THE YTHE YTHE YTHE YTHE YORK PREPORK PREPORK PREPORK PREPORK PREPARAARAARAARAARATTTTTORORORORORY SCHOOL NEWSPY SCHOOL NEWSPY SCHOOL NEWSPY SCHOOL NEWSPY SCHOOL NEWSPAPERAPERAPERAPERAPERVVVVVOLOLOLOLOLUME 10, ISSUE 2, DECEMBER 7, 2015UME 10, ISSUE 2, DECEMBER 7, 2015UME 10, ISSUE 2, DECEMBER 7, 2015UME 10, ISSUE 2, DECEMBER 7, 2015UME 10, ISSUE 2, DECEMBER 7, 2015

THE PAWThese days, high school students are more and more

invested in the current political affairs of the world.One rising trend among high school students that hasdisplayed the growing interest in politics is their activeparticipation in Model UN, and York Prep’s growingModel UN club is evidence of that fact. Accordingto Mr. Buckley, thefaculty advisor of theclub, students whoare interested in poli-tics tend to be curiousabout why things arethe way they are.Also, they tend tohave ideas and opin-ions about what couldbe different and bet-ter about the worldthat we live in.

One of the topicsthat will be discussedat the Model UN con-ference at the UnitedNations InternationalSchool in December is the rights of prisoners. Manypeople are becoming more conscious of how America’spolicies affect prisoners, and how these policies affectour society and our lives. Students who are interestedin issues of social justice have been considering someof the following questions: How do we treat people whohave broken the law? How do the policies and our treat-ment impact everyone in society? And what does thatsay about us as citizens, as a society, and as a country?

Students are not reading about global political newsand participating in Model UN solely to check off theextracurricular box on their college applications.

Students who participate in Model UN conferencesread about and are genuinely interested in nationalpolitical issues, diplomacy, and international relations.Politics are not only about laws and government, butalso about what type of world and society we want tolive in. According to Mr. Buckley, everything from the

speed limit on NewYork City streets tohealth insurance isthe result of politicaldecisions that indi-viduals and a group ofindividuals make. Wemay not always no-tice the way it affectsour lives, but everyaspect of our life inAmerican society isgoverned by politicaldecisions that politi-cal leaders make usingthe power that wegive to them as citi-zens in a democracy.

According to Mr. Buckley, “It is very important tobe aware of current events and be broadly educatedbecause we live in a democratic country. Since thepower in our government comes from us and theinformed consent of the people, it is important for usto be informed about the meaning and the consequencesof the government’s decisions.” If people are notinformed enough to make decisions for themselves, theytend to let others make decisions for them. This is verydangerous, and corruption flourishes in a society wherepeople do not pay attention to the government andcurrent events.

(Continued next page)

The York Prep Model UN Club

PPPPPolitics: Beolitics: Beolitics: Beolitics: Beolitics: BeyyyyyondondondondondLaLaLaLaLaws and Gows and Gows and Gows and Gows and Govvvvvernmenternmenternmenternmenternment

INSIDE: An Interview with Samia, Keep Up the Good Work, The 6 New Shows of Fall,Balancing School and Social Life, Photo Journal, Review of Lunch Spots, Open Letters toOne Direction & Steve Madden, Joe’s Top 10 Music Picks & The Social Media Phenomenon

STUDENT POLITICSSTUDENT POLITICSSTUDENT POLITICSSTUDENT POLITICSSTUDENT POLITICS

PAGE 2 THE PAW

organization. Like the United Nations, Model UNfeatures several different committees where eachdelegate represents one country. Students have toresearch current political affairs and the position ofthe countries that they are representing. For instance,a student representing North Korea would not workwith the United States since these two countries haveopposing positions. Model UN makes the studentsengaged in global political affairs.

Students initially join Model UN because of theirenthusiasm and interest in politics. But by being partof it, students really learn the role of the UnitedNations and how to solve problems as a delegate of acommittee of the United Nations. To make a betterworld, we must first understand it, and to understandthis world better, students at York Preparatory Schoolshould join the Model United Nations Club. It isimportant for students to become aware of globalconflicts and to begin to think of solutions that wecan implement as future leaders. Although we cannotimmediately solve all the pressing problems andconflicts of today, we can make progress, step by step.In order to do so, students need to be invested inpolitics and be conscious of current events.

Haewon Lee, 11th Grade

Corruptionexists in thedark corners.But it is ourjob as inform-ed citizens tobrighten thosecorners. AsMr. Buckleysays, we canbrighten these dark corners by reading and paying at-tention to current events. If our system encouragescorruption and if we are informed enough to noticethat our system is corrupt, we need to change the sys-tem to avoid corruption in the government. There is afamous quote by Louis Brandeis, a justice on the Su-preme Court of the United States: “Sunlight is said tobe the best of disinfectants.” Seeing what is actuallyhappening within the government is the best way toavoid conflicts and corruption within the government.

