T H E V I K I N G

Volume XLI Edition 18 May 15, 2008 CSPA Gold Medalist

SagaThe Student Newspaper of East Lyme High School East Lyme, Connecticut Central Park Prom Yearly WISE project Park benches. White sets high standards lights glistening. New by Ryann Foulke York City skyline. A lovely white arch decked in white roses and lights with two chairs stationed underneath. The 2008 Prom Fashion Show was created by seniors Lauren Bagwell and Christine Salvatore for their WISE project, a mainly senior class that focuses on aiding the community. “We both bring different ideas to the table,” R.Shook/Saga R.Shook/Saga responds Christine. The Seniors Brittney Uracco two decided last year While other couples stike elegant poses at the end of the runway, senior Felicia Casciano leans and P.J. Levanti strut their that they would do the in to give Brad Begin a kiss on the cheek as the models make an appearance in the 2008 Prom stuff on the stage during the annual show together. Fashion Show. Those involved rehearsed prior to the night of their performance, yet many of Prom Fashion Show. (See Strutting page 10) their funny, glamorous actions were not choreographed. I Going Green in EL Proposed Budget Cut, Principal Search Stalled N Page 4 by Stefanie Felitto upcoming 2008-2009 search has temporarily months of nation-wide Flip Flop Review “We had two school year. The two been halted. “Even if advertisement, a board T Pages 6 H separate trains traveling trains converged when we selected one of the of mostly high school I on parallel tracks,” said school administrators fi nalists, we would teachers narrowed down Forgotten Sports Assistant Superintendent suggested a budget of not be able to write a the applicant pool. S Page 9 Paul Freeman of the approximatly $40 million contract,” stated Freeman. “They interviewed ensuing dilemma. to run all the schools in Although East Lyme has fi ve people and of those E Over the past few the district next year, a proportionately low fi ve, two people have School Bus months, teams of school yet the Board of Finance number of administrators come forward as the D to Prom administrators and suggested a $700,000 cut. compared to the schools fi nal candidates that the I Page 10 T municipal leaders have Since this cut may in the rest of the state, committee could agree been working hard to not jeopardize the number one of the administrative upon were the best,” I No more Cooking only search for a new of administrators in spots may be at risk explained Superintendent O at McCooks principal, but to prepare the school district, the with the budget cut. Dr. Paul Smotas. Page 11 N the school budget for the worldwide principal After two-and-a half (See Principal page 5) The Viking Saga Opinion May 15, 2008 Our Two Cen

Coming from a silver metal Foundation to benefi t education nationwide, school, you may think that we would “In math and science, our fourth graders are among the top students globally. By roughly have a hard time seeing the problem eighth grade, they’re in the middle of the around us, but when I was told I was pack. And by the 12th grade, U.S. students not taking any of the “hard APs” I are scoring generally near the bottom of all realized that the problem is here industrialized countries.” too, and I am a part of it. One fact of the matter is, with American education continuing on its current path, the I thankfully avoided the “hard APs” like future of our nation is bleak to say the least. physics, calculus and chemistry. But why is it The US will fade from the forefront and that we consider those the diffi cult ones? our generation will be forced to step aside for All of the tests are norm-referenced amongst the Russian aeronautics experts and Chinese the entirety of the nation, is a 5 on the medical specialist. physics exam somehow better than a 5 on the America is in desperate need of getting its Education, quite possibly the biggest psychology exam? act together, yet politicians turn their cheek. indicator of the future development of I am sure that students in Japan would Every year we spend more and more for a America, has seemed to completely much rather spend three hours cranking out college education, and every year a diploma is escape the spectrum of political interest. calculus equations than making hundreds worth less and less. While both candidates claim to be of grammar and syllogistic judgments and Education has become one of those issue beacons of future change, the issues that will writing pages of essays. that gets brushed beneath the rug because its ensure their creditability seem to drop off Although in the glory days the United snooze factor is so high that nobody is willing the teleprompters. States excelled in educating students in the to admit it is actually prevalent. Seeing as one teenage student drops out areas of science and math, in more recent It appears that the only way to get anyone of high school every 26 seconds in America years we have been slacking. These programs to pay attention to our nation’s desperate call (more than one million students every year), become less and less strong every year. for help is to put it on the sheet that Hannah it appears there is a serious problem on According to Allan Golston, the president of Montana covered her naked body with on the our hands. U.S. programs for the Bill and Melinda Gates centerfold of Vanity Fair.

The Saga staff commemorates the much-anticipated beginning of the end with the question:

Your books never come out You celebrate each passing Monday with an America’s Next Top of your backpack. extra tap of the snooze button. Model takes precedence -Emily Newton -Saga Advisor Jeff Beale over AP History and Mr. Warykas. You know it’s 4th -Alex Addabbo

The die-hard Uggs fans trade in for fl ip-fl ops. quarter when... -Ryann Foulke Madame Casey starts Every other sentence you hear speaking English again. starts with “when AP exams -Mollie Teeter end I’ll...” You start taking chemistry -Hannah Barner and math notes in your You can walk into a classroom and see only history notebook. two Northfaces. -Ellie Kleinhans -Ramona Ostrowski

