The Patriot Issue 5 Washington Township High School, Sewell, NJ March 2006 Township staff takes stage Margaret Bonanni ‘09 Mr. Raymond Anderson’s fierce James Brown impression, and their Township’s got talent, and proved performance of ‘Lets Get It Started’ it on February 15, 2007 at the Faculty by The Black Eyed Peas. Talent Show. The show was In the second act, Township Fire envisioned by Mrs. Debbie McFadden, reminded students and faculty were Mrs. Carol De Lucas, and Mrs. Karen reminded of the great times they’ve Muro in 1996, and is now produced experienced at Washington Township by McFadden, Mrs. Pat Brown, and High School with a slide show. The Mrs. Criquette Norris. It has become slides depicted images of Township an anticipated event for students, and from the past and present and got a a growing tradition. great response from the audience. “I’ve been in all six talent shows, “I thought the slide show was from the beginning, and every year hilarious, especially when they the crowd gets bigger. You can tell showed the part about the chickens from the energy that students are being caught in Quay Way! It was excited about it,” said Patricia Conroy. my favorite part of the show”, stated That night the audience was able Kayla Dieter ’09. to see some of their favorite faculty Photo Courtesy of Colonel Wolozyn The show closed with Sgt members display their incredible Mrs. Cheryl Silverman and Mr. Chris Lawler as “Silvy & C-Law” Schirmer’s Clan, where the guidance talent. Opening the show was This wow the crowds with their rendition of “Mockingbird” department got to get funky with their Old House Band, featuring popular a more contemporary selection of which received an exciting reaction rendition of Lou Bega’s ‘Mambo music from the past, and today. With songs. from the crowd. In this piece Number Five’. This performance left their great choice of music the band’s “It was great when they teachers danced to a mix of songs the show with a comical positive note performance was a great way to open played ‘Wonderwall’ by Oasis, and from different decades and music and sent the audience home smiling. the show, and give the audience a over all the show was fun,” said types, and showed how dance has Not only was the show com- taste of what was to come. Alex Quinn ‘09. changed over time. prised of great performances, and Other music was performed by In addition to the opening of “This had to be the best act of a sight to see, but it also benefited Mr. Robert Hart’s band, who chose the show, Hart’s band also played the night,” says Desiree Trzaska ‘09, students. The proceeds from the during intermission and in between “It was so cool to see the teachers show went towards Project Gradu- performances of the show. dancing on stage and having fun.” ation and Renaissance. Be sure to Inside... In the first act, the audience was Another great performance in catch next year’s Student Talent dazzled with amazing dance acts the first act was Teachers With an Show on its usual date before the What’s Happening p. 5 such as The Evolution of Dance, Attitude. The crowd was stunned by Presidents’ Day Weekend. Commentary p.6 Letters p.8 Features p.10 FCCLA “lovin’ it” Lifestyle p.12 Tech Talk p.14 Club serves up good time for kids in need Odds & Ends p. 16 Books p.17 Laura Marder ‘07 Chicken Devan with multiple were so happy to have something to keep appetizers and desserts. The club and remember us by,” said Letty Scanlon Entertainment p.18 On Feb.20 FCCLA made a helped prepare the food at the school ’07, president of FCCLA. Sports p.22 difference in a group of very special and the officers brought it over and “Everyone was so appreciative, all people’s lives at the spent the evening with of the parents thanked us,” said The editors of the Ronald McDonald “seeing the kids the residents. Besides FCCLA officer, Julianne Curry ’07. preparing the meal, Ronald McDonald house is made up Patriot would like to house in Camden. For faces... was so the fourth year in a row they brought crafts of 20 nicely decorated rooms where apologize for the delay they nourished the rewarding.” supplies and led the the families stay. Each room in the of Issue 5. Production resident’s appetites, as - Letty Scanlon families in working home is sponsored by a different group issues prevented us well as their hearts as together to make in the community. Washington from distributing at an they served dinner for the families decorative masks in the spirit of Township Student Council sponsors earlier date. of seriously ill children recieving Mardi Gras. one of the rooms in the Camden house. “Seeing the kids faces while The families get visits each night from Please enjoy! treatment at nearby hospitals. FCCLA prepared a delicious meal of doing the crafts was so rewarding, they See FCCLA pg 2 March 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. News - 1 “Personal honor” focus of ceremony Alyssa Figueroa ‘08 the beginning of advisor of NHS for 4 years. the year,” said “I would really like to focus 100% “Personal honor is the ability Martin, “we had in the classroom.” to do and say the right things when to organize the Certainly, Mr. Lawler will be no one else is around, and when there paperwork, tough to follow. “He is an is little risk of getting caught,” applications, outstanding man and advisor who announced Mr. Beyer, this year’s ceremony, and works with a vision of what he would keynote speaker for the National reception.” like done. I really can’t say enough Honor Society (NHS) induction. And the work positive things about him; he will This year, on Jan. 25, 167 was surely truly be missed,” stated Anderson, students were inducted into NHS, appreciated. who has worked with Lawler on rasing the number of current members New member, NHS for 3 years. to 290. Richie Elles But as we move on, Beyer “Our society consists of 9% of Photo Courtesy of Mr. Lawler ‘08, said, “The advises that, “you’re only worth the student population,” said Mr. Mr. Jim Beyer served as the keynote speaker. ceremony was what you can give away; if you have Lawler, co-advisor of NHS, “we are The recognized advisors then a memorable occasion. leadership potential, and you don’t one of the largest organizations in responded to the admiration by Afterwards, it was fun being display it, it’s no good.” the school, despite the fact only placing a red stole on the member. able to see your friends and And when alone, with no juniors and seniors are admitted.” Mr. Barnshaw, who was celebrate.” audience to share your talents, But the large number of acclaimed by three students, the But with celebrations of new remaining honorable is the key inductees does not make each maximum allowed, stated, “To be accomplishments, sometimes factor. individual any less praiseworthy. honored by the honorable was a comes the farewell to others. At “For my speech, I had a totally “It’s absolutely fantastic to have a humble experience.” the end of the ceremony, Mr. different topic planned, but the word large number of students inducted,” Following the ceremony, Lawler acknowledged his final year ‘honor’ kept resurfacing,” said said Mr. Anderson, co-advisor of refreshments were served in the 9- as co-advisor of NHS. Beyer. “Having personal honor is NHS, “these students truly 10 cafeteria, which also required “I feel that a change will be what true honor is all about; and the represent the best of the best.” much preparation. “We’ve been good for me and the organization,” only person who knows if you Each new inductee walked planning the whole ceremony since said Lawler, who has been an possess it is you.” across the stage that night, in the CBAC, to receive their medal and certificate. However, most felt as if they had really received a sparkling FCCLA shares food, fun trophy of commendation. From FCCLA pg 1 “It was a profound experience different organizations. being honored for the accumulation Sometimes even celebrities of hard work and efforts I’ve made and members of the throughout the years,” said new Philadelphia Eagles come in. member Cristina Virgilio `08. No matter who it is that Hard work indeed. Being in visits the residents are NHS means more than just making always gracious. FCCLA the honor roll. tries to volunteer twice a “It’s all about what NHS stands year. for: leadership, scholarship, service, “It’s nice to give back and character,” said Anderson. to the community, it’s nice Also at the ceremony, members to interact with the kids and inducted last year had the chance to hear their stories of why they essentially give back honor by having are there,” explained their self-prepared speech, Scanlon. acknowledging a teacher, coach, Last year the officers mentor, or other advisor, read aloud. were really touched by the “It is important to recognize story of a two year old girl Photo Courtesy of Letty Scanlon ‘07 the individuals that have made an from Iraq who had gotten her FCCLA officers and advisors smiled for the camera after after hosting impact in your life,” said NHS legs blown off in an explosion. their event for the residents of the Camden Ronald McDonald House. Executive Board Co-Chair Sarah The officers are greatly moved by the design, which she has improved on they love. Along with volunteering Martin `07. stories they hear and the interactions in FCCLA. She competed in the for the Ronald McDonald dinner, they have with the families. spring conference and won gold. they also participate in March of “I know I want to be someone “FCCLA really gives me a Dimes, collect cans and tabs and Got News? who helps other just like we have better idea of what interior design have cookie bake offs once a month helped those less fortunate through will be like as a job,” said Scanlon. to raise money. Let us know. FCCLA,” Curry. For many FCCLA is made up of 60 people Scanlon challenges the FCCLA helps students prepare for who dedicate their time to helping stereotype the club gets of being [email protected] their future careers. Scanlon plans the community while preparing solely a food club and says, “We do on going into the field of interior themselves for careers in the fields more then just bake cookies.” 2 - News The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March 2007 Students set pace for great dance Kaitlyn Fernández ‘07 of the tables were decorated with fish centerpieces and bags of Each year, the Washington Swedish Fish were given out at the Township Rotary Interact Club end of the party. hosts two Pacesetters dances for WTHS senior Chris Holleran mentally challenged adults. Interact DJed the event. His previous work held their second dance for the 2006- was at the Fall Pacesetters’ Dance 07 school year on Friday, Feb. 2, and the Monzo Madness 24 Hour 2007 at Masso’s Crystal Manor. Dance-a-Thon. Approximately fifteen years The winter dance is especially ago, parents of mentally challenged exciting for the Pacesetters because young adults began a group called it is a semi-formal, with the the Pacesetters. This group began particpants wearing dresses and working with the high school’s junior suits. Victoria Garner ’08 said, Rotary club to plan events that “It’s like [their] prom, and I am would allow the Pacesetters a few always so happy that I can be there nights out each year. Photo Courtesy of Arielle Milstein ‘07 to share it with them.” Some Pacesetters may live on Both Interact and Pacesetter members had great time at the dance. An increase in guest their own or with their parents, while Since its establishment, this handled by Masso’s—the student attendance and pre-dance planning others stay in local group homes. relationship has continued and organizers spent most of their made this year especially successful These adults are usually afflicted by grown into the three biggest projects planning time working on this year’s for Interact. Even the unfortunate Down Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy hosted by Interact each year. The theme, Under the Sea. Co- winter weather couldn’t minimize and the Interact dances are often the second of three events for the Chairperson Christine Boyajian ’07 the excitement of student highlights of their year.”, said Interact Pacesetters group, the Winter said that this theme “made the dance volunteers and Pacesetters alike. chairperson Meagan O’Kane ‘07. Pacesetters’ Dance, is held each a lot of fun to plan.” “I was proud, as always, of “All the hard work is worth February for approximately 175 Murals around the room were the efforts of the Interact students it because it is amazing to see how guests and 30 students. painted scenes of various fish and who planned and carried out much they enjoy something as Because the club didn’t have to characters from movies like Finding Winter Pacesetters,” said advisor simple as dancing.” worry about catering—which is Nemo and The Little Mermaid. All Tracy Naval. Teens welcome wage hike Richie Elles ‘08 shared her thoughts on the bill anticipating a pay increase. Students recently passed by the House of holding their first job are waiting for For a teenager, spending money Representatives. the chance to earn a little extra can be a rare commodity, even for “I’m really glad that they will spending money, whether it is spent those with an entry-level job. increase the pay of students across hours after the paycheck is cashed Teens across the nation the country. I think it will be even or saved for a much larger purpose. continue to search for that extra more fun to see how the money is Brad Elliott ’08, who works at dollar from their low-paying jobs to spent,” said Pettit ’08 with a smile. Commerce Bank as a teller, keep them financially afloat in a The last time minimum wage commented on what he will do with society ruled by material was raised was in 1997 by President the small bonus. possessions. And now, it seems Clinton, upping the amount to $5.15 “Saving for a car and college is the prayers of the next generation from $4.75, a small increase. The my number one priority,” said entering the workforce have been thought of a $2.15 raise has many Elliott, “It’s great that there will be answered. teens on edge, as they anxiously that much more money to save for On January 10, 2007, the House await a larger payday and that extra later in life.” of Representatives voted in favor of trip to the mall afterward. Despite the potential increase, a bill to raise minimum wage from Currently, those holding their the question still remains, is the new the current amount of $5.15 per hour low-paying jobs are bound by the amount sufficient for teens? to a sizable $7.25 per hour. lowest minimum wage among the Today, material goods, such as The increase, which would prominent economic countries in type of car or the clothes one wears, occur in three $.75 increments over the world. rule the social world. With the Google images two years, still needs to pass in a Ireland has adopted an United States having the lowest Small increase will make a big Senate vote before being moved along astounding minimum wage of $11.69 minimum wage among other world difference in the pocket’s of to the President for a signature. per hour, with the United Kingdom powers, is a raise of just over $2.00 teenagers. Many students at WTHS are checking in at second with an $11.22 enough to keep today’s teenagers excited about the possible guaranteed set as the lowest employees can earn placated? workers across America can be raise and feel that it couldn’t have in one hour’s work. As the bill passes through assured that the government is come at a better time. Christy Pettit The vote on wage limits has Congress keeping minimum salary making an effort to reward hard- ’08, employed at the Custard Shack, teenagers hanging in the balance, employees on the edge of their seats, working teens across the nation. March 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. News - 3 Bomb threat forces evacuation Matt Neuteboom ‘08 students had to be evacuated. they had to be evacuated.” Fortunately, the weather was Buses were immediately called in, The threat came around much better than wet conditions On Friday, Mar. 2, students and the second graders were the 10:30AM, and was discovered on the Valentine’s Day bomb found themselves sitting in the first to exit the school. written in one of the school’s scare two years ago, or the frigid bleachers instead of their WTHS Principal Rosemarie bathrooms. School administration climate during the scare this past classrooms. It was in response to Farrow commented, “It’s really a immediately began the evacuation Oct. 23. a bomb scare for the second time shame, because this hurts our process starting with the CBAC. Staff and students seem to be this year. Unfortunately, however, reputation as a safe school. You have As of Mar. 9, county police getting used to these emergency in addition to the school’s students, to wonder what people will think had yet to catch those responsible situations, as it only took about an the threat also caused the evacuation when their students are going to come for the threat. Police are, however, hour and a half to get students back of approximately 2,000 second to this school on a field trip.” continuing their investigation. and situated in their classes. graders in the CBAC on a field trip The play was paid for by the This bomb scare marks the Farrow said “You can make a that would have to be cut short. students, and refunds will have to second time this year that Farrow million plans all pinpointed down to Second graders from all over be given to all the students who had to deal with a stressful perfect detail, but what it really the county had flocked to WTHS attended. situation. Two bomb scares in one comes down to is those who have to for a play being performed here Farrow said, “I felt terribly year is not unprecedented, but carry out thee plan, and I think the that day. Regrettably, before even sorry for these kids. They hadn’t Farrow commented that “it is kids and our faculty responded half the show was done, all even seen half the show before definitely unusual.” beautifully with full cooperation.” Cooking spices up school day Alyssa Figueroa ‘08

