Cultural Barbie inspires young girls of different races 6 Lady GaGa seen through the eyes of ecstatic fan 7

Issue 3 The Students’ Newspaper of Neshaminy High School December 18, 2009 2001 Old Lincoln Highway Langhorne, Pa. 19047 www.neshaminy.k12.pa.us/playwickian/ Patrick Murphy comes to town

holiday charities

The Salvation Army www.salvationarmy.org

Christmas Wish Q102, Chio in the morning

Make-A-Wish Foundation 1-886-880-1382

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org

Purple Heart www.purpleheart.org

Habitat for Humanity www.habitat.org Congressman Patrick Murphy addresses Neshaminy students, answering questions from the Black Box Theater and via satel- lite. Photo/Josh Reznik World Vision “Sponsor a Child now” Colleen Kane everyday lives. with the instruction of Heaney and the Circulation Editor On Monday, Dec. 14 in the help of Superintendent Louis Muenker, www.worldvision.org Black Box Theatre, students, including it was possible to have Murphy in our With Christmas rounding the corner, David Heaney’s freshman and junior so- school this year to discuss the topic. This Feeding America program was “to show students that they students at Neshaminy were not fortu- cial studies classes, received a hands-on www.feedingamerica.org nate enough to receive a visit from Santa experience of what it is like in the fi eld of do have a voice, they can affect change Claus. However, many of them did have politics. Not only did Neshaminy benefi t and they can infl uence policy, if they get the chance to meet Congressman Patrick from this speech, but 13 other schools involved,” Heaney said. UNICEF: Charity for Kids Murphy. including nine districts had the chance to Many of the schools had the chance unicefusa.org After getting re-elected this past No- view this conference via satellite, which to ask Congressman Murphy a question vember, Congressman Murphy is not is considered the largest video confer- on concerning subject matters in the here to give presents from under the tree, ence in our high school’s history. United States today. Topics ranged from Operation Smile but to inform the youth of Neshaminy In 2008, 52,000 students voted the war in Iraq to healthcare reform. www.operationsmile.org the importance that politics plays in our in the KidsVoting of Southeast PA, and See Patrick Murphy on page 2 Bloody good time had by students and faculty alike Rachel Rotteveel transfusions. be 17 years of age or older by Dec. Staff Writer “There aren’t many opportunities for 31, 2009, and have blood pressure teenagers to do something that saves within normal range. In addition, Donating blood can make a remark- lives, but this is one of them,” National student donors were required to able difference in someone’s life. Just Honor Society Advisor Lucy Weaver submit a signed parent/guardian one pint of blood can save up to three said. consent form. lives. The National Honor Society sponsored About fi ve million people re- According to the American Red Cross, a blood drive on Dec. 10 in Gym One ceive blood transfusions each year. only three out of every 100 people in from before homeroom to after school. Hospitals need blood for people America donate blood. This statistic is Registration was open to both students who are injured, as well as for pa- surprisingly low in comparison to the and teachers. Guidelines stated blood number of Americans who require blood donors must weigh at least 120 pounds, See Blood Drive on page 2 Erin Quense prepares to give blood. Photo/Kate Pfeilsticker

NNewsews SSpecialpecial FeaturesFeatures SSportsports Tiger Woods’ scandal raises ques- Read the highlights of the New Years’ resolutions 8-9 dodgeball tournament 2 tion of celebrity privacy rights 12 OOp-Edp-Ed SStudenttudent LLifeife EEntertainmentntertainment Is political reasonability de- Neshaminy Alumni give insight Read the countdown of the fined by age? 5 on real college life 7 worst celebrity parents 15 Page 2 The Playwickian News December 18, 2009 Text messaging leaves drivers in serious jeopardy

By Emily Duke ists, pedestrians and bicyclists,” Lauren has caused the risks of accidents to sky- drive time, a driver sending or receiving Staff Writer Vidas, an aide to Councilman Bill Green, rocket. a text message spends 4.6 of those sec- who is one of the bill’s sponsors, said. Studies performed at the University onds with their eyes off the road.” There are places where text messaging Although the law is currently being en- of Utah have found texting while driving These dangers prompted by those who is acceptable, and there are places where forced only in Philadelphia, a state-wide to be double the risk of drunk driving. use their cell phones while they drive are it is not. Behind the wheel of a vehicle is ban in the works, many other states have David Strayer, one of the university’s one of the main reasons that Philadelphia not an acceptable place for texting or cell established laws regarding texting and psychologists, has concluded from his has taken action to put a ban on cellular phones at all for that matter… unless you driving. “We hope that the citizens would research that when drivers take their eyes devices. With this ban, the city hopes would like a nice abide off the road to text, sometimes it can be that the number of cell phone-related ac- $75 fi ne from the by the for the length of a football fi eld, or more, cidents will greatly decline. They want Philadelphia po- law,” without even realizing. this law to make people aware that they lice. Mayor A recent analysis conducted by the are putting their lives and the lives of The Philadel- Nutter Virginia Tech Transportation Institute others in jeopardy. phia City Coun- said, showed that “For every six seconds of cil passed a new con- ordinance ban- cerning Blood drive ning the use of the new Continued from front page cell phones while regula- tients having heart surgery, organ transplants, cancer treatments, and treatments driving. The rule tion in for other diseases that affect the blood, like sickle cell anemia according to www. went into effect Phila- kidshealth.org. Dec. 1, although delphia. “If you eat a well-balanced breakfast, avoid caffeine, and drink lots of water, the police have A you shouldn’t have a problem when donating blood,” National Honor Society been issuing A driver glances at a text message, taking her eyes off 2007 treasurer Seth Schimmel said. warnings since the road. poll of Most individuals feel perfectly fi ne after donating blood with little or no side November “in an Photo/Lera Salmon Penn- effects, and the process is virtually painless. “For students who are queasy or effort to educate sylvania afraid of needles, there are people at the drive who will support you the entire citizens about the citizens time. The donating process only takes about 7-10 minutes,” National Honor new restrictions,” Dana DiFilippo of the showed that 69 percent supported a ban Society Secretary Erin O’Brien said. Philadelphia Daily News said. of cell phones while driving. Those in All the blood collected will be donated to the Community Blood Council Mayor Michael Nutter approved the support of the ban believe that people of New Jersey. This organization distributes blood to hospitals and transfusion bill last April. Hands-free devices like should put down their cell phones when patients throughout New Jersey and Bucks County. Although the organization Bluetooth headsets are still permitted be- behind the wheel not just because it is urges people of all blood types to donate, type O- is needed as it is most common, cause they are not considered a distrac- the law, but for their own safety, and the and cannot accept any other type. tion as they allow the driver to keep both safety of the others on the road. December 10 was not the only opportunity to donate blood. “Our goal is to hands on the wheel. Talking on cell phones while behind have another blood drive for the American Red Cross in the spring,” Weaver said. The recent cell phone ban has stirred the wheel used to be the major problem The Red Cross also holds numerous blood drives at various locations throughout controversy due to its exclusivity in with mobile devices, distracting driv- the country. Philadelphia. “We’re one of the few mu- ers and making them more likely to get “Every minute of every day, someone needs blood. That blood can only come nicipalities in the state where you have into accidents. While talking is still a from a volunteer donor, a person like you who makes the choice to donate. There such a dense interaction between motor- prominent issue, texting while driving is no substitute for your donation,” Redcross reported. LA dodgers come out victors in dodgeball battle By Tori Hyndman The Bagels came from behind to claim his team. was short-lived as they were eliminated Student Life Editor a shocking, yet well-deserved win. All “To beat fi ve people in a row by my- in the next round. hope seemed lost as they stood at an ob- self was awesome,” Not to be mistaken with the over- The spirit of the competition was in Affet said with a all winners of the competition, The LA the air at the Student Council’s second proud smile. “I Dodgers, a team composed of seniors dodgeball tournament that took place in defi nitely worked and juniors took the hard-earned title Gym Three on Dec. 9. Charging one off of the audience, with pride and celebratory smiles on dollar admission—or a canned food their support was their faces. Their journey to the top was donation, this charitable event raised great,” he added be- no easy ride though. The runner-ups, just under $1000, used to purchase non- fore returning back The Hottails, which were another senior perishable food items, along with ap- to celebrate with his team, were intense game-players. proximately 800 collected food cans for team. As the LA Dodgers were awarded their families in need within the district. Some of the prize, gift certifi cates and medals, for Participation from the last tournament younger teams their triumph. The champion team was to this one was said to have increased proved to be stron- ecstatic, yet humble in their win. “At fi rst signifi cantly; the competition catered to ger contenders than we came in and we weren’t confi dent, but more than a dozen mixed-gender teams LA Dodgers take fi rst place, while Student Council is able to donate what was original- after a few games we dominated,” junior of seven students each. 800 cans for charity. ly expected. The team member Tene Ovecka said. The positive energy that was unmis- Photo/Lera Salmon Dodgers, one of the Ovecka, along with her fellow team- takable amongst the competitors as well younger, freshmen mates: Becky Carlini, Megan Orr, Ed as the Neshaminy spectators was without vious disadvantage—one contender left teams, successfully made it to the second Packer, Dave Kostenbauder, Steve Hunt, a doubt what kept the enthusiasm up and to face fi ve determined opponents, but round, despite the previous tough match and Brian Weiss, played vital roles in the the tournament lively and exciting. senior Marcelo Affet stood as the one they faced. Regardless, their triumph charity tournament a success. In the fi rst bracket of elimina- man to represent The Bagels, and made tion-round games, a senior team dubbed a miraculous, exhilarating comeback for Patrick Murphy Continued from front page

Students from all over the district were able to have the opportunity to interact with the man who speaks on our behalf down in Washington. Congressman Murphy stat- ed that “[every kid] needs to be active and get out there and vote, regardless of their political preference.” New Hope Solebury High School questioned Murphy on what the most effi cient way jobs are being brought back to Bucks County citizens in which he went on to describe the role of green jobs. “[In Bucks County] jobs have gone up 40%,” Mur- phy said. Even though most students are not old enough to vote, Congressman Murphy is taking the time to look forward to the future and welcoming the new branch of vot- ers who are only a few years or even months away from determining our potential leaders. Despite the minor technical diffi culties that Neshaminy faced, the overall per- formance of the conference seemed to reach out to the student body in a positive manner. December 18, 2009 The Playwickian News Page 3 Outlandish 2012 rumors dispelled by NASA

