Look out Disney Books

A PublicAtion of MonMouth regionAl high school

march 2007 • volume 44 • issue 05

“[The] (RED) company donates some of its profits from the revenue from their “It has been one of the most “The floodwaters [in Jakarta] “Many “Idol” fans have now con- products to buy and distribute successful indoor seasons for the have forced more than 270,000 demned the show as just downright anti-retroviral medicine Falcons in recent years.” residents from their homes into mean...‘American Idol’ was prob- orts tures inions

P ably the nastiest we have ever seen.” A hundreds of refugee camps set P to help...‘our brothers and news s o

fe – page 04 sisters’ dying of AIDS in up near the area.” Africa.” – page 05 – page 06 – page 03 The Buzz At MRHS Seniority The Latest from the February and March By Sarah Boyd & Luke Hall Staff Writers Principal’s Advisory Committee meetings ince its premiere in nior class advisors, Ms. Harris. By Asia Johnson- 2003, Mr. Monmouth Amanda Gaal, Kristen Greve- Martin Staff Writer son, Kelsey Howarth, Farida S has been the tug-of- • Usually teachers nominate stu- Jawando, Asia Johnson-Martin, war in high school pageantry, dents for Student of the Month, but Mr. Rachel Kenney, Chrissy Perez, in which junior and senior Teeple would like more nominations to Michelle Turli, and Krislin Yo- guys alike vie for the hal- come from the students. He also wants suiko all worked behind the lowed title. Although the ad- the student body to know that the win- scenes organizing the event, mittance of junior candidates ners are not chosen by one nomination; while Lindsay Corcione, Jenn has always given hope to the but are decided upon by a committee. Eckstein, and Mary Spanarkel underclassmen who do not yet oDecember: Farida Jawando served as hostesses for the rule the school, 2007’s compe- oJanuary: Kay Lance night. “Those who weren’t tition was claimed by the se- • A lot of students believe that ‘on display’ helped set up back- niors in more ways than one. parts of the HSPA will not be counted, stage and helped run the entire With eleven of the which is not true. Teeple says that ev- event smoothly,” said Dooney, twelve contestants representing ery part counts. He would prefer non- “You could say they are the the class of ‘07 and the odds juniors to be at the school by 10:00 on synovial fluid in our joints.” in their favor, the competition testing days. Even contender Sa boiled down to three seniors. • A student in the meeting com- Pham admitted during his on- John Leung, who did what he plained that there is no soap in the new stage interview that he chose came to do—prove that the un- bathrooms, just “bubbly water,” Teeple to participate in the competi- derdog has a chance to win big, says that he plans on talking to Mrs. tion in order to support his came in third place. Sa Pham, Parry, the Business Administrator. class. “It was a nice surprise who spends his time “benching • “The newspaper really stepped to win second place. It felt 18-wheelers,” as his on-stage it up,” said Teeple about the Falconaire. pretty awesome,” he said. bio read, and playing his guitar, He says that the paper is really enjoy- Mr. Monmouth may al- took second place. The title of able to read. ways be an opportunity for the Mr. Monmouth, however, went • There will be Diversity Day senior class to bank a few bucks to Jason Dooney, the Kung- this year. However, Teeple is working Fu fighter with “eyes you can for the prom, but for some,

