Evaluating the Common Core

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Issue 1, Volume 42 Huntington High School Oakwood and McKay Roads Huntington, NY 11743 Evaluating the Common Core The verdict on Huntington’s controversial new program By Charles Beers November 2013 news in short high level." The newly However, he also implemented Com- noted many flaws with the >The Boys Varsity soccer mon Core program program, and expressed team ended an incredible has become one of the his dissatisfaction with the season with a 1-0 loss in most controversial increasingly dull passages aspects of this school that students are being forced the semi-finals of the Suf- year at Huntington. to read. “The problem isn’t folk County Finals. While many students that the program stresses have heard of the new non-fiction,” he said. “It’s the system, and attribute fact that the text is becom- >The History Honor So- the rise in stress levels ing much more technical." they have experienced By some accounts it has been ciety started off strongly over the first few suggested that students are be- with its first inauguration. months of school to ing forced to read instruction it, most of the student manuals, which can be dry body is unaware of and irrelevant. He continued >The Huntington High the actual implica- by expressing the importance tions of the state’s new of nonfiction in the class- School Drama Club had education philosophy. room, but in alignment with another strong showing According to traditional literature, which is with their new play Anne its website, the Com- successful future. understanding of concepts by an integral part of the educa- of the Green Gables. mon Core State Standard Ini- Despite New York reducing the number of stan- tional system. tiative states that its standards State's admirable goals, stu- dards to follow. However, I am So, now that we are are “designed to be robust dents unanimously associate disappointed, because it takes two months since the start and relevant to the real world, the Common Core with an the creativity out of teaching of the school year, it is time >Several of Huntington reflecting the knowledge and increase in exams and graded by telling us what to teach and to give the Common Core a High School’s talented art- skills that our young people assignments, and, therefore, how to teach it.” By stressing grade of its own. While its ists, including sophomore need for success in college and criticize the system at every rigid lesson plans, the teach- reception has been mixed to Justin Martinolich and ju- careers.” In simplest terms, the possible opportunity. er's unique style is constricted negative from both students program is preparing for the This begs the question and the information is set up and teachers, it is clear that nior Meelod Wafajow, won future, designed so that high to both students and teachers on a conveyor belt, never let- only time will tell whether or awards at the Huntington school students will make a alike: Is the Common Core ting students try and deviate not the program deserves to Council’s Nightmare on seamless transi- from the predetermined stay in Huntington. Main Street exhibit. tion from high to “What Huntington really needs is path. Until then, students school to college a balance: an educational equilib- Other instructors can only imagine that per- and, finally, to the cite the new workload fect educational system that rest of their lives. rium that combines all of the right as a problem for stu- constantly eludes them. Hun- >Girls Varsity tennis went In addi- dents, believing that tington needs a system that 10-4 overall to finish their tion, the Com- elements to make the perfect four- the amount of tests and increases the critical thinking season second in Suffolk mon Core also year experience.” in-class assignments has of its students, but not at the County League II. promotes critical been drastically in- expense of their creativity thinking. Many creased for the 2013-14 and genuine appreciation for critics argue that Ameri- program an effective method school year. With the added learning. Huntington needs can students are struggling of increasing educational pro- pressures of standardized test- to stress new material for the educationally in comparison ficiency? ing and the analysis of student changing social climate and to countries abroad, and While most students growth over the course of the prepare kids for their futures need a jolt to catch up with have already condemned the year, it becomes difficult to outside of high school, but not the rest of the world. Other program for its newfound truly enjoy the classes them- when this material becomes experts suggest the true aim is rigor, it is the reaction from selves. monotonous and overshadows to expose students to a wide the teachers that is most sur- One of Huntington's traditional fiction. range of communications in prising. The majority of school teachers had his own opin- What Huntington many forms. As technology officials are in agreement that, ions on the Common Core really needs is a balance: an advances daily students must despite the programs’ good program. He supported many educational equilibrium that become more familiar with intentions, Common Core fundamental ideas of the combines all of the right this technological terminol- hasn’t been implemented program, such as challenging elements to make the per- ogy in order to compete in effectively and detracts from students with new material. fect four-year experience. If global economics. The Com- the educational experience. “The philosophy behind the the Common Core system, Check it out mon Core is a hard program For instance, one teacher Common Core is valuable,” despite its noticeable flaws, is to define, as it encompasses so expressed her frustration he stated in an interview, “and any indication, the district is The Dispatch Archive many parts of the high school by stating, “Common Core it’s important for students to definitely taking big steps in student’s journey towards a promoted a narrow but deeper be able to read and write at a the right direction.

INSIDE INDEX Fashion Tips Huntington Soccer News...... 2 Declan Byrnes Dazzles La Pagina en Espanol...... 3 from Two Incredible Seasons Technology...... 4 in Stage Debut Teacher Feature...... 5 Huntington’s Fashion...... 6 Spotlight...... 7 Brightest pages 11 & 12 Editorial...... 8 Entertainment...... 10 Sports...... 11,12 page 6 page 2 The Dispatch 2 NOVEMBER13 In the Spotlight With Declan Byrne The Huntington Star Weighs in on his Sensational Off-Broadway Debut By Katie Duval “There are some stories that One of Huntington What was it about McGold- think I have any High School’s star performers Is acting on stage what you rick's Thread that drew you you just don’t know about your big stories. is demonstrating his acting hope to do with the rest of in? talents beyond the high school your life? heritage... It’s really important Do you feel more stage. DB: I heard that it was for people to know... where they connected to Ire- Declan kind of a big play and I land and the Irish Byrne was part of the had just started getting come from.” tradition? Off-Broadway play into theater. I heard McGoldrick's Thread that there was Irish DB: I definitely over the summer. dancing in it and that's the play? do. There's one flashback The junior, whose something that I'm very scene to Ireland and I got re- family is of Irish interested in. I thought DB: I could really relate to ally in character for it and had descent, was part of it was very interesting some of the characters in it. a lot of fun doing it. the ensemble cast of to be able to experience I felt that some of the things Irish Step dancers learning from people they said or did were some of Were most of the other people and singers. that were very talented the things I could be saying in the play of Irish heritage as The play in Irish dancing and or doing. There was one part well? centers around the were familiar with Irish where the whole family in O'Reilly family who tradition. I really en- the play got together to eat DB: Most of the actors were have just moved from joyed being able to have dinner and I understand that Irish. I bonded really well Ireland to an apart- that experience. connectedness. I feel like not with all the Irish dancers and ment in the Bronx. all families have that but Irish we all got along really well Magee, the only In the play, you're called families definitely do. together. daughter, is a talented to do a lot of Irish step. Irish Step dancer who Was this a style of danc- Marianne Driscoll, the writer Do you think it would be ben- wants to pursue the ing you were already of the play, spoke about how eficial for other teenagers to craft for her career. familiar with? she hopes her work will have similar experiences with Along the way, though, she inspire people to learn more learning about their respective must learn about her own DB: I'm not really sure if it is. DB: I've been doing Irish about their family heritage. heritages? family and how the sacrifices I think it might be a hobby dancing for the majority of Do you feel that after your they all make for one another or I might choose to pursue my life, maybe since 6 or 8. experience you have new bring them closer together it. I'm keeping my options It's part of my heritage and interest in learning about your DB: Yeah I do. I feel like a in the end. To have a better open but it's something I'm helps me keep in touch with ancestors? lot of people aren't in touch understanding of the play and interested in. I'm not really who I am. with their heritage. It's really the Huntington High School entirely sure where I'm going DB: Yeah I definitely feel like important for people to know student involved in it, Declan but theater is definitely some- Did you find parallels between I do. There are some stories their heritage and where they agreed to be interviewed for thing I'm considering. your own family traditions that you just don't know about The Dispatch. and the ones spoken about in your heritage, but I don't come from. Donovan’s Declassified School Survival Guide

