Issue 2 The Patriot December 2005 Township accepts Governor’s Award Mike Jones ‘06 increased and documented involvement with the community, On October 18th, Washington increased use of technology, Township High School was selected professional development, successful to receive the New Jersey Governor’s improvement in special education, School of Excellence Award for 2005. and a miscellaneous category that This year, only 22 schools in the state the school could submit anything it received the award. Which, when viewed as an area of improvement. coupled with the great number of Also, improvement in one of the school’s in New Jersey, is quite an following areas: Student attendance, admirable feat. Graduation rates, and/or dropout “I think it’s a great honor reduction. because what it really says to our The high school, however, is community and staff is that other not the first school in the district people are recognizing what I believe to receive Governor’s School of I’ve seen for sometime here: that this Excellence status. high school is truly a school of great “Last year three elementary excellence, and now we’ve got that Photo Courtesy of Mrs. Farrow schools in our district won this official stamp of approval.” said Mrs. Principal Rosemarie Farrow, Ms. Anne Moore, and Mr. Joe award: Birches Elementary, Rosemary Farrow, the executive Bollendorf accept award, accompanied by Township Board members. Whitman Elementary, and Wedge principal of Washington Township importantly, the prestige associated continuous improvement in Wood Elementary”, said Farrow. High School. with the award itself.” stated Mrs. standardized testing. The remaining The Governor’s School of Considered an honor to all Farrow. for such a thing required a school to Excellence Award has proven the schools accepted, the award has The Governor’s School of fit into at least 5 out of nine superior merit of Washington become something to strive for in New Excellence Award is a three-year-old categories. Township High School. In future Jersey and contains many perks. honor given annually to up to 25 These categories consist of: years, the school hopes to maintain “The award is essentially a schools in the state of New Jersey. Growth in literacy measures, its educational standing and possibly 25,000 dollar honorarium given to the Just to apply, a school needs to show improvement in parent involvement, have a few more district schools schools that win, but more and give proof of two years of reduction of violence and vandalism, receive the award. Homecoming celebration shines despite rain Heather Ale ‘06 “All the girls agreed that Katie was the right choice,” expressed Nicole Twelve girls. One dream. That is Fleming ’06. Washington Township Homecoming. On Mr. Joseph Bollendorf, assistant October 14th these twelve girls, who were principal, concurred, “It is comforting that selected by the masses, lined up, shivering the queen is someone that the student body in the cold October rain on the freshly- feels good about being represented by. She laid turf and opened the boxes that revealed really seems to care about her classmates.” the Homecoming queen of 2005. The Judging from the outcome of white rose had made its choice, and it was Homecoming, her classmates seem to care Katie McEnroe. about her as well. Despite the fact that this year the girls were escorted on foot, due to the new turf field, the crowd’s Inside... enthusiasm never dropped. “It is very clear that this is a In contrast to the bleak weather that would greet them at Home- tradition that everyone enjoys and is coming, the 2005 court poses together on a sunny afternoon. Coffeehouse Perks P. 2 really fired up about,” Bollendorf Prior to the game, the Spirit Parade and a lot of fun,” asserted student stated. made its way around the field. In order to council member, Christina Vassallo, Before the half-time entertain the stands, and compensate for ’06. announcement, the Minutemen were the lack of vehicles, this year the floats After the Homecoming game Powderpuff Recap P. 3 out defending their home field. They got creative. The floats with the most wrapped up, the fireworks went off with delivered a crushing 34- 0 defeat to impact were those that celebrated their a bang. “I could hear the fireworks from Rancocas Valley. The Minutemen club with a performance or a cheer. my house,” said Lisa Phillips, ’06. They dominated the opposing team The most spirited float was the 11th were sponsored by Turnersville Auto Senior Directors P. 10 throughout the game, with big plays and 12th grade class council, granting Mall and set off by Schaffer coming in bunches, and consistency them their 5th year in a row winning Pyrotechnics. The fireworks proved the from the players. first place in the Spirit Parade. Second point that the weather would not take “The energy was amazing and place went to the Art Club and third away this year’s homecoming. “As Cross Country Makes the team was great. We kicked their place went to the Renaissance Club. damp as we all were, the enthusiasm butts,” enthused outside linebacker, “Despite the rain, the Spirit was not dampened one bit,” History P. 14 Daniel Camargo, ’06. Parade was still a wonderful success Bollendorf declared. WTHS The Patriot Page 1 Local talent shines at Coffeehouse Justine Jacobs ‘06 local bands Post Refuge, The Atlantic, turned out – not and Nascence. There were also a only in the The sweet sounds of tuneful number of solo acts including performances, but music could be heard throughout the performances by Melissa Meehan ‘06 in efficiency. halls of Washington Township’s 11/ and Kim Hofsteader ‘06. “I think it 12 wing earlier this month when “The highlights of the night were was the most students gathered for the annual fall when The Atlantic played and when organized Coffeehouse on November 4th. The Nascence played,” says Coffeehouse Coffeehouse I’ve S.U.R.E. headed event, which features MC, Elizabeth Bryan ’06. “Nascence ever been to,” coffee and refreshments, thrift, and covered “Wonderwall” [by Oasis] and states Bryan. plenty of places to lounge in addition [“What I Got”] by Sublime, and they Oberholtzer to great music, returned to an acoustic were good. Everyone was dancing and agrees. “It was the format in an attempt to shake things having a really good time.” smoothest running up. show ever, starting “The Acoustic Coffeehouse show “It was the smoothest and ending is often a venue to show the incredible running show ever.” precisely on creativity of our performing students,” time.” Photo coutesy of Joe Forte ‘06 says S.U.R.E. advisor Mr. Todd - Mr. Oberholtzer According to Local band Nascence headlined the S.U.R.E. Oberholtzer. “Without high volume Despite the many excellent Oberholtzer, all Acoustic Coffeehouse. and sound effects, it challenges the performances, there has been talk the credit belongs bands to show off their musical amongst Coffeehouse attendees that to the students, namely S.U.R.E. “They did an awesome job organizing virtuosity instead of simply being an act was banned from future S.U.R.E. manager Jackie Van Orden ’07 and everything and really kept our heads loud.” events due to their use of improper Bryan, Master of Ceremonies. screwed on straight. I know that Oberholtzer’s hopes of language and smashing some “They ran the show like they’ll do the same for any upcoming challenging student creativity were equipment. However, Oberholtzer professionals,” he says. shows, and will just get better over certainly rewarded during the show. would like to correct these notions. Coffeehouse organizers feel time.” Senior Eric Wang opened the night “The most harm that was done efficiency and quality of the Students who missed the fall with a rousing rendition of the Star was embarrassment for the offending November 2005 show will only be Coffeehouse can look forward to a Spangled Banner – played on the saw! act,” he emphasizes. “Nobody will be topped in future events. similar S.U.R.E. run event in the “His performance received a banned from the show in the future, “We had a lot of underclassmen spring. If it’s anything like this fall’s standing ovation and was the most so any rumors to the contrary are just step up this year, which was great since experience, it will be, in the words of artistic of the night!” declares that, rumors.” there aren’t many long time senior Oberholtzer, “a great and memorable Oberholtzer. S.U.R.E. members were very members,” says senior, and three year show!! Woo-Hoo!” The Coffeehouse featured other proud of the way this year’s show S.U.R.E. member, Monica Barron. outstanding acts as well, including Students give life by giving blood Mark Natale ‘06 Holding an event as big of the blood drive certainly takes a great deal Saving lives is an action that is of work from the Interact staff. always glorified. Begining in our With hundreds of students involved, infancy, everyone has an innate desire and the activity taking up an entire to be a hero. Recently at WTHS, we school day, organzation was key to all got that chance. a succesfull blood drive.. The blood drive isn’t a typical “A lot of work had to be done fundraiser. Most fundraiser’s raise when it comes to recruiting people, money for great causes, but the blood scheduling everyone, and just drive actually saves lives. Many making sure everything runs Township students fail to see this, until smoothly,” explained Chris Caruso one realizes the impact it has had on ‘06, Interact chairperson for the some of our very own Washington event. Township students. But in the end, all the hard “I’ve had to sit in the hospital work and effort put forth from the and be told I wasn’t allowed to go Interact club was well worth it. The home until they could get me blood. I blood drive was more successful then had to wait, not knowing when I could anyone could have asked, surpassing leave, simply because they ran out of the 250 pint goal. Even so, there is my type.”, explained senior Bob more work to be done. Photo by Mark Natale ‘06/The Patriot About 60% of the population is Bernardo. Bernardo began his battle Senior Christopher Kalitz gives blood with a little moral support. with leukemia last year, and has since eligible to give blood, but yet, only recovered enough to come to school, the blood drive all too evident. Many students are familiar with other 5% do so every year. Interact will as well as play on the varsity football Luckily, the importance of the Interact activities such as the buddy try to close that gap as they host team. blood drive is something that walk, pace setters dance, and the another blood drive in the spring, “I lost a few friends I met during Township students have always dance-a-thon. But as far as fundraiser’s aiming to improve on their 250 pint rehab, and the weakness caused by recognized. After great success last go, Interact see’s the blood drive as goal of the fall. That means another blood transfusions that are too far year, the Interact club reached for its most important. monster effort from our high school apart could have been the difference. even higher goals with the 2005 drive. “The blood drive is great because is needed, but as Caruso so plainly With better blood supplies, they might “Our goal was to raise 250 pints, you know it is going to help save lives, states: have survived”, Bernardo further and beginning today we had over 300 a lot of people get involved, and it “In the end, its all about saving explained, making the importance of people signed up”, explained Mrs. gives the students great satisfaction”, lives,” and that should be inspiring Nuval, the supervisor of Interact. explained Nuval. enough.

