Volume 62 Issue 4 NONPROFIT Darien HighSchool ORG. 80High School Lane Postage Paid Darien, CT 06820 u.s. Darien, Conn. December 2000 Permit No. 43 nowBal Students are "Sleepless in DRS" Neirad Investigates Sleep Deprivation at the High School

• By Edward Briganti officer of Post 53 gets anywhere from Studies also indicate that the bio­ Associate Editor two hours to an entire nights' sleep logical rhythms ofadolescents show that Do you ever hit the "snooze" but­ when on duty. they may not need to go to bed till later, ton on your alarm clock in the morning "I get more sleep this year than I but also need to sleep later. Having to two or three times? Do you feel over­ did year though, because I have more get up and go to school in the fourth tired after lunch sitting in class? Have frees and I can do work in school," says quarter oftheir sleep time makes it much you ever fallen asleep in class, or at moredifficult for them to get the sleep the wheel while driving? If you do, they need. you, like many other people across Tired students are more !ikely to the country, are probably sleep de­ doze off in class and are less able to prived. concentrate as a result of the body's A new scientific study con­ natural reaction to fatigue while try­ ducted by the National Sleep Foun­ ing to accomplish a task. The body dation shows that on average, teen­ responds with an increased flow of 'agers are getting about two hours adrenaline. However, this adrenaline less sleep a night than they need, boost is hardly enough to help stu­ putting them at risk for car crashes, dents concentrate, it only keeps their falling asleep while in class and gen­ body functioning and causes them to eral moodiness. Teenagers need nine be edgy and distracted. The irony is hours and 15 minutes ofsleep a night that many students are staying up late for optimal functioning, yet teenag­ to study so that they can do well in ers are staying up too late and wak­ school and get into a good college. ing up too early. With the many activi­ senior Beth Newman. "I usually work Math teacher, Mr. Daniel Haron on ties students at Darien High School are on school nights until I can't do any­ average, gives about 45 minutes of involved in, along with the rigorous aca­ more and I fall asleep, I go to bed later homework a night to his AB Calculus demic courseload, sleep time is being cut on weekends but I also wake up later." class that many seniors are taking. He back. When asked if he felt sleep de­ notices many students in the hallways Senior Beth Newman, an honors prived, senior Matt Gangl replied, "Ev­ half~awake and stumbling through the student, varsity fieldhockey player, and ery day ofmy life." See Sleep Page 4 Ecstasy use rising to all-time high • By Lexi Deluca users with a feeling that one person de­ drug can counteract the fear of possible StajfWriter scribes as "totally different, and you side effects. "Everyone says it's the best can't stop yourself from saying things experience oftheir life and I really want Although, according to a new sur~ you want to say and you say everything to try itbut it scares me a little bit," says vey, marijuana usage among teens is you're thinking because it's just a a junior who prefers to remain anony­ dropping, the use of the drug ecstasy is chance to say what you want and have mous. The effects ofecstasy are indeed at an all time high. According to the not few; they can include psychologi­ survey conducted by the Partnership cal difficulties, including confusion, for a Drug-Free America, teen usage depression, sleep problems, drug crav­ ofecstasy has doubled since 1995 and ing, severe anxiety and paranoia, and this poses a concern for many who can also involve symptoms such as are aware ofthe effects ofecstasy and muscle tension, involuntary teeth the permanent tolls it can place on a clenching, nausea, blurred vision, body. The survey also finds that 32% rapid eye movement, faintness, and of teens in 2000 have close friends chills or sweating. who have used ecstasy, up from 24% Yet the negative effects of the in 1998. drugs don't faze some people. "It's The drug, which can come in a like you enter an entirely different variation offorms including liquid and world, you only see the good side of a tablet, is mostly swallowed. It is most people listen and tell you what's on their everything, and you open yourself up commonly used at raves among college mind." Yet after the serotonin goes up, to the people around you because you students to provide for a better mood the drug has already damaged the neu­ feel as if you can trust them because and it induces feelings of warmth and rons which release serotonin and the nothing can go wrong," claims an happiness and greatly lessens people's chemical cannot restore itselfto the level anonymous senior. It's often called "the inhibitions by increasing the level ofthe it was at before, it will permanently be hug drug" because it causes users to chemical serotoninin the brain. Seroto­ lowered. become especially friendly and open to­ nin, most frequently referred to as "the Students have mixed feelings about ward others. happiness chemical," shoots up and the drug. No one fails to recognize its Nevertheless, not everyone is taken no stays up for several hours, providing dangers, but sometimes the allure ofthe See Ecstasy Page 4 . In This Issue Inside Opinion Inside Arts &. Leisure Inside Sports

NoventJer 23, New QrIaan High Sd100I The Florida Recount Simon & Bill Review Family Man Turkey Bowl VI See Page 2 See Page 8 See Page 14 o --I DeCClnber 2000 2 Kids need sleep, school starts too early NEIRAD

At 7:39 a.m., a flood of students plete or tests to study for. School were to change its starting walks into the school, trying to get to The other schools in Darien have time, perhaps the conduct and atti­ class before the tardy bell rings. They later starting times because the admin­ tudes of the students would be this yawn, stumble, and look off into space, istration assumes that younger children positive year-round. expressing with actions how many stu­ need to sleep later. However, this is of­ There is one flaw in this idea. For dents feel: Darien High School's start­ ten not the case. Usually children in the the high school to start later, the bus ing time is too early. elementary schools go to bed rather early, schedule would have to be changed, Every morning, students are ex­ so they wake up earlier as well. Teenag­ because there are different morning pected to rise and be ready for all of the ers are biologically inclined to go to shifts for the elementary schools, challenging classes they take during the sleep later and wake up at a later time. middle school, and high school. How­ day. This would be far easier ifstudents This is because melatonin, a hormone ever, the schedule could be switched, had had a good night's sleep. Sleep dep­ causing sleep to occur, does not start so that the younger kids go to school rivation amongst teenagers is a problem its production in teenagers until later at earlier. Younger children grow fairly -CHIEF Darien experiences first hand. Darien night. Melatonin is first released at sun­ steadily, and do not need a large eanGill pi High School should have a later start­ set in younger children, adults, and se­ amount of sleep, nor are they always Laura aedonald ing time to eliminate tired, sluggish stu­ nior citizens, so they are better equipped even able to sleep late. Teenagers are dents in class, to awaken earlier in the morning. As a constantly going through growth A day at Dalien High School starts result, it is difficult or sometimes impos­ spurts and changes, and thus have a 0ClATE EOrroR at 7:40 a.m., so anyone who cannot drive sible for teenagers to be productive in need for time sleeping. Also, many or be driven to school must catch the the morning when they have not had elementary school students wake up d ard Briganti school bus between seven 0'clock and enough rest that night and are still in earlier anyway, and spend their time EDITOR 7:15. If they want to take a shower be­ the middle ofa sleep mode. watching television or playing instead fore school, which many students do, At one point last year, Darien High of sleeping. Mike ullivan they must get up between six o'clock School's schedule was altered to ac­ Darien High School would ben­ and half past six. This is way too early commodate the CAP tests, which all efit immensely from having a later for most teenagers. sophomores in the state of Connecti­ starting time. The students deserve According to Health teachers in the cut are required to take and pass. Since to be able to sleep later and longer, high school, seven to eight hours of the tests took hours in the morning, not just for their academic perfor­ ARTs LEISURE EDITOR sleep are necessary each night. In order school started later than usual for the mances, but also for their health and Chri Famighetti to wake up at six o'clock, while getting other grades. Classes started every well-being. The atmosphere of Darien eight hours of sleep, a student would day between nine and ten o'clock, High School could have a significant TUREEDITOR have to be asleep by ten p.m. This is causing students in the other grades improvement in healthiness, grades, endall Gileh often not an actual possibility for stu­ to be well rested, more productive, and and good humor amongst teachers dents who have assignments to com- in far better moods. If Darien High and students. PORT EDITOR Rob BoUman

We'd like a refund, please B INES MANAGER Tra ~eb • Bill Grimshaw and Simon Hawkins dence Day crashed, unable to be con­ StaffWriters tinued. Similar problems occurred dur­ GRAPH! OIT R ing Deep Impact, where the viewing was After searching throughout Con­ unable to continue due to an equipment Tyler Brownie necticut and the tri-state area, it has been malfunction. Pleasantville was delayed discovered that the Darien United Artist for fifteen minutes during its showing. Playhouse is by far one ofthe worst movie After the delay, the film actually burned TAFF WRITER theaters to date. Consistently, it fails to up on the screen. The box office did live up to the minimum expectation of a not open until a few minutes before Toy movie theater, playing movies. Story 2 resulting in many people wait­ Paul Carle When the Darien Playhouse re­ ing in a long line and a rush of people Derek laibome opened in 1993, many were anticipating coming in during the actual movie. And Lexi D luea an exciting refurbished theater in which finally, in the worst incident to,' date, to spend their weekends. Few knew the Unbreakable was shown with scenes dre FJliott terror that lay ahead. Lurking in the out oforder. This error was recognized Whime Franklin shadows, one of the poorest theaters by the film's star Spencer Treat Clark's Julia Gibne made an appearance. Opening weekend, mother, who had seen the movie before. BiD Grimshaw the re-done theater presented a week This is inexcusable and angered the imon Hawkins lineup consisting ofthe Pelican Brief, a viewers, because Unbreakable had a film that has proved to be among the surprise ending. e Larsen worst in movie history. However, only So one is forced to wonder, where Dre L decker time would tell the atrocity known as The does my money go? For eight bucks, I erry cAoIiffe Darien Playhouse. want to see a movie without the film Chris esthoff As time went on, things only got stopping, burning, or being played out worse. The lineup never improved, in oforder. But this poor selection ofmov­ fact in went from bad to worse. Winners ies and service in general continues such as Bean, Waterworld, Nutty Pro­ because the UA Playhouse has a ADVISORS fessor II: The Klumps, and Deep Impact stranglehold on this community. It is have graced the silver screen in Darien. the only Theater in town, and it knows . Christopher iano And whether the movie is good, bad, or that people will attend due to its local­ . t phen Leete uninteresting, it remains at the theater ity. Many people do not wish to travel for at least 4-5 weeks. to a theater in another town on the off Yet, this is only the tip of the ice­ chance that the movie they want to see PRINCIPAL berg. Even if the movie at the Darien is in Darien. Some, either the very r. Brue Ball Playhouse is a good one and you de­ young or very old, do not have the cide to attend, there is a 50:50 chance means of leaving town to see a movie. you will not be able to see the whole The UA Darien Playhouse has a mo­ PRINTI G movie. There are often mechanical diffi­ nopoly on this town, and seems to not areD' orio culties that delay or entirely end the use any of its money to update the , showing of the movie. equipment or the facilities. Because of • Such incorrectly shown movies in­ this, many have been turned away from clude Pleasantville, Independence Day, the theater and refuse to return. As @ 'Qhoo.co Toy Story 2, Deep Impact, and Unbreak­ consumers, we demand that when we able. During multiple situations, on go to see movies, we at least get to see opening weekend, the climax ofIndepen- them. 3 December 2000 Bpi ion Election 2000: A Recount of "The Recount"

