Vol. XII Issue 3 Harrison High School May 2008 HHS Welcomes Rep. Nita Lowey Casey Rabin Guest Writer Congresswoman Nita Lowey, health care, homeland security pre- tial election. a Democrat representing parts of paredness and national security. Con- Ms. Lowey, Westchester and Rockland counties, gresswoman Lowey also explained to fresh off an recently took time out from her busy students her role in Congress. She appearance tenth term in Congress to visit Har- serves on the House Appropriations on Meet rison High School. She spoke to an Committee. This committee wields The Press assembly of juniors and seniors in the great power through its ability to fund the previous new Performing Arts Center. During her foreign aide. This committee also funds weekend, visit, she discussed many different and other causes, such as HIV/AIDS and reiterated important issues facing our country and malaria research, and the preservation her support answered many questions. of natural resources, such as water. for her close Some of the issues discussed She is well known as a very effective friend of the were the importance of education, Congresswoman. past 16 Ms. Lowey answers student questions. Courtesy of JamiAnn Plekon After she spoke about issues fac- years, Senator Hillary Clinton. There attending a hearing or meeting with a ing our society today and her role and were other questions asked that were variety of political figures. accomplishments as Congresswomen not political, but personal. Junior Pat At the end of the assembly, stu- (for instance, Congresswoman Lowey Stiso asked, “What is the day in the life dents gave Congresswoman Lowey a was responsible in part for better food of a Congresswoman like?” Represen- standing ovation. Her visit proved infor- labeling), she accepted questions from tative Lowey was happy to describe her mative and interesting. Many students students. The students lined up at a mi- daily schedule, which involves getting with little prior knowledge of world poli- crophone, one by one, to ask personal up early to exercise and to read the pa- tics and events were able to listen and and political questions. Many ques- per and then, by eight in the morning, gain a better understanding of some issues facing our nation today. Michelle Henderson’s welcoming poster. tions involved the upcoming presiden- going off to work, which could involve Courtesy JamiAnn Plekon HPAC: The New And Improved Auditorium Taryn Brandes Features Editor While the revamped room doesn’t of the stage. These are long and intense ticipate in this activity. Now, everything in cancel each other out. To fix these major look drastically different, several changes beams of light that drastically amplify the the auditorium is accessible to everyone. problems, there are now baffles on the air were made to the space now referred to stage’s lighting. Additionally, a new lighting With the new control system and five new conditioner and heater to eliminate the as the Harrison Performing Arts Center booth was created in the hidden upstairs inches of control rigging, pipes are able to extraneous noises coming from these sys- (HPAC). As explained by Mr. Briem on a portion in the back of the auditorium. The be lowered for students to put up stage sets tems, and two ceiling clouds were added recent tour of the new space, it was appar- lighting inside the booth can be pre-cued and scenery for musical performances, as sound reflectors to break up the interfer- ent that the old auditorium had a number or done manually, as it is connected to and the lights and curtains can now be ence signals we had before. Additionally, of problems. Mr. Briem also explained the a PC system which controls the room’s operated by the students. Even the new wall treatment reflectors were added into incredible features of the new space, ones technology. lighting booth in the back of the auditorium the space. Mr. Briem explained, “These that have corrected the room’s previous In the old auditorium, placement can be student run. treatments are like speed bumps for sound. flaws and have shaped the auditorium of certain objects was dangerous, and Mr. Briem talked about how the They disrupt the sound pattern to remove into a truly high-functioning performance students were not able to use the equip- old auditorium had awful acoustics. The the speaking and singing cancellation, space. ment. In order to reach some of the old room’s sound was extremely jumbled, while enhancing the room’s sound.” The “Before, we nicknamed the audito- stage lights, people had to go up in power and the singing and talking onstage could sound is so great in the new auditorium rium the “one-size-fits-nobody” space,” Mr. lifts, so students could not actively par- barely be heard because the two would that in the school’s latest musical, Miss Briem said. While the original room Saigon, the orchestra didn’t use was used for purposes as diverse any microphones to help them as a place for music concerts, as out, and the orchestra’s sound an impromptu lecture hall, and even was the best it has ever been. as a projection movie theatre, the On top of this, there are twelve space itself was far from versatile. new wireless microphones, and a The space had been compromised new, wired-in-house soundboard so greatly that the auditorium simply which is invisible to the audi- did not work properly. ence. The sound board addition Mr. Briem made it clear that makes it possible for recordings the old auditorium’s three major to be produced within the room. flaws were its close-to-invisible light- This is a dramatic improvement, ing system, the disastrous sound considering the old room had the room produced, and the in- hazardous cables running across ability for students to work with the the floor. theater’s equipment. Before, there The new HPAC sports a was almost nothing to illuminate the variety of high-tech features that stage and the audience inside the remain unassuming to the out- auditorium. The one row of lights at side audience. For the first time the front of the stage made musical in the high school’s history, the productions, as well as band and auditorium’s space is not compro- chorus performances, extremely mised. It truly is now specifically ineffective. After the room’s renova- a theater and a concert hall. This tion, 96 new lamps of different styles specialty room will guarantee a and functions were placed all over bright and shining future for the the auditorium. For example, proper musical and instrumental life lighting, in the form of “suicide bars,” within Harrison High School. was added to the front and sides Officially initiating the new HPAC: from left to right, Dr. Pasqua, Louis DiFazio, Natalie Yubas, Garis Duma, Dr. Ruck, Kristy Wallace, Bert Dickinson, Mr. Wool, and Mr. Briem. Courtesy of Michael Hauer Prom Location Location 2008: Location Kelly Lavin Features Editor The definition is clear - Prom: a a frustrated senior class president, formal high school dance usually held Pam Yu. at the end of an academic year. Prom The phone call was from The can be the highlight of one’s senior Tarrytown House, finally returning year at Harrison High. The class of the countless emails, voicemails and 2008 has made great efforts to raise missed calls from members of the prom money in the hopes of making prom committee. A representative broke the night spectacular, affordable, and an news that The Tarrytown House would unforgettable experience. The senior not want to host the Harrison High class has earned an outstanding School Prom at their facility. Suddenly, amount through various fundraisers. the class of 2008 was left without a There were countless bake sales, two prom location. HHS Students lining up in style at last year’s prom. Powder Puff football games, and the Having been dropped by The Tar- annual junior auction, which was by rytown House, it looked like there was far the greatest success, bringing in little hope in finding a better location for around $28,000. prom – let alone any location at all. It Harrison Seniors With such an astounding amount was late in the year and every venue of money in the bank, it seemed inevi- seemed to be booked. However, the table that the class of 2008 was going prom committee then had a brilliant Choose Creatively, to have a perfect prom. A class-wide realization; the Ritz Carlton Hotel in vote was held in October to decide White Plains had barely opened up, the location. The committee (lead by and if they made their proposition im- Senior Class President Pamela Yu) mediately, there was a good chance it Get ultimately decided on The Tarrytown would be available. House, a beautiful estate and con- Luckily, the prom committee was ference center located just about 25 right, and the senior class of 2008 now minutes outside of Harrison. has what promises to be an amazing Arielle Lhotan After consulting representatives prom night. Yet, that doesn’t make up Graphics Editor at The Tarrytown House, the prom for being wronged by The Tarrytown If you could study anything for gram encourages students to pursue committee was ready to draw up a House- precisely why Harrison High six months, create your own program an area of interest that may also be contract and seal the deal for good. School has discussed suing the facility. and get a good grade for it, would you a career possibility in order to better “We had our foot in the door No one knows for sure how this lawsuit sign up? Every year about ten students prepare them for the future. Many par- - no, our whole body was in the door. or prom will unravel; but come June, it participate in the WISE Program, a ents are also associated with the WISE We were ready to make it official, will be safe to say that no senior will be senior internship/course in which stu- Program and through these contacts, but then we got a phone call,” said able to forget a single detail. dents choose a topic of their choice and as well as Mr. Gold’s, students are able pursue a personal project based upon to obtain a wide range of internships. the topic. The WISE Student Govern- This year students have internships The Husky Herald ment Program meets once a week at many unique places, such as the with advisor Larry Gold, as students Brenda Taylor Art Gallery in New York Staff 2007 - 2008 develop their projects and prepare for City, and the Jacob Burns Film Center Meredith Cusick – a presentation at the end of the year. in Pleasantville, NY. Editor-in-chief The students are given the free- The WISE Program is an all- dom to choose any subject, from learn- around excellent senior experience. Andy Peng – News Editor ing how to ballroom dance to getting Students on the brink of graduation are Hank Rubenstein – Sports Editor an internship at an art gallery, or even about to embark on the best, yet most working at a doctor’s office, as long as challenging experience of their life: col- Taryn Brandes & Kelly Lavin – Features Editors they keep up with a weekly commit- lege and the real world. Through WISE, Andrea Pagano - Fashion Editor ment to their program. At the beginning seniors learn how to work more inde- David Laskin - Food Editor of the WISE Program in September, pendently, taking it upon themselves to students are asked to find a personal reach out to their community and work Chris Vaughan - Music Editor advisor to assist them with their topics in a more professional environment. By Arielle Lhotan – Graphics Editor and ensure the student is working effi- the end of the program, seniors make ciently. The advisor can be a teacher, a important contacts, learn responsibility, JamiAnn Plekon - Photography Editor staff member or even someone outside and have a better idea of the direction Staff Writers – of Harrison High School that has prior they would follow in the future. Every knowledge about the student’s topic. participating student finds success in Though the participants work with their own way through WISE and all up- Bibi Ali, Nora Areikat, Alexa Basciano, Samantha Breslin, Christopher Cassavecca, Angelica Catalano, several advisors, the program is a very coming seniors should consider being Alexandra Chill, Alexandria Citarella, Joni Cooper, personal experience. The WISE Pro- part of this exceptional program. Amanda Corrado, Dominique Cuce, Amanda Da Silva, Marissa DeCarlo, Melissa Delia, Joseph Edin, Judy Florio, Emma Glass, Lisa Guido, Alyssa Maida, Sydney Marks, Jenn Martins, Nicole Pastor, Tessa Ratner, Allie Schnitta, Melissa Shulman, Emily Singer, Lindsey Tannenbaum, Rebecca Wandel Gary Glauber – Layout Editor & Faculty Adviser Special Thanks to…Mr. Petrillo Our mission is to be the voice of Harrison High School by pro- fessionally representing and informing our school with an accu- rate and entertaining newspaper.

The Husky Herald is published by the journalism classes at Harrison High School. Editorial content of The Husky Herald reflects the opinions of the editors and staff, not necessarily that of the Harrison High School faculty and administration. The staff of The Husky Herald encourages students to get involved and have their opinions heard. If you have any questions, com- ments, or would like to respond to an article, please write to us.

Letters containing the writer’s name (and that are in good taste) The Jacob Burns Film Center in Pleasantville is hosting one of this year’s WISE internships. will be printed. Courtesy of Fest21

