The Patriot Issue 3 Washington Township High School, Sewell, NJ March 2009 Just Warming Up Boys’ track ready to carry success into Spring Kevin Whitehead ‘10

“We love it!” That team motto sets the Washington Township Track team aside as one of the best, instead one of the rest. Along with their dedication and love of their sport, the determination demonstrated in daily practice has brought them a national honor that has been attached to their name for the past two years. At the State Relays in the Bennett Indoor Complex in Tom’s River, the sprint medley team of Tim Carey ’09, Nick Krauss ’09, Xavier Fraction ’09, and Devon Carter ’10, took first place with a time of 3:37.77. They broke the state record originally held by Morris Hill High school by one and 12 hundredths of a second. And amazingly this same group ran the 4x400 meter race and won as well. Two victories in two Kevin Whitehead ‘10/ The Patriot races. Can’t ask for much more. The sprint medley relay of Tim Carey, Nick Krauss, Devon Carter, and Xavier Fraction posted These upperclassmen have nationally ranked times. They hope to build on their national spotlight heading into the Spring. proved that if you put in the time there,” Bostwick said. “They need executed the same thing,” Carey said. there are no timeouts!” Bostwick and work everyday, good things can to do the extras away from me. It’s A true formula of success was said. happen. the little things that make the constructed in the last two years and Aside from the top performers, Head coach Mr. Rich Bostwick difference and I hold them it has really paid off. They are all the rest of the team has put in the has set workouts everyday for four accountable for everything they do. motivated not only by their time and effort to follow in their of these D-Block members to help “They’re upperclassmen and teammates and peers, but the very footsteps. Along with Carey, Krauss, them excel. D-Block is the superior they know what’s expected of inner drive of being the best. When and Fraction, key seniors will be members of the team, which mostly them,” said Bostwick. that all accumulates in each leg of moving on. Brian Gillespie, Greg consists of upperclassmen. To have a repeat performance the race, whether it be the 200 meter, Krause, Ryan Tiernan, Andrew “D-Block is not just distance. as winners, the team has put the 800, or the 400, a skinny time Magee, Brian Keane, Jordan DiPinto, It’s the best of the best. It’s really themselves in a class all their own. and high honors are always the and high jumper Joe Mineo, will be the Dedicated Block instead of Washington Township’s Track team pinnacle of the track mountain top. exiting the program, passing the torch distance block,” Bostwick said. has now been put on the map as one “I’m proud of them. I know to the younger runners to fill their The coach just assigned the of the best, if not the best out there. how hard they’re working. Even void. work for that day. And these four “I’m really happy about the with this cold weather, they’ve “We have a nice group of went above and beyond. win. Everyone pulled together as stayed healthy, and performed. “I just put the program out one. We’re the same team and we That’s the key to consistency and See TRACK pg.2

Odds & Ends p.8 Tech Talk p.13 Inside... Manuary Arts and Entertainment p.14 Monzo Madness p.2 Features p.10 Books p.17 Commentary p. 4 Dangers of tanning Winter teams finish strong People p. 6 Lifestyles p.12 Sports p.18 2 - News The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March, 2009 Hoagie sale helps good cause Katie Mount ‘09 “It’s different now that it’s my family being helped,” she said. “I’m Super Bowl Sunday is a day very happy and grateful for their that, for many, is filled with help.” traditions. Some include: getting Colette Bleistine, a WTHS together with friends and family, graduate, is now a sophomore at going out to eat and watching the Rowan University. She has suffered game, listening to the halftime from cystic fibrosis her entire life, performers, and observing all of the and as of mid-January was new commercials. For Washington transfered to the intensive care unit Township, there is another tradition. at Children’s Hospital of On Feb 1, WTHS hosted the annual Philadelphia awaiting a double lung Super Bowl Sunday Hoagie Sale. transplant. Over two hundred people Lucarini said that many times volunteered their time to help, and he hears about the people they help over $10,000 was made from through individuals reaching out to generous contributions. their organization. The hoagie sale is a charity “Over the years, the Hoagie event organized by the Orchard Katie Mount ‘09/The Patriot Sale and several other projects have Valley Middle School student Volunteers prepare hoagies for pick up. The event raised over become so well known that people council and co advisors Mr. Ron $10,000 on Super Bowl Sunday. just call us,” said Lucarini, Lucarini and Ms. Kim Kalber. They “Profiles in Courage”; the bulk of Michaela’s father, said. “People from “Sometimes we have neighbors of received help with the organization the sales went to benefiting three all over are pitching in, and it the people in need calling.” and advertising of the event from all young girls with severe medical definitely helps us.” He added that although their of the schools in the district. issues. Taylor Buonadonna ’12 was goal is to give back to the community, “Without the support of Michaela Healy, a seventh diagnosed with Osteosarcoma (bone he and Kalber hope for their students teachers throughout the district, [the grader at OVMS, suffers from cancer) in June 2006. Doctors to receive something from the hoagie sale] would not have Hydrocephalus, more commonly recently found another tumor on her experience as well. experienced the success we have,” referred to as water on the brain. knee, and she is currently seeking “[Our] other goal is to have Lucarini said. Healy was also helped last year from treatment. Although this is the first students understand