RAMESESCONY HIGH SCHOOL Augusta, Maine Volume II

Inside the Issue:Exchange Students.... pg. 2

Seeds of Peace.... pg. 3

New Classes..... pg. 5

Spirit Challenge... pg. 6

Cony History..... pg. 7

Cony Madrigals..... pg. 9

Spotlights..... pg. 10

Sports..... pg. 12

CW News..... pg. 14

Trivia..... pg. 14

Opinion..... pg. 15

Advice... pg. 17

And Lots More!!!

The new members of the 2014-2015 National Honor Society have been announced. Traditionally, the inductees are tapped on the shoulder by the veteran members at a school-wide assembly. This year, all 15 returners each had one person to tap, totaling 15 newcomers: 5 seniors and 10 juniors. These students were chosen by excellent performance in scholarship, service, character, and leadership.

The NHS advisor at Cony High School, “These candidates respect their teachers, their peers, their school, their community, and themselves.” Senora Livingston, mentioned. As an

Honor Society ExpandsNHS Welcomes 15 Newcomers

By Arika Brochu

advisor, she act as liaison between faculty, administration, students, and community.

To first be considered, astudent must have a GPA of at least 85 or above. They must then acquire a letter of recommendation and complete the application process. This year’s President of NHS, Courtney King stated, “To become a member of NHS, you must demonstrate the four qualities that are characteristic of the society.” Once one is inducted, they must continue these qualities

throughout high school. They must also continue to volunteer outside of school and record the hours.

Junior at Cony and new member, Morgan Wellman, is very excited to have been selected this year. “To me, being a member of NHS is a huge privilege. I have always been a person who wants to be the best I can be and I’m always looking to reach higher goals.” That is a commonality among all members, always striving to do better. Wellman stated, “I look up

to the people who are in NHS because I know they are the best of the best. It is a great honor to be selected.”

There are four officerpositionsthereturningclassmustfill.These positions are given to returning seniors who must be committed to the extra time and effort needed. To become one of these positions, you must volunteer yourself to be chosen. “I became President by applying for the position. I had to list the officerpositions I was interested in, and submit a writing piece about why I wouldbeafitforthepositionandwhyI wanted it,” Courtney King stated.

“I became President by applying for the position. I had to list the officer positions I was interested in, and submit a writing piece about why I would be a fit for the position and why I

wanted it,”-Courtney King

National Honor Society President Courtney King taps newcomer Andrew Levesque

The Old Cony: Inside

EditionBy Danika McCrum

When the old Cony closed down in the summer of 2006, the building was barren and empty. The hustle and bustle of the once very alive school was gone. It remained undisturbed for eight years until, according to the Kennebec Journal, the city agreed to lease the building to the developer, Housing Initiatives of New England Corp. for $1 for 49 years. Now the former school will be a 48-unit apartment building for

the elderly. This commenced new activity within the school, but instead of students, it’s construction workers.

With the construction now taking place inside, many questions have been raised. Teachers that taught in the old Cony were very interested in what was being preserved in the building’s conversion into a senior citizens’ home. Is the auditorium being kept? Is the grand staircase going to be removed? Everyone just wants to know what is happening.

On November 21st, community members took a tour of the

construction site. The tour started in the old auditorium, where the guests, including Cony’s own Tom Wells and a reporter, learned that the stage wouldbefullyrestoredwiththefloorsbeing redone and historical woodwork on the front of the stage being added back. The balcony will be kept, but is only accessible by maintenance.

It was also revealed in the KJ that there are apartments being built under the balcony in the back of the room. Cynthia Taylor, the president

“These candidates respect their teachers, their peers, their school, their community, and themselves.” -Mrs. Livingston

“To become a member of NHS, you must demonstrate the four qualities that are characteristic

of the society.” -Courtney King

The city agreed to lease the building to the developer, Housing Initiatives of New England Corp. for $1 for 49 years.

CONY continued on page 2

“To me, being a member of NHS is a huge priviledge... I’m always looking to reach higher

goals.”- Morgan Wellman

Now, the former school will be a 48-unit apart-ment building for the

elderly.

RAMESES PAGE 2

RAMESES STAFF

Advisor: Tom WellsEditors: Arika Brochu Robbie Buck Amelia Trudo

Staff:

Sabrina Bell

Paige Berube

Evan Bowers

Mitchell Caron

Benjamin Cloutier

Rebekah Davis

Meghan Foye

Samuel Glusker

Justine Griswold

Paige Lamarre

Ben Leet

Madeline Lewis

Danika Mccrum

Natalie Stillngs

Eric Sullivan

Tyler Tardiff

Jasmine Valdes

See Mr. Wells if

you would like to join the staff!

of the corporation, stated the intent is to make it into a communal space for the apartments. However, she has said she would like to let small community groups use the space occasionally.

Walking along the plywood temporarily covering the original hardwood floor which awaitsrestoration, the tour group made their way into the former chorus room. Now an apartment, it is a curved room with tall windows that has a view of the capital building and overlooks the Cony Circle. One of the tour guests joked, “Whoever gets that apartment won’t need TV with the free entertainment they’ll be getting from all the crashes.”

If there’s one thing that every teacher and student remembers about the old Cony, it’s the grand staircase that stands in the front entrance of the building. Coaches and athletes remember their teams running laps up and around the staircase during practices. Thankfully, the historical staircase will be kept, and like everything else in the building, be restored to its former glory.

By Justine Griswold

Cony has two new faces this year. Our exchange students, MeiLin Lu and Peian Huang, are from China, and are spending their exchange year here in Augusta. Although both girls are from China, Lu is from Shanghai and Huang is from Jiangxi Province.

Lu and Huang both said Maine’s climate was, “very different from what they were used to back home.” Where Lu is from, the trees don’t change color, so seeing the foliage this fall was new for her. Both Huang and Lu barely see snow in China, making Maine’s winter a shock to them. The weather is also a lot colder than what they’re used to.

Lu came to the U.S. because, “the United States is a country with so many different kinds of people from all over the world, and they don’t have so many rules… Everybody is free; they can do what they want.” Huang chose to be an exchange student because she wanted a year with less stress. Both girls are used to going to school for fourteen hours a day. They attend

classes from 6:50 a.m. until 9:20 p.m. They have nine during the day and three in the evening. “The schedule is too tight and I feel so stressed out. I’m here to have fun for a year.” Although Lu chose the United States, she didn’t get to choose what state she came to. With Huang’s exchange program she went through, there was no other option besides the United States; she didn’t get to pick what state she came to either.

Sydney Sansouci, Huang’s host, says the best thing about hosting her exchange student is, “being able to show her new things; it’s really neat to be able to share the American culture with her.” The Sansouci family had Lu over, and the two exchange students cooked a traditional Chinese meal for the family. Huang also showed Sansouci how to make dumplings. Sansouci says that, “Huang has transitioned well; getting comfortable with the family pets was something she had to adjust to, but now she’s perfectly content at home and at school.”

Lu has joined the swim team and is going to dance with Meylon Kenny in the Dancing with the Staff fundraiser in February. She also plans to be in this year’s Chizzle Wizzle, singing a song and playing the piano.

After this year, Huang plans to go back to China for her official

Cony’s Exchange Studentssenior year of high school. She would like to come back to vacation, but intends to live in China. Lu, however, plans to come back to the U.S. next school year and attend a high school in Los Angeles that has already requested her attendance. She plans to continue on into college here as well.

We hope that they’re enjoying their time here and are making the most of their stay in Maine. Welcome to Cony, girls!

CONY From Page 1

Rameses Trivia Contest Winner Ne-phi Beeckel Enjoys His Winnings

Try Your Luck on Page 14!

Lu is from Shanghai and Huang is from Jiangxi

Province.

“Maine’s climate is very different from what they were

used to back home.”

-Lu and Huang

“The schedule is too tight and I feel so stressed out. I’m here

to have fun for a year.”

-Meilin Lu Chizzle

Wizzle is

Coming

March

17th-20th!

RAMESES PAGE 3

Cony Current Events teach-erBruceCooper and his first periodclass recently started a project involv-ing Skype, to learn about the Ukraine and the problems it’currently facing. They did this by meeting and talking with a Ukrainian man over Skype. The man’s name is Volodymyr Lanevych; he is a priest in Ukraine.

Toni Cunningham, a deaf interpreter at Cony, mentioned her friendship with Lanevych to Cooper, and they were then able to use Skype to create a face to face connection with Lanevych. Students in his firstperiod Current Events class spent one week studying the Ukraine, and then, on December 1st, they were able to come up with their own questions and ideas to share with Lanevych.

Mr. Cooper goes UkrainianBy Paige Berube

When asked if there was a language barrier, Cooper replied, “He actually spoke English quite well. When we were talking to him he was actually in Maine visiting.” In many countries in Europe, like the Ukraine, four years of English is required in high school, making it common for many Ukrainians to speak English.

Cooper was glad that his students got the opportunity to speak with Lanevych. “They loved it and thought it was great. He talked a lot about day to day life, and he had two kids in high school.”

Every summer for one week, incoming seniors from all over the state are sent to learn more about our country’s government at a selected college campus. In 2014, the girls were invited to Husson University in Bangor, while the boys were invited to Thomas College in Waterville.

The delegates last year included: Sydney Sansouci, Arika Brochu, Meghan Foye, Mary-Margaret Kirschner, Olivia Rancourt, Ryan Dumont, Tyler Tardiff, Robbie Buck, Noah Gallagher, Shaun Gallagher, Mitchell Caron, Brandon Emerson, Ben Leet, Liam Stokes, and Thomas Foster. Delegates are chosen by guidance counselors and are funded by the American Auxiliary Legion.

The purpose of this summer leadership program is to get America’s youth, “more involved in politics through a hands-on educational experience,” senior Shaun Gallagher stated. Sydney Sansouci said, “the program was really educational. I feel like it helped me become more educated in today’s political issues and how the political process works.”

The week consists of town meetings, mock elections, law making, bill proposals, House of Representative and Senate meetings, party meetings, and the competitive race for governor. Both programs had a chorus and band, and Girls State even had a talent show.

At Girls State, the typical day started at 7 a.m., when the attendees gathered in the auditorium for morning announcements. The next fewhourswerefilledwithpartyandtown meetings, lunch, and break. In the afternoon the girls met with their parties or were directed to conference rooms to meet with either the Senate or the House of Representatives. The

Girl’s/Boy’s StateBy Meghan Foye

evening entailed dinner, evening announcements which were filledwith chants, songs, a talent show, and guest speakers, town meetings, and bed at 11 p.m.