Husky Herald - Page 2 Petrocelli Delivers Important Message: 10 Seconds Will Change Your Life Rebecca Wandel Staff Writer The talk that speaker Bobby The message that resonated Petrocelli gave over several hours from him was that 10 seconds can that morning in April definitely proved change your life; it takes 10 seconds to be “motivational.” Most students to make one decision that can turn were left with a lasting impression as it all around. To go from devastation they walked out of the auditorium that to triumph only takes one decision morning. According to several stu- that takes 10 seconds and that is all. dents, Mr. Petrocelli gave one of the His visit to Harrison High School was most serious and influential speeches extremely inspiring and motivating. they have ever heard. He gave the Many students now understand that students of Harrison High School a gift each individual does matter, and that that day when he came to tell us that you can be 10 seconds away from “10 seconds can change your life.” happiness and goodness, that so much What made his talk so effective depends upon our decisions each and was that he delivered his important every day. A crowd of students stayed message in a non-patronizing way. after the talk to purchase either inspi- He simply told his story, told us that rational wristbands or a copy of Bobby it was okay to be ourselves and that Bobby Petrocelli relaxing near his Florida home. Courtesy of 10 seconds.org. Petrocelli’s inspiring book (which he we shouldn’t worry what others think, make them. He talked to us about legal limit of being drunk, driving a truck kindly agreed to sell to HHS students and to do our best to enjoy life to its drinking and driving and how it wasn’t that had rammed through the bedroom and faculty at cost). If anyone wants to fullest. Petrocelli’s own story reminds the fact that you drank and drove, but wall. The decision this man had made check him out further (or if you’d like to us that, at any moment, life can turn more importantly, the reasons behind to drive drunk had not only changed purchase his book entitled 10 Seconds you around and take you to places you why you did it. Mr. Petrocelli made it his own life, but had taken the life of Will Change Your Life Forever) you can never thought you would go. His view clear that he was not here to tell us that another, and totally devastated the life go to www.10seconds.org and read was both refreshing and inspirational we couldn’t do this and couldn’t do that of another man. more about his story and his inspiring because it did not scare us into thinking and certainly not to patronize us, but What had happened to Petrocelli words. “it’s a jungle out there.” Rather, it told rather to inform us and show us how might have destroyed a different per- us to live, and be happy and inspired. much our decisions truly mean. son. But Petrocelli came to see that He began his talk with us by After this extremely eye-opening, his life had a purpose. Next, he told cracking jokes, in a style similar to captivating talk about life, he begins the tale of how he came to find hope that of a stand-up comedy routine. By to tell the story of how one night, a and reasons to live in the youth of the doing so, he effectively captured the seemingly normal night, he went to school where he taught and coached. audience’s attention. He spoke about bed next to his wife Lisa, and when he Numerous students he knew and his being the true Swedish-meatball woke up in a daze some hours later, a worked with had come to his wife’s (being of Swedish and Italian descent). humongous truck had rammed through funeral in honor of him and that is He then related tales of his Italian fa- his bedroom wall, trapping his wife what brought him back from the dead, ther, his cousin Vinny, and the fact that under it. He himself had been terribly he told us. he was a proud man from Brooklyn. hurt and suffered from broken bones Now he says he is simply return- Within this whole speech, he cleverly and severe tire burns that scarred his ing the favor by becoming a motiva- added little thoughts and advice on how legs and chest forever and other hor- tional speaker and sharing his riveting to handle high school, explaining that rible injuries. The tragedy, however, story with others. He also spoke of we probably wouldn’t see the major- was that his wife did not survive. She the faithfulness of his friends and how ity of the people we’re going to high had suffocated within the bedding and many of them were there to nurse him school with ever again in future years. mattress that was rolled beneath the back to health when he truly needed He spoke of his true friends and how car. In the span of 10 seconds, Bobby them. Finally, he told us of how he he cherished them. Petrocelli’s life had been changed for- came to love again and eventually got One of his main points was the ever. The love of his life had been killed remarried. He now has two wonderful Book cover courtesy of 10 seconds.org. power of our decisions and why we by a man who was more than twice the sons. Guest Speaker Falciano Addresses Student Concerns Over Indian Point Sarah Taub Guest Writer On Thursday, April 10, guest power plants, this was a powerful seem unrealistic and distant, this was imity to Harrison. speaker Patrick Falciano visited the opportunity to connect real life to the a reality check about our immediate Students were told that nuclear high school. The former Senior Instruc- text and turn it into a great learning ex- environment, since the nuclear facility power plants such as Indian Point tor at the Indian Point Nuclear Power perience. While school lessons often at Indian Point operates in close prox- emit zero greenhouse gases. Replac- Plant in Buchanan, NY, came to visit ing the power currently generated by Ms. Cain’s A.P. Environmental Sci- Indian Point with equivalent electricity ence classes. He set up a PowerPoint generated by fossil-fuel based plants presentation and distributed informa- would likely increase emissions in tional packets to students containing carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, and materials for further discussion on how sulfur dioxide. Mr. Falciano’s visit the nuclear power plant (located just really helped the teenagers to grasp south of Peekskill) is conducted and the concept of nuclear power, and he controlled. tried to address many of the safety The packets contained various concerns expressed. For instance, he diagrams of the power plant and clari- explained the many levels of security fications about several things, from built into operations at the plant to radiation exposure levels to how a prevent any dangers from a possible reactor works, from the general opera- terrorist attack. tion of the power plant to emergency While Mr. Falciano presented a plans and much more. Mr. Falciano pro-nuclear power stance, not all stu- kindly answered several student ques- dents came away convinced. Several tions regarding the plant at Indian were concerned about the problems Point, including major concerns about that have plagued the reactors at the possible disastrous effects any Indian Point, such as malfunctioning mishaps might have on surrounding control rods and leakage of radioac- communities. tive water. The safe disposal of toxic Since Ms. Cain’s students cur- waste generated by nuclear power was rently are studying about nuclear The Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant in Buchanan, NY. Courtesy of SMI Direct another strong concern. Husky Herald - Page 3 A Loving Tribute To Our Dr. Rosemary Barbato

After a long and produc- tive time in the Math Depart- ment, Dr. Rosemary Barbato is opting for retirement. She kindly agreed to this early exit interview: HH: How is it that you became a teacher? RB: Teaching ran in my Mr. Bill Ucci family, for both my mother and Many of us know Mr. Ucci as pursuing a particular career. One par- godmother were teachers. At the Health teacher in room B107. ticular story involves a man who had an early age, I remember help- Those of us grades 10 and above graduated from Harrison High School ing my mom grade test papers, may have had him for Health or and had come back to visit Mr. Ucci easy questions like multiple perhaps you have seen him in the and thank him for his success in high hallway. Sadly, at the end of this year, school. When he had been in school, choices. My mother taught For- Mr. Ucci will be retiring after 31 total this student had been perilously close eign Languages (Spanish and years of working for Harrison High to dropping out. Later, dressed in a Italian). I also enjoyed visiting School. suit and tie, he told Mr. Ucci that his with her at her school. I loved Mr. Ucci began at Harrison company was bidding for district con- going to school and was a moti- High School teaching with Proj- tracts. For Mr. Ucci, this is a greatly ect Outreach. This program was a inspiring story and one of the many vated student so it seemed only den – being there to cheer with the crowd school within a school and a support highlights of his job. natural to choose teaching as my program for teenagers grades nine When he isn’t teaching, Mr. career. Mathematics was my favorite sub- – dressed in my Ranger gear. through twelve. The program assisted Ucci enjoys outdoor activities and ject so becoming a mathematics teacher I have also enjoyed traveling through- students at risk of failure from school spending time at his vacation home in was the perfect match for me. out the U.S., Canada, England, and Italy. for a variety of dif- ferent reasons HH: For how long have you been Recently, some of my favorite places to visit are the Amish country, Bar Harbor in such as nonatten- teaching? dance, behavioral RB: I have been a teacher for 37 Maine, the Newport area in Rhode Island, problems, or the years and I can honestly say that I have and of course, Toronto, Canada, home of negative effects of loved all of my time spent in the classroom. the Hockey Hall of Fame. I also like to go outside situations. These limitations What is most gratifying about teaching to the movies as well as to Broadway shows and concerts. made it difficult are those moments when, as a teacher, for these students you know from a certain look of a student HH: How do you feel about your ap- to excel in main- or a gleam in his or her eye that they un- proaching retirement? stream schooling. derstand and have gotten it – the “aha” RB: I feel incredibly lucky to have Mr. Ucci worked alongside many moment. What makes me the happiest is been able to do what I love dearly each and every day – teach. It’s a remarkable feeling familiar teachers the achievement of each of my students, and faculty includ- especially those who have struggled with to find your niche in life on the first try. ing Dr. Weinberg, mathematics but never give up and work HH: Why are you such a dedicated Ms. DePaoli, Mr. with me to understand the material and find Rangers fan? Burak, Mr. De- Prinzio, Mrs. Di- success at the end of the school year. RB: The Rangers are the best team in the NHL because they play with Fiore, Mr. Scha- HH: Are you known for any special piro, Mrs. Shef- Dr. Barbato teaching “traditions”? the most “heart” of any team in the most field, Mr. Ahearn, RB: At the beginning of each year, famous arena in the world and they have Mrs. O’Neill and I announce to each of my classes that the most loyal “true-blue” fan base. They Mr. Napolitano. After the program they are assigned homework every night were one of the original six teams in the National Hockey League and have given us ended (because except on three occasions – if the Rang- the school district ers win the Stanley Cup, if the Yankees many leaders and role models – Messier, felt it wasn’t entirely necessary), Mr. Vermont. On the weekends, he goes win the World Series, and on my birthday. my favorite player and truly an amazing Ucci began teaching Health at Har- foxhunting at a club, which does not Inevitably, a student will ask me the date of captain; Graves, an unbelievable human rison High School which he continued involve killing the fox, but is a high- to do for five additional years. speed chase after the fox on a horse. my birthday. I always respond July 32nd. being both on and off the ice; and Gretzky, the “greatest” player of all time. The pres- After working here for so long, Mr. Ucci has also owned horses for Someone always complains that that date Mr. Ucci has become very familiar most of his adult life, and currently is in the summer so that they wouldn’t be ent Ranger team has players who continue with Harrison High School. His fa- owns a horse name Quinn. He also in school anyway. I guess my first math the Ranger tradition of giving back to its vorite things about the high school enjoys kayaking and loves the out- lesson every year is how many days there supporters through the Garden of Dreams include the students, whom he was doors. For 22 years, he has coached able to spend a lot of time with and lacrosse at both Horace Greeley and are in each month. Foundation and Hockey in Harlem just to name a few. encourage. He also liked the ability to Mamaroneck high schools. At times I quote Wayne Gretzky work with many of the teachers and After retirement, Mr. Ucci will who said, “100% of the shots which you One of my fondest memories here at members of the administration during continue to run a lacrosse recruiting don’t take, don’t go in.” I always tell my the high school was in 1994 at the awards his time in Project Outreach. camp for top lacrosse players that he students don’t ever give up trying and keep assembly in June. I went to the microphone The Project Outreach program has been managing for 27 years. He has produced many success stories will also spend much of his time at his at it to achieve success. And finally, as all to introduce student recipients of math- ematics awards when the entire student that illustrate its importance. Quite home in Vermont and plans to travel good math teachers do, I lead my classes a few times a student has returned with his wife, who is also a teacher. in the singing of the quadratic formula to body began the chant, “Let’s go Rangers!” to the high school or recognized Mr. - Emma Glass the tune of “Pop Goes the Weasel.” It was unbelievable. I wish good luck to my Ucci on the street to tell him that he HH: What should we know about you favorite team in its run for the cup in 2008. or she has become successful or is outside of the classroom? Hopefully, we will have something to cheer about again. RB: I love Ranger hockey, especially All Teacher Photos Courtesy of JamiAnn Plekon attending games at Madison Square Gar- - Andy Peng

Mrs. JoAnn Fusco-Ciraco

In 1975, a game show called Wheel learning difficulties. I have a soft spot for young.” After retirement, of Fortune premiered on television. That tough guys,” stated Mrs.Ciraco. she has a lot planned. same year, a new teacher arrived at Harri- She is the sole remaining teacher She views it as an op- son High School, Mrs. JoAnn Fusco-Ciraco. of all those who entered Harrison High portunity to learn new Now, even as Wheel of Fortune continues School back in 1975. Mrs. Ciraco has both things. on for another season, Mrs. Fusco-Ciraco Special Education and Regular Education She looks for- has decided that, after 33 years, her time certifications (primarily in English) and ward to watching her at HHS will come to an end. teaches small Special Ed classes, as well son play college baseball Mrs. Ciraco grew up in Thornwood as co-teach English and Social Studies next year, and of course, and attended Westlake High School. She classes. the chance to go to the started college at Westchester Community Mrs. Ciraco has always been big on beach. She has a condo College, and received her Bachelors De- school spirit. She used to coach cheerlead- in Myrtle Beach, South gree at Mercy College. She later received ing and, over the years at HHS, has partici- Carolina, where she’ll a Master’s Degree from the College of New pated in school sprit by watching students get the chance to do just Rochelle. play sports, making posters, and playing an that. At the age of 10, she decided she integral part of the booster club. Before leaving her wanted to be a teacher. When she was In the classroom, Mrs.Ciraco is very “home away from home” younger, she always thought her older comfortable with her students, and has these past three decades, cousin’s friends were so “cool.” These always been able to talk to them about her Mrs.Ciraco offers one last friends wore black leather jackets and were personal life and her past experiences. piece of advice: “Students the type of guys who seemed really tough She often shares with them her enthusiasm and teachers need to and popular. One day, as a young Mrs. over cars, something most people might not work hard, but also need Ciraco was sitting down, reading a comic, realize about her. When she was a kid, she to enjoy the time, because these guys came over and started reading wanted to be a car mechanic. you make the memories.” it to her. She was mortified at how bad Looking far too young to retire, Mrs. - Marissa DeCarlo their reading ability was! “Ever since, my Ciraco subscribes to the philosophy that mission has been to educate teens with she “should retire now, while she is still Husky Herald - Page 4 Soon-to-be Retiring Teachers

