention to a domestic issue in their country and proposing a solution that the General Assembly approves. Particularly stellar resolutions receive special honors. Any student who wants to make a
April 2013
difference in the world should consider joining the Ohio Model United Nations. OMUN is a great club for students who like to debate and would like to do something in high school that they can potentially do as a career or apply to their college experience.
Students from Roosevelt’s chapter of OMUN at a conference
Student Life
The Fall of Latin Club
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What would Augustus think? story | Marc Blanc photo | via www.makara.us with Creative Commons license
think about half of the people who are in lowers were Latin I classes aren’t even in full bloom aware that Latin Club and the sky exists.” was blue for However, according more than three to Mr. Susel, the club days in a row the is “far from dead.” In last time the Latin fact, a yearbook photo club held a meeting. was taken for the club There hasn’t been this year comprising a whisper from the of students who were club since May of involved last year. 2012, despite club “I did suggest to my co-president Kelsey Latin IV class (in which Raabe urging M. Burkey is a student) advisors and Latin that after the Roman teachers Mr. Susel Italy group returns from and Mr. Phillips to their trip overseas, that arrange a meeting that would be a great before the year time to have a meeting ends. and invite the travelers to “Part of share their experiences the reason we had and photos…” [Mr. trouble starting Susel] told the Colonel. up this year was He concluded, “The Susel’s focus on Latin Club belongs to the coaching soccer at students. We [Mr. Phillips the beginning of the and I] leave meetings year,” Co-President and events entirely Michael Burkey said in their hands while about Latin Club’s remaining ‘at-the-ready’ inactivity. to facilitate their requests Mr. Susel (within reason)… If offered his own we are approached by view on the our officers to hold a situation. “This year, meeting, we will resume it would appear our monthly meetings that our officers on dates that work for have been busier as many officers and with after-school advisor(s) as possible.” responsibilities than Although the other years,” he said. organization is A bust of Augustus Once a monthly extra-curricular with ten to experiencing a down year, students and teachers twenty regular members, Latin Club has faded remain hopeful that Latin Club will soon continue away from consciousness this year. When asked if he was its tradition of holding Italian-themed, often delicious aware that the school has an official Latin club, freshman meetings. Latin student Joe Blanc said, “I knew about it, but I didn’t really think about it. They don’t advertise it.” He added, “I
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7 Student Life
The CORE Team story | Daniel McIlduff photo | Matt Lewis Maddie O(erdaughter
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t one time or another, everyone gets to the point when they just need help; a friend to talk to. Two years ago, a team was established to help those who have reached such low points. The CORE team at Roosevelt has since been growing and helping the school. The first thing CORE did for the student body was schedule Johanna Orozco to speak in the auditorium last school year. A victim of both mental and physical abuse at the hands of her former boyfriend, she was able to bring the all-too-real threat of dating violence to the attention of students. She spoke of her near death experience with her ex-boyfriend who had shot her in the jaw after months of harassment. This year, the team of dedicated employees brought in Marc Elliot, who brought his original presentation on tolerance to our school. Elliot shared what it was like to be judged for his Tourette’s syndrome and the effects of not having the majority of his intestines. He left the helpful message of “live and let live” to guide students on a better path. CORE member and science teacher Mr. Marquette commented, “Having him come in and speak has been the highlight [of the year] so far.” CORE also does other activities throughout the school year. Over the past two years, they have hosted competitions for the best art, poetry and essay writing. The topic always revolves around the contest’s theme, which comes from whoever speaks in front of the school, such as Marc Elliot or Johanna Orozco. Another action the teachers do is go on the morning announcements the week of said contest and either say quotes or speak about the year’s theme. With so many teachers and faculty members involved, the organization takes dedication. When asked why the team is so devoted to helping students, English teacher Mrs. Harr replied, “We care about you guys…the people are really fun and dedicated and devoted to the students.” This dedication is what led to the creation of CORE two years ago. While Mrs. Harr was teaching classes she came across topics like dating violence and bullying, and realized there must be a way to bring them to the attention of the whole school. To help students with issues in their lives, she created the CORE team. It has since grown from a few teachers to faculty from all around the school to help any type of student, no matter what peer group, grade or level of academics or April 2013
background. History teacher Mr. Hibbs added, “I love being with other teachers that also want to make a difference in the lives of kids.” Currently, CORE is made up of between 25-30 staff members to help all students, but it takes a lot to address important issues on such a large scale. This is the reason why Mrs. Harr hopes for student involvement for the future of CORE. She would like students from all different groups and aspects of student life at the school to join, so everyone can be represented. If this could be achieved, no student would have to face their challenges alone because of all the aid they can get from those around them.
