“A beacon of truth.” Issue 2, VVolumeolume 37 HuntingtonDispatch High School Oakwood and McKay Roads Huntington, NY 1117431743 09 Kids who help kids by SAM WIDERMAN Some people may notice that every Wednesday, a group of stu- Natural Helpers is a national program that runs in high schools
DECEMBER dents meets in a small, hot pink room just outside the cafeteria. These across the U.S., including neighboring schools such as Walt Whitman PHOTO: LAUREN CAMPBELL students are the Natural Helpers. Each one is selected based on rec- and Harborfi elds. The program at our school has been running for ommendations from his or her teachers and peers. Many students in over 25 years and is also supported by the non-profi t Tri Community news in short the school see them go to their private area of the cafeteria to eat their and Youth Agency (TRI CYA), whose Assistant Regional Director, lunch on Wednesdays, but they donʼt see anything else. It makes sense Mairead Kelly, has been advising the program along with Mr. Gilmor Athletes honored at Suf- for people to wonder, “What does this club even do?” for years. The goal of the program is mainly to provide additional folk Zone reception training and support to students throughout the school who already help their friends with confl icts and hard de- Senior athletes Meredith cisions. An anonymous survey is given out to students McCourt (soccer, basket- and teachers to help fi nd these students and invite them ball, and track) and Ryan to an overnight retreat. The retreat is a training session Greenhill (volleyball and during which many of the members meet for the fi rst time. lacrosse) were honored The students are trained to become better helpers in their by Suffolk Zone for being own circle of friends, while gaining access to a commu- outstanding individuals nity that they know they can trust if they ever come across both on and off the fi eld. a problem they canʼt solve on their own. Natural Helpers These students are highly are also trained to identify when students are having seri- respected and serve as role ous problems and take the proper steps to address them. models to their peers. When Ms. Kelly visits Huntington on Wednesdays, it is Suffolk Zone offers this a time when club members can talk about any problems award to only one male and theyʼre having, providing them with an outlet of people one female from each high they know they can trust. school in Suffolk. Qualifi - Recently, there has been some criticism about the cations include a 3.0 GPA recommendation process. Although it has its fl aws, it is as well as demonstration of designed to invite new members that represent all parts of leadership characteristics. the student body, and in that aspect it works well.
PHOTO: LAUREN CAMPBELL Finelloʼs term extended article continued on page 4 A group of Natural Helpers congregates during a 7th period meeting. Due to numerous pressing issues facing the HUFSD, the Board of Ed. voted to postpone the retirement of How H1N1 is changing society Superintendent Finello for a full year, extending his contract until June 2011. Swine Flu changes customs and traditions around the world INSIDE FEATURES by REBECCA FRIEDMAN mats to services. In Flu season has arrived. If it isnʼt bad Spain, Roman Cath- Holiday enough to deal with the threat of the seasonal olics are being asked fl u, the H1N1 infl uenza virus, commonly to refrain from kiss- Gift known as the “swine fl u”, is adding its viru- ing a statue of the lence to the autumn-winter sniffl es. The out- countryʼs patron Guide break of the H1N1 virus has caused people saint, and Italy has to reconsider the way they interact with each banned the kissing What to buy p. 2 other, the foods they eat, and the way they of two vials thought live. to contain the blood Europeans often greet and say farewell to of a saint. one another by offering a quick kiss or peck on When the virus each cheek. With the current fear of transmit- was fi rst detected, ting swine fl u, a number of schools and com- China, Russia, and panies are urging people to avoid this practice. Ukraine were quick The mayor of a small French town has even to ban pork produced WWW.CNN.COM PHOTO: The Obama fi st-pound: an innovative method of avoiding germs. gone as far as to ban the kisses all together, in the United States. telling National Public Radio, “Whatʼs the A total of 27 countries followed suit shortly cording to CNN. The germs can then hang in Reels Revisited: point in the preventative hand washing when after. According to Time magazine, the ban on the air for up to a minute, so even if the drop- GoodFellas people are still kissing each other all of the pork has devastated the pork industry, causing lets donʼt land on a nearby person, he or she Review p. 7 time?” Mexican, Spanish, and Lebanese gov- the government to bail out farmers who have could still walk through the germy cloud and ernment offi cials have also discouraged the had to sell their pork at lower prices. It has catch a virus. Even worse, coughing or sneez- OPINION popular kissing greetings. The fear has even been determined, however, that one cannot ing into a hand followed by touching a public spread to New York, for some school offi cials catch H1N1 through “the other white meat.” space, such as a subway pole, a door handle or have even advised students to avoid giving The H1N1 virus contains both swine and hu- a computer keyboard, spreads the range of the high fi ves. man genes. Although most are aware that pork germs. Remember good cold and fl u etiquette: Obamaʼs Swine fl u is slowly changing some long- cannot be linked the to the virus, the mediaʼs cough or sneeze into a tissue, or if a Kleenex Education held religious practices. The Archdiocese of name of “swine fl u” has persuaded many to is unavailable, use your elbow and sleeve to cover your mouth. Plan New York told Catholic New Yorkers they may avoid such products. refrain from the traditional handshaking at Symptoms of sickness may not be against Swine fl u is making quite a name for it- mass. One rabbi in Brookline, Massachusetts the law yet, but there does seem to be an abun- self this year. There are a few simple ways to told reporters that he suggested congregants dance of dirty looks going around in response lessen the likelihood of you getting the H1N1 virus: wash your hands several times a day, Point/Counterpoint p. 5 at his temple greet each other with a “Bud- to public throat clearing. It appears that every- dhist bow” or an “Obama fi st bump.” Muslims one is much more cautious of coughing and disinfect frequently touched objects, avoid INDEX celebrating Ramadan in Lebanon and Kuwait sneezing in public, and perhaps rightly so. A touching your eyes, mouth, nose, and fi nally, features...... 2 have been warned against hugging, and if the simple sneeze sends as many as 100,000 drop- take your vitamins (especially vitamin D, entertainment...... 6 fl u outbreak exacerbates, mosques may con- lets of germs from your mouth and nose into which helps to strengthen your immune sys- sports...... back page sider asking people to bring their own prayer the air within 3 to 5 feet at about 100 mph ac- tem). Following these elementary steps will help you enjoy a healthy, swine-free holiday. The Dispatch 2 DECEMBER0906 FEATURES Holiday Gift Guide by CAT TACOPINA