When you walk into G-104 during 1st or 2nd period, there are usually two things you will notice: the tempting smell, and the appearance of “hell’s kitchen,” as described by Ms. Molle, the Culinary Arts III teacher. “We are always cooking in here,” stated student Amanda Brown `07. “You have to be very responsible and creative, and you can’t fool around.” Hence, this double period, 10- credit class, is definitely “not for those who do not have a real, Alyssa Figueroa ‘08/ The Patriot sincere interest in culinary arts,” Everyone in Culinary Arts III contributes to the daily assignments. (l-r) Michael said Molle. Vespia prepares crab cakes, Tony Pragosa cooks spicy sweet potato fries, and Dana However, not everyone who takes this class aims to be a chef. McFadden and Amanda Brown prepare the fillet mignon. Although Mike Vespia’s (‘07) goal they’re using. That’s why each minute freedom,” added Kaitlyn Hughes `07. cares about and teaches her students is to “become a chef and own my late is 10 points off your grade.” One of the students’ favorite very much. “She is one of my favorite own restaurant,” Brown wants to The class is msinly designed to assignments is the ‘mystery box.’ teachers because she’s just so become a speech pathologist; but challenge you . “The students are “The class is divided into two supportive,” stated Jazmine Cora `08. she “loves this class!” and is “very mostly graded on effort rather than teams, and each team receives a And support is crucial since every interested in cooking.” the final product, to ensure they didn’t cloth-covered tray with the same attempt is not always a success. “Ms. An ordinary day in the class ‘play it safe,’” said Molle. “The ingredients on it,” stated Molle. Molle always tells us, ‘if you had to do it could start off with an extraordinary executive chef’s grade depends on how “Then they all uncover the trays and again, now you know how to do it better’ task. In one such recent assignment, each teams’ dishes are presented on get 55 minutes to prepare a meal.” and sometimes we get an opportunity to students voted on an executive chef, the table, and how well he or she was “I love it!” exclaimed Brown, correct our mistakes,” said Brown. and then divided into two teams. overseeing everything.” “You never know what to expect.” So when you next walk down G- They had to create an appetizer, Most students have maintain Neither does Molle, who has hall, and swear you smell filet mignon, entrée, and desert to serve at their some merriment under all the pressure. to constantly watch over the you probably do. Culinary Arts III is ‘restaurant’ and have all three “It’s not all fun and games,” said students. “My biggest concern, definitely a fascinating class filled with courses ready by 8:30 on the dot. Brown, “but overall, this class is a ‘how much oil is in that pan?,’ is passionate students that love to fry, “They’ve had a long time to blast!” that my kids have basic safety grill, bake, and sauté. Perhaps the best work on this,” explained Molle. “They “You get to create the recipes and knowledge” said Molle, as she part of taking the class is that “you have to know exactly what they’re make what you want,” said Allison skimmed around the room. get to taste everything you make!” doing - down to which frying pan Perry `08. “And there’s a lot of It was quite clear that Molle both declared Brown. 4 - News The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March 2007 What’s Happening Relay volunteers act out against cancer The American Cancer Society’s money. Or you can donate a Relay for Life brings together “luminary” intended to keep “the fire millions of people across the world of hope” burning in memory of to raise money to prevent cancer, to someone who has lost their battle save lives, and to diminish suffering with cancer or who continues to fight from the disease. This year the WT today. community will gather and You can register with friends, participate in the fight against cancer family, neighbors, coworkers, or in a Relay hosted by WTHS on June classmates to form a 8-15 person 1 & 2. Teams of people take turns Relay team. For more information, running or walking the high school attend the next meeting on track for the 24 hour event while Tuesday, Mar. 27 at 7:30 PM in listening to music and having fun. room C-2, call 1-800-ACS-2345, or If you cannot participate in an register online at http:// actual Relay team, there are many www.cancer.org/relayonline or http:/ other ways that you can participate: /www.acsevents.org/relay/nj/ You can volunteer to help out at the washingtontownship. Kaitlyn Fernandez ‘07/The Patriot event. You can also sponsor someone WTHS students, Sami Loeber ‘07, Cait Chew ‘07, and Erin you know in their mission to raise - Kaitlyn Fernandez ‘07 Dunphy ‘09, work on the Relay Committee. Rewind records year’s events Students save babies with March of Dimes There are many things for a will be organized into three Be on the look out for the pink and blue MoD bracelets student at Washington Township categories. These categories include and shoes being sold by the Interact Club. March of Dimes is a High School to look forward to at events, clubs, and sports. “The foundation dedicated to preventing the birth of premature the end of the year--half days, sports will have text that gives the babies. You can make a donation to the cause with an Interact proms, and yearbooks. Among the record of the teams,” Scott says. member, or sign up in Room I-103 after school to participate in list of things that come at the end of Monthly Rewind should be the walk scheduled for Sunday, Apr. 29, 2007. the year is the video yearbook. completed the video year book by - Kaitlyn Fernandez ‘07 The video yearbook is May. Although a price hasn’t been compiled by Monthly Rewind. determined yet, Rewind members Michelle Scott, a senior explains, including Scott believe that the This month with the Wear your smile “Rewind goes around through out yearbook will be well received, “The Book Club Buy a Smile Pin for Operation the year filming events and clubs. At yearbook is just going to be For April, the student book Smile. Interact members will be club will be reading The She by the end of the year we throw it something you’re going to love,” selling these pinsin April to raise Carol Plum-Ucci about a sea- together in the yearbook.” Scott says, “You can relive every money for children with facial Scott is one of the Rewind staff event as if you were there each time related tragedy that changes a young boy’s life. The meeting defects. The club hopes to raise members in charge of the video you pop in the DVD.” $1000, enough for 4 children to yearbook. This year will differ from will be held on Tuesday, Apr. - Kyle Marr ‘07 24th in the IMC. receive this surgery. last year’s. - Kaitlyn Fernandez ‘07 “It will be better,” Scott says, - Katie Mount ‘09 “It’ll be less boring and more to the point. The segments will be shorter Don’t forget College Fair offers District Art Show and packed.” The video yearbook prospects for juniors WTHS will hold the annual Pieces seeks student to vote! On Wednesday, Apr. 11, the District Art Show on Thursday, work for mag Guidance Office is hosting the Apr. 12 from 7-9 PM. Student college fair from 6:30 to 8:30 artwork from all district schools, Look out for the Pieces PM in the 9/10 Gym. kindergarten through high school, calendar handed out earlier will be on display throughout School Board More than 100 colleges and this month. Submissions for the building. universities will be the upcoming magazine will Election represented at this free WTHS art students will do be accepted until exhibition for students and various artistic demonstrations. Apr. 8. Pieces accepts April 17th parents. Some student work will also be writing, artwork, or College representatives will available for purchase. Finally, photography. Either drop off be present to answer there will be a senior student your work to K-208, or send absentee ballots available questions and hand out all the juried art show in the Permanent it in an email to information college applicants Art Gallery on the third floor [email protected]. on district website at will need. balcony of the CBAC. www.wtps.org - Katie Mount ‘09 - Kaitlyn Fernandez ‘07 - Kaitlyn Fernandez ‘07 March 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. What’s Happening - 5 Commentary Toward a healthy horizon Megan Robertson ‘09 Joe Granato ‘07

The question of whether On Jan. 15th, 2006 the New smoking should be banned in all public Jersey Smoke-Free Air Act (NJ places has never fully been answered. SFAA) was passed by New Some states already have smoking bans; Jersey legislature and signed by however, they have not been Governor Codey. Effective Apr. established in all. Many people feel 15, 2006, the new law requires smoking bans should be enforced in all all indoor workplaces and public public areas across the country as a places to be a smoke free serious health precaution. environment. This includes The hazardous effects of smoking factories, restaurants bars, clubs, are just as dangerous to nonsmokers theatres, race tracks, hotels, train as they are to smokers. Statistics show stations, and even parking an average of 470,000 people die each garages. It also prohibits year from smoking- about 50,000 of smoking outdoors on all the them from second-hand smoke. property of elementary and Studies have also shown that secondary schools, both public overexposure to the carcinogens found and private. in cigarettes, may lead to This legislation is long over carcinogenesis and cancer. It is not fair due. About a year ago I walked Nate Gutoski `07 that nonsmokers have to suffer the into Whitman Diner, sat down consequences of smoking, when they and right as I was about to eat, I However, the world is of this new law creates a much chose not to smoke in the first place. caught the terrible stink of making a change. I feel that the more wholesome social Environmental tobacco smoke is someone’s cigarette they were restriction of smoking in all atmosphere. I praise this law for also very harmful to children. When carelessly puffing away on as public places is a great step improving the health of future children are exposed to an excessive they simultaneously ate their forward for mankind. Second generations to come and showing amount of smoke, they are more likely eggs. I was in the nonsmoking hand smoke is destructive to the world a beautiful, new to catch pneumonia and bronchitis. In section, however, since these everyones health, and the passing healthy horizon. fact, it causes about 150,000 to sections were divided by a three 300,000 cases annually. On average, inch piece of plastic and ten feet one million children are diagnosed with at the most, it wasn’t surprising asthma every year due to passive that I lost my appetite instantly. The Patriot smoking. It has also been proven that It has been proved that being Issue 5 - March 2007 children with parents who smoke exposed to secondhand smoke in make more visits to the doctor than great quantities can eventually Editor-in-Chief - Rob Cavella ’07 children with parents who do not lead to heart and lung damage News Editor- Laura Marder ’07 smoke. Not only can the hazardous similar to that of a smoker. Large Commentary Editor- Alyssa Figueroa ’08 effects of smoking be passed to an research studies single out Features Editor- Erin McFadden ’07 unborn child through a mother who environmental tobacco smoke as What’s Happening/Lifestyles Editor - Kaitlyn Fernandez ’07 smokes, they can also be passed the culprit for a number of Odds & Ends Editor - Lauren Meloni ’09 through a pregnant mother who is only childhood ailments and chronic Tech Talk Editor - Melissa Cheng ’07 exposed to passive smoking. diseases. Something so harmful Entertainment Editor- Josh Bennett ’07 The establishment of smoking should not have a place in Sports Editor- AJ Nisbet ’08 Managing Editor- Richie Elles ’08 bans has been known to increase restaurant and other public quitting rates and decrease facilities. Layout and Design - Journalism II consumption. Studies have shown an Second hand smoke is a toxic Printing - Tom Di Renzo ’08, Tom Jacobson ’08 average of 5% of smokers quit due to cocktail consisting of poisons and and Mr. Steve Whalen smoking bans. Many smokers decide carcinogens. There are over 4,000 Advisor - Mr. Jim Evangelisti to quit because of the inconvenience chemical compounds in second The Patriot is published by the students of of having to step outside to smoke. hand smoke; 200 of which are Washington Township High School. It should be clear, these laws known to be poisonous, and an 529 Hurffville-Cross Keys Road, Sewell, NJ 08080 benefit everyone. Nonsmokers are able upwards of 60 have been The opinions expressed in the Commentary section and all articles to avoid inhaling smoke filled air while identified as carcinogens. labeled as opinion, as well as all reviews and columns, are the views smokers are being encouraged to quit Despite those facts, in June of the writer indicated in the byline. They are not meant to represent and improve their own health. With 1999, for the second time in the views of The Patriot staff, the students of Washington Twp. H.S. these new laws intact we can help to many years, a jury refused to find or its administration. Unsigned editorials are meant to reflect the provide a healthier living environment the tobacco industry liable for views of the publication. for everyone. the cancer death of a nonsmoker. Please send all correspondence to: [email protected]