Mr. and Mrs. Harr, members of the CORE team
Student Life
Perception
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A look at Roosevelt’s literary magazine story | Sydnie Barnette photo | Matt Lewis
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erception is one of the lesserknown clubs at Roosevelt, even though it has been around since at least the early 70s, according to the club’s archives. Meeting every other Thursday in advisor Mrs. Fahey’s room, Perception is an organization centered on creativity and written work, giving students the ability to publish their own poems, stories, lyrics and art for the school to see. “Perception is a safe haven for writers,” club president and senior Tanner Dionne said. “A place where you can go if you want to express yourself freely and creatively.” Dionne went on to describe Perception as a confidence builder for creative people who wish to have their work published. A typical meeting involves planning for the upcoming issue, sharing written works and occasionally writing from a prompt. Despite it being a great creative outlet, few students are utilizing Perception. Many may not know that you don’t need to be in the club to submit and be published by Perception. There are manila envelopes in every English classroom for students to submit their works, anonymously or not, for publishing in the literary magazine, which the club aims to publish at least twice a year. One student who has attended meetings described her experience for the Colonel: “It was a really friendly environment. Everyone is really nice and you grow close to the people in the club through hearing everyone’s writings.” Whether it’s by submitting work anonymously or going to meetings and planning out the magazine firsthand, Perception is a great club to get involved in. Meetings are held every other Thursday in room 123.
Advisor Mrs. Fahey shows off the latest issue of Perception
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Student Life
No More OGTs The end of a standardized test’s era story | Marc Blanc photo | via www.presentationvoice.com with Creative Commons License
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he Ohio Graduation Test (OGT) will be taken for the last time next year, when the current freshmen are sophomores. An entirely new system will replace the OGTs in 2015, when this year’s eighth-graders (class of ’17) are sophomores. The Ohio Department of Education has determined that the current OGT assessment that has been in place since 2005 is not an accurate measure of what students have learned in their school careers, and a system of ten end-of-course examinations covering all the core subjects are to be taken instead by each
student in the 2017 class
Standardized multiple-choice test
onward. The state argues these final-exam like evaluations will provide a more reliable insight on how well students have learned in each subject. The new medium will offer a more detailed, rigorous appraisal as each test is personalized and focused on one subject instead of a compilation of rudimentary knowledge of all the core classes, as the OGT is. Mystery surrounds the tests that lurk in the future and many administrators have mixed feelings about the decision made by the Ohio General Assembly. I sat down with Principal Bob Klinar for a statement. April 2013
“I think the new assessments will give us a better idea of how well our students are learning. However, I believe some school districts are at risk of being impacted negatively by the change. These tests will be more challenging, which means lower district report cards. Funding and many other vital aspects of education systems are dependent on district report cards and how well students perform on tests.” Some freshmen and sophomores will be wiping sweat off their foreheads when they learn they and their classmates just missed the new end-of-course graduation
test system, while others may grimace at the thought having to take the traditional OGT test. Of course, there are the many who are indifferent to what type of test they are forced to take. “It’s unfortunate that there is going to be a different test instead that’ll be more rigorous and of course I’d choose the easiest one of the two. To me, though, a test is a test. I hate tests. So either way, whatever is given to me, I will hate it,” said sophomore Zoe Harr. Only time will reveal whether the Department of Education has made a good call on the reform.
