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| 2/13/13 |
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Local Teen Performs at NFL Pro Bowl |
By Nicole McReynolds ‘14
On January 27th, RFA Junior Carmann Benedetto cheered with members of her North Star cheer squad during the 2013 NFL Pro Bowl pre-game show, in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Carmann is a sixteen year-old Junior, who has been cheering her entire life. When asked how she was picked, she said “This past spring I went to Nationals in Myrtle Beach and my coach put a ribbon on my shoe. After I completed my routine they told me that a judge was watching me, and at the awards ceremony I was picked. I couldn’t believe it!”
To prepare for the trip, she had to create her own 10-second cheer and a one minute and 20 second individual routine. When January finally came and it was time to pack their bags, nobody was more excited than Carmann's parents. According to her mother, Christine "I've wanted to go to Hawaii since I was a little girl, and now that my own daughter is able to experience this and our entire family is able to go, I just couldn't be any prouder than I am right now."
When they arrived in Honolulu, the sun was shining and the weather was perfect. The days leading up to the big event were spent by relaxing on the beach, visiting Pearl Harbor, shopping, hikes and even an oceanside Dairy Queen.
Her division's individual routine competition was two days before the Pro Bowl. The routine, which she had completely created on her own, got her 3rd place out of 11 girls. She admitted that "I only got nervous right before I did my individual, but once I started I was so confident."
Finally, the big day had arrived. Carmann, her four teammates and dozens of girls from across the country would be performing at Aloha Stadium in front of thousands of people, including college scouts, all while being filmed by NBC. Then, to add an even greater "wow" factor, they found out that they would be performing with the band "Train" in the Pre-game Show.
Carmann cheered on the 20 and 17.5-yard lines during Train's performance of "Mermaid", and with all of the cheerleaders on the field, it resembled the ocean and sealife. Although the halftime show was not broadcast on TV, the Benedetto family recorded it for everyone to see. Their daughter was located on the goal line, where the cheerleaders carried a banner, honoring our veterans.
When asked what is was like performing in a huge stadium on a professional sports level, she replied, "I love being in front of a lot of people when I'm cheering, so it was an amazing experience!" And it looks like she may already have plans to come back, since she was invited to perform again next year. I guess hard work really does pay off after all! In Carmann's words, "This experience has made me appreciate what I have and all of the people- some that I didn't even know- that donated money and supported me 110%. Cheerleading is my life and will always be." |
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| 1/09/13 |
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McCormick Lands D1 Field Hockey Position |
By Abby Gray '13
Being recruited for a Division 3 athletic school is quite the accomplishment, but a Division 1 school - - now that’s something to brag about! However, Meghan McCormick is very humble about her impressive achievements. She recently made the decision to verbally commit to the University of Vermont in the spring of 2013.
Meghan was also recruited by Division 1 Sacred Heart, as well as Division 3 schools SUNY Cortland, Wells College and Hartwick. In addition, Meghan was recruited by Division 3 SUNY Potsdam to play lacrosse.
Meghan ultimately decided on the University of Vermont because “it’s beautiful there”. She discovered an interest in this school while visiting her older cousin Nichole, who attended and graduated UVM in 2008. Nichole also participated in their highly-recognized athletics programs, throwing discus and shot-put for their Division 1 track team. After exchanging some encouraging words about their sports program with her cousin, Meghan knew this was the right fit for her.
Meghan’s field hockey career started back in 7th grade when she was just 12 years old. Her passion for the game originated from playing ice hockey when she was younger. The senior stated, "With field hockey there is not much of a difference and once I got into it I thought I was decent." She made the RFA Varsity team when she was a freshman, and achieved a 2nd team all-star status that year. She also was named to 1st team all stars her senior year. Other awards include scholar athlete, coaches award, and most valuable offense. She also played for the Futures team, and was a part of the 2009 Section III Championship team.
Meghan led the Black Knights to a 6-10-1 overall record this year with ten goals and five assists as a midfielder. |
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| 10/25/12 |
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New Teachers at RFA |
By Kaitlyn Lansing '13
Our new librarian, Mr. Snow joins us at RFA after Mrs. Toglia accepted a position at Gansevoort Elementary. He joins us from Oneida High School. Snow went to Berlin High school and attended Herkimer Community College along with Rockefeller University. Snow added that he chose his career as a librarian because of his interest in helping students with research projects. Snow came upon this realization during his first job as a teaching assistant. He enjoys a wide variety of books but prefers non-fiction. Snow is looking forward to getting to know all the students.
Many of us have seen Ms. Nash roaming the RFA halls, as a math department substitute, on and off for three years now. This year, she is a permanent addition to our teacher roster. She attended RFA and later Utica College and Walden University. Originally, she did not want to be a math teacher. After exploring her options, she realized that she enjoyed math and would love to teach it. Nash most looks forward to that “light bulb moment” when a student understands the material.
