FalconaireA Publication of Monmouth Regional High School sepTeMBeR/ocToBeR 2007 • volUMe 45 • issUe 01

opinions sports features Although Mrs. Marlene Kroel world news Walking through the hallways, students The boys put themselves with worked at Monmouth Regional for “The trips to Uganda are the most greet each other by holding up their index this group of powerhouses when 17 years, she worked as a teacher fulfilling experience of my life,” says and middle finger, and yelling “peace out!” they won the B-North division for for over 40, teaching every grade Ms. White. the first time in twenty-five years. andi ask myself if these words are genuine. from Kindergarten to high school. – page 03 – page 05 – page 04 – page 06 Relaying a Good Message evan Gallinetti staff Writer rom HEIFER International largest fund-raising team at Mater to Support the Troops to Dei for the second year in a row. F“painting the school pur- While at Relay for Life, MRHS ple,“ Monmouth Regional stu- also won the team spirit award dents are big on lending a hand for being the most involved and for charities. After just two years having the most participants. of being involved in the national Students began raising Relay for Life, a fundraiser that money a month before the actual benefits the American Cancer relay. Students received donations Society, who knew that MRHS individually from family, friends, would be the leading school in and neighbors, and raised money earning money for its region? collectively through a car wash. Relay for Life is an an- For an important event like Relay nual overnight event in which for Life, every donation counts. teams of participants take turns “The cause is very im- walking a track all night long. portant to me,” says Rachael The marathon of sorts is de- Kenney, the class of 2007 or- signed to recognize survivorship ganizer who brought Relay for and raise money for research and Life to Monmouth Regional in programs for ACS. This past 2005. “I’ve known several people year, Monmouth sent 12 teams whose lives have been severely of varying sizes to walk at Mon- affected by cancer- and because mouth County’s regional relay, the event is so much fun. It which was held at Mater Dei brings people together while rais- Photo by Evan Gallinetti High School in June. The 100- ing both awareness and money.” above are just eight of the 100-plus MRHs students who camped out at Relay for life on June 15. plus MRHS students raised just Others who par- over $14,000 for the event. This ticipated in the event went “I felt like I was donating that my contributions helped out search,” says junior Taylor Savoca, made Monmouth Regional the simply to help others. to a good cause and I like to think families and doctors for more re- a team captain at the 2007 event. The Buzz at MRHS The latest from the first Prinicipal’s Advisory Committee meeting, Quiet policy to quell problems held on October 3. Katie Hieber sam pelissero staff Writer staff Writer here is no doubt but what the student must do to not a student should remain on • PSATs: Mr. Zorski of the career center has been generous enough to that the buzz at correct it.” Students on social social probation.” The committee pay the $13 fee for each member of the sophomore class to take the PSATs TMonmouth Regional probation must plead their case also decides what events the on October 17. Juniors are also able to take this test, but they must pay the is the new social probation to the Discipline Committee student can or cannot attend. fee. There will be a 2-hour-and-45 minute delay on this day for all other rule. However, after at a disciplinary hearing. The “I think it is a good idea, students not taking the test. interviewing students, it Discipline Committee is a but I don’t think it will affect the • Student IDs: Last year was the first year where wearing your student is clear that the student group of teachers who volunteer school,” says junior Skye Buck. ID was enforced and this year is no different. In order for students to be let body knows very little to serve as a liaison between “Although it will affect out of class at any time, they must have not only their passports but their about the new policy. the administration and the certain students, it will not have student IDs in a visible place. “The ID doesn’t have to be worn around your “I don’t really student on social probation. much of an affect on the rest neck. As long as it is on your person, you will be fine,” Mr. Teeple says. know what it is, but I guess “It is the Discipline of the student body,” Teeple • Safe Driving Class: In order for students to get a parking decal, it could be helpful,” says Committee’s job to evaluate the says, “Some students may they must attend a safe driving class offered during the year. The class will sophomore Elena Kokakais. student’s progress,” says Assistant even graduate from Monmouth be held in the PAC starting in December. The class informs students about Upon discovering Principal Larkin, “The Discipline Regional not knowing what it is.” all topics dealing with being a responsible driver. that the school’s discipline Committee decides whether or • Bonfire: October 19 is MRHS’s first bonfire since the mid-90s. At measures were ineffective one point there was an annual bonfire for all students and staff across the for some students, street from the 100 wing but since the tennis courts now occupy that space, Principal Teeple began the bonfire has been repositioned to the pop warner field in Tinton Falls. See researching some new Ms. DelloRusso for more information. ideas. He discovered that • New Telephone System: This year, our school has a new telephone other schools have been system. Now each teacher has his/her own voicemail for easy access for using social probation and parents and guardians. found it effective. “Social • School Building Improvements: Over the summer, the school has probation is simply another been renovated in few ways. The roof has been entirely torn off due to water avenue of punishment damage and a new roof was built. The roof of the 500 wing is the next while still keeping the to be repaired. Last year’s renovations on the 700 wing bathrooms were students in school,” he says. quite successful but the plan to renovate the remaining bathrooms came to Students who a halt when money ran out. Due to the immediate need of window repairs chronically misbehave are throughout the school, the bathrooms will just have to wait. prohibited from attending The next meeting is on November 14 for anyone interested in coming school functions such as to discuss school-wide topics. See Mr. Teeple for more information. dances, pep rallies, and assemblies. According to Photo by Sarah Boyd Teeple, “It does not ask what the teachers must tHe discipline committee met for its first meeting after school do to correct the problem, on october 3. 2 September/October 2007 new faces in the crowd Falconaire

