The Patriot Issue 1 Washington Township High School, Sewell, NJ October 2007 Class of ‘08 measures up Alyssa Figueroa ‘08 and organize so many students at prom, senior trip, and graduation.” The Class of 2008 had a chance One major inconvenience for to make history this year! In 2007 the Class of ‘08 was when the Washington Township High School school ran out of parking spots. “We graduated 769 students - a high mark were all shocked, since that has never to beat. Starting the year with 772 happened before; although sadly students, this year’s senior class there is nothing we can do,” said Mr. would be the largest to graduate from Fields. WTHS. However, trivial aspects cannot The downside? The numbers block the way of an important year have changed. ahead. As freshmen, the Class of ‘08 “We have a lot of potential to entered the building as the largest in leave a great mark at our high school,” school history, with over 800 said Olivia Devine, another Class students. The numbers have Council member for all four years. gradually dwindled to equal last Besides future marks they’ll year’s class size Yet, the Class of set, the Class of ‘08 has already stood ‘08 is still one of the largest to walk Gina Parker ‘09/The Patriot out from the crowd. Farrow believes the halls of WTHS. The Class of ‘08 gathers in the senior cafeteria excited about their that this class has already shined in Despite its overwhelming size, upcoming year. community service, whether it be at many feel the Class of ‘08 has seniors seem very mature, respectful, large amount of students, and a large giving blood or participating in already developed a delightful and upbeat. . . .I have a good feeling amount of teachers, we are able to Monzo Madness. She stated, character. this will be a great year filled with offer a large amount of choice.” “Service will set this class apart from “I have watched the Class of spirit.” Mr. Bollendorf felt similar. others.” ‘08 since they entered their freshmen Indeed spirit is what runs “The opportunities are so varied and Though the Class of ‘08 missed year, and they are certainly the most through the Class of ‘08’s veins. “I large, students that want to excel, out on the title of “largest graduating polite, well-behaved, organized class love being a part of our class,” said can excel,” he said. class,” the seniors surely have the I have seen in all my ten years as Gina Turdo ‘08, who has been a As for the disadvantages to such opportunity to separate themselves administrator; it’s actually quite member of Class Council for four a large class, Farrow does “wish from previous classes. Since in scary,” stated 11-12 Administrator years, and has seen the class [she] could personally know each hindsight, “it’s not the quantity of Mr. Edward Fields. “They do what progress. “Our class definitely has student.” who’s doing what that matters, it’s they’re supposed to do, when a lot of pride.” Yet as for students, Mr. the quality of what they are doing,” they’re supposed to do it.” Though WTHS may seem Bollendorf thinks that “it’s neat stated Bollendorf. Executive Assistant Principal overpowering to passers-by, those when students meet other students Thus, the seniors should not of the 11-12 wing, Mr. Joseph who are a part of the legacy know from school that they have never met worry too much about achieving Bollendorf believes this class has how such a large class contains such before when they attend senior trip largest class status. gotten off to a great start. “The tremendous advantages. or go on other outings.” “They should enjoy every “We can offer the best Thus, the true difficulties rest moment of senior year,” stated programs around,” said Principal in “the logistics,” said Fields. Farrow, “it is going to go very Inside... Mrs. Rosemarie Farrow, “with a “Sometimes it gets hard to manage quickly.” Commentary p. 3 New dance replaces Twilight Features p. 5 A.J. Nisbet ‘08 New York City, as it will be the the lines on the gymnasium so it Odds & Ends p. 7 location for this year’s semi-formal won’t feel like you are dancing in Tech Talk p. 8 Despite most of the dance. gym class. upperclassmen looking forward to a On the night of the dance, Last year students were Lifestyles p. 10 classy night with the fish at The professional decorators will change haunted by waiting lists for Twilight. What’s Happening p. 11 Camden Aquarium, this year, a new the scene for the night. Along with This year’s Homecoming Dance Entertainment p. 12 tradition will be born at Washington the walls and ceiling being draped allows 1,200 people to attend, where Township High School. On October with cloth, the dance floor will be last year there were some incidents Books p.14 26, 2007 from 7:30 to 11:30P.M., outlined with streetlights. Also, where people were turned away after Sports p. 15 Washington Township High School’s there will be some kind of covering purchasing a ticket because of 9/10 gym will be easily mistaken for on the floor, which will take away See HOMECOMING p. 2 October 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. News - 1 Interact builds on blood drive success Margaret Bonanni ‘09 blood is impressive, and says a lot about the students,” commented Washington Township High Naval. School is an institution that is not After the blood is donated, it is only known for its academic separated into three different parts: reputation, but also for it’s plasma, red cells and albumen. The involvement in community service. separated parts then go to the Last year the biannual blood patients - cancer patients and drives held by Interact were patients that need transfusions being recognized by the Red Cross as some of the biggest recipients. WTHS was the leading school donor Because 636 pints of blood were in the Pennsylvania-New Jersey collected, a little over 1900 people region. After collecting a combined were be assisted. total of 636 pints of blood, the As the years pass, the demand school received an award to for blood rises. In hospitals commemorate the achievement. anywhere from 600 to 700 pints are “It feels good to know that used per day, said Naval. To meet doing so little can help so much. It’s the growing demands Interact Gina Parker ‘09/ The Patriot just an awesome feeling. Also, expects to reach as many people and Interact officer Matt Gerber and advisor Ms. Tracy Naval were attending the school with the highest welcome as many donors as they can pleased with the turnout of the blood drive. amount donated gives you a sense to this fall’s blood drive. They also goal. Their main goal is for students The need for blood is never of pride you know others don’t anticipate that the school can to not only participate in the ending, and the blood collected is have,” said Auggy Kim ’08. cooperate and come together for school’s blood drive, but to donate greatly appreciated. If you’re Mrs. Tracy Naval, Interact Club such a worthy cause. in other blood drives as well. The interested in becoming a donor, or advisor, didn’t expect so many do- “I think it’s great that people more students participate, the more volunteering during the blood drive, nors when the club assumed manage- in our school are willing to do that apt they are of becoming life long you can check out Interact’s EBoard, ment of the blood drive. Originally, for other people. Most schools don’t donors. or stop by I-103 to see Mrs. Naval. only 68 pints were collected. have that type of enthusiasm,” stated “I definitely plan on giving “A lot of people think that a Numbers then started to rise to 102 Jeffery Shute ’08. blood again this year; last year’s school blood drive will not be of any pints, and in no time up to 300 pints Although organizers think it blood drive was actually kind of fun, help, but you would be surprised. were being donated per drive. would be nice to break the recently so I’m expecting the same for this So many people need the blood that “Donating such amounts of set record, it is not Interact’s main year,” declared Kim. any effort can help,” said Naval. Homecoming, twilight undergo change from HOMECOMING p. 1 the Homecoming Dance, student council has other tricks up their sleeves maximum capacity rules at the to make this event unlike any other. Aquarium. Alongside the Homecoming “The small dance floor was also Dance, the following day will a problem,” stated Samantha continue with many Homecoming Baranowski ‘08, the Student Council festivities. Since the Fourth of July Public Relations Representative. parade was canceled due to inclement “But our spacious gym floor will be weather this summer, the businesses, able to accommodate a lot more companies, and sponsors gathered people,” she added. together in conjunction with the However, the drawbacks of Spirit Parade, to have a spirit day at Twilight were not the only reasons Washington Lake Park. for creating the new dance. A few hours after that is the “We wanted to have a dance for Homecoming football game, where the whole student body,” said Township is up against their rival, Christina Virgilio ‘08, the Student Cherokee. At halftime, the Council President. Homecoming tradition will be “When you look at other high Gina Parker ‘09/ The Patriot topped off as the Homecoming schools, most of them have Ms. Francessca La Penta and Student Council sell tickets for the Queen is crowned. Following the homecoming dances. It is first Homecoming Dance. game, there will be a fireworks show characteristic for high schools to unlike any other here in Washington have them and I think it’s time to “This year we are going over us,” said Baranowski. Township. start the tradition,” she said. our budget,” Virgilio stated. “The Tickets for the homecoming “We are really looking forward She asserted that having the money is obtained from other events dance are $35 for individual tickets to starting a new tradition here at dance at the high school does not mean like previous dances, fund-raisers, and $70 per couple. Washington Township,” said money is the issue. and the budget that the school gives Along with the many perks of Baranowski. 2 - News The Patriot - W.T.H.S. October 2007 Commentary