_By Andy Mattison voting for Christopher Shays, John ofcourse. He said the election race was him that he as not conceding. What a Opinion Editor Ryan, George W. and DickCheney, and "tighter than too short a bathing suit mess. The newspaper then said that a Joe Liebermann. I voted Joe on too long a ride home from the deadline had been established for Fri­ November 7,2000. A day that will Liebermann for Senate because I fig­ beach." Wow, that's tight. He also re­ day as the final day when the count­ live in infamy as the day and the year I ured that since he and Gore were prob­ ferred to one of the swing states in the ing of the votes would be done. So I first voted in an election for the Presi­ ably going to lose, then Liebermann election as "the big enchilada." He waited. Friday came. They said they dent of the United States. As a regis­ could still hold an office somewhere also told the people watching the elec­ would not know until Monday at 5:00 tered 18 year-old in this country I was and not leave the campaign empty tion coverage to "turn down the lights, PM. So I waited. Monday came. Still excited to finally have a say in who handed. the party just got started." My par­ no result. Then they announced they would hold office and power as the So I voted, I left, I got lunch, and ents thought Rather had gone nuts. I were recounting the votes. Recount­ President. In my opinion, the president then I went home. Then I waited. I thought he had drunk too much caf- ing? Why? What kind of election has of the United States is the most feine. But he was right in that the a recount? So by now Bush is getting powerful man in the world and has antsy because he feels that he won the most important job in running be very close and I the election and Gore is being a sore the most powerful country. It was ~~~~~~~~~~I~~~~~~~~~~~~~electionhad schoolwas goingthe nextto loser by asking for a recount so he's going to be exciting to vote for the ~ day so I decided to taking his case to the Florida Supreme first time, I was going to be part of go to bed and find Court to stop the recounts from con­ an elite group, the ones that were out the results in tinuing. Then Katherine Harris, the registered voters. the morning. Secretary of Florida, wouldn't count Leading up to the election all my wlhd I woke up the votes in Palm Beach County but friends kept asking me, "Who're you the election cover- the next counted all the other votes in Florida going to vote for?" I told them that I . age on TV and waited to morning and and certified Bush as the winner of had made up my mind right after the find out who the next turned on Florida. Gore then challenged the first debate. I was voting for George pre~ident was going to the TV to state's certification of Bush as the win­ W. Bush. I was doing this for two main be. I waited. I waited. I ate ".~~~~ ..-'~~~_~ find out ner, citing that not all the votes have reasons: one, I'm a Republican, and dinner. Then I waited some more. 5I~C~~;.1~~ ho our been counted. This has caused every­ two, I'd rather stick pins and needles To pass the time I watched the n ext body to wonder two things: one, are in my face than have Al Gore run this election coverage on TV. On NBC they every going to sort out this mess? country. When I told them this, some Tim Russert had a tally board which And, two, is this ever going to end so frowned and some smiled. Then some showed how each candidate was go­ was we can have a new president come started yelling at me for not voting Al ing to get 270 electoral votes and what and I January? Gore. Then someone yelled at the states they were going to get them didn't Why can't Florida get its act to­ friend who yelled at me for not voting from. The tally board looked like "fuzzy get an gether? The state that dragged on the Al Gore. My saying that I was voting math" to me, and, to be honest, Tim answer. whole Elian Gonzalez thing for way too for Bush engendered a vicious argu­ Russert needs to work on his penman­ The y long now can't even hold an election ment between my friends, leading me ship. So I flipped over to CBS with Dan did n' t without screwing it up. Florida is try­ to find truth in the advice that you Rather. Now CBS' election coverage know. They ing too hard to be the joke state of should never discuss politics and reli­ was very interesting. With all the new said that America, and that's what it has become.