Mrs. Carol Perdoni was once Mrs. Patricia Dorsey is a new “The atmosphere at MRHS is a student of MRHS but now she Ms. Jacqueline Ambrusz, Mrs. Gayle Fitzmaier heads the student aide at Monmouth. comfortable and a pleasant place comes back as a teacher’s aide. former student teacher and Monmouth Guidance Depart- Fun fact: she likes to go to to work”, says Ms. Tina Legere, “MRHS has changed...it has more new science teacher, graduated ment after 16 years in the biz. water parks. “One of my who is back after a two-year sports, clubs, and its curriculum from Monmouth University She also is an adjunct profes- favorites is Hurricane Harbor.” hiatus and teaches Algebra I, has become academically better.” with a degree in Biology, sor at Monmouth University. Of Math Lab 10, and Number Sense. and really enjoys working MRHS she says, “I’m delighted at Monmouth Regional. to join a school where guid- ance is positively regarded.”

Mr. Michael Illies, Mon- “I’m impressed with the mouth’s newest physics teacher, “For years I have loved reading Monmouth Regional Guidance has an unusual hobby: black- books and helping others get Department,” says new guidance Ms. Tenisha Gaines is the Mr. Michael Botti, returning smithing and metal work. information on topics involving secretary Mrs. Francine Special Education teacher, new Business Administrator literature,” says Ms. Joyce Reinecke. says he enjoys working at Secretary at Monmouth Regional. Little, MRHS’s new library aide. Monmouth because the students “Everyone is so nice, it’s a and staff are great. He also takes warm family atmosphere.” pleasure in coaching football.

Ms. Melanie Kasierman is the Mr. Roger Schneider, who newest teacher of Spanish I, III Mrs. Meredith McGee comes to is teaching chemistry, phys- and French I, II. “The people are Monmouth from Middletown High ics, and Science I this year, Ms. Lauren Ganely is a new friendly and helpful,” she says. School. She teaches special edu- New security guard Mr. cation and coaches the color guard. also will also be taking over the Frank Colachino graduated teacher in the English Department. Physics Club with Mr. Illies. from Lehigh University with Fun fact: she joined the Air National a Masters in political science. Guard right out of high school. When he is not coaching football or lifting weights, you will find him playing the bass guitar.