By Donovan Richardson

The mythical “Freshman nating. men, provide many community Friday” is now long past, and the If you habitually let time service opportunities. whelming. first Homecoming for the class progress without progressing Don’t be afraid to ask The fact that of 2017 at HHS is finished. Now on your assignments, days and your friends either, for they three more it’s time for the freshmen to look weeks will snowball into months too have the same community years of high ahead to the coming four years of procrastination. While months service requirements. If you can school chal- with one month under their belt. disappear, new responsibilities sign up for community service lenges await But thirty-nine months of school appear, and your habit will do with a friend, will you both be you can be still await you, who like all the you such a disservice. And for less lonely and provide more help scary. While older students, will find that suc- those procrastinators who are to the community. Even if you there is no cess in school can be difficult but worried about missing out on the can do community service once one way to reward- every month or two, you will make this ing. “There’s no escaping it: high have more than the ten required all feel less hours of community service by difficult, it’s school is difficult... But don’t let the end of this school year. You definitely your challenges discourage you can ask guidance counselors and helpful to Every even teachers about community consider that student from success.” service opportunities and they you are sur- has his will be glad to help. rounded by or her hundreds of own strategies for success, but “do it at the last minute” experi- Challenge yourself. freshmen in most develop some of the same ence if they stop procrastinating, roughly the ideas. If you have any trouble, do not worry. Occasionally, no There’s no escaping it: same posi- consider these tips: matter what you do, you will be high school is difficult. Every tion as you. pressed for time and will have student shares some of the same A Develop good habits now. to finish your assignments at the difficulties, while each having his high school and beyond. thousand more at Huntington last minute anyway. or her own unique situations. But As a freshman, you High School have already expe- Without a doubt, your 7th and Community service is don’t let your challenges discour- are going to inevitably make rienced their first year of high 8th grade English teachers have an important part of your high age you from success. mistakes, so it is more helpful for school. There are teachers who nagged you about procrastinat- school career. If you believe you can you to learn from them. Chal- have taught many new classes ing on your essays. But most You were probably improve your grades, take a more lenges obviously won’t go away of freshmen. There is surely no likely you could get away with surprised that ten hours of com- challenging class, join a club, or after freshman year, but develop- shortage of help for any student some procrastination. A lot of munity service is required for all try out for a sport; you can create ing a positive attitude towards here. you probably did some of your freshmen. But by no means is the the opportunity to improve your- the challenges will remain crucial projects at the last minute. community service requirement self academically or otherwise. to your success. But now it’s October of impossible. Clubs like A World Even if you do not succeed at a your freshman year, and there is of Difference (AWOD) and Key new endeavor, you will still gain The beginning of your an urgent need to stop procrasti- Club, which are open to fresh- experience that will help you in freshman year may feel over- The Dispatch NOVEMBER133 El Mes de la Herencia Hispana By Lily Morris

El Mes de la Herencia contribuciones que los miembros Mes de la Herencia Hispana! 4. Lee literatura- Podría ser una Hispana se inició en 1968 y ha de la cultura hispana han dado a Aquí hay algunas ideas: 1. Educar- Investigar sobre figu- buena idea recoger un libro es- sido parte de la historia de los Es- América. Los ras importantes que son hispanas crito por un autor hispanoameri- tados Unidos desde entonces. En atletas, músi- y aprender sobre las cosas que cano. Le puede enseñar mucho las manos de los presidentes Lyn- cos, artistas y ellos han dado a América. sobre la cultura! don Johnson y Ronald Reagan, políticos son el Mes de la Herencia Hispana se recordados 2. Come comidas nuevas- La 5. Escuche música - Tantos ha convertido en una de las leyes y celebrados cultura hispana ha traído muchas músicos hispanos se han hecho públicas de los Estados Unidos. durante este comidas deliciosas a América, populares en los Estados Unidos Se celebra cada año el quince de mes. Toda no se pierde nada con probar y han dejado su marca en la in- septiembre hasta el quince de la cultura algunas! dustria de la música. Expóngase a octubre. Se inicia el quince de hispana en nueva música! septiembre porque este día se general es 3. Examine la identidad hispana- conmemora la independencia de celebrada. Piense en lo que significa ser 6. Sigue estudiando- Continúe muchos países latinoamericanos Hay muchas hispano. Eche un vistazo a su cul- su interesado en cómo los latinos como El Salvador, Honduras, Ni- maneras tura y tradiciones para entender están afectando y contribuyendo caragua, Costa Rica y Guatemala. diferentes que realmente por qué se celebra esta a la vida en Estados Unidos. El propósito del Mes de la Her- usted puede cultura. encia Hispana es para celebrar las celebrar el Una Vida Espana en los Estados Unidos By Lenni Joya Una Noticia Do you speak English? saber su idioma porque ellos no para tu vida, y no pongas la excu- de tu vida y concentrarte en eso. ¿Hablas Ingles? van a aprender el tuyo solo por sa de que no sabes porque todos No pienses que solo porque a tus Aproximadamente hace una Son muchas las pregun- comunicarse contigo. También sabemos lo que queremos o para amigos no les gusta la escuela a ti semana, uno de los mejores tas las cuales se presentan en lo los Estados Unidos es un país en dónde vamos. Y si no lo sabes tampoco te gustara, las personas que pasa nues- tienes a maravil- son de distintos pensamientos y profesores de lengua ex- tra vida, pero losas personas a vista de la vida, por eso tú eres tranjera de Huntington no la más común tu alrededor que el único que decides que quieres se encontró en la escuela. que se puede te pueden ayudar, para ti mismo. Si tú no quieres Durante días, los estudi- escuchar en los los profesores. que en el futuro o a la vuelta de antes de la señora Medina, Estados Unidos Ellos son como la esquina halla alguien que te es la pregunta nuestras armas pregunte, Do you speak English? ahora conocida como la “Do you speak que nos ayudaran Y tú no sepas que decir señora Mammone, pregun- english?”, a superarnos en o no poder contestarla, eso te re- taba lo que había sucedido ¿hablas Ingles? nuestro futuro, y cordará la escuela y si tú la aban- a su maestro. ¡A partir de No hay una si no tienes con- donaste solo por la razón de que ahora, se ha confirmado que sola persona en fidencia con ellos no te gustaba y sabrás el dolor de este país que no hay muchas per- no saber que decir o quedar en señora Medina ha ido en le haya pregun- sonas de tu edad vergüenza. Pero muchas veces trabajo de parto y un bebé tado esta fa- que te pueden los lamentos lo único que hace está en camino! Aunque no mosa pregunta, ayudar también. es sentirte culpable por lo malo ha habido muchas noticias somos muchos o tonto que hayas cometido. Si sobre la última adición a los que vivimos en los Estados el cual el idioma que se habla es Yo me pongo como tu estudiante que sigues en la Unidos como inmigrantes que Ingles. Si alguna persona quiere ejemplo a mí mismo, mis profe- escuela, no quieres ser uno de eso la familia de Huntington, hemos venido de un país distinto un trabajo o aplicar a uno tiene sores y muchos compañeros me muchachos no dejes la escuela la Sra. Medina estaba muy en el cual no hablan inglés, ni se que saber por los menos algo de han ayudado también. Entonces porque entre más aprendes y te emocionada. Ella espera practica o aprende, por esa razón Ingles. A partir de este momento la excusa de que no tienes a nadie educas quien se hace el beneficio que el bebé es un niño y son muchos los cuales no hablan te estoy hablando a ti estudiante que te ayude ya está borrada. es tu mismo y no a tus amigos, será probablemente hacia este idioma, ingles. de Huntington high school que Todos nosotros nos quisiéramos aquellos amigos los cuales no Entonces las pregunta te encuentras en el programa ver en una posición grande y estarán contigo toda tu vida o fuera para que los próximos que se te hacen muchas veces son de ESL, no pienses que el duro mejor que nuestros padres, pero en cada momento. Recuerda que meses cuidar de su hijo. ¡Le muy grandes hasta de contestar- trabajo en la escuela va hacer en eso necesita de mucho trabajo y vida solo es una y si no la aprove- mantendremos al día en las, de tal forma si alguien algún vano porque en el futuro veras esfuerzo porque nada viene fácil chas a lo máximo ósea para bien todas las últimas noticias día te pregunta dicha pregunta tu recompensa. Si tú no quieres a tu vida siempre debes de luchar en ti mismo, en el futuro cuando sobre el bebé de la se- no te sorprendas que no sepas parar como tus padres los cuales contra que decir porque tú no eres el tienen que trabajar duro para todo ñora Medina y le deseamos primero, ni el último en no decir poder sobrevivir en este país, en- para buena suerte! nada. Muchas veces hay casos tonces antes de cometer una ton- lograr distintos en los cuales tú pregun- tera que puede arruinar el resto lo que tas esto pero recuerda que no te de tu vida recuerda esta pregunta deseas. debes burlar de ella si no te puede que se te hará por el resto de tu responder por que son muchas vida si vives en este país, Do you Her- las personas que no saben inglés, speak English? (¿hablas Ingles?). manos, tu propio país solo por buscar porque nunca han tenido la opor- Muchos pueden decir “yo no amigos, la mejora en tu vida, entonces tunidad de aprenderlo. Recuerda necesito asistir a la escuela para compa- porque no lo logras haciendo lo que no todos hemos tenido la aprender inglés”, pero no toman ñeros no bueno y estudiando, porque si misma vida o la misma historia, en cuenta de que en la escuela dejes que tienes la oportunidad de hacerlo por eso el respeto y comprensión puedes aprender todo lo necesa- las situa- porque no lo logras. Todos los a las demás persona mantiene la rio para superarte. Son muchos ciones que inmigramos a los Estados paz en una sociedad. los estudiantes del programa ESL difíciles Unidos lo hacemos por una gran La Vida en los Esta- que no saben la razón del estudio, de tu razón, queremos ser alguien dos Unidos no es solo trabajo, pero tras el tiempo pasa ellos irán vida te más en la vida, alguien del cual como muchas personas dicen. entendiendo que la vida en el hagan todo mundo esté orgulloso de ti. Tú tienes que interactuar con estudio es una experiencia dista y cambiar Te dejo esta pregunta a ti quien muchas personas para muchas fenomenal a la misma vez. o virar el sentido de tu vida, la pierdas te arrepentirás por lo leyendo en este momento, si to- cosas, por ejemplo si tú quieres Si alguno que está porque si el capitán de un barco que no hiciste teniendo la opor- davía no has cumplido tú sueño pagar el alquiler de tu casa a la leyendo este breve párrafo ahora dejara que el viento guiara su tunidad. Una última pregunta americano, entonces ¿Cuál es tu persona que tienes que dárselo es es el momento en el cual debes embarcación quizás iría a dar a que te voy hacer a ti estudiante sueño americano en los Estados a alguien que habla inglés. de tomar el futuro en tus manos un lugar el cual el no quiere. Por de ESL, si tú te encuentras en este Unidos? Entonces tú tienes que y decidir que en realidad quieres eso tú tienes que tomar el rumbo país de oportunidades y dejaste The Dispatch 4 NOVEMBER13 The Sleek and Sexy iOS 7 By Ben Nikodem

