20 - Sports The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 Winter sports preview Swimmers seek to fill key roles The Patriot Issue 3 Washington Township High School, Sewell, NJ December 2007 Weston Eldridge ‘10 the team.” “As a captain, I The boy’s swim teams hopes for another provide experience,” said Verrillo, promising season after making it to the State “There are many new kids on the Tournament last season. team, and I will also try to provide Twp. turns out for toy drive “We would like to improve our record over leadership at practice and during last year’s, and qualify as a team for the State meets.” Stephanie Foran ’08 Mrs. Carol Costello. Tournament” said Coach Bill Albertson. With a rebuilding mentality, The donations, Albertson’s other goals for the season are to the team works hard in practice. A Year after year during the which are mostly toys, be competitive in every meet, and have at least typical practice for the team consists holiday season, Washington first go to disadvantaged three swimmers qualify for the Individual State of stretching in the beginning, then Township High School students families in Washington Meet. He feels that it’s important to be the main set, and finishes with a show their generosity motivated Township and then to competitive because of the team’s rebuilding warm-down. However, the day only by the good feeling of knowing surrounding areas such mentality after losing many crucial seniors last before a meet, practices are easier so they helped change someone’s life. as Camden and Salem year such as Billy Creager (State Champion), and the swimmers stay loose coming into As the snow and temperature were counties. The money Blaise Lacca (State Qualifier). the meet. falling on Dec. 6, student’s hopes will be used to purchase Filling the shoes of those graduated seniors Weston Eldrige ‘10 “I like to mix it up with remained high as they camped out in gifts mostly for older are Bill DeMarco ’08, Dan Bower ’08, and Matt The team takes a break during a practice session. distance some days, and sprints other the Core collecting toys for needy children and teens. Mrs. Marzolf ’08. They’ll be part of the Varsity three captains to provide leadership and days,” said Albertson. children. Carol Costello said that medley relay that looks to be one of the team’s encouragement to the team. As the season goes on, Albertson will also “I think it’s exciting because the money normally major strengths going into the season. Joining “I feel honored because I’ve been working focus on helping the younger swimmers improve. there’s snow on the ground and all goes towards gift them and swimming the butterfly is a talented hard for three years to get to the point where I He feels that the younger swimmers’ improvement the Christmas spirit said, Ashley certificates to the freshman, Sal Liberto ’11. am now,” said DeMarco, “I’m also glad to have will be important for future success of the WTHS Sheriden ‘09 Deptford Mall, Wal- Along with the medley relay, the team looks the opportunity to be a role model and a leader to boy’s swimming program. Township Toys, also known Mart, and food for the to be strong in the 50 freestyle, with DeMarco as “24 in the Core” is a school- upcoming months. leading the way. Another promising event is the sponsored toy drive where the One of the biggest 100 breaststroke, in which Bower hopes to repeat Girls look to start strong Junior and Senior Class Council student donations this last year’s appearance in the Individual State Linda Hanford ‘11 these girls are determined to go all the way. spends twenty four hours in the Core year was thirty-eight Meet. Senior Captain, Gina Turdo said that she collecting various toys and cash toys given by Britney donations for needy families in Fera ‘08. Other events that look promising for the To some, basketball is just another sport, expects everyone to come together as a team and Weseley Gallaher ‘08 have the most successful season possible, make Township. “It’s good to know upcoming season include the 500 freestyle, and but to the girls of the Minutemaids basketball Santa (Alec Swiecinski) takes a break from a long night of collecting gifts. the 50 butterfly. team it’s much more. It’s a sisterhood - a bond it to the state tournament, and have great This year the drive brought in that kids around here However, Albertson feels the team’s major that is unexplainable. It gives these girls the heart memories along the way. over $2500 and “thousands of toys” are getting toys and it’s great that Mullen ’09. “I would love to surpass last weakness (setback) is their lack of depth in each and desire they have for the game. Along with That answer seems to be the popular oamong according to Class Council advisor, everyone will wake up on Christmas The advisors had high hopes year’s number. With today’s event. finding time to make bonds with each other they the girls, since they’ve known each other for a with a present,” stated Collette for this year’s event. economy and so many people out Albertson named three captains, DeMarco, Nick also put everything into their work ethic. This long time. of work, there are a lot of needy Verrillo ’08, and Marzolf. Albertson expects these year is different from past years, mainly because “We are a family,” said Ashley Giedemann ‘10. Inside... families out there,” stated Costello. Last season the team ended with a 21-7 The Odd Couple Teachers on Board to She said the officers for 2007- record and the conference title. The girls are all News -p. 3 2008 were very enthusiastic for the toy drive as well. They made hoping to be just as successful this season. Last minute shopping Diving into a new season Alex Koutras ‘09 said that one of the main obtain new contract posters and even created an goals right now is just to become the best team Features -p. 5 Alyssa Figueroa ‘08 and WTEA’s private meeting to advertisement on the morning Weston Eldridge ‘10 6-dive Meet (Gloucester County all around and improve everyday. Commentary -p. 8 negotiate the contract on Nov. 5 that announcements complete with a If you are to walk into the gym while On Tues. Nov. 27 teachers, lasted until 2 a.m. Simone said she dancing Santa. Championships). Holiday fun The Varsity diving team looks to have To work toward these goals, Elmore felt the girls are practicing you can see the heart secretaries, and other WTEA believed much progress had been Costello, Mr. Steve Swetsky another strong season with the return of their that Verderchio and Moreno were the most and care for their friends and teammates, but Odds and Ends - p. 11 supporters surely participated in an made, and stated, “I look forward to and Mr. Paul Braciante started the three top divers (Ben Brendlinger ’10, Elaina deserving of the captain positions on the team. more importantly you can see their true love What’s Happening - p. 12 after school activity. That night over a quick, yet fair resolution.” event nearly twelve years ago as a Verderchio ’08, and Elliot Moreno ’08). “I expect the captains to set the tempo for for the game. 400 members of the Washington BOE President Gerber then part of their contract as senior class “I would like to go to the State Meet again the workouts and display a positive attitude,” With their head coach and former Sleep deprivation Township Education Association announced that remarks made by the advisors. The trio had to think of this season and finish better than last year (15th said Elmore, “If the captains are lazy, then the Minutemaid Jennifer Natale, the girls are Lifestyles - p. 13 (WTEA), most wearing red, lined up public were limited to five minutes some way to raise community service place),” said Brendlinger. In addition to the rest of the team will be lazy.” guided on and off the court. The team Barnes and Noble in front of the 11-12 wing with and should not be of any in the school, thus Township Toys chemistry amongst the girls all started when protest signs before they marched “inappropriate reform.” was born. The current trio of advi- strength of the upperclassmen, Rachael Bunting A typical workout for the diving team Books -p. 14 ’11 also looks to impact the team. begins with stretching, body-shaping, Natale became head coach. The girls can into the 11/12 Auditorium to face When the meeting was turned sors consists of Costello, Mr. Robert Coach Glinnie Elmore hopes to have three positioning, basic rolls, jumps, and relate to Natale in many ways and many feel Call of Duty 4 the Board of Education (BOE) and over to the public, WTEA President, Gorski and Mr. Mike Hudock. of his top divers qualify for the State Meet at summersaults. After that, the team practices she has a way of creating a comfortable Tech Talk - p. 15 campaign for a new contract. Mr. Scardino was the first and only The very first year of the fund- the end of the season. their dives that they will perform in the meets. atmosphere. Before questions and person to take the floor. Standing raiser didn’t even have to do with This goal was achieved last season when If everything goes as planned for the The 2007-2008 girls’ basketball team is Entertainment p. 16 comments were open to the public before the board, he spoke for the toys. That year, the organizers Verderchio, Moreno, and Brendlinger all upcoming season, Elmore expects that fans can something worth coming out to see. Their first People - p. 18 about the contract, Superintendent hundreds of WTEA members who shaved Mr. Marty Bouchard’s head qualified. Elmore also expects to be competitive look for the WTHS Varsity diving team to finish game is Fri., Dec. 14th vs. Shawnee at home. Dr. Cheryl Simone addressed the were cheering him on. He started by on television to raise money for in the Tri-County meet, 11-dive Meet, and the in the top three in the 6-dive Meet (counties). Come support the team and see what being a Winter Sports Preview public with her introduction of the expressing his wish to have had the needy families in Township. The real team is all about. Sports p. 20 situation. She spoke of the BOE See TEACHERS p.2 See TOYS p. 2 2 - News The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Sports - 19 Teachers on Board for contract Sports From TEACHERS p. 1 holiday, and teachers are required contract settled before it had to work that day. expired on June 30, 2007. “But we “This only can be described were met with concepts and as childish,” stated Scardino, “the Jones, team tumble records rhetoric,” Scardino stated, “and [the BOE approved calendar even states A.J. Nisbet ‘08 All State and ranked second all BOE] wouldn’t meet until ‘the that ‘in the event school is cancelled around in the state. WTEA made significant due to snow or other emergency, Having not had a single taste of While Jones was a key part to proposals.’” school days will be added to the defeat during regular competitions the success of the team this season, Scardino continued by end of the school year.’” during the season, the Washington the team had a strong performance expressing his belief that it is unfair As he wrapped up, Scardino Township Gymnastics team finished from girls in all grade levels. “the children aren’t below average expressed the WTEA’s desire to the season with a 14-0 record and “Cara Cianci was a freshman but the teacher’s salary is,” and this meet before Dec. 11, the next claimed multiple championship that came in strong and kept up the below average salary coexists with scheduled mediation session, to get titles. With contributions from hard work all season,” Said Jones. the district’s “first and second the contract settled. “We’ll meet everyone on the team, they were able The team also had a strong highest administrative salaries.” He tonight,” he stated. to become conference champions, sophomore group in Brittany also made known that the board had Scardino received a standing sectional champions, and earn a sixth Patane, Dana Villisin, and Demi paid a lawyer $25,000 to act as its ovation by the public for his speech place in the state. Lenox. Patane was often able to negotiating advocate, instead of just to the board. After no one else came While the team was able to overcome adversity this season. coming to a solution on the contract. to the stand to speak, the BOE made break the school record three times, “She always gave it her all no Scardino also addressed the no rebuttal, as well as no decision th senior and third year team captain matter what, even when her hands BOE’s past claims that the teachers on meeting sooner than the 11 , and Sammi Jones managed to break or were busted and her ankles were use students as “pawns” to receive quickly voted to adjourn the tie all standing school records. hurting,” said Jones. the contract they desire. meeting. John Scuilli ‘08 Being on top is nothing new for Villisin and Lenox added to the “I resent that statement The process is still underway, Jones as this season was only one of team success with consistent hard because the teachers continue to and as Simone stated at the meeting, “Settle now” along with other signs such as “Respect now” and multiple conference and sectional work and commitment. give the highest quality of education “There is no doubt that contract “Contract now” were carried by many WTEA members at the titles. Adding to the Jones’ With another gymnastics in the area,” he said. negotiations can be unsettling for Nov. public board meeting. successful resume, this year she was season in the books, success is the Photo courtesy of Sammi Jones ‘08 Scardino then commented on staff, parents, administrators, board named South Jersey Gymnast of the only word that can describe the team The WTHS gymnastics team finished the season undefeated with a the BOE’s controversial calendar had to add a school day to the Easter Sunday. Although many of education members, the Year. She was also named First Team and their season. 