6 - Commentary The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March 2007 Stressed Lawsuits don’t fit Rob Cavella `07 market. Yet others who are musically causing obesity to hair salons’ inclined will seem to find their ticket unsatisfactory cuts causing clinical out teens Every year in America the social on the money-train by landing a record depression, the nerve of people never Lauren Finneran `08 class difference among us all is deal. But now more than ever in ceases to amaze me. The thing that becoming greater and greater. The America, those that are perhaps gets at me the most is the strong Homework, family life, jobs, rich are gaining more prominence and unlucky in Wall street or are musically possibility of people actually extra curricular activities and still the number of citizens living in challenged are turning to an impulse winning cases of this nature. It has trying to make time for a social life poverty in the U.S. of A is growing that seems to find it’s way within all gotten so bad that in 2005 The are all factors that play into your annually. The traditional American of us. Sticking it to the man. House of Representatives passed stress level. middle class is gradually being altered We’ve all done it in some way, the “hamburger bill” which legally Stress is defined as tension, from an actual “middle” ground to a shape, or form. Some people let blocks people from trying to sue pressure, or strain which affects the social status serving as a slim divider Sam’s Club pay for lunch by fast-food restaurants because their mind and body. between those that hold wealth and devouring every free sample that can food causes obesity. Many people, adults especially those that are on welfare. be found within the store on the Although a finger obviously think that stress just affects people So what is the “American way” weekend. Others lessen the burden needs to be pointed at the individuals who are in the “real world” and who to skip those stretched out rungs on of their workday by taking excessive, that have the weakness of character have to live on their own. However, our social class ladder? Many people strategically spaced out paid to try to take a bite out of the dollar this is not the case. About.com said find ways outside the typical hard bathroom breaks. But for a select few sign many companies represent that a study was conducted at the work method to get ahead in life and that possess the gall, ingenuity or because of a bad haircut or coffee University of Michigan which take them from the gutter to financial just plain desperation for more, legal that’s too hot, the legal system that showed that one third of US teens glory. Some will have the good matters are taken. allows this happen is the one that say that they feel stressed-out on a fortune to feel a boom in the stock From lawsuits against McDonalds needs to be…well…. put on trial. daily basis and nearly two thirds of teens say that they are stressed at Editorial Cartoon by Alex Parkin least once a week. Teens get stressed out about different things. For some it’s the constant load of schoolwork they have on a nightly basis and for others, it’s having an after school job or family issues to deal with. “As for schoolwork, you start feeling guilty when you watch TV, or do something instead of doing your work” complained Alyssa Figueroa ’08. Teens have many stressors similar to those of adults, teens worry about money, their future, family, and friends. Just because they aren’t “grown up” or “in the real world” doesn’t mean that their problems should be ignored or taken lightly. “Being stressed is mentally and physically exhausting” exclaimed Figueroa. In a poll taken of teenagers in Baltimore, school work, parents, and romantic relationships were some of the issues that caused the most stress. It was also concluded that girls are affected by stress more than boys are and boys respond to stress “Discussion” in the CBAC, Jan. 16, 2007 by not dealing with it at all. Many experts agree that teens need to have a strong support The Patriot welcomes any letters from its readers. The Patriot system to help them with their stress and should have someone that they reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, content, and space. can confide in. Exercise, proper Letters should be limited to 200 words. nutrition, and meditation can also help. Write us at [email protected]

March 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Commentary - 7 Letters Divided views on county consolidation On Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2007, Washington Township’s Board of Education called a township-wide meeting at the Commerce Bank Arts Center to Wrong move discuss a Senate Bill S-49 that would create a Gloucester County public school system that would replace individual school districts. With over 3,000 students From my point of view, it The Gloucester County Board of Chosen Freeholders, including Senator enrolled, WTHS has been a high- seems like we were about to be Stephen Sweeney of the 3rd Legislative District and Assemblyman and ranking educational facility. Praised punished for being above the curve Washington Township Mayor Paul Moriarty maintained that the plan would for its academic excellence and high in Gloucester County. With a have saved a large amount of money that could be used toward projects for standards in the past years, WTHS superior educational facility, the the entire county and not just a specific community. has also been recognized for its students and faculty of WTHS Though withdrawn, the bill stirred up reaction among students. diverse student body as well as the would be at the mercy of the County vast amount of extracurricular Board. Our educational future would activities offered to students. be at stake, with possible As one would imagine, the redistricting, movement of faculty, county district proposal met an and/or elimination of extracurricular impenetrable wall of resistance and activities to save money. for good reason. -Richie Elles ‘08 CBAC meeting all sound and fury As a student and soon-to-be into a mean-spirited lynching of our voter, I entered the CBAC with an local politicians. open mind. I honestly expected to The Board of Education learn something about Senate Bill S- officials were not much better than 49. the crowd. BOE President Mr. Perhaps, I am still a bit too Richard Gerber frequently cut off naïve to expect straight facts to come state officials who he felt were from the mouths of adults, but the speaking out of turn, but did very meeting was not only complete little to restrict outbursts from the Rob Cavella ‘07/The Patriot chaos, but also an utter waste of my mob. It was clear that no one cared Washington Township Mayor Paul Moriarty addressed the concerns Tuesday night. to actually listen to the legislators. of citizens at the county-wide meeting to discuss Senate Bill S-49. Senator Sweeney and Mayor Now, don’t get me wrong. From Moriarty’s names were met with my first reading of this piece of boos and they could barely speak legislation, I strongly opposed it. I Poor-planning defeats bill without jeers from the crowd. When did not enjoy that our state Say good bye to lower taxes. real initiatives were comprehensible, they did try to defend the bill, they representatives had planned a so- According to New Jersey politicians the NJ Senate would have had much talked themselves into a corner called “experiment” lasting ten years. a decrease in taxation was going to larger support. appearing flip-flop on whether or not This would be almost the entire be the outcome of voting yes to Words like :a ten year pilot they actually agreed with it. academic career of a student. This Senate Bill S-49. program” and “only one It was almost amusing to see made me sick. Later, I was relieved Having watched residents’ superintendent picked by the the teachers, voters, and parents so to find that the bill had been “killed” performances on television I could governor,” did not help the cause. quickly enraged by a threat to the by the Senate. not help to think that children could There should have been a much larger status quo of public education. However, that Tuesday night, have made a more mature stand on period of time for the people of Speeches given by board members I left the meeting feeling very the issue. The parents of students, Gloucester County to digest the and tax payers were met with unsatisfied on three counts. My booed, screamed, and chanted at information. If the Senate really standing ovations and cheers after local politicians were inept at Senator Sweeny and Mayor wanted this program to pass, they such canned statements as “I care explaining their support of a bill that Moriarty while they attempted to should have campaigned the good about the students” and “We hire the they admitted was incomplete and answer the questions of the people. qualities of it. If loss of freedom of best” and “If you vote yes for this, I vague. The Board of Education They had an idea in their heads that choice, teachers losing jobs, “vanilla can’t vote yes for you.” officials were too caught up in a they were losing authority over education”, tax dollars funding other The sensationalism didn’t stop thinly veiled hatred of state officials decisions made in our school district. district projects, and redistricting there. Mr. Robert Scardino poked to care about presenting the real and They found catch phrases in the bill students were false rumors, then the fun at the dramatic meeting with total facts to the people of our town. and twisted words around without Senate should have tried to dispel allusions to the Boston Tea Party. A The tax payers themselves fell so seeing the big picture. them much sooner then the town Washington Township graduate quickly for various scare tactics and While I do not agree fully with meeting, where they were met with received ovations for simply being a unsupported rumors that they failed bill, I do agree that consolidation can such hostility. graduate of Harvard Law School. to have an actual discussion. save money. I think that if the bill What I had hoped would be were written more clearly, and the -Christine Lafferty ‘07 engaging, intellectual debate turned -Kaitlyn Fernandez ‘07 8 - Letters The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March 2007 Time to think Earth needs our help differently All ten of the hottest years on and drought patterns across the emissions and fight global warming. record, globally, have occurred in the world could change, hurricanes could Carpool with your friends when you last fifteen years. become more frequent, and El Niños can to cut pollution. If every U.S. about iPods Global warming is something could become more intense. Many household replaced three regular 60- that we can no longer ignore. People believe that global watt light bulbs try to say that we have plenty of warming caused If every U.S. household with florescent at lunch time before anything severe happens the tsunami that bulbs it would be to the earth but severe changes are struck southern replaced three regular 60- the equivalent Many students have often already taking place all around us. Indonesia. watt light bulbs with pollution complained about their music For decades factories and cars These are all florescent bulbs it would be reduction of devices being confiscated at have been spewing billions of tons possible effects the equivalent pollution taking 3.5 million school. of greenhouse gases into the of global reduction of taking 3.5 cars off the roads. Although most students do atmosphere, and the climate has warming. Use a microwave not agree with these rules, but begun to show some signs of However, these million cars off the roads. instead of the we are bound to follow them. It’s warming. Many believe that this is effects can be oven. Because disrespectful to have any kind of just a taste of what is to come. If we brought to a halt. It isn’t difficult to they cook faster, microwaves use electronics out in academic don’t curb our greenhouse gas help save the earth because there are one-third the energy of conventional classes, but the rule that is emissions, then nations close to sea cheap simple ways that everyone can ovens to cook the same food. ridiculous is that we can’t listen level could be covered by ocean, rain cut back on greenhouse-gas Recycling and throwing away one to our mp3 players during our less bag of garbage every two weeks lunches or study halls. can reduce greenhouse-gas emissions Sitting in lunch or study hall by more than half a ton a year. Find can become very boring if you U.S. must continue to fight more information on don’t have work to do or anything www.stopglobalwarming.org. else to keep yourself occupied. Fighting in Iraq is still evil extremists have one goal: the Don’t feel alone in this race to Many students have I-pods or unfortunately hostile. It has gotten destruction of America and its allies. save the planet. People everywhere other kinds of mp3 players to to the point where many Americans Speaking out against the war are marching against global keep themselves entertained and feel enough is enough [and that] it’s reaches over to them. It gives them warming. New hybrid cars are are having these things time to bring our men and women hope that they are reaching their goal: becoming more popular each year confiscated because they’re home. the death of America. America, we because the average driver can save supposedly distracting them Have they forgotten 9/11? need to fight back! 16,000 lbs. of CO2 and $3,750 per from their studies. On Sept. 11, 2001, the United Yes this war in Iraq is year. Many companies are However, studies show that States was attacked by Muslim uncomfortably long. But, instead of converting to renewable energies music stimulates the brain; so extremists as an act of hatred pulling out all at once, and having all such as solar and wind. why deny students the towards us and our way of life. Then, sacrifices be in vain, and giving our Seattle, Washington has dis- opportunity to do so? President George W. Bush addressed enemy motivation that we can be played a series of recommendations Last year, one of my friends the nation and the world that the defeated, let’s fight back! Bring our for curtailing Seattle’s greenhouse gas had her CD player taken away in enemies to America and its allies that troops home when the job is done, emissions. Many of Seattle’s citi- lunch by an administrator and did harbor terrorists will not be tolerated not when the time is right for our zens have taken to riding bikes or not get it back until the end of by the United States, sending us into enemy to strike. electric bikes. The pizza shops even the day, which I didn’t think was a global war on terror. ...Pull out now and we will be use electric cars for deliveries. This fair. Now many people are tired of faced with a dangerous future. Give is just a small example of what we She told me, “I don’t this war in Iraq and want to end it. our enemy the motivation they need can do to reverse the destructive pro- understand why they had to take Have they thought of the to succeed, and they will return. cess of global warming. it…I was just minding my own consequences? Have they thought They will not stop unless...we However, someone once said, business in lunch, listening to about the brave souls who are risking Americans come together and stop “To gain an understanding of global music.” or have given their lives? them with the same patriotism that warming, it is necessary to know the Obviously this is a big ...When we entered the war on flowed in our veins following 9/11. science behind the issue.” So don’t concern to many students terror two basic wars were started. Iraq is a foot hold in the read this article, say “yeah he’s right” because they want to know why One fought through military power mountain of the war on terror. At and forget about what I’ve said. they can’t do something they overseas, and the other one which is the the top of this mountain is safety Research global warming for enjoy on their own time. being fought on U.S soil. I regret to for the American people. Fight the yourself because I am not trying to For some people, music say, that Americans seem to be mental war. Defeat the enemy. Bring convince you, I am merely trying to relaxes them and keeps them surrendering without any resistance our soldiers home with the honor of make you aware of how dangerous focused. So why should they be at all [in]...the war on the mental state a victory they deserve. a future this planet has if we don’t deprived of something that helps of a nation. Show our enemies that we will do something about it now. them succeed? The fighting in Iraq... is a single not be defeated and we will not Every single person can make a Having the right to have a battle in a global war on terror. surrender. Show them that their change that can ultimately save our mp3 player out during lunch or Terrorists want us to hate this war. mission is the one that is hopeless. beautiful planet and the generations study hall should not be denied. They want us to turn against our Come together and fight for our right to come. government and defeat ourselves the to live! -Lauren Brown ‘07 same way we did in Vietnam. These -Dan Lacca ‘09 -Joe Granato ‘07 March 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Letters - 9 Features Student firefighters Hobby inspires make a difference new club Rebecca Kilborn ‘08 when there are no calls? At the stations, there are television rooms Margaret Bonanni ‘09 Heat. Flames. Smoke. These where they can relax, eat, and are just three of the things that sometimes sleep. They also clean The Knitting Club may not volunteer firefighters deal with the fire trucks and rescue vehicles, sound like the most exciting club, every time they rush into a burning along with making sure that station but like any other after school building. With lives potentially at is kept clean. activity, it is a place with people stake, these courageous people “When we’re not getting calls, can socialize while sharing a have no time to worry about being the station’s a cool place to hang common interest. nervous. out and mess around,” Bredlinger Thanks to the Gina Parker Among the many volunteer said. “We’re like a big ‘09, the president and founder of firefighters in our community, family…everyone watches out for the knitting club, this club is a WTHS’s Steve Bredlinger ‘08 is one everyone else.” reality. The knitting club had its of the few high school students who Bredlinger joined the volunteer first meeting Jan.9. dedicate their time and energy for a firefighting company for one main The inspiration for the good cause. reason. With all of the accidents knitting club was an eight grade Bredlinger started his and fires occurring in Washington teacher Parker had, Mrs. Nancy firefighting career in the summer Township, his generosity and Mazgajewski. After eighth grade, of 2006. He operates out of selflessness have encouraged him Photo courtesy of Steve Bredlinger