Mrs. Rita Carbonelli- Delli Carpini

One of the great teachers leaving us this year is the Italian teach- er Mrs. Rita Car- bonelli-Delli Carpini otherwise known by those who know and love her as Ms. Carb. She has giv- en so much to Har- rison High School and I know many are sad to see her go. She has spent Mr. Michael Fanelli the past 22 years teaching Italian to For students who have just moved HH: Using one word, describe your the students here, to Harrison from non-English speaking career as a teacher at HHS. and she has also countries, the transition can be very had 12 years be- difficult. For the past 32 years, Michael MF: My vocation fore that as an Ital- Fanelli has been making it easier for ian teacher else- immigrant students to adjust to life in HH: What is your favorite part where. Her career America. about being a teacher? as an educator Born and raised in Port Chester, spans over three Mr. Fanelli grew up in a bilingual home, MF: The students’ needs kept me decades. Below speaking both English and Italian. By at an edge that did not ever lapse into are some interesting are beginning the college process. She his junior year at Fairfield University, he boredom, ever. facts about her, so that you may get to still loves to teach Italian, so if a school knew that he wanted to be an ESL/ELL know her better as she heads toward a is looking for her to teach AP Italian, she teacher and reading specialist – his cur- HH: What is your least favorite part future beyond the high school. just might do it. rent position at HHS. about being a teacher? Ms. Carb is married with two Thinking back on her teaching ex- Aside from languages, Mr. Fanelli wonderful children who both attended perience, Ms. Carb feels that Harrison is loves history. His interest in history MF: The few times I could not the Harrison schools. Daniel is 26 and a wonderful school. She is going to miss as well as life in the U.S. was defined intervene to help some students from is a Marketing Director of Luggage the student and teachers very much. through coins, specifically numismatics making bad choices. Concierge. Christopher is presently a “Harrison High School offers so much (coin collecting) as well as reading about senior and will be attending the S.O.M. to the students,” she said. “We have them. Several of Mr. Fanelli’s other HH: Why are you retiring? Business School at Binghamton Uni- terrific classes and opportunities for all. interests and hobbies include reading, versity. The students are so lucky to be learning Yankees baseball, educational research, MF: It is time to turn the page and She has been to Italy over 50 in a beautiful building with wonderful his family, and his church. move on. times. She usually returns to her house facilities like the new auditorium.” For the first ten years of his career in Tuscany, a place where she hopes to Ms. Carbinelli-Delli Carpini loves as a Harrison High School educator, Mr. HH: What plans do you have after spend a great deal of time after retire- seeing her students in town. It gives her Fanelli had to work two other jobs in order leaving HHS? Will you go into retirement ment. great pleasure to see them run up to her to maintain his teaching job. Two genera- or will you find another job? What many might not know is that and give her hugs. She also loves to tions of Fanellis sacrificed time, effort, Ms. Carbinelli-Delli Carpini has a love hear students repeat her daily warnings and their lives before a family member MF: I will be working and consult- for classic rock music and has been to (e.g., “I know Ms. Carb -- if I don’t do my graduated from any sort of college or ing in adult education and ESL for im- numerous concerts such as Black Sab- work, I will feel your wrath”). university. Mr. Fanelli and his brother migrants, so that I will be able to use my bath, Moody Blues, Yes, Hall and Oates, With 34 years of memories, were lucky enough to be the first to do life’s professional experience. and many others. She also goes to the she admits there are too many good so, reaching their family’s goal. New York Philharmonic and Opera once experiences to list. Still, she fondly At the end of the 2008 school year, HH: If there was one thing you a month. remembers when some students lov- Mr. Fanelli is retiring from teaching at could change about HHS, what would After having dedicated herself to ingly made a cradle for her son Chris Harrison High School, but first he agreed it be? teaching for all these years, she finally in wood shop. to answer our questions. thought it was time for a change. She She doesn’t have any favorite MF: I wish I could make it easier would love to spend more time with her students, as it would be like a mom HH: How long have you been for new students, foreign or otherwise, to family, playing tennis, reading a good having a favorite child. “All students working at Harrison High School? make the transition to Harrison. book while sunning in the Hamptons, are equal,” she says, “However, when or catching all the sales at Neiman I do scold some of my students for not MF: 32 years. The end of this school year marks Marcus. working, it’s because I want the best for the end of the Michael Fanelli era at So what are her immediate plans them. I want all my students to become HH: What did you do before work- Harrison High School. He has worked after retirement? The first thing she is wonderful young people who have re- ing at HHS? so hard and helped so many, teaching going to do is get rid of her 5:30 a.m. ceived a terrific education in Italian and new students the English language. As alarm clock. After spending time this also some social graces.” MF: I was a university student a teacher, coach, advocate, role model summer in South Hampton, she most The only possible negative is at Fairfield and I worked on weekends, and especially as a bridge for so many likely will go to Italy in the Fall (since that she doesn’t like seeing her former both in retail operations and in painting to a new life here in the United States, Autumn is the best time to travel). There students who are now Harrison Police houses. he will surely be missed. she will visit the museums and go to har- officers remind her that she should have - Emily Singer vest festivals. Since she loves to cook, given them better grades as they catch she is looking forward to bringing back her speeding in Harrison. special foods and ingredients! The day that she told her students Once school is over, Ms. Car- she was retiring was very emotional. binelli will continue working as a Life Many of them said “No, you can’t leave!” Coach. A Life Coach is someone who She admits this was probably the helps others with organization and ev- nicest thing she ever heard from her erything that has to do with daily life’s students. questions or concerns. She also will be - Rebecca Wandel helping families who have children who

Husky Herald - Page 5 Russia’s Puppet Presidency Tessa Ratner Staff Writer Political pundits are wondering budget analysis due in 2010 than in Russia has squirreled away hundreds main democratic institutions of our if new Russian leader Dmitri A. Medve- leading the nation forward. of billions of dollars in hard currency society.” dev will ever be “his own man.” This Until now, he has given reserves. Currently a slew of new Yet Mr. Putin sounded more like question arose after Vladimir V. Putin speeches calling for more housing malls are being erected, and even Wal- an opponent of democracy in Russia named Medvedev as his successor. and less corruption, faster internet Mart has announced its possibility to when he said, “We must reduce bu- Medvedev will be taking control of the connections and a number of other bring business to Russia. Consumer reaucracy and eliminate from its ranks Kremlin May 7; however, while Med- proposals not likely to draw objections. confidence has reached its highest the random people who are simply vedev is in office, Putin will continue Yet none of these proposals seem to level in Russia since the financial col- there to pursue their selfish interests to assume control and power from his have national importance. lapse in 1998. in our society.” He vowed to bolster the new post as Russia’s Prime Minister. Danis Volkov, an analyst at the What is most crucial to the public party, which already dominates almost Whether this will prove a Levada Moscow Center, notes that, right now is that the government does every lawmaking body in the land, and proper and effective arrangement is yet “Mr. Medvedev is taking office against not disrupt the stability achieved until threatened a party purge, implying his to be discovered, but it appears to be the backdrop of a Russian resurgence now, even if it means Putin continues power will not lessen because he is no a change much desired by Russians. that contrasts with the financial tumult to dominate through a “puppet presi- longer the President. Mr. Putin, by his country’s in much of the world.” dency.” Mr. Medvedev has yet to take on Constitution, is limited to serving only Consumer confidence has grown Mr. Putin has recently announced any of Russia’s weighty topics, includ- two terms, and so he endorsed Medve- exponentially in Russia, making con- his taking control of the ruling party, be- ing rampant corruption. His claim that dev, who happened to be a first deputy sumer busi- coming its chair- the legal system need to be strength- prime minister and longtime aide. The nesses man and allow- ened has not been followed up by any Kremlin is championing his candidacy boom all ing him to have actions that might help make that a and squeezing out competition. On over the another base of reality. In fact, such attempts to shore March 2, Mr. Medvedev officially won country. Its power. Medve- up the independence of the courts to the Presidency, but has yet to make economy dev remains on combat corruption would likely put an any major staff appointments, changes grew by 8% the sidelines, end to Putin’s and Medvedev’s central- in governmental structure, or propos- last year having declared ized government and authority. als. and foreign that Putin’s lead- “They will be doing what people He comes across as a “dutiful investment ership of the usually do in politics,” notes analyst senior bureaucrat,” having once been has soared. party will “serve Danis Volkov, “that is, political maneu- a law professor, who is at present more Once a Dmitri Medvedev and Vladimir Putin discussing issues. to strengthen vering.” interested in following a line-by-line pauper, Courtesy of Market Oracle and develop the

Editorial: Is African Aid Helping? China Increases Joseph Edin Staff Writer Military Spending Again After decades of diluted progress, then on, there has been little progress Tessa Ratner the United Nations (U.N.) aid system shown. People who organize aid and Staff Writer and other African aid organizations relief systems argue that there are not are still skewed by political bias rather enough people and/or monies being In March, the Chinese govern- Foreign security experts say than people’s needs. It is still a post- utilized to produce successful results. ment announced yet another increase these sustained changes over the past colonial Western club with a couple of The unstated reality is that even if U.N. in military spending. This occurred a years have placed China on track to thousand members, and it hasn’t done and private aid organizations tripled day after the U.S. faced China’s latest become a major military power that anything about the lessons learned 25 their current workforce and budgets, it denial to be forthcoming as to the rapid may soon rival the U.S. years ago. still would not be enough to raise the enlargement of its military forces. Their There is speculation that the For the past 40 years since second most populated continent off its choice to avoid real, hard facts poses reason behind this excessive military Africa’s independence, the world’s rich- heels. The situation we are faced with a threat to stability in Asia. The rest of increase is to provide a better chance est governments have given the United today has been encountered before the world wants to know what China is at dominating Taiwan in the event Nations barely a quarter of the funds its and historians know that societies can’t planning – after all, China is home to of any possible conflict, while at the agencies have asked for to deal with support other societies. The West can just over 1.3 billion residents! same time deterring any American the expected humanitarian catastro- no longer support Africa with its limited China’s military budget will in- forces sent to help defend the island. phe. “We have resources in this crease 17.6% in 2008, reaching Some senior Chinese officials deny been lobbying day and age. $58.8 billion dollars, according to the this theory, yet China will not peace- the European Instead of spokesman for the National People’s fully permit Taiwan to move completely Union and the raising money for Congress, Jiang Enzhu. Interestingly toward independence, because it sees Americans for medicines and enough, this increase follows a 17.8% it as a breakaway province. two months,” food, the West increase for 2007. Mr. Jiang assured that this year’s said a U.N. should be invest- American military experts esti- spending is solely defensive and will spokesperson ing money into mate that Beijing’s military spending is allow for an upgrade of the system, for the Council educational faci- at least double the announced figure. providing better pay and benefits for of African Aid. lites around Af- If this were true, China’s yearly military the military. Even with the increases, “We have asked rica. Knowledge budget would be about one-fourth the China’s military spending remains for shelters, is the only thing size of the Pentagon’s, an alarming less than the U.S., Russia, India, and tents and med- that is going to statistic. France. icines. They actually matter in This is no recent change for the China has yet to give a detailed have promised the long run. An country, however. China has increased report for its sudden modernization. In us help, but educated popu- its annual defense outlays by double their annual report to Congress on the we don’t know lation of Africans digit percentages for the majority of Chinese military, the Pentagon stated: whether we are will relieve stress years in the past two decades. With “The lack of transparency in China’s going to get it around the world, this budget, they equip the military military and security affairs poses risk in time. We are so that reform and with an array of modern weapons and to stability by increasing the potential talking about repair grants that better training conditions for their 2.3 for misunderstanding and miscalcula- a major crisis Are we aiding African poverty? Courtesy WordPress total in the billions million man military, the world’s largest tion.” In Beijing, the Chinese govern- here.” While people point fingers at will no longer be necessary. standing force. ment responded by saying that the the governments of the West for their Some people believe this can’t Pentagon distorted the facts. grasping intentions, experts believe be done, as Africa is living in a time that the West can’t support Africa for where the present meets the past. very long. While people still hunt with spears on Evidence of human morals and the plains, there are roads filled with monitoring of global events is positive automobiles. However, because Africa news to today’s society. People look- is the continent with the most mineral ing out for one another greatly reduces and plant resources, it might only take the chance of war. However, as people a few educated African people to begin become more generous toward Africa’s to utilize these resources, and to start The Peoples’ Liberation crumbling civilization, they may want the revolution to get Africa eventually Army soldiers to look back at past events. It has to compete with Western standards on parade in been 40 years since the first U.N. aid of living. Beijing’s workers first arrived in Africa and from Tiananmen Square. Husky Herald - Page 6 Courtesy Adrian Bradshaw/EPA Circus Animals Abused, Suffering

Judy Florio Staff Writer

“Sink that hook into ’em. When you hear that screaming, then you know you got their attention.” An elephant trumpets in agony as Frisco’s bullhook, a sharp metal hook with a spiked end, tears through its sensitive skin. As circuses boom throughout America, animal treatment becomes increasingly worse. Behind closed curtains, animals are physically and mentally abused in the name of entertainment. Ani- mals have been taken out of their natural habitat, away from their families, and recruited into thousands of circus acts around the country. Myths have generated that animals in circuses do not suffer from being Photos courtesy of Platon/Time Magazine locked in cages or shackled by chains. These beliefs however, are completely and utterly untrue. Such animals are unable to display their natural behavior, are Time Names Putin made to travel long hours in horrific cages and chains, and made to perform acts in front of thousands of loud people daily. The fact is, animals do not naturally stand on their heads or jump though fire and hoops. Trainers use hooks, electric Person Of The Year Emily Singer Staff Writer As each year comes to an end, Federation. By then, Vladimir Putin’s TIME Magazine is faced with the diffi- political career was visibly snowball- cult challenge of naming someone Per- ing and in 1999, he was named one son of the Year. Out of the hundreds of three First Deputy Prime Ministers. of people across the world, editors and Later that day, Russian President writers at TIME limited the contenders Yeltsin chose Putin as Prime Minister to Vladimir Putin (Russian president), of the Government of the Russian Al Gore, J.K. Rowling, President Hu Federation. President Yeltsin also Jintao (of China), and General David announced that he wanted Putin to Petraeus (commander of U.S. Army be his successor as President. Soon forces in Iraq). After weeks of debate, after, Putin made a decision to run for TIME named Vladimir Putin as Person president. of the Year. In December 1999, President Putin began his career in politics Yeltsin unexpectedly resigned from in 1991 as head of the Committee for his position, and according to Russian External Relations for St. Petersburg. Law, Vladimir Putin became acting Several months after being appointed president. The upcoming presidential head of the committee, he was al- elections which had been scheduled for most fired as a result of understating the summer of 2000 were changed to prices. No immediate March 2000 as a result consequences were of President Yeltsin’s issued, and Vladimir resignation. Vladimir Putin remained head Putin won the election of the Committee for and went on to serve External Relations as Russia’s President until 1996. Starting in for two terms. 1994, Putin was as- TIME Magazine Courtesy of Animal Friends Croatia signed various other named Vladimir Putin prods, and muzzles to force all of the exotic animals to do these tricks, political positions in as Person of the Year Elephants are known for getting the worst treatment at places such as St. Petersburg. In because of his incred- circuses. Elephants are aggressively “hooked,” stabbed, or beaten daily. It can 1994, he became ible feat of transform- reach a point where a four ton elephant cowers in fear next to humans less than First Deputy of the ing Russia from a ten times its size. Although most common, the madness does not stop with el- Head of Administra- nearly-failed state to ephants. More than 75% of monkeys have their teeth ripped out before entering tion. Putin lead the a stable and powerful the circus business, eliminating the possibility of them “acting out” or turning on pro-government Our nation. Under Putin’s their merciless trainers. Tigers are often sedated before entering the arena so Home is Russia po- rule, Russia’s econo- that they are sluggish and unable to move a fraction of their top speed if they litical party in St. Pe- my has grown 7% in try to escape. tersburg from 1995- the past five years, and More than 7,000 animals are used for entertainment throughout the country. 1997. During that same time period, the country itself has paid off a $200 These animals are being born into a world of animal abuse, never able to fend Vladimir Putin was named head of the billion debt. Russia’s wealthy have for themselves or to experience the joys of living a free life. Circus animals live Advisory Board of the JSC Newspaper become wealthier and the worker’s in trailers or metal cages and have a lack of exercise that adds insult to the injury Sankt-Petersburgskie Vedomosti, salaries have more than doubled since of an unhealthy diet. which was the first newspaper printed 2003. President Putin and his advi- After approximately four to ten years in the business, animals are forced to in Russia, back in the early 1700s. In sors have helped to offer alternatives retire because they often “refuse to learn more” or “lose their stage presence.” 1996, Putin moved to Moscow and to America’s vanishing influence on These unfortunate animals was appointed Deputy Chief of the the world as well as overlook deals are either put into permanent Presidential Property Management in North Korea, the Middle East, and cages, sold to carnivals, used Department. He assumed this position Iran. In an article regarding Putin’s for laboratory testing, or “put until March of 1997. recognition from TIME Magazine’s down” e.g., murdered. In 1997, Russian President Boris website, Christopher Morris writes, “He This can be fixed. Many Yeltsin appointed Vladimir Putin as stands, above all, for stability—stability countries such as Sweden, Deputy Chief of Presidential Staff, as before freedom, stability before choice, Austria, Costa Rica, India, well as chief of the Main Control Di- stability in a country that has hardly Finland, and Singapore have rectorate of the Presidential Property seen it for a hundred years.” In order banned most or all of their ani- Management Department. He held to achieve the stability necessary to mal entertainment. By signing both positions until May and June of revive Russia, Putin and his advisors a petition, or simply letting oth- 1998 (respectively). In May 1998, had to drastically limit the freedom of ers know about the problem, Putin was promoted to First Deputy citizens. Television stations were shut we can make a difference in Chief of Presidential Staff. A month down, opposing political figures were these animals’ lives. Clearly later, in June 1998, he was given the arrested, and Putin’s popularity rating the fools running the circus position of the Head of the Commission among the people remains at approxi- business have no sympathy for for the preparation of agreements on mately 70%. these animals’ welfare. Please the delimitation of power of regions TIME’s Person of the Year is think twice before attending and the federal center attached to the someone who has had an impact on your next circus; stand up President. the world, positive or negative. Presi- against animal abuse. In 1998, Putin became Secretary dent Vladimir Putin has clearly had a Courtesy of Animal Rights of the Security Council of the Russian positive impact on Russian life.