Boys State wasn’t too different. “It wasn’t really a routine schedule. The only things that were consistent were town meetings, break times, the occasional band practice for us band nerds, and being up until 11 at night because of party meetings,” Gallagher said.

Both programs created new friendships for everyone. “I got really close with a lot of my fellow townsmen and I’m in touch with pretty much all of them on Facebook,” Gallagher commented. “I still keep in touch with my friends on Facebook where there’s a group for my town and a group for everyone who was at Girls State this year,” Sansouci stated.

Girls State and Boys State werebothamazingexperiencesfilledwith bright young people from across thestate.Sansouci reflected,“I’msoglad I had the opportunity to go and meet so many bright young women.”

International Gathering By Tyler Tardiff

At Cony’s annual International Gathering, the language department decided to change things up. Usually there is a large meeting in the CATC cafeteria, where all of the different clubs meet and share their food and traditions. This year it was in each individual room and classes rotated throughout each language: Spanish, French, Latin, German, and ESL.

Spanish teacher Gretchen Livingston said, “We wanted to do something more interactive with the students, and this was the most effective way to accomplish it.” Language teachers got an opportunity to talk to small groups one-on one, which made the learning experience more personal.

As always, it was a fun experience. People can learn interesting and new things about different cultures and try various foods. Erica LaPlante, a member of the Spanish club, said, “It’s a fun way to experience different cultures.”

Learning is not always best suited for books and lectures, and this is a good example. In that one hour of activities, students were able to learn about many events going on in the world today, and feel like a part of a different culture.

Cony’s language department succeeded in bringing all of this together. The diversity of languages and ethnicities in each room was astounding. When speaking about the International Gathering, Evan Bowers said, “I never noticed how much diversity is amongst us in our own school.” An event like this shows school spirit.

The clubs collectively work together to enlighten all the students, and it’s never about one club

Internationational Continued on Page 4

Volodymyr Lanevych: Priest in Ukraine

“He actually spoke English quite well. When we were talk-ing to him he was actually in

Maine visiting.”

-Mr. Cooper

Girls State: Husson UniversityBoys State: Thomas College

The purpose of this summer leadership program is to get America’s youth, “more involved in politics through a hands-on

educational experience.”

-Shaun Gallagher

“The program was really educational. I feel like it helped me become more educated in today’s political issues and how the political

process works.”

-Sydney Sansouci

“I got really close with a lot of my fellow townsmen and I’m in touch with pretty much all

of them on Facebook.”

-Shaun Gallagher

Winter

Sports

Teams:

Good Luck

In

Playoffs!

We wanted to do something more interactive with the

students.- Gretchen Livingston

“I never noticed how much diversit is amongst us in our own school.”

-Evan Bowers

It’s never a bad thing to broaden knowledge.

RAMESES PAGE 4

exceeding the other.

Students are asked to bring in a different food item from their culture. Food is one of the most popular parts of the gathering, so it’s key to have everyone participate. Thevariousflavorsfromeachculturespark interest within students, because who doesn’t love food?

It’s a good moment when groups can come together and learn more than what’s expected of them. It’s never a bad thing to broaden knowledge, and the international gathering is an opportunity to promote this. The efforts put in by the language department always makes for a great experience for the students. And with this effort, the Annual International Gathering will continue to strive.

International from Page 3

On Friday, December 12th, Cony’s Seeds of Peace alumni held an informative assembly in the auditorium. This gathering was directed towards freshmen and sophomores. The students running the assembly had an agenda that began with an overview of the program and concluded with sentimental stories regarding each student’s experience.

Located in Otisfield, Maine,SeedsofPeaceisaconflictresolutioncamp that attracts young activists from all over the world. There are two sessions, each composed of different campers; the first includescampers from Maine and Syracuse, and the second includes international campers.

Seeds of Peace attendee Ben Leet, who has attended once as a camper and once as a peer supporter, gave an overview of the program. He explained the ins and outs of the program, and remarked that, “kids come from all over the world with the same goal, to fix serious problems.”Leet continued by providing the crowd with a few anecdotes from his experience at camp.

Cony Junior Abby Silsby explained the credentials of the program, such as application deadlines and essay requirements. Each applicant must write two essays in order to be considered eligible.

Cony Seeds Recruit UnderclassmenStudents Promote International Summer Camp

By Robbie Buck

Silsby said, “My prompt was about a problem facing Maine. It was pretty easy; they don’t take very long.” The application is currently set for the middle of January.

After Leet’s introduction, several students explained various aspects of the program. Senior Mary Kirschner explained the dialogue aspect. Dialogue, which makes up a considerable portion of the camp, is a time where campers discuss problems in their communities.

Kirschner, who attended Seeds in 2013, went to camp in succession of her sister Nicole. Regarding her decision to apply, she said, “It was hard to understand people’s experiences from my sister’s stories, so I wanted to have my own.” The program celebrates having siblings attend consecutively.

Principal Silsby, who has made it her obligation to work with Cony’s Seeds, organized the assembly. Her goal was to promote interest, and increase curiosity about the camp. Sophomore Abigal Varney said of the assembly, “I learned that there is something for everyone to get out of it.” Silsby, who gave closing remarks during the assembly, hopes to send eight Cony students to Seeds of Peace this summer.

Ben Leet at Seeds of Peace International Camp

Senior FinalsBy Mitchell Caron

While the end of the semester is nearing, students are gearingupforfinalsweek,otherwiseknown as, “Hell Week.” However, not everyone is stressing.

For seniors who have grades of 85 or above, they do not have to take afinal.Theygettosleepinandenjoytheir day knowing underclassmen are takingfinals.

Samuel Glusker, a senior explained, “I believe not being able to take thefinal is a reward for seniorswho have been here for four years. They deserve to be able to sleep in andrelaxonfinaldays.”However,hedoesmention that “if thefinal couldbenefitthestudent,evenasenior,theyshould be mandatory.”

Sophomore Sabrina Bell said, “If they deserve it, give it to them. If I was in the same class as a senior who didn’thavetotakeafinal,Iwouldn’treally care…” Underclassmen know when they become seniors, they will get to relax, and not worry about these last couple papers.

Teachers are on board with this as well. Sarah Moore, a Latin teacher at Cony, said, “I’m completely for letting seniors be exempted from taking finals.” However, shewishes the benchmark to achieve this exemption would be higher. With a higher grade, teachers would be much more willing to pass over seniors for theirfinalgradegettingdone.

The application period is cur-rently set for the middle of

January

“Kids come from all over the world with the same goal, to fix

serious problems.”

-Ben Leet

“It was hard to understand people’s experiences from my sister’s stories, so I wanted to have my own.”

-Mary Kirschner

Wrapping Up the Giving Tree

By Meghan Foye

During the month of December Cony students and staff donated 650 gifts, along with $155 for the Key Club’s Annual Giving Tree, compared to last year’s 720 gifts. These items were donated to families in need. This year’s homeroom heroes were Tom Wells’ freshman class, which collected 140 gifts. The class was awarded with a breakfast pizza party the day before holiday break.

Key Club advisor Zachary Freeman’s goal for this year was 1,000 gifts, but it was not reached due to an apartment building in Augusta that burned down. The apartment building housed some of Cony’s students, and the Key Club felt that they should help the students with hospital bills and new clothes. “We raised 1,000 dollars for the students during the same time frame that we raised the 650 gifts for local students,” Freeman said.

The Key Club’s next big project will be raising money and collecting nonperishable foods for the Cony Spirit Challenge that is being held by WGME 13 in the month of January.

“We raised 1,000 dollars for the students during the same time frame that we raised the 650 gifts for local students.”

-Mr. Freeman

The efforts put in by the language depart-ment always makes

for a great experience.

“I learned that there’s something for every-

one.”-Abigail Varney

“I’m completely for letting seniors e ex-empted from taking

finals.”-Sarah Moore

GOSEEDS!

RAMESES PAGE 5

There are several new courses being offered at Cony this year, including five required classesand two electives. The new required classes include freshman social studies, introduction to statistics, and three integrated sciences.

Journalism, a new elective, is a popular class. The course used to be incorporated in creative writing. “I like the class. It helps unleash my creativity,” said Meghan Foye.

Each year, there are many students who want to be on the newspaper. Splitting creative writing into two classes gives students, who may not want to be in creative writing, the chance to write for the Ramses and earn a .5 credit at the same time.

Another elective offered this year is Jobs for Maine Graduates (JMG.) The course is taught by Dana Bushee, in CATC.

JMG focuses on helping students with choosing jobs, resume writing, and other useful tools that get teens ready for the real world. The class is only offered to juniors and seniors.

Introduction to statistics is one of the new required classes. Students are able to take the .5 credit course at any point during their firstthree years. It will prepare students who are interested in taking advanced placement (AP) statistics.

Integrated Science has been split into two-quarter classes. An additional quarter course has also been added to the science department’s course list. Those that teach the new science classes include Jeff DeJongh, Maggie Wachtl, Karen Davis, and Steven Scoville.

The three new classes are: Physical Science (comprised of chemistry and physics), Earth/Space Science, and Engineering/Environmental Science. Before, Physical and Earth science made up the integrated science curriculum. The big question is why?

Last year the Next Generation Science Standards were altered. The Cony science department was faced with a problem: New science standards meant new material, and there is no way to teach it in one integrated science class. Therefore, the class did not meet the new requirements.

Mr. DeJongh, department head, came up with the idea to split integrated science into two courses (makingschedulesmoreflexible)andadd an additional class.

“They’re reinforcement for classes taken in the future, ones that aren’t required for graduation,” said DeJongh. At the same time, the new classes cover the new science standards sufficiently. “I believethey’re necessary in order to meet the science standards. We’ll see if they’re beneficial in the end,” saidMs. Wachtl.

Upperclassmen feel an additional .5 requirement may be an interference in students’ high school plans. “I haven’t heard any whining or complaining,” said DeJongh. “My hope is for the students to understand that failing one of the three will make them realize they need to do better the next two times.”

New Classes at ConyBen Cloutier

Each Cony band/choir performed 3-5 songs at the annual holiday concert (2-4 at the shortened concert). Familiar songs were played such as Carol of the Bells by the Madrigals, but a few unique songs were played as well.