Photo by Francesca Martelli on the details with Mrs. Kroposky, the like the king himself, Jason swim in,” as Dooney phrased it. Sociology teacher and member of Af- Dooney, it is a chance to flaunt Aside from their obvi- firmative Action Committee. what they’ve got. “It meant ous on-stage victory, the senior Mr. Monmouth 2007 Jason Dooney tries to hold • Due to the fact that there are going out there with a group class earned over $1,000 from on to his crown and still look stylish. no longer any more library passes be- of guys—the funniest at Mon- the fundraiser. The event also cause the administration found it to be McLaughlin can testify to. the payoff big. “There mouth Regional—and strutting managed to attract one of the a waste of paper, students and teachers But the contestants was an outpouring of sup- our stuff and having a good time largest PAC-turnouts at MRHS, have been photo-copying their pass- were not alone in making port from the seniors,” while doing it,” said Dooney. as Mr. Monmouth judge and for- books. Teeple says not to do it and sug- the night memorable and said one of the three se- mer senior class advisor Mrs. gest that students come to him about adding more pages onto their pass- Look Out Disney books. For more of the “Buzz,” see Variety, By Mae-Lin Tang Contributor page 8. n February 14, the them perform at Universal City tuba player Mike Mullins said, Golden Falcon March- Walk. Sea World was equally “[This trip] is the pay off for the Oing Band and Color- impressed by the competition last four years of commitment.” guard and Jazz Band headed DVD from the Marching Band The Marching Band is out to Orlando, Florida, for the and requested a show stop, which more or less a drum corps, a more second time to perform at a mu- is a stand still performance for a intense version of a marching sic showcase in Disney World. few minutes. During the parade, band, because they use the tradi- The bands performed at Magic Mr. August Busch IV, the great- tional instrumentation while in- Kingdom, Universal Studios: great-grandson of Anheuser- corporating the drum corps. The Islands of Adventure, and Sea Busch founder Adolphus Busch band practiced over 150 hours World. In order for both bands and CEO of Sea World and in preparation for this trip, start- to be selected for this opportu- Busch Gardens, made a special ing in the fall during marching- nity, they had to send audition appearance to watch the parade. band season, and continued dur- tapes for the Jazz Band and After the performance he told ing the winter. Much time and a DVD of the Giant Stadium MRHS band director Mr. Ro- planning has been spent with Marching Band Competition. mano that he was impressed by fundraisers, concerts, and other Photo Courtesy of Disney Photo Pass Universal Studios was the Marching Band and that they activities to raise money for the so impressed by the Jazz Band’s made an impact on the audience. trip. “We support each other, The Marching Band makes their way down Main audition tapes that they extend- Busch said that it would be an follow orders and practice like Street in Disney’s Magic Kingdom. ed their time from the 20-min- honor if the band would come every other team,” said junior ute norm to 45 minutes, and let back in the near future. Senior flute section leader Liz Poole. Falconaire March 2007 features 2 She’s Got Rhythm Hitting the High By Alyssa Grossman Staff Writer Notes enior Christine Chan to take that risk,” says Chan, “I can sometimes be was really close to missing out By Christine Chan Contributor Sheard breaking into on a big part of my life.” From osh [Staudinger] song in Spanish class, but her there, she took more risks and is amazing... talents go way beyond ser- was accepted into increasingly “Ja prodigy,” enading her fellow students. prestigious choruses. says senior Chrissy Perez, The self-taught singer and From listening to con- Staudinger’s fellow ‘choirteer’ guitar player has performed ductors and trained students, and good friend. However, in German, Latin, Spanish, Chan figured out how to train Joshua Staudinger merely and even Polynesian. She also Photo by Francesca Martelli her own voice. “I’ve met kids views himself as someone who plays the piano, glockenspiel, the Mixed Chorus performed who taught at Julliard, have can “truly express [himself] and flute. Now all of her tal- in Atlantic City. Chan notes their own professional CDs, through art.” In most, if not ent and hard work have paid that both of these hold blind have sung for the President,” all of the music programs at off. Chan is the first student auditions, meaning singers are she says. But to no extent is she Monmouth Regional—from in MRHS history to make behind a curtain or facing their in it for recognition. She loves the Jazz Band to the Show NJ All-State Mixed Chorus, backs to the judges. “They to learn and teach and to share Company Choir—Staudinger Women’s Chorus, and All- don’t judge on looks, just pure her passion for music with oth- is Monmouth’s very own Shore Chorus. “Music has voice,” she says. ers. phenom. Staudinger’s greatest Photo by Francesca Martelli not only been a creative out- Last, but not least, is This performer went achievements include being in the repertoire demands the let for me; it has become my the All-Shore Chorus com- to her first concert, Aerosmith, New Jersey’s All-Shore Chorus students to sing in over seven passion,” she says. prised of 150 students from when she was only six years (comprised of high school different languages. In order This is Chan’s first Monmouth and Ocean Coun- old and has attended hundreds students from Monmouth for one to even audition, he year in All-State Mixed Cho- ties. Initially, Chan thought of concerts since. She says that and Ocean counties) for four or she must be ranked in the rus. Only 200-300 students that All-Shore was “something this played a part in sparking consecutive years and New top ten of his or her vocal from across the state are cho- just beyond my abilities.” her love of the stage. “I grew Jersey’s All-State Mixed section in the New Jersey All- sen from the thousands who Sophomore year, MRHS cho- up with Aretha instead of Ar- Chorus (comprised of high State Chorus; the applicant’s audition. Junior year she au- rus teacher Mrs. Mindas was thur, Bruce instead of Big Bird. school students from the musical achievements and ditioned for the Women’s so convinced of Chan’s talent Whether we were in the car, the entire state of New Jersey) for experiences in previous chorus, where only 150 sing- that she went ahead and secret- house, or in church, a song was three consecutive years–both vocal groups are taken into ers were chosen. Both groups ly registered her. “I was lucky always playing.” of which have ranked him much consideration as well. performed at the NJPAC and that someone gave me the push in the top five of the Tenor I Staudinger’s application was section each year, but his latest so impressive that the board of achievement, All-Eastern the All-Eastern Chorus made a It’s Debatable Chorus, has left its mark on rare exception, “I missed the By Alyssa Grossman Staff Writer MRHS history. cut-off date for my application “Josh is the first student ttention students who enjoy arguing: the Forensics team is organizing a school- submission by about a in the history of Monmouth month… [but they] still invited wide debate. “[We are] trying to promote intellectual dialogue across the Regional to make All-Eastern me to apply enthusiastically.” Adisciplines,” says Ms. Ciccone, one of the advisors of the club. The topic is Chorus,” MRHS chorus Staudinger currently ranks as “Should minors be tried as adults according to how violent the crime is?” Ciccone and teacher Mrs. Mindas says. The one of the top male vocalists fellow advisor Mrs. Fritzch are hoping to incorporate Mrs. Famelio’s forensics class necessity of natural talent and on the East Coast. into the debate. Students are also encouraged to ask teachers about participating in the hard work is an understatement In addition, he also enjoys debate which will occur some time in March. when it comes to auditioning giving piano and clarinet The Forensics team has had some recent successes outside of school. In for any of the New Jersey lessons to younger students. November, Farah Alkaheil, a sophomore, took second place at the Rumson Country Choruses Staudinger has As for college plans, not only Day School Junior Forensic competition for story-telling. Abril Berry succeeded in the made, and the All-Eastern does he hope to major in organ declamation category, where students memorize a speech and then dramatically present Chorus is no different. One performance, but he wants to of the most prestigious choirs it at the competition. The team meets Tuesdays after school in room 506. “We love new become a pre-med student. in the country, All-Eastern And to think, it all began with members,” says Ciccone. Chorus is comprised of high a little boy, barely two years of school students from Maine age, who “thought” he could all the way to the District sing. of Columbia. This year, No Objections Here By Alyssa Grossman Staff Writer ock Trial season may have ended in February, but the team is still feeling pride for their success this year. The ten members practiced for three months and competed at the end of January. During the season, students were trained by two attorneys from Little Silver and a former Monmouth Regional graduate. MThey traveled to the Monmouth County Courthouse in Freehold where the prosecution, defense team, and witnesses advanced to the fourth round. It was a mere two points that kept the team from taking first place. “I’m impressed,” says Mock Trial advisor Ms. Kroposky of her team’s achievements. All the hard work of these courtroom-savvy students will pay off in more ways than one for one student. This year, a $500 scholarship was started for the most outstanding senior on the team. “[Mock Trial] is a good experience because it makes you more open to a wider range of audiences,” says senior Mae-Lin Tang.