gion with friends because they will al­ technology in the 21 Sl century avail­ Florida was too close to call and they Now it is December and we still don't ways lead to an argument. able for the media to use, CBS had a were still counting the votes. I couldn't know who the president is. People The argument between my friends color-coded map on a computer moni­ believe it. When I went to school I read complain about how people in this did not change my opinion on who I tor and Dan Rather's hand holding a the Stamford Advocate and it said that country don't vote; well how do you wanted to vote for. I was voting for pen pointing to different states. I Bush had won the election. Then I read expect people to vote in this country Bush, regardless of the fact that he thought this was the most bizarre of the New York Times it said that the when their votes aren't even going to wasn't his father and he hasn't had a all the election coverage I had seen, election had come down to the state be counted? Florida needs to get its steady job in a while. So November 7th but that moment was yet to come. First of Florida and they announced that act together or I say the government finally came and I went to the polls at of all, the things that Dan Rather was Bush had won it. Gore called Bush to saws it off and let it float out to sea. Darien High School. I checked in, gave saying about the election were out of concede the election and then they an­ So the first election I vote in is the one my card to the machine tender, and en­ this world. They were some ofthe cra­ nounced that Bush had not won the where it takes three months to get the tered the booth. I don't recall every­ ziest things I had ever heard a broad­ election because it was too close to results. It will probably be the last if one who I voted for, but I remember caster say, aside from Dennis Miller, call so Gore called Bush back and told things don't change. " ~ e s-...-..---Dcccinber 2000 --. ~ In a recent poll conducted by th leep Foundation of 1,154 adults, wh ere also asked about their teens' be M,. Frontier notic a lot of tu­ a district. The co t and complie tion aviors, confirms other research: dent in h r clas Ii that are leepy, but f cbanging hool bus hedule 51 % of adolescents (ages 10 to 18) g ti el it d pend n the indi idual bo many. In addition, athleti after school a bed at 10 p.m. or later on schoo :Ieep i affecting th m. at 2:45 0 n go tiD 6 in th v ning. ights. On weekend nights, 91 % ofado • orne kids hav troubl Jeeping "Int tarted later, it would end later escents go to bed at 10 p.m. or later. at night for whatever re on and they and I like time g out. I wouJdn' c m to school tired, oth I' kids go from able to do the ports and other ac­ 84% of adolescents get up at 7 a.m. a ti iti that I do," Y Soph adier on school days; 60% get up at Taylor arson. .m. or later on the weekends; 11 % ge o thing control 0011 p after noon. start time," y Hall. MAth I ti and the bu. scheduJ 36% ofparents and guardians say thei . In lIton, I ee linl kid dolescents are difficult to get to bed tanding on the ide of th nd 38% say they are difficult to get up waiting for the b at i in the morning and. m 0 Tips for Teens and Parents may riding on that for 30 or 40 minute ~ Adolescent sleep researcher Ma th Ygel to bool, and it', no arskadon offers this advice: just a uburban. rural, pro Have a sleep plan. Know when yo lem, it' an urban probl m a ant to go to bed and get up every da well." a that you can get at least 8 1,4 hours a While .Frontier wa leep a night. Try to keep to that sched student teach r in ash ill Ie and make sure you get to bed aroun , b r hool di trict vol he same time on weekday nights as yo chouI t port and tber a ti itie., again t tarting at a later time. a on weekends. and then tay up later than they. hould "1b high 001 tarted at 7 a.m. doing h In work." say Frontier. and th tuden~ w re don at 2:00: Sleep in if you need to on the week Prin ipal Bro Hall renliz thatthe say rontier. "1be tuden were aI nds, but limit the time to one or tw u I hoI ark ahownld, direc­ amount ofhom work and acti ine . tu­ way leep the first two period , xtra hours. lor fthe Minne: 13 R gi nal I pDL­ dent!> hav i, a major rea. n for .Ieep bec:aw;e \I!.-edidD't have a rotating orde . Cenl I' at Henn 'pin ounly Medi- deprivation and en weakening offam­ were l!1eVer a for my mom- If you need to nap in the afternoons al nt~r in inncapolis, b lic:ve. Ih' ily lir. . eep it to twenty minutes or you will dis num roft· nearer' h : f m failing 1'0 the n tion ducat are pt your sleeping pattern and it will tak leep at th wh I i v II higher than di u ing what i ao appropriate anger for you to concentrate again. report d beenu • ,. Ie pine. d . n't am unt f h mework:' Hall. "Par­ how up n Ihe aut P'Yo r m tired of ent. are worried about their kid any­ Don't do things before bed that wil cadin' about dead I' nag rs killed at ing t 45-pound pa k pa to ause you to perk up. Don't exercise the prime f Ih if live du In falling · chool and it pu a lot of OD lay computer games, or drink caffeine n, Jeep drivin :. family when a child has thre or four tud 'nls arc n t uloll . T< u h'rs hour of homew I' after activiti , Sleep needs vary from person t often wak up and dri,'c to. hool in Ihe • port.... and family lUi begin to uffer erson, but some general nightly guide dark in ord I' I b ready to gi e e tra because mo t of the e kid are tired nes: Jtelp in th m mingo ~ the Mart of th Ydo their h m work and go to bed. oddlers: 11 hours plus a two-hour na ehool al 7:40. ngli. h 1e.1chcr my inne ota h I Y tem • and uring the day. I' nn 'I' It~achc fI ur '10 .•~ a day and veral . 'hool distri t in Vrrginia and ~nd' m 'I of he.r night. prt:p.u;n for the Greater Wa. hington are art­ reschoolers: 11 to 12 hours. Half a las, 1" din and rc iewing k be- in later in the morning to improve learn­ reschoolers also nap during the day. or she to sl~ p. in and he Ith of sleep-d pri cd tu­ "I 'clIo ~d iln wher bctw en 10 d nt. They have rno ed many of the ~hool-age children: About 10 hours. nd II: 0 p.m.:' . ay Ii nti r. "Bul I •tart times from 7: 1 and 7:30 to :00 and ·now. rn f my tud 'nl. ar staymg :.0, H wev r. starting hoollateri n't eens: Average of 9 1,4 hours. Studie up mueh lat r than Ihat:' v n an i ue that has com up at Board how that most get far less than that. Li ing in w rk .ity, .. Fron- f Education meeting. in Darien. When tier get. up betwc n 5:4 and 6 every ·ch I.tarts later. h Ialso end. later. dults: Generally eight hours or more In min 0 driv t 'h I h re in Darien. "I would be for I tel' tart, that eeds vary. The average adult gets si "It" pI' II 'arly, it" . lill dark out­ lJd c lid g t oIDe e tra I y ours 54 minutes on weeknights an ide. but il IIsuaJly d 'n'l b tn I' me Mr. H I' n; Principal Hall agrees. even hours 34 minutes on weekends. unl~ , I .taycd lalcr al . chool Ihe nighl ·"fhi. . h I would be a happi r, fore. r sLUyed up lute rrt:clin~ pa­ healthier place. but I could only u. Most teens have to get up at 7 a.m pe ,; ... y Fr nli ·r. "Wh n I w. w rk­ .tnrting at :00:' ay. Hall. r earlier on school days, and 10% ar ill on the drUlna I wa gelting h me Changing tart time~ i a tricky busj­ ate to school a few days a month be v ry lat and. till uing up early. it WII. n as many bu. e. mu t upport the ause ofoversleeping orbeing overtired bordering n un. a~':' n d f up to three diffi rent. hool in Times that 17 to 18-year-oIds go t ed: 77% on school nights 10 p.m. 519/ Ecstasy n weekend nights 12 midnight. Continued From Page 1 by ecstasy's appeal. "I think that all drugs are bad. It's better not to start with anything that's going to hurt you or that you're going to regret," says jun­ appy Holidays ior Karen Summerton. Junior Justin Haacke agrees by stating that he would rather partake in the use of another sub­ stance. Even though people often praise the From The Staff drug for its positive effects on their emo­ tions and how facilitated it is to say and do what you want, one person is quick to set the record straight, "It is really of EIRAD! fun, but it's not worth it to get hooked on a stupid dmg like that. It's so bad for you.. .It's stupid, you can do all the same things sober and it's still nice." e s Real World on its way to the Depot? sandwiches. Dawson's Creek as Andy's new French • By Kerry McAuliffe Greenwich High School's teen cen­ friend, and the two shared a kiss in the StaffWriter ter recently had all seven cast members end of the show. Danny is now living "This is the true story of seven to talk to students there, and it was, ap­ with his boyfriend, Paul, in North Caro­ strangers picked to live in a mansion, parently, a success that everyone en­ lina. work together and have their lives taped. joyed. The Depot event would hope­ Any fan of the show could not help Find out what happens when people stop fully be highly attended and therefore but love the handsome and witty Jamie. being polite and start getting real." will be held somewhere else other than He is 23 years old and from a wealthy taJ/Writer The Real World phenomenon has the Depot town in Illi­ been a complete success for MTV in its w her e nois. He is a web- based 2 seventh season in New Orleans, which m 0 r e people can entrepreneur from~ premiered this past June. With an aver­ age of 35 million people watching the com e . and is cur­ ity show, some might say, "It was the best There is no rently working season ever," according to Junior Kate set date a t Lindberg. Darien High School students for the soulgear.com, 80 may not have to say good-bye to their event, but an online extreme favorite cast members all too soon be­ it is look­ sports outfitter small town " cause the Depot is trying to have three ing like it that he created. of the cast members come and talk to will beheld Many high students of DHS. in the school students "It is our biggest goal of the year," spring. would be thrilled 68 says co-president of the Depot, Bonnie Kelley, Danny and Jamie are the top to see these Real World cast members in Darien. The members would talk utiv y the tree h n Ii ·Malone. The Depot would like three cast three choices of Real World cast mem­ about such issues concerning different efe1ler nler ginning in members to come to Darien. Each cast bers to visit the Depot. Kelley is 23 years lifestyles and backgrounds, living with 1933) member costs $1,500. In order for the old from Arizona and is known for her cast members to come, the Depot needs beauty, intelligence and ability to speak seven people, patience, tolerance and to do some serious fundraising. Their her mind. She currently lives with her what they have learned through their ex­ 2 9 main fundraiser is a creative idea to sell boyfriend whom she met in New Orleans. perience on the Real World. bacon-egg-and-cheese sandwiches at Danny was the incredibly good­ 'We'rereally excited," says Malone o t, in d lIa ,of"Patrick tb Pup-, the train station in the morning before looking guy on the show. He could be of the cast members coming to Darien. o bwartz "po&iti ely pi h. school. Depot members will have to be known as a modern day James Dean. He It is an event that many are looking for­ ingly popular pup" that m asure at the train station at 5:30 AM to sell the recently appeared on an episode of ward to occurring in the future. 66 inches long. Yearbook Prices .By Drew Lydecker StaffWriter "Seventy five dollars?????" Every VA year parents of freshmen complain that the yearbook, DHS Dariannus, is too expensive. They don't seem to under­ stand why. The yearbook staff has to generate & all of their own money. This is because Darien High School and the PTA does not support the Dariannus in the bud­ get. In the past, the school has not pro­ posed to the Board of Education that they support the yearbook. Robert Sorensen, yearbook advisor, said that the administration has to submit the For all your eating and cat-ering needsl budget propasal by a certain date and that usually they don't have an idea of how much money the yearbook will need by that date. So, the yearbook has to raise enough money each year so that they can print then number ofyearbooks for the entire student body. The students on the yearbook staff work very long hours after school to meet their deadlines. Recently, some of them were staying up until two or three in the morning to meet their deadline. Sometimes, they even work on the week­ ends. These students work exception­ ally hard so that we can remember the Proud Suppor-ter of -the Darien school year. With the new computer technology, Blue WaveI prices to produce a decent yearbook are going up. These high prices are part of what affects the price that we have to pay to buy a yearbook. Some people don't appreciate this. Basically, the year­ book staff charges so much for the Dariannus because they need the money to help pay for production and printing costs. And this year, the pro­ duction ofthe yearbook is so expensive Vavalo·s Deli & Co-tering that they are resorting to selling adver­ tisements to local businesses to help 156 Heigh~s Road pay. If they were funded by the school itself or by the PTA, then the yearbook 655-4370 wouldn't cost so much, and everybody would be a lot happier. DCCClnbcr 2000 6

Eating Disorders: The hidden epidemic ofDHS lIBy Kendall Gilchrest maintain a strict control over food in­ take. The average victim is a teenage girl Feature Editor between the ages of 14 and 17 years, "It's so weird that so many people however the disease also affects men in our school have that problem," said and women ofall ages. The main symp­ junior Jenny Scott, when asked about toms ofanorexia include: an strong fear eating disorders. Insecurities about of body fat and weight gain, an intense weight have always been a problem, par­ determination to become thinner, and ticularly among teenage girls, but how the misperception of body weight and far would a person go to be skinny? The shape, causing the person to feel fatter increasing number of eating disorders than they actually are. across the nation proves that more and Most cases begin with a simple diet. more people are risking their lives just The diet may take a wrong tum and cause to look thinner. compulsive exercise and refusal to eat. Anorexia Nervosa is the relentless When this behavior has been repeated pursuit of thinness and an attempt to for several weeks, the victim becomes From an FDA Consumer Magazine brochure: above, eating disorders are generally unnoticed by families, and left, diagnosing the two disorders. Disorde,-s'Definitions malnourished, and caused the body's The increasing numbers of eating disorders has led people to wonder what Accordlng wlhe AmeriCM Pl\ychhltrlc Association. a ~!lOn dlagnored all chemistry to imbalance. The body does tmllmk or anorectic muM have all Mihal dioorder's specific symptoms: not receive vitamins which are vital to is to blame for the large amount ofinse­ staying healthy. Ten to fifteen percent curities involving weight and body im­ B/J1Imla NINWIJD. ':rncurrcnl q»aodeI; (II' blnge eJlllng (mlnlmum a'icragi: {1f two bltljle'C$llllll ofanorexics starve themselves to death. age. "It has to do with all the celebrities episodes & WEek fur AI le3lit tm:e months} Bulimia Nervosa is the diet binge­ and magazines. The media makes look­ • a feeling of 11ICk of{'OOtrol over ellllng during tPc binges • re.gular use ofone or more of II1e foU(jwing 10 rrevetll welghl gill n: self· purge disorder in which the victim also ing really skinny glamorous," saidjun­ l.nducJ::d vomlti"ll, use ofhuatlves or dJurctlcl<. strk'i {1iet~ or raMing, or vig· has a distorted body image and a strong ior Shannon Dunleavy. While the televi­ orous exercise • pet'$l$tent o_-concern with body shape and weighL fear offat. Like anorexia, bulimia can be sion and magazines may contribute to fatal. eating disorders, some also believe they AlI~ N(fI'W)S(J • refUsal to JIIllintain wtight thal's over tbe lowest weight oonsldcrcd llQnMl In Darien High School, eating dis­ are a cry to get attention. [(If ngcoming fat, emu loc'ugh uOilcrweighl many people in our school with them. • dllltoned body Imllge my best friends have eating disorders, • In WOl1lCll, three OOl1li1et'Udve mlsmld menstruAl periOOs wid"Jut P"'1ll'laocy.• and I have to deal with all of their prob­ Too many people use them to get atten­ lems. It's certainly hard on them and me tion," said junior Schuyler Sokolow. too," said one anonymous sophomore. Taylor Davis: Master of the air up there wanted to take lessons to get his land, Davis has had several exhila­ "My most memorable flight was an .ByTyler Brownlee pilot license. Luckily his parents did rating experiences in the sky. Dur­ IFR (Instrument Flight Regulations train­ Graphics Editor not get in his way. ing a lesson, his instructor "buzzed" ing session). My instructor and Hookoff It was Taylor Davis' first time in "They encouraged me the whole a lake, flying within feet of the water and went to Bridgeport to practice instru­ the sky alone. There was no flight surface. ment approaches. The clouds were at instructor by his side and he However, Davis is by no means 500ft. On that type of approach you can couldn't see a thing. reckless. After telling that story he go as low as 250 feet, and ifyou can't see "I was heading straight west and quickly recited the minimum altitude the runway you have to turn around. We was looking straight into the sun," one can fly over certain terrain. Al­ are coming up on the approach four miles Davis said. though Davis flies cautiously and out, we're getting closer and closer, and I Davis was on his way to Groton intelligently, sometimes all of the can't see anything out my window. I can as part of the 15 hours of solo flying precautions in the world cannot only see my instruments. We finally come needed to get a private pilot's li­ guarantee safety against the ele­ out of the clouds, and my instructor taps cense. ments. For instance, landing in me on the shoulder telling me to look up. "I could not see the ground so I Danbury is not exactly clockwork. So I look up and the runway is right in had to talk to the controller over the "In Danbury, the final approach front of me with its lights flashing, and radio. It took me a few minutes to time. That summer I had thought is between mountains, the wind is above me the sun was shining through build up my courage (to talk to the about it for a while and my mom said, gusty and you bounce around a lot. the clouds. It was awesome- such a cool controller), but they were nice and 'If that is what you want to do, go Crosswind landings are the worst. sight. It was so satisfying," said Davis. helpful," said Davis. for it,' and she was 100% behind I'd say Danbury is one of the hard­ me," said Davis. est (to land in) on the East Coast. That summer Davis attended an I've had some pretty close calls," introduction flight in Danbury to test said Davis. his interests, and after that he was Occasionally, flying can be te­ hooked. From there he went back dious. On a Saturday during the up to Danbury every other Saturday summer Davis can be taxiing on the where he flew with an instructor for hot runway, cramped in a plane with­ two hours. Davis started off flying out air-conditioning for up to a half­ a Cessna 152, a small, cramped two­ hour, leaving him only one and a half seater with one engine. hour of flying. Currently, Davis is In order for Taylor to get his li­ working hard to get his certificate Though Davis' first experience cense, he had to fly 40 hours and for instrument flying. alone in the sky was frightening, his take a two-hour written test. His first "It is really tough. It is extremely passion for flying remains strong. time at the sticks his instructor let difficult- all of the studying I have 1St

