June 2015

News

Arts

Vaping: smoking for the 21st century?

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Massapequa High School 4925 Merrick Road Massapequa, NY 11758 mhsthechief@gmail.com

In Depth New York State testing and the opt out movement

Your guide to the best local music this summer

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The

Sports

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Boys tennis back hands the competition

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Chief

Vol. 63 – No. 4

June 10, 2015 www.thechiefonline.com

Massapequa High School’s Chief Source of News

KALLEIGH REGAN // THE CHIEF

Let the Endless Summer Begin | Jones Beach is just one of the many Long Island State Parks that Governor Cuomo looks to improve this year.

Summer renovations kick off at Long Island state parks

BY KAITLYN LUCEY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Famed journalist Henry Grunwald once said, “A beach is not only a sweep of sand, but shells of sea creatures, the sea glass, the seaweed, the incongruous objects washed up by the ocean.” What Grunwald left out in his description of beaches was new improvements to the shore— especially in the case of Long Island beaches this summer.

Perhaps long overdue, Long Island’s state parks— including Jones Beach, Bethpage State Park, and Robert Moses State Park— are receiving much needed updates.

Although not complete overhauls, these parks are at the receiving end of a deal, supported by Governor of New York Andrew Cuomo, that will fund almost thirty million dollars worth of improvements focused on improving visitor experience and increasing tourism.

“New York is home to some of the top outdoor recreational and historic sites in the world and it is critical that we safeguard them for generations to come,” Governor Cuomo said. “With this funding,

we are building on our past success in improving the infrastructure of our state parks and developing them into economic engines for local communities.”

Indeed, the infrastructure of many of Long Island beaches is perhaps desperate for upgrades. Jones Beach, which opened in 1929, is famous for its availability to the public as well as its art deco architecture, implemented by Robert Moses. However, in the past several decades, the park has struggled to keep up with its old age.

Although the park has appeared to be in a slump for the past several years, the park remains a favorite of Long Island residents of all ages.

According to the Cultural Landscape Foundation, “Despite several decades of deterioration, it [Jones Beach] remains one of the best attended beaches in the New York State Park System: a testament to the enduring principles that led to its creation and guided its physical development.”

Thus, Governor Cuomo’s plan for improving parks are a step forward in restoring the previous grandeur of Jones

Beach. Such improvements, which vary in scale, include: expanded bathrooms — which can cut down on long lines during the summertime — a revamped menu for restaurants, which keeps the classic burger and fries, but adds fresh fares such as locally-caught fish; and improvements to the bathhouses, among other upgrades.

“I’m glad that the state government is focusing on improving the experience of going to the beach. Hanging out with my friends at Jones Beach during the summertime has been one of my favorite parts of living on Long Island, and I’m happy knowing that they are doing all they can to make this a reality for more people,” senior Zach Ready said.

In addition, visitors to Jones Beach can enjoy the recently renovated bike path, the Greenway, completed in the summer of 2014. According to Newsday, the Greenway allows cyclists to “travel from Cedar Creek Park at the start of the Wantagh path, through Jones Beach to Tobay Beach for 8.8 miles.”

Other improvements planned for Long Island in-

clude renovations to Bethpage State Park; in addition to the clubhouse receiving new heating and cooling systems, New York State is investing half a million dollars to upgrade the golf course. These renovations are planned as a way of preparing for the upcoming 2021 and 2027 PGA tours scheduled to occur there.

Additionally, Cuomo’s plan involves a 1.7 million dollar investment in Robert Moses State Park for a program that would allow the park to generate as much clean energy as it requires to function.

“New York is proud to once again lead the way and host the first energy-neutral state park in the country,” Governor Cuomo said. “This state is home to some of the most beautiful parks in the nation, and we remain committed to their protection and sustainability,” he said in his announcement of the program, which is also sponsored by PSEG Long Island.

Why are these measures needed? In short, these improvements can lead to an increase in tourism from not only Long Island residents but from people from all over the

country. This, in turn, can bolster the local economy.

For example, more jobs for people of all ages will be more plentiful if tourism increases. While many high school students find jobs at Long Island State Parks each summer, an insurge of tourists can only mean more job and volunteering opportunities.

“Working at Tobay is probably one of the most fun jobs anyone can have,” junior Doug Brust said. “The work gets very tedious at times, but most of the time we all just joke around and make the workplace enjoyable.”

Additionally, improvements will enhance the overall visitor experience. With more activities planned for this summer than ever before — such as the return of Fourth of July Fireworks at Jones Beach and concerts throughout the summer — visitors can expect an exciting and memorable summer season.

With improvements to state parks throughout Long Island, one thing’s for sure: this summer is gearing up to be an unforgettable one for visitors and locals alike.

THE CHIEF 2 NEWS After 37 years in education, Mr. Dowd leaves mark in history

JUNE 10, 2015

BY ALEXANDRA DOULOS COPY EDITOR

dents and “get [them] back on the right track.”

Mr. Dowd attributes his enjoyable career to his devotion to history and the teachers he was taught by while growing up in Massapequa.

“As I moved through the school—I am a product of the Massapequa School [district] — I recalled each and every one of my social studies teachers and I took a little piece of each of them with me,” Mr. Dowd said. “I knew from 5th grade on that I wanted to be a social studies teacher.”

While Massapequa is saying farewell to Mr. Dowd, he will continue his passion by

working on a “part-time basis for BOCES as a social studies consultant.” Massapequa

High School would like to congratulate and wish him luck in all future endeavors.

Mr. Brian Dowd | Curriculum assosiate for social studies.

KALLEIGH REGAN // THE CHIEF

After twenty three years as a classroom teacher and fourteen years as the administrative Social Studies Curriculum Associate, Mr. Brian Dowd is retiring.

Throughout his thirty seven year career, he has taught many secondary social studies students and thoroughly enjoyed everything. Mr. Dowd adored his dynamic career and enjoyed the exciting challenges that differed each day.

Mr. Dowd’s favorite aspect of teaching at Massapequa High School is the people he worked with, in-

cluding students, teachers, and administrators alike.

“I have meet some wonderful people, in all departments in all buildings, and had the pleasure of working with them,” Mr. Dowd said. “What makes teaching so memorable for me is when I meet students I had in the past and they tell me something they remember from my class, or how I helped them.”

In addition, Mr. Dowd has learned from his students that “nothing is unforgivable” and that mistakes make kids precisely what they are: kids.

He has always appreciated the chance he had to help his stu-

Mrs. Feinberg leaves legacy of literacy

BY JACKIE ANGELO COPY EDITOR

KALLEIGH REGAN // THE CHIEF

For the past twenty years, Marlene Feinberg has worked for the Massapequa School District as the literacy chairperson, calling it a “blessing in many ways.”

Mrs. Feinberg has loved working with all the administration as well as the students that helped make her experi-

ence at Massapequa so memorable. “I am proud to have taught literacy for all of my professional life— but working here has been the highlight of my career,” Mrs. Feinberg said.

She also wanted to thank Mrs. Iconis, superintendent of the Massapequa School District, for providing her

with this experience to work in Massapequa. “[I] will forever be grateful to Mrs. Iconis for the faith she has had in me over the years and the opportunities afforded me in the Massapequa School District,” Mrs Feinberg said.

“I will miss everyone and the joy of coming to work every day to a place I truly love.”

Mrs. Marlene Feinberg | After 20 years she says goodbye.

Mrs. Mims paints a path to her future retirement

BY ALEXANDRA DOULOS COPY EDITOR

brought to them by their administrative team. They recognize the importance of every discipline in order for students to be successful in life.”

For Mrs. Mims, retirement will be far from dull. By September, she will have three grandchildren and will be dividing her time between New York and Florida. She hopes to spend more time enjoying her many hobbies, including reading, jogging, and biking.

Art will still play a major role in her life, as she “hope[s] to volunteer to teach some art related classes at an arts center near my home in Florida.”

Mrs. Mims also wished to bestow advice upon graduating seniors, current students, and future MHS graduates regarding all aspects of life.