WTHS The Patriot Page 2 Seniors defeat juniors in Powderpuff 2005

Rob Czyzewicz ‘06 different approaches to their practice The storied tradition of the methods. Powder Puff game was showcased on Holmes decided to hold full team Tuesday, November 22, when the girls practices the entire week, whereas of the junior and senior classes veteran senior head coach Mr. Bob participated in the annual football Gorski elected to practice only his game. Because Powderpuff is a skill players for the first two days, game that is so rich in tradition, and then bring the rest of the squad there was an abundant feeling of out later in the week. Gorski felt anticipation present throughout as though that it was a great both the junior and the senior opportunity to isolate those classes. players to see who they could “The game means a lot to us. potentially be matched up against. It definitely brings everybody in That way, the offensive lines could the class together and we all learn join the skilled players later in the to play and have fun making our week, and they would be able to pick David Zappacosta ‘06/The Patriot teams”, said Sam Carfi ’07. up from there. Seniors set the tone early in the Powderpuff game. Mr. Andy Holmes, the junior While the girls were practicing head coach, echoed the sentiments very hard to prepare for the game, also like the girls, the boys only had the seniors led 6-0. That play truly of the players. the boys were working equally as hard one week to prepare for game night, set the tone for the rest of the game. “I think it is a deep, deep to perfect their cheerleading routines which seemed to arrive very quickly. The 2nd year players went on to lead tradition. I think we have very for the half time show. The word that best describes the 23-0 very early in the contest. competitive games, and the girls put “We had to memorize a lot of atmosphere on game night: electric. The girls would soon take a break a lot of time and energy into it. It is sideline cheers to get the crowd The girls came out of the locker to watch the cheerleaders perform, their chance to shine in a game that is motivated. Later, we got the chance rooms fired up and ready to play. The but that break would be short lived, usually designated for men, football” to work on our cheer to do at halftime, juniors were thinking upset while and they would have to get back to he said. which we expected to be fantastic” the seniors were looking to live business. Well before the ball was kicked said Ryan Kinch ’07. up to their high expectations. Coming out of the half time gate, off to begin the Powderpuff game, the Much like the girls, the boys It did not take long for the the juniors would not go down without senior class appeared to be heavy experienced their share of growing seniors to impose their will upon a fight. They orchestrated a 5 play, favorites over their junior pains while trying to become the juniors. On the first play from 65 yard touchdown drive to narrow counterparts. That being said, the accustomed to something that was scrimmage, the seniors ran a sweep the lead to two scores. But despite two opposing coaches had very generally out of their realm. But to the right side, and 60 yards later, that valiant comeback effort, the seniors would emerge victorious with a final score of 49-33, capped off by Where does the cash flow go? a 57 yard touchdown pass by Amanda Matt Kienzle ‘06 sporting events here at WTHS go into game, there are many more home Jennings ’06. a general district account for various games than football, and since both Before the game, it was expected We all know where the proceeds expenses throughout the district. those seasons are here, much more that if there were a few defensive stops from professional sports ticket Essentially, the money generated cash will be coming in. in key situations, the team would be admissions go. They count towards is used the same way that taxes are. Another issue concerning funds able to pull away. The seniors used improving the stadium and basic All taxes from Washington Township and our high school sports teams was this theory to their advantage as upkeep. But where do the proceeds citizens are put into two accounts. that of concessions. Most teams here they held the junior girls to just from high school admissions go? One is used for municipal expenses at WTHS have them and most of you 6.3 yards per rush, as opposed to Well, according to 11-12 such as parks and snow removal, and have purchased something from them the 18.7 yards per rush that their Executive Assistant Principal Mr. the other is used by the school. The at one time or another. offense was averaging. Bollendorf, and he would know, the admissions money is sent to the second Well, none of those candy bars Despite the timely defense by money does not go to the booster clubs, account. or sodas are being bought by the the seniors, it was the junior girls the high school, or towards So, the money could be used to school. Each and every snack bar that controlled the clock. Their concessions for the next game. All pave potholes in the 11-12 parking from basketball to volleyball is run time of possession reaches 54 revenue from ticket admissions at lot. and stocked by their sport’s respective minutes, including achieving 22 Right now, you’re probably booster clubs; with all proceeds going first downs, whereas the seniors wondering how money generated by there as well. held the ball for only 26 minutes, New Winter Twilight high school sporting events can However, as usual, football while accumulating only 6 first possibly have an important effect on remains the one exception. The very downs (thanks to Mr. Rob Callaway Date our schools. Well consider this, for profitable snack bar at Township for the stats). It was ultimately the the four home football games this football games is staffed and supplied big plays by the senior that allowed year; the school generated $4690 vs. by the Interact club, and all the them to be victorious. They had Februrary 10, Winslow, $4949 against Cherokee, revenue generated is put towards club touchdowns of 59 and 92 yards $3747 for homecoming against activities, such as the Festival of rushing, and the aforementioned 57 2006 Rancocas Valley, and $3723 on Friends and Pace Center Dance, and yard pass completion. October 21, versus Shawnee. club trips. The seniors became one of a That’s $17,109, not counting So Township, now you know. select few graduating classes to finish This Time it Counts. miscellaneous expenses, for just four The question that has been on your their Powderpuff careers undefeated. games, not to mention the proceeds mind for at least ten years (well, maybe The juniors on the other hand, will from basketball and wrestling, which not) has finally been answered, and look to rebound from their loss when whilethey don’t generate as much per now you can sleep soundly. they play again next year.

WTHS The Patriot Page 3 Commentary Lack of student political awareness appalling

students could tell me who the new to say about them anyway. I don’t David Zappacosta ‘06 Batman is. know about you but it seems a little After going around the high cynical to ctriticize a government you John Corzine, Frank Lautenburg, school and asking ten random students know nothing about. and Robert Torricelli. Do these names We as students so easily jump on set off any bells in your head? Get It seems a little cynical the people that make the decisions any images or ideas or even anything to criticize a government for our country. But the truth of the in your head? If you don’t then you matter is we have no idea why they have just joined the majority of the you know nothing about. made those decisions or the worse of student body in this school. These men in the halls nine did not who their the two is the fact that they probably are your Senators and you’re governor was, and none knew who the don’t even know who made them. So Governor. senators of New Jersey were. The next time you find nice and I have an idea for high school funny part of this every student convenient to criticize our leaders kids. Next time you’re talking to your seemed to have something negative make sure you know who they are. friends when you’re all just hanging out at someone’s house, and don’t lie Who is this guy? because you know that that’s what you High school students are full of Commentary is one of those sections that is run by a do on weekends, ask your friends who opinions. They love to argue about complete madman. In short, it’s just like every other is our State Senator? Or even the more things and most of the time they have general question of who is our no clue what they are talking about. section. However, if you feel as though you can governor. Understandable of course because benefit this travesty of a newspaper by contributing The scary truth is that unless that’s how you learn about a lot of one of your amazing pieces of literature, the Commen- you have the political buff in your topics and lets face it its fun. However, tary section advises you to feel free. group of friends no one knows. They it really bothers me when students rag all just look around and stare, and then on our government and have no clue Our Email is: the usual phrase is, “who cares.” I what or who they are talking about. I [email protected] think that this is really embarrassing. guarantee, however, that those same Time to police parking lots

Justine Jacobs ‘06 searches, help break up fights, and commuters would benefit from the It isn’t often that high school generally walk around looking addition of a traffic cop, not only students want police officers around; Perhaps the most exciting imposing. So why aren’t they outside WTHS students and faculty. the administration should take element of senior year is exercising at seven o’clock in the morning, advantage of this opportunity. the coveted right to park in the high directing the constant build up of school’s lot. Unlike prom, Project traffic in front of the building? And Graduation, and even senior trip, the what about the end of the day? The student parking space is the gift that utter chaos created by hundreds of The Patriot keeps on giving. Suddenly, teenagers students making the mad dash for who depended upon crowded buses to home at the same time results in Editor-in-Chief - Mike Jones ‘06 get to and from school feel a new sense accidents, the number of which could of independence with the ability to be greatly reduced if a police officer come and go as they please. were there directing traffic. Managing Editor- Bethany Messick ‘06 However, getting to the parking Administrators warn kids they News Editor- Rob Czyzewicz ‘06 space is a totally different story. need to leave early to be on time for Sports Editor- Mike Dougherty ‘06 Should one stand outside the 11/12 classes, but they could do so much Op/Ed Editor- Dave Zappacosta ‘06 wing of Washington Township High more. If the district would simply Features Editor- Matt Kienzle ‘06 School on the average weekday pay the salary of one traffic cop to be Entertainment Editor- Justine Jacobs ‘06 morning, the line of cars waiting along employed during the morning and Assistant Editors- Heather Ale ‘06, Steve Dunn ‘06, Hurffville-Cross Keys Road to simply afternoon commutes, it would make turn into the parking lot would rival a the world of difference to driving Esther Gill ‘06, Matt Starner ‘06, Mark Natale ‘06, Thanksgiving Day parade. People students. High school is stressful Layout and Design - Journalism II who could normally reach the school enough without the added concern of Printing - Mr. Steve Whalen & Advanced Graphics in ten minutes are often forced to hectic morning travel. Advisor - Mr. Jim Evangelisti leave their homes twenty minutes The school is certainly generous before homeroom, merely to in its decision to supply seniors with The Patriot is published by the students of compensate for the massive amounts spaces at all, especially considering Washington Township High School. of traffic. how crowded we are, but in an 529 Hurffville-Cross Keys Road, Sewell, NJ 08080 Any student at WTHS knows institution that emphasizes safety, Send letters to the editors, opinions, and ideas that the school employs policemen traffic control should be a factor of to:[email protected] during the day. They conduct drug some importance. All morning