By Emily Duke uations many times before. kitchen wall does not cease to exist af- would be hurtling towards Earth, ending Staff Writer “The last time the world got all worked ter Dec. 31, the Mayan calendar does humanity indefi nitely. NASA explains up over the mystical turning of a calen- not cease to exist on Dec. 21, 2012. that if this “Planet X” were real, scien- The recent blockbuster “2012” which dar was the false millennium of Jan. 1, This date is the end of the Mayan long- tists would have been tracking it for de- hit theaters Nov. 13 has stirred up con- 2000,” Director of Griffi th Observatory count period but then, just as your cal- cades and it would certainly be visible troversy, instigating curiosity left and in Los Angeles E.C. Krupp said. endar begins again on January, another from the Earth by this time. right. The disaster fi lm’s plot revolves The most commonly accepted long-count period begins for the Mayan NASA stands by their facts that the around the apocalyptic theory theory that the world is calendar,” NASA’s website stated. world is not coming to an end in 2012, or that the world will end on going to end relates As far as other world-ending theo- anytime soon for that matter. “For any Dec. 21 2012, as a result to the end of the ries go, there are many. Another com- claims of disaster or dramatic changes of the end of Mayan cal- Mayan Calen- mon theory circulating on the web is of in 2012, where is the science? Where is endar. Many have be- dar. The Ma- Sumerian origin. The Sumerians were the evidence? There is none, and for all come panic-stricken as yans were an another ancient civilization much like the fi ctional assertions, whether they are the date of our pending ancient civi- the Mayans, and they predicted that in made in books, movies, documentaries doomsday rapidly ap- lization lo- May 2003, a rogue planet called Nibiru, or over the Internet, we cannot change proaches. cated in Latin sometimes referred to as “Planet X,” that simple fact,” NASA reported. Since the fi lm’s re- America lease NASA has dedi- thousands of cated a page on their years ago. They Web site to debunking vari- made prominent ous myths concerning achievements The Mayan Calendar is a central point in Earth’s epic ending. in architec- the 2012 rumors. NASA claims that those ture, creating Courtesy of www.wordpress.com A quadrapeligic wins case who believe that the pyramids and for hunting rights. world will end in 2012 astronomy www.ripleys.com have no scientifi c basis, towers to ob- yet the media continues to sensationalize serve the night sky. The Mayans also 12-year-old girl sneezed 12,000 times a day due to the matter. created the fi rst calendar based on their irretractable psychogenic “Now, I for one love a good book or vast astronomical knowledge, and it was disorder. movie as much as the next guy. But the used to predict things like eclipses and stuff fl ying around through cyberspace, the alignments of the planets. www.aol.com TV, and the movies is not based on sci- Although not directly stated, when ence,” NASA senior research scientist translated properly, the cycle of the Ma- Dan Yeomans said. yan calendar began on Aug. 11, 3114 A driver who had just spent $1.25 million on a 2006 Several credible scientists of NASA B.C. and ends Dec. 21, 2012, the date of Bugatti Veyron EB (aka the fastest and most expensive disregard the argument that any danger winter solstice, or the fi rst day of winter. car in the world) accidentally drove the car into a salt- is approaching. Considering that our With this fact, NASA swoops in and of- water inlet because he became distracted by a low- fl ying pelican. planet has been around for roughly 400 fers reassuring scientifi c evidence. million years, it has faced dangerous sit- “Just as the calendar you have on your www. newsoftheweird.com Recession affects charities Deanna Zaro To make the problem worse, the same Staff Writer reason that there are more needy people out there also means there are less people The holidays grow closer, meaning donating to help them out. People may the sound of bells will soon fi ll the air. also be more selective about the chari- Not the characteristic silver bells that are ties they give to. Two-thirds of public sung about each Christmas, but Salva- charities experienced decreases in dona- tion Army bells. It’s easy to recognize tions and there was a 12.7 percent drop the red containers where people deposit in the money given in 2008, according their money during the holiday season, to MSNBC. and this year they will be needed more Rather than helping the unfortunate than ever. individuals of our society, people are Due to the reces- struggling to keep them- sion the country is ex- “We’re seeing an selves from joining them. periencing, there are “Donations were so slow increase in overall more needy people last summer that we had who could be helped demand from gro- to cash a $12,000 CD just by charities. With the ceries, to clothing to to keep paying our bills,” recession fueling their housing...up to 85, 90 reported the treasurer of a misfortune, people percent” local church. Not all places who were previously David Magnuson that provide assistance for well-to-do might soon those down on their luck be relying on charities. have $12,000 up their Many people are de- sleeves. pendent upon charities as a source of in- It is possible that some charities might come to support their families. At least go under, creating an even worse situ- 1.3 million people have enrolled in the ation for those who require help from federal Food Stamp Program. Individual them. charities are also feeling the pressure put The economy creates a lose-lose situ- on them by the economy. ation: more people in need, less people “We’re seeing an increase in overall donating. It’s safe to say that charities demand, from groceries, to clothing to are not going to be doing very well this housing, up to 85, 90 percent.” David holiday season and even more people are Magnuson of the Salvation Army said, going to suffer because of the recession. according to an article by Fox Chicago. It’s going to be diffi cult for charities The Playwickian would like to apolo- to provide everyone with the necessities. gize to the Drama department. The Now that the holiday season is in full Fall Drama article relied on student swing there are going to be a lot more testimony; however, the Drama teach- organizations outside the local ACME ers should have been consulted as or Genuardi’s asking for money to fulfi ll well. Furthermore, we extend our their higher demands. apology. Page 4 The Playwickian Opinion December 18, 2009

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2001 Old Lincoln Highway Langhorne, PA 19047 (215) 809-6670 Gym Night: too many specta- Editorial Board tors with freshmen involved, not Editor In Chief Jenna Overton enough tickets, anticipate issues Everyone knows the feeling of being the youngest kids in school. Business Editor Being afraid in the new building and being at the bottom of the CJ Colando pecking order is a familiar feeling. The only difference now, is that freshmen are forced to walk the same halls as the sometimes-less- News Editors than-friendly sophomores, juniors and seniors. Jocelyn Joseph, However, this simple location change, and even the unfair hardships Lera Salmon and that go with it, results into an even bigger problem: Gym Night. Jessica Thorson As anyone who has ever participated in, attended, or even heard of Gym Night would know, the over-50-year-old spectacle is no small Op-Ed Editors matter. Gym Night defi nes our high school. Lindsay Lipsky and Nicole With the controversial move-up of the ninth grade, the issue Onisick becomes whether or not we can fi t them in to our already tightly packed itinerary. Student Life Editors Sophomores through seniors have been the Gym Night partici- Dan Coleman, pants for the past two or three decades, but in more recent years, the Tori Hyndman and show has become more popular resulting in a greater audience. Katy Svedova Last year, due to a new gym and a smaller seating area, excess spectators were permitted to sit on the students’ side of the bleach- Special Features Editors ers, in order to admit as many people as possible. By adding the Stacey Matthew and freshmen, there will not be enough room on the students’ bleachers What should Santa’s new Danielle Olander for excess spectators. catch phrase be? “It caused a big challenge,” Physical Education Department Entertainment Editors Chair David Coll explained. “We got another grade level and did not Becca Erskine, Tori Styner and grow anymore seats, but I feel confi dently that, with support from Jenna Zaidman students, we can rise up. The challenge will still be there but we’ll rise up.” Sports Editors According to Principal Rob McGee, plenty of seating will be Annie Abdo, Victoria Mazzeo, available this year. However, we can only anticipate so many audi- and Samantha Pipe ence members, therefore resulting in a ticket distribution issue. How many tickets will be allotted per student? Should there be seniority Senior Senior Expressions Editors in purchasing tickets? Or, should we stick to our old ways and leave Julie Geddes Katey Smith and Rebecca Michelle Ohai it on a fi rst-come-fi rst-serve basis? “Where all my Yacker “Happy “It is just going to be really different. There will be some major reindeers at?” Chanukah.” changes, but we’ll fi gure it out,” blue color captain Alexa Bell said Photography Editors optimistically. Marissa Beaston and Another question that comes to mind is what exactly will the Who is your favorite reindeer Gina Artillio ninth graders be participating in? Just relays or the relays and the and why?y dance? Many will agree that if the dance gets added to the list, more Graphics Editor and more parents will want to attend, which brings us back to our Colleen McDonald previously stated issue: seating. When questioned, many freshmen admitted that they would only Circulation Editors participate if allowed to dance. This would lead into an even greater Colleen Kane and Emma Tatrai participation rate on the student body, once again resulting in more bodies in the bleachers- both by students and spectators alike. Copy Editors Also, because it will be their fi rst year participating, it is impor- Senior Senior Nicole Gattone, Josh Reznik, tant that they see the work that goes into it before they go into the Joe Hastings Laura Santilla, and Tom Van Kelsey Ryan much anticipated evening blindly. “Rudolph, he’s gotta Osten “Blitzen, like my “I remember my sophomore year, people were very immature red nose, and no during the practices,” senior Lauren Shanberg said. “By this I mean neighbors’ dog.” Adviser no one ever stopped talking and we could barely learn the entire one else does.” Megan Millman dance in the amount of time we had.” If nothing else works, and enough seating cannot be arranged, What is your favorite Christ- why not give the freshmen class a fi eld day, much like they would mas carol and why? have had in the middle school? Another option could be to add a Staff Writers third night to the program. However, if we add another night, that may turn into another day of practice, which will ultimately take away Brielle Ballantine, Alexandra Banks, Sarah Bedesem, Paige Brodnyan, Jenny Bront, students from their classes. As fun as Gym Night is, it’s exhaust- Carlos Carreras, Alyssa Cassano, Amanda ing, not only for the participants but for all the staff members that Covon, Cassandra DeRocco, Emily Duke, contribute their time and effort to the typically two night event. Nicole Gattone, Vlada Golovchenko, Dan- ielle Hillesland, Lauren Hoffman, Rebecca With all these concerns in mind, the captains, administrators Johnson, Anastasia Iorga, Oman Khan, and staff members seem positive and optimistic about the upcoming Elexis Levin, Ellen LoManto, Melanie Gym Night event. Let’s hope that the seating issues, on top of other Matyi, Mitchell MacKay, Tiffany McMa- concerns, will not outweigh the many positives that come from it. hon, Jonathon Mettus, Marissa Pacitto, Ed Senior Senior Packer, Anna Pankevich, Samantha Pipe, Erin Quense Shannon Poserina Jakiya Pyron, Caitlin Rauch, Sean Redmond, “‘Santa Baby’, Codi Regan, Adrienne Reice, Joshua Reznik, “I don’t like Juliette Rihl, Jessica Romberger, Rachel Rot- This unsigned editorial represents the majority ‘cause I wanna be teveel, Casey Rosseljong, Alexa Rotunno, view of the editorial board. Christmas music.” Alyssa Sadowski, Thomas Sottnick, Amy Santa’s baby.” Stecklair, Vijay Patel, Candice Sweeney, Joanna Sauer, Clay Snyder, Janelle Thee, Ashley Titler, Lilia Tkach, Morgan Traver, Awards Danielle Walter, Rohan Yagnik, Deanna Zaro. The publication has received recognition by the Columbia Published monthly, the student newspaper of Neshaminy High School is a public forum, with its student Scholastic Press Association in the following years - First editorial board making all decisions concerning its contents. The student exercise of freedom of expression and Place: 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1986, 1989, press freedom is protected by PA Code Section 12.9 and the First Amendment to the Constitution. School offi cials 1990, 1992, 1993, 1994. Bronze Medalist: 2001. Silver Med- exercise their right to Prior Review. alist: 1995, 2000, 2003, 2008. Gold Medalist: 1996, 1997, The Playwickian refers to the “Associated Press Stylebook” on matters of grammar, punctuation, spelling, 1998, 1999, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009. style and usage. Unsigned editorials express the views of the majority of the editorial board. Letters to the editors should not exceed 300 words. Letters must be signed and of appropriate subject matter. Guest opinions, 500 words or more, will be published as space allows. The paper reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws governing obscenity, libel, privacy and disruption of the school’s educational process. Opinions in letters or commentaries are attributed to the author. Such views are not necessarily those of the staff, nor should any opinion expressed in Email your Letters to the Editor at a public forum be construed as the opinion or the policy of the adviser or administration, unless so attributed. [email protected] December 18, 2009 The Playwickian Editorial Page 5