There are a bunch of holi- joyed. You can make these on their girlfriend for the holidays, ping on their own, and this elimi- for the football, hockey, and even days to celebrate at this time of your own, too. All youʼll need you should seriously consider nates the fear that your friend will the tennis lover. If you want to year. Whether it be Hanukkah or to do is melt one or two bags of this option. There arenʼt many absolutely hate the gift you have get your dad the missing baseball Christmas, you are probably fac- chocolate chips and get a bag of girls who donʼt like a cute piece given them, causing them to ex- card of his childhood card collec- ing the same dilemma that most pretzels. Once youʼve melted the of jewelry. change it for something else. tion, or an autographed picture of teenagers come across around this chocolate chips, you can simply A gift for those who are to- A gift for the sports lover: one your brotherʼs favorite sports star, time- gifts. Most of us donʼt have dip the pretzels in and voila! For tally lost as to what to buy some- of Huntingtonʼs best little shops is you should consider Cow Over the kind of money to make the extra fl air you can utilize top- one- Gift cards are a great gift! Cow Over The Moon, located on The Moon. same type of magic our favorite pings, such as bits of candy canes While some people are opposed Main Street from Ben & Jerryʼs Remember, the holidays holiday icons pull off every single or M&Ms. to the idea of a gift card, see- and a few stores down. Once you donʼt have to be stressful, espe- year, but whoʼs to say you have A gift for the jewelry-lover: ing as they fi nd it impersonal, it walk in there, you instantly feel cially over gifts. Anyone whoʼs to pull that sort of magic any- Huntington Village is home to is perfect for those who have no that comforting sense of warmth found the perfect gift for a loved way? Some of the most heartfelt many adorable jewelry shops, clue what to get someone. All you of being in a family-run store. It one knows that feeling of sheer gifts are the ones that donʼt have such as Blossom, Vine and Roses, need to know is what they like, specializes in nostalgic antiques success, and if you havenʼt ex- a price. For example… and J&J Boutique. While some and you can easily get a gift. For many people loved as kids, such as perienced it, challenge yourself If you need to fi nd a gift for pretty pieces in these shops are a example, if your friend likes tech- music boxes and charming teddy this year! Remember, it is al- the food-lover, chocolate covered bit pricey, you can always go for nology, Best Buy is perfect, while bears, and thereʼs a back section ways the thought that counts, pretzels are one of the most ideal a simple pair of earrings or a daz- the clothes lover would probably completely dedicated to sports. and not the price of the present. snack foods. They are sweet and zling necklace that shouldnʼt cost enjoy getting a gift card for H&M And it isnʼt just baseball either Good luck, and Happy Holidays! salty, and guaranteed to make you over $20. For boys who are or Urban Outfi tters. Plus, most (even though that is the storeʼs anyone with a sweet tooth over- lost as to what they should get people would rather do the shop- main focus). There is something To club or not to club 10 ways to make cash Short on money? Try one of these odd jobs.
by NATHAN SMITH
With the busy schedules many students are juggling, securing a job can be a diffi cult task, but everyone could use some extra cash dur- ing the holiday season. If your wallet feels a bit too light, try one of these odd jobs that can be completed right here in school.
1. Have your parents buy you lots of candy (Qbz work best) and sell it for a little bit more money than what you got it for. Youʼll make a nice profi t. Plus, your parents will be proud of you, now that youʼve become a true entre- preneur.
2. Offer to carry studentsʼ backpacks for a price. Once you get 10 or 20 of them These are just a few of the more than twenty-fi ve clubs offered by piled up, youʼll be making a real salary. Huntington High School. 3. Start a valet service for seniors who donʼt want to walk from a nearby street or far parking space to the school. by EMILY MCGOLDRICK School offers 27 clubs alone, are eligible to apply to a number not to mention the variety of of honor societies that provide 4. Sell copies of movies that you fi lm in video class. sports teams. We are very lucky volunteer services to the com- Many people wonder why to have such a wide selection to munity. These give plenty of 5. Begin a waiter service in the cafeteria. they should bother joining clubs choose from. chances to get that feeling when and teams during the school As well as the variety of you know youʼve done some- 6. Offer to photocopy exams for the teachers, but donʼt get any year. There is tons of school clubs offered at the high school, thing good. There are also ideas. work to get done, and everyone there are many different sports many people who depend on craves free time. So why do teams to become involved in. school programs to be involved 7. Help students memorize their locker combinations by docu- people involve themselves with Among the many reasons to in their lives. Plus, every menting them in a notebook. extracurricular activities? join, especially in a day and age upperclassman wants another The fi rst reason is pretty where obesity is an issue, itʼs thing to add to their college 8. Bring coffee to teachers obvious: you get to be with your important that everyone stays résumé. for a price higher than what the friends and also make new ones. physically fi t. Youʼll be given Finally, extracurriculars are store offers. If you love being with them out the opportunity to learn new an easy way to experience new of school, why canʼt you enjoy skills and improve your old things and learn about yourself. 9. Rent a few go-karts and charge their company at school as well? ones, and many love the thrill of Donʼt stop at school either, make students to race them around the track. It gives you an opportunity to competition. a difference in our community! get involved in activities you are Once you are a junior, you 10. Claim every item from the lost-and-found and resell them on interested in. Huntington High Ebay.