English teacher and football Mr. Sal Spampanato comes to coach may be an odd combina- Mr. Richard Lamberson, one Monmouth from Ocean Township tion, but Mr. Jason Morrell of Monmouth’s new health and High School. He is not only the makes it work. He loves the cre- This year, Mr. Ronald Horan physical education teachers, is new head coach for Falcon football, ative freedom English provides. is officially part of the staff, also a coach for Falcon football. he also teaches special education. teaching special education. Fun fact: he likes to go to the movies, Ms. Mary Daniels, new Board read books, and ride his bike. Office Assistant at Monmouth Not Regional, graduated from Wall High school with the Available class of 2002. “I really like the friendly vibe I get here for at Monmouth Regional.” Picture Mr. Daniel Wendel, a physical Mr. Todd Dziadosz, education and health teacher, was Ms. Hope Kotkin is a new Mrs. Cristina Nappi, a new Monmouth’s new IT tech- once a student of MRHS. “The student aide at Monmouth, English teacher this year, is in nician has an alter ego: he cafeteria has changed and the art and attended Mitchell Col- fact a MRHS graduate herself, is a drag racing photographer work has too, though the students’ lege and Brookdale College. and proud to be “hardcore and a member od the Eastern Monmouth Regional.” success has not changed.” Motorsport Press Association. Staff profiles compiled by Sarah Boyd, Sarah Cobuzzi, Keona George, Joe Maiullo, Robyn Olsen, Sam Pelissero, Julie Rutan, and Holly Tran The Falconaire Editorial Policy Editor in Chief Head of Photography Staff Writers Contributors The Falconaire will accept written and graphic material for pub- Sarah Boyd Francesca Martelli Thomas DenBleyker Farrah Alkhaleel Kevin Cruz Stephen Berner lication in the Falconaire from students, faculty, and administraters pro- Sports Editor Technology Editor Evan Gallinetti Allie Brady vided it is of interest and value. We reserve the right to reject any mate- Matthew DenBleyker Stephen Weber World News Editor Keona George Sarah Cobuzzi rial that we consider inappropriate. The Falconaire reserves the right to Adviser Katie Hieber Kristen Dellanno edit any material received for publication. Emalee Rodriguez Dawn Collett Arthur Lee Kyle Fagan Layout Team Joe Maiullo Kyle Higgins Statement of Purpose Sarah Boyd Sam Pelissero Tannu Kaur To provide a graphic forum of dialogue and expression. To pro- Micheller Futerfas Julie Rutan Katrina Keynton vide the school and community with information concerning the impor- Randy Strauss Holly Tran Michael Lee Christine Tynes Miranda Wyatt Robyn Olsen tant issues and activities pertaining to students, faculty, and administra- Chris Zweig Rosalia Palomino tion. To publish an interesting, readable newspaper satisfying the needs Rebecca Sauickie of the students and the Monmouth Regional community. Stephen Weber 3 September/October 2007 sports Falonaire Silencing the Doubters Kicking Into Gear Evan Gallinetti Staff Writer Matt DenBleyker Sports Editor sk any hen the 2007 foot- boys’ soc- ball team took the Acer player Wfield for their season what their goals are opener against RBR on Septem- for the season and ber 8, they were setting out for you will probably more than a win; they were also hear the same thing: trying to silence the doubters “Win the division, who thought that their record- win states, and win setting 2006 season was a fluke. Shore Conference.” This year Coach It may sound like a Sal Spampanato comes lot and it is; it takes a over from Ocean Town- lot of hard work and ship to take over the Falcons. dedication. The bar “I came to Monmouth because was set high after the it had the potential to become boys were predicted a consistently winning pro- Photo by Matt DenBleyker pre-season to win gram,” says Spampanato, “the the B-North division, breaks their midfield huddle at the pep rally. idea of me being able to be a The football team and were ranked part of that was very appealing.” number eight in the There are many new faces in On the coaching side tuted completely different offen- shore, a conference Falcon uniforms this year. Ju- Spampanato has surround- sive and defensive game plans. with some big boys’ nior Anthony Fruncillo takes ed himself with coaches that “We mostly just soccer powerhouses. Photo by Rosalia Palomino over as quarterback after the have plenty of experience. want to establish more disci- The boys put themselves with sink to the opponents level.” graduation of first team All Shore “I trust my coaches,” he pline on both sides of the this group of teams when they After the boys had a huge win quarterback Tom D’ambrisi. says, “I just let them do their jobs.” ball,” says Spampanato. won the B-North division for over Ocean Township on Sep- “I have big shoes to fill,” says Taking over the defense is Al- As for the annual the first time in twenty-five tember 20, a team that had not Fruncillo, “I worked with him in lei Kalakutok, who last year Thanksgiving game against his years. To keep the season going been scored on in its prior games, the off-season, so hopefully that was the defensive coordinator at old school, Spampanato says, “It at this rate, they have to “Work it was obvious that this statement will help me get closer to his level.” Neptune High School. Coaches always has been and is going to be hard, day in and day out,” says had been put into effect. How- Senior captains Jason Morell and John Key both a fun experience, but we are trying senior captain Tiago Dutra. Af- ever, there is one more thing that this year are Edrick Al- came over from Ocean Twp. to make it more about the seniors, ter Monmouth’s first loss of will make this a successful sea- leyne, Ryan Daly, Christian As for playing the and graduating them with a win.” the season, the boys realized son: team unity. “Play together Salcedo, and Joe Yglesias. game, Spampanato has insti- they had to step up their game. as one, as a team,” says Coach Fellow captain senior Eric Spadavecchia, “and the season Mackin says, “We have to will continue to be rewarding.” Fresh-en Up the Soccer Team play our own game and not Katie Hieber Flipping Into a New Season Staff Writer Thomas DenBleyker he girl’s varsity soccer “We work together, we Staff Writer team kicked off another practice together, and we laugh he 2007 gymnastics team next season.” Tseason on September 7 together,” says senior midfield- started off their season This year the with a 5-1 win over Matawan, er captain Fatima Mehdaoui. Twith a win over Jack- whole team and they are not done yet. Close friendships are son Liberty scoring 96 points is made up The team sets out with one goal not the only thing new to the for the first time since 2005. of all under- in mind: making it to states, team this year. This is a young Talk to the girls’ gymnastics c l a s s m e n , something not many people team. Five freshmen have been team coach, Mrs. Turner and she which shows think they can do. They plan accepted to play on the var- has set her goals high, “I want a lot of po- on proving them all wrong. sity level this year, and the ex- to get all the girls to post season tential for This year, however, the team ceptional skills of these new in at least one event,” she says. the years to has an advantage; the girls have players is adding greatly to Freshmen Valerie Morrotta and come. The formed strong bonds creating the roster. To balance out the Stephanie Skove, who attends girls started a family on and off the field. team there are six seniors, four Bio-tech high school, and juniors off well, go- “We are much closer as juniors, and one sophomore. Annie Hoang and Michelle Skove ing 4-3 in a team compared to other teams “It definitely shows have already qualified for the states. their first 7 I have been on,” says freshman that the young players in town This years captains are juniors meets and are midfielder Tara Patti. So what is are getting better,” says Coach Annie Hoang, Taylor Neis, and hoping for Photo by Rosalia Palomino it that makes this team so close? Chlapowski, “With help from Paulina Rodrigues. “We really the winning Junior gymnasts Michelle Skove and Kayleigh “We win together and hope to improve individually and to continue. soccer clubs like the Tinton Falls Rynar hang out at the pep rally. we lose together,” says junior Soccer Club, they will probably as a team,” says Rodrigues, “We forward Christina Fernandes, continue to improve over time.” want all of the girls to return “We are a family to one another.”