Page 2 The Viking Saga Opinion May 15, 2008 ts are Free:

multiplication tables and vocabulary words Rebellion is if you do not understand why is galore. Many of the aforementioned items occurred and what impact the uprising had are vital to our success as functioning people on American society? To know the answer to in society. those questions, full understanding as well as Yet, as we progress to higher a little inference is necessary. As students, we levels of education, knowing the should be taught to put the pieces together starting and ending dates of every ourselves, not just memorize and repeat what is written in books. war fought by America or being Yes, students need to have the skill of able to recite 50 lines of Beowulf is memorization instilled in them from a young truly not important to our lives. age, but it should not be the only means by I have a problem with being forced to which they learn. A nice combination of memorize miniscule facts for the mere the two would serve students better in the purpose of “regurgitating” them onto a test. long run. History classes should always go Getting 100s on all such tests does nothing but beyond the book, challenging students to With AP Exams thankfully over and fi nals prove the sharpness of a student’s memory, view history as a series of interdependent just around the corner for everyone except but not intelligence by any means. With events, as opposed to a conglomeration of seniors, (woot woot) these last two months a little coaching, even a fi rst grader could glorifi ed occurrences. of school have been fi lled with nothing memorize the process by which food travels When we get to college, the focus will be more than textbooks, fl ashcards and bubble through the digestive system. Similarly, after taken off all the “what” and put on “how” and sheets. For most, the information that was quizzing me a few times in preparation for “why.” There is so much depth in what we are crammed into our brain will rapidly begin my test on the Preamble to the Constitution, learning, but by memorizing the small details, to escape us, never to be known again. And my sixth grade sister could recite it back to we are only skimming the surface. When we that, my friends, is exactly what bothers me me twice as fast. take on careers, a reference will always be about education. More importantly, when students and at our fi nger tips. The skill of memorization From the time we are little kids, we are teachers alike become too concerned with becomes less and less vital as we mature, taught to memorize. It starts with the catchy the nitty-gritty facts, the “big picture” is therefore, it should not be considered such alphabet song, then the pledge of allegiance, lost. What good is knowing what Shay’s an integral part of our learning process in the fi rst place. Have an opinion? Send your letters, questions and Noteworthy ELHS Students comments to Th e Viking Saga at [email protected] Senior Catherine Tang was named a semifi nalist in the 2008 Presidential Scholars competition. The Saga Staff: She is one of only 560 students Stefanie Felitto & chosen from around the nation Valerie Ferdon Featured Writers: Editors-in-Chief to compete for Finalist status. Alex Addabbo M.Teeter/Saga John Kleinhans Finalists will be chosen in June. News Editor Hannah Barner Mollie Teeter Kit Brown Features Editor At the State’s Annual Leo Club Governor’s Andrea Chrunyk Kyle Weiss Ryann Foulke Awards Dinner, LaKia Godfrey received Sports and Back Page Editor Matthew Heath the Shoreline Leo Club Member of the Year Kate Eberle Ellie Kleinhans Award for her service to the community. Kyle Entertainment Editor Amy Li Weiss (President), Robin Engel (Secretary), Jeff Beale Emily Newton and Sarah Mooradian (Treasurer) received Advisor Ramona Ostrowski Certifi cates of Appreciation for their work throughout the year. Ariel Nicolosi Brendan Welch Featured Illustrator Page 3 TheThe VikingViking SagaSaga News News March May 7th, 15, 2008 2008 to remain silent throughout the day. And so, I became one of them as I abruptly stopped talking during journalism. Though the rest of that class went relatively smoothly (I was able to communicate with other people by typing on Microsoft Word), I found that staying quiet became more and more diffi cult as the day progressed. My next class was especially diffi cult, as one might Silent say that using ones vocal chords is somewhat essential to participating in chorus. Lunch was also extremely diffi cult, since I am used to spending it chatting with by Kate Eberle friends. Instead, I had to follow them around J.Kleinhans/Saga mutely and bite my tongue whenever they Senior Kate Eberle was one of the many ELHS April 25 started off as a pretty typical day said anything that would normally cause me students partaking in the Day of Silence for me; I argued with my mother in the car on to respond sarcastically. One of my friends the way to school, chatted with my friends said, “Wow, Kate. You’re boring when you to support the cause. before class, and discussed a previous edition can’t talk.” Although I almost answered a question of The Viking Saga in journalism. Then I Lunch was interesting, however, because during my last block class, I made it until remembered that it was the Day of Silence I did have the opportunity to see most of the 2:10 without speaking. This had given that day, so I promptly shut my mouth and other students who were taking part in the me a lot of time to think about what I’d began my news coverage via participation of, Day of Silence. I was surprised by how many experienced. At the end of the day, I had caught off guard and in disbelief of the fact there were, and how enthusiastically they learned that going a day without speaking that I had forgotten. This, I knew, was going were participating. Many of the students is diffi cult – but also that it must be nothing to be an interesting day. wore pins from the Gay, Lesbian and Straight compared to the silence some students must Since 1996, the Day of Silence has been Education Network (GLSEN) that read “I am endure for fear of being harassed or bullied calling attention to the harassment and an ally,” and some students carried posters because of their orientation. So, in case bullying towards non-heterosexual students or banners explaining the cause. Though I you missed it this year, keep an eye out for that is unfortunately common in schools expected to see some students opposing the the Day of Silence next year. Your lack of nationwide. Students participating in this movement, I was proud to see the level of speaking could say a lot. movement show their support by signing up tolerance and action taken by ELHS students G r Shadese of e n East Lyme gets measures are even being taken with the parking Although positive steps have been made, one lot at Hole in the Wall Beach. She said that the of the problems facing the environmentalists environmentally aware town of East Lyme has received a grant to add in town is the elimination of tax deductibles by Andrea Chrunyk a special type of pavement that would increase for people who make an attempt to be more drainage and decrease harmful effects of runoff. environmentally aware. “Going green is One of the most important topics in the Even East Lyme High School has jumped a expensive, and that is a problem,” said upcoming election is the environment. With that on the environmentally conscious bandwagon. Ms. Hardy. in mind, East Lyme town offi cials have taken a By December of 2008, ELHS will have solar It is especially a problem for people in town positive step towards making East Lyme more panels installed on the roof as a way of saving who avoid using energy saving appliances environmentally friendly. electricity. because they are more expensive and nothing The town of East Lyme has recently given This pet project of East