Issue #1 The Patriot October 2004 Student council calls for change Darby DeCicco ‘05 executive board establish a closer Township, senior relationship with the school service day, the Big things are happening in student administrators. senior kickoff council. “We’re here for you,” Long says. dance, “We’re trying to make student “We’d be happy to hear new ideas.” homecoming, and council a bigger part of the school,” says Along with new ideas, student the annual spirit student council president Christine council is also looking for new members. parade. McGuire’05. With fifteen seniors on an executive “We have This, among the dozens of board of twenty-five, it’s important that fun,” Long says, activities the organization has planned, underclassmen step up and fill the roles hoping seniors is student council’s most important goal that will be left vacant next year. will decide to for the year, according to McGuire. “It can change your life,” attend general Vice President Emily Long ‘05, McGuire says, encouraging freshmen, meetings, the agrees, saying that the twenty-five sophomores, and juniors to come to dates of which are members of student council’s executive meetings and take an interest. soon to be board hope not only to get the McGuire, who has been involved in announced, and organization more involved in student student council during her entire high help plan the life here at Township, but to get school career, is currently vice activities that are Darby DeCicco/ The Patriot Township students more involved with president of the New Jersey State so important to Student Council Vice President Emily Long (l), and student council. Student Council, and even attended a senior year. President Christine McGuire Both girls agree that they’d like to national meeting in Las Vegas over the Student Council see changes in student council, starting summer. knows that the best way to make they invite students with any ideas to with the average student. Their hope is “I bring back my experiences,” activities great for students is to get stop by the student council homeroom that new advisor Miss April Ferry will she says, hoping underclassmen will students involved in planning them. in G229 or to come to the general be able to aide them in getting homeroom understand the value student council Most importantly, both girls say meetings. representatives and other students more can have. that student council needs “We’re the voice of the student involved in general meetings, as well as But it’s not too late for seniors to encouragement from the students it body,” McGuire says, hoping that this in helping the student council’s get involved, either. Student council is serves. Tired of hearing their peers say year, the student body will help them find currently planning Mr. Washington that student council never does anything, something to say. Inside... Cyclists ride to aid MS research Mallory Heimlich ‘05 raising $5,300. but it wasn’t as bad as I had envisioned,” “The reason why we raised so says Ambacher, a first year rider. “I Saturday, September 18 and Sun- much money was the response of the thought I’d end up 20 miles from Ocean day, September 19, 2004, WTHS people in our school community. They City passed out on the ground with buz- teachers Lieutenant Colonel Joseph were very generous and contributed zards circling above my head, and when Wolozyn and Mr. Richard Ambacher greatly,” says Ambacher. we arrived at the finish line, I was amazed along with WTHS student Brian Keifer MS is a chronic, unpredictable I did it. I didn’t think I would feel too ‘05 participated in the 24th MS 150 disease of the central nervous system well, but I wasn’t whipped, so I must have of the Delaware Valley. The annual that affects about 2 million people see Cyclists page 2 charitable bicycle tour that raises worldwide according Freshmen Adjust p. 2 money and awareness about multiple to the National Mul- sclerosis (MS) drew 6,000 participants tiple Sclerosis from all over the tri-state area. Society’s website “I did the event last year with a (www.national former teacher from WTHS. It was a lot mssociety.org). of fun, and I enjoyed it so much I decided The event began to do it again. It’s a nice way to spend at Woodcrest Station the weekend,” says Wolozyn, a second in Cherry Hill and year rider. ended in Ocean City, In order to raise money, New Jersey, a total of Ambacher and Wolozyn put letters in about 150 miles up faculty member’s mailboxes here at the and back. It took them school informing them about the event, about seven hours to and Wolozyn also got some businesses make the ride up and Patriot sports p. 7 to donate as well as some of his neigh- about six to make it bors. Wolozyn and Ambacher’s goal back. photo courtesy of Col. Wolozyn Entertainment p. 5 was to raise $2,500. However, they “I thought it Col. Joseph Wolozyn (l) and Mr. Richard Ambacher were astonished when they ended up would be a real test, take a break from their 150 mile journey. New Teacher Profile Dessaigne enjoys opportunity Cyclists ride Note: In every issue of The Patriot, student teacher than it is to stop MS we will run a profile of one of the new teaching your own class. Cyclists from page 1 teachers at WTHS. This way everyone “You don’t have anyone can get to know them a little bit better. looking over your shoulder trained okay.” telling you what to do, when “The event was very well orga- Cheryl Supernavage ‘06 to do it, and how well you did nized,” says Wolozyn. There are about Mr. Shawn Dessaigne (de-SEN- it. You’re in charge,” he said. four or five rest stops every 15 to 20 miles. ya), a TCNJ graduate, works in our The most important “There were tons of things to drink Performing Arts Department teaching thing he learned from student- and eat, like energy bars yogurt, water, the Music Tech class and AP Music teaching is to keep the Gatorade, and peanut, butter, and jelly Theory class. He was excited about this students interested. Dessaigne sandwiches; there was a whole variety of job because, aside from this being his hopes that by teaching these things,” says Ambacher. “We took full first job, there is only one other person courses he can help students advantage