TThehe ProwlerProwler Quince Orchard High School 15800 Quince Orchard Road • (301) 840-4686 • AP Signature School • Volume 27, Issue 4 Friday, February 13, 2015 Puttin’ on the Hits Showcases Red Army’s Talents Individual and class acts bring excitement to highly anticipated performance By BELLA ROBERTS and perform in front of the whole school,” News Managing Editor says freshman Sam Katzker. Katzker is the POTH, or Puttin’ on the Hits, is Freshman Class President, and explains that a yearly talent show that showcases the POTH is a team effort. “Lots of work went talent in the QO community. POTH is a in to planning our act because it takes more great opportunity for students to perform, than just one person to put something that while offering a friendly competitive special together and showcase that in front of aspect. This year, QO students the entire school,” Katzker stated. “We spend redefi ned talent as they performed. several weeks getting everything down just POTH gives students in every grade to ensure we would have an awesome act.” level the opportunity to perform and is Everyone is encouraged to participate in the composed of a “class act”, a compilation event. “Next year, people who are interested of funny skits and songs from each grade should defi nitely try out!” Dvari exclaims. and individual performances. While To many, POTH is about more than just a individuals must audition to perform, talent show. “While Puttin’ on the Hits is everyone is invited to perform with their the annual school talent show, it’s really class. “Everyone can easily get involved more than that. It’s a night when the QO by either trying out on an individual basis community comes together and joins in or coming to class meetings where the watching talented youth perform,” states class performances are organized,” states Dvari. “Schools should have shows like this junior Shadi Dvari. Dvari is the Junior because it’s important to have students be Class Historian and contributed greatly individuals and be able to perform. It can also PHOTO BY HOLLY MCKNIGHT to the organization of POTH. The show PUTTING ON THE HITS: (From left to right) Seniors David Ramsey, Sam help to get rid of stage fright and anything is all about “letting the students have Hurwitz, Micah Levey, Sam Feldman, and Griffi n Miller strut in the senior class act. the experience to showcase their talents CONT PAGE 2 Superintendent Starr Resigns SHOP Coffee House Rocks deciding factor in his resignation was that By ANDY GOLDSTEIN not to me, I’m just glad I got By LAWRENCE SIMON he’d done something to upset the Board of which students are educated to play,” stated Jones. This Editor-in-Chief Education,” and that “his fate was sealed News Associate Editor on the topic of drunk commitment to musicianship from there.” Schuman hopes with the driving, and dedicate a day The Montgomery County Public drew many other performers change in MCPS’ Superintendent that we’ll On February 5, the to silence to commemorate Schools community showed mixed as well to sign up for see a change in “the 50% rule in our grading SHOP (Students Helping people who lose their lives levels of surprise at the resignation of Coffee House this year. policy,” as well as other changes in “grading, Other People) Club hosted its in drunk driving accidents. County Superintendent Joshua Starr. The Many of the class enrollment, class size, teacher salary, annual Coffee House, which The program got its name announcement came by way of a message performers at the event have teacher time, and standardized testing.” allows students to showcase due to the harrowing statistic from the Montgomery County Board of an extended background in Although Schuman doesn’t feel that this their musical talent to their that every 15 minutes, Education, which voted not to renew Starr’s music. Junior Jacob Elder is resignation will affect MCPS for the peers. Beginning at 7 PM someone dies due to drunk four-year contract on February 3. The a longtime guitar player and remainder of the school year, he did add in the cafeteria, the event driving. Elder supports the decision means that Starr will vacate the member of the local band that “I’d like to see Jennifer Yang replace drew many members of the cause, stating, “I decided to offi ce of superintendent effective February Throwing Wrenches. Elder Dr. Starr” as the county’s superintendent. Quince Orchard community perform because I wanted 16, and will be replaced by Larry Bowers, stated, “Ever since we started Senior and County SGA member to observe the musical to help raise money for the Chief Operating Offi cer, as interim playing together, I have Henry Peck added about the controversy, prowess of our students. the Every 15 Minutes Superintendent, pending the approval been motivated to perform “The Board of Education hired Starr as Many students program.” Elder is not alone of the Maryland State Superintendent more.” Although Elder has superintendent to make tough decisions, and signed up to perform at in this feeling, as many of Schools Lillian M. Lowery. played on stages far bigger he has failed on multiple occasions to make the event, including junior patrons of Coffee House One such teacher who is interested than the Quince Orchard tough decisions.” Peck did mention that Jake Jones. Jones professed came to support this cause in the selection process is government cafeteria, he always enjoys Starr made large contributions to discussions his love for the stage and as well as see the musical teacher Joshua Schuman. Schuman said himself at Coffee House. “It in Montgomery County on “the school start stated, “I just really love talent being showcased. that he fi rst heard about Starr’s resignation was very fun! I’ve enjoyed time issue and has support of Curriculum performing, especially when On such a cold “during 6th period on the day it happened,” playing at Coffee House a 2.0, the MCPS version of Common Core you can interact with the night, Coffee House lived through “an email from the Board of lot,” Elder said. He is one of Standards.” Looking forward to the county’s audience. It feels a lot like up to its name, providing Education.” Schuman reported that “I many of the performers who next superintendent, Peck said, “I hope the what an athlete feels during hot chocolate and hot coffee know that half of the Board of Education have already made music new MCPS superintendent is more willing a game. It’s just a great to its patrons while they did not have confi dence in the job [Starr] a large part of their lives. to publicly take a stance on tough issues thing to experience.” Jones sat back and listened to was doing,” also adding that “Dr. Starr is The SHOP Coffee with split perspectives.” However, Peck performed a cover song as the musical performances. resigning because it would be impossible House is hosted every year is worried that, amidst the discussion for well as an original song, Combining musicianship for him to be an effective leader without to raise money for a very a new superintendent, that the Board of which he had written a few and charity, it is no surprise confi dence and support from the Board of nights before. “It doesn’t important cause. Every 15 Coffee House drew a Education.” Schuman believes that “the CONT PAGE 2 really matter if they like it or Minutes is a program in crowd to the audience.