nize it. They are the “adult ver- spend on winter necessities, such they have a little something to Merry Christmas, Key Club! sion” of Key Club. They help as jackets, shoes, socks, and other give their kids for Christmas. the Huntington High School, clothes that they couldnʼt afford After talking to students who by MARISSA SCHEDLER ipates in, this one is truly some- Half Hollow Hills West and East otherwise. Normally, there is participated in this event last year, thing special. Members of this Key Clubs. They fi nd underprivi- some money left over after buy- I myself joined Key Club for the While most are preparing yearʼs Key Club are anxiously th leged kids in our community (typ- ing the clothes, which is then fi rst time this year. Many people for the holidays, hopping from waiting for Saturday, the 19 of ically at the primary school lev- used to purchase toys. After that, exclaim over how fun it is to go store to store buying gifts and December, the weekend before el), and send them over to Sears the members of the Key Club on this trip. Theyʼve talked about wrapping paper, the Huntington Christmas. After talking with by bus that morning. The “Key wrap the gifts while the kids get how great and interesting the kids Key Club members are readying the former Lieutenant Governor, Clubbers” from those three high food and a visit from Santa. Af- are, and how happy it made them themselves for their annual Sears Tommy Monks, I understood the schools go to Sears and partner ter all this is accomplished, the to see the kids smiling and having trip. Hearing about this trip blew overview of the Sears trip. up. The Kiwanis Club gives each members of Key Club give the a great time. me away. Though it is one of the The members of the Kiwanis pair a gift card for about $200 to wrapped gifts to the parents so many activities our school partic- Club of Huntington help us orga- The Dispatch FEATURES DECEMBER0609 3 DataStream Surfi ng: The net nerd takes on Twitter AVID EVIN change much, perhaps from not Anyway, feel free to stalk-
by D L GRAPHIC: DAVID LEVIN using it a lot. There seems I mean, follow, me on to be a lot of character Twitter. I am 4theSchoolPaper, Before joining Twit- limits, so I can see why user- since I only joined Twitter to ter, I thought it was a fair- names and “tweets” might be review it for the Dispatch and ly useless site. How can forced to not use proper English “IAmOnlyDoingThisForTh- you update all the time if you donʼt and abbreviate to fi t the eSchoolPaper” is too long to character limit. I real- fi t. Be warned though, I may not either have a cell phone or are in characters? What ized you can use Twitter update every fi ve minutes like front of a computer all is the point of it? from your Nintendo DSi some people do. GRAPHIC: WWW.TWITTER.COM day? How can you sum- After joining, as well, which is nice be- marize everything in 140 my opinion didnʼt cause I donʼt have a cell phone. TheThe neneww ggirlirl in totownwn ❄ by SHIRA MOSKOWITZ WORD N would minimize spending to save for the future. With this in mind, I Imagine walking down decided that I would try something THE STREET the hallway of your school and new and switch to public school. knowing every single student I was scared. My old school and their life story. Now, imag- had less students in total than an What is your favorite thing to do ine walking down the hall and entire grade at Huntington High with snow? passing tons of people you have School, and the physical build- never met before. Some you ing size paled in comparison. I twice about it. I have enjoyed the recognize but have never spo- thought I would have no friends challenge of switching schools ken to, others you are acquaint- and would get lost between every and making a place for myself at ed with, and then fi nally fi nding class, but I tried to stay positive. Huntington High School. I miss your friends. Which one sounds There would be more people, a Schechter and my friends there, more like Huntington High “Make yummy snow cones with shorter day, fewer classes and dif- however I am incredibly happy School to you? Iʼd say choice B. the freshest ice crystals and ferent opportunities (and a football here. This switch has been eye- Choice A sounds more like the strawberry jam!” team). opening for me. I have met people tiny private school that I used who come from what seems to to attend and is almost impossi- be a different world than my ble for a student at Huntington “Be yourself, own and others who are just Aliyah Cohen- Junior High School to conceive. like me. I believe it has pre- Until two months ago, introduce yourself, pared me for my future. the fi rst scenario was my re- Being the new girl was ality. This year, as a junior, I and make your hard. I knew very few people transferred to Huntington High at the school and started out in School from Solomon Schech- presence known.” some classes where I knew ab- “Hibernate inside (entirely away ter High School of Long Island; solutely no one. So, how did from it).” a private, Jewish day school. I Although I could have pushed I do it? I put myself out there. I had been a student at Schechter to fi nd a way to return to Schech- realized I could be extremely quiet for 11 years and the switch to a ter and everything I had known, and let people come to me, if they Huntington was a culture shock. I chose not to. I realized that I wanted, or I could go and intro- I am not alone in making this Marie Coneys- Sophomore wanted a change and that I was duce myself. I did not change who switch from private to public ready for one. I knew it would be I was to fi t in and hoped people school. Over the past few years, diffi cult, but I had faith that I could would accept me. this year especially, many stu- handle it. I was jaded in a sense My advice to someone new to dents have transferred to public by the social scene at Schechter, Huntington: be yourself, introduce schools. The reasons vary from for I had known it all my life and yourself, and make your pres- “My favorite thing to do with student to student. Some were wanted something new. Donʼt ence known (you could always snow is to go sledding at unhappy at their old school in get me wrong, Schechter is an wear a tutu or something). My Coindre Hall.” the social sense, others found amazing school fi lled with some advice to everyone else: be open it too academically challenging of the smartest, kindest people I to new people. Sit with them at or not academically challenging know. It challenged me academi- lunch. Talk to them. Make them Jonah Kramer- Junior enough, while others switched cally and simultaneously created feel comfortable. You have a lot because of economic factors. a social environment in which I of power to improve their high The fi rst two reasons have felt I could freely express myself. school experience as well as your always caused a few students However, I needed something own. The people who invited me to shift between private and different. Everyone I knew was into their lives and made me feel a “I love pelting my brother with public education, however in Jewish and came from a similar part of this school have helped me snowballs...until he chases and the past year, the economy has fi nancial and social background. so much and I am forever thank- pelts me too.” played a much larger role in Before I came to Huntington I ful to them. Transferring from a studentsʼ and parentsʼ decisions probably could have counted the tiny private school to Huntington to switch to public schools. number of non-Jews I knew on was diffi cult and startling to say When the economy collapsed my fi ngers and toes, but now my the least, but everyone has been so Ali Ortiz- Sophomore last October, families began to friends are of different races and welcoming and made this a nearly consider the ways in which they religions and I donʼt even think seamless transition. spent their money and how they Looking for an extra-curricular activity? “I love having snowball fi ghts with my sister...which I always win.” Join ! Marie Clifford- Sophomore
PHOTOS: LAUREN CAMPBELL Meetings after school on TuesdaysTuesdays in room 242