Husky Herald - Page 7 Anesthesia Awareness: When Waking Becomes A Conscious Nightmare Joni Cooper A Yellowfin Tuna Courtesy of UCLA Staff Writer Surgery can be a scary experi- izes that the patient is not completely awareness. Catch Less, ence. Whether it’s adjusting a tooth or asleep. As a result, more doses of the The recently released movie undergoing heart surgery, procedures paralytic drug are administered, para- “Awake” based its plotline around an- always have a slight chance of going lyzing the patient’s body further (but not esthesia awareness. “Awake’ is about Increase Profits wrong. Patients are usually given an- altering the fact of consciousness). a man (Hayden Christensen) lucky Joseph Edin esthesia to dull the pain and relax their Cases of anesthesia awareness enough to receive a heart transplant. Staff Writer muscles. It enables them to fall asleep vary in severity. Some of the most trau- While undergoing the surgery, he during surgery without feeling the pain matic situations deal with the patient suffers a severe case of anesthesia Conservation techniques can throughout it. But what would happen having full conscious- awareness. Lack- promote larger fish stocks and higher if you suddenly awakened during a ness during surgery, ing a sufficient profits for fishermen, reports a study surgery? feeling explicit pain amount of an- published in the journal Science. This Approximately 20,000 to 40,000 and recalling specific esthesia, he re- research suggests that industry op- patients a year undergo anesthesia events. The major- mains awake but position to lower catches in the short awareness; recalling events or stress ity of cases are far paralyzed during term may be misguided. against the body during a general less severe, leaving the procedure. Australian National University anesthesia surgery. Anesthesia aware- patients with poor rec- With no forms of economists examined catches of ness is infrequent during a surgical ollection of events communication, four species: big eye tuna and yel- procedure, yet has occurred in some such as conversa- he must suffer the lowfin tuna of the western and central cases. tions, and pain and reality of recalling Pacific Ocean, northern tiger prawn, and orange found near Australia. The During a surgical procedure, trouble breathing. Surgery in progress. Courtesy of CTV.ca. events from his the patient is given anesthesia, put- To bring attention surgery. His wife research showed that fishermen can ting them to sleep. During anesthesia to anesthesia awareness, a website (Jessica Alba) is forced to make life- maximize profits by catching fewer awareness, the patient’s brain remains was created that collects information changing decisions, mixed in with her fish and leaving more in the ocean to awake while the body is paralyzed and about such situations. It also allows own personal drama. replenish depleted stocks. unable to function. A tube is usually patients who have undergone anes- There are several other effects “It has always been assumed placed down the patient’s throat, pre- thesia awareness to post their personal of the awareness aside from PTSD. that maximizing fishing profits will venting them from communicating with experiences or opinions about it. One Psychiatric care is usually needed lead to stock depletion and possibly anyone in the room. In this nightmare patient reports that she had recollection after it occurs, and it can affect sleep- even extinction of some commercial scenario, sometimes a nurse real- of her surgery when undergoing the ing patterns of the victims, bringing species,” said co-author of the study removal of her eye. During an interview nightmares and flashbacks into their Quentin Grafton, research director at she states, “ Neither anesthesiologist heads. Most victims are urged to the Crawford School of Economics nor nursing staff acknowledged my avoid large crowds, as specific noises and Government at the Australian Na- (loud) reports of the incident upon be- can be troublesome. In some cases, tional University (ANU). “But our results ing awakened in the operating room whole personality changes can occur. prove that the highest profits are made — screaming at the top of my lungs “Awake” and anesthesiaawareness. when fish numbers are allowed to rise that I was awake.” After the incident, com are constantly making the effort beyond levels traditionally considered she claims that no counseling was of- to raise awareness of this traumatiz- optimal. In other words, bigger stocks fered through the hospital, and that her ing experience. Although procedures mean bigger bucks.” records were denied for a long period for these patients are in the past, the The research found that when time. She now suffers from Post-Trau- horrifying memories from anesthesia fish are more plentiful and therefore easier to catch, fishermen spend less Courtesy of NBC4 matic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which awareness will remain in their minds is a common side effect of anesthesia forever. on fuel and other costs. This results in higher profits. As such, research sug- gests that laws based on fishing at the “maximum sustainable biomass level” do not yield the best results for fisher- men or fish stocks. Instead, the authors From The ‘Strange But True’ Files: say, “fishing at the level of maximum economic yield minimally affects the amount of fish for sale and also cuts costs, allowing fishers to make more Man Kills, Then Cooks Girlfriend money and to maintain sustainable levels of fish.” Nicole Pastor Staff Writer A major international scientific study released in November 2006 in Bon appetit! On tonight’s menu: calling and admitting that they had former girlfriend, but the possibility the journal Science found that about former girlfriend. The things people not only murdered someone, but also is more than disgusting. Before he one-third of all fishing stocks world- do these days are downright crazy cooked them. killed Jana, neighbors said they heard wide have collapsed and that if cur- and creepy. When authorities arrived at the the couple arguing. In fact, they were rent trends continue, all fish stocks A Tyler Texas man, Christopher home, they found Jana’s mutilated known to argue constantly. Apparent- worldwide will collapse within the next Lee McCuin, 25, allegedly killed his girl- body and one of her ears in a pot of ly, it proved too much for Christopher 50 years. friend, Jana Shearer, 21. Shortly after boiling water. They also found a dinner Lee McCuin. The threat of overfishing is not the act, he called police and confessed fork embedded within a small scrap The mother of the murderer limited to the target species only. As what he had done to his girlfriend and of human flesh upon a dinner plate. confessed to authorities that her son trawlers resort to deeper waters to fill her body parts. Police officers probably Authorities said it was unclear whether brought her into the garage to “see their nets, they have begun to threaten thought it some kind of prank, someone McCuin actually had eaten part of his what he had done.” His mother was in delicate deep-sea ecosystems and shock. She knew her son required pro- the fish that inhabit them, such as the fessional help, and that he needed to coelacanth. A 2003 study in the jour- be turned in immediately. Even though nal Nature indicates that 10% of large McCuin turned himself in, when police predatory fish remain, compared to arrived, he was barricaded in the home levels before commercial fishing. Many for a short time before coming out. fisheries experts, however, consider It was difficult for detectives to this claim to be exaggerated with re- investigate this horrible recipe for mur- spect to tuna populations. der. They were disgusted and horrified Examples of outcomes of over- by the half-cooked corpse and body fishing exist in areas such as the North parts. It was a very disturbing situa- Sea of Europe and the Grand Banks tion overall. McCuin was charged with off the east coast of North America. In murder and will be put away for a very these locations, overfishing has not long time. only proved disastrous to fish stocks, but also to the fishing communities relying on the harvest. Christopher Lee McCuin, 25, and Jana Shearer, 21. Courtesy of the Dallas Morning News

Husky Herald - Page 8 Teen Pregnancies On The Rise Again Melissa Delia Staff Writer After a decline in the earlier part of the decade, teen pregnancy rates are on the rise among 15-to-19- year old girls in the lower Hudson Valley, accord- ing to statistics gathered in 2005. For the first time in 14 years, the National Courtesy of Philadelphia Reflections Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have also reported a rise in 2006 for teen pregnancies. More than half of teen pregnancies in Westchester and Putnam counties in 2005 ended in abortions. This number is higher than it was five years ago. How To Ace In Westchester and Putnam, 58% and 56% of teen pregnancies, respectively, ended in abortions. This number is slightly above the state average for 2005. In Rockland County, only one in three impregnated teen girls had an abortion, which is a lower rate than had been re- The ported in 2000. Some national reports are saying that teens are having less sex, but oth- ers show an increase in teenage sexual activity, and at younger ages. Angela Jenn Martins McNaughton, an executive director of the Staff Writer Pregnancy Care Center in Westchester, Just hearing “S.A.T.” is enough to incorporate your hobbies into studying. feels that too much attention and funding make any high school student cringe. For avid readers, several companies has been put into abstinence-only edu- But the S.A.T. is an inevitable part of like Kaplan and SparkNotes publish cation and not enough into sex educa- your education, so why not make the novels that include S.A.T. vocabulary tion. “Teens are not taught about birth best of it? Chances are, your S.A.T. words, with those words defined right control methods and the correct ways scores won’t be the deciding factor within the book. For music lovers, to use them,” contends McNaughton, when colleges are considering your there is Rock the S.A.T, which feature “So they often use them inconsistently, application, but a good score can’t musicians-turned-teachers who got and more often than not, teens do not hurt. The truth is, the S.A.T. is pretty together and recorded songs that in- associate sex with pregnancy.” predictable, which means it is simple clude vocabulary words in the lyrics. If More than one billion dollars to prepare for. you feel you need the extra push, you have been spent on abstinence-only The first step in studying for the can also try an S.A.T. prep course or educational programs and not enough S.A.T. is to become familiar with the get one-on-one tutoring through local time and money have been put into sex test. This means you should know learning centers. Find a way to prepare and contraception education. Health of- the format: the different sections, the that best suits you and your studying ficials have also spoken out about the timing of these sections, and what style, whether it be with flash cards, ineffectiveness of abstinence education kind of questions to expect. These videos, books, or tutors. programs in preventing pregnancy and There are more teen pregnancies now. answers can easily be answered with The biggest mistake a person can Courtesy Blogspot spreading sexually transmitted diseases. a visit to a guidance counselor or to make is cramming the week before, or In October, New York joined more than a dozen other states in announcing The College Board’s website. But the even the night before the actual test. there would be no reapplying for federal funding, cancelling all existing absti- best way to prepare is first to take the Preparing for something that involves nence-only education contracts. New York State is now redirecting money to P.S.A.T., which allows you to sample several subjects and types of questions fund sex education that teaches about birth control. the real thing and not have to worry requires time. Rather than spending At Port Chester High School, a health clinic called “The Open Door Family about a bad score. What you really eight hours preparing the night before, Medical Center” has opened. It has been providing pregnancy tests and other need to know about the S.A.T. is that take a little bit out of each day or every medical services – even routine vaccinations. Some girls at Port Chester High there are three subjects tested, which few days to study. Take a few timed School first discovered that they were pregnant during routine examinations. are compromised of ten testing sec- practice tests and review vocabulary Although “Open Door” is not allowed to distribute birth control, the center does tions: a 25-minute essay, six 25-minute words, grammar, and math problems counsel girls and redirect them to prenatal clinics. sections, two 20-minute sections and in the weeks leading up to the S.A.T. A support group has also been started at Port Chester High School, which one 10-minute section. These sections and you should be fine. helps to support the girls through their pregnancies and stress the importance contain one subject each: math, writing One of the most important things of staying in school. A 17-year-old student at Port Chester High School, who or critical reading, in any order. After to keep in mind when preparing for the had a child two years ago, said the support group helped her to get through her familiarizing yourself with the format of S.A.T. is not to over think things. The pregnancy. She is now a senior and is expected to graduate in a few months the test, it is time to really study. S.A.T. is a test, not a life-altering event. and go onto college, where she has already been accepted. Although she had There are dozens of ways to Getting too caught up in the S.A.T. will planned to go away for college, she said having a baby changed all that. “I just study for the S.A.T., and hundreds set you up for disaster. If you just relax come to school, do my work and leave,” she said. “It’s not like I look forward to of books and activities that claim to and realize that a bad score is not the hanging out with my friends, not like before. I don’t think you want this respon- help. The one book every S.A.T.-taker end of the world, you will not be as sibility this fast.” should have is The Official S.A.T. Study nervous on the day of the test. There is Another area that requires attention is bilingual counseling. Hispanic girls Guide, created by The College Board. always a way to redeem yourself from have the highest rate of teen births in the state, as well as in the nation. Sta- This study guide comes from the test a not-so-amazing score, and that is to tistics indicate that approximately half of all Hispanic teenage girls are likely to maker, and includes several practice re-take the S.A.T. As long as you keep become pregnant before the age of 20, according to the Centers for Disease tests and inside information about your priorities in order and prepare Control and Prevention. what to know. There is no need to buy ahead of time, there really is nothing every study supplement about the to worry about. Birthright Israel Foundation Provides S.A.T. The true trick is to find a way to Free Trips To Israel For Jewish Teens Alex Chill Staff Writer It is hard to believe, but there really is an born with the right to visit Israel. Over 145,000 all-inclusive, no strings attached, free trip to Is- young adults worldwide have experienced their rael! The trip is a special opportunity given to any first journey to Israel through Birthright Israel. and every Jewish boy or girl between the ages Why Israel? For many Jewish teens/ of 18-26, who has never been on a peer trip to adults, Israel is just a faraway place in the Middle Israel. Birthright Israel allows these individuals to East. However, the answer is really much more travel on a 10-day adventure to the beautiful land than that. Not only is it the safe haven of the of Israel, homeland of the Jewish religion. religion, but it also the place of ancient ancestors. The founders of Birthright Israel truly be- Every Jewish event or happening all links back lieve that each member of the Jewish community to Israel, as the land and home of the Bible. All should travel on a peer trip to Israel at some in all, Birthright Israel allows people to experi- point in his or her life. What better time to do so ence a new link to their past culture. Whether than in one’s college years? Many people take it is discovering old family, exploring the central advantage of this great opportunity, and others religion and passion of the land, or just discover- make contributions to the Birthright foundation. ing the general culture of Israel, everyone has a Thanks to the Government of Israel, United blast in the program. Jewish Communities (UJC), and private philan- If you are interested in participating in a thropists, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity has trip or would like to make donations toward the been made a reality. good work being done here, more information The program got its name from the strong, is available at the website www.birthrightisrael. The Israeli Flag. Courtesy of the BBC widely-held belief that every Jewish person is com. Husky Herald - Page 9 Husky Herald Interviews A Survivor Contestant