NNewsews FFeatureseatures SSportsports

The Annual Polar Bear Teenage drug abuse The Super Bowl Plunge has Cougars is a dangerous issue comes to a sprint into the freezing found in most high shocking end with bay yet again. schools across the a controversial last country. minute error. PPageage 3 PPageage 6 PPageage 9 2 NEWStheProwler February 13, 2015 Students Take a Cold Plunge for a Good Cause By DYLAN KEARNEY word through announcements at school and yourself to something you’re not used to, is anticipating the event together. “It’s bet- News Editor through social media, so many people can even if it is intimidating at fi rst.” The prepa- ter to go in after though, because otherwise enjoy the event. “The atmosphere is great. ration involves getting in a tent together you could get stuck in the front and stay Students submerged in the cold wa- It is super fun and everyone around you is and getting ready to go in. She said this part in the cold!” Jones said. It’s her third time ters of the Chesapeake Bay on January 30 cheering,” Jones said. “It’s great to push was one of the most fun, because the team plunging and she enjoys doing it very much. to fundraise for The Special Olympics, Sophomore Patty Dirlam is also ex- an organization that does training and cited to plunge for the fi rst time. “I joined year-round competitions with kids and because it is sure to be a good experience, adults who have intellectual disabilities. and I’m also excited to see how much mon- People all around the community jump ey I can raise for Special Olympics,” Dir- into the water for the cause, and some don’t lam said. Never participating in it before, go in but still enjoy the atmosphere. Gov- students wonder about what to expect. “I’m ernment teacher Karen Jones is the sponsor looking forward to a rather chilly bonding of the students participating. “It’s a chal- experience with Special Olympic support- lenge,” said Jones. “You just have to throw ers from all around,” Dirlam said. Students down the gauntlet and do it as a team.” Each say the Polar Plunge is a different fundrais- member who joins a group to plunge with ing idea that can be very successful. “Few has to raise fi fty dollars before joining the other events involve plunging into subfreez- cause. “I try to raise more money every ing waters,” Dirlam said. “It is also special year,” Jones explained. “Our goal is fi fty because it unifi es people like nothing else dollars per student, but most students try can.” The Cool School Challenge is the to reach higher than that.” The team from school team’s event to raise money for the Quince Orchard also usually bring students Special Olympics. “It has an online donation from Best Buddies, an organization at QO page, so donating is quick and easy,” Dirlam where students volunteer with people who said. “It is a great fundraising idea because have intellectual disabilities and do differ- it attracts lots of attention and it donates to ent activities each month. Students from a great cause.” The people participating in Best Buddies come with the group and they this event enjoy it very much, and are al- plunge together, and Jones said this is really ways welcoming people to come along to great because they can help raise money for support a great cause within the community. a good cause and enjoy the plunge together. These courageous students are helping PHOTO COURTESY OF FACEBOOK The Polar Plunge hosts many stu- to raise money for a good cause, the Special dents, and the group here at QO tries to CHILLING OUT TOGETHER: Quince Orchard students huddle together for a group Olympics, while also trying their own person- get people to participate by spreading the photo after successfully taking the Polar Bear Plunge to raise money and awareness. al strength of will and resistance to the cold. The Plume of Pennies for Patients J. Starr Resigns By ANDREW POULSON the country bring in some, it really is a lot,” added Jacobson. By LAWRENCE SIMON News Editor Another person who has been helping to put together the Pennies for Patients program here is junior SGA mem- Editor-in-Chief that prepares all students Over the next two weeks, Quince Orchard will be ber Alexis Onsi. Onsi said that “although there have been CONT PAGE 1 for success in the 21st hosting the Pennies for Patients charity program in or- some bumps in the road while planning this year’s Pennies Education will be left “unable century.” Speaking praise der to raise money for cancer research and treatment. for Patients, I think that the charity program will go great.” to be effective in educational of the county’s choice for The Pennies for Patients program was started in Onsi also hinted that “although we are not sure yet, we are and budgetary reform.” an interim leader, O’Neill 1995 by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to help trying to get some sort of prize for the class that raises the The offi cial statement from wrote, “We believe that Mr. raise money through schools for leukemia and lym- most pennies.” Onsi also asked others to “remember to the offi ce of the President Bowers is well-suited to lead phoma research and treatment. Leukemia and lym- bring in your pennies, nickels, dimes, and quarters between of the Montgomery County the district in this time of phoma are blood cancers that affect over 800,000 peo- February 9th and 20th so that you can help a great cause.” Board of Education transition,” adding that, “as ple each year. Over 10 million elementary, middle and Senior Nick Ransing has helped with Pennies for Pa- Patricia B. O’Neill says, a 37-year veteran of MCPS, high school students donate to the charity every year. tients before. “In elementary and middle school.” “Giv- “The Board appreciates he understands our culture, One of the people helping to set up this program here ing to this charity is something that is important to me Dr. Starr’s work over the our strengths, and our needs at Quince Orchard is sophomore SGA member Maya Ja- because so many people have this disease, leukemia, past three-and-a-half years and will ensure that MCPS cobson. “Pennies for Patients is a great program,” said Ja- that it nice to be able to help them,” Ransing says. He as superintendent.” Later operate smoothly as we cobson. “Leukemia is the most prevalent type of cancer, so also commented on how easy it is to give to the Pennies in the statement, O’Neill prepare for a new leader.” donating can potentially help a lot of people.” Jacobson said for Patients charity: “All you have to do is go home and wrote that, “as our district The process for looking for a that “the Pennies for Patients charity is nationwide,” and stu- look around for spare change that you probably wouldn’t grows and the needs of our new MCPS Superintendent dents from schools all over the country can gather up their spend anyways, and then bring it in to school.” Ransing students increase, there are will continue over the next spare change and bring them into school to place in collec- added, “Even though it might not have been that much, areas that we must address if few months and hopefully tion boxes. “Even though each individual student may not you can really do some good.” Even though everyone only we are going to continue to be completed in time for donate that much individually, when so many kids across gives small amounts of money, expectations remain high. be a high-performing system the 2015-2016 school year. TThehe ProwlerProwler POTH Brings Excitement Editors-In-Chief: Greg Burnham Photographers: By BELLA ROBERTS for you and the rest of the up the audience to support David Fingeret Paige Mirkin Andy Goldstein News Managing Editor school. Also, you can get a their performers, but also Eve Poetzschke James Neveleff Lily Makori laugh out of the event and get a glimpse into the artistic community. “Everyone Lilly Price Bella Roberts Andrew Poulson CONT PAGE 1 should attend POTH because Lawrence Simon crowd was laughing and “It was so it’s a night where we get the Section Editors: Business& reacting positively,” says opportunity to celebrate Jared Goldstein Distribution Katzker. Similarly, Malouf talented members of the QO adds that the audience much fun Associates: Sam Hurwitz Managers: community,” says Dvari. reacting encouraged her. Of course, the added element Andy Goldstein Dylan Kearney Sam Hurwitz “It was so much fun to be to be sur- of competition always Sam Kirsch Micah Levey Micah Levey surrounded by people who gets the whole school to Julia Lane Brenna Lofgren Brenna Lofgren know and love you. It was rounded by participate “Although the Billy Sewell Matt Lowinger Matt Lowinger exhilarating to feel the seniors did win, we all positive energy from the Lily Makori David Ramsay know that juniors deserve audience,” Malouf stated. people who fi rst place!” exclaims Dvari. Andrew Poulson Bella Roberts If not performing, members The seniors took how the Managing Editors: David Ramsey of the community are invited love you.” class award while the fi rst Suzanne Adjani-Aldrin to make up the glowing place individual award went audience that returns each to the Disney Princesses Quince Orchard High School -Chloe Malouf year. “People should attend made up of juniors 15800 Quince Orchard Road • (301) 840-4686 • both because of all the hard it is a nice family outing” Becca Worley, Kishori AP Signature School • Volume 27, Issue 4 work you classmate devote states Katzker. Parents, Turner, Chloe Malouf and Friday, February 13, 2015 to put on a great show siblings, and friends make senior Joanna Wolfgram. 3 PATRONS theProwler February 13, 2015 The Prowler thanks our Patrons for their generous support! 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SIGNATURE ______DATE ______4 NEWS theProwler February 13,2015 Academy Award Nominations: Who Will Win? By LAWRENCE SIMON Editor-In-Chief to make it more diverse because that could a nomination for Best Original Screenplay. pest Hotel, both nominated for nine awards. make it more racist,” but that “the only way The latter created controversy for not being The two fi lms had budgets of $18 million With the end of 2014 and the begin- to diversify it would be to have more mov- nominated for Best Animated Feature, de- and $30 million, respectively. The lowest- ning of a new year, the awards show circuit has ies made by non-white fi lmmakers.” Worth spite being one the most widely-acclaimed budget fi lms nominated for Best Picture were begun to heat up. Beginning with the Golden noting, however, is that, despite all 20 nomi- animated fi lms of 2014. Luckily for those Whiplash and Boyhood, which were made Globes on January 11, then the SAG Awards nees in the acting categories being Caucasian, who made The Lego Movie, the fi lm was on smaller budgets of $3.3 million and $4 on January 25, and continued by the BAFTA’s Alejandro González Iñárritu, the director of still nominated for Best Original Song for million, respectively. This is in contrast to on February 8, the season will culminate in Birdman, was nominated for Best Director. its hit number “Everything Is Awesome.” the 86th Academy Awards, where the most the Academy Awards on February 22. De- nominated movies, Gravity and American spite the fact that this year’s Oscars display Hustle, were made on budgets of $100 mil- a great deal of variety in the types of movies, lion and $40 million, respectively. However, there are many also disparaging the lack of the Best Visual Effects category includes such racial diversity among this year’s nominees. big-budget pictures as Guardians of the Gal- As far as diversity among the fi lms nominated axy and X-Men: Days of Future Past, which this year, sci-fi fi lms like Guardians of the were both made on budgets of $200 million. Galaxy have two nominations while comedic Also receiving numerous nominations at this dramas like Birdman and The Grand Buda- year’s ceremony were major biopics like The pest Hotel led the Oscars with nine nomina- Imitation Game and The Theory of Every- tions. As far as human diversity is concerned, thing. The former is about Alan Turing, a com- freshman Luke Tittle said, “I don’t think that puter scientist and World War II codebreaker the non-white fi lmmaker is under-represent- who was criminally charged for indecency ed,” and that “I just feel that there weren’t for being a homosexual in 1940s Britain, and many movies out in this specifi c year by non- has been given eight nominations. The latter white fi lmmakers.” However, most of the is about British physicist Stephen Hawking, anger for this year has been centered on Ava and the juxtaposition of his burgeoning rela- Duvernay’s critically lauded Martin Luther tionship with his fi rst wife Jane Wilde Hawk- King, Jr. biopic Selma, which, despite being ing with his advancing diagnosis of ALS. what one might call “Oscar bait,” only gar- Other fi lms that have garnered a number of nered two nominations: one for Best Picture PHOTO COURTESY OF NPR nominations include Boyhood and American and one for Best Original Song. However, Sniper are both nominated for six awards, some critics claim that star David Oyelowo PREPARING FOR BATTLE: Neil Patrick Harris prepares to hots followed by Whiplash, Foxcatcher, Interstel- should have been nominated for Best Actor, the 87th Academy Awards in the Dolby Theatre on February 22, 2015 lar, and The Theory of Everything with fi ve. that Duvernay should have been nominated Notable among some of the snubs at this Also notable among the nominees at this Then the art biopic Mr. Turner with four, Into for Best Director, and that the fi lm’s script year’s ceremony are more experimental and year’s Academy Awards ceremony is the lack the Woods and Unbroken with three, and should have been nominated for Best Origi- diverse movies like Nightcrawler and The of big-budget fi lms compared to recent years. Guardians of the Galaxy, Ida, Inherent Vice, nal Screenplay. When asked how he would Lego Movie. The former drew criticism for its The two most nominated fi lms at this year’s Selma, and Wild, all with two. This year’s make the Oscars more diverse, Tittle added violence and Jake Gyllenhaal’s creepy perfor- ceremony will be Birdman, or the Unexpect- ceremony will be hosted by Neil Patrick Har- that “I don’t think anything should be done mance as an LA news recorder, but did garner ed Virtue of Ignorance and The Grand Buda- ris, and will be hosted at the Dolby Theatre. FEATUREStheProwler 5 February 13, 2015 The D.A.V.I.D. System to Getting Girls for the Holiday By DAVID RAMSEY Section Editor Guys, are you tired of not having a date for Valentine’s Day? Is being the third wheel getting old? Well, I can change all of that with my foolproof, easy, fi ve-step system known as the D.A.V.I.D. system. Even if you have no game, this will guarantee you will not be third-wheeling next Valentine’s Day.