Parker has relentlessly been substation 10-3 in Birches West. Steve Bredlinger and other to service. working of different pieces of This substation is one of six, three students dedicate much of their “It’s a way to give back to knitting, and has received of which are substations, three of time to local fire companies. the community,” he said. “I enjoy compliments on several occasions. which are main stations. Calls are it. It’s an interesting thing to do.” Since then it has been one of sent out by a beeper, and the station Recruits also have to take an oath Thanks to Bredlinger and the Parker’s favorite past times. that is closest to the alarm is the one to uphold the responsibilities that other volunteer firefighters in “I like knitting and it’s that takes the call. Some of the most come with being a firefighter. Washington Township, the extremely fun to know how to common calls are auto accidents, “Once you turn seventeen or community is safe year-round. make things like scarves that you dwellings (fires), and alarms. eighteen, they take you a little more If you are interested in joining can wear,” she said. Although it is a volunteer seriously and give you more the volunteer firefighting program, The club was started when program, you must be at least responsibility,” Bredlinger said. you can visit their website Mrs. Jennifer Monaco, Parker’s sixteen to join the company. So what do the firemen do www.wtfd10.com. history teacher, commented on a scarf Parker wore to school. She then said that she knitted the scarf Hispanic Dancing Club steps up herself. After having conversations Nicole Heath ‘10 With the help of her older sister Though the club is new, its on knitting, an idea struck. Jackie Morales, now a freshman in leaders have already set goals for it. After thinking the idea over, With all of the new clubs at college, and club advisor Ms. Charity seems to be the main Parker asked her teacher if she WTHS each year, the Hispanic Francesca LaPenta, Morales was able focus of the club as of now. would want to start a knitting club Dancing Club is one of the most to start the Hispanic Dancing Club. “We want to do some and be the advisor. original. Hispanic Dancing Club is At club meetings, students learn charity work,” club advisor They completed some open to all students and is greatly and practice three Puerto Rican dances LaPenta said. “We would like to paperwork, and the club was diverse. Students who join will fund called Merengue, Bacchatta, and salsa. do some work for hospitals and finally approved. The club that the club is very entertaining. The meetings begin with a quick warm- Ronald McDonald house.” originally met on Tuesdays, but is “It’s a lot of fun,” club member Mike up before the club begins to practice Morales is still making trying to find a date that doesn’t Santiago ‘08 said, “and it’s good exercise.” their various dances. plans for the club for later in the conflict with other clubs, and Though just starting this year, Though Morales is the club school year and has some goals decided on Thursdays. the inspiration for the club was last president, she has much help. concerning dancing. “Anyone can join, staff or year’s student talent show. At the Active club members include “I would really like for us students,” Parker says, “We’re show, club president Jiselle Morales Junmar Borruel ‘10, and Morales’s to perform in the Puerto Rican always open to new members and ‘10 performed a Hispanic dance with sister Jackie also assists in the parade in Camden in June,” she exciting ideas.” friends. After the performance, running of the club. Though she is said, “so I’m trying to prepare Once you get the knack for Morales and her sister came up with attending college, she comes home for that.” knitting, you can make just about the idea to start the club. to help with the Hispanic Dancing With these ambitious goals, anything: scarves, purses, hats, gloves, “Everyone in the audience was Club when she can. WTHS’s Hispanic Dancing Club has wallets or even socks. If you’re looking motivated,” Morales said. “After “I’m a really shy person, so a lot of work ahead. For now, the main for a new hobby, or just something to the performance, I didn’t want it to it’s nice when my sister helps,” objective of the club is, as Morales try for fun, Knitting Club meets on end.” Morales said. said, “to get on our feet.” Thursdays in room K-211. 10 - Features The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March 2007 SAT success a matter of attitude Erin McFadden ‘07 with a pile of flashcards DON’T: Show up in your PJs the night before the It’s never a good idea to just Spring time is a busy one for test won’t raise your roll out of bed on test day. Being too juniors as they make their senior year score. The SAT comfortable so early in the morning schedules, plan for their first prom, Reasoning Test is can easily backfire; if you don’t give and begin the college search process. meant to gauge the yourself an opportunity to wake up, In preparation for the mad college knowledge and skills you will be much more inclined to rush of senior year, many juniors you’ve accumulated doze off during the long hours of begin to tackle the dreaded burden over your school testing. Dress comfortably, but leave of standardized testing. career, so there’s not the bunny slippers at home. With the popular April, May, much you could teach and June testing dates fast yourself in a few hours approaching, now is the time to that would help you on DO: Take it seriously think about the SATs. the test. Put out your best effort when Here are some tips to help you writing the essay, try to work walk into the test in a good state of through tough math problems, and DO: Relax mind, and maybe in walk out with carefully consider all of your options Rather than the score you were hoping for. when answering reading questions. stressing out, take in a The new SAT keeps students in movie or spend time testing for at least four hours, but DO: Prepare with friends the night Matt Johnson ‘07 slacking off due to boredom or Spend some time training before the test. Be skills by reading over the suggested fatigue can sevely hurt your score. your brain for the SATs. Pay at- sure to get a good night’s sleep, strategies and answering the SAT tention during those vocab lessons but wake up the next morning with Question of the Day posted on in English class, as you may see plenty of time to avoid being DON’T: Forget you can take it www.collegeboard.com. many of the same words on the rushed. Give yourself some time again test. to shower and get your testing If the numbers on your score In the weeks before your test DON’T: Cram materials together before you head report aren’t quite what you’d date, brush up on your test taking Chances are, sitting at home to the testing center. expected, you can always take the SAT again. Many colleges look at only the highest scores in the Critical Lack of lunch helps some get ahead Reading and Mathematics sections separately, so you can concentrate Nicole Heath ‘10 and nutrition on improving upon your weaker throughout the day section as you prepare for the test Lunch is a well-known find that some the next time around. favorite period for many students. teachers allow It is a time to talk to friends, finish them to eat a snack homework, listen to music, and in class when unwind. Most students at WTHS students do not take advantage of this time, as the have a lunch. Come check out the... cafeterias are packed third through But even seventh periods. sympathy from But is lunch essential to a teachers would not District Art Show student’s school day? Students be enough for Thursday, Apr. 12 have the option to drop lunch to some. take an extra class or gain a study Student 7-9 PM hall. Starting sophomore year, it is athlete Karen Erin McFadden ‘07/The Patriot Student artwork will be possible to schedule another Haberland ‘10 Many WTHS students take advantage of a on display from all the academic class or elective in place can’t see herself lunch period to eat and socialize. of a lunch. The number of students dropping lunch. district schools, who take advantage of this “If I kept doing sports, I don’t Some students prefer this option kindergarten through opportunity is small, but those know if I could drop lunch,” because they like time to themselves, high school. who do are able to earn more Haberland said. “I need to eat.” which can also be found in some credits and possibly even raise Athletes who are eager to take electives. their grade point averages. the extra class can find pretzels “I’m considering dropping Admission is free! “I want to take accounting to sold in both wings of the school lunch for art,” Jonathan Harris ‘10 prepare for the HSPA,” Parinda after classes. The school also has said. “I don’t like socializing.” Student art Patel ‘09 explained. She plans to vending machines where they can Though many students opt demonstrations and arts buy food after school. against it, dropping lunch is drop lunch to take an extra course. and crafts tables for Patel and others see a year Students are not required to always an option. It has its without lunch is worthwhile if it take a course if they decide to drop disadvantages, but is a popular kids will be also be can help them academically. Those lunch. Instead of a class, it is choice for those looking to get present. who are worried about lacking food possible to schedule a study hall. ahead academically. March 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Features - 11 Lifestyles City Lights by Laura Marder ‘07 NYC offers more than just good pizza When someone living in But that’s not all there is in a Washington Township hears the city bursting with history. Sightseers word “city,” they automatically think should check out St. Patrick’s of Philly. Philadelphia is very Cathedral, built in 1858. It is the exciting; however, there is another largest gothic-style Catholic city not so far from home you could cathedral in the US. The New York venture to. Though NYC seems very Public Library is also a must see. far away, especially to the high Built in the early 1900’s, it is one of school’s young drivers, it’s really not the largest public libraries in the too far from South Jersey. world. Grand Central Station, Getting to New York City is Rockefeller Center, Empire State easier then you think. Greyhound Building, The Plaza Hotel, and offers a round trip bus from Mount Ground Zero are some more amazing Laurel to Port Authority New York sites around the city. for $40, just about how much you Dozens of museums around the would spend on gas and parking. metropolis focus on art, dinosaurs, Buses run every half hour, for more history, war and children are information on schedules and prices scattered throughout the city. Check check out www.greyhound.com. out http://www.ny.com/museums/ Stepping into New York City all.museums.html to find out about is like stepping into a whole new the NYC Museums. world. Upper Manhattan has been NYC is also the home of significantly cleaned up. The mayor multiple famous Broadway shows. has taken steps to refurbish old Going to see a show can be a little buildings. The NYPD has worked pricy but truly worthwhile if you to make NYC a safer environment. enjoy theater. World class performers Time Square, once a center of illegal act, sing, and play instruments in action including drug sales and Kwabena Keene ‘08 everything from Disney shows to prostitution, is now a beautiful musicals and ballets to huge shopping and theatre area. Vinton, Abercrombie, American just a little one floor shopping area. orchestra performances. NYC is the place to go if you Eagle, Tiffany’s, and Sean John. You Some were built to be as tall as 10 All of these amazing things are want name brand shopping. Walking can also find discount stores such as stories high. Even just window only two hours away? Explore a new up and down 5th and 6th avenue you Virgin Records, H&M and shopping is fascinating because of city and visit the wonderful, lively can find stores like; Coach, Louis Strawberry. And these stores aren’t the unique window displays. Big Apple. Local eatery reminscient of Italy Nicole Fedorko ‘07 name a few). They also serve regular dimmed lighting really adds to the Now for the important part— “American” food, such as atmosphere. the food. If you are an Italian- It seems like you would have hamburgers and chicken fingers, for Not only is the atmosphere American, you know how it feels to to travel to the city to be served a those who aren’t into the Italian good, but the service is incredible. have some nice homemade pasta and nice, homemade, Italian cuisine. But cuisine. The waiters pay attention to their gnocchi with real meatballs waiting the Tuscan Tavern, just on the Other popular Italian costumers and do not let people sit every single Sunday at either your outside of Washington Township’s restaurants in our area include Olive and wait for food for an obscenely house or your grandparents’ houses. borders, offers exactly that. Garden, Mozzarella Grill, and long amount of time. They really take Imagine that, but you don’t have to Located on Blackwood- Carrabba’s, but none compare to the their jobs seriously. serve yourself and you don’t have Clementon Road in Blackwood, the homey feel of Tuscan Tavern. The dress is casual and there is to clear the table either! Tuscan Tavern is a quaint Italian When you step foot in the a bar located in the middle of the There is something for restaurant that serves imported Tavern, you feel like you are really restaurant. Four flat screens TV’s everyone and the meals aren’t too Italian pastas and other great Italian under the Tuscan sun. The décor placed throughout the restaurant expensive either. The average entrée dishes. makes it really look like Italy. There make sure customers won’t miss the costs around $12.00 and the dessert They have amazing chicken are murals of the Italian landscape game. There is also a separate seating is around $5.00. If you like great parmesan and every kind of pasta painted on the stone walls and there area where you can enjoy your meal Italian food, but can’t find a place in you could think of. There is angel are plants hanging from the ceilings without hearing the roar of the town to go to, then head over to the hair, raviolis, and rigatonis (just to to make it look like Italy. The crowd. Tuscan Tavern. 