Mrs. Nash, our newest guidance counselor, has moved up from Strough after Mr. Davis retired last year. She graduated from RFA and attended SUNY Utica Rome and Oneonta. Nash became a guidance counselor because she wanted to help others make decisions. She enjoys the school setting, and believes that academics play an important role in everyone’s life. She has been a guidance counselor for 15 years. Nash’s favorite thing about being a guidance counselor is when a student reaches out to communicate to her and appreciates her help even after high school. |
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| 5/22/12 |
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Bulawa and Olney Create Winning Regional Science Fair Project |
By Mike Tamburrino '12
When it comes to sophomore scientific partners MaryAnn Bulawa and Ben Olney, one can certainly say that scientific success has started to grow on them. After winning this year’s annual Rome Science Fair, the pair’s acclaimed project has now emerged as the winner of the New York State Regional Science Fair.
Their project “Optimizing Algae Growth” has achieved both local and statewide acclaim for its possible applications to the processes of water purification and the production of bio-fuels. The project’s aim was to use a mechanical device to “grow the algae to a thicker density,” and create a large number of algae cells per sample.
Bulawa and Olney came up with the idea after a lifelong fascination with the process of water purification. “My first science project ever was involving water purification,” Bulawa said, “and I really wanted to create bio-fuel… The project evolved from that.”
Together with her partner, sophomore Ben Olney, who handled much of the technical construction of the apparatus that would produce the algae, the pair began the experiment. “I wanted [the apparatus] to look very cool,” she said, “but it also had to be very efficient.”
“We pretty much shared responsibilities during the project,” Olney said. “Neither one of us did really one thing in my opinion.”
The duo produced the algae substance for seven months, resulting in a sample of algae that “burned with just a single match in about 20 minutes.”
They took their findings to the annual Rome Science Fair, where they took first place in the “Partner’s Division.” This gave one person in the duo the opportunity to take the project, and his/her findings, to the Regional Science Fair. Olney graciously offered for Bulawa to present their findings there.
Olney said, “We decided she should go because she is able to really explain the project to people much better than I can.”
One of the youngest of about 50 participating presenters, Bulawa was at first intimidated by the competition, especially when many of her competitors were high school seniors presenting computer science and engineering projects. But Bulawa was well prepared.
“Sometimes it isn’t about what you’re doing, it’s about how you do it. After a couple years of going [to visit Regional’s], looking at the projects, and seeing what they really wanted, I was able to isolate what the best process would be.”
Ultimately, Bulawa won second place in her division, but first place in the overall regional science fair. Each individual division and category is typically overseen by different judges, which leads differences in division and overall standing.
“I was shocked,” she said. “When I went up there, I was shaking… I had no idea!”
Bulawa credits her mom with inspiring her to her level of scientific success.
“When I was in sixth grade, [we] always did small projects… I didn’t like it originally, I thought it was annoying, time consuming.” Once she realized that she could formulate the projects herself and reach her fullest potential, science projects took on an entirely new meaning for her.
Bulawa believes that anyone can achieve success in science if they are willing to put in the time and effort.
“Go out and do it! Make sure you find something you’re interested in. Don’t just do a project to win something; make sure you really love it.” |
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| 5/22/12 |
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Meet the Dean: Dr. Quest Joins MVCC in Rome |
By Mike Verostek '12
Mohawk Valley Community College welcomed its new Dean, Dr. Richard Quest, on February 27, 2012. RFA students will be happy to hear that Dean Quest hopes to continue MVCC’s longstanding tradition of providing a superb education to students of all ages at an affordable price.
Dean Quest grew up in Oneonta, New York, although he graduated from Seton Catholic Central School in Binghamton, New York. He then went on to attend Binghamton University where he studied anthropology. In fact, he originally intended to become an archaeologist. However, after graduating from Binghamton University, Quest changed paths and went to SUNY Cortland to obtain a teaching certificate.
Dean Quest started his teaching career at Candor Central Schools as a high school social studies teacher. Although he loved teaching and coaching soccer, a sport which Quest himself played as a young man, he eventually realized his desire to go into administration. He went back to Binghamton University and obtained a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences and also obtained an administrator certificate from SUNY Cortland in order to become a principal.
Quest returned to Candor as a high school principal and then as the elementary principal/assistant superintendent. In total, Quest spent 16 years in the district. However, after experiencing every level of education K-12, he again changed paths and set his sights on higher education. Quest then applied and was accepted at the University of Pennsylvania.
“It was a life changing experience,” said Quest of his time at UPenn.
He was afforded many unique opportunities at the University of Pennsylvania, including a trip to New Zealand where he was able to experience a different way of life, visit different schools, and meet new people. It was in New Zealand where Quest was able to start working for Duffy Books in Homes, a non-profit company dedicated to providing free books to underprivileged youths. Over the course of four years, Quest has worked to provide 16 school districts in the United States with over 120,000 books. He is currently researching the possibility of bringing this program to the Utica/Rome area.
After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania, Quest was hired at Corning Community College as an associate dean where he supervised the honor and dual credit programs. Then after a three year stint at Keuka College as Associate Vice President for the Center of Professional Studies, in November of 2011 Quest applied for the position of Dean of the MVCC Rome Campus and officially began his new duties in February.
“I’m so thrilled to be Dean of the Rome Campus. There is an outstanding staff/faculty here, and I am still getting to know the students. There are some unique programs that we offer here such as our Airframe and Power plant program,” said Quest.