D-DEMONSTRATE YOUR VALUE: This is your fi rst impression with the girl of choice, so you must give her a reason to be interested in you. If she thinks you have no value to her, she will not give you the time of day. Now, you can do this by lying about some story about how you saved your best friend’s life or how you work at a local soup kitchen. That will work in the short run but if you want her to be bae, this route will not work. She will eventually fi nd out you’re lying and lose interest. Talk about your talents and what you can do for her.

A-ASK QUESTIONS: Girls love to talk about themselves, so all you have to do is just ask them questions about it and look interested in what they are saying. Even if they are talking about some show on Netfl ix that sucks or some drink from Starbucks that is just so good they “just can’t”, pretend that they are the most interesting person in the world and they will be happy.

V-VERIFY HER INTEREST: This is the moment of truth: are you in the friend zone or not? There are many ways to fi gure out if a girl is interested in being more than a friend. The Y theory is a surefi re way to determine if she likes you: the more y’s a girl types in a “hey,” the more interested she is in you. Once she types four ys or more, you are in there fo sho. Another way is to just ask her best friend, but that could risk making it hot. Once you have verifi ed that she is interested in you, it is time for the next step.

I-INITIATE PHYSICAL CONTACT: Once you are ready, it’s time to make your move. Invite her to the movies or over to your house to watch one on Netfl ix. This is the perfect time to initiate contact. Put your arm around her and, if she accepts, its game on. Wait a couple minutes and go in for the kiss.

D- DIVE IN/DODGE THE BULLET: There are two options here. If you see your girl of choice as someone you can share a meaningful relationship with, then you dive in and keep seeing her. If you do not, then dodge that bullet, brotha. Avoid all contact. Warning: the girl may hate you after this.

To: Colton Chris- To: Laura Luteran To: Cdarin100 Valentine tensen I want you back. We are never ever Colton, I couldn’t tell Please be mine. getting together, you this in person Don’t tell Erin. word to Tswift.