12 - Lifestyles The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March 2007 Fashion File by Megan Robertson ‘09 Ugg-ly boots are all around Aussie inspired Ugg boots are that Ugg is Americans fell you buy them from the right place. dominating the fashion world. Both short for the in love with Many department stores have well fashionable and comfortable, they are word “ugly” Uggs and the made options that look and feel just the perfect shoes. Made from because the huge success like the actual Ugg boots. The most sheepskin and wool, the boots hug early versions spread across important thing to check for when your feet keeping them warm and dry. of the boots the nation. buying fake Uggs is that the inside Although you wouldn’t think that were actually Authentic lining is soft; this will make a huge they are a very stylish boot, when considered Ugg boots can difference in how they feel on your worn tucked in jeans or with skirts unappealing. be very pricey; feet. they can actually make for a cute Today, the however, they These boots originally intended outfit. They are also seen regularly Uggs we know are definitely for surfers have transformed the on the fashion runways and the feet and love were worth the fashions of America and other of Hollywood celebrities. created in 1978 money. The countries across the globe. Although Ugg boots originated during the by Brian Smith, The Uggs are offered for men, prices range they are seen on many teenagers, nineteenth century in Australia. In a young women, and babies (above). from $100 to these boots are appropriate for all the beginning, they were worn by Australian $140 depending ages. In a fun new fad, even tiny Ugg ranchers and farmers. Later, Aussie surfer. Uggs were first used by on the style you choose. The shorter boots are available to fit infants. It war pilots wore them on long flights surfers to slip on after they came the boot, the less expensive they are. is obvious that a lot of people enjoy and referred to them as “Fuggs” or out of the water to keep their feet Ugg also offers several different wearing these comfortable boots. flying Uggs. It is not known for sure warm and dry. The comfortable boots variations of boots that differ slightly Many people think they are how the name Ugg came about. made it easier for these surfers to in style, color, and price. only to be worn during the winter However, there are two theories: trek across sand and stone. Smith Although I strongly recommend and cooler months; however, Ugg Some people believe the word Ugg eventually realized he could market buying the official Ugg boots, there boots are specially designed to keep comes from the way Australians his boots internationally— are many stores that offer cheaper your feet warm when it’s cold and pronounce hug referring to how the especially in the United States. versions. Less expensive versions can cool when it’s hot. These boots are shoes hug the feet. Another theory is Beginning in Southern California, be just as comfortable and stylish if the perfect shoe for all year use. Heading back to the eighties Kiersten Heath ‘07 average teenager wears, you might be surprised to find the common look Think back to the 1980s, that was apparent about 20 years specifically the fashion in the ago. Even in the halls of our high 1980’s. Now, return to the current school, there is a diverse number of fashion. You might find some fashion statements made. There is similarities. It’s a cliché, “Everything preppy look, which is worn by teens old is new again,” fashion is recycled to reflect their social status, a grunge every so often. The leggings, skater look for “whatever happens, wear, VAN sneakers, long, long shirts happens” kids, a punk look for and even the sweater vests are all heavy metal or rock teenagers, and fashion trends that bustled into our an urban look for adolescents who malls and outlet stores for the are find appeal in the hip hop or rap general public during the 1980s. world. These looks were just as Fashion during the 80’s, just evident in the 1980s as they are like today, was heavily influenced today. by much of the music industry Many people may or may not during its transfer from fashion like the return of a genre of such moguls to the youth. Trends eccentric, trendy fashion fads. They weren’t, and aren’t, just influenced may argue that the popular styles by the powers of MTV. Movies now are cleaner and sophisticated, made a big splash in what people rather than the 80’s eclectic, wore as well. Mega-popular movies ‘anything goes’ trends. Kaitlyn Fernandez ‘07/ The Patriot such as Footloose and Flashdance, Truth be told, fashion has Author Heath (third from right), and friends, exemplify the 80’s among others, had both girls and guys become more subtle, and less style finding a revival on the runway and in the halls of WTHS. rushing out to their favorite store to complicated, yet the trends from copy their fashion from movie ideals. almost 20 years ago continue to peek collars.” Over the past years, fashion For example, thanks to the movie through. Major department stores, The era of the crazy 80’s was a designers have based their look off Flashdance, leg warmers began to who target the nation’s youth, decade that has been reborn, or at of past styles and fads, but none as make an appearance in wider society. continue to sell 1980’s items such as least in fashion. Other eras are shown prominent as the 1980’s. That Now, years later, are still worn by ripped jeans, plaid Bermuda shorts, in the current fashion trends like the decade, almost 20 years ago, has been many today. bubble skirts, tank tops, bangle 70’s with the platform shoes or the and will continue to be a major When you look at what the bracelets and shirts with “popped 1950’s by means of the cardigan. influence on modern vogue. March 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Lifestyles - 13 Tech Talk On the Web GameBoy Fantasy hockey checks out by Alfred Wainwright ‘07 Yahoo offers GM experience for free Yoshi’s back A.J. Nisbet ‘08 own league and compete with your easier and more enjoyable, Yahoo friends. provides notes and information on Yahoo Fantasy Hockey will get You get to pick your team name each player like streaks or injuries. to laying you in front of your computer and the different rule types you With all these things to do to your screen managing your own NHL would like to play by in order for team in order to get the best lineup eggs for team for free. yahoo to place you in a public league. possible, you can find yourself By just logging on and signing On draft night, you log onto staring at your screen for countless up, you get to pick your league or yahoo and get ready for the live draft, hours. Nintendo create one. You even get to pick your one of the coolest aspects to the Since this game is played over team through a live draft, and go game. During the live draft you the World Wide Web, it allows you through the season making changes connect with all the other players to interact with different league Yoshi’s Island DS came out to fulfill your ultimate goal in the around the world, or in your own participants. For example, users can Nov 13 last year, 2006. It is end, winning the championship. league. You pick your players while vote on trades. If a trade seems unfair essentially the original Yoshi’s To start off your season long others talk about certain pickups and to people, they can vote on it and Island. The only exceptions are the fantasy hockey journey, you have other things about the upcoming reject the trade. This can be the one different levels and the new babies to sign up on yahoo. The fact that season over the web. downside of the game for some riding ontop of Yoshi’s back. this game is free won’t make it any As the season starts, you can people, but overall is very even. It looks, controls, and feels harder for you to sign up. make changes to your roster. This Each game is a week long, ending basically the same as it’s At this point you get to pick a includes line chances, trades, free on a Sunday night. Throughout the predecessors on the Game Boy draft that you can attend or, if you agents, and much, much more. week you try to get a line of players Advance (GBA) and the Super would like to, you can create your To make this part of the game which will add up to the most points Nintendo Entertainment System at the end of the week. (SNES). Points can be earned through Being a handheld game about goals scored, penalties and things of one of my favorite Nintendo Tech Class that nature. The person with the characters (Yoshi), I just had to pick most points at the end of the week it up. wins that game. Something new to the game is The goal is to win as many the fact that there are multiple games, but also to get as many points babies for Yoshi to carry on his as you can. It is possible to lose a back, like baby Peach, Donkey game but still have more points then Kong (DK) and strangely enough, another team which has won their the villain from the first game, baby game that particular week. Bowser. As the season winds down, They each have their own teams are put in two playoff special abilities that they can grant divisions. One is for the top seed and Yoshi when they are with him. the others being for the lower seeds. An added feature is the fact So even if you have a losing season that Baby Mario will also make you can still keep up with the fun in “M” blocks appear. This allows some kind of playoff format. Yoshi to climb up to places he photo by Melissa Cheng ‘07 Unlike the real NHL where wouldn’t originally be able to reach Mr. Bozzuffi helps Jim McCollough ‘07 with his program. playoffs are a best of series, fantasy on his own. “I’m always amazed when seniors say “I’m learning what programming is hockey is a one game, “win or go When little Peach is riding, she they’re going to major in computer really about.” home,” series. carries an umbrella which allows science and they’ve never taken a -Laura Louie ‘07 Winning the championship does the various Yoshi’s to float computer course. They should take not only give you that victorious upwards. a programming course, like Pascal, to see what it’s all about before “Mr. Bozz is just a cool guy.” title, but it shows how much time Baby DK allows our different spending big bucks.” -Matt Mackowiak ‘07 you put into your online NHL team. colored Yoshi friends to climb -Mr. Bozzuffi All the work and changes you made objects and reach new heights. during the season finally pays off. Wario carries a magnet to “It was fun with Numbers.” If you happen to be looking for attract large metallic objects that -Dan Chopik ‘08 “When I’m on the computer, I a free online game that puts you in are usually in the way. understand how much time and effort the front office and in charge of your Lastly, Bowser gives Yoshi the was really put into some of the very own NHL team, then Yahoo ability to breathe fire to take out “Pascal’s got to be my favorite programs used. And it’s for the class.” simple stuff too.” fantasy hockey is definitely the right enemies that are in the way. -Mike Drews ‘07 -Carl Jewell ‘07 game for you. 14 - Tech Talk The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March 2007 Hardware The Wii vs. PS3: Console Showdown Melissa Cheng ‘07 need for a computer anymore. The PS3 has an incredible amount of Everyone remembers Nov 17 features in that slim multimedia and 19 when people camped out for container. hours regardless of the weather to And Nintendo’s not the only get their hands on a one with access to the web. Sony’s PlayStation3(PS3) or Nintendo Wii. PlayStation3 also has WiFi and But what did they really get? Ethernet connections, making getting In that sleek piece of hardware online a breeze. from Nintendo, the Wii contains a PS3 also offers a USB port and good bit of interactive functions. allows the use of a memory stick. There’s a Secure Digital(SD) SD memory cards and Compact memory card slot that allows use of Nintendo’s Wii remote versus the PS3’s standard controller. Flash cards are also capable of being digital camera pictures which can be connection with a range of 10 meters HD support, this 1080 pixel used in the gaming console. So feel viewed in the photo browser. and features a 3-axis motion sensor capability gives it six times the detail free to pull out your cameras and The Wii also offers up the with an on-screen pointer. For more of conventional television pictures. upload them onto your television Opera browser. This gives the user conventional menu navigation and And Blu-ray games are going to screen. access to the web for handling gameplay, there’s a 4way D-pad, a take experience to that full HD point. Web and photo browsing aren’t common internet-related tasks such trigger, and five other function Blu-ray discs offer five times more the only extras in common between as visiting websites, sending and buttons. storage than the traditional DVDs. the PS3 and Nintendo’s Wii. That’s receiving email, and online chat. There’s even a secondary With the blue-violet laser being used right, the wireless, Bluetooth, With that said, the Wii includes controller: the Nunchuck. It can be in the PS3, precision becomes crucial motion sensor controllers are a series of “Wii channels” which plugged into the Wii remote for your to a better picture and more to the available from Sony too. include news and weather feeds. It other hand and also has a motion games. Pick up Blazing Angels and be even gives the gamer a low-power, sensor and an analogue stick with a Another plus, PS3 is powered able to control the flight of the fighter always-on option of the pair of trigger buttons. by Cell. Confused? Cell was the jets by simply moving the new and WiiConnect24. This promises to With these two controllers for microprocessor breakthrough in much better controllers, featuring deliver updates, messages, and other interactive gameplay, the Wii has multi-core architectural design. It seven degrees of free flow downloadable content right onto the become something like an aerobic features supercomputer-like floating movement. Not only are the console while it’s in standby mode. exercise that everyone can enjoy. point performance with clocked controllers greatly revised but the Another of the main attractions The best part about the speeds greater than four gigahertz numbers of players are too. Now is that the Wii is 100% compatible Nintendo Wii is that it’s only $250. (GHz). This means an improved, real games can have up to seven different with GameCube, Nintendo That’s more than we can say time response for better players. Entertainment System (NES), Super for the more expensive PS3. Coming entertainment. So which piece of machinery Nintendo Entertainment System in at $499 for a 20GB PS3 and $599 Along with the impressive will win the console war? It might (SNES), Nintendo64, and Sega for the 60 GB PS3, this could put a improvement in graphics, the pre- be another five to six years before Megadrive console games. nice sized whole in your wallet. installed Hard Drive Disk (HDD) we ever find out. But one thing’s for The biggest benefit of having So why’s it so expensive? High makes loading time effectively sure, these two gaming platforms are the Wii, without question, has to be definition (HD) video output isn’t reduced to four or five seconds. going to change the face of gaming the Wii Remote. It uses a Bluetooth exactly cheap to come by. With full There’s no more entertainment for the future. --Nintendo Wii-- --PlayStation3-- Pro Wii Quotes Wii Benefits Pro PS3 Quotes PlayStation3 Benefits

“It’s more interactive.” • 100% compatible with “Full HD support. It’s just • Blu-ray discs -Adam Stern ‘09 GC, NES, SNES, N64, better.” • Bluetooth gives PS3 and Sega Megadrive -Dylan Sharkey ‘09 motion sensor games • Full HD support (1080 “The Wii is the king of game • Opera browser “Better graphics. Better sound. pixel means six times play.” • WiiConnect24 Better everything.” the detail of a regular -Jeffrey Lamb ‘09 • Photo browser -Pat Little ‘07 tv picture) • Wii Remote // • Up to seven players Nunchuck (secondary “PlayStation3 is setting the bar • Pre-installed HDD “It’s different.” controller) when it comes to how much we (reduces loading time) -Brandi Smith ‘07 • $250 can pack into a console.” • Ethernet (web) -Carl Jewell ‘07

March 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Tech Talk - 15 Odds and Ends Coffee takes hold Melissa Cheng ‘07 coffee in the other. date invitation or a way to reconcile Then there’s the after a fight. Hearing those words I don’t remember what my first artsy coffee when she’s angry, she’ll feel as though tip-off was that I’d become addicted. addicts. With funky you care to listen to her share her It was probably when I started eye glasses and heart. hitting Wawa every morning before artistically clashing Those five words say you have school and pushing to pay for the clothing to mark time for her. It says that you want unaffordable-on-a-student-budget their individuality, to talk without any other Starbucks coffee every week. all they need is a cup distractions, and that you want to So yeah, I might be a coffee of Joe to complete get to know her better. addict. their connoisseur College students: studying for It’s the experience we keep image. exams and dragging yourself out of going back for though. You know the The modern bed in the morning is going to require scene: snuggling up into a big, comfy established working some sort of caffeine. coffee-shop seat with an oversized, woman won’t leave Adults drink coffee. In the foaming java cup in hand. the house without morning when you’re getting your A lot of students these days are adorning her high kids ready for school, you’ll need to trying to find themselves, seeking a class fashion. She is be awake. Business meetings, job new identity. And becoming a coffee the epitome of ‘chic.’ orientations, and student-teacher drinker – it’s an art. This includes the high conferences all offer it. Go to all the big named cities heeled shoes, faux- You’re going to have to face it and you’ll see those business fur, and of course, a at some point. The reality is, you associates walking by the high rises. cup of coffee. want to be a coffee drinker. Everyone They’ll be reading their newspaper “Want to go for says they won’t like it, but no one with their brief case in one hand and Cassy Matos ‘07 coffee?” It’s a first starts off drinking it black. Time to give lack of sleep a rest Lillyan Ling ‘08 of Wake Up Township, missing front of me in geometry wrote out a much about tomorrow’s mid-term or that punch lines. First period gym schedule minute for minute. She even scary movie you probably shouldn’t have Well, you’re an ambitious one. teachers know all too well of the had “brush teeth from 6:00 to 6:02. watched, or any issue that’s causing You go to school, and then stay after, reason of the sluggish air on the Of course, you don’t have to be that worry or stress. and then to go work or music lessons volleyball court. meticulous, but the point is despite A good night’s sleep is rare at this or sports activities, etc., all of this “Good morning” has become an all she had to do, with schoolwork age, and it’s usually the case that and more. Of course your goal in life infamous oxymoron: the less sleep, and sports, the bottom of the list negative thoughts bombard your mind is to be happy and conquer the world the less “good” you feel. Sleep