Outside the Box by Alyssa Figueroa ‘08 Summer work doesn’t work After 10 months of school, the were not assigned to do it. This last thing any student should have summer, in our high school alone, 6 to worry about in the summer is that students participated in Governor’s awful, dreaded hassle known as School, 9 in RYLA, hundreds read homework. However, schools the final Harry Potter book, and across the nation find it necessary certainly a numerous amount of to burden students read students with books of their homework even “Between jobs, sum- own choice. when they are out mer vacations, social Yet, of school. even if a student It is a outings, and parallel decided not to mystery to me do anything how schools feel parking to practice, educational with that giving it really does become his or her students more summer, that is work, after having difficult, not to men- a personal just completed a tion unexciting, to choice. It’s not school year, is like teens don’t justifiable. actually sit down and have anything The most do school work.” else going on in defense their lives. used by schools is the ridiculous “so Between jobs, summer they can keep their minds sharp” or vacations, social outings, and parallel sometimes even “so the class can get parking to practice, it really does a head start.” Yet, these lame become difficult, not to mention Alex Parkin ‘08 explanations can easily be proved to unexciting, to actually sit down and be nothing other than nonsense. do school work First and foremost, summer is As for getting that “head start,” The Patriot an extremely short time period - I believe that if the summer assign- Issue 1 - October 2007 about only 2 and a half months. It is ment cannot fit into the 180 days of Editor-in-Chief - Alyssa Figueroa ‘08 quite unlikely that students’ minds school, then it should be removed Senior Editor- Richie Elles ‘08 would become blunt by September from the agenda. It is simply too News Editor- Margaret Bonanni ‘09 if they did not receive work to do much to force on students. Commentary Editor- Mary Faralli ‘08 over the summer. It’s also unfortunate that the Features Editor- Nicole Heath ‘10 It is also a foolish assumption students who work hard all year and Lifestyles Editor - Taylor Cohen ‘08 to believe that students would not challenge themselves by taking harder Odds & Ends Editor - Lauren Finneran ‘08 do anything educational at all if they classes receive the most summer Tech Talk Editor - Matt Neuteboom ‘08 work. And the work is nowhere near Entertainment Editor - Steph Foran ‘08 Have something Books - Katie Mount ‘09 quick and easy. We’re talking several Sports Editor - AJ Nisbet ‘08 on your mind? books to read, papers to write, and What’s Happening - Sarah Kurtz ‘10 huge packets to complete. It is plainly overwhelming. Layout and Design - Journalism II Share it with WTHS! Summer is the time to relax after Printing - Mr. Dale Biebel a chaotic year of school; not the time Advisor - Mr. Jim Evangelisti to stress over the first-day-of- The Patriot is published by the students of school-deadline. Schools should Washington Township High School. rethink the presumed necessity of 529 Hurffville-Cross Keys Road, Sewell, NJ 08080 summer work, as well as set limits to The opinions expressed in the Commentary section and all articles how much, if any is deemed labeled as opinion, as well as all reviews and columns, are the views necessary, should be given to of the writer indicated in the byline. They are not meant to represent Write for the students. It would be interesting to the views of The Patriot staff, the students of Washington Twp. H.S. Commentary Section of see how school supervisors would or its administration. Unsigned editorials are meant to reflect the deal with being assigned work during views of the publication. The Patriot their vacations, as the weather Please send all correspondence to: [email protected] outside is sunny and calling. October 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Commentary - 3 Homecoming, a new tradition Mary Faralli ‘08 excuse should actually be the main reason that we should One of the greatest have previously urged the privileges of being an school to have a homecoming upperclassman is being able to dance. Washington Township participate in the exclusive, differs from most schools in the junior and senior only, Winter fact that our student body is Twilight dance. This year, the literally divided. We are school has decided to replace separated by buildings. This the Winter Twilight dance with dance is a first attempt to a fresh, new dance that all encourage the sense of unity students are eligible to attend- between the upperclassmen Homecoming. and the underclassmen, which When I first heard this our school is sorely lacking. decision, I was furious. As a In other schools, freshman, I had longed to go Homecoming has come to to Winter Twilight. Last year, represent the amount of school as a junior, I realized that it spirit and unity in the student was an event no one should body. I believe that this dance miss. I felt that homecoming was a Alex Parkin ‘08/The Patriot will create a resurgence of school disastrous undertaking, considering In this year’s new Homecoming Dance, seniors will be creating a pride and will be very helpful in the amount of students in our school, tradition with the underclassmen. uniting our students. The seniors the drastic differences in the ages of because of the many complaints that everyone, the grounds to haven’t been given much of a chance the students, and the mere fact that it generates. There is always an issue accommodate any sport of interest, to interact with the freshman and it will be taking place in our school with finding a location. There is never and more than enough teachers to this event will allow that to occur. gym. As seniors, we have firmly enough room, the number of people suit the needs of any student. My expectations for this dance are convinced ourselves that we have that can be accommodated has never Washington Township High school high. I feel that with enough graduated past dances in the school been constant, and a lot of people has always offered more; yet, we participation, we have the ability to gym and the idea of wearing a dress that really want to go are placed on are one of the only schools that does make this event better than Winter to go walk around the gym seemed a waiting list. I think it’s about time not have a Homecoming Dance. Twilight. We are able to have one of absurd to me. we tried something new. Naturally, we can put the blame the largest Homecomings, so why On the contrary, along with I realized that as far as schools on our uniquely large student body not make it the best? We should be Winter Twilight comes a surge of go, Washington Township High and claim that there are just too proud that we’re the first class who criticism from the students. The School has always had everything. many people to pull off a has been given this chance. Let’s dance has been so inconsistent We have clubs to fit the interests of Homecoming Dance. But I think this make it a tradition. Roving reporter How do you feel about the new Homecoming Dance?