the value of On the day of the event, two the event, and this year, the money time money from the sales will assist meaningful community service, and foot Italian hoagies are sold for $10 will help the family while she goes her, she is no stranger to the to make a real sacrifice and effort in each, and the money earned goes through her 130th surgery. fundraiser. Last year, she generously the way of hard work for someone towards helping people in need. The “The response is volunteered her time to help sell the and something other than theme for this year’s event was overwhelming,” Mike Healy, hoagies. themselves.” Winning ways continue TRACK from pg.1 freshmen. I have to teach them how to train. have that same feeling,” Fraction said. every victory. And then the rest of the team is Cell Block—the The track team has workouts Mondays and “It feels great,” Krauss said. “We had an unknowns really. Once these guys learn, they’ll Fridays and also on the dreaded “Workout extra year of training and we worked our butt off. be moving up. It looks good because we’re Wednesdays.” Every week, weather permitting [The state victory was] surely was the biggest scoring in every grade [at every meet],” Bostwick the track team really “hits it hard” these days. win of my life.” said. Typically the most strenuous workouts are In addition to their recent state success, the These underclassmen including standout assigned and the team really builds endurance in relay team of Carey, Krauss, Fraction, and Steve Michael Lobban ‘12 who boasts a 7.07 seconds strength in this midweek mash. Morrone ’10, participated in the Millrose Games time in the 55 meter dash, long distance men “I like the workout where I start out with a in Madison Square Garden on Jan. 30. By way of Anthony Dentino ‘11, who ran 10:04.58 3200 1000 meter, a 300 meter, and then another 1000 a rare accident causing a droped baton, the team meter at the SJ TCA and Dan Gresh, who ran meter run. It gets my wheels going,” Fraction said. uncharacteristically did not finish in the top three, 18:04.00 in the 5000 meter race, will concentrate When the conditions are too unbearable to however getting to this national stage was an on training techniques into the outdoor season. run in, like many days in the indoor season, the honor in itself. Bostwick will try to lead the freshmen and runners are put through sessions called As the 2009 Indoor Track team moves sophomore athletes in the same direction as conditioning, where they work their core and forward, the same thought process still lives on. Carey, Fraction, Krauss, and Carter. strengthen their legs. “I enjoy helping these athletes and the The team bonding at everyday practice has Witnessing these players go through their relationships I have with them. I like to know helped these boys push each other to achieve. two hour practice sessions simply proves a life that I’m affecting their lives. Because after all, “It’s all about practicing with my lesson of sticking with something your good at, there are more that didn’t win than did [in high teammates. They bring the best out of me. When to finally reach the top. The sprint medley team school track]. But as long as I’m making an I practice they push me, so when I’m in a race I earned accolades and respect that coincides with impact, I’m here,” Bostwick said. March, 2009 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. News - 3 Dancing for dollars Monzo Madness raises $24,000 Sarah Kurtz ‘10 the music may have been less popular than others, but everyone Madness. kept dancing. A word generally used to de- Every hour the DJ announced scribe intense excitement or a ten minute break, which for many enthusiasm, which is exactly what felt like thirty seconds. After ten monzo madness is. Monzo madness minutes were up participants had to is a 24-hour dance that WTHS be ready to dance again. Those still students participate in to help raise sitting received an X on their hands money to fight Amyotrophic Lateral and their chance to win was over. Sclerosis (ALS). Twenty four hours is a long The dance started at 1:00PM time, especially when dancing. The on Friday, Jan. 16. For the first ten hours of the madness are participants, Monzo Madness is the easiest, after that some felt they tons of fun and supports a great were pretty much a zombie. cause. “I couldn’t feel my feet Organized by WTHS Interact anymore but I couldn’t stop dancing. under the supervision of advisors I didn’t make the full 24 last year so Mrs. Tracy Naval and Miss I had to finish this year.” said Kim Elizabeth Longo, this year’s event Kraus ‘10. raised over $24,000. Since the To grab some rest while they inception of the event, Interact has could, many kids brought sleeping raised over $76,000 to fight ALS. bags, food, pillows, and even air Gina Parker ‘09?The Patriot “It wouldn’t be the exciting mattresses, transforming the gym Students dance all night at the anual dance marathon raising night it is without the 400+ students into a giant bedroom full of exhausted money for the ALS Foundation. who attend,” said Interact president kids. But not everyone is too tired executive board. They were chairmen but because every year we Gina Parker ‘09. to dance. Some students actually responsible for organizing donations recognize how many people we have Monzo Madness all starts with lasted the full time. Kraus and Nicole of food and money, registering the chance to help.” registration. Participants receive Kovacs ’10 were among those who dancers and ordering T-shirts. “It’s something that only their numbers and get ready to dance were able to go the distance. “This year the success of happens once a year,” said Kovacs, the night, and day, away. The 24 hour event required Monzo meant more to us than ever,” “and if I have to ruin my weekend Each hour of dancing has a three months of preparation by the said Parker, “ not only because it by sleeping the whole next day I will. different music theme. Some hours committee members of the Intereact was the senior year