The month of Septem- Once you cease your done? Does the weather app like “noir” and “chrome” for all Huntington Students ber is characterized by the begin- ogling of the new lock screen and finally have animations? you artsy folk. Photos now can be Weigh in on the ning of school, the end of sum- finally access your home screen, The answers to those sorted into collections, and shard New Update mer, and of course, the release of your applications zip into place questions are often, and thank- via the almighty iCloud. Safari the new iPhone models. Non- in a cinematic fashion, making it fully, yes. Double tap the home has a new favorites page and an Only a little more than Apple users proceed button to access the annoying new menu for multiple a month since it’s inception, the with caution; this article “The iOS 7 update has been re- improved multitask- windows. There is now an iTunes new iOS7 update has divided is devoted to the spawn leased with the new iPhone models ing menu. Swipe up Radio, and for those who can the Huntington student body. of the late Steve Jobs. from the bottom of operate a vehicle, the operating Its style and new design choices This year, our to reinvent the Apple experience the screen to use the system can be connected to the have both satisfied and angered appetite for the next gen- on mobiles. ” control center and you car. Apple users. eration of Apple devices can pause your son, The iOS 7 update has Many of its critics cite was appeased with not access airplane mode been released with the new that, while the new phone is one, but two new phones: the seem like they were having some and turn on the flashlight. Swipe iPhone models to reinvent the more sleek and simplistic, it also sleek and near button-less iPhone cautious party until you came down from the top to see the Apple experience on mobiles. takes away from the ability to use 5s, and the colorful and cheaper along and forced them back into notification center, where you There are a plethora of new it. Sophomore Kelly Palladino model- the iPhone 5c. their static positions. can see stocks, events and missed designs, functions and applica- explained, “I’m not too fond of Those who have not yet And this update. I like the old way rushed to the Apple store to get wait, what’s better. It’s more user-friendly.” an upgrade need not fret- Apple this? All your Others support Apple’s has released the long awaited up- basic apps decision to move towards a date to end all updates for every (sans photos more curvy and imaginative new iPhone user (excluding people and game design for its phones. Another with the archaic models older center, which sophomore, Katie Keys stated than the iPhone 4). The iOS 7 up- have morphed that, “I like the iOS7, because it’s date has embraced sleekness and into strange bright and colorful.” simplicity, and it has changed the color-wheels Even teachers have familiar format that Apple users and bubbles their own opinionss on the new have been long accustomed to. respectively) design. English teacher Ms. An- Only time (and polls) will tell have new icons torino said, “I’m neutral. I don’t just how popular and ground- that are similar hate it and I don’t love it. I love breaking this new update really to the old ones, the new pastel effect but it takes is. but favor a away from the professionalism of So what does the new simpler yet the iPhone.” operating system entail? Well, sensual look. While there is no deny- first off, the design of pretty Per- ing that Huntington is divided much everything on the screen haps the best over the new update, one cannot of the iPhone, Pod or Pad has new addition understate the improvements been completely revamped. Right is that of moving backgrounds. texts. tions to tickle everyone’s fancies. that the new update provides. when you turn on your device, Not only are there backgrounds Siri has been updated as Now we wait until next year for In the end, despite one’s taste in you’ll notice the passcode lock, that actually move, but also if you well and can search Wikipedia the novel iOS 8. If you have any the stylized new approach to the time and slide bar are thin and have a picture for a background (which won’t help your English questions, go to Apple.com, it has iPhone, the iOS 7 takes the Apple more integrated into the back- and move your device… the research paper), and unfortu- experience to a whole new level. ground. Gone are the squares background moves! Absolutely nately she still won’t agree to more info on the subject. and rectangles of old; Apple has amazing. marry me. now favored a more curvy ap- But enough about the The camera can do proach to things. designs, what new stuff can be panoramas and it now has filters Shedding Light on the STEM What’s So Different About the New School Program? By Jean Abecassis

