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Pederson & Wentz “Sound of Metal” Music Programs
A team in turmoil, Page 14 A film review, Page 17 And the pandemic, Page 11
a student publication
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Issue 85 Serving Montgomery County Community College and the Surrounding Community March 2021
“Insurrection at the Capitol”
Read on Page 7.
Photo by Pixabay.com
Page 2 THE MONTGA ZET TE March 2021
The Staff
Josh Young
Editor-in-Chief
Sufyan
Davis-Arrington
Michael Chiodo
Emma Daubert
The unexpected positives of the COVID pandemic
Alaysha Gladden
Amanda Hadad
Daniel Johnson
Nina Lima
Kylah McNamee
Lauren Meter Josh Young
Audrey Schippnick
The Montgazette Editor-in-Chief
Krystyna Ursta
Nicholas Young
March Contributors
Hello, and welcome back to to our busy schedules. Luckily, physically active. According Most importantly, however,
Yaniv Aronson
everyone who has returned to their this particular prediction came to a study published in the students have learned just
Robin Bonner
Advisors studies at Montgomery County true for me, for the most part; International Journal of how resilient they really are.
Community College. I hope you however, since that letter, there Environmental Research and We, as students, have been
Joshua Woodroffe
Design & Layout all have a positive, successful have been many other positives Public Health that examined forced to adapt on the fly in an
semester. As always, I am happy to come out of this less-than- Belgian adults, of people who environment of almost constant
to extend a warm welcome to ideal situation. were classified as “low active” uncertainty, resulting in frequent
students who are entering their In addition to spending (getting little to no exercise), battles with adversity, while also
first semester at the College. more time with close friends and 58% reported exercising more having to provide for ourselves.
I would like to harken back family members, there has also during the pandemic, in part Despite this, many of us have
to a letter I wrote one year ago, been a resurgence in community because of the free time that they succeeded and continued our
when the COVID virus had just spirit. In the months immediately now have. Of those people who education in pursuit of the goals
started its spread across the globe following the shutdown of were active before the pandemic, that we have yet to achieve but
and into the United States. At businesses and other local 77% reported exercising as much are striving toward.
that time, the College decided institutions, online conversations or more than they had been. Also, I would be remiss in
to move to a completely remote involving community members Other studies have found similar not mentioning the teachers who
environment in the middle of an on Facebook and other social results in the U.K. and U.S. have been forced to move to an
active semester, and I am sure I media groups rose 82%, The pandemic has also entirely online format (which
was not the only one who was according to Wunderman shown that the ability of may be new for them) and who
experiencing an anxiety attack at Thompson. In the months employees to work remotely have come through despite these
that point in time. since, community engagement is possible on a much wider challenges. This is especially
Not long afterward, while and spirit has stayed relatively scale than most businesses had true for faculty members who
I was recovering from that stable. As a result, many of us previously thought. In fact, in the may not be as tech-savvy as
initial shock, I wrote a letter have actually met and talked to first chaotic months, businesses some of the other members. I
where I talked about some people online we likely would adapted to the new normal and hope that everyone takes this
of the unexpected positives not have before the pandemic. identified ways to maintain one-year benchmark as a point
that could come out of this Additionally, there have been operational efficiency in the face of reflection, recognizing that
pandemic. Among the things that many feel-good stories of of staggering difficulties. This when the going gets tough, you
I highlighted was the increased neighbors helping each other out principle can also be applied to can be successful despite historic
amount of time we would get by buying groceries for those colleges, which had to create obstacles.
to spend with close friends and who are immunocompromised or online classes and platforms on a With that said, I will once
family, thereby giving us the are at an increased risk of death massive scale. In the future, we again bid you all adieu and wish
chance to reconnect, and also from COVID. may see more people work or you all the best of luck during
the time we would get to engage We have also been looking attend school from home (which this semester and beyond in
in activities and hobbies that after ourselves better by eating younger generations, especially, your academic, professional and
we had neglected, due in part healthier and becoming more have been pushing for years). personal lives.
March 2021 Page 3
Trying to make the best of it:
School in the era of COVID
Michael Chiodo
MSP 111 The Montgazette Contributor
The COVID pandemic has but that she gradually grew more had a drive-by, virtual graduation same experience, with the class of
affected virtually everyone on the accustomed to the new normal, “The ceremony, and a small party, but it 2021 potentially experiencing a fully
planet in one way or another, and first couple of months, it was pretty wasn’t the same.” virtual senior year.
students and teachers are no different. boring. The assignments weren’t Jamison says that this year in Hopefully, this will be the last
It has now been close to a year since ‘required,’ there were no classes and college has been easier. “We’re all senior class to have virtual graduation
schools were closed nationwide, and there was nothing to do. This year, it’s used to it now,” he says, adding, “and ceremonies. It may be too late for
although some schools are beginning been easier. I never thought I’d be so you know, I’m not really stressing Jamison and the millions who shared
to gradually open back up with limited happy to have class all day!” about missing out on things now. his experience, but Chiodo and her
capacity, the vast majority of students Chiodo also said she is thankful At the end of last year, every day I classmates have the opportunity to
are still taking online classes. that the pandemic hit early in her would think about whether we would have normal senior years.
Kayley Chiodo, a sophomore at high school career rather than later. be able to have prom or graduation, With a vaccine rollout finally a
Upper Dublin High School, has not Millions of high school seniors had along with being stressed about going reality, and thousands of Americans
been inside a classroom in nearly a their final months of high school to college in a few months. My stress getting vaccinated daily, a light is
year. She muses that when she left ruined, with proms, field trips and level is definitely lower [now].” beginning to appear at the end of the
school on a Thursday afternoon early graduations canceled. Jamison is just one of millions tunnel for students. One thing is for
last March, she never could have Connor Jamison graduated who had their senior year of high sure: Students may never again take
imagined what would come next: “It from North Penn High School last school cut short. And sadly, millions for granted meeting for class in an
was honestly a pretty normal day. summer and now attends Penn State more are currently going through the actual classroom.