The Concert Choir did a mashup of 12 Days of Christmas, which featured other Christmas classics like Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, and also featured Africa by Toto. New songs were also performed, like Betelehemu, which was in Nordic, Into the Clouds, and Avalanche, sung by the band.

With a large amount of songs being performed, a lot of time and practice went into each one. Noah Cicia, bass voice in Madrigals, said they started practicing at the beginning of the year.

The Concert Band and Chorus practicedeveryotherdayduringfirstperiod. The Madrigals practice for two hours after school every Monday, and the Jazz band practices for two

Annual Holiday Concert

By Eric Sullivan

hours every Wednesday.

Before the concert, it was important for everyone to practice and warm up so they would be ready to perform. Cicia said it was important for everyone to stay on note, especially the Madrigals, due to the small number of singers.

After months of practicing, both the chorus and the band were ready to play a 1-2 hour long concert for their audiences.

Overall, most people enjoyed the concert. Cicia felt that they all did a great job, and enjoyed all the songs they performed. He preferred the night concert, since it was longer than the school concert, but still enjoyed both. The band and chorus will now begin to practice for their next upcoming concert in the spring.

Band students perform at winter concert

Writers Wall of Fame

By Sabrina Bell

During a recent teacher’s workshop, on an early release day, the English department fervently preached to all teachers the importance of writing, even in a science or math class. An idea “popped into” Shawn Totman’s mind: a board where student writing could be showcased.

“We have trophy cases to honor sports teams and bulletin boards for Chizzle Wizzle, and the National Honors Society,” said Totman, a history teacher at Cony. “I thought it would be cool to have a board to celebrate incredible pieces of writing.”

Tom Wells, head of the English department, agreed. Dubbing it the “Writers Wall of Fame,” Wells said it will be a way of, “promoting writing across curriculums,” by, “highlighting all grade levels and all subjects.”

Principal Kim Silsby stated, “Since there are writing standards in each subject and in every career out there a focus on writing will help with things beyond just the new Common Core standards.”

“I like the class. It helps unleash my creativity.”

-Meghan Foye

“They’re reinforcement for classes taken in the future, ones that aren’t required for

graduation.”-Mr. Dejongh

“They started practicing at the beginning of the year.”

-Noah Cicia

“It was important for everyone to stay on note, especially for

the Madrigals.”-Noah Cicia

The Cony Science Department was

faced with a prob-lem.

The band and chorus will begin to practice for their next upcom-

ing concert in the spring.

The Writers Wall of Fame will be replacing the Class of 2017’s board in the food court and is planned to be updated every month. However,

this depends on the amount of papers that are selected to be showcased by teachers.

Writers Are Cool

“There are writing standards in every

career, so a focus on writing is important.”

-Principal Silsby

RAMESES PAGE 6

Cony Participates In the Spirit Challenge

RAMESES PAGE 7

Choosing a career path is a huge decision. One day one might think of becoming a surgeon, and the next about becoming a teacher. As students continue onto college, that decision might change, even as many as six times before the right choice is found. However, there are certain people who know exactly what they want to be and how they are going to get there. Among those who took a different route to their final careerare Cony High School Assistant Principals Bruce Dostie and Stewart Brittner, and teacher Laurie Rodrigue.

Many people would not know that Dostie previously studied at Maine Maritime Academy to become an engineer, but realized he wanted to go into law enforcement instead. After becoming a local Augusta policeman, he traveled to Wiscasset andworked as a security officer forMaine Yankee, a nuclear power plant. At this time he started coaching youth programs. “I began coaching youth football and high school hockey in my home town and fell in love with it,” he said. During this time there was talk about the local plant closing, and Dostie took this opportunity to go back to school and become a teacher, which would allow him to continue coaching.

While Dostie was on his way tobecomingapoliceofficer,Brittnerwas attending Elmira College to earn a degree in biology. While in college, Brittner worked as a substitute teacher, and after graduating, he realized that he wanted to go back to school to become a science teacher. After being a teacher for 10 years, Brittner decided he wanted to be more involved and went back to school to get a masters degree in in school administration. When asked if he’s happy with his career decisions, Mr. Brittner said, “I enjoy working with others to make high school as successful as it can be. I still miss teaching science, but greatly enjoy my career as an assistant principle.”

Another teacher who followed this “crooked path” is Rodrigue. She started college at Orono as a Psychology Major, but she soon realized that was not the career

The Crooked PathTeachers Take Alternative Route to Teaching

By Madeline M. Lewis

for her. Rodrigue took some time to workandtraveltofigureoutwhatshereally wanted to do. She soon started working as an Ed Tech, which was when she realized she wanted to work with high school students.

She went back to school to become a history teacher, but realized that Englishwas the best fit for her.Regarding why she loves teaching English, Rodrigue said, “I love teaching English because I’m not just passing on facts; literature offers students a fresh way to look at the world.”

Cony High School’s founder, Daniel Cony, served as a physician, senator, town officer, and judge inAugusta. His daughters, Susan, Sarah, Abigail, and Paulina, were his sole purpose in founding the school.

Girls back then could only receive an education that went up to the sixth grade. Therefore, Cony’s daughters weren’t allowed to go to an Augusta High School. Society simply wouldn’t allow it. So Cony started his own school, and since orphans couldn’t go to school either, he allowed female orphans to attend. The institution was opened in 1816.

The school was called Cony Female Academy. It was located on the corner of Bangor and Cony Street. The head of the school, or the firstprincipal of Cony, was Miss Hannah B. Aldrich.

The Female Academy moved across the street in 1844, then closed in 1857. In 1881, a new building was constructed that was open to both males and females. History teacher Bruce Cooper said, “My understanding is that they re-named it Cony Free High School.”

In1930,theflatironbuildingwasconstructed.Thename,“flatironbuilding” originated in New York City. At a time when there was a high demand for buildings, and not enough space, narrow buildings were theperfectfit.Fromabird’seyeview,these buildings look like an iron that’s used on clothes.

The building is now listed in

Cony’s HistoryBen Cloutier

the National Register of Historical Places in Maine, thanks to the efforts of a former band director, Michael Martin. Perhaps the most well known event to be held here is the nation’s longest running student-organized performance: Chizzle Wizzle.

Chizzle Wizzle originated as a football fundraiser in 1892, and has evolved into the longest running high school production in the United States. The name “Chizzle Wizzle” comes from one of Cony’s old cheers: “Chizzle Wizzle, Chizzle Wizzle, sis boom bah! Cony High, Cony High, rah,rah,rah!”ThefirstChizzleWizzleearned the new football team $224.

At the turn of the 20th century, Chizzle Wizzle introduced the minstrel/olio format for the show. From 1900 to 1963, the minstrel show featured End Men, who painted their faces black. “That stopped as soon as it became clear that it was politically incorrect,” said Cooper. The “black-face” Chizzle Wizzle logo was designed by Ken Dixon in the 1920s.

In 1964, Errol Reed created a new Chizzle Wizzle logo that featured a derby hat, a microphone, a banjo, and a tambourine. The same design was used for several years. Today, new logos are created each year; all still incorporating the four items.

Chizzle Wizzle booths have always been an important part of the tradition. Back then, not only was home-made food being sold, but also Hawaiian leis made by the students. A gypsy was also there to tell fortunes, and boys could pay for a kiss from one ofthegirlsstaffingthe“PostOffice”booth.

In 1991, which marked the 100th anniversary of Chizzle Wizzle, French teacher Mr. Richard Ayotte, also known as “Mr. Chizzle Wizzle,” ended his 32 year career as director.

In 1965, a new high school was built where Hannaford now stands. According to Cooper, when he firststartedteaching,therewereover1,600 students. With more mills and businesses back then, there were far more students than there are now. The building itself was considered one of the largest high schools in Maine.

In the 1980s, the new Cony building was considered old. It wasn’t until 2006 that the current school was built adjacent to the Capital Area Technical Center (CATC). Three years later, a middle school was incorporated in the upstairs corridors.

View from window of original flatiron building.This room used to be the chorus space.

Photo by Wells

The Club That Goes OutMitchell Caron

The Outing Club at Cony High School recently received a grant for $500.00 from the organization “Teens To Trails.” Members of the club will be purchasing all new, or “like new,” equipment for their everyday outdoor activities.

Brenda Weis, the leader of the Outing Club, plans to buy “a one, two burner camping stove, and a cook-kit. We are also looking into the Maine Huts and Trails overnight camp which will entail snowshoeing and cross country skiing.”

Outing Continued on Page 11

“I began coaching youth football and high school hockey in my home town and fell in love with

it,”

-Mr. Dostie

“I enjoy working with others to make high school as suc-

cessful as it can be.” -Mr. Brittner

“I love teaching English because I’m not just passing on facts; literature offers students a fresh way to

look at the world.”

-Mrs. Rodrigue

The Female Acad-emy moved across the street in 1844, then

closed in 1857.

The building itself was con-sidered one of the largest

high schools in Maine.

It’s not often that a per-son truly knows what he

wants to do for the rest of his life.

RAMESES PAGE 8

For the 2015-16 school year, the English Department at Cony will be offering two new courses – Mentoring Writers: Peer Editor Instruction, and Senior Seminar.

The Mentoring course, an elective, will prepare students for a writing lab at Cony, where students can conference with each other about their writing and receive an SI credit. Students enrolled in the course will be taught the writing process and how to give feedback on papers. At the same time, students will leave the class with the ability to apply what they’ve learned to their own writing.

The quarter class will be a requirement before a student can participate in the lab. Most every college in the U.S. has a writing lab. Therefore, colleges will be receiving students that are already trained in one.

The Mentoring class will be heavily linked to a similar class held at UMA. Cony will use materials and content provided by Professor Elizabeth Powers. Students from her class will come to Cony and assist the teacher, currently intended to be Tom Wells, in instructing the course.

“I’m very excited about [the class],” said Wells. “It will give opportunities to kids that they don’t currently have.”

Ultimately, the English Department’s other new course, Senior Seminar, could be a requirement for seniors. During the 2015-16 school year, the class will be piloted, and will satisfy the required English IV credit. If the class goes well, it may replace English IV.

Elements of the Senior Seminar class would include 45-50 hours of field work, college/workreadiness, written work, and a formal presentation. The course would lack the literature element, which would make the class the only English course thatdoesnotrequirefiction.

