December 2008 Blue & Gold Malden High

Spirit Week Coverage on pages 8 -9

The Blue and Gold http://my.highschooljournalism.org/ma/malden/mhs/

Malden High School Volume 94 Edition 3

Blood Drive Saves Lives

Our 94th Year December 2008

midsummer night’s dream Kimberly Lombard reviews on pg 13

An Holqvist Copy Editor

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Senior Taylor Lombard relaxes as she donates blood. Photo by E. Chiavelli

LOCAL NEWS Page 5 WORLD NEWS Page 10 ENTERTAINMENT Page 12 SPORTS Page 14

Donate blood and save up to three lives.” That is just one of multiple reasons to donate blood according to www.givelife.org. Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion totaling to nearly five million people every year. Blood donation, among one of the best causes one can contribute to, is an event hosted at many schools in addition to most hospitals. This year, Malden High School held their annual blood drive on the morning Dec. 11, 2008 in the Finn Gym. The Class of 2009, in partnership with the American Red Cross (ARC) organized and ran the event. Potential blood donors were sent to the gym during the day to Continued on pg 7

Faries look on as Titania and Oberon, played by Candido and Warton, argue. Photo by E. Chiavelli

malden voted best place to live in mass Patti McClenthen Reporter

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RECENT ISSUE of BusinessWeek magazine included an article naming the best cities in the country to raise children. These

picks were based on crime rate, home affordability, and a few miscellaneous categories. Malden was chosen for the best city to raise children in Massachusetts because of these factors as well Continued on pg 7

Malden Wins 121

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Thanksgiving Football Game Erica Marangos Reporter

Senior Mary Nguyen at the MHS Crafts Fair. More on pg 6.

Parker’sWorld

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HIS YEAR the Malden High School football team learned that even though there might be problems, they should never give up. As the historic Thanksgiving Day rivalry with Medford continues, Malden leads Medford 57-54-10 for the 121st game. During the season, five players, consisting of tri-captains David Freni, Michael Gilardi, and Marcos Almeida, along with players Lucas Ingemi, and Ricky Walsh stood on the sidelines due to injuries. Throughout the whole course of the season, the team has suffered a total of eight losses of players to Continued on pg 16

MHS marching band drummers cheer on the team. Photo by E. Chiavelli

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The Blue and Gold December 2008

Editorials http://my.highschooljournalism.org/ma/malden/mhs/

Malden High School

The Blue and Gold 77 Salem St. Malden, MA 02148

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Nicole Dhruv Malisa Saksua MANAGING EDITOR Cynthia Rodriguez HEAD NEWS WRITER David Riemer HEAD ENTERTAINMENT/ OPINION Ashley Ngo HEAD SPORTS WRITER Paul Collins ASSISTANT SPORTS WRITER Alfonse Femino HEAD COPY EDITORS Tzivia Halperin Ayoub Kourikchi COPY EDITORS An Holmqvist Brittany Foley Nidale Zouhir

While watching the news on that historic Election Day, I became aware of two things: that while I was glad to be part of the generation that voted to elect the first African American President of the United States, I was also ashamed at our large step back in denying our fellow human beings their basic right of marriage. On Nov. 4, 2008, people around America celebrated the election of our next President and we hoped for a time of positive change. That same day, Californians not only passed Proposition 2 and voted to protect the rights of farm animals; they also passed Proposition 8 and in turn denied the rights of their fellow human beings by banning same-sex marriage. California however, was not the only state to deny rights to its citizens. Arizona passed Proposition 102, and Florida passed Amendment 2, both effectively banning same-sex marriages. Not only that, but Arkansas passed Initiative 1, which bans all nonmarried couples from adopting or fostering children; since Arkansas also has a ban on same-sex marriage, the Initiative has been seen as a direct attempt to ban same-sex couples from adopting, since the proposition was turned down earlier in the past year. I’ve since realized that I’ve been living in my own little bubble, unaware of the struggles that other states were facing. I often forget that while Massachusetts legalized same-sex marriages several years ago, the rest of the nation is not in the same mindset as the rest of us here in Massachusetts. It wasn’t until a conversation with another student that I realized the struggle that the gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender community were facing. While I was aware that there were going to be rallies in protest against the passing of Prop 8 in California, I wasn’t aware that there would be rallies in

HEAD OF PHOTOGRAPHER Emily Chiavelli ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHER Lynn Tran HEAD OF BUSINESS Kimberly Lombard BUSINESS TEAM Brandon Knight Cera Nolan ONLINE EDITORS Kimberly Lombard Brandon Knight REPORTERS Haley DeFilippis Michael DiGregorio Jacquelyn Dillon Alexander Gennigiorgis Dan Holmqvist Shannon Howe Barbara Jerome-Athis Omar Khoshafa Erica Marangos Alexandra Mathieu Patti McClenthen Brittany McFeeley Paul McWhinnie Joan Morabito Linda Nguyen Paula Suarez Salamanca ADVISOR Ryan Gallagher Established in 1915 Check out our online edition: http://my.highschooljournalism.org/ma/malden/mhs/

letter to the editors Send your letter to the editors to: [email protected]

Editorial Policy

The Blue and Gold is an open forum for student expression. It is produced by students for the school and the community. The views presented in this paper are not necessarily those of the advisor or the school administration. The views presented in the editorials are those of the editors-in-chief or guests. The goal of The Blue and Gold is to inform and entertain students as well as the community regarding issues that we feel are important. We strongly encourage readers to respond to material printed in the form of signed letters to the editors. No libelous, malicious, defamatory, obscene, or unsigned material will be printed. The Blue and Gold reserves the right to edit the letters. Names may be withheld upon request. Not all letters will be printed. Although The Blue and Gold appreciates the support of advertisers, we may refuse any advertisement that violates the above policy or that promotes products questionable to student use. Any correspondence concerning this publication should be directed to Mr. Ryan Gallagher’s room in C333 or to his mailbox in the main office.

The Blue and Gold c/o Malden High School 77 Salem Street Malden, MA 02148

Massachusetts as well. In a conversation with friend of mine, she asked if I was going to attend the rally. Before I could tell her that I had a workshop to attend, another friend of mine intercepted, and asked what the point was of attending the rally to begin with; after all, Massachusetts legalized gay marriage “ages” ago. That conversation struck a chord with me. While yes, gay marriage has been legalized in Massachusetts since 2004, it certainly doesn’t qualify as being legalized “ages” ago. Looking at the state of our nation, while we certainly have improved in the past decade, the recent bans on same-sex marriage in several states is a major step back. Not only that, but in the wake of the terrible loss for the GLBT community, I find that the media is doing nothing to help the situation. With the sudden firing of Brook Smith from ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy and making Melissa George’s character straight, rather than bisexual, it cannot be helped but think that the executives of the company wanted to “de-gay” the show. And in the wake of Prop 8 passing, what does MTV do? The network premiered A Double Shot of Love with the Ikki Twins, a reality dating show starring two supposedly bisexual twins with disturbing incestuous undertones. With the minimal visibility the community gets to begin with, it’s no wonder that California, Florida, and Arizona took away the right to marriage, and Arkansas took away their right to raise kids; if the only representation of the GLBT community is in the form of MTV, even I would have been tempted to vote against same-sex marriage. So in the wake of these events, one can only help but wonder where the state of GLBT rights stands.

Malisa Saksua

Co-Editor-in-Chief

The Blue and Gold December 2008

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Got milk? Harvey Milk biopic garners rave reviews Ashley Ngo Head Entertainment/Opinion Writer

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N HOLLYWOOD, it is rare to find a movie with a perfect balance of controversy, drama and an overall happy-go-lucky feeling, but luckily for director Gus Van Sant he manages to balance out these three aspects well in his commanding and persuasive biopic, Milk. The film travels back in time, capturing the life of American hero Harvey Milk and his mid-life crisis: although he passionately wants to help people, he can not figure out what he wants to do with his life and where he belongs. All of that changes when Milk rises as iconic homosexual political figure and makes a strong point in the issue of discrimination, utilizing his passionate speeches and charming personality to win over the hearts of American citizens. Milk depicts his chaotic history as the first openly gay man to be elected into a major political office, starting with his freedom from his longtime corporate job and ending with his final, moving speech. The film also relies on archival footage to make its point, showing police abuse against homosexuals and Diane Feinstein announcing the assassination of Milk outside San Francisco’s City Hall in 1979. The film grants the audience an unapologetic vibrancy, tenacity and vivacity of Milk’s final years, of the decade he spent in the public eye as he helped to define and encourage the American homosexual community, particularly in the San Francisco Castro district. The recreation of the locations and times is masterfully conceived, giving the audience a realistic sampling of an influential era and a more vivid illustration of a man that few are probably familiar with. The script by Dustin Lance Black deserves recognition for being brutally honest. It is filled with memorable lines, often funny, with a level of influence that will be embedded into the minds of the audience. Sean Penn is one of the greatest actors of his generation, but that claim will stand true more than ever after his performance in Milk. The transformation Penn takes to become Milk seems so effortless that it is extraordinary. Penn employs all of his charisma and incredible ability to make the audience connect with Milk’s extreme character. Penn yet again delivers a tour de force performance that is not likely to be bested before the year is up. In Milk’s personal life, several continued pg 13

The ethics Behind Trash Tzivia Halperin Head Copy Editor

is the trash tax really effective if residents illegally dump trash elsewhere?