“Enjoy every minute of High School and the friendships you have formed. Those wonderful memories will always be with you, and believe it or not you will cherish them one day,” Mrs. Mims said, demonstrating her positive

BY KAITLYN LUCEY

hereby rescinds its action taken at the Board meeting of April 23, 2015 accepting the resignation for the purposes of retirement from Dr. Barbara Williams, Principal of Massapequa High School, and Dr. Williams’ resignation is hereby considered withdrawn.”

Dr. Williams has worked in education for almost forty years. For the past fifteen years, she has been the school principal at both the main campus of MHS and Ames. She is

outlook and ambitious drive.

“Believe in yourself and be the best person you can be.”

From MHS and The Chief, we wish the 1971 graduate of MHS the best of luck and an enjoyable retirement.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY BARBARA MIMS

After twenty-six years of holding teaching and administrative positions in the district, Mrs. Barbara Mims, Art Curriculum Associate for the Massapequa School District, is retiring.

Following thirteen years as an art teacher at Massapequa school district, Mrs. Mims “realized [she] wanted to become an advocate for the department.”

In this role, Mrs. Mims was able to infuse technology into classes, thereby facilitating students’ artistic abilities in the twenty-first century.

Additionally, she was able to initiate the “Art Wall of Fame” at MHS in order to showcase the abundance of talent that

artistically minded students possess. Furthermore, Mrs. Mims established the National Art Honor Society with Mrs. Domingo, giving art students the opportunity to display their works and receive deserved recognition for their diligent effort and creative aptitude.

Mrs. Mims identified “working with my colleagues to share the student artwork with parents and the community by displaying it as often as possible” as the most rewarding aspect of her job, and commends the district for its support for arts programs.

Mrs. Mims commends the district’s success, explaining that she thinks this achievement came to be “because central administration encourages and supports initiatives

Mrs. Barbara Mims | Art curriculum associate Van Goghs.

Retirement scare? Dr. Williams stays as principal of MHS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

KALLEIGH REGAN // THE CHIEF

Dr. Barbara Williams | (Almost) heads into retirement.

Just before spring break, Dr. Williams announced that she was retiring from her position as the principal of Massapequa High School. However, Dr. Williams has since decided to rescind her previous plans for retirement at a Board of Education meeting.

According to the Board of Education agenda from its May 21 meeting, “Resolved that the Board of Education

looking forward to continuing her time as Principal at Massapequa High School.

“I am very excited and grateful about being able to continue my work here at MHS... Massapequa High School is the most amazing place,” Dr. Williams said about her rescindment. “The staff works very hard to ensure that there is something here for everyone.”

THE CHIEF 3 NEWS E-cigarettes, ‘vaping’ fail to be healthy alternatives to smoking

JUNE 10, 2015

BY A.J. MASTROBUONI STAFF WRITER

in the United States per year are attributable to smoking, 130,000 of which are due to lung cancer most probably developed from the numerous carcinogens found in a real cigarette, according to Refinery29.

In contrast, non-users seem to be indifferent on the subject of vaping.

“Like many other things, it has its pros, and it has its cons,” junior Mark Fedoronko said.

Others felt similarly. “If it’s safer than actually smoking, I say go for it,” junior Mike Pevsner said.

But still the question remains, what attracts teenagers to vaping in the first place?

“It’s not the fact that it’s more healthy that makes teens use it, it’s just for fun. Teens don’t usually care about their health,” an anonymous student at MHS said.

According to The New York Times, teens try vaping because “there is a harshness to cigarettes.” The negative connotation associated with cigarettes turns off teens to smoking, leading them to ex-

periment with other activities, such as vaping, the seemingly “less gross” option.

What used to be a cool, gritty, and tough-looking habit turned into something frowned upon by most teens today. In today’s schools, the leather jacket wearing, cigarette smoking, John Travolta’s chills won’t be multiplying.

Rather, he would be looked at as a “kid who no one wants to be associated with,” according to The Stir. In today’s society, vaping is perhaps more acceptable by teenagers than

smoking, even though teens who smoke often do still exist.

Regardless of how one feels about vaping, the facts remain that history repeats itself. As more begins to surface about the possible dangers of vaping, perhaps e-cigarettes will be replaced with a new and innovative alternative, similar to what happened with traditional cigarettes once vape pens emerged on the market. Hopefully the next big thing will be less destructive to the user’s health than the current alternative.

To Vape or not to Vape | Concerns over e-cigs dangers grow

time for seniors to relax. But did more than just seniors cut on senior cut day?

“I definitely noticed that my classes were more empty than usual, and most of my classes don’t even have seniors in them,” junior Leslie Fiene said.

Indeed, many classes did seem to be missing quite a few people. In the classes that barely managed having half of students present, teachers were forced to choose between teaching new material, thus requiring absent students to make up missed work, or changing their plans altogether. As a result, both absent and present students’ educations were put at risk because of the senior tradition.

“I had less than ten people

in all of my classes...I was totally unable to teach new material because I was lacking so many students in class,” math teacher Mrs. Price said.

Not surprisingly, the second floor hallway, where most of the seniors typically spend time between classes, seemed positively vacant.

“There were more [than just seniors] absent...We expect students to be in school, especially if they are not seniors,” one attendance office staff member said.

Yet, many students of MHS, regardless of grade level, seemed to positively ignore these expectations put forth by the district and instead chose to spend the day as they please.

“I didn’t go to school on Friday because I knew a lot

of people weren’t going to be there…and I could give myself a day off,” an anonymous Massapequa High School student said.

Administration, however, feels that students — seniors in particular — do not have the right to pick and choose their days of attendance. Ultimately, the relationship between attendance and academic success is undeniable.

“I think [senior cut day] is way out of hand,” Dean of Students Mr. Howard said.

“Seniors have this sense of entitlement. Whenever there’s a three day weekend or a make up day for a snow day, kids want to miss an extra day of school.”

In order to prevent widespread senior cut days in the

future, administration is considering a new policy that would impact senior events like the senior picnic.

“If attendance falls below a certain benchmark on any two days, certain events may be done away with,” Mr. Howard said.

Others seem to feel that senior cut day should not be made out to be a big deal.

“I don’t think it matters because people stay home from school because they feel like it everyday,” junior Ethan Sausa said.

Ultimately, while students of all grades are certainly absent on a day-to-day basis, attendance between all grades seems to be especially lacking on senior cut day.

enough, the song even gets stuck in your own head, making it truly unavoidable.

Over the last five years, music, fans, and workers within the industry have become infatuated with the idea of the “Song of the Summer” and have tried to predict what the song would be months in advance.

Songs such as “Blurred Lines” by Robin Thicke featuring T.I. and Pharrell Williams in 2013 and “California Gurls” by Katy Perry and Snoop Dogg in 2010—which

was named the biggest summer song of all time by Billboard— have both become such pop culture phenomena that you cannot think of summers past without their catchy tunes and sick beats filling your brain. “[When I hear] “California Gurls” by Katy Perry I think of being at the the beach, swimming, and tanning with all my friends,” junior Kellyann McClenahan said.

This summer, there are plenty of songs with the potential to steal the show and

become the successor of the ever popular “Fancy” by Iggy Azalea and Charli XCX. Also recently released, Maroon 5’s new addition to their album, V, “This Summer’s Gonna Hurt” will look to become a staple in this summer’s Top 40 radio as does newcomer Omi’s single “Cheerleader.” “Cheerleader” has the odds in its favor due to the fact that its numbers are adding up perfectly during the race to be crowned the summer’s biggest smash and because it has a reggae feel

like “Rude” did last summer

by MAGIC!, according to the New York Daily News.

Due to the stiff competition, it looks as though the title of the “Song of the Summer” is still up in the air, but it looks as though it is between “Bad Blood,” “This Summer’s Gonna Hurt,” “Pretty Girls,” and “Cheerleader.”

“I think it’s going to be too difficult to decide,” senior Brandon Matassa said, “because the competition is close, but it’ll be interesting to see what wins.”