Leann Abrams ‘11 Mike Cedrone ‘10 Brittany Tartaglia ‘09 Jennifer Stowell ‘08

“I’m just disappointed “I think it’s amazing how “I don’t understand why “I’m looking forward to that I won’t get to experi- we can unify the whole I should pay $35 to be in having a dance that ence Winter Twilight.” school as one.” the gym with under incorporates all levels. classmen.” 4 - Commentary The Patriot - W.T.H.S. October 2007 Features Chinese joins WTHS language family Katie Mount ‘09 But, he has big plans and ex- pectations for his students. In today’s society, it seems like By the end of the year, he many countries, including the United would like them to be able to States, are turning towards China for introduce themselves, describe aspects such as business. Because various objects and hold simple of this, it is very likely that the conversations. Chinese language will be more in They should also be able to demand in the future. Washington speak several hundred words, and Township High School is aiming to be able to recognize about one meet this demand. hundred characters. In Chinese, the The 2007-2008 school year, is oral and written languages are adding a new course to study: different. Instead of simply reading Chinese. For years now, the only what is written in words, students languages students could choose must memorize symbols. from were Spanish, French, German, “Like many of my classmates, and American Sign Language. I came into the class thinking that I The Board of Education was was about to attempt to learn the looking to add a non-Western Kurt Pflugfelder‘08 hardest language ever.” Sara Masculli language to the curriculum. Another Mr. Dempsey brings a new language offering to the high school. ’10 said. “However, as we actually language that was looked at as a began our lessons, I started to realize possible option was Arabic. over twenty years. He understands prehensive to sign up for the course. it wasn’t as hard as it seemed.” However, Chinese was chosen that time is essential to learning a Some even decided against it. Hopefully, once students start because Rutgers University had a foreign language. “I wish they added Chinese to see that the language is not as teacher certification program. “The earlier, the better,” he said. earlier,” Lisa Mudrowsky ’09 said. intimidating as it seems, more will Mr. Ronald Dempsey has been “I’m really hoping Chinese transfers “I was too far into my language sign up to take the course. hired as the new Chinese teacher. to the middle schools, and maybe studies to just turn around and try “It was something new and Dempsey has studied Chinese for even younger.” something completely new.” different,” William Baker ‘09 said. four and a half years. However, he Because Chinese is just being Dempsey admits that starting “It’s one of the few classes I look has been speaking the language for introduced, some students are ap- a brand new language is difficult. forward to attending every day.” Not-so-new girl makes her mark Lauren Finneran ‘08 best it can be. I hope to encourage Figueroa’s favorite aspect of more people to get involved with the this school has been the large number Last year, Alyssa Figueroa ’08 paper, and just make The Patriot of people. Many people think that wrote a story entitled “The New more well-known organ-ization in is a disadvantage, but she believes Girl” for the first issue of The the school.” that the great number of students Patriot. The article was about her Figueroa also got very involved provides the opportunity to meet move to Township and what it was with Interact, and was inducted into many different people. Her old high like to be the new girl in our school. the National Honors Society last school had 480 students and Figueroa used to live in urban year. This year, she has added although WTHS is much larger, she area of North Jersey, a land without Monthly Rewind to her activities. is getting along just fine. Wawa, a place where walking was In addition to these time “I love the sense of pride this the first means of transportation. consuming extracurriculars, Figueroa town brings. For three letters “T-W- However, she did not let the has taken on a difficult class load P” to mean so much not only to this differences discourage her. She and holds a part-time job after community, but to South Jersey in quickly jumped right into the school. She says that the key to general just amazes me” said Figueroa. Alyssa Figueroa edits the paper Township scene and got involved. managing all of her activities and her Figueroa hopes that she will after school with a WaWa drink. Last year, she joined the schoolwork is “really just having have a very successful senior year. Journalism 2 class and became good time management skills, and She wants to have a fun year and New York City Skyline, and White Commentary Editor of the school keeping your priorities straight.” most importantly, she hopes to make Castle,” explained Figueroa. paper. This year, she moved up the In her short time here, Figueroa the right choice when it comes to As the “not so new girl”, ladder and is now Editor-in-Chief. has also received the People’s Choice college. Figueroa urges other “new kids” to She has big plans for The Patriot. Award, was selected to participate She does miss some aspects of “get involved in what you love to do Figueroa hopes to make some in RYLA, and has made the where she used to live. and not to be intimidated by the size definite changes to better the paper. Principal’s List for four marking “I mostly miss my friends, of our school.” After all, it worked “I would just like it to be the periods in a row. being able to walk everywhere, the for her. October 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Features - 5 RYLA Conference trains leaders Nicole G. Heath ‘10 leaders such as Dr. Richard Gilbert, taught students how to be better major effect on our student body. Major John Hunt, and Nashad Warfield. leaders, but also helped them set “[Students] come back in the building,” The Rotary Youth Leadership Students also participated in goals for the future. During the Farrow said, “and display their Association, known as RYLA, held activities centered on leadership and Career Night, students learned about leadership in the school.” Because of its 28th annual Rotary Youth succeeding in life. The activities many occupational options that they RYLA, WTHS’s senior class of 08’ Leadership Conference at Richard taught them how to work together could take, like pharmacy, will be well equipped with student Stockton University. On June 24 to reach their goals. The students psychology, and entrepreneurship. leaders. through 28, 150 students from stayed on campus in the Stockton They were given an opportunity to counties all over South Jersey dormitories. The entire trip was speak to workers in each of the attended the conference. sponsored by buisiness owners professions. Washington Township’s from Washington Township. The students also had a chance Frosh Rotary sent 11 Juniors to the Principal Rosemarie Farrow is to show off their own skills in a conference; Jim Tumolo, Alyssa a member of the town’s local Rotary Talent Show. During the course of Figueroa, Craig Hobbins, Alexa club. The local Rotary club the conference, they were able to thoughts Gabrieli, Kristen Abdallah, Cristina sponsored students in hope that socialize and have fun with students Virgilio, Howie Smith, Victoria they will become better leaders at from other schools, especially during Garner, Jeffrey Salkowski, Vicki WTHS. Principal Farrow supports the RYLA Dance. on High Chen, and Gia Mazzella. her club’s mission. The RYLA Conference had a 50 students were nominated to “Some are already leaders,” she huge impact on all the students that attend the conference by the staff at said, “but RYLA is all about attended. School Washington Township. The leadership and developing better “What I learned from RYLA nominated students had an interview leadership skills.” Farrow joined the will probably change my life Nicole G. Heath ‘10 with a local Rotary member and Rotary Club five years ago when she forever,” Alyssa Figueroa, ‘08 said, business member and eleven were became principal to set an example “Hearing that you can be whatever Do you remember your then selected. The selected few for the school. you want and whatever you set your first thoughts about WTHS students enjoyed a free trip to “As principal it’s important to mind to repeatedly, really enforced when you were just a Stockton. model what we want are students to the concept.” freshmen? Well just in case At the conference, students be,” she stated. Though only 11 students were you forgot, we’ve asked some were lectured by motivational The RYLA conference not only selected to go to RYLA, it is having a to share their thoughts on the best and worst things about being a freshmen. Gov school, great experience