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INCE THE “Pay-As-YouThrow” (PAYT) trash program was instituted in Malden as of June 2008, there have been strong reactions from both advocates and opponents voicing their opinions. Many find the program beneficial, especially in augmenting the city’s recycling efforts. More, however, find it an invasive economic burden, a tax feigning as a fee. In order to circumnavigate the fee, many Malden residents have taken to illegally dumping trash in Everett, incurring a startling $1,800 in fines as of Nov. 13, 2008. Malden was therefore put into an impossible position- filling a $5 million deficit in the wake of a global economic crisis. Accepted with a 7-4 vote, the PAYT program has become a means to fill in this monetary deficit, with expectations of making $2.5 million dollars this year alone. Nevertheless, the current economic climate has made the $20 per box a hardship for some citizens. As Bob Miller, chairperson of Malden Taxpayers for Accountability, noted in a phone interview, civilians deserve other

“options and more innovative solutions,” rather than being forced to abide by the exorbitant program. This is especially true since the decision to implement the trash tax was done rather quickly, with no input from the voters. Simply from an ethical standpoint, the trash tax loses credibility by not representing the views of its constituency. Ellen Wendruff, a long-time Malden resident, believes the collection program is “outrageous!”, both in cost and in principle. Had the program been opened up to voters to discuss, dissect, and decide on through due “democratic process,” Wendruff continues, she would have been more comfortable with the decision. While recycling has significantly increased in Malden, growth in recycling was not a goal of the collection program. The positives of more frequent recycling seemed to have veiled the true purpose of PAYT, which is simply “a system by which you, [the civilians], pay for the trash you dispose,” according to Malden’s own PAYT website. Rather than utilizing PAYT to increase recycling, “other options such as RecycleBank should be considered,” according

to Miller. If other options were to be employed to augment recycling, the positives of the PAYT program would wane even further. In areas such as Everett, RecycleBank uses a computer system to convert the weight of recycled goods into points redeemable as discounts at certain retailers including CVS. These programs increase recycling without causing such economic woes for civilians. The PAYT program loosely fused two separate issues: recycling and Malden’s deficit. Rather than viewing each issue individually and consulting with voters for their input on both, the program glossed over each problem to find one convenient solution. Convenience does not always equate to the best solution and thus petitions are circulating to rescind the program and investigate better options. Nevertheless, the income that PAYT has earned through trash collection has prevented money from being taken from public works, most frighteningly schools. Thus, the PAYT program has become Malden’s own catch-22: with it, social unrest grows, without it our deficit remains unsolved. It truly is a conundrum.

Has peta Gone Too Far? Nidale Zouhir Copy Editor

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Peta infringing on people’s rights to bring justice for animals.

HEN A PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) activist threw flour on the fur coat of celebrity figure Lindsay Lohan, she left Lohan’s girlfriend Samantha Ronson “pissed,” according to her MySpace.com blog. PETA and their many supporters oftentimes criticize to almost a degrading point those who wear or eat animal products. This is seen in their “Trollsen” campaign, which creates caricatures of actresses Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen to mock their avid fur wearing, along with many other campaigns that they have had over the past few years. PETA, like many other blogs and media outlets in the past few months, even took the time to make fun of Governor Sarah Palin, calling her a “moosehunting, fur-wearing, pro-aerialwolf-gunning governor,” when she attended a turkey pardoning in Wasilla, Alaska. But does PETA go too far with their fur-wearer bashing? It is one thing to expose the secrets of Petsmart; it is another thing entirely to throw a bag of flour at someone wearing a fur coat. When PETA’s freedom of expression is used through their words, they seem like logical people who only want to help the animals they claim

are so tortured, but their actions often prove otherwise. When PETA supporters “take action,” they act almost inhumane in their treatment of others. Regardless of the death that animals go through when they are killed for their fur, the people that PETA targets are human beings. Just like PETA supporters have the right to wear man-made products only, celebrities like the Olsen twins along with ordinary citizens have

the right to wear fur without having flour thrown at them or cruel video games made about them. There is a definite difference between protesting the use of animals for fur and protesting those who wear fur. There is also a definite difference between a peaceful protest and a violent one, and it seems PETA is toeing the line between the two. There is a fine line between freedom of expression and

harassment, one that PETA seems to be ignoring completely. The organization barely ever promotes positive ways to make a difference; they almost always target others to get their message across. Some of the games on PETA’s website are humorous; there is one about bunnies that fight the use of fur, and there is one in which a chick runs around trying to stop KFC from treating animals inhumanely. Where PETA crosses the line between funny and obscene, however, lies in the game called “Dress Up the Trollsens.” It is an obvious parody of the Olsen twins, who are often seen wearing fur. In the game, the player chooses between “Hairy-Kate” and “Trashley” to dress up in bloody animals that still have their heads. Hating the use of animal products does not justify bringing hatred upon a person; it is one thing for PETA to promote their message and another thing entirely for them to twist it into one of hatred of people when it is supposed to be one of love for animals. It is basically as Ronson stated in her blog: “I don’t wear fur, but I don’t think I have the right to ATTACK those who do. No one has that right.”

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Opinion

The Blue and Gold December 2008

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MHS Stays True To Wacky Tacky Day Paul McWhinnie Reporter

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HY WAS THERE A CHANGE in Wacky Tacky Day this year? It is a question that was on the minds of many Malden High School students when they found out about the change in a traditional part of Spirit Week. In previous years, Tuesday was known as Wacky Tacky Day during Spirit Week, where students dressed up in outrageous outfits, ranging in anything from mix-and-match clothing, different shoes, and even 1970s or 1980s style outfits. This year, three different options were offered on what was supposed to be solely Wacky Tacky Day. Tuesday was proclaimed, “Wacky Tacky/ Semi-Formal/Favorite Sports Team Day.” To no surprise, the Wacky Tacky option was most evident across the halls of MHS. Statistics show that 68 percent of all students who chose to dress up decided to dress Wacky Tacky, 20 percent chose to wear sports apparel representing their favorite teams, and 12 percent chose to wear semi-formal outfits. As a result of the hard work that goes into the hallway decorating competition, most students chose not to dress in semi-formal outfits. “It allows everyone the chance to express themselves and have fun,” MHS Junior Jillian Dervishian stated. So why did the administration even attempt to change the traditional Wacky Tacky Day to something that it is not? Many staff members say that it is because students have a difficult time concentrating throughout the day, due to the crazy clothes and costumes that are worn becoming a major distraction in the classroom. MHS junior Nicolette Tallent-Maldonado talked about the lack of purpose of the change when she said, “I didn’t like the fact that they changed it because Wacky Tacky Day is fun, and having three different options ruined it.” Marissa Gould; another MHS junior even claimed that, “Wacky Tacky Day unifies our school.”

results of survey taken to measure how many students prefer which option for the old wacky tacky day. With Spirit Week over, MHS students continue to wonder about the plans for next year. Is Wacky Tacky Day coming back? Or is it going to be changed to something different?

parker’s world

Parker Stallworth

The Blue and Gold December 2008

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Success followed by failure Students from Boston public schools graduate high school only to drop out of college at appalling rates.