“English IV and Senior Seminar both prepare students for their futures. The Senior Seminar will enable students to focus their attention and study an area of interest for the student’s future,” said Principal Kim Silsby.

“It would allow students to ‘customize’ their education to more fully prepare themselves for their chosen path,” said Laurie Rodrigue, who would teach the course.

Field work would not be required outside of school; it would take place during class. Options for

New English Courses Next Year

By Ben Cloutier

fieldworkwouldincludecommunityservice/outreach, internship, or a project/product.

“I am really excited about the possibility of two new English classes next year,” said Silsby. “It is a positive change to the English department because the Mentoring class will help us move toward a writing lab at Cony. The Senior Seminar will provide students with an opportunity to culminate their four year experience [here].”

On February 11, 2016, Señora Livingston, Spanish teacher for Cony High School, and 26 students will be traveling to Guatemala as support teams for Safe Passage, to work with Guatemalan students. These trips happen every two years as part of the Safe Passage support team program.

Safe Passage was created in 1999 by the late Haley Denning, as a reinforcement center that provides classes and supplies for the poor Guatemalan children. Many parents of these kids don’t have an education, and are forced to work in the City’s Garbage dump for cash. Support teams were created in 2005 to bring Spanish students from Maine to help and to experience the culture of Guatemala. Livingston went with a support team in 2008, and was so impressed, she wanted to let her Spanish students be part of the program.

Since then, Livingston has formed a support team with her students every two years. They work with Guatemalan children in classrooms, talk to each other in Spanish, bring projects that they can work on together, and help them with their English. They also visit the preschool to play with the children, and do chores for the school, like

Guatemala TripBy Eric Sullivan

working in the kitchen or checking stock.

“We do what we can,” said Livingston. “For them, it’s amazing for someone to care and to come help.”

This year, Livingston will be taking two support teams with her, as well as Kim Silsby, Principal of Cony High School, and Amanda Bartlett, part of the Augusta School Board. A big trip such as this requires a lot of planning, and money. They need to raise at least two-thousand dollars for the trip before they leave. They mostly fund themselves, however they do mini fundraisers such as giftwrapping at Barnes and Noble, and ask local business for donations.

Livingston describes the whole trip as “really rewarding, but draining,” which is why she plans these trips every two years. She enjoys bringing her students to Guatemala because it expands their horizons of the world, and gives them a chance to practice their Spanish. She also said they get paid “with hugs” for their services.

Emily Russell visits with a child in a Guatemalan school

Facebook Photo

Magnificent MuralsBy Meghan Foye

Soon, Cony will have a new addition to its walls. Seniors Taylor Gustin and Hope Hoang have designed a mural that will be painted onthebackwallofroom36(OfficerSmith’soffice).

Officer Smith enjoyed thepoppy flowers that were hung fromthe ceiling of the art wing, and asked art teacher Jason Morgan if she could have some for her office. Hementioned to her that some of his students wanted to create a mural. She was happy to say that her room was available if he needed a space. “I have no windows, so it’s pretty drab in here,” Smith said.

After Hoang and Gustin received permission from Principal Kim Silsby, the girls measured the dimensions of the wall, and got to work. “I researched some mural ideas and then added my own style,” said Gustin. “The design is supposed to symbolize creativity and expression of soul and art.”

Morgan will help the girls with scaling, as well as give his artistic opinion. Most of the paint will be donated by companies and people from around the community, but Hoang said, “I’m sure the art department will be more than willing to let us use their supplies.”

Gustin hopes that painting this mural will start an artistic movement within Cony. “Schools are very institutional; there’s not a lot on the walls. I like the idea of having the students put stuff up, and it’s there for future generations to see,” Smith. Some teachers have even shown interest in creating more murals throughout the school.

Both Hoang and Gustin are looking forward to leaving a stamp on the school that they will remember forever.

“English IV and Senior Seminar both prepare students for their futures.

-Ms. Silsby

“I wanted to bring my students to Guatemala to expose them to a third-world country and show them how

fortunate they are.”

-Mrs. Livingston

Senior Seminar will pro-vide studens an oppor-

tunity to culminate their four years’ experience.

- Principal Silsby

They need to raise at least two thousand dol-lars for the trip before

they leave. They do fund-raisers...

RAMESES PAGE 9

At Cony High School in Augusta, Maine, there are all the classic events that happen: major sports games, pep rallies, and just regular days of school. But, people don’t always know about another “team” you have to try out for.

The “Madrigals” of Cony are regular chorus students who audition for a group that gets together on Monday nights and right after school on Wednesdays. They perform at concerts with the regular chorus as well.

Senior Arika Brochu is in her third year of being a Madrigal. She said, “It’s a commitment, but it’s worth it in the end.” Brochu knows, “its hard to make every practice or rehearsal,” but she thinks, “it’s rewarding when family and friends are clapping for you, and also knowing you sounded good.”

The Sensational SingersCony Madrigals are the Best of the Best

By Mitchell Caron

Madrigals also travel to different schools within the community to sing around Christmas time. They perform fun songs with the children, as well as their normal routine.

SeniorBenLeetisinhisfirstyear as a Madrigal. He was asked last year to join, but never did – he regrets this decision every day. “Now that I realize how much fun it is, I can’t believe I didn’t do this last year.”

Being in the Madrigals can be stressful for some people. Not everyone can handle what it takes, but that’s all right. “Mads” isn’t for everyone. Members have to be willing to learn the new music every session, and to be focused the whole time. Sure the group has laughs and fun travelling together, but they know how to get work done.

A Club to Be Proud OfBy Sabrina Bell

Five years ago, Cony’s Gay-Straight Alliance wasn’t recognized asanofficialclub.However,thathaschanged. With more members than ever before, the group has plans for fun activities and a focus on increasing the “safe and inclusive” nature of the school. There are definitely thingsto look forward to for advisor Kevin Dutil and his club members.

So far, the GSA has had movie days, discussions, and participated in LGBT History Month in October. For LGBT month, the club celebrated National Coming Out Day and Ally Day. But after the group’s upcoming hiatus (chosen by Dutil) from the end of November to the beginning of January, there are many more things to come.

Musical duo, The Veayo Twins, otherwise known as Kristen and Katherine, made their way into Cony students’ hearts with their concert about anti-bullying on November 24th in the William & Elsie Viles Auditorium.

The concert was put on by Erika Bush, who manages public relations for the Kennebec Valley YMCA, and Jan Rollins, the middle school’s vice principal. Together, they generated ideas for collaboration.

Their ideas then went to the Cony Leaders Enrichment Program, led by Mike Griswold. Griswold is the Youth Program Coordinator and Camp Director at the Kennebec Valley YMCA. They developed the concept of an anti-bullying assembly. The twins were a no-brainer for this assembly, because of their no bullying prerogative.

Bush wrote in an e-mail, “They deliver an inspirational message, targeting the pain and alienation that teens can face in today’s culture.”

When asked what future events were being planned, Dutil said the group was, “working towards Diversity Day,” which will occur sometime in January. The GSA is going to fundraise in order to attend the Rainbow Ball and Conference at the University of Maine at Machias in April. Fundraising money would also advance a scholarship to go along with the Courage Award, a prize given to Aiden Campbell last year.

Along with finally beingrecognized as a formal club, the whole LGBT community has a lot to celebrate. 36 states now legally recognize gay marriage, instead of the 19 that had previously legalized same-sex marriage. This news, as well as upcoming events, can be seen on the GSA’s bulletin board in the food court.

The Veayo Twins Come to ConyTwin Musicians Wow Students

By Danika McCrum

The Veayo Twins started using their music to spread awareness about bullying and how to stop it after being bullied themselves in school for having stutters. Using that personal experience, they explained the dangers and consequences bullying can have.

Many students were inspired by their songs and dialogues in between because they could relate to the situations. Regarding the performance, senior Robbie Buck said, “Using music was a great way for them to convey their message because it’s really easy to relate to it.”

They performed twice with their guest singer/keyboard player, Carter Isaac, once for the middle school, and once for the high school. They sang “Radioactive,” “All of Me,” and several self-written songs, along with a few more covers. They said in a Q&A at the end of the show that performing for high school students was nerve-racking because they never know how the older students will receive their music.

Their nerves were unnecessary, considering the loud applause that followed each song. Many students even lined up after to get their pictures taken with them.

Cony Madrigals Perform at Carols by Candlelight

Does this look like The Three Stooges?

Photo by Caron

“It’s a commitment, but it’s worth it in the end.”

-Arika Brochu

“Now that I realize how much fun it is, I can’t believe

I didn’t do this last year.”

-Ben Leet

“Using music was a great way for them to convey their message because it’s

really easy to relate to it.”

-Robbie Buck

The GSA is going to fundraise in order to

attend the Rainbow Ball and Conference at The University of Maine,

Machias.

Thirty-six states now legally recognize gay

marriage.

The group knows how to get work done.

RAMESES PAGE 10

A sophomore at Cony High School, Marlys Riedkyt, has lived in Augusta, Maine her whole life. She attended Gilbert Elementary School for kindergarten, then Temple Academy in Waterville for firstthrough eighth grade, before she came to Cony as a freshman.

When people talk to Riedkyt, they turn a blind eye to her because of her small stature. Her size shouldn’t speak to her personality, but unfortunately it does.

“She’s sweet, kind, and funny. If we weren’t friends I’d never know her amazing personality that’s hidden within a small, silent girl,” said sophomore Samantha Melgar, close friends with Riedkyt. She feels that students, and even people in general overlook her because of her size.

She’s often wished to be taller, normal sized. “Marlys is a sweet girl, I couldn’t imagine not knowing her. She’s amazing and helpful, always wanting the best for anyone who isn’t at theirs,” said Señora Gingras.

Riedkyt has managed to audition and get accepted into the Cony Madrigals. She also played basketball her freshman year and participates in the Outing Club, Drama Club, Spanish Club, and the program Big Brother Big Sister.

She hopes to go to college when she graduates from Cony with the class of 2017, though she’s not quite sure what she intends to study, but she knows she will.

Spotlight: Marlys Riedyk

By Rebekah Davis

Shawn Mackbach: CATC Student of the

Month By Paige Lamarre

Cony senior Shawn Mackbach was student of the month at CATC for the month of November. His tremendous effort in Building Construction won him the award. This is his second year participating in Building Construction, and his work ethic from last year has definitelypersisted.