He then went on to state what an honor it is to work at the first community college in New York State. He feels that MVCC continues to lead the state in providing accessible education, and he is excited to be a part of that.
He expressed his love for the community college system, calling it, “the most democratic form of higher education in the country.”
“The community college system provides high quality, accessible, affordable education. Anybody can be here.” Quest went on to say that the community college system was the embodiment of the Jeffersonian ideal that everyone should be educated.
When asked if he had a message for the RFA student body, Quest responded by saying “You have a great educational opportunity in your backyard at a very affordable price, unmatched anywhere, which gives you college credits that will transfer to any SUNY school and to most private institutions across the country. Why not take advantage of it? Why not take dual credit MVCC classes in high school? Community college educations offer the same benefits as every other college. English 101 is the same everywhere, whether you’re at MVCC, UPenn, or Binghamton. Take those classes at a place that’s affordable. If students want to feel like they’re away from their parents, there are residence halls in Utica. If students want to save on gas, they can stay in Rome. It makes economic sense.”
Furthermore, Quest welcomes any RFA students or parents who would like to learn more about MVCC to contact him and he would be happy to personally give tours and information about the campus. He also encourages prospective students to come to one of the college’s many cultural series events.
Dr. Quest is extremely enthusiastic about his new position at MVCC. His genuine energy and passion will undoubtedly empower his coworkers to positively impact the lives of every student on the MVCC campus. He strives to push the envelope to provide a high quality educational experience to all students in order to help them reach their goals.
“We already do a great job, but we want to do an exemplary job,” states Quest. |
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| 5/22/12 |
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Gillen’s Road to Recovery |
By Lindsay D’Aiuto ‘12
Like many senior Rome Free Academy students, Jenna Gillen was enthusiastic about her first week back to school. However, she had no idea of what that week actually held waiting for her.
Gillen has been a member of the RFA Varsity girl’s soccer team since her sophomore year. On the morning of September 10, 2011 Gillen participated in her soccer team’s bottle and can drive.
That afternoon the Lady Knights faced Whitesboro. During a race for the ball between Gillen and a Whitesboro player, Gillen’s leg was broken.
Gillen was rushed to St. Luke’s hospital in Utica, where she was told that her leg had been broken in two places.
“The hospital was terrible. I was in hysterics and kept slipping in and out of consciousness,” Gillen said.
Ten days later after her break Gillen was told that her leg had not set the way her doctors would have liked. Gillen was scheduled for surgery 11 days after her injury.
Gillen was repaired with a rod stretching from her ankle to her knee that was supported by four screws.
“The surgery was a blessing in disguise, going from a full leg cast to a simple splint and ace bandage that I stayed in for 2 more months”
Gillen was required to stay off of her leg for ten weeks. She attended physical therapy three times a week for six weeks.
“In the beginning it seemed like the end of the world, but I came to realize that it was only a temporary setback.”
She is now successfully walking on her own through the halls of RFA. While the recovery process was long and grueling, Gillen said, “It made other stresses in my life pale in comparison.”
Gillen will be attending Ithaca College in the fall to study health sciences and human performance. |
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| 5/22/12 |
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Track Star Mays makes Nationals at age 14 |
By Josie Emmanuele ‘14
Freshman Mariah Mays has recently qualified outdoor track Nationals in discus. This is her first year qualifying for Nationals in outdoor track. Earlier this year, Mays attended the indoor Nationals track meet in New York City.
Mariah Mays has been doing track for two years now. She started in eighth grade, and made the Varsity team that same year. She explained that at first, she didn’t want to do track, but her father and Coach Swavely convinced her. In the beginning, Mays didn’t want anything to do with track, but now she can’t live without it!
When Mays started throwing, her distance was farther than was typical of someone who had just picked up the sport. She explained that she worked very hard to get where she is today. She would stay after with her coaches and teammates to learn the proper techniques and how to improve her throwing distance.
Mays explained that that she was a visual learner. Whenever her coach showed her the right way to throw, she would try to copy his movements.
Mays said, “I would never be here today if it wasn’t for Coach Swavely!”
A big part of her learning also came from other sports she has played. Mays said that soccer helped her a lot with her footwork.
Mariah Mays prepares year-round to improve her throwing distance. She does this by conditioning, agility, and lifting weights. She explained that she’s always in the weight room over the summer preparing for her next season.
Mariah benches 145lbs and squats 275lbs. Mays said that her life revolves around working out, soccer, and mainly track! She feels as though she has improved “120%” from when she started in eighth grade.
Mays has her expectations set and her main goal for this year is to beat the overall school record. Currently the record is held by Kayli Williams who threw 125 feet. This year, Mays has thrown 120 feet.
By senior year, she explained that she wants to throw as far as the guys throw. She wants to throw 150 feet or higher by the end of her senior year. Mays’ last goal for track is to try and receive the prestigious Black R.