Mae-Lin Tang Writers Falconaire Jacqueline Bui Michelle Turli Editorial Policy Layout Editors Michelle Conde Courtney Wyville The Falconaire will accept written and graphic material for publication in the Falconaire Editor in Chief from students, faculty, and administrators provided it is of interest and value. We reserve Sarah Boyd Michelle Futerfas Matthew Conte William Yadlon the right to reject any material that we consider inappropriate. The Falconaire reserves the Sports Editor Amanda Bateman Joseph Dejesus Contributors CJ Pratt right to edit any material received for publication. Matt DenBleyker Alyssa Grossman Christine Chan Luke Hall Statement of Purpose Assistant Editors Adviser Caitlin Ens To provide a graphic forum of dialogue and expression. To provide the school and Dawn Collett Sophonie Hilaire Danielle Klim Asia Johnson-Martin community with information concerning the important issues and activities pertaining to Matthew McIntyre Leah Moreno students, faculty and administration. To publish an interesting, readable newspaper satisfy- Emalee Rodriguez Thomas Millington Mike Persson ing the needs of the students and the Monmouth Regional High School Community. Head of Photography Corinne Oppito Brianna Sas-Ciampoli Francesca Martelli Julie Rutan Brian Schopka Virginia Sanchez Mary Spanarkel Falconaire March 2007 Features 3 Red Is Now DESI(RED) Bad Weather, Good Driving Tips ByAsia Johnson-Martin Staff Writer By Michelle Turli Staff Writer AUTION: The wintry months have arrived, bringing with them unpredictable weather s the year came to a close conditions. While many people will blame accidents on ‘bad weather,’ not taking proper and people rejoiced at the Ccaution in these conditions could make them more likely. Just review a few of these tips, Astart of 2007, along came courtesy of State Farm Insurance Driving Tips, to ensure safety when dealing with bad weather. the AIDS update for 2006: 2.9 mil- lion people died of AIDS-related 1. Bridges and overpasses freeze first. Slow down and avoid sudden changes in speed or illnesses and 39.5 million people direction. were recorded as living with HIV. Despite the fact that AIDS epi- 2. Keep speed steady and slow. Do not drive so slow that the car gets stuck in the snow, but demics are breaking out every- keep the car at a controllable pace so that you have time to react. where, Southern Africa still con- tinues to be the hardest hit region. 3. Use brakes cautiously. Abrupt use of the brakes can cause brake lock-up, which can Because of the threat then cause loss of steering control. Also, as always, keep an adequate braking distance. of HIV/AIDS upon impover- ished regions of Africa is so 4. If you get stuck in the snow, straighten the wheels and accelerate slowly. Try to avoid great, The Global Fund, a non- spinning the tires. profit organization established junior Francesca Martelli, who in 2002, has teamed up with has bought a (RED) Gap t-shirt 5. Keep windows clear. Use defroster/air conditioner to keep windows and mirrors clear, world leaders, the UN Secre- for the cause. On (RED)’s official making everything around you visible. tary, private sectors, and other website, joinred.com, they state non-profit organizations, to fight that (RED) is not a charity, but 6. Check tires. Make sure they are properly inflated and the tread is adequate. The air AIDS, Malaria, and Tuberculo- a business model: a (RED) com- pressure in the tires will drop 1-2 psi for every 10 degree drop in outside temperature. sis in deprived regions of Africa. pany donates some of its prof- Under inflation can reduce traction and damage tires. Bono, from the rock its from the revenue from their band U2, and Santa Monica’s products to buy and distribute 7. Give yourself extra time to arrive at a destination. Get an early start so that you can city councilman Bobby Shriver anti-retroviral medicine to help, drive slowly and safely. have found a clever way to help as they put it, “our brothers and The Global Fund raise funds sisters” dying of AIDS in Africa. for underprivileged countries With sponsors like Mr. Crivello, an MRHS driving instructor, says, “It is important to drive at a safe speed and communities by introduc- Myspace and AIM putting in limit. This means driving at a speed lower than the posted limit if necessary.” He also reminds ing (RED), a group of popular their two cents on the matter, students to check their tires, keep headlights and windshield wipers on if necessary, and to always branded products. Brands like The Global Fund, raised a de- keep at a safe driving distance from the car in front. American Express, Converse, cent amount of money for their The best safety tip is to avoid driving when weather conditions are questionable, if possible. Gap, Giorgio Armani, and Mo- cause. In May of 2006, $1.25 When it snows, students hope for school to get called off or for their bosses to graciously call and torola have came up with (RED) million went to the Rwandan say, “Stay in, driving conditions are horrendous right now.” However, in reality, driving is often not products like the red iPod Nano, Ministry of Health for compre- avoidable, so the best you can do is follow these safety tips and drive with caution. the GAP leather bracelet, the red hensive HIV/AIDS programs to Converse, the Emporio Armani provide anti-retroviral treatment Polit ical watch, the red Gap T-shirt, the for people in a one-third of the Monmouth Regional senior Rachel Kenney American Express (RED) card, country and $5 million more has been selected as a finalist for the National went to them on September 19. the red Motorolla phone, and Merit Scholarship Program. The National Merit On September 11, 2006, $4 mil- the Bluetooth headset H500. Scholarship gives students the opportunity The explanation for the lion went to Swaziland orphans Cartoon to win $2,500 scholarships, as well as the parentheses is known as “the em- and to help with the treatment for brace” because any company that people in anti-retroviral therapy. opportunity to win numerous other corporate becomes (RED) “places its logo By June of 2006, 1.43 million and college-sponsored scholarships. Students in this embrace and is then elevat- people were provided with treat- are selected by their PSAT scores and are ed to the power of red. Thus the ment for tuberculosis, 7.3 million eventually broken down into 15,000 finalists, name (Product)RED” (joinred. were treated for malaria, 544,000 among which approximately 8,200 students are com). “I thought it was a really people were provided with care chosen for scholarships based on academic good idea to make [the fund- for HIV/AIDS, and 11.3 mil- achievement, student academics and teacher raiser] a fashion statement and lion families now have mosquito recommendations. Kenney now has the people were receptive to it,” said nets treated with insecticide. Photo by Francesca Martelli possibility of winning upwards of $3,000 in Step into the Spotlight Photo by Francesca Martelli scholarships By Matt McIntyre and Soponie Hillaire Staff Writers ttention, Atten- forms. But Ms. Russell, advisor Stepping is a dance tra- ping, however, traces all the way not afraid to put their neck on the tion!” The job