By LILLY PRICE bring medication to parties and take it, not knowing hard criminals did. The pattern of users was adult Editor-in-Chief what type of pill they just consumed. “These are minorities; this pattern has recently switched to white called ‘pharm parties’ and in the past three years have young adults. “I saw some teen heroin users while This November, fi gures were released by Maryland’s occurred the most frequently in Damascus,” said Lowery. doing raids in Damascus,” said Lowery. “These drugs Department of Health and Mental Hygiene that heroin-related Oxycodone and fentanyl are popular prescribed are mostly found in Baltimore and DC, but kids will deaths have increased by 46% from January to June of 2014. narcotics that are often abused and brought to parties. make the trip down there and bring these drugs back.” Three hundred deaths were recorded in those six months. “What happens is that this stuff is so highly addictive In Montgomery County from 2008 to 2011, Narcotics, such as heroin and fentanyl, kill an that, when people take it or use it recreationally, they there were an average of 40 to 50 heroin-related deaths estimated 20 to 30 Marylanders a month. Fentanyl deaths have to start buying it off the street,” said Lowery. per year. By contrast, however, there were 93 deaths in are the most prominent in Baltimore, Anne Arundel, and Some dealers have stopped selling marijuana and 2012 alone. Then, between March and August of 2013, Carroll counties, according to The Washington Post. crack, typical street drugs, because they have sources where the number of deaths was equal to all those previous years From 2011 to 2013, there has been an 88% increase they can get “oxy,” which is sold by the milligram. “Say you combined. “That’s a little bit of an epidemic,” said Lowery. in fentanyl deaths, making overdoses “a public-health have an 80 milligram pill or 20 milligram pill, whatever the Heroin’s danger comes from the inability to crisis,” said the agency’s secretary, Joshua Sharfstein. milligram is, that’s what it costs [in dollars],” said Lowery. know the strength of what you’re taking. “It could be QO’s School Resource Offi cer, Joseph Lowery, Once someone gets addicted to oxy, that 10% pure, it could be 90% pure. It could be cut with baby has experience working undercover on drug and gang cases. person tends to run out of money since it’s so expensive. powder or it could be cut with Aspirin,” said Lowery. Lowery explained that these addictions typically begin with They then turn to heroin, which is cheaper than These addictions begin by taking oxycodone, “kids who are comfortable being extremely inebriated [from oxycodone. Heroin has a very similar high and people then snorting heroin, then injecting heroin. Heroin is high alcohol levels] that they get curious about other things.” can make their money go further, “which is how people an incredibly debilitating drug that can ruin and even Besides marijuana, the drug of choice for generally get hooked as a teenager,” noted Lowery. end lives. “It’s such a gamble when you take heroin teens right now is pills, according to Lowery. Teens will Heroin used to have a taboo of a drug only because you don’t know what it is,” said Lowery. February 13, 2015 7 s , d Viewpoint y e ” , A Little Bit of Witz: ” s Make peace, not war, on drugs e s t By SAM HURWITZ “everyone is doing it” is what most typically The harsh reality is students will always devise a a Viewpoints editor describe as peer pressure. However, peer cunning way to obtain drugs/alcohol. Drugs aren’t e pressure isn’t always explicit and often goes invasive species that can simply be hunted, which s February can be a traumatic and unnoticed. When you’re the only person at a is why I don’t foresee a solution that eliminates e turbulent time for those fi nding themselves party not shooting up heroin, the pressure to substance abuse at QO. However, I believe that s without a signifi cant other or, to use a more conform increases exponentially, no matter the recognizing the futility of attempting to eradicate all t colloquial term, “bae.” Some students may be circumstances. These situations and scenarios are substance abuse is the fi rst step towards a solution. a tempted to turn to alternatives such as alcohol, when teens must be most vigilant and conscious. Regardless of what you believe, - marijuana, and now, apparently, heroin to fi ll the Resistance to peer pressure takes an incredible every adult did something deviant in his or her s void left in their hearts. The reason why teens amount of willpower and integrity. Maintaining teenage years. Anyone who tells you otherwise y continually indulge in drugs and/or alcohol is dignity and weighing the decision you are about is probably a liar or a square. Nothing better . not that intricate. When insurmountable levels of to make is imperative when saying no. Don’t epitomizes the teenage years like rebellion d stress pile onto a student, a catharsis is needed. say no because you’ve been told to, say no and risk-taking. One impulsive decision won’t a Simply put, illicit substances are an escape for because you genuinely know what you’re about necessarily defi ne you if you consider the risks , teens battling internal issues. The fi rst instinct for to do is wrong or uncharacteristic of yourself. and repercussions beforehand. Drinking once y teens is to seek a solution to their sorrows, which Mustering up this brand of confi dence is no doesn’t make you an alcoholic, and never y often tends to be drugs. The vulnerability of a easy feat, but counteracting peer pressure in this drinking doesn’t make you an outcast. That’s just d troubled teen is easily exploited by peer pressure, manner tends to stop abuse before it even starts. a double standard and a peer pressure tactic. I am o which leads to habitual drug and alcohol use. Unfortunately, but perhaps not not insinuating that The Prowler or I condone y Inevitably, peer pressure is the surprisingly, substance abuse among teens isn’t drug and alcohol abuse; in fact, I highly advise d driving force behind fi rst-time drug/alcohol restricted to this trivial time of year. Drug use, you against it. If I could stress one thing to you, g experimentation. As students, we encounter the unlike students, governments, or associations, it would be to base your decisions on your own . pressure to conform almost daily. The classic cannot simply disappear with a wave of a wand. beliefs, oh, and don’t stumble (up the stairs). e e d . t e o o n , d Importance of Education About Teen Pregnancy p f . Increased public awareness helps lower teen pregnancy rates ingBy PAIGE MIRKIN contraceptives available to them in health chose to raise her baby with her boyfriend. are not pressured or forced into making Features Managing Editor class. According to Capital Woman’s Care “My parents are building us an apartment a decision they do not want to make. OBGYN Rene Johnson, “girls should in the basement of their home,” she said. Many options are available to Teen pregnancy is prevalent in our begin attending annual check-ups at the “This way, my boyfriend and I will have young parents. The non-profi t organization society. It is glamourized in the media, with gynecologist around age 15 or 16.” With the privacy of raising our child on our own, Planned Parenthood helps teens make several reality shows on air that circulate regularity at the doctor, teenage girls will but they are only a fl ight of stairs away if we decisions for their future. The closest branch around pregnant teenagers or teenage easily obtain the knowledge and ability to need any help.” Parental support is crucial is located in Montgomery Village and can cs mothers. Becoming pregnant as a teen is an take care of themselves and avoid pregnancy. during teen pregnancy. This way, teens be contacted at (301) 208-1300. Stay safe! undesirable situation, although it is easily Girls are not the only ones dealt with in a healthy and positive way. involved with pregnancy. Boys should Our society has become much be correctly educated to avoid unwanted more comfortable speaking about the pregnancy as well. “I take my son for a Heroin Helpline 877-616-6231 topic of sex since our parents’ generation. check-up every year at the pediatrician,” Students are able to receive sex education another QO parent said. “The pediatrician in schools and teenagers are much more speaks to him about sex, contraceptions, open about their sex lives with their and educates him on the consequences parents. Due to this, the teenage pregnancy of unsafe sex,” she said. The three Alcohol Helpline 866-925-4030 rate in our country has declined. In 2013, rounds of the HPV vaccine, which may the pregnancy rate among teenagers prevent certain types of human papilloma between 15 and 19 was 26.6 births per viruses, genital warts, and cancer, are now 1,000. In fact, fewer babies were born available to boys. It is equally as important National Suicide Prevention to teenage parents in 2013 than in any for boys to be careful about sex as girls. other year since 1946. The rate has The birth control pill is 99.9% signifi cantly dropped, compared to a effective with correct usage. However, Lifeline 1 (800) 273-8255 whopping 117 births per 1,000 in 1991. there is always the .1% chance of getting As health teacher Susan Soulé pregnant. A recent occurrence of teenage has taught us, the only 100% effective pregnancy has happened in our community. way to avoid pregnancy and STDs is One pregnant QO student, who wishes to abstinence. However, with the growing remain anonymous, encourages everyone Bullying Helpline 