There were some rumors of maybe University. He says that missing out
school being closed the following day, on the final months of his high-school
but we all thought it would be very journey was deeply upsetting, “For
brief, kind of like a snow day.” years, I looked forward to going out
Of course, it was not just like on a stage, receiving my high school
a snow day, not in the least. Chiodo diploma, and having a big graduation
explains that at first it was very tough, party. I never got to do that. We
Everyone has had a different school experience
in the age of COVID.
Photo by: Freeimages.com.
Page 4 THE MONTGA ZET TE March 2021
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March 2021 THE MONTGA ZET TE Page 5
Opinion:
Stephen Breyer may need
to face political reality
POLITICS
Nicholas Young
The Montgazette Contributor
America just experienced its most to step down, so that Biden can nominate more specifically Senate Majority Leader
turbulent year since 1968, and maybe its worst a younger liberal justice in his place, a Mitch McConnell’s, evasive maneuvers.
ever. The pandemic has ruined and taken lives, practice that has become common for new This lack of foresight came into play
with two diametrically opposed parties having administrations in past years. For example, when Ruth Bader Ginsburg was asked to
fought for political power at the national and the Trump Administration compelled former retire in 2013, but she steadfastly refused to
state levels. Race issues have come front conservative Justice Anthony Kennedy give up her seat, maintaining she was healthy
and center, just as they did in 1968 when to retire, and he was then succeeded by enough to continue. This was before anyone
George Wallace, a radical conservative and conservative Justice Brett Kavanaugh. saw the advent of Donald Trump’s meteoric
segregationist, shockingly won presidential Keeping this seat is incredibly important rise through the primaries all the way to the
electoral votes. Whether or not the vaccine for the Democratic party, as the Supreme Presidency. Ginsburg fought to stay alive
finally ends today’s virological nightmare is Court already has a 6-3 conservative majority until Trump would be forced to leave the
yet to be seen; however, the political nightmare after the Trump Administration managed to White House, but she unfortunately passed
will almost surely continue. confirm three Supreme Court Justices. The away in September 2020, four months before
As the Biden Administration takes Democrats got burned twice during Obama’s Biden would take office. If she would have
control of the White House, the Supreme second term, once because of political known the Trump Presidency was coming,
Court has become a focus of the public and maneuvering and the other due to a lack of then she almost certainly would have retired.
the Democratic party. According to The foresight. Late Justice Antonin Scalia died Sadly for her, she could not foresee this now
Washington Post and other sources, Justice suddenly in his sleep, but Obama was not able infamous outcome.
Stephen Breyer, the eldest liberal justice, to get now U.S. Attorney General Merrick
Continued on Page 6.
has been pressured by many Democrats Garland confirmed because of Republicans’,
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Stephen Breyer
Continued from Page 5.
If Justice Breyer retires or a vacancy opens up, with the Department of Homeland Security many General, arguing 12 cases before the Supreme Court,
for whatever reason, Biden will certainly nominate times over border wall actions and deportations. even countering her old boss during oral arguments.
the first-ever Black woman to the Supreme Court. She stopped Homeland Security from “fast Kruger also has a more diverse background than
There have been two names specifically discussed tracking” deportations of illegal immigrants does Jackson, as the daughter of a Jamaican mother
for the vacancy: Kentanji Brown Jackson and without immigration court hearings and from and a Jewish father. Replacing Breyer with Kruger
Leondra Kruger. circumventing certain environmental laws to would also [add space]continue the tradition of the
Of the two, Jackson appears to be the more continue to build parts of the border wall. Jackson’s “Jewish” seat, a longstanding norm since 1916,
progressive. She assisted indigent defendants, most significant ruling came in 2019 when the where at least one person of Jewish descent has
people who are too poor to pay a fine or to even Committee on the Judiciary of the U.S. House been a Justice on the court.
hire an attorney, for two years before becoming a of Representatives sued Don McGahn for not Breyer’s retirement during Biden’s term feels
litigator at a private firm. She was nominated to appearing when subpoenaed. She ruled in favor of inevitable, especially at the age of 82. The next
become a judge for the United States District Court the committee and wrote in her opinion the phrase in line to become the eldest judge would be the
for the District of Columbia in 2012 by former “Presidents are not kings,” which gained loads of staunchly conservative Clarence Thomas, 10 years
President Obama. Since then, she has had a hand in media attention. younger than Breyer. Neither of them has health
many important rulings, particularly ones that have Kruger is more moderate and has been known concerns, so Thomas’ retirement could be another
gone against the Trump Administration. to be a swing voter during her short tenure on the 8-10 years away, and who knows which party will
Many of these rulings involve matters California Supreme Court. Her history as a judge occupy the White House at that point. To keep the
surrounding immigration and executive decisions. is brief and she does not have as many cases with bench from falling too far to the right, though, the
In August 2018, Jackson invalidated parts of an federal significance under her belt as Jackson does. Democrats need Breyer to show foresight and retire
executive order limiting the time labor unions She clerked for former Justice John Paul Stevens while the they hold the Presidency — and, just as
could spend with their members. She clashed and was an assistant to the United States Solicitor importantly, Congress.