of all the rest stops; we stopped he knows of in New Jersey teaching involved in music realize that at every one. We made sure to drink lots Music Tech. After seeing the job he it could be a possible choice of fluids and stretch but didn’t stay too was offered, he knew it was a unique for their own future. long at the stops so we wouldn’t cramp job and decided to take it. Aside from teaching, Cheryl Supernavage ‘06/ The Patriot up.” Ever since he was little, he always Dessaigne enjoys music, Mr. Shawn Dessaigne teaches Music Tech. At every rest stop there were bike knew he’d enjoy teaching, and when especially classical, and his and AP Music Theory. mechanics from the area, and if anything Dessaigne came to Washington family. He often goes to Europe to visit “There are so many opportunities broke they would fix it for the riders for Township with the idea of becoming a his relatives in his father’s home country, offered for students in music,” he said. free. There were cars also patrolling the band director, he had a set view of what France. A couple of people extremely routes, checking to see if anyone had bro- teaching would be like. Dessaigne grew up in influential to Dessaigne are the boss ken down. So far, teaching is not what he Williamstown, so he has always been at his college job and the cooperating “There were motorcyclists with expected. Working in a classroom familiar with Township. He finds the one teacher for student teaching he was trailers full of young kids, and if they saw atmosphere and imagining yourself main difference between the two high assigned to, who was like his mentor. you were pooped out, they would stop and directing a band are two completely schools, other than size, is the music One point of advice he’d like to put you in the back of the trailer,” says different ways of teaching. He department. Washington Township has share with all aspiring teachers is to Ambacher. “Then they would take you describes it as being “very difficult.” a huge music department, and he learn everything you can because you to one of the rest stops and then to a bus He student-taught in Cherry Hill. definitely thinks that Township does not never know what you will end up to take you back.” He finds it was very different being a overlook their music programs. doing. “I’m going to try and expand team WTHS next year,” says Wolozyn. For next year’s bike tour they’re trying to Freshmen make smooth transition gather a bigger team, and so far they have Jamie Recchino ‘05 Joining activities such as color students, the school is a maze. The about a half a dozen people on the team guard and band or playing sports has halls are so crowded, and it’s definitely including about four other teachers from Think back to middle school. It assisted the ninth grade students in an adjustment. Some have said that the high school. may have been four years ago, or meeting new friends such as other they’ve figured out quick routes to “We’re going to try and break our maybe two. For the freshman, it’s only freshman and upperclassmen. record next year and raise even more a few months in their past. Everyone Some have found it difficult to money,” says Ambacher. “We want to get knows what it’s like to adjust to once again be the youngest in the school. “[Upper Classmen] aren’t as team shirts made for next year, and we’re something new. It takes time and Still, they’ve discovered the mean as everyone says they going to leave as a team. Come ride with patience. upperclassmen to be nothing less than are.” - Amber Roscholi us!” “There are so many people,” says supportive on the fields and in the Anyone can do it, even if you are Freshman Cristina Virgilio, “I don’t have classroom. under 18; you just need to get a waiver many classes with my close friends.” “They aren’t as mean as everyone their classes, and ways to get there signed by a parent. You should register Most freshmen, Virgilio included, are says they are,” says freshman Amber without being stuck in the hallway early for $15, and then you have to raise taking this factor as a great opportunity Roscholi. traffic. $250 as your entry fee. to meet knew people. They’ve found that The size of the school was also a “Our middle school was only a “If you train reasonably and fight the best way to do so is to get involved. prospect for intimidation. To these new quarter of this school!” said current the mental battle and just keep peddling, freshman Chelsea Oliver. you can do it,” says Ambacher. Many freshmen are worried about the amount of work they’ve been receiving, especially in the advanced classes. However, they appreciate their Show your new teachers’ more “laid back” attitudes. Some feel as if they have much more freedom. Except for lunch. school Freshman Waleed Albarqawi hates having to wait for the teachers to let his table go up to buy food. spirit. “Other than that,” he says, “We can do what we want.” “We can walk outside to get to Enter a car in the our classes!” said a lunch table of boys, Spirit Parade. who all met one another through soccer. Who knew how exciting that could be? Deadline Oct. 27. Jaimie Recchino ‘05 / The Patriot With friends around, they feel Lunch is an opportunity for many freshmen to catch up with old friends like they are adjusting just fine. and to make some new ones. Commentary Confessions by Darby DeCicco ‘05 No Life to Reality TV ...About starting senior year Ashley Horan ‘05 Is there anywhere a television show won’t go these days? The latest reality Senior year. seniors, and I wasn’t exactly happy about The era of reality television began show I’ve heard of is Wife Swap. The The very words give some people it. over ten years ago with the launch of a gist of the show is that two households chills. But it was during junior year that new series on MTV called The Real swap wives/mothers for a period of time, All through high school, we’re watching the seniors became torture. World. During the past five years it during which each woman is first to promised the best year of our lives, if HSPAs, research papers, and SATs seems as though our country has gone adapt to the schedule of her new family, only we can make it to graduation. consumed my year