The opinions expressed do not necessarily refl ect the opinions of The Dispatchʼs staff, nor the HUFSD School Board or any affi liated. Be a part of Huntington High School’sSchool’s “beacon of truth.” The Dispatch 4 DECEMBER09 pinion Stage Door review by AMY EISEN Weʼve had a lot of cast bonding, and Iʼm on stage, and many have to deal with the 2009/2010 Staff going to miss them all when itʼs over.” harshness of rejection. The girls come The Huntington High School Dra- Many other people played an im- from a variety of backgrounds, such as an Editors-in-Chief ma Club performed “Stage Door” on portant role in getting the show on the abusive husband, wealthy parents, Rus- Lauren Campbell Friday, November 13th and Saturday, road. Mr. Gilbert and the stage crew en- sia, and Texas. Their love lives are also Natasha Stollmack November 14th. Mr. Schwende- exposed, which allowed for humor be- mann, the director, chose this play tween the girls and their male callers. Managing Editors for a variety of reasons. Aside from One of my favorite scenes included liking the material, its large amount the meet of Terry Randall, played by Carrie Fante Cat Tacopina of female characters suited the large Lena Freed, and Keith Burgess. The Rebecca Friedman Samuel Sainthil number of girls in the Drama Club. two get into a shouting match, with Creative Directors In total, there were fi fty auditions, Keith jumping on the chair claim- which turned into a cast of twenty ing that “romance is for babies,” and Leif Drace Zach Teplin girls and ten boys. With a cast so end with a date. The viewers became Contributing Staff large, it was quite diffi cult for ev- drawn into the drama surrounding eryone to be at every rehearsal, each characterʼs life, and a woman in Katie Petrozzo Kevon Pekchi and often major characters were the front row even received a special Mark Drobnjak Alexa Kaplan absent. The week leading up to treat: a banana peel to the face kicked Sam Widerman Nicolas Maiarelli the show, nicknamed “Hell Week” PHOTO: MOLLY PREP by one of the actors. The cast did an Amy Eisen Cody Jacobs for its long and grueling rehearsals, sured the sets, lighting, and audio were excellent job, which was proven by the Lauren Bialkowski Emily Feldman was even more challenging as many working perfectly, and many parents claps and laughs of the entire audience. David Levin Andrew Ku actors were out sick. The night of the become involved with costumes, set After the show, the Drama Club Nellie Derbyshire Carly Glowacky fi rst performance, interestingly Friday decorations, and other last minute addi- seemed very pleased. “We had a lot of Nathan Smith Molly Prep the 13th, Schwendy commented how tions. The Drama Club is considerably fun,” said Shira Moskowitz and Cody Melissa Cook Eric Szilagy “practices have been very tough.” De- self-suffi cient, fi nancing the plays with Jacobs. “We really hope the audience Madison Biernacki Mike Valente spite the problems, the cast seemed to bake sales and past production profi ts. enjoyed it as much as we did.” Con- Shira Moskowitz Marissa Schedler enjoy Hell Week. Jonah Kramer, who “Stage Door” is a tale of starving gratulations on another successful show, Jake Goldsztejn Alex Reinertsen played over-the-top playwright Keith actresses living in the Footlights Club Drama Club! Ryan Greenhill Emily McGoldrick Burgess, stated, “Rehearsal has been in New York City during the early 20th really tiring this week, but itʼs worth it. century. The girls desperately wish to be Advisor Mr. Mickey Baron Letter to the Send your letters to [email protected] The Dispatch is Huntington High Schoolʼs of- Editors fi cial student publication. Written for the 1253 Is it possible to live in a harmonious be addressed. As human beings, we must make students attending HHS, The Dispatch is dis- world? Or will there always be a differ- Other causes of these social divi- sure to keep in mind that in this world tributed to all students, staff and school com- ence between cultures? sions may be the bad references that sur- we are all the same. It does not matter munity members at the school free of charge. Itʼs hard to believe that in different face from both groups and rumors that what gender, social class, ethnic back- parts of the world, and now at Hunting- are prejudiced against a certain group. ground or culture someone comes from. The Editorial Board is the newspaperʼs deci- ton High School, people are still social- But the truth is that each one of these We all have the same basic necessities. sion-making body, organizing and directing ly segregated. It seems inexplicable that groups has something in common; we My only hope is that from now on the its operation. The Dispatch staff has adopted these attitudes and divisions exist in our are all humans, whether we are African, barriers will break down, the rumors the following editorial policy to express the society today and in our own schools as Hispanic, or white. Whoever we are, we disappear, and as civilized people, we rights, responsibilities and philosophy of the well. It is hard to believe, but it is true. all have the same qualities; we all make will start to accept one another, as well newspaper for the 2009-2010 school year. Our cafeteria is proof of this situ- friends, help others, or by simply being as accepting each otherʼs faults and de- ation. During the fi rst few month of cordial, demonstrate a good attitude. fects, no matter our appearance or color The Dispatch of Huntington High School is a school, I noticed that Caucasian stu- With this I do not mean to say that of skin. We should be considerate with public forum, with its student editorial board dents, who make up the majority of our there is racism. Nevertheless, there is each other, help each other, respect and making all decisions concerning its content. student body, mainly sit in the second some type of preference or fear that ex- love each other like brothers. These Unsigned editorials express the views of the half of the cafeteria, while the minority ists between certain groups; a fear to es- are small gestures, but simply giving a majority of the editorial board. groups, such as African Americans, La- tablish a relationship with a person who smile, a handshake, or a hug is a good tinos, and others as well, sit in the other is completely unknown. However, if way to say, “I consider you my friend.” Letters to the editors are welcomed and will be half. It is possible that Caucasians are you try, you may discover a best friend Maybe one day, we can all be in a group published as space allows. Letters are preferred more comfortable amongst themselves or a brother or sister in someone. Un- where there are no differences. signed, but may be published by request. The and are separated out of social prefer- fortunately, also in our society there are Editorial Board reserves the right to edit let- ence, which may also be true for African small groups that make us look bad with -Luis Fernando Cordero ters for grammar and clarity, and all letters are Americans and Latinos. Unfortunately, their attitudes and their manner of be- subject to laws governing obscenity, libel, pri- the truth is that there is segregation not ing. But we are not all the same, nor do Translated by: Cindy Portillo, Dayna vacy, and disruption of the school process, as only in the cafeteria, but in the Honors we act the same way. Nevertheless, like Reyes, Rebecca Silverman, and Colleen are all contents of the paper. Questions, com- and AP classes as well. The issue of race all young people, we are able to form Teubner ments, and letters to the editor should be sent that is witnessed in our school needs to lasting friendships. to [email protected] or submitted to NATURAL HELPERS (continued from front page) The Dispatch mailbox in the main offi ce. itself better as a smaller community of go to other kids with their problems Every person who receives a survey people who can intimately know and before they talk to an adult. Without a Opinions in letters are not necessarily those of (including club members) can recom- trust each other. program that helps develop these Natu- the staff, nor should any opinion expressed in mend two students in the school. Last In late October, the club took a ral Helpers, there are only students with a public forum be construed as the opinion of year, rumors circulated that someone in hard turn when Mr. Gilmor presented it good intentions. Cutting the program the administration, unless so attributed. the program stuffed the ballot. When the with a letter explaining that he would be from the yearly budget at our school left issue was brought up during