14-0 record. decision. On Nov. 12 there was no calendar, and decided on March 20, Catholics believe it is considered a community and certainly the school in the Washington Township Holy Thursday. holiday, the BOE expressed in their students.” school district because teachers In the Catholic religion, Holy district-wide e-mail that under the To learn about how this matter exercised their rights to observe Thursday is the day Jesus had the expired teacher’s contract, which is affecting students, read p. 3 One team, one brotherhood they are currently working under, Veteran’s Day. Since students must Last Supper, which occurred three “Students react to job actions” in Max Giorgi ‘08 especially for the senior Minutemen. attend school for 180 days, the BOE days before he was resurrected on Holy Thursday is not considered a Issue 2 of The Patriot. As Marcucci left, he felt what many of the To the Washington Township Football team, players were thinking and says, “I didn’t want a senior class is something special. The same to leave it (the field). I just didn’t want it to be Township Toys helps A blue school day group of guys start out as freshman and grow over. I’ll miss being with all of the guys and and work together for the next four years. They spending time with the team.” become almost like family and when it is all finally This football program changes lives. It turns less fortunate over, it is a very emotional but also gratifying boys into men, and teaches valuable life lessons. and fulfilling time. It is a program that can mold and shape a person From TOYS p. 1 We’re very well-prepared this This season was a prime example of this. to bettering themselves. response generated a lot of money year and ‘08 brings a lot of enthu- Mike Schatzman (senior starter and captain) Marcucci says, “It builds character and for the worthy cause. The next year siasm,” said Kevin Ernhoffer ‘08 said that, “We definitely overachieved this season. teaches mental toughness.” Patrick Herring the class advisors actually slept on As for the human aspect of the We were the underdogs but we won the comments to any lower classmen coming up top of the Marching Band’s van and drive, Costello states that nothing conference.” through the program to, “Keep your head when donators filled it with toys. It was can compare. The Minutemen were not favored to win faced with adversity.” their biggest drive to date; nearly “The families and foundations most of their games this year, and with the grueling Stephanie Mordente ‘08 On the night of the last official practice, six thousand dollars was raised. are so grateful when they pick up loss in first game of the season, critics didn’t Award” at one point during the season. the senior class all met at the stadium. Through “The crazier the ideas, the the donations. My voice even have much good to say about the team. But the He talked briefly about scoring touchdowns the dark they heard Coach Wechter say that more donations you get!” exclaimed quivers a little!” She said. Minutemen did not panic “in the face of and says, “It’s a great feeling, but it’s more for this would be the last time most of them would Costello. For both those collecting and adversity”. (A phrase commonly used by Head the team than me. It’s a team effort.” play football. The seniors felt a wave wash The senior class council those dontating toys, Township Coach Wechter.) They pulled together as a To end the season, the Minutemen lost to over them because they knew how much wanted to do help with the drive as Toys is a great way of giving back “brother hood” and won the remaining regular Southern Regional High School 21-7 in the first football had meant to them and how they all well. The advisors moved to the community. Both the season games. round of the playoffs, but soon redeemed weren’t ready to let it go. They knew that a Township Toys from the band bus genrosity and the fun extend long The Minutemen, playing with sort of a themselves with a 27-21 victory over Eastern win against Eastern that Friday was mandatory. to the Core so the students could into the night. Taylor Cohen ‘08/ The Patriot chip on their shoulders, overcame all of their Regional High School, which allowed them to be When the game finally came, and when help too. For the past nine years, Last year channel 6 showed up On Nov. 12, many senior girls wore their junior Powderpuff division rivals. The most gratifying perhaps the sole winners of the Conference. Vincent those final seconds ticked away, and when the senior class council had at four in the morning,” said Ryan jerseys and pants during school to commemorate the might have been the Homecoming game, a Marcucci had two interceptions that game, and everything became oddly quiet the second before Township Toys there, with the Walker ‘08, “ A lot of our friends canceling of this year’s Powderpuff. Some girls also victory against Cherokee. All in all it was also knocked down Eastern’s pass towards the Vince knocked down the pass, they knew they students spending twenty-four are coming in the wee hours of the decorated the hallways and their lockers. positive season with positive achievements. end-zone that might have put them in the lead. all had done something great together, as team, as hours to collect gifts. morning.” Schatzman received the “Back of the Week Leaving the field for the last time was difficult, players, as a brotherhood. 18 - People The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. News - 3 People Isabelle’s eyes raise awareness Gina Parker ‘09 “She is an incredibly smart little girl. She is so bright for her age and Multi-sport captain takes last shots On Nov. 10, Paris Restaurant she doesn’t let her lack of sight held the second annual ‘Isabelle’s hinder her ability to learn,” says a A.J. Nisbet ‘08 field hockey, was named Academic year she was a captain of the Eyes’ benefit in honor of Isabelle family friend and contributor to the All American in lacrosse, and won a field hockey team, and later Nutt. Put together by the Nutt benefit, Cathy Parker. Hard work and commitment are student Athlete award for basketball. on in the year she will be family and close friends, this event “Isabelle is very picky. She is only few of many words that apply Fort has been a part of varsity teams captain of the girl’s lacrosse is held to raise awareness and money fussy about what food she eats, she to senior Sheri Fort and her success- since her sophomore year, even team. for the Foundation of Retinal doesn’t like to wear denim, and she ful athletic journey during her high seeing time on the varsity stage as a “Sheri has always been Research. The night was a huge doesn’t like zippers.” Isabelle’s school career. freshman. a dedicated and hard- success collecting a little over mom, Sue Nutt said. While being a three sport Not only has Fort been a part working person on our team. $10,000 in donations, nearly Isabelle has been wearing athlete, Fort has made the 2nd Team of varsity teams for years, she has Her constant work ethic doubling last year’s total. glasses since she was three and a half All Conference in both lacrosse and also held two captain roles. This helps motivate the rest of Isabelle is a three year old girl months old. Rather than wearing the team, especially me,” living in Washington Twp. that has them for visual purposes Isabelle JV Soccer said Michelle Martin’08 one been diagnosed with Leber’s wears them to protect her eyes. She of Fort’s teammates and Cogenital Amaurosis (LCA). LCA is tries to rub her eyes a lot and if in fellow captains on the a rare genetic eye disorder that the future a surgery or cure is Lanza looks ahead Minutemaids field hockey results in blindness and occurs in discovered, wearing her glasses will Kevin Whitehead ‘10 team. children either at birth or during their preserve her eyes. “She’s very important first few months of childhood. Isabelle’s parents make the Soccer. It is the most popular to our team and I’m sure will A typical day for Isabelle is extra effort to keep their daughter sport in the world. So when you talk be greatly missed next year,” similar to that of many other kids. calm and safe. When trying to someone who loves the game and Martin continued. Isabelle attends Overbrook School something new they describe to can share his knowledge—you listen. While taking part in for the Blind in Philadelphia. Some Isabelle what she is going to do and David Lanza ’10 is an three varsity sports, things she has learned there include: try to keep new experiences fun for important part of the Washington basketball, lacrosse, and making arts and crafts, learning how their curious daughter. Township JV soccer team. Most, field hockey, her favorite to ride a tricycle, drinking through Isabelle’s favorite thing is noise. who know him, think highly of him sport is lacrosse. straws, and using a computer. One She loves to sing and knows more and his playing skills. He excels in “The openness of the A.J. Nisbet ‘08/The Patriot difference in her lifestyle is that she songs than most could imagine Courtesy of the Nutt family this sport because of his speed and field allows me to use my Sheri Fort served as one of the cap- uses a long cane when she walks to someone her age knowing. She likes Isabelle Nutt loves to sing and often goes to Music and Me. extremely aggressive play. His speed, it is a team sport, and tains for this year’s field hockey team. prevent her from bumping into to play with her instruments, her to Music & Me. Isabelle enjoys “Out of curiosity a lot of people motivation on and off the field are it has some of the same Alyssa Figueroa ‘08/The Patriot objects and falling. talking teddy bear, and enjoys going playing outside and swimming. stare at Isabelle. Some become sad his brother, and his two other sisters. concepts as basketball like running Though missing much of the while reacting at seeing such a young All of whom have played for the plays and defensive principles,” said Fort also seems to share similar child blind, but I would just like WTHS soccer program. season, David Lanza helped pro- Fort. characteristics to her favorite athlete, people to be educated on Isabelle’s “I want to be as good as them,” vide leadership as a captain for Teachers thanked with lunch Fort has been a part of the Mike Richards of the Philadelphia condition rather than stare from afar. Lanza said. the undefeated JV soccer team. Mary Faralli ‘08 appreciation cards awaiting the entertainment while the teachers winning tradition of the Minutemaids Flyers. I’m always open to answering To reach that goal he strives to Varsity Soccer Team finished the teachers in the mailboxes, Interact mingled and enjoyed themselves. lacrosse team, as the team has been “He works hard every play, questions.” said Nutt. be a better player but he feels his season at 10-0-1. November is a busy time for made an effort to show their “I feel it went well, the turn crowned Olympic Conference and will do whatever it takes for his The “Isabelle’s Eyes” benefit weaknesses are completely covered “From one to ten, I would give members of the Rotary Interact