From outdoor Varsity track in eighth grade, to indoor Varsity track as a freshman, Mays has earned various awards. She has received “Outstanding Rookie of the Year Award,” two “Sectional Track Patches,” her “Varsity R,” one “Service Bar,” two “Runners Shoes,” a “Nationals Emblem,” four First Place ribbons, one Second place ribbon, three Third Place ribbons, one Sixth Place ribbon, one First Place medal, one Third Place medal, indoor “Most Improved Performer Award,” and “Copper City Classic David Washington Discus Champion.”
As well as discus, Mariah Mays also competes in shot put and weight throws. Her favorite events are weight throws and definitely discus.
Mays will be competing in this year’s National Track Meet in North Carolina on June 13, 14, and 15. Finals for the Nationals track meet will be held on June 15. Mays said that she was very excited to be qualified and compete with the best in the nation. |
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| 4/03/12 |
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Aiello, Fleming go Off the Coast |
By Mike Verostek '12
Senior Anthony Aiello and junior Joey Fleming are gaining recognition as talented guitarists and vocalists as the duo Off the Coast. Aiello and Fleming are an acoustic duo in the band, with Fleming as lead vocalist and Aiello as background vocalist. Founded just a few months ago, Off the Coast is gaining popularity and its influence is being felt across New York State and beyond.
Aiello began playing guitar approximately one year ago when his passion for music was ignited by bands such as Staind and Blink 182, in addition to artists Dallas Green and Anthony Green. Aiello is a self-taught guitarist and has never had any formal training. Fleming on the other hand has been surrounded and influenced by music his entire life. His father also plays guitar and started teaching his son the basics about six years ago. After that, Fleming began to learn the instrument on his own. Fleming considers himself to be mostly self-taught, with his biggest musical influence being Blink 182.
Aiello and Fleming met last year. “We were only going to cover a song together but we ended up playing really well together so we decided to do something,” said Aiello. Although both Aiello and Fleming had been in bands prior to that point, they decided to form a new group called Off the Coast.
Since that time the duo has accomplished quite a bit. Off the Coast currently plays shows every weekend and has opened for many notable bands, including Sparks the Rescue, Rookie of the Year, Schoolboy Humor, and Like the Stars. The band is planning on touring around the Northeast throughout spring break and over the summer. They will be playing with prominent bands such as Go Radio and There for Tomorrow during that time. Shows will be held in cities both in and out of New York State.
The two band members are “optimistic for the future,” according to Fleming. Although currently they are exclusively an acoustic band, they will be adding electric numbers to their repertoire of all-original songs.
Their ultimate goal is to make music a career, and eventually move beyond Rome. Aiello says that despite the fact he is graduating this year, he and Fleming will continue to perform together for the foreseeable future. Aiello will be attending MVCC in the fall, but hopes that by the time he is out of MVCC, Off the Coast will be a viable career option.
Fans can stay up to date with current Off the Coast news, as Aiello and Fleming frequently post updates on Facebook (www.facebook.com/OfftheCoast315) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/OfftheCoast315). Fans can check out new songs, tour dates, and other band news. In addition, you can find the band on YouTube and ReverbNation.
Off the Coast t-shirts also can be purchased on Facebook or by directly contacting Aiello or Fleming. Also, the band is looking for a drummer, so if you are interested in potentially becoming an Off the Coast member, contact either of the band members! |
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| 4/03/12 |
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Rome Free Academy Rhapsody |
By Anthony Parker '14
RFA’s show choir Rhapsody performed with the Penn State Singing Lions on Saturday, February 4. Rhapsody consists of sixteen pairs of male and female students. The choir has done a lot this year, with more to come; over spring break, Rhapsody will travel to Orlando Studios in Florida for a series of judged performances.
This is the second year that RFA has had a show choir. The show choir is directed by Mr. Meiss. “Last year, I created Rhapsody because I loved the idea of a show choir, first off,” stated Mr. Meiss. “Also, Les Mis (the musical last year) didn’t have a whole lot of choreography, so I wanted to do something for those students who enjoyed dancing.”
This season Rhapsody has been busier than ever before. First, on January 20, Rhapsody performed as part of the inaugural New York State Show Choir Festival, participating with Holland Patent Vocal Ensemble and Waterville Swing Choir. Then, their efforts culminated in the second annual Glee Night, where they performed with the Penn State Singing Lions. Junior Quiana Holmes stated that working with Penn State was “a learning experience. They really taught us a lot about stage presence. They had a smile on for every song.” Also, sophomore David Deeley said that it was a pleasure to perform with the Lions because they were nicer than he thought they would be. “I thought they would be all rude and full of themselves, but they were very nice and easy to work with.” Deeley said. Rhapsody performed a rousing repertoire that included “California Girls”, “Just the Way You Are”, “Crazy”, and “Somebody to Love”, as part of their theme of mashing two songs of the same name together (for example, Katy Perry’s “California Girls” and The Beach Boys’ “California Girls”). Both the Lions and Rhapsody entertained the entire crowd, as the show ended with a collaboration between the two groups to the song “Sing! Sing! Sing!” They were finished with standing ovations.
This, however, is not the end of Rhapsody. During spring break, Rhapsody will be traveling all the way to Florida. They will be performing in Florida at Universal Studios for judging. Also, as in the case of last year, they will be performing at the Capitol Theatre for the Rome Arts Hall of Fame Induction ceremony on April 29.