a meeting, stepping down from his positon of club me discouraged with how the adminis- The Dispatchʼs goal is to provide readers one student admitted having witnessed advisor. Heartbroken, members of the tration did not see the programʼs grave with interesting content in a wide variety of this. Ms. Kelly was especially hurt by club met with Dr. Leonardi to discuss importance.” Mr. Gilmor explained that areas. Such areas include the news coverage this, explaining, “I would never have the fi nancial problem they assumed was “having these individual students in the of school and community events, as well as expected this from any of my students, the reason. In the meeting, she assured school community, listening and help- features on relevent topics. In addition, The but I would never put a Natural Helper them that there was grant money in the ing students on a daily basis, is extreme- Dispatch will provide opinionated editorials on the spot and ask for a name...I just budget for the club. She told them that ly important to the student body staying on controversial topics, as well as provide pre- hope that despite this, that person and she would speak to Mr. Gilmor about healthy.” At the end of the week, Mr. views and reviews for upcoming school and whoever got in because of their actions his reasons for stepping down and try to Gimor announced that he would be re- professional sports seasons and other forms of have benefi ted from this program.” change his mind. suming his role of advising the club for entertainment. The decision isnʼt entirely based on The Natural Helpers program was the 2009-2010 school year. the recommendations, however; a deci- cut from the club budget two years ago. Natural Helpers is not a “loud” The Dispatch accepts advertisements from lo- sion is still made by the club for every It was assumed that the TRI CYA would club, and if it is doing its job right you cal businesses and student organizations. Re- prospective person. The club strives to continue to oversee the program and will not hear about its successes. For quests for specifi c pricing, and examples of remain unbiased despite the knowledge money would be found in grants to pay Mr. Gilmor and everyone involved with past advertising may be requested via e-mail of candidatesʼ previous histories. To be the advisor. Grants were approved this the Natural Helpers, it is a full time job, through [email protected]. The Edito- more inclusive is defi nitely a goal the year for Natural Helpers. When explain- but one that is thoroughly effective and rial Board reserves the right to refuse any ad- club is trying to attain, but the group can ing what made him feel inclined to not personally rewarding. vertisement deemed inappropriate. only admit so many students since it is participate in the program this year, Mr. proven to be more effective and support Gilmor said, “Kids will almost always The Dispatch p-ed DECEMBER09 5 Point / Counterpoint Yay for Obama’s education plan Nay for education plan
by CARRIE FANTE by NATASHA STOLLMACK A sure way for a President to make ple in other countries to perform jobs that An exceptionally low percentage of I have little faith in the himself unpopular among kids is to pro- they could not fi nd qualifi ed U.S. candi- American students support the potential Obama/Duncan education plan, the big- pose adding more time to the school day dates for. If U.S. citizens cannot compete plan of President Obama and Secretary gest reason being that many factors have or even the school year. How- not been addressed and/or clari- ever, thatʼs just what President fi ed. During his speech in which Obama has done, and what he presented the ideas for educa- many students are unable to tion reform, Obama pointed out recognize, is that this could that students in the United States be an important step in raising “spend over one month less in education standards in Ameri- school than South Korea.” He ca, and in allowing the United addressed that Asian students States to compete with foreign are consistently outscoring the countries. American youth, specifi cally in Despite the fact that the mathematics and science. It is no United States is viewed as a secret to U.S. citizens that Asian major world power and has countries such as Korea, China produced many technological and Japan promote a much stricter and scientifi c breakthroughs society than that of the American in its history, many countries, culture. As much as the govern- particularly Asian countries ment may like to draw a connec- like Japan and Hong Kong, tion between time spent in school are continuously outscoring and higher test scores, the validity the U.S. on science and math of the relationship only goes so far. tests. The United States is also The element that needs to be rec- far behind many countries in ognized and reformed within the terms of learning second lan- United States education system is guages. In many European incentive. For many students na- countries, students are leaning tionwide, the drive to be academi- second, third, and sometimes cally successful is nonexistent. even fourth languages start- Even for students of high achieve- ing in their early childhood. In ment and work ethic, it is diffi cult the United States on the other to constantly think long-term; to hand, many students donʼt take every assignment and test start learning a second lan- seriously and complete it to your guage until late elementary or fullest potential. Although more middle school, by which time rigorous courses have been in- language acquisition is much corporated into the education sys- harder than when kids are ILLUSTRATION: ZACH TEPLIN tem within the last few decades, younger. It is also much less the general state standards have common to fi nd U.S. students been on a spiraling decline. The studying a third language. GRAPHIC: LEIF DRACE majority of core subject courses, In the twenty-fi rst cen- regardless of academic level, are tury, the business world is much more with people from other countries, than of Education Arne Duncan to lengthen geared towards being taught how to score competitive and many companies have the country will lose strength. If the U.S. the amount of time spent in school. Un- well on the exam at the end of the school branches in various different countries. It does not create an intelligent and capable fortunately, many of the students that im- year instead of learning the material for is becoming more and more of a benefi t on next generation, then it will not be able to mediately oppose the change only do so the purpose of expanding their knowledge. job applications to be bilingual; just being compete with other countries that have set upon being told that their summer vaca- There has been a massive change within well educated in general is exceedingly higher standards for their children. tion would be shortened and their regular societyʼs youth with regard to respect and important. Now, companies can hire peo- school day extended, and those points of priorities, especially within the scholastic see OBAMA on page 6 discontent are the least of the problems setting. From studentsʼ behavior towards with the plan. teachers and their peers to the torrent of
the Dispatch examines . . . see OBAMA on page 6
1. Wiz Khalifa- The latest hip-hop 1. Summer clothes in winter- Our What’sWhat’s infatuation of What’sWhat’s sympathy for the students we see shiver-shiver- Huntington ing in school is waning thin- especially High School. Not because the reason being that eighty per-per- Hot cent of their skin is still being exposed. 2 . Ta y l o r (Check out www.weather.com, kids.) Lautner- There are more and more girls howling about this hot 2. Sexy Santa costumes- It has to feel at least a LITTLE wrong... werewolf after the release of New Moon, the second movie of the Twilight saga. 3. Crazy fan girls- Justin Bieber is 15 years old! Girls, save your hearts (and your vocal 3. Call of Duty- Looking for a great violent af- chords) for a real man. ter-school activity? Grab a copy of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II at your local game store! 4. N.Y. Sports- It seems that every NY sports team 4. Hand Sanitizer- With a fl u season stronger (excluding the Yankees) than ever, many have become reliant on hand sani- has seen better days than in tizing products to be shield themselves from germs. this 2009-2010 season.