PHOTO BY JONNY WILLIAMS // FLICKR

Over the past decade, “vaping,” has changed from an experimental alternative to cigarettes to a recreational activity among teens and their friends.

First created to provide a safer and cleaner way to smoke with a lower risk of cancer, e-cigarettes have shattered expectations and moved on to become something more than just an alternative. But are people really aware of what the “e-cig” is, or do they truly believe it is just “harmless water vapor?”

The unfortunate truth is that vaping is still in the early stages of its development.

E-Cigarettes have been around for only a fraction of the time as traditional cigarettes, and even then it took centuries to discover that smoking cigarettes was detrimental to one’s health. So this begs the question: what is vaping doing to our bodies that we are presently unaware of?

The good news is that e-cigarettes have a substantially less carcinogens than real

cigarettes—although, to quote Mr. Merges, “everything in life is a trade off.”

What the sticker on the “e-liquid” bottle does not say is that the liquid actually contains double the amount of heavy metals than a real cigarette, which can be worse for more delicate lungs. Likewise, while the e-liquid solvents — which can include propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin— are generally recognized as safe, it is possible to ingest too much.

Putting these facts aside, it is still unclear what attracts teens across the country and at MHS to smoke the “water vapor cigarette, ” or why many e-cigarette users feel that vaping is a healthier and safer alternative to smoking.

“It’s better than actually smoking...it is safer than cigarettes,” an anonymous e-cigarette user, and student at Massapequa High School, said.

Indeed, widespread knowledge of the dangers of traditional smoking may be a contributing factor to why students look to vaping as an alternative. 480,000 deaths

Senior cut day tradition: not just for seniors anymore?

BY KAITLYN LUCEY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

It happens every year. Seniors, with A.P. testing over and graduation fast approaching, forgo school for one day and instead visit the beach, go to an amusement park, or just hang out with their friends.

Often, this seemingly harmless tradition — which is as normal to every high school around the country as prom, arguably — attracts more and more students in other grades each year.

This year’s unofficial senior cut day was on the Friday was on May 22. The fact that this day was a make-up day for snow day that occurred on January 27, and because it was the Friday before a three-day weekend, made it the perfect

The battle soon begins for the ‘song of the summer’

BY TIM KEUCHLER

ONLINE MANAGING EDITOR

Music has a significant impact on the summer season every year in which there is usually one song that becomes absolutely inescapable. The song not only dominates radio stations nationwide— usually you can change the station containing the mega-hit only to find it on two other stations based in the same area, stays at number one of the Billboard Hot 100 and iTunes, and has a music video that breaks various YouTube records. Oddly

JUNE 10, 2015

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kaitlyn Lucey MANAGING EDITORS Tim Keuchler Kalleigh Regan COPY EDITORS Alexandra Doulos Jackie Angelo EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Dave Marques ADVISOR Elyn Coyle Massapequa High School 4925 Merrick Road Massapequa, NY 11758

Editorial Policy

The Chief, the student newspaper of Massapequa High School, is an open forum to discuss the student body’s issues and concerns.

Members of The Chief will make every effort to publish following the legal definitions of libel, obscenity and invasion of privacy. Consistent with the first amendment of the United States Constitution, the staff also will refrain from printing material that may incite students, be a violation of MHS’ Student Code of Conduct or disrupt school operations.

The editorial board of The Chief welcomes and encourages submitted letters, stories, cartoons and any other feedback to the editor. Please send all submissions to mhsthechief@gmail.com. Letters sent by email may need to be verified by student signature before publishing.

• Although anonymous letters to the editor are not printed, names will be held upon request. The Chief has the right to deny publication of any editorial, column, review or comment.

• Grammatical and/or spelling corrections will be made; however, the content will not be altered.

• Corrections will be printed when mistakes are found or brought to the attention of the staff.

• Original stories will carry bylines, although stories rewritten by someone other than the original author will not receive a byline. Contributing writers will be listed at the end of an article. All bylined writers will be held accountable for their work.

• All columns, reviews or commentary are strictly the opinion of the writer and may not represent opinions held by the school board, administration, sponsors, parents, student body or advertisers.

However, all editorials reflect the viewpoint of The Chief editorial board.

Distribution: 1,700 copies 1,859 students, 194 teachers All papers are free

Correction: In the March 2015 issue, the article entitled “New Harper Lee Novel to Be Released for a New Century” contained an incorrect byline. The article should have the byline “By Nelson Gomez and Nick Petrillo” not “By Nick Petrillo.”

Each year, many sophomores at MHS read George Orwell’s famous novel 1984 in their english classes . Published in 1949, 1984 is a rendering of Orwell’s predictions for modern society. In Oceania, where the events of the book take place, each citizen is oppressed through—among other methods — constant moderation by the totalitarian regime and overhaul of free speech by the redefining of language.

In 1984, the totalitarian regime, The Party, institutes a new language, called “Newspeak” in which words that express dissent or opposition against the regime are removed from the english language. For example, the word “freedom” is removed from the language because the concept of political or intellectual freedom has been eradicated.

It is this second point— this purging of expression through the expunging of free speech—that would be a direct threat to our First Amendment rights. Certainly, the playground indoctrination of many childhoods, that “America is a free country — I can say what I want!” is an indicator of how many Americans value free speech, even from a young age.

If Orwell’s novel was a forecast of contemporary society, we should perhaps ask ourselves if America faces a challenge to our First Amendment. More precisely, we should question the effectiveness of political correctness in a American society.

Too Politically Correct?

Political correctness, according to the Cambridge Dictionary, is “avoiding language or behavior that any particular group of people might feel is unkind or offensive.” However, the true definition of political correctness is ambiguous.

Many people worldwide — on an international front and a local one—are invested in a debate that questions what the true meaning of “politically correct.”

Political correctness can take many different forms. It includes adopting an attitude that, at large, seeks to prevent partisanship on the basis of one’s race, religion, sexuality, gender, or ethnicity, among other human qualities.

Although certainly well-intentioned, political correctness could be used as a censoring device. In an academic environment, political correctness can hinder discussion, which could prevent invaluable learning experiences that transgress the classroom walls.

“I encourage disagreement and I worry that political correctness forces us to all agree...We have differences of opinion that I believe should be voiced respectfully — but voiced and not stifled,” Tess Chakkalakal, an Associate Professor of English and Africana Studies at Bowdoin College said recently for The Bowdoin Orient.

This fine line between respect and censorship is what the entire debate surrounding political debate is based on.

While discriminatory speech should not be tolerated, regressing to conformity should not be condoned either. As a society, we should celebrate individuality and not shy away from addressing differences in a respectable way.

The Price of Free Speech Are those who criticize the implications of politically correct speech receiving backlash from opposing groups who feel that politically correct speech allows for a more tolerant environment?

Since critics of politically correct speech are mostly right-leaning — that is, are more republican than democrat — their opinions are sometimes in the minority at the more liberal secondary and postsecondary educational institutions, such as high schools and universities.

In this regard, those who condemn political correctness for violating the First Amendment may face a significant bias in their educational pursuits. While colleges preach inclusiveness—and by extension, political correctness — dissenters, who do not subscribe to the ideals of political correctness, are too often considered bigoted or hateful.

However, those who support the idea behind political correctness are not incorrect either. By forgoing someone’s identity as defined by society, a more pleasant and tolerable environment can begin to exist, where one is valued for their internal traits rather than, for example, their physical

4

qualities.

Overall, if political correctness hinders free speech, it should not be supported. However, if it predicates a respectful environment among peers and friends alike, than political correctness should not be fully forgotten.

MHS Students Reflect So does political correctness harm or help to foster a tolerant, yet intellectual discussion on people’s differences? Massapequa High School students were eager to share their opinions on this hot-button topic.

“Political correctness is mainstream intolerance: it is semantics over substance,” junior Kevin Hitchings said.

“Everybody should be able to freely share their ideas without being labeled evil, and unpleasant ideas need to be confronted for the healthy continuation of democracy.”

Still, others felt that political correctness was less straightforward.