still had “sleep” as early as 8:30 p.m. when the alarm clock forces you to and of course you won’t fail because deprivation has become one of those It makes it easier to sleep if wake up. A good night’s sleep is the you’ve got your mind set to it. secret pandemics. you’re in the right environment: stay key to a good day. But you forgot to sleep within Caffeine and naps are two short- away from bright lights including the passing days and soon you find lived solutions we’ve come to rely computer or T.V. screens, light tells yourself haggard, slapping in vain at on too heavily. Counting masses of the brain to wake up. Make sure it’s the abused snooze button. You have imaginary sheep has also let us down. quiet, not too hot or too cold. Avoid time to do anything, but you’ve What can we do to sleep better in naps and caffeine if you can. Try cheated time on your sleep. the long run? not to consume any caffeine after 4 A teenager needs an average The main key lies in being able p.m. and try not to take naps 4 Hours 8 Hours snoozing time of nine hours a night. to control the internal body clocks exceeding 30 minutes, or you won’t 12% 12% Getting this much sleep dosage we each own. Of course, one can’t be able to fall asleep later. makes the day more functional: expect to be able to sleep If you’ve got a test soon, study higher grades, better sports immediately at nine when they in increments beforehand so that you 5 Hours 20% performance, obviously, but it also usually do so at eleven. Shifting don’t pull an all-nighter. Chances are 7 Hours prevents auto accidents with a more sleeping patterns is a gradual process you’ll probably do worse because 32% alert consciousness and faster to be done in reasonable increments you stayed up so late, and you won’t reaction time. Plus, the more sleep over a period of days, so to start off, be able to concentrate during late you get, the brighter you feel. treat your bedtime like it’s an hours if your body is demanding 6 Hours You can probably tell that nine appointment: don’t be late. Slowly sleep. In short, you’ll be too tired to 24% hours isn’t happening for most of start to go to bed earlier each night. contain information and you’ll just be us. Hypnotized students sitting in You have to make time for sleep wasting time. their desks at homeroom stare like so budget your time. Last year, I Also, don’t forget to relax;. that’s zombies at the energetic commercials watched in awe as a girl who sat in what sleep is all about. Don’t think too 16 - Odds & Ends The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March 2007 Books Ambler Warning continues Ludlum’s legacy Richie Elles ‘08 operative named Harrison Ambler Robert Ludlum uses a brilliant who has been placed in the Parrish technique of intertwining flashbacks Robert Ludlum was always Island Psychiatric Ward after his and old memories that Ambler recovers known for his ability to keep his service with the American with the events in the present that readers on the edge of their seats government. However, he is not unlock them. His representation of while adding the element of mystery mentally ill and internally questions the many internal conflicts Ambler to his writing. his reason for being in the facility. wrestles with make the novel a solid He is best known for his Bourne Finally, with the help of a choice for a good read. Identity, Bourne Supremacy, and sympathetic nurse who he eventually The constant action is by far Bourne Ultimatum series, which have meets with in the outside world, the best aspect of the novel. It been successfully transformed into a Ambler escapes the facility on to find seems that everywhere Harrison movie series. that he has been erased from life, and Ambler turns, the retrieval teams are When Ludlum died in 2001, he all memory of his existence has been after him. The ‘white vans’ always left behind several unfinished manu- washed away. seem to show up at the worst scripts, which have since been com- While running from the retrieval Ludlum’s protagonist, Harrison possible time, leaving just enough pleted by unnamed ghostwriters. teams from the medical facility and Ambler stops at nothing to room for a spectacular escape. The One of these brilliant novels, The dodging old enemies from his ensure a quick escape. fast-paced action combined with Ambler Warning, was left as a manu- previous career as a government- life before the medical facility. He fantastic descriptions give the reader script by Ludlum, but has been trained assassin, Ambler tries to fights with his own sanity as he can the ability to create a very vivid finished and turned into a best seller. recover his own identity. Memories convince no one, not even his own mental picture. The Ambler Warning features a begin to come flooding back as he high school classmates, that he is Overall, I would give this book former government clandestine calls upon people had has met in his indeed Harrison Ambler. a rating of five out of five stars and would recommend The Ambler Warning to anyone looking for an Hit series dawns with Twilight entertaining plot filled with suspense. I found that at times, I Stephanie Foran ‘08 settings, and every detail of this simply could not put the book down book is fantastic. as either a new secret about Ambler’s Originally published in 2005, Fan reaction to the book has past was being unlocked or an action Stephenie Meyer’s novel, Twilight, been overwhelming. Its sequel, New sequence had sucked me into the has rocked the shelves of bookstores Moon was published in Oct. 2006 suspenseful scene. all around the country. Twilight is a and became even more popular than Throughout his lifetime, Robert young-adult, romance, and horror its predecessor. Meyer has stated Ludlum was a brilliant author who novel that has taken an overused to the media that the series is not even enjoyed posthumous success, cliché of vampires and added some over yet. The third book in the series as ghostwriters pick up where he left spice to the mix. is titled, Eclipse and scheduled to off. The Ambler Warning perfectly The book takes place in the life come out in Oct. 2007. A fourth book exemplifies all of Ludlum’s classic of Isabella Swan, more commonly is due later in 2007, but the title has techniques and styles, and enjoyed known as Bella throughout the not been revealed yet. a great amount of success atop the novel, in the rainy little town of Twilight may even make it to New York Times Best-Seller List. Forks, Washington. Bella is the new the big screen. According to Meyer’s girl from Phoenix, Arizona who just website, the book has been optioned doesn’t fit into the small town by MTV Films, Paramount Pictures, Read any good environment of Forks. and Maverick Films. Also on the books lately? At her new school, Bella is at- Meyer’s Twilight sets the tone website, the decision on if the hit for a captivating vampire series tracted to the mysterious Cullen family book will be made into a movie or The Patriot’s all-new with their unnatural beauty and re- of action and romance. not will be made in April 2008. If served natures. In particular, she is Twilight is still a great read. Never in you like the supernatural, romance, book section allows attracted to Edward Cullen, a boy she my life did I think I would be so or just need a good book to read, students to voice their sits next to in one of her classes, and engrossed in such a story. It took me Twilight is definitely the book for opinion on literature later falls for him after he saves her about five hours to read non-stop; I you. It’s a novel you can really sink from an accident. She finds out that simply could not put the book down. your teeth into. the Cullens are a family of vampires A potential weak spot in the Write a review and and gets so engrossed in their lives that Meyer’s character Edward could be Sign up for send it to us at her own may be in danger. his nonchalant nature towards Creative Writing [email protected] All readers alike will be able to Bella, though it’s shown in later appreciate Meyer’s use of the that he just wanted to protect her & Journalism or stop by D-8 for vampires, action, and romance. Even from harm or perhaps himself. See your guidance the next meeting of if you do not like vampires or usually However, how Meyer describes The Patriot aren’t interested in the supernatural, the rest of the characters, the counsellor March 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Books - 17 Entertainment Exposing Reality by Randall Beatrice ‘08 Moore blasts gun culture It’s hard to believe that a single as well. Moore argues that high gun movie can change the world in ways ownership is not responsible for no person can possibly imagine but violence in United States and instead it has still proven to be true. that there must be something else Documentary films have been about the American psyche and the around for a long time; however, the media that makes the nation uniquely genre did not become more prone to high rates of murder and increasingly successful in theaters shootings. In support of these claims, until just recently. Moore states that other countries And whenever a moviegoer have similar gun ownership laws but thinks documentaries, they think much less problems with violence. Michael Moore. But for those who Despite all of the controversy, Michael Moore, creator of Bowling for Coulmbine, takes aim. are not aware of him, he is a film many changes were made shortly director who focuses on political praise from critics and film festivals movie includes several discussions after the film hit public theaters and rights and current controversy in the around the country and it even won with various people, such as Matt his opinions did not go unheard. United States. He is widely known him an Academy Award later that year. Stone, Charlton Heston, and Laws surrounding gun control for him outspoken and critical views The film focuses primarily on Marilyn Manson. There are even became much more strict as well as on sensitive topics like globalization, gun violence and explores the some animated segments about the the offences for threatening or large corporations, gun violence, and possible reasons and causes for the ridiculousness of owning guns in the attempting to hurt someone with a the war in Iraq. He has been directing Columbine High School massacre. United States, montages of firearm. This in the long run, made movies for more than a decade, but he He also attempts to understand the accidental political disasters schools around the country a safer did not gain much popularity until he minds on the shooters involved and involving weapons, and actual stock place for students to learn and released Bowling For Columbine in what kind of background and footage from the shooting. reduced the amount of murders and 2002. It received much acclaim and environment they grew up in. The But, there are several criticisms accidents involving these weapons. Join the Cult by Matt Neuteboom ‘08 Plan Nine from Outer Space: So bad it’s good Plan 9 from Outer Space has throughout the film that they are episode of Batman. often been considered one of the actually trying to save the human The director, Ed Wood, decided worst movies of all time. But few race, despite the fact that Plan 9 not to go with a professionally realize it might just be one of the explicitly requires that they kill half written script, or any script editing. greatest movies ever made by man. of the human race to do so. Why would he? With classic lines Any movie can be horrible and Haven’t seen or heard of Plan such as “future events such as these boring. You can take bad acting, bad 9? Here’s just what you’re missing. will affect you in the future,” and writing, and bad production and Plan 9 boasts a stellar acting crew, “I’m muzzled by army brass!” simply make the audience lose with a Swedish wrestler that plays a there’s just no need for re-editing. interest. That’s an easy task. But it detective, aliens that are just humans With actors who would have takes a special kind of film, the kind in glittery uniforms, and a cop who been apt for a sixth grade school play that acts like a big-budget film when scratches his head with a loaded gun. and a script written with an audience it obviously isn’t, to be so bad as to Let’s not forget to point out that the of chimpanzees in mind, it almost be entertaining. aliens speak English and wear lipstick. makes it seem like the movie was Plan 9 from Outer Space details The acting is only outmatched made to be bad. But what truly makes the workings of an alien race, whose by its production values. You can it entertaining is that it wasn’t. This name or origin really doesn’t matter watch as the same movie clip is movie was genuinely trying to be a at all. After plans 1 through 8 failed, played five times in a row in a one masterpiece and how bad it ends up they predictably move on to Plan 9. minute period. The outstanding set is the reason this movie is so hilarious. For this scheme, the aliens will creators managed to put together This is the movie we all see bit the bullet and pushed through. resurrect the dead in order to coerce tombstones made of cardboard (that spoofed by modern sci-fi movies, the Not many movies can be so badly planet Earth into cooperation with do fall over during the middle of the type that are so bad it’s a wonder it and cheaply made that they are their race. movie) and an alien ship so advanced, even got produced. Just the fact that actually funny. With its dollar You’d think that after about 6 their equipment is a bunch of radios it was makes me wonder if the store special effects, cheap sets, tries, they would have given up with on end tables. producers lost a bet with the director cornball writing, plot holes so big the plans and simply blown up the The list goes on. Shots that and were forced to put this in theaters. you could drive a bus through planet. But no, these are some go from midnight to midday, then But you have to hand it to Ed them, and acting as cardboard as it persistent aliens, and they’re going back again, actors that trip on Wood. Even when one of his star comes, this is a movie you are not through with it. It is revealed screen, and more clichés than an old actors died during production, he soon to forget. 18 - Entertainment The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March 2007 Fall Out Boy takes risks

Erin McFadden ‘07 insightful and The band’s attempts at caustic one-liners maturing their sound while still The first sounds on Infinity on that have producing good songs are High, the latest album from Chicago- punctuated his occasionally successful. The tracks based pop-punk darlings Fall Out band’s songs. On “Thnks Fr Th Mmrs” and “I’ve Got Boy, come from the mouth of rapper Infinity on High, All This Ringing in My Ears and Jay-Z. This confusing introduction, he shows his None on My Fingers,” both featuring though perhaps the band’s way of awareness of this orchestras and dramatic vocals in the flaunting their connections at Island by composing style of fellow scene successes and Def Jam, is highly representative of entire songs of FOB protégés Panic! At The Disco, the awkwardly ambitious fourth such lines. The are musically interesting and full-length album from Patrick result tends to appropriately bitter. The choral gang Stump, Peter Wentz, Joe Trohman, come in the form vocals and minor-keyed verses of and Andy Hurley. of unbearable “Bang the Doldrums” are also new The album’s first single, “This strings of to the Fall Out Boy style, but Ain’t a Scene, It’s an Arms Race,” nonsensical provide an interesting contrast that left many fans optimistic about the metaphors and adds to the conflicted nature of the release it preceded. The track features Fall Out Boy’s sound has matured but has retains puns, as seen in lyrics. the high powered chorus, frantic its youthful passion. the track “Don’t Infinity on High is an awkward beat, and witty lyrics that have uncharacteristic attempt at ballad You Know Who I Think I Am?” album from a band who many had trademarked Fall Out Boy’s songs writing from Stump, the band’s singer The songwriting team of Stump assumed had already grown up. for the past five years, but the track and principle songwriter, at which and Wentz meet their respective Perhaps the evident lyrical is a near stand-alone on Infinity. he succeeds only in producing a song musical and lyrical talents with the best melancholy and innuendo mixed The delicious spite evident in to put the audience to sleep. results in tracks like “Hum Hallelujah” with musical schizophrenia will the lyrics of past albums has been Fall Out Boy lyricist Wentz, and “Fame < Infamy,” both of which prove lethal to the TRL generation replaced by melodramatic while recently catapulted into the call upon traditional Fall Out Boy of Fall Out Boy fans, but those who depression, as evident on tracks like spotlight by internet scandal, has formula beloved by fans on past know the band well will find “The (After) Life of The Party” and been most well-known in the albums Take This to Your Grave and redeeming qualities in both the old “Golden.” The latter represents an alternative rock community for the From Under the Cork Tree. and new elements of the songs. Wincing through the Shins’ latest