5. Gray- This color has been dominating winter 5. Gossip Girl- Three- wardrobes of girls and guys alike. somes on broadcast televsion...wait, what? The Dispatch 6 DECEMBER0609 ENTERTAINMENT Droid proves delightful by MARKARK DROBNJAKROBNJAK
Motorola has recently re- iPhone. The Droidʼs TV commer- pressed down, resulting in less wrote, trying to get the cursor be- to the Home screen, or search the leased a new phone recently that cial attacks the qualities that the typos. When slid open, an extra tween those two tiny letters on the phone. The 5 megapixel camera is sure to please millions of con- iPhone lacks, saying things like navigation pad is offered to the iPhone. When the phone is turned shoots DVD quality videos and sumers. But, can you really call “iDonʼt have a real keyboard,” right of the keyboard which takes on, it shows you a dial. Slide it has an extensive list of photo ef- it a phone? The Motorola Droid and “iDonʼt custom- to the left to silence your fects. Its memory comes in the runs on the Android operating ize.” The commercial phoneʼs ring. Slide it to form of a removable card that system, a trademark of Google, ends with “DROID the right to unlock, and offers 16 GB of space for what- which allows for a great experi- DOES.” This ada- you are now looking at a ever you feel like putting on ence on Verizonʼs powerful 3G mant fi nal statement shiny, application-fi lled there. When it comes to music, network. Fast web-browsing, mu- must express Motor- home screen. This home it includes a loud but undistorted sic listening, text messaging, and olaʼs desire to impact screen can be swiped to speakerphone and a 3.5mm audio video shooting are made possible consumers with a the right or left for two jack (yes, this means you can put with its amazing processor. Even phone that surpasses extra pages of room. your iPod headphones right in so, such a phone is not bulky or current electronic Drag the arrow at the there, too). Overall, the Droid of- annoyingly heavy. In fact, it is the standards. One of bottom of the screen and fers a combination of unique fea- thinnest QWERTY slider phone these new additions out pops a large, detailed tures that are put together nicely available in the world today. The is an entirely sepa- menu that has the solu- into a user-friendly interface and a sleek black design is only .54 rate keyboard from tion to any problem that stylish and small design. The bot- inches thick and 4.56 inches tall the phone, which not canʼt be solved in just tom line: Christmas is just around with a 3.7-inch screen. This de- only frees up space PHOTO: WWW.MOTOROLA.COM plain “Settings”. Four the corner, and Verizon customers vice is the fi rst Android phone on the screen while white buttons are set on should defi nitely consider cough- that Verizon sells, and it seems emailing or texting, but has re- away the common occurrence of the bottom of the phone, which ing up the $200 for the Droid, as that it is made to compete with the sponsive buttons that can be tapping at things you previously let you go back, open a menu, go well as the $70 monthly plan.
Jakeʼs Ratings:
-Concept: 9 out of 10 Itʼs bigger, better, more than what has been seen it the Crazy for COD original. by JAKEAKE GOLDSZTEJNOLDSZTEJN -Graphics: 9.5 out of 10 60 frames per second display crisp images that top After months of waiting, running through the slums of Rio game will never be the same out every other game. millions of fans fl ocked to stores de Janiero, fi ghting on rooftops as another. With the addition -Sound: 9.5 out of 10 as Call of Duty: Modern Warfare and in trenches of Washington of cooperative game play to Explosions and chaos never sounded more real, and the 2 fi nally hit shelves on Tuesday, D.C., or rescuing a prisoner from the sequel in the form of “spec voice acting is as if the sources are sitting right next th November 10 . What may be the a Russian gulag, the campaign of ops,” players must to work to- to you. most anticipated video game of Modern Warfare 2 is full of plot gether to complete different -Fun Rating: 10 out of 10 the year, Modern Warfare 2 lives twists and surprises that make the challenges that can put even up to the hype of its predecessor, gameʼs story seem like a box of- the most skilled players to the With gamers already topping hundreds of days of game time, as well as fan based expectation. fi ce sensation. test. Even if you arenʼt a fan in the same time frame it took to make the universe, who The gameʼs developer, Infi nity Where Modern Warfare 2 of the campaign, the multi- could argue that this game isnʼt worth playing? Ward, was not only put to the task truly gains its claim to fame is player in itself is enough rea- of making a sequel, but having to the multi-player mode. If a play- son to purchase the game. 9.5 out of 10: surpass what some consider to be er is alone or with up to 15 other Across the board, Modern Average student rating at Huntington High School one of the greatest fi rst person friends, the online game play is Warfare 2 has received ratings shooter games ever. guaranteed to produce hours of of 9/10 or above. Aside from -Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 The storyline of Modern endless fun. From the thousands minor issues, the only true -Rated Mature for blood, drug reference, Warfare does a magnifi cent job of combinations of weapons, fl aw this game has is that it intense violence, and language. of immersing the player into a equipment, perks, kill streak canʼt be the original, like any -Available on Xbox 360, Play Station 3, world of confl ict. Whether it is rewards, and game types, each sequel. and PC
OBAMA (continued from pg. 5) Yay for education plan: Obamaʼs plan to create a demic standards and test class could make a big difference. to help on the farm after school ers for more hours have not been better education system involves scores, and have found that their In addition, the school schedule and during the summer, and this worked out. However, though potentially adding hours on to students have improved. Charter as it is today wasnʼt really created isnʼt a reality for most American most kids donʼt want to think the school day as well as tack- schools and private schools with for the twenty-fi rst century. As kids today. about it or accept it, improving ing days on to the school year. longer school days typically per- pointed out by the U.S. Secretary Right now, Obamaʼs proposal the education system and being Some schools have already form better on standardized tests. of Education, Arne Duncan, the for more school is still very much in school longer could really help lengthened the school day to test Forty-fi ve minutes is a typical pe- current school calendar is based in the works and many details with securing jobs in the future, its effectiveness in raising aca- riod length at a high school today; on an agrarian (farm-based) econ- such as money to keep the build- and with being more successful even adding ten minutes to each omy where kids would be needed ing open longer and paying teach- as a country. Nay for education plan: laziness that has swept over time spent in the classroom. If teachers and parents that if our biggest sources of the problem whose family is fi nancially stable recent generations, students as the school day was extended by résumés are being compared with and do everything in our power and resourceful and the only ex- well as the country as a whole are two to three hours, and Obama another studentʼs, the one with to rectify them. A childʼs home cuse for their poor grades is their in store for an unpleasant future. enforced the “expansion of ef- more extracurricular/service in- environment has a tremendous in- own carelessness. It is high time Change is no longer an option; it fective after school programs”, volvement is sure to be chosen? fl uence on their attitude towards for