In order to receive the student of the month award, students must have a teacher recommendation. The Building Construction teacher, Mr. Baker, had nothing negative to say about Mackbach. He stated that Mackbach’s “willingness to give extra time and effort to his own chores and even others chores” makes him stand out. The Student Services Coordinator at CATC is Stephanie Turgeon; she along with Mr. Baker had wonderful things to say about Mackbach. Turgeon said, “Shawn has a positive attitude all the time. He comes to class every single day and just wants to learn.”

Traveling the Road to Success

By Madeline M. Lewis

The CATC Law Enforcement Program has helped many people over the years by providing them with the necessary training to pursue their dreams. The program has especially provided Zachary Tobias with the training that has helped him get to where he is today.

While Tobias was enrolled in the CATC program, his teacher, Peter Couture, helped him realize that he wanted a career in law enforcement. Looking back at the Law Enforcement program, Couture had nothing but compliments regarding Tobias as a student. “Mr. Tobias was a very good student; he displayed professionalism, discipline and respect throughout the program,” said Couture.

After graduating from Cony High School in 2008, Tobias enlisted in the United States Army, in which he served until May of 2013. Once he had honorably separated from the army, he applied to become a policeofficerwiththeAugustaPoliceDepartment.

Both Tobias and Couture believe that the CATC Law EnforcementcoursegreatlyinfluencedTobias to accomplish all that he has. Tobias said, “Throughout the Law Enforcement Program, Mr. Couture, along with a long list of distinguished guest instructors, provided a plethora of training and education that helped prepare me for where I am at today.”

CATC Spotlight: Zackery Folsom

By Meghan Foye

On display at the Northeast Motor Expo the weekend of January 10th will be Cony student Zackery Folsom’s race car design. Drawn as an assignment for his Graphic Design and Printing class at the Capitol Area Technical Center, and as a submission to a contest held by the Agape Children’s Connection, Folsom said that the project was a fun one.

Tech Center teacher Jessica Douin was approached by Corey Folsom, a former student and father to Cameron Folsom, a driver at the Wiscasset Speedway. Corey Folsom served as the liaison between Douin and sponsor Debby Pastrana Williams—CEO of Agape Children’s Connection and mother to Travis Pastrana, founder of the hit MTV show Nitro Circus. Pastrana gave third place to Samantha Dowe, second placetoLukeDuchart,andfirstplaceto Zack Folsom. Williams stated, “This decision was not easy, as many of the entries were extremely artistic and creative.”

Pastrana enjoyed Folsom’s design, and said the lines on his car design were “clean, yet creative.” Douin said, “Zack is a creative student who likes to jump beyond basic skills to enhance his designs and seems to enjoy learning about different aspects of the design industry.”

Folsom’s inspiration came from, “a team based out of Need for Speed,” a popular video game series. “I was excited to know I won because I get to go to the expo and the design is going to be on a car which will be on a race track and be seen by the public,” said Folsom. Though he will not be involved in the process of painting the vehicle, he will see the finishedproduct at the expo.

The Technical Center worked closely with Agape Children’s Connection, which is a non-profitorganization that helps over 200 orphans, 300 lepers and 200 widows in South India. The money raised by this foundation feeds, clothes, shelters, and educates children while sustaining a loving environment away from the violence, neglect, and trafficking that they endure on thestreet.

CATC Student of the Month Shawn Mackbach

Donated Photo

CATC Continued on Page 11

“Marlys is a sweet girl, I couldn’t imagine not

knowing her.

-Senora Gingras

Tobias enlisted in the United States Army, in which he served until

May of 2013.

“Shawn has a positive attitude all the time. He comes to class every single day and just wants to learn.”

-Stephanie Turgeon

She also participates in the Outing Club, Drama Club, Spanish Club, and Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

CATCROCKS!

RAMESES PAGE 11

Last year the Building Construction class built a house in Cony Village. Mr. Baker didn’t think Mackbach would have a huge role in building the house, but he was quickly reassured. Mackbach loved helping out with the house at Cony Village. He used one of his free periods at Cony to go and work on the house more than any other student. Baker said, “He extended his Cony lunch and came to the site every day. We set upaseparatebusjustforhimtofithisschedule.”

Mr. Baker thinks it’s a strong possibility that Macbach will make this a part of his career someday. “He appears to enjoy it and he’s a great role model for all my other students” Baker said, and also said “he always has a smile on his face even when life deals him rough cards.” That alone makes him an outstanding role model.

CATC Continued From Page 10Spotlight: Lisa PlourdeBy Madeline M. Lewis

Cony High School has many important faculty members, but as far as the students are concerned, Lisa Plourde may be among the most important. Located adjacent to the Guidance Office, Plourde is Cony’sCareer Development Facilitator. In the little time that Plourde has been at Cony, roughly four years, she has helped numerous students.

When Plourde is not teaching the career unit, testing students, or answering questions about college searches (the common application and FAFSA), she is heading the scholarship committee and planning the Heritage Tour Trip.

Plourde stresses the importance of all four years of high school. She is here to help students in any way they need. “It’s all important, and going to follow you later on. Students don’t always understand why they are learning certain things in classes, but the classes are here to help prepare you for the rest of your life. They teach you to work through situations, and use that information is various ways,” said Plourde.

As busy as Plourde is, she’s always willing to make time to listen to a student. She said, “The most rewarding part of my job, is getting to know the students and helping them achieve their goals, whether those are academic, career or military based.”

A long list of new additions to the 2014-2015 Cony staff have arrived. After the recent departure of two science teachers, Cony was in need of a new teacher. Steven Scoville, who recently taught in Pittsburgh, moved to Maine when his wife got a teaching job at Unity. When Cony had a Physics position open, it seemedlikeaperfectfit.

His love for Physics is obvious through his many unique activities and his large knowledge of the subject.

“It started when I read a book called Surely You’re Joking, Mr. Feynman; the way he talked about stuff and the way he thought about stuff just made a huge amount of sense to me. When I thought about teaching and interacting with high school Students, I wanted to be able to give them something both challenging, but also useful at a deep level.”

The Renaissance ManScience Teacher Mr. Scoville

By Tyler Tardiff

Mr. Scoville is very unique when it comes to his teaching methods. When teaching torque, he used a variety of different experiments to help get the idea across. This included ahumanflagpoleonadesk(holdingyourselfstraightout likeaflagonlyusing arms, wrapped around the legs of a table), and balancing rock towers out in the Cony Rock Garden.

Making rock towers is something that kids do, but incorporating it with center of gravity and torque makes it that much easier to comprehend.

Physics is the application of math on everyday events. Scoville said, “If physics wasn’t interactive then it would just be a math class.” He not only believes in this, he lives it every day. He has a very good reputation among students.

“He is my favorite teacher I have ever had,” said one of his current students, Sydney Ieng. “He knows how tomake a difficultconcept fun, which makes the class understandable.” His methods work with his students, and Cony is lucky to have him.

Mrs. Dumoulin By Sabrina Bell

New to the Capital Area Technical Center is Melissa Dumoulin, a CNA (certified nursingassistant) instructor. In the words of Jim Holland, the director of CATC, Dumoulin has “lots of experience,” and student services coordinator Stephanie Turgeon described her as “an overall great teacher.”

While attending college, Dumoulin worked as a CNA at the Maine Veterans Home. She then went on to work for 13 years in the operating room at the Maine Medical Center in Portland.

While “taking pride in sharing [her] knowledge” with her 20 students, Dumoulin teaches them how to transport and feed patients when they are unable to do it themselves. She takes students to nursing homes and the hospital to practice the skills they have learned through labs and textbook work.

She came to teach at the CATC because she “needed and wanted a change from [her] previous work.” Dumoulin even received her own certification from the sameprogram and feels “very fortunate to be able to teach it now.”

There are more perks to taking the CNA program besides being taught by a passionate instructor. Students earn their certificate afterearning an average of at least 70, completing 70 hours of clinical time, and passing the state exam. They can then immediately go out and get a job

Andrew Levesque, a junior at Cony, and a three-year member stated, “This club is a great way to get outside with people you know and have fun.” His favorite trip so far has been to Saddleback Island. “The campers stayed in a cabin for a couple days and (we) cooked our own food. It was a great experience.”

Tyler Tardiff, a senior at Cony, said regarding the outing club, “I believe if more advanced technology is brought into the Outing Club,therewillbeavastinfluxofnewmembers willing to travel around with this prestigious group.” He believes the student body will also be attracted tomorefieldtripstakenafterschool.

Samuel Glusker, also a senior at Cony, proclaimed, “I would think the money would be spent on more upscale trips, for example, skiing or white water rafting. They could also perhaps rent a bus to travel to more scenic areas of the state.”

Expect a great increase in the members of the “not-so-known” Outing Club with this new grant.

Outing From Page 7

Career Counselor Lisa Plourde

“He knows how to make a dif-ficult concept fun.”

-Sydney Ieng

“He extended his Cony lunch and came to the site every-

day.”“Students don’t always understand why they are learning certain things

in classes, but the classes are here to help prepare

you to work through situations.”

-Mrs. Plourde

“I wanted to give them something something both challenging, but also useful

at a deep level.”Mr. Scoville

His methods work with his students,

and Cony is lucky to have him.

Students earn their certification after completing

70 hours of clinical time and passing the state exam.

RAMESES PAGE 12

As the school year rolls along, the winter sports season quickly kicks into gear. As one of the most well-known Cony sports, Cony Girls Basketball is “looking to improve every practice and every game.” Although the team has lost quite a few of its key players, Coach Ted Rioux said, “I do think this group will surprise people. They are talented, they just don’t know it yet.”

This year, there are two seniors, Becca Coniff and Hilary Tyler. Coniff is very excited about this year. She said, “It’s only been a week and I can already see the team bonding better than anyone could have hoped. There’s really no seniority line; everyone is there to work hard and help make each other better,” Coniff stated This year, there are only 18 girls in the entire program, almost half of them freshmen. Coniff said, “I really hope the team focuses on gaining confidence.We have theskill, but your first year of varsitygames is always nerve wracking, and having so many people without varsityexperience,Ithinkconfidencewill be the key.”

Coach Rioux is looking for a growing year and is not worried about the team’s record. “When the effort and execution is there, the record will take care of itself.” When describing the team’s strategy, Rioux stated, “Offensively, we will look to score quick off transition if possible. Score off our defense if possible.” The team is going to focus on the “execution” and “energy in the gym.” Coniff’said, “Our success will be based on our hard workandconfidenceinourselvesasateam.”