Student Life
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Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat A review of our high school’s musical story | -Sandra Creech photos | Maddie Otterdaughter
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oseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” a musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice, was performed February 28th through March 3rd. The phenomenal cast put on an absolutely captivating show about how anyone’s dreams can come true. The musical is narrated by the very talented actresses and singers Mylane Bella-Smuts, Rhuna Wall and Cassie Youngblood. Joseph (Gordon Wall) is the favorite child to his father Jacob (Brenden Watroba), yet his 11 brothers don’t view him in the same light. Tired of Joseph receiving special attention from his father,
warns of future troubles and of a new man who will help the Pharaoh and Egypt during their troubling times. Joseph is named said man and rises to the occasion, and leads Egypt through the rough time. Back at home, though, Joseph’s brothers and their wives have succumbed to the drought that plagued Egypt, and desperately venture to Pharaoh and his mighty second in command to grovel for help, unaware that this powerful right-hand man is their brother. To ensure that his brothers were once again honest, Joseph slips a golden goblet into a bag of food he distributes
The cast of “Joseph” provided viewers with a fun and to the brothers, and accuses them as colorful experience which includes getting a colorful coat, thieves. But once Joseph sees each brother the brothers plan to do away with Joseph. Unable to kill take the fall for the one found guilty, he reveals his identity their brother, they sell him into slavery and bring his coat and joins his family once more. home, bloody and torn, with Joseph finally out of their Gordon Wall’s stunning tenor echoed throughout hair. But Joseph shows promise to his new slave master, the auditorium, beckoning the attention of the audience Potiphar (also Brenden Watroba), and is promoted from to his incredible performance, while Mylane Bella-Smuts the position of slave. Unfortunately for Joseph, Potiphar’s and Cassie Youngblood’s sweet altos and Rhuna Wall’s wife (Chiara Kline) attempts to seduce Joseph, which of lovely soprano told the story. The brothers, wives and course maddens Potiphar, and consequently lands Joseph children captivate the crowd with their dancing, and add in jail. a beautiful power to every song. Directed by Mrs. Kaplan Deep in despair, Joseph encounters two other and Mr. Fowler, with set design by Mr. Harr and his play prisoners: a butler (Clay Magilavy) and a baker (Danny production class, the cast and crew of the 2013 musical put Rickard), whose dreams Joseph interprets. When word on an absolutely unforgettable show. gets out about Joseph’s incredible gift, he is yanked out of prison to aid a distressed Pharaoh (Luke Schmidt). Joseph April 2013
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Summit Arts & Culture
Gfell, Gfell and Walsh introduce variety into the scene story | Marc Blanc photo | via Summit
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wangy chords resonate from Noah (they performed at last year’s Amnesty International benefit Gfell’s guitar into my headphones as I concert). Different venues house different vibes and “concert learn that Noah “loves it when I speak chemistry” (don’t expect to feel as safe at Peabody’s as you do at the Amnesty concert), but Summit tries to supply a French to him.” high-energy performance no matter where Noah, and his twin brother Ben are they may be playing. two parts of an experienced rock trio Front man Noah says called Summit. Bassist/backup that concertgoers can vocalist Andrew Walsh, who expect a “fun, energetic is a junior at Firestone atmosphere” at Summit High School, completes shows. the group. Ben drives “We used to the funky sounds of have a second Noah and Andrew’s guitarist named guitars with Aidan, but he quit sturdy rock and a little while ago. roll drum beats. Our music has I am gotten simpler, listening to edgier and just Su m m i t’s more energetic eponymous since he left. We EP on their still have some Facebook page, slow songs, too,” where they have he elaborated. it available for “Becoming a public listening. three-piece also It’s a versatile forced each of us record with songs to refine ourselves as that can set the mood musicians.” for a good studying Noah also said session, a romantic that his favorite thing he afternoon with a lover or has done with Summit was even be the soundtrack to recording their five-song EP. oh so cynical teen angst. The “It felt like a really big step trio likes to stray away from labeling when we went to Primetime Studio in their sound, as they are influenced by a wide variety of artists, ranging from Summit performs at Peabody’s in Cleveland Akron to record our EP. It’s awesome to actually listen to yourself in the studio.” Sonic Youth (check out their song “Roller Since releasing the EP in December, Summit has come in Skates”) to Green Day (listen to “Confession Is the Loneliest Form of Release” to hear distorted three- contact with local talent scouts and will potentially be played on chord guitar and cussing). They do acknowledge, Black Squirrel Radio. The Gfells have been writing music and jamming together though, that their music generally can be placed since age ten and have been performing with Andrew in Summit in the indie/alternative rock category. Summit, like other high school bands, has since early 2011. Their experience and passion for music makes performed everywhere, from bars like Peabody’s them a pleasure to the ears as well as a worthwhile band to see live. Downunder in Cleveland to their school cafeteria Summit is expected to perform many more shows in the future. April 2013