Every adolescent in the United States should have an interest and be informed about politics. The debate is over whether teenagers should have some sort of vote to get their opinions heard, or get no vote until they are mature enough to understand the political process. Adolescents deserve vote . . . or not mature enough? s soon as you turn on the television or log online to check your e- hile most teenagers these days are not exactly politically-savvy, mail, it seems that we are constantly bombarded with the ongoing many do take interest in politics and issues around the world. Aroller coaster ride that is American politics. Every minute it feels WThose that do not have any sort of clue about issues taking that someone is reporting about President Barack Obama’s latest decision place in our country and have no interest in politics is appalling. It is or how some senators are opposed to the healthcare debate, while some more important than ever for our teenagers to be informed of the issues By Josh are in favor. But what good is this for us? We’re only teenagers By Lindsay taking place. Reznik in which politics are not our primary goals in life, but rather social Lipsky Our teenagers are the next generation of voters. Most teenag- Copy Editor networking and hanging out with friends. Op-Ed Editor ers do not even feel it necessary to learn about the politics that According to www.census.gov, it is projected that teenag- are taking place right now, so how can they even vote? How ers between the ages of 14 and 17 would it be fair to the country’s lead- will make up about fi ve and one-half ers if uninformed adolescents were, in percent of the national population in some ways, controlling their careers? 2010. “If one is going to be a respon- In order to prepare for this incline sible voter one must have at least some and future voting, we should be get- understanding of the major issues the ting more involved in the issues that candidates will have to deal with when surround us. Today, there are many in offi ce. To ignore these issues until outlets for teenagers to get involved one is 18 means one is going to be an in the political world. ill-informed citizen and voter,” World The voting campaign Rock the Affairs Club advisor Kevin Hensel Vote encourages young people to get said. “No magic wand will be waved more involved in politics. The offi cial over a person’s head when they turn Web site, www.rockthevote.com pro- 18 making them knowledgeable of the vides young people with the facts. world and its issues.” “We empower the 45 million If one walks into many classrooms young people in America who want in many high schools, chances are that to step up, claim their voice in the more than half the students will not political process, and change the way know anything about the health care re- politics is done,” the Web site states. form or the situation in Afghanistan. We constantly hear about issues However, there are many teenag- on healthcare, the economy, the wars ers who do take much interest in issues in Iraq and Afghanistan, abortions, surrounding us. Nevertheless, if we and gay rights. We should at least be give these teens the right to vote, we able to have some information on the must give all teens the right to vote, issues before we jump to conclusions including ones that would just mark a on whether we want to be labeled a Some students are very involved in politics, while some teenagers are completely uneducated ballot that their friend told them to. political party. and uninformed about politics. Every teenager should know about politics. “I believe young people need Being under age 18, teens have Photo/ Jenna Overton to have interest and knowledge of the no offi cial way for our opinions to be world prior to reaching voting age. Oth- voiced. What were to happen if teens between the ages of 14 to 17 voted? On Elec- erwise a signifi cant portion of our citizenry will be voting blindly,” Hensel declared. tion Day, we would go to the polls just like our parents, and then cast our votes. The “Rock the Vote” is a campaign that informs America’s youth about elections, bills, votes cast by teenagers should be represented in a separate electoral college, allowing reforms, and issues all around the world, but especially in America. On its Web site, the opinions of teenagers to be voiced. rockthevote.com, it describes many ways for children and teenagers of all ages to get Granted, the electoral college of teenagers would not be as large as that of Cali- involved. fornia’s 55 electoral votes, and it would count for a smaller percentage of the vote, Teenagers under 18 who want to be involved certainly can, not only with being but it would still be there to show all Americans that teenagers are worthy of having informed and in the know, but with elections. Teenagers can work at polls, can go well thought and intelligent opinions on today’s politics. door-to-door and inform others, or can give out buttons and pins on the candidate of A lot of things that are a result of the art of politicking affect teenagers. Teens their choice. So although they are not directly voting, they are infl uencing the voters should have the opportunity to have a voice in the issues that matter most to them, to get informed and to vote. especially when it can make a difference when their voice is heard. I think it is our So while all teenagers should be taking steps to improve their political savvy-ness, right as American citizens to have a voice in our democratic government even though they should also understand why it is not in their, or the country’s, best interest to hold we are not of age. Teens are the future of this country and deserve a free shake in the any legitimate power in voting until they reach the voting age of 18. political world, and it would all start with the ability to vote in some way. Holiday catchphrase may yield more harm than good By Candice Sweeney a religious statement and more of a ‘en- a customer. Can’t we all agree that this days celebrated around this time. Staff Writer joy the season,’ phrase. Many are getting is extremely unnecessary? Losing jobs, But saying Merry Christmas isn’t fed-up with making sure they are saying causing fi ghts it’s safe to say that the true asking someone for their life story. How In this day and age, it’s easy to of- an appropriate meaning of are we supposed to know if someone cel- fend someone with words. But during greeting. Christmas has ebrates another holiday? By saying Merry “Just the holidays it has become increasingly “Just say ‘Merry Christmas.’ It’s no been lost in a Christmas we are simply being friendly, easy to offend, just by simply saying say ‘Merry frenzy of being no ulterior motives involved. “Merry Christmas.” This is sparking up Christmas’ it’s big deal. Everyone has their own be- appropriate. “Merry Christmas” has become a major holiday controversy everywhere. no big deal. liefs, so you shouldn’t get offended.” “It really world-renowned saying during this time Although those saying “Merry Christmas” Everyone has doesn’t mat- of the year. How does one explain to their deserve respect, shouldn’t those who their own be- ~Sophomore Kevin Murray ter. People will children they will offend their classmates celebrate other holidays be respected as liefs, so you always say it, by saying “Merry Christmas”? well? shouldn’t get but it’s annoy- So the next time someone says Merry Merry Christmas once had a very offended,” sophomore Kevin Murray ing that people just overlook Hanukkah Christmas, let’s just let it be. It is not as religious meaning, but currently, not so said. completely. It’s sort of a respect thing, though they re personally trying to offend much. Christmas has been so commercial- The holiday greetings have not only I’ll always respect you, but can I just us, they are simply being friendly, despite ized over the past 100 years, that getting caused troubles between strangers, but get some respect back?” sophomore Lia what ones background may be. back to the true roots of Christmas is also in the work place. Recently in Pen- BenYishay said. ‘Tis the season of peace and love.The nearly impossible. So now saying “Merry sacola, Florida, a woman was fi red from Most people who celebrate Christmas holidays are a time of giving, whether it Christmas” has gradually become less of her job for saying “Merry Christmas” to have a lack of knowledge of other holi- is with words or otherwise. Page 6 The Playwickian Op-Ed November 20, 2009 Desperate attempts to be noticed drastical- Fame ly increases in celebrity-crazed America By CJ Colando with. the boy himself, Falcon Heene, Business Editor Looking for a chance to had not turned his parents in by meet the president and get some accident on CNN. “You guys “In the future, everyone will nationwide attention while doing said we did this for the show,” have fi fteen minutes of fame.” it? Crash a party at the White Falcon said on live television. This quote from legendary House and have fun while you Even celebrities, who have artist Andy Warhol is an accurate can, because it’s only a short already proven themselves to prediction of what the world has while before everyone knows be called just that, feel the need come to today as far as the extent who you are and your pathetic to go the extra mile to just be people are willing to go to for need for attention. called lunatics and maintain their fame. You could have octuplets, Or take some of the worst fame. trap your son in a homemade parents around, Jon and Kate Britney Spears, who started balloon, or call yourself “Lady Gosselin. They claim to want as a sweet innocent girl, turns (insert any infant vocabulary to stay out of the spotlight since into a baby-popping bald-headed word.)” their joke of a divorce, but some- loony who beats photographers It’s safe to say these excuses how appear on countless news with umbrellas. Or even the to become worth people’s time shows crying and complaining waste of life Linday Lohan, who, are ridiculous. These people about their life situation. Even like Britney, was sweet and in- and their bizarre antics strive to the things they say seems to nocent, became a pill-popping, grab the attention of the media be desperate attempts to grab coke-snorting, manic-depressive for as long as possible, only to attention. “Aliens have taken chick who likes switching up her Do these people take it to the extreme when it comes to the con- be forgotten soon after. him away,” Kate Gosselin said sexual orientation every now and tant need to be in the headlines? And for what? So people in People Magazine of her ex- then. Courtesy of TMZ.com, Perezhilton.com can see how messed up society husband and his antics with other People like this did not even Are these acts to maintain Octomom and the balloon boy’s really is? What are we to make of women. exist until only a few years ago, the attention of the media or father want this status? It must a woman from California having The now infamous “balloon when the swarm of reality tele- lousy attempts to put an end to all be one of the aspects of today’s octuplets? We now know what boy” incident would not have vision took over the minds of of