As a school, we have a tradition to uphold. “WE ARE CONY...everyone is our rival. Everyone wants to beat us. When Cony comes into the gym, we understand that due to a long line of tradition we will get everyone’s best game. That is why every game will be intense and competitive.” Rioux is looking to keep the Cony pride alive throughout the CGBB season.

CGBB is Back!By Arika Brochu

Photo by Scoville

Cony girls basketball speaks at Spirit Challenge

This year, the Cony Swim Team will have more than 40 swimmers. There are many beginners on the team, and a lot of experienced swimmers, such as Anne Guadalupi, a sophomore, who has been swimming for 10 years and plans to be on the swim team for the rest of her high school career. Guadalupi ran cross-country in the fall and was already swimming year round on the KVYMCA team before joining Cony’s swim team. “I like swimming because it’s something I love and the team is like my family.”

Jon Millet, the Cony swim coach, thinks Guadeloupe will beat some school records, as well as some of her new swim mates. Millet has high expectations for his swimmers and hopes that they will all improve. “I think that the team this year will be better, not that the team last year was bad. We gained some more talented swimmers and both girls and boys will have more records.

Last year the boys won 6/9 meets and girls 8/9,” stated Millet, comparing last year from this year’s team. Millet thinks the competition

Swim PreviewExciting Newcomers Produce

By Jasmine Valdes

thisyearwillbemoredifficultbecauseeveryone is working their hardest and will be swimming better than ever. “It’ll be challenging, but that’s what makes it fun”.

Some new faces on the team are already showing progress, like Dylan Tudeen, a junior, who plays football in the fall, and plans on swimming next winter as well. Being a lifeguard for the YMCA, Tudeen thought it would be fun to actually swim himself. This is sophomore Mckenzie Coulumbe’s first yearswimming on the team, and she plans to be swimming until her senior year aswell. “During the fall I triedfieldhockey and fell in love with the sport. I thought ‘Maybe if I try swim, I’ll fall in love with this too.’”

Bowling Team Blues

By Meghan Foye

Most people don’t know that Cony has a state championship winning bowling team, but they do. The team consists of five members:Jessica and Matt Gargiulo, Nathan Boothby, Natalie Stillings, and Gabby Brown—a student from Hall-Dale.

The bowling team practices on Mondays, and has matches on Thursdays. They hold their practices at Sparetime Recreation in Hallowell. Their first match was held onThursday December 4th at their home alley, where they scored 10 out of 19 points.

Gargiulo explained, “For matches we bowl two regular games andabakerstylegame.Therearefivepositions, and in order to get points you have to bowl a higher game than your opponent.”

In 2011, the team took home the state championship, and were praised by the school and the community. Since then, the bowling team has almost vanished. When asked about the bowling team, senior Ben Cloutier said, “I had no idea that there was a bowling team.”

The team had been listed as a sport in 2011, but has since been removed from the list. Senior Madeline Lewis said, “I believe that the bowling team is a team, and therefore should be recognized as one.”

Even after the neglect, Gargiulo feels that the team has, “a good year in the running already.”

The Hype for Hockey

By Samuel Glusker

Temperatures are dropping, snow is falling, students are wearing warmer clothes, and fall has come to pass. Winter is upon us and the hype for hockey has come. This year Cony has a shot at making a good run in playoffs.

Chad Foye and Shawn Johnson lead the team as the coaches this year, and they hope to see great sportsmanship from all their players. Foye stated, “I’m very proud of this year’s team; there are a lot of great kids with potential.” Evan Bowers, a senior captain, hopes to make a top spot in playoffs. Bowers has been playing hockey since he was three years old and is the starting left wing for Cony. He is one of four seniors for varsity hockey: Spencer Buck, Dakota Benson, and Tyler Curtis.

Hockey has one of the largest turnouts for school sports; tickets are priced at two dollars for students and 4 dollars for adults. The Bank of Maine IceVaultcanfitabout600peopleandoffers public skate week days with a disco theme every Friday night from 9pm till 11pm. The team practices everyday from 2:50 to 4:30, working hard on conditioning and puck skills. Lifting is also a part of practice to help with the players’ muscle strength and skating. Protection is a must for hockey, so the team is outfittedwith new helmets to cope with head injuries and pads for body shots

This year Cony received a brand new locker room for hockey at their home rink. The room contains new seats, shelves, showers, and a TV. As a senior captain, Bowers is responsible for watching the remote as well as motivating the team and making sure they stay focused. Evan said, “Being a senior captain is a responsibility; it’s a job where motivation and leadership come together.”

Cony has begun its preseason with two games so far, both a win and aloss.TheirfirstgamewillbeginonDecember 6 against Bonnie Eagle, at their home rink. Hockey and football attract the most fans for Cony, and it’s expected that they will contribute the most for funding upcoming sports. Mitchell Caron stated, “Every team has great potential, but it’s up to them to find it.”TheRams hope to finishthe season strong, whether it’s with a state title or a good spot in playoffs.

“I like swimming because it’s something I love and the team is

like my family.”

-Anne Guadalupi

“I’m very proud of this year’s team; there are a lot of great kids

with potential.”-Coach Foye

“During the fall I tried dield hockey and fell

in love with the sport. I thought ‘Maybe if I try

to swim, I will fall in love with this too.’”

-Mckenzie Coulumbe“Being a senior cap-tain is a big responsi-

bility.”-Evan Bowers

RAMESES PAGE 13

“How did youget so smart? Let’s schedule

the appointment now!”

GO CONY

RAMESES PAGE 14

Cony High School produces the longest running variety show in American history — Chizzle Wizzle. In order for it to run smoothly, there is an Executive Committee appointed. Recent appointees are: Kathryn Schneider - President, Olivia Rancourt - Vice President, Robbie Buck - Producers Assistant, Madeline Lewis - Program, Michael Rice - House Manager, Lexi Lettre - Tickets, Iris Alexander -Make up, Brooke Pietri - Backstage, Alexis Libby – Ball.

Although the committee is composed of many different teachers and students, the most important position is the Producer, held by Lindsay Morin. “I believe the importance of the Executive Committee, other than continuing the tradition, is to have a group of focused people working together to support and put on the best show possible” said Morin. Because the committee is vital to the smooth running of the show, every student representative must undergo an interview.

Morin stated, “The interview process is to pick the ‘best of the best’ candidates that want to build a successful show.” During the interview, the students applying are asked questions about their qualities and how they could use these qualities

Executive Committee Importance

By Madeline M. Lewis

to benefit the executive committeeteam.

As there are many great qualities to every person, “The qualities we look for in an executive member would be leadership, dependability, organization, creativity, a good communicator, team player, someone who takes initiative and is resourceful,” said Morin. As the executive team has recently been announced, the student representatives are excited to get the ball rolling.

“The show has developed greatly, and there are so many components that it really requires a team.WefindCW takesonawholenew meaning for students when they are part of the executive team; it takes a lot of extra work and time.”

Chizzle Wizzle Pins

By Paige Berube

For many years the Chizzle Wizzle pin has been a staple in the shows theme, but where did it really come from? When the tradition of the Chizzle Wizzle pin began, it was the same for many years. The pin depict-ed a man in black face, but this was changed in the 1960’s during the civil rights era. After the pin was changed, students started designing their own pins for the variety show.

All Chizzle Wizzle pin de-signs must have a tambourine, a bowler hat, a microphone and a banjo, incorporated into the picture in some way. The pins also must follow each year’s particular color scheme, which usually consists of three to four col-

ors. After the black face pin was abol-ished, the Chizzle Wizzle committee had to hastily come up with a new design, which is where the tambou-rine, a bowler hat, a microphone and a banjo came from.

All the pin designs are sub-mitted to art teacher Jason Morgan. He then gives them to the Chizzle Wizzle executive committee. The ex-ecutive committee looks through them and picks their favorite. This is all done anonymously to ensure there’s no bias while choosing. Any student can make a pin with a template, which can be acquired from Morgan in room 307.

The 2015 Chizzle Wizzle pin, created by Taylor GustinPhoto by Gustin

Cony’s Chizzle Wizzle is the longest running student run variety show in the United States. Students are assisted by adult directors, but they generate all the ideas for the show. Students come together and make up skits and dances, and then audition in front of the show’s executive committee. Robbie Buck, senior and Lindsey Morin’s producer’s assistant, said, “Chizzle Wizzle begins with a series of auditions and culminates with four performances at the end of March. Students perform dances, skits, and songs; the show is divided into two sections. I’ve anticipated my senior Chizzle Wizzle immensely and I am so excited for it to come to fruition.”

The executive committee has final say on what goes into theactual show. Christina Claudel, a senior who has performed in the show before, said, “The directors basically have complete control over your skit, and most times your skit completely changes from the audition to the actual performance time.” The directors and executive committee will combine

skits if they believe it’s needed or that it will enhance the performance. Also, they will often change the way skits, dances, or songs are performed if they think it will help.

Heather Akeley and Maggie Wachtl, heads of the Program Committee, are in charge of creating the programs for the show. Akeley said, “I think the original audition skits, songs, or dances are changed and polished for the better before being performed to the public.” The method of changing skits over the period of time from audition to performance has worked for the past 124 years, with this year being the 124th Chizzle Wizzle show. This method appears to work pretty well.

Chizzle Wizzle: Audition to Performance

By Paige Lamarre

TriviaAnswer the questions below and bring them to Mr. Wells in room 2004. If you are the first one to do so and the answers are correct, you will win a pizza, personally delivered by Mr. Wells.

1. Where did Mr. Dostie go to college?

2. In what year did Cony Free Academy open?

3. How much money did the Cony Outing Club receive in their most recent grant?

4. Which UMA professor has helped design the Mentoring Writers class at Cony?

5. Which organization does the Spanish Club support in Guatemala?

6. Who is the advisor for Cony’s Gay/Straight Alliance?

7. Who from the YMCA helped bring the Veayo twins to Cony?

8. In which year will Marlys Riedyk graduate?

9. CATC Student of the Month Shawn Mackbach is involved with which program?

10. In which city did Mr. Scoville teach prior to Cony?

11. Who are the two seniors on the Cony girls basketball team?

12. How many seniors are there on the Hockey team?

13. Who designed the Chizzle Wizzle pin?

14. Who heads the program committee for Chizzle Wizzle?

15. How many college credits can a Cony student earn while attending high school?

16. From what country are Cony’s exchange students?

17. Where was Boys’ State held?

18. In Seeds of Peace, what New York State city is the Maine Seeds partner?

19. What does JMG stand for?

20. Which Cony teacher is pictured with the Ram at the Spirit Challenge rally?

All the pin designs are submitted to art teacher

Jason Morgan.