Dead End Job
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Roosevelt students rock the house story | Jake Neubert photo | via Dead End Job
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nearthing pop-punk of the early 90’s, Marc Blanc, Aidan Printy and Danny Rickard form a fullforce trio by the name of Dead End Job. Despite some mainstream influence, the three rockateers have an unshakable drive to stay true to what they love and what they believe in. Some may call that integrity but the band could only describe it as “punk.” The band formed in August 2011, and having selfreleased two EPs in their one-and-half years together, Dead End Job’s thirst to perform is increasing along with their fanbase. Without losing zeal, the band continues to play shows throughout the spring. Last November, their most notable accomplishment was at Peabody’s Downunder in Cleveland, where they opened for punk rock legends and personal influences, The Misfits. Dead End Job’s fast-paced tempo and energetic stage presence makes them appealable to many different audiences, and true punk fans can appreciate Rickard’s vocals as he delivers messages of individuality, rebellion and other DIY punk ethos. His knowledge of the fretboard combined with Blanc’s vicious drumming and Printy’s vibrant bass lines breathes new life into the past and will remind you that punk is far from dead. “We’d like all types of people to find something they like in our music,” Rickard said when asked what the band’s main goals include. He added, “I write the songs. Marc and Aidan make them listenable.” Dead End Job dropped their second record, an
Dead End Job rockin’ out
EP entitled “Fast Track To Failure,” in late November. The group has been widely circulating the CD, distributing it at their concerts and sending it to radio stations and independent record labels. Fans can hear this album digitally at deadendjob.bandcamp.com. Dead End Job’s lyrics have covered everything from disillusionment with life to apathy to sensual delight. With upcoming shows and a relatively new EP circulating, the band’s livelihood is expected to swell and they plan to go on doing what they love. They can often be seen performing locally at such venues as Euro Gyro, JB’s and the Outpost. The band can be followed on Facebook and ReverbNation among other music hotspots on the Web.
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Arts & Culture
Stuff It!alian
Stuff It!alian (noun) - a band from Northeastern Ohio story | Sandra Creech photo | via Stuff It!alian
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The band consists of Aaron and his brother Avery rom selfLeclerc, who plays bass and shares producing vocals, drummer/ their own EP percussionist and recording Ian Palmerton, a six-song live Joel Confer on performance, keyboards and to opening for percussion, Vailey House of Heroes, Dennis as a second Stuff It!alian has guitarist and had a rocket Rachel Favetta, lead start since their vocalist. formation a little Stuff It!alian over one year falls into a genre ago. But how did of music entirely these high school its own. Mastering students go from their indie/folktests, homework, rock sound that quizzes and they describe as cafeteria lunches “undefinable but by day to amazing,” they have dominating the recorded a handful stage at night? of songs, including: Guitarist and “The Invasion,” vocalist, Aaron “We Don’t Need Leclerc, lets us You,” “Left in the in on how they Dark” and “This is came together. Goodbye.” “Me and Ian “Our drummer, [Palmerton] Ian Palmerton, he (drums and writes a lot of the percussion) music, and the wanted to be in a lead singer, Aaron, band and I didn’t writes a lot too and know Rachel sometimes we write [Favetta] (guitar it together,” said and vocals) at all, Rachel. but I asked her to One of the band’s sing anyway. She best landings so was hesitant, but far took place on agreed for some October 13th, reason. We got when they opened to know each for indie band other better and House of Heroes at started writing Musica in Akron. Joel Confer, Aaron Leclerc and Rachel Favetta of the rock and roll band Stuff It!alian music together. And now here If you missed this performance, you we are a year later.” can generally catch Stuff It!alian playing locally around Kent at venues such as JB’s and The Outpost. April 2013
Arts & Culture
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2013 Movie Preview story | Tessa Gray photo | via Creative Commons