more students to join those in is an imperative action that must where would time for homework Numbers arenʼt enough to deter- school as well as their resourc- the top ten percent of their class; be taken. and extracurricular activities go? mine our character. es. In most cases, students with to make their schoolwork a prior- Students who donʼt currently Homework is an essential part of The dire need for serious scholastically successful guard- ity and seek out the help that they have the drive to perform well ac- the learning process, but after an modifi cation to the current Amer- ians are more inclined to perform need. In turn, we will need the ademically are not going to sud- eight or nine-hour school day it is ican education system is indisput- well in school because there is a support of a strong economy and denly fl ip a switch if the school unlikely that students will be able able; however, the Obama/Duncan strong emphasis on it at home, a strategic government reform year is made longer. If anything, or let alone willing to complete it. plan is not going to improve upon whereas less privileged families program to make a higher educa- this will cause those students Extracurriculars are also of great the areas that they want to, such may be forced to devote more tion a reality for every student in to put even less effort into their importance to students and their as higher test scores and a more time to providing for each other the country. work. There is no doubt that communities, and there would be skilled workforce. No person can fi nancially. I think that one of the in many cases more time must very little to no time for them to guarantee the outcome of putting most unfortunate of scenarios is be devoted to school, but that continue under this plan. Havenʼt such a plan into effect, but what the capable student who does not does not necessarily mean more we consistently been told by our we can do is bring attention to the perform to their fullest potential, The Dispatch g Entertainmenth DECEMBER0609 7 Craving the Cave Singers Reels guys followed, all contributing to sort of mesmerizing quality to the acoustic folk-oriented sound it, sounding like an updated ver- that they have made their own. sion of Roots music. Check out All of the band members the video for this single; itʼs like Revisited come from a background of a cross between a gospel church scarcely known bands, (most note- scene and MTV Unplugged. worthy being Derek Fudescoʼs al- Itʼs easy to see how The Cave ternative rock band, “Pretty Girls Singers are heavily infl uenced by The Classic Movie Review Make Graves”), and they have Bob Dylan, Woody Guthrie and been making waves in the indie Modest Mouse. Other songs Iʼd GRAPHIC: WWW.ALLMUSIC.COM folk scene. In June 2007, the band recommend would be “Elephant by NATASHA STOLLMACK ALBUM: Welcome Joy signed with Matador Records and Clouds,” a day-dreamy sort of Air France Robbery in 1967 ARTIST: The Cave Singers recorded “Invitation Songs” in tune, and “Helen,” which is simi- Vancouver which was met with lar to “Seeds of Night.” These are Based on Nicholas Pileg- which becomes the debut of ODY ACOBS critical praise. “Seeds of Night” only some of the songs from their giʼs non-fi ctional book Wise- his criminal career. Hill and by C J became the trioʼs fi rst single dur- fi rst album, but thatʼs not to say guy, this Martin Scorsese clas- the Lucchese mobsters reap the ing the production of “Invitation that Welcome Joy, which came sic explores the lives of Henry fi nancial and authoritative ben- It was on accident that I came Songs,” and can easily be referred out this past August, is equally Hill (Ray Liotta) and the Luc- efi ts of their scheming, allow- across the relatively new folk trio, to as a primary example of the tra- pleasing to the ears. “Summer chese crime family through the ing them to live comfortably “The Cave Singers” last Friday ditional melodic sound that is The Light” is a good one to check rise and fall of their exciting and lavishly. Hill begins dat- night, as I was idly occupying my Cave Singers. out from the new album, as well criminal pursuits. The fi lm ing his future wife, Karen, who time online, however, I am glad I Following the release of as “At the Cut,” which is a little begins in is at fi rst did. “Seeds of Night,” “Dancing On rough around the edges but sure B r o o k - flustered Hailing from Seattle, Pete Our Graves” was released in Feb- to make you coming back for lyn dur- by his Quirk, Derek Fudesco, and Marty ruary of 2008. Personally, when I more. Although they may have ing the involve- Lund got together in 2007 with heard “Dancing On Our Graves,” not quite made it on to your favor- m i d ment with very little advanced buzz. Fudes- I couldnʼt help but listen to it over ite alternative rock radio stations 1 9 5 0 s g a n g - co picked up a guitar and the other and over again because it had a yet, be sure to keep an ear out. where a sters, but y o u n g after he H i l l p r o v e s d r o p s his fi erce- Ivy League a breath of fresh air out of ness she by EMILY FELDMAN school to becomes Richest Kids” and “A Summer become attracted Before becoming members of Chill.” The duo has a very calm involved to his life- the band Cobra Starship, Ryland and relaxing sound with a sixties w i t h style. In Blackinton and Alex Suarez cre- vibe to it. Many of their songs the ma- the midst ated a group of their own called are reminiscent of summer, caus- fi a. He of their This Is Ivy League. This acous- ing memories to fl ood back to the is men- unlawful tic-based indie-pop band formed listener. Their harmonies are a tored by success, in 2005 in Brooklyn, New York. breath of fresh air from the gener- the Luc- Hill, De- This is Ivy League has a very dif- ic songs on the radio. There arenʼt c h e s e Vito and ferent sound from Cobra Starship; many groups today that create mu- c a p o , C o n w a y the group is often compared to Si- sic like theirs, which is something Paul “Paulie” Cicero, and his realize their hubris has become mon and Garfunkel. They released that I value them for. You can GRAPHIC: WWW.ALLMUSIC.COM right hand man, Jimmy Con- a hindrance in a situation that two albums called “This is Ivy search this easy listening group way (Robert De Niro). Henry puts themselves and the fam- League” and “London Bridges”, through Google and YouTube. ALBUM: This Is Ivy League is introduced to the glamour ily in severe jeopardy. Scors- which include songs called “The ARTIST: This Is Ivy League and dangers of the criminal ese provides the viewer with a world, meeting countless no- window into the reality of the torious people in the network criminal world, allowing the whilst receiving “assignments” viewer to see the cost at which from Paulie. With the help of a family pays to live this glam- fellow mobster Tommy DeVito orized lifestyle. (Joe Pesci), Hill executes the Biology takes on a new meaning at
by ANDREW KU Bodies: The Exhibition