By participating in Model UN, students canpartake in the process of learning about current eventsand politics. Model UN also allows students to act outwhat it is like to be in the intergovernmental

Max Skidelsky, 12th Grade

INTERINTERINTERINTERINTERVIEWSVIEWSVIEWSVIEWSVIEWS

DECEMBER 7, 2015 PAGE 3

Sam She Am: An Interview with Samia

When I first came to York, I was very intimidated andshy. I wanted to find an outlet to express my artsy side, butwhere would I do it and wouldanyone else at the school be in-terested in the arts the way Iwas? Then, the night of the 2012International Dinner, whilewaiting to go downstairs to sing“Lean On Me” with the rest ofmy music class, the musicteacher decided to show us amusic video by one of York’svery own students. The song wascalled “Keep Walking,” and Iwas mesmerized. It was one ofthe prettiest songs I’d ever heard.And the girl who sang it went tothis very school! I knew I had tomeet her. So, at Out Loud later that year, I formally intro-duced myself to Samia Finnerty, and we’ve been friends eversince.

Samia is as cool a person as you can hope to meet.Besides being very kind and smart as a whip, she is alsoridiculously talented. Her songs hop from genre to genre(punk rock to vaudeville to slow and acoustic), each onewith a new, intriguing story to tell, and Samia knows thebest way to tell them. Her live concerts are exciting,raucous, and energetic, and buzz about her has been grow-ing (you read People lately?). So, seeing an opportunity toride the rising wave of excitement that’s been building uparound her (plus, y’know, she’s my buddy), I asked her foran interview, which she graciously agreed to.

1. What got you into music?1. What got you into music?1. What got you into music?1. What got you into music?1. What got you into music?I’ve been singing since I was a little baby. Mostly likefemale power ballads until I discovered rock music and fellin love with the [awesomeness] of Freddie Mercury andMorrissey, Julian Casablancas, Cobain and Kathleen Hanna.I really started writing songs when I was twelve, andgigging on and off with a couple different bands. I knewpretty instantly that it was what I wanted to do. Nothingmakes me happier.

2. What are some of your musical influences? (And do2. What are some of your musical influences? (And do2. What are some of your musical influences? (And do2. What are some of your musical influences? (And do2. What are some of your musical influences? (And doyou have a favorite song/artist?)you have a favorite song/artist?)you have a favorite song/artist?)you have a favorite song/artist?)you have a favorite song/artist?)All those guys I mentioned before, plus Amy Winehouse,Billie Holiday, Etta James, Elvis, Kurt Vile, Alanis Morissette.My friends inspire me. I’m blessed to be surrounded by a

really solid group of artists. My favorite songs of all time areprobably “Valerie” by the Zutons, “Is This It?” by the Strokes,

“Frankly Mr Shankly" by theSmiths, “All Apologies” byNirvana, and “Don’t Stop MeNow” by Queen.

3. What is your writing process3. What is your writing process3. What is your writing process3. What is your writing process3. What is your writing processlike?like?like?like?like?The best of my songs just come,usually out of my being veryupset. Sometimes I’ll sit downand try to force a song, but Irarely get more than a verse ofgood material when I do it thatway. I try and let the song cometo me instead of searching for it,which might not the most

productive mindset but it’s the way I work best!

4. Do you have any advice for other singers/songwriters?4. Do you have any advice for other singers/songwriters?4. Do you have any advice for other singers/songwriters?4. Do you have any advice for other singers/songwriters?4. Do you have any advice for other singers/songwriters?Your truth is interesting! There’s something to be said forpretty imagery and charming prose, but I don’t find it com-pelling unless it’s infused with personal experience. Also—don’t just be a singer-songwriter! Learn as much as you canabout the history and the technical aspects of your craft.That’s what I’m working on right now.

5. Of the songs you've written, do you have any personal5. Of the songs you've written, do you have any personal5. Of the songs you've written, do you have any personal5. Of the songs you've written, do you have any personal5. Of the songs you've written, do you have any personalfavorites?favorites?favorites?favorites?favorites?I’m most proud of my tune “Django” lyrically, but myfavorite to perform is “Angel.” It’s just crazy and so chargedwith anger and sexuality…I get stupid. It’s always a party.

6. Any upcoming projects?6. Any upcoming projects?6. Any upcoming projects?6. Any upcoming projects?6. Any upcoming projects?Yes! I’m headlining a gig at The Studio at Webster Hall onDecember 8th with this great band called Pretty Sick andMackenzie James. I also have a [little] thirty minute set atBarn and Bail on November 13th! Ticket links are availableon my website, samiasamia.com! (Editor’s Note: This is whatwe in the business call a “plug.” It’s subtle.)

7. Have you had any favorite moments while performing?7. Have you had any favorite moments while performing?7. Have you had any favorite moments while performing?7. Have you had any favorite moments while performing?7. Have you had any favorite moments while performing?Yes!! I go into the audience when I cover “Valerie” andharass whoever’s in the front row. I did that to one of mybest friends a few years ago before I knew him at all andgrabbed his face... it was exhilarating and so ridiculous. Mypoor, sweet grandma was there.

(Continued next page)

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INTERINTERINTERINTERINTERVIEWS & AVIEWS & AVIEWS & AVIEWS & AVIEWS & ACADEMIC NEWSCADEMIC NEWSCADEMIC NEWSCADEMIC NEWSCADEMIC NEWS

8. How did your life/experience at York affect/influence8. How did your life/experience at York affect/influence8. How did your life/experience at York affect/influence8. How did your life/experience at York affect/influence8. How did your life/experience at York affect/influenceyour decision to pursue music?your decision to pursue music?your decision to pursue music?your decision to pursue music?your decision to pursue music?My FIRST day as a freshman at York, Mrs. Norton secretlyforced the school’s rock band to include me and it was oneof the best experiences I’ve had. The band was called “What’sWrong with Ted?” and I played my first few gigs ever withthem. It was led by Cole Lumpkin, who is one of my dearestfriends, and I’ve been playing with him since! I was in acouple other music projects at York; I remember the entirestudent body and faculty being really understanding andletting us perform all the time. A lot of them, like thelegendary Ms. Umansky, still come to my shows and are sosweet and supportive of what I’m doing.