Mr. Larkin takes a break from his pie and watches his competitors *beat him in Fall Pep Rally pie eat- ing contest on Septem- ber 14.

Photo by Francesca Martelli 4 September/October 2007 features Falconaire Wish it, dream it, do it So you think Allie M. Brady Contributor you can dance? n the top of the hill, at in service of their country in Iraq. the intersection of West The main inspiration Arthur Lee & Miranda Wyatt OBangs avenue and Route behind Tegethoff’s project was Staff Writers 33 in Neptune, sits Holy Inno- the chance to honor the veterans chool is in and it’s time to dance. With homecoming right around the corner and future dances being cents Church and senior Steve who served their country, and Splanned, it is time to brush up on the latest hip-hop dances. Tegethoff’s Eagle Scout proj- the men and women fighting for ect. Tegethoff, of Fort Mon- the U.S. around the world today. mouth Troop 49, turned his It was a challenge he was will- Dances: So Basically: dream into a reality in just one ing to accept, and got through How it is Done: year with a little over $10,000, it with the strong support Two steps to the left. Two steps to “Shift from your right foot and the help of the community. of his family, friends, local 2 Step the right. Two steps back. Walk it to your left, in some kind piv- “I wanted to leave a mark veterans, and members of the parish. out. Then turn around. Do it again. ot step” -Chris Pico, senior. on the world,” he said, “some- “I’ve learned a lot about Put your hands together like a clap and close “You cup your hands and swing it over thing that would last a lifetime.” time management and working Aunt Jackie them to make a fist while bringing them to your right shoulder then swing like a The project itself is a with the community,” he says. your chest. Add your own flavor after that. baseball bat” -Kenny Collins, senior. veteran’s memorial garden on the Tegethoff has wasted grounds of Holy Innocents Church, no time over the past year as he Begin the raining motion with your hands “First you spirit fingers down your during the “Let it rain” and “clear it out” face. Then you stick both hands consisting of three flagpoles, a me- continues to be active in Boy Chicken portions of the song, repeat the raining mo- in front of your chest then spread morial stone with a bronze plaque Scouts by serving as treasurer tion around five times. (The raining motion your fingers like you’re moving listing the names of veterans of the Monmouth Council Or- is basically jazz hands, with your arms in a through a crowd. Shift feet like from the parish, park benches, a der of the arrow and continu- Noodle bent vertical position combined with slowly your hopping while continuously landscaped walkway, and two ing to rack up the merit badges. lowering your arms.) Move both arms from moving your arms from front to smaller memorial stones dedicat- “Being in scouts is reward- the front of your body, to the back, while back” -Tiffani Lee, sophomore. ed to two of the parish’s members ing,” he says, “An expe- Soup bouncing off of each foot from side to side who recently gave their lives while rience unlike any other.” during the “Let’s get it” portion of the song. Do this motion for four consecutive times.

Take four steps to the right. Take four “Four count step to the right then Cupid steps back to the left. Kick right, left, four count step to the left. Walk right, left. Walk it out. Change directions. it out by your self then do it Shuffle again” -Charles Johnson, junior. Lightly hop onto the ball of your left foot “Take right heel and twist out and and heel of right foot. Twist the right foot then at the same time pull your Heel outward then switch bringing the left heel right foot back and repeat with the forward and right foot back. Twist the left foot” -Jaya Davis, freshman. left foot outward. Continue movements Toe while adding your own style and rhythm.

Shift shoulders and arms right-left-then- right, “Lean to the side, extending one arm Lean leaning into the final right. Snap your fingers and snapping. Then, rock back with then change directions, shifting left-right-left both arms” - Faraad Costen, senior. Photo by Allie Brady and snapping. Continue to the beat and/or With It add gestures such as the “motorcycle.”