WTHS The Patriot Page 4 Git ‘Er Dunn by Steve Dunn ‘06 Local rock stations laid to rest One only needs to turn on their station Y100. Y100 was owned by WMMR and WYSP have been changes at the station. The classic FM radio on the way home from school the larger national radio conglomerate around for decades. 94.1 WYSP had been reformatted by to realize how terrible the demise of RadioOne which elected to move the Driving home from the shore its owner, Infinity Broadcasting, to radio in the Delaware Valley has become. Beat, a hip hop and R&B Station from one evening this summer I tuned what is now 94.1 FreeFM, a talk show The Philadelphia area now has but one 103.9 to 100.3, and add a gospel to 94.1 and first learned of the oriented station part of a national real rock station to turn to. Gone is channel to 103.9; thus bringing the addition of Kidd Chris, a vulgar, project by the corporation in Max95.7, a solid rock station that likely death of our beloved Y100. Despite profane shock jock with too much preparation of the departure of disappeared before any of us listened to sixty thousand names on a petition to say, to the broadcast schedule. Howard Stern to satellite radio. radio with regularity; gone is Y100, the on Y100rocks.com, the death of Y100 It was then I realized maybe things The station will still play rock region’s only alternative rock station; seems but an irreversible ordeal. weren’t going right at WYSP but after 7pm but only until January, and finally, gone is 94.1 WYSP, a In my opinion, the end of Y100 looked passed it, thinking maybe when FreeFM nationally gets into decades old station and perhaps the wasn’t too big of a loss to the area, the station was trying to appeal full swing. single most popular station of all genres since we still had 93.3 WMMR and to a younger audience with crude, Howard Stern in the morning in the entire area. 94.1 WYSP. While neither of these obnoxious humor. will be replaced by former Van Halen It began last spring with the were true alternative stations, they But then on October 15th, I front man David Lee Roth, and death of the popular alternative rock still played some. Moreover, both realized I underestimated the other notable radio personalities will Inside the Mind of Mark Natale have their own hours of useless talk on the station. The demise of WYSP has clearly P.D.A.s should be K.O.’ed illustrated how dire our radio situation has become. The Delaware Valley has Ah… high school romance. but one rock station that appeals to Something about seeing teenage all generations, 93.3 WMMR. Has sweet hearts hand in hand while the market in the area changed that walking each other to class, puts a drastically that rap stations now warm feeling inside all of us. outnumber rock ones three to one? Or sometimes, a rather WMMR is here to stay at least, nauseating one. but I also said the same thing about Now don’t get me wrong, I don’t WYSP at the time of Y100’s end. have any problem with some public Where has all the rock gone? display of affection. If you want to walk that special somebody to class, put your arm around them, and give Hallway hogs them a little kiss as you part ways, then there’s nothing wrong with that. should step out But unfortunately for all of us that occupy the halls of Washington of mainstream Township High school, there are Nicole Stefano ‘06 couples out there that abuse the privilege. The one thing that bothers me We’ve all seen it before. One more than anything in our whole minute you are walking to get your school is the hallways. There is books, laughing, socializing with your nothing more annoying then a crowd friends, and the next, there is some of people standing in the middle of strange couple making out on your the hallway talking, and not moving locker with enough fervor to make for anyone. They see us trying to get you think their lips will fall off during by, and what do they do…stand there the next 45 minute period. Of course and continue talking! that is not the case, and the same This is a simple request; if you’re couple will rush out of their class a in a group talking, just stand to the mere ¾ of an hour later, and begin the side please. If everyone just stood to cycle again. the side, we wouldn’t have such a big Why? problem with hallway traffic. I never understood this. I mean, We have 5 minutes to get from its not that I don’t enjoy kissing of point A to point B and it’s just the French variety, but I have enough physically impossible. When we’re respect to know that my fellow Illustration by Cassy Matos ‘07 late and tell our teacher our reason, students don’t want to see me What I truly don’t understand hallways, or maybe, I’m just we get yelled at and told to try harder sucking off some (lucky) girl’s face. is: Aren’t these people embarrassed? normal. to get to class on time. Do they really miss each other that How many times much teachers So with 6 months left of my How can we successfully get from much during their classes? Are they break them up, before their pride tenure at Washington Township, I class to class with 3,000 students in trying to prove their love to the is tarnished enough to change send out this one desperate plea: the hallways all standing in their own world? Are they trying to their ways? I mean here they are, Just stop. Chances are, these little groups? There is only one compensate for some lack of doing things mothers would scoff couples are going home and doing solution, stand to the side. confidence by displaying to the at, but they see no problem in things I can’t write about in this Let’s try to help fix this. If we school that they can, like the rest displaying it in front of their 6th period paper, so simply wait until then. all would stand to the side of the of us, kiss someone? I don’t know what physics teacher. Am I the only one Don’t turn D-Hall into a teenage hallway, and listen to the teachers the motives for this are, but I know that would cower in shame everyday brothel, and save us all from the when they ask us to do something, enough to say that I am not alone in during class? Maybe I’m just not as nauseating feeling that results hallway traffic, and many more requesting this to stop. secure as those that go at it in the from it. problems could be corrected.

WTHS The Patriot Page 5 Twilight’s Keeping up with Jonesy by Mike Jones ‘06 Red nose traumatic to youth last Prior to a time when I had any say in what went on in the basic decorating of my room, – that was gleaming my mother’s domain – it was Dave Zappacosta ‘06 covered with clowns. Now, as most will agree, clowns are terrifying Senior year, the best year of our creatures as it is, but to have one’s lives. The year where everything is place of rest and relaxation smothered made for us, senior prom, senior trip, by clown propaganda was nothing Powderpuff, Mr. Washington short of traumatizing to a five-year- Township, Homecoming, Winter old. Twilight...wait scratch that last one. Before I continue, I feel an Its pretty sad that in our senior year explanation is in order. I’ll never about half of the seniors that wanted know what scared me so much about to attend the winter gala have been clowns, but anything that smiled that put on a waiting list, a.k.a. you’re not much, in my opinion, simply could getting in list. You’d think that after not to be trusted. Why do you think the last few years where Auletto’s has no one ever seems to suspect ax- been jam packed with kids to the point murderers of chopping people up in where dancing on the tables is your last their spare time? It’s because they resort they’d get the hint. just seem too nice and too happy to be GET A BIGGER HALL! real people! This is why I hold clowns What people also need to realize is in only the deepest of contempt. The most terrifying aspect of the wall in order to rid myself of the that this responsibility falls on our As I was saying, my room was the room, however, was not by any stare. student council. Shocking it may seem positively decked out in clown stretch of the imagination the When my parents realized that that these students would not realize merchandise until I was old enough to wallpaper – though it was up there the ceramic clowns in my room this catastrophe in the waiting; lest we demand a change. Rest assured, this is on the list. It was the 20-some seemed to be committing suicide off forget...they have reserved tickets no over-reaction, on a daily basis, when odd ceramic clowns strategically of my highest shelf, they were finally DO SOMETHING!!! I walked into my room – the cave of placed throughout the room to moved from the room and placed in You’re our student council, you terror – the wallpaper would dance have a clown-eye on me at all the basement (where they still face represent us in everything and you around me menacingly, just awaiting times. the wall at all times). get alot done for us and yes we an opportune moment to strike, It was this sick form of As for my room, well, needless appreciate you, but please after several leaving me never to face one direction Chinese torture that gave me the to say, the wallpaper met its end the years of this, the excuses are running for more than a minute in all the time biggest fright, so much so, in fact, minute I was given authority to thin. that my room had clown wallpaper. that I started turning them to face decorate my own room. The truly ridiculous part of this is that we are allowing sophomores and freshman to go as well. No offense to the freshman and sophomore classes, Silencing Powderpuff critics but this is the junior and senior dance, not the “hey lets get the whole school Mark Natale ‘06 students glaring looks when they start education, but it is too bad that they to come so none of the juniors and their chants. This attitude leaves me can’t see there is more to school then seniors can go!” dance. Every year before powderpuff, with one question. simply learning. These teachers need Unfortunately this is not the first the cheerleaders are addressed with the Are they serious? to realize that when they ignore the time this has happened. The Winter same speech. Just minutes before the Do some teachers really feel this social institutions running through the Twilight dance has been going to game, blue and red alike are gathered way? Are they actually that stiff that Township hallways, they are ignoring Auletto’s for several years, and outrage to be warned. Time and time again they want to eliminate one of the what truly makes kids tick. Forgive is usually what follows the ticket sales. they are told: dearest of Township traditions? Are me, this isn’t North Korea. But The only thing that I have to explain “Watch what you do out there”… there really teachers that hate fun luckily, it is only an ocean away. Buy this amazing pattern of behavior is simply “Nothing that could be deemed enough to complain about the whole a plane ticket. the organizers loves to be bashed or loves offensive”… “There are people out event? But in those teacher’s defense, to see students who sneak in get suspended. there that want Powderpuff to end”… Wait. Maybe I’m being a little Powderpuff participants aren’t doing It doesn’t take a brain surgeon to realize “Don’t screw this up for next year” too harsh. Maybe I just don’t see how much to help their cause. Just this year, that there is going to be trouble if only While just about all of these bad it is to have students up, involved, one could see a disappointing abuse of 600 tickets are being sold for a school warnings are needed and well justified, and active in something. It must be the privilege of decorating the hall with 1500 juniors and seniors. there is one that burns me to no end. horrible to have kids excited about a ways. Several times the girls were Does the student council expect the “There are people out there that school event. Apparently, these warned, and several times they crossed students that don’t get to attend to sit want Powderpuff to end.” teachers have seen the light! School the line. This simply provided more back and go “Oh gee willickers I didn’t get Of course, that is not the extent spirit is a plague infesting the minds ammunition to the nay-sayers, and a ticket. Well I guess I’ll just stay home of what we are told. The main point of Township youth! IT MUST BE did nothing to help prove that with ma and pa tonight”. is elaborated with the facts that there STOPPED! Powderpuff is a good tradition. Come on…COME ON!!!! are teachers in our school who think Let me take this time to turn I won’t argue that what happened I would continue but I’m afraid Powderpuff is a waste of time, a off my raging sarcasm. was wrong, but I WILL argue that the that the student council, in all distraction, and completely un- Any teacher that fits my students came together to atone for their wisdom, will only ask us to necessary in a school environment. description needs to wake up, and their mistakes, and took care of the print 20 issues of this paper to the These are the teachers you see realize there are beneficial things in situation. Does Powderpuff deserve to 3100 students. After all, the same scoffing at the signs we put up, yelling life BESIDES schoolwork. I don’t be abolished because of it? Not at method worked for Winter at cheerleaders to turn off their music know what made them decide to all, but one can expect uptight Twilight, right? between classes, and giving the promote a life of unadulterated teachers to call for it.