Club. admiration at a hosted luncheon for out wasn’t quite as large as we’d Champions the past three years. team to win. He is a good player featured a Chinese Auction, a silent by his strengths. His strengths are our team chemistry a ten,” Lanza The club has labeled November teachers which took place hoped, but everyone that attended While being successful on the offensively and defensively, plays auction, and included monetary his speed, aggressive play, and poise said. Teacher Appreciation Month and has immediately after school on Nov. loved it,” said Fernandez, “We’re still lacrosse field, Fort was also part of both ends of the ice, and puts his donations. Isabelle herself made an on the field. Before soccer games A soccer team needs chemistry sought to convey their gratitude to 26th. Inter- receiv- the Group 4 Sectional Finals the past team before himself,” said Fort. appearance at her event to say hi Lanza listens to “Welcome to the and teamwork to be successful and the people who dedicate their days act adorned ing thank-you two years with the Minutemaids While success seems inevitable and to thank the adults for coming. Jungle” by Guns and Roses to get move in the right direction. The to improving students’ education at Cafeteria B letters from the field hockey team. on an athletic surface for Fort, she is “It’s just a little way to for “It’s a great event, and it’s heart him pumped up. Junior Varsity soccer team has a Washington Township High School. with handmade teachers.” Fort’s most memorable sports also committed to her school work the students to show how warming to see so many people eager On game day, his mind is couple of standout players. Interact general members decorations. The moment during her high school career and studies. Fort has maintained to help out this precious girl and the entirely set with a winning attitude. According to Lanza, their most labored over personal, handmade The club much we really so appreciate Interact club thus far was when the field hockey good grades in mostly honors classes, foundation,” said Parker. He’s willing to do whatever it takes prominent player on defense was thank-you cards to each individual members made has been team tied Eastern(the number two and is part of the National Honor them.” If you are interested in what to win the game that day. Also, as he Jerry Guzzo until he moved to the teacher and counselor. Each member fifty personal hosting this ranked field hockey team in the Society and despite her packed -Marissa Fernandez ‘08 you can do help the Foundation for says, he hates to lose. Varsity team. Presently, Steve made at least two cards to ensure flower pots to event for a country who was seemingly schedule she still finds time to Retinal Research, Interact is After a loss he ususally feels Morrone is filling the void for the that every teacher in the school adorn the three couple of unbeatable) 2-2 during her participate in the Interact club. sponsoring a cell phone drive. If you that he and his teammates simply promoted Guzzo. receives at least one and the notes long tables, complete with imitation years, and members say that there sophomore year. Starting in the Fall of next year, have any old or non-working cell did not get the job done and could “Kyle Jordan is probably our were filled with personal ways in flowers and attached thank-you was much more enthusiasm this With few people being able to Fort will be attending St. Francis phones, you can drop them off in have played better. best forward,” Lanza stated, “be- which that teacher affected the notes. The teachers were invited to year. match Fort’s successful resume, she University in Pennsylvania to major room I-103. Sadly, all this motivation could cause he’s fast and he scores a lot. ” credits multiple things that inspire in physical therapy and continue her student. take a flower centerpiece as a gift. “The teachers really not be transferred to the field due to Their team accomplished Lanza’s her to work so hard. lacrosse career. “It’s just a little way for the The food was displayed on the appreciated it. We got tons of emails Interested in helping his health issues. Lanza was eligible preseason goal, which was to win a “The desire for competition and With just a few more months students to show how much we cafeteria tables and the teachers were and cards from people that didn’t the community? Join to play, but had to wait on treatment lot of games or go undefeated. the drive to do my very best every left in Fort’s successful high school really do appreciate them.” said offered hors d’oeuvres, snacks, and even come,” said Victoria Gardner Interact! Contact Ms. results. He did contributed to the “We’re intimidating because we time I play, and to have regrets,” said career, she is looking forward to Interact president Marissa desserts. Steve Laraia ’09 and Justin ’08, who chaired the event, “We’re Naval in room I-103 team’s success in his brief stint this think that no one can beat us. But Fort when asked about her leading the Minutemaids lacrosse Fernandez ’08. Bernardo ’09, from the school expecting more teachers to come out or visit their Eboard. season. This year, the Boy’s Junior we can’t get too full of ourselves.” inspiration. team to a successful season. In addition to the numerous orchestra, provided musical next year.” 4 - News The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Entertainment - 17 Demonically different The Odd Couple goes on Avenged Sevenfold’s new album hits big Margaret Bonanni ‘09 the play and many students Chelsey Gordon ‘08 It just doesn’t pack that same Every year students anticipate found the play punch that made City of Evil so the fall play. This year the Way Off enjoyable. Avenged Sevenfold’s newly memorable. Not to mention it was Broadway Players, under the “[The play] released, self-titled album has short. With only ten tracks, you definitely struck a chord with their reach the end and wonder, “What direction of Mr. James DiGennaro, was great, and I fans. However, some argue they happened to the rest?” They also produced The Odd Couple by Neil loved Jackie could do better. Their first album, use a synthesizer, which is really out Simon. Smith’s Sounding the Seventh Trumpet, there considering their genre. Set in New York City, the play performance,” released in 2001 (and re-released in Each song has its own style, is centered on two friends, Florence, said Megan 2002) made it clear they were a force from southern rock to something Julia Hanh ’10, and Olive, Nikki Hipszer ’08, “I to be reckoned with. straight out of Tim Burton’s head. Black ‘08. Olive is divorced and very found the play to The band hit it big with their Listening to it for the first time, you independent. She is the complete foil be really rela- second album, Waking the Fallen, in get the impression that a three-year- of Florence, who has a more maternal table, and liked 2003. Two years later with the old just slapped some macaroni on a and clingy attitude. After Florence the humor.” release of City of Evil, just about paper and hung it on the fridge. separates from her husband, Olive To pull off everyone knew who Avenged Looking at the album positively, proposes that she moves in. the play’s hu- Sevenfold was. you get the sense that each of the The band members are M. guys contributed to it in their own With clashing attitudes, mature mor, the cast Google Image Shadows (Matt Sanders) on vocals, way. In fact, “A Little Piece of humor, and comical predicaments, stayed after Synyster Gates (Brian Haner, Jr.) on Avenged Sevenfold’s new album sold about 94,000 copies first week. Heaven” was written entirely by the two help each other move on, almost every day lead guitar, Zacky Vengeance (Zacky riffs, compliments of Synyster Gates definitely took a small step The Rev himself. and cope with their losses. for about seven Baker) on rhythm guitar, Johnny and Zacky Vengeance. Add in The backward. As usual, the guitars were I think it’s a little jumbled and “I chose one of Simon’s plays weeks of Christ (Johnny Seward) on bass, and Rev drumming like a demon, and perfectly harmonized, and The Rev the songs don’t really blend as because they’re usually funny,” said rehearsals. These The Reverend Tholomew Plague Johnny Christ’s bass lines, and it just keeps on drumming like the smoothly as they could, it is still a DiGennaro, “I picked the female rehear-sals, (Jimmy Sullivan) on drums. was a solid album with M. Shadows demon we all know he is. But, even great album. The fans were slightly version because we had lot of although City of Evil, their third album, screaming his heart out. with an orchestra, something seems let down, but happy to see a new talented girls try out. It gave them a stringent, were is a nonstop blowout of heavy guitar However, Avenged Sevenfold to be missing. album. nice chance to shine.” needed to per- Because of problems concerning fect the timing Opinion Margaret Bonanni ‘09/ The Patriot the play’s rights, the production and tempo that is The cast had weeks of rehearsals to perfect the play’s comedic tempo. took an unexpected turn. Instead of essential to a MTV misinterprets reality running the show from Nov. 15-17, comedy, said DiGennaro. They also Many actors, such as Young and Couple in order to draw from it ran on Dec. 6-7. Despite the came in for most days over the mid Black, studied accents to add depth Oscar’s character,” said Black. Matt Neuteboom ‘08 their parents house or have even given jobs. We’re talking under- not mean that they are brainwashed concerns, the play had its expected November break to run scenes. and color to their performance. It’s that type of dedication that attempted to integrate with society. experienced adolescents are handed sheep. And in the real world the only turnout, and was well received by “We rehearsed everyday for “I started preparing for my part made this play worth watching. The Back when I was a kid, adults Their social experience is glaringly high profile jobs in the media with thing you can do is tolerate it. You the audience. about 2 months. They were fun but by practicing a New York accent, cast was as dedicated to their roles always used to tell me that TV would lacking, and cast members are often little or no effort on their part. can’t force someone to change their Laughter could be heard a lot of work,” said Jackie Smith which I didn’t actually use in the as they were to each other, and rot my brain. I always thought that spoiled and whiny because of their This had got to be the biggest opinion. If it bothers you that much, throughout the 11/12 auditorium. (Sylvie) ’08. show, but it definitely helped me get bonded throughout the production they were just too stiff to enjoy upper-middle class lifestyles. fabrication I’ve ever seen a show then don’t associate with that person. Hilarious punch-lines and vivid Some actors took preparation into character…I also watched clips process. television like kids do, but as I got The moans begin almost as portray. In the “real” real world you But the thing that gets to me characters added original comedy to for their parts above and beyond. from the original movie The Odd “The cast in general felt like a older I’ve learned that they weren’t soon as the cast moves into the need a degree to get such jobs. Even the most is the lines in the opening big family. Like any family, people against easing your brain with some house. Being the spoiled adolescents then, the application and credits: “find out what happens are going to disagree and argue, but mindless television: they just they are, if they don’t get the room interviewing process can kill you, when people stop being polite...and usually we had a great time recognized that TV is just garbage. they like, they have to complain not to mention that there are other, start getting real...” DECA inducts new members rehearsing and made many memories Taking center about it. probably more qualified individuals You have to be quite a whiny stage is MTV with The show gives who will also be trying to get the individual to think that people are Brittany Tartaglia ‘09 DECA shirts the day of the related competitions. Mrs. Olivo, the together. Sometimes we almost had ...God forbid if you ceremony. advisor of DECA, prepares students too good a time and it was hard to their show “The you a free man- same job. fake if they’re polite. Whining and Real World.” The don’t get the bed you sion complete With the experience and arguing is not expressing