“There should not be a uniform ‘correctness’ of speech.

Someone who speaks rudely is rude and someone who speaks kindly is kind. There should not be an established standard,” junior Rachel Ertman said.

As students of Massapequa High School, let’s work together to act respectfully towards each other while not shying away from what makes each one of us different and unique.

The Chief sweeps at the Long Island Press Awards On Wednesday, May 27, Hofstra University hosted the annual Long Island Press High School Journalism Awards, and, as usual, The Chief took home a variety of awards over a wide range of topics.

The Long Island Press High School Journalism Awards is a ceremony honoring Long Island high school journalists’ hard work and dedication to the love of reporting. The Long Island Press received over 1,600 submissions from over twenty-four schools and each entry was carefully read and examined to determine the most deserving articles of awards.

Sophomore copy editor Alexandra Doulos won the Andrea Rebello Community Service Award, the first of the night, setting the mood for what was to come. Copy editors senior Jill Hand and

PROVIDED BY THE CHIEF

Advertising Policy Journalistic standards (fairness, accuracy, truth, avoidance of libel and bad taste) will be maintained in the advertising of The Chief. The Chief will not accept advertisements for tobacco, alcoholic beverages, or any other substance that is illegal for students to buy or possess.

THE CHIEF EDITORIAL Does political correctness protect or antagonize?

Pressed to Perfection | The Chief staff at Long Island Press. junior Jackie Angelo also Petrillo also earned recogniwalked away with rewards for tion. their hard work over the past In the section of the event year. Juniors including editori- which honored exceptional al assistant Dave Marques, in- visuals such as layouts and coming editor-in-chief Kaitlyn photos, incoming managing Lucey, and Tim Keuchler also editor, junior Kalleigh Regan picked up multiple awards swept with help from out-goeach in numerous categories. ing managing editor Brandon Staff writers Jacqueline Rap- Lawrence, who also picked isardi, Danielle Anzelone, up five awards of his own, and Kerry Young, and Nicholas out-going editor-in-chief Nel-

son Gomez, who proved to be one of the biggest winners of the night.

In the final and most prestigious category of the night, the Special Awards, Nelson Gomez solidified his dominance by coming in second place for Journalist of the Year while staff writer Amber Merlini came in third for Story of the Year. In addition, club advisor Elyn Coyle picked up a win in the Advisor of the Year section of the category.

Perhaps the most celebrated award of the night was the final one — the Newspaper of the Year — in which The Chief placed second in all of Long Island. The Chief also picked up second Best Online News Site, which was another award that was celebrated as a group.

So on behalf of The Chief, congratulations to The Chief.

THE CHIEF OPINION Blue lives matter: why police deserve our utmost respect

JUNE 10, 2015

BY TIM KEUCHLER

ONLINE MANAGING EDITOR

home. Imagine your guardian being shot while sitting in his or her car minding his or her own business. The thoughts are chilling, quite frankly, and children shouldn’t have to worry about whether or not saying goodbye to their parents in the morning would be the last time they ever do so.

“I’ve heard [about] more riots from criminals being killed by police than criminals killing police, which I’m shocked about,” junior Ally Wick said. “It isn’t right because they are sacrificing their lives to keep us safe.”

What people often don’t understand about this threatening of the lives of cops is how big of an impact it can have.

Think about the officers them-

selves. Do you really think they have as bad of intentions as the media so often portrays?

In the end, they are just people with families, friends, dreams, and aspirations. Is it really fair to take all this away from them solely due to the fact that they are wearing a gold badge and blue uniform? And think about their families; is it fair that they have to live with a huge loss for the same reason?

Another thing people don’t seem to comprehend is that it isn’t the cops’ fault when people get arrested for committing a crime or even something as small as a parking ticket. Was it they that did the act or parked in the wrong spot? No, they are just doing their job.

Next time anyone goes to bash on police for arresting or ticketing anyone who disobeys the law— regardless of their gender, age, or race— one should remember that police should be respected for all they do for us when they put their uniform on everyday, knowing that they could pay the ultimate sacrifice at any time in any place.

“Police do a job that many people are not willing to do,” technology teacher Mr. Vincent Salamone said. “They deal with a part of society that many people don’t want to admit exists and no matter what we look at under a microscope, we always see the bad.”

KALLEIGH REGAN // THE CHIEF

It’s a difficult time to be a police officer at the moment— not only in New York City or in Nassau County, but also across the country. Almost everywhere you look, it seems another innocent policeman is killed in the line duty while trying to protect their cities and the lives of people they’ve never even met.

On average, 146 cops are killed in the line of duty each year, according to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. So far in 2015, there have been 46 police officer casualties, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page.

Unfortunately, this year, the murdering of policemen became very real for Massapequa residents as Officer Brian Moore, a twenty five year old Plainedge High School graduate, was assassinated by criminal Demetrius Blackwell, who has a lengthy record of legal offenses.

During his altercation with Blackwell, Moore told the suspect to stop adjusting his waistband and was shot twice in the head.

“When one of our officers falls in the line of duty, like Brian Moore, we have to remember what he [sacrificed]

and they [all other police officers] sacrifice to keep the peace,” journalist and news reporter Geraldo Rivera said in a Facebook post. “And come on all you impassioned protesters, don’t cops’ lives matter too?”

In December, in response to the Ferguson protests in Missouri, Officers Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu were assassinated while sitting in their patrol car for the same reason Officer Moore was killed— none. The only motive behind these assassinations was the mere fact that the deceased were police officers.

After the deaths, there seemed to be almost no reaction. No riots ensued, unlike in Ferguson and Baltimore, where people guilty of crimes were killed by police, which led to both cities being destroyed by riots.

Obviously, something needs to be done about the lack of respect people have for all the good cops do.

As the son of a police officer myself, I find it downright terrifying that delinquents think taking the lives of someone with the intention of protecting theirs is justified. Imagine coming home from school one day to find out your father or mother was murdered at work while just trying to keep the peace in the place you call

NYPD Badge | New York’s finest proudly wear this symbol of bravery and honor

Race riots in Baltimore an inevitable effect of urban plight

BY DAVE MARQUES EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

For a few weeks in late April, Baltimore exploded in a short, furious burst of tension and anger, but the fuse leading to the powder keg had been lit decades ago. There was an element of inevitability in the outbreak of the brief anarchic episode, for years of festering social and economic unrest were bound to come to a head eventually.

While President Obama advised Americans in a White House statement , “Don’t just pay attention to these communities when a CVS burns,” it seems that society at large has abandoned impoverished urban neighborhoods like Sandtown-Winchester, Baltimore, where Freddie Gray lived and died. Yet such communities did not become ghost towns overnight; the undoing of Sandtown- Winchester, and Freddie Gray, was years in the making.

A 2004 report from the Service Employee’s International Union details the economic history behind the decline of the inner city. Before World War II, Baltimore was home to the Bethlehem Steel leviathan,

providing reliable wages and benefits to the waves of African Americans and European immigrants arriving in the city daily. Following the narrative of many major US cities, Baltimore rose with the advent of the age of industry, and fell as the national economy moved away from manufacturing and towards “white collar” services after the war. Since 1950, Baltimore has lost over 100,000 manufacturing jobs.

Middle class whites followed the movement of business to the suburbs in the 1950s and 1960s, yet many of their black counterparts were denied such opportunities by racist housing practices such as “redlining” (denying mortgages and business loans to residents of certain neighborhoods, usually black-majority areas) and “blockbusting” (developers urging white homeowners to sell their houses out of fear of minorities will move into the area). Middle class blacks were trapped in bleak, commercially desolate ghettos alongside poorer newcomers.

The rise of neoconservatism in the 1970s and 1980s only exacerbated the plight of inner-city communities. Ron-

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ald Reagan’s economic policies, colloquially known as Reaganomics, simultaneously intensified income inequality and drastically cut social welfare spending, worsening the conditions of already impoverished communities like Sandtown-Winchester.