Mary Faralli ‘08 essays, SAT scores, and any would include team projects, field information about volunteer work or trips, seminars, and community Some people don’t even do their extracurricular activities in which service. summer homework. But then there they participate. A number of The team projects were very are others who go beyond the papers subjects are offered to applicants hands on and interesting. The and the summer reading. The such as Environmental studies, Public projects ranged from making their Governor’s School of New Jersey is Issues, Engineering and Technology, own ice cream to spending three a four week summer program that International studies, and study of days on an island in Barnegat bay offers students the chance to study the Arts. without electricity or running water. advanced material on many subjects, Depending on their subject, Since the school offers no Mona Singh free of cost. students studied at Richard Stockton academic credit for its courses, the Best: “It’s just a lot better than The program is highly selective College, Monmouth University, The main reason for going is experience. the middle school.” and this past summer, Washington College of New Jersey, Drew “I heard stuff from kids who did it Worst: “We’re on the bottom, Township High School was University, Ramapo College, or the last year, and they said it was the like sixth grade again” represented by six current seniors, Busch campus at Rutgers. The best experience they have had,” Victoria Garner, Matthew Gerber, students lived on campus and were Gerber said, “And I’ve always had Elliot Moreno, Allison Murawski, given a taste of college life. They an interest in science, so I decided to Jillian Rucker, and Melissa van were placed in rooms with three other give it a try and see if it’s really a Twuyver. students from different schools field that I want to get into”. The competition for acceptance around New Jersey. The Governor’s School of New is rigorous. Typically, the “It was a really great Jersey gives students an opportunity admissions office receives around experience,” Rucker says, “We to apply their strengths and see what 3,000 applicants and only accepts basically learned a lot, met new comes of it. It forces students into about 600 students. To make the people, and participated in things we unfamiliar situations and manages to final cut, the students have to prove never have been able to do evoke creative expression and their interest and earn their right to otherwise.” leadership abilities from them. The Bill Cumming study there. It’s a bit like applying Rucker said that Governor’s participants felt it was a great Best: “All the new girls” for college; applicants send a school School varies from whichever subject experience for those who want to Worst: “All the new boys” transcript, recommendation letters, one chose to study. A typical week explore what college life is really like. 6 - Features The Patriot - W.T.H.S. October 2007 Odds & Ends Opinion Gimme More, or Not? Taylor Cohen ‘08 circulating these past few weeks discussed what actually went You’ve seen the videos, you’ve wrong. Britney was said to have read the articles, you’ve dropped taken anti-depressants before the jaws at the pictures, and you’ve show, which made her tired and heard her single on the radio. Miss drowsy. Others accuse her of Britney Spears is back at it with a drinking frozen margaritas all new anticipated to drop Nov. afternoon and well into the night 13, 2007. There are many things right before the performance. people are expecting from Spears Another source said that there was within the next two months. Some also a supposed fight between have to do with her music and others Britney and her hair stylist before deal with her social life and behavior. she went on stage. Britney forgot The real question on everyone’s her words, laughed at herself, mind is what is really going on? tripped, and then ran off stage. Britney’s 5th CD is calling a lot Nobody knows for sure, but what of attention and could make or break we all know is that we didn’t get Spears’ career. what we expected. The tracks that have leaked Image by Google Let’s support Britney in her onto the internet are sultry and sexy Oops...she did it again! time of need. She is trying to just do like the usual Britney sound, but American Dream, since I was of Britney’s indescribable Video what she loves and people are with an extra kick. Most of them seventeen.” The song then turns to a Music Award performance on MTV criticizing her to the extreme. Yes, make you want to dance, while darker path. “I’m Miss Lifestyles that aired early Sept. Spears was we can all say she’s made some bad others are deep and emotional. of the Rich and Famous. I’m Miss expected to give the world the mistakes within the past year, but “Gimme More” is the first single of ‘Oh my God that Britney’s “comeback of all comebacks,” but everybody makes mistakes. This the supposed album title, Pieces of shameless.’ I’m Miss EXTRA, ended up disappointing us all. talk was around last time her CD Me. Listen to the song, and you’ll EXTRA, this just in! I’m Miss She’s Britney opened up the show quoting was about to drop and she showed see Britney still has it. Spears starts too fat, She’s too thin.” Britney ends Elvis Presley, “If you’re looking for us just what she was made of, so off her song with an upbeat tempo the song with a strong point, trouble, you came to the right place. lets not speak to soon. Who knows? that you can’t resist to dance to. “Another day, another drama. I can’t If you’re looking for trouble, look Britney might just be about to make Although it hasn’t gotten a lot of see the harm in working hard and right into my face.” From there, it the comeback of the comebacks. radio time, it’s definitely worth being a mama.” The other two just went downhill. Reports listening to. expected singles are “Break the Ice” “Pieces of Me” is expected to and “Heaven on Earth” (both are Solve the Maze! be Spears’ second single. With usual currently available on the internet). Britney lines like “I’m Miss By now, everybody has heard

Riddles of the Issue ~A girl who was just learning to drive went down a one-way street in the wrong direction, but didn’t break the law. How come?

~Each letter below stands for the name of something. What should the last three letters be? M V E M J S ? ? ? -Look for answers in next issue!!

October 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Odds & Ends - 7 Tech Talk Game industry preps for holiday season Matt Neuteboom ‘08