of for six years, does not want that dition made popular by Afri- back to tribes in Africa. Today line and do something different.” “Athe senior captains to stop people from joining. New can-American fraternities and it has migrated its way across With success already Andrea Smith and Christine Wal- steppers are always welcome. sororities. The history of step- the U.S. and can be found in this year, the Step team is des- len to call the Step team to atten- the most unlikely of schools. At tined for great things. If they tion is not always easy. With 16 their last competition, the Step obtain that success, they will be active members, and practicing team was up against a team from in the championship competi- between one and six hours every East Brunswick, a school with a tion in April, where the top ten day, depending on competitions, predominately white population. teams battle for the number one stepping can be a challenge. The Step is commonly mistaken as spot. Hopefully they continue MRHS Step team has so far ac- being for just girls of one race, on this path and take a trophy complished a second-place win when actually it is quite the con- home in April. Fans can show at Colonia High School, as well trary. The Step team has seen its their Falcon Pride when the as fourth place at Kingsway. fair share of all different races. Step team hosts their “Step Into With more upcoming competi- The team tries to be as diverse Spring” competition in March. tions, members on the step team as possible. The team is open for are extremely confident that members of either gender. When they will bring it all the way. guys step it is a whole different Three years ago the story. Girls step with a sexier kind MRHS Step team had 73 mem- of feel, where as guys step more bers, taking up two rooms to prac- aggressively. “I wish I had more tice. The only difference between PhotoPhoto by by Francesca Francesca Martelli Martelli boys, and dream of starting an previous years and this year is The Step Team strutted their stuff for future MRHS all boys team one day,” said Ms. fewer members, and new uni- students at the Welcome Wagon in January. Russell. “I love when boys are Falconaire March 2007 SPORTS 4 Being Successful Indoors Studs in By Matt DenBleyker Sports Editor he 2006/2007 winter sports hind junior leading scorer Tia Cur- John Leung in the pole vault. season is winding down, tis, senior Brittany Powell, and se- In swimming both Spandex Tand it has been one of the nior Caitlin Shaw, ending up with the boys and the girls turned By Corinne Oppito Staff Writer most successful indoor seasons a 13-8 record in strong perfor- for the Falcons in recent years. and a number mances, despite oming off a Both of the boys and girls eight seed in the girl’s strong 2005-2006 re- basketball teams remained in the the SCT. They swimmer junior Ccord of twelve Asbury Park Press and shorecon- destroyed Ke- Katie Fischer wins, and ten loses, this ferencesports.com top ten all year. ansburg in the still recovering year’s wrestling team had preliminary from knee sur- big shoes to fill. Former round 71-30 gery earlier this standouts Jimmy Eg- to face Colts year. Strong per- gie and Kyle Christensen Neck for the formances came graduated with the class second time out of seniors of 2006, leaving this year’s team with a struggle. in the round Rachel Kenney, Individually however, the seniors have stepped of 16. They Liz Luick, and up their moves throughout their wrestling career. overcame a junior Corinne Coach Mammano thinks this year’s team first half controlled by the Cougars Oppito. On the boys side ju- has a decent amount of good seniors. Those four to win that game 54-48 and move nior Eddie Carnes won the 100 are Georgio Ballentine, Anthony Bongarzone, Paul on to the quarterfinals against first fly at the Monmouth County Schweighardt, and Alfonso Salcedo. Although 1/5 seeded Rumson-Fair Haven fall- Championship, 200 IM and the of the team will be leaving, many underclassmen are ing to the Bulldogs 61-48, who 100 back at the Shore Confer- already showing their importance to the team, such would eventually as successful juniors Jared Flynn and Cory Sellers. fall to RBC in the Senior captains Paul Schweighardt and Boys basketball (16-6) won a share SCT Final 34-31. Anthony Bongarzone have really proven their of the “B” North division crown Senior Brittany worth this year. Schweighardt has been wrestling with Neptune after they upset the Powell scored her since he was in seventh grade. Last year alone, Fliers on January 22 on Neptune’s 1,000th career point he was second in the district, fourth in the Cou- home floor, a win no one in the Shore in January, and Tia gar Classic, and fourth in Region. This year, so Conference expected them to get. Curtis (at right) far, Schweighardt has placed third in the Nep- Senior Brandon Cohen (above), looks to be the next tune Classic, and first in the Cougar Classic. a military transfer from California, 1,000-point winner Schweighardt feels “Even though the team strug- was the leading scorer for the boys, as she is 15 points gles [to win], we have strong wrestlers that can supported by sophomores Joe Will- away (as of Febru- compete and [positively] represent Monmouth.” man and Derek Pruitt. These guys ary 27). Next up is the state tour- ence meet, and has advanced Anthony Bongarzone was the second per- were helped out by senior Ricky nament, where they previously on to the state meet. Strong son in school history to qualify for the Individual Stephens, sophomore Anthony advanced to the Group III champi- performances also came out of State Tournament, and the first ever to win match- Gibson, and junior Kyle Fagan. onship game at the Ritacco Center junior Matt Berner and sopho- es at the tournament and place within the top 12. Freshman Neal Thompson came up last March. Boys Indoor Track more Luke Sullivan (above) Last year Bongarzone was third in the Region Six big in the playoffs for the Falcons won every Wr e s t l i n g Tournament. He is a two-time Neptune Classic after a pretty quiet regular season. In champion- had two District-22 Champion, and two-time Cougar Classic Cham- the SCT the boys got the number six ship under champions in se- pion, and a three time District 22 place winner. seed and faced number 11 Monsi- the sun win- niors Anthony Bon- Bongarzone and Schweighardt both won the Dis- gnor Donovan in round 16 at MRHS ning the garzone (152-lb trict 22 titles for their weight class this season at on February 16 and beat them 59-56 Monmouth class) and Paul Sch- Middletown South. During the semifinals, Bon- in a very back and forth emotional C o u n t y weighart (heavy- garzone became the second person in Monmouth game where a couple of key free Champion- weight class). Who Regional’s history to get 100 wins in his career, throws and the home crowd helped ships, Shore Conference Cham- moved on to the Ritacco Center and the only wrestler ever to achieve 100 plus. win it in the end. They advanced to pionships, and the Group II state for the District VI championships. Coach Mamano said that Bongarzone the quarterfinals at Brookdale C.C. championship behind performanc- Bowling had a successful and Schweighardt are “the