An Holmqvist Copy Editor

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ORE STUDENTS in Boston are graduating high school and going to college than ever, something that Boston has long prided itself in. With consistently high graduation rates compared to the rest of the country, the Boston Public Schools seemed to have an edge in education. However, a recent follow-up study on the high school graduating Class of 2000 from The Boston Globe found that only twothirds of the student body had made it through college. The same study found major discrepancies concerning race and gender. Hispanics had completion rates of 23.9 percent and AfricanAmericans 28.2 percent in contrast with the 53.3 percent of whites who earned degrees, while Asians were slightly below that figure. Young women were significantly more likely to graduate than young men. At the center of the dilemma, Boston’s public and community colleges have indeed reflected the results of the study. According to The Boston Globe, in 2006, at Bunker Hill Community College only 8.6 percent of their student body graduated with college degrees while at Roxbury Community College, just 5.8 percent of full-time students graduated within three years of enrolling. 64.2 percent of students from the BPS Class of 2006 attended these community colleges yet only 35 percent graduated. These results, well below the national average at 22.4 percent, do not bode well for the city. Both BHCC as well as RCC draw a large number of students from the Boston community. However, considering rising costs in higher education, many students dropout for reasons such as financial distress or would rather graduate high school and start working immediately. According to Malden High School principal Dana Brown, a solid majority of MHS students are going to college after graduation leaving the school in relatively good shape, yet he still

concedes that there is a long way to go academically. Nevertheless, in response to the Boston study, a concerned Mayor Thomas Menino proposed a major initiative; starting with this year’s high school graduating class, to increase the college graduation rate by 50 percent and then double the rate for the current sophomore class. The Boston Foundation, which 2 years ago, BHCC graduated fewer than 10 percent of their students, well below the nafinanced the study tional average. Photo of Bunker Hill from the Orange line by L. Tran along with The Carnegie Corporation of New York, has pledged $1 million this year toward that goal and hopes to allocate the same amount for each of the following four years. In the coming years, American school systems will also be receiving input from the new administration in Washington D.C. President-elect Barack Obama’s bold education policies include a $4000 tax credit for college-bound students entering community schools and calls for a major simplification of the financial aid process for qualified students. The tax credit involves a requirement of performing 100 hours of community service and “will cover two thirds of tuition costs at the average public college or university,” as he had stated in his “Reclaiming the American at the bottom of his agenda. larger one that involves America’s Dream Speech” in Iowa Nov. Two years ago, BHCC gradufight to stay afloat in a more com2007. Hopefully Obama will be able to implement these plans despite the ated fewer than 10 percent of their petitive world. many other hurtles that stand before students, well below the national him. Currently education is almost average. Their struggle embodies a

Malden Residents Have New Furry Neighbors David Riemer Head News Writer

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Influx of wild coyotes shock malden residents

T IS JUST LIKE in the movies. A full moon shines on the bald rock crest of a hill; a crouched figure is silhouetted by the moonlight; a loud howling cry pierces the silent night air, a cry that strikes the listener with fear of its mystique and ambiguity. No, it is not a werewolf, actually, it is not a wolf at all – it is a coyote, and it could be right in your backyard. “A coyote, in Malden?” one might ask, but it is true, the Western coyote has been moving eastward from its home in the Midwestern

United States, searching endlessly for a stable habitat untouched by human development. In their travels they have found some homes in large protected parks, but the vast majority of this migrating species has yet to find peace. Ecologists are slightly less surprised than most Malden citizens are to be seeing such a surge of wildlife in such an urban area. For over a decade, habitat destruction in the Western US has forced many species of animals into the New England

region, where they can find places which suit their natural habitats, and a wealth of their primary food, deer. A steep rise in deer population in the past ten years as well has influenced the coyote’s decision to come to the Northeast. Although the deer are plentiful, not all of the coyote population can be sustained by it. Thusly, many groups have broken away from the rest and gone in search of new sources of food, water, and shelter.

Their findings? Cities have everything that they need; all they have to do is avoid the humans living there. “They go where the food is,” Animal Control Officer Kevin Atkins stated in the Malden Observer, and evidently the small pet food dishes some people leave for their pets or small wild animals are leading coyotes right up to human doors. While they are not outlandishly aggressive animals – preferring to avoid human contact as much continued pg 10

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The Blue and Gold December 2008

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MHS Hosts its 26th Annual Crafts Fair

The Polar Express: exclusive on-line article

by Alfonse Femino

http://my.highschooljournalism.org/ma/malden/mhs/

Joan Morabito Reporter

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N NOV. 22, 2008, Malden High School had its annual crafts fair, continuing its tradition for the 26th year. The crafts fair is a fundraiser where volunteer staff, students, other residents, and people from other cities, can come and sell their Lina Pereziosa selling fudge at the homemade items. It provides clubs, such as the Interact Crafts Fair. Photo by J. Morabito Club, and The Fine Arts Club, an opportunity to fundraise and sell or- yet once again. Pereziosa and her naments, candles, jewelry, pillows, beloved fudge have not missed a blankets, school apparel, and more. MHS crafts fair. The first few years Main Office secretary Karen Cody she attended the fair, she sold homeand Boyle House secretary Judy made items such as pillows and Sullivan teamed up as the main ad- ornaments. Afterwards she began visors for the fair. As advisors, they to mainly sell her homemade fudge. were in charge of handling money “So many people just come for the and booking tables in both of the fudge,” Pereziosa states about her school’s cafeterias where the event costumers, “I feel obligated to do it for as long as [I] can, its fun and its took place. The day before the crafts fair, festive.” Pereziosa grew up in Malsenior class advisor Paul Famiglietti den and has lived here for 65 years. and a select group of students set up She and her two children graduated the tables for the upcoming event. from MHS. Although classes and clubs Additionally, after school, members of the Interact Club also played a raised money, staff from MHS including principal Dana Brown, his major part in setting up the event. “We would not be able to do secretary Karen Cody, and Fine Arts it without the staff and the student Club head advisor Mary Ann Seager volunteers,” Cody stated. The agreed that this year’s fair was not class of 2009 teamed up with Mary up to par with previous years. This Ann Seager, advisor of the Fine is primarily due to the fact that our Arts Club, so children could color country is entering a recession. “I Thanksgiving Day decorations, get thought that the economy looked their faces painted, and get pictures like it had some effect on the fair. taken with Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, There were fewer people here this and various senior volunteers who year,” Dana Brown commented. were dressed as elves. Seniors Seager believed that, “people are beAnthony Alvarez and Eddie Lao ing careful with their money… most were featured as Santa, Jennifer of it has to do with the economy.” Cochran as Mrs. Claus, and Kasey However, the MHS craft fair was not Motherway, Annie Willcox, Mary the only event going on in Malden Nguyen, Rachel Coppla, and Tiana that day. Other schools including Ly as elves. Moreover, seniors Raul Cheverus and Malden Catholic had Villanueva, Kelly Bourgea, Kevin their share of events. The Holiday Vasquez, and Kristen Tran dressed parade was scheduled that day as as MHS mascot Nedlam and walked well. Thus, Seager also believed around, greeting volunteers and that maybe people went to the other events, resulting in a less crowded shoppers. crafts fair. Like the class of 2009, the junior, sophomore, and freshman classes sold sweatshirts, T-shirts, hoodies, scarves, as well as candy. Among the vendors, Linda Pereziosa, a distant cousin of the school’s principal Dana Brown, attended the fair Seniors Jason Chen and Sue Tran prepare their table. Photo by L. Tran

The Commuter Rail decorated for the Polar Express. View a slide show of images taken by L. Tran online.

MHS Bulletin Support the class of 2009 Concert Choir: Winter Concert

Monday Dec. 22, 2008

Basketball Team: Christmas tourney

Dec. 27- 29, 2008



Malden High School’s ultimate prom package raffle. Purchase tickets through Jan.12, 2009 from Mr. Fam. Cost: 1- $3.00 4- $10.00 10- $20.00

Send events to: [email protected]

Parade of Lights Brightens the City Brandon Knight Reporter

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HE FIFTH ANNUAL Parade of Holiday Traditions marched along the streets of Malden on Saturday November 22, 2008. The parade, which usually takes place early in the morning, began much later this year, starting at 4:30 p.m. This year's parade was held at night because the Parade Committee thought that the event’s fifth year should be celebrated in a different way. The event was known as the “Parade of Lights” because the Christmas lights displayed on the floats were much easier to see in the dark. This year, the parade was dedicated to former Malden District Court Clerk-Magistrate Joe Croken, who sadly passed away last year in 2007. Middlesex Sheriff James V. DiPaulo, was named the parade’s grand marshal, for all of his support for the parades of the past. The holiday parade was split up into four divisions, and featured floats and banners from many businesses and organizations. Some organizations that took part were the Middlesex Sheriffs office, Brookline Bank, the Aleppo Shriners, North Shore Black Women’s Association,

Bread of Life, and many others. The Malden High School Band also marched during the parade. Adding some difference to the usual festivities, the parade was combined with the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, where the city holiday tree is lit. The Malden Chamber of Commerce organized the Remembrance Tree Lighting Ceremony, where names of Malden citizens who have passed away were read aloud during the ceremony. There were many people who contributed to the parade, in order to make it a success. As the parade’s program states, “It is their [contributors] support that helps raise the pride and spirit of not only the holiday season, but our great community.” The Parade Committee also played an important role in making the “Parade of Lights” a big achievement. The Committee consisted of Ward One Councillor Gary Christenson, Councillor-AtLarge Craig Spadafora, Ward One School Committee member Peg Crowe, Richard and Barbara Breen, Meghan Drummey, Michael and Margie Drummey, Kevin and Traci Fitzgerald, and Loretta Sullivan.