Pop. Pop some part of your body. Usually leg “You pop one leg then the other. Pop Lock or chest. Lock. Move your body into a posi- Then twist your wrist and then A Hidden Holiday tion so that it is comfortable to “drop” then drop it” -Christina Joseph, junior. jerk to a stop and freeze for a second. Drop. Farrah Alkhaleel & Spread your knees so that they are point Contributor out at two and ten o’clock then bend your can’t wait until Drop It knees till you are down, then pop it back up. lunch-I am so hun- “Igry,” is a common Cross your feet once. Put back your left foot “Criss- cross your legs. Kick back phrase that students at MRHS and touch it with your right hand. Strike with your right. Lean with it to constantly repeat throughout your hands twice and snap back. Move the right and snap. Lean to the the day. What most people do Soulja your right foot left-right, then put your right left. With the right foot step cross not know is that some students knee up and smack it with your right hand. the left then step to the side and Poke out as if you are flying like Superman do not eat lunch (not because hit the knee. Then do the “Super- Boy and then come back. Lean three steps back man” move” –Da’Mon Blair, senior. they are anorexic) but be- going to the left while your hands are as cause they are celebrating the if you are riding a motorcycle. Do those holy month of Ramadan. Ra- same three steps back to your left. Repeat madan is the month in which the whole dance until the chorus ends. Muslims all around the world you can’t even have a drink of Standing slightly on the balls of your feet, face “You do a sort of waddle thing from fast, or do not eat, from sunrise water after you’re done with the toes outward. Shifting your weight from foot side to side” –Destiny Magana, junior. to sunset for 30 days. Ramadan is race,” senior cross country runner, Walk It Karam Alkhaleel says. Neverthe- to foot and switching your hips from side to a major holiday for all Muslims, side, walk (waddle) right-to-left to the beat. just like Christmas is for Chris- less, Muslims are required to fast Out tians, and Chanukah is for Jews. and the only exceptions are when Muslims fast during Ra- they are sick, nursing, or traveling. madan to sympathize with the less Academically, fasting fortunate people who do not have might be a little challenging but Special Memories for the most part, it is manage- something to eat and drink every Katie Hieber day. Muslims also fast to gain able. “I like Ramadan,” says trea- surer of Monmouth’s new Mus- Staff Writer control of their desires such as he started out her first year the learning consultant for the Kroel was loved by her students. lim Student Association (MSA), food, anger, thirst, etc; to gain self at Monmouth Regional Child Study Team. Although She even took a student without Sharouk Ahmed, a sophomore. discipline; and to focus on being as a special education Mrs. Marlene Kroel worked a family in for the holidays. “But it’s taking the tests and re- S more devoted to God. However, English teacher and soon became at Monmouth Regional for 17 “Mrs. Kroel made alizing the careless mistakes you fasting does not just mean that a years, she worked as a teacher learning enjoyable for her did, that make it truly difficult.” person cannot eat from sunrise to for over 40, teaching every students,” explained Mrs. Harris, Whether it is running the miles sunset; it also means that a person grade from Kindergarten to a special education teacher. or taking the tests, Ramadan ex- must refrain from stealing, lying, high school. During her time at Those who did not ists and students at MRHS are backbiting, gossiping, envying, Monmouth Regional, she created know Kroel may have seen her continuously overcoming ob- and being greedy. Muslims must new programs such as Bridges, in the halls. She was always stacles to practice religious be- be pleasant, charitable, and per- a summer program designed for quick to compliment students on liefs and achieve success, even form good deeds constantly in incoming eighth-graders. She was how good they looked in their when it means to going with- order for their fasting to count. also the Senior ClassAdvisor twice. outfits. While she now spends out food for 14 hours a day, for Muslim students at “She was such a joy to her time relaxing on the beach, 30 days. So if you think some MRHS are fasting despite the work with,” says Mrs. Smolucha, Kroel wants to thank Monmouth MRHS students look thirsty fact that a lot of them participate the Supervisor of Special for all the great memories. from September 12 through Oc- in sports. “It is especially hard to Education, “She was always full tober 11 now you know why. run six miles a day knowing that of energy.” It was obvious that 5 September/October 2007 world news Falconaire Aid in Africa Emalee Rodriguez World News Editor hile many students at in the school, she and her team tiful their work is and how easy in life we take for granted.” dents a hands-on experience. Monmouth Regional chose to start with 11 students it would be to seek out markets Not only has White en- Senior Francesca Martelli Wspent their summer at who live in the most extreme for them,” says White. Because riched her own life with her expe- says, “She’s able to guide us away the New Jersey shore or hanging cases of poverty and devasta- this project was so successful, the rience overseas, but she has used from common misconceptions.” out with family and friends, histo- tion. Another goal for the school women were able to start their her knowledge of Africa to enhance This trip was not the ry teacher Tamara White traveled was to build new dormitories own community to determine her African Studies class, which end of her journey. In July, White to Africa. This was her second trip with security doors, buy bunk where the money will serve best. premiered at Monmouth last year. plans to return to Uganda, this to Uganda, where she worked to beds, provide mosquito nets, and The transition from New “We’re learning from time with a few friends. During help orphans and a group of HIV pay school fees for the students. Jersey to Uganda was quite an her experience which is so much this stay White plans to purchase positive women who live in the The second project that adjustment for White. Through- better than learning from a text- land and start a community center slums of Kampala, the capital city. she centered on during her stay out her tour, she stayed in sev- book,” says Victoria Siano, a near the school. She says, “The The St. Lwanga Kalooli was a jewelry-selling campaign eral small villages with sporadic senior who takes the elective. trips to Uganda are the most ful- Senior Secondary School located that raised funds for women who electricity, no running water, and White uses slideshows, filling experience of my life.” in the Luwero District, was where need to renew their antiviral med- no indoor plumbing. “One bathes tells personal anecdotes, and White focused much of her time. ication to survive. “When I met with cold water and a basin,” shows pictures that she took After interviewing every student with them, I saw just how beau- she says, “it’s the little things during her stay to give her stu-