while the seniors overboard with the number of “camera- and then change it up by doing things Making it there, of course, is the didn’t seem too concerned with in-your-face” shows they produce. the way she would like them done in her problem. The years spent as an anything. Walking the nearly empty Frankly I became sick of reality own home. Basically, it’s the most underclassman can be seemingly hallways while they were on senior trip television after about the third season of ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard of. This endless, and stories of what the seniors was painful, and taking finals while my Survivor. How many times can one should be under the category of are doing while you’re studying for your senior friends practiced for graduation watch a group of strangers love, hate and “unreality television shows”. Let’s be algebra final can seem agonizing. felt simply... unjust. stab each other in the back over an honest; does this ever happen in real life? As a freshman, senior year seemed Now, of course, it’s my turn. I’ve amount of money? I find it hard to sit The evening news broadcasts are almost like a myth to me. Twelfth grade finally made it to my senior year, and the only programs that can be called seemed far away and it was hard to while the excitement of dances, trips, Let’s be honest; does this actual reality shows. Real people with imagine ever getting there. While and activities has already begun, I have ever happen in real life? real lives that have really horrible things navigating confusing hallways and to admit it’s a strange feeling, too. The happen to them. The reporters are on working through the hardest classes I’d familiar faces of the upperclassmen I’m there and watch adults act like children, the scene because of something that has ever taken, it seemed almost impossible used to seeing in the hallways have especially when it seems as though much already happened or is in progress. that on just the other side of the building disappeared. Suddenly, I’m picking out of what happens is staged. By comparison, people who are on there were homecoming queens and legal colleges, keeping my car keys in my locker, Over the past few years we’ve been reality television shows are playing up adults taking naps in their third period and passing out my senior pictures. I don’t swamped with shows like The or exaggerating their emotions because study halls. feel old enough to be a senior, and I don’t Apprentice, The Bachelor and The it sells. Their motivation for being on As a sophomore, stories of senior really know how I could have ever thought Bachelorette, Extreme Makeover and the show in the first place is either money year became less unbelievable and more this year seemed far away. American Idol. I must admit that many or fame. Often those who throw the annoying. While I sat through Driver’s Still, the senior thrill persists. I people would attest that they love some biggest tantrums or have the most Ed. and dealt with double math classes, can’t wait to go to all the dances, join in of these shows, which is why reality outrageous personalities are rewarded by the seniors were driving themselves to all the activities, and hop on that plane television has become the hottest new a continuing career in the spotlight, such school in the morning and filling their to Florida in March. After three long television trend. I, however, am not as commercial bits or movie cameos. Do days with electives. I felt like everything years of waiting, I intend to enjoy senior one of those people. these people really deserve our attention? in the school revolved around the year as much as possible. Next time you’re watching one of these so-called “reality TV shows”, ask yourself how real what you’re watching I’m a Junior? really is. Don’t be fooled by the Mike Jones ‘06 wondering what happened to the good As fast as time is moving, and as overplayed emotions and dramatic old days. The days of being entirely much as I want to stay a kid forever. performances. The networks are running I’m a Junior? too dramatic about everything, feeling I’m going to end on a positive note. out of ideas and each month brings a Time doesn’t fly when you’re tiny compared to everyone else, and I’m terrified of the future, confused in more ridiculous topic for reality TV. If having fun, it moves at a high speed having to get a ride everywhere. Yes, general, and creeped out at the idea of you’re interested in real people, stick to constantly. We just never seem to we all wanted to speed up time back growing up. Yet, I’m really looking watching the news, or, even better, try realize it until we’re having fun. They then, but now that time has finally forward to it and can’t wait to go to going out and living your own life. It’ll (parents, teachers, friends, etc.) told us gotten its act together and sped up, we college, then on to the real world. give you the best taste of reality there is. these next few years were or would be only want it to slow back down. the best of our lives and that they I was reminded recently, during would pass too quickly. In some ways, a conversation with a friend that last The Patriot they were right. The past two years year wasn’t freshman year. I kept the Editor-in-Chief - Mallory Heimlich ‘05 did in fact fly by. However, I still don’t conversation going as usual, but the think these will be the best years of tiny fact that sophomore year seemed Sports Editors - Scott Grandrino ‘05, Joe Comerford ‘06 my life (I’m personally looking to have disappeared really bothered Managing Editor- Cheryl Supernavage ‘06 forward to college ). me. The day after I received this little News Editor- Darby DeCicco ‘05 My high school years are indeed shock, school started and I couldn’t Entertainment Editors - Christian Heim ‘05, Jamie Valentine ‘05 passing quickly. They’re not over yet, escape this being a junior business. Op/Ed Editors - Ashley Horan ‘05, Mike Jones ‘06 but it feels like they only just started. Maybe some time half-way through Features Editors - Tiffany Narducci ‘05, Julia Verniero ‘05 As teenagers we’ve become so senior year I’ll get used to the idea. Photography Editor- Jamie Recchino ‘05 Responsibility, what’s that? I Layout and Design - Journalism II Maybe some time half- find it hard to believe that I have become one of the older kids who, as a Printing - Mr. Steve Whalen & Advanced Graphics way through senior year freshman, I was too scared to talk to. I Advisor - Mr. Jim Evangelisti I’ll get used to the idea. feel no older, and I doubt if I look any different. It’s hard to picture the people The Patriot is published by the students of accustomed to hearing “when you’re around me (most I’ve known since Washington Township High School. older….” Now that we are “older”, we elementary school) in college. 