The Blue and Gold December 2008

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ethics in politics Brittany Foley Copy Editor Ayoub Kourikchi Head Copy Editor

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ITH THE DAWN of a new administration on the horizon, Americans are optimistic about entrusting their governmental woes in the hands of several fresh faces. However, recent allegations of embezzlement and corruption have run rampant nationally and locally. Plastered on the front pages of newspapers across the country is Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich who was arrested Dec. 9, 2008,

Malden Voted # 1 continued from pg 1 as its racial diversity. Malden was also picked because of its thriving economy, and how low the unemployment rate is. In terms of education, which was part of the criteria, Malden proves to be better than many other schools in Massachusetts. It has recently been awarded the Bronze Medal by US News and World Report magazine, ranking in the top 13 percent in the state. The runners up for this honor in the BusinessWeek article were Cambridge and Weymouth, which are both also doing well in all of these areas. Maldonian Joseph Gliona, a Malden resident for over 70 years, was not surprised by the article. While commenting on the article, he nostalgically compared the Malden of today to the city that he graduated high school in, back in 1955. He says that, though Malden was “a harder working city” back when he was a kid, he agrees with what was stated in the article.

MHS Blood Drive continued from pg 1 find out if they were eligible. There was nothing trivial about acquiring eligibility. Potential blood donors were required to deal with an arduous wait before finding out if they were healthy enough to donate. Unfortunately, many disappointed students were deferred and sent back to class, unable to donate. The rigorous testing is very important for both the health of the donor and the recipient, according to the nurses in charge of blood work and supervision. Donors sometimes could stand the risk of fainting or sustaining nerve/arterial damage (very rare). For recipients, the quality of the blood could mean the difference between life and death. After check-in, MHS students hoping to donate were tested for iron levels, medication use, blood pressure, and pulse, and were questioned carefully on possible drug use/sexual activity. The tedious procedure would assess the donor’s risk for having the Human Immunedeficiency virus (HIV) or certain sexually transmitted diseases such as herpes or gonorrhea. Additionally, donors were questioned about recent travel activity to ensure that they haven’t visited a series of

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on charges of conspiracy to swap money for political favors in addition to selling president-elect Barack Obama’s senate seat. The governor’s actions have aroused a public outcry, and resulted in a Facebook group calling for his impeachment within hours of his arrest. Additionally, Massachusetts State Senator Dianne Wilkerson was caught stuffing

CRIME RATE: Malden’s crime rate was a big factor in being chosen, because there have been so few major crimes this past year. Though Malden has had over 500 vandalisms in 2007, there have been fewer than ten major crimes such as murder and abduction. In the past four years, there have only been six cases of murder or negligent manslaughter in Malden. AFFORDABILITY: As the economy continues to decline and housing becomes more and more expensive, few cities have been able to stay financially afloat. Fortunately, Malden has been comparatively healthy in the economic department, with a low unemployment rate of 4.7 percent, in comparison to the country’s current nationwide unemployment rate of 6.1 percent, despite a rise in house prices.

countries – particularly the United Kingdom that could pose a risk for infectious disease At MHS, the wait time could reach up to two hours, but for those who were lucky enough to get admitted, it was well worth the wait. “It’s a good feeling to be able to do something for someone else who can’t do it for themselves,” explains James Williams, MHS custodian and veteran donor. For people like Williams, who has already donated three times this year, the donating process is a gratifying experience. In contrast, however, for some firsttime donors, including MHS seniors and juniors, the waiting process was nerve-racking. Nervous students were often afraid either of the needle or the sheer amount of blood that was taken (one U.S. pint; there are about ten pints of blood in the average human adult). Many were afraid of passing out afterwards. A n d ye t ,

DIVERSITY: Though not an actual factor, Malden’s racial diversity gave it an edge over other cities. Gliona says that this is the area where Malden has improved greatly over the past 50 years. He states, “I like that color doesn’t seem to matter. Kids in modern day schools in Malden seem to accept each other, regardless of race.” This wasn’t the case in 1955, when, Gliona says, “the school was filled with European kids.” OTHER REASONS: Then, Gliona started thinking about why Malden was the best, based on information that was not part of the criteria. The biggest differences between 1955 and today, he noted, were the changes in morals and goals. Children would be ready to work at the age of 14, and fewer people went to college at that time. Gliona notes that, “today, people are much more college-oriented, though not everyone is ready, or right for college.”

those who did get the opportunity to donate blood said afterwards that donating was not as bad as they had expected. Those few who felt otherwise were light-headed. The blood drive turn-out was a success. Roughly 81 people volunteered to donate leading into a complete 45-pint donation. This, in turn, could potentially save up to 135 lives – three per person. Blood needed for emergencies and cancer sufferers is almost always in short supply according to the American Red Cross. There is no substitute for human blood, and the only way is through the blood of other people. Senior Taylor Lombard stated that “it was something I could do for other people that wasn’t much of a loss for me. It was a sacrifice worth taking.”

Senior blood drive volunteer Kevin Vasquez.

Photo by L. Tran

B.A.S.H. Brings Healthier BEVERAGES Cera Nolan Reporter

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OME PEOPLE find it nearly impossible to completely stop drinking sugary beverages, but the Beverages and Student Health (BASH) study is trying to prove otherwise. Researchers at Children’s Hospital in Boston are experimenting to see if a simple change, such as switching from sugar-sweetened beverages to non-calorie drinks could actually impact body weight. The BASH program is studying 9th and 10th graders, and half of the participants will receive weekly home delivers of non-calorie beverages, like water, for one year, which will help researchers at Children’s Hospital determine if sugary drinks affect body weight. Researchers from the BASH program went to all 9th and 10th grade English classes informing students about the program. The other half will receive supermarket gift cards to buy food and beverages of their choosing, but are encouraged to make healthy selections. Participants are required to have three appointments with a dietitian to talk about their beverage of choice within their year of participation. A school nurse will record the participant’s height and weight at the beginning of the study, at the end of one year, and a following year after for a follow-up. Additionally, each participant will receive $150 of local mall gift cards. To be eligible for this study, the student must be considered overweight or obese and drink at least one sugary drink per day. The BASH study believes that if teens reduce the amount of sugary drinks they consume, it will lead to less obesity because studies have shown more than 30% of adolescents in the United States are overweight or obese. Hopefully the BASH study aims to encourage not only teens, but adults as well, to drink fewer sugary beverages. “Even though I don’t know all the details of this particular program, as a health teacher, I am always in favor of programs that try to help our kids become healthier young men and women,” stated MHS health teacher Arlene Ceppetelli.

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Local news

The Blue and Gold December 2008

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Exclusive on-line slide show of Spirit Week

by Lynn Tran

http://my.highschooljournalism.org/ma/malden/mhs/

Michael DiGreggorio

Kimberly Lombard

Reporter

Head of Business

The 2008 Spirit Week competition invaded Malden High School from Monday, Nov. 24 through Wednesday , Nov. 26, 2008, continuing 121 years of tradition. The festivities kicked off on Monday with Pajama Day at MHS. The senior class came in first place for the Pajama Day competition, followed by the freshmen in second, juniors in third, and sophomores in fourth. This year, MHS created a new competition, and the Wacky Tacky/New England Sports/Semi-formal Day, which debuted on Tuesday. The seniors once again dominated, while the freshmen took second place, and the junior and sophomore classes tied for third place. The winner of the food drive was announced on Tuesday as well, with the seniors in first place, sophomores in second, freshmen in third, and juniors in last place. That night, MHS students were hard at work until ten p.m. decorating their respective hallways to present to fellow students and staff the next morning. The hallway judges walked around the next morning deciding which hallway was best, and the senior class came out with yet another first place victory for their circus themed hallway. The junior

class came in second place for their Wizard of Oz hallway, the sophomores in third place with a Hollywood theme, and the freshmen class in fourth place for their “Road to Success” hallway. A-house Principal Marilyn Slattery exclaimed, “I’ve never seen anything like it; it amazes me.” Wednesday marked the day of the long awaited pep rally, as well as Blue and Gold Day. The seniors showed their spirit and took first place in the competition, while the juniors and freshmen tied for second place and the sophomores took third. While the remainder of the school went to their first two period classes, members of the spirit teams went down to warm up and challenge each other in the preliminary games. Members of the