If you want to gain a pro- and in some instances (the circula- self, and I agree with Nickelode- You learn about the human body textbook image. Parts of the show found and defi nitive understand- tory system, for example, in which onʼs assessment. For the fi rst 10 by looking at the real thing right could even be considered art for ing of the human minutes, the exhibit in front of you. It is both a truly their detail and beauty. body, or are just just seems weird revolutionary way to learn and You may consider going to looking for an and gross, with all something simply fascinating to Bodies: The Exhibition as a unique interesting and of the internal parts look at. Many of the whole body winter treat, or to supplement the unusual experi- of the human body specimens were dissected in vivid science class you are taking. What ence, go to see on display. But the athletic poses, allowing the visi- ever your purpose, you will emerge Bodies: The Ex- show gets better as tor to relate to everyday activities. with a fundamental understanding hibition, locat- you continue. The Perhaps the most amazing fact is of the human body; a comprehen- ed in the South exhibit gives an up- that each human specimen is so sion unparalleled by reading a Street Seaport close, three-dimen- thoroughly and carefully dissected textbook or looking at pictures. of New York sional look at the that they can display the entire net- City. human body from work of blood vessels and arteries Useful information: Nickel- the inside out. Each without anything else attached to Address: 11 Fulton Street, odeon reports part of the human it. In addition, authentic human South Street Seaport, NYC that Bodies “is body – the skeletal specimens illustrate the damage Open Monday thru Thursday a creepily cool system, muscular caused to organs by over-eating, from 10am-7pm and Friday thru exhibit that system, nervous smoking and drug use. They show Sunday from 10am-10pm, with last features 22 system, the organ the results of heart disease, kidney admission one hour prior to closing. real, whole hu- system, and much disease, breast cancer, cirrhosis, man cadavers more – is on dis- and more on real organs of once- Phone:1-888-9BODIES PHOTO: WWW.BODIESTHEEXHIBITION.COM and over 260 play in a series of living people. A healthy lung is Websites: body parts, all preserved using a veins have been fi lled with red and rooms, with each display accom- featured next to a black lung rav- www.bodiestheexhibition.com liquid silicon process. The bod- blue dye) are actually beautiful.” panied by detailed information aged by smoking in a vivid com- www.bodiesny.com ies themselves are not frightening I went to see the show my- about that particular body part. parison more powerful than any SPORTS Winter Preview 2009-2010 Blue Devil grapplers A season to remember by RYAN GREENHILL by RYAN GREENHILL that of the top ten in New York As we all know, the Hun- State. Coaches Mock, Smith, cer program stunned number one Islip on tington Wrestling program is Fusco, and Giani run their team r e b o u n d e d their home fi eld, silencing a prolifi c force in its league, off a simple saying, “The 3 Ds: by posting the home crown with less dominating teams on a consis- Desire, Dedication, and Deter- a strong 10 than twenty minutes left in tent basis and producing phe- mination.” You can see this on and 2 league the game. The lone goal by nomenal athletes. Coming off a a large sign in Huntingtonʼs r e c o r d . Angela Bosco got the girls near-perfect season, only losing wrestling room. Junior Duncan Coached by to the County Champion- to league rival Islip, the Blue Murchison notes, “Once youʼve Huntingtonʼs ship game where they faced Devils look to continue their wrestled here at Huntington, ev- own John the Hauppaugue Eagles. tradition as a dominant force. erything else in life is easy.” The Walsh, the Although they dominated During the 08-09, season the Blue Devils once again show Blue Devils the fi rst half, the Blue Dev- team produced three county fi - great promise in the upcoming returned 12 ils could not hold on. With nalists and one county champi- season. Coach Fusco says some key players a late second half goal, the on, Damon McQueen. Damon guys to watch out for are, once including 8 Eagles took the air out of the moved on all the way to the again, Damon Mcqueen, Louis veteran se- Huntington crowd. None- state fi nals fi nishing as a runner Puca, Duncan Murchison, Ryan niors. When theless, the team looks back up in the 119 weight class. The Fox, and Chris Sandoval. asked about on the season with nothing team as a whole was ranked in the season but positivity, nostalgia, and as a whole, good memories. “This year Coach Walsh we became a family, the said, “Over- chemistry really helped us all, the season become successful for the High hopes for PHOTO: WWW.HUFSD.EDU Coming off a heartbreak- was a suc- whole season,” said captain ing season, missing playoffs cess. The girls really came Angela Bosco. The Hunting- by a single point, the Hun- together as a family.” Led by ton Varsity program looks Huntington captains Angela Bosco and to continue their success tington Girls Varsity soc- Meredith McCourt, the girls in the upcoming seasons. basketball by CARLY GLOWACKY It looks like another season scored a remarkable 10 points per and placed as a County Finalist. Bosco and Ray- of Huntington Blue Devil basket- game last year. Unfortunately, the The teamʼs goal for this season is neisha Wither- ball is starting out with a bang. team lost key players to gradua- to make the playoffs. The teamʼs spoon. Other The coaches have their goals set tion last year, but coach Schmitz biggest opponents are Harbor- key players in- for the year, and the players are thinks itʼll be an interesting sea- fi elds and Islip. When asked what clude Colleen working hard. Both the Girlsʼ son because everyoneʼs new. He the teamʼs attitude towards the Wright, Court- and Boysʼ Varsity teams are very also thinks it will be a learning season is, coach Schmitz respond- ney OʼBryan, well-respected by their teachers, year for the team. There are a lot ed that they “donʼt really know and Shea Scully. coaches, and most importantly, of boys to keep an eye on: Devon what theyʼre doing.” But, he also Unfortunately, their peers from around the town Nelson is the only freshman boy said that theyʼre already hustling the team lost of Huntington. So, itʼs our job as to make the varsity team, and and playing hard, and heʼs really fi ve seniors last fans to give them the support they coach Schmitz thinks heʼs a very looking forward to working with year, so this will deserve. promising player. People should them this year. His advice to the be a period of The coach for this yearʼs var- also watch Shaquan Rains and team is that they need to work rebuilding for sity boysʼ team is Mr. Michael six-foot-four Jack Forster, who hard to get better, especially the the team. With- Schmitz. His team consists of all are both forwards, as well as young and new players, and itʼs out these alumi new players, except three return- sophomores Trevon Brown and important for them to watch and girls, the team ing boys from last year: seniors John McCarthy, who are starting learn from the more advanced and has a “differ- Dan Smith and Jeremy Rhodes, guards. Last year, the team was experienced players. ent look.” The and freshman John Patron, who ranked second in Suffolk County, As for the Girlsʼ Varsity, it teamʼs goal, looks like they like that of the have a great Boyʼs Varsity, team as well. is to make the Coach Brad playoffs. Coach Reminick is Reminick thinks hoping to lead that as long as the team of 10 the team works through an- hard, it will other trium- reach this mile- phant season. stone and beat The team is its biggest op- led by seniors ponents, Har- Meredith Mc- borfi elds High Court, Lauren School. For Visbal, and the past three junior Emma years, the team Hayes-Hur- has made it to ley. Meredith, the County Fi- Lauren, and nals, and won its Varsity is a faster paced Emma are fi rst County Championship two game, and both the Boysʼ and all players to years ago. Winning again this Girlsʼ Varsity teams are working watch, along year would be the ultimate goal very hard to get to the top of their with Jackie for the team, although it will be a game. The two teams show lots of Waldron, Sar- very diffi cult goal to reach. Coach dedication to the game, and they ah Erhman, Reminickʼs advice to the team is have some serious potential. They and the only to stay competitive, to learn from need all the support that they can two fresh- its mistakes, and for the younger get from their fans, so letʼs show men on the girls to watch and learn from the some school spirit and support our teams! PHOTOS: NATHAN SMITH team, Rachel upperclassmen.