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March 2021 THE MONTGA ZET TE Page 7
Opinion:
Dear America,
the sixth of January was
a domestic terrorist attack
Amanda Hadad
MSP 170 The Montgazette Contributor
“And we are going to the Oklahoma City Bombing, The established in the Constitution. to The Texas Tribune, Cruz implied
Capitol, and we are going to try . Charleston Church Shooting, and the Thirteen Republican senators that Philadelphia voting officials kept
. . and give them the kind of pride Congressional Baseball Shooting. followed suit and refused to observers out, and, therefore, voters
and boldness that they need to take In this case, however, it was former acknowledge the results of the had reason to question the number
back our country,” former President President Trump, his allies and right- election. Ted Cruz, the junior of ballots counted in the critical
Trump bellowed toward a crowd of wing extremist groups who persuaded senator from Texas, promised to battleground state. In addition to
supporters at the “Stop the Steal” rally supporters to believe the Democratic contest the votes of the swing states Cruz, Missouri Senator Josh Hawley
on January 6, 2021. Soon afterward, Party stole the election. Donald Trump had lost. He often questioned the validity of mail-in
according to ABC News, thousands The lies started in November. repeated Trump’s claim of election ballots, noticeably in Pennsylvania,
of rally attendees marched toward the Shortly after the Associated Press fraud. Cruz focused his legal efforts and threw his support behind the
Capitol Building, where congressional declared Joe Biden the winner of the in Pennsylvania, a critical swing election fraud campaign. Again, none
members were assembled to certify 2020 presidential election, Donald state that Trump won in 2016. He of these arguments stood up in court.
Joe Biden’s victory in the presidential Trump took to Twitter and claimed to publicly indicated that higher voter
election. his 88 million followers that he had turnout numbers were suspicious and Continued on Page 8.
What happened next was an act won: “We won this election, and we warranted a court battle. According
of domestic terror: “an insurrection, won it by a landslide.” He insinuated
incited by the President of the United that Democrats stuffed the ballot
States,” declared Utah Senator Mitt boxes with illegal votes and kept
Romney. Armed with weapons, Republican observers from watching
angry Trump supporters violently the ballot count. (Of course, none of
breached Capitol security in hopes those charges held up in court.)
of overturning the election by The Washington Post reports
intimidation and violence. The FBI that supporters immediately received
identifies any person or group that emails and texts from the Trump
commits criminal actions on United campaign, repeating Trump’s false
States soil to promote an ideology narrative of a stolen election. They
deriving from domestic influences as hoped to raise money for his newly
a domestic terrorist. These influences established PAC and motivate his
include right-wing extremism, left- voters to protest results in their
wing extremism, as well as religious respective states. But Donald Trump’s
and environmental groups. motive was even more ominous: He
Time and time again, these sought to overturn the election results Discarded Trump campaign signs in North Wildwood, New Jersey.
groups radicalize individuals to by rallying his supporters against
Photo by Kylah McNamee.
carry out violent acts like the the democratic process itself, long
Page 8 THE MONTGA ZET TE March 2021
Dear America
Continued from Page 7.
Although these tactics seem innocent, citizens of their rights. In fact, Jon Ryan
they did, in fact, have a significant effect Schaffer, a member of The Oath Keepers,
on voters. A recent Marist survey finds told NPR reporters, “We’re not going to
that only a quarter of Republican voters merge into some globalist, communist
trust the results of the election, while 95% system; it will not happen. There will be a
of Democrats and 67% of Independents lot of bloodshed if it comes down to that,
accept the results as fair and accurate. trust me.” And while none of the theories
Meanwhile, while Trump and his allies hold, on January 6, 2021, there was plenty
continued to mislead supporters about the of bloodshed.
election’s integrity, right-wing extremist Five died, and more than 200 people
groups pledged support to keep Trump in were injured on Capitol Hill that day
power no matter what. NPR reported that because some of former President Trump’s
organizations such as The Three Percenters, supporters believed their actions would
The Oath Keepers, Proud Boys, Texas thwart the peaceful transition of power. “I’m
Freedom Force, and other self-described hoping the message was strong enough,”
Nazis and white supremacists vowed to recalled Trump supporter Adam Newbold.
keep Trump in office. “But unfortunately, maybe it wasn’t. I hate
These groups embraced a wide array of to see this escalate more.”
theories, including that corrupt politicians Those who stormed the Capitol that
are selling the country to communist day used violence to further their agenda,
government actors who plan to strip as any terrorist would—plain and simple.
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March 2021 THE MONTGA ZET TE Page 9
Opinion:
Is the College Theatre
ON CAMPUS
going to last?
Alaysha Gladden
MSP 111 The Montgazette Contributor
The Montgomery County Community Although the theater community at the another right now.
College Theatre Arts Program has been an college is still in good standing and getting Once upon a time, not only could students
incredible experience for me and a lot of other newcomers every semester, the big issue in audition and be a part of a play, but they were
students. It has helped me with my mental a lot of students’ minds is losing their own also able to build an entire set and design
health, and I consider myself lucky to have a passion and drive for performance. For the stage however they envisioned it. To see
place to create such great bonds with faculty me, the Montgomery County Community something in your mind put to paper, and then
and students. But will those bonds continue College Theatre Arts Program was not just to create it in the real world, is an exhilarating
to be strong with the pandemic seemingly a place where I took classes to get credit; it thing to accomplish; not many at a young age
pulling us apart? became my family. can say that they have been a set designer,
As crazy as everything is in the world Although students are still able to lighting designer or costume designer before
right now, it is troubling to feel that as time participate virtually in putting on a play getting their associate’s degree.
goes on, we will not be as close to each other and performing it, it is also very sad that
as we once were, even in the “new normal.” they don’t get all the full hands-on training Continued on Page 16.
Being a part of the theatre community is as because they are not able to be near one
though I am with my second family; I feel
nothing but unconditional love when I am
around the other students and the teachers.
Ava Hollow, a Theatre Arts student at
Montgomery County Community College,
has been in every theatre production the
College has put on since 2018 and a leader
in the Drama Club. She states that “the
friendships and relationships that we have
built will last a lifetime, whether or not we
ever get to perform live theatre again.”
Adjusting from studying and being a part
of live theatre to the world of theatre through
Internet and Zoom has been challenging. The
faculty has been trying to make the situation
feel as normal as possible by making sure to
talk to students about how their own mental
state has been affected.