According to data from the Congressional Budget Office, between 1980 (the beginning of Reagan’s presidency) and 2007, the top one percent of households saw income grow by 275%, whereas the bottom twenty percent of households only saw a rise of 18%. In spite of these alarming statistics, Reagan’s tax cuts, per another CBO report, decidedly favored upper income brackets and shifted the burden to middle and low-income groups.

In order to justify the massive cuts in the welfare spending sustaining inner city communities like those in West Baltimore, Reagan cast the recipients of federal aid as people simply too lazy to find work.

The “welfare queen” trope, an imagining of a woman living an extravagant lifestyle solely through welfare fraud, emerged in a 1976 speech given by Reagan and only added

to negative stereotypes about residents of black majority urban neighborhoods. Reagan’s proposed solution, a system requiring welfare recipients to work before receiving financial aid, provided no relief due to the scarcity of jobs in many of these areas.

When a community lacks commercial opportunities and social services, it is not surprising that illegal activity will flourish. Attempts to remediate social ills, such as gang violence and drug trade in these neglected communities, were misguided at best, and disastrous at worst. The idea of a “War on Drugs” in inner cities, beginning with the Reagan administration in 1982, was behind policy decisions greatly expanding funding for drug enforcement agencies and implementing tough zero tolerance laws. Though few would argue against aiming to reduce addiction, these extremely harsh laws —and the racially charged rhetoric accompanying them— had dire social consequences that continue today.

A major criticism of the “War on Drugs” is that it reinforces the image of the urban

poor, predominantly black and Hispanic, as violent criminals .

The “1033” program in particular, which gives local authorities access to leftover military weaponry, has been described as fueling the distrust between civilians and law enforcement; this was seen last summer as tanks prowled the chaotic streets of Ferguson, Missouri.

When weapons used in war zones are used to patrol your neighborhood, it is impossible to not get the impression that you are seen as a threat; when those weapons are used to kill your unarmed neighbors, it is impossible to not feel threatened.

No matter how shocking the disorder in Baltimore has been, it is imperative to remember that it did not arise out of thin air; the death of Freddie Gray was the straw that broke the metaphorical camel’s back. Americans as a whole must take the tragedy of his death and the ensuing riots and make positive change: we must rethink the way in which we view urban poverty and racism, and address their deep-rooted causes rather than pursue temporary and ineffective solutions.

THE CHIEF

JUNE 10, 2015

Music

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Movies

Britney Spears: At the turn of the decade, a new pop princess arrived in the music industry, after the release of her debut single “...Baby One More Time,” which went number one in every country in which it was released. Throughout her career (which is still very much active today), Britney Spears has earned five number one singles , and was named the highest earning woman in music in 2012, earning over $58 million, according to Forbes.

PATRICK SCHNEIDER // MCT CAMPUS

Clueless: In 1995, the coming of age romantic comedy Clueless was released. Starring Alicia Silverstone and Brittany Murphy, the film became a huge hit over time despite its lackluster opening. The film still causes buzz in pop culture today for its stars’ iconic clothing and its quotable quality. Clueless also inspired the plot of Iggy Azalea’s music video for “Fancy” in 2014.

The Backstreet Boys: Before there was One Direction or even *NSYNC, there were the Backstreet Boys, who reached superstardom in 1996 and later released hits such as “I Want it That Way” and “Everybody (Backstreets Back).” Today, the group is still together and released their latest album in 2013.

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PHOTOGRAPHER // SOURCE

Nirvana: Despite forming in 1987, Nirvana became a major mainstream success in 1991 with the release of their second album, Nevermind, which is still regarded today as a cornerstone of grunge music and one of the greatest albums of all time. Although they only released three albums— due to the suicide of lead singer Kurt Cobain in 1994— the group has had a huge impact on music and the world as a whole with singles such as “Smells Like Teen Spirit” and “Come as You Are.”

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KURT STRAZDINS // MCT CAMPUS

PROVIDED BY PARAMOUNT PICTURES

*NSYNC: In 1998, following the popularization of boy bands such as New Kids on the Block and the Backstreet Boys, *NSYNC released their first single to much success. Over their short five year lifespan as a group, they were able to achieve six top ten singles, including one number one, and released the fastest selling album of all time, No Strings Attached.

Titanic: This critically acclaimed film, directed by James Cameron and starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, was released in 1997. An instant classic, the film’s inspiration was the sinking of the Titanic in 1912, and was told through the perspective of a much older version of Kate Winslet’s character. As evidence of its cinematic success, Titanic won the Oscar for Best Picture as well as Best Director in 1997.

Forrest Gump: According to Tom Hanks’ portrayal of the titular character, “Life was like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” This critically acclaimed 1994 film retold many of the defining moments of the latter half of the twentieth century, such as the Vietnam war and Watergate, through the eyes of trusting Forrest.

THE CHIEF

JUNE 10, 2015

TV Shows

Beanie Babies: Few toys in the 1990s eclipsed the popularity of the Beanie Babies, created by Ty Inc. Highly collectible, Beanie Babies became one of the most sought after toys of the 90s, reaching their peak in the last five years of the twentieth century. However, this “Beanie Baby Bubble” quickly burst by the turn of the century, and today Beanie Babies have significantly lost their appeal.

BRENDAN DOLAN-DAVITT// FLICKR

The Internet/AOL: In the 1990’s, an internet revolution became accessible to the public with the release of America Online, or AOL, which promised to bring about “a new way to use your computer to communicate and get instant news.” AOL helped make the internet what it is today, and is still around as a way to send and receive e-mails and news.

JOEL TELLING // FLICKR

PROVIDED BY NATIONAL BROADCASTING COMPANY

Friends: This classic sitcom, which premiered in 1994, instantly became popular among old and young alike. Telling the story of six friends— Chandler, Joey, Monica, Phoebe, Rachel, and Ross— in New York City, Friends was a defining moment for television in the 90s. Nominated for 62 Emmys throughout its ten season run, Friends ended in 2004 with a dedicated fan base— its series finale racked in about 52.5 million viewers, making it the fourth most watched series finale in television history.

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Seinfeld: Massapequa’s own Jerry Seinfeld was the star of this sitcom, which ran from 1989 to 1998. Although often described as a “show about nothing”— an inside joke of the cast— the sitcom was a cultural phenomenon in the 90s. Classic moments of Seinfeld include the Soup Nazi, Elaine’s “Muffin Top” business, and the death of George’s fiancee after she licked cheap wedding invitation envelopes.

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This year’s group of main campus students— the classes of 2015, 2016, and 2017, respectively— will be the last group of students that were, for the most part, born during the twentieth rather than the twenty-first century. To celebrate this milestone, we have compiled a tribute to the culture of the 1990s, in hopes that Massapequa High School can always remember its “90s Kids.”

Tamagotchis: The most popular must-have toy of the 90s was arguably the Tamagotchi. This hand-held, keychain-sized digital pet evokes memories for many of trying to keep their Tamagotchi alive by frequently “feeding” and “playing” with it. Originally released in 1996, the Tamagotchi has sold over 76 million models.

EVAN WOOD // FLICKR

PROVIDED BY WARNER BROS. TELEVISION

The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air: Will Smith, a popular rapper of the 80s, was approached to star in the now-beloved sitcom, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Premiering in 1990, Fresh Prince had six successful years on the air. The plot follows Smith’s character as he moves from rough West Philadelphia to affluent Bel Air in Los Angeles. Among other aspects of Fresh Prince, its iconic theme song has helped this show remain a cultural phenomenon even today.

JUNE 10, 2015

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THE CHIEF ENTERTAINMENT Jones Beach’s summer playlist: shows you just can’t miss

JUNE 10, 2015

BY DANIELLE ANZELONE STAFF WRITER

Still wondering what to do this summer? Maybe you’re planning on working or visiting a relative. Maybe you’ll have a few weekends free and go to the beach—why not listen to some music while you’re there?

As many know, the Nikon at Jones Beach Theater hosts a wide array of concerts in the summertime—but what many may not know is this summer’s lineup. Here is your guide to the best shows and concerts this summer at Jones Beach.