Dominique Cuce Staff Writer For the past eight years, millions BC: My stomach adjusted to the BC: Tribal Councils take FOR- of people have tuned into the popular BC: We weren’t allowed any per- lack of food pretty quickly, so I wasn’t EVER. You’re there for like a hour, but reality show, “Survivor,” every Thurs- sonal items on my season, so all I had that hungry. My teammates got so it feels like an eternity, and it only gets day night. Much of society wonders was the clothing I wore. (You wear the hungry, though, that they started eat- on TV for about five minutes. Jeff asks who these people are who actually same clothes the whole time you’re out ing ants, termites, and live minnows. I everyone a bunch of questions and all make it on the show? How do they there... one pair of pants, one shirt, one didn’t feel that desperate, since we had you want to do is get it over with and get on? Is everything we see real? pair of underwear, one bathing suit... a supply of corn to grind and fry. I was go back to camp. I felt pretty safe dur- Brian Corridan, a 25-year old from it’s pretty gross.) fine with that. I did lose 20 pounds in ing my first two trips to Tribal Council, Connecticut, was able to experience 15 days, though, which isn’t really all but once the tribes were shuffled, I his dream of being on the show. The HH: How was Jeff Probst? that healthy. lost my alliance mates and felt pretty valedictorian of his high school, and a vulnerable. graduate of Columbia University (with BC: Jeff is a cool guy, and a fan- HH: How did you get along with a psychology degree), Brian added tastic host. It was great meeting him the fact that there were no bathroom “survivor contestant” facilities or toilet trees? HH: Any events that the audi- to his list of achieve- ence didn’t see that you would like to ments on Season 11 of BC: Haha, how do you think? It share? “Survivor: Guatemala, was not fun. Not at all. That might have The Mayan Empire.” been the worst thing about being out BC: Haha, there’s too much to Now, Brian continues there... no toilet paper, no soap, no tell! Each episode is only about 44 his job as a teacher toiletries of any kind whatsoever. We’d minutes long (after commercials) and for an SAT prep class, have to use leaves as toilet paper, and that’s supposed to cover 3 days of Test Takers. He didn’t you had to make sure you weren’t us- time. So much gets left out, but a lot win the million dollar ing a poisonous leaf that would cause of it is just small talk and fighting off “Survivor” grand prize, a rash. I had one tribemate who chose boredom. Nothing major was left off of but his experience, to use a stick instead of a leaf...which TV, though... just the little things that however, was worth was kind of weird. make up cool memories, like waking much more. up to the sound of howler monkeys in HH: Who did you connect with? the morning and stumbling around the HH: Why did you jungle in the pitch black trying to find apply to get on Survi- BC: My favorite person in the a canteen. vor? Were you an avid game was Lydia, a 44-year-old, 4’11” fan of the show? fishmonger from Tacoma, Washington. HH: What was the first thing you She was such a sweet, motherly, car- ate after getting voted off? BC: I was a ing woman, and she worked so hard HUGE fan of the show around camp. I really wanted to see BC: They had a pizza waiting for ever since it premiered. her do well. She ended up coming in me, and it was the best pizza I’ve ever I loved the fact that it fourth place, which was great to see. eaten. I threw it all up later that night, was a physical, men- I never would have had the chance to though, because my stomach wasn’t tal, and social chal- meet her without Survivor. ready for real food yet. Brian Corridan in SAT prep mode. Courtesy of Dominique Cuce lenge all in one. You had to be 21 to apply, though, and I in person, and he really knows what HH: Who didn’t you connect HH: Where did you stay after- was only 17 at the time, so I had to wait he’s doing. The show wouldn’t be the with? wards and what did you do with your four years before I could apply. I finally same without him. He’s like the extra time? got on after I graduated college. contestant who you can’t vote out. BC: At the time, I didn’t get along with Amy, a policewoman from Boston, BC: You don’t get to go home af- HH: How did you end up on Sur- because she was loud, blunt, and ter you get voted off because everyone vivor? Did you do anything special in HH: On Survivor, what things crass. The funny thing is, though, once has to arrive home on the same day (to your audition video? or events did you experience that you we were both voted off, we became re- keep the secret of who lasted the lon- didn’t think you would? ally close, and I probably stay in closest gest). So when I was voted off, I joined BC: I applied three times before touch with her these days. Funny how the other booted contestants and we I eventually made it onto Season 11. I BC: I mean, the entire thing, re- those things happen. I love her now; went on a vacation to Costa Rica! was a semi-finalist twice (for Seasons ally! I never thought I’d be sleeping in she’s awesome and hilarious. 9 and 10), but the rejection just made the dirt in the Guatemalan jungle with HH: Overall, were you glad you me want it even more. I finally made tarantulas and scorpions, fashioning HH: Are the camera crew intru- got to experience it? finalist status on my third try. Each time, a bed out of sticks and palm fronds, sive? Are the segments edited in a I had to fill out a 14-page application, drinking water from a crocodile-infested fair way? BC: It was one of the highlights of film a 3-minute video, and then hope I lake, and competing in huge obstacle my life so far, a total dream come true. was one of the 16 people they picked courses in 118-degree heat. It was all BC: A lot of people feel that I loved every dirty, smelly, starving, out of 60,000 applicants. My video totally crazy. In the game itself, though, controversies are “created” in the way stressed, hot, muggy, mosquito-bitten was mostly just me talking directly into the biggest surprise was probably the segments are edited. minute of it, and I’d do it again in a the camera about who I was and why boredom factor, to be honest. heartbeat. I should be on the show. I was pretty The camera crew is SO amazing. intense and excited. You have no TV, no phone, no You really start to forget they’re there. computer, no books, no music, noth- They don’t speak, they don’t get in your HH: What was your personal item ing. You’re with total strangers with way, and they just start to blend into you brought to the island? whom you may or may not get along, the background. They’re not intrusive and you have no at all. It’s very impressive, actually. As contact with anyone far as editing is concerned, I thought I back home at all. was edited pretty fairly. The producers You’re up with the of Survivor take editing very seriously, sun in the morning, so they really work hard to make sure and asleep when it they’re doing a great job. Of course, sets. So you have they obviously choose what gets on TV to pass the whole and what gets left on the cutting room day doing not too floor, so viewers will only ever really much... you learn to know about 10% of what goes on out get creative pretty there, but I had no problems with what Survivor host Jeff Probst. fast. We’d make up ended up on TV during my season. Courtesy of CBS games a whole lot. HH: Were the tribal councils as HH: How was scary as they seem? Did you ever feel it with not eating completely secure that you weren’t much? going home? Survivor Guatemala Castaways. Courtesy of People Magazine Husky Herald - Page 10 Summer Music Preview 2008 Christopher Vaughan Music Editor With the music of 2007 still vibrat- Stairs,” leads them into new territory. pointments in the music world was the ing in your ear, it’s difficult to discover This slow-burning nine minute track rumor that juggernaut math-rock band what 2008 has to offer; but with summer begins with a galloping bass and bits Weezer was breaking up. After releas- soon approaching, it’s time to change of piano scattering like raindrops on ing his home-recordings, “Alone -The that iTunes playlist and make room on a windshield, as Ben Gibbard’s intro- Home Recordings of Rivers Cuomo” your iPod for many new upcoming re- spective lyrics ascend into the band’s and graduating Harvard, most fans leases. From more established bands blissful state. thought that was the last they would like Weezer and Death Cab for Cutie to One of the most exciting bands hear from “the little man in glasses,” fresh new faces like No Age and Jaguar of 2007, No Age, is ready to release but word of this new album is con- Love, each band is putting forth new their sophomore album on the famous firmed. The new one, entitled “The albums sure to please old fans as well Sub Pop label. Their brand of fuzzy, Red Album,” (sound familiar?) drops The Christian as grab new ones. punk-induced noise-rock received on June 17 on Interscope Records. This year already has been much attention last year when their You can sample the first single “Pork YouTube scattered with musical gems, like the album, “Weirdo Ripped” got attention and Beans” on www.weezer.com. and Joni Cooper and Lindsey Tannenbaum tingling psych-pop of Atlas Sounds, from critics and the music blog scene some other song titles are “Automatic” Staff Writers “Let the blind lead those who can see alike. From touring with their dance- and “Everybody Get Dangerous.” The but cannot feel,” the hardcore/dance punk counter parts, Liars, to being legendary producer Rick Rubin is work- YouTube is a very popular and infused mismatch of Genghis Tron’s, featured on about every year-end list, ing with them again after helping out on well known website that has videos and this upcoming album from No Age is their last album, “Make Believe.” Cur- slideshows about everything from The the buzz of the music world. rently Rivers is holding a songwriting Civil Rights Movement to Rihanna’s lat- Another on the rise, Jaguar Love, contest, and will let fans craft his next est music video. Because Youtube has already holds an initial fan base be- latest tune. The new single sounds become such a success, in January of cause they formed from the ashes of promising, as the music world waits 2007, Chris Wyatt (a former CBS-TV the prolific hardcore band, the Blood patiently for its nerdy heroes to save producer and a recently converted Brothers (Editor’s Note: see related them once more. Christian) founded GodTube. article). They kept their hardcore roots, Even if it’s not quite summer yet, Wyatt set up GodTube in an at- but have incorporated more of a me- those chilly evenings require no coat tempt to change the findings of recent lodic sound that is similar to The Pixies for true music fans, who already feel a polls regarding the church. The polls with a classic rock flare, making “Take little warmer from thoughts of all these revealed that about 70% of Christians Me To The Sea’’ a melting pot of styles. promising new albums. attend church today, and by 2025, only There is nothing more exciting than an estimated 35% will attend. Wyatt watching a new talented band making feels that if people are exposed to a their way through the music world. creative website about Christianity, the Many bands that have been in website will become a success and hibernation have gotten enough rest Christianity will experience a revival. in the past couple of years to progress GodTube has broadcast several videos dealing with religion and God. Weezer’s Rivers Cuomo. their sound. Coming off the heels of an Courtesy of Engagements ambient side project, Anthony Gonza- Some videos are serious, expressing “Board up the Houses,” and from the lez released the fourth M83 record, several ideas of Christianity in a clear, soundtrack of Juno, Adam Green’s, entitled “Saturday=Youth” in mid-April. factual way. GodTube also has a fun “Sixes and Sevens.” It seems that It’s an album heavily influenced by side to the site, creating several paro- 2008 has spawned albums in various bands like The Cure and The Smiths, dies to attract the younger audiences genres, which only adds to the anticipa- yet it still maintains its electronics focus. of Christianity. One popular parody tion of the summer crop. Gonzalez had this to say about it: “It’s that spread across the site is “Baby It’s been three years since Death different, but it’s from the same mold.” Got Book.” The parody was inspired by Cab for Cutie released their major la- It features the single “Couleurs” which, the hip-hop hit “Baby Got Back” by Sir bel debt, “Plans,” and fans have been true to its name, includes a vibrant and Mix-A-Lot. The video includes phrases eagerly awaiting new material. The pulsing instrumental piece which brings and beliefs from the Bible, sending out new single, “I Will Possess Your Heart,” to mind ‘80s dance music. the message of Christianity in a unique and entertaining way. from their upcoming album, “Narrow One of the biggest recent disap- Randy Randall of No Age. Courtesy of Wired Over 10,000 churches have al- ready registered for the GodTube site. GodTube has also accumulated over Rising From Blood Brother’s Musical Ashes three million views since its creation in Christopher Vaughan 2007. Although the site is successful, Music Editor it has been competing with other web- sites for popularity. Such websites have One of the biggest blows of the scene, which read, “After ten years of singer,) Cody Votolato (ex guitar), and also maintained the idea of spreading music community this year came with making music as The Blood Brothers, ex Pretty Girls Make Graves member, religion through the internet. Some the news of the disbandment of the we have made the collective decision Jay Clark. They have already posted of those competitive religious sites prolific hardcore band, The Blood that our time together has come to an a few songs on their MySpace which include: MyChurch.com, MyPraize. Brothers. Playing almost ten years end.” Even though it seems that this are swirling art-Punk pieces mixed com, and Muxlim.com. GodTube has together, the band has created such is the end for this collective group of with Johnny’s hardcore aesthetic. Ad- become a popular resource for Chris- an influential ethic, that dozens of musicians, it’s only the beginning for ditionally, they have just been signed tianity and stories of the Bible. The new bands have emerged following new projects and endeavors. to Matador records, home to bands website has been a huge success so its footsteps. The band has a certain Just because The Blood Brothers like Interpol, Cat Power, and Pretty far, and is continuing to grow. brand of art-infused hardcore that is as have broken up, does not mean their Girls Make Graves. Their already ener- danceable as it is powerful. Over the days of creating music are over. Each getic live show is giving way to a June span of five albums the band hopped member is involved with promising new release of their album. In these short from genre to genre like bandits: tak- bands. These boys have never been months they have played together, they ing whatever they want and leaving shy of side projects: the electronic-ting have already accomplished more than ney is involved in is an underground everything else in ruins. On November of Neon Blonde, the break beat play- any aspiring band could. clothing company that is gaining much 8th, the group put a message on its ing of Head Wound City, and even the Jaguar Love is not the only band popularity. Johnny and Amy Whitney MySpace that shocked the hardcore Post-punk edginess of Soiled Doves, that has risen from the Blood brothers; mostly design t-shirts and hoodies, each member the groups The Past Lives and Cham- with the images on the apparel very has had other pagne Champagne also feature mem- similar to Blood Brothers’ album and outlets to ex- bers of the band. Past lives is com- t-shirt designs. Another obscure task press their posed of Jordan Billie (ex singer,) Mark that has emerged is Mark Gajadhar is music. Now, Gajadhar (ex drummer,) and Morghan giving drums lessons to anyone lucky a crop of new Henderson (ex bass, keyboards.) No enough to be in the Seattle area. All of bands have songs have been posted yet, but they these endeavors seem to be occupying emerged in did say they are in the studio working the free time these boys have now. the wake of on an album. The new band has been Even though the Blood Brothers the Blood invited to play with the art-noise band are a thought of the past, their albums Brothers. Liars in its upcoming show in Seattle. are still a testament to their intensity The most On the other hand, a project completely and versatility. If this is not enough for promising different from the heaviness of the their hungry fans, the public still has a is the group Blood Brothers, Champagne Cham- plethora of music to look forward to in Jaguar Love, pagne, is a hip-hop group composed the future from each member. The Blood Brothers in a photo opportunity. Courtesy of Scenester led by Johnny of Gajamagic (ex drummer,) and Pearl Whitney (ex Dragon. Another project Johnny Whit- Husky Herald - Page 11 Doubt at HHS: Theatrical Genius