Joe Granato ‘07 On top of all expected a new chapter from the lush this are enough pop-indie band with songs that Indie rock kingpins the Shins are keyboards to would paint new pictures. However back with the long awaited Wincing start a Styx this isn’t Chutes Too Narrow II. the Night Away, an album anticipated cover band. What fans got was a paint by by many to be a near perfect one for With all these numbers that didn’t come with any the new year. However, this bearded elements mixed paint. band disappointed many fans on together for Maybe this was the bands January 23rd with an album that fell what seems like intention. The Shins have extremely short of being called some the entire length sucessfully followed up their ground of their best work. of each song, breaking Chutes Too Narrow with Many of the Shins’ best songs the melodies an album that has arguibly more evoke a feeling of comfort that’s feel musically emotional depth and maturity. immediately recognizable but rarely cramped. The Wincing the Night Away will continue experienced. Since their debut album The Shins try maintaining their vibrant person- phrase “less is to carry the Shins’ career into a in Oh, Inverted World (2001), alities with Wincing the Night Away. more” has positive light and expose them to the intimacy has been the bands best clearly come to world more and more. So in a sense weapon. These tendencies became The Shins writing style on mean nothing to the band. Though the album did all an album is tradition in their follow up album Wincing the Night Away has changed the recorded quality of this album expected to do, which must mean Chutes Too Narrow which sold well direction, bringing their sound back is much more professional and that the Shins are extremely proud over 395,000 copies since its 2003 to their roots. James Mercer’s cleaned up, it loses the raw sound of it. Now if you’re asking me if release. This album brought the Shins (singer, guitarist, song writer) well that the Shins are known for. this album will change your life, then into the limelight with songs that were known guitar strumming patterns are The mundane colored cover the answer is no. eventually featured in movies such drowned out by synthesized art much reflects the albums lack Wincing the Night Away is just as “Garden State” and “In Good arpeggios and other miscellaneous of ablility to change up the feeling another album you’ll hear, enjoy and Company.” Chutes Too Narrow was sounds. The drums and bass lead from song to song. Coming from forget—nothing more. Maybe that then nominated for a Grammy Award each track but sometimes over power the vibrant recordings of Chutes is all the Shins were aiming for and for Best Recording Package. even Mercer’s unique vocals. Too Narrow, fans may have all the fans need right now. March 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Entertainment - 19 Scorsese arrives with The Departed Mob flick finally brings home Oscar for director Josh Bennett ‘07 to infiltrate the gang while Colin Sullivan (Damon), a young criminal Note: At the time this was written, and informer for the gangsters, has the Departed had just recently been managed to gain a position of power released into theatres. It has since within the Special Investigations gone on to gain numerous Unit. Costigan quickly gains the nominations at the Oscars, and even confidence of leader Frank Costello took home Best Picture and (Nicholson). Eventually, it becomes Direction. rather obvious that each side has a mole on the insides and it becomes I went into the Departed, only a matter of time before honestly, not knowing what to someone’s identity is revealed. expect. I wasn’t even 100% sure Like I said before, this film had what the movie was about, but with a perfect cast. The entire cast such an all-star cast of Jack delivered a stellar performance and I Nicholson, Leonardo DiCaprio and give the Oscar nod to all three of Matt Damon, I had no doubts it them, especially Jack Nicholson. He would be a decent film. With that was such a perfect villain, as always. Undercover cop, Leonardo DiCaprio and mob boss, Jack Nicholson, said, I can sit here now and be quite I really shouldn’t forget to mention confront each other in TheDeparted. blunt with you: this is the movie of that there are also appearances from Scorsese, who has created such great lengthy career. the year, easily. Mark Wahlberg, Martin Sheen and films such as Goodfellas and Raging The film’s quite lengthy at two Basically, the story revolves Alec Baldwin, creating a true ultimate Bull, there was no way this film hours and twenty-nine minutes long, around an ongoing rivalry between cast. Wahlberg managed to steal every could possibly fail. Scorsese now has but it’s so worth every minute. It’ll an Irish-American gang and the scene he was in, and that’s a strong yet another masterpiece to add to keep you on your seat the entire time, Massachusetts police force. To try statement, figuring he shared time with his list. Maybe this time he’ll actually it’s just that thrilling. Though it’s rated and demean the other, young cop most of the main characters. win the Oscar for Best Picture, as he’s R, you should definitely do your best Billy Costigan (DiCaprio) is chosen With the direction of Martin already lost numerous times over his to try to get in and see it. Labyrinth explores escape from fascism Kaitlyn Fernández ‘07 won 3 of its 6 nominations at the Academy Awards, which is an It is 1944 and World War II is extraordinary feat for a foreign film. slowly ripping the world apart. In Pan’s Labyrinth is one of the Spain, a fascist regime under General most beautifully made movies I have Francisco Franco is growing more ever seen. The imagery, art direction, and more repressive as the and cinematography are, quite Nationalist army attempts to snuff literally, out of this world. Rich with out the Republican rebel forces living detail, the creatures that Ofelia among them. To escape the terror of encounters are realistic enough to give real life, Ofelia, a young girl living with me nightmares. her mom and step-father, creates a Additionally, and perhaps most dream world filled with fantastic importantly, del Toro shot the entire creatures. But as she finds out, even movie in Spanish. Rather than this fantasy isn’t picture perfect. dubbing in lines, audiences must be Mexican writer/director prepared to read subtitles for the film. Guillermo del Toro unfolds Pan’s In Pan's Labyrinth, the bookish young stepdaughter of a sadistic At the same time, this movie is Labyrinth, or El Laberinto del army general escapes into an eerie but captivating fantasy world. not all ancient creatures and fairy Fauno, from the depths of his Baquero) looks to the fantastical Stifled by the real world, she tale quests. The movie was rightfully imagination as a gothic fairy tale set world that she reads about in her turns to the faun again and again. His given an R rating for it’s more than on the background of the ending of favorite books, she will not be able promises that she is a long lost slightly gruesome scenes of Capitan the Spanish Civil War and the to escape the cruelty of the new princess and she may soon be Vidal’s torture of both the beginning of Franco’s regime. world she is entering. reunited with her real family keep revolutionaries and his own forces. The story begins with the Near her new home, Ofelia finds her attention. Even as he sends her It is only through the innocence and inquisitive Ofelia driving with her adventure in a sprawling labyrinth on various missions both frightening strength of Baquero that the movie mother to live with her new filled with old statues of strange and dangerous, she clings to him remains enchanting despite the stepfather, Capitan Vidal, at his beasts and creatures including the when she cannot cling to her mother. brutality. For those who are faint of military encampment. Though most peculiar of creatures—a real- Since the film’s release it has heart, do not expect this spellbinding young Ofelia (Spanish actress Ivana life faun (half goat, half human). earned enormous critical support and movie to be comedic relief. 20 - Entertainment The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March 2007 Rock Across the Sea by Stephanie Foran ‘08 Miyavi speaks universal language For the past four years, there his image and the style of his featured in such Japanese rock has been a man dominating the music, but gained an entirely magazines such as, Shoxx, Fools Mate, music charts of Japan. Along with new audience in return. and Arena 37c. He was due to tour in his ever-changing style of music The rockstar’s music has the United States in 2004, but had to and even the identity of his own been called everything from cancel the tour last minute due to staff name, Miyavi (Also known as eccentric, to downright issues. He changed labels in that same Miyabi or MYV), has always been quirky. But there’s always summer to Universal Records with the one of the most popular rock stars one aspect you can depend realease of Miyavizm and has again in Japan. on Miyavi for: his fantastic changed his name to ‘MYV’. Miyavi was born in Nisikujo, guitar skills. There is almost Despite his loud and outgoing Japan on Sept. 14, 1981 to a always at least one solo or personality, Miyavi is generally Japanese father and a Korean amazing rift in his songs, especially very quiet and polite when meeting mother. Due to undisclosed ones in songs like Shindemo fans. When checking out his albums, differences, his parents divorced as Boogie-Woogie and Freedom there is normally a Japanese a child and soon after he moved Fighters. Even thouugh all of his character next to his name, which with his mother to live near his songs are in Japanese, Miyavi is means ‘elegant.’ It has not changed grandparents. Miyavi was always the type of artist who can since the days of Dué le quartz. He a good student and had become Miyavi, challenges the norms of transcend the language barrier. is unusually tall for his nationality, quite skilled in playing soccer, but From a fan’s perspective, his standing at six foot one inch. His an injury left him unable to play. Japanese rock stars. music is cheerful (most of the favorite color is pink and his favorite As a result, the soon-to-be musical bassist Kikasa left due to personal time) and something you can foods include chicken, sushi, and superstar started to play the guitar reasons. Soon after Miyabi (as he definitely dance to. Miyavi had chocolate cake, as his website and write songs. He has been was known in DLQ), under the name reached international superstardom states. Miyavi has been battling an playing for eleven years. Miyavi, also left the band and in 2005, with the realease of his third addiction to smoking for most of Miyavi’s career, however, did produced his first major solo album, album, Miyavizm. his career, but he finally quit the not start out as a solo act. At the age titled -gagaku- under the label PS Aside from being a rockstar and habit recently. His website is http:/ of eighteen he joined the band, Dué Company. He lost many of his an international heartthrob, the /www.o-re-sa-ma.com/ if you’re le Quartz as the lead guitarist. In original fans that he had gained in Japanese rocker has also starred the interested in learning more about the 2002, the band disbanded when Dué le quartz because he had altered 2004 movie, Oresama and is regularly elegant Miyavi. Spektor delivers haunting vocals Robert Brennan ‘10 seemingly simple piano riffs, but Pound in “Pound of Flesh”. She the web, “Youtube” with her video features mood-setting riffs and lyrics often has recurring elements in her for “Fidelity” being viewed 200,000 On Feb. 18, 1980, a musician that impact the listener immediately. songs such as the mention of times in two days. was born who would develop a There is no simple classification for gravediggers or the name, Mary Ann. I recommend “Soviet Kitsch” beautiful voice and extraordinary her music, as all of her songs have In contrast to newer artists, and all of Regina Spektor’s other talent on instruments such as the different attitudes, themes and Spektor’s voice is left more-or-less titles to everyone who has an open keyboard, guitar and musical chair styles ranging from electronic to hip- unaltered on her CD’s. mind about music and appreciates (drumsticks played on a wooden hop, from quirky to bittersweet, and She has performed on a bright great vocals and amazing piano chair). Regina Spektor was born into from jazz to pop. red Baldwin baby grand piano since playing. a musical family in Moscow, Russia Regina Spektor’s songs are 2005 and has made appearances at with a photographer/amateur based around fictional characters and local venues such as, “The Electric violinist father and a music scenarios that she draws from her Factory” and “The Theatre of Living professor mother. At the age of six, imagination. She first recognized this Arts”. She has toured across America Spektor began studying classical talent on a field trip to Israel in her and Europe. piano. The Spektor family first moved teenage years, when her peers were Spektor has appeared on to Austria, then Italy, and then finally amazed at her ability to make up shows such as, “Late Night with settled in Bronx, New York. songs while hiking. Conan O’Brien” and “The Tonight Commonly associated with the She explores her vocal abilities Show with Jay Leno”. She has also anti-folk scene, which is a mix of non-stop while using a thick New York performed on “Jimmy Kimmel Live” punk and American folk, from New accent on some words or using jazzy and “Last Call with Carson Daily”. York’s, East Village, she had a hit vibrato or a breathy high register. The popular show, Grey’s with “Fidelity” and released her In her lyrics she sometimes uses Anatomy has featured her songs album, “Begin To Hope” just in time abstract narratives or first-person “Fidelity” and “On The Radio”. for all her newly acquired fans, who accounts. Her songs are more or less Spektor’s song, “Better” is currently had to make due with her past short stories put into a song. She being used in a commercial for XM releases, “Soviet Kitsch” and “Live also frequently includes references satellite radio. At Bull Moose”. to famous people such as, Boris Spektor has had one of the Regina Spektor’s music was Her music consists of Pasternack in “Apres Moi” and Ezra greatest successes of any artist on featured on Grey’s Anatomy. March 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Entertainment - 21 Sports Eight straight Cheerleaders captures conference title. . . again Sarah Kurtz ‘10 Division title as well as the Olympic sure that they ares ready to perform. somebody judging them who they Conference Grand Champion Next they practice their stunts before have never met before. The judges don’t On Feb. 25, the Washington designation. They beat out eight other doing their routines full out. After the know their routine they don’t know Township High School cheerleading teams for the titles, out-scoring their first week of cheerleading your body what they’re about. They have one team conquered the Olympic competition by forty points. The girls has experienced being in so many chance to make the judges believe and Conference for the 8th year in a row. felt their routine was nearly flawless different positions, your entire body know that they are the best, out of “It feels awesome knowing that as they tumbled there way right into feels like jello. Practice for the champs everybody there. They have to prove we work so hard to keep our legacy first place. usually ends around five everyday. that WTHS cheerleaders deserve to be alive. The “family” bond that we have The championship was not won They try just as hard at practice as the title holder. is what leads to such success,” said without a lot of hard work. The they do on competition day, every This year’s varsity team consists cheerleader Caitlyn McFall ‘07. cheerleaders work everyday to turn second counts. of ten seniors and twenty-five girls With battle at the Capital right their bodies into human silly putty. Although cheerleading is known total. The girls feel that the best thing around the corner the girls are excited With a perfect routine, their ultimate to be a lot of fun and full of spirit, about the team is just to know that to compete and once again come home goal, they put their bodies through a sometimes it just doesn’t matter if they they did their best and that they were with a win. tough work out. are doing their best. They always do good