The concert series kicked off with the “Wheels Up” tour featuring country music stars Hunter Hayes, Lady Antebellum, and Sam Hunt on Friday, May 29.

Following that event was the “103.5 KTU’s KTUphoria” show which featured musicians such as Pitbull, Kelly Clarkson, Jason Derulo, Ricky

Martin, and Prince Royce and Shaggy on Sunday, May 31.

On June 9, The Dave Matthews Band rocked the stage at Jones Beach. This performance will lead up to BLI’s famous “Summer Jam” show which stars Nick Jonas, Carly Rae Jepsen, Charli XCX, Walk the Moon, Tove Lo, Natalie La Rose, R5, and Nick Tangorra Band on June 13.This leads up to BLI’s famous “Summer Jam” show which stars Nick Jonas, Flo Rida, Carly Rae Jepsen, Charli XCX, Walk the Moon, Tove Lo, Echosmith, Natalie La Rose, R5, and Nick Tangorra Band on June 13.

On Sunday, June 14, Third Eye Blind and Dashboard Confessional will perform at the Nikon. Three days later is Train’s “Picasso at the Wheel” tour. This show features rock artists The Fray and Matt Nathanson on June 16.

The next week, on Wednesday, June 24 2015, The

“Boys of Zummer” tour will feature rock band Fall Out Boy and Wiz Khalifa with Hoodie Allen as the opening act.

This year’s highly popular Warped Tour includes a wide variety of artists such as Front Porch Step, Handguns, Kosha Dillz, Neck Deep, Palisades, and many more according to the Warped Tour website. The tour will be playing on Saturday, July 11, with doors opening at 10 a.m. and the show beginning at 11 a.m.

Tony award winning Idina Menzel, famous for her role as Elsa in Disney’s Frozen, will perform on Friday, July 17.

Later in July, on the 26th, the “Rockstar Mayhem Festival” will be coming to Jones Beach, and features Slayer, King Diamond, The Devil Wears Prada, Hellyeah, Whitechapel, Code Orange, Feed Her To The Sharks, Jungle Rot, Kissing Candice, Shattered Sun, Sister Sin, Sworn

In, and Thy Art Is Murder.

Tribute bands, including the Australian Pink Floyd Show and Led Zeppelin 2, will play on Friday, August 7.

Following this event, Van Halen, along with the Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band will perform on August 13 and August 15 for rock fans.

Jimmy Buffett and The Coral Reefers’ annual performance will occur on Tuesday, August 18 2015 this year with guest performer Huey Lewis and The News.

Famous comedian Kevin Hart will have an act from his “WHAT NOW?” tour on Friday August 28 2015.

On Saturday, August 29, The “Laid Back Tour” will pay a visit to Long Island with performances by Gregg Allman, Doobie Brothers, City of the Sun, Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers, and Jaimoe’s Jasssz Band.

Last, but certainly not

However, despite the huge success of the first movie, the second movie seemed to falter.

Throughout the film, it seemed as though the writers struggled to keep up with the humor of the first movie, and incorporated jokes where they weren’t needed and sometimes added ones that didn’t make sense at all.

Often times, the jokes fell on Fat Amy (Wilson), who although is one of the funniest characters in the group, seemed to always fall short of being funny with the humor feeling rather forced. It was very clear that the writers were relying on her to deliver the clever humor we saw in the first movie.

Anna Kendrick, who has the main role, was also com-

pletely overshadowed by the rather busy plot itself. Between the necessary emergence of Steinfeld’s character, as well as Kendrick’s character Beca taking a job, and then the Bellas competing against a fierce German acapella group, it was easy for Beca’s importance to get lost.

With little character development from Kendrick’s character, the times we did see her she was often moody or distant, making you question if you were actually supposed to consider her the protagonist of the entire movie. Her flat performance gave the movie a dull mood, and the few times the writers decided to throw in a joke or two, Kendrick’s delivery was not funny, as well as awkward and borderline

creepy at times.

Other characters such as Bumper, played by Adam Devine and Benji, played by Ben Platt, managed to salvage some of the humor that left the audience in silence, but even then their performances were dull.

Bumper, who had played the antagonist in the previous movie, was now more a main character and gave a scene some funny spots here and there. Benji, the painfully awkward character, provided a bit of cheesy romance when he falls for her Steinfeld’s character, something that just further put this movie in the vault titled “Cheesy and Cliche Sequels.”

Characters that seemed to come through the most

least, pop/rock band Five Seconds of Summer is playing on both Tuesday September 1 and Wednesday, September 2 to finish off Jones Beach Theater’s summer concert season.

Other concerts headed to Jones Beach this summer: Darius Rucker, Brett Eldrege, Brothers Osborne and A Thousand Horses Sunday, July 12 DEF Leppard, STYX, and Tesla Thursday, July 23 The Smashing Pumpkins and Marilyn Manson Friday, July 31 Nickelback Friday, August 14 Chicago and Earth, Wind, and Fire Sunday, August 16

Pitch Perfect 2: the Barden Bellas are back but blunder

BY JACKIE ANGELO COPY EDITOR

HANDOUT // MCT CAMPUS

Singing, dancing, and acapella puns. It can only mean one thing — the Barden Bellas acappella group is back on the big screen once again in the sequel to the famous Pitch Perfect, which had millions of young girls learning to sing a song while keeping the beat with a cup.

Pitch Perfect 2 hit theaters opening weekend, raking in 70 million dollars, beating other highly anticipated films such as Mad Max. Directed by Elizabeth Banks, who also had a role in both films, showed the world that her female targeted comedic film, filled with a bit of romance and a whole lot of singing, might be a success in the box office but blunders in overall quality.

In the film, the Barden Bellas, who are now national acappella champs, are forced to compete at the World Competition in order to keep their group together after an embarrassing incident while performing for President.

Many of the main characters remain in the second movie, such as Beca, played by Anna Kendrick; Chloe, played

by Brittany Snow, and the confident, Australian, and at times raunchy “Fat Amy” played by Rebel Wilson. There is also a newcomer to the Barden Bellas, Emily Junk, played by Hailee Steinfeld, who adds a slight twist to the entire movie by introducing the Bellas to the idea of singing original music.

Aca- Not Perfect? | Pitch Perfect 2 lacks shine in blockbuster sequel.

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were the commentators Gail and John, played by Elizabeth Banks and John Michael Higgins, who had the funniest jokes and actually made people laugh. Another stand out character was Beca’s Boss, played

by Keegan-Michael Key, who played a egotistic boss working in the music industry. Other popular faces featured in this movie which added some appeal were Snoop Dogg, Michelle and Barack Obama, and Clay Matthews with some of the other players from the Green Bay Packers, all making appearances as themselves.

After the release of the first film, people were mesmerized by this new mix of harmonies put together without the use of instruments, as the teams jammed the current Top 10 hits from that year into one song. Now, the music sounded like the exact same songs in different tunes. Each song seemed to sound the same, and as much as I tried to enjoy the sound, I couldn’t help but yawn, thinking I’ve seen this before.

So did the second movie outshine the first? Nope.

In fact, it was so dark it quite possibly dimmed the light of the first one. With a mixture of forced jokes, bad songs, and dull characters, it showed the world that if a movie is good, let’s not go running around trying to make a sequel that will be even better, because that will never happen.

THE CHIEF IN DEPTH New York testing procedures face increased public scrutiny

JUNE 10, 2015

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BY NELSON GOMEZ

2014-15 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

‘Ineffective’ metrics?

At the forefront of the debate over public education are Governor Andrew Cuomo and New York state legislators. Cuomo, planning to turn around schools deemed as consistently failing, has significantly increased the bar for schools and teachers.

“We are redesigning, reforming the entire education system, which is a $50 billion industry in the state,” Cuomo said on a public radio program on April 2, “and arguably the most important thing the government does is education.”

On March 31, the state legislature passed a budget

JKRINCON // FLICKR

The New York State Education Department’s (NYSED) transition to the widely criticized Common Core testing standards and a legislative proposal to make test scores count for as much as half of teachers’ annual state evaluations has made Long Island the epicenter of a growing anti-testing movement.