.sy Paul Carley dormant for almost 50 years. Then early its ugly head. Kids were using Pogs to 1993 and 1994 slammers that would StaffWriter in the 1990's Pogs exploded with a boom gamble. Slammers, the heavy Pogs used have only cost a dollar or two sud­ that could be felt around the world. Soon to start the games, were being used to denly sold for twenty. It was outra­ As a young child there was noth­ both kids and adults were buying Pogs. throw at other kids. Some slammers were geous! Kids who used to play just for ing I liked better than going outside and "Adults buy them because some ofthem bladed and when they were thrown down the love of the game didn't have the playing Pogs. I remember slamming will be worth money later," said Mark to start the game they would bounce means to procure the Pogs that had down those cardboard discs, which were Mingeldorff, man­ back and hit the been so precious to them. Pogs were adorned with eight balls and flaming agerofMr. Bulky's, player in the face. in a tumble that they would never re­ skulls. The ridiculously fun game a famous collect­ We all know that it cover from. A game that was ready to caught my attention and the attention ible store located in is all fun and games challenge comic books, sports cards, of countless others as "Pogs fever" the middle of until someone loses and the Roman Catholic Church was swept the nation. The simplicity of the America. Pog an eye. By 1993 now in the fight of its life. It didn't game and the rush I felt when I slammed sales boomed con­ Pogs were being win. that slammer down on the Pog pile are sistently going up outlawed in school. Now Pogs are just a fond memory. memories I still cherish today. by 8-10% a week. I can vividly remem­ Sure you can buy Pogs if you go on Pogs were started in Hawaii around The Pog industry ber back in elemen­ the Internet, but it is just not the same. shortly after the second World War. was rolling along, tary school when It is rare to go along the street and see Originally, Pogs were not the cool pieces ready to take on young hoodlums young children playing Pogs. If you ofcardboard we have come to know and the long-standing kids institutions of used to put tape on their shoes and were to stroll around elementary school love. Pogs were milk caps. Later a comic books and sports cards. Mark run over Pog games, in order to steal now you would hear children discuss­ woman by the name of Jennifer Barker Mingeldorff even said, "Ifyou're a child Pogs from the younger helpless stu­ ing the latest Pokemon character and started using printed caps on drinks to and don't know what a Pog is, you dents. Pogs were banned soon after not the new "Bigfoot" slammer. Pogs help advertise the product. On one drink, .aren't cool. It's a new way to become those incidents. are just another sad phenomenon of Passion Orange Guava Juice, there were popular." With statements like this Pogs Then the blood sucking adult col­ American culture, to be placed some­ three majestic letters, P-O-G. looked ready to take over. lectors got involved, and Pog prices where between rapper Vanilla Ice and Somehow the Pog craze remained Then the darker side ofPogs reared skyrocketed. In those key years of L.A. Lights sneakers.