the baggage that comes with society that will forever be unex- kind of person NOT to have kids been fully realized as a hoax if America. being a celebrity? Why would plained. Controversial Barbie proves inspiration to young girls fear and lack of power over the Young, Islamic girls who live message that all women of the fact the message with Barbie for decisions in their lives. Afghan in such desolate and hopeless world are beautiful, whether women is you can be whatever women have been known to call conditions need to know that black, white, wearing a cheer- you want to be,” Italian designer them “walking coffi ns.” someone cares about their lives. leading outfi t or a Burkha. of the Burkha Barbie line Eliana In 2002, 15 Saudi Arabian They need to know that “I know Barbie was some- Lorena told the Daily Mail on girls were caught not wearing someone out there cares, and that thing seen as bad before as an Dec. 2. the correct Islamic dresses while there’s hope they could escape image for girls, but in actual By Jenna Overton fl eeing from a burning school. from their ter- Editor in Chief The religious police offi cials on rifyingly un- the scene forced them back into derprivileged In an attempt to diversify the the building and sentenced them lives one day. classic toy that millions of little to burn to death rather than let They need girls know and love, workers of them be seen in daylight without to know that Mattel have recently created a Mattel cared Burkha-sporting Barbie doll. about them Wearing traditional Islamic enough to 2010 dresses and chadors, 500 of make a doll these dolls were fi rst introduced that looks on Nov. 20 and have been like them. on display at the Salone del “My Redskin Cinquecento in Florence, Italy mom always ever since. tried to buy Though it is important for me dolls that the creators of this multi-billion looked like Yearbook dollar corporation to come me when I up with dolls that symbolize was a little women from every country on kid,” se- Earth, the females represented nior Leah by the Burkha Barbie fi ll a much Longden $85.00 more controversial, worldly role said. “And For the rest of the year than those from other areas. that’s just a As opposed to women who difference in simply live in a different area of eye and hair the globe or speak a different color, so lit- language, women who wear tle girls who Burkhas are generally from the are forced to middle east, inhabiting coun- wear Bur- tries where the female sex is khas have it denied basic human rights. unbeliev- In Saudi Arabia, for ex- Courtesy of bgalrstate.blogspot.com ably worse ample, women are nothing when they more than vessels from which see blue- sons may be brought into the their Burkhas on, according to eyed, blonde Come to K106 during world. Baby girls’ spines are news.bbc.co.uk. haired, cheer- sometimes cut after childbirth, One witness recounted see- leader Barbie homeroom or after as their existence signifi es noth- ing an official beating these in the store.” ing more than another mouth to young girls to keep them inside Though feed. the blazing school. these dolls school to order your Poor families often sell off To Americans, these events may portray their virginal daughters, some as sound like the elements of a dis- women whose yearbook today! young as 7 or 8 years old, to be turbing horror movie. But for lives are fl eet- raped by older men for money the women of male-dominated, ing and miser- because it is the only way to middle-eastern countries, this is able compared bring food into the house. the reality of the world in which to those in the Wearing Burkhas does not they live. United States, fi ll Islamic women with pride for And that’s exactly why these they continue their religion or family, but rather dolls need to be in existence. to convey the December 18, 2009 The Playwickian Student Life Page 7 Striking concert experience leaves memorable mark after a treacherously long day of school. tration as Gaga kept us waiting for over 5, 4, 3, 2…1, “Silicone, saline, poi- And so the pre-Gaga prepping took place- an hour. son, inject me baby,” Lady Gaga belted -hair, make-up, wardrobe, and constant During our waiting, our equally ex- out her lyrics as the countdown ended, documentation via digital camera. cited neighbors behind us jumped into a and my friends and I cheered along with By Lera Salmon After two hours we took our complet- controversial discussion over whether the the hundreds of people beside us. News Editor ed Gaga looks to the streets. It took about over-dressed fan to their right was a man With each set Gaga performed, came 45 minutes to get to Camden, but the or woman. They continued to question a different story line. “Paparazzi” took Sequins, lightning bolts, and cos- time was shortened by Gaga serenading even after we turned around and settled on a strange Rapunzel motif. During the tumed fans were in no shortage at the us in the background along the way. Fi- the debate ourselves, concluding that he performance of “Monster” Gaga was Susquehanna Bank Center on Dec. 3. nally my friends and I reached our long- was in fact a man, a man in drag, but a man devoured by her crow-costumed male As part of her Monster Ball Tour, Lady awaited none- dancing counterparts. Gaga served up her own dose of crazy desti- the- The shock-pop starlet continuously in Camden, New Jersey, and my friends nation: less. intrigued us by changing outfi ts between and I didn’t hesitate to buy tickets. Haus of We every two songs. Lofty shoulder pads, Our interest in Gaga sparked when Gaga. grew crow costumes, outrageous hats, and her outlandish lyrics caused hysterics We more light up lightening bolt fashion decorated amongst our group. Being such avid stepped impa- Gaga in top-notch weirdness. fans, we jumped at the chance to see the through tient “I want to create a space for my fans pop goddess live and in her element. the and where they can feel free,” Lady Gaga As the date neared, we prepped for doors ran- said about why she chooses the extreme an expected night of fun by creating cra- and dom outfi ts, according to ellen.warnerbros. zy outfi ts of which Gaga would approve. mar- spouts com. “I like to create this atmosphere for I went in full Gaga mode and spent most veled of my fans where they feel like they have of my spare time listening to her music at the crowd a freak in me to hang out with and they and reading about the famed star. abun- up- don’t feel alone.” Her impromptu album, “The Fame dance Lera (far left) and her Gaga-costumed colleagues readied together raise Throughout the show Gaga paused to Monster” was written while Gaga was of glit- before their anticipated night of excitement. took chat up her fans, encouraging all not to touring and released just four days be- terfied Photo/Lindsay Hyndman place let anyone get in our way of happiness. fore her fi rst live show. fans loi- every Lady Gaga created a new exchange; “I was leaving my heart on the fl oor tering about. fi ve to ten minutes. Finally it began. The when she called for her ‘Little Monsters,’ every night on tour, and my fans were It was pitch black and on stage ap- feature presentation, Lady Gaga. her fans would throw a monstrous fi st giving me so much that I was inspired peared to be the fi rst of two openers for Lights went out, the mob of Gaga fans into the air and shout back ‘Monsters!’ to write more music, so I listened to my Lady Gaga. We were escorted to our roared and cheered, and, only adding to She wrapped up with a rocket per- fans,” Gaga said, according to MTV. quality seats which were only $58. Since the suspension, was a 60 second count- formance of her new hit single, “Bad Ro- com. the concert began at 7:30 and we had down. As a modifi ed intro to “Dance in mance” and bid us all a good night. “You have exactly 96 hours to learn been a bit tardy, the fi rst band, Semi Pre- the Dark” shook the room, the rowdy au- The night was simply unforgettable. all of the lyrics so you can sing along, cious Weapons, was just wrapping up. dience awaited her arrival. ‘Eh, eh, nothing else I can say.’ dress accordingly” Gaga wrote, accord- After an electrifying performance ing to Rolling Stone. from Kid Cudi, we waited in anticipation After a seemingly endless count- for what we all came here for. Unfortu- down, my friends and I gathered together nately, that anticipation turned into frus- Troubled teen turned inspiration up jerks; I didn’t really fi t in with the December 24-January 1 majority of the kids,” Greenberg com- No School, Winter Break mented. “When I met Holland, my so- January 18 cial studies teacher, he was like a guard- December 25 No school, MLK Day CarlosCl CCarreras ian angel to me, he stood up for me Christmas Staff writer and he was there when I needed him.” January 23 After graduating from high school, December 26-January 1 SAT Testing American Studies, Sociology and U.S he continued to enhance his education by Kwanzaa history teacher Richard Greenberg has receiving his bachelor’s degrees at Penn January 29 inspired many students at Neshaminy, the State University and his Master’s at Holy December 31 PMEA District Chorus at Souderton/ same way he was inspired by a previous Family College. Greenberg and Holland New Years Eve Christopher Dock teacher he had when he was a student. have kept in touch over the years; as for In his eleventh grade year, he met a his fellow classmates, he has only kept in January 13 February 11-13 phenomenal teacher, Michael Holland, contact with one or two close friends. NHS Winter Concert, 7:30 PM School Musical Performances who aided in making him realize how His mother was the one who inspired much he really wanted to be a teacher. him the most. “Watching my mother Greenberg had Mr. Holland as a teacher achieve her dreams was inspirational to for twelfth grade as well. me. She didn’t go to college after high Although Greenberg enjoys his school, so when my sister and I were in days at Neshaminy, he was not always elementary school, we watched her go to a fan of school. He attended Coun- college, have a career as a social worker cil Rock South High School, a place and a therapist and still take care of the where he held a reputation as what family.” would now be called a troubled student. After teaching for 12 and a half years, “I hated high school, I liked the teach- Greenberg can honestly still say he en- ers and I liked the education, but I hated joys teaching. “The students are always the students. They were snobby stuck teaching me something new as I’m also teaching them. So you’re never too old to learn.” Greenberg has followed Mr. Hol- land’s footsteps. “When my students told me that they submitted me to be teacher of the issue I asked why? I haven’t done anything. And they told me be- cause I inspired them and I’m there for them when I need them,” he added “He’s extremely compassionate, he’s dedicated to the success of his students. He’s willing to work with others such as the cafeteria aids, teacher staffs, Bright students and not so bright students,” Neshaminy Guidance Counselor Susan Fennecken said. Greenberg has been an inspira- tion to not just students but teachers as well. His infl uence will continue