anchors of the team.” to face number three CBA and fell es from senior brothers Charles season topped by sophomore Dan The coaches think that not only the seniors, but 59-49. Next up is the state tourna- Cox and Chris Cox (above) in Parra, who rolled the first per- everyone really worked hard this year. With their ment. Girls Basketball turned the sprint events, senior Brandon fect game (300) in school history. coach’s support, and dedication from the wrestlers, it yet another successful season be- Catley in the shotput, and senior the team can come back victorious next season. Photos by Francesca Martelli, Sarah Boyd, and Matt DenB- Light on the Ice leyker By Matt DenBleyker Sports Editor Her sport is Figure Skating, tion in April. She also com- my family over the years.” tudents here at Mon- something she has been doing petes in local high school com- With some of her com- mouth Regional are since she was six years old. petitions representing MRHS petitions being out of state Lau- Sexposed to all of the Lauren practices three times a and competing against skaters ren has done a lot of traveling school sport athletes here at week for about two hours after from other area schools. While over the years, something that MRHS three times a year at school, with three coaches who at these competitions she is according to her she loves. our seasonally pep rallies. But help her choreograph her rou- separated into groups depend- So when the winter Olympics did you know that there are tines, moves, and work with her. ing on her age and skill level. roll around again, watch the fig- some athletes that aren’t part Skating has gotten “Figure skating is great be- ure skating, who knows maybe of school teams here, they Lauren as far as the 2006 North cause of all the friends I MRHS will be represented for don’t compete for their school, Atlantic Regional competition, have made,” says Lauren, the third time in school history. their winnings don’t go on the in Lake Placid, New York, the “they have basically become schools resume, just their own. home of the 1980 “Miracle on They just go out there day af- Ice” USA men’s hockey team. Let us know! ter day and put it all on the line She took home 3rd place in this Do you know an athlete who you think we should for nobody besides themselves. competition while competing feature? Email Sports Editor, Matt DenBleyker, Freshman Lauren in the intermediate level, this with the athlete’s name, grade, and sport. Lechner is the perfect ex- year she hopes to take a higher TCID:BW place this year at the competi- Photo courtesy of Lauren Lechner ample of this tye of athlete. Email [email protected] The Falconaire March 2007 news5 Princetonian How is Bush impacting your future? By Julie Rutan Staff Writer Controversy n January 23, President Bush gave his annual State of the Union address to the American people. In case you missed it, here is a summary of the issues Bush addressed, what he plans to do about them, and why MRHS students should care. By Mike Persson O Contributor What this means he annual joke issue of Princeton Issue What has been done Future Plans University’s student newspaper, for students “The Daily Princetonian,” has T -7.2 million jobs created -Keep economy on the move -Students will be able to raised issues of racism. An article with more enterprise included a byline that resembled the name -Unemployment low continue getting jobs -Balance the federal budget of an 18-year-old Asian man named Jian Economy -Inflation low -Minimum wages will Li, who filed a civil rights complaint -Wages rising without raising taxes increase against the university after being denied -Cut the federal deficit in half -Eliminate federal deficit admission last summer. Li said, “I think within the next five years the article was extremely distasteful. -Passed the No Child Left -Increase funds for students -Testing will increase Whoever decided to publish it showed Behind Act who struggle -This is the first year that an extreme lapse of judgment.” Education -Republicans and Democrats -Reauthorize the No Child students will be required to worked together to achieve Left Behind Act take a science portion of the historic education reform HSPA -Research on alternative fuels -Increase the supply of -Many students have their alternative fuels by setting a licenses, and new fuels could Fuel mandatory fuel standard to mean a decrease in gas prices require 35 billion gallons of renewable fuels -Iraqi people have had three -Want a democratic Iraq that -Since 20,00 more soldiers War in national elections can govern it’s own people are going, that could mean -Iraq is no longer under a -Sending 20,000 more your parents, friends, Iraq dictatorship soldiers and marines to Iraq relatives, or even you if you are 18 and registered The article used broken English and spouted racial stereotypes to bash the school for his rejection under the byline Lian Ji. The article read, “Hi Princeton! Whats Happening In... Remember me? I so good at math and science. Perfect 2400 SAT score. Ring bells? Just in case, let me refresh your IRAN? memories. I the super smart Asian. On February 5, Iran announced the assembly of 300 centrifuges in two Princeton the super dumb college, not uranium units at its underground Natanz complex, which disregards accept me.” Although the article ran the threat of tougher U.N. sanctions. There is also a sign that Iran is with a disclaimer telling readers that it planning to create a large-scale “pilot plan” of 3,000 centrifuges after a was part of the joke issue, there was no number of pipes, cables, control panels, and air conditioning systems way for it to stop students and alumni were installed at Nantanz. Iran says it wants to use the technology to from accusing the writers of racism. generate nuclear power, but the U.S. and other nations believe they A man named Andre Lui, who are using the process to develop weapons. graduated in 1991, wrote a letter saying, Brianna Sas-Ciampoli “I consider myself an easygoing person, but guys – this article doesn’t even try MEXICO? to use humor to hide the underlying In Mexico, maize, used in tortillas, is approximately 59% of the calorie intake of the Mexican population and the hate.” A couple of days later, an article maize industry employs over three millions people. As a result of the North American Free Trade Agreement was published in the newspaper on the (NAFTA), Mexico has recently been flooded with imported corn from north of the border. The price of maize controversy over the article. A note was has increased by 40 cents to compete with the prices of imported maize. The government is investigating ways added from the managing board of the to protect the small farmers and low classes who depend on the crop. newspaper that said they “sincerely regret having upset some of our Kelsey Watkins readers.” At the same time, however, the INDONESIA? staff defended their actions by stating, “Using hyperbole and an unbelievable On February 5, there was a flood in Jakarta, Indonesia. The floodwaters string of stereotypes, we hoped to have forced more than 270,000 residents from their homes into hundreds lampoon racism by showing it at its of refugee camps set up near