for many of the It’s worth it.” NHS members enjoy induction Sarah Hollins ‘09 attempted to sum up the importance and pursuing a future interdisciplinary masters at influence of NHS. This importance was ultimately NYU, Pancari displays the qualities of most NHS This year’s National Honor Society summed up in the symbolic ritual of the induction members and serves as a role model for academic induction ceremony was a great send-off for its ceremony, the lighting of the candles. achievement as well. departing seniors and a great mid- Each candle represented Her speech was short and creative, as she year inspiration for its newly important ideals of NHS. Brook related her favorite literature to the qualities inducted juniors. Cima lit the candle of knowledge, possessed by NHS members. “I thought it went by very Sharice Thayer lit the candle of “There is another source available to all of smooth and efficiently. And I think scholarship, Raychel Vassallo lit the us, when we need guidance, encouragement, and it was more enjoyable this year. It candle of leadership, Chelsea Glinter inspiration. A source I have turned to countless was too long and drawn out last lit the candle of the character, and times. I’m talking about literature.” said Pancari. year.” says Joe Kocher ‘09, NHS Jenny Kong lit the candle of service. Pancari drew comparisons from works such member. The candles were symbols of as Great Expectations, The Odyssey, Romeo and The seniors also felt that their everything that NHS stands for and Juliet, A Tale of Two Cities, and The Good Earth. short sentimental statements for prides themselves on. According to Pancari, Great Expectations teaches their sponsors were cut shorter this year; Prachi Parihar, the NHS executive board co- us to be “great people”, The Odyssey teaches us contributing to a much shorter program. chair of induction, introduced Donna Pancari, the “patience, perseverance, and humility”, and The program was centered around speeches official speaker of the evening. Pancari has been Romeo and Juliet teaches us “the dangers of from members of the NHS executive board. teaching English at WTHS for seven years. She impetuous action, the poisonous futility of Members like Catherine Kology, who spoke on was a member of NHS at Sacred Heart High hatred.” NHS’s commitment to community service, and School and was a member of its executive board. Her closing words of advice for help for the Jessica Kline, who spoke about NHS’s history, Possessing a Masters degree in English and future was to “pick up a book.” 4 - Commentary The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March, 2009 Commentary Choosing patriotism over President-bashing David Kramer ‘09 in the leader of their country. Watching the Obama inaugu-ration, I felt a As we all know, Barack Obama is the newly new sense of pride. A sense that Americans are elected president of the United States. ready for a new direction. While most people celebrate him being in For the first time in a while, I felt that the office, others heavily criticize it, especially America was united and ready. Watching the hardcore Republicans. inauguration that day, I felt more patriotic than As a Republican myself, I have heard many I’d ever felt before. A feeling that the United harsh things from fellow classmates and relatives. States was finally “united” But face it, Barack Obama is our new President Although there are some republicans who – and nobody is going to change that for the next feel disgraced that Obama is our president, I four years. don’t. During the last administration, many I have a newfound sense of patriotism now people criticized President Bush’s work in office that America is ready for a new direction, and I and how his shaky foreign policy misled feel thrilled that many people are no longer America. criticizing the president of the United States, For the most part – those critics were right. but praising him. Although I was a Bush supporter throughout Personally, I don’t feel dis-graced as a his two terms in office, even I can look back and Republican for supporting the fact that America say “Wow, he really did mess some things up.” finally feels united after eight years of an old Yet I found it disturbing when everyday I illustration by Christina Alberichi ‘09 legacy. would watch the news and hear many criticize States as a “hick” or “nobody”. I believe that all people, Republicans too, the President of the United States. Everyday I Everyone has their own opinions, but should feel a new sense of patriotism that the would go to school and hear teachers and fellow personally, this made me sick to see that American people are pumped for the next four classmates describe the President of the United Americans had absolutely no faith, or confidence, years for our country. Music enhances learning environment Diana Lezenby ‘10 everyday lives. With some much noise flowing comes on, weather they like the song or not. It into their ears at all hours of the day, you’d wakes people up and gets them prepared for Many different people like many different think they would bring it into the classroom. their next class. kind of music. Some people listen to music to The music in between periods has already I think playing music in the classroom every relax, to express themselves, or just for brought a big difference in this school. once in a while would be a great way for students enjoyment. People are more aware when the music to raise their grades and enjoy their classes more. For the most part, some students listen to music when they do everyday things, such as while they do their homework and study. They The Patriot become accustomed to music as a way of being Issue 3-February 2008 able to concentrate. Co Editors-in-Chief Since, students listen to music while they Maggie Bonnani ‘09 and Katie Mount ‘09 study, it could be easier to take a test with music playing softly in the background. Some teachers News Editor: Weston Eldridge ‘10 People Editor: Luke Verillo ‘10 already put on soft