In fact, according to Hollow, “Some of the
new theatre students say that they appreciate
that even with COVID stopping a lot of
things, they are so grateful that the teachers
Production of “Mr. Burns: A Post Electric Play.”
and students have not given up on theater and
Photo by Alaysha Gladden.
still want to keep the community going.”Page 10 THE MONTGA ZET TE March 2021
Opinion:
Astrology, not just your daily horoscope
OPINION
Audrey Schippnick
MSP 170 The Montgazette Contributor
Look up. The picture the stars and planets social media platform makes her methods and the questioning of the legitimacy of the
paint are much greater than what the human easily accessible to enthusiasts and to those election. She has commented on the fall of
eye can capture. The study of their influence on who are newly curious. the value of cryptocurrency before it occurs
us has intrigued many over time — but nothing Stars that have been around since before in order to encourage the public to stop
like the interest Generation Z has shown with the beginning of humanity as we know it are investing. The use of these systems is not new.
the current boom in new-age astrologers. here to assist us even in the modern world. They are simply becoming more apparent to
Think of an area of your life: family, Altman specifically uses astrological history as the public as readings become accessible to a
where you live, your career. You name it and a guide to predicting crucial times for buying newer and wider audience.
there is a part of our galaxy that will have an stocks and even cryptocurrency. Astrology can Whether you choose to use astrology for
influence on your story. The study of astrology also be utilized for political events. The famous a giggle, or if you use calculations to your
systems and the planets’ transits has gone as far line “Millionaires don’t need astrologers, advantage — it will always be there. The
as pointing to when major social, political, or billionaires do,” stated by J.P. Morgan, comes strategic use of astrological systems shows
economic movements of their own will occur. to mind. If elitists are aware of the system, correlation, not causation. We will always
Most of us do not like thinking that we as then the general public should be as well. exist under the influence of forces much
individuals, or as a society, are so predictable. Months ahead of the 2020 election, greater than ourselves. This is not a religion.
Astrology is no longer just the small column Altman made a video with predictions for It is an option. With millions across the globe
at the bottom of a magazine; this is a growing the election’s result. In it, she broke down stuck in quarantine, social media platforms
and trendy way of life. a play by play of what, then, eventually did have boomed like never before. We might as
Astrology is made up of twelve zodiac happen. Altman predicted President Biden’s well use our mandated free time to broaden
signs and twelve corresponding houses. Each win, Donald Trump’s rejection of the results our horizons.
zodiac represents an archetype, and each
house corresponds with an area of your life.
For example, the first house correlates to
the physical body, the appearance, and it is
known as the house of self. By entering one’s
birth date, location of birth and birth time, a
natal chart can be composed. This applies to
businesses and countries as well, if all of the
above information is known.
Gen Z has used social media, specifically
TikTok, to resurrect an interest in the age-old
study of astrology. An astrology enthusiast, Maren
Altman has repainted the image that many see in
the stars, mixing new technology with centuries-
old techniques.
Astrology is not a belief. The system
does not care if you utilize it or not. It is there
to be recognized or ignored. Altman uses
the power of predictability by referencing
historical events along with their planetary The U.S. birth chart, free and easily accessible to the public.
positions when comparing them to upcoming Photo by Audrey Schippnick.
events. Combining this with such a popularMarch 2021 THE MONTGA ZET TE Page 11
Opinion:
Making music through a pandemic
Emma Daubert
MSP 111 The Montgazette Contributor
Making music is an important of not having that exposure to other their lives. When asked about student- safer times post pandemic, it looks
part of many lives, as it challenges musicians could have changed my teacher connections during this time, as though many music programs
the mind and allows people to express passion for music altogether. Snyder stated, “No, I do not feel as will change forever, as teachers
themselves. Because of the recent Katie Snyder, a student majoring connected, due to the lack of face- have developed ways to learn and
global pandemic, however, those in Music Education at University of to-face instruction, and when we are grow online. We can only hope that
challenges have been taken to the Delaware, who has been in music face to face, it is in very small groups these newly reformed programs will
next level. Schools these days have programs throughout her years in that do not get to interact and truly be continue to give students a community
been forced to find a way to transfer school, says, “The pandemic has immersed in the music.” feel and immersive education within
teaching and extracurricular activities certainly changed my perspective on Moving toward reopening and this modified experience.
online, and that includes music. music, but not my passion. I am just
Shania Daubert, an elementary as dedicated to music as I was when
school student learning the trumpet I started, but the lens through which I
through virtual music classes, says see it has changed.”
that she feels it “would be better to A big task since the pandemic
work in person and would have been started has been trying to feel just as
easier to learn and play with the connected as we were before, without
other students.” being near one another. Most schools
From my own experience in a have resorted to dropping the big
band program, pre-pandemic, I can band aspect and focusing on helping
say that some of my favorite times to students learn more about themselves
play were during big band practices. and their instruments individually
Being around everyone and able to with private lessons. This allows
learn and play together changed the students to strengthen their basics
experience completely. In fact, the and become better musicians in their
feeling of having another student, one own way.
who comes from an entirely different Snyder, however, feels her
musical background, play next to musical experience has definitely been
you helps you grow as a musician. lessened by the pandemic overall,
You learn to blend and mix your although her professors are doing Band instruments flute, piccolo and trumpet.
sound into the sound of the band as a everything in their power to ensure Photo by Emma Daubert.
whole, and it is exhilarating. Thinking that the students still have music in
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Avast ye!
The Buccaneers have
captured the booty!