9. How did your parents' careers influence you [Samia is9. How did your parents' careers influence you [Samia is9. How did your parents' careers influence you [Samia is9. How did your parents' careers influence you [Samia is9. How did your parents' careers influence you [Samia isthe daughter of actress Kathy Najimy and singer Danthe daughter of actress Kathy Najimy and singer Danthe daughter of actress Kathy Najimy and singer Danthe daughter of actress Kathy Najimy and singer Danthe daughter of actress Kathy Najimy and singer DanFinnerty]?Finnerty]?Finnerty]?Finnerty]?Finnerty]?I grew up around entertainers, so the will to perform was

sort of engrained in me. My parents have always beensupportive but definitely cautious about the industry…I justreally admire my parents and hope I’ve absorbed some oftheir crazy talent and drive.

10. Was it easy or difficult growing up with parents in10. Was it easy or difficult growing up with parents in10. Was it easy or difficult growing up with parents in10. Was it easy or difficult growing up with parents in10. Was it easy or difficult growing up with parents inshow business?show business?show business?show business?show business?It was wonderful, because of who they are as people andparents. Their careers are sort of subsidiary to theirparenting, and I’m so blessed to have been raised the way Iwas.

(Many thanks again to Samia for agreeing to be interviewed!Again, check out her website to stay up to date on herupcoming shows and as-of-yet untitled EP. Give her alisten. She’s great.)

Joe Newman-Getzler, 11th Grade

Keep Up the Good WorkThe tyranny of college applications has claimed many souls. Actually that was

a lie. The process is not quite so bad. I know that now, but I used to belong to thatanxious class of students—nervous nail-biters frantic and concerned over everyitty-bitty detail of the college application process. I was nervous abouteverything from my GPA to standardized tests to just having enough time to breathe.All of it had become a little overwhelming for me and the people in my grade.

Every morning I come to school at the usual hour to work in tech hall beforehomeroom. I sometimes find that a 6th grader has beaten me to my post, my to-bebronzed chair. Apart from the irritation I feel that he stole my spot, I find myselfintrigued by him, for he is already familiar with the pressures and woes of apply-ing to colleges. He believes that every tiny decision he makes will drasticallyimpact his future. He is convinced that if he does not ace the next quiz or test his

grades will go down just enough that he won’t get into the right college and then he won’t get the right job and he won’t get the righthouse—

You see what I mean? Overwhelming.

Truth be told, that 6th grader used to be me. So trust me when I say that there are no perfect grades. There are no perfectstudents. Those who you may think are ahead of you academically are likely struggling with something. Everyone you knowstruggles with something. Do not think that you are alone, adrift in a sea of academic pressures, facing monsoons of tests and examsbecause you are not. Are there going to be pressures to get into a good college? Sure. Should you let them affect you? Yes, but gently.Be motivated enough to do the work that needs to be done, but not so much that you wind up dizzy. Let the work come down likewaves, not storms.

Every year, the morning announcements include college visits, seniors who finished applications, seniors who have beenaccepted into colleges, etc. For half a decade, I watched those names and faces with envy and mystery, not knowing what theirfuture told. And while I still can’t predict the future, I do know that future has not been written. Back to the Future promised ushoverboards just this past October. And as it also promised: “Your future is whatever you make it. So make it a good one.”

Max Skidelsky, 12th Grade

ARARARARARTS & ENTERTS & ENTERTS & ENTERTS & ENTERTS & ENTERTTTTTAINMENTAINMENTAINMENTAINMENTAINMENT

DECEMBER 7, 2015 PAGE 5

To anyone who wants to find a new show to obsess over, to watch casually in their spare time, or to binge wheneverpossible, these are the best new shows to pique your interest.

6. Grandfathered: In this family comedy, Jimmy Martino is a middle-aged bachelor and restaurant owner whose life consists of parties, entertainingwomen, and looking in the mirror. All that is put on an indefinite hiatus when he is confronted by the son he never knew he had, Gerald. It’s not just Geraldwho breaks up the party that is Jimmy’s life. He also brings along his young daughter, Edie and just like that, Jimmy realizes he’s not only a father, but he’salso a grandfather. The show follows Jimmy’s attempts to master his new role in Edie’s life, without interfering with his lifestyle, attitude, or activities. Nobiggie.

Grandfathered Airs Tuesdays at 8PM on Fox

5. Scream Queens: This show has a unique way of horrifying you, and cracking you up at the same time. It’s a horror-comedy that focuses on the serialmurders taking place at a sorority at Wallace University. Shortly after Grace, the main character of the show, arrives on campus, she joins the famousKappa Kappa Tau sorority. Unfortunately for her, someone in a red devil costume comes up with creative ways to kill the sorority members, picking themoff one by one. As the show goes on the bodies pile up and every one looks guilty of something. This show has a long list of famous faces in it: EmmaRoberts, Abigail Breslin, Nick Jonas, Ariana Grande, Lea Michele, Jamie Lee Curtis, Keke Palmer, Skyler Samuels and more.