National Honor Society accompanied them in the gym all morning to assist in the competitions during the pep rally. NHS organizes the Spirit Week events every year at MHS, and this year NHS advisor Paul Marques felt it was a success. “Everyone pulled together and made it a great day,” he proudly stated. “The best yet- too bad the freshmen didn’t win.” Senior spirit team members included Daniel Bitew, Jenn Cochran, Spencer Jerome, Marina Kem, Katie Lopes-Raftery, Eric Miranda, Travis Nally, Melchi Noel, Kristen Tran, and Tiffany Tran. The junior class spirit team consisted of Amanda Benoit, David Console, Kristin Cruikshank, Cory Detremont, Judith Jean Baptist, Shaleaka Johnson, Matthew Kane, Rachel Kirchner, Jonathan Tejada, and David Tran. The sophomore class spirit team featured Felicia Amendola, Jeff Blanc, Karl Denis, Teddy Francois, Oresly Joseph, Huy Le, Fillete Lovaincy, and Alexandra Mathieu. The freshmen spirit team had students Eleida Acevedo, Kevin Chan, Brian Cormier, Amber Ferguson, Eddie Fisher, Juleen Huguley, Sam La, David Matnog, Rachel Mcleod, and Dina Wood. The four teams battled it out throughout the entire competition to prove their class as the best of MHS. Before the rest of the students entered the gymnasium, the freshmen proved their skill on the volleyball court with a first place win; juniors finished in second, seniors in third, and sophomores last. Finally, after the rest of the students filled up the gym, both the MHS boys and girls dance team took to the floor in two spirited performances. Aftewards, the MHS choir sang the National Anthem, and a moment of silence was held for veterans and soldiers in Iraq, the festivi-

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Photos by L. Tran and E. Chiavelli page design by L. Tran

ties began. The senior class took the first event, the basketball free throw; however, the music and excitement inspired the sophomores to come in a close second, while the juniors and freshmen tied for third. Next, Staff Sergeants Samuel Graham and Derrick Westermoreland came to the floor and ran the pull up and arm hang contest. The seniors finished first in the boys’ pull up contest, the juniors second, sophomores third, and freshmen last. In the all girls’ arm hang, the juniors took home first place, the freshmen second, seniors third, and sophomores last. Other activities that day included the new “up and over” contest, tug-of-war, and the human pyramid. The sophomores took first place in both the human pyramid and the up and over contests, while the seniors earned first place in the tug-of-war. At the end of the day, the class of 2009 won the entire Spirit Week competition with a score of 38 points. Following the seniors, the class of 2010 came in second place with 29.5 points, the class of 2012 in third place with 28 points, and the class of 2011 in last place with 24.5 points. At the end of the competition, students and faculty alike felt the event was a success. Dana Brown summed up the event perfectly: “Spirit week captures the essence of what MHS is all about.”

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World news

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wildfires President-Elect Chooses Cabinet consume Californian M homes Dan Holmqvist Reporter

Brittany McFeeley Reporter

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ANY COUNTIES have declared a state of emergency due to the raging wildfires invading many southern Californian communities. Burning over 35,000 total acres of land, many families have been forced to evacuate; schools have been shut down and citizens in nearby neighborhoods cannot stay in their homes due to the dangers of the wildfires, while the poor air quality has intoxicated many homes and surrounding communities. Officials believe that the first blaze was man-made. They came to this conclusion that the fires started because it was in a popular teen hangout spot. "I hereby proclaim a state of emergency to exist with San Bernardino County," stated California governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. In the San Bernardino, Orange, Riverside, and Los Angeles counties, wildfires have scorched over 28,000 acres of land, and destroyed over 160 homes. The fire raging near San Bernardino County has been nicknamed the "Freeway Fire" because it was located near the 91 Freeway. Oakridge Mobile Home Park was lost to the flames, destroying over 500 trailers, many of them housing senior citizens. Everyone was forced to evacuate, taking with them their most prized possessions and valuables. One resident, Alisa Romero, age 42, stated to news reporters that when the helicopter dropped water onto her home, it crushed her roof, giving her multiple scratches on her forehead and a black eye. Her mother, Lucrieta, age 65, grabbed her purse and pearl necklace as firefighters rushed her and her daughter out of their home. Most of the fires are starting to get under control but homeowners have been left to pick of the ruins of their homes, filled with good times and memories that are now left underneath the ashes.

Coyotes in Malden continued from pg 5 as possible – but they should by no means be considered domestic. Only three attacks by coyotes have been reported in the last year, two of which were attacks by rabid coyotes who were not exhibiting normal behavior. The other was on a person who got in the way of a coyote and its food. As they are carnivores and generally hunters of small animals, the growing coyote population has

ANY FEEL president-elect Barack Obama must make a decision between change and experience as he appoints his new cabinet. With a large portion of the cabinet already chosen, people are now getting a sense of what the next administration might look like. There have already been accusa- Obama and Clinton on the campagin trail. AP Photo tions that Obama has created an "overly Clinton" cabinet, which lacks the Treasury, Henry Paulson. The selec- Colin Powell to fill the spot. The Obama cabinet has so far change he promised over the course tion of Geithner was generally well of his campaign. However, Obama's received by the media and political produced mixed reactions. Many believe that the president-elect has not team is looking to combine the per- analysts. After several long weeks of done a good job of shaking things up fect blend of individuals, regardless speculation, Obama appointed Hill- and appointing people in Washingof their party affiliation. Secretary of the Treasury may ary Clinton as his Secretary of State. ton that will be able to bring about prove to be the most important posi- Although Clinton was the expected change. FoxNews.com expressed tion in the cabinet, considering the choice, her selection created a buzz concern over the history over the United States is in its worst econom- about whether or not she is right for new members of the cabinet, in paric crisis since the Great Depression. Obama. Some are referring to Clin- ticular, Bill Richardson. However, The day Obama announced that ton as a “frenemy” of Obama, who others believe he is wisely choosing Timothy Geithner would be the next may try to pursue her own agenda a cabinet that will be able to make Secretary of Treasury, stock mar- rather than focus on the goals of the informed decisions. For example, kets saw an astronomical increase administration. Others, however, an editorial in the New York Times of 500 points, snapping back from say she is a very capable politician stated Obama has had a strong start several days of negative trading. As that Obama can use to gain political with cabinet appointments pointing especially to the retention of Secrethe president of the Federal Reserve leverage. One cabinet appointment that tary of Defense Robert Gates. Bank of New York, Geithner was Ultimately, the choice for Presinstrumental in handling the bank- has not been made yet is Secretary ing crisis, working closely with the of Education. The appointment has ident-elect Obama comes down to Federal Reserve's Ben Bernanke garnered less attention, but many who he personally believes will best and President Bush's Secretary of believe Obama may be considering help him run the country.

Ethics bribe money in her bra. A camera recording shows Wilkerson stashing ten $100 bills up her blouse and into her bra in a Boston restaurant. The recording was the hard evidence needed for Wilkerson’s arrest on October 28, 2008, in her Roxbury home. On November 17, 2008, she had a pre-trial hearing in Worcester. Her actions merit a variety of penalties, including spending up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine for each charge. “There is a cloud over the whole Legislature on account of these charges and others,” Mas-

sachusetts Governor Deval Patrick elaborated to Fox Boston. Although it is undoubtedly devastating to lose a leader that has served for so long, the senate remains strong. Furthermore, on Nov. 15, 2008, 26 year-old Gia Desantis Cox, a Malden city worker, was charged with embezzling half a million dollars in a scheme to steal overpaid property tax funds in order to support an alleged drug addiction. Cox was arrested after she received $3500 from one of her coconspirers; the man who cashed in the check was also arrested on larceny charges. Cox, was arraigned on November 15 in Malden District Court on charges of larceny over

$250, conspiracy to committing larceny over $250 and possession of oxycodone. She pleaded not guilty and was released after posting $2500 bail. “What she did was abuse the trust they placed in her and misused the access that they gave her to steal, over a period of time, money from taxpayers in Malden who had overpaid their real estate taxes,” stated Middlesex District Attorney Gerard T. Leone Jr. With several reoccurring government scandals during a time where our country has entered the largest deficit in national history, will Americans newfound confidence dissipate as quickly as it rose?