Andy Peng News Editor On the opening day of Doubt: molestation investigation, a raging A Parable, by John Patrick Shanley, battle between traditionalism and secu- Last Season of Love scores of uniform computer papers lar reform ensues. Flynn represents Emma Glass were found hanging from the walls the innovative new wave of religious Staff Writer of our beloved high school, eclipsing education that violently clashes with June 1, 2008, will be a sad day for many theatre-goers as it marks the end every vacant square inch in a ubiqui- Aloysius’ stubborn philosophy of strict of a 12-year run on Broadway for the musical RENT. Many of us are familiar with tous whiteness. Across each rectangle disciplinary obedience. this play, having viewed performances on Broadway, seen the movie, or hummed of deceased tree read “DOUBT” in Sister James, played by the along to the first chords of “Seasons of Love” in concert. Its 12-year reign makes bold capital letters. The invasion of artistic phenom Kathryn Recchia, it the seventh longest running play in Broadway history, following the popular pro-Doubt propaganda was met with serves as an extended symbol of this Disney-themed musical, “Beauty and the Beast”. a hurricane of mild controversy. An prevailing theme. Her loyalty to Aloy- RENT, which was suggested by playwright Billy Aronson as a new take on anonymous syndicate of Harrison en- sius’ teachings keeps her rooted in the famous opera La Bohème, was written by Jonathan Larson, who incidentally vironmental activists launched a series traditional practices, but her intrinsic grew up in Westchester. Larson asked Aronson if he could make the play his of anti-Doubt posters, criticizing the philosophies drive her to sympathize own, promising that if it ever made it to Broadway, he would share the profits. production for its reckless disregard with Flynn’s cause. Donald Muller’s Much of the play is based on Larson’s own life, such as the fact that he and his for paper conservation. However, the mother, played by theatrical sorceress roommates kept an illegal wood-burning stove in their apartment in order to stay rogue dissident movement was quickly Marissa Urgo, is called into a meeting warm, a fact that is echoed in the play and movie versions. Maureen, a character dispatched without severe disciplinary with Aloysius to help validate the case in the play, was based loosely on a girlfriend of Larson’s who kept leaving him repercussions. against Flynn, but instead proceeds for other men, and later a woman. Larson and Aronson also decided to move That night, a modest crowd of to endorse Flynn’s paternal approach the setting of the play from the Upper West Side of Manhattan to the East Village about 50 gathered in Harrison High toward guiding her son through racial (specifically Alphabet City), where Larson lived at the time. School’s newly dubbed “Performing adversity. The play began with a performance at the New York City Workshop in 1993. Arts Center” (cough… auditorium… It first appeared on Broadway at the Nederlander Theatre on April 16, 1996. Tragi- cough) to witness the brainchild behind cally, on the night of the final off-Broadway dress rehearsal, Larson died of an the bubonic paper plague. A collection aortic aneurysm. He had been working on the musical for seven years. But the of Harrison celebrity icons graced the show was a hit, the critics loved it, and celebrities like Anna Wintour and Steven presence of Doubt, including all-star Spielberg soon were struggling for tickets. Many relatively unknown members Physics teacher Mr. McRae, part-time of the cast reached super-stardom, including Idina Menzel (Maureen) and Taye rocker Mr. Glauber, and the all-power- Diggs (Benjamin “Benny” Coffin III). ful Mrs. DiFazio. The audience gazed At the end of its long run, RENT, which cost some $240,000 production dol- in awe upon the formidable wooden lars initially, wound up reaping more than $280 million dollars on Broadway and cross that stood upon the stage, illu- another $330 million on the road. A movie version of the show included most of minated by surreal blue candlelight. A the original cast, with Rosario Dawson playing Mimi Marquez instead of Daphne melodic musical introduction erupted Rubin-Vega. During its impressive dozen-year run, RENT was performed in 49 cit- from Ms. Fusco’s organ, and the play Playwright John Patrick Shanley. ies across the globe, including Hong Kong and Buenos Aires. The beloved songs was underway. Courtesy Vassar.edu and recognizable dialogue were also translated into 20 different languages. The spotlight ignited to reveal By the time the final curtain call comes along, RENT will have been per- Louis DiFazio, Harrison’s multi-tal- Tom Blake’s freakishly talented formed for 930,180 minutes. The play was one of the most popular on Broadway ented prodigy, playing the role of cast delivered a heart-stopping perfor- and many are sad to see it go. If you haven’t yet seen the play, buy tickets soon Father Flynn, gowned in a full-blown mance that kept the audience on the – performances go only up until the first of June. preacher’s robe. A few immature brink of cardiac arrest all night. Louis giggles leaked from the audience, DiFazio, who made his acting debut but were immediately silenced by the as Thuy in Harrison’s dazzling perfor- booming rhetorical question, “What do mance of Miss Saigon, established you do when you’re not sure?” himself as one of Harrison’s premier From that point on, every mind performers with his charismatic stage in the audience was enraptured in the presence and his signature vein-burst- provocative ideological battle between ing episodes of emotional fury. Judy Father Flynn and Sister Aloysius, Florio perfectly encapsulated the cold- played by Miss Saigon sensation Judy hearted part of Sister Aloysius, whose Florio. Doubt takes place in 1964, and condescending rigidity was fierce is the story of a perverse scandal sur- enough to make grown men cower in The Broadway cast of RENT. Courtesy Theater Dogs rounding the progressive character of fear. Kathryn Recchia did an excellent Father Flynn, who is suspected of mo- job of exhibiting Sister James’ youth- TV Going Digital : Analog Out lesting a black altar boy named Donald fully innocent and ideologically driven Amanda Corrado Muller. Flynn defends his relationship character traits, making her a dynamic Staff Writer with Donald, claiming that Donald’s character of interest. Marissa Urgo On February 17, 2009 all full-power states that as of March 1, 2007, all new tele- identity as the only black student in the was seemingly created for the tough broadcast television stations in the United visions must include digital tuners. This rule school made it necessary to provide love character of Mrs. Muller, whose States will stop broadcasting on analog forbids the manufacture or shipment of any him with an accessible role model. dialogue with Aloysius was both volatile airwaves and begin broadcasting only in device containing an analog tuner, unless Beneath the turmoil of Flynn’s child and extremely entertaining. digital. Digital broadcasting will allow sta- it also contains a digital tuner. Despite this Tom Blake has once again tions to offer improved picture and sound ban on manufacture and shipment, retailers quality and additional channels. may continue to sell analog-only devices blessed (pun intended) our school Digital Television (DTV) is an ad- from existing inventory. As a result, at the with a veritable slice of theatrical vanced broadcasting technology that will point of sale, many consumers may not be genius. Many can recall last year’s transform your television viewing experi- aware that this equipment will not be able powerhouse production of The Laramie ence. DTV enables broadcasters to offer to receive over-the-air-television signals Project, another triumphant Tom Blake television with better picture and sound after February 17, 2009. success. Based on the legacy of these quality. It can also offer multiple program- Analog televisions will need ad- two memorable shows, we can arrive ming choices, called multicasting, and ditional equipment to receive over-the-air at a finite conclusion: Tom Blake has interactive abilities. TV stations serving television when the DTV transition ends. got mad theater game. all markets in the United States are airing Consumers who depend on anten- digital television programming today, al- nas (including outside antennas) to receive (This parenthetic note is dedicat- though most will continue to provide analog over-the-air broadcast signals on TV sets ed to all the valiant sheets of computer programming through February 17, 2009. having only analog tuners will need to paper that selflessly gave their lives in At that point, full-power TV stations will stop acquire separate digital-to-analog set-top the promotion of Doubt. May their souls broadcasting on analog channels, and the converter boxes to watch over-the-air TV. rest peacefully at the bottom of a blue spectrum they use for analog broadcasting Analog sets connected to such converter recycling bin.) will be put to other uses. boxes will display digital broadcasts, but Play poster courtesy of Olney Theatre Converting to DTV also will free up not necessarily in the full, original digital parts of the scarce and valuable broadcast quality. spectrum for other important services, such For more information, call the Fed- as public and safety services (police and eral Communications Commission at Write An Article For The Husky Herald! fire departments, emergency rescue), and 1-888-225-5322 (TTY: 1-888-835-5322) wireless services. or visit the Commission’s digital television The Commission’s digital tuner rule website at www.dtv.gov.” Husky Herald - Page 12 2008 NFL Mock Draft Top 10

Chris Cassavecca Staff Writer Editor’s Note: The following predictions were written several weeks prior to the actual NFL Draft, which took place at Radio City Music Hall on Saturday, April 28, 2008. Amaz- ingly, many of these picks were right on target. Picks 7-10 Baseball is big in Japan’s Tokyo Dome. were affected by trades, as the New Orleans Saints and the Courtesy of Seattle Mariners Jacksonville Jaguars traded up to 7th and 8th respectively, while New England traded down to the 10 slot.