classical music while we Features Editor: Nicole Heath ‘10 Lifestyles Editor: Sarah Kurtz ‘10 work, and for me it is a great way to concentrate. Commentary Editor:Brittany Tartaglia ‘09 Odds N Ends Editor: Sarah Hollins ‘09 Studies do show that people who listen to music Entertainment Editor: Miranda Steinman ‘09 Tech Talk Editor: David Kramer ‘09 while testing, usually score higher. Sports Editor: Kevin Whitehead ‘10 Photo Editor: Gina Parker ‘09 Although I personally, would work more Advisor: Mr. Jim Evangelisti efficiently if every teacher played music while testing or working, not everyone would be in The Patriot is published by the students of favor of it. Washington Township High School. Some people need complete silence to 529 Hurffville-Cross Keys Road Sewell, NJ 08080 work, and the music might bother them rather The opinions expressed in the Commentary section and all articles labeled as opinion, as well as all reviews than help them. Even if the music is playing at and columns, are the views of the writer indicated in the byline. They are not meant to represent the views of a low volume, students might complain about The Patriot staff, the students of Washington Twp. H.S. or its administration. Unsigned editorials are meant the distraction. to reflect the views of the publication. Music is apart of people, and it’s in their Please send all correspondence to:[email protected] March, 2009 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Commentary - 5 Prison closing ill-planned Displays of Dan Lacca ‘09 the Gitmo prisoners are convicted and placed in prisons in those nations, would they stay in affection One of the first action that President Barack prison long? Since these are still two countries Obama took as the new leader of the United States where fighting is intense, how long would it take was to close Guantanamo Bay prison. for one of the radical prisoners to be busted out need to be Guantanamo Bay Detention Camp, or by insurgents? Once released, they would return Gitmo, is a group of high security prisons, run to their militant organizations and simply pose by the US Military, more opposition to the located in Cuba at the U.S. restrained Guantanamo Bay Naval Those that are not Base. Since 9/11 Gitmo Many of the prisoners sent to another country Jennifer Russo ‘10 has been used as a will be impounded here holding facility for being held at [Guan- in the United States. In In the crowded halls of our beloved people considered to be tanamo Bay] have possible many ways, this would Washington Township the last thing we want to “enemy combatants,” be no better. Prisons all run into is a couple showing more affection then and was primarily meant links to al-Qaeda, the over the country are necessary. to hold anyone suspected Taliban and other Islamic currently overcrowded How do you feel when you see such things? of terrorism. Many of the by the hundreds. Is this Some of us encounter it with a simple prisoners being held at terrorist organizations. country ready to take on understanding, noting how a person wants to Gitmo have possible detaining these people spend every moment wrapped in the arms of links to al-Qaeda, the with the current weak that special someone. Taliban and other Islamic terrorist organizations. criminal justice system the United States has? For others it’s a blunt annoyance to round a This situation may not have been thoroughly How soon or easily will they be released into corner and accidentally run into such a couple. analyzed by the new president . American society? These are not average For those coming off a break-up it can be just a The prison may take up to a year to fully criminals; these are extreme political activists who little bit painful, for we long for that kind of shut down; however the out come could still prove know exactly what they were doing and why opportunity again. to be chaotic. The closing of Guantanamo Bay they were doing it. The embarrassment we feel when we run prison was prompted by reports of inhuman Osama Bin Laden said that his organization into such a couple stings deep as we think that torture. would destroy America from the inside out. we are intruding. One might try to brush it off Is that a reason to shut the center down Closing Guantanamo Bay Prison was rushed with a “get a room!” kind of statement, but in completely? The plan for the detainees is to be and ill thought out. Instead of closing the facility truth many of us feel that some students take handed over to their country of citizenship and President Obama should have passed legislation their affection just a little too far. tried under their own governments. Of course to investigate and stop any torturing from For those out there you have a habit of doing that is if their Governments accept them back. If happening, and keep Gitmo open. such things, you might what to tone it down a so, the majority would be handed over to the Closing the prison will open up a whole bit. It’s understandable that you enjoy the person Iraqi and Afghan Government. Both of these case of problems that this country is not prepared you’re kissing, and whatnot, but for us out there areas are still hot zones for the War on Terror. If to face. it would be better if you leave that behavior until after school. If you are really a serious couple, then you probably already make time to see each other out * Write poetry and short of school. This leaves no need for the huge scenes in the hallways. Be a part stories. I see nothing wrong with some affection in these hallways: holding hands, a peck on the cheek or lips before class starts, a quick hug now and of the * Learn basic reporting then, but no more then that. This is school; we techniques, news style, don’t come here to see that. So next time you drag your special someone Writers’ layout and page design. to your favorite corner before fifth period, think about how others might react to it. Kiss your partner quickly and save the serious stuff for your alone time. Bloc! * See your work published in The Patriot. Have an opinion? Sign up for Talk to your counselor Send your letters to or see/email Creative Writing The Patriot. Mr. Jim Evangelisti Email us at [email protected] & Journalism. (D-8) for more details. for more information! 