With non-test takers comprising the majority of students in grades 3–8, Massapequa parents, educators and administrators alike stand on unstable ground.

“In light of the very large refusal numbers and Cuomo’s budget and the legislators, where do we go from here?” a Massapequa resident asked at a board meeting on April 23.

“As a community, where do we go? What do we do?”

The school district is just as uncertain.

“It’s a wait and see,” Superintendent of Schools Mrs. Lucille Iconis said. “None of us know what the ramifications will be. We can project, predict, but we don’t know.”

Voice for the Voiceless | Demonstrators gather at the New York City public library to protest a proposed education budget. that included various education mandates, including a new teacher evaluation system, removal of tenure protections for poor performance, and new certification requirements that, under Gov. Cuomo’s direction, could make test scores count for as much as 50 percent of a teacher’s Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR).

“The current NYS ELA and Math assessments are used only to rank students, evaluate teachers, and to label schools as ‘failing’ in an effort to increase the number of charter schools,” Massapequa Federation of Teachers (MFT) President Mrs. Tomia Smith said, “and to continue to clear the path for the privatization of our public school system across the country.”

Gov. Cuomo’s proposed changes to education in New York were also criticized for a variety of other factors, including the fact that it was not giving schools enough time

to adapt to new standards and placing too much emphasis on test scores, despite the tests “not counting” according to Gov. Cuomo himself.

Assemblyman Joseph Saladino voted against the budget measures citing, among other issues, unfunded education mandates and the need for further reform.

“It is of the utmost importance to me that we keep our region affordable,” Saladino said in a February press release. “We can accomplish that goal by… scaling back or more fully paying for the unfunded, state-mandated programs, such as Medicaid and Common Core… [and] thoroughly and effectively reforming the Common Core mandate in our schools.”

By contrast, state administrators and other legislators suggest that the exams and new evaluation metrics would provide invaluable information about student, teacher,

and school performance, and would lead to an increase in education quality.

“This Budget plan stakes out and highlights my priorities for what should be included in the budget,” State Senator Michael Venditto said. “It is a fiscally responsible proposal that should serve as a blueprint for an enacted budget that cuts taxes, creates jobs and invests in education, the environment, and New York’s future.”

The Board of Regents still recognized the resistance of school districts across the state and overrode Cuomo’s plan to adapt the new APPR plan

by November 15, moving the deadline for adoption to September 2016.

‘A veil of secrecy’ On top of the battle over teacher evaluations, the content of the tests — and the lack of its availability — has also been called into question.

The basic structure of the

NELSON GOMEZ // THE CHIEF

Pencils Down | Superintendent of Schools Mrs. Lucille Iconis discusses the testing situation at Board of Education meeting.

state’s elementary assessments remains more or less the same, and other methods have been put in place to gauge a student’s proficiency in different subject areas.

“

We... believe in testing: testing that gives us much needed information that will help us fine tune our lessions in order to increase student understanding,

”

Mrs. Smith said, “such as with our teacher created assessments or the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA).”

However, state tests are now putting teachers’ jobs and schools’ evaluation scores on the line without educators being able to see the exam material. Although practice and previously administered exams have been released by NYSED, these tests predate the state’s adoption of Common Core standards.

Moreover, current examinations are not released immediately after administration has concluded, as some questions could be reused at a later date. Students are told that they are not allowed to discuss the tests at all, at the risk of having their tests invalidated.

In addition, teachers typically only see the covers of the test booklet as they are not allowed to open the booklet and read the material tested, for confidentiality purposes.

“As educators, we believe we should be evaluated and have always had a very rigorous evaluation process here

JUNE 10, 2015

IN DEPTH

THE CHIEF

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PROVIDED BY TOMIA SMITH NELSON GOMEZ// THE CHIEF

‘Respect Education’ | Protesters rally against Cuomo’s education proposals to increase the requirements of Common Core standards. in Massapequa,” Mrs. Smith manages them well — and ling said. “If that teacher only 2013. Despite having another very well be how to move said. “But with the [grade] 3–8 more about the long-term ef- has eight students take [both] year to prepare for the same forward in light of this. Gov. state assessments, there is a fects on his overall education the ELA and math tests, that’s test, performance continued Cuomo’s educational legacy is veil of secrecy to the content and the education of children 16 scores… When you have a to slide, with only 32 percent at odds with Massapequa and of the exams, as well as to the in our state,” Kerin Siani, a smaller sample, each score is reaching this level of profi- Long Island’s values. Many volatile system that the state parent who opted her children going to contribute more and ciency in 2014. across the aisle are frustrated. uses to determine the ‘growth out of state testing this year, more… And obviously the “We are fortunate to live Despite this, overall math measure’ scores that are given said. teacher has no control.” scores increased between 2013 in a democracy where people to teachers.”

“I have come to appreciate There are also teachers and 2014, offering a silver lin- have the right to express their aspects of the curriculum, es- who will not have enough ing in light of suffering per- opinions and affect change,” Pencils down pecially with regard to model- scores to count toward their formance. Because the current Mrs. Iconis said. “However, Tensions have now boiled ing in math to develop a deep- APPR, in which case the state testing standards have only generally speaking, testing has over due to clashes between er meaning of concepts,” Siani will ask the district to perform been in place for a couple of always been used in education parents and schools and state added. “I do, however, believe an alternate student learning years, the district isn’t worried as a way to determine how inofficials. that [Common Core Learning objective evaluation, similar about the statistics. struction needs to improve for In a move to make a state- Standards] need to be imple- to educators at the high school “School districts across the benefit of students. When ment against increased use of mented more slowly and the and departments such as spe- Long Island… experienced students do not participate, we standardized testing in ele- curriculum needs continual cial education.For students a drop in performance due to cannot get an accurate meamentary schools, and in oppo- fine tuning.” who do sit for the state tests, the new, more rigorous state sure of where we need imsition to their children being the results may be disappoint- assessments…” Mrs Iconis provement, opening the pospart of it, 58 percent of houseA numbers game ing. After new Common Core- said. “… [W]e were not great- sibility for certain deficiencies holds with students in grades The public focus on as- aligned tests were introduced ly concerned by our students’ to go unaddressed.”

3–8 chose to refuse to take the sessments and the readiness of in 2013, Massapequa students performance because we knew And so it seems that progELA test, and 61.1 percent re- parents to denounce testing as overall scored significantly that as the new standards be- ress in reforming New York’s fused to take the math test. a solution to low performance lower than before. came more ingrained in the education has stalled, and all The NWEA also provides marks a rapid change in cliFor students who do sit curriculum student perfor- parties involved have reached online assessments which are mate since Mrs. Iconis’ letter for the state tests, the results mance would improve.” an impasse, with no one willalso counted in state teach- in March inviting Gov. Cuomo may be disappointing. After ing to budge. er evaluations. However, the to “view, firsthand, what a suc- new Common Core-aligned Until the tremors have A test of time district also maintains that the cessful school district looks tests were introduced in 2013, The impact that the spike ceased and a compromise organization offers a valuable like.”

Massapequa students overall in testing opt-outs will have can be reached, students will tool that provides immediate The letter proudly pro- scored significantly lower than remains dubious, but it’s ap- continue to be in a precarious results and key insights re- claims that all Massapequa before. parent that parents and teach- position — sitting out of tests garding student performance. teachers are “effective or The proportion of students ers alike are highly dissatisfied that have been largely deemed “NWEA is designed to re- highly effective” according to who scored Level 3 Profi- with the status quo. unreasonable by parents and ally assist the teacher in iden- APPR standards. As of now, it ciency or higher on the eighth Despite the tests being teachers, and lacking assesstifying a child’s strengths and remains unclear if this claim grade math assessment, for criticized for their unnecessary ment metrics for educators and weaknesses, deficit areas, and will continue to ring true: instance, fell from 87.4 per- weight and difficulty, the hard- state administrators to work is administered three times a the future of the Massapequa cent in 2012 to 41.4 percent in est question to answer may with. year,” Mrs. Iconis said. “We School District remains have found it quite helpful.” shrouded in uncertainty due to Some households that the unprecedented withdrawal chose to have their child opt of students from standardized out specifically asked the dis- assessment. trict to withdraw their children For instance, parents and from any testing that impacts students who refused testing a teacher’s evaluation, or spe- in the middle of test adminiscifically included NWEA ma- tration will also still have their terials in their lists of exams to tests graded; any parts that exclude. Between a perceived they did not take will be countloss of valuable class time, ed as zeroes, and the test score minimal data for improving will still contribute to teacher classrooms, and their attach- evaluations. At least 16 scores ment to teacher evaluations, are required for an APPR to some parents have become fed use state test scores. up.