many worried for the safety of their cats, dogs, and other small pets. Atkins suggests keeping them inside at night – when the coyotes hunt – and not leaving food outside. Numerous coyote sightings have been reported throughout the Malden area, as well as across Massachusetts, a clear indication that something is certainly wrong. For a long time, ecologists have warned the public about habitat destruction and its effects on animals. The

coyotes are just one example of the many species affected by urban development encroaching on the environment. Now these animals are under constant pressure to adapt to the strange new habitat of the city, constantly forced to change their instincts that have helped them for centuries. Massachusetts alone loses around 40 acres each day to development. The New York Times reports that around the world, two acres are

lost each minute. These facts represent an environmental crisis on par with that of global warming but far less well known. Urban development must be controlled and balanced with conservation efforts in order to halt this rapidly worsening situation. The coyotes have shown that their homes are disappearing, what will it take for us to notice the same?

continued from pg 7

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Auto Industry Crashes Omar Khoshafa Reporter

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FTER FOUR WEEKS of deliberation, the Senate has finally rejected a $14 billion bailout plan that was intended to keep the auto industry, specifically the three giant car companies: Ford, Chrysler, and General Motors afloat until next spring. On Nov. 23, 2008, the Chief Executive Officers of “The Big Three” flew to Washington D.C., where they pleaded for a $25 billion bailout. Congress rejected the plan and the three executives were given an extra ten days to write another plan. Subsequently, the CEOs issued another $34 billion plan that was cut down to $14 billion. Despite the reduction, the Senate rejected the plan on Dec. 11, 2008, primarily due to high concentration of republican senators. Why was the plan rejected? While presenting their bailout plans, the CEOs of the three companies failed to give Congress a “credible restructuring plan that results in a viable industry…” Basically, they failed to show Congress that the $14 billion will save the auto industry from collapsing. Why should the auto industry be rescued from bankruptcy? Any company could be on the verge of bankruptcy and ask for a government bailout. Senator Roger Wicker stated that “to provide a $25 billion bailout for some companies isn’t fair to taxpayers or the American businesses that have made smart decisions…” Supporters argue that about 2.5 million jobs would be lost if the auto industry

crashes. With unemployment rates increasing dramatically, an increase in jobs losses will hurt an already bleeding economy. The money granted to the 2.5 million jobless Americans might cost the government more than the multi-billion bailout itself. Car dealers would also be affected by the auto industry crash; they would be stuck with unsold American cars because people tend not to buy vehicles from companies in bankruptcy. While some say that the auto industry deserves to be rescued, others argue that we should not hand them the check. Taxpayers should not be forced to finance any company, especially companies that consume about $6 billion a month. The jobs lost from the bankrupt auto companies would not be as bad as the CEOs make it seem, and there is a large probability that other foreign car companies will expand and open up jobs to the employees of the Big Three. What Congress would give the auto industry is a blank check, which would only delay the failure of these companies. Former governor Mitt Romney stated, “Detroit needs a turnaround, not a check.” His view is that these companies need to drastically restructure themselves and create new plans to produce more fuel-efficient cars. Congress also knows that filing for bankruptcy would be a better option for the auto makers because it would keep all the factories in operation. This might pose a problem to retired auto workers who would lose all their retirement benefits.

Foreign cars may soon be the only dealers still in business. Photo by E. Chiavelli

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James Bond strikes again Paul Collins

MFA’s New Exhibit Commemorates Yousef Karsh Tzivia Halperin

Head Sports Writer

Head Copy Writer

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AMES BOND is back again in his 22nd film Quantum of Solace, which premiered in movie theaters nationwide on Nov. 14, 2008. Director Marc Foster did a great job with his take on the Bond series. Daniel Craig played James Bond, and captured the thrill, action and adventure of Bond perfectly. Judi Dench, Olga Kurylenko, Mathieu Amalric, and Giancarlo Gianni all assist Craig as either respectable heroes or his villainous counterparts. As of right now, the 22nd Bond film has been nominated for one award, the Golden Trailer for the best teaser poster. Although Quantum of Solace lacks Q (the gadget man) and different electronic devices, the movie continues to be a thriller for any family planning to see the motion picture. It is clear that Craig is no Sean Connery or Pierce Brosnan, who seem to be the more popular Bonds, however he brings out different characteristics of James Bond, which enlightens the audience of other facets of his personality. This Bond movie is certainly action packed but lacks speaking roles and intriguing lines. The movie is a sequel to Craig’s former James Bond movie, Casino Royale, where James Bond decides to seek revenge for the death of his lover Vesper Lynd (Eva Green). James Bond’s goal of the mission in Quantum of Solace is to take down Dominic Greene (Almaric), who is a businessman

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Daniel Craig as James Bond. of the mysterious criminal organization ‘Quantum.’ James Bond’s mission requires him to travel to Austria, Italy, and South America, and along the way, he learns that Greene, who is trying to take over one of the world’s most important natural resources, is forging a deal with the deported General Medrano. As Bond gets closer to figuring out who was accountable for betraying Vesper, he must keep ahead of different organizational groups competing with the MI6 operations, his boss M, and in order to do this, he has to stop ‘Quantum’ from succeeding in its ghastly ways. Unfortunately this Bond movie does not compare to classics such as Dr. No, or The World is Not Enough. The movie can be seen as a disappointment, depending on how much the James Bond series interests the viewers, however, to a James Bond connoisseur, the movie may be seen as a typical, action packed Bond film.

Twilight a big hit at the box office Haley DeFilippis Reporter

B

ASED ON Stephenie Meyer’s best-selling series, Twilight, the story has come to life on the big screen. Kristen Stewart plays the role of the teenage protagonist Bella Swan who moves to Forks, Washington from Phoenix, Arizona. Bella does not have a problem fitting in, but finds herself drawn to the most exquisite and charming students in school, the Cullen siblings. However, the Cullens, as perfect as they look with their pale faces and topaz eyes, hide their perfection behind their secluded lives. The Cullens raise suspicions of being superhuman, especially when Edward (Robert Pattinson) rescues Bella from a car crash at an impossible speed. Bella becomes suspicious of Edward and his family and harasses him for answers. Although he tries to stay away from her, they both find themselves inexplicably drawn to one

The Blue and Gold December 2008

The main cast of Twilight. another. There is sexual tension between the two and Edward struggles not to kill her when they share their first kiss. As the movie starts to become clichéd, the two find it dangerous to be in a human-vampire relationship when rogue vampire James (Cam Gigandet), becomes determined to drink Bella’s blood. The audience is left on the edge of their seats as Edward and his family do everything they can to save Bella’s life. Over the first weekend, Twilight made $70.6 million in the box office, estimating about

$20,636 per theater in America, putting James Bond’s Quantum of Solace in second at $27.4 million. The movie is rated PG-13 and its audience was comprised mostly of teenage girls; however, ages ranged from young to old, and both males and females attended. In the case of Twilight, the movie left several aspects of the story unexplained. Some say it would have been difficult to understand the movie without having prior knowledge of the book. Although some prefer the books with good reason, the movie was still worth watching. Robert Pattinson played an ideal vampire, while Kristen Stewart played the ideal imperfect girl falling in love. The two actors combined make their love seem realistic. With all of the success, Summit Entertainment announced their plans to film the movie’s sequel, New Moon.