6 - People The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March, 2009 People Senior comic gets “serious” Sarah Hollins ‘09 If you want to be part of his favorite past times, make sure you don’t have any Chris Neuteboom will one day rule the of his pet peeves. “I hate smelly people” world. In fifty years he sees himself and “I hate when people sing songs, or try controlling the world’s economy. He plans on to, but they don’t know all the lyrics and going to college for business and staying to instead replace it with the beat or melody.” close to home because he would miss his mom He also hates when “people ask and answer too much. One should not be fooled by this their own questions.” If you possess none serious exterior, Neuteboom is a complete of these qualities, then you’re in the clear. comedian. If you want to be in the running to be his Always the jokester, Neuteboom is hardly new best friend, you have to have a great ever serious. He does and says whatever he personality and smile. can to get a rise and a laugh out of everyone. Neuteboom’s favorite self-possessed Saying silly things like, “I put my mom’s quality is that his friends’ parents like him lipstick on at night and call myself beautiful”, more than his friends do. In fact, the parents or doing silly things, like drinking a bottle of of one of his friends are always pushing Pepto Bismol for three dollars. Apparently him to date their daughter. His least favorite he needed the money. quality is his voice. “I wish I had the really For now, let’s look past this silliness and Maggie Bonanni ‘09/ The Patriot deep Kool-Aid man voice.” learn about who he really is. Neuteboom’s Neuteboom was also a participant of Manuary. In fifty years, he wants to be “married favorite past time is his job, delivering pizzas. Buddha statue, because he finds it peaceful. His with multiple wives” and maybe live in Canada With his amiable personality, it must be a blast idea of the perfect day would be “skydiving because of the free health care. His life goal is “to for him and the customers. He loves to hang with followed by olive garden”. What would hunt hawks, eagles, and cougars in the African his friends and sleep. He likes to wink at people Neuteboom bring with him if stranded on an jungle.” It’s safe to say that no matter what he likes to see if they notice. He also loves to island? “A squirrel stuffed with cheese”. As you Neuteboom does with his future, it’s going to be carry around his favorite possession, a miniature can tell, he’s ever so serious. very interesting. Cheer captain having great year Jenn Gordun ‘12 and the junior varsity team for the basketball cheer squad. As one of the three captains of the varsity She made the JV cheer squads cheerleading squad, Lauren Smith ‘09 is well for both sports in her known for her cheering on the Washington sophomore year. Smith began Township Minutemen football team. Smith has working harder than ever been in the Washington Township football during her second year at program since she was only eight years old and Washington Township High started out cheering for the Patriots. As she School, and it paid off. For progressed, she became a part of the Blue Angels her junior and senior years, All Star Team. When she was in seventh grade, she made the varsity the Blue Angels won the National Championship. cheerleading squads for both “It was an incredible feeling to win something football and basketball. that our team had worked so hard to achieve,” Lauren Smith is not only said Smith. one of the talented twenty- Smith cheered on the Blue Angels All Stars eight girls who made the for two years until she reached high school, where varsity squad, but she is one she finally became a part of Washington of the three captains of the Township’s competition and football cheerleading squad. “I felt very honored squads. She believes that being on the squad is when I found out I was a her greatest achievement as a cheerleader so far. captain. Of course it was even Gina Parker ‘09/ The Patriot “Being apart of the Washington Township better when I knew that Smith’s outgoing personality and bright smile help her varsity cheerleading team, every girl is extremely Victoria Collins ‘09 and talented and unique.” She said, “This team has Taylor Satorio ‘09 would be cheer on the Minutemen with pride. won Conference Grand Champs for nine years in captains with me.” Smith said, “Every senior really home coming court. Smith says that to be a row and it is an honor being able to say I am a did deserve the position as well, and to be one of nominated into the court is “indescribable”, and part of this outstanding team.” the three girls out of twenty-eight is amazing.” she feels very honored to be able to get to know For her first year at WTHS, Smith made the Not only is Smith a talented cheerleader, the other eleven beautiful girls that were freshman team for the football cheerleading squad she was also one of the twelve nominees for the nominated with her. March, 2009 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. People - 7 Bringing history to life Anthony Rue ‘09 attention. “I’ve been blessed a lot of over American History teacher Mr. the years I think.” He states Robert Barnshaw has been teaching modestly. for twenty eight years and is Barnshaw is a firm believer that consistently named as a favorite respect is the key to helping students among many WTHS students. enjoy and succeed in his class. Barnshaw has had a commitment to “I have always believed that if excellence from the moment he a teacher gives respect to his or her started teaching. students, then they will respect you “I was a junior in high school back. They may not always like you when I realized that I wanted to be a or think everything you say is right, teacher, specifically