SPORTS
Sufyan Davis-Arrington
The Montgazette Contributor
Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Along with Brady came tight-end Rob coaches in the NFL are undervalued. Arians
are the 2020 Super Bowl champions, Gronkowski, who decided to come out of certainly appears to be correct, as less than
defeating the defending champion, the Kansas retirement and collaborate with his former 15% of the coaches in the NFL are Black
City Chiefs, and their high-powered offense Patriot teammate once again. Together, — in a league where they make up roughly
by a final score of 31 to 9. The Buccaneers Brady and Gronkowski have been one of 65% of the athlete population. Due in part to
prevented the Chiefs from scoring even one the most prolific QB-to-receiver duos in Arians’ and others’ efforts to shine a light on
touchdown. NFL history. In the playoffs alone, Brady the lack of Black coaches in the league, this
Quarterback Patrick Mahomes of the and Gronkowski have combined to record may open the door to more opportunities for
Kansas City Chiefs struggled tremendously 13 touchdowns, one more than the San African American coaches.
to find open receivers and the end zone. Francisco 49ers Hall-of Fame combination In addition to the coordinators, Arians
According to CBS Sports, Mahomes of Joe Montana and Jerry Rice, who had 12 hired two full-time female assistants, Lori
completed 26 of 49 passes, throwing for only postseason touchdowns. Locust and Maral Javadifar, to be a part of
270 yards and 2 interceptions. In comparison, According to CBS sports, Tom Brady his organization. Locust is an assistant coach
Tom Brady, quarterback of the Tampa Bay has been named Superbowl MVP three times for the defensive line and is in her second
Buccaneers, completed 21 of 29 attempts in his career. Now at age 43, he says in an year with the team. Also in her second
for 201 yards and 3 touchdowns. The game ESPN report that he is not quite finished year, Javadifar is an assistant strength-and-
was a one-sided affair. In an attempt to buy yet, stating that he “will definitely consider conditioning coach on the staff. The advent
time, Mahomes scrambled for a total of 497 playing past age 45.” Does Tom Brady have of female coaches is another new wrinkle that
yards before releasing the ball as Tampa more championships in him? I guess football is slowly taking shape in the NFL, a league
Bay’s defensive line feasted on the Chief’s fans will have to wait and see. where it once would have been unthinkable
depleted offensive line, who were without Speaking of “old,” Bruce Arians, to have a female coach. Here, once again,
three prominent members. Inside linebacker head coach of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Arians appears to be leading the charge.
Devin White put the icing on the cake for became the oldest head coach to win the Not to be outdone, however, is a man
the Bucs by intercepting the ball in Tampa Super Bowl. More importantly, though, who Philadelphia sports fans know very
Bay territory with a minute and 33 seconds Arians is the first coach in the history of the well — Andy Reid, who is now with the
remaining in the game. NFL to assign all major coordinator roles to Chiefs. Reid, long known for being one
Tom Brady officially won his seventh African Americans, according to the Tampa of the most forward-thinking coaches,
Superbowl, personally possessing more Bay Times. Offensive coordinator Byron boasts seven minority coaches on his
championships than any other organization Leftwich, Defensive Coordinator Todd staff, including offensive coordinator Eric
in the NFL. As many may know, Tom Brady Bowles, Special Teams Coordinator Keith Bieniemy. Bieniemy was one of the most
won six of his championships with the New Armstrong and run game coordinator Harold talked about head coaching prospects in the
England Patriots during 20 seasons alongside Goodwin are all recognized for their strong most recent hiring cycle in the NFL, largely
coaching legend Bill Belichick. In the 2020 work in making the Bucs a championship for his role in developing Patrick Mahomes.
offseason, Tom Brady had an acrimonious team this season. Yet, Bieniemy walked away with nothing
departure from the Patriots, largely fueled According to an article by William and is currently negotiating an extension
by a frayed relationship with Belichick, and Ricks of Sportscasting.com, Bruce Arians with the Chiefs.
eventually decided to continue his illustrious is a strong supporter of racial equality and
career in Tampa Bay. social justice, with the belief that Black Continued on Page 18.March 2021 THE MONTGA ZET TE Page 13
Opinion:
Russian rhythmic gymnasts are the
strongest athletes in the world
Krystyna Ursta
MSP 170 The Montgazette Contributor
Margarita Mamun wakes up, for 7 months. The Russian team
grabs her morning latte, and gets believes this was a planned rumor
ready for her day. She takes the spread in order to help other teams
earliest morning bus for the long worldwide catch up with Russian
ride to Novogorsk, Russia, to start rhythmic mastery.
her grueling daily training. This Rhythmic gymnastics is a sport
young lady is getting ready for the that meets art and makes a perfect “yin
2021 Summer Olympics, which and yang” balance that deserves to
will take place in Tokyo. She is a stay in the Olympic Games schedule.
rhythmic gymnast. The Olympic committee has been
Rhythmic gymnastics is a considering removing rhythmic
very beautiful sport. Performances gymnastics from the Olympic
feature flexible elements with Games schedule, unless Fédération
featured apparatus and props such as Internationale de Gymnastique allows
rope, hoop, ball, clubs, and ribbon. male participants to compete both
Many think it should be taken off in individual and group acts. Many
the Olympic discipline; however, I rhythmic coaches around the world
believe we need to follow this sport support this idea. Male competitors
more closely because these athletes will have their first chance to perform
are some of the best in the world. professionally and compete at the
Among these talented athletes and 2021 Russian Games.
their teams, the Russian Federation Irina Viner, a head for coach of
Rhythmic Team is the strongest. Their the RFRT, is a living legend who
athletes have consistently brought will forever be remembered for her
back home Olympic gold medals accomplishments in this beautiful
since the 2000 Games in Sydney. and delicate sport. Her path to
In fact, as of 2021, RFRT won five coaching in rhythmic gymnastics
Olympic medals in a row. The Russian was very unexpected. Viner wanted
team developed many different moves to learn a “bridge” move and now
that only athletes from their country she is the most famous coach in the
can perform because of the moves’ rhythmic gymnastics world. Her
complexity. They have a highly secret methods are very harsh and many
training process and the best coaches think that she puts too much pressure
in the sport. However, back in 2002, on the young athletes; however, you
Alina Kabaeva and Irina Tchachina can’t deny the success her methods
were accused of doping and were bring the Russian team.
banned from performing in any Olympic Silver Medalist Yana Kudryavtseva.