MLB In Asia 1) Dolphins: Chris Long- DE/OLB Virginia: With Miami hav- ing the worst defense in the NFL, giving up an average 27.3 points Joey Loreti Staff Writer per game, they would have to go with the need pick here rather than value. Long had an outstanding combine, even though he Following the NFL, Major League was frustrated with some of his stellar numbers because he knew Baseball has recently taken our national he could do even better. Long is a perfect fit for Miami’s dreadful pastime outside the U.S., in hopes of ex- defense, and seems like a Bill Parcells guy. There were rumors panding interest in the game. They first Miami would draft Matt Ryan, but it looks like its not going to took flight to China, where the San Diego Padres faced the Los Angeles Dodgers happen. Parcells has faith in Long and you can be more then in a two-game exhibition series. The certain Long will be his choice. (Note: Long was his choice, but series was a great success, expanding it was Jake Long.) the American game to parts of the world 2) Rams: Jake Long- OT Michigan: Face it, the Rams need that are not very accustomed to the sport. to protect both Marc Bulger and Steven Jackson. More than likely, Players thought it cool to play in front of the Rams would take Jake Long at this pick. They were 28th in people who had never viewed the game points last year, averaging just over 16 points a game. The Rams before, as newly converted Chinese fans need some good offensive linemen. They did pick up Jacob Bell cheered foul balls and routine outs. This from the Titans, but failed to get Alan Faneca. Jake Long would is a first step toward baseball in China, just make their O-Line that much better. (They couldn’t get Jake Matt Ryan was the first QB selected in this year’s draft. and MLB officials are already scheduling Long, so they took Chris Long instead.) Courtesy of Athlon Sports a 2009 return trip there, hoping to keep 3) Falcons: Matt Ryan- QB Boston College: Everyone up interest. knows that, even when Mike Vick does get out of jail, he still won’t be the same. Matt Ryan is the common sense choice The next move for the MLB was a here. Harrington and Leftwich just couldn’t help them out, and I think Joe Horn would say the same. The Falcons need mini-series opener in Japan, which has someone who can throw under pressure in the pocket and Ryan would be their guy. The Falcons were 29th overall in points hosted the MLB opener in their Tokyo per game last year with 16.2. Ryan would surely help them boost that average up next year. (Ryan was the choice.) Dome three out of the last nine years. 4) Raiders: Darren McFadden- RB Arkansas: Even though the Raiders did just re-sign Justin Fargas, McFadden could This year’s series featured the defend- be the future of this franchise. The Raiders were sixth last year in rushing yards, but McFadden could make them first. The ing World Series champion Boston Red Raiders don’t have that strong of an O-Line, but McFadden knows his way around that. The Raiders could compare to the Sox against the Oakland Athletics. The added media attention was brought by Vikings by taking McFadden at this pick, which is saying a lot, and if the Raiders don’t take him, the Chiefs or the Jets will. Red Sox ace starting pitcher Daisuke (McFadden was selected.) Matsuzaka and setup man Hideki Oka- 5) Chiefs: Glenn Dorsey- DT LSU: With the best Defensive Lineman out, Dorsey would be the next best thing. The jima returning to their native country. The Chiefs’ rush defense was horrific this past year and this pick would be Herm’s man. Herman Edwards, a much better de- opener took extra innings to finish, with fensive coach than offensive, would want Dorsey at this pick. Even with that concern of his injury this season. Dorsey is the the Red Sox eventually coming out victo- no-brainer choice at this spot. They gave up an average of 20.9 points per game last year, along with 130 rushing yards rious on a walk-off double by star Manny per game. Dorsey should be able to shut that run down. (True to form, the Chiefs chose Dorsey.) Ramirez, who struck his famous pose for 6) Jets: Vernon Gholston- DE/OLB Ohio State: The Jets had the worst of all defenses last year. Even though the Jets the Japanese crowd, thinking he had just had a tremendous off-season so far, signing Calvin Pace and Kris Jenkins through trade, they are already that much better, hit a three run home run. Oakland was but Gholston would seal the deal. Gholston put up the best combine numbers, with 37 reps and clocking in a 4.6 second successful in the second game, and the 40. Gholston was the tackling machine over at OSU and I could only imagine what he could do for the Jets. David Harris MLB had finished another successful trip had a very successful season last year and with Gholston stopping the outside run and the combination of blitz packages to the great country. with these two together, the Jets defense could be explosive. The Jets would be stupid not to pick up Gholston, although Ideas are being thrown around it wouldn’t be a surprise if they didn’t. (Surprise, they did.) about the possibility of a true “World Se- 7) Patriots Via San Francisco: Dominique Rodgers- ries,” pitting the American Major League Cromartie- CB Tennessee State: It’s pretty sad to see an 18-1 team champions against the champions of the get the seventh pick overall, but because of a trade last year from Nippon Professional Baseball league in San Fran the Patriots get this opportunity. As most people know, the Japan, to see which team should truly Patriots lost two of their valuable corners to free agency, Randall be called World Champs. Although this idea has recently been shut down by the Gay to New Orleans and Asante Samuel to the Eagles. They are MLB, many people would love to see going to have to fill some pretty big shoes at this spot. They might this happen. also want to trade down, as Cromartie might last till the 14th or Former MLB player and manager 15th pick, along with Leodis McKelvin and Aquib Talib, who also Bobby Valentine, who now manages the are high potential corners. I can see the Pats picking any of these Pacific League’s Chiba Lotte Marines three at this spot, but my money’s on Rodgers-Cromartie. (The Pats in the NPB, believes that Japanese traded down. New Orleans selected Sedrick Ellis here. Rodgers- Baseball is at least equal to MLB base- Cromartie was selected by Arizona in the 16th pick.) ball, if not superior. On October 27, 2005, Valentine issued a dare to the 8) Ravens: Ryan Clady- OT Boise State: Although they have World Series Champions, proposing a Jonathan Ogden on the offensive line, the addition of Clady would seven-game World Series to be played just make it that much better. He had a great combine and has between the American and Japanese showed great strength in his past college games with Boise State. championship teams. The idea was Since the Ravens will most likely use Troy Smith as their starting considered, but quickly thrown out by QB, they may want to be able to provide more protection for him, MLB officials who did not feel that there especially since he is a young quarterback. The Ravens would be would be ample time for such a World happy with this pick as long as Matt Ryan is off the board. They Series to be scheduled and played, and would have to go with the “need” pick in this situation. (Jackson- that it would have to compete with the ville traded up and selected DE Derrick Harvey out of Florida here. beginning of the NFL season. Many see Ryan Clady was selected in the 12th pick by Denver.) this as a cowardly move by the MLB, as Offensive tackle Jake Long of Michigan was the first player Americans don’t want to risk potentially selected in this year’s NFL College Draft. getting beaten by the NPB champions, Courtesy of Michigan Football 9) Bengals: Sedrick Ellis- DT USC: The Bengals, no ques- which could seriously hurt the integrity tions asked, need a defensive lineman. Their offense is good enough as long as Palmer stays healthy and Chad Johnson of the American World Series champion- doesn’t run his mouth. Defensive weakness was a key factor last year, with the Bengals winding up 27th overall in total ship title. defense. They gave up an average 118.3 rushing yards per game and they could definitely decrease that number with Ellis The NFL originally planned to play on the line. Last year the Bengals had an overall bad year, but they will turn it around this year. You will see the Bengals a “China Bowl” in Beijing this past August, on top of the AFC North this next season. (With Ellis already off the board, the Bengals selected LB Keith Rivers out of but decided instead to fund the regular Southern Cal.) season contest in London between the New York Giants and Miami Dolphins. 10) Saints: Leodis McKelvin- CB Troy State: The New Orleans Saints’ defense was almost as bad as Cincinnati’s last The China Bowl has been re-scheduled year, except they gave up less rushing yards per game. They did have a problem defending the pass and Leodis McKelvin for an August 2009 game. It seems will be their guy at this pick. McKelvin will be a starter as soon as he gets drafted. The Saints don’t have a true starting cor- American sports are beginning to expand nerback besides McKenzie and he only had three interceptions last year and has lost some of his speed. McKelvin is fast, globally. Perhaps one day we will see all he has good instincts as to where the quarterback is looking to throw, and he has great hands. He can immediately make an countries compete in order to determine impact on this struggling defense. I see a bright future for McKelvin. (The New England Patriots selected OLB Jerod Mayo a true world champion. from Tennessee at this slot. Leodis McKelvin wound up being selected the very next pick, at 11, by the Buffalo Bills.) Husky Herald - Page 13 Huskies Tee It Up For A Four-Peat Hank Rubenstein Sports Editor Rarely is it seen in high school group of kids,” says Coach Bob Bor- sports that one of the most successful gia. “Their motivation to get better as teams also produces one of the highest players obviously carries over into the overall grade point averages. Usually, classroom.” teams that play in back-to-back Section While not necessarily the tough- Championships are the kind of teams est guys in the school, last season they that struggle to keep everyone aca- made their mark in the school history demically eligible. But not Harrison’s books by completing the team’s first golf team -- a team that consistently, three-peat of league titles. The 2005 year after year, produces low scores Huskies turned heads and produced on the golf course and high scores in one of the best squads in Section 1. the classroom. Last season almost That season Harrison made their name the entire team went to the sectional known at the Sectional Tournament tournament and several kids went on when Coach Borgia brought five top- to States. “We’ve got a well rounded flight golfers to compete for the honor of Section 1’s best golfer. When the 2006 season came around, it was all business for the HHS golf team, who were bringing back a solid six strong golfers, four of whom had qualified Chris Malfitano eyes a long drive. Courtesy of Matthew Brown/The Journal News for the sectional tournament the of the golf team’s players to post high as good as your next shot.” year prior. As 2007 came and went, scores in the first match because, as Eager to atone for that loss and Harrison produced six golfers in the Coach Borgia terms it, “they’re getting prove worthy of obtaining another Sectional Tournament, and quali- the bugs out of their system early.” league title and beyond, the Huskies fied to play in the team Sectional As expected the roster looked a next headed to Westchester Country championship. little different than last year: Andrew Club to take on the Quakers of Hor- Now, on the verge of the 2008 Lichtenauer moved up from 4 seed to ace Greeley. With the adrenaline season, the team hopes to make his- 2, Chris Malfitano moved from 6 to 3, flowing, Harrison shaved 13 strokes tory by becoming the first Harrison while Robbie Williams stayed put in off their previous score to a shoot an team ever to win four back-to-back the one hole. Coach Borgia is looking impressive 216 to beat the Quakers. league titles. “It’s not going to be to underclassman Michael DiTursi, The team was lead by senior Andrew easy to win the fourth,” notes senior Nathaniel Burmen and junior Steven Lichtenauer, who shot a remarkable Robbie Williams. “We graduated “Stevey D” Dimilia to fill the remaining 39. “The team played better today, some great players last season. It’ll spots. everyone shot a little lower,” notes be interesting to see if we can fill up “So they weren’t exactly our best Lichtenauer, “Hopefully now things the lost space.” scores ever, we’ll just have to live with will start rolling and the scores will get This year’s roster only returns what we shot,” says Steven Dimilia. even lower.” three starters from last year, leaving The Huskies posted an overall 229, The team heads into the bulk slots open for three new starters. which wasn’t quite good enough to take of its season with their minds set on “We’ve got a few good underclass- down Nyack, who shot a 227. “It’s a making history. “Three-peats are cool, men that might be able to help us rough loss, it would have been nice to four-peats are even cooler,” says se- out,” says Coach Borgia. In the first start the season off with a win,” says nior Robbie Williams, “It would be sick match of the season Harrison set Andrew Lichtenauer sizes up a putt. junior Chris Malfitano, “but what you’ve to be part of history.” Courtesy of Matthew Brown/The Journal News out against league rival Nyack. In got to tell yourself in golf is you’re only recent years, it’s not unusual for some Spring Sports Preview 2008

Hank Rubenstein Sports Editor

Baseball three key pitchers are all veterans: se- season. “Boo’s a pretty nior Artie Fucile and juniors Phil Dillulio good goalie,” says junior As the 2008 season approaches, and Charlie Galasso. “Pitching is key Justin Segal. “He really the Varsity Boys’ Baseball team looks every season,” notes Coach DiRuocco. helped us out a lot last to gain focus and work hard toward “We’re looking at few more kids to season, helped us win a achieving another winning season. throw some innings this season, but few close games.” Since the team’s tough one run loss to no one we’re quite sure of yet.” Other With the loss of Brewster, 7-6, in the second round of veterans DiRuocco will be looking to for three top seniors to grad- the sectional tournament last season, a strong season include seniors Tom uation, the 2008 squad the boys have been working excep- Murray, Nick Giorgi, Tim Mustacato, looks to rebuild its mid- tionally hard to make amends this and Mike Staklas, as well as juniors field and attack this sea- year. After finishing last season 11-12, Anthony Battaglia and Pat Stiso. son. “We only have five Coach DiRuocco has been working or six returning players hard during the off-season in prepara- from last year’s attack tion for the challenges of 2008. Lacrosse and midfield, but I’ve “We’ve got a long season ahead got a lot of confidence in of us; it’s not going to be a cake walk,” With the smell of spring in the the ones we have back, says Coach DiRuocco. “If the boys are air, the Boys’ Lacrosse team knows it’s and a few newcomers,” going to want to win, they’re going to time for a fresh season. The HHS Lax says Coach Kinisky. Ki- have to work for it.” DiRuocco, who has crew has been working hard, preparing nisky, the varsity coach been the varsity boys’ baseball coach for a 2008 season that promises an im- for the past two years, for the last three years, has seen a fair provement over the past season’s 7-10 has worked tirelessly amount of success while at Harrison. record. “It’s been a long off season,” during the off-season to Goalie Bryan “Boo” Cipolla saves another goal. “Winning is tough, but I make the kids says junior Max Jaffe. “We’ve worked prepare his team for the Courtesy of Dave Kennedy/The Journal News realize that it doesn’t come easy,” he top Section 1 competition pretty hard as a team to get ready for former JV players Jeff Heine, Danny says. “I’ve had some good teams and they’ll be facing this year. “When the the season. We’ve participated in Fraioli and Antonio Britto. The team some bad ones while coaching base- big games come around, I’ll be looking summer leagues, weight lifting, agility also will get additional help from two ball, but I’ve seen successes from all towards the veterans to really step up and skills training, I’d hate to see our new students at HHS, Kyle McDonald of them because they were able to and motivate the team,” says Kinisky. efforts go to waste.” and Thomas “Cary” Boucher. “The understand what it takes to win.” “It’s their job to keep the momentum Jaffe looks to lead Harrison’s addition of McDonald and Boucher will Eight returning players from last moving.” Kinisky has big hopes for defense along with other key veterans, most definitely help our team,” notes year grace the current roster. “It’s nice Junior Matt Foristel, who last season junior Justin Segal and senior goal- junior Ben Puritan. “Both are strong to be a vet,” says junior Phil Dillulio. scored 23 goals and recorded eight keeper Bryan “Boo” Cipolla. Cipolla, midfielders and will be effective on the “It means we have a little experience assists. who has manned the spot between attack.” under our belt, but we also must act as the posts for the past two years, will be Only 10 players are back from last leaders for the rookies.” The team’s looked to this year for another strong year’s roster, but hopes rest strongly on