The Fall/Winter season is usually the busiest time of the year for video game developers. This year is no different, and the approaching season is sure to drop some mind-blowing games into our hands. September 4 and 12 saw the respective release of two major PS3 games: Lair, and Heavenly Sword. The latter is an action sword-fighting game similar to the God of War games, and scored well with the critics. On the other hand, the former is a dragon-flying game which Google Images received much more mediocre The Orange Box-October 10 Guitar Hero 3-October 28 Smash Bros Brawl-December 3 reviews. On September 25, gaming waiting for comes out on October Fronts and the Gears of War re- with the launch of Super Smash history was once again made with 10. That day, the second episode of release on the PC, and Call of Duty Bros.: Brawl on December 3. Fans the much anticipated Halo 3 launch the Half-Life 2 series comes out on 4: Modern Combat and Assassin’s have been waiting years for the for the Xbox360. Stores fronts were the PC packaged in what is simply Creed for the 360, PS3, and PC all sequel to the 2001 game, which still lined with campers, and some called The Orange Box. It includes release within the first week. On remains one of the most top selling students even skipped school to Half-Life 2, HL2: Episode One, November 12, Super Mario Galaxy games to date. The launch for the play the final game in the first person HL2: Episode Two and a mind- is set to release for the Wii. Just sequel is sure to draw monumental shooter (FPS) series. By the end of boggling puzzle game Portal. three days later, Crysis will blow crowds. the month, blogs and game sites were Finally, the third installation of away FPS fans with its high-end While these are some amazing filled with nothing but Halo 3 news the Guitar Hero series will release graphics and open-ended game play. games, they are just a few of the and reviews. October 28 for the PS2, PS3, 360, November 20, Mass Effect, the epic many games set to release in the next October brings many long and Wii. It is sure to attract a couple space exploration game for the 360, couple of months. Save up your awaited sequels to classic games. of gamers wanting to try their hand will launch the same day as Rock money and be sure to be on the October 1 is the release of The at the new Dragon Force song. Band, the garage band simulator for lookout for your favorite games, Legend of Zelda: The Phantom November is packed with the PS3 and 360. since they are sure to fly off the Hourglass for the Nintendo DS. nothing but big time games. However, the finishing touch shelves. However, the title many have been Company of Heroes: Opposing comes at the beginning of December, iPhone rings in the school year Sarah Kurtz ‘10 techno boom. It has recently phone. Simply tap a name and you’re lacks. The iPhone is also incapable released a new line of products that dialing your desired call. It also has of voice dialing, voice recording, and Today the world of technology will amaze anyone who an internet access as video recording. Also, buyers are is a wonder and far more advanced dares to try and master many phones do, but locked in to using AT&T as their than we’ve ever imagined it to be. them. The iPhone is one this internet service is phone service, and cannot use any Forty years ago, people marveled of these innovations. more advanced than other provider. over the sight of words appearing Initially the iPhone most phones. It also has In my personal opinion, if on a screen in-front of them. Now was sold for $600. Now all the features of an you’re interested in buying an technology has become so advanced Apple has actually iPod such as a media extremely advanced phone, do your that there are such inventions as high slashed the price down player. homework before you put money definition televisions and cars that to $399. Apple was Although the down for anything. The iPhone is can actually parallel park selling nearly 9,000 iphone seems much an incredible product, but just be themselves. What would we do iPhones a day, but now more advanced than aware that just like every other without our portable laptops and with the reduced price, most phones, it’s also mechanical device in this world this cell-phones that can do anything the number has tripled in Google Image missing quite a few phone has some problems of its within reason? They give us access sales. Imagine that features that people own. It also may not contain to immediate information and 27,000 iPhones are sold everyday should be getting for spending $300 everything you desire, and may not communication throughout the for the cost of $399. But what makes on it. The T-mobile Sidekick is meet your needs. Today’s world. the iPhone such an amazing product? mostly known for its instant technology is a wonder, but it Apple is a giant part of this The iPhone is a touch-screen messaging feature, which the iPhone certainly isn’t perfected. 8 - Tech Talk The Patriot - W.T.H.S. October 2007 Halo 3 finishes the fight