“The executive com-mittee... is a group of

focused people working together to put on the best show possible.”

-Lindsey Morin

“The show has devel-oped greatly and there are som many compo-

nenets...”-Lindsey Morin

RAMESES PAGE 15

Hundreds of students at Cony High School have jobs. They range from working with fast food, to groceries, and clothing. Unfortunately, many students are unhappy with their jobs.

If you think about it though, it’s not at all unfortunate. “Bad” jobs, in my opinion, give students a better sense of motivation when it comes to their education, in hopes that they won’t end up with a bad job in the future.

“I think it’s important for students to understand the limitations of minimum wage work and to set themselves up for better options,” said English teacher Martha Pelletier, who previously worked at McDonalds and Howard Johnsons.

Tyler Tardiff, a senior at Cony and Hannaford employee, said that it’s not the pay, nor his coworkers that contribute to why he dislikes his job. “I stock shelves, so it’s pretty boring and isolated.” When asked if his job motivates him to be successful after high school, Tardiff responded, “Now I know [what it’s like to have a bad job]. I plan to go to college so that I’m not stuck there my whole life.”

Opinion: After School Jobs

It’s Not Much Fun

By Ben Cloutier

College Opportunities in

High SchoolBy Justine Griswold Dear Juniors,

Walking across the Civic Center stage on graduation day does not happen without incredible desire. For years and years, Cony students have worked tirelessly to earn their diplomas, and the right to walk across the stage at the beginning of June. However, this revelation may not occur if this “desire” is absent.

Rewind to junior year, where motivation seems to begin its digression for most students. A time where the pressure seems to be off; most students perceive this period as purgatory. You are halfway through high school. Sports and social lives take precedence, and academics take a back seat. Novelties like driver’s licenses and cellphones plague your mind, and change your overall goals. This mindset is common, and utterly detrimental.

As a fellow teenager, I can relate to the struggle of balancing the social and studious aspects of high school. It is a cycle that only you yourself can regulate. The key is organization. Take the extra time to jot down due dates, and develop a plan that will ensure the assignment gets finished. For myself, I foundsmall strategies like this extremely beneficialtostayingafloat.

Distractions are natural, and it is frankly impossible to avoid them. However, it is how you respond to them that will make the overall difference. By knowing when a distraction is looming, it will increase your ability to stay on task. It is imperative, especially in the classroom, that you stay aware of your surroundings and make smart decisions.

Staying involved is also crucial. Extracurricular activities like clubs and sports are important, and deserve your time. By joining a club or sports team, you are dedicating yourself completely to that activity. Always take this into account when signing up. If you cannot balance everything else you have going on, leave it to someone else who can make the commitment.

To add to the stress, I urge you to begin thinking about post-secondary education. College is not as far off as you might think. It will only benefit you to start searchingfor schools that you believe to be compatible with your characteristics. Go on collegeboard.com and do your research. Although monotonous and altogether boring, it has to be done. Don’t put yourself at the disadvantage, when just a little effort here and there can easily put you ahead.

It’s What You Make It By Robbie Buck

The Common Application, which I’ve found to be the most convenient tool in applying to college, becomes available at the beginning of August. Summer may not be over yet, but becoming familiar with the program now is essential. Senior Arika Brochu says regarding the application process, “It is never too early to begin anything.” Frankly, most of the application is personal informationthatcanbefilledoutwithhelp from your parents.

The Common App is connected to a surplus of schools in the United States. Some, however, cannot be found on the website. If you question your school’s availability on the Common App, address that as soon as possible. It would be a travesty to have to apply alternatively last minute.

Amidst your summer shenanigans, ask yourself, where do I want to be after high school? Summer is the ideal time to visit colleges. Whether it’s a day visit or an overnight, seeingthecampusfirsthandmightbethe deciding factor in your journey. If not, begin narrowing the pool of institutions you are considering. By the beginning of senior year, it is ideal to only to have a handful left. This process of elimination will make your experience with the Common Application much easier.

Now ask yourself, ‘Are you on track?’ If the answer is yes, I commend you. Brochu said, “I think my hard work in high school has and will pay off in the long run.” It is important to recognize your efforts, andremainconfident.

I was not prepared, and I have experienced a rude awakening thisyear.Teachershavefinishedtheirtenure as babysitters, and expect you to do most things on your own. Senior year is about you, and if you findyourself answering no to the above question, it is time to see the bigger picture. Junior Michaela Rice said she’s, “coming to terms with the fact that the year after, I am on my own.” This apprehensiveness is natural, and should not hold you back from achieving your aspirations.

This is your life. The preconception that senior year is easy is false. More effort is required now more than ever before. Take your goals into account, and your commitments, and devise a plan to persevere. If you can do this for yourself, you should be walking across the Civic Center stage with pride.

Most students look to take AP classes to receive college credits. However, there is an alternative. The University of Maine at Augusta, along with other colleges around the state, have a program for upperclassmen in high school that allows them to take college courses. If the student passes the class, the credits will transfer over to their college transcript.

This past semester I took Sociology and Acting 101 at UMA. I filledoutanapplicationfortheHighSchool Aspirations Incentive Program with my guidance counselor at Cony, and then went over to UMA to choose my classes. You can pick your classes with your guidance counselor at Cony, but I wanted to experience what it was like choosing college classes in a real college environment.

I met with an advisor that helpedmefindclasses thatwouldn’tinterfere with my high school schedule. Sociology was every Monday from 4 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., and Acting 101 was every Thursday from 7 p.m. to 9:45 p.m.

It gave me a taste of what I would be dealing with next year as a freshman in college. The classes I took were entry level, so they’re what I would be taking as a freshman, and theyweren’t difficult.Next semesterI’m taking psychology.

Through this program, you’re allowed to take up to six credits per semester for free—each class is three credits, so that’s four college classes that you could have under your belt before you even begin college.

It’s an even greater opportunity for juniors because that entails eight classes, or 32 college credits before graduating high school.

I wish I had known about this program sooner because it’s an amazing opportunity to gain some college experience as well as get ahead of the game.

10 Ways to Make It Through High School

By Ben Leet

1. Relax: Stress is a common cause for low grades. It will make your high school career hell if you are always worried. If you balance studying, homework, and free time correctly, high school can be a breeze. Now that isn’t always easy, but if you just take a second and breathe, everything will be alright.

2. Stay with Friends: Friends make life a lot easier – they’re someone to have your back, a person to hang out with when you’re bored, and someone that

10 Ways Continued on Page 16

“I stock shelves, so it’s pretty boring and isolated.”

-Tyler Tardiff

That’s four college classes that you could have under your belt before you even

begin college.

“I plan on going to college so I don’t have to be stuck

there my whole life.”-Tyler Tardiff

Sports and social lives take precedence, and academics take a

back seat.

Teachers have fin-ished their tenure as babysitters, and

expect you to do most things on your

This IsYour Life!

It gave me a taste of what I would be dealing with next

year as a freshman in college.

I wish I had known about it

sooner.

RAMESES PAGE 16

writes a little bigger on their test when you forgot to study. They make high school a lot more fun and it’s even better to see them down the road at a reunion and say “Remember that time we…”

3. Be Active: Join all the clubs, teams, and groups you can. You will meet a lot of new people and have a lot of fun doing it. It keeps you active and out of trouble.

4. Stay out of Trouble: There is no need for partying, breaking rules, and being careless. Being chem. free with your friends is more fun than getting busted at a party and losing your eligibility to play sports. When you’re not worried about getting into trouble, having fun is a lot easier and causes zero problems. Be good!

5. Stay Focused: You are on your own. You chose your classes, teachers won’t help you if you don’t give any effort, and grades will slip very fast. It’s very easy to keep your grades up, but just as easy to let them fall. Stay focused and there should be no problems with keeping your grades up-to-par.

6. Don’t Worry About Your Image: Everyone believes you have to have the perfect image… It doesn’t matter. Let everyone be who they want to be, and just be yourself. It makes life a lot easier.

7. Stay out of Drama: With social media comes drama. Trying to be the most popular, having the most likes, and looking the best are everyday competitions that turn into drama fests. When drama happens, it brings stress, which negatively affects school work. If you stay out of drama, your grades will stay up.

8. Listen To Music: This makes the day go by faster, makes a bad day seem alright, and gets you excited for the game after school. Maybe if you’re not a sociable person, it gives

10 Ways Continued from Page 15

you an escape to your own world. It really enhances everything.

9. Have a Purpose: Everything you do should have a reason. Whether it is to make school work easier, prepare yourself for college, or just to stay active. When doing things for a reason, it gives you a reason to succeed and when you do, it feels outstanding. Stand for something.

10. TAKE ALL THE CLASSES YOU CAN WITH MRS. RODRIGUE!

You’re LateBy Robbie Buck

Cony students receive little-to-no sympathy from staff regarding late issues. When students accumulate six tardies, they are issued a detention. Their parents are notified of theproblem and they are continuously punished after every three subsequent tardies.

Is this an effective system?

Cony Senior Olivia Rancourt, who is quite familiar with the repercussions of tardiness, feels that, “the policy is harsh.” Rancourt has served several detentions for her tardiness, and understands that her trouble with punctuality is a problem. However, in Rancourt’s defense, the system does not allow students any explanation. Without a written note, which is not always possible, a student is considered unexcused.

Rancourt explained that sometimes her mornings do not go as planned and that unique circumstances often arise; “There have been times my car broke down orIwasstuckintrafficandhadtopayunfair consequences.” In a situation where a student does not plan for events to take a turn for the worse, it is incredibly unfair, and impractical to punish them.

Aside from the policy itself, does

it actually motivate students to be on time?

Senior Taylor Gustin stated, “Knowing that you’ll be punished for coming to school two minutes late doesn’t make a student want to come to school at all.” An interesting notion, this policy undoubtedly increases the stress students feel regarding school.

Students, like Gustin and Rancourt, work very hard academically. To issue them a detention reflects negatively uponthem and creates an unwanted stigma.