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’m sure I am not the only one hoping that this year surpasses the last in every way imaginable. While we can never be too sure on how it will end up, what to expect in cinemas is always a telltale sign of how great a year will be. If you’re not yet optimistic for 2013, I have the top ten movies for you to look forward to that will make the next nine months bearable at the least. At number one we have “The Hunger Games” sequel, “Catching Fire.” If you follow the series, you’ve probably been waiting for a long time to see this next book come to the big screen. If you haven’t, now is the perfect time to catch up. This film follows the aftermath of the protagonist Katniss Everdeen’s fight to live. You can catch this movie on November 22. “Iron Man 3” is also extremely anticipated, earning it the number two spot. The third installment will be shown in 3D and is already causing much hype for being the first major Marvel release since the crossover film “The Avengers.” “Iron Man 3” is scheduled to hit theaters in May and it will be a great snack to tide us over until “Thor: The Dark World” is released in November. If you’re a Brad Pitt fan, you’ll definitely appreciate “World War Z.” Directed by Marc Foster, the film follows a U.N. employee that ventures across the world to attempt to stop a zombie pandemic. The movie will be released in June, and though it’s said to be based on a novel written by Max Brooks, the plot will be altered entirely. For number four, a movie that came out in February is “A Good Day to Die Hard.” In this film, Bruce Willis plays John McClane, who goes to Russia to aid his son in getting out of prison. He realizes that his son is actually part of the CIA, and the two join forces to take down the underworld. Not much has been disclosed about “The Wolverine,” but it is still placed at number five. Another superhero film to be released in July, the movie follows Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) in his training with a samurai (Will Yun Lee). At number six there’s “Oblivion,” an original sci-fi from Joseph Kosinski, the director who gave us “TRON: Legacy.” The movie is about a former soldier (played by Tom Cruise) who is last on Earth after a war with an alien race. He meets another survivor in a spacecraft and they set out on an adventure. The script is from William Monahan, who also wrote for “The Departed.” For number seven we have “Man of Steel,” starring Henry Cavill, Russel Crowe and Amy Adams. The film will hit theaters in June. “Man of Steel” is based off of “Superman,” with the similar synopsis of an infant born with superhuman capabilities that sets out to save the world.
“The Fast and Furious 6” has a plot unknown, but the sixth installment of the series is definitely on peoples’ radars this year. Starring Dwayne Johnson and Vin Diesel, the film is sure to be a hit this May. Number nine goes to “The Host,” based off the book written by Stepehenie Meyer. The main character, Melanie Stryder (played by Saoirse Ronan), is injected with a parasitic alien soul that leaves her expected to fulfill the mission of taking over earth. Melanie bonds with her host (her alien soul) and works to help free humans instead. Finally, number ten goes to “The Great Gatsby.” Leonardo DiCaprio plays Jay Gatsby, who has a mysterious past and lavish lifestyle. Based on the literary classic written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, the movie takes place in the Roaring Twenties and will be in theaters this May.
“Wolverine” movie poster
April 2013
17 What is Love? Arts & Culture
The scientific explanation of love story | Matthew Sunthimer art | Makaylah Goudy
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any of us wonder where the feeling of love comes from when it strikes the heart, or how the feeling of nervousness erupts in the stomach from butterflies, or even why ache possesses the heartstrings. The origins of these feelings are deceptive; they may feel like they are in the stomach and the heart, but the magic of love actually exists within the complex interactions going on in your brain. Although emotions and feelings may seem to evolve from a mental or psychological experience alone, they actually emerge from a
each of which have their own unique function or information to tell your brain, the you, how to react to something. This chemical and electrical language is interpreted by neurons in your brain. According to “The Scientific American Book of the Brain,� the adult brain has over a whopping 100 billion neurons. The billions of neurons in the brain work together by interpreting all of the information your brain has to tell you. Information is collaborated through physical senses such as touch or sight and-- more importantly to the matter-- emotional sensors. Most of us are unaware of the complex interactions happening at lightning speeds; we simply experience the effect of these chemicals. In other words, we don’t feel endorphins and dopamine rushing through our brains, we just feel happy and
Two brains in love
physical experience. The brain communicates with itself, or the you inside your head through electrical signals, hormones and neurotransmitters (i.e. chemical messengers). The chemical messengers range anywhere from dopamine, serotonin, cortisol, endorphins, oxytocin, vasopressin to millions more, April 2013
delighted. Whether it is anger, happiness, sadness or depression, scientists have identified corresponding brain activity or neurotransmitters that make us feel and react the way we do to situational stressors, and love is no exception. Most of our emotional responses are based on complex combinations of neurotransmitters rather than single chemicals. The you inside