Scream Queens Airs Tuesdays at 9PM on Fox

4. Minority Report: This is a futuristic action drama that is based off of the 2002 crime movie starring Tom Cruise. Set in the year 2065, this series followsthe events taking place after the government ended what they called The Pre-Crime Program. When the program existed, the government used humanswith the power to see the future (Pre-cogs) to stop crimes before they happen. After Pre-Crime is dismantled, one of the pre-cogs uses his gift, of seeingevery murder around him days before they happen, to save people’s lives. On his latest attempt at heroism, he meets Lara Vega, a detective working thesame case as him. Together they use his abilities to catch criminals, uncover scandals, and prevent murders.

Minority Report Airs Mondays at 9PM on Fox

3. Supergirl: This is an action packed superhero adventure series that stars Melissa Benoist as Kara Danvers - Superman’s quirky cousin from Krypton.When Superman was sent to Earth before Krypton’s destruction, he wasn’t the only one who escaped. His aunt and uncle sent their daughter, Kara, toEarth to protect him. Her ship, however, went off course and got stuck in a region of space where time doesn’t pass. She was frozen in time, but eventuallygot through and floated to Earth. By the time Kara got to Earth, Clark had grown up and become the Man of Steel. Kara lived for the next 12 years hidingher abilities from the world, but when National City becomes infested with the universe’s most dangerous criminals, she has to put on the red cape andassume the hero identity of Supergirl. Even for those who aren’t comic book fans, Supergirl is likely to impress. It’s the perfect blend of action, drama, andcomedy.

Supergirl Airs Mondays at 8:30PM on CBS

2. Limitless: Imagine if you could become the smartest person in the world – if you could remember every second of every moment of your life. Everycalculus class, every word you ever heard, and every movie you ever saw. Imagine if you could use all that knowledge in your everyday life. For BrianFinch in the new drama sci-fi series Limitless, imagining isn’t necessary – he’s already living that reality. He discovers a strange clear pill that is known asNZT. It enhances the power of his brain to give him virtually endless cognitive abilities. The FBI recruits him as a top level consultant so he can use hisbrain power to solve the problems that they can’t. This series is a follow-up to the 2011 movie of the same title, which stared Bradley Cooper.

Limitless Airs Tuesdays at 10PM on CBS

Khari Derrick, 10th Grade

1. Quantico: Quantico is a mystery thriller about FBI recruits training at the Quantico base in Virginia. The showstars Alex Parrish, a perceptive new recruit, and how she uses her wit to pass the various tests that the FBI throws ather. Alex also has a side mission of her own – she is digging up information about her family in secret. However, sheisn’t the only one with a secret. As the story unfolds you find that every recruit has something in their past to hide andthe longer they stay at the base, the closer their secrets come to catching up with them. Quantico has a dual-storycomplex, meaning that there are two timelines unfolding throughout the show. The second timeline skips 9 monthsinto the future and is told in flash forwards. Alex is a special agent now, but she is facing a new challenge: she hasbeen framed for the biggest terrorist attack on U.S. soil since 9/11. After escaping custody, she goes on the run fromthe FBI, and NYPD. She is forced to look into all the recruits who she trained with, to figure out which one of themframed her, all while staying one step ahead of the authorities.

Quantico Airs Sundays at 10PM on ABC

STUDENT VIEWSSTUDENT VIEWSSTUDENT VIEWSSTUDENT VIEWSSTUDENT VIEWS

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During the school year there is a lot to be done: homework, tests, quizzesprojects etc. but there are times when you want be social, hang out with yourfriends, or go out and have fun. However, during the year you have to learn howto balance your work and your friends.

The first thing you should do is get all your long term assignments donequickly, so that you have time to do what you want during the end of week orweekend. For example, if you have a project that is happening throughout theweek, you should get the assignment done before Friday so that you all weekendto do what you want. Procrastinating might seem like a good idea at first, butwhen it comes to a Saturday night and you want to hang out with your friends, you won’t be able to because you will haveto be working.

If you have homework to do on the weekend, it’s best to get it done on Saturday night around 11. If you get it donebefore 12, you can go to sleep basically whenever you want. One more tip to balance your social and school life is to do yourhomework with your friends. It’s the best possible balance—getting your homework done and being with friends.

HOW TO BALANCE SCHOOL AND A SOCIAL LIFE

Nick Tasolides, 10th Grade

PHOTO JOURNALcommunities. In this image, the riot cops representthe imperial force of the government, and the man infront represents justice. Behind the riot cops in stormtrooper gear sits their Government issued tank usedin the riots. What is not seen in this specific image isthe sheer mass of firepower that the police have onstandby for a peaceful protest. The most powerful partof this image for me is the unforgiving look on theyoung man’s face; he has probably seen horribleinjustices in his community. We see buildings behindhim converging, and he is foregrounded. This showsthat his message is the one the photographer is tryingto convey. He is angry with the way our nation isbeing policed. We see him wearing his “Don’t Shoot”shirt, which pays homage to Michael Brown, who waskilled not long before Freddie Grey.