WTHS The Patriot Page 6 By Shane Walsh ‘06

By Brad Grandrino ‘08

WTHS The Patriot Page 7 Features State trims fat from school lunch Bethany Messick ‘06 The food isn’t the only thing that kids complain about, it’s the Lunch time is usually a student’s prices too. Some students say that favorite time of the day. You can sit school lunch is way too expensive, back, talk to your friends, do some but is it? homework you forgot about, and The cafeteria does not use any enjoy some good food. Lately money the school receives from however, the part about the good food taxes. It is almost like the cafeteria has slowly been shifting. Students can is its own separate entity. The money no longer enjoy the infamous “big that the cafeteria receives from cookies” and decadent Tastykakes. students and teachers pays for the Many kids think that the school food, the condiments, the paper is to blame for this, or that the lunch products, the soaps and cleaners, and ladies are to blame, but they are not. the lunch ladies’ services. When you The government is to blame for the think about it that is a lot of expenses. new low fat and baked goods selection The cafeteria also does not make a the cafeteria now offers. Each year profit so all of the prices are as low as the government audits the prices and they possibly can be. the items that school cafeterias are Each year the head of food selling. services, Ginny Bowden, goes to each The government puts certain Photo by Bethany Messick ‘06/The Patriot vendor and asks how much each item demands on the cafeteria. Each week the The government is gradually eliminating all junk food from costs. She then sits down and divides school lunch has to contain a certain our school cafeterias. up all the costs and expenses to amount of protein, fiber, sodium, The government also puts government is phasing in the determine the prices. She tries to keep vitamins, fat, and carbs. This is why restrictions on the types of snack the elimination of all junk food. In two the prices as low as possible; in fact students now receive only one hotdog cafeteria sells. The cafeteria cannot years there will be no more the price of regular lunch did not go instead of two. With two hotdogs kids are sell any product where the first Tastykakes or sweets. Sorry up from last year. taking in too much protein and too many ingredient is sugar. The cafeteria is freshmen and sophomores. In The government is making all carbs. The cafeteria sells smaller rolls in also restricted to baked goods or addition, the government plans to of these changes to the cafeteria the cold lunch line to cut back on carbs as reduced fat items. take away all fried foods and because of the increasing rate of obese well. To further cut back on fat and carbs Now you may say “Why do we anything that is high in fat. Sadly, kids. The government believes that the cafeteria has been using whole grain have to eat baked chips, but are still the government is also trying to school cafeterias are not only there pizza, low fat cheese, low fat mayo, and allowed Tastykake Honey buns every make school vending machine to feed you, but also to educate you to other diet products. once in a while?” This is because the healthier as well. make smart, nutritious decisions. McEnroe wise choice for Queen Simone Miliaresis ‘06 Homecoming was one of McEnroe’s allowing her grades to drop. She is favorite memories thus far. She said looking forward to Powder Puff and Most students attended the becoming closer with the girls was a great “being undefeated again!” homecoming game on October 14, experience. Even when she won, she McEnroe’s favorite aspects of 2005 and saw the twelve girls of the thought about the other girls and how they school are getting to see her friends court walk out on the field anxiously all deserved it. everyday and knowing that eventually in hopes of winning. After all the talk McEnroe is a hardworking all of her hard work will pay off. Her and votes, Katie McEnroe was the student who takes challenging classes, favorite teacher is Mrs. Merckle, her winner. most of which are Advanced childcare teacher. While opening the box and Placement and Honors courses. She “She prepared me for the rest of realizing she had won, McEnroe maintains an A GPA and was accepted my life and taught me all of life’s explains, “I was so shocked and into the National Honor Society last lessons,” said McEnroe. thankful that all of my friends had year, which she says is one of her Currently, McEnroe does not voted for me!” greatest achievements. McEnroe is work and instead is spending her time McEnroe received much involved in the French Club, Project concentrating on college applications, support from her family and 540, and is the girls’ soccer manager. school activities, attending football friends. Her mom ran out on the “I take all pretty hard classes, games, and enjoying the best time of field to congratulate her. but I manage to get it done,” her life with her friends. “It made me feel so good that commented McEnroe. “Graduation will be a big step for Photo Courtesy of McEnroe family my family and friends were there Her favorite aspect of the class all of us,” McEnroe stated. She is excited McEnroe plans to attend the cheering for me,” she said. of 2006 is that it has a lot of school for the future, but is reluctant to leave all After the announcement, spirit. of her great memories behind. University of Delaware. McEnroe’s family and friends left “We are a closely knit class After high school, McEnroe plans McEnroe recognizes that the steps at half time to decorate and throw where everyone is friends.” to attend either University of Delaware towards achieving her lifetime goals her a party. Now that homecoming is or Towson University to major in early began in high school. Her advice “I walked in to see thirty of finished McEnroe plans to represent education and minor in psychology. to underclassmen would be “do my closest friends waiting for me Washington Township High School by Her ultimate goal is to become a child well, get involved, and enjoy it. and my name spelled out in keeping her school spirit, staying in psychologist and move out to the West These are the best four years of ribbon.” National Honors Society, and not Coast with her family. your life.”

WTHS The Patriot Page 8 “To your Health” by Steve Dunn ‘06 Taking your education seriously I would first like to acknowledge protection against pregnancy and correctly it reduces the risk of effectiveness of any method birth that this is a very touchy subject and STDs. pregnancy to “practically nil” control. I apologize to anyone whom this may If used correctly, condoms are according Avert.org. It is also Being responsible for a baby or offend. Perhaps more relevant and 85 to 95% effective in preventing an recommended that other forms of getting an STD will drastically change prominent than all other health topics unplanned pregnancy, according to the contraception be used in addition to the course of any person’s life no on the minds of teens is sex. World Health Organization. the pill. matter whom they are and what kind Every day all people, especially However, a new one must be used However, as with condoms, the of life they lead. teenage students, are exposed to the every time you have intercourse, and phrase “if used correctly” is key. The best way to not bear the flaunting of sex on television, movies, are not guaranteed to prevent With any form of brunt of any resulting consequences and daily conversation. It is pregnancy or STDs. contraceptive, whether condoms or of sex is to not do it. important that students are aware of More and more girls as they get the pill or “morning after” pills, it is If you’re going to have sex, be the options, risks, and consequences older are using birth control pills. extremely important that they are smart about it, and at the least, make regarding sexual activity. This is the most effective method of used correctly. Misuse and improper sure you are protected and know what Students receive “Sex Ed” three preventing pregnancy; if used use drastically reduces the you’re getting yourself into. times during their run in the Washington Township school district, first in eighth grade and then again in tenth and twelfth grade. Though The man behind the monitor information is available, few teens Mikala Marsh ‘07 met his wife, Dorris. take is seriously. “It was love at first sight” says I am not preaching abstinence, You know those people who sign Rodman. but there are several risks and your pass when you leave the After a year and half of dating consequences of engaging in sexual bathrooms? Those people we never they decided to get married. A few activity. One runs the risk of really talk to but you know they are months later Rodman left the Ship contracting STDs, pregnancy, and always there? Well I had the chance Yard to work for a finance company intense emotional stress. The best to talk to one of the many people in North Philadelphia. After two years way to not have to deal with these who help out, Mr. Walter David in Philadelphia he was later transferred things is to not do it at all, but I know Rodman Sr. to North Carolina. that is an extremely difficult decision; Rodman, who is known to many “It’s so beautiful down there, to make and such a decision runs as Walt, was born in Camden, New everyone is so friendly”. After two against “the grain” of high school Jersey on June 11. His hobbies include years in North Carolina he was social life. watching and playing sports. transferred again to Maryland. Abstinence is the best option, “I love all the Philadelphia After five years he came back to but realistically, most students need sports teams”. Philadelphia and worked as Vice to be informed and utilize birth control He enjoys spending time with President of the First Pennsylvania in order to protect themselves from his family, including his wife Bank. He later retired from there after the potential problems resulting from Dorris, his two sons, and his 4 Bethany Messick’06/The Patriot twenty two years. He then came to sexual activity. There are several granddaughters. Mr Walter Rodman always has Washington Township and has been here ways, though none as effective as Nine months after Rodman a pleasent greeting for the for the last nine years. abstinence, in which people can be graduated from high school he went WTHS staff and students. Rodman is a positive influence on safer. into the army. He spent two years in Washington Township and the people The least expensive and most the service and was stationed in Temple University in Philadelphia on inside. He greets you with a smile as soon widely used method of birth control is Germany. a G.I Bill. He left school after a year as you turn the corner, and a “No the use of condoms. Condoms are “It was a huge part of my life” and half and went to work for the smoking” reminder before you enter the easy to attain and just as easy to use, he says about being in the service. government at the New York bathrooms. Without him, Washington and also provide reasonably good After he left the army he went to Shipyard. At the ship yard is where he Township would not be the same.