1-800-273- awareness of sex-ed in our country, to “take all precautions possible” when waiting until marriage has become less it comes to sex. “My parents were very TALK (8255) common. “Kids should be able to make supportive,” she said. “The fi rst thing my their own decision when it comes to [sex], mom did was hug me and tell me it was as long as they’re being safe and choosing going to be okay.” Pregnant teens are the right person,” said a QO community faced with three main options: abortion, parent, who wished to remain anonymous. adoption, or deciding to raise the baby Information Hotline 411 Pregnancy can be prevented: themselves. “The decision is different for students are taught about the different anybody involved,” the student said. She 8 FEATUREStheProwler February 13, 2015 What Do We Want? Soap! Editors investigate hygeine concerns CCougarougar FFocusocus By JULIA LANE especially with a live By EVE POETZSCHKE Double-truck Associate school,” encouraged audience watching. Fox. Editor-in-Chief Editor There is pressure not QO’s stage QO’s annual just from the people crew work hard talent show, Puttin’ watching, but from before, during and on the Hits, along the actors on stage after each production, with every theater who rely on the but do not receive production, showcases support from their much recognition. a lot of on-stage backstage crew. Fox Fox states that he We’ve be en hearing the same words since elementary school. talent. However, the reveals that the most wishes there was a Washing your hands with soap and water is the best way to prevent the behind the scenes diffi cult part of his greater appreciation spread of sickness. talent, the stage crew, job as POTH stage for the backstage However, in the midst of cold and fl u season, students at QO are the people who are running into a problem. It’s hard to wash your hands with soap and water if there’s no director is “keeping crew because they create every stage soap. The fi rst few times I noticed it, I wasn’t too concerned. But this problem has been more everyone quiet” “do not get enough production at Q O. frequent lately: both soap dispensers in the bathrooms are usually empty when I try to wash backstage. This can attention” from the Senior John Paul my hands. be quite tough when public. Working Fox was this year’s Although this didn’t seem too pressing at fi rst, I noticed more and more girls dealing with large behind the scenes is POTH stage director. complaining about the lack of soap. I took to carrying a personal bottle of hand sanitizer in groups of anxious time consuming, and Fox has been stage case I ran into the problem. Even though not all dispensers are considered “empty,” there are teenagers. often a short debut on director at POTH for many that you have to violently press several times to get even the smallest dollop of soap. Even so, stage in the event of the past two years My fellow investigative editor Lilly Price and I decided to research the matter. We with this challenging a technical diffi culty and has gotten to tested all the girls’ bathroom soap dispensers during fi rst and eighth period this past week. job come many perks. is the only visual know QO’s stage What we found was slightly disturbing. An average of 45% of soap dispensers were empty Fox enjoys that “you recognition they well throughout his over the course of the week. Out of the 15 dispensers, almost half are consistently empty. get to boss everyone receive. experience working Many times, there were two empty soap dispensers in the same bathroom, leaving students around.” The stage So next time in productions. After unable to use soap to wash their hands. director is in charge you are wowed by one years of work on stage This is where I call for a change. Not only is soap necessary to keep our students backstage and the of QO’s wonderful crew, he knows what healthy, but the recent, school-wide stress on food allergies has made this issue even more performers listen to plays, musicals, or it takes to produce a pressing. In our most recent advisory, we watched an enlightening video on how to protect his or her commands. talent shows, don’t great live show. our students with food allergies. Students with severe allergies can go into anaphylactic Fox believes more forget to appreciate Managing shock just by touching the food they are allergic too. The video informed us that washing our people should get all the hard work that the chaos of hands before and after we eat can save a student from the danger of unknowingly coming into involved in theater enabled the show to changing scenes contact with their allergen. Implementing more soap in our bathrooms will help prevent any and the backstage fl ow smoothly! and microphones future contaminations. crew: “It is the best can be challenging, thing you can do after Note: We did not test the bathrooms in the girls’ locker room, be- cause they were locked at the times we attempted to check them. Allergies Take a Toll By PAIGE MIRKIN allergic to peanuts has impacted my life because of all the cautions I have Senior Slump Slides In Features Managing Editor to take,” Golanski said. “I carry an Epi-pen around with me at all times Nurse’s room is overfl owing Allergies have been a in case I have a reaction.” growing concern at Quince Orchard According to foodallergy. High School this school year. Emails com, there are approximately three with deadly cases of senioritis have been sent out to teachers and million people who report having By MICAH LEVEY aware of the expense of Though I earned advisory block was dedicated to the allergies to peanuts and tree nuts. Features Editor attending college. a 100% on one of my awareness of allergies in schools. Studies show the number of children Feldman is fi rst vocabulary tests in Administration has banned eating living with peanut allergies have The time has come evidently relieved to see Mrs. Shipp’s class as a in classrooms to avoid any allergic appeared to triple between 1997 and that a quarter of the school his hard work in high freshman, I am now unable reactions. This all began when junior 2008. has reached the pinnacle school pay off, as hopefully to recite any of those 15 Raquel Golanski had an allergic Unfortunately, there is no as our 12th graders can everyone does when they words, much less their reaction during lunch this fall. cure for food allergies. Prevention for offi cially call themselves reach the latter half of their defi nitions. I am not trying Golanski has been allergic those with allergies include having “second semester seniors.” senior year. As a classmate to take a shot at the English to peanuts for “as long as [she] can medication present and knowing What does that really mean of Feldman’s, I too am able Department’s choice in remember.” Her allergies are very the procedure in case of a reaction. though? to bask in the bittersweet testing, but much rather severe, which is why many of her The severity of allergies ranges, but For senior and feeling of my high school high school education as a reactions have landed her in the you do not want to be the cause of school SGA president Sam tenure coming to a close. whole. hospital. As a member of the Pom someone’s hospital visit. Please be Feldman, being a second The purpose of squad, it has caused her to miss many aware of your surroundings and what semester senior is nothing school is to learn, not to practices and competitions. “Being you eat in school. short of a relief. “The best earn good grades. High thing is not having to try as school students around hard because I am already the country are pressed by accepted into several their elders and peers about colleges,” explained their GPA, or number of Feldman. Feldman is AP classes, or SAT scores, one of the luckier seniors rather than the knowledge who was able to breathe that a pupil has absorbed in easy during the fi rst school. quarter of this school year That being said, I IMAGE COURTESY OF after receiving his fi rst GOOGLE would now like to elaborate acceptance letter. Once that While it is true upon what I was hinting happened, “senior-itis fully that I am putting forth at earlier; I am still trying kicked in,” said Feldman. less effort in keeping up in school, but after being POISON CONTROL: Be cautious of The harsh stress of having my good grades, I am not accepted into my dream what and where you eat to ensure safety to choose between studying putting any less effort school, I am now trying for a science summative into school as a whole. to learn, not to earn good or a math summative Throughout my fi rst three grades. I will continue has now turned to the and a half years at QO, to make this my primary stress of choosing which the only thing that has goal for however long I outstanding institution to ever mattered to me is my am attending some type of attend next year. “I haven’t grades. This means staying educational institution as fi gured out what school I up late nights to memorize a student. I encourage all am attending because I am countless vocabulary underclassmen to do the trying to see which school words and formulas for same, because what is the will give me the most tomorrow’s test. How much point of a 4.0 if you don’t PHOTO COURTESY OF RAQUEL GOLANSKI SMILES: Junior Raquel Golanski stays positive scholarship money,” added of this information do we know anything in the fi rst in the hospital Feldman, who is clearly actually retain? place? 