This photo was taken by Gregory Berg, a closefriend of mine in Baltimore during the Freddy Greyriots. The photograph captures the broken relation-ship between the police, who are supposed to protectneighborhoods, and the actual residents of those

Quincy Wise, 12th Grade

FOOD REVIEWSFOOD REVIEWSFOOD REVIEWSFOOD REVIEWSFOOD REVIEWS

DECEMBER 7, 2015 PAGE 7

LUNCH SPOTSLunch at York Prep is a one hour hiatus from our

busy schedules where we get to chill out, and get some-thing to eat. Personally, as soon as I step outside there isa big debate among my friends about where we shouldeat, and I am guessing that this probably happens to youas well.

Well I’m here to settle those debates with the bestplaces to eat around our school (within that four blockradius of course!)

One of the most popular spots among students isChipotleChipotleChipotleChipotleChipotle. I usually end up having to go there becauseit’s the only place everyone agrees on. I usually order abowl with white rice, salsa, and guacamole, as well as asoda which is pretty good. However, there have beenarticles and advertisements written that shame Chipotlefor not being as healthy and “organic” as they claim, sobe careful about what you order and how often you eatthere.

Another great place to go is Farinella BakeryFarinella BakeryFarinella BakeryFarinella BakeryFarinella Bakery onAmsterdam between 72nd and 73rd streets. I live on theEast side and have been going to their 79th and Lexlocation for years, so I am glad they finally opened alocation close to school on the West side. They makeamazing pizzas that are thin crusted with no animal

fats (which is a goodthing). They havemany unique, authen-tic Italian flavors thatwill please even thepickiest pizza eaters.They also have reallygood drinks includingflavored and regularSan Pellegrino.

If you are tired ofpizza and in the moodfor Asian food, a greatplace is to go is AmberAmberAmberAmberAmber on 70th and Columbus. They havegreat sushi, soups, and other dishes. You also have theoption to eat there or take, out so you can eat in thegym.

When you have a meeting for a club and need to getsomething quick and run back to school, there is Joe’sJoe’sJoe’sJoe’sJoe’sCoffee ShopCoffee ShopCoffee ShopCoffee ShopCoffee Shop. They have great coffee, whether you wanta latte, cappuccino, or Dirty Chai. They also have greatpastries. If you prefer to sit there and study, they have agreat set up of tables and chairs.

Joe’s Coffee Shop is great for aclub meeting or for grabbingsomething quick on the go.

Farinella Bakery offers amazing pizzas that are thin crusted with no animal fats.

Dylan Reiff, 10th Grade

STUDENT LETSTUDENT LETSTUDENT LETSTUDENT LETSTUDENT LETTERSTERSTERSTERSTERS

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Dear Liam, Harry, Niall, and Louis,

Remember the great bands of the 90s and early 2000s? Pretty huge right?You guys have achieved that amount of success and then some. Now, some ofthose bands stayed together—pretty sure The Backstreet Boys are planning an-other tour—and some just faded away. In NSYNC’s case, they went on a hiatus,Justin released an album, and they never formally reunited. Sure, that was greatfor Justin Timberlake, but what about the others? Which is why I want to talk toyou. You recently posted a status update about your scheduled hiatus planned forMarch 2016; however, I noticed that there is no end date to this planned hiatus.Yes, a few of you have stated that you promise to come back, but I am still experi-encing trust issues since Zayn’s departure. I just want to ensure that you will notjust leave me—I mean, us.

There is no doubt that One Direction is one of the most successful musicalgroups of all time. Your 2014 world tour made $290 million, your first four albumsdebuted at number one, you have recording breaking album sales, and you sell out iconic stadiums. Even after Zayn’sdeparture, Drag Me Down went straight to #1, confirming that the band is unstoppable. You also have one of the biggestand most powerful fan bases a band could have. You have accomplished more in your careers in five years than mostpeople accomplish in a decade. While it is important for you guys to explore new projects and have individual success,coming back together at the end of all of that could only make your band stronger.

Next, your fan base, the “Directioners,” has been incredibly dedicated and passionate about you guys since thebeginning. Without the fans, there would not be a One Direction success story, especially since you guys were put to-gether on a talent show that relied on fan votes to advance. The early stages of your fandom is what made you aninternational success. Once the fame spread to America, everything went full speed ahead. One Direction has one of thebiggest followings a band could have with over 25 million followers on Twitter and 38 Million fans on Facebook. Let’s bereal, the fans are insane but in the best possible way. (Okay, maybe I need to say that to make myself feel a little better). They would do anything for you guys. 2015 really showed just how dedicated they could be. Zayn’s departure wasextremely emotional for them but they still stood by you guys and you stood by them.

Your fans are so powerful and passionate because of what you do for them. Music has served as an escape for youand for them. Many of your younger fans have even credited you guys for saving their lives. That is extremely powerful.The fans view you guys as a safe place, an outlet, role models, and even heroes. Your music has so much power beyondrecord sales. It impacts lives and helps to inspire and make others happy. Many people, myself included, have even madelifelong friendships through supporting you guys. The world saw what happened to the fans in March of 2015. Imaginehow much bigger that would be when all members decide to permanently go their separate ways.

Back to the hiatus. We all agree that this hiatus is extremely necessary because your band has not had a real breaksince you have started, but you should be very cautious of falling off the grid. Social media is extremely powerful: DO NOTSTOP USING IT. Keep the fans updated. Post selfies. Make funny tweets. Be involved. Any interaction could make thehiatus a little easier for the fans to handle, unlike certain bands who disappeared all together. Some other tips: relax, makethe most out of your time apart, discover new creative outlets, keep writing, and most importantly do not forget to maketime to see each other.