Lyme Public Schools is given back. Ms. Hardy explained, “we should free plastic totes to community members in Business Manager Don Meltabarger will save the be trying to make it simpler to go green,” order to encourage recycling. Recycling is one school money, as well as help out the environment. but without tax deductibles it is becoming of the main goals of the town because it is one He said that as a result of switching light bulbs more diffi cult. of the easiest ways to improve the environment. and making environmentally friendly choices, In the end, East Lyme has taken positive steps East Lyme Town Engineer Bill Scheer said the school “has saved hundreds of thousands of forward in improving the environment. Junior that recycling has gone up fi ve percent as a result kilowatts.” Laura Brooks agrees with these steps saying, of the revitalization of East Lyme recycling. The new solar panels will also join the “I think that it is a really good idea because “Recycling is not only good for the environment, environmentally friendly central air system. we need to save our environment and every bit but saves money for the town,” explained Mr. This-state-of-the-art technology recognizes the helps.” Scheer. In fact, the town of East Lyme gets paid temperature outside, and if the air is cool enough, it Even the tiniest way to help out, like recycling, by the federal government to recyle, making it a circulates that air rather than use an air conditioner. improves the quality of the earth. “I think that win-win situation. This “economizer” as East Lyme Public Schools when we talk about going green its not just History teacher and Board of Selectman Facilities Director Frank Biagarelli put it, saves about new things, but also about improving the member Rose Ann Hardy explained that energy and uses what is available to the school. old things,” said Ms. Hardy. Page 4 The Viking Saga News May 15, 2008 70 journalists with the Holy Father (Principal continued from front page) 100,000 ponchos ordered to be distributed in case of rain The two fi nalists are Joseph Arcarese, Principal of Plainfi eld High School, and Jonathan Harris 250 members in the choir who will sing during Mass who comes all the way from Austin, Texas. 550 priests who will distribute Communion Both candidates declined comment per request 1,200 buses used to transport people to the Mass from administration. Original plans included a site-visit by 15,000 press credentials issued… Freeman and others. This was later reduced to solely Freeman. It is now on hold due to pending budget decisions. Take me out to the Papal Mass East Lyme administrators originally hoped that the process would be done by the end of Pope Benedict’s visit to specifically for His Holiness. For about May, but unfortunately the budget cuts have ten minutes, he drove around the interior prevented this goal. Until the administration Yankee Stadium fi gures out how to accommodate the $700,000 of Yankee Stadium as everyone waved cut, considering the citizens of East Lyme Commentary by Emily Newton yellow and white handkerchiefs (the approve this budget in the referendum at the As I pushed my way through the colors of the Vatican) in appreciation. It end of the month, the search will remain at a rambunctious line of spectators on April was like watching kids see their hero for relative standstill. 20th 2008, half a dozen men dressed in the first time in their lives. “Every cut made to the budget is going to be a diffi cult decision,” remarked Marcie black with long bags slung over their At 2:30, the three-hour celebration of Cunningham, head of the East Lyme teachers’ shoulder entered through a “member’s only” the Eucharist began. With an introduction union, adding, “I think that every decision entrance. from His made by the Central Offi ce and the Board of I did not Eminence Education is sensitive to the needs to maintain think much Cardinal our quality of education.” Given that 76 percent of the budget goes to pay of it until Edward the salaries of all faculty members in the district, I saw them Egan, a good amount of the $700,000 cut must come perched Archbishop out of faculty positions—be it maintenance, atop of of New York, secretarial, administrating or teaching staff. “We Yankee the mass can’t remove that amount of money in just chalk and paper products,” stated Freeman. Stadium and was off to an Although it is not the primary priority, there is adjacent inspirational a chance of cutting an administrative position. To rooftops. start. put this in perspective, cutting one administrator These men The rest in the East Lyme school district, according to were here continued on the Strategic School Profi le for schools in Connecticut, is proportionally equivalent to to protect as a normal cutting 33 teachers (looking at the ratio of the most mass would, www.cjd.cc teachers to administrators in the system). If this important with the were to be the case, since Mr. Roberts already visitor ever Pope Benedict XVI at Yankee Stadium exception announced his retirement, next year’s high to step foot in Yankee Stadium. of Pope Benedict giving the sermon. school principal would be selected from within the current East Lyme administrative staff. Then, The visitor was none other than Pope Although hard to understand, everyone “an overall reorganization of the administrative Benedict XVI. The most important man watched His Holiness with the staff” would be in order, explained Freeman. of the Catholic Church. The Derek Jeter utmost respect. The biggest question in the minds of East of religion. The most difficult part of the mass was Lyme citizens is if the quality of the principal 57,000 people arrived at Yankee the communion. After much instruction would be compromised if he or she was chosen from the small pool of 13.3 administrators in Stadium to see Pope Benedict XVI. This and practice for all those attending, 550 town, compared to the worldwide search of was a huge event for the religious faiths priests dispersed themselves throughout applicants that has just been cut short. of the world, as it is only the fourth time the stadium in order to give communion, “Many teachers have expressed the strong that a pope has ever come to visit New the Catholic sacrament of distributing feeling that the budget process should not York City. consecrated bread and wine, said to be the dictate the hiring of the best candidate, whoever that may be, for the important job of high school The anticipation in the stadium built, bread and body of Christ, respectively. principal. While we are sensitive to the need of as the cheering progressed to singing and After the mass, the Pope made a final making diffi cult decisions regarding budgeting then back to cheering again. exit, driving around in the Popemobile items, it would be unfortunate to compromise At noon, the concert Celebration of one last time. It was like his encore, the principal selection process due to fi nances,” Hope began. With performers like the coming back out to give everyone what said Cunningham. Other possibilities to accommodate the Harlem Gospel Choir and Harry Connick they wanted. cut would be to remove specials such as art Jr., everyone was on their feet. Then at 2 Walking out of the stadium, I looked and music for kindergartners for yet another p.m., the real excitement began. up to the roof at the men who so carefully year, or to cut the amount of teaching aides Magically, just as the sun peeked out protected the Pope. They were packing in the school system. The town convened from behind the clouds, Pope Benedict up after a safe and holy day, as was on Monday, May 12, and the Board of Education met Tuesday, May 13, to discuss arrived in the Popemobile, a state-of- I. It was truly a unique experience that these options. the-art bulletproof vehicle designed I will be sure to tell my grandchildren.