Mr. Hall visits freshman class, students learn more about his job

Submitted by Mrs. MacLehose's freshman writing class On Oct. 10, 2000, Mrs. high point in his career as principal MacLehose's freshman writing class was, he paused, laughed, and re­ interviewed Mr. Hall, the principal of sponded jokingly, "Making it from Darien High School. We met with the third to the fourth year." More him to learn more about him and his seriously, he added that seeing job. change over time for the better is re­ To begin the interview we asked warding to him. Mr. Hall about his life before DHS. When we asked Mr. Hall about We learned that Mr. Hall was an En­ his view of racism he said, "I have a glish teacher at New Canaan High hard time with any kind of 'ism.' All School. He has lived in Maryland people are human beings and should and Arizona, but he grew up in New be treated fairly." York City and moved to Darien in When we asked him what is the 1959. He was also in the Navy for plan for the new school he replied, four years. This is his seventeenth "We are working with the teachers year at DHS and he hopes to have to see what visions they have for many more. teaching that they would like to have Before the principal's job in the new building." Another ques­ started, he was an assistant princi­ tion we asked was about whether pal for eight years. He said being there were plans for a new stadium principal is interesting because he to be built. Mr. Hall replied, "There was a student in DHS for three years is no plan for a stadium to be built, what we, as freshmen, will get out of Wave volleyball and girls lacrosse. until he graduated in 1964. As a stu­ but there are plans for all the sports the new school, he said, "We will He likes jazz and classical music. As dent he always was sent to the as­ fields and of course air condition­ learn a lot by planning for a big we started to talk about the reputa­ sistant principal's office for talking, ing, which makes everyone happy." project and seeing it develop." tion of skateboarders, the bell rang. and the funny thing is that his first He also said that the new school is When we asked Mr. Hall about But, he assured us, "I'll be back." job here was being an assistant prin­ going to go up by the tennis courts his hobbies he said, " I like to fish cipal. To Mr. Hall, being a principal and softball field. There will be more and kayak." He said that he like the is like any other leadership position. study, recreation, and relaxation word kayak because it's spelled the When we asked Mr. Hall what the spaces. When we asked Mr. Hall same way backwards. He said he used to fish as a little boy with his father. He also said he has a motor boat. He said he liked to salt water fish for stripe bass and bluefish. The biggest fish he caught was 20 pounds. We knew he liked long boarding and we asked him about it. He said he got into it because his son skate­ boards. He said that he goes in Cen­ tral Park skateboarding with his son, and he found he was having trouble keeping up with him. So, he got him­ self a long board, saying, "I didn't want to be left behind." Though he could not remember the brand name of his board he had, he knew that it had a palm tree on it. Mr. Hall likes Thai food and Mexican and Asian food. He enjoys playing tennis and watching Blue A&L Decelnber 2000 8 The Family Man fun pack: Simon and Bill go to the movies • By Simon Hawkins & Bill Grimshaw StaffWriters do not use The Family Man as an ex­ so did laughter. This emotional confu­ weak spot in this movie at first glance, The basic story of The Family Man ample. sion proves for a weak movie in most because Leoni and Cage have not had a is It's a Wonderful Life in reverse. The At first glimpse, The Family Man cases. good dramatic role in years. But acting main character has a loveless but appeared to have a promising film on its While The Family Man may prove is where this movie really shines. Leoni wealthy life that he is unsure of and hands. The film stars Nicholas Cage, to be a strong holiday movie, as a film makes her best performance to date, through divine intervention sees what a Tea Leoni, and Don Cheadle. All of there is a lot ofwasted time. However, a which is saying much. She always plays good life he could have. The story also these actors have a repertoire of first­ strong performance by Cheadle and a second fiddle to cage in this movie, and has elements ofA Christmas Carol deal­ rate movies to back up their names. few key jokes were able to make this she is sometimes excessively goofy for ing with greed, love, and how one man Nicholas Cage has starred in such block­ movie slightly enjoyable. a role like this. But she is a key part of can change. busters as Face-Off, The Rock, and an The BottomLine: The Family Man the movie, and she does herjob and she Nicolas Cage plays Jack Campbell, award winning performance for leading is like my grandma, cheesy and hokey, does it well. Cheadle has three forms, a high-powered Wall Street trader. He actor in Leaving Las Vegas. This pow­ but full of love. the homie, the rich guy, and the man be­ has many girlfriends but no real love in erful actor, at first look, would appear to Grade: B/B­ hind the counter. Cheadle seems un­ his life, as seen by the fact that he spends bring this movie to the stars as would Bill Blabs: comfortable as the homie, even though Christmas alone. He interferes in a po­ later prove untrue. His co-star, TeaLeoni, I went into the Theater expecting he did it before it Out ofSight. He just tential heist by Cash Money (Don has appeared in films such as Flirting the worst from The Family Man. It ap­ seemed like he was straining to do the Cheadle), and is told "he brought this With Disaster, Deep Impact, and Bad peared to be anotherpiece offamily holi­ role. Cheadle is talented though, and he upon himself." On Christmas morning, Boys. Another promising actor, Leoni day fluff with the bland karma between makes his role work and he effectively Jack awakes in bed next to his ex-girl­ has proved herself in the past to make master of explosions Nicolas Cage and makes his character mysterious, as he friend Kate (Tea Leoni). He left her thir­ this line up of actors very powerful. the missing-in-action,Tea Leoni. Yet, I should be. Finally there is Nicolas Cage, teen years ago to pursue his career in These two are also followed by the tal­ found that The Family Man was one of who proves he can do more than blow London. He is also surprised to be liv­ ented actor Don Cheadle, possibly the the biggest surprises of the year, and things up. Many forget how good he ing in New Jersey with two kids, a dog, only f;:ntertaining character throughout had a unique quality that few movies was in Moonstruck, and he once again parents-in-law, less-than-designer the whole movie. Cheadle has appeared can emulate, heart. proves he is good at romantic/family clothes, and a job as a tire salesman. in such movies as Rosewood, Boogie Although The Family Man's story comedies. He is the center of this story, Although Jack is very confused at first, Nights, and as the infamous character is an amalgam of other holiday classics, and he knows it. He portrays both his he begins to realize that he likes this life "Snoop" in one of 1998's best films Out it seems to breathe new life and new greedy and loving side well, and he and that he has never stopped loving ofSight. twists into a path we have tread before. shows his transformation well in a be­ Kate. He must then choose between the A twist to the holiday classic It's A The screenplay was well written, with lievable way. His best scene in the movie glamorous life he knew or the love of a Wonderful Life, The Family Man poses thoughtful and funny dialogue. The is when he says nothing at all, but just family he has come to know. the question, What if...? The real ques­ movie is written like a thesis. It sets out stands outside in the snow, knowing SimonSez: tion is, what if a movie came along that to prove that a love-filled middle-class soon he will have to go back to his old Since the dawn offilmmaking there was so bad that it made you want to life is better than a loveless wealthy life. life. has been a glorious night known only leave the movie theater? While this is But along the way, it avoids being bor­ "The Family Man" is an amalgam of as the sneak preview. With it have grown an over statement, it is not far off from ing through good acting and well writ­ holiday movies, and in some way it is tales and legends. One is constantly the truth. ten comedy, most of which is found hokey and cheesy. But it is a funny trying to figure out its origin and the From the get-go of the movie, The through the inexperience of Cage with movie, with a lot ofheart and some good purpose of it in the modern world. One Family Man looks to have a promising children. As well, The Family Man has acting, especially by Cage. It is not full such tale has given this sneak-preview start with a powerful opening scene from a good message about the importance ofsap, but genuine emotion that will tug meaning. It is believed that every so Cage and the character of Cash Money of family and the decision we make in on the heartstring of anyone. often a motion picture stands above the played by Cheadle. Cheadle is able to life. It is rare to see a movie nowadays The Bottom Line: It's a wonderful rest but it is so good that it is unable to charm the screen with his ingenious co­ actually have a point and a message. My movie, but no It's A Wonderful Life. show its excellence through its trailer. medic wit, a performance that would only real complaint is that the movie Grade: B+ This has been the case in many past prove to be just as clever as the one in begins to lag towards the end. But this sneak previews including The Thomas Out ofSight. Unfortunately, the inferior is excusable because the movie has an Crown Affair, There's Something About portrayals ofthe other characters would excellent scene with Nicolas Cage in the Mary, and Almost Famous. When try­ only lead to a meager outcome. While Park followed by a solid ending. ing to prove the sneak-preview theory, crying erupted from some moviegoers, The acting would seem to be the Neirad picks best and worst of the Year 2000 -ByTracy Lynch and Andy Mattison Business Manager aruJ Opinion Editor Me, Myself, & Irene: After a brief for each other. The film is utterly predict­ a movie, it was bad. I want my $8 back. Best Movies break for drama films, Jim Carrey returns able andjustlike any other teen flick. There Almost Famous: Director Cameron to his comedic roots with this hilarious is little humor to this film, and I found my­ BestTVShows Crowe's semi-autobiographical film was masterpiece from non other than the selftruly excited when the ending credits The West Wing- Martin Sheen and easily one of the best movies this year. Farrelly Brothers, the same directors who appeared, after98 minutes ofpure torture. Rob Lowe, among others, shine in NBC's The movie chronicles the life of l5-year brought us ''There's Something About new hit drama. Offering a humorous but old William Miller (patrickFugit) as he tours Mary." Carrey plays Charlie, a Rhode Is­ Next Friday: Ice Cube's sequel to serious perspective on the White House, with the up-and-coming band Stillwater in land State Trooper, who is unable to take the hit "Friday" was just that: a sequel. ''The West Wing" has become one of the the late 70's because he is offered the op­ his multiple personality disorder medica­ This movie was absolutely terrible. The most popular television shows on T.v. to­ portunity to write for Rolling Stone. Com­ tion. Charlie slowly falls in love with Irene bully that Craig (Ice Cube) had beat up at day. bined with humor and sub-plots, the film (Renee Zellweger), buthas to compete for the end of "Friday" is now on the loose engages audiences. The characters are her with his alter-ego Hank, the sexually and out to get him, so Craig escapes to his The Sopranos- This creative new believable and interesting, leaving the driven, exact opposite ofCharlie. The two uncle EI Roy's mansion in the suburbs. HBO series depicts a NewJersey mobster viewer begging for more once the closing men competing for Irene left audiences "NextFriday" lacks any ofthe original gags who is suffeling from acute anxiety attacks credits appear. rolling in their chairs and wondering why found in "Friday" and goes overboard with while trying to balance his life as a de­ Carrey ever left comedy to do dramatic many ofits jokes. The characters are out­ voted husband, father, and family man. Glodiator: Ridley Scott's epic adven­ work. rageous and unbelievable, making the The show is balancedbetween drama and ture about a well-respected general Maxi­ viewing ofthis fIlm even more horrific. morbid, devilish humor, creating an excit­ mus (Russell Crowe) who is stripped of ing and addicting television success. his rank when the evil Commodus (Joaquin WorstMovies Coyote Ugly- A movie that appeared Pheonix) takes overthe Roman Empire in Boys & Girls: Keeping in the tradi­ to be about a bunch of foxy ladies who Survivor- This CBS hit brought voy­ 180 AD is truly a thrilling and highly im­ tion of teen chick flicks, Director Robert tend barin New York City turned out to be eurtelevision to a completely different level pressive spectacle. Scott captures the in­ Iscove's summerfIlm was utterly predict­ a chick flick. The lines in this movie were this summer. 16 men and women chosen tense, bloody battles with such a histori­ able. The movie begins with two young­ stupid and once the plot kicked in the movie to live on an island and competed for a cal accuracy that surpasses such mms as sters- uptight Ryan (Freddie Prinze, Jr.) and got even stupider. Thetrailers for the movie million dollars through various compe­ "Saving PrivateRyan." "Gladiator" is truly free-spirited Jennifer (OaireForlani)- meet­ were misleading to the audience and titions kept viewers tuned in every sucked men into paying money to see the an exciting and enthralling adventure ing on a plane. They meet again in col­ Continued on Page 11 movie that can be enjoyed by anyone. lege, where they begin to have feelings movie. As a practicaljoke, it was good. As 9 Decclnber 2000 ~&L Westhoff's Classic Reruns: Charles In Charge

By Chris Westhoff the "news" section. Sure, the Nader article to write about monthly. I had found the shows. Staring Scott Baio as a live in baby StaffWriter was great, but I need a place where I can section, but I couldn't find the subject. sitter for the Pembrooke's (in the '84-'85 both report and reflect. A place where I am One afternoon as I sat at home, with season) and the better known Powell's Recently, there have been a few not restricted to trivial warfare and poverty. the glare of my Panasonic 22" screen ('87-'89). With the crazy antics ofthe kids, problems in the Neirad room. Staff bouncing ofthe walls, (most notably Baywatch babe Nicole Writers have been slacking off, not crumbs ofDoritos on Eggert) and the incessant hair brained ad­ having their stories ready by the due my shirt, and two ventures constantly brought on by date, or not even doing them at all, and empty Pepsi cans on Charles' best friend Buddy Lembert Editors have been lackadaisical in the ·~~~"'IIIJI the floor, it clicked. (played by Willie Aames), the show is al­ organization of their individual sec­ What do I know best? ways a treat. I recall one of my favorite tions. This is the reason that the No­ T.v.!! And what are episodes. Charles was going to a Hallow­ vember issue came out rnid-December. my favorite kind of een party at a girls house he had met. Be­ When a meeting was held with all the programs? Re-runs!! ing his usual self, Buddy wanted to tag staff writers and editors, the unanimous An overwhelming along, (Ha Ha, Ha Ha). As Charles tries to decision was that something needed sense of elation find him a date, Buddy, spying in on the to be done in order to structure Neirad poured over me as I interview, falls out of a tree and into the periods, giving stricter deadlines, etc. scanned the Guide, re­ room Charles is in, wrecking not only his When the idea of a "beat" was pro­ membering my favor­ chance at having a date, but Charles' as posed, I jumped at the opportiJnity. ite shows. So, stay well! It was a good one! The only thing left to do was to figure tuned, for I have found Overall, Charles in Charge was a great out what my monthly column would my calling in a column show. With dynamic writing and brilliant discuss. we will call, acting, it not only captured the hearts of Fellow writers proposed a news I knew I needed "Arts and Leisure". So ''Westhoff's Classic TV Re-runs". young viewers, but has sealed one of the column, (something along the lines of what'do I write about? I debated music, but Although it is no longer playing on greatest decades ofthe free world on vid­ "This Month in the World") or a more I'm not toq hot for most new releases, and I any stations in our area, (which I am cur­ eotape. My only hope is that these epi­ local subject ("This Month in Darien"). don't go to many concerts. I thought about rently protesting, trying to have the show sodes can once again be enjoyed and I thought about these but did not feel new movies, but I found that I go to about filled in an afternoon spot) Charles in shared amongst us all. that my name belonged consistently in three or four a year, again, not nearly enough Charge remains as one of my favorite