As a fan since late 2011, I want each of you to be happy. I hope your hiatus will help you discover everything you havewanted and I hope you guys will experience new opportunities. When (since you promised) you guys form again, I believeeverything will be absolutely amazing. You will be re-energized, enthusiastic, and have more experience. I look forward tothe fifth album, the new projects, and experiencing the journey with you guys.

Don’t Forget Where You Belong,

Gabriella LopezGabriella Lopez, 12th Grade

An Open Letter to the Membersof One Direction

Gabby’s dog Sasha wearingOne Direction glasses

STUDENT LETSTUDENT LETSTUDENT LETSTUDENT LETSTUDENT LETTERSTERSTERSTERSTERS

DECEMBER 7, 2015 PAGE 9

To the Steve Madden corporation:

I am writing to talk about boots. Your boots. Solid, black leather

boots with silver spikes on the toes. Low-heeled, practical boots,with an edge. You made these boots a couple years ago. I want you to

bring them back.

I myself never owned a pair of these boots, but my friend Rebecca

did. She wore them nearly every day. She wore them until they fell

off her feet in shreds, and then she went to get another pair. Alas, bythe time the boots gave out you had stopped making them, and

Rebecca was forced to buy shoes without any spikes at all.

She has been looking for those boots ever since, but nobody has them. Spikes are not “in” any-

more. The new thing is… the 70’s? I think? Or possibly lace. Spiky boots stopped being the trend, and

so you stopped making spiky boots. I understand. I really do. You have to follow fashion.

But those boots were great. Rebecca wants another pair. My friend Gabby wants a pair. I want a

pair, and I don’t even like shoes. And I put it to you, dear people of the Steve Madden Corporation,that you could change the trends. You could make fashion follow you. You could bring spikes back.

Not on everything. Spiky cardigans went away for a reason. But on boots? Yes. Definitely.

Because, dear people of the Steve Madden Corporation, those spiky boots were more than a

fashion statement. They were a power play. They were a demonstration. They were even, in their

subtle way, a threat. Shoes can send a message, and these boots were intimidating. Do not mess with

me, said the boots. Do not mess with me, or I will kick you with my spikes. The boots made Rebecca

slightly dangerous. Not the high-heel, feminine-wiles, noir-film kind of dangerous that women get

pigeonholed into. Actually dangerous. Rebecca is a stage manager, and I truly believe that thosepractical black-leather rubber-soled spike-toed boots gave her that extra edge that makes actors show

up to rehearsal on time.

So please, people of the Steve Madden Corporation, bring back the boots. They were everything

shoes need to be. You could work in those boots, you could walk in those boots, you could build sets

and chase down actors in those boots. You could do anything in those boots, and nobody would standin your way. They were stylish, and tough, and they had just enough attitude to make people listen.

Rebecca needs those boots. I need those boots. Women, in general, need those boots, because we have

places to go. We need to keep moving forward. And if anything blocks our path?

We need to kick it away with our spiky black toes.

Thank you.

Ellery Hickey

Ellery Hickey, 12th Grade

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As of late, I’ve become very passionate about music. I love reading about it, I love talkingabout it, and most of all, I love listening to it. I’ve been spending a lot of time looking up musi-cians and bands that I wanted to learn more about and in my searches I’ve found some reallygreat songs that I feel are worth listening to. So, whether you’re studying, on the go, or just wantsomething to drown out the background noises, here are 10 songs I highly recommend:

1. Birdhouse in Your Soul - They Might Be Giants (1990):1. Birdhouse in Your Soul - They Might Be Giants (1990):1. Birdhouse in Your Soul - They Might Be Giants (1990):1. Birdhouse in Your Soul - They Might Be Giants (1990):1. Birdhouse in Your Soul - They Might Be Giants (1990): They Might Be Giants is a prettyinteresting group. Formed in 1982 by John Flansborough and John Linell, they have a uniquesound and tone that sets them apart from other alternative rock acts. They don’t take themselvestoo seriously, but they also take pride in making their songs as weird and cool-sounding as pos-sible. “Birdhouse in Your Soul” is their best, and probably most famous song. It is distinctive forits insane lyrics (alternatively optimistic-sounding or just plain nonsensical) and very catchytune. It’s simple enough to sing along to, yet complex in its message. “Birdhouse in Your Soul” isthe kind of song that can really get stuck in your head.

2. Mercy - Duffy (2008):2. Mercy - Duffy (2008):2. Mercy - Duffy (2008):2. Mercy - Duffy (2008):2. Mercy - Duffy (2008): I kind of feel bad for Duffy. She’s a Welsh singer who first becameactive in the music world in 2004. Her style was described as being jazzy and a throwback to thepop and soul of the 1960s. This particular song, which was also her biggest hit, exemplifies itpretty well. She sings it with a lot of passion while still making it light and breezy; the keyboardaccompaniment is also really catchy (it sounds like an old song called “96 Tears,” which is alsoworth looking up). Unfortunately, her peak was also right in the midst of other famous UKsingesr with a throwback style: Amy Winehouse and Adele. Still, her music is worth lookingback on.