Arts & Culture is merely an observer of all of these chemical experiences and you are along for the ride of a lifetime. Pun intended. Helen Fisher of Rutgers University in New Jersey theorized that the process of “falling in love” comes in three particular stages, each involving their own unique set of chemicals. The first stage Fisher defined is lust. Sexual drive and libido are a major driving force in attraction and love. Individuals who are seeking a lover or sexual partner show much higher levels of testosterone and estrogen than those who are not “on the prowl.” Testosterone is the major sexual hormone in males, but it plays a significant role in a woman’s body chemistry as well. Estrogen is a hormone that regulates a woman’s mood and aspects of sexual attraction. Estrogen tends to be an
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classic “Romeo and Juliet” stage. The focus for the second stage is dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical in the brain that dominates the pleasure and reward centers. Dopamine makes the individual feel euphoric, successful and just great overall. Due to the intensely pleasant nature of dopamine, [the chemical] plays a major role in addiction. Drugs such as cocaine and opiates communicate messages to the brain saying to produce unnatural amounts of dopamine, and these drugs can intensify the effects and feelings we experience from dopamine; love in a nutshell to the brain. During the second stage of love, our dopamine levels tend to rise, creating a sense of euphoria and pleasure. In other words, we can literally become chemically addicted to our partners. The expression “you are my personal brand of heroin” is not as far off as it may seem. The third stage of love is attachment. The attachment stage is the stage that defines the long-term commitment between two lovers. Oxytocin is the neurotransmitter that dominates the third stage. Oxytocin is released in the brain and creates that sense of
“We can literally become chemically addicted to our partners.” incredibly mysterious hormone, so scientists have a hard time understanding how levels of estrogen impact mood; they are not quite sure if too much or too little causes depression and anxiety or even euphoria and bliss. Fisher says that these hormones in the first stage of attraction “get you out looking for anything.” The second stage is attraction. The attraction stage is dominated by the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin. The second stage is the stage of love that draws the individual to experience an intense desire for another; a desire often so strong that one or both of the people involved will find themselves saying, “I could never live without this person!” The attraction stage is the
bonding and attachment to another human. Oxytocin is a fundamental part of all human relationships, not just intimate ones. Handshakes and hugs, kissing and cuddling-- each behavior releases oxytocin. Incredibly intimate behaviors, such as sex, opposed to simply hugging, release more oxytocin, meaning that the bond between two lovers becomes more adamant when actively participating in more intimate behaviors. Couples who remain sexually active often times demonstrate greater bonds and greater attachment to one another. Although love can be simplified into chemical interactions and simple behaviors, do not make the mistake of assuming that love and intimate relationships are not intricate and complex. There is no simple handbook on healthy relationships. Even more so, the psychological aspects of love are far more complicated in a series of different ways than simply studying the chemical and electrical responses happening in the brain. April 2013
19 News The Icelandic Revolution A peaceful revolution that nobody has heard of story | Marc Blanc photo | via Flickr user Pookitoots
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celand’s peaceful four-year revolution is a prime in Iceland, though, is that, by 2012, the people actually and shocking example of the American media got a lot of what they wanted. In many respects, they won. neglecting to report important world news. Without firing even one gun. The protesters, made up of I didn’t find out there was even any debt in every kind of profession from teachers to students to small Iceland, let alone a full-blown financial collapse businessmen, used civil disobedience and peaceful protest until last year, when the last of the Nordic island to nationalize Iceland’s biggest and most devastated banks nation’s former politicians and bankers were put on (Kaupthing, Landsbanki and Glitnir), force the resignation trial. I didn’t learn this from CNN, CBS, MSNBC, of the entire government and even draft an entirely new and I certainly didn’t constitution in the public hear it from Fox square. Many political News. Tumblr actually leaders and wealthy enlightened me on bankers held responsible the amazing feats for the country’s economic the Icelandic people collapse were put on have accomplished in trial, and some were even the time since their sentenced to several years economic crisis began in prison. Iceland has seen a in 2008. After much successful change of power research, I discovered and system, as new left-wing from reputable pacts replaced the moneyalternative news ruled conservative regime websites like http:// through fair elections in www.thetruthseeker. June of 2012. Although co.uk that there nonviolent, what has has indeed been a happened in Iceland