The STEM school who had received the chance to there is a lot more technology. The program’s acronym school,” says C.R., “But people program, which was newly initi- enter a STEM school, had stated Every class has a Smart Board, stands for Science, Technology, are nominated through random ated this school year, has been that “So far, our work seems to but we still learn everything else Engineering, and Math. “Every- raffles.” C.R. chose to go after enigmatic and on many peoples’ have been the same, except that normally.” one in the district can go to the successfully being chosen by the minds. raffle because he found the new New information system to be interesting. from interviews as well as other Mr. Walsh had this to school-based sources have shed say regarding the STEM school. new light on the situation. In- “It was a grade 4-6 school a few terviews from two students, one years back, and now it’s become who participated in the STEM an elementary school for grades school system, and one who had 3-5.” He had also confirmed the not, as well as Mr. Walsh, a Phys. lottery/raffle process to enter the Ed. Teacher, were completed STEM school. to determine the nature of the Lastly, Mr. Walsh spoke STEM school system. Sahar about the Physical Education Nadi, a student who had opted system in the STEM school, stat- out of a STEM school, had this ing that “The school is trying to to say regarding the differences incorporate science, math, and in the schools; “It seems to be the technology into the units, but be- same, except STEM schools use sides that, the units are basically mostly technology.” The reason traditional.” Sahar had chosen to not go was With all of the inter- because “she has a lot of friends views, a light has been shed on in the old school,” and she the mysterious STEM school wouldn’t like a school without system, and its unique education them. Huntington Superintendent Mr. Polansky poses with students from the Jack Abrams C.R. Pullizoto, a student STEM Magnet School at the Homecoming parade. (Credit to hufsd.edu) system. The Dispatch NOVEMBER135 Schaeffer and Sherrard A Look at the Latest Additions to the Huntington Family By Howie Schiman

Ms. Schaeffer, who dents learn the correct athletic into this school because Aside from being a gym instruc- has been working as a physical form of physical movements in the students have been tor, Sherrard also coaches football education teacher for nine years order to prevent injury. respectful and welcomed and lacrosse at Smithtown East now, is new to our Huntington Overall, Ms. Schaef- m e .” High School. In the past, he also High School community. She fer’s goal for this year’s physical Sherrard was greatly in- coached the wrestling and base- chose this profession because she education curriculum is for spired by his high school’s ball teams. wanted to “make a difference in her students to “individually physical education teach- Sherrard also enjoys people’s physical fitness and self- improve their physical abilities.” er as a teenager. “When I “teaching archery because it’s confidence”. Schaeffer is settling in her new was in high school, I had something different that most Presently, she also job at Huntington High School a P.E. teacher that really students don’t get to play often.” coaches our girls’ volleyball quite well. “It’s good. I meet new had a positive impact on On behalf of the entire team. Ms. Schaeffer’s expecta- people and see old friends.” my life, and helped me Blue Devil community, we hope tions for her students are simple: Mr. Sherrard, another make decisions, so I was both of our new Physical Educa- “I want them to try their best and new addition to Huntington inspired by him to be a tion teachers are welcomed with work to their best ability.” High School’s teaching staff, is teacher.” open arms. With their guidance In addition, Ms. Schaef- also making a big impact on Greatly moved by his and effort, the gym program will fer’s has her own opinons on the Huntington’s physical education high school experiences, be a highlight of every student’s school’s Cross Fit program.She program. When asked about Sherrard is now begin- day. believes that it will help her stu- his arrival to the Huntington ning his community, eighth year he stated,“It’s as a physical been an easy education transition teacher. Comparison Donovan vs. Donovan By Leah Butz and Olivia Liepa Mr. Donovan Donovan Richardson 1987, July 20th, to be specific. I was born in When and where were you born? Good Samaritan Hospital in Islip in 1996. I don’t Oceanside, New York. want to give out my birthday.

I am going to go with a cultural answer, and say If you could have free, front-row concert Miranda Sings. She is a beautiful singer, she wears The Beatles. tickets to any artist, alive or dead, who would red lipstick, and I encourage you to look her up. you choose?

When I was a kid I wanted to be a firefighter, and What do you want to do when you are older/ Study or teach language. Or learn about clas- now I want to write history books. Or I should say what did you want to be when you were a sic Roman culture. But that’s more of a major…I independently wealthy. don’t know what I want to be. kid? Justin Timberlake because dance moves beat In a battle between Justin Timberlake and Mr. Kim. Because he has bombs. Bombs rule all, nuclear weapons. I don’t know what moves Kim Kim Jong Un, who would win? unfortunately. Jong Un has.

In between. Open space with city access. City, rural, or in between? Not rural.

I’d like to see Prague in the winter with snow on Where is your dream vacation? I went to Mexico a few years ago, so maybe there the ground, around Christmastime. again. Anywhere with good food, sun, and a nice room. No, unless you start grooming them. Do you consider eyebrows facial hair? I don’t know. But they are. Because it’s on your face.

I’d like to know what it is like to be president, and If you could be one person in the entire I want to be myself, but if I wanted to be another I’d like to be alive during the 1800s, so Abraham world, alive or dead, for a day, who would it person…I don’t know, Harry Potter? Lincoln. But not on April 14th. be? Vapid. One school appropriate word to describe Beautimous. (beautiful and fabulous at the same Miley Cyrus. time)

Fall, because I like to layer and wear sport coats. If the whole year was one season, what sea- I would want it to be…May. That’s not a season. son would you want it to be? Late spring. May can be Memorial Day/beach day or it can be wet. The Dispatch 6 NOVEMBER13 Huntington Trendsetters Share Their Secrets By Bridget Walsh Top Fall Trends By Bridget Walsh Fashion-forward seniors like the shirt so much I have yet traditional colors of tan/brown , to make them more young and Anthony Puca and Gabby Man- to wear it; I’m just waiting for the black, dark blue, gray. modern looking. I find them to In the News driota light up the halls of Hun- perfect opportunity. be so comfy and easy to wear. tington High School with their What are your favorite places to They go with practically every- bold outfit choices and individual What is one fall trend (or any shop at? thing! 1) Monochrome White styles.The Dispatch sat down recent trend) that you like? with the two trend- AP: I really don’t have a specific What decade do you draw the 2) Dark Emeralds and setters and spoke favorite place to shop; I’ll stop at most inspiration from and why? Hunter Greens to them about what any store that has a sale going on fuels their interest or has something that catches my GM: I draw the most inspira- in fashion and why eye. I often find myself in Brooks tion from the 50's, but I do adore 3) Tweed Coats, Pants and they wear what they Brothers , Macy’s, Banana Repub- retro 60's apparel too! I like Skirts wear. lic, or online shopping at J-Crew. these decades and their styles We started with Mr. because of the positive sides of 4) Color Block Puca. Next, we talked with Gabby Man- the popular culture during these driota about her fashion advice times and the upbeat nature of Who or what gives and experience. many things produced during 5) Tartan EVERYTHING you inspiration for these eras. I love to twirl around what you wear and Who or what gives you inspira- in skirts that fall below my knees Top 10 Fall Fashion Trends why? tion for what you wear and why? and dresses with quirky retro bits at HHS make me smile. I believe clothes AP: My cloth- GM: I draw inspiration from were made so much better back ing style has been everything and anything that in these decades and the clothes 1) Maxi Skirts inspired from a makes me happy! Since a lot of from back then are just so much variety of places. vintage-y things make me happy, fun to wear! I like wearing skirts 2) Sperrys Growing up I was I love to wear vintage styles and I and dresses from the 50's and taught to always love bright, fun colors and differ- mod, fun retro looks from the 3) Skater Skirts look presentable. I was brought AP: Although not a fall trend, ent novelty prints. For example, 60's but I change it up all the time up looking at my older brother floral shirts are definitely my -fa flowers and polka dots make me and I do love modern styles too! and other elder relatives who vorite trend and were a big trend happy, so 4) Combat Boots dress the way I do. As a kid, for the past summer. I have al- naturally I Where are seeing what they wore every day ways loved floral shirts and have have lots of your favor- 5) Green Army Jackets & just made me believe that that’s many of them in my closet. They pieces that ite places to Vests how all old people dress. I have are pretty to look at and almost show it! shop? always been a fan of long sleeved have a relaxing effect. Whenever shirts and pants no matter what I wear them, one of my friends What is GM: I have too 6) Cross-Body Bags the weather is like. This is also always makes a joke and asks if your favor- many favor- another influence for what I wear. I’m going to Hawaii. Floral shirts ite thing to ite places to 7) Anything High-Waisted Being that all my long sleeved t- are a trend that will never go out wear? pick up new shirts (and short sleeved ones for of style. goodies for that matter) all have either holes GM: My my closet, but 8) Denim Vests in the armpit or the permanent What is one trend that you dis- vintage some of my smell of the wrestling room my like? daisy pin is favorite places 9) Traditional RayBan Club- only option for shirts are the ones my favorite to shop are masters & Wayfarers I wear. I also avoid being called AP: I wouldn’t say there is a trend thing of vintage ap- the worst possible insult because that I strongly dislike, but there all and I parel shops in of my outfit… “A Bum”. is one that I wouldn’t call my cherish it NYC (Vintage And of course... favorite. This trend is the highly with all my Thrift Shop on What is your favorite piece of popular colored pants. Although heart. 3rd Ave is a 10) A lanyard with car key clothing you own? I own a couple pairs myself, I am favorite!), Modcloth.com, H&M, coming out of one’s pocket still not a huge fan of the trend. I What is one fall trend (or any AP: My favorite article of cloth- feel that they add too much to the recent trend) that you like? Beacon's Closet, and C. Wonder. ing has to be one of my Donald outfit which subsequently takes Trump Shirts. It’s Rosewood away from it. However, they can GM: I can't get enough of the colored with a white collar and look nice if worn with the right circle skirt trend! Circle skirts in cuffs. It is my favorite because I shirt (and if the shirt is tucked longer lengths were all the rage in love shirts with the white collars/ into them). I have no problem the 50's and I love how stores like cuffs and it has a nice contrast with people who wear them, I American Apparel and Urban with the darker color. In fact, I am just a bigger fan of the more Outfitters have shortened them