In reflection, Rhapsody members Evan Griffith, a sophomore, Andrea Barrios, a junior, Deeley, and Holmes had a lot to say about the year. Regarding the difference between this year and last year, Griffith said that “Last year, we were just experimenting with the ideas. This year, we could just jump right into it.” They also agreed that the songs were more modern and that there was much more active choreography and lifts. There were also more people, and they believed that they were ultimately more focused. Regarding the lifts, which were a foreign concept to most of the girls, and what it was like to put a lot of your trust in a guy you barely know, Andrea noted, “It’s all about the trust.” Deeley said that “It may have seemed hard to get used to at first, but it’s really not that bad once you get used to it.” When asked about one of the best memories, all four agreed that the lifts were one of the best memories, saying that they felt very accomplished when they performed. “Also,” said Evan, with a grin, “That two minute applause at the end of ‘Crazy’ was very memorable to me too.” And, all in all, when I asked them about next year, all of them wore hopeful expressions. “I’m excited for next year,” said Barrios, “We’ve definitely raised the bar.” When asked about the possibility of continuing Rhapsody in the future, Meiss was also optimistic.
The members of Rhapsody this year are as follows: Andrea Barrios, Carly Bovi, Rebecca Coffman, Quiana Holmes, Krista MacDonald, Linda Martin, Jasmine Millner, Jordan Willson, Devyn Arredondo, Emily Canarelli, Nicolette Darois, Sarah Fleck, Lauren Impicciatore, Anna Morris, Gracie O’ Connor, Taylor Uvanni, Kylee Weissmuller, Connor Butters, Aaron Hernandez, Callahan Hughes, Jake Loson, Alex Martin, Joey Mastraccio, Joe Trips, Ryan Vinci, Kyle Coia, Xavier Cruz, David Deeley, Dan Goewey, Evan Griffith, Devin Kilpatrick, Jake Pohl, Kobie Reed, and Kevin Utter. |
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| 4/03/12 |
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It's time for some Social Action |
By Brooke Cole '12
If you’re looking to join a club at RFA that creates service hour opportunities and gives you a chance to work closely with your peers, then you should consider joining Social Action Corps. From working on national projects like the Boot Campaign, to helping local organizations like the Rome Humane Society, all the way to helping internationally with supporting the ongoing fight against polio and raising money for the Ariang school in Sudan, Social Action Corps members are involved in their community locally, nationally, and internationally.
Social Action Corps is the high-school version of Rotary International. You may recognize some of Rome Rotary’s efforts such as the annual Canalfest, the Children’s Christmas Party, and rolling donations to the Salvation Army and Rescue Mission. The mission of our high-school version of Rotary is to promote awareness about getting involved in the community at a young age and raising significant amounts of money for various organizations.
Already this year, SAC has been working on several projects. They have had another successful year of encouraging RFA students to donate to the fight against Polio, thus participating in the on-going struggle of Rotarians for the past 25 years to eradicate the disease. Through the enormous efforts of Rotary International, a once widespread disease is now cornered to only 4 countries: Nigeria, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India. By holding a table during lunch periods this past December 6, 7, and 8, Social Action Corps raised enough money to pay for 313 vaccinations from students who donated a dollar to either put a named hand on the wall in the hallway, color their pinky purple, or wear a purple ribbon to advertise their support. Members had fun this year creating vibrant purple tie-dye t-shirts with Science Club to advertise the event.
Social Action Corps works directly with Rome Rotary at events as well. Members spent the afternoon on December 12th to help transport items at Berkshire Bank for the annual Children’s Christmas Party, where donated toys and other items are given to children for Christmas. Members also participated in bell ringing for the Salvation Army this past Christmas time.
One of the most popular projects that RFA’s Social Action Corps has running currently is selling refreshments in the school lobby’s concession stand every Wednesday morning. Members stay the afternoon before to set up, and come to school early so they can prepare to sell drinks like hot chocolate and Arnold Palmer along with a variety of donuts. All of the profits made from selling these morning treats goes to the Rome Humane Society to help them raise money for a new shelter.
Next on Social Action’s to-do list is to carry out a new favorite tradition that has been very successful the past couple of years, a benefit dinner in support of the Ariang school in Sudan. A project starting with one courageous man named Gabriel Bol Deng in 2007 to bring the luxury of education to Sudan, Social Action Corps members have helped bring awareness to students, faculty, and other Romans including Mayor Joe Fusco of the struggles of building the school and the continuing efforts to fund the faculty. The past two years members have sold tickets, helped cook the main course of chicken riggies, decorated the cafeteria, and invited officials from the Hope For Ariang organization to better educate our city and give them the opportunity to donate to this phenomenon.
The brilliance and dedication behind Social Action Corps is Club Advisors and science teachers Nancy Neiley, a Rome Rotarian, and Danielle Pugliano. To learn more about the upcoming Sudan dinner for the Ariang school or to learn more about any of the other community service projects Social Action Corps is participating in, attend one of the meetings held every Thursday in room 1312 after school.