ACROSS

1 THIS ENGLISH MATHMATICIAN AND PHYSICIST,WHO WAS FAMOUS FOR HIS DISCOVERIES IN GRAVITATION, PLANETARY MOTION, AND OPTICS, WAS BORN ON CHRISTMAS. 7 PAC-MAN'S ONLY ALLY 8 ONLY U.S. STATE TO BORDER THE FIVE GREAT LAKES 9 FILM NAME OF SECOND PERSON KILLED IN SCREAM 10 THE POINSETTIA, A TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS FLOWER ORIGIONALLY GREW IN WHICH COUNTRY? 11 NICK CARTER'S FAV MOVIE (HINT, SIGOURNEY WEAVER STARS IN IT) 13 NAME OF FEMALE CHRISTMAS SINGLE 17 NAME OF N.Y. COW BEFORE DOWN OF ALL TIME JETS BEFORE GIVING BIRTH 6 NAME OF STANLY SONNY WERBLIN 14 THIS MOVIE WAS 2 LAST NAME OF IPKUUSS'S DOG IN GAVE THEM A NEW, BEING PLAYED AT U.S. PRESIDENT THE MOVIE THE IMAGE THE DRIVE-IN IN WHO SAID "SPEAK MASK 18 THE REAL ST. TWISTER SOFLTY AND CARRY 12 ONLY ZODIAC SIGN NICHOLAS LIVED 16 FIRST INSTRUMENT A BIG STICK" THTA IS AN IN ... ON WHICH "SILENT 3 FIRST STATE IN OBJECT RATHER 19 ACTUAL FULL NAME NIGHT" WAS US TO DECLARE THAN A PERSON OR OF LUKE PLAYED CHRISTMAS A ANIMAL SKYWALKER 21 LAST NAME OF LEGAL HOLIDAY 15 NAME OF THE NFL 20 IF YOU MAEK HAT~ JASON IN MOVIE 4 FIRST COUNTRY TO CHAMPIONSHIP YOU ARE CALLED FRIDAY THE 13TH RELEASE A GAME BEFORE IT A ...... 22 LIGHTEST KNOWN CHRISTMAS STAMP WAS CALLED THE SUBSTANCE 5 BEST SELLING SUPER BOWL A&L Decetnber 2000 10 Can Dennis Miller Deliver for Monday Night Football?

• By Andy Mattison was referring to. The site, titled "The "When I watch Monday straight over their heads. This looks Opinion Editor Annotated Dennis Miller" entails Night Football I put it on mute so I bad for ABC, who hired Miller four pages of Dennis Miller quotes don't have to listen to Dennis mainly to stop the bleeding of Mon­ Are you ready for some from the most recent Monday Night Miller's annoying voice," said senior day Night Football. Monday Night Miller? This year Monday Night Football game, explains what hap- Chris Mehmel, an avid Monday Football use to be ABC's most­ Football has revamped their staff for Night Football fan. Miller in the watched prime-time show but it has the 2000 season, adding some new booth has also prompted a "Dennis been on the decline in recent years. faces to replace the ones they fired Miller Sucks" website on the This year ratings for Monday Night last year. In the last few years Mon­ Internet. The website is "dedicated Football are down 7 percent from last day Night Football has let go of Dan to the chronicles of Dennis Miller's year- and they are on pace to be the Dierdorf, Frank Gifford, Lesley idiotic comments, observations and lowest ever. Visser, and Boomer Esiason. To re­ misuse of eighth grade vocabulary However, lack of viewers for place them ABC hired ex-football that he thinks make him so very in­ Monday Night Football cannot be player Eric Dickerson, Melissa Stark tellectual." The site has links to what directly attributed to Dennis Miller from ESPN, and hall of fame quarter­ the critics are saying about Miller, and his outlandish comments. Mon­ back Dan Fouts. ABC's most notable what the public is saying, and the day Night Football has problems of move was hiring comedian Dennis site also advertises "Dennis Miller its own, one being that it does not Miller to accompany Fouts and long­ Sucks" items that people visiting the start until 9 PM Eastern time and, on time Monday Night Football com­ site can purchase. Most of what average, games end between mid­ mentator Al Michaels in the booth. people are bothered by about Den­ night and 1 AM. Most people who ABC decision to hire Miller, who nis Miller's commentary is not their watch Monday Night Football have beat out loudmouth political analyst irrelevance to the game of football. to go to work or school the next day Rush Limbaugh for the job, was im­ "He's an idiot. He knows a so they only watch the game until mediately met with public disap­ lot about football but he makes stu­ half-time and then they go to bed. proval. Some were comparing Den­ pid comments. They don't make Another reason why not a lot of nis Miller's role on Monday Night sense. His timing is bad and all his people watch Monday Night Foot­ Football to the one Howard Cossell jokes go over peoples heads," said ball is because they have a lot to do had when he was in the booth, pened in the game that made Miller senior Griff Lassiter, a fan of Mon­ on Monday nights and don't have people hated him but watched Mon­ make the reference, and what the ref­ day Night Football but not of Den­ time to watch the games. day Night Football just to see what erence meant. An example of one of nis Miller. Many people agree with "I don't really watch football. he'd say next. the pages from the website: "Refer­ Griff that Miller's comments go over I'm too busy talking on my walkie talk­ Dennis Miller's first game as ring to: Three New England defend­ people's heads and his historical and ies," said Dr. Falcone, the assistant a commentator bordered on disaster. ers clamoring over Chiefs tight end .cultural references don't belong in principal at Darien High School. Mon­ He step on people's lines and, which Tony Gonzalez, preventing him from the game of football. If comments day Night Football use to be an event became his trademark during the sea­ catching a pass. Miller said: 'That about Gulliver's Travels and Greek that everyone waited the entire week son, made references to historical looked like something out of Gods do not belong in football, then for. It gave people a reason to smile on and cultural things that left audi­ Gulliver's Travels.' The reference: To maybe the person saying them Monday. There are many things about ences staring at the TV thinking, the first part of Jonathan Swift's doesn't belong there either. Monday Night Football that have "Huh?" The critics were all over 1726 picaresque satire in which the "I think the Buccaneers de­ made it a time-honored tradition. The Dennis Mil1er after his first game. hero, Lemuel Gulliver, awakens in fensive line should 'personally es­ theme song before each game sets the People were calling for Don Lilliput to find himself a giant pris­ cort' [Miller] out of the booth in the tone for the game that is about to be Ohlmeyer's head for hiring Miller. oner of the six-inch-high Lilliputians, middle of the game," said senior played. It lets the audience know that Ohlmeyer, the executive producer who've tied him down and are crawl­ Chris Mehmel. But, regardless of his they are about to watch a very intense for Monday Night Football, begged ing all over him. Originally published comments or knowledge of the game game between two teams that are out people to give Miller a chance to get as Travels into Several Remote Na­ of football, ABC has signed Miller to annihilate each other. Monday Night his feet wet before they started criti­ tions of the World, Swift's tale fol­ up for another season of Monday Football has lost some viewers in the cizing. lows Gulliver as he journeys to Night Football. Miller has not signed past couple of years but it hasn't lost The public waited. The sea­ Brobdingnag (where the inhabitants a multiyear contract with Monday any magic. The games are still very son started. Miller gradually im­ are giants and he is a tiny pet), Night Football, and has not com­ intense and close. The duration of a proved as an announcer, but the his­ Laputa (a floating island whose lofty mented on his future as a broad­ game to be played is still quite long. torical references and one-liners denizens have intellectualized them­ caster for Monday Night Football. But ABC should realize that it is not stayed. The problem with that was selves into ineptitude), and finally "A few people may like his losing viewers due to its broadcast no one understood the historical ref­ the land of the Houyhnhnms (ratio­ commentary, but a lot of peopJe.think team and should not worry about hav­ erences Miller was making. This nal, virtuous horses) and the Yahoos his comments are unrelated to the ing to spice up the program. Maybe prompted Brittanica.com to add a (the Houyhnhnms' vicious, disgust­ game," said junior Eric Westphaling. Monday Night Football is just in a new feature to its website explain­ ing human servants)." Miller's commentary could lose slump right now and hopefully it will ing Miller's comments to people, The site helped bring clar­ Monday Night Football more view­ be able to, as the sports cliche goes, which most of the time was the,en­ ity to Miller's style of commentary, ers than it gains because of the au" bounce back and give a stellar perfor­ tire Monday Night Football audi­ but it did not silence his critics. And dience having to sit and listen to mance. But for now all anyone can do ence, that didn't understand what he there are a lot of them. Miller's references which simply go is wait.