rhythmic gymnastics’ competitions Continued on Page 17. Photo by Pixabay.com.Page 14 THE MONTGA ZET TE March 2021
Opinion:
Eagles in disarray
Daniel Johnson
MSP 170 The Montgazette Contributor
Philadelphians and NFL fans words about how the Eagles have Head Coach Nick Sirianni. a conditional 2022 second round pick,
alike were surprised to hear that the handled their offseason to this point, The Eagles have a respectable a ridiculously low value for a player
Philadelphia Eagles were letting stating, “I don’t think they did him backup quarterback in Jalen Hurts, of his stature. This officially leaves
go of Head Coach Doug Pederson [Wentz] any favors by trying to … behind whom the team seemed to the team in a complete rebuild mode
after five seasons with the team and protect his ego or trying to really rally late in the season. Common with a new head coach in former Colts
a Super Bowl win in 2017. Reports protect him as a player as opposed thought by many fans was that offensive coordinator Nick Sirianni
over the last couple of weeks state the to — just like every other player — Hurts’ play at the end of the season who did not impress many at his
firing came in the wake of the Eagles keeping it performance based and would likely earn himself at least introductory press conference.
quarterback controversy between really being real about what he needed a shot at the starter position next After winning Super Bowl LII
starter Carson Wentz and backup to improve on.” Jenkins’ words reflect year. However, the team chose to just four years ago, the Eagles have
Jalen Hurts. Despite Wentz’s struggles those of many others in the past move on from their standout coach, now lost the quarterback who won
this season, the front office, including about the Eagles showing too much most likely to appease and salvage the game and was named its MVP
General Manager Howie Roseman favoritism toward Wentz. a relationship with Wentz and keep in Nick Foles. They lost their coach
and Owner Jeffrey Lurie, made it Wentz has struggled at times in him as the face of the franchise. Now, in Doug Pederson, who led the
clear to team and league officials that his career and especially this year, current trends and reports point to the franchise to its first championship in
they still believed that Wentz could leading the league in turnovers with Eagles moving on from Wentz. 57 years (1960) and its first Super
regain his MVP form. 15 interceptions and four fumbles in Likewise, the player that likely Bowl in just his second year with
On the other hand, Pederson was the 2020 season. forced the Eagles to make those the team, largely due to Wentz. And
not so keen on the idea of committing With multiple reports surfacing moves (Wentz), wants out of town now, they are without all three of
to Wentz as quarterback, which about a potential Wentz trade heating just two years after receiving a them with an aging, oft-injured, and
created tension between Pederson up, the quarterback’s leadership value massive contract. And, once again, overpaid roster. The Eagles front
and team officials throughout the has taken a big hit inside the locker he got his wish on February 18, as office has gotten themselves into
2020 season. Ultimately, after a 4-11- room. A well-sourced piece written by Wentz was traded to the Indianapolis this mess and now they must get
1 season from the Eagles, and the Joseph Santoliquito of the PhillyVoice Colts for a 2021 third round pick and themselves out of it.
mounting disagreements between details the current relationship
Pederson and the front office about between Wentz and his fellow players,
the future direction of the team, the reporting that players were “pissed”
Eagles fired Pederson and may have upon hearing that Wentz planned to
made one of the biggest mistakes in ask for a trade, feeling that Wentz quit
franchise history. on the team and his teammates.
While Wentz’s talent is obvious, A source within the Eagles
there clearly has been dysfunction organization told Santoliquito, “Is
between Wentz and many factions there anyone in here who’s going to
of the organization. Despite efforts believe in [Wentz]? I can’t speak for
by Wentz two years ago to mend everyone, but I have a good feeling
relationships within the locker room, that there are a lot of guys who don’t
he is now faced with even more right now.” Wentz has been silent,
disunity than before. failing to deny any of the accusations Doug Pederson (left) and Carson Wentz (right).
Recently, former Eagles safety in recent months and, notably, failing
Photo by Bing.com Creative Commons Images.
Malcolm Jenkins had some choice to publicly welcome Eagles’ newMarch 2021 THE MONTGA ZET TE Page 15
ENTERTAINMENT Film Review:
“Wolfwalkers”:
A sheep among wolves
Nina Lima
The Montgazette Contributor
Cartoon Saloon’s smashing finale to upon a free-spirited girl, Mebh, who claims 2D animation is not only alive and well but
their Irish folklore trilogy, “Wolfwalkers,” to be a Wolfwalker: a human by day but a that it can still pack a punch. Sean Bean
recently earned a nomination for best wolf when she sleeps. brings life and depth as Robyn’s father,
animated film at the Golden Globe Awards, While trying to help Mebh find her making the audience want to cheer for him
the most important precursor to the Oscars. missing mother, Robyn uncovers the truth one moment and nearly hate him the next.
Their competition was steep, with studio about the forest and herself. The film spins Themes of friendship and found family make
giants like Disney, Dreamworks and Sony a tale full of whimsy and imagination with “Wolfwalkers” a film that touches your heart
already having several early season awards the backdrop of the Irish town of Kilkenny, and sticks with you long after the credits roll.
under their belts. briefly after the English sieged and took While Disney’s “Soul” comes from
Ireland’s Cartoon Saloon began control of it in 1650, promising an engaging the well-established Pixar universe and
their animation journey in 2005 when experience for young and old movie Dreamwork’s “The Croods: A New Age” is
their first film, “The Secret of the Kells” watchers alike. a continuation of an already beloved story,
entered production. With a team of only “Wolfwalkers” is a visually exquisite “Wolfwalkers” appeals to an audience’s
300 animators, “The Secret of the Kells” film; each frame is seemingly plucked inner child and wraps the viewer in a
earned recognition at home and abroad by from the pages of a children’s book. mystical, dreamlike world unlike any other
snagging a nomination for best animated From the crowded and angular streets of release this year.
film from the Oscars while also winning Kilkenny to the fluid and rich vegetation The film’s masterfully woven story
several equivalent awards from Ireland, of the forest, every moment is bustling and incredibly detailed artwork give
Scotland and even South Korea’s biggest with unforgettable imagery. “Wolfwalkers” endless re-watchability, a rare
award shows. What’s more, the score perfectly quality in an animated film. The competition
After their first film’s success, they went captures the mystery of the Irish folklore, may be strong, but this love letter to Irish
on to produce “Song of the Sea” in 2014 and paying homage to traditional songs. Through folklore may just be enchanting enough to
“The Breadwinner” in 2017, earning several the use of clever cinematography and striking beat them out and win the Golden Globe and
more nominations and awards, but still they color contrasts, Cartoon Saloon proves that Oscar for best animated film.
lived in the bigger studios’ shadows. Despite
Cartoon Saloon’s youth, they may have a shot
of stealing past their competition with their
most recent film, the vivid and charming 2D
animated film, “Wolfwalkers.”