Social Action is always happy to have new members and are looking for the greatest amount of participation possible! |
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| 3/30/12 |
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Student Photography Highlight: Liz Gleasman |
By Brooke Cole '12
Liz Gleasman is a senior at RFA and a talented up-and-coming photographer. She remarks on her eight-year passion, "Ever since I picked up a camera I've loved it. I love capturing moments and seeing beautiful things." Recently, she has been chosen to attend the prestigious Munson-WIlliams-Proctor Pratt Institute of Art and Design to major in Photography.
Despite the plethora of future photographers emerging in this popular field, Liz stands out. Being heavily involved in the local music scene, Liz works with many young bands. Though the official name Liz Gleasman Photography has only been around for a couple of years, her name is on the photographs of many local bands like As the Sky Falls, Thoughts in Reverse, Architect, Atlas, Trapped Under Ice, Whitechapel, and Homeward Bound. Liz's live shots capture the spirit and enthusiasm of the artists during their performances, and her promotional photos capture the viewer’s eye with their professional quality. In addition to taking photographs of the music scene, Liz also takes a wide range of portraits and landscape photos.
If you would like to contact Liz, you can do so at her e-mail, lmgx123@aol.com. |
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| 2/02/12 |
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Fourteen Students Embark on Life-Changing Trip to Europe |
By Michael Tamburrino '12
and
Derek Sexton '12
A group of RFA music students have recently returned from the trip of a lifetime: an all expenses-paid trip to 6 countries in Europe, accompanied by American Idol winner and Grammy-nominated recording artist Jordin Sparks.
The group of 14 choir and band members, which was led by chorus teacher Mrs. Edwards, included Andrea Barrios ’13, Lindsey Bartlett ’13, Carly Bovi ’12, Kyle Dombrowski ’13, Thomas Draper ’13, Tommy Fleming ’12, Dan Goewey ’12, Quiana Holmes ’13, Callahan Hughes ’13, Zachary Linderman ’13, Anna Morris ’13, Derek Sexton ’12, Elizabeth Sylvester ’12, and Michael Tamburrino ’12. The “Global Citizens Chorus,” as they became known, traveled through Italy, Vatican City, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and France in a span of 19 days.
Last year, Mrs. Edwards entered a contest for teachers through the People to People Student Ambassadors organization. People to People is a cultural exchange organization Started by President Dwight Eisenhower in 1956. Through their motto of “peace through understanding,” the program allows for students of all ages to go on life-changing trips to locations on all 7 continents.
To enter this contest, applicants were required to write a short essay explaining why they deserved to be selected as the traveling group. Mrs. Edwards was chosen as the winner out of hundreds of entries. Once she let the reality sink in she contacted teachers for student recommendations, and thus, the Global Citizens Chorus came into light.
It was months after they got the initial news that they received the news that “Idol” winner Jordin Sparks would be traveling with them. Stepping out from behind a door to the shock of the entire delegation, Jordin Sparks revealed that she would be traveling on the trip with the Delegation as an honorary Student ambassador. The trip was also to be filmed by a traveling camera crew to be released in “webisodes” online at p2psparks.com. She, along with her brother PJ would meet the delegation in Austria and travel with them for the remainder of the trip.
The Journey began bright and early on July 2. The Global Citizens Chorus, Edwards, deceleration leader Allison Kurtessis, departed from Syracuse to JFK, then a lengthy flight to Paris, and finally, making a connection to their first destination Rome, Italy. Upon their arrival in Rome, they met group member seventeen, their delegation manager from Vienna, Austria, Magdalana. From there they hit the ground running.
They spent the first two days in Historic Rome, exploring, some of the most historic places in the world, including the Colosseum, the Roman forum, the Catacombs of San Callisto, and even Vatican City with their new Austrian tour guide, Magdalena. Next, the group toured the scenic hills of Tuscany where they got to experience authentic Italian rural cuisine. Following this was a guided tour of the picturesque village of Volterra, and a fact-scavenger hunt around the city of Pisa, which culminated in one of the Global Citizens Chorus’ many public performances.
The mantra of People to People is “peace through understanding,” and one of the ways the program accomplishes this is by making the students do small group projects and presentations along the way, one of which took place around the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
“I definitely got a better understanding of the history of certain places,” said Andrea Barrios ’13. “It’s great to learn about other countries but it’s even better to say you’ve been there before.”
They also require each delegation to promote “peace” through a service project, which in this case was helping to rebuild an Austrian castle using only the tools available in the renaissance.
After touring the streets of Florence to see the sculpted wonders of Michelangelo, and cruising the canals of Venice on gondolas, it was time for the delegation to arrive in Verona to meet their home-stay family.
Each delegate, with the exception of one pair, had their own home-stay family. Each family was of a different background, upbringing, and every family had at least one teenager who was near the age of the delegates. On their first day together, the teenagers and the delegates toured the sites of the city of Verona, before returning home to go on their unique individual adventures. To many, meeting and growing close to their host family was the highlight of the trip.
Since Rome to Roma is a choir, their journey wouldn't be fully complete without a choir experience of a different sort. After meeting up with Professor Galbert, the Global Citizens Chorus got to sing with their delegation manager's choir at the university she attends. With the help of the choir director, Vijay, they were able to learn a few new songs written in Austrian dialect and everyone had a blast.