Greenberg is always smiles teaching at to brighten the halls of Neshaminy.

Neshaminy In Snowed Jeans; Apple-Bottom Me; on Eyes All Photo/ Ed Packer Holidays; Happy Christmas; White Hanukkah; behind Meaning Answers: Page 8 The Playwickian Special Features December 18, 2009 December 18, 2009 The Playwickian Special Features Page 9

Timeless tradition of New Year’s Fun, different resolutions for 2010 quite different from the resolutions of to- week, 64 percent after the fi rst month and NNewew YYear’sear’s By Stacey Mathew and Lilia Tkach By Danielle Olander and Nicole Gattone Special Features Editor and Staff Writer day. 46 percent after six months. Freshman Special Features Editor and Copy Editor Today’s society thinks of only a John Thomas has set, and kept the reso- The holidays are rolling around few things at the mention of New Year’s: lution of refraining from drinking soda SStatisticstatistics and it is time for Hanukkah wishes, an excuse to stay up late for children, beverages for nearly three years. “The --MostMost ccommonommon rresolutionesolution iiss llosingosing 1. Procrastinate less. February edition of the Playwickian. Christmas cheer and of course the New partying for the adults and to most, failed best way to keep your resolutions is to Specifi cally, take down those For just one dollar for every 25 Year. New Year’s resolutions. not think about it, so you’re not tempted wweighteight , ffollowedollowed bbyy ssavingaving mmoney,oney, Christmas decorations before April. words, you can reveal your heart’s Celebrating the New Year is a Only about 45 percent of Ameri- to do the opposite,” he said. Seriously, no one wants to look at deepest and innermost feelings. time honored tradition which can be dat- ggettingetting a bbetteretter jjobob aandnd sspendingpending cans always set New Year’s resolutions, However, as popular as resolu- Please note that the Playwickian ed back to earlier than the B.C. time pe- 17 infrequently set them and 38 abso- tions are, there are many who fi nd them mmoreore timetime withwith family.family. fl ashing snowmen and “Santa Stop riod. Long ago, to kick off the New Year, lutely never set New Year’s resolutions. to be a waste of time. “I would not do Here” signs alongside blooming staff holds no responsibility for people would give one another branches “I don’t make New Year’s resolutions, resolutions because the resolutions al- fl owers. The lights are already too embarrassing and/or heartbreaking from sacred trees for good fortune. Later and I won’t this year either,” freshman ways seem like a good idea on New --LessLess tthanhan 339%9% ooff ppeopleeople iinn ttheirheir much to deal with during the holiday rejections. on, the gift of nuts or coins became more Corrine Nelson said. Year’s Eve, but then it’s like Jan. 2, and season. You’re throwing money common. People who celebrated this ttwentieswenties aachievechieve ttheirheir rresolutionesolution Of these resolutions, a winning you have already broken them,” junior 6. Learn something new. holiday, thought of it as a way to refl ect 47 percent are related to self-improve- Kate Pfeilsticker said. “It’s like setting eeveryvery yearyear oror everyevery otherother yearyear out into the snow and keeping on the past and look forward to the fu- ment and education. This is followed by yourself up for failure.” your neighbors up until two in the Did you know that ture. 38 percent related to weight, 34 related to New Year’s means different morning. sleeping on top of refrigerators In the ancient Roman Empire, money and lastly 31 related to relation- things to different people. For some, ==OnlyOnly 446%6% ooff ppeopleeople wwhoho mmakeake rres-es- is illegal in the state of the people had a custom of asking their ships, (this adds to more than 100 percent New Year’s means time off from school 2. Read fewer books. Pennsylvania? Did you enemies for forgiveness at the beginning because some people set multiple reso- or work, for others it is an excuse to stay oolutionslutions mmakeake iitt ppastast ssixix mmonths.onths. know that shameless of every new year, and they would give lutions). “[I] try to do something good, up late partying. But for the most part, This resolution may seem a their enemies gifts. rather than trying not to do something,” the New Year is about starting fresh with bit odd, but you know what they say: advertising is awesome Another possible origin for the Teaching Assistant Tricia Boil said. a clean slate, setting goals for yourself --ThoseThose wwhoho oopenlypenly mmakeake rresolu-esolu- reading is knowledge. Knowledge (see number 5)? You tradition can be found in Babylon. Ac- Of everyone who believes they and improving your lifestyle. So, upon ttionsions aarere 1100 ttimesimes mmoreore llikelyikely ttoo is power. Power leads to corruption. didn’t? Well, you do now! cording to new-years-celebrations.com, start over with the coming of each New celebrating the New Year, don’t forget to Corruption leads to a life of crime.2010 Resolution achieved! the Babylonians started the tradition, al- Year by setting a resolution only about stop and think about what you could do aachievechieve tthemhem though their resolutions would have been 75 percent keep their plans past the fi rst toers. improve your life and the life of oth- 3. Spend more time with family. 7. Do your part to We know that you’re tired of eliminate hallway having your cheeks pinched by your traffi c. 22010010 PreditictionsPreditictions Colorful Customs: great-aunt Edna, but these people are We’re not joking your fl esh and blood, and it wouldn’t with this one. Today’s BByy NNicoleicole GGattoneattone Diverse ways to celebrate New Year’s around world hurt to get to know them a little technology offers many CCopyopy EEditorditor By Danielle Olander better. Besides, think of it this way: methodsof communicati- Special Features Editor if you get in their good graces now, on. Talk to your friends 11.. OOprahprah wwillill ppurchaseurchase tthehe The New Year obviously calls actly 108 times. The number 108 comes ter ‘s’ (Sonbul: hyacinth, Sabzeh: green you’ll get some pretty awesome through email, text message, etc. iislandsland ooff TTahitiahiti aandnd rrenameename iitt for celebration. It’s a time of new be- from the 108 earthly desires that one is shoots grown from grain, Samanoo: a ginnings, good fortune and sometimes, suppose to be freed from. sweet pudding made of green wheat, birthday presents down the road. Don’t stop in the middle of ““Oprahiti.”Oprahiti.” TThehe iisland’ssland’s mmainain strange traditions. Broken plates are a symbol of Serkeh: vinegar, Sumac: an herb, Seeb: Main Street and create a eexportsxports wwillill bbee ffreeree ccarsars aandnd In the United States, the New friends in Denmark. The Danish throw an apple, Senjed: bohemian olives). 4. Make new friends. violent 20-person collision just sself-helpelf-help bbooks.ooks. Year is celebrated by half of the country broken plates on the steps of their friends’ The Hungarian New Year is If you fi nd yourself feeling to exchange a piece of gossip. 22.. RRobertobert PPattinsonattinson wwillill cchangehange gathering into Times Square, counting houses. Many broken plates mean many brought in with celebratory pyres. Scape- shy, you can always make some down to midnight. But the United States friends. goats, called “Jack Straws,” are paraded hhisis hhairstyle.airstyle. TThehe rresultingesulting is only a small portion of the world. The Greeks make a special through villages and fi nally up to the fi re. friends up. At fi rst, you’ll feel silly 8. Become more successful. ttearsears ooff tteenageeenage ggirlsirls wwillill In Great Britain, the English St. Basil’s Cake (St. Basil was one of The Jack Straws are then burned for the talking to thin air and you may even If you can’t sing, dance, ccollectollect iintonto oonene hhugeuge rriver,iver, practice fi rst-footing. The fi rst male to the forefathers of the Greek Orthodox entire village to see. The burning of the be a little jealous when your friends act, write or do anything that will wwhichhich wwillill rrunun aallll tthehe wwayay ffromrom set foot inside the house was supposed Church). The fi rst piece of the cake is Jack Straws is meant to represent the get into the movies for free, but we remotely benefi t society, the perfect to bring good luck to the family. They for St. Basil. The second is for the senior burning of the evil and misfortune from think you’ll grow to love them. road to success is YouTube. All you MMaineaine ttoo AArizona.rizona. were supposed to bear a gift like money, most member of the house (men over the previous year. 33.. TThehe OObamasbamas wwillill aadoptdopt aanothernother bread or coal. Whatever they brought women and older over younger). Some As different as traditions in vari- have to do is “conveniently” slip on ddog.og. EEveryoneveryone iinvolvednvolved was suppose to ensure plenty of that item even save a piece for their cattle. Inside ous countries may be, the fact remains 5. Confess to the person of your a banana peel or lip-sync to a one- iinn a mmediaedia ooutletutlet wwillill ddroprop for the family. However, if the fi rst per- the cake, the chef places a silver or gold that celebrating the New Year with col- dreams. hit wonder while a video camera son to walk in was a red or blond-haired coin. Whoever fi nds the coin in their cake orful customs is something that is shared is recording in the background. wwhateverhatever ttheyhey aarere ddoingoing iinn The most opportune chance female, the family was said to have bad is said to have good luck in the upcoming around the world. to do this is to write your special One upload later and you’ve got an oorderrder ttoo ffocusocus ttheirheir ccollectiveollective luck. year. someone a Love Line for the automatic million views. aattentionttention oonn a ppuppy.uppy. People who practice Buddhism In one part of the world, a can- shuffl e bears the simple 44.. FFacebook’sacebook’s FFarmvillearmville ffadad wwillill ring in the New Year around the same non replaces the traditional New Year’s time as the Chinese; mid February. Plen- bells. In Iran, festivities don’t start until 9. Read directions carefully. command of “DO NOT ddieie ooutut aandnd bbee rreplacedeplaced bbyy ty of water is needed for their celebra- the cannon is fi red. For their New Year’s This directly contradicts EAT.” Use common sense. SSnownow Planet,Planet, aann ooddlyddly ffamiliaramiliar tion as Buddhists like to go around and diner, a special table must be set up with our earlier suggestion of reading squirt people with water, regardless as to seven items all beginning with the let- ggameame iinn wwhichhich pplayerslayers bbuilduild Students’ and Teachers’ favorite resolutions less, but this resolution could save 10. Enjoy your holidays. ssnownow fortsforts andand hurlhurl ssnowballsnowballs whether they know the person or not. In Germany, the Germans have your life. If you see a label on your Technically, New Year’s is aatt ttheirheir ffriendsriends iinn oorderrder ttoo eearnarn a more dangerous tradition. Very care- shirt reading, “Do not iron while on at the end of the holiday, but that’s ccoins.oins. fully, they drop a ball of molten lead into body,” you should probably follow no reason to not have an amazing 5. Justin Bieber still will not cold water. The shape the lead becomes “I want to beat its advice. First degree burns aren’t winter break. You get 11school-free hit puberty. Doctors will be is supposed to tell the future. For exam- ple, a heart or a ring meant a wedding, Pennsbury at a fun. Likewise, the iPod days; use them to the fullest. baffl ed. a ship meant a journey and a pig meant cheerleading “I want to work out more 6. Hollywood will run out of plenty of food for in the New Year. competition.” “I resolute not to make and get better grades.” comic books to turn into The Japanese believe that hang- -Junior Casey Fehrle a resolution this year.” -Freshman Nathan movies, so the majority of ing a single straw of rice on their door -English teacher Dan Nicholas-Brown will ward off evil spirits. At the stroke of Loungo next year’s fi lms will be based midnight, the Japanese start laughing as on toddlers’ television shows. laughing is a sign of good luck for the For example, “Teletubbies in New Year. Like a lot of other cultures, Space.” the Japanese have the ringing of bells. However, the Japanese chime theirs ex- Courtesy of www. timessquarenyc.org Page 10 The Playwickian Student Life December 18, 2009 Community service reaches peak in Interact Club prevention, to helping the needy in their prevention of polio. group out on Facebook, or come to a hometown. From grade school onward, They will also be hosting a gift wrap- meeting, the next being Jan. 7; contact there are multiple levels of the organiza- ping charity event for Habitat for Hu- Drake via-email at sdrake@neshaminy. tion, which includes Earlyact, Interact, manity at Neshaminy Mall on Dec. 20 k12.pa.us or fi nd her in room G213. and Rotoract--all of which have the same from 4 to 7 p.m. Interact and its many community ser- ByBJ Jocelyn l JJoseph h goal: “Service to others above self, on a “Students who are community-mind- vice projects aim to make the world a News Editor global basis,” Jim Barrett, secretary of ed should defi nitely join Interact,” Su- better place. This club and its affi liates the Feasterville Rotary said. zie Drake, faculty advisor of the group, have caused tremendous good and will Neshaminy Cares recently acquired With over 1.2 million international said. continue to do so. its new name, morphing into Interact, the members, Rotary is the only service To get involved, you can check this globally-recognized service foundation. group with a permanent seat in the Unit- The newly fashioned group has already ed Nations, besides the Red Cross. shown progress in various community “On a local level we provide winter Hungry Hofmann dreams big and charity events. coats to children in need [through Op- The Interact group is already involved eration Warm], food for those in need, through volunteer efforts, collecting food scholarships for college and graduate for homeless shelters, wrapping presents students, and much more,” Barrett said. at malls to raise money for Habitat for “During the fi rst half of the twentieth Humanity, and raising funds for other century, no illness inspired more dread By Tori Hyndman community and international needs. and outright panic than polio. In 1952, Student Life Editor The group is currently buying and col- when polio was at its peak, over 21,000 lecting new pajamas for children living cases of paralytic polio were reported,” A die-hard food enthusiast with in Bucks County’s only homeless shel- according to polio.com. Now with 98 extensive life goals, junior Taylor ter, in which the children have little but percent of the world’s polio eliminated, Hofmann dances her way through the military cots for beds. Unlike in previous the Rotary group has set out to vanquish Neshaminy halls. years, Interact is seeking to satisfy the that last two percent. “Our number one children’s needs with such a basic neces- global goal is the eradication of polio,” sity. Barrett added. Q: Who is your role model? Interact is a subdivision of the main Interact has planned a program where A: Wait, is that really a question? Rotary in which local adults and repre- they would symbolically paint one’s Def [Lady] Gaga. She’s got sick Taylor Hofmann strikes a pose sentatives aid various international as pinky for a dollar in which the proceeds dance moves. in the style of her role model, well as local causes from global disease would go towards the foundation for the Lady Gaga. Photo/Tori Hyndman Q: What quality do you fi nd most attractive in a person? A: Raspy voices. I like getting sick if I can get a raspy voice out of it. They’re sexy.

Q: What kind of deodorant do you wear? A: I like men’s deodorant. Don’t hate--It works good. Old Spice represent!

Q: If you could be any type of food what would it be? A: Probably a taco. I draw them a lot, and they remind me of sombreros, and I like sombreros.

Q: What is your dream job? A: Either a person who works at the toll booths, because you get to talk to everyone and ask them how their lives are, or a dog wig maker. Oh, or a roller coaster announcer-operator person. “Welcome back to Nitro!” That would be fun.

Q: Do you have any pets? A: Yeah, but I want a bird so I can talk to it and teach it fun words.

Q: Do you see yourself living in a city or a small town? A: I’m going to live on a farm and milk the cows, churn some butter, you know? I’ll be a country singer and call my fi rst album “Life on the Farm.”

Q: What was one of the best moments of your life? A: Probably when I went to the zoo and my friend Stavros got bit by a snake and was paralyzed for life. That was a good time. I didn’t like Stavros very much.