the area. Weather analysts have predicted most outrageous. We embraced racist that it will rain for at least ten more days, which could delay rescue and language in order to strangle it. At its aid. The water level is up to thirteen feet deep in some areas of the city. worst, the column was a bad joke; at its The number of deaths has thus far been reported as 25 according to the best, it provoked serious thought about capital’s flood crisis center. issues of race, fairness, and diversity.” Danielle Klim Chanakya Sethi, the newspaper’s editor-in-chief, said he understood why FRANCE? some people were angered by the column and hoped the controversy would spark In an international summit hosted by France, nations in Africa, Asia, and South a dialogue on campus. He said, “There America that have used children in war, endorsed an agreement that commits are honest differences about what is them to stopping this practice and punishing anyone who tries to recruit children humorous and what is not, and it was for the purpose of fighting. Although this conference is not the first of its kind, a regrettable mistake to think everyone its aims are more far-reaching than any previous actions taken against the issue. would see the column as we do.” According to the United Nations, about 250,000 children are currently fighting internationally. TCID:BW Caitlin Ens Falconaire March 2007 OpiniOns 6 Unnecessary Humiliation Sells By Emalee Rodriguez Staff Writer or the judges of “Ameri- Roughness can Idol,” honesty is defi- Fnitely not the best policy. A column As the new season of “Idol” geared up once again in January, Out to Lunch critics and viewers alike were By Matt Conte Staff Writer taken aback by some of the com- t has got to be the worst feel- ture this: a waiver parents and ments that came from the judges. ing in the world; sitting in students sign at the beginning of Simon Cowell has made cause that is, in fact, Simon, Pau- going to cause ratings to skyrock- Ithird period English class the year that eliminates any sort himself famous in the United la, and Randy’s job. But when et. “AI” is becoming a member while listening to your own of risk regarding the school be- States because of his brutally Cowell went so far as to criticize of the elite club of the 2k genera- stomach growl so loudly that ing accountable if an accident honest assessment of the contes- appearance, he was aiming for tion: “Trainwreck TV.” Reality everyone around stares at you as occurs. Such a waiver is already tants. However, this year he has pure humiliation. The audition of shows such as VH1’s “Flavor of if you truly were a bear. If this instituted for students wish- taken his opinion farther than Jonathan Jayne, a Special Olym- Love” and “The Surreal Life,” situation has happened to you, ing to participate in athletics. just the quality of their singing. pics athlete, attracted much at- and MTV’s “Next,” are classified do not be ashamed because al- In addition, if the school He has attacked everything from tention from the media. Cowell in this group for their just plain most everyone has experienced is worried that students will their clothes to their facial fea- criticized not only his singing, random and scandalous mate- it: that third-period hunger that leave for lunch and not come tures. After only two weeks of but also his appearance. Cowell rial. (No one can forget season can only be saved by a hearty back, I ask, “Does it really mat- the show, Cowell and even Ran- asked him, “Have you borrowed four of “The Surreal Life” when lunchtime meal full of such deli- ter?” Chances are, the students dy Jackson have rejected more Randy’s trousers?” Many “Idol” Vern Troyer aka Mini-Me used cacies as a nice roast beef sand- that would not come back to contestants than ever before. fans have now condemned the his moped as a urinal.) Between wich, or perhaps a quaint salad school are already cutting class “You look like one of show as just downright mean Paula Abdul’s mental breakdown with actual grilled chicken in it. even with in-school lunch. As those creatures that live in the after season six. Katrina Szish during an interview in January, However, at Monmouth for the rest of the student body, woods with those massive eyes,” of “U.S. Weekly” said, “’Amer- and the Cowell-Jackson duo Regional, once that holy lunch I highly doubt they would not he said, while laughing at one ican Idol’ was probably the taking their criticisms to an ex- bell chimes its sweet, sweet, me- come back because the reaction “AI” hopeful. Is his banter social nastiest we have ever seen.” treme, “Idol” has transformed lodic “BEEEEEEEEEEEEP!” of a parent to a cut slip makes cruelty or constructive criticism? Coming from the view- from a display of American cul- one finds that after a grueling Hiroshima look like a paper cut. Commenting on a person’s per- point of the producers of the ture, to a freak show. So much morning of starvation, the only Then there is the fact formance is understandable, be- show, anything over-the-top is for finding America’s next idol. way to feed oneself is to wait that MRHS might be afraid that in line and choose from a wide allowing students to leave for variety of such mouth-waterers lunch would sharply decrease as cold, greasy, limp noodles revenue from selling school stuffed in a cup (fries); cardboard lunches. In defense of the school, A covered in silly putty, which is this is true, but such a problem then fried (chicken sandwich); has an easy solution; it is called, and the famous sliver of crust “You give a little, you get a lit- topped with sauce and rancid tle.” Meaning, if the school were milk (slice of pizza), all of which to put a little more money into, Polit ical feed that growling bear in one’s say, opening a deli line contain- belly. But on the other hand, ing actual cold cuts being sliced make the stomach hurt in a new, on the spot, students would defi- “Hey get out of my way, I gotta nitely pay more money for lunch Cartoon go to the bathroom,” sort of way. because it would be that much By Leah Moreno Contributor Then again, if MRHS more enjoyable. Thus, students was not the prison that it is, per- would not have the sheer desire haps students would be allowed to want to leave school premises to leave school grounds during to satisfy their culinary cravings. lunch to actually please their pal- So until judgment day ates with those delectable roast comes, Hell freezes over, or a blue beef sandwiches, or those simple- moon rises, I guess these school The following was sent in response to the January/February Issue of the yet-elegant salads with real grilled delicacies will have to do, be- Falconaire. chicken. This may sound like cause anything is better than the heresy, but please, keep reading. third-period hunger. I would like Dear Editor, If it is a fact that the school does to stay and chat further on the sub- “Recess” has always been a short break in the Elementary School day to exercise not want to be liable for students ject, but I just ate a chicken sand- the body and give the brain a rest, and to let off steam and restlessness, before young children sit down to work again in the classroom. “Recess” has never been a subject for