Page 5 The Viking Saga Features May 15, 2008 A City at Our Doorstep All that New London has to offer explored by Hannah Barner “It’s something you wouldn’t expect in Head to the spring Farmers Market held sculptures to classic interpretation of art, not New London,” says junior Andrew Lewis. every Wednesday and Saturday at 13 Broad to mention on most nights free refreshments It is the common belief among suburban Street. Locally grown vegetables, baked are offered to visitors. residents that cities are a rough and tough goods such as bread and pastries, locally With vintage all the rage, take advantage area; this is a major misconception that needs grown coffee bean, kettle corn and ice cream of the great ‘old school’ stores located in to be clearifi ed. The small, artsy city of New are just a few of the many items sold there. New London. Peacock Feathers, located London is more “New London is at 13 Golden Street, is a great place to fi nd lively and safe than ‘It’s something you wouldn’t such an artsy place vintage and retro clothing and jewelry. The many would imagine expect in New London.’ to be,” states junior New London Antiques Center also provides and is hardly a Anna Natoli who a vast selection of clothing and jewelry but destination spot for -junior Andrew Lewis attended ISAC middle also supplies vintage records among many inhabitants of New school for three years other items. For a more contemporary feel, London County. in New London. A frequent stop for Natoli check out Muse, a shoe store where shoes With theaters, coffee shops, local stores, and her classmates was the Garde Arts can be custom designed and painted. Located boutiques, museums, markets, parks and Center, where they at 102 Golden Street, live music around every corner, it is hard could see plays and not only is it a shoe to imagine choosing just one way to spend musicals performed store but every month a your day. To help you decide, here are some by professional theater local artist is invited to top picks. companies. display a showcase of If you are looking to warm up on a cool Get enthralled by their work in the store. winter night or cool down on a summer day, works of art shown Ocean Beach Park New London is home to some of the best at the Lyman Allyn on 1225 Ocean Avenue coffee houses around. Located at 42 Bank Art Museum on 625 and the New London

Street, Muddy Waters Café provides live Williams Street, which Google Images Waterfront provide a music, a great atmosphere, good coffee, and showcases traveling art calming area where you some of the best hot chocolate around. Another collections and local A shot of Bank Street, New London can watch the harbor or family favorite is the Bean & Leaf Roastery artists’ shows. The Hygienic Art Gallery relax with your friends on the beach after a and Café located on 13 Washington Street and art park on 79-83 Bank Street offers an busy day in the city. which also provides a warm environment and alternative way to view art. With two fl oors Get away from the everyday hustle and live music throughout the week. worth exploring, local artists showcase bustle of small town life, and retreat to the In the mood for a more natural setting? anything from a political piece, to interactive city of New London!

Which of the best springtime To Flip or to Flop? sandals are the ones for you? by Kit Brown A Summer Classic Reinvented They’re Colorful, to Say the Least Have no fear; Old Navy’s former fl ip-fl ops, which required a good If inexpensive, rubber fl ip-fl ops are not your thing, then look no week of “breaking in,” have been replaced. Their new sandals are further. Rainbow Sandals produce only the best in leather fl ip-fl ops. soft and comfy, just as fl ip-fl ops should be. And, at only $3.50 a pair Though they may be a bit pricey (a typical pair goes for $45), they ($2.50 a pair if you buy two or more), and in a variety of over 10 are defi nitely worth it. Each pair of sandals is made using specially colors, they’re a summer must-have. WARNING: These sandals are formulated glue that keeps the layers and straps in place. The fl ip- prone to accidents. “The part that goes between my toes always falls fl ops are also made with memory foam, so each pair contours exactly out!” junior Eden Brevik says of her Old Navy fl ip-fl ops. to the shape of your foot. Available: Old Navy… duh. Available: Zumiez or PacSun.