Roving Reporter Heather Ale ‘06 Photos by Matt Kienzle ‘06 What should the high school do with the $25,000 grant which the state will provide for winning the governor’s award?

“Institute a program that “Hire a new Auto Shop teacher.” motivates the children and “New gym equiptment.” “A water slide for Quay Way.” -Kyle Ellingsworth, ‘07 teachers and excites them about -Chuck Sakenas, ‘07 -Nicole Montecalvo, ‘06 learning.” -Christie Mason, ‘06

WTHS The Patriot Page 9 Senior actors take charge Megan Bearint Cristina Lanzilotta ‘06 program and a huge challenge for the seniors. Anyone who knows Megan Senior Directed is a show Bearint ‘06 can tell you what an comprised of skits and “show fillers,” enthusiastic, funny, friendly and often which are basically on stage TV seemingly insane person she is. She is commercials, completely put a stand out in Washington Township together by two seniors who were High School’s drama program and voted on by the previous year’s Senior really enjoys acting. Directed cast. Skits are usually taken “I grew up on stage,” says from plays, TV shows or movies and Bearint. She is passionate about the directors create the show fillers acting and plans to major in theater on their own. There are an equal and minor in education in college. amount of skits and show fillers to Her main goal in life is to keep things flowing smoothly. become a famous actress and be on The whole point of Senior SNL, but if that doesn’t work she Directed is to keep everything a secret would love to be a theater teacher. so that on the night of the show the audience has no idea what to expect. “I grew up on stage.” Bearint is not allowed to share any Rob Czyzewicz ‘06/The Patriot information about the show until after Kelly Karcher looks forward to taking control of the Senior She was in her first play at the roles are given out to about 30 Directed Cabaret. age of 4 and hasn’t stopped since. students; even then those involved are Bearint has been in almost every play, the only ones are allowed to know. musical and senior directed at WTHS The objective is to have creative and Kelly Karcher since her freshman year. She has also original ideas for every skit, nothing been in productions outside of school repeated from years past. Rob Davis ‘06 Committee, in the school plays and such as “Brighten Beach Memoirs” at Bearint and Karcher want to musicals, among others. Rowan University. Bearint also make this year’sSenior Directed Senior Kelly Karcher is usually With all this on her shoulders, received an “excellence in acting” showthe best ever and with their seen on stage either acting or singing Karcher has managed to stay within award at the annual Bucks County theatrical talent and flair it very well in one of the many school the top ten of her class, currently ranked Playhouse in 2004. could be. performances, but she works just as fourth. “I’m really passionate about This year, along with fellow The show runs from January 19th hard in her life outside of the arts. everything I do, and I always want to senior actress Kelly Karcher, Bearint to the 20th in the Chestnut Ridge Her ambitions do not stop at an give everything my all,” says Karcher. will be one of the directors for the Middle School auditorium. Also, if you auditorium’s stage - Karcher’s class Everything she is part of leaves annual Senior Directed show. It is want to catch the directors in action schedule is packed, she is part of Karcher little room for having a job. usually held in the 11/12 auditorium they will both be featured in this year’s several after-school clubs, and does it During the summer, though, she does at WTHS but because of renovations fall production “Play On,” which, as all voluntarily. have time and uses it. it is going to be held at Chestnut usual, should also be a pretty good She admits, “Last year I would’ve She says, “This past summer I Ridge Middle School, which is going show, here at Washington Township said [I do it all] by not sleeping, but I’ve worked at Mainstage Center for the Art, to be a first for the Senior Directed High School. been doing better with that this year.” as an intern for the Summer Stage Karcher’s school schedule can Children’s Theatre program. I helped direct be seen menacing by many others. and choreograph the show Once on This She has sacrificed lunch this year to Island for kids grades 6 through 11.” include another subject. Her class Karcher puts lots of time into this lineup includes four AP courses as well. (Spanish, Calculus AB, Psychology “Most days I stayed through until the night, in between either working “I’m really passionate about on choreography or working at the everything I do, and I always latch key program, when I rehearsed Little Shop of Horrors.” want to give everything my all.” Karcher has her own ideas for already-established groups as well. She and European History), in addition is enthusiastic when telling what to Advanced English, Theater musical she would like to see the Production, Dance 2, Concert Choir, school perform. and Gym. Her nine period day leaves “Once on This Island! Once on her little time to herself. This Island! I want it to be the spring “Free time is pretty much a foreign musical so bad. There are a lot of shows concept to me,” she says. that I’d love to see the theatre Mike Jones ‘06/The Patriot Not only does Karcher challenge department put on, but I think that Senior Megan Bearint looks to make the Senior Directed herself academically, but she is also part one’s the best combination of a show Cabaret an entertaining show. of many different school organizations. I’d love to do and a show that would She is part of the executive board of be good for us to do.” the National Honors Society, in Despite this busy schedule, See the senior Directed Cabaret. Drama Club, hoping to be in Dance Karcher will be co-directing this year’s Club, in Changing Our World, in the Senior Directed Cabarate with Megan CRMS auditorium - January 19 & 20 Student Athletic-Activities Bearint.

WTHS The Patriot Page 10 Entertainment Not your typical slasher movie Heather Ale ‘06 The prisoners locked in the psychopath, and Franky G as Xavier, house are a motley crew of deviants, a caveman-like drug dealer. Possibly the most gruesome and most of whom have seen the inside of Saw II is rated R for grisly disturbing movie I have ever seen is a prison cell. Jigsaw tells his victims violence and gore, terror, language and Saw II. The entire movie was an one thing which could potentially drug content and is 93 minutes long. adrenaline-rushing, nail biting, gasp allow them to leave the house alive: Although I liked this movie, I’m fest that had me on the edge of my play by his rules. This psychological warning you that after viewing it you seat. twist takes Saw II a step above your may have to check under your bed The scenes presented in this average Scream and puts it on a more before you go to sleep. movie were unfathomable and make Silence of the Lambs level. you wonder how director Darren Lynn Keeping with the horror movie Bousman managed to pack so many trend, there are a series of gory, nightmarish visions into one unpredictable twists at the end of the Emily Rose movie. The terrifying scenes movie. Because of the clever twists heightened the intensity of the movie that dominate the end of the movie, and made it highly original despite the Saw II keeps the viewer entertained lacks thrills fact that it was a sequel. until the very last minute. Serial killer Jigsaw terrorizes Esther Gill ‘06 In the spirit of Saw, the plot of The plot may be a bit deranged Saw II revolves around Jigsaw, a victims in Saw II. but it is undeniably entertaining. The The Exorcism of Emily Rose, psychotic cancer patient whose motto acting in Saw II is far better than the gas-filled house. The gas will kill them while it was somewhat interesting, if is “life should not be given to those acting seen in Saw, with stand out in two hours if they do not find the you’re looking to watch a terrifying who don’t appreciate it”. performances from Tobin Bell as various antidotes hidden around the movie, it’s definitely not what you Jigsaw kidnaps a group of people Jigsaw, who convincingly plays a and challenges them to escape a lethal house. want. The previews to this movie gave it way too much justice, and horror quality that was non existent. When I saw all the previews to Boy gets girl, loses audience this disaster it looked like it would be a really scary movie, when in reality all it was, was a trial containing Justine Jacobs ‘06 While the movie information on the exorcism. As for appears to stay true to the somewhat frightening parts of this Cameron Crowe’s new film the boy meets girl film, they were all shown in the Elizabethtown is one of those formula that is previews. Honestly I was a little movies that defy the laws of nature. common in Cameron bothered by the fact that I had just It is written and directed by a top Crowe’s films, it wasted my time on this non-scary notch filmmaker; it stars solid, struggles with the task flick. established actors. Its previews show of balancing the love the promise of a heartwarming, story and the funeral. I was a little bothered by the funny, and bittersweet story of love Elizabethtown feels fact that I had just wasted my like two movies and loss. time on this non-scary flick. By all standards, it should be a playing huge critical success and a potential simultaneously with Although this movie wasn’t each underdeveloped Oscar contender. Yet somehow it Star performances by Dunst and Bloom overly predictable, it wasn’t a horror falls painfully short. tale fighting for aren’t enough to save Elizabethtown. film. In a way it could be considered Elizabethtown follows the story dominance over the somewhat suspenseful, unfortunately of Drew Baylor (Orlando Bloom) other instead of complimenting it. it wasn’t suspenseful enough to be who is subjected to unemployment As always, Crowe utilizes his shock following the death of her thought of as a good use of time. and public humiliation after impeccable musical taste in compiling husband and has taken up all sorts of Although the plot was appealing, the designing a shoe that was supposed the soundtrack. However, the mix of new hobbies including tap dancing and way in which it was projected made it to “revolutionize footwear” but classic rock and warm acoustic guitars stand up comedy. The cheesy wedding all that more distasteful. ended up losing the Nike-esque that so deeply enhanced Crowe’s party of Chuck and Cindy who are There were a few parts in this company he worked for close to a superior films seems stale and staying next door to Drew’s hotel half-witted display which I must admit billion dollars. inappropriate in Elizabethtown. room also provide some temporary made me jump, but a scary movie Beaten and suicidal, Drew returns to Unlike the powerfully moving laughs. Yet these brief instances should leave you afraid to go to sleep his apartment to learn that his father musical moments created in Jerry of humor can’t save this film from that night. This movie didn’t do that died while visiting his family home in Maguire and Almost Famous, the its flaws. for me. I made sure that I went to see Elizabethtown, Kentucky and that well crafted soundtrack is hidden Despite abundant potential, this movie the night that it came out, it is up to him to travel across the in the background, droning on Elizabethtown never rises above let’s just say I’m upset over the fact country to make the arrangements behind scenes that call to mind its dueling plot lines. Crowe’s that I took of work for this poorly for his father’s memorial. On the better day’s in Crowe’s career. extensive writing skills and flair made film. flight to Elizabethtown, Drew Elizabethtown does have its for powerful dialogue are If you’re looking for a trial/ meets sassy flight attendant Claire highlights. Look out for Alec noticeably absent from this script drama to watch, then the Exorcism of Colburn (Kirsten Dunst) who helps Baldwin in a humorous appearance and all of Elizabethtown suffers Emily Rose is for you. If not, then I him through his difficult time and as Drew’s billionaire boss. Susan because of it. This sub-par film is strongly advise you to look elsewhere. teaches him a thing or two about Sarandon is wonderful as Drew’s even more disappointing considering life and love along the way. mother who has gone into utter the talented mind that produced it.