an American but they will at least give you history teacher,” respect in return.” Barnshaw has quite the Barnshaw has always been collection when it comes to the enamored with history and feels the various awards he has been given over best part of teaching his classes is the course of his illustrious career. when he can see his students Among many others, he has won an understand it as well. award from Penn State because of “I love American history, and I Gina Parker ‘09 / The Patriot Barnshaw is known for his captivating lessons about American his exemplary job as a mentor for love when I see that my students honor’s female students. can understand the subject matter. I History. Perhaps the most prestigious try to always be sure that everyone Barnshaw is also the advisor for historical relevance. award came in 1989 when he was in my class can grasp and understand Regenerate (formerly Bible club). “I have all kinds of things in named WTHS Teacher of the Year. the concept of what it is I’m Another big part of Barnshaw’s my collection: Flags from various Barnshaw’s laundry list of awards teaching.” Barnshaw said. everyday life is his interesting hob- countries, uniforms that were worn proves his incredible gift for teaching, American History isn’t the by of collecting historical artifacts. throughout different wars, posters but he doesn’t get arrogant or only area in which he teaches For many years he has been that were prevalent during the World conceited when it comes to all the students and gives them guidance. collecting all kinds of objects with Wars among others.” Music teacher finds humor in life Sarah Hollins ‘09 he is committed to, there are no dreams of bike races in the near future. Overall he considers “Live life sarcastically” himself a pretty pathetic cyclist at the moment. is the motto of Mr. David Cona’s favorite day of the week is Wednesday Cona, WTHS music because of what he calls “Beating Night”. His teacher. wife goes out and knits with friends, so he and Students who know his kids wrestle. Cona would definitely agree “They beat me,” he said. that this is a quote he lives For those who would like to be in Cona’s by. Students who are not good graces, there are a few things to consider. familiar with Cona learn People who are not very empathetic do not sit quickly, not to take a word well with him. It bothers him when people are this man says seriously. indifferent to others’ feelings and think that their He’s constantly problems are always top priority. cracking jokes and teasing Cona comes from a family of seven brothers students. and sisters. He’s a very family-oriented man who Cona teaches Music is constantly telling stories about his kids. Once, Theory and Guitar 1. His one of his kids forgot to strap their Wii remote to inspiration is his high their wrist and hurled it into the television. school history teacher, Mr. Gina Parker ‘09/The Patriot Greatly influenced by his wife, he admits that Collins, who taught him Aside from teaching, Cona enjoys watching Monty Python. she is always right and guides him in almost that teaching could be fun. everything he does. This guidance is something Cona initially went to college to be a history watch “Lost” and “Scrubs” and is a Patton, Lord he shares with his students. He does not boast teacher, but switched to music because he could of the Rings, and Monty Python fan. He has also though, because “pride comes later”. not escape his love for it. recently gotten into cycling. Over the summer, He does enjoy working with students and is Cona listens to everything from classical he had some heart issues, so he hopped on a bike proud of a time he helped a student through a composers like Haydn and DeBussy to bands in hopes to get healthy and lose a few pounds. personal tragedy with some bits of wisdom he like Rush, Yes, and Nickel Creek. He loves to While his newfound training is something had passed on years earlier. 8 - Odds & Ends The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March , 2009 Odds and Ends Soup Kitchen of Advice by Sarah Hollins ‘09 LeChef serves up a recipe for love Dear Soup Kitchen of Advice, rejection and then you just get back in an open way. Explain yourself and all you can do and you should be I met someone in a book store up on your feet. There’s plenty other say that your place is of concern as proud of yourself for your and now I seem to see him fish in the sea or in your case, books a friend and the only reason you’re selflessness. You are the staple of a everywhere. I can’t get him out of in the library. butting in is because you care about true friend. my head but I’m too scared to do her so much and don’t want to see And that’s your spoonful of anything about it. He’s a complete And that’s your spoonful of her get hurt. If your friend feels advice! stranger but I know we like the same advice! judged or bossed around at any point Sincerely, type of books. How should I Sincerely, Le Chef in time, she will tune out everything Le Chef. approach him if I see him again? you say. In this situation, you can’t Dear Soup Kitchen of Advice, decide for your friend. Sometimes, If you have a question that Sincerely, My friend seems to still like the more you nag the further they you would like to share with Bashful Bookworm an old flame, though he’s moved on. inch away. The best thing to do is to the chef, send an e-mail to She always seems like she’s waiting voice your opinion but support her [email protected] around for him, but I know nothing no matter what she does. If it ends Dear Bashful Bookworm, will happen. How can I tell her to positively or negatively, you should Attn: Sarah H. move on? be there for her either way. Many of us can be intimidated -A concerned friend And please, no “I told you so’s” by those we are infatuated by. Your if this does end badly. I’m sure timidity is nothing to be ashamed of. your friend appreciates So cowardly lion, let’s get you over Dear Concerned friend, how much you care to the wizard and get you some It is