Q: Is Stavros OK? A: I don’t have a friend Stavros. December 18, 2009 The Playwickian Student Life Page 11 Spirited substitute extends holiday cheer to all By Annie Abdo The strangest wishes are when kids maybe fi ve or six, said that all she wanted though the good outweighs the bad of the Sports Editor ask for iPods or cell phones, even Black- for Christmas was love,” Holtje said. “The job, Santa Claus does have some not-so- Berrys by special merry moments. “A bad day is when I “Look it’s Santa Claus,” snickers a kid specific needs only see 20 kids or a day that I get kicked from the back row, nudging his friend name,” kids are in the shins a lot. Or when I have kids to take a look at Neshaminy substitute Holtje another with dirty diapers,” Holtje said. teacher Tom Holtje. Holtje stifl es a jolly added. of my “Kids bring me Christmas lists with laugh, knowing this is more truthful than But favorite cut out pictures from magazines. Some- they know. His long, white beard and big not all parts of times they draw pictures of themselves, red cheeks are not a fashion statement, Christ- the job. of their family, and of me, or well, San- but preparation for his gig at the Franklin mas re- They’re ta Claus,” Holtje said. Aside from the Mills Mall as Santa Claus from Nov. 14 quests so in bruised shins, Holtje considers this job to Dec. 24. are ma- awe, so “one of the best I’ve ever had.” But as During the long mall hours, countless terialis- happy a Neshaminy substitute, the bar must be children sit on Santa’s lap and whisper tic. “The and pretty high. their Christmas wishes in his ear. “I can most thank- Take a trip to Franklin Mills to see see between 20 to 400 kids a day. Christ- heart- ful. It’s Holtje in action. Or at least behave next mas Eve is especially busy,” Holtje said. touching pretty time he substitutes your class, because The children come equipped with Christ- moment Holtje as Santa Claus at the Franklin Mills Mall brings awe- you never know if your name will end up mas lists or a certain present request. “I was when holiday spirit to kids of all ages. some.” on the Naughty List… get a lot of [requests for] Transformers a little girl, Photo/Tori Hyndman Al- and American Girl Dolls. Neshaminy grads refl ect College life proves drastically different By Jess Romberger “During my senior year I could not Staff Writer wait for college. Now that I am in col- lege, part of me wants to go back to high As high school students are count- school,” Boyce said. She admits to being ing down the days to Christmas break, nervous at fi rst and getting overwhelmed most college kids are already packing from time to time, but said that other stu- for home. The nice long break awarded dents with the same major as her have to college students after their fi rst se- assured her everything gets easier after mester is well deserved after long nights the fi rst semester. studying for fi nals, and days spent in labs Boyce has four classes at the moment: and classes. Seniors probably can’t help biology, chemistry, Spanish, and an Eng- wondering, “Are we ready for this?” lish class in addition to two labs,. It re- Well ready or not, here it comes. ally does not sound too bad, with only Whether you’re planning on attending four classes a day, but the work load may a big school hours away, or a commuter be a bit of a surprise to college freshmen, school locally, there are going to be some as it proved to be for Boyce. adjustments to get used to. And the fi rst “You think that because you have semester is the toughest. fewer classes, you will have more time, This year the Student Council held a food drive for families in the community Getting used to dorm life, the large but this is defi nitely not true,” Boyce that cannot afford such necessities. Normally a responsibility of the Honor Society, workload, meeting new people, and fi nd- said. She manages it all by keeping the revolutionary Student Council coupled the drive with their dodgeball tournament ing your way around might be a little things in perspective though; it helps that and was able to make a signifi cant impact. overwhelming. But if you go into it with she is not too far from home, because a Photo/Dan Coleman the right attitude, it can be easier than weekend at home once in a while can be you think. a relief. Chelsea Rota, Neshaminy graduate Many graduates go into college think- School struck by gym class villains now attending Rutgers ing about all the negative By Dan Coleman and Danielle Walter to stealing. The teachers should have a University, tells how stuff they hear--the long Student Life Editor and Staff Writer better eye and should really watch the different living at col- hours, the endless home- students more. Maybe there would not lege is. “Dorm life is work, strict professors, Have you ever had anything stolen be as much theft in school,” freshman very different. Unlike and exams, but once they from you while in gym class, passing Lauren Creamer said. being in a house where get there they are surprised by in the hallway, or from your regular “People really shouldn’t steal, but the everything is under one at the things they fi nd. school locker? Recently, a crime spree people who don’t lock up their stuff are roof, I actually have “Professors are much has hit Neshaminy. at fault. The students should be more on to leave my room for kinder than the high school Most of these school thieves snatch edge about their surroundings. If people little things like going teachers made them sound. phones, calculators, iPod/mp3 players, lock their stuff up, like they are supposed to eat, taking a shower They are people too, and or money. The simplest remedies are ei- to, the thefts should go down,” Freshman or brushing my teeth,” really are there to help you ther locking up your belongings or not Zach Newman added. Rota said. as much as they can,” Kira bringing that type of stuff into school for Gym class is not the only time when Majoring in com- Marchione said. Marchio- people to steal. If an item is that valuable items are stolen “The hallways at Nesh- munications with a mi- ne, another graduate from or expensive, it is not worth bringing in aminy are so crowded that someone was nor of public relations, Neshaminy, is currently and risking theft. able to go into my bag and steal my $140 Rota not only is getting attending Arcadia Univer- When gym class is in session, the graphing calculator without me noticing” in her required classes sity, majoring in Elemen- locker rooms are empty. People make junior Liz Curtin said. In-school thefts but she also plays for tary Education. their way into the rooms to steal valu- only lead to paranoia and distrust. the Rutgers fi eld hock- Marchione was ap- ables from open lockers. The thieves “I think it is really pointless. These ey team. Between an Graduation day marks life- preciative of Neshaminy, then often sell them over the internet or teenagers only do it for their self satisfac- 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. fi eld changes to come. claiming that it prepared in Neshaminy’s black market. tion” Hannah Denis, freshman, said. hockey practice, three Courtesy of Twilight Tuesday her by teaching her how to “It is so stupid when people have their “When people have their own belong- to four classes a day, manage all of her school- stuff stolen. There is seriously no point ings stolen, they probably feel really up- and the required eight hours of study hall work, an important habit essential to set and they want to cry. What if you just a week, she admits it can get hard. staying on task in college. bought something with your own money “I wasn’t ready for that hectic of a “Join clubs and make the most out of and were saving up for a really long schedule but after a few weeks of it I what is available to you. Use your pro- time and then someone goes and steals started to get the hang of it. Also, only fessors and free tutors around campus as it because you didn’t bring a lock for one having four classes a day is easier than much as possible!” Marchione added as day? You would probably want to break eight periods in a day,” Rota said. a tip for all incoming college freshmen. down and start crying. You should just Picking the right college for you is the Life after Neshaminy may seem far not steal,” freshman Kelsey Fuller said. key. Basing it on where your best friends off, but in reality it will be here before Sharing combinations with friends can are going will not help you get the most you know it. Nerves are expected, but also lead to theft. To better protect your out of your college experience, but you the key is to take it all in stride. “Don’t belongings, not telling anyone, even your don’t want to rush your high school ex- let life pass you by too quickly,” Boyce friends, is a safe idea. Secrecy is safety. perience either. advised to all high school students. Stealing is very avoidable. Either do Erin Boyce graduated from Neshami- High school only happens once, and not bring in valuables or take precautions ny last year and is now attending Ursinus so does college. But, all in all, make the Thievery runs rampant in the halls to protect them. Until the crime spree College majoring in biology and com- most of both experiences. and locker rooms. ends, all students must be on high alert. pleting premedical requirements. Photo/Dan Coleman Page 12 The Playwickian Sports December 18, 2009 Woods suffers endless ridicule for scandalous affairs Highway Patrol, but it was just starting tives and truthfulness were questioned events, because many of their viewers for the media. Rumors started to spread due to the money that a few of them re- are dedicated Tiger fans. Fellow golf star about why Woods was speeding out of ceived from the tabloids that they told John Daly comments on Woods’ situa- By Samantha Pipe his driveway so early in the morning. A their stories to. tion, “He’ll get over this. The family will Sports Editor new story then developed; Woods’ wife, One alleged mistress, Rachel get over it. They’ll move on. Golf needs Elin, had found out that he was cheating Uchitel, a night club promoter, com- him.” Tiger Woods has been the face on her and that all those scratches on his ments on her relationship with Woods, His fan base will most likely also of the PGA tour, the world of golf and the face were not just from the car. Appar- “I live alone, I don’t have a boyfriend, stick with Woods; the fact that he had an Nike brand and I have my gay best affair doesn’t diminish for the friend staying over his outstanding skills past sev- most nights. I’m a re- on the golf course and eral years. cluse. I don’t go out, the excitement that At the age I stay home with my comes with his talent. of only dogs and friends ... I do The legend that is Tiger 33, Woods not have sex with ce- Woods will also stay has won lebrities, and I have not the same especially if 14 major had an affair with Tiger he stays on course to golf titles, Woods.” beating Jack Nicklaus’ 71PGA Woods then re- 18 major titles. Unlike tourna- leased a new statement steroid or illegal drug ments and about the situation, use, Woods’ affair will is the num- “I have let my family not put an asterisk next ber one down and I regret those to his name in the re- golfer in transgressions with all Rachel Uchitel is just one of Ti- cord books. the world. of my heart. I have not ger Woods’ many alleged mis- Ath- Woods was Tiger Woods with his “happy family.” been true to my values tresses. letes, especially ones also the Courtesy of www. planetnora.wordpress.com and the behavior my Courtesy of images.mirrors.com that are heavily en- highest- family deserves. I am dorsed, are heavily paid pro- not without faults and I under the public’s eye, fessional athlete in 2008 with $110 mil- ently Woods had fl ed the scene of the am far short of perfect. I am dealing with causing their personal lives to be ex- lion from winnings and endorsements. heated fi ght with his wife and that was my behavior and personal failings be- posed. Although many things that famous Tiger Woods may be an out- when he got into the car crash. hind closed doors with my family. Those athletes do are wrong, as long as they are standing golf player, but due to current In Woods’ initial statement on feelings should be shared by us alone.” not doing anything illegal, such as drugs, events, may no longer be seen as a fam- his Web site, he denied all of these ru- There are many questions that beating their wives, or the popular issue ily man. At 2:25 a.m. on Friday Nov. 30 mors of his alleged mistress, “This is a Woods’ accident and affairs raise. Such of shooting themselves, then why should at his house in Orange County, Florida, private matter and I want to keep it that as, will this news affect his golf career, we care? Athletes get paid and are fa- Woods quickly backed out of his drive- way. Although I understand there is cu- his legacy, or his fan base and are ath- mous for their talent on the fi eld, court, way in his 2009 Cadillac SUV and hit riosity, the many false, unfounded and letes’ personal lives any of the public’s or course, not whether they have a per- a tree and a fi re hydrant. His wife then malicious rumors that are currently cir- business? fect family life. Tiger Woods will still “rescued” him by breaking the rear win- culating about my family and me are ir- The golf