WTHS The Patriot Page 11 A ‘Wonder’ to behold Rob Czyzewicz ‘06 R&B, jazz, pop, or hip- However, the postponed release of the hop. CD coincided with the Hurricane Katrina After a ten year period without a Wonder felt as disaster, and typical of Wonder’s studio release, Stevie Wonder has though he needed to take humanitarian work, he is contributing the returned to the music scene with a huge his time to make his proceeds of the song to Katrina-relief bang. His new album is entitled, A Time record “right.” He efforts and organizations. 2 Love, and it is his first album since the believes that it is It is doubtful that Wonder will ever 1995 critically acclaimed compilation, important to create be viewed as a has-been. So What the Conversation Peace. collections that work as Fuss, the first single from A Time 2 Love, Many of Wonder’s fans are full concepts, not just a which features Prince on guitar and En expecting this album to propel him back couple of sure-fire hits Vogue as backup singers, debuted at No. 13 into the upper tier of artists and and some filler. He on the Billboard Adult R&B Chart, possibly entertainers that he once headlined. certainly accomplished on inertia of the Stevie Wonder legend Primarily in the 1970s, Wonder was his goal with A Time 2 alone. viewed as the most creative and Love. The record has Wonder’s accolades include being a innovative artist on the planet. In fact, it been hailed by many member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, is believed that in the 70s, Wonder could critics as being worth a Billboard Music Lifetime do no wrong, musically speaking. the wait. The album Achievement Award winner, and he He released eight albums in that included three duets, has collected a record 22 Grammy decade, including three Grammy ‘Album including How Will I awards in his career. A Time 2 Love is of the Year’ winning LP’s that included A Time 2 Love is Stevie Wonder’s first new Know which features his expected to contend for yet another such classics as, Innervisions, album since 1995’s Conversation Peace. daughter, Aisha Morris, ‘Album of the Year’ award. Fulfillingness’s First Finale, and Songs in for whom he wrote Isn’t To people our age, Wonder will the Key of Life, which many believe to But on October 18th, all of that She Lovely? 30 years ago. no longer be just the other blind piano have been his greatest work to date. changed. The long awaited 15 track album He is also accompanied by player that Jamie Foxx didn’t For the following 15 years, he is available in stores. This album will make India.Aire on the nearly 10-minute-long portray in that movie, or the blind released only seven additional studio Stevie Wonder a household name again, it title track and by gospel vocalist Kim celebrity that President George W. albums. Then he was uncharacteristically will undoubtedly make him once again Burrell on If Your Love Cannot Be Moved. Bush allegedly waved at. He will once unheard from for ten years. While he did relevant in today’s popular music. Not Another song, Shelter in the Rain, again be known as a lyrical genius. make appearances on the albums of many only that, this album furthers the notion was originally written about the recent This album absolutely represents why other artists, he did not put out any new that he is more than prominent in every deaths of both his brother, Larry Hardaway Stevie is still truly a musical Wonder to material of his own. musical category, whether it be rock, soul, and his ex-wife, singer Syreeta Wright. behold. Apple back in gear with Machine Justine Jacobs ‘06 actually finished in May of 2003, but the food on her label, Sony, wasn’t happy with the your lips with After the release of her 1999 album and shelved it. Apple, fed up which it’s in album When the Pawn… (the one with with the process, didn’t put up much love.” the ninety word title) and a rather of a fight, until a group of devoted Apple also bizarre and public mental breakdown, fans petitioned the label for the has shifted Fiona Apple seemed to vanish entirely album’s release. Apple began slightly away from the world of popular music. Now reworking tracks with a new from the six years later, she has reappeared on producer, and the results of both the rambling, the scene with a new album, original and secondary sessions jazzy feel of Extraordinary Machine. make up the Extraordinary Machine When the Her absence from music has that was released last month – her Pawn… and certainly not been due to lack of best album to date. has adopted a trying. Extraordinary Machine was Extraordinary Machine is a catchier and mature and reflective break up album. more diverse Much of Apple’s third CD was sound. Tymps written following her break up with (The Sick in writer and director Paul Thomas the Head Anderson, and tracks such as Get Song) features Him Back and Oh Well paint a picture a hip-hop beat of a woman scorned who is determined in addition to to get the last word. Apple’s usual Extraordinary Machine is Apple’s best album yet. Apple, whose music has always piano. The been very lyrically driven, has never title track boasts a quirky Extraordinary Machine evolves been so solid in her wording. In orchestration or horns, woodwinds, as it progresses. While it is at times Window, she compares her and plucked strings that is very funny, strange, clever, sad, and relationship with an unfaithful lover different from Apple’s previous bitter, the one thing it is never is to looking through a dirty pane of record. O’ Sailor, the first single, is a bad. Fiona Apple struggled to bring glass (“Better that I break the catchy, piano driven tune that many this record back from the dead, and, window/ Than him, or her, or fans may recognize from a in doing so, once again proved me”). Apple shows off her wit in preliminary version of Extraordinary herself to be one of our best Parting Gift when she says the Machine that was leaked on the songwriters. Extraordinary Fiona Apple returns to music man she was kissing looked “Just internet while the album was still Machine most definitely lives up with Extraordinary Machine. as sincere as a dog does/ When it’s hauled up in the Sony vaults. to its name. WTHS The Patriot Page 12 Greatest Hits showcases Queen’s genius Margaret Bonanni ‘09 Queen throughout the decades and the path for many their radical music. other number one Few bands personified the pure To start off the album right, hits. With its exquisite dynamism of the ‘70s like Queen. “Bohemian Rhapsody”, Queen’s distinctiveness Throughout the ‘70s, ‘80s and early signature song, is featured as the first Bohemian Rhapsody ‘90s their flamboyant, mock-operatic, track on the CD. With its mock- is a symbol of later fusion of rock and classical music operatic and bombastic structure music that was to astonished listeners and brought them spiced with metal riffing, this song is come from Queen dozens of chart topping, number one one of the most powerful songs on over the decades. albums and singles that made them a the CD. The lyrics are nothing short The seventeenth wildfire in the music industry. With one of perfection and the song really track on the album is of the most characteristic, ostentatious, We are the and vigorous front men in music history, Champions, another Freddie Mercury, it’s no wonder that son that made Queen Queen is one of the most influential famous. bands of the century, giving wake to With a smooth punk, and held only second to the melodic piano and a Beatles in popularity. This all shows on blazing guitar line, and their newest greatest hits album Greatest ostentatious yet Hits: We Will Rock You Edition. humble vocals, I think After several feeble attempts of this song is what gave Queen’s new greatest hits album is inexpen- putting out a greatest hits CD, I think Queen their sive and skillfully mixed. we finally found the perfect reputation for variety. contemplation of a long awaited, This song embodies the band’s ultimate Queen CD, including all single disc Queen collection. Queen’s tolerance and acceptance of people your favorite songs. It’s a must buy 2004 release Greatest Hits: We Will no matter what their for any fan and perfectly captures Rock You Edition has seventeen Queen is one of the most influen- circumstances. The lyrics again, the essence of Queen and they’re songs and three bonus tracks tial bands in rock history. are nothing short of perfection, sensational, influential music. For including live versions of “Under revealing a more personal side of people who just started listening Pressure”, “Tie Your Mother encases the musical genius Queen is the band, and serve as an anthem to Queen, it’s the perfect way to Down”, and the Jaguar commercial well known for. of open-mindedness towards preview their music and get a taste music, “I’m in Love with My Car”. What proves the musical genius individuality. for what they’re famous for. With favorite tracks on the CD such of the song are the vocals and music It’s a must-listen on the CD Inexpensive and superiorly mixed, as “Bohemian Rhapsody”, “We Will which mix operatic choruses, with along with We Will Rock You, and I think it’s a must have for your Rock You”, “Somebody to Love”, and powerful flamboyant hard rock Killer Queen. Queen collection. “Killer Queen”, this CD, in my climaxes. Also, it’s what put Queen In a nutshell, Greatest Hits: opinion, is perfect representation of on the charts at number one, leading We Will Rock You Edition is the The Atlantic look on to bright future Evan DeGeorge ‘06 been that “I listen to try to keep it interesting and abstract way ever music when and try different things.” The average WTHS student since,” says I’m feeling While the musicians of The enjoys a variety of activites Salkowski. emotional, like Atlantic were just acquaintances who including sports, shopping, video The when I’m only had music in common, over time games, partying, and in some members of happy or they’ve developed a strong bond and cases, even working. But for these The Atlantic depressed, or a deep sense of friendship that is musically inclined students, the all share very just to pass the beyond what they share with other highlight of their day is getting similar time. Some friends. together and playing music with musical people say “These guys are my best friends. their band. inspirations, they would die We’re like a family,” says Ferry. This group of students, who namely without music. The long term goals of The call themselves The Atlantic, have Incubus. I just say music Atlantic all involve having a career been playing together since While McCue can really in music or, at the very least, October of 2003. The band is ’08 shares the The Atlantic perform at The Trocadero enhance your somehow keeping music a part of comprised of guitarist Jeff same musical in November. life,” says their daily lives. Salkowski ’08, bassist Kyle tastes as his Salkowski. “My dream is everyone’s McCloskey ’08, drummer Kevin band mates, his list of influences includes McCue and Salkowski, who do dream, to be a rock star,” says Ferry ’07, and vocalist Pat McCue one act his friends might not agree most of the songwriting for The McCloskey. “Everyone wants to be ’08. with. Atlantic, say their songs reflect on famous. But other than that, I want Though they are best friends “My musical inspirations include things that happen in their everyday to be working somehow with music now, when the band first got the bands Incubus, Saves the Day, and lives. Relationships and emotions technology.” started, they weren’t really friends Boys II Men. Yeah, Boys II Men. are common themes, but their songs can These talented young individuals at all and simply joined together They’re beautiful singers…beautiful be about anything that may be on their plan to continue to make music that out of convenience. men,” laughs McCue. minds. comes from their hearts and are “In seventh grade I was in Muisc has become a pivotal “Everyone writes lyrics based on excited about seeing their fan base homeroom with our bass player, aspect of these young men’s lives. their lives, even if it’s political, or grow as they look onto a bright future Kyle [McCloskey]. I didn’t really To them, both playing and anything that emotionally inspires in music. know him, but he came up to me listening to music has become as you,” says Salkowski. “We write music If you’d like to know more about and asked me if I played guitar and normal a part of their day as mostly about things that happen in The Atlantic, visit their website, wanted to be in a band. I did, and it’s eating or sleeping. our lives, like girls and stuff. But we www.TheAtlanticMusic.com.