during the time they leave school wich and now nature beckons. R grounds to get their food, pic- which you are graded, that has state core standards that must be met, nor has it ever been o a graduation requirement. Physical Education on the other hand, has long since been

IT recognized as a vital segment of an individual’s overall education.

d The Physical Education Department has always worked to stay up to date on

E health issues in the classroom, and fitness trends in the gym. We chose to address the problem of “Teen obesity and promote healthy living” by implementing a new fitness E program. The goal was not to “raise student dissension and griping by 300%” but to

h promote a fitness unit that everyone could participate in, where everyone could achieve

T success and show improvement, and also stay within the constraints of class size and space available. o

T Statistics show that children spend only 12-13 minutes daily engaged in vigorous physical activity, compared to 10 hours in sedentary activities. In an average gym class, a child is aerobically active for only 3.5 minutes! Our whole department is working toward increasing the student body’s level of fitness by trying to exceed the norm and instill good, lifelong habits concerning fitness. Instead of finding new excuses to get out of participating on fitness days, the ETTER Physical Education Department challenges the student body to show us that you all are L “physically fit”. We would like to see the self professed “athletes” lead by example and Photo by Francesca Martelli demonstrate that even the fittest athlete can get stronger. And we would like to see those students whose talents lie in areas other than athletics demonstrate the ability to improve Photo by Francesca Martelli their own personal level of fitness. Freshman Matt Bowe gets his PBJs from the MRHS -The Teachers of the Physical Education Department cafeteria. The Falconaire March 2007 Reviews7 be decorated in any way to guilt and sadness. But the laugh, sigh, and even cry. have the image reflect the common thread is that they It is incredible how “PostSecret” secret being told in the text. are all deeply personal and many people out there are Each week, Warren posted a true for one person. Reading just like ourselves. Al- By Jackie Bui Staff Writer few of the post cards on his through the secrets of other though the postcards are e all have blog. Within a year, his blog people, it is clear that what anonymous, sometimes, it s e c r e t s : was one of the five most pop- may seem like a shameful se- feels like it could be your “W f e a r s , ular in the world. He used cret is really something that very own secret that you regrets, hopes, beliefs, his idea of compiling secrets is a common human emotion are reading. Other people fantasies, betrayals, hu- and published his first book, and a sadly common truth. have gone through some of miliations,” says Frank “PostSecret,” which became No doubt, that many what these people are go- Warren, compiler of a best-seller in no time. readers will recognize them- ing through, and that’s what the “PostSecret” book. Some of the secrets selves, their desires and makes PostSecret such a fas- Warren launched revealed were silly and longings, in the postcards. cinating book because while an online blog he titled amusing. One such secret “PostSecret” is a unique it is a glimpse into the se- “PostSecret.” He invited was, “When I get mad at my and important book that cret hearts of strangers, it is strangers from all over husband, I put boogers in his can appeal to both young also a glimpse into our own. to mail him anonymous soup.” Others were incredi- adults and their parents. For its incred- postcards with their in- bly disturbing: they exposed The book is a quick read ible power and depth, I nermost, and never be- secrets of abuses by and to- and easy enough to read give this book five stars. fore-revealed, secrets on ward others, and the result- and reread several times. It them. The postcard could ing feelings of anger, regret, is a book that can make you Smooth Moves Switchfoot:“Oh! Gravity” By Luke Hall Staff Writer By Tom Millington Staff Writer

he Wario Ware series uses a very unique art style witchfoot returns, re- far from a bad album, it is has been going on for like flash art on the computer. leasing their third stu- far from great as well. The Tseveral years now, WW:SM is what par- Sdio album, “Oh! Grav- first five songs of this al- and with the Wii as Ninten- ty games should be: up to 12 ity!” The key to Switchfoot’s bum are extremely hit and do’s primary console, its no people per game, sharing one success in the past has come miss and the best of them surprise that Wario and the remote passing, and doing all mostly due to their abil- is merely ok. The album gang have made their debut sorts of crazy gestures. The ity to maintain their extremely starts off with the song that using the signature remote. game instructs players what original sound and apply it shares its namesake, “Oh! Those who have “form” to use. There are forms to traditional rock melodies. Gravity,” which acts as a played previous installments like “the elephant,” where In a day when ev- strong start to the album, know the sto- players hold the ery band sounds pretty much but is nothing special. Af- ry is rather remote like an identical and any guy who can ter stumbling through the thin and can extended nose; whine into a microphone is first part of the album, the lis- in traditional Switchfoot fash- pretty much the “thumb considered a singer, Switch- tener hits “Amateur Lovers.” ion with “Let Your Love be be summed w r e s t l e r , ” foot’s unique sound is extreme- This is a great song-it’s lively, Strong.” It is a slow, sweet, up in about where players ly refreshing. They have shown fun and shows the versatility mostly acoustic song that is one sen- hold the top time and again, album after of the musicians. It has a vibe deep and emotional, but its fre- tence, for of the remote album, that they posses one that is strongly reminiscent quent melody changes keep the each set of with the thumb; of the most essential qualities of the Rolling Stones and in listener from getting bored of it. characters. and “the big of any rock group: originality. the end it is truly impressive. This is a good album, Wario Ware: cheese,” where When listening to them, one “Faust, Midas, and Myself” not great, but extremely solid. S m o o t h players hold never finds themselves feeling follows and continues what There are several songs that are Moves is a their hands like they have heard the song will bring a string of great ultimately forgettable and some c o l l e c t i o n at their hips before. Another great thing tunes. It is a fast, yet elegant are just plain bad. However, of over 200 with remote in about this band is that the sing- tune with a slow steady string there are some amazing songs zany micro- hand. There er actually sings. No nasally accompaniment that compli- that make up for the miscues, games that are a total of whining, no obnoxious scream- ments the quick passed rock and put this album just above last from 19 different ing; lead singer Jon Foreman, beat tremendously. It showcas- average. I give it three stars. about three to seven seconds forms and all of them real- simply sings. Imagine that. es their songwriting abilities. each. Why so short? To keep ly add to the silliness of the While “Oh! Gravity” is The album finishes up players on their toes, always game play. The list goes on have players guessing, and and some of the games are keep the frantic pace! These downright weird. I can say Katharine McPhee micro games are odd and hu- from experience that there morous tasks, usually with are many times while playing, By Jackie Bui Staff Writer one-word explanations like, everyone will just burst into fter five seasons, than-pie image and adopted bum are absolutely impeccable. shake, and a banana with laughter over the stupidest “American Idol” has a new look--one that is sure It is easy to relate to her lyrics ants on it appears on screen, things that appear onscreen. Abecome a household to make everyone turn heads. about love and life. Unfortu- and once you’ve shaken the Overall, this is one of name, turning ordinary people McPhee has now joined the nately, sometimes talent and remote, a gorilla can eat it. the best party games I have into extraordinary superstars. ranks of Kelly, Carrie, Fantasia, catchy lyrics alone just are not There are also scenarios like ever played, but as a single Everyone knew last season’s Ruben, and Clay. But can she enough. Personality is a key fac- pull, where you pull your player game, it does not offer runner up, Katharine McPhee, do it? Does she have the po- tor in being a successful artist. hands close to your body all that much. I have to say as America’s sweetheart. She tential to become a superstar? For almost the entire album, it and hands on screen yank a it is fun for a play through or has the innocent, girl-next- McPhee’s effortless seems McPhee has yet to find a table cloth out from under- two, but after that, save this door look with an amazing talent is undeniable. She proved personality that is distinctively neath a set table. Although one for when friends come power-house voice. She was on “American Idol” that she had hers. While each track is burst- WW:SM has a single player over and you are looking for unforgettable in her rendition the pipes to knock out a power- ing with McPhee’s enthusiasm campaign, players can blow something to make you laugh. of “Over the Rainbow.” She ful ballad, but also proved that and big voice, what listeners through it in about two hours, WW:SM is a solid party game displayed her saucier and fun she knew how to own the stage, are left with is a product that and learn the stories of the with a good variety of game side with her performance of having a good time doing what is half mediocre and half great. interesting cast of characters. types, microgames, and party K.T. Tunstall’s “Black Horse she loved. Her debut album For this very disap- Some of the stories are ac- options. I give it four stars. and a Cherry Tree.” However, was a way to show America pointing debut album, two stars. tually somewhat cleverTCID:BW and for her self-titled debut album, that she has the “It factor.” are fun to watch as the game McPhee dropped her sweeter- Her vocals on this al- Falconaire 8 March 2007 Variety Horoscopes By Michelle Conde Staff Writer Inspired by www.glamour.com/horoscopes