Bargain Rubber Sandal Splurge Havaianas have been around since 1962, so saying that they know their The options are endless with Birkenstocks. Once a popular shoe product is a bit of an understatement. They are simply unsurpassed associated with the ‘70s and hippies, Birkenstocks’ previous look when it comes to rubber fl ip-fl ops, and the best part is that they are has slowly faded and the shoes have now shed their dated image. affordable too! Averaging around $14.99, Havaianas are a surefi re hit Available in over 100 styles and in a multitude of colors, the sandals for anyone who is looking for a cheap, yet sturdy and durable, pair are a must-buy. Unfortunately, these will not come easy to those of sandals. without an expendable income – they average around $130 a pair. Available: Havaianas.com or Nordstrom. Available: Zappos.com. Page 6 The Viking Saga Features May 15, 2008 Distance Makes the Heart Please Remember Grow Fonder Holocaust Remembrance Day 2008: 63 years later How to keep a long-distance relationship alive by Mollie Teeter by Ramona Ostrowski I am a third generation American- lit the final candle together with shaking As the end of the year draws near, hands as I read aloud: “With this final Eastern European Jew. I speak purely separation looms for many couples, English, can only read (but not speak candle, we pledge that we will continue to pass the legacy of the Holocaust on to the whether one or both of the people are or understand) the Hebrew language, next generation of youth. We shall share graduating. Though distance can be and know the few words in Yiddish it, as survivors of the great Holocaust threatening, with dedication and a that I hear my mother speak from time have shared it with us today, commanding few helpful tips, the relationship can to time. I also play one of the most each to remember to take courage and to remain healthy and strong. important roles in our survival as a contribute to the continuation of the Jewish • Be their morning glory. Send your people – I remember the Holocaust. people.” signifi cant other a cute text in the morning Thursday, May After I had completed so that you will be on their mind all day. 1, 2008 marked the my reading, I turned • Keep it old school. Send a letter or 63rd anniversary to exit the stage and postcard via snail mail. Handwriting is of the Holocaust, a came face to face with very personalized and will mean a lot to holiday on the Jewish the two Holocaust your special someone. Plus, everyone calendar known as survivors who had loves getting mail! Yom Ha Shoah – Day lit the candle. I made • Make plans ahead of time. If you of Remembrance. I eye contact with them discuss a fun activity to do the next time attended an evening and moved aside to let you see each other, you will both have service at the them exit in front of something special to look forward to. Congregation Beth- me. Unexpectedly, Ms. • Special delivery! Order little gifts online El synagogue in New Khait looked up at me and have them delivered to your girlfriend London like any and whispered to me or boyfriend’s house or dorm, like fl owers other year, but this with a heavy Russian or a cute teddy bear. Little surprises like year something was accent and tears in her this are always appreciated. different. Google Images eyes, “Thank you.” • Jealous much? Understand that This year, I was It suddenly hit me your signifi cant other has a life. When asked to participate in the candle-lighting how important it was to the survivors that they need some space, give it to them, ceremony, the section of the service when teens like me carry on the legacy of the and do not freak out if you do not six candles, one for each million of Jews tragedy that they endured. I went back to constantly communicate. that were murdered, my seat and started • Keep the lines open. Though texting is a are lit. During this part ‘With this fi nal candle, we pledge to cry. When my great way to stay connected, it is important of the service, each that we will continue to pass the mother asked me to make time for phone conversations so passage was read aloud what was wrong, you can hear each other’s voice. This will by a Jewish teen while legacy of the Holocaust on to I whispered back, make the conversation more personalized a Holocaust survivor the next generation of youth.’ “I know how and may help when you are missing came up to light a important it is that them tons. candle. This symbolic gesture assures the I’m here.” My mom smiled and put her • Go green. If you are within driving congregation that the pain and suffering of arm around me. distance, think about investing in a car the Jewish people will not be forgotten by Millions suffered the wrath of Hitler with good gas mileage. The ozone – and the next generation. and his followers. After 63 years, however, your wallet – will appreciate it. I received the honor of reading for the few survivors are left to tell the tale. With • Trust is everything. With your last candle, which was lit by two Russian each new year, it becomes increasingly signifi cant other going off to college, trust Holocaust survivors. When it was my turn important to pass the story of the Holocaust becomes an important factor. Do not try to read, I approached the stage with Lubov down to the next generation – Jews and to snoop around looking for incriminating Khait and Michael Vodonos, who slowly non-Jews alike. evidence of cheating. After all, a person is innocent until proven guilty. 2008 Class Song Announced! • Remember: out of sight does not mean out of mind. Every day you are apart will Seniors, grab your cowboy hats. The class song for this year’s graduates has just make the time you have together that offi cially been announced as My Wish by The Rascal Flatts. Apparently the voter much more special. Chances are they are turnout was a mere 138 votes out of 315 eligible students; if you are not a fan of thinking of you just as much as you think country, may this be a lesson to you all. of them. Page 7 The Viking Saga Sports May 15, 2008 Behind Diamond Cutters East Lyme baseball catches fi re! the by Brendan Welch It is during the onset of the conclusion at this point (knock well,” adds starting pitcher junior Numbers most glorious season of East Lyme on wood). Kevin Bartlett. by weiss-k High School sports that the school “Our overall goal has changed “[Shortstop] sophomore turns its attention toward the in the wake of the success,” says Dylan Delacruz has been getting dominating lacrosse teams, blazing Biggs. “Before it was just to make good defense, hitting plenty,” track athletes, and outstanding the ECC’s, now it’s to win the Aylward remarks. .714 rowing performances. large division title, and hopefully The list goes on and on. This But out there on the diamond even the ECC tournament title. is truly a team performing as a East Lyme baseball’s lies a group often forgotten amidst And of course, winning percentage after the perennial contenders. Now, as in any high ‘We’ve had timely hitting 14 games. against all odds, the dominating school sport, the presence of baseball has risen ultimate hope is with runners in scoring from the ashes to capture the to come away position, and all the pitchers hearts of the town and students like with a state 0 never before. championship.” have been doing well.’ Yes sir, the baseball fi eld is The team is -junior Kevin Bartlett The number of games now crawling with life, as a truly unanimously lost to ECC teams by unstoppable behemoth has taken aware of the key both boys’ and girls’ up residence. to the unprecedented number of complete unit, a perfect example lacrosse teams Before anyone could blink, victories. of what a truly great sports team the Vikings shot up to a fi rst- “The team chemistry has been is supposed to accomplish at any place tie in the ECC with Norwich great,” says Biggs. “Everybody’s level. As the entire team likes to 19.08 Free Academy. playing for East Lyme baseball, say, they have found their swagger. “In past seasons we have settled to win for East Lyme, and putting Even the underclassmen have been LeBron James’ shooting for mediocrity, but now we are the team fi rst. The intensity on bringing their percentage in the fi rst the bench from the fi rst best game. two playoff games pitch to last out has been “Our sophomore class is against the great.” really strong and we wanted to Boston Celtics “We have a lot of have an immediate impact,” says leaders that are stepping sophomore relief pitcher Eric up,” says fi rst basemen Morse. “That’s an honor in itself.” Brain Food and senior captain Wes The seniors have provided If head baseball coach Aylward. “The last a special dose of motivation to few years we haven’t Morse. “The guys in front of me Jack Biggs averages 15 had seniors that are have been pitching so well, and I wins a season for the next this good.” really feel a need to close out the 32 years he will reach the As far as general skill job they start,” he says. His work current total of wins as on the fi eld, the Vikings has been appreciated. Coach Deeb (501) have been showing After the 7-4 defeat of Waterford everything good baseball on May 6th in which Bartlett consists of. picked up the win, the team has R.Shook/Saga “Wes is getting at least been the buzz of three hits a game, I swear the school. Just Wondering Eric (Moose) Morse is one of the many sophomores who have stepped up to help out the team this year. his average is above .500 “We hadn’t beat them in years, ... right now,” says Weiss. but we made it happen. It was great What is the greatest sports really shooting for the stars,” says When Biggs was questioned because it was our seniors’ last movie ever made? baseball coach Jack Biggs. on Aylward’s batting average, he chance,” says Bartlett. What record is the one record “I’ve never seen a baseball team denied the request and said this “The way we’re playing, we’re that will never be broken? this hot,” remarks senior center is about the team, not one player really on a roll, and like coach fi elder Kyle Weiss. has been more important than any says, the only team that can beat us Who is the greatest athlete ever If the streak continues, the other. is ourselves,” says Morse, adding, to walk the earth? baseball team could make the ECC “We’ve had timely hitting with “People have to keep paying What sport is better, tournament for the fi rst time in over runners in scoring position, and attention, because this team will lacrosse or baseball? ten years, which seems a foregone all the pitchers have been doing make an impact.” Page 8 The Viking Saga Sports May 15, 2008 Not Your Everyday Sporting Events Rev your Engines...by Hannah Barner All Aboard! The rev of engines roar and the The season starts at the end Can you name the one sport other. Each team has three boats bike in the gate pounces forward of April and goes through omitted from the spring sport in the race instead of one as in in anticipation. Then they are November, though Smith calendar? Here is a hint, it has the fall. The ultimate goal is off, jumping explains two sails and takes place on to have your boats place fi rst, through terrain ‘It is expensive, but if you that he and the water. second, and third, thus beating and forests really want to you fi nd a way!’ his friends With a season in the fall and the opponent. competing practice spring, the ELHS sailing team In every boat there are two -junior Chris Stevens for the number year- is one of the most little known people in the vessel. There is one spot. round as sports despite the fact that they a skipper who steers the boat “It’s not for everybody,” states long as there is not snow on the consistently perform well. and controls the main sail, and junior Chris Stevens “I started ground. Private property with Coached by Neal O’Connell a crew who controls the jib, the watching it when I was seven the permission of the owners and Larry Stannard as a co-ed smaller sail. and fi nally started racing when I is mostly used by East Lyme team, they placed third in every “Both have very different jobs was 13. It is expensive, but if you riders as there are limited trails in single regatta this past fall, but both are very important,” really want to you fi nd a way.” Connecticut. For safety reasons, competing against 20 other states Stannard. “It’s important This is not motocross, but races are not held in the winter schools from all over New for the two people on the boat to a variation known as trail as the sport already has many England. communicate, and it’s important riding. With the same concept dangers involved without adding “There are two for the team to communicate as as motocross, the races in trail wet ground as another. boats from each team well.” riding are Harescramble where “We get to about 20-30 [miles that represent the high While the sailing team participants race against 20 to 30 per hour] in trail riding and on the school: an ‘a’ fl eet only has 13 members, they people at a time. This race can straight-aways we can get up to and ‘b’ fl eet. The ‘a’ consistently perform well yet last one and a half hours, as the 50 to 60 mph,” explains Stevens. boats race against all receive little coverage from participants stop only to refuel. “As long as you wear the right the other ‘a’ boats, local papers or the high Junior Enduro Trail Bosses race is gear you should be fi ne, I’ve and ‘b’ boats race school community. for competitors against all the “It’s forgotten really, we under the age other ‘b’ boats,” don’t get any recognition of 18 and is explains senior and quite honestly, it’s a timed race captain Kelly something that we which lasts Stannard feel we have earned,” typically a “Every explains sailing half hour fi nish is “x” member junior Ryan longer than the amount of Steele. Harescramble. points, so With the under- “They have if you exposure by the younger races finish local media, where kids can third, recruiting new ride in them, it’s members is made photo submitted probably as photo submitted diffi cult. young as three Junior Brad Smith catches some air while trail riding. “There years old, and they can have their seen a few people get injured three is parents race in them as well,” but nothing too serious,” states points, such explains junior Brad Smith who Smith. second, two points and so on. a small has been riding for seven years Though not as popular or as At the end of the day you add amount of students who have and racing for four. well known at motocross, the New up every single race from the a sailing background before “It’s not for everybody,” states England Trail Riding Association ‘a’ and ‘b’ and whose ever team they got to high school,” says junior Chris Stevens “I started has over 3,000 members of all has the combined smallest score Stannard, “so it’s really important watching it when I was seven ages. For more information about wins.” to recruit the new kids and try and fi nally started racing when I the sport or how to join visit www. In the spring however, the and get them involved because was 13. It is expensive, but if you Netra.org. New members are races change almost completely. it is so small. We teach them and really want to you fi nd a way.” always welcome. The two teams race against each race at the same time.”