WhiTE, along with social worker Stephen Assiimwe, address WhiTE interviewed every student at the St. Lwanga Kalooli a group of women participating in the jewlelry-making Semor Secondary School in the Luwero District in order campaign. “All of these women are HIV positive and of to assess the needs of the students. Also, she started a course incredibly worried about their children,” says White. “Sponsor a Student” program, which costs only $300 a year. To Israel and Back Thomas DenBleyker Staff Writer EBola or four-and-a-half Burgers where he had “a burg- But of all his unusual most, “camping under the stars

weeks this summer, se- er that was bigger than my and memorable experiences, in the desert.” He hopes to re- outbreak in Congo Fnior Lee Gruensfelder head,” says Gruensfelder. The there was one thing that Gru- turn to these stars this summer. Steven Berner toured throughout Israel with hamburger was 2.2 pounds. ensfelder says he loved the and Katrina Keynton the North American Federa- Contributors tion of Temple Youth (NFTY). n e - Gruensfelder was in- hundred-and-sixty- spired to visit after last winter seven citizens of the break, when Israeli exchange O Democratic Republic of the student Bar Kodesh stayed with Congo have died over the last him. Kodesh could not stop tell- four months from the Ebola ing Gruensfelder about how virus. Caused by dead remains beautiful Israel was and how he coming in contact with the should visit. “It was really just living, the hemorrhagic fever the natural beauty of the land that kills 90% of its victims by got me to go,” says Gruensfelder. causing them to bleed profusely He traveled with NFTY’s from most of their body tissues. 43-member group, but shared The World Health campgrounds with about 150 oth- Organization has called for er travelers. Staying at different international help to control the campsites, he mostly slept in tents outbreak. Additionally, medical in the desert. Gruensfelder also lEfT The 30-foot West Bank barrier personnel and supplies are managed to drop in at a few of being airlifted to the outbreak’s the major cities such as Tel Aviv, that separates Israel from Palestine. center in the province of Kasai Jerusalem, Erat, Elat, and Haifa. Occidental. “We have personnel, Gruensfelder even uppER lEfT Jerusalem at his but we need to reinforce them,” climbed Mount Solomon, which back, Gruensefelder stands says the Congo’s Health is in the southernmost region at an outlook point on the Minister Makwenge Kaput. of the Negev Desert. From outskirts of the city. Due to the effectiveness the top he viewed Jordan to aBovE is the infamous of the virus containment his left and Egypt to his right. Jerusalem landmark, the processes, it is expected that Gruensfelder stopped to eat at Norman’s Steak and Dome of the Rock. the epidemic will die out soon. 6 September/October 2007 opinion Falconaire Peace in Pieces Don’t you know me? Arthur Lee Rosalia Palomino Staff Writer Contributor ost all MRHS students eace, Frieden, Shalom, emotions, and harmony in know that student IDs He Ping, Mir, Salaam, personal relations.” It seems are important because Paix. Regardless of to me as if the word has been M P they are designed to protect stu- the language, “peace” can be sputtered carelessly and has dents and faculty, but is it really defined as a period of content, become an unfortunate cliché. necessary for students to have or as Webster’s Dictionary Walking through the hallways, to display their IDs all the time? states, “a state of tranquility or students greet each other by Mrs. Mitchell, a fresh- quiet, freedom from disquieting holding up their index and man English teacher at Mon- or oppressive thoughts or middle finger, and yelling mouth says, “Student IDs are a “peace out!” and I ask myself good thing and should be promi- if these words are genuine. nently displayed, especially after If the word “peace” events like Columbine and 9- is prudently used, as singer/ 11. It is important that we know songwriter John Lennon used who is in our school, including it when he sang, “All we are seniors, because I don’t know saying is give peace a chance,” every student in our school.” and as Joni Mitchell used it Many students return- when she sang, “…reading ing to MRHS disagree. Junior the news and it sure looks Matt Owens says, “Student IDs WeARing Student idS is a very controversial topic among bad. They won’t give peace a are pointless. People are always chance. It’s just a dream some worried about another Colum- MRHS students and faculty. of us had,” the word would be bine but if someone really wanted that student IDs alone are inef- do we know our students? Truly, bursting with true meaning to shoot up the school, a student fective. The tragedy of Colum- it is impossible for any of us to and power. On the other hand, ID is not going to stop them.” bine was caused by two students fully know all of our students, but if “peace” continues to be a The importance of stu- from Columbine High School; we can still try to treat everyone hackneyed, overworked work, dent IDs is a very controversial this means that even if student with respect. If we can do that I all its significance resembles topic. While it is true that student IDs were issued, those students think we can help avoid poten- that of an evaporating raindrop. IDs are intended as aids in pro- would still have access to the tial disasters like Columbine. tecting our school, it is also true school. So the real question is, “It’s not in the budget” Kyle Higgins Contributor the same classrooms to be told s students all we hear that their budget was cut about from our teachers when $10,000. So they will mostly be Awe ask why we do not working with old supplies from have things we need is, “It’s not in last year, even though there is the budget.” Although this is true double the amount of Photo II for many school expenses, it real- students than there were last year. ly is about the bigger picture. The So some might agree school board spends a lot of time that the money was used for the every year deciding what should proper repairs for our school. be cut from the budget, or things However, others will still argue that they should spend less or no that the money should have been money on, and what they should used for other things like sports use the fixed amount of money uniforms or other school equip- for. The conflict here is that most ment. Perhaps the students could of the time the adults on the have a fundraiser such as a silent school board have different opin- auction, a raffle, or a pancake ions on what to spend the money breakfast. One of these would on than the students and staff do. probably make a lot of money, For example, this sum- especially since people will be mer a lot of work was done on able to know exactly where the the locker rooms, roof, and in money is going and they will be Photo by Francesca Martelli the foods room. But the pho- able to actually see the results. tography students walked into WoRK WAS done in the Foods room this summer thanks to the increased budget. Where’s the “pep” in pep rally? Arthur Lee Staff Writer