business better hope go down in history as one of the top golf dow, ironically with a golf club, pulled responsible.” that Woods will be able to get past these players in recent history. him out of the car and issued fi rst aid. It didn’t take long for new in- Woods suffered from some facial injuries formation to arise that would not help and bruises but was quickly treated and out Woods’ story. Not one, not two, but Sophomore leads basketball team released from the hospital. Woods’ fans six women stepped forward to claim have nothing to worry about; his recently that they had affairs with Woods and the injured knee suffered no damage. number is still climbing. Text messages The case of Tiger Woods’ car from Woods to these women were soon- crash was quickly closed for the Florida discovered. Some of these women’s mo- By Mitch McKay “We were a 23 seed (rank) and they were Staff Writer a 10 seed but our team was able to pull it NFL concussion policy fi nalized out on the road by 8 points, it was a big Sophomore Ryan “Arch” Ar- win.” Arch said. By Clay Snyder cause dementia and other neurological cidiacono, has been playing basketball Hoopscooponline.com, a site Staff Writer problems. since he was able to pick up a ball. These that ranks players nationally by their high Eagles head coach Andy days the Redskins’ Varsity basketball school class, has him ranked as the 65 The commissioner has insti- Reid said that his players would “get team is putting the ball in his hands as highest ranked sophomore high school tuted a new concussion policy for the plenty of recovery time as mandated Arch proved last season that he can han- basketball player in the nation. He has NFL. After a recent increase in concus- by the commissioner.” Reid had Brian dle the load. also received scholar- sions over the past weeks, Commis- Westbrook and DeSean Jackson both As a fresh- ship offers from divi- sioner Roger Goodell took the chance out the past week, and both may play man, Arch was a sion one schools like to use the new policy. “I don’t want to against the New York Giants on Sun- major part in turn- Rutgers and St. Joes. see my players have the effects of foot- day, Dec. 13. “I believe I’ll be ready to ing the team around “Arch is a spe- ball on them when they retire.” He told go,” Jackson said. from their 2007 re- cial player and is a key ESPN’s Jayson Stark. Although the players would cord which was a to our team’s success,” The new policy states that a like to play, they know that coming lowly 3-21 all the said junior teammate player that suffers from dizziness, ver- back too soon could cause permanent way to a respect- Dwight Williams. tigo, loss of memory or severe head- injuries. “I agree with any rule that pro- able 16-10 record All of Arch’s aches must be held of the game or tects players from themselves,” Saints with two of those success didn’t come practice until examined by a third party linebacker Scott Fujita told Howard wins coming in over night, he admits offi cial. Fendrich, a renound sports writer. the playoffs. “The to owing a large part of After concussions to Ben Many teams need their star players in program had come it to trainer and good Rothlesberger, Brian Westbrook, and order to win. These teams face a tough a long way and I friend Ben Luber, who a career ending one to Jamal Lewis, decision -- play their star player who is was happy to help worked with him on the NFL and the NFL players associa- hurt and risk further injury, or go with the seniors play improving his drib- tion discussed how the concussion can a backup. in a playoff game bling and quickness. and even help get a Ryan Arcidiacono works hard at prac- Arch says that with- win,” Arch said of tice Photo/Marissa Beaston out Ben he wouldn’t last season’s suc- have the pull up jump cess. shot he uses often. Arch has already made some Senior players are among the great memories on Neshaminy’s basket- happiest to have Arch as a member of the ball team. Last year, when the Redskins team. Senior teammate Steve Warhola, played in a tournament hosted by Holy who was a sophomore player on the 2007 Ghost, Arch hit a game winning shot Redskins, said, “Before Arch, we as a pro- with less than three seconds to go to stop gram almost expected and accepted de- Holy Ghost from advancing to the cham- feat. Now we have winners’ mentality and pionship game for the fi rst time ever. play the game with much more passion.” He says though, that his favorite Arch has a bright future and is moment was when the Redskins upset looking forward to continuing his pas- the higher seeded Penncrest basketball sionate ways in the upcoming basketball team in the fi rst round of the playoffs. season. December 18, 2009 The Playwickian Sports Page 13 Iverson receives standing ovation upon return By Omar Khan more. Iverson once said “I want of play fi ts my strengths. I’m Memphis Grizzlies. “Sitting isn’t me”. “I did a lot of things Staff Writer to retire as a 76er”. This was looking forward to playing with out as much as I did, I kind of when I was young that I am said in a press conference when Carmelo, the rest of the Denver got off beat a little bit. It won’t not proud of, but I think those The 76ers have been he was traded to the Denver Nuggets, and for George Karl, take me but a little while to get things helped to be the man that messing around with the idea Nuggets for Joe Smith and An- who is a proven winner.” it back.” Asking everyone to be I am now,” he said while weep- of signing the Whether you patient with him, he is ready to ing. “The last couple years have recently re- are a huge fan get back on track once again been hell because all I want to tired NBA vet- of Iverson or de- with the Sixers. do is play basketball and help eran back to his spise him, he has Iverson had an emotion- the guys that I play with”. fi rst ever NBA returned to the al press conference announcing “I was born to be a team’s roster, 76ers. He also his signing with the 76ers. “I basketball player, and the only the Philadelphia had his fi rst prac- really think it’s a blessing that thing I can do and that I’m bet- 76ers. Allen tice with the team I’m back here,” Iverson said ter at then basketball is being a Iverson origi- and is expected to the media. “When I had the father and a husband,” Iverson nally started his to play his fi rst opportunity to come back here said. “I know I can play and if career in Philly game as a 76er in I couldn’t turn it down, I am I wasn’t as good as I am accus- with the Phila- three years on the just happy”. All that happened tom to be I wouldn’t have came delphia 76ers. Dec. 7. The coach to Iverson over the past few back because then I would’ve Iverson helped of the 76ers, Ed- years bothered him. “With the embarrassed myself”. This was Philadelphia on die Jordan said, mistakes I had made in my life I both an emotional press confer- the road to the “He made a dif- created a picture of myself that ence and emotional experience. NBA Champion- ference already ship seven game in practice.” Iver- series but didn’t son’s return has Ingram takes Heisman trophy achieve to win given the Sixers the one game a jolt in tickets By Tom Sottnick that counted sales. The Sixers, Staff Writer the most. Iver- Iverson may be the key for the 76ers to improve. who ranked 29th son still feels in the NBA in at- Courtesy of Inside Hoops This year there were fi ve players in the running for col- he has more tendance, have lege footballs greatest honor, the Heisman Trophy. They are: gas left in the standing-room Tim Tebow, Mark Ingram, Toby Gerhert, Colt McCoy, and Nda- tank for yet an- only tickets left mukong Suh. other big season with the 76ers. dre miller two fi rst rounds picks for his return. The fi rst contestant in the Heisman watch was Tim There was a big con- in the 2007 draft, even though Iverson admitting that Tebow. Tebow plays quarterback and is a senior at the Univer- troversy that if Iverson would Iverson was content with the it was very frustrating for him sity of Florida. He is considered by many to be the best college join the Philadelphia 76ers once trade saying “Denver’s style fl owing with the rhythm of the football player of all time because of his two national champion- ship wins and a Heisman in 2007. Tebow passed for 2,413 yards on 182 completions out of 279 attempts with a 65.2 comple- Ice hockey fi ghts to maintain desired .500 record tion percentage and also with 18 touchdown passes and four then played an out of league op- goals and Thomas scored fi ve interceptions. Tebow has rushed for 859 yards on 203 carries By Ed Packer ponent Pennridge High School, goals. with 13 touchdowns averaging four and a tenth yard per rush. Staff Writer losing 8-5. Thomas and Rambo “It’s something that I’m not thinking or worried about because Thomas seems to be weren’t the only players to have our goal is to win an SEC Championship and that’s our focus” The Neshaminy Red- optimistic about the rest of the a multi-goal game; underclass- Tebow said regarding the Heisman. skins’ hockey team is almost season. “We only need to win men Mike Caputo had himself a Next was Mark Ingram. Ingram plays running back and back to an even .500 record. a few more games and we’ll be two-goal night to help seal the is a sophomore at the University of Alabama. He has rushed However, the team’s overall in the playoffs. In the play- ’Skins’ big game victory. for 1,542 yards on 249 carries with 15 touchdowns averaging record doesn’t show how the offs, anything To top off the team’s six and two tenths yards a carry and has not fumbled once this ’Skins have been playing. can happen.” season so far, the ’Skins are sit- season. This year Ingram nearly doubled his rushes and yards The team has used three ting in third place with a record compared to last year. “Mark has done a fi ne a job since I’ve different goalies this season. of 2-4-2. been around,” Alabama head coach Nick Saben said. Though the Redskins have been “The teams that we tied Also in the running was Colt McCoy. McCoy plays struggling, senior goalie Connor early shouldn’t have quarterback and is a senior at the University of Texas. McCoy McWilliams keeps an upbeat at- ended that way, has passed for 3,512 yards on 330 completions out of 468 at- titude towards the game. “We we had our tempts with 27 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. haven’t really hit our stride yet; chances to put McCoys’ Heisman moment probably came against Tex- we’ve had little bursts but noth- them away and as A and M. In the game McCoy completed 24 out of 40 passes ing to change the course of the it slipped,” for 304 yards and three touchdown passes and also ran for 175 season.” senior cap- yards on 18 carries and a touchdown. “If anyone has a better The Redskins hoped to tain Rambo Heisman moment than that I’d like to see it,” Texas Longhorn’s start off the season with a win said. “We coach Mac Brown said. over the below average William can’t have The fourth was Toby Gerhert. Gerhert plays running Tennant Panthers. The team got anymore back and is a senior at the University of Stanford. Gerhert has into an early 2-0 lead when se- games like those ran the ball 311 times for 1,736 yards with 26 touchdowns av- nior captain James Rambo net- or they could be eraging fi ve and six tenths yards a rush and has not fumbled ted two goals. even more cost- once all year. Gerhart’s Heisman moment problem came against The Panthers scored ly.” Notre Dame in the season fi anle where he rushed 29 times for late in the second period, and This season’s 205 yards with three touchdowns averaging seven and one tenth again scored late in the third. leading point yards a rush. McWilliams kept the team in scorer is Thomas Last was Ndamukong Suh. Suh plays defensive tackle the game with late stops in the with 13 points, and is a senior at the University of Nebraska. Suh has 23 tackles third. The ’Skins almost lost eight goals for a loss, 12 sacks, three blocked fi eld goals, and one inter- this game but it ended in a 2-2 and fi ve ception. Suh’s Heisman moment probably came in the Big 12 tie. as- Championship game where he sacked Colt McCoy four times. The team dominated the sists. While all these players caused the race to be close, In- strong Abington team this sea- He gram was selected as the 75th winner of the Heisman Trophy for son. Seniors Shane Thomas and is fol- 2009. DJ Bell both contributed with lowed two goals followed by Ram- closely bo’s. The ’Skins fought by Ram- Senior Dave Pfeilsticker pushes the puck hard in this game and bo and down the rink, aiding the team in its attempt to really Bell who reach a repectable record for this school year. each Courtesy of Suburban One League have 12 showed points. their true colors by earning a The next game, the Rambo has seven goals and fi ve huge win. Skins were up against SOL assists while Bell has three goals The ’Skins lost their Continental’s second place, and nine assists. next three games against two of Central Bucks South. The team Ice hockey’s future is the SOL National’s powerhous- seemed to have fi nally hit their bright with these stand out play- es, Council Rock South and stride again. Rambo had a huge ers this year and are hoping to Council Rock North. The team night for the ’Skins netting three fi nish with a stellar season. Page 14 The PlaywickianPlaywickian Expressions December 18, 2009