The Dispatch examines . . .

1) The X-Factor- “It’s a 1) American Idol- You’re not going yes from me.” to Hollywood! What’s What’s 2) Pumpkin Spice Lattes- 2) Cowboy boots- Hot They’re so hot, you’ll burn your tongue! Not Yipee-kai-NO! 3) Miley Cyrus- We Can’t Stop listening 3) Yolo- More like to her new album! ‘yoNO’!

4)Ankle boots- They’ll knock your socks off! 4) New York Giants- They’re only halfway through the season but 5) Apple Products- For the creative. the Giants are already feeling blue.

6) Rainbow Looms- They’ll brighten up 5) Backpacks with your day! Speakers- A school sup- ply that’s a little too loud 7) Grand Theft Auto 5- What a steal! and proud. The Dispatch NOVEMBER137 Huntington Blue Devil Marching Band

By Hanae Wada

On October 6th 2013, tion. “The home show went really Walt Whitman Marching Band of the HBDMB had not expected in the marching band. the Huntington High School’s well!” Brass Captain their last home show to be The HBDMB had raised Blue Devil Marching band hosted Brianna Kirkland rainy and foggy. Rain and about $15,000 that will go to the a band competition on their own stated. “Everyone had fog occurred during the marching band’s funds for new home field. Every two years the an intense attitude whole show but this had equipment and other accessories. HBDMB hosts their own “home and everyone was not stopped anyone from Tickets were sold at the gate for show” which allows bands from on their game.” The having a great perfor- $6 each and each food ticket was long island come to their high HBDMB’s division mance. Senior and Field sold for 50 cents each. “The food school. This has been a huge and had two competitors Major Michael Stafford was delicious! The band parent successful event throughout the in this past Sunday’s replied, “Performing at my association was fully prepared years. competition. The Sa- last home show was sober- and all of the students and staff Eight different bands chem Marching Band ing, but it has been a great cannot thank them enough for from around long island com- and the Walt Whit- time and couldn’t have their great work”, stated Michael peted including special guest man Marching Band asked for a better perfor- Stafford. Come support the HB- “Eastport South Manor” and of had competed against mance.” There were 24 DMB at all their future perfor- course the Huntington Marching each other. The Sachem March- scored a 73.50. seniors and 28 juniors that were mances! Band that performed in exhibi- ing Band scored a 77.95 and the The seniors and juniors recognized for their participation