“We get concerned with “As parents, the decision teachers where it comes down to opt-out was less about the to simple statistics,” Executive immediate emotional impact Director for Assessment & of the tests on our son — he Student Data Mr. Robert Schil- Student Percentages | Test grades over the past five years in Massapequa.

THE CHIEF SPORTS Boys tennis serves up conference win against Oceanside JUNE 10, 2015

BY DAVE MARQUES EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

singles Musalo’s backhand was instrumental in beating Oceanside’s Kyle Cohen 6-4, 4-6, 6-3.

First singles, the final match of the showdown, saw Ghaffar adeptly overtake Kyle Cohen’s brother Jake 6-7(5),

6-3, 6-4, further solidifying Massapequa’s supremacy in Conference II. “It was awesome ending my senior season on the team with a conference victory, and that’s coming from someone

PHOTO BY CHRISTINE WISS

The Massapequa High School boys’ tennis team, to cap off a phenomenal season, has come out on top in the Conference II finals, the team’s first championship victory since winning Conference III in 2011.

The deciding match, which took place on May 14, saw Massapequa crush Oceanside 5-2. The Chiefs fought hard in doubles, with duos Matthew Waterhouse & Alexandre Meirhaeghe and Mattias Nyitray & Thomas Finocchiaro winning each of their sets, though Oceanside was able to bring the match to a deadlock by winning two doubles matches as well.

It was up to Nasser Ghaffar, Thomas DaCosta, and Matthew Musalo to lead the team to the win in singles, and they did not disappoint. In second singles, DaCosta defeated Oceanside’s Mitch Pleasser 6-2, 5-7, 6-4, and in third

Conference II Champions | Tennis team wins big in final matches.

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who just sits on the bench,” senior Dan Sweeney said. “I hope the guys do well next year in Conference I.” The team, also known as “MRAWS” on Twitter (“swarm” backwards, a nod to the state championship-winning girls’ soccer team), has had a nearly unblemished record this spring. Massapequa won 14 of its 15 conference matches, its only loss to Herricks in a close 3-4. Even then, Herricks could not cross Massapequa without harm: in a May 11 rematch, the Chiefs pulled off a decisive 5-2 victory.

Despite the loss of several seniors, the team’s prospects look bright as it joins Conference I next year.

Boys lacrosse dominates in strong spring season despite setbacks

BY JENNIE TOUTOULIS STAFF WRITER

to finally get over that hump,” senior Griffin Konen said of the confidence boost early in the season.

Another major accomplishment for the Chiefs was their victory over Syosset, a formidable opponent early in the season. Though both teams were extremely determined to win, Massapequa would not accept a loss and pushed through overtime to win.

What separates the Chiefs from others in their division is their love for one another.

The boys consider each other brothers rather than teammates, and everyone helps each other out both on and off the field.

The guys used a phrase that shows their devotion to “This season has been about their team: “Hoka Hey.” This more than just wins and losses, but growing together and is a Sioux saying that teambeing able to move towards our goal.”

But what is The Troop’s

BY JENNIE TOUTUOLIS main goal?

STAFF WRITER The answer lies in the motto that each girl on the team Following a long, frigid lives and plays by: “One pitch, winter, the boys of baseball one goal, one mission, one were ready to get back to on team left.” Despite the close the field and back to work. Afgame that ended with a loss ter winning the Nassau Class against Oceanside, the girls AA championship last year, hope that in the future, upcom- the Chiefs were ready to begin ing players will help lead the the new season — but with a team to win counties and make new season, came new chalhistory for Massapequa. lenges.

Unfortunately, The Senior Dalton Zimardo Troop’s efforts fell short in the states that the biggest chalsemifinals of the playoffs as lenge the Chiefs had to face the team lost to Oceanside. was losing six of nine starting “Of course I wish our sea- players who graduated in the son could have continued, but Class of 2014. “All six of them I truly believe we played our were leaders who provided hearts out and left everything great encouragement towards out on the field,” catcher and other teammates,” Zimardo junior Darby Pandolfo said. said. “Leadership is what the “The program has a ton of po- Chiefs were searching for, and tential and our time for a coun- leadership is what they got.” ty title will come.”

The Chiefs dove full force

mates screamed to each other when times were tough, demonstrating their devotion to one another and to the group as a whole.

“Everyone has to have one specific mindset and grit to keep on moving forward... everyone is all in,” junior Nick Georgalas said.

Although they did not regain the state title—they lost in the Class A county championship game to Syosset on May 26— the season was successful overall. Clearly, this year’s team has proven itself to be an exemplary model for future Massapequa Lacrosse teams on and off the field.

KALLEIGH REGAN // THE CHIEF

A lot of pressure comes with defending the state champion title, and the Chiefs lacrosse team had to handle it from the start of the new season.

With such incredible talent graduating last year, the question of rebuilding remained as the Chiefs returned to the field.

Despite the fact that there was talk about whether the team would be able to continue its legacy, the boys of Massapequa Lacrosse have made it very clear: they are not rebuilding, but simply reloading.

And reload they did. Continuing their winning streak from last year, the team finished their season with a perfect 13-0 record and were almost never challenged, though their previous successes incited fierce rivalry with other teams. Not one team in their division wanted them to win the State Championship again, but that is definitely where they were headed.

The Chiefs’ biggest accomplishments this season were beating Chaminade and Garden City.

“We’ve never been able to beat those guys so it was nice

Softball finishes 13-7

BY JACKIE ANGELO COPY EDITOR

The girls’ softball team, otherwise known as “The Troop,” has had a great season, both on and off the field.

The Troop had a regular season record of 12-6, and 13-8 including playoffs. A major win came against East Meadow, who previously knocked Massapequa out of playoffs in the past three seasons. This year, pitcher and MHS senior Krista Carcaterra finished the game strong by striking out the East Meadow players.

“We went into the game with desire and dedication,” senior and captain Amanda Gallo said. “There was no way that history was going to repeat itself this year.”

The Troop’s success can also be attributed to the closeknit relationships among its members. “The Massapequa Varsity Softball Team is not just a team, but a family,” senior Stephanie Catoggio said.

‘Hoka Hey’ | Boys lacrosse finishes strong.

Baseball stops short of championship into the new season. The team’s seniors were ready to step up to the plate in hopes of making their vision of victory a reality.

“Coach told us on the first day of practice that this is our team and we need to take control of this team and lead,” Zimardo said of his responsibility. Without hesitation, the seniors took charge.

The Chiefs finished their regular season with a record of 12 wins and 5 losses — one stand out moment during the season was beating Farmingdale High School 15-0 at Farmingdale State College.

Perhaps the reason the Chiefs were able to achieve such an effective season was due to the team’s chemistry.

“I love our team. We all

get along great and pull for one another; we are a special group,” Donofrio said of his fellow teammates.

After losing to Syosset after getting a first round bye, the Chiefs’ season and playoff run has ended — but members of the baseball team remained grateful for their time as a Chief and for the lifetime friends they’ve made.

“Being a part of the Massapequa baseball program is really a privilege,” Zimardo said. He also added that he doesn’t take the fact that he gets to put on a Massapequa uniform for granted.

“No matter what happens I know that I will have these boys by my side,” Zimardo said “and I won’t regret anything when my time to step off that field comes.”