most unfortunate that your about her. If she courage. Muster up some confidence friend is in this current predicament. doesn’t, then at and walk over to this mystery man. I understand that you are a concerned least you’ve said Maybe a good opening liner would friend, but in this situation you can’t your peace, be about what you both have in really interfere too much. gotten this off common, in your case, something Your friend is a teenage girl and your chest, and along the lines of, “I heard that’s a once a teenage girl likes a boy she attempted to good book”. Talk about a mutual makes him her world. Most of the help her. In subject that you both enjoy. If he time, she puts this boy before her the end, doesn’t seem interested, then don’t friends. If you understand that, then that’s continuously pursue him. You have maybe you can approach this to accept that you can’t always win situation a little more cautiously. every battle. And even though you You should tell your friend how lost this one, at least you tried. The you feel and that you just care about worst thing that could happen is her happiness, but you should do so illustration by Christina Alberricci ‘09 Parents go back to school Brittney Collins ‘12 as your teacher, but if she’s happy, then I don’t I know there are some other kids in the really mind. Even though there were some kids school whose parents sub or even work here full Have you ever wondered what it would be who thought they could take advantage of the time, and I bet they agree with me that having a like to have parent teach at your school? situation, it ended up working out, and my mom parent in school is not as weird as it sounds. I have often wondered this and recently got had a lot of fun. My mom loves teaching, and I A lot of students might have some an answer to my question. My mother, after wouldn’t want to stand in the way of her dreams. misconceived notions about it being an easy class being a stay home mom since I was born, just One of the funniest things about having my if your parent was your teacher, but it’s actually recently started working again. She didn’t want mother as a substitute teacher was what she did the opposite. I don’t know about any other a full time job, because of my three younger sisters outside of my class. My friend had her in a parents, but my mom said from the beginning are still in elementary school. different class period, and she told me what my that she was going to be harder on me than the She decided to start subbing. mom shared everyday. rest of the class. She really wanted to sub at WTHS, and ended You see, my mom is really open, and she I am more of a quiet student, and I don’t up getting a 17 day sub position as my health liked to share anything and everything about her speak up that often, but my mom made sure to teacher. life, including what I ate for breakfast, or how make me participate at least once each day. I am very close to my mom, so I wasn’t my new braces were hurting me. My friend and I In all, having a parent teach you is an nervous or hesitant about her being a sub or actually laughed at all the random things my mom experience. You’ll laugh, and probably get embarrassing me in my class. Overall, it wasn’t talked about in class, so, I came to accept my embarrassed , but it’s worth having that too bad. It is kind of weird to have your parent mom teaching me. experience. March , 2009 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Odds & Ends - 9 Model commands attention Kim Scott ‘10 her staunch disappoval of the unfair couture Christian Lacroix. This list pressure on models during Fashion excludes the numerous shows she Supermodel is a word that Week and the viewers who are debuted in for spring 2007, such as inspires images of blond bombshells effected by the distorted body image Michael Kors, Derek Lam, and Malo. or bronze goddesses such as Heidi they emanate. The monumental event that Klum and Gisele Bundchen, but few At first, Coco Rocha blended happened later that year, the event people outside the fashion circle in with the crowd of tall, stunning that changed my perception of the instantly think of Coco Rocha. She models that walked down the dark haired, blue eyed waif was Jean is Canadian model of Irish, Russian, runway in 2006. I had previously Paul Gaultier’s ready to wear fall and Welsh descent, gifted with a pout viewed the fall ‘06 runway shows show in March 2007. The theme of that could make heads turn and a walk of ready-to-wear Marc Jacobs, Anna the collection was bathed with down the runway to match. Sui, Prada, and Dolce & Gabbana and Scottish pride; plaid, tartan, fur, Rocha was discovered at the remained oblivious to Rocha while dramatic colors, and equally dramatic ripe age of fourteen while other models such as Gemma Ward plumes of feathers resting on the participating in an Irish dance and Vlada Roslyakova shone heads of various models throughout competition by Charles Stuart, a through the veil of anonymity. the show. prominent agent. While escaping notice, Rocha Rocha pounded down the Rocha stands at 5’10”, a did catch the eye of Style.com, who runway with graceful feriocity as she relatively average height for models, named her as a rising star along with riverdanced across the hard, vinyl style.com but towers over the majority of the the fellow Canadian darling, Irina floorings, clad in a blood red jacket. Rocha is known to model average height of women in the Lazareanu. The reputable As a viewer, I was in awe of the couture clothing such as Dolce United States, 5’4”. The “It” feature, Models.com also cited Rocha as one sheer power that Rocha possessed & Gabbana, Marc Jacobs, Anna essential to a model’s success, is her of their Top 10 New Faces of fall as she stomped and leaped into the Sui, and Prada. avant-garde facial features that and winter 2006. air. In that moment, I understood that demand attention in a sea of models. Rocha displayed even more Coco Rocha was not just a pout and - the Style & Design Supplement, Her oval face