Randall Beatrice ‘08 But, it is a sequel and it acts like one. The addition of new modes, It’s no denying that the Halo power-ups, weapons, and vehicles is series has become one the most happily welcomed with open arms. successful and profitable fran- The mutiplayer, what every- chises in all of video gaming. one really wants, is better than ever. With millions of followers and With an easy interface and great dozens of sponsors, it’s hard to service from XBox Live, this feature avoid the hype of the most is worth the purchase by itself. The anticipated game of 2007 so far. game comes packaged with an insane Released at midnight on amount of replay value, with fans September 25, it’s already grossed clearing their calendars and missing more than $175 million in the United days of school and work just to play States alone and has set the record and rank up. for the largest grossing entertainment Image by Google It is hard to be bored with so product within 24 hours of a release. An intense gunfight ensues online between two rival players. many modes to try online: Co-Op The best selling XBox 360 game Being released so closely to the debut unfortunately it doesn’t last too long. Campaign, Ranked, Unranked, LAN, worldwide, Halo 3 closes the trilogy. of other extremely successful and On the plus side, the and Forge. You can even play split It’s time to finish the fight. popular shooters, such as Bioshock environments are varied and the enemy screen with three other friends and Despite critical acclaim from and Metriod Prime 3: Corruption, it AI is brillant during some of the intense play online with up to sixteen reviews all over the can be difficult for fights. It looks and sounds good, but players at the same time. industry, I feel that The environments are some games to not great. Being in development by a Halo 3 is a fantastic game but the game is a bit of a varied and the enemy AI make the splash in huge team for several years, it should not epic. It’s no Goldeneye 007 or hit-and-miss. the market that look top of the line. You will easily Half-Life 2. It was made for hours However, it is com- is brillant during some of they promised. overlook this flaw though, since it of fun with friends and that’s what pletely worth the the intense fights. Halo 3 does not plays and controls perfectly while still it does. $60 price tag. First disappoint, nor having the same Halo feel to it. So if you’re looking for an awe person shooters are becoming does it do anything new for the On the negative side, it doesn’t inspiring single player experience, common-place in gaming, but it is overused genre. do much for innovation. We have all go with Bioshock or Metriod. But if still a very competitive field with The campaign is very played games like this before and the you’re searching for that next online games ranging from groundbreaking entertaining and fun to play through, lack of more options makes the game sensation, put this one at the top of and incredible to dull and abysmal. especially with friends, but feel a little linear and limited. your list. A solid 8.5 out of 10. Virtual world aids 9/11 trauma victims Katie Mount ‘09 There are many triggers that Some believe it could make the can cause an episode of PTSD. Any problem worse. September 11, 2001 is a day sound, any touch, any smell could “I believe it could be effective.” that will not be forgotten. People all put the person into panic mode. Mrs. Megan Foster, a psychology over the world watched from their Some of the most common teacher at Washington Township television screens as the city of New symptoms are nightmares and High School, said. “It forces the York was under terrorist attack. As flashbacks. It is reported that those patient to deal with what they’ve graphic as it was for those at home, from 9/11 see visions of burning been suppressing.” imagine how it was for the millions buildings and planes crashing when During the virtual reality of New Yorkers that had to stand by they experience an episode. In many session, the patient is shown a series and watch. cases, sufferers attempt to ignore the of scenes. They may start off simple, There are certain aspects of that problem. This causes the problem such as the Twin Towers on a sunny day that have never been shown on to intensify. day. From there, they show images television, such as the dismembered However, there may be hope. of planes flying. It’s a gradual bodies of the victims who jumped In a recent experiment, a Weill progression that eventually leads to from the burning buildings. Only eye Cornell Medical College therapist the planes crashing. witnesses could tell you how truly and a virtual researcher from the “Rarely would it have a Image by Google horrific the scene was. University of Washington HIT Lab negative effect,” Foster claims. “Not six sessions. When her sessions were Since that day, many of the have discovered a possible solution. if the virtual reality is paired with completed, she not longer met the victims and witnesses have been They believe that by using virtual other forms of help, such as standards of a victim of PTSD. diagnosed with Posttraumatic Stress reality to recreate the events of medication and other therapy This type of treatment is still Disorders. PTSD is a condition that September 11, patients can sessions.” in its early stages, and research is causes extreme emotional distress in overcome PTSD. In many cases, The first patient the researchers still being done. At the rate that response to a traumatic event. For sufferers attempt to avoid the in the Weill Cornell experiment patients have been improving, those who were at Ground Zero, they problem. Some patients are tested showed a ninety percent therapists hope this form of therapy relive 9/11 almost everyday. apprehensive to begin this treatment. reduction in symptoms after only becomes more widely practiced. October 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Tech Talk - 9 LifeStyles Fall Fashion 2007 Back to basics Taylor Cohen ‘08 of big chunky belts, skinny belts are being shown more with baggy A little dash of the 1920’s, some oversized shirts. Lots of large bags cool accessories, plus a nice fitted without shoulder straps are also look, and you’re ready for this “in”. upcoming season! Pumps and flats are back for fall It looks like a little purple, some and of course everybody can’t wait dark blues, a few metallics, and a lot to wear their favorite Uggs. “My of gray are in the fall fashion chocolate Ugg shoes are the best! I forecast! Chanel, Prada, Christian can’t wait to wear them again!” Dior, and Dolce & Gabana have Gianna Dipietro ‘11. Girls, get your strutted their stuff down the paychecks (Or your Dad‘s credit catwalks earlier this year to show us card), head up to the mall, and get just what we’re in for this upcoming shopping! fall. Now guys, get rid of your baggy Not much has changed since jeans, air force ones, and fitted hats. 2006, but some eye catching tweaks Grab a sweater, some pinstripe or have been made to some “plain Jane fitted jeans, a sports jacket, and a looks.” nice watch and you’re good to go! Girls, get ready for simple yet Look for wool or cashmere glamorous look for fall. The denim sweaters with a double zipper. A nice jean is part of our everyday wardrobe thin cardigan to wear over your and for now, it’s here to stay. The screen t-shirts is the number one new look that everybody is thing for fall. Many of the more becoming more familiar with is the expensive designer cardigans have skinny jean. Taylor Cohen ‘08/The Patriot leather patches on the elbows as well. Although many of us have Christie Garcia, Howie Smith, Rebecca Kilborn, Lauren Abruzzi This is a good item to buy for school, decided from back-to-school show off the lastest fashion trends at WTHS. since the temperature in school varies shopping that this look may not Ashley Damore ‘09. feminine side to fall fashion this from class to class. work for us. Don’t worry, because This still seems to be the more season. Bows are everywhere on Pinstripe pants are popular this many of the models on the cat-walk popular look for WTHS students. high-neck three quarter satin year in stores like Pac Sun. It’s a have been seen wearing the The prep look has been coming blouses. Fur-vests and metallic casual look, but also can be a more destroyed flare jeans as well. back and is full swing this year. With jackets are the new denim jacket. formal look on occasions. “I can’t wait to wear my new khaki pants, plaids, vests, and bows, As for shirts, everything from As for jeans, the slimmer destroyed California Flare jeans from you can’t help but loving this look. screen t-shirts to chunky knits are straight leg jeans are in. The washed Hollister. They’re so comfortable, The bows are very glamorous what you’ll be seeing. The fashion out destroyed look is “it” this year, but cute at the same time,” said and girlie. They show a more world can’t emphasize enough that and it’s actually a lot more appealing layering is the than jeans that don’t fit. “thing” for fall. Hollister’s Boomer Destroyed Heavy long jeans are a perfect example, as well sleeved sweaters as Levi’s Matchstick Jean which is in lots of pinks shown in many of the fashion and grays, with magazines this season. Your usual t- wool or shirt is being replaced by v-necks, cashmere scoops, and the occas-ional turtle fabrics, on top neck. Lots of the fall shirts have of a “Little Miss wider neck lines topped off with a Chatterbox” t- neutral colored sports jacket. Finally, shirt are what guys get rid of your chains and will be worn by “diamond” earrings. The new the fashion accessories are some nice sneakers conscious. like the new Vans sk8-Hi and a serious Accessories watch. To top it all off get yourself a this fall are the knitted scarf and just maybe…you Models are shown wearing large bows, shiny metallics, and fitted jackets. normal. Instead can get that girl. 10 - Lifestyles The Patriot - W.T.H.S. October 2007 What’s Happening Got school spirit!? Let us know Homecoming Dance Try out for our what’s champion cheer team! happening. Friday, October 26th 6:00PM-9:00PM List your event Theme: New York, New York 11/12 New Gym in a future Dress to impress! October 29-31 edition of The Patriot Join the Game Club! DECA The Atlantic

Sarah Kurtz 10’ Build vast Support a financial Deca is starting off the local band. year with a membership empires. drive on September 24th by visiting all the Business Education classes. October 30th The $20.00 membership 6pm at Skaters Choice fee is due by October 5th. Just 10 dollars for a night The induction ceremony is on worth remembering! Engage in November 13th during 2nd period. fantastic They will be visiting a Senior Care Center in duels. October for Halloween activities and in December Homecoming for other activities. In the beginning of Game November they will be cleaning up Veteran’s Park. Saturday, October 27th Conquer Band State Vs. Cherokee the world. Championship Cheer the illustrations by Cassy Matos ‘07 November 3 Minutemen as at the stadium they take on their ... and still make the 3:30 bus. conference rival The game club meets every Thursday 12PM - 11PM at 2:20 in cafeteria B. Check out our e-board on the WTHS web site. October 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. What’s Happening - 11 Entertainment album disappoints fans Stephanie Foran ‘08 Kisses, featured the hits “Lip Gloss and Black” and “Ain’t Love Grand.” With the debut of their fourth Perhaps their best known CD, album , The Curse, came next with hard- Atreyu fails to captivate their hitting singles such as “The targeted audience by finally giving Crimson” and “Right Side of the in to the alternative metal craze. The Bed.” After their third CD (A album itself is good for a person who Deathgrip on Yesterday) debuted in has never listened to Atreyu before, 2006, Atreyu took a turn towards a but it is quite disappointing to their more alternative sound that appealed old fans. It lacks the screaming that to a wider audience. vocalist Alex Varkatzas became I would give this album a three famous for, with hits such as “The out of five stars. It was good, but Crimson” and “Bleeding Mascara.” not great. The slower songs irked me