9 SPORTStheProwler February 13, 2015 Super Bowl Ends in Dramatic Fashion, Leading to Scrutiny By DAVID FINGERET team? Matthews’s fi rst catch was a who else but Matthews to end the of the Pats corner Darrelle Revis the Seahawks into Patriot Editor-in-Chief 45-yard catch, setting up a Lynch half. The Seahawks had tied the for getting scored on. The third territory. Three plays later, magic happened. Wide receiver In what may be one of three-yard touchdown, but his next Patriots going into halftime, 14-14. quarter ended shortly after and the Jermaine Kearse pulled in a 33- the most memorable Super play really set him apart. After Once the second half started, Seahawks were winning 24-14. yard pass that was just incredible. Bowls in recent memories, the Patriots Rob Gronkowski spiked the Seahawks got red hot, scoring a The fourth quarter was The pass was tipped into the air game had it all: suspense, action, the ball in the end zone after his fi eld goal on their fi rst possession. one to remember as Tom Brady and, as the ball was about to hit comedy, and drama. In the week touchdown, with 31 seconds left Then Bobby Wagner intercepted gathered the troops and scored the ground, Kearse caught it, leading up to the Super Bowl, all in the half the Seahawks had one Brady. All the momentum was two touchdowns, one to Danny setting the Seahawks up for a reporters wanted to talk about was of the most impressive drives in with the Seahawks as they began Amendola and one to Julien game-winning touchdown. Not Defl ategate and the best Marshawn the Super Bowl. With 31 seconds, another drive. Wilson drove Edelman. After these two scores, only were people going crazy in Lynch interviews. What could be in four plays Russell Wilson got the ball down and then threw a the Patriots were winning 28-24 the stadium, but Brady couldn’t better than people talking about his Seahawks down to the 11- touchdown to Doug Baldwin. with two minutes remaining. The believe what had happened. how Brady defl ates his balls and There was a resemblance to Lynch saying “I’m just here so I the David Tyree catch that beat won’t get fi ned”? Even Saturday the Patriots in Super Bowl Night Live had some fun with XLII. All was lost until the these two events. But that’s a thing most controversial play ever of the past: the more important be called during an NFL game. events were still yet to come. On the one and-a-half-yard Coming into the game, line with 25 seconds left, everyone people were ready for a close thought the game was over. All game with the Legion of Boom that was needed was a handoff vs. Tom Brady, and Lynch vs. to Beastmode and the Seahawks New England’s front seven. At the would have won their second beginning of the game, the Patriots Super Bowl. But then, the call offense and defense dominated was made: a pick route was called against the Seahawks. One key and Wilson was picked off at the play in the fi r st half was when half-yard line. People could not Seahawks cornerback Jeremy Lane believe the play call. Even Hall of intercepted a Brady pass at the Famer Emmitt Smith commented fi ve-yard line. However, Lane was on the play via Twitter, “That was injured at the end of the play and the worst play call I’ve seen in did not return. The next cornerback the history of football.” After the up was second-year player Tharold game, Coach Pete Carroll blamed Simon. Once in, Brady picked on the interception on himself. All Simon and wound up throwing the Patriots had to do now was to two touchdowns against the young run one play and end the game. cornerback. Brady got hot and not After the kneel down, all only tied Joe Montana’s Super Bowl hell broke loose, with Bruce touchdown record, he broke it. Irvin throwing punches to every As Brady’s stellar play person with a white jersey. The continued, an unsung hero was brawl began, and what could born for the Seahawks: Chris have been a better ending to a Matthews. No, not the Chris PHOTO COURTESY OF CBSSPORTS.COM great Super Bowl? Irvin was Matthews on NBC, the rookie wide DEFINING MOMENT: Safety Malcom Butler’s game-sealing interception to win Pats’ fourth Super Bowl ejected and will most likely be receiver for the Seahawks. In the yard line with six seconds left. For his touchdown celebration, drive started off with a great throw fi ned for his actions. In a game beginning of the season, Matthews Everyone believed the Seahawks Baldwin decided he would fake to Lynch. There was then a brief where one of the only things to be worked at Foot Locker until the would kick a fi eld goal to go into going to the bathroom on the commercial break, with everyone remembered will be the terrible Seahawks asked him to try out for the half down just 14-10. However, ball, for which he was fl agged 15 on the edge of their seats, the best call. In a game that was almost as the team. Matthews hadn’t had the defending champs had other yards. But the real controversy of Super Bowl XLIX yet to come. interesting as the Revolutionary any catches all year, but who’s to ideas. With six seconds left, was Richard Sherman, all-pro The fi rst play was a throw War, the Patriots beat the ‘Hawks, say he wasn’t the spark that lit the Wilson threw a touchdown pass to cornerback for Seattle, making fun to Lynch for 31 yards, moving proving Patriots win in all wars. Boys BBall Looks to Play Cinderella in a Magical Playoff Run BY JARED GOLDSTEIN Sports Editor root for now. The boys important factor for a team scorers like this makes the walls and ceilings and through their fi nal basketball team has made looking to make a deep run it diffi cult for opposing ring throughout the gym. A games of the schedule a huge case to be the team through the playoffs. For defenses to stop the full student section would in the upcoming weeks, Reenergize a fan base. that draws big crowds, and instance, if senior forward Cougars. “We have make it nearly impossible the team will need Instill life in a defl ated in turn, energy and noise. Sam Ling happens to guys that can score from for the opposing team the Red Army to be community. Excite a Preseason projections struggle in the post -- which, anywhere on the fl oor,” Eli to communicate with even louder than ever. whole school. None of had the Cougars fi nishing admittedly, doesn’t happen Maynard said. “It’s very each other on the fl oor. The Cougars have these things are easy, the season somewhere all that often -- the Cougars diffi cult to slow all of us “When [the Red Army the potential to get yet the boys varsity between a middle-of may look to kick the ball down at once.” Indeed it is] really loud while we’re hot at the right time, basketball team has -the-road team and a true out to sophomore point is. And it is even harder on defense, [it] makes it as evidenced by their accomplished all three contender. While this guard and fl oor general to keep a raucous student harder for our opponents 7-0 start. However, feats with their 11-4 start. team certainly isn’t the Matt Kelly, who leads the section from making noise. to run their offense and they’ve struggled Following a last best team in the county or team with 32 three-pointers Opposing teams will it pumps us up,” senior against the county’s minute, diffi cult to state, they’ve shown that made on the season. Other say that they enter Quince Christian Walters said. In top competition. If they swallow, and all-around they should not be taken scoring options include Orchard’s gym to play order to come into Quince are to make the playoff disappointing postseason lightly come playoff time. senior shooting guard the game, not to worry Orchard’s gym and leave run (and they they are loss to Northwest in The team complements and forward Eli Maynard about the Red Army and with a win, teams must be capable of making a the 4A West Football each other with their ability (10.0 ppg) and the team’s their screaming soldiers. very prepared and have run), they’ll need a loud Regional Championship to score. The Cougars have leader in points per game, However, it is undeniable a thorough game plan. student section behind for a second straight a great combination of sophomore forward John that the strident crowd has Comparable to crazy college them, a strong game season, the Red Army -- inside post play and outside Fierstein, who averages an effect on the game, and student sections such as the plan, and hot shooters. students and community shooting. The ability to 11.9 ppg. To put it simply, the psyche of opponents Cameron Crazies at Duke Should Quince Orchard members included -- score from all around the even if an opposing team and coaches. The members University, the Orange conjure up the perfect were left stunned and fl oor is very important is able to neutralize one of the Red Army are known Crush at the University of storm at the right time, silent. The eerie silence to a team’s success. This player, the Cougars have for screaming their heads Illinois, or the Izzone at look for the Cougars was almost unbearable. is refl ected in the team’s several other options to put off at football games, but Michigan State University, to pull off an upset As fans fi led out of the scoring average of 59.6 points on the board.What in an enclosed environment Quince Orchard’s Red come playoff time. Cougar Dome, many points per game (ppg). makes it even easier is that like the gym, the noise Army wreaks havoc on The team expects all of for the very last time, Four players on the the team is very unselfi sh, they make is trapped and opposing player’s ear the Red Army to show some wondered what team average double digit always fi nding the hot hand. has nowhere to go. The drums and coach’s game up and support during they were supposed to points per game, another Having a plethora of sound waves ricochet of plans. As the team plays their playoff run. 10