529 Hurffville-Cross Keys Road, Sewell, NJ 08080 almost miss the phrase. Actually, I have trouble picturing Send letters to the editors, opinions, and ideas to: We think back to middle school myself there. I’m expected to be a years or even freshman year, leader? Wait, who? [email protected] Features The Forgotten Flight Tiffany Narducci ‘05 93. It was believed the plane had been headed towards the White Although there were four planes House. It would have reached that hijacked on that Tuesday three years destination if the passengers had not ago, many people only remember the fought. first three. The fourth, United Airlines Many students agree that they Flight 93, crashed in rural would have fought, too. Jeremy Pennsylvania, and was the only flight Wikersham ‘05, said that he would that had a chance of surviving. have fought to save lives. There were forty people present Tony Carlino ‘05, agreed, on the plane that day. No one had “You’re going to die anyway, might known that the four hi-jackers had, as well try to save someone else.” four days earlier, been studying a Carlino believes that in many cardboard replica of the plane’s ways filight 93 is a bigger part of cockpit. that tragic day because “[the September 11, 2001 started out passengers] saved another normally for all of us, then building.” attending WTHS. Between third But some people, like Billy and fourth periods there was a buzz Marlow ‘06, agree that it was just going in the halls. another part of one important day. I remember entering my Marlow and Wickersham agree freshman English class and seeing that the events of 9/11 should be the TV image of smoke and rubbish remembered differently. flying everywhere. Because of Although, it is three years later, these men, the symbol of our it is still something that is on nation’s economy and pride crashed people’s minds in different ways. before there had even been time for Each of us has our own way of the initial shock hit the people of remembering and its significance in this country. our history. illustration by Hui Lin ‘05 By 10:00 AM most of us had Don’t stop remembering because it heard what had happened. When the ‘doesn’t have anything to do with Remember 9/11? final crash came into play, the shock you’ or because ‘it was too long ago’. was gone. But that doesn’t mean that We are the September 11th Julia A. Verniero ‘05 Jeremy Wickersham said that he it was over. It wasn’t until later that generation. We are the ones who can sympathizes for the families, as many everyone got the real story of Flight change the course of the future. It seems that with each passing others do. And others, like Tony Carlino, year the emotions attached to September feel bad for those who lost their lives in 11, 2001 dull more and more. The the tragedy. The lighter side of WTHS government has already decided not to Although none of them were make September 11 a national holiday, directly affected by the events, they all The ties that bind. but what can our country do to believe that our country should continue remember? At this time, three years after to hold memorial services on this date the tragedy, it seemed appropriate to ask for years to come. Students like students for their views on this matter. Wickersham and Carlino agree that the Several students reacted mainly mention of September 11, 2001 still with indifference, but others were quite brings on the memory of sadness and compassionate. tragedy. Unfortunately these feelings are not necessarily felt year round. Directly following the events a feeling of pride in our country and fellow Americans came over our nation. Billy Marlow agrees that his pride in this nation has grown in the past three years. Since the tragic events of September 11, 2001, photo courtesy of Mr. Janicki the memory has Students may have experienced deja vu on Sept. 24 when (l-r) diminished, but the English Dept. Chairman Mr. Robert Petrillo, and teachers, Mr. feeling still burns bright. Greg Janicki, and Mr. Robert Blistan unintentionally wore the same guitar print ties to schools. illustration by Helen Zeng ‘05 Entertainment Latest Real World packed with energy, drama Philadelphia setting provides local flavor Ashley Horan ‘05 Willie, 23, is a personal shopper because they reminded each other of only cast member in a serious from New York. He also happens to be their friends back home. relationship, however she’s already been Season fifteen of MTV’s The Real openly gay, which at first seems to throw Sarah, 23, is a fiery red-head from heard making comments about her World, which takes place in small town southern boy, MJ, also 23, Florida who isn’t afraid to stake her attraction towards Landon. Philadelphia, kicked off its first episode for a loop. claim on which of the boys in the house In typical MTV style, there is no on September 7th. Once MJ has a chance to get to she wants. shortage of subplots. The season is The taping began in April so that know Willie he realizes that he isn’t as Karamo, 23, is from Texas. He only a few episodes underway and so the season could air in the beginning of uncomfortable with the gay lifestyle as also instantly forms a bond with Landon far MJ has broken up with his fall. From the very first episode, it was he thought he would be. and MJ because he feels they have a lot girlfriend of two months, making him evident that this was a unique group of Landon, 24, is from Wisconsin and in common. These are the three you’ll fair game for Sarah. Sarah has all but seven strangers. he and MJ bonded right from the start probably see spending the most time