is the successful revolution definition of a revolution. of sorts in Iceland. Why has virtually no one Much like the in the West heard of this United States, Iceland amazing power shift from was going through a aristocrats to common period of neoliberal citizens in the past four polices and privatized years? Political graffiti banks when the Remember Occupy financial crisis of 2008 struck. The crisis caused Wall Street? Boy, that faded quickly. The Icelandic the banks of Iceland to collapse and a fullblown Revolution basically started out as Occupy Wall Street. recession that in many ways was worse than what we What would have happened if American citizens were told faced here on the other side of the Atlantic followed. about a successful, peaceful peoples’ revolution in Europe Outraged citizens young and old united in their anger during the heat of the Occupy movement? Why, the public and took to the streets of Reykjavik and other cities. might have had this silly notion of hope! OWS might still Fear that the aristocratic government would bail out be going full force today, and real changes could have the “too-big-to fail” banks instead of focusing on the come out of what turned out to be a string of three-month welfare of the country during the recession was the camping trips. overwhelming sentiment of the protests. This goes to show that we cannot trust the most Scenes commonly associated with revolution popular news outlets to empower and inform us completely. couldn’t be found in Iceland. No statues were pulled We must dig deeper and research international news to the ground and no leader was killed by rebels organizations. After all, the entire world is at the fingertips driving knives through his bottom. There were, of millions of people for the first time in history. It would however, massive riots, burning effigies of political be shameful to waste this along with the opportunity for figures and tear-gas clashes between protesters and change. riot police. What is so incredible about the movement April 2013
News
Government Restrictions and People’s Rights
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Espionage Act of 1917 and possible Second Amendment restrictions story | Aundrea Bishop photo | via the U.S. National Archives on Flickr
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recent handful of school shootings has brought some issues to light involving the Second Amendment, a citizen’s right to bear ams. There has been talk of a possible upcoming restriction on said amendment, limiting the amount and types of guns a person can own. A similar issue took place during World War I, dealing with the First Amendment, when citizens began to use their rights to speak out against the draft. This public reaction spawned the Espionage Act of 1917.
whoever willfully spoke out against any branch of the United States Armed Forces, the draft or did anything to disrupt the war effort in general would be fined no more than $10,000 and/or imprisoned for no more than twenty years. More than 2,000 prosecutions occurred under this act, one of the most famous of the convicted being Eugene V. Debs. He was sentenced to two years in prison after giving a speech speaking out against the draft in Canton, Ohio. His argument in court was that the federal law violated his right to free speech, but the Supreme Court
Eugene Debs giving a speech in Canton, Ohio in 1918
The First Amendment assures a citizen’s right to free speech, press, petition, assembly and religion. When men were needed to aid in the war, the United States set up a draft. The draft was used in order to get men to the battlegrounds. Many people were against the draft, finding it to be a violation of their rights. Men and women alike started to speak out against the draft and even the war as a whole. Their words became a disruption to the war effort, and the government came to the conclusion that the words of the people needed to be controlled. The Espionage Act restricted citizens’ rights to speech, press and assembly. In short, it made it that
did not uphold his defense. Many other cases similar to Debs’ occurred under the Espionage Act. Knowing how some citizens reacted to the government’s restriction on individual rights, who’s to say that such backlash wouldn’t occur with a restriction on the Second Amendment? The right to bear arms, after all, is the most defended of all constitutionally guaranteed rights. The government should prepare itself for public outcries against restriction, and likewise, the citizens should brace themselves for further restrictions on their rights. It’s unsure if such a restriction will be put in place, but the possibility is likely. April 2013
21
Review
The Lumineers A review of the band’s self-titled album story | Kyra Walker photo | via David Turcotte Photography
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till in the top 15 albums on iTunes are the Lumineers, with their debut album “The Lumineers,” which came out in April 2012. Although their album is not that recent, it is still popular because they are a new face in the music scene. The Lumineers were just a small band from Denver, Colorado who never thought they would become this big. Many people know them for the song “Ho Hey,” but with this album they were able to show people that they are more