Husky Herald - Page 14 Inside The NFL: Goodell Speaks (Continued from Back Page) higher. I believe in that very much. I To date, we haven’t found anything have always stated that our biggest RG: It’s another opportunity for outside of what we originally found, challenge is complacency. You have the fans to get closer to football. We which was against our policy: the tap- to continually look ahead at the chal- are in the business of making more ing of defensive signals. We ended lenges and don’t assume that our football available to more people. The up fining and disciplining the club, as past success is going to lead to future younger generation is getting their in- well as the individual very aggres- success. formation from different sources than sively. I think that we sent a strong I did when I was a kid, because those message that we are not going to al- HH: How do you compete with sources did not exist. We focus in on low people to violate our policies. On other forms of entertainment? those places, where people are seek- the other hand, if there is more infor- ing entertainment or information. The mation there, we have to make sure RG: It starts with the game, the internet is clearly a new opportunity to look at that. To date, we have not quality -- everything you do has to rep- available to everyone that the younger found any new facts. We still have Adam “Pacman” Jones was suspended resent quality. It reflects on the brand. I demographic is taking advantage of. to speak to (former New England for an entire season due to off-field misconduct. have spent a lot of time thinking about We are making certain that our product, Patriot video assistant) Matt Walsh. Courtesy of Sports Illustrated the brand of the NFL and the brand of our game, our entertainment, is avail- If there is new information, we want policies reflect the latest information, the 32 clubs. Everything that is done able to them. to make sure we are aware of it and I the latest technologies and that our should reflect the positive values of the have said that from Day One. We are program is implemented in such a way brand. And that is really something that moving forward by taking the steps that we will bring creditability to it. We we have instilled across everyone: our we took last Fall, identifying this as a have tested for over 20 years, and we integrity, what our brand represents. violation of policy and sending a strong do believe we are a pioneer in (testing We want that to be positive; people message with the discipline. We have for) performance enhancing drugs. know they are getting high quality identified several (new) steps that the Anytime you have this type of thing in entertainment. Competition Committee is reviewing, society, it encourages people to find and we will make recommendations another way to get around the rules, HH: Does the NFL plan on having about steps we will take going forward and that is just something we have Super Bowls overseas? to insure compliance with our policy. to continually stay ahead of. You can never assume that you have beaten RG: I’m not planning on it. I know Courtesy of NFL Films HH: Do you hold your players to an issue; you’re going to have to as- there is interest from international cit- a higher standard? Is there a code of sume that someone is going to develop ies on having the Super Bowl, which HH: NFL Network is not currently conduct for an NFL player? another technique, another alternative doesn’t surprise any of us, because I available on Cablevision in Harrison. and you have to stay ahead of it. think it has become a world-wide event. When we will be able to watch it? RG: There is a code of conduct It is of tremendous value to the cities for everyone associated at the NFL, HH: What is the theme of the that host it. But that is a decision that RG: We believe the NFL Network including the Commissioner. Because upcoming season? will be made by the ownership. Right is of great value, of high quality and of our popularity and the interest in our now we are not considering that. is in great demand. Unfortunately the game, when people make mistakes, RG: The theme is to continue to roadblock we have gotten with a couple which we all do, they are magnified. We make every aspect of the NFL excit- HH: How important is the internet of cable operators is not in the best have to recognize that responsibility. ing, entertaining, unpredictable, and to (NFL.com) to the NFL? interest of the consumers. In a couple We have a responsibility to our fans continue to have it be the best reality of cases, these operators prefer their and to the young people that idolize a content in the world. sports channels, the channels that they lot of things we do in the NFL. I want to own, over the NFL Network. We think make sure that is a positive reflection of HH: In closing, what do you want that’s wrong. As distributors of content, the NFL; it goes back to our brand. the NFL to look like in 2020? they should distribute the best content, not just content that they own. HH: What is the NFL’s approach RG: I can’t tell the future. I want to prevent steroid abuse? to see the strength of the NFL brand HH: How do you plan to push become global and have people rec- past “Spygate” and protect the integrity RG: The most important thing is ognize it represents the highest quality of the game? to stay current, to make sure that you’re entertainment. Also, that we continue looking at what the changes in technol- to deepen and broaden our relationship RG: You have to close it, in the ogy are, what the changes in testing with our fans so that there are more sense that you have to recognize, are, what the changes in rehabilitation ways to experience football, to have a Both Bill Belichek and his team have there been any more violations? or education are, and making sure our greater emotional connection. were fined in the “Spygate” scandal. Courtesy of WordPress Varsity Girls’ Lacrosse Eager For Another Winning Season Allie Schnitta Staff Writer After going undefeated last year, even better results and feel that, since “It’s a good feeling when you pumped up before games,” she said. the Harrison Huskies Varsity Girl’s the team is moving up a level from know that there is an athletic goalie “Connecting with your teammates Lacrosse Team is ready to start an- last year, the girls have to practice ready to back you up when the oppos- is the key for being able to work the other action-packed season, hoping even harder to be just as successful ing forward line brings the ball down ball around in the forward line, and to repeat their victorious trip to the title and win. the field,” says defender Jess Chestler. we are in the process of working on game. Seniors Meghan Brady, Allie This year’s varsity team has a “The new goalies have good hand-eye that.” In preparation for another win- Prieston, and Allie Defonce have three majority of returning juniors with some coordination and are quick on their feet. ning season, the Lady Huskies are years of varsity experience behind incoming sophomores and freshman to It almost seems like they have been taking an exciting team trip to Balti- them now and have been powerful round off the well-balanced roster. Ac- playing for years!” more, Maryland. contributors to the team in past wins. cording to Captain Meghan Brady, “The So far, this has been the case. Last season Brady was a huge asset team is looking really good at practice The team already has beaten both By- to Lady Huskies, scoring goals at every and I feel that, if we work hard together ram Hills and Clarkston in impressive turn. As a forward, her strength and as a team, we will be able to win a lot of scrimmages. If those are an indicator energy bolstered the team’s success. games this season. This year there are of what’s ahead this season, look for Her agility and amazing shooting abil- a lot of younger athletic players which big successes. The Lady Huskies ity will continue to play a large part is great because we all get along re- won 12-5 against Byram Hills and by a in this, her final season. Senior Allie ally well and they have already helped score of 15-5 against Clarkston. Prieston, already a one year captain, contribute to the team’s success.” “Winning the ball in the draw at also has been an integral player for this At the end of last season, the the very start of the game and after team. Her positive, upbeat attitude has Lady Huskies had to say goodbye to every goal scored is an extremely helped power the Huskies’ forward line. one of the best goalies Harrison La- important factor, because it allows Senior Allie Defonce remains one of the crosse has ever known. Players and the team to get a head start and run fastest players on the team. Her speed coaches have been scouting around the ball down the field towards the and agility has helped boost the team for students with the potential to be opposing goal,” explained center onto victory time and again. efficient goalkeepers for this upcom- Sara Misisco. “Harrison has won the The team was excited to win last ing season. Two additions to the team ball after almost every single draw year. Making it to the sectionals proved have stepped up to fill that role: sopho- in the past scrimmages.” Cap- a major event for the team. This year more Sam Stump and freshman Katie tain Allie Defonce noted that the team Coach Rosen and Coach Zapalla want Edin, and the team is optimistic. is in great shape. “We are always Sara Misisco catches a pass downfield. Courtesy of Melissa Shapiro

Husky Herald - Page 15 An Exclusive Interview With The Most Powerful Person In Sports: NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell Dominique Cuce Staff Writer The stately building at 280 Park mirror much, unless it can be construc- Avenue is the official home of the Na- tive to me. I don’t think about it in terms tional Football League (NFL). On the of accomplishments or legacies. I think 17th Floor is the office of NFL Com- of it as what are the challenges ahead, missioner Roger Goodell, the most and we do we still need to address powerful person in sports, according those challenges. to Business Week. Goodell grew up in Westchester. HH: Who are your mentors? He attended Bronxville High School, where his early interest in sports was RG: I am very fortunate, I have obvious. Goodell was captain of the many mentors: family members, football, baseball, and basketball teachers, coaches, and my father. teams. He continued his lifelong love My mother was a very big influence; for sports when joining the NFL as sometimes people overlook that be- an administrative intern in 1982. His cause my father was a (U.S.) Senator succession to the top became official (Charles Goodell). And I think none of on August 6, 2006, when Goodell was us get to where we are by ourselves, named the eighth chief executive in the we get there by the influence of a lot League’s 88 year history. Since then, of people. I think that’s good, you want his tenure has been marked by many to surround yourself with a lot of good challenges and issues. people that will bring you perspective. The Husky Herald’s own Domi- I have a big belief in mentoring. nique Cuce recently had an opportunity to interview the Commissioner person- HH: What advice would you give ally. Here then is a chance to better un- to high school students who might be derstand the decisions, thoughts, and interested in a career in professional strategies of the man behind America’s sports? most popular sport. RG: This will probably be unpop- HH: Let’s say there was an ular with most of the teachers (laughs). online posting at Monster or Career I think the most valuable skill set is not Builder for this Commissioner position. necessarily the course work you take, What would the job requirements be? NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell Photo Courtesy of Dominique Cuce but learning how to learn and learn- Someone is probably not going to be enced by the owners because they hire ing how to deal with different types of RG: I think it takes a variety happy with the outcome. I think you me, or the media because they criticize people. I think those are the two most of different skill sets, because there want them to understand that you me, or the fans because they pay the significant things you get out of your are so many roles you have to play. have been thorough, fair, and when bills, but the reality is I don’t feel like I’m education. At times maybe the biggest, largest you have reached a conclusion, that being dictated to -- I have to balance responsibility of the job involves dis- you communicate that properly. Not all of those things and make the best HH: Congratulations on having pute resolution, with disputes among everyone is going to be satisfied with decisions for the NFL. 13 NFL games turn out to be 13 of partners (the clubs). I think that is a big that outcome, including the fans, which the 15 top-rated TV shows this past part of the job. are big drivers for me. HH: After two full seasons as season. How would you define a suc- Commissioner, what would you con- cessful season? HH: How do you make every- I think I have a huge responsibil- sider your top accomplishments so one, the owners, players, and the fans ity to the fans. You have to recognize far? RG: I am what you might de- happy? issues from the fan’s perspective and scribe as a “Type A” personality. When do what you think is in the best inter- RG: I haven’t even spent any I see 13 out of 15, I start saying, how RG: You don’t. Your job is not to est of the game. You have to have a time thinking about that. I think about do we get 15 out of 15? Every time make everyone happy, that’s a false very strong conviction of doing what is how we can continue to make the NFL we have achieved success, the bar objective. I don’t think it’s achievable. right. People feel that I’m overly influ- stronger. I don’t look in the rearview is raised higher, so we have to jump (Continued on Page 15) Freshman Brennan & Teammates Capture National Synchronized Figure Skating Medal Hank Rubenstein Sports Editor Synchronized Figure Skating is year, Harrison High School’s Leilani in the four-minute skate featured con- one of the toughest sports imaginable. Brennan was part of the team that trol, splendidly pronounced edges, It takes figure skating to a whole new received a Pewter Medal at the U.S. grace and power skated to tango level. Synchronized skating is team Figure Skating Synchronized Skating themes. Team Image’s finish was just skating - 18 anxious skaters perform- Championships in Providence, Rhode five points shy of first place winners, ing high speed turns, going backwards, Island. the Wisconsin Blades of Fond du Lac, skating as a coordinated unit together This team, known as Team Im- Wisconsin. Team Del Sol of San Diego ments score. A series of five categories and trying not to fall. There’s loud age, is part of the Yonkers Figure and the Chicago Jazz placed second comprises the Program Components music, elaborate costumes, grueling Skating Club. Brennan and her team- and third, respectively. score. Each judge gives a score for practices in freezing rinks, and high mates were the last team to skate in Synchronized skating originally each category. The Technical Elements level competitions – first local, then the 12-team Intermediate Competition was called “precision skating,” due to and Program Components scores are regional, and finally nationals! This at the Nationals in late February. The the emphasis on maintaining precise then added to form the total segment team skated to an impressive 58 point formations and timing of the group. score. The team with the highest total score to secure Fourth Place and the Synchronized skating competitions segment wins the competition. Pewter Medal in the tough Intermediate are now judged using the ISU Judging Freshman Leilani Brennan, Division. It was Coach Sylvia Muccio’s System that was introduced in 2004. figure skating since she was four, first national medal in synchronized Each element is assigned a looks to continue her career as a skating, and capped a splendid sea- difficulty level that corresponds to a skater and member of Team Image son for the teens from Yonkers and base value. Judges assign a grade of in the near future. “Skating is a lot of Murray’s Rink. execution from -3 to +3, with 0 being fun,” says Brennan. “I’ve met a lot of “It’s really something special to the base value. Each grade of execu- great people, but have also learned a win your first national medal as a coach, tion, or GOE, corresponds to a point lot of important life lessons, including Team Image skating as one! it means you’re doing something right,” value. The sum of all the scores of the discipline and commitment.” Courtesy of Eric Serrantes said Muccio. The 58.20 points posted elements comprises the Technical Ele- Husky Herald - Page 16