Page 9 The Viking Saga Entertainment May 15, 2008

Thank You, Come Again The Simpsons ride opening Strutting Their Stuff in May (continued from front page) by Matt Heath The hosts for the evening were Thirty couples, matched by height or senior class president Ben Fontneau relationship status, strutted the stage to They ruined waterslides at Mount and senior Anna Frausini, who wore an show off their colorful ensembles. Some Splashmore, killed robots at Itchy adorable empire-waisted dress made by of the more extravagant dresses of the and Scratchy Land, even hallucinated sophomore Hayley Engleberg. evening included a red dress with large from drinking the brown water at Duff The hosts sat under a white arch, round sequins worn by senior Felicia Gardens - but when did they ever go to which added to the theme of a night Casciano and a yellow chiffon and lace Krusty Land? in Central Park. The black and number worn by senior Paige Delucca. After 18 years of television white set was created so that the The boys’ tuxes, from Sir Tux and entertainment, The Simpsons are fi nally dresses would really “pop,” which Claudio’s, were by high-end designers coming to life with an all-new exclusive was accomplished. such as Ralph Lauren, Bill Blass, story about their trip to Krusty Land. Christian Dior, Oscar de la Renta and This ride simulates a theme park owned Perry Ellis. by Springfi eld’s biggest star Krusty At intermission, senior Katie Perkins the Clown. sang two songs beautifully and got At Universal Studios Florida, the a lively reaction from the audience. ride will include 80-foot IMAX screens Her renditions of “If I Ain’t Got and all new animation, complete with You” by Alicia Keys and “Beautiful voices of the original Simpsons cast Disaster” by Kelly Clarkson were (also featuring the guest voice of outstanding and she truly made them Kelsey Grammer as Sideshow Bob). her own. An employee of The Simpsons gift To raise more money for their shop (a.k.a. the Kwik-E-Mart) said that worthy cause, the Memorial Fund for the ride will open in mid-May. It was Taylor Emery, Bagwell and Salvatore supposed to open March 15, but was created a raffle with such prizes as delayed due to technical diffi culties. Vera Bradley bags, Pandora Bracelets The ride will be where the Back and a $125 gift certificate to Northern to the Future ride used to stand, with Lights Jewelry. a painted fence that depicts Springfi eld At the end of the show, Bagwell locals and even a giant Krusty the announced that with the ticket sales, Clown head. raffle and previous donations they had The gift shop includes toys, clothes, raised a total of $2,000. “It was really DVDs and even Simpsons comic important to raise a lot of money because books. Right outside, fans can even of Taylor. And we did, we exceeded [our take pictures with America’s greatest R. Shook/Saga goal],” she said. animated family. The show provided a fun night for The Simpsons ride will be able to be Seniors Arianna Thibodeau and Mike everyone involved and was a success summarized in one word: “Excellent!” Boucher strike a pose on the runway at the Prom Fashion Show once again.