February 13, 2015 SPORTStheProwler A Letter to the Editor: Where’s Quincy? There was a time in distant past when our cherished By DAVID FINGERET bring back. Quincy is a symbol of our school and another mascot was everywhere to be seen at QO sporting events, Editor-in-Chief way to get people excited for the game at hand. But maybe always supporting the team through the good and not so you’re still not convinced Mr. Faris is willing to take the Quincy suit and wear it while announcing a home football good times, and always bringing a smile to the youngest I’d fi rst like to take a moment and thank Mr. Faris game. The only thing missing is for one student to step up, of fans that might not have been able to understand what for raising concern about our missing beloved mascot, take responsibility, and become our favorite Cougar. was going on the fi eld or the court. Quincy. For years, Quincy has supported QO teams, but this year, sadly, no one decided to take the place of Quincy. Alas, now Quincy we hardly know you. Have we lost Now, Mr. Faris is absolutely correct when he stated, “Can our school spirit? Is it not cool any longer to represent you imagine Maryland without its Terrapin?” Donald, the your school? Is there not one student in the QO student Oregon mascot, does pushups every time the Ducks score. body who will stand for tradition and, for once or twice If not for mascots, who would do pushups for the Oregon a week, sometimes show the rest of the county how it Ducks every time there was a score? It’s sad to think that, should be done? without Quincy, a bit of our school spirit has been lost. Quincy was such a big part of our spirit because he Think of it. What would Notre Dame be without its could get anyone of any age excited for Cougar football. Leprechaun? How would Alabama survive without Big Who could forget the Quincy who used to make all the Al? Can you imagine Maryland without its Terrapin? Be little kids smile as they got to meet the greatest mascot in it Tiger or Gopher, Spartan, Volunteer, or Rebel, across the state? At Quince Orchard, we not only pride ourselves the nation students line up and audition to be these storied on our success in the classroom, but also on our excellence mascots. They would fi ght to represent their school, yet on the courts and fi elds. The only thing missing is one where is Quincy? We have a legacy of superior sports great student taking on the role of Quincy. President John teams envied by all, yet where is Quincy? F. Kennedy made many great quotes in his time in offi ce. One fi ts perfectly (with a small change): “Ask not what I am informed that the SGA can turn this problem your school can do for you, but what you can do for your around and turn that frown upside down. Well, Mr. school.” There must be one student at Quince Orchard that President, get ‘er done! You have a beautiful costume is willing to serve their school in one of the most important but no one with the spirit to fi ll the paws. Put down your ways possible. iPhone, stop tweeting, or texting, or whatever you do We always see in movies how the best athlete when you should be supporting your school. Did the SGA gets the girl, but just maybe the mascot gets some fame run for offi ce just for the title or to really support QO? and glory. In the television show Blue Mountain State, the mascot, Sammy Cacciatore, did very well. He was I offer a challenge to the SGA to a ‘spirit duel.’ For the somewhat popular and he hung out with some popular 2015 football season, if you will guarantee a student to football players. The life of a mascot is a tough one, actively be Quincy, and do it right and document it, at without much credit, but this service is very important to every home game, I in turn (if I can get into the suit) will the school. Also, who isn’t fulfi lled by putting smiles on call one of the home games as Quincy from the press box. everyone’s face? Everyone loves Quincy, and being Quincy What do you say, Mr. President? would have the bonus of making you popular, besides bringing extra spirit to the school. Sincerely, Sometimes the mascot isn’t appreciated like he PHOTO COURTESY OF GOOGLE Lee Faris should be. There are disrespectful people everywhere who FIND QUINCY: Quince Orchard’s famous mas- don’t care about mascots, yet the mascot is so important to cot has been in a year-long game of hide and seek. Wrestling Dominates on Mat Girls BBall Prove Ball is Life By SAM KIRSCH coming off of a 3-20 season Eric Thorndike, who By BRENNA LOFGREN last year. Junior co-captain together have all created Sports Assosciate Editor been since I’ve been here.” The hard work, dedication, and Sports Editor Lainey Seiniger said, “Our an intense and supportive The varsity wrestling team has athletic ability have been evident as the As the girls goal is to have the best practice environment to been strong all season, showing that hard team has had many dominant matches, basketball team steadily record and get as far into help the girls focus on both work does in fact pay off. Now with an including an 80-0 win at Kennedy and progress in their season, the playoffs as we can, but individual skill and team- impressive 11-2 record, the team looks a 70-11 win against Seneca Valley. The captains begin to look ahead mainly to really rebuild and oriented playing. to keep their momentum heading into the team’s only losses have come in a close to playoffs and determine strengthen the basketball Junior co-captain county and state tournaments. loss to Magruder and in a blowout to what their team is capable program.” She adds, Gina Wingate said, “Our After fi nishing 8-6 last season Damascus, the defending state champions of. “That’s going really well.” practices are fast-paced and with six one-match swings, the Cougars and a team that many think will repeat. Currently 8-4, the New head coach Chris always energized. Leading have had what many could call a Even with tough competition, girls’ winning record has Campbell is supported up to the games, we focus surprising season. Coach Rob Wolf said, the team has high hopes for season’s fi nal brought a lot of confi dence by his three assistant on our opponent and how “Although not many around the county tournaments. “I expect to have at least to the team, especially coaches Ellen Marshall, they play so we can better expected us to be this strong, we knew two fi nalists at the county tournament to the returners who are Charles Krafthofer, and our game.” The team that we had the potential to be one of the and hopefully advance eight or nine into consists of mostly juniors stronger teams.” the regional,” said Wolf. “We’d like to and sophomores, which However, this season is not a think that we are the second-best team in shows a lot of younger fl uke. The team that lost eight seniors Montgomery County.” The other front talent that will continue to has gained many new underclassmen. runners for the other three spots to be grow, a force to be reckoned Co-captain and junior Zeph Titus stated, a 3A/4A West Region dual tournament with in the playoffs as well “[Sophomore] Mason Avissar came in qualifi er are Northwest, Magruder, as the upcoming seasons. as our 126 with not too much experience Whitman and Walter Johnson. The county Both captains agree that the wrestling, but he has been able to win tournament runs from February 20-21 and priority goal for playoffs is matches.” Freshmen Gaines McKnight the regional meet is from February 27-28. to keep improving and get and Alejandro Lopez have also helped The team expects to send many athletes to as far as possible. revamp the lineup. Gaines has already the state tournament, which is going to be The girls have won over 20 matches and Lopez has been held at Cole Field House at the University become very close, and strong in his new varsity role. of Maryland on March 6-7. their chemistry is clearly In addition to the many new One such athlete is senior co- shown out on the court. athletes, the team has improved their captain Kyle Bollinger. Bollinger came Seiniger said, “We do training approach in order to last the in sixth at states last year and, as Wolf a lot of team-building whole match with their opponents. Titus said, “has been very helpful in helping his activities like scavenger stated, “Just going in the room every day, teammates improve their technique. He hunts, brunches, dinners, sweating and working hard and doing the takes time during practice to work with and going to college games moves that you would do in the match, individuals and groups to provide tips on to get closer and build a makes it come easy to us.” various set-ups and take downs as well as stronger bond, which will Another key member to the team top and bottom mat positions.” Bollinger defi nitely help us in our is junior Jack Hanson, who has earned the is just one of the seven team members that games.” nickname “Jack the Giant Slayer” after The team plays are expected to have won over 20 matches PHOTO COURTESY OF MAURICIO SANMARTIN continually beating larger opponents in by the end of the season. HARD IN THE PAINT: Junior Gina Wingate against Sherwood High the heavyweight matches, “We’re working Looking into next season, the goes up strong for the layup against Seneca Valley. School at home on February hard at practice and the practices have Red Army should be on the lookout, as the 17, so the Red Army gotten harder,” said Hanson. “I feel like team will have many returning starters and Note: Corrections to last issue’s Girls Basketball ar- is expected to be there we are in better shape now than we’ve an abundance of talent on the mats. ticle can be found online under “Orgs and Clubs.” cheering them on. 11 SPORTStheProwler February 13, 2015 Here’s what some Quince Orchard athletes think...