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BestIWorst 2000 Break Stuff- Limp Bizkit- Al­ This commercial delivered the best Continuedfrom page 8 though Limp Bizkit is known as one ter every game, it just kepi on go­ overview of Decision 2000 and ex­ of the most hated bands in hard rock ing. I don't know who let the dogs Wednesday night. The viewers were poses the flaws both men have as today, frontman Fred Durst ex­ out, but I think it's about time we drawn to the exotic location and outra­ candidates for president. The ad pressed feelings shared by a lot of put them back in. And I also give geous competitions, making this an starts out with a man entering a vot­ people when he made this song. Al­ the Baha Men a year before they instant summer hit. ing machine to vote for the presi­ though filled with obscenities galore become the biggest one-hit wonder dent. Before he pokes any chards and references to violence, the mes­ Worst TV Shows into anything he hears a voice that sage Limp Bizkit was sending was Geena Davis Show- This terrible says, "Vote for me. My dad was presi­ one that has been felt by the mod­ ~TRADE' ABC show about a successful, E dent." He turns his head to find an ern American teenager for quite single woman (played by Davis) liv­ elephant, the symbol for the RepUb­ some time now. With the stress the ever. ing in the city who falls in love with licans, standing on his shoulder. average high school student faces and moves in with a widowed man Then another voice says, "Big deal, with college stuff, social status, and Bye, Bye, Bye!- 'N Sync- Crazy with two kids in the suburbs lacks my dad with a Senator." The man grades, its good to listen to a song choreography and a hip music video any sense of depth. The characters turns his head the other way to find where someone is saying that they made this song a hit, and one most a donkey, the symbol for the Demo­ know how you feel. people couldn't get out of their crats, standing on his other shoul­ heads. But this song became not der. The two start arguing about who only overplayed but also is the better candidate, the elephant overperformed. 'N Sync performed explaining how people think he's his this song at least five different times dad, and the donkey claiming he "in­ on MTV throughout the course of vented the internet, and a lot of other the year. I think now it's time we say are boring and undeveloped, the things too." Then Snickers slogan, bye-bye to "Bye, Bye, Bye". And to "Not going anywhere for awhile? story line is predictable, and it lacks 'N Sync as well. Between them, the humor. Grab a Snickers." pops up and the Backstreet Boys and 98 degrees, commercial end with the donkey they all sound and look the same and claiming he invented pants. Hey Freakylinks- Bill Grimshaw one of them has to go. called it when he said the only thing Florida, drag the recount on for an­ freaky about "Freakylinks" is that it other month. That way this commer­ Best TV Commercials cial will keep on airing. got picked up by Fox. This dreary The 7 Up Ad- In an age where drama which stars Ethan Embry, who more and more commercials are us­ you may remember from Can't ing humor to advertise their prod­ Hardly Wait, about a bunch of uct, this commercial is proof that twenty-somethings who set up a Worst Songs businesses don't need jingles to website to serve as a forum for other I think I'm in Love- Jessica have people remember their product, people like them to investigate the Simpson- The latest artist to come just a catchy slogan. The "Make 7 supernatural as well as other things out of the" female teenage pop Up Yours" campaign just might be that go bump in the night is not even singer" used the melody from John the next best slogan involving a Worst TV Commercials scary. The show lacks the spunk that Mellencamp's "Jack and Diane" in product name since" I scream, you EToys- This commercial about successful sci-fi TV shows have, this song about love. The song im­ scream, we all scream for ice cream". buying.'ln.You~l:\9.Ai~aygifts on-line such as the "X-Files" and "Twilight mediately snatched a daily spot on The commercial, which made Or- .• 'with ut'-t:iiii'S's1:e:sertds' a 'subliminal Zone". "Freakylinks" tried to be­ MTV's TRL, but it had little oomph lando Jones a star, has Orlando wan- message to holiday shoppers: why come a Blair Witch Project for tele­ to get it anywhere other than dering the streets of New York in a go to a department store and actu­ vision, and failed miserably. Jessica's good looks. green t-shirt with the 7 Up slogan ally interact with people in society on it. Only the slogan has been cut when you can sit at home on your Big Brother- This rip-off of the You Sang to Me- Marc An­ in half by the t-shirt. "Make 7" is on computer like a hermit and buy over­ summer hit "Survivor" was truly sick­ thony- There is only one word to the front, and "Up Yours" is on the priced items that will be delivered to ening. 10 strangers forced to live in describe this song- cheesy. The lyr­ you in 2-3 days. The dot-com era is one house, share one bathroom, and ics are stupid and sound as if a child· making shopping easier, but it is never allowed to leave? That's just could've written them. Anthony's ending social interaction, as we cruelty, and not something the pub­ attempt at a ballad was a sad one, know it. What is Christmas without lic wants to view. Does anyone even and my advice would be to turn off shopping malls, Sidewalk Santas and know which cast member won? the radio anytime this song comes seeing the Christmas tree in on. Rockefeller center? You can't get that from shopping on-line Lucky - Britney Spears- This back. You can imagine the response Best Songs song never made it anywhere except Orlando gets when he is wondering Pokemon commercials- The lat­ Beautiful Day- U2- The legend­ on MTV and Z100, the network that the streets telling people "Make 7 est fad among kids, soon to be re­ ary group made a comeback this year created Britney and a radio station Up Yours". For a soft drink commer­ placed by Razor scooters, advertises with their upbeat and catchy single that has jumped on the Britney Band­ cial, I say that's good taste. too much too often to kids who have from their newly released "All That wagon ever since 1999. As many hits not caught on to Pokemon yet. First You Can't Leave Behind." The song as Britney has and is going to have, E-Trade commercial during the it was trading cards, then action he­ sounds like many of U2'solder this one she wasn't very lucky with. Super Bowl- With Super Bowl com­ roes and now the movie. This has songs- full of soul and optimism. mercials becoming as big an event caused a nightmare for parents who Most Overplayed Songs as the game itself, this one was with­ are forced to buy all these products Pinch Me- Bare Naked Ladies­ With Arms Wide Open- Creed­ out a doubt the best commercial dur­ for their kids so they can fit in and This was the first single to be re­ This is one of those songs that has ing the Super Bowl. With the ridicu­ trade cards with their friends. If they leased from the band's 2000 album, been on the radio so much that when­ lous pricetag of a thirty second spot don't the kids are ostracized by their "Maroon." Full of clever wordplay ever you're channeling through ra­ during the Super Bowl, it amusing friends. The more Pokemon commer­ and energy, the song easily sur­ dio stations you'll find it being to see a commercial that pointed out cials kids see, the more Pokemon mer­ passes the group's first hit, "One played at the same time on two dif­ the sad truth that paying almost $3 chandise they are going to want. The Week." Lighthearted yet serious, ferent stations. This song has a great million to advertise is a waste of more Pokemon commercials I see, the "Pinch Me" is a song that can be message but it just got beaten into money. The commercial started out closer I am to going crazy. the ground. Hearing this song on the listened to over and over again. with a dancing monkey and two guys radio is like reading another Daria on either side of him clapping in Pontiac Aztek- Ads that feature Knight column in the Darien News­ rhythm with the music. After 20 sec­ a young couple with a multiple­ Review. Enough already! onds of this, the screen changes to choice list of things to do in their white with a message across it that Aztek cannot hide the simple fact Who Let the Dogs Out- Baha says, "Well, we just wasted $3 mil­ that it is such an ugly car. Aztek Men- No doubt that this was the of­ lion. Who's watching your money?" should've used the winner of "Sur­ ficial song of the summer, because And then the E-Trade logo closes vivor", who got a new Aztek along you couldn't go two minutes with­ out the commercial. A dancing mon­ with $1 million as his prize for being out hearing it somewhere. We key is something I would expect to the lone survivor, in their commer­ thought this song would die down see during the half time show, but it cials to market the car. Of course, if I once the summer ended, the way "All was a real treat to get to see it dur­ was the lone survivor and got the Star" by Smashmouth did last sum­ ing a commercial. Aztek as my prize, I'd sell it immedi­ mer, but once the New York Mets ately and use my $1 million and buy adopted it as the song they play af- Snickers Election Commercial- a Porsche. p Decctnher 2000 12

Extra Points: 'Canes get the shaft and other assorted rants lIBy Sean Gillespie and Mike Sullivan A new and different perspective on the sports world Editor-In-ChiefandNews Editor Ei enh w r admini wati n. A. in '. th 1a t Blu Wav title wa w n in 1957. Y. '57. But anyway g luck DH B than!