“Wolfwalkers” tells the story of a young
aspiring hunter, Robyn, and her father, who
is hired to kill the last pack of wolves in 17th
century Ireland. Against her father’s wishes,
Robyn sneaks into the forests and stumblesPage 16 THE MONTGA ZET TE March 2021
Theatre
C
Continued from Page 9.
Using Zoom a lso adds the problem student at the College, says that “even
of performing plays online, such as when though I am honored to be a part of the plays
someone’s connection drops. It was and productions and get to see my friends
troubling in rehearsal when a screen would through a screen, it hurts, as well, not to be
just go black or log actors out of their Zoom with them in person. It’s hard to get out of
room. During tech rehearsal, actors faced our own heads when we are surrounded by
many complications, including access to the same people and looking at the same
Internet and Wi-Fi support. four walls in our rooms and do not feel as
this ad?
Hollow says, “I thoroughly enjoyed excited as we normally would be.”
still being able to continue doing theatre, We are all wondering when the
but I did find it to be more hectic, virtually, world will be free of COVID. However, I
than in person. It also made me upset that believe that even with all the difficulties
we couldn’t really get the experience of and challenges that come with doing
going out to eat or bowling, as we normally theatre virtually, the Theatre Arts
Of course you do!
would, to bond with one another.” Program will emerge as strong as ever.
The Theatre Arts Program is gaining a The bonds and connections between
...and so do thousands of others!
bunch of new faces, but the veteran students students are too pure for anything to get
are feeling a little discouraged because they in the way. The Montgomery Community
For advertising info:
know what it was like previously and how College Theatre Program is a safe space email montgazette@gmail.com
different it is now. for teachers and students and will remain
Megan Kinn, a new Theatre Arts so well into the future.
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700 East Butler Ave. Doylestown, PA 18901 | delval.eduMarch 2021 THE MONTGA ZET TE Page 17
Film review: “Sound of Metal”
Nicholas Young
The Montgazette Contributor
The deprivation of the ability to during his freefall into total deafness. interspersed moments of silence makes friends, plays games, and so
go to movie theaters has been easily Conversations are either muddled or are tantamount to the film, facial on, all with the nagging problem of
one of the most irritating things for incoherent, until he is assisted by a expressions and eye movement are maintaining his sobriety. The film
me throughout the pandemic. My love machine or another person. vital to a believable performance. Riz holds nothing back in terms of what
for the experience knows no bounds, The silence is purposefully Ahmed achieves this in spades and it is like to live as a deaf person. The
and, without it, I feel incomplete. unnerving and deftly placed in the creates a portrayal of a heavy-metal crew of actors also features many
However, the advent of streaming film. This aspect is clearly meant to be drummer, for which he practiced two deaf individuals, such as Lauren
services has been able to satiate my heard in a theater, where the darkness hours a day, losing his most important Ridloff, a cast member of the
desire a little. That said, “Sound of and protruding silence would truly sense so effectively that it could easily upcoming Marvel film “Eternals.”
Metal,” featuring Riz Ahmed, Olivia penetrate the audience. Frustratingly, win him an Oscar for Best Actor. The only possible flaw I could
Cooke and Paul Raci, makes me we have been denied this luxury. That Every moment of triumph and despair level toward this film would be that it
even more frustrated that I could not is not to say that the movie cannot is evocative and brings the audience is a slow burn in the beginning until
experience it in a theater. be enjoyed in one’s own home; it closer to the character’s reality. the sections involving the learning
A great portion of the film is just means that viewers must leave The most important aspect of center and onward. Otherwise, this
predicated on sound design and, aside the time and absolute focus to this film is almost certainly the film has “Best Picture” written all
even more importantly, silence. appreciate this excellent movie. inspiring moments where Stone over it. If you have the time and focus
Darius Marder, director and The individual performances by becomes part of the deaf community to sit down and watch this exquisite
principal screenwriter, expertly Riz Ahmed (also in “Nightcrawler”) and tries to cope with his loss of movie, do yourself a favor and watch
lets the audience hear what Ruben and Paul Raci are truly masterful. hearing, with the community’s it in the dark with good speakers to
Stone, the main character, hears Since the lack of dialogue and guidance. He learns sign language, truly enjoy the experience.
Gymnastics
Continued from Page 13.