people how I had seen the submarine and everyone laughed aloud” to explain it. Basically this song is talking about how someone is nice to most people but really is up to no good. The only thing I dislike about it is that it’s too short. The Lumineers continue the album with slower songs like “Dead Sea,” “Ho Hey,” “Slow it Down” and “Stubborn Love.” All four of these songs really stood out to me because they have great lyrics. In the song “Dead Sea,” the Lumineers use the lyrics “you’ll never sink when you are with me” and “I was born to be your dead sea.” They are basically talking about how someone is
The Lumineers perorming
than just a one hit wonder. The album starts off with “Flowers In Your Hair.” This is only one of a few upbeat folk country songs on the album. It starts out with just guitar and is then accompanied with a cello played by Neyla Pekarek. In this song they talk about a man who realises he has feelings for a friend from his childhood. The third song on this album, “Submarines,” is also an upbeat, energetic folk song. It has a simple meaning to it. They use the lyrics “and I told the April 2013
always there for them. It is also about how someone can cheer you up when you are down. They close the album with a sad, slow song called “Morning Song.” They use an electric guitar in the background. In this song they talk about how a man is depressed and broken hearted over his past love. If you haven’t had the chance to listen to this debut album already, I highly recommend it. Even though it has more of a sad, folk-country sound, it is still good. The lyrics to these songs have actual meaning and were written by the Lumineers themselves
22 Voices Behind the Basketball Games Sports
Allie Montgomery and Cassie Weaver give the play-by-play story | Allison Kridelbaugh photos | Chris Carman
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his year, senior Allie Montgomery was given Roosevelt High School, coming from Hudson. “Hudson the privilege of announcing the JV basketball didn’t have an option to announce games, and since I am games. Chemistry and environmental science taking all my classes at Roosevelt this year, I wanted to get teacher, Mr. Carman, was on the lookout for as involved at the school as I could.” Weaver’s mother works at downtown Kent’s someone to help announce the JV basketball games, and that’s where Montgomery stepped Gracylane, and on one occasion Mr. Carman was there and in. “Mr. Carman needed someone to announce began talking to Weaver’s mother. “She randomly brought the JV games and I found out about it and said up my name and how I go to Theodore Roosevelt and used I’d be interested and I got started the next week,” to play basketball, so he asked her to ask me if I wanted to Montgomery said. “I just thought it was a really neat announce for the JV games. And sure enough I said yes,” Weaver said. opportunity.” This was Weaver’s first school year without playing Montgomery decided she wanted to basketball, but she wanted to remain as close to the game announce the as she could, and games because with announcing, most of her Weaver could be on friends play the same level as the basketball and players themselves. she was going “I have basketball to be at the experience; I’ve games anyway, played on Hudson’s with the school team since 7th added bonus grade all the way up of getting into to last year, my junior the varsity year. I really enjoyed games for free. the experience a lot,” At the Allie Montgomery (left) and Cassie Weaver (right) announce at the basketball game said Weaver. beginning Like Montgomery, Weaver needed help of the season, Mr. Carman was there to help in the beginning of her announcing career. “When I first Montgomery make calls. Now, for the majority of the games, Montgomery is independent. “I do it started announcing I needed some assistance setting up the by myself except when we have minor technical microphone and what to say, but now I am on my own.” In order for Weaver to succeed at announcing, she difficulties; that’s when I still need a little help from had to be good at a few things. “The requirements for the Carman.” For Montgomery, the difference between job were that I could speak clearly and loud enough to announcing the games and only being a spectator pronunciate the names of the players clearly, and it helped is her attention to detail. “It’s different because you that I had basketball experience.” “I love announcing. Being able to talk loudly into really pay attention to what is going on and you really get a first hand and closer view to everything a microphone in front of a crowd is very exciting,” Weaver said. “The best part of having the privilege of announcing is happening,” she stated. Montgomery’s announcing is a rare that I don’t have to pay for the JV and/or varsity game.” The fun thing for Weaver is the fact that she is new privilege. “I get to do something not a lot of others get the opportunity to do,” she said. “I love it, and I to Roosevelt. “I announced so far for the girls’ game against Hudson and it was a blast! Getting to see all my fellow am so glad that I got the opportunity this year!” Senior Cassie Weaver was given the same teammates and having them see me announcing was really fun for all of us. The boys’ game against Hudson is coming opportunity as Allie Montgomery. However, Weaver is a newer student to up soon and I’m looking forward to it!” April 2013
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