The Evolution of Hip-Hop From block parties to one of America’s most popular genres By Natalie Lanzisero Hip-Hop Playlist By Era Hip-Hop culture began verbal and non-verbal interaction number one on the Billboard at block parties in the Bronx, between speaker and listener.” charts. In the mid 1980’s to 1. Rapper’s Delight- The Sugarhill Gang (1979) New York during the 1970’s. DJ’s To begin this rap move- early 1990’s, a new age of hip hop enjoyed the crowd’s reaction to ment, DJ Kool Herc and Coke La emerged; The Golden Age of Hip 2. Nunk- Warp 9 (1982) popular songs that they played Rock delivered verbal raps and Hop. and began to extend the songs by poetry verses over funk music This was characterized 3. The Message- Grandmaster Flash (1982) using turntables. They length- beats. These DJ’s were two of the by the “mainstream” hip-hop ened the instrumental beats of few rappers to gain recognition music which was often influ- 4. It’s Like That- Run D.M.C. (1983) the song through techniques in New York City during the ‘70s. enced by jazz. Artists include such as scratching and beat mix- Initially, most rappers Boogie Down Productions, Eric 5. I Know You Got Soul- Eric B. & Rakim (1987) ing and matching. Sometimes the who gained recognition were B. & Rakim, De La Soul, A Tribe DJ would speak small verses such part of groups. It wasn’t until the Called Quest, and Gang Starr. 6. Bring The Noise- Public Enemy (1987) as “yes” and “y’all” during these 1980’s that the number of solo In the 1990’s the East vs instrumental breaks in order to hip-hop artists began to grow. West rivalry intensified. The West 7. Going Back to Cali- LL Cool J (1988) keep the crowd going. Artists of the old school hip coast was represented by Tupac 8. Hey Ladies- Beastie Boys (1989) 9. Me, Myself, and I- De La Soul (1989) 10. Fear of a Black Planet- Public Enemy (1990) 11. Scenario- A Tribe Called Quest (1992) 12. Nuthin’ But A ‘G’ Thang- Dr. Dre ft. Snoop Doggy Dogg (1992) 13. Player’s Ball- OutKast (1994) 14. Runnin’- The Pharcyde (1995) 15. Big Pimpin’- Jay-Z (2000) 16. Ms. Jackson- OutKast (2001) 17. Lose Yourself- Eminem (2002) 18. In da Club- 50 Cent (2003) 19. Through the Wire- Kanye West (2003) Eventually, rappers, also know as hop generation include Public Shakur, Snoop Dogg, Jurassic 5, MC’s, would begin speaking lyri- Enemy, Rakim, and Warp 9, all and People Under the Stairs. The 20. Public Service Announcement- Jay-Z (2003) cally or with rhymes about the of whom took advantage of up East Coast was dominated by art- hardships of life. Hip-hop artists and coming technology like the ists including De La Soul, A Tribe 21. Jesus Walks- Kanye West (2004) also criticized the popular music drum machine, which was used Called Quest, Wu-Tang Clan, genre at the time, disco, referring to synthesize never before heard Nas, and Notorious B.I.G; and to it as “watered-down, Europe- beats. as of the late 1990’s the Wu-Tang anized music that permeated the In 1983-84, LL Cool J Clan dominated the hip-hop airways...” and Run DMC became the face charts. traditional stereotypes of rap, ists who have been placed in this However, some rappers of the New School hip hop wave. Hip-Hop of 2000-2010 such as gangsta, hardcore, pop, genre. Today, new artists such as were influenced by the music This new school era included less includes much music produced and party rap. Wale, J. Cole, Lupe Fiasco, and and used the beats as backdrops funk themed music and more in- by Dr. Dre including albums by Instead, they blur genres Jay Electronica have sited ‘90s to their verses. Many were also spirations taken from rock music. Eminem and 50 Cent. In recent - drawing equally from funk and rappers as their sole inspirations. inspired by popular African Hip-hop music contin- years alternative hip-hop has rock, as well as jazz, soul, reggae, American jazz poetry and used ued to gain tremendous popular- been wildly popular. Alternative country, electronica. a call and response technique ity and in 1986, The Beastie Boy’s rap refers to hip hop groups that Kanye West, OutKast, which is defined as “spontaneous album Licensed To Ill reached refuse to conform to any of the Gnarls Barkley, and Jay-Z are art- The Dispatch 8 NOVEMBER13 Hidden in the Shadows 2013-2014 Staff Editors-in-Chief Why the Homecoming Half-Time Show Has to Change Charles Beers Brian J. McConnell Contributing Staff Class officers were devastated at half- was disappointing,” said one class advisor, “It was time of the Homecoming Day football game disjointed and difficult to catch.” Copy Editors on September 28, when the announcement of So the question remains: What measures Marc Feldman and Brian Gilbert their parade floats must be taken to prop- News and Features Editor was lost over the erly recognize both the Donovan Richardson roar of the crowd. winners of the competi- Entertainment Editors Despite being one tion and the Huntington Katie DuVal, Asar Nadi, Natalie Lanzisero of the staples of the student government as Graphics Editors day’s colorful festivi- a whole? The answer is Chaz Ruggieri ties, the floats and simple: Cut back. The Spanish Editor their creators were Highsteppers, the Color Victor Tellez not fully recognized Guard, and the presenta- for their weeks of tion of the Homecoming Technology Editor intense preparation. King and Queen all had Joe Saginaw Unlike plenty of time to carry out Sports Editor years before, when their respective routines Gabe Smith the floats received to completion. Only five Jean Abecassis, Leah Butz, China Celestin, Michelle their own time slot minutes would be needed D’Alessandro, Kaitlin Dayton, Tommy Dayton, Alyssa De- during the half to bring the officers onto voe, Fiona Geier, Ryan Goldsmith, Will Harris, Megan time show, this year’s audience struggled to the field, read off the descriptions of the indi- Healy, Lenni Joya, Olivia Liepa, Lily Morris, Ben Nikodem, hear the game’s announcer awkwardly try to vidual floats, and properly announce the winners Madi Riggs, Chaz Ruggieri, Howie Schiman, Mike Stafford, squeeze in the descriptions of the floats in without the distraction of the actual game. Hanae Wada, Bridget Walsh, Brendan Wirth between plays. The As Ms. transitions were Dillon, the ju- Advisors poorly executed nior class advi- Ms. Aimee Antorino and Mr. Edward Florea and the final an- sor and school nouncement of the librarian, stated, The Dispatch is Huntington High School’s official junior class’ victory “I think all the student publication. Written for over 1200 students was drowned out by kids deserve attending HHS, The Dispatch is distributed to all stu- the cheers following credit and our dents, staff and school community members at the a successful de- class in particu- school free of charge. fensive stop by the lar. We broke Blue Devil football the tradition of The Editorial Board is the newspaper’s decision-mak- squad. winning two ing body, organizing and directing its operation. The Both teach- years in a row Dispatch staff has adopted the following editorial poli- ers and students as underclass- cy to express the rights, responsibilities and philosophy alike, most of men.” Clearly, of the newspaper for the 2012-2013 school year. whom spent long in order to fully hours over many recognize the The Dispatch of Huntington High School is a public weekends crafting accomplish- forum, with its student editorial board making all deci- flowers and con- ments of Hun- sions concerning its content. Unsigned editorials ex- structing wooden structures, were dissatisfied tington’s stars off the field, a change in the half press the views of the majority of the editorial board. by how the announcements panned out. “It time show is a must.

Letters to the editor are welcomed and will be published as space allows. Letters are preferred signed, but may be published by request. The Editorial Board reserves the right to edit letters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws governing obscenity, Join libel, privacy, and disruption of the school process, as are all contents of the paper. Questions, comments, and letters to the editor should be sent electronically to [email protected] or submitted to The Dispatch mailbox located in the main office.

Opinions in letters are not necessarily those of the staff, nor should any opinion expressed in a public forum be construed as the opinion of the administration, unless so attributed. TAKE PICTURES! The Dispatch’s goal is to provide readers with interesting content in a wide variety of areas. Such areas SUPPORT YOUR SCHOOL! include the news coverage of school and community events, as well as features on relevent topics. In addition, The Dispatch will provide opinionated editorials on controversial topics, as well as provide previews and reviews for upcoming school and professional sports seasons and other forms of entertainment. The Dispatch accepts advertisements from local busi- WRITE! nesses and student organizations. The basic rate for advertisements can be provided on request to any interested organization. Requests for specific pricing, and examples of past advertising may be requested via e-mail through [email protected]. The Editorial Board reserves the right to refuse any advertisement deemed inappropriate, specifically those that reference illegal or controlled substances, products, services and/ or paraphernalia. E-mail [email protected] Mr. Florea, Ms. Antorino, or one of The Dispatch’s editors if you wish to place an ad in the paper.

The Dispatch 10 NOVEMBER13 Critic’s Corner Mister Death’s Blue Eyed Girls Review By Asar Nadi Have you ever Some may wonder life by using the details of a thought about revenge? Not about these questions, but true crime. the TV show, but something may not have answers. Well, Mister Death’s Blue- “By adding secrets, especially murder, similar. Mary Downing Hahn’s novel Eyed Girls, a novel taking Would you consider practically answers all of these place during the 1950s, shows Hahn is able to write about teenagers’ yourself a rule-breaker and questions and brings them to the point of view of different everyday life and what they go through love the thrill characters, one of of never been whom is the killer. naturally.” caught? Do you The different point enjoy watching of views really cap- those TV shows ture Hahn’s mind Hahn is able to keep the story the killer, one must think like about detectives about death and going no matter the conse- a killer and be able to predict from the 1920s what life would quences. their next move. One down- or the 1950s? be like for others By adding secrets, side of this novel is the cliché Have you ever if they ever lost a especially murder, Hahn love-triangle. This boy likes wondered what loved one. still writes about teenagers’ that girl, but this girl doesn’t it would ever The imagery everyday life and what they go feel the same way even though feel like if two she creates al- through naturally. She adds they kissed and she can’t stop of your friends lows the reader to the love-triangle, the break- thinking about it. were found stream themselves up, the obsession of a girl, Typical love-scenarios murdered in the into the novel, problems between parents and where the girl likes the jock, park? Have you making the readers ,of course, the double homi- but makes out with her friend. ever thought believe they were cide. Nothing more and nothing about what it there while it all The novel itself is a special or dramatic about it. would be like to happened. bit predictable, but not over- If you’re the type to be smarter than She also the-top. Although trying to watch cop shows like Rizzoli the police like takes the minds of keep the plot twisting, Hahn’s & Isles, Criminal Minds, Mo- some serial kill- teenagers and uses way of foreshadowing really tive, or even Hannibal, then ers? Have you their moods to cre- captures the mind of the killer. try reading Mister Death’s ever wondered ate the setting even By leaving all other Blue-Eyed Girls for a mystery what the nice more. By creating characters’ very predict- that is captivating and inter- kid might do on each teenager with able, Hahn allows the killer esting to follow. a warm, dark different minds to remain unpredictable. In summer night? and different goals, order to get into the mind of The Dispatch Playlist By Leah Butz and Olivia Liepa