thrown herself at MJ, making it together. obvious she’s extremely interested. Melanie and Shavonda, each 21, Karamo came out to the housemates, are the youngest of this Real World revealing that he is homosexual. house. As for the rest of the housemates, Melanie is from California and you’ll just have to watch and find out. claims to be a spontaneous, wild, party- If you love the seasons that are packed loving girl. She and Sarah have already with a lot of energy and drama, start butted heads a few times, which isn’t watching The Real World Philadelphia. surprising knowing that Melanie is non- This season is especially exciting materialistic while Sarah is all about her because of the location. one hundred fifty dollar designer jeans. Besides the fact that the amazingly But, no worries, because the girls hooked-up Real World pad is right next worked out their problems in a very to the Betsy Ross house, you’ll also see mature fashion. They deserve some the housemates spending time at many credit for not causing a scene, which is of our favorite places to visit in Philly. usually the norm on Real World. Tune in to MTV every Tuesday The other youngster, Shavonda, night at ten o’clock if you want to learn is also from California. Shavonda is the more about these seven strangers. The cast of The Real World Philadelphia Joey could use some help from his Friends Jamie Valentine ‘05 crush on his married neighbor (Andrea and remarks how “that girl looks like old days when Joey said pretty much Anders), and consistently gets confused a tramp.” Joey consistently makes the same dumb lines to Rachael, Ross, The hotly anticipated Friends spin- by big words or gets lost in the new city. inane remarks and follows up with the Phoebe, Monica, or especially off, Joey, is nowhere near as good as Joey relies heavily on Joey-is-a- patented “Ohhh I get it now” face. This Chandler, then you’ll probably truly Friends. This is one of those shows that moron jokes. As part of Friends, these scene, and most others, just highlight enjoy this show. If you either just makes you realize that the art of the jokes were funny, but within the first five the stereotypes and come off as silly. liked Friends and weren’t obsessed sitcom is a dead one. minutes, you realize that a whole show Joey is really only good if you’re with it, or if you never liked it As a character in one of six full of them is not that amusing. going through Friends withdrawal. If anyway, you will hate Joey and hope intertwining stories, Joey (Matt LeBlanc) The acting is well done, but the you sit and reminisce about the good for a quick cancellation. is pretty hilarious. But by himself, characters are weak stereotypes. Joey’s without good old Phoebe, Ross, Rachael, sister is the clichéd tough Italian chick Monica and Chandler, Joey’s antics who works at a hair salon and wears aren’t really worth watching. clothes she’s too old for. Michael, her The concept is the same as most son, born when Gina was, of course, only spin-offs. After Friends, Joey pursuing sixteen, is the formulaic too smart for his acting career , moves to Los Angeles his own good, lovable nerd. where his sister, Gina (Drea de Matteo), However, both de Matteo (The lives with her son, Michael (Paulo Sopranos) and Costanzo (Josie and the Costanzo). Pussycats) have played similar roles The writing is where the bottom before and know how to do them well. drops out, with old situations and reused These well-done stereotypes are Friends jokes. He develops a school-boy enjoyable and can almost make you forget that the situations are reheated and the writing is mediocre. Send your The situations tend to feel too ideas, opinions goofy to be realistic. In the second episode, Joey and Gina take Michael out and letters to... to learn how to pick up girls, and Michael, expectedly, does better on his [email protected] own. The jokes are not much better. Gina Joey, Gina, and Michael share a moment. catches a glimpse of herself in the mirror Bands you’ve never even heard of by Chris Heim ‘05 Spazz recasts metal’s image Oh the simple joys of Spazz. bones and dragons eating maidens... would never associate with metal, they Currently one of my favorite I’m simply not buying it. Wipe off create a style that is constantly shifting, bands, Spazz creates some of the most all that corpse paint and remove the so you never lose interest. ridiculous music I’ve ever heard. silly leather bracelets and chains, That’s what makes Spazz so much They’re a swirling maelstrom of furious and you’ve got your average mail- fun. They’re not afraid to try new things, sounds arranged into shotgun blasts of man screaming until his voice box whether its a banjo riff amongst the ab- music. explodes. solute chaos or an oboe solo. Spazz songs are short, really short. While Spazz does have inco- In short, Spazz rules. They’ve got “Dwarf Goober Militia” is only 17 sec- herent vocals and ridiculous tracks talent, originality and an excellent at- onds long. This is a good thing, trust me. of just screaming, you are constantly titude about their music. Never sell- Yet, they have the unique ability aware that it is all out of fun. Spazz ing out or taking themselves too seri- to get you completely pumped up in a is completely aware that they are ously, they’ve gained a small but loyal matter of seconds. It doesn’t take them comical and not too be taken too se- following. long to get their point across, and it’s riously. You will find yourself laugh- I would definitely check them out, always short and sweet. ing at even the most brutal lyrics about They’ve got talent. Fast paced gui- even if you’re not into metal or punk, at My absolute favorite aspect of the destruction of the human race and tar, pulse pounding bass, and drums the very least you’ll have gotten a laugh this band is the way they view them- ultra violence. played at a breakneck pace. By using and broadened your horizons a bit. selves. I shy away from most metal One of the most important things random movie quotes as intros and If you like Spazz and want more, simply because of their attitude. to me when I’m deciding the quality of people to play the slide whistle, banjo, similar bands to look into are Romantic Middle aged men with long hair a band is originality. Why should you oboe, saxophone, harmonica and vari- Gorilla, Capitalist Casualties, Charles screaming about ghouls grinding up listen to Spazz? ous other strange instruments that you Bronson, and Inhumanity. Rilo Kiley takes chances with surprising new album