yourself; it On Nov. 13, 2007, the At the ceremony, select for their Regional, State, and get through scenes because of all the show is already with a Jacuzzi, a qualification range of the individuals, just shows how self-centered you organization known as DECA students were chosen as board National conferences. This year, the uncontrollable laughter,” said Black. like, the world has to going into its 20th pool table, and the strangers would probably be apt are. Polite people are not fake. inducted 257 new members at the members. Jessica McBride ’08 was National conference is taking place season, but for many more ex- for jobs mail room clerks. In the real We’re polite because our parents annual DECA Induction ceremony. chosen as DECA President. Kristen in Atlanta, Georgia. stop until the Interested in those unfamiliar pensive luxuries. world, not everyone has a cool job. taught us manners, unlike yours, you DECA is student-organized and Abdallah ‘08, Sean Kelly ‘09, Members also do community with the show, the dilemma is solved. Most people In most cases, you do your job spoiled brat. gives students the opportunity to Doreen Manukus ‘08, and Seamus service. Some of these include arts photography? idea is that seven would kill for because you have to, not because In The Real World, the people have a fun, but is also a helpful Meintel ’08 were chosen as Vice and crafts with senior citizens, strangers live in the same house for some room space and a decent cot to you want to. are given a free mansion worth activity to participate in. Along with Presidents, who are also known as Adopted Families, which took place several months while cameras film sleep on, but these kids are so upset Then, conflicts arise as the millions, and are given a high-profile, vocal and leadership skills, students Diamonds. Nov. 28, cleaning the Veterans Park, Come snap some their unscripted drama (hence with a simple conflict of sleeping strangers start to realize that people interesting job with no schooling or acquire better skills in marketing, Along with honoring current March Madness, and the wing bowl. MTV’s emphasis of its “reality.”) arrangements. In the real world you have different opinions than they do! experience. In the real world, people management, finance, merchandising, students, a past student was also Competitions and community shots for The Don’t ask me where MTV pay thousands of dollars a year to Gasp! Not everyone thinks like they spend $50,000 on college training, and entrepreneurship. honored. Alicia DeFillipo, WTHS service are just a few of the many Patriot! Meetings found the genetic rejects that rent an apartment, but God forbid if do! People have to accept the fact get a boring low-paying job, and have In order to be inducted, the graduate of 2003, was inducted into things that DECA does. Members auditioned for their show, but each you don’t get the bed you like, the that others are not the 2D cutouts a three room apartment. The fact students had to be in a business the WTHS DECA Hall of Fame. also gain the valuable experience of on Tuesdays in character’s personality is about as world has to stop until the dilemma that the media makes people. that even most people are content class, and be interested in joining the The purpose of DECA is to the business world. To join next room D-8. flat as day-old Coke. It seems like is solved. Humans have layers, and just with the latter makes one realize how organization. After signing up, they allow students to participate in year’s DECA group, see Mrs. Rosell, none of these people have ever left Next the strangers are literally because they disagree with you does fake The Real World truly is. had to pay a $20 fee, and wear the conferences, which are business or Mrs. Olivo. 16 - Entertainment The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Features - 5 Entertainment Features Backstreet Boys make comeback Last minute shopping easy to do Sarah Kurtz ‘10 wonder of the world. Sarah Kurtz ‘10 The album contains songs that make Maybe a gift card isn’t personal enough for you get up and dance as well as songs You’re on the phone with your best friend the message you want to say. Maybe it’s a loved Let’s face it, we were all that put you in a blue mood, a when she tells you how excited she is to give you one you want to impress. Ordering anything obsessed with boy bands growing combination the every album should her gift. The gift that you both agreed you online is extremely pricey at this time of year, up. The two major rival bands were have. Their first single titled, weren’t getting for each other. Now you have a especially if you’re looking to over-night it. A Backstreet Boys and N*Sync. Inconsolable, describes breaking up problem. What do you do when you lack the quick stop at a nearby florist always does the Unlike N*Sync, BSB is still releasing and the hardship of loss. Other songs time to shop for a great gift with no time? trick. A dozen roses can be pretty pricey, so a albums. It’s hard to believe that on the album are more upbeat such Purchasing a last minute item doesn’t need to be bouquet of tulips would do great. Add a box of fifteen years have gone by since they as, “Something That I Already nerve racking or nail biting. The key is to stay chocolates and you’re golden. A great idea would first released an album, but BSB is Know” and “Helpless When She cool, calm, and collected. be to subscribe for the magazine for that person still going strong. Their music Smiles.” These songs brings forth If it is the day of the planning to exchanging for a year or two. Everyone has magazines lying changed pop culture forever. Starting more of the rock talent in the album. gifts, you’re best bet is to go with a gift card. around their house that they flip through or read. with their self-titled album in 1992, Then you have your typical boy- Even non-last minute shoppers purchase these. It’s not pricey and every time they get the to their most recent album band songs like “You Can Let Go” They’re a great buy and you know that the person magazine they’ll think of you. Unbreakable, the boys are a and “Trouble Is”. Google Image receiving it can pick out something that they are If you’re looking to buy your mom or sensation. Even though only four out Backstreet returns stronger than ever after losing a member. Every song on the album is sure to like. One great place to purchase these is relative a quick gift, a trip to the spa is always a of the five boys on the new album, handpicked to change your mood as Barnes & Nobel. You can’t go wrong with giving good way to go. When you go to the spa to their sound is still better than ever. After a four year break, the boys artists have on their whole albums every good song should be. They someone the opportunity to get away and cozy purchase the gift card, you can pre-order some of The Backstreet Boys have decided to give it another go. In 2006, today. may have lost a member, but they up with a good book and giant chocolate chip their activities so that it looks like you put time come a long way since they first the Backstreet Boys came out with After the tour for Never Gone sure have not lost their magic. cookie. If a bookstore is not their style, try a mall and effort into something that didn’t take long at started out in 1997. Nick Carter, the all too literal titled album, Never was complete, one member of the Although the album has done gift certificate. These are great for the shopper. all. This way they can have a day of pampering Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell, AJ Gone. band decided that he was hanging up extremely well up against Britney With an abundance of stores to choose from they on you. McLean and Kevin Richardson have The album immediately sky his boy band towel and heading for Spears’ new album Blackout, we can get something they really like and it is your The easiest way to shop for someone is to all grown up now, just like their fans. rocketed to the top of the charts. home. Kevin Richardson left the haven’t heard of a tour yet. treat. If you’re at a complete loss of where they plan ahead and take your time. Yet we sometimes The boys started families, recorded The boys made it clear that they group with a full blessing of his Unbreakable by Backstreet would like to shop, try a Visa gift card. This gift run into those last minute situations that drive us solo projects, and even got caught meant business. The songs still teammates. Boys really shows that they are in card is acceptable at almost any retailer. You can nuts. Just remember to stay calm, and the up in the fast and dangerous life of obtained the same quirkiness that all Despite losing a strong member this business for good. Maybe buy food, gas, even clothing with this handy card. shopping will go smoothly. Who knows, you’re young Hollywood, like most stars boy bands have, but at the same time of the band, Backstreet Boys another album could be on the way, For the last minute shopper, it is the eighth- last minute gift could end up being their favorite. have today. But the group remained had a contemporary rock sound. decided to try one more time. Their but it’s too soon to tell. But one Stephanie Mordente ‘08 strong and kept with the one thing Songs like “Climbing the Walls” and latest album, Unbreakable is still thing’s for sure: Backstreet’s back, that held them together, music. “I Still” have more passion then most fantastic despite the loss of Kevin. alright! Winter holidays give reason to celebrate Katie Mount ‘09 they will receive presents. celebrate Hanukkah with other traditions. Some “My family and I go to church on Christmas treats enjoyed through those eight days are gelt Writers’ Guild strike affects media world What defines a holiday? Some may describe Eve. After that we spend time with my mom’s (chocolate coins) and potato pancakes. Families a holiday as a time of rest and relaxation. Others side of the family.” Victoria Monte ’09 said. “Then often enjoy playing dreidel, a four sided, spinning Stephanie Foran ‘08 at the Santa Monica Chronicle to may say it is a time of religious observance. At the on Christmas day, we spend time with my dad’s top. make enough money to live end of every year, most American families celebrate side of the family.” “Hanukkah is a time to be with my family On Nov. 2, the Writer’s Guild comfortably. one of three winter holidays; Christmas, For the Jewish community it is the and friends.” Jennifer Ruegg ’09 stated. “We play of America went on strike after the As for the duration of the strike, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa. Each holiday is season of Hanukkah. Hanukkah is the dreidel and light the menorah.” expiration of their contract with the it is most likely to be very long and celebrated differently, and each family holiday that commemorates the The latest addition to the holiday season is Alliance of Motion Picture and ugly since neither side is willing to spends that time uniquely. victory of the Maccabees over the Kwanzaa, created by Ron Karenga in 1966. Unlike Television Producers (AMPTP). negotiate. “It’s going to get a lot To Christians, Christmas is the Hellenistic Syrians. When the Christmas and Hanukkah, Kwanzaa is not a There are currently twelve thousand worse before it gets better,” said celebration of the birth of Christ. It is Hellenistic Syrians were defeated, the religious holiday. Kwanzaa celebrates African writers on the picket line. At least Rosell. Talks for a new contract have always celebrated on Dec. 25. Many Temple of Jerusalem was American family, community and culture. It is one of them has a local connection. not begun and most likely won’t un- traditions that accompany Christmas, reclaimed. The Maccabees celebrated from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1. Mrs. Eileen Rosell, a marketing til 2008. Viewers have already seen such as holiday feasts and caroling, held a celebration in order Festivities associated with Kwanzaa are teacher at WTHS, is the mother of the effect of the strike—reruns are dated back over 4000 years to the to rededicate the temple. candle lighting, feasting, pouring of libations (a one of those writers. Her son is a on the air because writers refuse to Google Image Mesopotamians. Other than lighting ritual pouring of a drink as an offering to a god) writer for It’s Always Sunny in write. The WGA consists of two branches. The west deals with Holly- There are many different the menorah, Jew- and gift-giving. Families dress up in African Philadelphia. She recently went out When Rosell went to California, wood and the east is in New York City. symbols that have come to be ish families garments and play music. Many families discuss a to Hollywood to join the protest. she protested along with guild them. Many of the picketers had have already seen the devastation of associated with Christmas, such chapter in African history. This is to pay respect Rosell stated she’s worried for her members in front of Fox Studios. signs asking people to honk their car the strike. Even more shows will be as Santa Claus (also known as to their ancestors and family. son because of the cost of Protesters wore red shirts to show horns to support them; postponed in the months if the strike Saint Nicolas) and candy canes. Family…it seems all three holidays have this comfortably surviving in California. their support for the writers. unfortunately those who did were continues. Families decorate trees and in common. No matter how differently someone “The people who are new to However, there were more than pulled over by police for a noise Hopefully the AMPTP and the place presents under them for celebrates a holiday, they spend it with those they the industry are affected [because just writers present. Actors such as violation. Writer’s Guild come to an agreement Christmas Day. Children leave care about. So enjoy your holidays and remember the pay is very low],” said Rosell. Robin Williams, Ray Romano, and Fans of Saturday Night Live, 24, soon so everyone’s favorite shows out a glass of milk, cookies, and a what’s important to you. Her son even had to get a second job Julia Louis-Dreyfus rallied with and Late Night with Conan O’Brien can go back on the air. note for Saint Nicholas, in hopes Dom Capcino 08’ Happy Christmahanukkwanzaa! 