Revising the system would maintain Cony’s goal of emphasizing the presence of all students, but would also create a better understanding between students and staff.

Gustin, who has also faced theramificationsofthispolicy,stated,“We should have some sort of appeal before action is taken so that reliable, responsible students aren’t unfairly punished.”

To what extent the appeal process could reach is questionable, but nevertheless is food for thought.

Currently,allseniorsgetfirstquarter privileges, regardless of their grades from the previous school year. That is the one perk they are “entitled” to. Some students believe that senior privileges should be extended for the entire year. I disagree.

Entering senior year, I knew I was goingtohavefirstquarterprivileges.What I didn’t know was that colleges lookvery closely at thefirst quarter.Had I known earlier, I would’ve put more effort into my school work in-stead of going out for lunch every day.

Allowing seniors to have privileges all year could give them the idea that they are entitled to special treatment. If they are allowed to have year round privileges, why shouldn’t they be given a pass for being late or be allowed to skip a class since they aren’t doing “anything important” that day?

If seniors want to have some-thing only seniors can have, get rid of privileges for juniors and make it something to look forward to when they reach the last year of high school. Abie Whitney, an Ed Tech here at Cony, says that when she was in high school at Skowhegan, privileges were a senior only thing.

Giving seniors privileges they haven’t earned is a bad idea. If they didn’t earn them, it will encour-age them to try harder. If they did earn them, they will have pride in them-selves for working hard.

Senior PrivilegesBy Danika McCrum

The Working ClassBy Mitchell Caron

Students today are driven to perform in the classroom. They are encouraged by their parents, teachers, and peers to outscore one another. But how is this all affected by after school activities, like jobs?

All teenagers should get jobs of some sort in high school. Jobs teach responsibility, which every student nowadays needs. Students will also learn to budget their time, and juggle school work into their now rigorous work schedule. Sarah Moore, a teacher at Cony High School, gave input on after school jobs. “I think jobs can be beneficial, but schoolworkalwaysshouldcomefirst.”

Jobs can be a hassle. They make people exhausted and stressed. But people need money to live. With everyday expenses increasing, more and more people in high school are turning to work just to make ends meet.

Courtney Harrington, a senior at Cony High School said, “The money I make while working goes to stuff like gas money, so I don’t have to ask my parents for as much [cash] anymore. My parents have given me so much over the years, it just feels good to help repay them back in a way.”

Students my age have to pay for food, gas, and random expenses which can total around $100.00 a week. Many students today are spoiled and don’t have to work for themselves; their mommy and daddy give them anything they ask for. Money is usually the go to for people.

Evan Bowers, also a senior at Cony, said, “It’s hard work. Sometimes I work an overwhelming amount of hours after school, while other times I only work a few hours. I have to usually hurry with my homework to get ready for work, so much of my homework is only half

Working Continued on Page 17

“The policy is harsh.”

-Olivia Rancourt

“Knowing that you’ll be punished for coming to school two minutes late doesn’t make a student want

to come to school at all.

-Taylor Gustin

This policy undoubted-ly increases the stress

students feel regarding school.

“We should have some sort of ap-

peal.”-Taylor Gustin

RAMESES PAGE 17

Working from Page 16

done most the time.”

Tyler Tardiff, another senior at Cony said, “School is a job in itself – you spend a lot of time away from home, so you have to manage your time very wisely, which is hard to do. It can get very stressful.”

Bowers and Tardiff both work an average of 15 to 18 hours a week. They work for what they use. Both pay for their own gas and insurance on their vehicles, as well as their food. Bowers plays hockey and baseball, works, and is on the honor roll. Tardiff plays basketball and baseball, works, and is also an honor student.

Both should be looked at as idols. They work hard and still manage to find the time to sleep.They’re determined, and they prove that it’s possible to be successful in high school with a stressful, rigorous workload.

Dear Taylor,

I like school and enjoy my classes. I am here to learn and want to go to a good college.

The problem is that there are a number of kids in my classes who act like idiots. Most are boys and it appears all they want to do is hit one another, make fun of one another, and talk trash. It really detracts from the class and my learning.

I want to tell them to grow up, but I don’t want to get beat up? Help!

Signed,

Frustrated Female

Dear Frustrated,

Boys are stupid. That’s a fact. I don’t care what anybody else says… I’ve done enough field research to tell you that there will never come a time where boys will no longer be idiotic. Darwin’s survival of the fittest? Yeah, that’s where women came from. We’re a hybrid. With this superhuman gender comes a responsibility: we must deal with the idiosyncrasies. I know it’s much too easy to become distracted by these idiots, but focus yourself on your goals. High school is over before you know it. It seems like I blinked and suddenly I’m a senior, awaiting college acceptance letters and chewing my fingernails because I’m so stressed and frustrated and annoyed with my surroundings. So bite your pencil and your tongue and focus on those big goals, and forever remember that you will push through this and go farther than any of the stupid boys who distract you from your learning. It’s normal, and almost expected. You go, girl.

Dear Taylor,

What is it with high school girls? I just don’t understand them. All they want to do is bash on one another and make fun of each other’s clothes. If classmates don’t wear the “right” things, they take abuse from their “friends.”

They also gossip about one another and just won’t leave their petty little world. They talk about one another on social media and spread rumors. Why can’t they get excited over something important, like sports or video games? Now that’s important.

Signed,

Manly Man

Dear Manly Man,

I’d like to start off this reply by stating you are probably not too manly since you’re complaining

about petty girls. As stated in my previous answer, boys are idiots. But that’s not where it ends. Yeah, women are typically advanced maturity wise but that doesn’t make us perfect humans. Girls suck, too. They are vicious. I hate being a girl sometimes, I hate that I think so much about what to wear and what other people are going to think of what I wear, post, think, eat, etc. The list goes on and on. Being a girl is hard, though. We are constantly fearing that somewhere we are being ripped apart in a group chat or snickered at behind our backs. It’s stressful. So if we can’t beat em, we join them and that’s not quite fair either. Sure, you might think your video games and sports are what make the world go around, but be careful what you throw around as the center of the universe, you might just be labeled slightly misogynistic. All around, people suck. We are the only ones with the power to make ourselves good people. Focus on you, kill with kindness, and the rest follows. Living with a positive outlook will only push for a positive result.

Girly Girl

Dear Taylor,

I am a freshman here at Cony and I’m very confused. When I first arrived I was scared of theupperclassmen. I would avoid them when I was in the Food Court and in the hallways. I couldn’t look them in the eye or I would start shaking and eventually start crying.

Recently (middle of the year) I am feeling a little more comfortable around them. I even have some of them in my math class. They seem OK, but I’m not sure.

My problem is that I want to approach them, but don’t know how. I really am afraid of looking stupid and them making fun of me. I feel like we might even be friends, but I just don’t know how to initiate this friendship.

What is your advice?

Signed,

Fearful Freshman

Fearful Frosh,

Seems like yesterday I was a freshman myself, slightly afraid of the big kids and the upperclassmen whofilledthehallways.You’renotassmall as you seem, but you’ve had the wrong idea. You don’t need to walk on eggshells...for the most part. Sure, it’s a good idea to stay out of the way of the seniors and keep quiet. If you feel like branching out, I would encourage it. Most upperclassmen aren’t as bad as they seem. We’re only big and scary from a distance, really. We’ve all been freshman. Most upperclassmen

The TestBy Ben Leet

The famous SAT, a test that tells college if you are a good enough student to fit their criteriafor acceptance. Forget previous accomplishments, forget the hard work put in to study for every test – itdoesn’tcomparetoafive-hourtest(soon to be eight.) Three scores added up to one can be your ticket in, or out, of college. As one that does not excel in standardized testing, I am completely against this test.

The test consists of an essay, followed by three subjects: math, reading, and writing. How can one test asses if you know these simple subjects? Why, if you have one bad day, could it affect your entire life? It’s a cruel game to win.

Yes, some kids do excel at these tests but they aren’t always the best workers. It doesn’t demonstrate the students’ efforts in school. How cansomeonebeputinaroomforfivehours and expected to produce their best work? Just thinking about the test makes it seem more and more bizarre. Senior Tyler Tardiff stated, “It’s not an accurate representation of your knowledge.”

Worse than that, it’s not an accurate predictor of college success. College is more than just being smart. It revolves around one’s character. There are tests thrown at students that can’t be graded. Tests like how to cope with a roommate, how to balance all the homework, and the strength of their independence. College can be a struggle and a test doesn’t show one’s strength.

Luckily enough, some colleges are realizing this, and are making it optional to send in SAT scores. That sounds great but there is a small problem. If student A has the same GPA as student B, but student A sends in his/her score while student B does not, who does the school choose? Even if student B will perform better in college,theadmissionsofficewillseethe test score and make the selection based on that, and not their strengths. Schools have dug themselves a hole thatisdifficulttogetoutof.

There is a solution- cut it. Make it fair to everyone at every learning level. If schools looked more in depth at what classes kids take, their extracurricular activities, and their overall high school performance, then the system would be much more precise. High School classes would mean so much more to students because then it would be their only way to get into college; they couldn’t just slack off and get a good score on their test. In life, one big event doesn’t give you a promotion; it’s all the little things, such as character and work ethic, which push you past others.

who label underclassmen as “stupid freshman” or any other derogatory digs are only saying it for some power trip. Really, we’re no better. I’m pretty young for my class, and to tell you the truth there are some sophomores who are older than me. If you wanna reach out, do it. My favorite tool of life is to kill people with kindness. It goes a long way. It’s really hard to be mean to people who offer you nothing but kindness. If, however, you find your kindness unrequited, you are better off without this super senior in your life. A great number of the best friends I’ve had the pleasure of meeting have been underclassmen. These relationships are beneficial to both parties. Underclassmen get knowledge and wisdom, and upperclassmen get some small feeling of being needed and appreciation. The best way to reach out to people who are not in your grade or your classes is to join extracurriculars. I met a lot of my very good, even young, friends when I joined varsity cheerleading. You’d be surprised the acquaintances you make in sports and other extracurriculars. Go in with confidence and humilityy… you’ll be fine. Oh, and don’t blink...in no time you’ll be the upperclassmen.

Taylor’s Two CentsAdvice Column By Taylor Gustin

“It’s not an accurate representation of your

knowledge.”

-Tyler Tardiff

Both pay for their own gas and insurance on

their vehicles, as well as their food.

They’re determined and they prove that

it’s possible to be successful in high

school....

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