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12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345Sports Team effort holds strong Matt Kienzle ‘06 Cross country squad captures 8th in Meet of Champions runners, who gave a very strong overall With their recent South Jersey performance. title, fifth place showing at the state The team was paced by Bill championships and their first ever Matthias, who placed 18th overall in a qualification for the Meet of field of 143. Brett Salmon and Natale Champions, the WTHS boys cross- finished next for Township, placing country team continues to impress and 27th and 41st respectively. Drew Morris prove to doubters that it is a force to was the final Township runner to be reckoned with in the cross-country qualify for the overall team score world. which only takes the average of the “Any runner who has ever top five team finishers; he was 50th competed in New Jersey has dreamt out of 143. about qualifying for the Meet of After the dust had settled and the Champions,” says senior team runners had cooled down, WTHS had Captain Mark Natale, “making the placed fifth in the state out of the 26 Meet of Champions just exemplifies Group 4 schools that had qualified for the hard work and thousands of miles the race, and had posted a score of that we’ve put in over the past few 170. years.” Seniors Andrew Morris, Steve Dunn, Chris Choate, Bill Not only did their efforts yield a The team began the season fifth place finish, the team was ranked 2nd in South Jersey, and they Matthias, Mark Natale, Kevin Williamson, and Mike Jones are rewarded with an invitation to the New protected that ranking all season. But seen in the Cherokee Dual Meet. Jersey Meet of Champions, and the they had their eyes on the South Jersey years sectional meet, which made this The state cross-country MOC is just that. Only the top three Championship from the start. year’s all senior team that much more championships were a huge event. They teams from each group race and the “With last year’s disappointing determined to get the job done. took place at Holmdel Park in Colts next top two overall team times will sectional performance looming in the And that they did. The cross- Neck, New Jersey, which, on this qualify. back of our minds, we remained focused country team reemerged in a big way particular Saturday, had been taken over “Qualifying for the MOC is the dream and looked to win the South Jersey with a first place finish at sectionals, by runners. The park was filled with of any runner in New Jersey,” declared Sectional Championship this time the first in WTHS history, outlasting team tents, and athletes were running Natale, “standing on the line with all around,” said Steve Dunn ‘06, another arch-rival Cherokee with a score of in every direction warming up for races. the best runners in the state was an senior runner. The team finished 63, and qualifying for the state “It was a surreal day,” says Dunn, experience none of us will ever eighth in South Jersey, during last championship meet in the process. who finished fourth among Township forget.”