N HONOR OF THE ACCLAIMED photographer Yousef Karsh’s 100th birthday, the Boston Museum of Fine Arts assembled an exhibition of the artist’s greatest portraiture, entitled “Karsh 100, A Biography in Images.” Beginning Sept. 23, 2008 and concluding Jan. 19, 2009 the exhibit serves as a photographic biography and testament to the late Karsh, with photos grouped together to convey an aspect of the photographer’s life. For example, a photograph of Ernest Hemingway was one of a set that was used to convey the later cultivation and refinement of Karsh’s style. An original large-format camera employed by Karsh was also displayed near the pieces, granting the exhibit a more personal reality. The exhibition proved a powerful experience to both those new to Karsh’s work, and those already accustomed, as the room was abuzz with positive feedback. Long-time photography aficionado Michael Halperin looked on the photos in awe, especially impressed by Karsh’s ability to convey “personalities.” Some of these personalities included the seminal photo of a growling Winston Churchill, a glamorous head-shot of Audrey Hepburn, and the famed photo of an inquisitive Albert Einstein. Karsh also frequently displayed his subject’s life-work within the photos, thus further attesting to their distinct personalities. Pablo Picasso, for instance, was pictured to the right of one of his own creations- a vase, while a scowling Alexander Calder was pictured next to his invention, the mobile. Karsh’s ability to create a comfortable environment for his subjects allowed them to be photographed at their most raw, creating the influential portraits characteristic of Karsh. As Artdaily.org noted, “The legacy of Yousef Karsh-the man behind the lens of some of the 20th century’s most famous photographic portraits-is illuminated” throughout this exhibition. In accordance with the late Karsh’s upcoming birthday, it seems fitting that the MFA should host yet another photography exhibit, “Photographic Figures” from Nov. 19, 2008 through May 10, 2009. A range of photographers contributed to the exhibit, each presenting a distinct and powerful rendering of the human form. Photos of all different techniques and styles splashed the walls of the Herb Ritts and Clementine Haas Michel Brown gallery. The exhibit allowed for many different photographic interpretations of “photographic figures.” The innovative Americanborn photographer Phillip-Lorca diCorcia presented a ghostly image of a woman in what appeared to be a fish-tank world, while Russian photographer Tofik Shakhverdiev conveyed the forbidding presence of Russian police who were devoid of faces based on an interesting crop below the neckline. Another photo that garnered attention for its sheer intensity was a James Nachtwey photo of a Rwandan violence victim, displaying deep scars from a machete. In light of the great success that the “Karsh 100, A Biography in Images” and “Photographic Figures” exhibits displayed, it is apt then that the MFA should open its doors to a permanent room for photography exhibition. As The Boston Globe concedes, these photography exhibits are “a dual celebration: of the human body and of photography at the Museum of Fine Arts.”

The Blue and Gold December 2008

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Play production performs a new decade’s dream

Kimberly Lombard Head of Business

M

ALDEN HIGH School’s play and another fight between Newman production brought down the and Keough on the other. Baharloo Jenkins House with their 80s inter- and Delaney played the perfect catty pretation of A Midsummer Night’s teenage girls, while Newman and Dream on Nov. 21, 2008 and Nov. 22, 2008. Keough had stereotypical male egos Originally a Shakespearian that put the audience in hysterics. comedy, the play contains two sub- By the end of the scene, Oberon fixes plots: four lovers whose relation- his mistakes and everyone returns ships are jumbled by a mystical to normal with the exception of Deplant, and a play within the play metrius, performed for the lovers and their w h o parents. In the main plot, Hermia Ober(Jenna Delaney), is being forced into a relationship with Demetrius (Keith Newman). However, Hermia wants nothing more than to be married to Lysander (Patrick Keough). In the meantime, while Demetrius is seeking out the fair Hermia, her friend Helena (Bahar Baharloo) Baharloo and Newman argue as Helena and Demetrius. is in love with Demetrius and craves his attention. Although both men on left the love spell on. desire Hermia, she decides to run In the meantime, the secondary away with Lysander, leaving Deme- plot develops. A group of classic 80s trius to chase after her, while Helena teenagers, led by Peter Quince (Carchases after him. la Castillo), plan to perform Pyramus A drastic turn of events occurs and Thisbe for Theseus (Martin Doan) when King Oberon (Sam Warton), and Hippolyta (Casey McLaughlin). decides to play Cupid and match up The cast consists of Bottom (David the lovers so that Hermia can hap- Barrows) who plays Pyramus, Flute pily be with Lysander and Helena (Maya Rogers) playing Thisbe, can win Demetrius over. He rubs a Snug (Tayla Damon), who plays a magic plant over Demetrius’ eyes ferocious lion, Snout (Tracy Marso that he falls in love with Helena. tocchio), the wall, and Starvling However, his aide Puck (Rita Coté) (Andrea Kelly) who plays the role confuses characters and accidentally of moonshine. The group puts on an causes both Lysander and Demetrius extremely humorous production for to fall out of love with Hermia and Theseus, Hippolyta, Hermia, Helin love with Helena. Helena thinks ena, Demetrius, and Lysander. this is a cruel joke to mock her, while A Midsummer Night’s Dream’s Hermia believes her friend stole her cast also included Tanaira Candido true love away, while both men are as Queen Titania, and Geneva Defighting over whose love for Helena Colbert, Nicole Fowler, Taf Khan, is truer. This leads to an entertaining Jessica Melanson, Than Nguyen, fight scene between Baharloo and Mataya Phillips, Samantha Power, Delaney on one side of the stage, and Charlene Ricci as her fairies.

MILK

contined from pg 3

supporting characters do not receive enough attention, but the actors pull through. Supporting character Jack Lira, played by Diego Luna, is almost treated as an after thought, even though in reality he played a prominent role in Milk’s life. But aside from certain trivial flaws, James Franco as Scott Smith, Josh

Brolin as Dan White, Emile Hirsch as Cleve Jones, Alison Pill as Anne Kronenberg and even High School Musical star Lucas Grabeel as Danny Nicoletta deliver their lines with such conviction and passion that their personalities as celebrities melt away and embed themselves into the lives of their characters. Hollywood seldom knocks out

Coté and Warton as Puck and King Oberon plot against Queen Titania.

Martocchio and Castillo as Peter Quince and Snout look on in horror.

Barrows and Candido as Bottom and Queen Titania. Photos by E. Chaivelli

a movie that does not sugar coat nor does it sharpen the hurt of such prejudiced perspectives, but in Milk there is a sense of reality that heightens the pain and the seriousness of the situation, a painful reminder of human standpoints and how easily it is to overlook what is best and to take sides in order to please segments of the population. Milk is

the story of a man who believed in making a difference and thought he would never be able to leave a mark, but proving himself, to the joy of others, so very wrong. “Milk was so good that after it was over, I was willing to sneak back in just so I could see the whole thing again,” MHS junior, Consuelo Toledo stated.

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The Blue and Gold December 2008

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boys basketball Female joins the Starts off The Season With confidence

Wrestling Team Alexander Gennigiorgis Reporter

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Seniors Patrick Urban and Travis Nally

Photo by L. Tran

Ashley Ngo Head Entertainment/ Opinion Writer

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ITH SENIOR tri-captains Travis Nally, Steven Suida and Marcus Armstrong leading the boys’ basketball team this year, head coach Don Nally has high expectations for the team. Nally plans on winning both the Greater Boston League in addition to attaining the state title and winning the EMass Championship. In regards to this year’s team, Nally states that, “We have more experience than last year’s team, more

senior leadership and confidence.” The experience, confidence and leadership skills the team gained this year allow them to become a harder working team. According to Nally, as a captain, the responsibilities are “harder because you have to lead a whole team.” Although the team far exceeded expectations last year, Nally plans “to play more people because there is more depth this year than last year’s team.”

Wrestling Preview for 2008 - 2009 Season

T IS A RARE OCCASION at Malden High School to see female participants, but this beginning wrestling season freshman Kristina Kisthart went to try-outs confident despite the “doubting” opinions of being a girl and wanting to wrestle. She wants “respect” and to show women are just as capable of wrestling like any boy or man. Head coach, Jeremiah Smith, sees the female addition as a positive one, when saying “An athlete is an athlete. Male or female, it’s all the same.” Tryouts began on Dec. 1 for the MHS wrestling team. Smith stated, “The tryouts went very well despite the fact that at first there were 22 participants but now only 19 remain.” Smith then added, “I am hoping for four or five state qualifiers and possibly a qualifier for the state championship. This year the athletes have more experience than the years before.” Smith prepares the team



Photo by E. Chiavelli

for their first match on Dec. 13, 2008, with condition training, instruction, and live wrestling. Kisthart feels “pretty [darn] good” to be a freshman as well as the only female on the team; her goals are to prosper in the wrestling world and prove all the negative people wrong. Like her teammates, she trains for her upcoming matches by doing, “a lot of weight lifting,” hard work, and dedication.

Seniors Are Victorious at Powder Puff Game Linda Nguyen Reporter

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N EVENT FULL of fun, laughs, and spirit to go along with the entire theme of the annual spirit week and pep rally, the Malden High School girls’ annual Powder Puff football game was held on November 26, 2008, at McDonald Stadium. Following the pep really, MHS junior and senior girls made their way to McDonald Stadium to battle it off for the title as “winners.” Although the girls had competitive attitudes, their playfulness made it an exciting and fun event for both the participants and the fans. With a time limit of forty minutes, junior and senior girls were paired and trained by MHS football captains David Freni and Marcos Almeida. Junior girls were headed by an excited Almeida whose team started off strong with the first scoring point. But, Freni and the seniors showed their winning pride with a 24-12 final score. Almeida took more out of this event than just simple excitement when he enthusiastically stated, “I felt that I got closer to

Senior girls’ team recieves coaching from senior David Freni. Photo by L. Nguyen the girls, and went through and shared the experience of how organized football is, and they got a feel for what it’s like to play.” Then added, “I also learned how hard it is to coach a team.” Overwhelmed with feeling Freni, sees

coaching a winning team, even just for a playful Powder Puff game, as one of the greatest achievements in his senior year, believing the event was definitely a success.