ep rallies have been a when pep rallies are inside, peo- long tradition in the his- ple can see what’s happening.” Ptory of Monmouth Re- So what can we do to gional. But now students are make the pep rallies more enjoy- complaining that the Pep ral- able? Junior Destiny Magana sug- lies are becoming too tradition- gested a water balloon fight -be al or, to put it bluntly, boring. tween students and faculty. If you Taylor Lewis, a fresh- have any ideas on how to solve this man, said that the pep rally was problem bring any suggestions to boring, crowded, and long. She student council or Mr. Teeple. also said that she would have Maybe one of your ideas can help actually liked to see the pie eat- us put the pep back in pep rally. ing contest. Many students have even said that the only reason that they look forward to the pep rally Student SPectAtoRS in the is because they do not have to sit stands at the fall “pep” rally. in class. Students have also com- plained about the seating. Senior Julian Rosado says, “It was al- right but it would have been bet- ter if it was inside because at least Photo by Francesca Martelli 7 September/October 2007 reviews Falconaire

At last: Free music, legally Stephen Weber Technology Editor s hard as it might be to music keeps going. While that sic videos, too! One last thing believe, it’s true. Spiral- part might be a pain, I have no ob- to note, you will need to install Afrog.com allows mem- jections since the service is free. some software off the site be- bers to download unlimited mu- The site launched Sep- fore you can download music. sic free. What’s the catch? Just tember 17, 2007 and boasts a All in all, who can ob- renew your membership every 30 nice collection of music with new ject to free music legally, even days to keep your music working. songs launching every week or if it has a catch? I sure don’t. I So how does it work? so. In addition, it even has mu- easily give Spiral Frog five stars. Spiral Frog is an ad-sup- ported site in which most of the revenue from the ads goes to the participating record companies. In addition, the music is support- ed by DRM, technology used for copyright protection.This means that in order for your music to keep playing, you have to renew your “Good Luck Chuck” subscription every 30 days. Don’t Christopher Zweig worry, that is free, too, and your music will not stop playing until Staff Writer or she will marry someone else. day 31. On mp3 players, such as “Chuck” is an enjoyable iPods, the limit is 60 days. Once comedy that made me walk out you renew your subscription, be with a smile, as did “Superbad.” sure to sync up you iPod so your In the September 21 edition of Jersey Alive newspaper, the re- viewers hated this movie, com- iPhone - Touch Different paring it to other blockbuster hits Stephen Weber like “The Dukes of Hazzard” or Technology Editor “Employee of the Month,” which I personally enjoyed. Although pple’s iPhone generated a the whole video is fully loaded. In the end, I give it four stars. Chuck’s penguin pebble romance lot of hype before it even Phone calls were very technique was a little stupid I still Ahit store shelves on June clear and easy to make. Fur- do not think it was a bad movie. 29, 2007. This summer saw long thermore, the Internet brows- People who love comedian Dane lines and a lot of profit for Apple’s ing powered by Apple’s Safari Cook like I do would love to see latest creation, as well as a lot of browser is very good compared him again in this movie. I give problems when it came to activat- to other Mobile phones. Pages this movie four smiley faces. ing the phone. While I myself do appear as they do on computers, n this romantic comedy, den- not have one, I have managed to there is JAVA and flash support, tist Charlie Logan (Dane try it out at the local Apple Store. bookmarking, and tabbed brows- Cook) has a curse: every time I The touch screen re- ing. SMS texting is satisfactory he has sex with a woman, the sponds very well and manages to although the keyboard is a bit next guy she meets will be her stay rather clean despite all the challenging to use and the auto- husband. When he meets a pen- finger prints. The camera is only complete never seems to work guin lover, Cam Wexler (Jessica a two-mega-pixel and could use a correctly. However, when I tried Alba), he and his plastic surgeon zoom and flash feature. Any appli- sending a simple “Hi” it took al- friend, Stu (Dan Fogler) must cation that uses the Internet runs most a full 60 seconds to send. find a way to be with her forever slowly on AT&T’s EDGE net- All in all, the iPhone could still work. In addition, the buffer rate use some work and would be on streaming videos is terrible and much better if it could be used often takes up to five trys before on other wireless networks. : “Riot!” Kristin Dellanno Contributor o how many of you out the hearts, and ears, of millions. selves, “Wow, they sound much there are still wondering Hayley and the other different, in fact, better, on the Swho that chick with the three band members, CD.” However, Paramore sounds crazy hair is? You have prob- (drums), (guitar), and just as incredible live as they do ably seen her singing her heart (bass), work to- recorded, because there are no out in one place or another. It’s gether in perfect unison through- deceiving tricks; everything is , vocalist of the out the CD. Starting with “Misery real. Paramore, might I add, also pop-punk band Paramore. But Business,” since this is arguably writes their own lyrics. Undoubt- her hair is not important, not yet their most popular song, Hayley edly, all of these things contribute anyway. You may have heard the tells fans that this may be more to making this band so admirable. band’s new hit, released last June, honest than anything she has ever Even though I could called “”, but if written. Another song I suggest go on all day, recommending you haven’t, there is still time. you give a listen to is “For a Pes- that you listen to my personal It is one of the 11 amaz- simist, I’m Pretty Optimistic.” In favorites, or pointing out all the ing, not to mention catchy, songs this song, as in all of the others, wonderful things Paramore has on their latest album, “Riot!” I the vocals are purely amazing. I to offer, I won’t. Instead, I will am not trying to exaggerate, but should not neglect to point out give this CD five well earned no matter how many times I re- the fact that unlike some artists stars. And about “the hair”: it play the same song, I enjoy it. out there today, Hayley’s vocals not only looks like wildfire but With a chorus that will keep you are real. What do I mean by this? it is spreading like it too. Enjoy! humming all day, not to mention Well, many music fans have seen their unique style, they have won a band live, and thought to them- 8 September/October 2007 variety Falconaire Horoscopes Students in the Hall Thomas DenBleyker Miranda Wyatt Staff Writer Staff Writer n October 20 Monmouth Regional will host its traditional homecoming dance. With October rolling in Libra quickly and time running out, the question is who is or is not going to the dance? Stick your toes into the waters of variation today and try something new. By doing O this you will receive fantastic support from someone who believes in you.