Like to talk sports? Soccer stopped in states Think you know Mike Dougherty ‘06 had not dropped a “heart breaking tough opponent their rival, Shawnee. game” to Bishop Eustace before A team that has always given them sports Trivia? The Varsity Boy’s Soccer team entering the Tournament. trouble and ended their season last year had a promising start, but finished with Although the team agrees that the in the same round of the State’s what most players considered a season was an overall disappointment Tournament. disappointing season. A season that they acknowledged that it was full of With this in mind the Varsity Well then come they had very high hopes and goals memorable moments. The significant team entered Tabernacle, NJ with for, including going far into and coming on Senior Night, a night game, optimism to beat their skillful down to room G- winning the State’s Tournament. played under the lights and on the new adversary. The team came out and Defenseman Tom Verchio 06’ describe turf. The team won 5-0 over Paul VI, played a decent defensive game, but it 222 in the core to the season as, “A good thing that ended arguably their best performance of the was accompanied with an offense that join Mr. Holmes too early.” season. only managed to get one significant Dropping a couple close games the They came off this emotional shot on goal. The game ended with and the rest of the team felt that they could have won, high to enter the State Tournament. the team being bounced from the The team ended the regular season Similar to the Coach’s Tournament, tournament by Shawnee again, by a STAT PACK with a 7-4-2, good enough to earn a the team thought that a better score of 3-0. ninth seed in the State’s Tournament rank was obtainable if they hadn’t Team co-captain and forward, members in a and to obtain a 3rd rank in the lost some winnable games in the Rob Playo 06’ said, “It stinks losing Conference. regular season. to the same team every year, it just lively debate about The team was at a disadvantage The team entered the first gets old.” in the first tournament of the year, round of the tournament on the Even though the season ended your favorite sports The Coach’s Tournament. Because it road against a worthy Atlantic City earlier than the players would have entered the tourney with a low rank, opponent. The team won this wanted, it still had its high points news and topics. the team was forced to play the game 2-0, featuring goals by Rob which the team feels it can improve eventual winners of the event, Playo 06’ and Jim Bradley 07’, and upon next year. The team is set to Rancocas Valley in the first round, a shut out by senior goalkeeper Joe lose eight seniors to graduation, but losing to them 4-2. Team co-captain, Demarco. they feel that the under classmen Rob Playo 06’ stated that their rank In the second round of the played well and that next year will be would have been much better if they tournament the team drew another a successful one. WTHS The Patriot Page 14 V-Ball finishes Sibling Unity Cregar twins energize Township swimming 11th in NJ Cassie Cregar ‘07 Mike Lewis ‘07 Matt Kienzle ‘06 In Washington Township High Despite their loss in the quarter- School there is always a lot of hype finals of the state tournament, the and excitement surrounding sports WTHS girl’s volleyball team had a like football, hockey, and basketball. very successful season. With all the excitement they create, At the time of their 2-1 season some other great sports like swimming ending loss to East Brunswick, the girls seem to get lost in the mix. were ranked eleventh in the state, and You may not have known that they were rewarded with a first round one of the state’s best high school bye in the tournament. After the bye, swimmers attends WTHS. Cassie they handily disposed of an Cregar is a junior whose overmatched Old Bridge, in a 2-0 rout. accomplishments include placing The team was led all season by 2nd and 3rd at the State Swim Meet, first team All-Olympic Conference and making the time standard for player Karen Martin, and second National cut this summer. teamer, Abby Verillo, who gave huge Nick Contino ‘07/ The Patriot Cregar hasn’t always been this Cassie and Bill Cregar have been swimming since early youth. contributions to their team’s 10-11 good. She has been swimming since record. she was about 5 years old and says Bill Cregar ‘07 You may be saying, ‘how can a to reach the level that she has, you Nick Contino ‘07 At practice, he swims with his team. team be 11th in the state with a losing really have to build yourself up. “At practice, we are always record?’ Well, it’s because WTHS had Cregar has never really felt any Bill Cregar ‘07 seems like an pushing each other to get better,” one of the toughest schedules in all of pressure about swimming. ordinary teenage boy. He enjoys Cregar says. New Jersey. They played Cherokee, “Don’t fear failure; just try hanging out with his friends, golfing, Well, all that pushing finally paid Cherry Hill East, Eastern, and your best, that’s all that matters.” and he’s a good student, but that only off when the USA club team and Southern, twice, all of which are top She said. disguises his greatest talent. He is truly Speedo decided to take Cregar on ten in New Jersey. Much of her time is spent one of the best swimmers in New board. Speedo supplies the team with The team was coached by swimming. She has nine practices a Jersey. free swimming suits every meet. Barbara McBrearty, a gym teacher at week that last three hours each. Last year, he was ranked fourth in “It’s an honor to be on a USA Orchard Valley, and one of the most Having so much of her free time state. He swims on a USA club team club team and swim for the best well-known coaches in the state. She going into one thing does not seem with Speedo’s sponsorship, and on swimming goods brand in the consistently demanded the best from to bother her because she loves what Washington Township’s swimming country,” says Cregar. her athletes, making sure the senior she does and the practices are team. He’s also been to the Junior Now that he’s on the team, he heavy team did not disappoint. enjoyable due to her love of Nationals and the Junior Olympics. isn’t famous. Sure he has colleges, The volleyball team’s record is swimming, her teammates, and her Cregar started when he was 4 years supporting fans, and teammates who deceiving and shadows a season which coaches. old. He always loved water when he know him, but not everyone knows was loaded with team and individual Despite giving a lot of her time was younger. One day, his dad threw of him. He hasn’t made a splash yet accomplishments. to swimming, Cregar manages to get him into the pool and he began to outside of the pool, but that doesn’t good grades and participate in Interact swim. Then he met with a swim coach bother Cregar. at school. She says her favorite school and after trying out, he was accepted “I don’t swim for popularity, I Why be an subject is Biology because she finds it to be on the team. swim because it’s fun,” says Cregar. interesting, which makes it easier for “When my dad threw me in, I just Cregar is now ranked in the top athlete her to learn. started to swim.” he said. three in the state and is ranked in when you can be Cregar doesn’t have a lot of free Cregar entered his first swim the top sixteen in the country so time to hang out with friends because competition just a couple years after people should start to recognize him an athletic she is always swimming. She says that he started swimming. not only at the pools. supporter? it doesn’t bother her though. “At my first competition, I was Cregar holds many records, ”I make a lot of friends nervous, but excited.” including the four-hundred long swimming,” she says. It wasn’t too long until he finished course meters freestyle (4 min. 10.2 One thing that Cregar really first in one of his races. sec.) and the four-hundred long Join likes about swimming is her coaches. “I was very proud of myself, and it course meters individual medley (4 “My coaches really motivate felt like all that practice really paid min. 37.1 sec.) on the USA club team. Bleacher me to be the best I can be.” She off,” says Cregar. On the high school team, he holds says, “I wouldn’t be where I am Practicing is a big part of his life. the five-hundred short course yards Creatures! without them.” Cregar practices in the mornings three freestyle (4 min. 38.8 sec.) and many Motivation is one thing that she times a week, and practices after more. definitely seems to have plenty of. school everyday. He plans everything But for Bill Cregar, it isn’t about She says that she swims because she around swimming so he can have the the records. It’s about the love of See Mr. Holmes really loves the challenge of trying most possible time to practice. the sport. to be as good as possible and doing With the remaining spare time he “Swimming is very beneficial to in G-222 for better than she did the last time. has, he does his homework, and you because you can do it for the details. Cregar says that it is good to maintains A’s and B’s thoughout the rest of your life, it keeps you in have another swimmer in the family year. His “home field” is the Glouster shape, and all you need is some because they can help each other. County Institute of Technology’s pool. water,” says Cregar.

WTHS The Patriot Page 15 From the Sports Authorities

Welcome to the Sports Authorities. Throughout the year, Mike Dougherty and Rob Czyzewicz will be giving you our point-counterpoint on various issues in sports. We are two senior editors on The Patriot staff. We are known to disagree with each other about everything, and we want to pass along the debates to our reading audience. Manning: best despite playoff past

Rob Czyzewicz ‘06

There are certain players in does the name John Elway ring a bell? for winning the big game will present and is led by a genius coach in Bill professional sports who are among the While it is true that Manning is 3-5 in itself again. Belichick. One could also claim that greatest in the game, but for whatever his eight career playoff games, Elway While the case may be made for the Patriots would not have won two reason, are always criticized. The was also ordinary in his first eight Tom Brady, one must take into of those Super Bowls without Adam perfect example of this is the playoff games, going 4-4, while consideration that Brady has had much Vinatieri, the most clutch kicker in Indianapolis Colts’ Peyton Manning. throwing morethe game. Manning always gets blamed for five around him There is always the old adage never winning the “big game”, and for touchdowns than has that “Defense wins championships”, that reason, people are quick to say that compared Manning. and since that seems fact, it is he is not the best quarterback in the to seven While imperative to point out that the league. However, his play throughout interceptions. Brady Patriots have had one of the best his career proves that not only is he He did not win doesn’t defenses in the NFL, whereas before this the best quarterback now, but he is a Super Bowl have the big season, the Colts have had a below probably the best in the last ten years. for 14 nameaverage defense in the Jim Mora / Tony Coming into the 2005-06 years, but no offensive Dungy coaching eras. season, Manning has thrown for one ever had players that It is more than unfair to place all 29,696 yards and 218 TDs. He is the audacity Manning of the blame on Manning for not currently tied with Dan Marino as the to say that does, he has winning the big game, when it is more fastest player to reach the 30,000 yard Elway was had a true than obvious that it takes a whole team mark, and his is the second fastest to not the best Manning’s vision and on-field adjustments team that is to win the Super Bowl, and Brady’s reach 200 career TD passes. in the game. make him the best. made up for Patriots are the prime example of that. For those who refuse to believe Manning 40 stars in Manning’s vision and intelligence of that Manning is not the best simply has only played for seven seasons in this league. Not to mention the fact the game is what makes him the best, because his playoff record is weak, he is only 29 years old, so opportunity he is a product of a flawless system, and not his postseason record. Brady shines when it matters Mike Dougherty ‘06 and early round playoff games don’t Martin won a National Title game with option Brandon Stokley is a very good count as big games, it is league them. slot receiver. You could also say that Peyton Manning is not the best championships and Super Bowls, none Manning also has a lot more it is a lot easier to throw in dome quarterback in the league, for one of which Manning has won or played offensive talent around him during November and December, than simple reason, Tom Brady exists. well in. compared to Brady. Manning has it is in cold Foxboro. While Manning’s last year’s regular Going back to Manning’s college Edgerrin James, one of the best When you compare Manning to season stats are impressive (49 TDs career, he never won a Bowl game, running backs in the league. James some of the all time greats you can’t and 4500 yards), it still doesn’t and also also makes the ignore the association with Marino, a shadow the fact that he has never been failed to beat play action great quarterback with good stats that to the Super Bowl. Quarterback is a SEC rival sell more just can’t seem to win the big game. unique position, while stats matter The Florida when the Another comparison that you they are not the most important point Gators. All defense has to can’t ignore is the one between in determining a great quarterback, it this was done honor James’ Brady and Joe Montana, two is winning and more importantly with a great skills. quarterbacks that are a little above championship rings. college team Also average during the regular season, For this mere fact it is why Tom Tennessee, the receiving but during the playoffs they turn Brady is currently the best quarterback who was corps that into leaders that win the big games in the NFL. Brady’s stats in the always ranked Manning has necessary to win championships. regular season may not hold water to among the is much better So given all the statistics the Manning’s, but in the playoffs the two best in the than what choice is yours, as to who is the best are incomparable. While Manning is nation. Brady has to quarterback in the NFL. I and most only 3-5 in the playoffs, Brady is an The work with. all football historians believe that it unprecedented 9-0. team was Brady leading his team to victory at the Marvin is championships and not regular He has led two Super Bowl good enough right time. Harrison is season statistics that make you the winning drives, not to mention one to win a the best best. While Manning has regular as a first year starter and a 14 point National Title; we know this receiver in the league, and Wayne is season MVPs Brady has Super Bowl underdog. Manning on the other hand because with basically the same arguably one of the best second option MVPs, and those are the one that you is yet to win a big game in his career, team, now out of the league Tee receivers in the league. Also the third are remember great quarterbacks for.

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