In the mood for some 4. Pentatonix – “Don’t You new tunes? Well, we have the Worry Child” (Swedish House 9. New Found Glory – “Love- playlist for you! Today we Mafia cover) fool” (The Cardigans cover) How Our QR Tag System Works bring you covers! While many hard-core fans may dislike their favorite song being recreated by a different band, us here at the Dispatch are more open minded. Here are our top ten, in no par- ticular order: 5. Ellie Goulding – “Your Song” 10. Of Monsters and Men – (Elton John cover) “Skeletons” (Yeah Yeah Yeahs 1. Fall Out Boy – “Beat It” (Mi- cover) chael Jackson cover)

Originally created held devices with built-in for the auto industry by Toy- cameras that can be used to ota, Quick Response (QR) read the QR codes. To turn 6. Koji – “The Longer I Lay codes were used to track your smartphone into a QR Here” (Pedro the Lion cover) progress and part movement code reader, it is necessary 2. Daughter – “Get Lucky” around the manufacturing to download an app such as (Daft Punk cover) Now, we know that plant. Qrafter or QR Reader, many there are many great covers out But, recently QR of which are free from the there, but these are just some of Codes (Tags) have become various app stores. our personal favorites. So just more ubiquitous in maga- In this issue of The kick back, relax, and enjoy a zines, catalogs, and adver- Dispatch and all further 7. Mumford & Sons – “Eng- “new” song. tisements. QR codes are also issue we will be posting land” (The National cover) beginning to appear more these QR tags throughout frequently on campus print our paper to link you to 3. Bayside – “Wild Night” (Van and digital signage to bridge more information regarding Morrison cover) the physical world with the the article. This could be a online world. Note that QR link to a song that’s being codes can be used to share reviewed, a link to a video, any alphanumeric informa- a photo slide show, a docu- 8. Rise Against – “Anyway You tion and function similar to ment etc. Want It” (Journey cover) the common barcodes on Please download merchandise. one of the above mentioned The increasing use apps, scan the included QR of QR codes has benefited Codes and enjoy.! from the growing popularity of smartphones and hand- The Dispatch NOVEMBER13 11 NFL Midseason Preview Which Teams Have Guaranteed Their Super Bowl Tickets? By Will Harris

A new season of NFL My projections for the against the Indianapolis Colts Brees and head coach Sean ahawks were 8-0 at home in 2012 football is finally upon us. Foot- AFC East division are the New because of Ed Reed’s signing, the Payton, who has returned from and their home turf is the hardest ball fans have been waiting five England Patriots winning the di- great defensive force of J.J Watt last year’s year-long suspension stadium for an away team to win very long months since the Super vision by finishing the season at and the always dangerous in, due to the intensity of Bowl for the excitement to wide receiver Andre the fans and the motivation begin. Many of the teams Johnson. that the Seahawks get when have big changes to their To wrap up the they play at home. rosters from last year, espe- AFC, the West’s win- The wild card win- cially the defending Super ner will be the Denver ners in the AFC will be Bowl champs the Baltimore Broncos. I think they’ll the Indianapolis Colts and Ravens. The Ravens have run away with their the defending champs, the lost some key players like division and finish the Baltimore Ravens while Ray Lewis, who has officially season at 13-3, earning in the NFC the San Fran- retired from the NFL after 17 a first round bye in the cisco 49ers and the Atlanta Hall of Fame caliber seasons. playoffs along with the Falcons will snatch the wild Also, Ed Reed, a 9-time Pro New England Patriots. card spots. Bowl safety and another In the othert divi- For the playoffs, the future Hall of Famer has signed 11-5 and getting a first round bye sion, the NFC East winner will from the Saints participation in Denver Broncos and the In- with the Houston Texans. in the playoffs. The Patriots will be the Dallas Cowboys who will the pay-for-performance bounty dianapolis Colts will meet in the Other teams have also win because they still have one finish at 9-7 because of Pro Bowl programs. The Saints will finish AFC Conference Championship experienced changes like the New of the best quarterbacks in the wide receiver, Dez Bryant and at 12-4 and receive a first round Game. The Colts will upset the York Jets, who drafted quarter- league called Tom Brady who will their defense led by Demarcus bye. The last division in the NFC, Patriots in the second round to back Geno Smith out of West make any receiver on his team Ware. the NFC’s Western division, will get to the semi-finals. In the NFC Virginia University. Smith and look great result in Se- Conference Championship Game his rookie counterpart EJ Manu- because of attle Seahawk will include the New Orleans el, who the Buffalo Bills drafted his natural “The Super Bowl will pit the New Orleans Saints domination, Saints and the Seattle Seahawks. from Florida State University, quarter- against the Denver Broncos. The two offensive power- witha 12-4 The Super Bowl will pit the New will be the starting quarterbacks backing record and a Orleans Saints against the Denver this season due to the injury to talent. houses will overwhelm their opponents in the confer- fist round bye Broncos. The two offensive pow- Mark Sanchez on the Jets and the ence championship games. “ in the playoffs. erhouses will overwhelm their departure of Ryan Fitzpatrick in The AFC The Seahawks opponents in the conference Buffalo. North win- defense is only championship games. The winner These rookies will have ner will be the start of my of Super Bowl XLVIII in East their hands full this season with the Cincinnati Bengals at 10-6 The NFC North winner hypothesis that they will win the Rutherford, NJ at Metlife Sta- their teammates counting on because of their explosive defense will be the defending division division. Cornerback Richard dium will be the Denver Broncos them to make the playoffs. The led by defensive tackle Geno winners, the Green Bay Packers Sherman will lead what will be led by the MVP of the game and team to watch this year is the Atkins and newly signed outside at 11-5. Quarterback Aaron Rod- the best defense in the NFL. The regular season Peyton Manning. Denver Broncos with their newly linebacker James Harrison. Also, gers will lead the Packers along Seahawks running game is very While nothing is set in stone, it acquired wide receiver from the big wide receiver threat of A.J with his stellar receiving core strong with running back Mar- is clear that the Broncos will be a the New England Patriots, Wes Green. will make the Bengals a that includes Randal Cobb, Jordy shawn Lynch. Second year quar- strong force in the postseason. Welker,. This star addition led the formidable squad. Nelson and James Jones. terback Russell Wilson will have But, win or lose, this NFL in receptions last year. He’ll In the AFC South the The NFC South will another great year at quarterback winter will feaure a playoff spec- give Peyton Manning another Houston Texans are my pick to have the New Orleans Saints just like in his rookie year. The tacle that no one will ever forget. great target along with Demary- win the division by finishing at finishing on top because of the best advantage for the Seahawks ius Thomas and Eric Decker. 11-5 by winning the tiebreak re-uniting of quarterback Drew is their home stadium. The Se- Huntington Strikes Back Against Cancer How Girls Varsity Soccer Made Their Mark on the Homecoming Parade By Megan Healy