6 - Features The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Tech Talk - 15 Project 540°: Students turn for a change Going Tech Talk Sam Baranowski ‘08 Civic Engagement. Though not green all high school students would jump Guitar Hero 3 rocks home consoles upon hearing the phrase, one club at Tom Gill ‘10 later gigs. You’ll play forever on WTHS is truly passionate about new trend the more difficult modes of Hard improving our school and Since 2005, software publisher and Expert. community. Nicole Heath ‘10 Red Octane has been rocking and Some of the fans of today’s “Project 540° gets its name shocking the gaming industry with more contemporary music may not from a 540° turn. It’s a full 360 and In the seventies it was disco, its smash hit Guitar Hero series, the be huge fans of this game’s song a half to represent looking around at eighties big hair, the nineties boy game in which you trade in your air list due to it mostly being older our world and then taking an extra bands. And now in the first decade guitar for a guitar controller. The songs, but any fan of rock music step to change it,” said Katie Jewell, of the twenty first century, the new innovative idea of gamers playing could easily recognize most of the a member of the 2007-2008 fad in America is going green. their favorite songs with a specially songs on this game. Not only can Leadership Team. Katie is joined on From fuel efficient cars to green made guitar controller has really you play these songs over and the Leadership Team by seniors roofing, the new trend of using revolutionized the idea of what good over, but also, on the Xbox 360, Justine Hunsicker, Doreen Mankus, environment friendly things is gaming is. It’s now 2007, and Red you can download packs of songs and yours truly. The team catching on. More and more people Octane has produced another solid from artists such as the Foo coordinates facilitator training and Mary Kate Young ‘08 are going out of their way to by installment in the Guitar Hero Fighters. organizes the presentation of four Project 540 teaches students how to change the world around Google Image products that will lessen damage to franchise with Guitar Hero 3: With its hours upon hours of different modules throughout the them. Rockstar Judy Nails plays at a venue remniscient of the Burning the ecosystem. Hybrid cars are hot Legends of Rock. game play and it’s extensive list of year. is a rewarding experience, benefiting can be improved, and how to go on the market, and so are other There are many new changes to Man Festival. songs, Guitar Hero 3 should keep Project 540° has already helped each member in their own way. about making those changes. So be simple things such as fluorescent this game which makes it just as new game mode is the addition of Hero 3 you can play over 70 tracks you interested for a long time. And improve our school in many ways; Senior Gina Benigno says, “I on the lookout for the first part of a bulbs and solar panels. All these enjoyable as it was in the past. Some online play for the 360, PS3, and Wii including Hit Me With Your Best Shot, if you get bored of playing on your the evidence of their involvement is learned a lot about how our school revolution coming to your classroom products are being sold to help stop of the more recognizable changes are, versions. This adds a new aspect of Sabotage, Even Flow, When You were own, you can now go online or take everywhere you look. They helped functions from Project 540°. We soon. If you really want to get the spread of oil and fossil fuels into of course, the new wireless guitars challenge where you can put your Young, One, Welcome to the Jungle, the game to a friend’s house and pass the Bond Referendum for new help get the students get involved in involved, it’s not too late to become the air. for the Xbox 360, PS3, and Wii guitar hero skills to the test against and many others. Granted, the song challenge them to a face-off. This facilites including the all-weather policies and finances that make our a facilitator! Club advisor, Mr. Steve Though environmentalists have versions. You can now change the people from all over the world. selection is huge, and you’ll never get game is a must-buy for anyone track and two turf fields, and also school what it is.” Gregor and any member of the team existed for decades, the popularity faceplate of the guitar, as well as However, the most important bored playing your favorites over and who is looking for a fun game changed policy to allow students to This year, Project 540° will will be more than happy to get you is growing mainly due to the recent detach the neck in case you wanted aspect of the Guitar Hero game is over again. This game is harder than which you can enjoy for a long wear flip flops in school. Every visit all the history classes in WTHS started down the road to making a documentary by former vice to stow it in something like your obviously the song list. In Guitar the previous two, especially on the time. member of this group agrees that it to discuss aspects of student life that difference. president Al Gore, The Inconvenient book bag. Truth. This documentary showed the As well, the game’s graphics One Day at a Time by Jessica McFadden ‘10 effects of fossil fuel use on the earth have been slightly tweaked. Most Call of Duty 4 reinvents modern warfare and how they contribute to global of the characters and sets have gotten Kurt Pflugfelder ‘08 without all the settings turned down, simply cannot walk away from warming. This documentary received a makeover, and the rock meter has this game is amazing. Printed pict- CoD4. Shutting off wasteful habits rave reviews and Gore won a Nobel been rebuffed to a newer and more Anyone who has played the ures simply cannot do this game As soon as you fire up multi- Peace Prize for the film. Thanks to contemporary look. The score box first or second Call of Duty (CoD) justice. Every character has a wide player, though, there’s no going One Day at a Time is a new column by letting the water run in their When you’re outside, there are this widely viewed movie, the has also been tweaked to resemble an knows just how spectacular the variety of facial expressions and no back. Starting out, you’re a basic that will focus on things that all of us shower and waiting for the water to quite a few things you can do to environmentalist movement has amp, and the addition of the note games are. The first installments in two faces are exactly alike. Puffs of Private rank with only five primary can do to help save our planet. get scalding hot. Most people, conserve water. Don’t water your been growing uncontrollably. streak indicator is a cool bonus that the series followed the courageous smoke rise from every misplaced weapons available. By defeating subconsciously, leave the water lawns on cold, windy, and extremely In addition to documentary, the adds to the amazing game play you fighting men of Russia, Great bullet and tracers fly through the sky other players and completing special Although our Earth is roughly running when they shave, wash their hot days. Watering your lawn during cause has been spread largely by the experience in Guitar Hero 3. Britain, and the United States during so beautifully that you might find challenges, you can advance in rank 70% water, we waste gallons and face, washing dishes, or when using the aforementioned periods of time media and celebrities. Many celebs But after all the visual aspects World War II. yourself just watching the battle rage and unlock new weapons, weapon gallons of it each day. Taking long a garbage disposal. wastes more water because the water like Leonardo DiCaprio and Owen of the game are appreciated, we’re What set these games apart around you. attachments, and abilities called showers, watering lawns, and running Some people also run water to either blows away in the wind, Wilson have spread the cause simply left with game play. Much of the game from the rest of the innumerable But of course, the graphics “perks” that allow for things like water while brushing your teeth are make it hot just to thaw out meats! freezes, or evaporates! by showing their support. is similar to the previous games with WWII games on the market was the won’t keep you from getting killed sprinting longer distances or steadier just a few ways that we all waste Instead of using water to thaw out It is best to water the lawns in Commercials and channels like a few exceptions. There’s the new amount of detail and depth the in battle. Whether you’re playing aim while sniping. At first I found it water. People do not understand your meats, you can just sit the meat the early morning, to avoid Animal Planet and Discovery battle mode in which two players developer Infinity Ward added to as Sgt. Paul Jackson of the USMC hard to level up because there were how simple it is to fix this problem. in your refrigerator over night or you evaporation. When you are mowing repeatedly show their support for compete against each other on a song. the games. No longer was the story 1st Force Recon or “Soap” McTavish so many people already at higher Everyone can take part in can also use the defrost setting on the lawn, don’t cut it as short as you the growing effort to stop Global In this mode, instead of collecting star just about the single character you from the 22nd British Special Air ranks. But after adapting my tactics, conserving water, even children! If your microwave. generally would. If you leave the Warming. power, you collect attacks that you controlled, but about your comrades Service Regiment (SAS), the I quickly progressed. Now, after we each take shorter showers, we, Another way to conserve water grass about a notch higher on your But will this new fad go can use against your opponent, such in arms fighting by your side. Quite singleplayer missions are nonstop playing for nearly 13 hours, I’m a 1st as a whole, would save so many in your bathrooms is to test your mower, that decreases the risk of out like light up shoes and giga pets? as breaking a string, making them frankly, I was blown away. Nothing, action. Though most missions take Lieutenant II and I admit that I still gallons of water a day. It’s not a hard toilets and sinks for leaks. To test a evaporation of rainwater or sprinkler It’s not likely. Airlines, car, and even switch to left handed mode, and however, could have prepared me for place on foot, some involve manning have a lot to learn from the Colonels thing to do, turning off the water toilet for a leak, you should put a water. Also, do not let children play buildings are being changed to better causing them to have an amp the next