enough to be considered the This year the girls captured the A typical practice begins with their best, but sometimes they feel their best. But we all know, when is Olympic Conference American warm-ups as the girls stretch to make best just doesn’t cut it. They have TWP not the best? Ice hockey repeats championship A.J. Nisbet ‘08 Cameron Rowand (39), and Christain the remainder of Fleagle (35). the game. At this After a long, successful season This season the team’s seniors point all shots and a bunch of intense playoff wins, were not the only ones making an were on net in The Washington Township ice impact on the leaders’ column. desperation for hockey team won their second Freshman Jared Emmet was high up the tying goal. championship in a row. Throughout in the standings with 21 points. This With 11 seconds most of the season, Township season was just a preview of left in the game, dominated its opponents in pursuit Emmet’s talent, who is looking Fleagle netted one of a championship repeat. forward to three more varsity years. sending the game Going into the championship Along with WT’s high powered to overtime. One without a playoff loss, Township offense their starting goaltender, Joe overtime was not took over the home side of the Skate Scafisi ‘07 was among the league’s enough to decide Zone. With a packed house and a best, leading all goalies (with more a winner, as ceremonial beginning, the game then 400 minutes played) with the Dispaldo ended started just as the last playoff game least Goals Against. Scafisi also was the game in against Shawnee left off, end to end given an award prior to the double overtime, and fast paced as the teams championship game for being the A.J. Nisbet ‘08/ The Patriot sending WT to the exchanged goals as well as leads. It MVP of last year’s championship Colin Davis ‘07 helped lead his team to a Championship was a hard fought game, but WT was game. championship with 59 regular-season points. game. able to pull through in the end Since earning a second seed While Town- winning 7-6, led by a hat trick from going into the playoffs, Township regular season play. ship was waiting for its final oppo- the team’s captain Chris Biscardi ’07. also earned a bye into the next round Both teams went into this game nent of the season, Shawnee was able “It felt good to be able to help of the two game elimination without a loss, and that reason was to bounce back from its first playoff my team the way I did in the biggest tournament. Their first game of the evident in the beginning. The game defeat in the double-elimination game of the year,” said Biscardi. playoff tournament was against was end to end, each team exchanging playoff tournament and beat Chero- The big victory capped a long Cherokee, another high-powered scoring chances. After Biscardi tied kee 5-4, setting up a WT-Shawnee 14-2-2 season, which earned offense. After a scoreless first the game up 1-1 in the second period, championship. themselves a second place seed, three period, Township began to pull everything would be on the line in With another championship points behind the number one seed, away with three goals in a row in the the third. The game remained tied title, the winning tradition stays alive Shawnee Renegades. second period. All township goals for most of the third period after the in the WT hockey club. Despite Five seniors on WT earned a were scored by different players in teams once again exchanged goals. winning the championship, the spot in the top ten point leader the 4-2 victory. With 1:26 remaining in the game, team’s path still does not come to an category with Colin Davis leading After giving one championship Shawnee was able to get one past end. The team got invited to the the team with 59 points [second in contender a loss, WT went on to face Scafisi, taking a 3-2 lead late in the Flyers Cup tournament, where they the league]. Following Davis were Shawnee, one of the only teams that game. Things weren’t looking good have earned a number two seed and Biscardi (43), TJ Dispaldo (40), were able to defeat Township in until Township got a power play for a first round bye. 22 - Sports The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March 2007 Brothers succeed on wrestling mat by Maria Basco ‘10 “Its great having wrestling in “I really get tunnel- common with Frank,” explains vision out on the mat. I’m James Higgins ‘10 and his James, “I always have someone to able to block out the brother Frank Higgins ‘08 are two of drill with at practice and at home.” crowd and focus on the the best wrestlers on the Washington James’ dad, his brother Frank, and task in front of me,” Township Wrestling team according his coaches are some of the main explains Frank, “I guess to team members and stats. people that inspire him to work it all just comes with mat James Higgins wrestles varsity harder. His partner, Anthony Curcio experience.” 103 and has won 21 matches and `09 (112/119), a district champ, Both James and lost one this season. James has been pushes him in practice to be better Frank have to keep up wrestling since kindergarten on the than he is. with grades to wrestle. Washington Township Recreation Usually, practicing for hours a Their parents stress this league. day can get very tiring and take up to them immensely. “It’s been ten hard, but most of one’s life. “My mom and dad enjoyable years [wrestling],” said “Yeah, it does get pretty tiring want James and me to do James Higgins. but my team is fun to be with and great in life so they James practices once or twice a the coaches make everything into a always push us to do well day, seven days a week. James’ hard joke so I don’t mind practice at all,” in everything we do,” Richie Elles ‘08/The Patriot work makes him one of the few better states James. explains Frank, “They are Wrestler Frank Higgins has tallied over wrestlers on the team. James loves James and Frank’s parents the worst when it comes 60 wins in his high school career. having his older brother on the team always attend every match. Their to grades. [Low grades are] because they both share the same voices along with Frank and James’ the one thing they do not tolerate.” grade at the age of ten. Frank was sport that happens to be one of the fans always motivate them to work Frank recently transferred from actually influenced by James to most important things in both of harder on the mat. Unlike James, another school. He had to wait till wrestle. His first team was the their lives. Frank tends to block out all the January 17th to wrestle for Twp. Washington Township Midget commotion from the stands. Frank has been wrestling since third program. Frank has been wrestling for eight years. Just like James, Frank practices A View from the Stands by Richie Elles ‘08 once or twice a day, seven days a week. Along with TWP wrestling, Frank is involved with DECA and NHL suffers identity crisis two wrestling club teams. In Frank’s career he has won 61 matches and As the second season under the In the present NHL, speed rules standard after overtime. But after a lost 13. To be the one of the best on new rules is winding down, the NHL the game. With the elimination of year of the three shot format deciding the team, Frank practices his hardest seems to be recovering well from its the two line pass, the fastest players games, the initial excitement that had and dedicates all of his spare time to fallen giant status it acquired during can simply wait for the breakaway fans flocking to the seats has worn wrestling. Frank doesn’t mind the lockout of the ’04-’05 season. feed from their teammates to get a off. Is putting the game in the hands dedicating so much time to wrestling Sure, with the shootouts and faster- shot on goal uncontested. Slower, of the defenseless goalie fair to all because he is always having fun while paced action than before, attendance heavier players who were considered teams who are seeking vital points practicing the sport he loves. is higher than it has been in 10 years. fighters before the lockout are in the standings? “We have a great group of guys But are fans really turning out constantly taking penalties using Eliminating ties from the new on the team; we always have fun in record numbers to see traditional their old methods on the ice. NHL has taken the excitement and together.” Frank explains, “With the hockey, or are we being dazzled by a Big hits are a rarity in today’s urgency out of overtime, creating a combination of guys we have and a mere substitute created for the sole game, as the penalty box opens after game where the bonus period is coach like Coach Ross, there’s never purpose of remarketing the NHL? almost every thunderous crunch looked upon as just a longer time a dull moment!” Growing up watching hockey at against the boards, much to the until the shootout, instead of a every opportunity as any avid NHL dismay of many fans. Fighting in the sudden death war for one extra point. fan would, I came to know and love new NHL is almost non-existent, After all is said and done, aside Next Issue: the strategy involved in the game. dropping forty percent after the from the fact that the game is still -Season recap Coaches were always designing lockout. played with a puck on ice, is the plays around the structure of the The physical play that we had NHL still hockey? of Girl’s rink, incorporating the structure of come to enjoy and expect from the Looking back on the changes Basketball’s the ice into every offensive rush. game is no longer a part of the action, made, the NHL has been saved after Teams would protect their leads by but a noticeable ghost that hangs over a work stoppage, but at what cost? run in the state setting up traps in the neutral zone the ice. Records will be broken, stars will championship to prevent a comeback. Players Finally, the addition of the fade out, and teams that were once were labeled as enforcers for their shootout after the standard four-on- dominant will fall from grace. tournament physical play and tendency to four overtime has directly impacted In the end, the impact from the wear down their opponents. the standings. At first, the concept new rules will hurt both the integrity -Check out the But with the new rules, all the of a high-energy, pressure situation of the game and replace traditional new season of careful planning went out the window was entertaining enough to sell out hockey that had been played for a as the game was changed forever. arenas and was accepted as the century before. Spring sports March 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Sports - 23 Cregar sets, breaks swim records Blaise Lacca ‘07 For Cregar, this success was the pool are known as dry result of a lifetime of dedication to land practices. These A lot of guys wouldn’t consider his sport. practices include joining the swim team because they His first swim team experience running, stretching, don’t like the idea of wearing a was with the old Wedgewood Swim crunches, push ups, Speedo. This is not the case for Billy Club before the pool was shut down. some weight training, Cregar ‘07, Township’s top male It was on this team that Cregar and a lot of medicine swimmer. Cregar, 17, has been officially learned the sport of ball exercises. The other competitively swimming since the swimming and found his talent with half of practice that age of five years old, and not once two strokes, the freestyle and the takes place in the pool has the thought of wearing a Speedo butterfly. is not just a bunch of bothered him. Cregar instantly found the laps cruising back and “I don’t even notice that the sport to his liking and this forth. These practices suit is a Speedo because I’ve been enjoyment made him eager to strive include a warm up, swimming for such a long time,” for greatness. As his swimming multiple short distance Cregar said. career took off, he decided to join sprinting laps, kicking When it comes to racing, the the U.S.A swim team at GCIT. on a kickboard, time Cregar spends in the pool is There Cregar endured grueling three swimming without use Rob Cavella ‘07/ The Patriot actually getting shorter. Several hour a day daily practices in and out of the legs, long distance Billy Cregar won the state championship times this season he has broken of the pool. Now that he is older, swimming, and starts in two freestyle events. school records only to set a new mark Cregar attends practices in the early and turns. in the next meet. morning hours before school, and “It is hard work, but my He has gone on to win and place He is the state champion in the then returns to the pool for the accomplishments are well worth the in multiple events over his high school 200 yard (eight laps) individual second practice after school. effort,” said Cregar. career which has given him valuble medley, and the 500 yard (twenty laps) “There is a lot more hard work One accomplishments Cregar experience to continue at the colligiate freestyle. Other state championship that goes into the sport that most has achieved is qualifying for the level. accomplishments include finishing 6th people don’t know about, most New Jersey State Individual Cregar plans to attend the in the 200 yard freestyle relay where people believe that all you have to Championship Meet every year University of Georgia and will begin he teamed with Bill DeMarco ‘08, do for the sport is dive into a pool since he was a freshman. his college career in the fall of 2007. Blaise Lacca ‘07, and Dan Bower ‘08 and swim back and forth for a while,” “Making States as a freshman He chose not to follow in his father’s to set a new school record, and said Cregar. was a huge achievement for me because and sister Amanda’s footsteps by finishing 14th in the 400 free relay Cregar reveals that practices for only a few freshmen from all over New attending University of South where he was joined by teammates a U.S.A team are half in the pool and Jersey qualify for the state meet,” Carolina. DeMarco, Lacca, and Andrew Wood. half out. The practices out of the Cregar stated. “I want to go to my own college,” Cregar said, “Not that there is anything wrong about Girls make state tourney University of South Carolina.” Cregar Blaise Lacca ‘07 ‘09 teamed up in the 200 said. free relay at the State Indi- Prior to selecting Georgia, On March 8, the girls swim vidual Championship meet Cregar said that he seriously team held their annual end of to finish fifth overall. considered the University of Texas, the season banquet at the Whitman “I’m really proud of how Florida State, Auburn, and Indiana. Fire Hall. At the banquet the girls hard all the girls worked this. Each of those institutions caught were honored by their coach, Jessica It was a great way to end my Cregar’s attention because not only Slates, not only on their individual swimming career here at do they have top notch swimming accomplishments but also their Township”, said Castiglione. programs but an extensive science successfulness as a team. Victoria Pellerito, Noonan, curriculum. Throughout the season the girls Wood, and Cregar also came He felt the University of racked up quite a few wins. They together in the 400 free relay Georgia will give him the best finished with a 9-3 record, including to break a school record at the opportunities to accomplish his making it to the second round of the photo courtesy of tori pellerito ‘07 state meet. goals which include becoming a state tournament playoffs. Danielle Mocella ‘08 lends helping “Our whole team really member of the Men’s U.S.A Other team accomplishments strokes to state tournament came together this year. We professional swim team. include finishing sixth at the “Swim swim races they weren’t used to just swam for each other, and at states we “This is a huge goal of mine, Fast” Relay Carnival, sixth at the to pull out a win for the team,” said wanted to leave everything in the wa- and it is something that would pay South Jersey Coaches Invitational Slates, “Humble in victory and united ter”, stated Cregar. off for all the hard work I have put meet, third at the South Jersey Swim in defeat.” Individual successes were cap- in,” Cregar admitted. Association Championship, and After the season ending loss tured by Cregar in the 200 freestyle The road to become a first at the Gloucester County to Cherry Hill West, there was still placing third, and she also finished sec- professional swimmer is a long one, Championship meet for the fourth work to be done. ond overall in the 500 freestyle. but with a thirst for greatness, and year in a row. Andrea Castiglione ‘07, Noonan finished 4th in the 200 strong family relationship behind “The girls weren’t swimming Cassandra Cregar ‘07, Jamie freestyle, and 7th overall in the 100 him, Cregar feels these goals are well for themselves anymore; they would Noonan ‘08, and Catherine Wood backstroke. within his reach. 24 - Sports The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March 2007