Darby DeCicco ’05 the tools and connections of the Saddle like “Portions of Foxes” and Creek label, as well as their own talents, [Some songs]provide the “Accidental Deth” provide the good Rilo Kiley wasn’t kidding when to create an album that is both surprising good old fashioned indie old fashioned indie rock Rilo Kiley they decided to give their new album the and delightful. rock Rilo Kiley fans know fans know and love, while the album’s apt title more adventurous. The self- Beginning with the album’s first title track and the songs “Ripchord” described idie rock band uses lyrics, song and continuing on all eleven tracks, and love, while the album’s and “I Never” have a decidedly country vocals, instrumental arrangements, and the listener is exposed to bolder versions title track, ... “Ripchord” and twang with a Rilo Kiley twist. “Love studio technology to give their latest of Rilo Kiley’s formerly frank lyrics. “I Never” have a decidedly and War,” meanwhile, errs on the side project a sound that is adventurous to “Any chimp can play human …and run country twang of new wave, and “Does He Love say the least. for office on election day…and deploy You?” and “It Just Is” incorporate The band, comprised of singer Jenny more troops than a salt shaker,” Lewis these touch on everything from war to strategic string arrangements and Lewis, drummer Jason Boesel, guitar sings on the album’s first track, “It’s a suicide to failing marriage. heartfelt piano chords, respectively. player Blake Sennett, and bassist Pierre Hit,” sending out a decisive political With such bold lyrics, it’s only The music appears to be flawless. de Reeder, became something of an indie message. On “The Absence of God,” fitting that the music should be equally Intricate guitar, compelling drumbeats, rock staple when their first two projects, meanwhile, she promises that “the brave. In this department Rilo Kiley and original bass lines combine with Takeoffs & Landings and the execution absence of God will bring you comfort,” certainly delivers, providing an Lewis’ vocals, which range from sugar- of all things were well-received by critics making a controversial religious eclectic style that will get you dancing, sweet to roaring and desperate, and the and fans alike. Now, the band uses all statement. Brutally honest lyrics like crying, singing, and thinking. Songs little touches added by a band’s new- found awareness of how to take advantage of recording technology mean Antiquities a look at classic literature that even the simplest songs are never Wit, war, wisdom in “the best of all worlds” dull. Dull, in fact, is a word not likely Brought up in a castle, he was Voltaire truly brings out the lighter to be applied to Rilo Kiley’s latest effort. taught by the great philosopher Pangloss side of hideous calamities, and you will With a range of musical styles, a barrage about the wonders of life and the find yourself laughing at the death, of insightful lyrics, and vocals to touch overwhelming sense of good in the destruction, and simply unlucky even the most stoic of listeners, the new world. He is told to keep his head up in situations. “Candide” is short and sweet. Rilo Kiley album is adventurous to the even the most dismal times. At only about 120 pages, you could read core. It seems that fate tries to prove it in a day or two. these theories wrong as Candide is thrown into the most catastrophic of situations, beating him mercilessly with shipwrecks, earthquakes, the death of Calling all cartoonists! countless loved ones, and utter misfortune when it comes to money and The Patriot is currently seeking love. He is taken advantage of, abused, Chris Heim ‘05 and held captive on numerous occasions. cartooninsts to draw editorial cartoons, Sounds pretty depressing comic strips or single panel cartoons for an This is indeed the best of all right…wrong! Voltaire has a beautiful possible worlds. Voltaire’s “Candide” is style of satire which makes even the upcoming comics page. a literary masterpiece written in the most terrible circumstances comical. His 1750’s. One of my favorite books, it is a protagonist’s plights are so bizarre and sarcastic, caustic and dry novel about the so frequent that Voltaire’s sick sense of If you are interested in finding out more, unlucky Candide and his search for his humor is evident after only a few contact us at [email protected] . lost love. chapters. Patriot Sports Awesome is an Understatement Girls Soccer Team off to Fast Start Brent Bartosiewicz ‘06 Petruczelli also mentioned support, as a great asset for a captain to have to Awesome is not the right word; keep the team moving. it’s more like phenomenal. The Girls Reeve agrees, “Basically, I have to Varsity Soccer team is close, make sure everything is getting done on determined, and committed. and off the field and be a leader.” They have already kicked off to a Underclassmen can without a great start backed by confidence and doubt learn a lot from these brilliant experience. A majority of the experience captains. comes from the three senior captains Future varsity stars to look out for who have all played soccer since they include Erin Kelley ‘07, Colleen were five, including all four years of Tobinsky, and Katie Courtney. This year their high school career. the team has a lot of juniors on varsity, The captains are, midfielder, and next year there will be a team loaded Lauren Petruczelli ‘05, goal keeper, with seniors and even to fill the shoes of Lyndsey Reeve ‘05 and halfback and the four leaving seniors. sweeper, Mandy Silvesti ‘05. For all of the aspiring This trio is rich in experience, both underclassmen, “Keep playing, never Silvesti and Petruczelli have played give up, keep trying your hardest no varsity since their freshman year and Scott Grandrino ‘05/The Patriot matter what obstacle gets into your Reeve has played since her sophomore