The trainer’s last name sounds like the English ahead of her time. The trainer and her graduates have fought
word “winner,” and, with reference to her, many In mid-2000, FIG decided to lower the standards hard for rhythmic gymnastics to be taken
use the popular quote “Viner takes it all.” Indeed, for risqué moves and elements in the gymnastics seriously in the Olympic Games. Mamun
Viner’s pupils do take it all. Viner trained stars performances, due to other countries’ teams not successfully proved to the world that rhythmics
like Yana Batyrshina, Yulia Barsukova, Laisan being able to compete with the high skills and new is an incredibly hard sport with the mastery of
Utyasheva, Alina Kabaeva, Irina Tchachina, elements Kabaeva introduced in her performances. her craft on display in the 2016 Rio de Janeiro
Yevgeniya Kanaeva, Yana Kudryavtseva, Other athletes were simply not flexible enough to Olympics. She won an Olympic gold medal,
Margarita Mamun, Dina and Arina Averina, repeat those elements, so FIG decided not to grade which helped bring more attention to this sport.
and many more. However, Viner’s most famous them for Kabaeva, which made it harder for her to News all over the world reported that the RFRG
graduate is Alina Kabaeva. get the high scores she deserved. team had, once again, won an Olympic gold
Kabaeva is known for her ahead-of-her-time Another one of Viner’s pupils, Yevgenia medal, now 16 years in a row!
rhythmic techniques, which require incredible Kanaeva, is known to be the best rhythmic gymnast The Russian team proved once again to be the
flexibility, artistry and charisma during her of all time. Through her career, Kanaeva won more strongest and the most unique team of the Olympic
performances. The gymnast and her trainer than 63 gold medals, three silver, and zero bronze. athletes, perhaps ever to compete. Audiences all
revolutionized rhythmic gymnastics and brought She became an Olympic Champion twice, winning over the world are impatiently waiting to see what
countless new elements and works with rhythmic a gold medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics and, the graduates of Irina Viner have prepared for the
apparatus. Kabaeva’s mastery was incredibly again, in the 2012 London Olympics. 2021 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.Page 18 THE MONTGA ZET TE March 2021
Film Review: Take another drink: “Druk”
Josh Young
The Montgazette Editor-in-Chief
Despite COVID shutting down know how he got like this. The four four characters — and shows alcohol’s an emotional breakdown. Later,
theaters and disrupting virtually every then come together to embark on a effects on each of them — while at when he starts drinking and takes
aspect of everyday life, there is still pseudoscientific experiment to test the same time making sure that the a renewed interest in his job, the
one thing that cinephiles can count out the (real) hypothesis of Norwegian plot, and our focus, stays centered scenes are initially empowering and
on: studios around the globe figuring psychologist Finn Skarderud, who primarily on Martin. Vinterberg does uplifting. But, as this plan starts to
out a way to release movies, no matter speculates that humans are born with this by splicing together scenes from unravel, Martin’s life becomes that
what. And the Danish film “Druk,” a blood alcohol content (BAC) that the other three characters that give us a much more depressing.
which translates roughly into English as is 0.05 percent too low, and that by glimpse into their lives and their pasts The plot points eventually build
“binge-drinking,” certainly fits that bill. drinking to this threshold people are — but pausing to really show us who up into the finale, which may be the
“Druk,” which debuted at the more relaxed and creative. As one Martin was and is. In doing so, we also best and most exhilarating ending to
Toronto International Film Festival might imagine, things start off well see how alcohol comes to take on an a film as any in the last five years. All
in September 2020, follows the story but do not stay that way. increasing role in each of their lives. I will say about it is that Mikkelsen is
of four friends, Tommy, Martin, Peter While this film certainly has But it is Mads Mikkelson who a former professional ballet dancer,
and Nikolaj, who all teach at the same an intriguing plot, it could very gives “Druk” its heart and emotional and he puts these dancing skills to
high school in Copenhagen. Each of easily unravel into a hot mess, partly pull. Mikkelson has a knack for good use.
the four friends are miserable and because it would be much easier for playing dark, wounded characters “Druk” may be the best movie of
feel that they are in a rut. However, each of the characters to come off whose real selves are revealed over the year, despite the unlikeliness of its
the protagonist, Martin, played by the as caricatures or merely people with time, such as his breakout character even being nominated for an Oscar,
great Mads Mikkelson is perhaps the whom the audience does not have a Le Chiffre in “Casino Royale” and, as the Academy has a notorious
worst off. His marriage is crumbling, connection. Fortunately, this does perhaps, his most famous role, Dr. penchant for ignoring foreign films
his kids do not seem to care about him, not happen, in large part because of Hannibal Lecter in “Hannibal” — and (“Parasite” exempted). That said,
parents of his students are concerned two things: the direction of Thomas he uses this ability to full effect here. voters for the European Film Awards
about his boring teaching style, and it Vinterberg and the performance of its The early scenes, where seem to appreciate the power of this
is clear he is trapped in a deep malaise lead star, Mikkelson. Mikkelsen sits alone in a dark film. “Druk” took home the awards
of depression and sadness from which Vinterberg, who previously room in a deeply depressed state for several “Bests”: Screenplay, Actor
he feels he cannot escape. worked with Mikkelson on the Oscar- as his wife ignores him, and where for Mikkelson, Director, and Picture.
Then, at a dinner party to celebrate winning film “The Hunt” (check it he is grilled by irate parents, I certainly hope it at least takes the
Peter’s birthday, Martin’s mask finally out!), does a tremendous job of taking are extremely uncomfortable, as award for Best Foreign Film at this
slips as he tearfully says he does not the viewer into the lives of each of the Martin looks to be on the verge of year’s Oscars.
Buccaneers Superbowl
Continued from Page 12.
The passing over of Bieniemy seems even more for organizations such as the Los Angeles Chargers. together on his way to winning Offensive Rookie
curious when one looks at who was picked instead, Although the Chargers have never won a Super of the Year, the hiring of Bieniemy seemed like a
most notably the Texans’ hiring of David Culley Bowl, they do have a history of being competitive match made in heaven. Perhaps this demonstrates
and the Lions’ hiring of Dan Campbell, both white and bouncing back quickly from rough spells in their that while the NFL has made some strides regarding
men with less dazzling credentials. While we might history. Instead of Bieniemy, the Chargers hired diversity, there are still some steps left to be taken.
be able to chalk that up to the Texans and Lions Brandon Staley who, was defensive coordinator for After all, recent evidence in football and beyond
being two long-suffering franchises that appear to the Los Angeles Rams. Considering the spectacular shows the massive benefits of having a coaching
be allergic to winning, the same could not be said rookie season that quarterback Justin Herbert put staff of diverse races and backgrounds.You can also read