Moonlight. by Paige Broonyann Dance upon the twilight stream

With, I won’t change a thing

Eerie nights, scared and shaking

Hold me, I won’t push you away

Walking in the haunted woods Music Butterterfl iesies by Rebeccabecca YackerYacker Hold my hand, I’ll hold yours ti ghter by Kelsey Lerman Moonlight shines, winds blow The sound Already the rainin falls differently Sit and watch the sunset is so soothing, I walk through it Either way, I wish you beside me a gift from God above, Hands in my pockets Because now I shall not turn away. each note carefully chosen Carrying thoughts heavier than my body with love. I know you have butterfl y wings

I would never want to tie them down

There is a whole world out there to see

I want to see it too.

Readers highly anticipate ‘Lovely Bones’ By Juliette Rihl critics aren’t sharing in their enthusiasm. Staff Writer It seems that opinions of the fi lm are so confl icting that it is almost impossible to Christmas isn’t the only thing get a true sense of what the movie entails. causing excitement this month. It’s The pre-screening of the movie received also the premiere of the much-antici- a disappointing 64% on rottentomatoes. pated novel-turned movie, “The Lovely com “Tomato-Meter,” and critics’ feed- Bones.” Written by Alice Sebold, “The back is almost split down the middle. Lovely Bones” is a twisted, yet touch- “Peter Jackson’s infatuation with fancy ing story about a 14-year-old girl liv- visual effects mortally wounds ‘The ing in suburban Pennsylvania who is Lovely Bones’… Jackson undermines brutally raped and killed by her crazed solid work from a good cast with show- neighbor. She proceeds to watch from offy celestial evocations that severely heaven as her family attempts to cope disrupt the emotional connections with with her death while at the same time the characters,” Todd McCartney, of Va- trying to identify her murderer. Susie, riety, wrote. the main character, struggles to choose The Guardian’s review was also between her will for her loved ones to disapproving. “How does one make a move on and her personal desire for PG-certifi ed fi lm about the rape and mur- vengeance against her hostile killer. der of a 14-year-old girl?” it asks. “Di- The book has been popular with rector Peter Jackson provides an answer teenagers and adults alike, since it was of sorts with ‘The Lovely Bones,’ which published in 2003. The fans are hoping leaves the murder unseen and the rape that the movie will stay as true as possi- unmentioned.” ble to the book. “The book is about such In contrast, the fi lm earned itself a controversial topic,” freshman Annie 4.5 out of fi ve stars from boxoffi ce.com. Kopera said. “I would like the people “Peter Jackson returns to the engrossing who didn’t read ‘The Lovely Bones’ to and poetic imagery that earned him his be able to experience the story line as it name more than a decade ago... Jackson was written. I read ‘The Lovely Bones,’ creates visuals that sweep and morph to- and I’m going to the movies expecting gether for this melodrama-cum-detective to see ‘The Lovely Bones.’” story,” Sara Schieron, Box Offi ce jour- Peter Jackson, the well-known nalist, said. director of such box offi ce wonders as If your head is spinning from all “The Lord of the Rings” and “Heavenly of those strongly worded and severely Creatures” is the man behind the fi lm. contradicting opinions, don’t worry, Jackson fans are thrilled that he directed you’re not the only one. The question “The Lovely Bones” as his most recent on everyone’s minds: has Peter Jackson project, and of course are anxious to see created a brilliant and bittersweet mas- how he portrays the most sensitive and terpiece, or turned a beloved book into a emotional parts of the story, such as the genuine artistic disappointment? heaven that Susie lives in and how she At this point, it looks like fans comes in contact with her living family will just have to wait until the movie members and friends on Earth. hits screens and decide for themselves However, as elated as the read- whether it deserves a thumbs up, or an ers might be that the fi lm is fi nally here, empty seat in the theater. Photo Courtesy of wellesley.edu December 18, 2009 The Playwickian Entertainment Page 15 Lambert shunned for same-gendered smooch By Nicole Onisick tween Madonna and Britney ance, the network picked the consequence.’ Oh, that’s right, gendered, or in Britney and Ma- Op-Ed Editor Spears (and Christina Aguil- perfect replacement, singer and because it isn’t. donna’s case, attractive. era) back in 2003. This noto- female abuser, Chris Brown. Many viewers just Adam Lambert has not It’s the punch line in rious smooch was left visible Manyy viewers are shocked andandd ddodon’tn’’t enenjoyjoj seeing excessive apologized for his performance, every movie, it’s frequently for home viewers and hardly even disadisappointedppointed with the amamountsouo nts off P.D.A. on stage, or and he shouldn’t have to. We used as the farthest thing from received negativegatiive ffefeedback.eddbaback. mmixedixed message ABABCC is sending ananywhereywhehere ffor that matter, but shouldn’t be offended by celebri- a term of endearment, and in Nevertheless, LambLambertere t pupulledllled to ititss vviewers.iewers. A hohhomosexualomom sexual ttoo ppardonaarddon a female-to-female ties’ or any other human beings’ the dictionary, its number one the same shenanigannnanigag n onon-stage,-stage, mamalele oorr a coconvictedonvnviicted feffelon?lon? GGreatrereat kikisssss becausebeecaus of its appeal, and expression of their individual- synonym is happy: gay. Now yet was covereded inn sshame?hah mee? The cacall,alll , AABABC.C.C to sshunhun a mmale-on-male kiss be- ity. We should allow the Lady queue every stereotypical-ma- hypocrisy is ratheraather ininsultingsuultl ing too T Thehee CCBSBS rerepsps leleftftf a ccauseause it iiss offensive is unbear- Gagas and Adam Lamberts to cho-man fl inching in fear of men and womenen alalike,like, aandnd aalsolso wwewell,lll, iriironicallyonici allyy bblurredlurred expexpla-laa- aabablyly hhypocritical.ypoc This contro- convey their uniqueness freely their manhood. Recently, at the shows somethinghing abouaboutt hohoww nationationn ffororr ttheirheir bbehavior.ehavior. “We veversyersy ononlyly sends homosexuals (but Chris Brown- go back un- American Music Awards, singer many Americanscans conticontinuennue to gave tthishhis ssosomeme rrealeal tthought.hought. The acacrosscross the nnation steps back into der that rock you’ve been hiding and former American Idol con- live in their gglasslass hohousesusses aandnd MadMadonnaonnna imiimageage is ververyy famifamil-l-- hhihidingding ttheirhe sexuality. These under). Freedom is something testant Adam Lambert became still share thee same aacceptingccceptting iiarar aandnd hahass apappearedppeared countcountlessleesss ppopopularpular nenetworks are treating that many continuously abuse the talk of the town and has values as the pipilgrims.lgrims. ttimesimes inincludingclc udinng mamanyanyn ttimesimmese on hohomosexualsmosexua as if their behavior their privilege of, but if we can- been shunned from CBS for a As iff beingbeing rrecoiledeecoileed mmorningorning tetelevision.elel viv sionn. ThTThehe AdAdamamm iiss somethisomethingn to be ashamed of. not even express our love to “provocative” kiss shared with from his ownwn individualityindividuau lityy Lambertbert imimagemageage iis a ssubjectubbjeject ooff TheTheyy are ssending the message one another, straight-gendered a male back-up dancer. This wasn’t enough,h, on the heelheelss ofo grgreateaat cucurrentrrent cocontroversy,ntro has to millions that their sexuality is or not, then what exactly is the kiss was blurred out immedi- the controversysy the television nonnott bebeeneen nnearlyearly as widely dis- only acceptable if it is straight point of having freedom? ately, which leaves us wonder- network ABC pulled the plugs seminated, and for all we know, ing, in this day and age, why is on Lambert’s appearance on the may still lead to legal conse- Graffi ti thriving artist at Neshaminy homophobia still even around? show Good Morning America. quences,” CBS reps said. I’m Gallagher uses most often, Let’s head back to the Although Lambert was deemed not sure many knew that a her favorite piece of art is an infamous pop princess kiss be- too controversial for his appear- same-gendered kiss was a ‘legal enormous vase that she craft- Who earned their spot on our top 10 By Rebecca Johnson ed in ninth grade. More than Celebrity parents: countdown in being the worst out there? Staff Writer a foot and a half tall, and one foot across at it’s widest point, a hamburger. “[My daughters] ready been charged with illegal Colleen Gallagher’s it took her about two or three were concerned for my well-be- drugs, and passed his bad habits earliest memory of art was months to create. “It also took By Becca Erskine and Jenn ing, [and made a tape] to show down to his son, Redmond. He when she was around three another two or three months Zaidman me what I was like,” Hasselhoff fi gured he needed to do a little years old, sitting at the kitch- to carry it home,” Gallagher Entertainment Editors said, according to msnbc.com. bit more in order to reach our en table drawing stick fi gures laughed. 7. This will make you sick to number fi ve spot. As an attempt, with color-changing markers. In the future, she Think you weren’t dealt your stomach, feel disgusted, he went for his own daughter, Ever since then, she has grown hopes that she can have a suc- the best hand with your parents? maybe even offended, or all Tatum, not at a family party, but to love the artistic world, cre- cessful career in art, in any Do you feel as if irresponsible, three. Woody Allen, 70, married at ex-wife Farrah Fawcett’s fu- ating many interesting and im- capacity. She realizes though, incapable “adults” gave birth to his much younger step-daugh- neral. O’Neal proved himself in pressive pieces of art. that many aspiring artists never you? Well, think again. These ter, Soon-Yi Previn, 35. “It was being one of the most reckless Gallagher, a sopho- fulfi ll their artistic dreams. celebrities got it bad, while their a turning point in my life for and repulsive human beings to more at Neshaminy, receives Gallagher knows that even if parents allowed the world to call himself a parent. inspiration from everything her future holds a career that see, and the “winners” are 4. Courtney Love, the around her, including nature, does not involve art, there are well… obvious. “There is no such thing as knocked up, Oxycontin over- events, emotions, and espe- still ways that she can include 10. The hustler himself, Fla- ‘fun for the whole family.’” dosee, has been on just about cially stories. “I once drew it in her life. “I can be a secret va Flav. He currently has every celebrity gossip site. If ~ Jerry Seinfeld myself as an armadillo because part-time graffi ti artist, or seven kids, each with differ- you go to Google and search I claimed I was one in an es- something less ille- ent mothers, and apparently “Courtney Love,” you won’t say,” she commented. gal,” he’s expecting more. You’re be surprised with what you Her favorite medium Gallagher probably wondering how he the better,” he said, according fi nd. Hopefully Love doesn’t is standard pencils, because said, manages to see them in a given to timesonline.co.uk. Allen has continue her habit of fl ick- she fi nds them easy to blend light time, and well, the answer’s defi nitely crossed the line of ing cigarrettes with her kids and convenient for travel. Al- heart- simple… he doesn’t. age, and incest. around. though this is the style that edly. 9. Our “favorite” TV stars, Jon 6. We all knew it was coming, 3. The next parent, with octu- and Kate Gosselin. At the ages the complete train wreck of a plets… you already know who the malicious man that all of “I woke up that night from a of nine and younger, what kid family, the Lohans. “Lindsan- we’re talking about, the star- us saw and heard about from blackout to fi nd myself having really wants to be fi lmed jump- ity,” as she is referred to by Per- driven “Octo-Mom,” Nadya the media. Jackson takes num- sex with my father,” she said, ing rope or coloring pictures? ez Hilton, isn’t the only Lohan Suleman. After being singled ber two on our list, since even according to allieiswired.com. Let‘s not forget the father-of- accused of cutting. Their father out on plastic surgery, her in- after Michael’s death, he sued How’s that for parenting? eight that left his family on one became a cutter at a young age. famous 911 phone call, and her his son’s estate for a monthly al- So, the next time you of the biggest channels in televi- In this family, crazy is a gene, past in being a stripper, Sule- lowance. complain about your parents… sion. which has been passed down man can’t even handle herself, 1. The fi nal negligent, John think about these celebs, and 8. Another one who has hit rock through many generations of re- so how can she handle 14 kids? Phillips, father of Mackenzie know that it might not be all bottom, David Hasselhoff. Only lated psychos. 2. Being the perfect example Phillips. You won’t see this that bad. If they don’t let you go wearing blue jeans, Hasselhoff 5. A careless human being who of a cruel parent, Joe Jackson, pair at the next father daughter to that party Saturday night, just allowed his daughters to fi lm parented the people he hurt the who even after his son Mi- dance. He had ongoing sexual think… it’s better than seeing him intoxicated, while eating most, Ryan O’Neal. He’s al- chael’s death, continued to be relations with his daughter. Ryan O’Neal in a dark alley. ‘Call of Duty’ gets world’s nod of approval With more than 4.7 ing this game. In Russia and Af- million copies sold on the fi rst ghanistan, it has been rumored Christmas Day night of sales in the U.S. and that the game is banned for Movie Releases U.K., the game has become a showing an uncomplimentary By Andy Zubak frequent pastime of game play- view of these nations. The game Staff Writer Sherlock Holmes: ers around the world. shows an American undercover Like the fi rst version agent watching Russians de- As anticipated, Sherlock Holmes gets I am battling for my an updated new twist from the comic of the game, the game features stroy a European airport. It also book series to a major motion picture. life. I sink into the tall grass in campaign, cooperative, and includes a game that takes place Get ready to see Holmes and his part- my camoufl age suit. I raise my multi player modes. Even in the in Afghanistan and many people ner, Watson, engage in brawls with head a little and see something. lower levels, the game is excit- are killed. Activision denies arch nemesis to save all of England. I duck, reload. I see another ing. When the battle starts, the these rumors and says that it person coming toward me. Ev- action explodes everywhere. had only released a PC version erything seems really slow, my The game also features a new of the game in Russia on Nov. vision goes white, it’s all over. mode called Special Ops where 10 so the video game could not The Imaginarium of Doctor Is this a skirmish in Parnassus: you can play on your own or have been banned. Iraq? A battle in Afghanistan? with a buddy in timed missions “Call of Duty” is avail- Watch as Dr. Parnassus leads you in a No, this event is probably hap- fantastical morality tale with his abil- with specifi c objectives. What’s able nationwide for Xbox, PS3, ity to guide the imagination of others. pening in a living room, maybe great about this version is that and PC. The basic version sells Engage into the story of Dr. Parnas- even in your own home. I’ve the guns and online play are phe- for $60, and the premium game sus and his fi ght to save his daugh- just let you in on a game called nomenal and addicting. The real with night vision goggles for ter. Be the fi rst to witness this capti- “Demolition in Call of Duty reviewers of the game are the $100. vating, imaginative race against time. Modern Warfare 2.” The suc- ones who buy it and are raving Turkey Rating (out of 5): cessful video game was released about it. Neshaminy students at midnight on Nov. 10 by “In- are buzzing over the game. fi nity Ward.” Movie’s Courtesy of moviefone.com Movie’s But not all are admir- Page 16 The Playwickian Entertainment December 18, 2009

It is a British Christmas tradition that wish made while mixing the Christmas pudding will only come true if the ingredients are stirred in a clockwise direction. In Yugoslavia, the second Sunday before Christmas, children creep in On Christmas and tie their mother’s feet to a Eve in Norway, all the chair, shouting “Mother’s Day, brooms in the house are hid- Mother’s Day, what will you den because it was previously pay to get away.” The mom In Caracas, believed that witches and mischie- must then give them Venezuela, the streets are vous spirits came out on Christ- presents. closed on Christmas morning mas Eve and would steal the so that people can roller- brooms to fl y on. skate to church.

Pickle in a Christmas Tree: An old Victorian tradition was to hide a glass pickle in the Christmas tree the night before Christmas. Whoever found the pickle would either receive a special gift or get to open the fi rst gift. Christmas Tree Spiders: In the Ukraine, it is customary to decorate a 1. “Baby it’s Cold Outside” by Zooey Deschanel & Leon Redbone Christmas tree with an artifi cial spider and webs. 2. “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)”by Death Cab for Cutie 3. “This Christmas” by Chris Brown It is believed that a spider web found on Christmas morning brings good luck. If they were mistaken 4. “Christmas Must Be Something More” by Taylor Swift as real, they might also bring heart attacks. 5. “Silent Night” by Mariah Carey