Aries Leo Sagittarius March 21 – April 19 July 24 – August 22 November 22 – December 21 Look who is “hot to trot”! This month, forget about flirting! The sun in your house of mysteries makes you a sucker for anything For some time now, you have been going through a lot of bumps. Venus is in your sign makes the opposite sex come to you. eccentric. Go for whatever you feel like doing! Don’t think, just do. This month, cooperative Jupiter is in your sign, making life pretty Don’t give in so fast; feel free to be picky. However, if you are This month, don’t jump into anything big. Right now, you are a little easy for you. At the same time, life seems a little dull, but it is time already taken in, enjoy that special person’s adoration; who impulsive, and it would be best for you to take things as they come, to take that big leap and take the big risk that you have been an- doesn’t like to be admired? slowly, but surely. ticipating. Go for it!

Taurus Virgo Capricorn April 20 – May 20 August 23 – September 22 December 22 – January 19 Chin up, now! The clouds are parting and the sunshine that is All you want is a little excitement in your personal and work rela- This little busy bee really needs to take a break. It is good that glistening on your skin makes your friends (and love interests) tionships and that is exactly what you are going to get! Prepare for you know what you want and you are fighting for gold, but it is “dig” you more than ever! Additionally, this is a perfect time for the roller coaster of your life! It is time to spice up your everyday healthy to just relax and let things happen. There is a reason for pampering; you deserve some simple pleasures for yourself. routines. why some things happen, and at the same time, a different reason why certain things do not. Remember what sleeping was like? Let everything take its cycle and be at ease. Gemini Libra May 21 – June 20 September 23 – October 22 Aquarius Feeling a big boost of energy? Put down the Red Bull and Uh-oh, someone has got a lot of explaining to do! Someone has sud- January 20 – February 18 relax! Take all the hyperactive energy and put it towards some- denly forgot about the four basic food groups. (Keep in mind that Bring it on! You are in the mood for a challenge (especially a ro- thing constructive; perhaps something that really needs fixing. physical attraction applies to the opposite sex, and for that matter, it mantic one!). It is always better when there is a chase! Take the How is your love life doing? also applies to each individual’s self esteem.) Choose some carrots lead in a (perhaps new) relationship! Your special someone really over those French fries! Think about it: going to the gym could help wants to be all you need, but it is your job to let them know what you find that sexy treadmill partner! it is. Reading minds is a hard task for anyone!

Cancer Scorpio Pisces June 21 – July 23 October 23 – November 21 February 19 – March 20 Bored of everyday sights? Well get up and go out! This month, A little stressed out? Can’t wait for the month to end? It is time to Happy Birthday, Pisces! Eureka! You have finally gained the sud- expect some trip mix-ups, but make the best of it. Everything spend a little time on yourself, rather than working so hard on your den perspective of your love situation! Has someone struck your happens for a reason. Get lost and enjoy the freedom. Off little projects, whether it is in your school, job, or even love life. Don’t fancy? Well go get ‘em, tiger! It is your party, and you will do what the market? Nestle at home with your special sweetie. On the take things so seriously; remember, you don’t know everything. Hint: you want to! Keep your eye on the prize; it is getting closer and market? Look forward to an extraordinary someone to help assuming gets you nowhere. closer. How is that for a birthday gift? you settle down. More Celeb Look-a-likes By Jackie Bui & Corinne Oppito Staff Writers Another issue and another batch of familiar faces. If you know any look-a-likes, let the Falconaire know. E-mail us at [email protected].

Darrel Davis Adam Brody Krislin Yosuico Keiko Agena Brittany Wolf Paris Hilton comic corner By Mary Spanarkel Contributor

The Mr. Crivello Derek Jeter Alt oi ds The Buzz (Continued) • The salads at lunch have been said to be over- priced, costing up to $3.25. Teeple says the school does not set the prices, the company that the school buys the Challenge: food from does. However, if the food is priced too high then the school will discuss the matter with the com- Five at a Time. pany to work out a reasonable price. • Students and teachers are still complaining about images and certain websites being blocked on the Can You Di g it? internet. Teeple says that if there is a class assignment involving the use of a certain website or just images he will unblock it for that class. • Dates to Remember: o March 15-Parent Teacher Conferences o March 16- Staff Professional Day (No School)