At the same time, the band shows a Victory Records 2007 because I’m used to listening to their more mature side, by experimenting Atreyu stands tough in their promotional picture (from left, heavier songs, but the rest of the with new melodies and using new Marc, Alex, Travis, Dan, and Brandon.) tracks made me want to get up and instruments. rock. Although this may not be The new album starts off strong Some of the tracks are slower and I in their earlier , with the same Atreyu’s best album, returning fans with “Doomsday” and “Honor,” can actually understand what mind-blowing guitar solos and loud, can still appreciate what the band which features fast-paced beats and Varkatzas and Saller are saying (and racing drum performances. has become and will stick with them. heartfelt sung by Varkatzas every fan knows Atreyu growls, not Atreyu formed in 1998 in If Atreyu is new to you, this and drummer Brandon Saller on back sings). However, the rest of the Orange County, California and took would be an opportune time to start up. Yet as the album progressed, I songs, especially “Becoming the the scene by storm. Their and experience one of the best found myself slightly disappointed. Bull” and “Blow” resemble Atreyu first CD, Suicide Notes and Butterfly metalcore bands out there. Fans are McLovin’ Superbad Matt Neuteboom ‘08 demand your money back. The highlights of the movie, in You have to hand it to Seth my opinion, are any scenes Rogen. Just a few months ago he containing the trio of McLovin’ and introduced us with his character Ben the two officers, Officer Chad and Stone from Jud Apatow’s smash hit Michaels, played by Seth Rogan and Knocked Up, a raunchy yet Bill Hader themselves. All three offer surprisingly touching story of a some of the best lines in the movie. man’s one night stand. Now writing Still, some of the good scenes his own film, he once again explores are hampered down with a lot of the subject of sexuality through the cursing and bad sex jokes. According eyes of teenagers. to IMDB, the movie contains 186 Superbad is a twisted comedy F-bombs, which can get annoying in about three sexually frustrated teens scenes where characters are just who are just trying to lose their screaming at each other. In contrast virginity before they go off to to Knocked Up, Superbad has less college. It’s two weeks before touching moments and is way more graduation, and three friends Seth, crude and offensive. Evan, and Fogell finally get the Nonetheless, Superbad really Image by Google chance they’ve been waiting for says something about teenage Best friends Seth and Evan have one wild night in Superbad. when they’re invited to a girl named misconceptions of going to parties Jules’ party. Jumping at the left to wander town looking for the experience of seeing it with a huge and having sex. It demonstrates how invitation, they offer to bring the sources of liquor, because without crowd that makes this movie so pressure can make people do irration- alcohol using Fogell’s new fake ID. it, they think they have no chances insanely funny. al things for the sake of fitting in. Things go from bad to worse in with the girls they like. Having seen the movie twice, I If you still haven’t seen one night as Fogell is taken to a bar Superbad is the type of movie can safely say that Superbad easily Superbad, make sure you go to see by two cops, who are seemingly that makes going to the movies worth remains one of the most quotable it before it leaves theaters for good. fooled by the phony ID (and it. There is absolutely nothing like movies of all time. If you and your This movie is likely to be the best actually call him McLovin, the fake laughing aside everyone else at the friends aren’t repeating the lines a teen comedy for the rest of the year. name on his ID). Evan and Seth are jokes this movie throws at you. It’s week after you’ve seen it, you should Yea, I’m McLovin’ it. 12 - Entertainment The Patriot - W.T.H.S. October 2007 Common’s new album sooo not common

Nicole Heath ‘10 was a major success for Common with a popular love song titled, “The Rap artist Common is making Light”. The second single “The 6th a big mark on the hip-hop scene. With Sense” gave Common a wider in depth lyrics and fresh new beats, audience. This earned Common his , Common’s latest first gold record selling over 700,000 album, landed the #1 spot on copies. Billboard’s 200 chart. The album Common’s next album, Electric features collaborations with artists Circus did not do as well. The album such as , D’Angelo, and strayed from neo-soul and had more Bilal. Finding Forever is also techno beats. Many old neo-soul Common’s second album under fans did not like the new direction ’s GOOD Music record the album took. label. West is one of the co-producers But in 2003 Common won his of this album along with will.i.am, first Grammy for his collaboration , and Devo with Erykah Badu in the song “Love Springsten. of My Life.” After this, Common Common’s last album, Be, made left MCA records and the public eye. him a familiar name in the Rap genre, He returned soon after and signed but Common has been an artist for with GOOD Music in over ten years, mainly as a neo-soul 2004. rapper. Now he has attracted After signing to GOOD Music, audiences from all different genres. he began working on his next album, His latest albums became hits Be, which gained Common Image by Google not only on soul charts, but rap and popularity and earned him another Common’s new album sold over 150,000 albums in the first week. R&B charts as well. Collaborations Gold record. with John Legend and Kanye West Common Sense was sued and forced underground until his next album One The hit singles, “Go” and have boosted his fame and broadened to shorten his name to Common. This Day It Will All Make Sense. “Testify” were played on BET and his fan base. But before signing with album was more success and gave Common signed with MCA were even featured on MTV’s TRL. GOOD record label, Common Common a neo-soul audience. record label in 1999 and started Still staying soulful, Common is already had an extensive career. It criticized west coast gangsta working as a Soulquarian. The reaching an audience of hip-hop, Common’s debut album in rap which sparked a feud between were neo-soul artists R&B, and even pop followers. 1992, Can I Borrow a Dollar, was Common and rap artist Ice Cube. like Erykah Badu, Mos Def, From Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr. an underground Chicago hit. He made After a couple of personal attacks at D’Angelo and Talib Kweli. Common to Common Sense to Common, this the song under his original stage each other in songs, the beef ended collaborated with this group when neo-soul rapper is gaining more and name, Common Sense. After his when the two had finally confronted he released his fourth album in 2000, more fans with hot beats and lyrics second album, Resurrection in 1994, each other. Common remained Like Water for Chocolate. This album that are just common sense.

Commerce Bank Arts Centre upcoming events Want to write Event Date Ticket Prices about new Tegan & Sara Friday, Nov. 23 $27.50 bands, television Opening: Northern State 7:00 pm shows, and Dave Coz & Friends movies? Smooth Jazz Christmas with Tuesday, Nov. 29 $37 - $70 Wayman Tisdale, Jonathan Butler 8:00 pm Then the Entertainment and Kimberley Locke section is for you!

Tuesday, Jan. 15 Contact Mr. Evangelisti Moiseyev Dance Company $27 - $52 8:00 pm in D-8 or [email protected] Friday, Mar. 28 Sweet Honey In The Rock for more information. 8:00 pm $27 - $52