installment. a mounted gun on a helicopter and and Generals out there. while brushing your teeth. It’s colored dye into the tank of the with the garden hose! With the help the environment stay clean. overload. Upon first starting the game, I another, my personal favorite, has Honestly, if you are even actually quite simple. toilet. If the colored dye floods into children not playing with the hose, Even the Christmas holiday is going Not only can you play against a immediately noticed the game’s the player controlling the weapons remotely interested in a story-driven By turning off the tap water the toilet bowl without you flushing you are saving ten gallons a minute. green with Christmas lights that friend in this new mode, but you also outstanding graphics. First off, I still on an AC-130 gunship. While there first person shooter, this is the game while brushing your teeth or shaving, it, then you have a leak in that Keep in mind the effects of won’t cause damage to the play battle mode in single-player have an old computer by today’s is a lot of variety, I think I walked to pick up this holiday season. It’s you are saving up to six gallons a specific toilet. By finding out that running the tap. If everyone makes ecosystem. With new inventions on against guitarists such as Slash of standards. Of course, this means that away from this game still wanting been said that war isn’t pretty, but week between the two activities! you have a leak in one of your toilets, an effort to conserve water, we will the market, and more easy ways to Guns N’ Roses and Tom Morello of I have to run CoD4 on the lowest more, as the story was much too I’m sure whoever said that never People all over the globe waste you are saving up to four hundred continue to have enough water to stop fossil fuels, this fad just might Rage Against the Machine. Another graphics settings available. Even short for my liking. Then again, you played Call of Duty 4. hundreds of gallons of water a day gallons of water a month! meet our society’s needs. go the distance. 14 - Books The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Features -7 Books AIDS Awareness Month Lauren Finneran ‘08 medications to keep the immune system working. B&N creates fun environment for readers When someone says It has been reported that there December, the first thing that pops are over 38.6 million people Maggie Bonanni ‘09 advantage of is their book clubs. In into many people’s minds is worldwide living with HIV. In the these clubs readers can praise, Christmas, Hanukkah, New Years, United States, there are more than Whether they buy books, read discuss, or even complain about or winter break. What doesn’t pop 1 million people living with HIV in their comfortable lounge chairs, novels they have read, while meeting into many people’s minds is AIDS and there are about 40,000 new or have a caffeinated beverage in their and connecting with other enth- Awareness month. cases of HIV each year. Getting this café, an avid reader can always find usiasts. Clubs are not just based on Although that may not be at information out there is what AIDS something that interests them at books, but on many other topics such the top of your list of things to Awareness month is all about. Barnes and Noble. as writer’s workshops, genre think about, it is a very important Knowledge is only the first Since 1917, Barnes and Noble discussions, and those that center on subject that should not be over- step. There are many ways to show Booksellers have been providing different authors. Discussers can looked in the hustle and bustle of support for victims of HIV and people with reading material. even go online and visit thousands the month. AIDS. You can buy red ribbons, Transforming from a mom and pop of discussion boards ranging from December 1 is World AIDS magnets, wristbands, and pins. Visit store in Wheaton, Illinois to the knitting to Shakespeare. Day. The World Health this site www.awarenessdepot.com/ country’s top bookseller brand for Between the vast selection, Organization established world aids1.html if you’d like to know the fourth consecutive year (accor- book clubs, discussion boards, and photo by yahoo AIDS Day in 1988 to educate There are 1 million people in the U.S. living with HIV, and research- more about ordering anything to ding to the EquiTrend® Brand café, it’s hard to believe that a store people about the dangers of the show your support for the AIDS Google Image ers believe 25% of them do not know they are infected. Study by Harris Interactive®), they can offer much more. However, Acquired Immune Deficiency cause. sell almost three million books per Barnes and Noble stores are known for their large variety of Barnes and Noble goes above and Syndrome or AIDS. The day is over time ruins the immune system When a person contracts HIV The only way to stop this year. activities including book clubs, book signings, release parties, beyond. They also hold community devoted to educating about how and causes AIDS. HIV is spread they have a window of about 10 to epidemic is to be aware of it and With selections from science and even children story hours. events in their stores for readers of AIDS is spread, how it can be only three ways; through sexual 12 years before their immune avoid being ignorant to this growing fiction and children’s books, to self all ages. Release parties, perfor- prevented, and how to get tested. intercourse, blood (sharing needles, system is damaged to the point of problem. Don’t turn a blind eye and help guides and classic novels, they calendars. Along with printed tory desserts, chocolate, and mances, book signings, and children’s AIDS is the result of the an open cut), or mother to child (if being diagnosed with AIDS. The be okay with having limited offer every type of selection. It material, they also sell games, DVDs, sandwiches. They also have a seating story hours are just some of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus the mother is infected, she will entire time a person has HIV or knowledge. Find out more so you seems that their offerings are always music, and even toys. Fans can find area for reading, studying, talking to events readers can attend. (HIV), which infects the body and pass it on to her child). AIDS, they must be on expensive can better the future. expanding. Their selections are not paraphernalia from favorite series friends, or relaxing. Whether buying a book on only taken from best sellers and such as Harry Potter or Star Wars. Throughout the store, literary Vietnamese cuisine, looking for award winning writers, but from Almost anyone can find something lounges complete with couches and Hedwig stuffed-animals, or stopping small publishers and college presses. they enjoy when they walk into the chairs can be found so readers can in for a Starbucks Mocha-latte, a Asian Awareness Club is stepping out Books are only one part of their store, or shop online at bn.com. have the ultimate experience of reader can find anything they need business. They also sell dozens of While looking through aisles of reading their favorite book while at Barnes and Noble. With shelves Matthew Griechen ‘10 With the purpose of learning about plans to expand their movie event join,” said vice president, Danielle special interests magazines, travel materials, readers can also indulge in sipping their coffee or drink. stocked with thousands of books and Asian cultures, the club also includes and make the Asian Movie Day a Burgo ’08. guides, audio books, posters, sta- Barnes and Noble’s café, which serves Another aspect of Barnes and novelty items, one can only image Asian Awareness is an restaurant visits so that the members monthly fixture. Also, a new Asian Awareness is one of the tionary, and even planners and Starbucks Coffee, Cheesecake Fac- Noble that an avid reader can take the possibilities. interesting club that has the goal of can experience the cuisine of fundraiser which involves selling many clubs at Washington Township teaching not only its members, but different Asian Cultures. fortune cookies with myriad flavors High School and it is in the midst of also the entire student body about Last year, the club went to a is an upcoming event to look for. preparing a variety of events that Asian cultures. It also has goals that local restaurant, Sakura, to enjoy The club hopes to be able to are available to the entire student Dragonfly foretells success for series include: giving back to the Japanese and Chinese cuisine. This accomplish a major project that body. If you are interested in the community and making the club an year, Asian Awareness plans to add involves the various cultural clubs Brittany Tartaglia ‘09 cheerleader, her boyfriend is tattoo, don’t do it.” However the deal with her problems is for you to Asian culture, this club is exemplary enjoy-able experience for all. many appealing projects. The club at Washington Township High popular and attractive, and she is a editor wouldn’t put it in the find out. in learning about the culture and This year, under the new School. This event would attempt Don’t Die Dragonfly is the member of the school’s newspaper newspaper. Sabine also has another Overall, I thought that Don’t having fun. leadership of Mr. Hart, the to incorporate the other cultural first book in The Seer series by staff. Everything seems to be going problem. Her malicious ex- Die Dragonfly was a very good club plans to become more clubs and to create an event in which Linda Joy Singleton. Sabine Rose is back to normal; Sabine has not had boyfriend discovers her secretive book. It had a great plot and was a involved in school each club can have an area where they just a teenage girl who would want her premonitions in a long time. past and blackmails her. definite page-turner. However, quite Join the functions and activities. could show aspects of their cultures. nothing more than to be normal. Not only does her grandmother Sabine does a few of the scenes With the introduction of This event would be a fairly new However, this is not the case. Sabine think she lost her gift, but Sabine is not know what to Sabine has a special in the book lacked new and exciting events, experience for many students. has a special gift, a psychic gift that even giving into her own lies. Gift do. As if that isn’t detail; I thought gift, a psychic gift that along with participating in Asian Awareness has only one Patriot enables her to be able to see the or no gift, Sabine still hears the enough, she has they should have enables her to be able the traditional events for the club, requirement for members, which is future and be in touch with the spirit helpful, yet bossy voice of her spirit problems at home had more infor- Asian Awareness is going to have attendance. Meetings are held world. These gifts are the same ones guide Opal. with her grand- to see the future and mation to make the Meetings on an exciting year. every Wednesday in room E- that got her kicked out of her last One night Opal shows Sabine mother. Due to the be in touch with the story more under- Some events that the 12. Asian Awareness is school and her home just a year ago. a horrifying dream that seems to be fact that Nona standable. Also, the Tuesdays spirit world. club members have open to all students at In order to escape ridicule and getting worse every night. The thought Sabine had book is not very participated in are the the high school. prevent further embarrassment to dream is of a girl with a dragonfly lost her powers, she takes on a new long which makes it a quick read. Festival of Friends and Relay “Asian Aware- her family, Sabine moves in with tattoo, and the dragonfly is dripping apprentice, Dominic, who can talk Fortunately for fast readers, there for Life. Along with ness is a fun and her grandmother (Nona), who also blood. Being that Sabine helps with to animals. Sabine has to juggle are four other books in The Seer Room D-8 participating in major school exciting club that shares the same gift. the horoscopes section of the news- problems with Dominic, the girl series that have been released. All in events, the Asian Awareness club also everyone should Now, Sabine can start anew: paper, she tries to add a warning, with the tattoo, and her own social all I would give this book 3 ½ stars has hosted an Asian Movie Dday. her new best friend is the popular “And to the girl with the dragonfly life. Whether or not she is able to out of 5. 