3. One Nation Under a Groove - Funkadelic (1978):3. One Nation Under a Groove - Funkadelic (1978):3. One Nation Under a Groove - Funkadelic (1978):3. One Nation Under a Groove - Funkadelic (1978):3. One Nation Under a Groove - Funkadelic (1978): I don’t really listen to specific genres ofmusic. While I do like some more than others, I’ll listen to just about any kind of music if I findit good. That being said, I have enjoyed delving into funk music, the unique blend of jazz andsoul that reached its peak in the mid-‘70s. It could be fun and danceable while also experimentaland interesting. Funk has produced its fair share of famous artists, such as Stevie Wonder, JamesBrown, and Prince. But for my money, it doesn’t get better than George Clinton and his two bigfunk groups, Parliament and Funkadelic. “One Nation Under a Groove” is a very catchy dancesong with a tight production and an emphasis on Clinton’s expert guitar players. No ‘70s songmakes a better dance track than this one. It’s fun and groovy without sounding dated.

4. All for Leyna - Billy Joel (1980):4. All for Leyna - Billy Joel (1980):4. All for Leyna - Billy Joel (1980):4. All for Leyna - Billy Joel (1980):4. All for Leyna - Billy Joel (1980): I haven’t heard of many people who don’t like Billy Joel. Theman is not only a skilled pianist and singer, but also an expert storyteller. His best songs suck youinto the world of the protagonist and become as good as a story in any novel. You can find this inmost of his best-known songs but I think “All for Leyna” deserves more attention. It tells thestory of a man who becomes obsessed with a girl after hooking up one night, leading to thealienation of his friends and family just to be with her. It contrasts the dark story with an upbeatmelody and a catchy chorus (again, not uncommon for him - look at the lyrics to “Piano Man”some time). Also, listen to the piano in it - I think it’s some of the best ivory-tickling Joel ever did.

5. Gangsta - Tune-Yards (2011):5. Gangsta - Tune-Yards (2011):5. Gangsta - Tune-Yards (2011):5. Gangsta - Tune-Yards (2011):5. Gangsta - Tune-Yards (2011): This one’s a little on the avant-garde side but I still think it’saccessible and cool. The only way I can properly describe this song is as a “sound collage”, abunch of disparate parts put together to create a really neat sound. Some might be turned off byhow many different effects and changes the song does, but it’s very unique and unlike just aboutanything I’ve ever heard before. Great production with lots of neat tricks and samples.

Joe’s Top 10 MusiJoe’s Top 10 MusiJoe’s Top 10 MusiJoe’s Top 10 MusiJoe’s Top 10 Musical Recommendationscal Recommendationscal Recommendationscal Recommendationscal Recommendations

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DECEMBER 7, 2015 PAGE 11

6. Jenny Says - Cowboy Mouth (1996):6. Jenny Says - Cowboy Mouth (1996):6. Jenny Says - Cowboy Mouth (1996):6. Jenny Says - Cowboy Mouth (1996):6. Jenny Says - Cowboy Mouth (1996): Once in a while, you just need to rock out. Very fewtracks reduce me to head-banging quite as instantly as “Jenny Says.” I haven’t heard much else byCowboy Mouth, but this is an outstanding rock song. The vocals are intense, describing a manwho tries to overcome how stifling the world is to him, “When the world is coming down on me,I let it go”. The guitar and drum work really help make the song shine, with a really great guitarriff providing the song’s hook. If you ever have a lot of pent-up rage and need a song to just cutloose to, this is the one for you.

7. Run (I’m a Natural Disaster) - Gnarls Barkley (2007):7. Run (I’m a Natural Disaster) - Gnarls Barkley (2007):7. Run (I’m a Natural Disaster) - Gnarls Barkley (2007):7. Run (I’m a Natural Disaster) - Gnarls Barkley (2007):7. Run (I’m a Natural Disaster) - Gnarls Barkley (2007): Most people know Gnarls Barkley, theformer group of singer Cee-Lo Green and producer Danger Mouse, for their 2006 smash “Crazy,”but there are a bunch of other great songs they did. While “Crazy” is still probably their best,“Run” is also a perfect example of why Green and Mouse were critical darlings before going theirseparate ways. The song is almost apocalyptic, talking about catastrophes and havoc. The funkysound makes it feel like the kind of song you’d hear on a Soul Train rerun. Cee-Lo’s vocals areexcellent, and Danger Mouse makes the song sound like classic R&B while throwing in modernhip-hop touches.

8. Philosophy - Ben Folds Five (1995):8. Philosophy - Ben Folds Five (1995):8. Philosophy - Ben Folds Five (1995):8. Philosophy - Ben Folds Five (1995):8. Philosophy - Ben Folds Five (1995): Rock has had its fair share of great pianists - we alreadytalked about Billy Joel, but there’s also Jerry Lee Lewis, Fats Domino, and Ray Charles. I’d defi-nitely put Ben Folds up there. He, like Joel, tells an interesting story with great music to go withit. “Philosophy” is the musical equivalent of saying, “You do you.” Folds sings about how peoplelaugh at him for his beliefs and habits, but they make him happy and comfortable, so he doesn’tcare what people think. I think that’s a pretty nice way to live life. If it makes you happy and itdoesn’t hurt anyone, then go ahead and do it. The piano-playing on the track is excellent. Verylively while still feeling controlled. The song’s climax is also really terrific, with Folds’ pianoacrobatics reaching their peak (playing a similar-sounding melody leads to him playing a snatchof “Rhapsody in Blue”). Really catchy and well-made.