Following "rehearsal", the Global Citizens Chours was able to show off their abilities, performing numbers such as "Stand by Me" and "Trashin' the Camp". Two individuals from the group, Quiana Holmes and Callahan Hughes, got the chance to show off their musical prowess. Holmes performed a solo in "Light of a Clear Blue Morning", and Hughes accompanied Jordin Sparks on piano as she sang "At Last". Sparks, along with the Vienese choir were "blown away" (webisode 2) by their abilities.
Then it was off to France for the remainder of the trip. Arriving in Paris, the students rode to the top of the iconic Eiffel Tower, and took in the astounding panoramic views of the city of lights. Then, the delegation marveled at the priceless artistic treasures in the Louvre art museum, including famous masterpieces like the “Mona Lisa,” the “Venus De Milo,” and “Winged Victory.”
On their last day of touring in Europe, the delegation visited the “Super Party Palace” (as it would be known to current and former students of Mr. Dunn) of Versailles, took in the bohemian district of Montmartre, and wondered at the sprawling gothic architecture of Notre Dame.
That evening was filled with tears of sadness and recollection as the delegation prepared to fly home the following day. Completely exhausted, most of the delegation caught on much lost sleep as they slept on the floor of JFK international airport.
Looking back at the memories of the trip, Jordin, and the bonds that grew between the members of the group, one can say with absolute certainty that the lives of these 14 students were changed forever.
To follow the story of the trip as the “webisodes” are continually released or to get information about how to start a People to People adventure of your own, visit p2psparks.com. |
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| 2/02/12 |
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Ryan Rocks Rome |
By Brooke Cole '12
One of the greatest things about a big high school like RFA is the wide range of talents and ideas that many students have. Discovering these things in high school can shape your future, let alone make things more interesting. For RFA senior Ryan Vinci, his ideas focus around music.
Ryan has been singing and playing guitar for about 6 years, but he has only started considering music as a career since his sophomore year. Ryan is inspired by many bands, including Senses Fail, Breaking Benjamin, A Day to Remember and especially Avenged Sevenfold. “The way they play really fascinated me, I want to be just like them.” He says. Other plans Ryan has for his future include taking EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) classes at C.O.C.V.A.C (Central Oneida Country Volunteer Ambulance Corps).
What separates Ryan from the sea of music appreciators is his plan to bring more forms of music to the community. This summer, Ryan and his dad will be hosting their first ever Rome Rock Anthem for local bands of Central New York. His father and him came up with the idea after Ryan participated in another rock show that wasn’t living out its full potential. “Nothing was organized,” Ryan says. He was inspired to make things better. This event will take place on June 9th 2012 on Harbor Way, the site of the annual Canal Fest.
To participate in this years rock event, you should send a demo of your band to Ryan via Facebook or email (rvinci1994@yahoo.com). There are no age groups or qualifications, you just have to show your best and be what they're looking for. |
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| 12/02/11 |
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National Geographic Reporter Shares Experiences with Students |
By Lauren Popovich '13
Scott Wallace has gone on location to cover a range of story topics from war zones, to hot spots across the globe. However, when his editor asked him travel to some of the most remote parts of the Amazon rainforest for three months, it would prove to be unlike any other experience he has had. He came to Rome Free Academy on December 2, 2011 to tell students about his exhilarating adventure.
Wallace took the 2002 expedition with a crew of thirty-four men, including native tribesmen from three different friendly tribes. Their mission was to chart the unknown territory of an unconquered tribe known as the Arrow People to outsiders. They only wanted to follow the dimensions of their land, not make contact with the “Arrow People,” a tribe hat gets its name from the poison-tipped arrows they shoot at outsiders. Nobody knows what language they speak, “only bullets fired in one direction and arrows in the other,” said Wallace.
His findings were published in an issue of National Geographic and also in his book, The Unconquered: In Search of the Amazon’s Last Unconquered Tribes.
It was essential that Wallace and his team of explorers did not come in contact with the so-called untouched tribe because of social and moral implications. There is a no contact policy with the eighteen unconquered tribes in the Amazon rainforest because these groups have no immunity to germs that we outsiders have. They are as vulnerable to disease as the first Indians Columbus discovered 500 years ago, Wallace stated. Further on the matter of immunity, Wallace added that, “No matter how good your intentions are, the Indians will get sick. That’s how prone they are.”
Wallace referred to his journey as a sort of “paradoxical quest.” He and his team were trying to seek the Indians, but wanted to stay away from them at the same time.
The expedition was described by Wallace in a Lewis and Clarke style, because they were truly exploring land for the first time. The leaders of the pack would breach the trees that blockaded the river and form a path for the rest of the group.
“It was almost like you were walking on the bottom of the ocean,” Wallace noted.
As for his most bizarre experience, Wallace admitted that would have to be his week-long diet of solely monkeys.
Aside from returning home to America thirty-five pounds lighter and with a dislocated toe, Wallace otherwise remained untouched throughout his three month journey. His overall goal was attained, solidifying political support to exterminate outside contact with the tribes.