The girls celebrate after a goal against Cherokee. way.”, says Reeve. year. After the first week of the season, strengths, another is their speed. They All in all, these girls just want to Looking back on last year’s 9-8-1 this team ranked No. 3 in the Courier are amazingly light on their feet. Even a have fun. season, these captains are determined to Post Top 20. few members of the track team are “We do it because we have fun, improve. As of Oct. 16 the team was - They hope to accomplish many blazing down the soccer field. we have fun because we win,” says with wins over Lenape and Clearview. more goals throughout their season, As with any sport getting off to a Andrea March ‘06. “More wins than losses”, says such as winning the Olympic strong start is essential, but in this case Head Coach Mr. Shane Snyder, “...were Conference, the coach’s tournament, and it needs to be worked on. They have just looking to get better.” the state championship. been known to come out flat footed Spotlight: Snyder coached the boys varsity As improvements have been made which sometimes can turn ugly, but it is for four years and is in his second year since last year, the team is, “Playing something the team recognizes and is Lyndsey Reeve as head coach of girls varsity, harder and taking it more seriously,” says willing to improve upon. “We need to Petruczelli shares that outlook, Reeve. come out stronger in the first half,” says Scott Grandrino ‘05 “[The seniors] are planning on going out “All of the girls work hard to play Silvesti. strong, making it a memorable year”. the game the right way and become a Starting the game with a bang is a Lyndsey Reeve is the starting Practice for the girls began on team by the end of the year,” says Head must when playing your biggest goaltender for this year’s girl soccer September 10th and the season Coach Snyder. competition. Tough matches include team. Reeve is having an concludes in late November. The For this team that’s no big deal. Cherokee, Eastern, and Lenape. This is outstanding year and hopes to starting lineup consist of four seniors “Our team is all best friends,” says when their speed and determination continue this trend for the and seven juniors. Silvesti. That is definitely one of their kicks in. remainder of the season. According to Snyder, the game Reeve has been playing soccer plan is to “outwork” their opponents by since she was five years old, and it winning fifty-fifty balls, retaining ball is her favorite sport. She has always possession, and working the ball up in played as a goaltender. enemy territory looking for a scoring After high school, Reeves chance to capitalize. plans on attending a four year Playing any match there must be college where she will play soccer. someone to take command on the field, “I definitely want to play especially during those crucial division soccer in college. I want to play all matches. This would be where the four years in a division-III school,” captains step it up and keep the team says Reeve. together. She has received a few offers “I want to keep the girls motivated, of soccer scholarships. Reeve may working hard, and having fun,” said also continue her soccer career after Silvesti. college. Motivation is the key to success “If the offer comes across, I because it leads to working hard, playing definitely will,” she said. the game full throttle and ultimately not Other than playing soccer, giving up. Reeve plays lacrosse and used to be The midfielder Petruczelli in her involved with track. When she’s not Brent Bartosiewicz ‘06/ The Patriot role as captain, adds to this effort by playing sports competitively, she The girls soccer team is lead by a trio of Senior captains, (l-r) Mandy trying “to take charge on the field, enjoys hanging out with her friends. support the team, and play my hardest.” Silvesti, Lyndsey Reeve, and Lauren Petruczelli. TWP Football sets high expectations Editors Note: game against Winslow. Brown knows All-conference fullback Ryan the table and are very competitive. This story was written Prior to the the team will work hard to “iron” this D’Imperio ‘06 and running back Jesse Brown says, “They both throw and start of the 2005 season. As of Oct.20, problem out. Cooper ‘05 lead the way as the starters run with the ball very well. They are The Washington Twp. Minutemen are During preseason practices early in the backfield. D’Imperio is playing willing to compete every game.” 5 and 1. this year, Brown said there were some in the footsteps of his older brother, The two are still fighting for the questions in the offensive and defensive Hugh ‘04, as one of the team leaders. starting job. Coach Brown has them Scott Grandrino ‘05 lines. Both lines though, stepped it up Nick Baccare ‘06 is also another solid rotating between games until he can during scrimmages and answered those back the team can rely on. decide who his starter will be. The 2004 Washington Township questions. Players like Ray Johnson ‘05, “Nick has good hands and good There are many players that Brown football team has huge expectations for Pat Hern ‘05, and Brandon McGee ‘05 speed and plays tough,” says Brown. relies on to have a great season. This off this season. Before the season started, are a few who raised the level of their Nick Bowen ‘05 is another season everyone worked extra hard in the the Courier-Post had TWP ranked games. Brown considers them leaders speedster running back. weight room. According to Brown, second. Coach Tom Brown believes that and players that will play some great “Bowen is as good as the other layers that needed to mature and step up this team can do a lot this year. football. guys,” Brown says. “If someone goes from last year have, and more are “We have a very talented team this Other than having a solid offensive down or we need somebody to be showing themselves worthy in practice. year, just some inexperience we need to and defensive lines, the team this year replaced, [Bowen] is the guy for the job.” Dean Hammel ‘06 is a solid iron out this season. We will be a has one of the deepest backfields in Not only does Brown have depth linebacker, Matt O’Conner ‘05 is the contender.” South Jersey. Brown is very excited