Scorprio This month is all about figuring out how you can help someone else feel more comfortable. You can sneak your way out of any conflict and this month is the perfect time to do just that. Brianna Young, Joe Yglesias, MeganTursi, Kyle MacCloud, senior Sagittarius senior sophomore senior “Yes, I’m going to “It depends if [the “No. It sucks be- This month is a good month to explore your “Uh…I’m not sure homecoming. It football team] wins cause the music is options. Thinking about your relationships yet. I’ll see how helps you interact or not. I enjoy hav- terrible. It’s a waste will not do you any good. You have to act many of my friends with your peers. ing fun and making of electricity and on them. By doing this you will receive are going before I Plus, I’m going to be a fool of myself at time.” fantastic support from someone who decide.” an ultimate show- these dances. I like believes in you. stopper.” to party!” Capricorn Your social energy is much stronger this month-- there are many ways to connect with others. Pick one that makes you feel at ease, and stick with it.

Aquarius Don’t overspend today. Remember: in some cases, spending one cent is too much. Pray for what you want, but work for the things you need. Even if you have others Tannu Kaur, junior Michelle Christi, Jordan Jones, Joseph Habbate, that depend on you, this month is about “No. I am go- sophomore senior freshman your own needs. ing to be too tired “Um…I don’t know “Yes. It’s my senior “How much is it? from the LIFE Club Aries because I might year and it wouldn’t Yea [I’ll go.] It’s a beach cleanup ear- You are puzzling over some very weird have to baby-sit be complete with dance. I like danc- lier that day.” behavior coming from a family member, that night.” out it.” es.” but do not expect to figure this one out overnight. You are heading in the right direction. comic corner Pisces Be careful about being unclear today. Try to be more specific in your communication. By doing this you will be more secure with News Toons the people around you.

Taurus Get together with those you work most closely with and define your common interests. You may be surprised to learn that there are some aspects of your working life that are more in line with theirs.

Gemini Things are a little different this month; You can’t avoid having one or two misunderstandings today, so don’t beat yourself up.

Cancer Plans are shifting, but do not waste your good energy trying to figure out why. Just go along with whatever comes your way. If the shoe fits, it is probably your size.

Leo Where one person sees graffiti, another person sees artwork, life is subjective! That attractive offer might actually have hidden “Sweating costs, so look at it very carefully before signing your life away. Virgo Bullets” Your newest activities will have a more confusing effect on your life than expected. But remember your ability for Joe Maiullo and Julie Rutan accomplishment will follow with success. Staff Writer

Inspired by www.ihmars.com and http://astrology.yahoo.com