The parade is more than for Cancer game,” says Emily of the day. Another member of money that we did.” raised for their Kicks for Can- just an annual fun homecom- Saltman, a proud member of the of the team, junior Katy Laurie, The team unanimously cer game. One game out of the ing event where many students girls’ soccer team. claims, “People are really great credited this monstrous achieve- season is selected for the team gather together to show school The crowd was very and giving.” Freshman Camille ment to the numerous people to wear pink jerseys represent- spirit. It is an opportunity to ing their support for the fight help those who are experiencing against cancer. Kicks for Cancer one of the most traumatic dis- originated in Hauppauge when eases in today’s society – cancer. a junior, Courtney Tomkin was Members of Hunting- diagnosed with brain cancer. ton’s Girls Varsity Soccer team The money is then donated to the marched the parade through organization that helped Tomkin. Huntington Village, collecting Tomkin passed away in Decem- small donations from the crowd ber of 2008 at the age of seven- and supporting Huntington’s teen. Ever since, Hauppauge homecoming festivities. All and schools all over the island, together, the team raised over including Huntington, have par- seven hundred dollars in just an ticipated in the Kicks for Cancer hour and a half. fundraiser to help support those In preparation for the who have been diagnosed with march, the girls gathered pink cancer. bags and made posters illustrat- Make sure to continue ing their goal for the parade. In donating to the girls varsity team pairs, they held their posters in their fundraising efforts, and high and bags open, shouting always remember their cause. to the crowd to donate to Kicks While cancer may seem like an for Cancer. “There were a lot of supportive of the team. Not even Stafford said that “if it wasn’t for that came out to support Hun- unconquerable part of life, we people to support Huntington the team itself could have pre- the generous crowd attending the tington on its big day. can always stand together and High School and, better yet, dicted the staggering amount of parade, we would not have the Every penny earned by fight back. donate to HGVS and our Kicks money they achieved by the end opportunity to raise the amount this wonderful group of girls was Huntington DominatesSPORTS Suffolk Soccer Girls Varsity: An Epic Turnaround Boys Varsity’s Impossible Season By Mike Stafford By Joe Saginaw

The Huntington girl’s gan Mars and Emily Saltman. Moreno was injured, but the girls Ever since August, on “We were the only ones varsity soccer team has a lot to be This year’s team is com- fought hard and tied the game by the hot turf field of Blue Devil who believed we could achieve cheering about this season. Led posed of twenty-one players. a goal by Katie Reilly. The team Stadium, you could find soccer so much, now we’ve got thou- by head coach Mr. Walsh and There are seven seniors, nine ju- kept fighting and made incredible players conditioning and training sands behind us, and we’re not assistant coach Mr. Tannazzo, niors, four sophomores and one plays on defense, which included for the season to come. Most of finished,” senior sweeper Alex the girls have compiled a 7-2-3 freshman. Although on some great saves by Kaitlin Wascher. them could tell you they were Castillo stated, who leads Hun- record. teams underclassmen may spell However, despite many opportu- awaiting a great season, that they tington’s defense that let a mini- While the team looks problems with chemistry, the nities on offense, they could not couldn’t wait to start playing, and mal 12 goals by them in non- forward to a successful 2014 girl’s soccer team has embraced capitalize and the game ended in that they were league games, season, they can’t help but be their new recruits. Summer Rud- a tie after two overtimes. Even looking forward playoffs, and upset about this year’s playoffs. ish, a senior midfielder, states, though the match was completed to getting closer the regular However, no one can deny the “I’m really proud of the team for later in October and ended with with their fellow season. tremendous strides the team has going so far this year. We have a 1-1 tie, there is no denying teammates. made over the course of the sea- become a little family and it has that the varsity season was full But Huntington’s son, becoming one of the league’s made for a great time.” This of highlights. With large crowds none of them offense netted top teams. “family” atmosphere has pulled full of spirit and energized play, could’ve told 30 goals this these games were always you that the season, and 7 memorable for both Huntington of those came the fans and the players Boys Var- from German sity Soccer team exchange themselves. would make student The playoff its farthest run TJ Becker game was one of the in the playoffs who helped best games they’ve ever since the 1980’s. breathe new played according to sev- life into the eral of the team’s play- Huntington squad upon ers. “While we played was seeded his arrival. our hearts out, we just No. 15 in the Senior didn’t get the results county, a less desirable seed than Byron Velasquez and Juniors Dan we wanted,” said team they deserved, but after the way Reiver and Stephen Shivers have captain Megan Healy. games have recently played out, all come off the bench to make a Overall, the girl’s it has turned into a positive. Last difference in games this season. varsity team played Saturday, in an out bracket game, Although their semi exceptionally well this Huntington defeated Comse- final game ended in a heartbreak- season. The team’s suc- wogue by a score of 1-0. This past ing 1-0 loss, no one can deny The team has a ferocious defense the players through even the cess cannot be attributed to one Tuesday, in a round of 16 game, that Huntington boys varsity had that has been one of their keys most pressured situations, allow- player, as it is a team effort and Huntington ousted No. 2 seed an incredible run. With thier to success. Led by center backs, ing them to forget about winning cooperation that has inspired Half Hollow Hills West, 1-0. teamwork and dedication, the Megan Healy and Sam Lynch, or losing and just to have fun. them to become one of Suffolk In one of the biggest team played with unrivaled dter- outside backs, Naomi Medina Although many of their County’s best. If the regular sea- wins for the Huntington Soccer mination. The impossible season and Alex Koumas, and goalie practices and home games have son was any indication, it seems program, Ricky Velasquez scored may be over, but Huntington’s Taylor Moreno, the team has been at Breezy Park, they had a that this spirit and determination the winner with 15 minutes to success will live on, cementing shut out opponents seven times, very memorable game on the fa- will continue in the future and, play. The most recent win was at their legacy as one of suffolk’s which is a testament to their miliar fields at Huntington High with the help of their impen- the home field of one of Hunting- best squads. As central midfielder skills. The team also has strong School. After the school’s intense etrable defense, hopefully secure ton’s biggest rivals: Hauppauge. Wilson Martinez, in an attempt leadership from its senior core, pep rally, the girls battled against postseason victories when 2014 Anfernee “Royce” Lopez scored to be inspirational, said : which includes Megan Healy, Kings Park. The game seemed comes around. the only goal of the game in the “Impossible is nothing.” Naomi Medina, Kim Smith, Sum- bleak when Kings Park scored first half and Huntington held off mer Rudish, Molly Brambil, Mor- an early goal and goalie Taylor the hosts to win 1-0. Black and Blue: Is the Giants’ Situation Hopeless? By Gabe Smith

The New York Giants 38-0 to the Panthers and 31-7 to with their performance so far. are one of the proudest and most the Chiefs. That’s simply embar- Varsity football assistant coach renowned football Ron Wilson says of his favorite “The players that are tasked with protecting Eli teams in the NFL. team, “First of all it’s depressing Manning have failed miserably, especially since Despite being the to see them open the season with owners of four Lom- zero wins. The defense isn’t play- key players such as David Baas and Chris Snee bardi trophies, they ing well, and when the defense have gone down with injuries. ” have been an utter isn’t playing well it’s hard for the disaster so far in the offense to find the end zone . . . 2013 season. This week is a must-win game For the or else some folks are gonna be boys in blue and red fi re d .” Peyton, Eli needs time to make a total of 15 picks; at his current it’s been eight games There are several people decisions. Peyton has always had rate he’ll more than double 2012’s and six losses to to fault for the team’s shortcom- great offensive lines, which is sum. date: not exactly the ings. Some of those people can what Eli needs.” While the Giants’ situa- way that the 2011 be found in the offensive line. The ailing offensive line tion is certainly pathetic, it is not Super Bowl champs The players that are tasked with has yielded an alarming number without hope. Their division is expected to start protecting Eli Manning have of sacks thus far, a majority of having a very lackluster season off their season. In failed miserably, especially since those coming from the Giants’ as well, with no clear winner in short, it’s been an key players such as David Baas pounding at the hands of the sight. All four teams are strug- ugly first half. and Chris Snee have gone down Carolina Panthers. Eli’s lack gling to stay over .500, giving the Not only with injuries. of time to make decisions has Giants plenty of opportunities have they dropped “I don’t think it’s Eli’s caused him to throw league- to get right back into the playoff the first quarter fault the offensive line has been leading numbers of interceptions, race. of their schedule but in three rassing. Some of Huntington awful,” said avid Giants fan and making him the king of the quar- If the Giants can put to- of those six defeats they were High School’s staff are fans of the health teacher Mr. Agnello. “He’s terback’s least wanted statistic. gether a string of wins,they’ll be pummeled: 41-23 to the Broncos, Big Blue and they weren’t pleased had to force the issue. Just like In 16 games last year Eli threw right back in the thick of things.