When questioned about what happened to the rest of his team, Wallace simply replied that you could read his book to find out.
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| 11/29/11 |
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Otis Jennings Makes Impact |
By Lauren Popovich '13
“We’re trying to bring our school together; this is all about you guys.”
Motivational speaker and educational consultant, Otis Jennings, spoke these words to RFA students. Mr. Jennings has traveled around the country to motivate students at over 200 high schools. His goal is simple: to show students the importance of acceptance, education, and respect. He does so through an extremely creative, interactive assembly.
Before becoming the motivational mogul that he is today, Otis Jennings went through an array of other jobs. From professional ballroom dancer, to model for Tommy Hilfiger, to mayoral candidate for the city of Syracuse, Mr. Jennings’ occupational experiences have truly run the gamut.
On Thursday, November 10th students at Rome Free Academy gathered to witness Jennings partake in his latest occupational endeavor. Once Otis Jennings exploded onto the stage, it was evident that there was nothing simple or routine about the assembly he was about to put on. His charisma was almost tangible.
Jennings began his motivational trek with a heart-wrenching story about the recent death of his niece. He did so to strategically captivate the audience’s attention, while making his first point to not hang out with the wrong crowd and not to waste your God-given leadership.
Then, Jennings dug a bit deeper into his personal life. He did not have the privilege of growing up with a silver spoon in his mouth, and he wanted to make that clear. He grew up in a working class family with five children, three adopted children, and four cousins living with them. That is a total of twelve children under one roof. Thus, growing up was a struggle.
To add insult to injury, Otis Jennings was raised as an African American child during a time of great racial controversy.
“I never allowed myself to blame any of my successes or failures on the way I was born and raised,” stated Jennings in reference to the hardships he endured growing up.
After showing a short clip from the movie “Facing the Giants”, Jennings allowed students to come on stage for a “speak out” portion. This portion of the presentation was designed to have students come up and say something positive about the school, thank their friends or teachers, or suggest a way in which students at RFA can become more aware and tolerant of others.
Emily Mumpton, an RFA Senior describes her feelings during the “speak out”, when she was brought on stage by Otis.
“I was nervous because I don’t like going on stage, but I felt very good about myself after. It was nice of him (Otis) to pick me. It boosted my self-confidence,” said Mumpton.
The audience’s response to some of the statements made during the “speak out” covered a broad spectrum of emotion. There was one student who particularly had quite a significant response to the “speak out” though. She was sitting in the front row with her hood on and feet up the entire assembly, clearly unamused and uninspired. Then, a female student bravely announced that she was pansexual.
Some students wore disgusted looks at the thought of this; others whipped out their cell phones to look up what that even meant. However, the girl with her hood and feet up the entire assembly suddenly rose from her seat and began to clap her hands over her head, clearly touched by the female student’s bravery.
This act was proof that Otis truly had accomplished his goal. Students came into the assembly with a negative attitude that was written across all of their faces. Throughout the course of Otis’ presentation, the feeling in the auditorium changed considerably. Those who doubted believed. Those who mocked showed respect. Those who walked into that assembly as a segregated student body walked out as a unified one.
In an effort to ensure that his work was not forgotten, Otis Jennings came back to RFA to follow up with students in a day-long, workshop type setting. In addition to the initial six student leaders of Drew Hinman, Hannah Wasco, Lauren Popovich, Marcus Campos, Melissa Gilbert, and Michael Kobito, fifty more students either volunteered themselves or were chosen by Ms. Martin or Mr. Bensen to be part of the workshop with Mr. Jennings.
The ultimate goal of this workshop was simple: to have an idea how to proceed as the year goes on. The students were to think of a project, either within the school or the entire community, to merely bring people together. As Otis would state and restate, this was about a “love fest.” He wanted student, teachers, and community members alike to relate to each other.
The workshop kicked off with breakfast in the library. From there, the students migrated down to the small auditorium, where they would spend the majority of the day.
After a few quick ice breaker activities and splitting the fifty-six students into groups of eight, Otis showed a few videotapes to stimulate thinking. Then, the students heard from faculty members in the building about leadership. These faculty members included: Mrs. Butcher, Sergeant Pray, Ms. Martin, Mr. Shields, Mrs. O’Rourke, Mr. Britton, Ms. Wagner, and, Bellamy Principal, Mrs. Opperman.
Following a discussion with the entire group about how to define leadership and its significance, the students reverted back into their groups to conjure up some ideas for the final project.
The ideas would not only be presented to the group of students, Mr. Jennings, and the faculty chaperones, but to Mr. Bensen, Mr. Ripa, Mr. Roberts, and Ms. O’Neill as well.
Subsequent to the unveiling of the project ideas of the students was an overwhelming sense of receptiveness and eagerness from the crowd. The current plan is to break ground on the project as soon as possible. The projected date of some project ideas range from mid-winter to late spring, but the idea is that whatever the final project is, it will leave a lasting impression on all of those involved.
Mr. Jennings did exactly what he came to RFA to do. Whether it was brighten just one person’s day with a simple “hello” while he descended down the main staircase, or change one’s entire perspective on life as they knew it; Otis Jennings accomplished it.
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