8 - Commentary The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Lifestyles - 13 Commentary Lifestyles Outside the Box by Alyssa Figueroa ‘08 Poor sleep habits take toll Mind, Body, Soul Negotiation battle unsettling Leanne Abrams ‘11 by Maggie Bonanni ‘09 Teens, especially those in high Did you know that the real sensible that the teachers do not volunteer school, cope with a lot of stress. problem underlying the teacher’s for events and do other actions that are Stress can be caused by problems contract issue took place months not in their contracts. As a senior myself, in school such as breaking up Extend before the old contract even expired? I know that it is not ideal to have events with boyfriends or girlfriends, Last year, on Tues. Apr. 17 it you have anticipated for so long to be getting a date to prom, trying to seemed sensible that taxpayers in the postponed or endangered of being fit in to the “popular crowd”, and youself with community would vote “No” for cancelled. It is natural for students to be earning good grades. Teens often having higher taxes. However, what upset with the teachers. However, they are faced with pressure from most community members and should challenge themselves to look at coaches, parents, teachers, Yoga students alike do not realize is that the situation through a teacher’s point of employers, and friends. this directly affects them the view. A sleep study conducted by following year. Last year, the If the school year ran smoothly, there The National Sleep Foundation, When most people think of yoga their initial budget was voted down, the existing would not be as many students attending found that stress can lead to reaction is far from excited. Most smirk and say contract with the WTEA expired, board meetings, community members depression, sickness, failing in “yoga is pointless, it’s just stretching.” I can even The Board of Education (BOE) now writing letters to the board, and student school, self destructive behavior, admit that my reaction was similar when my gym claims it does not have the efficient publications about this topic as there are and in extreme cases, suicide. teacher informed me back in September that my amount of funding to increase now. When teachers stop doing all of Stress is characterized by feelings class would be practicing yoga for the second teacher salaries. The teachers are not the unpaid assistances that they usually of tension, hopelessness, Taylor Cohen‘08/The Patriot marking period. But after my first few days of getting paid nearly as much as other do for the school and community, they frustrations, worrying, sadness, Students are not getting enough of sleep, and actually doing yoga, I realized that it was much teachers in the county, and then essentially wake up everyone with a and with drawal. Thirty percent missing out on classwork. more than what I expected. students are whining about the loss piercing call. of high school students feel Sleep deprivation is defined I found out on the first day that yoga was of Powderpuff. Hopefully, the contract will soon get may wake up feeling over tired, stressed or depressed. According as a lack of sleep that teenagers not only stretching, but a full workout. Each Still, this issue cannot be blamed settled, but in years to come all should depressed, and even stressed out to Mary Carskadon, Ph.D, really need. This is a serious side position is focused on a specific area of the body. solely on the budget being voted Alex Parkin ‘08 look back on past mistakes. The BOE from not getting enough sleep. “Talking with friends and instant effect from stress. Sleep depri- When holding the position you not only stretch down. It also falls heavily on failure to address to students because we truly could use a longer should work hard to come up with a new contract Freshman, Jessica messaging keep adolescents from vation affects tens of millions of your body, but you also tone it. This requires the the issue early enough to hammer out the issue break before taking on the rest of the year. before the old one expires, and taxpayers should Jewusiak said “I’m really tired feeling tired in the evening.” teen each year in the United use of muscles that are not used frequently as before the contract expired. It is kind of like leap Instead of playing games, the BOE should become aware of the tremendous effect their vote and don’t want to go to school,” Because teens are suffering States alone. Some effects well as balance. Because the positions are done in year, the expired contract comes around every focus on paying teachers. Teaching is the most for the budget has on their community. when asked about how she feels from stress due to a variety of that stress and lack of sleep can rotations and flow from one pose to the next, you couple of years. It would make sense for the important profession in the world, and the fact Washington Township taxpayers, most who, in after staying up too late. factors, this causes them to stay bring for teenagers are clinical also receive a moderate cardio workout. BOE to be readily prepared and eager to settle that Washington Township teachers, who are fact, do not come out to vote at all, need to put Freshman Emma Johnson said up late hours. This, of course, depression, weakened immune I also discovered that yoga is not only the contract before it started affecting the unquestionably extraordinary, are receiving below more thought into their vote because the benefits “I feel like I can’t do anything, makes them fall behind in sleep system, head aches, and weight physical but mental. Because the original purpose students. The BOE turned down the Washington ordinary salaries is unsettling. Increased budget gained for a few extra bucks is worth it. can’t focus on my school work, they need to function. They then loss or gain. of yoga was to better the spirit, a large portion of Township Education Association (WTEA), who or not, someway, somehow, the BOE’s number Although it seems like a price is being put and all I want to do is sleep!” It is very clear that stress it involves meditation, breathing, and centering wanted to settle the contract before June 30, one concern should be raising teachers’ salaries. on education, what students walk away with after contributes to many problems yourself. This causes the body to slow down from because they refused the WTEA’s proposal, and Without the salaries they deserve, it is only twelve years is priceless. among teenagers. If you are one its usual state of alertness, and improves declared they would only meet until the WTEA’s Box Office of the millions of teens suffering concentration. It cleanses the mind, and alleviates proposals were significant. In doing so, the BOE from stress or depression due stress and tension that can build up over the day, apparently created their own definition of hrs in Core: The Patriot to sleep deprivation, here are which can help if you lead a busy lifestyle. Yoga “negotiation,” which is supposed to be a process M-F (3:30- Issue 3 - December 2007 some ways to cope. Try to do also makes people feel good about themselves in which both sides have to compromise to reach 8:30pm) & something relaxing such as and raises self esteem. an agreement. Editor-in-Chief - Alyssa Figueroa ‘08 writing in a journal or talking to After doing yoga for a few weeks, I started One must also realize that the whole matter Sat (10-2pm) Senior Editor- Rich Elles ‘08 Sports Editor - AJ Nisbet ‘08 a close friend or family member. researching it online. I found plenty of websites is not just an issue of dollars and cents, it’s also News Editor- Margaret Bonanni ‘09 People Editor-Sarah Kurtz ‘10 You may also want to listen about it, and each website had positions that about respect. Some BOE members left their Commentary Editor- Mary Faralli ‘08 What’s Happening - Lillyan Ling ‘08 Features Editor- Nicole Heath ‘10 Managing Editor- Kurt Pflugfelder ‘08 WTHS to relaxing or music. Another ranged in difficulty that ranged from beginner to seats during public meetings when the topic was Lifestyles Editor - Taylor Cohen ‘08 Photo Editor - Gina Parker ‘09 possible way to help you with expert. I also found out that Yoga not only helps heating up. The WTEA also was largely Odds & Ends Editor - Lauren Finneran ‘08 Layout and Design - Journalism II students stress is to set aside time you physically and mentally, but also improves disrespected when the BOE made Holy Thursday Tech Talk Editor - Matt Neuteboom ‘08 Printing - Mr. Dale Biebel, Ed McGuire ‘08, $5 off Entertainment Editor - Steph Foran ‘08 Perry Wilson ‘09, Maria Brasco ‘10, Phil Jaffe ‘11 everyday to do something you your immune system. Yoga has been proven to the day added to the calendar to make up for Book Editor - Katie Mount ‘09 Advisor - Mr. Jim Evangelisti tickets when really enjoy. help asthma, carpel tunnel syndrome, arthritis, having no school on Veteran’s Day, a legal holiday The Patriot is published by the students of In the end, the most important lower blood pressure, and can even help manage teacher’s chose to observe. they show Washington Township High School. way to deal with stress is to anxiety. It was a clear tit-for-tat move because the student ID at 529 Hurffville-Cross Keys Road, Sewell, NJ 08080 make sure you keep the ones I ended up liking yoga so much that my gym BOE knew most believed the day would be added the box you care about close for comfort class was not enough; I started doing it at home. I at the end of the year. Plus, deciding if Holy The opinions expressed in the Commentary section and all articles labeled as opinion, as well as all and love. Just remember that suggest yoga to anyone who’s open to try it. It’s Thursday is or is not a holiday is definitely a reviews and columns, are the views of the writer indicated in the byline. They are not meant to office. represent the views of The Patriot staff, the students of Washington Twp. H.S. or its administration. you aren’t alone….so get some the perfect workout for someone who is looking subject too vague for nine members of a BOE to Unsigned editorials are meant to reflect the views of the publication. sleep and you’ll be able to focus to better themselves as a whole. It’s the perfect judge. Even with the “Holy Thursday” issue on ways to deal with your many way to benefit mind, body and soul, and fits aside, taking away a vacation day is displeasing Please send all correspondence to: [email protected] responsibilities! perfectly into any lifestyle. 12 - What’s Happening The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Commentary - 9 Opinion What’s Happening Don’t let charities fall victim to talks  Katie Mount ‘09 This contract dilemma has already caused Last year, Interact raised over $15,000. The other issues, such as the postponement of the money went to a great cause and helped I’m glad to hear that Monzo Madness is powder puff football game. researchers come one step closer to finding a cure. Hey, everybody! It’s the going to go on as scheduled, but I am concerned Though I was disappointed by powder In my opinion, the possibility of taking away FREE iPod about the status of other charity events. puff, it did not upset me as much as Monzo events that benefit those in need is upsetting and Although WTHS will be because Monzo Madness is unfair. I am glad Monzo will run as scheduled; SENIOR DIRECTED CABARET Video! hosting its annual Monzo not for pure amusement like however, I am concerned that other charity Madness, the event was in ...the possibility of powder puff is. fundraisers could be affected. danger of being cancelled. This taking away events Monzo Madness is a I understand the position that teachers are fundraiser run by the Rotary in. One of my teachers said that it’s tearing her prospect had stunned and that benefit those in Answer SATquestions angered me, but what shocked sponsored Interact Club. The up inside because she enjoys volunteering for Directed by me more was the reason be- need is upsetting and event raises money for school events. However the teachers voted against on IMC eBoard hind the potential cancellation. research regarding amyo- volunteering in order to call attention to the Nikki Black and Christie Garcia The charity event was unfair. trophic lateral sclerosis problem with negotiations. threatened because the (ALS), often called Lou The effects of this problem are now going T-Shirts for winners teachers were not volunteering to supervise Gehrig’s disease. beyond the walls of the school. I am strongly January 17th and 18th every week because of a conflict with their contracts. A friend of mine was personally affected by urging the Board of Education to address the The teachers are currently working on last ALS. After two years of battling the disease, her problem before it gets out of hand. 7pm in the 11/12 Auditorium year’s contract. The Board of Education is not father died. I participated in the event last year A solution needs to be reached as soon as Cost: $5 Listen for your name meeting the teacher’s demands. Teachers feel they to help raise money in hopes that I could help possible before it affects even more people and on Monday’s Morning are not receiving the pay raises they deserve. prevent others from suffering as her family had. threatens other valuable WTHS traditions.  