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Blue Wave Boys Hockey

• By Paul Carley StaffWriter have the potential to contribute great Last year the Boys' Ice hockey things to the team. If we can come team had a very successful season. together as a team, I believe we have They beat New Canaan so badly that the ability to do as well as last year's a chant of, "Bring out varsity," was team," said returning player Brian and started by the fans in the direction Kelly. Justin Haacke, a junior known of the New Canaan bench. Then they for his distinctive skating style, has went out and captured the FCIAC a different plan; "Our coach is known title in a close game against Green­ to steal equipment from the Rangers wich. The team then went deep into locker room when they are practic­ the state tournament until the boys ing. So hopefully he can steal their of Fairfield Prep eventually elimi­ talent, like in Space Jam." That nated them. probably won't be necessary. The The Zinks, and the Simpsons team still has many talented players have both left leaving Brian and Greg on it. Ian Willets, Joseph Kelly as the most talented set of Sebastianski, Matt Madalon, and twins on the ice. The team's leading Doug Musicaro all played very well reo scorer John Blair has gone off to last year and plan to add to what college along with Brendan they've already accomplished. Mahoney and Peter Kennedy. Add­ The team will be tested early ing to those problems is the fact that with games against hockey powers . standout Chris Westoff will not be like West Haven, Notre Dame and playing this year. Fairfield Prep. They will also have a ve Although this team is missing big rematch against New Canaan on some of last year's leaders they are December 26. If they can come out n still optimistic about what's to come. of these games on top, they'll prob­ "We have several new players on ably be making noise in the FCIAC's it rdtuni k the team this year, and many of them and states once again. t.:.;...~" .. 13 Decetnber 2000 s o s Jets versus Giants, who is the better team in New York J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS!! Big Blue: HistoricallyBetter Miami. In the Tampa game the Jets were lead the Giants to two Super Bowls • By Sean GiUespie behind 17-6 heading into the fourth quar­ .yAndrew Elliot and Paul Carley victories. After a rebuilding stint &lit0111l Chelf ter where they then proceeded to score StaffWriters with the Patriots, Parcells was look­ 15 points in the fourth including a risky ing for an even bigger challenge. two point conversion from a pass from Since the beginning of time That's why Bill Parcells chose the When people think ofthe New York Vmny Testaverde to win the game 21-17. there has only been one team of New worst franchise in football, the New Jets, the most common thing that comes In a more dramatic comeback in week 7's York football, the New York Football York Jets. Despite his efforts, even to mind is Broadway Joe Namath guar­ Monday night football appearance, the Giants. Jets fans are reminded of this the Tuna couldn't manage to get the anteeing victory in the 1969 Superbowl Jets were behind in the fourth 30-7 only every home game as they walk into Jets to Super Bowl Sunday. Parcells only to stroll down the tunnel waving to score 30 points in the fourth quax1er Giants Stadium, home of the Big Blue brought with him Curis Martin, the his finger in the air after the Jets, the to tie the game after a Miami touchdown. tradition, a tradition that dates back only pro-bowl player the Jets have underdogs in the game, defeated Don This game includeda drive that ended to 1925. had who hasn't reached his prime Shula's Indianapolis Colts. The fact is, with 42 seconds left when Testaverde Giants fans are thankful for this five years prior to putting on a Jets the Jets have always played the roll of threw a touchdown pass to tie the game, tradition. Giants die-hards have sold jersey. the loveable underdog even to this day. and a 40 yax'd John Hall field goal after out every game they have The next things that you have During the 2000 season, the Jets an interception b ~':""'-'----::""''':::''''-- played in the to think about when these two fran­ have had a never-say-die attitude with Coleman. Meadow- chises come into your head are the each game. Take the Jets' week four per­ What lands. key players. Broadway Joe was the formance against the Tampa Bay Bucca­ does Gi- Jets quarterback who got them the neers and their incredible fourth quarter a I 1 Super Bowl a long time ago. He was comeback to win the game 21-17 with an known for wearing fur coats and he outstanding catch by Wayne Cherbet. even put on panty hose to in a com­ You can never fully count the Jets out mercial. Some people say that he is ofthe game. However, this year, it seems a sports great. I say that he's a that when the Giants get behind early in quasi-transvestitewho will do any­ the game, they have the bad tendency thing for a payday. On the other to lose the game. Take the Giants' week hand, the Giants had LT who was the 4 against loss to Washington, week 5 greatest Linebacker of all time. loss to Tennesee, week 10 loss to St. Known for his ability to destroy Louis and week 11 loss to Detroit. The quarterbacks and ingest large score at halftime in each was 10-0, 14-0, this amounts of drugs, he was a force to 27-7, and 21-0. In each of these games, mean? tea m be reckoned with. Ifyou were to take the Giants were run down early in the The Jets through raw aggression and put it into a hu­ game and mounted week rallies towards are by far the the winning man body the result would be the end of the game. more entertaining and losing sea- Lawrence Taylor. There is abso­ Simply put, Giants games aren't as team, they do not lose sons. Jets fans, however, lutely no comparison. The Giants exciting to watch, consideling ifthey get without a fight, whereas the Giants are have been known to desert their had a football God while the Jets behind in the first half, they tend to lose predictable and are less enjoyable to team during tough times. When the were stuck with a cross dressing the game. The Giants haven't had one watch, Jets went 1-ISit was easy to go and sissy. second half comeback all year. The Gi­ Finally, Although the Jets play in get tickets for a front row seat. Jets ants are boring and predictable from their Giants Stadium (which this writer be­ fans are lead in the crowd by fire­ basic logo to their slow defense or bust lieves should be changed) it is the Jets man Ed, the low-life loser who starts style ofplay. What makes the Jets a bet­ who have the louder, more well known the J-E-T-S chants. Until this sea­ ter teams is that they are unpredictable fans. According to a recent Associated son this has stood for Just End The and entertaining. Press article, Ron Reis of Queens New Season. This is a point where the Again, you can never count the Jets York was quoted as saying, "Giants fans Giants fans show their superiority to out of any game. With the exception of just watch the game." Thunderous those of The Jets. Giants fans don't the loss to the Steelers, the Jets haven't chants ofJ-E-T-S, JETS, JETS, JETS are need some drunken fireman leading lost the game until the last minute ofthe heard throughout the entire stadium them, they are strong individuals. fourth quarter, mounting comeback ral­ during these games, whereas the Giants Giants fans also don't have to prove lies in each of the games, normally fall­ don't even have a well known cheer. The that they have the ability to spell ing short by a touchdown or less. In Jets have a "Diehard fan" inducted into their team's name, something that Jet weeks 8, 9, and 10, the Jets lost these the pro football hall of fame. Ed fans seem to get a kick out of. games by a combined 18 points, which Anzalone, better known as "Fireman Ed" Jets fans try to talk smack about translates to six points a week, which is has been noted for starting the J-E-T-S the Giants, but little do they know either a touchdown or two field goals, a cheer in the crowd at Jets games since that the only reason they have been narrow margin indeed. The Jets were in the 80's, For the most part, Jets games able to earn some wins the past few each game until the last second. A few seem to be a more enjoyable experience seasons is because of a legendary of the Jets more dramatic wins came in for a more entertaining team. Compared Giant, the Tuna. That's right, Bill weeks 4 and 7 against Tampa Bay and to the Jets, the Giants seem just boring. Parcels, the legendary coach who . . 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~...... Decelnher 2000 14 Champs Boys basketball hoping to • ...... &..£...... g & return to the rebound to new heights mat have dedicated endless hours of bas­ • By Alex Larsen ketball and it would all be thrown away .ByLaura Macdonald Editor in Chief Sta!fWriter if they did not win a game the whole The boys basketball team hasn't season. Junior John Wheelock said, The upcoming season looks prom­ leen known in the past to win a lot of "We are trying to forget about the past ising for this year's girls gymnastics games, but this year the team has a whole years and just concentrate at putting a team led by Captain Stephanie Scott. Al­ new attitude. team together that can though their coach of 8 years Paula Not only do win at least 8 games." Mirto retired after having a baby this they want to John Wheelock, summer the strong base of talent com­ overcome last Jon O'Hanlon, Paul ing from juniors Jessica McNell, year's record of Carley, Andrew Terry, Katherine Lee, and Anna Shepard keep four wins, they Andy Mattison, and the team's hope of successfully defend­ expect to come sophomore Henry ing their FCIAC and Class S State Cham­ close to win­ Holmes hope to play pionships within reach. Taking over ning States. a key role in the up­ Mirto's position will be last season's Under the coming season and assistant coach Jennifer White and re­ strong leader­ are fighting for start­ turning again this year as assistant ship of Coach ing positions. As of coach will be Boris Klatsman. Several Minotti, Scott now there is no start­ freshman team members will supplement Hankey, and ing five, which makes the strength of the veteran juniors as Brian Chacos, the players work even the team goes up against Wilton and the team works harder during prac­ Westhill who are expected to 'be strong night and day tice. competitors. Their first meet is sched­ to accomplish Many of the bas­ uled for January 6lh and is against Green­ their goals this ketball players have wich. year. Not only no doubt..that they will does the team have a successful sea­ practice on son, but can they re­ weekends, they ally beat teams like have often practiced for an hour before Central or Harding? Both of those teams Indoor Track: school. Senior Andy Mattison said, have dominated over us in the years Nevermis s "Coach Minotti is pushing all ofus very past. Most of the kids on their teams game? Like taking hard and not putting up with any pa­ play basketball throughout the year and our new favorite thetic excuses. An example of this is many hours a day, which is hard to com­ picture ? Become when Brian Chacos was late the first day pete with considering that most kids at sport ofpractice, the whole team was punished DHS play other sports or other activi­ sNe/rad for Brian's mistake." ties in the off season. Minotti realizes However, because of Coach that the only way to beat these teams is photographer! Minotti's high expectations the players by working extremely hard during prac­ • By Derek Claiborne Sta!fWriter would be crushed if they did not win a tices and having a strong determination game the whole season. The players to win. Step aside Wringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey circus, this year the greatest show on earth is the Darien High School indoor track squad. Led by Wave gobbled up by Rams on Turkey (Bowl) Day Captains Charles Benzyk and Sameer Baig the team looks to be serious con­ • Mike Sullivan After a 15-yard unsportsman-like con­ Rams' quarterbacks also had good days, tenders in the state championship hunt. News Editor duct penalty was attached New Canaan Mike DeMasi and Mike Westfal each Baig, coming off a strong season with the Cross-Country team, has proved to NEW CANAAN- A cold, Novem­ converted a 17-yard two-point attempt completed four passes and combined for be a strong emotional leaderfor the team. ber wind chilled the fans at Dunning successfully giving them an early 8-0 112 yards passing, 69 of those yards Baig's work ethic, competitive nature, Field on lead. Chris Sgritta's one-yard run put the going to Steve Porco. The New Canaan and drive to succeed are the traits, which Thanks­ Wave back into the game 8-6, however defense was impenetrable as well; Jack make a strong leader. The other captain, giving that would be the Wave's only score. Newton and Chris Sgritta combined for junior Charles Benzyk, shares the same morning New Canaan added two more touch­ just 41 yards rushing on 16 carries. Quar­ leadership qualities and looks to carry a as the downs before the half to give them a 22­ terback P.J. Maglathlin was the one load in many ofthe sprint races. Benzyk FCIAC 6 lead. The second half was all New bright spot for Darien; he was 6 of9 pass­ feels confident about this year's sprint­ Champion New Canaan Rams trounced Canaan, after stopping an early Darien ing for 54 yards and rushed for 21 more. ing core saying, "The team will mainly the Darien Blue Wave 35-6 in Tur- However the Blue Wave offense rely on our sprinting capabilities, for that key Bowl VI. The annual match couldn't get any drives going as is where we are strongest. Ifneed be we up between the rival teams was New Canaan Y5. Darien the New Canaan defense went into can fall back on our distance runners. more lopsided than usual, the high gear in the second half, shut­ But that's only ifthe sprinters fail to win Rams, had lost just one game this ting out Darien in both quarters. their events." Along with Benzykjun­ year and were coming off an ex­ Notes: This is New Canaan's ior standout Tom "Flash" Kelly looks to citing 21-20 win over Greenwich second straight Turkey Bowl make an impact in the sprint races. Kelly in the 2000 FCIAC Championship win ...The Turkey Bowl Series is is proud of this year's team and is thor­ Game. The Wave on the other now tied at 3 wins for Darien and 3 oughly excited to work hard and see re­ hand were closing the books on " wins for New Canaan...The two sults come championship time. Kelly one of their more disappointing d teams have split their last four also has proved to be an emotional leader seasons in recent memory. The \ /-'-' meetings over the past three years, 1)/ for the team, "One thing that I'm trying Wave although impressive at including a 1999 state playoff win New canaan High School to stress in this years team is unity. With times, were 2-7 coming into the for Darien ...New Canaan's season a strong sense of unity this team can Turkey Bowl, and were trying to play ended on December 2 with a 55-6 come together as one. Doing things spoilers for New Canaan's state title charge, the Rams shut down the Darien pasting at the hands of the Bloomfield both on the track and off the track is hopes. It was not to be however as the offense, while tacking on 13 more points Warhawks in the Class M State what makes us such a close team. No Rams dominated on both sides of the for themselves. Steve Porco's 33-yard Finals...Brian Chacos and Bill Shufelt other team is as close as us." With such ball and had the game wrapped up for touchdown gave the Rams their final were named to the All-FCIAC first team; strong unity this team really has a shot the most part at halftime. score 35-6. Casey Knechtel and Jack Newton were at a title, "There's no doubt there will be The game didn't start off badly for The Rams offensive line was key in second team; Chris Sgritta, P.L some falls along the way, but those set­ Darien. The Rams struck first, scoring the game allowing the two New Canaan Maglathlin and Dave Ryan received backs will are what will make us stron­ on a one-yard dive into the end zone. backs to rush for a combined 125 yards. Honorable Mention. ger," said Kelly.