The Prowler asked...

Hannah Morin Elijah Maynard Regina Wingate Robert Steinwandel Adam Levey Bianca Parisotto Dara Sypes

Who is your Whoever gets me Valentine this Khristoff from Karina’s mom Lainey Seiniger Alice Cook the biggest Chi- Stathes baby Brian year? Frozen potle gift card

What is Drake do- Dropping a single Going to my Hanging with his Writing songs Being on his ing on Valentines that makes the Rapping... I guess ;) house step-bro Josh about Stefan worst behavior day? mood go down

Summarize the Wait, is Stefan a Super Bowl in one Football! GoDaddy.com Nachos? Chili Coachescalling- Super Bowl football player? word. badplays

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What do you do Choreographing Binge on Shovel snow with Practice. Sleep Sleep until the Swim Practice when school gets Chris Brown’s next Netfl ix Stefan Stathes Poms is life. cancelled? dance routine next day Swim and Dive Looks to Make a Splash Into Regionals By MATT [the athletes] swim. It can has had a passion for the the swimmers to always the pool. Grossberg says, teammates cannot wait for make a big difference in the sport since she was a young enjoy swimming.” Spivey “Enthusiasm makes me a Grossberg to lead the team LOWINGER results.” girl: “I enjoy being part of looks forward to continue good swimmer.” She is a in years to come. Sports Section Editor Senior Lillie a team and having fun with her success with the team modest athlete by saying, Congratulations Spivey has also been great teammates.” She says throughout the rest of the “I’m not the greatest in to the swimmers The swim and dive dedicated to the Quince the team is a “great group season. the pool”; however, her from Quince Orchard team practices ver y early Orchard Swim and Dive for of people,” and credits her Freshman Hannah teammates praise her work participating in the in the morning to show the four years. Furthermore, she teammates and coaches to Grossberg has been all in ethic and great leadership Washington Metropolitan other high schools that the “I enjoy her success by pushing her for the Quince Orchard skills that will rise up in the Swimming and Diving Cougars are not a force to the limits. Spivey loves swim and dive team since near future. Grossberg tries Championships, and to be reckoned with. The being part of her teammates because day one. Grossberg, a very to encourage her team to good luck to some of rest of the county fear the they “have fun and support strong student, has to juggle wake up to attend the early the team will be heading Cougars for their teamwork a team and each other at meets.” She her time between swim and morning practices. She to the Maryland State and great coaching. said, “We like to win, but school work: “Some nights iterates that “everyone... Championships and would Senior Nathan having fun having fun and showing are late nights, working has a role and that they are love to see the whole Red Kessler has been part of team spirit is important to on homework and some all family.” Coaches and Army present. Quince Orchard swim and with great us.” She has a passion for days start early. But, it’s dive program since his swimming, but also wants something I enjoy, so I freshman year. Over the teammates.” the swimmers to have do what I need to do.” In Sign- years, Kessler has proven fun in the process: “The addition to being a strong himself to be a leader in -senior Lillie expectations that [Spivey] student, she also trains hard and out of the pool: “I Spivey has for the team is for to make her a success in ing have swum at every meet like divisionals, regionals, Metros, and states...I Day! know what it’s like to be a Congrats to captain and what it takes to win various meets.” all our senior As a captain, Kessler is athletes who responsible for supporting teammates by being “loud decided to and spirited.” He likes to cARRY their encourage his teammates sports cAREER because it makes his acquaintances “feel good.” TO THE COLLE- He claims the team’s GIATE LEVEL. biggest competition is Poolesville and Bethesda- Chevy Chase due to their “high-caliber swimmers.” tHEY Most of the swim meets are only two hours long, so SIGNED ON Kessler encourages the Red Army to “come with some PHOTO COURTESY OF KATHY McKAY SWIM BOYS SWAG: Boys team huddles up during their senior meet, which ended in a W friends and...cheer while 2/4/15 SPORTStheProwler February 13, 2015 12 AATHLETESTHLETES TTOO WWATCHATCH PPomsoms CCheerleadingheerleading GGOO COUGARSCOUGARS CCo-Edo-Ed SSwimwim aandnd DDiveive WWrestlingrestling

Danielle Cohn Carly Porter Alex Myers Kyle Bollinger Senior Danielle Cohn Sophomore Carly Por- Junior Alex Myers has Senior Kyle Bollinger has proven herself over the ter loves the sport of cheer- been an outstanding competi- has recorded a stellar record past couple of years. The leading. Her peers pride her tor all throughout the season. of 24 wins and 2 losses. coaches are very proud of on never giving up. Por- He is a reliable swimmer and During the Holiday Dual her progress and her great ter stays after practice and a great leader. The coaches Tournament, he received teamwork. The other poms works on the skills needed can always count on him the Outstanding Wres- athletes love Cohn’s at- to make her a threat against to lead practices and help tler award due to winning titude toward the sport. other teams in tournaments. develop young swimmers. all eight of his matches, BBoysoys IndoorIndoor TrackTrack GGirlsirls IIndoorndoor TTrackrack GGirlsirls BBasketballasketball BBoysoys BasketballBasketball

Jose Cruz Ashley Seymour Jordan Odom Johnny Fierstein Senior Jose Cruz Sophomore Ashley Sey- Freshman guard Jor- Sophomore Johnny Fier- stepped into a leadership mour has been a strong dan Odom has proven her stein has great potential as role this year. His knowl- assest to the team since skills to the QO commu- a future college athlete. He edge of track and fi eld is day one. Her great leader- nity. She is currently av- averages 14.7 points and shown by beating out op- ship skills shine when she eraging 15.5 points per six rebounds per game. In ponents and helping out leads the practices. She is a game, along with averag- addition, he went off against younger athletes. His threat for the short sprints, ing nearly two rebounds per Clarksburg, scoring 22 hard work really pays off. not to be reckoned with. game.She’s a key player. points. Track Continues Into Stride Toward States WINTER SPORTS RECORDS By GREG BURNHAM Bright Ofosu and Dorian Jones. Jones has also Sports Managing Editor had strong showings in the triple jump events. When it comes to the distance runners, Winter sports are usually known for their the blend of veteran leadership and younger indoor facilities, to stand as a barrier against talent has proved to be a recipe for success. the harsh conditions of the season; however, Varsity Boys Basketball: 11-4 Some of this non-senior talent includes top run- indoor track will always be that one exception. ner junior Liam Walsh, along with sophomore The track athletes have been out braving Eli Holmstead. Walsh was a top runner in the the conditions ever since the beginning of Varsity Girls Basketball: 8-6 county coming out of the fall cross country the season back in November. Now, as we season and has high aspirations to duplicate his roll into February, the team is now preparing success this winter. Holmstead, on the other for its fi nal meet at the State Championships Varsity Wrestling: 11-2 hand, a soccer player in the fall, found himself later in February. All the training and sacrifi ce coming into the season wanting something to out in the cold has paid off for the team this prove and to show his worth in the 4x800 event. year as the boys came in second at the Mont- JV Boys Basketball: 10-3 “We run circles like it’s nobody’s business,” said gomery County championships, along with Holmstead jokingly. Refl ecting back on the sea- having a couple individual event winners. son, he said, “I am very happy with the progress One of those individual county champs, JV Girls Basketball: 8-6 we have made as a team this year. I think we have senior Noah Vernick, was very excited with the more depth than last year and it is paying off.” result. The captain and shot putter said, “End- We wish both the girls and boys track teams luck ing the season last year, I had a feeling that I Boys Swim and Dive: 4-3 at states and carry that momentum into the spring. could be number one in the next season. Hav- ing help from one of the most technically sound coaches in the state and alumnus Marcus Brown Girls Swim and Dive: 2-4 has really helped me reach my goal of num- ber one.” Vernick’s aspirations have certainly been reached this season due to the off-season Varsity Bocce: 5-0 workouts and practice. He also attributes his RECORDS AS OF FEB. 5 success to training with such good teammates such as sophomore Mike Joseph, and seniors Brian Wolford and Harrison Rafter who push Congratulations to all of the each other to get better day in and day out. On the running side of things, the sprint team PHOTO COURTESY OF ATHLETIC.NET teams in the winter season! has been led by a group of veteran senior run- DEAFENING SHOT: Fresh- ners that are proving their experience with top men cover their ears af-

fi nishes. Some of these runners include seniors ter hearing the starter gun.