Announcements Letters Holy Family STUDENT CHORAL BAND Supporting our troops, Skateboarding coverage WINTER CONCERT Church BOOK CLUB staying on course praised, corrected will discuss December 19 is looking for people Patriot editors, About 3,000 people died in the Patriot editors, 9/11 attacks. These people were to help with So Yesterday I am writing in response to the innocent and knew of no risk. The 7pm article “Defend Our Democracy” in number of soldiers who have given I read [Amber Ogden’s] last article on skateboarding [“Skateboarding by Scott Westfeld our school newspaper. I was very their lives is 3849. These people rolls into modern era” Nov. 2007] and I thought it was put together very “Breakfast CBAC pleased to see that there are other voluntarily joined the armed forces well. All of your information was on key and factual. I also liked how you young republicans in our school. I to defend the innocent when they didn’t make it seem like all skateboarders are no-good, rebel, punk kids as thought the article, which was knew the risk for themselves. They most people think. You made it sound like skaters now are more modern With Santa” ORCHESTRA supportive of our Iraqi occupation, died heroes. and diverse. INTER ONCERT was very well written. If these oil funds get into the I also liked how you said that skateboarding isn’t really a walk in the W C I would also like to take the hands of the wrong people, park, its quite hard. I especially liked how you mentioned all of the December 22 opportunity to point out other key thousands more innocent people injuries, broken bones, dislocations, and all of the dangers of skateboarding. points in why a full withdrawal of may die. That’s America’s worst I But the one thing that I did not like was your image and caption for the 9am - 1pm December 18 troops would be harmful. fear. These victims would not be image. It doesn’t look like Ryan Sheckler is doing an ollie because as you Some say that our worst strangers, but our families at risk. stated in your article; “an ollie is when the skateboard sticks to the (May count to- nightmare is to lose American boys I’m not a Bush supporter. I skater’s feet.” In the image the board is clearly not “attached” to his feet. December 18 7pm overseas, not quite. Iraq sits on one don’t think we should have fought Other than that little flaw I thought that your article was great. If wards volunteer of the worlds largest oil beds. Where the way we have. I am only a you haven’t already guessed I am a skater myself. 2:20 in the IMC CBAC there is oil, there is money. Radical concerned citizen and a future hours for NHS) groups now occupy Iraq because member of the military. there is no strong government to - Jesse Bolt ‘09 suppress them as in the past. - Devlin Rogers ‘08 Local music scene... If these terrorists, whom may be worst than Hussein, take hold to DATE WHERE BANDS COST this oil, then there is unlimited The Patriot welcomes letters from its readers. funding for biochemical and nuclear The Patriot reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, content, and space. 12/22 Stir It Up, Mullica Hill Boy With Robot, Joe Granato & the Peace Corps, more tba. Free research. There may not have been Letters should be limited to 200 words. 12/25 The Troadero, Philadelphia Harry & the Bipeds, The Ooaah Ooaahs $10 weapons of mass destruction when 1/11 Savage Rock School, Blackwood As We Are, The Atlantic, Empty Spaces, Spire. $5 we arrived, but if we leave there are Please submit all letters to [email protected] sure to be plenty. 10 - Odds & Ends The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Odds & Ends - 11 Odds & Ends Happy Holidays! Humor Z D K W A N Z A A O R C J S T C F B R C ANGEL T A X J A R E S M Z L E N S R H X I E O CANDYCANE Global Warming: An Aid to Society B E A N G E L R L U R O T H R L D N E O CAROL Rich Elles ‘08 without the need for complex W R H E I I Y F M G W B K N E L A T D K CHRISTMAS irrigation systems. The concept of P B Y L I M A F M M S A M D I C P O N I COOKIES droughts in reference to crop As the effects of global warming Z R H D D U J O A I D R I E Y W K I I E DREIDEL have grown more prominent in recent production would disappear quicker years, the debate over climate control than the polar ice caps themselves. O E H A K K U N A H S E A D C P D L E S FAMILY has heated up. Activists have battled The problem of nationwide U G O H H G M R Y F R T N E R J O G R X GINGERBREAD with large corporations to change obesity would also gradually P N N C Q S K W E D A A L E Y R X D J O HANUKKAH policies regulating carbon dioxide dissipate with a massive amount of A I L N L A Y K V X C M S E A W P O B C KWANZAA water, as those who have weight emissions, fought with the general T G O R C H K A U K S E Q C T U E R E K public over cleaner exhaust fumes, troubles would have to swim to get MENORAH and made a strong case against around. The absolute necessity to N S J H X C U M J L N C Y R T O S N T P MISTLETOE deforestation. With a core temperat- exercise to get from place to place A Y R R S N J M E T Y A J D C L E A T K NEWYEARS ure constantly rising, the Earth could would ultimately allow all people to S L F F W T J U S N T G M W Q W E M G E ORNAMENTS be in serious trouble sooner than we lead a more healthy life. C H R I S T M A S L O R H Q G C A E P W PRESENTS ever projected. Of course, it is common know- Chelsey Gordon ‘08 But truthfully, it would be ledge that one of the largest natural P P Y A Y Q A P Y S Z R E T K Q K N F G REINDEER much more beneficial to the human threats on the planet is the Ursus N U I L T Y K K J X K Z A E D J A T Q A SANTA race if we accelerated the process to maritimus, or polar bear. I, as well O G W S J F A Q T A C Z B H G C E S D H SNOWMAN Happy Holidays reap the short-term benefits. Lillyan Ling ‘08 as many others, have an irrational J M G E I X K Q L I Z H K Y Q D S U E L TREE from Secondly, all places in the fear of polar bears and feel as though Think about the end of the ing new, diverse cultural ideas to C T C S U Q Y V L P K U W T D H L B H V WINTER summer and how the feeling of dread world would feel like a tropical those with nearly unchangeable trad- the threat should be contained. With The Patriot! climbs into the minds of every student island. Every town in America could itional values. melting polar ice caps, the pop- as school looms each September. If become a potential travel destination Another concerning effect of ulation of bears in the artic circle we all drove gas-guzzling trucks and for world explorers, drastically global warming is the melting and would quickly drop off, as their Holiday Horoscopes! burnt more fossil fuels, the summer boosting the economy. With more eventual elimination of the polar ice natural habitat would be slowly Capricorn would never end, as global temp- sun, the need for tanning booths caps, which could cause global disintegrating. Society would finally Taurus Virgo eratures would gradually increase. would become obsolete, as everyone flooding. But should we really be be able to get a handle on the serious (12/23-1/20) (4/21-5/21) (8/22-9/23) Schools never assemble students would always look tan and suave. concerned about an excess of water? polar bear threats and contain the during the hottest months of the year. Tourists from all over the world Those in need of water and suste- population in artificially created, and It’s nice to be generous, Stay close to the ones you Hang your stocking by the This would leave kids and teenagers would create excitement in small nance around the globe would be hopefully heavily monitored, but too much holiday love this holiday season, fire early this year, you to enjoy a never-ending summer. communities across the land, spread- served, because crops would flourish environments. shopping could leave your they will be your best might be lucky enough to Clearly the advantages out- winter companions. find a special surprise. Life As... by Nicole Heath ‘10 weigh the problems that could arise pockets empty. if we speed the global warming Aquarius Libra process. An endless summer, a Aquarius Gemini Libra (1/21-2/19) (9/23-10/23) ...A Procrastinator booming tourist economy, a world (5/22-6/21) free from droughts and obesity, and You’re feeling spontane- As the new year ap- It’s five o’clock in the morning, Now it’s true. As a student, I be pushed to the backburner. Stay home and sit by the a final solution to the vicious danger ous this month, grab your proaches, find a resolution and I’m up writing my paper. Sure, procrastinate. It’s a hard habit to But it seems that regardless of that is the polar bear would make fire this holiday season; this, my fellow students and I are crush and head under the and stick with it and you my history teacher gave the class break. It’s like getting a crack addict life better for everyone around the you need the relaxation. over a month to write it. Most of us off drugs, separating guys from Halo, always called procrastinators. We are globe. If we all took the time to em- misteltoe. will be rewarded. did use the time. Most of my or Michael Jackson from nose jobs. advised that we need to learn to pty countless aerosol cans into the classmates sat down in an orderly Yet, this doesn’t mean I always pro- ‘manage our time’ better. When in air, agreed to add burning fossil fuels Pisces Cancer Scorpio fashion and carefully constructed crastinate. To be clear; I don’t always truth, that’s exactly what we did. It’s to the list of national pastimes, and (2/20-3/20) (6/22-7/22) (10/24-11/22) their paper. procrastinate. Sometimes I’m forced not our fault there’s only twenty- refused to carpool and use public Spend extra time with your Most of them did. to do things last minute. It’s called four hours in a day. I can only abide transportation, a life of paradise Make sure to be close to Leave extra cookies out I didn’t. prioritization. And as a busy stu- by the clock, not change it. It’s not would be on the heated horizon. your crush when you ring for Santa, and you will find family this seson and you Instead, I chose to write my dent, I have no chose but to do so. fair that many students, such as I, will find the true meaning DO YOU HAVE ANY in the new year, you never many presents under the paper less than four hours before it Every student has encountered are always reprimanded for procras- know what could happen. of the holidays. was due. And as I came into those weeks in which everything is tination or laziness, when in fact, we QUIRKY IDEAS? tree. homeroom that day and proceded to due. A chemistry project, algebra only ‘managed’ the allotted time. Aries Leo Sagittarious tell my friend Esther Kang about my homework, history paper, not to The point is, just because we (11/23-12/22) WRITE FOR THE ODDS & (3/21-4/20) endeavor, she asked the same mention the vocabulary quiz first procrastinate on little things, (7/23-8/21) Anticipate surprises this question that you’re probably period. When we are stuck with these doesn’t mean we do it all the time. ENDS SECTION! wondering: why did I wait to the types of weeks, we have to So before you call someone on Don’t let anyone, friend or Don’t put off your work holiday season, the gift last minute to do it? Before I could prioritize. We have to sit down and procrastination ask yourself; foe, bring you down this during the holidays, time that you unwrap may not even answer, she respoded, weigh out which needs to be done Procrastination or Prioritization? EMAIL US AT holiday season, you will pass by before you be what you are expect- “procrastinator.” first. And sometimes things have to That is the question. [email protected] Natalie Zagone ‘11 deserve better. know it. ing.