The Blue and Gold December 2008

girls basketball Gears Up for the Season

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boys track Sets goals for the winter season

Paula Suarez Salamanca Reporter

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HE SEASON HAS barely even started and the Malden High School girls’ basketball team is working diligently. Prior to the season starting, practices were Tuesday and Thursday in the Finn Gym, and their first game will be at home against Burlington High School on Dec. 17. The team is lead by head coach Joseph Levine, assistant coach and MHS principal Dana Brown, and senior tri-captains: Annie Abber, Annie Willcox, and Alyson Macdonald. This being his sixth year as head coach, Levine, has a good grasp on how to train the girls. He hopes that as the season goes by everyone will improve and progress in their own way. “This year I expect a lot from the varsity team. I expect for them to show their advanced experience, their leadership and their winning ways,” Levine explained. Losing key seniors after this season, the team trains hard for a successful outcome and for developing the skills if the younger players for future success. Willcox is also excited for this year’s season. Willcox, being on the team for four years, says, “by playing basketball I have learned a lot about teamwork and never giving up.” She hopes to win another Greater Boston League title and wants to qualify for the state tournaments. Along with her teammates and coaches Wilcox is eager for success. Wilcox concluded, “As a captain I hope to be able to keep my team as motivated and as positive as I can. But what I want everyone to come away with this year is good team bonds and any goals that they wanted to accomplish.”

Junior hurdler Martin Doan Barbara Jerome-Athis Reporter

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HE MALDEN HIGH School boys’ indoor track team is hoping to improve upon their disappointing record last season of 1-5. Co-head coach David Londino aims to have as many athletes qualify for the state meet because he believes they all have the potential to do it. Due to the fact that runners have done preseason and other track and sports

during prior to the indoor track season, Londino is looking for a lot of point scoring this season. He wants his seniors to have a winning season and he expects each member of the team to come to every practice and give “110% every time they step on the track.” Presently, Londino along with co-head coach Mitch Abbatessa are building strength and endurance in the new athletes while the veteran athletes weight

Photo by L. Tran train and do advanced plyometrics in order to take their performance to the next level. They are getting ready for their first meet against Arlington on December 18 and their first Greater Boston League on January 14. Since it is too early in the season, the captains are yet to be chosen. However, Londino is confident about the team and says, “I know our seniors are going to have a monster season. They are pumped and ready to stand out as some of the state’s top athletes.”

girls track Gets Into Shape

Shannon Howe Reporter

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HE MALDEN HIGH School girls’ indoor track head coaches Mitch Abbatessa and David Londino are starting off the season making sure all the new and returning members have their forms turned in on time and are ready to tryout. Tryouts have been completed, and the team captains have to be decided. The girls are practicing hard and preparing for their upcoming scrimmage December 17. The team’s primary goal is to improve conditioning and get in shape, so the team is ready for the season, which starts in January. With early practicing and conditioning the team will have successful outcomes. The new and returning girls have the perseverance and determination to exceed last year’s

Junior Thanh Nguyen and sophomore Jessica Vo practice for future meets. record. The team is looking forward to a winning season, senior Hannah Ye cannot wait for the 2008-2009 season to begin because she plans on “beating all her times.” Returning member junior Thanh Nguyen also plans on “going to states,” and also explains that during practices she

throws and does plyometrics. Additionally they would like to have some athletes qualify for the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association Division Meet. This season there are new people joining and the league is smaller, thus they will be playing fewer teams. Due to the new people joining, the team

Photo by L.Tran

will be bigger which gives them an opportunity to develop a strong team for the future. Although the season has barely begun, Abbatessa hopes for a successful season and keeping an open mind when he concluded, “You never know [what happens] till you show up.”

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The Blue and Gold December 2008

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Continued from pg 1 due to injuries. Freni expressed, “I think if you asked everyone on the team, all the coaches, and parents that they would say the season was disappointing” because of all the injuries and MHS football team on the offense. Photos by E. Chiavelli let-downs that the team has had this season. E v e n after the captains got hurt, the team persevered and had younger players lead the rest of the players that were still able to play. During the first quarter sopho- was still leading the game 19-0 at the more Frankie Dunn ran 37 yards and end of the half. scored the only touchdown, ending Medford’s first touchdown was the first quarter with Malden 7-0 in the fourth quarter at eight minutes lead. Senior Colin Power made an and 25 seconds. With the score now excellent play by blocking the kick 19-8 junior Herbens Antenor scored and Malden recovered it with ten a touchdown making the score a minutes and ten seconds, left in the whopping 27-8, and minutes after second quarter. Sophomore Nicho- his previous touchdown Antenor las Hoyt went air-born for a touch- scored yet again. down, but missed the extra point Although Medford recovered field goal kick, however Malden still with their second touchdown at four had the lead with a 13-0 score. minutes and 42 seconds in the last An interception and clear clean quarter, Malden still won with a 32run by Dunn set the team up for an- 22 final score. Freni ends the season other touchdown scored by junior on an optimistic note when saying, David Console. “We had high hopes and think that With another interception, next year the team will go far. I see Consol was tackled and later found a Greater Boston League championthat he had broken his jaw. Malden ship team next year.”

swim team hopes for

second undefeated season Nidale Zouhir Copy Editor

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ITH the Malden High School swim season beginning on December 1, 2008, and having already beaten Cambridge, their ultimate hope is to have Senior co-captain Matt Zunitch at the deep end. another unde Photo by E. Chiavelli feated season, according to This season, there are many MHS senior and co-captain Mat- underclassmen joining the team. thew Zunitch. Zunitch, along with senior and The captains, along with co-captain Ramilo Santana, have coach Paul Devincentis, hopes to coordinated captain-run practices, beat the teams that pose the big- which were not incorporated last gest threat to their season, namely year. This is a part of an effort to Medford, Cambridge, Waltham, get the swim team in shape before and Bedford. They believe that the season actually starts. the best way to accomplish this For this particular season, is by consistently working hard everyone hopes to break their own and practicing. This is especially personal records. After having essential since last season’s team an undefeated 2007-2008 season, had a very strong lineup of se- there is not a huge amount that niors. Their strongest obstacle to they can improve on as a team. overcome is the team compensat- However, they do hope to have ing for the loss of many strong more people qualify for individual swimmers from last year’s senior events in the Sectional and State class. Championship meets.

MHS gymnastics hopes for a successful season Alexandra Mathieu Reporter

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mhs gymnastics preps their new jv team

he bars, beam, vault, and gym floors at the Salemwood Middle School are getting dusted off as Malden High School’s co-ed gymnastics team prepares for its 2008-2009 season. Coach Katie Bowdridge has high hopes for the team as this will be the first year that the team will “have freshmen that have participated in our Community Schools Gymnastics Program, so these kids already have a basic understanding of high school rules.” The addition of a junior varsity team is new to this season. Malden has had the largest team in the Greater Boston League for some time due to the lack of a JV team. Many gymnasts could not compete

due to the skill requirements and the limited number of spots on each event. Bowdridge is excited because the new JV team will allow an additional three Malden gymnasts to compete for each event. One of Bowdridge’s concerns is that the GBL is shrinking every year. Aside from Malden, the only cities with gymnastics teams left in the GBL are Cambridge and Medford. “Both schools have had strong showings for the past couple of years,” Bowdridge explained. “We need to look outside the league for additional meets.” The new tri-captains of the team are seniors Kethia Mathieu, Amanda Dipietrantonio, and junior

Jessica Fox. M a thieu, who was a rookie last year, is eager for the new season to begin. M a t h i e u ’s goals for the team are a Photo by L. Tran bit simpler Gymnastics team stretches before practice than BowDespite not having won any dridge’s. “I hope everyone learns...something meets last year, Bowdridge feels that new this season,” she stated. “I just this season will be different. “The want a girl to leave saying, ‘I learned team works so hard,” she said. “It something different,’ or at least con- would be nice to see all of that hard work pay off with the wins.” quer a fear she had.”