October 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Entertainment - 13 Books Seventh Potter lives up to hype Lauren Finneran ‘08 would not be returning to school on would get lost in the pages for hours the Hogwarts Express, after at a time. For die-hard Harry Potter fans, experiencing their adventures and Harry Potter has without a this summer was incredibly exciting. being with them while they doubt swept through our nation, On July 21st, the much-anticipated apparated and disapparated to affecting and changing all who have seventh and final book, Harry Potter different forests picked it up. and the Deathly Hallows, was finally around England, I There were times when People of all ages released. Potter’s creator, J.K. realized that they the trio was going can appreciate the Rowling, first published this popular were better off Harry-Ron- series in 1997. There have been six traveling around; I strong and there were Hermione team, books, released periodically over the fell in love with their times when they fell to which has contin- last ten years, ending with the tent and Hermio- pieces, and that is the uously attracted Deathly Hallows this past summer. nie’s never-ending reality of life. people to this Those addicted to the Harry Potter bag. series, and keeps series preordered the novel, and some Through all of the ups and us all coming back for more. even waited for hours in line at downs, successes and failures, I felt I would definitely recommend bookstores prior to its release. as though I was a part of this book. reading this book, however, I would The seventh installment of I could relate to everything that not suggest just picking up this last Google Images installment and expecting to Harry Potter is a story loaded with In the U.S., the final book sold happened in some shape or form. understand it. Read the entire series information and small, but incredibly 8.3 million copies in the first 24 There were times when the trio was and I can guarantee that you will not important details. Even things that hours. going strong and there were times may seem miniscule or unimportant when they fell to pieces, but that is be sorry. It is a quick read and you will resurface at the end of the story. Severus Snape. They set off instead the reality of life. Sometimes you will love every minute of the Remembering those details will make in search of the remaining Horcruxes. are part of a team and sometimes whirlwind adventure, and by the end the ending of the novel that much Although I was slightly unhappy you stand alone. I felt a special of the epilogue you will be craving more exciting. when I first found out that the trio connection to these characters and I for more. The adventure begins like all the others, with the summer before another year at Hogwarts School of Eclipse shines among top sellers Witchcraft and Wizardry. This year however, Harry, Ron, and Hermione Stephanie Foran ‘08 on her website that it was “the most are not turning to the school, which fun to write.” is now under the new headmaster, In the thriving metropolis of Perhaps my only objection Seattle, someone has unleashed a would be that towards the middle of new threat—a newborn vampire the book, the plot seems to drag. I Come to the who kills as many as two humans a found myself wondering when a day. Throw in a few fights with scene would be done and something Student werewolves and villains and exciting would happen. But do not delightfully unexpected plot twists, fear, it does pick up. One thing I Book Club! and you have Eclipse, Stephenie enjoyed is that we find out more Meyer’s third novel of the ever- about the Cullens and their lives as popular Twilight series. humans. However, I will state that Next meeting: As her high school graduation these chapters contain fairly mature Tuesday, October date approaches, the heroine of the themes, so readers beware. series, Bella, is faced with Returning fans will love the 30, at 2:20 in the acknowledging that her human life is third novel in this already fantastic coming to an end and her vampiric series because of its interesting twists IMC. Google Images life with Edward is just beginning. and turns, the intriguing characters Eclipse knocked Harry Potter and She has to choose between her we’ve all come to love, and the way the Deathly Hallows out of the Book Club will be friendship with Jacob and having a Meyer allows the reader to step into top seller spot on the USA today normal life or her relationship with Bella’s shoes. Meyer is currently discussing the novel list. The Christopher Edward and the rest of eternity. writing the fourth book of the se- What a dilemma. (Charlie’s adversity to Edward, Sam ries, titled Breaking Dawn. As stated Killer: A Forensic Like Twilight and New Moon, and the “pack”, and the very elusive on her official website Mystery by Alane Eclipse revolves around the star- Victoria). If you have read the series (www.stepheniemeyer.com), if ev- Ferguson. crossed lovers Edward and Bella and before, you will not be disappointed. erything goes according to plan, it their struggle to keep their love alive, Out of the three novels, Eclipse has will be released on August 10, 2008. despite the conflicts they face the most comic relief. Meyer stated Happy reading! 14 - Books The Patriot - W.T.H.S. October 2007 Sports

A View from the Stands by Rich Elles ‘08 Phillies finally reach October As each Major League Baseball which had truly captured the wild season draws to a close, the same passion of the Philadelphia sports dreary feeling settles over the city fans, Myers struck out Wily Mo of Philadelphia. Pena with a curveball to wrap up An October without the Phillies the Phillies’ first division title since has become routine since the early 1993. 1990’s, leaving younger fans without Pandemonium ensued on the a taste of postseason baseball at any field as the players partied in the point in their lives. However, the stands with the crowd, popped the 2007 version of the storied franchise corks off celebratory bottles of displayed a much more optimistic champagne, and donned their aura around the team that delivered division championship hats. a September to remember for all Now, after watching the Phillies Philadelphia sports fans. struggle against the Colorado After sweeping the New York Rockies in the National League Mets in a four-game series at Division Series, I can’t help but feel Citizens Bank Park in the last few as though this year’s ball club has games of August and pulling already given fans their money’s themselves back to within two games worth. It’s crucial that the squad’s back of the division lead, the Phillies accomplishments over the long had struggled and dropped to all the season are not overlooked after a way back to seven back of the Mets dismal playoff effort, as an entire with seventeen games to play. season of memories cannot be erased With the fans beginning to lose in a few short games. faith, the players continued to step Whether you choose to onto the field, never losing hope of a remember the Phillies scoring five comeback. runs in the ninth to tie the Brewers, The Fightin’ Phils began by The Phillies celebrate after making the playoffs for the Ryan Howard’s walk-off blast to defeating the Wild Card-leading first time in fourteen years. beat the Mets, or Jimmy Rollins’ Padres before rolling into Shea prophecy of being the division’s best Stadium to sweep the Mets yet the Mets for first place in the runs in the first inning in their final team finally being fulfilled, the again. Before the fans could even National League East, but gave the game, the Philadelphia ball club team’s ’07 season was one of the begin the phrase, “We’ll get them Mets another chance when they lost would only need to win its final game most exciting runs in recent history. next year,” the Phillies were right on Saturday to fall back into a share to secure a spot in the postseason. All Philadelphia sports fans, back in the race, trailing the Mets for the division title. However, the And after the offense did its part in young and old, can finally breathe a by only two and a half games heading final day of the season was an securing a five-run advantage, closer sigh of relief. into the final week of the season. occasion for all Phillies fans that will Brett Myers was called in to throw The Phillies have finally broken On the final Friday of the never be forgotten. the final pitches. through and become one of the regular season, the Phillies overtook With the Mets giving up seven With two outs in a ninth inning league’s elite. Girls Soccer Boys Soccer 11-0-1 Fall Sports Records 10-0-1 1st in South Jersey 4th in South Jersey As of: October 10, 2007 Football Girls Tennis Field Hockey 4-1 11-1 6-3-1 8th in South Jersey 4th in South Jersey 11th in South Jersey Qualified for South Jersey Group IV Finals Girls XC Boys XC Girls Volleyball 0-3 4-8 17th in South Jersey 1-2 Won South Jersey Hall of Fame Meet

October 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Sports - 15 Fall Sports Action Photos by A.J. Nisbet ‘08

Steve Graziano ‘08 heads to the sideline after completing a touch- down pass to Matt Boznaijek ‘08 against Woodrow Wilson. Sheri Fort ‘08 (above), The Minutemen are currently 4-1. Michelle Martin ‘08 (left), and Justine Hunsicker ‘08 (below) all have vital roles as captains on the Minutemaids field hockey team

Renee Steranko ‘08, one of the senior leaders on this year’s girls volleyball team gets ready for an oncoming ball.

Amanda Cole ‘08 (Left) and Kristen Abdallah ‘08 (Right) switch sides after a set. Cole and Abdallah make up this years top doubles team for the Minutemaids.

Katie Margiotta ‘08, one of the Minutemaids top scoring threats, fights off a Cherokee defender in Christina Caltabiano ‘08 escapes their 2-1 victory. from Cherokee defenders.

16 - Sports The Patriot - W.T.H.S. October 2007