in the backfield, but he also has two solid leader of the defensive line. He is a The Coach said that their only about this year’s backfield. quarterbacks who are fighting for the starting defensive tackle who Brown problem is just inexperience. The team “Everyone plays with a lot of number one spot. Kyle Terry ‘05 and cites as the “best defensive linemen.” showed some inexperience in their first speed,” says Brown. Tracy Brown ‘06 bring a lot of talent to Carson Brooks ‘05 is a two-way player who Brown knows will have an awesome year. Brooks plays at receiver Boy’s Cross Country: Not just a hobby and free safety. Free safety is one of the hardest positions in football and Brown Joe Comerford ‘06 in the middle. It says that Brooks does a great job at it. gets pretty intense Senior defensive end Jim Mullholland is Heart and determination are two and very dirty in expected to do a lot this year. key qualities needed to be a successful these packs. Kids “[Mullholland’s] really stepped up cross-country runner, and this year’s trip and nearly get this off season and has done a really good boy’s team seems to have plenty of both. trampled and job. I expect a lot out of him, ” says Brown. “In the summer, there would be elbows are coming In addition to strong performances days we would wake up at 7, drive to from every from the upperclassmen, there have been Philadelphia, just so we could run 12 direction,” says numerous underclassmen that have caught miles of hills. The last Sunday of Dunn. Brown’s attention in scrimmages, summer, while everyone else was In order to practices, and games. trying to enjoy it, we got up at 8 and get ready for these “We have good underclassmen who ran 18 miles. We have a bunch of guys meets the team will build well for the future.” just dedicated and willing to do what does a grueling Andrew Peurifoy ‘06 is a backup it takes,” says team captain Mark workout every wide receiver that has been getting a lot of Natale ‘06. other day. playing time. Nick Duerr ‘07 is another With so many dedicated runners, “A typical Joe Comerford ‘06/ The Patriot youngster who has the potential of being many of whom run up to 65 miles a workout is Team Captain Mark Natale (foreground) stretches out a starter very soon. week, the WTHS boy’s high school running four with (l-r) Andrew Morris ‘06 and Nick Martino ‘06. This year’s TWP football team is cross-country team is poised for a big separate miles, the first mile run in 5:30, Eastern, Seneca and then they loaded with talented players, but there are year. then each mile after that getting faster overwhelmingly defeated the ninth a few who the team is going to miss this “We think not qualifying for states until the last mile is sub 5:10, with only ranked team in South Jersey, Cherry year. Alex Dipietro ‘05 injured his arm and would be a disappointment. No team has a three minute break in between each Hill East. The team’s only loss came is going to undergo surgery. Tim Tresh ‘05, done that in our school since the late 90s. one,” says Natale. at the hands of Cherokee, the number a starting outside linebacker, was lost We are really trying to get to the meet of Even with all the work the team 1 ranked team in South Jersey and during the off-season. Injuries are a big champions, which is one level above the does, they still feel that they do not get number 3 ranked team in the state. factor for TWP if they want to be a State Championship,” says Natale. much respect. “That was a big victory for us, we contender. A cross-country meet consists of a “Most people don’t respect felt like we showed everyone how good “We can’t afford injuries,” says 5K or 3.1-mile race through a wooded runners, whether you’re in track or we really are, by easily defeating Cherry Brown, “We have to fight the injury course. The top seven runners run for cross country. Everyone thinks that we Hill East, who was ranked number nine bone. We must stay healthy if we want varsity and each runner is given a are just the kids who aren’t good in South Jersey,” says Dunn. to compete for championship.” number for the place they recieve. At enough to play other sports, so we find In the Cherry Hill East meet, which This year’s schedule is much the end of the meet, you take your first running as a substitute. I have to admit Dunn won individually, his teammates different than last years. The team plays five finishers and add their places I didn’t have much respect for runners placed 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th and 6th. much harder opponents earlier in the together. Whatever team has the lowest either until I ran track last year. Then After that overwhelming win, season. It’s going to be a challenge for score, wins. I experienced the pain and my opinion things are looking up for the team. TWP, but Coach Brown believes that it’s “Since all of our runners are in quickly changed. I’ve played “In cross country, there are no better for his team. It will better prepare similar shape, we try to score through basketball most of my life and running miracles and no luck, what you get out his team because they will have to play pack running or finishing our guys is used as a punishment. Our sport is of it is what you put into it. Our guys their toughest opponents early.Brown consecutively or within a few seconds every other sport’s punishment,” says have worked hard for months and we are believes Cherokee, Eastern, and of each other,” says Steve Dunn ‘06. Bill Matthias ’06. confident that all of our training and hard especially Shawnee will be a few of the These races can get very So far this year the boy’s cross- work will translate into success for each major challenges for TWP. competitive very quickly. country team is doing very well with a of us individually and for the team as “[Shawnee] are always a very good “You will have over a hundred record of six wins and one loss (6-1). well,” says Dunn team,” says Brown. “They will be our runners squeezing into a trail no more So far this year the team has beaten That is why this year the team’s toughest opponent this season.” than two meters wide with trees growing Pennsauken, Lenape, Timber Creek, motto is: “Meet of Champions or Bust.”