2. Unlikely stars can be hilarious. It’s always Some of the best recent ones include the overly- Reasons to Watch entertaining to tune in to SNL and find a non-actor enthusiastic Target Lady and the constantly one- Saturday Night Live host, like Justin Timberlake or Peyton Manning, upping Penelope, both of whom are played by working their laughter-inducing abilities like talented cast member Kristen Wiig. by Kate Eberle 4 nobody’s business. 1. There are always surprise appearances. 3. Weekend Update makes news appealing to Any given episode is almost guaranteed to have anyone. SNL’s news segment, currently starring at least one unexpected guest star. Recent visitors Amy Poehler and Seth Meyers, pairs notices of current have included political figures such as Rudy events with witty one-liners about each one; there’s no Giuliani, Barack Obama and Mitt Romney, as well better reminder to not take anything too seriously. as SNL veterans such as Steve Martin and Tracy 4. There’s always something to look forward to. While one-time sketches can be memorable, Morgan. Paul McCartney even popped into a www.timeout.com recent sketch, surprising even the episode’s host, everyone loves the recurring characters on SNL Justin Timberlake and Kristen Wiig in a Target Alec Baldwin. who are guaranteed to make you laugh until you cry. Lady sketch

Page 10 The Viking Saga Entertainment May 15, 2008 Can You Smell What McCook’s is Cookin’? Cookin’ at McCook’s summer series ending by Alexandra Addabbo

www.cookinatmccooks.com The bad news: The six year tradition of more time to plan. She has already put ads in face-painting, tie-dyeing and even a marine Cookin’ at McCook’s Tuesday night series national magazines and expects 4,000 people, animal touch pool. will not be returning this summer. The good if not more. The food will include hot dogs, barbeque, news: The Tuesday night concerts are being Seven blues acts are booked for the snow cones and kettle corn, which will be replaced by the biggest all-day concert event event – half are local and the other half are prepared and served by local businesses. that the town of East Lyme has ever seen! national. Some of the performers include Wyatt will be asking for a $15 donation The music festival will take place Eric Lindell, the Mike Crandall Band and at the door and says that the food prices will on September 6, 2008 from 2-10 p.m. the Supertones. be “really reasonable compared to other at McCook’s Point Park. The Tuesday Similar to the Tuesday night concerts, festivals.” night concerts “just didn’t work for me,” the festival in September will be enjoyed Great food and music for a reasonable says Tumbleweeds owner and Cookin’ at by children and adults alike. “We’ve always price - you can’t ask for a better way to spend McCook’s coordinator Tara Wyatt. “I work done a family oriented event but this year a summer day. 80-100 hours a week and I don’t have time.” we’re focusing on that by having a kids’ For more information, visit Having one large event has given her much area,” says Wyatt. The kids’ area will include www.cookinatmccooks.com!

comedian Kevin James made about his observational humor is unique and King of Queens, own weight during his live performance gut-busting. at the Mohegan Sun Arena on April 26. For example, he mentioned that he or King of Comedy? The stand-up show featuring the star doesn’t like playing blackjack because Kevin James is stand-up heaven of King of Queens, called “Sweating it makes him uncomfortable when by Matt Heath the Small Stuff,” is one of the funniest he has to do simple math in front of routines to hit Mohegan Sun. other people. “I’m pretty comfortable with my James performed for about an hour So next time Kevin James is in weight, aside from the fact that that and a half and mostly poked fun at the town, get some seats quick because he my stomach jiggles when I brush my way people gamble and the ridiculous can fill an arena faster than he could fill teeth.” This is just one of the many jabs games casinos have. His brand of his stomach. The Junk Drawer by Kate Eberle

Sometimes, the music industry seems all about the frills. come across as real people rather than untouchable music Famous musicians live like royalty, spending idols, embracing their geek-chic look millions of dollars on tricked-out music videos and making their music that much more and lavish effects for their concerts. In this relatable. Their music offers words to kind of world, it can be nice to take a breather live by, such as the chorus of their song of and enjoy some more stripped-down music. advice “In Front of the World” from their CD Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers fit the bill for this Glassjaw Boxer: “You’ll get sick on the way/ www.jasonspooner.com genre perfectly, with their to-the-point lyrics and by the things that people say/ it’ll break your their pared-down, relaxing acoustic sound. The band members heart against the wind/ but you will just keep breathing in.”

Page 11 The Viking Saga The Back Page May 15, 2008 If you had the great honor of choosing the back page question for The Viking Saga, what would it be?

K.Brown/Saga K.Brown/Saga “If you could kill a celebrity “Do you think the soda “If you could take any teacher out who would it be?” machines should be put on a date, who would it be?” -senior Tyler Engleberg back in the school?” -junior Ryan Cave -Mr. George Cirillo

“Why do people steal?” -physical education teachers Ms. Carolyn Asciolla, Ms. Jennifer Carney-Brush, Ms. Kim Thompson K.Brown/Saga “Why does The Saga do this K.Brown/Saga every week?” “If you were in a muffi n fi ght -junior Austin Connaughty “What will Matt Heath which kind would you use? do next?” -sophomore Katelyn Addison -math teacher Mr. Roger Templeton

“If you could come back to life as a pizza, what kind would

you be?” K.Brown/Saga -Ms. Jeannine Poole K.Brown/Saga “Why does Mr. LaConti shave “If you could be a super hero, his head?” which one would you be?” -junior Dave Kennon -freshman Ally Sloss Page 12