9. Follow Your Arrow - Kacey Musgraves (2013):9. Follow Your Arrow - Kacey Musgraves (2013):9. Follow Your Arrow - Kacey Musgraves (2013):9. Follow Your Arrow - Kacey Musgraves (2013):9. Follow Your Arrow - Kacey Musgraves (2013): I’ll admit, I’m not a huge fan of countrymusic. It starts getting too same-sounding after a while, and nowadays the genre is mostly domi-nated by “bros” singing about picking up girls and driving their trucks. This is why I admireKacey Musgraves and, in particular, “Follow Your Arrow.” Coming off the Grammy-winningalbum Same Trailer, Different Park, “Follow Your Arrow” has the same basic philosophy as,well, “Philosophy”: do what you want and be yourself. The song also expresses pro-LGBT beliefs,which is refreshingly progressive for country. I really want to listen to more of her music, butthis song is a good place to start.

10. B.O.B. - OutKast (2000):10. B.O.B. - OutKast (2000):10. B.O.B. - OutKast (2000):10. B.O.B. - OutKast (2000):10. B.O.B. - OutKast (2000): Featured on their magnificent album Stankonia, “B.O.B.” was thesong that enhanced OutKast’s reputation after “Rosa Parks” established them as great rappers and“Hey Ya!” solidified their fame. I’ve talked a good deal about production throughout this article,but I struggle to find a hip-hop song as well-produced as this one. The pace is dizzying, with thekeyboard sample endlessly looping while Andre 3000 spits his rhymes. The song is about newbeginnings and how the new millennium could bring the world further along, with a loomingfeeling of disaster, (“B.O.B.” stands for “Bombs Over Baghdad”). A chorus helps add to the majes-tic feeling, chanting “Power music! Electric revival!” for the climax. It’s the kind of song that hitsyou all at once before you know what’s coming. It deservedly earned the group a lot of criticalacclaim, with one magazine calling it the best song of the decade.

Joe Newman-Getzler, 11th Grade

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PAGE 12 THE PAW

Social media, which comprises apps and sites suchas Instagram, Snapchat, and Facebook, has come to apoint where it is overtaking students’ lives. It beganas a fad and quickly transitioned into a phenomenon.These social platforms bear both pros and cons amongstteenagers and younger schoolers. Social media is goodbecause most people learn about breaking newsthrough apps, but bad because students’ GPA scoresdecrease from the distraction. Although there is muchenjoyment derived from social media outlets, thereare many negative effects. Specifically, students’ per-formance in school, a lack of sleep, and “FOMO,” oras fellow snapchatters put it: fear of missing out.

As students get ready for school, before they brushtheir teeth, pick out their outfit, or even say ‘goodmorning’ to their parents, they feel the need to checktheir phone, and in most cases, their social platforms.Once they do get to the breakfast table, they eat theircereal with a spoon in one hand, and a phone in theother. According to the Pew Research Center, “Aidedby the convenience and constant access provided bymobile devices, especially smartphones, 92% of teensreport going online daily — including 24% who saythey go online “almost constantly”. 1These habits leadstudents to start their day off on the wrong foot, andthus, drift away from their schoolwork and relation-ships.

After a long day at school, students get home andeat dinner. They usually get into their beds and say‘goodnight’ to their parents at around 10:00PM, butstay up until 1:00AM under their cozy covers scroll-ing through and clicking on their bright screen. There-fore, students are not getting enough sleep.

“FOMO” is when kids are pressured to do thingsthat other kids are doing. When a friend invites somekids over or out to dinner, it is definitely posted allover social media. This can lead to kids being upsetbecause they were not invited or could not show up.FOMO can also lead to anxiety and make the kid ask,“Why is everyone having fun without me?”

The reason this should be brought to people'sattention is because students should realize andunderstand the effect social media has on them.Putting your phone away and going to bed early willdefinitely help a student perform better in school.Also, sleep makes people happier and healthier.Finally, social media has its pros and cons and shouldbe used in moderation. Try this method out—it willnot hurt!

Lydia Haddad, 10th Grade

The Social MediaPhenomenon

The York Preparatory School newspaper strives to reflect the ideals of theschool through accurate reports and thoughtful opinion pieces. The editingstaff maintains professional standards as its basis. Bylined opinions refllectthe views of the individual writers. All other articles attempt to provide

the school community an impartial account of the facts.

Letters to the editor may be submitted to any staff member or mailed toThe Paw, Attn: Lee Pinkas, 40 W. 68th St., New York, NY 10023.

The Paw reserves the right to edit letters containing libelous or obscenematerial and to omit certain sections for space limitations as long as the

original meaning remains unchanged.

THE PAWWriters and Artists:Writers and Artists:Writers and Artists:Writers and Artists:Writers and Artists:

Khari Derrick, 10th Grade, Lydia Haddad, 10th GradeDylan Reiff, 10th Grade, Nick Tasolides, 10th Grade

Joe Newman-Getzler, 11th Grade, Haewon Lee, 11th GradeEllery Hickey, 12th Grade, Gabriella Lopez, 12th GradeMax Skidelsky, 12th Grade, Quincy Wise, 12th Grade

Editors:Editors:Editors:Editors:Editors:Khari Derrick, 10th Grade - Editor-in-Chief

Joe Newman-Getzler, 11th Grade - Editor-in-Chief

Faculty Advisors:Faculty Advisors:Faculty Advisors:Faculty Advisors:Faculty Advisors:Ms. Lee Pinkas

Ms. Lauren Roberts