consists of sharp promise, when the Vancouver native a magnificent walk, but possessed Japanese Vogue, and has appeared angles, high cheekbones, a pixie nose, was handpicked for a Dolce and what models strived for, what in numerous editorials in US Vogue. and an everpresent pout. Gabbana campaign before she even fashion is all about: beauty and a Rocha continues to appear in many An issue more admirable than appeared on the runway. Rocha sense of empowerment. collections throughout the spring and Rocha’s physical attritubes is her soon was chosen to close the spring Throughout 2006, 2007, and fall seasons of 2008 and fall 2009 stance on the issue of eating 2007 ready to wear show of Vera 2008, the face of Coco Rocha has with her trademark pout curled into disorders in the fashion world. She Wang, then opened that same season graced the covers of Italian Vogue, a cheshire grin as she stands at the has made clear in a series of articles of ready to wear Balenciaga and Dazed and Confused, Numéro, Time end of the runway. Noticing the ‘90s by Alyssa Couce ‘09 Remembering playtime Do you remember the 90’s? in an oven similar to the easy bake oven. It’s an era most of us grew up in. Many The plastic would then shrink to ¼ its things have changed since then. size and become thick and hard once Although technology has advanced I cooled. still prefer the toys we grew up with. Who could forget “Skip It?!” This toy Do you remember Simon? It was a toy was the next best thing to the hoola hoop. that lit up in patterns. You had to repeat the Skip it was a ball of some sort attached pattern by pressing the lights in the same to a wire that went around your ankle order. you would roll the ball in a circle around How about Bop It! They have your body and jump over the wire as advanced versions but do you remember the long as you could. I had one that actually original? You had to hit the middle of the counted how many times you skipped. toy when it yelled Bop It, twist the right hasbrotoyshop.com Another popular toy was the little side and pull the other when it said “twist” Though it bears little resemblance to its 90’s prede- skateboards and bikes that came with or “pull.” It was so aggravating when you mini wrenches and screw drivers. You lost and the toy actually yelled at you! cessor, the Easy Bake Oven is still a popular toy for could unscrew the tires and replace them Another favorite past time was playing today’s children. with new ones. A lot of kids would use with my Easy Bake Oven. The Easy Bake Oven that held the tray making it easy and safe to slide there fingers as legs to make the skateboards do helped children cook as safely as possible. The the tray in the middle of the oven. I can still tricks. The most fun was to use the mini oven could be plugged into any outlet and you remember making my parents and sisters try the screwdriver to take apart the board and replace it would wait for the oven to get hot. You could crazy concoctions I made. with a different one. buy different recipes like cookies and cakes. You Another favorite was shrinky dinks. You Even though we now have play station and mixed the mixtures it came with and put them in would take pieces of plastic it came with and handheld game systems like PSP’s I for one miss a small tin tray. The oven came with a spatula draw and cut. When finished you slid the plastic the original toys we grew up with. 10 - Features The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March, 2009 Features Early school hours cause sleep deprivation Sarah Hollins ‘09 And to make matters worse, the circadian rhythm (An activity At WTHS, students are cycle lasting 24 hours. Many living accustomed to waking up at things, including humans, follow a extremely early hours in order to get circadian rhythm i.e. a biological to school on time. As they shuffle clock) of your teenage brain shifts, into school and make their way to so that it expects to stay up later classes, they are noticeably starting and sleep- in longer…you’ll need to resemble zombies. to compensate by going to bed School districts all around the earlier than they want to.” country have always complained McDonald proposes a splendidly about low test scores, but our simple idea, just get to bed a little country is at an all time high in low earlier; but as most teenagers know, test scores. In our attempts to it’s not that easy. compete with and succeed other Many WTHS students pile nations’ intellect, our country is on the work, taking honors classes starting to seriously investigate the and the occasional AP class. With way our schools work. The best so much homework every night, place to start is right at the root of it’s impossible to go to bed early. the problem, which many students Some students are up all night deem to be lack of sleep. struggling to complete it all. Students know all too well the “A lot of honors classes give side affects of a late night studying. Illustration by Alexandra Pasquelone a lot of homework and you’re up According to Matthew McDonald, author of Your concentrate. You’re likely to be sidetracked more till the wee hours of the morning finishing it,” Brain the Missing Manual, side affects of short- often, and you’ll have…trouble with...anything says Joe Kocher, WTHS Senior, “An extra hour term sleep deprivation are a decrease in attention, that needs solid focus, say mental math.” of sleep in the morning would help you reaction time, mood swings, and weight gain. McDonald also states that “the teenage brain can’t concentrate better.” “If you’re short on sleep you can’t get by on 7 or 8 hours of sleep, you need 9 or 10. Some students believe that an extra hour for sleep in the morning would be more practical than an extra hour at night. This would push Lives of Military Brats by David Krammer ‘09 everything back, making departure from school an hour later. For some students this poses as a problem because of other commitments, but Militant to mellow students like Jen Russo 11’ think otherwise. “Getting out at 3 or 4 o’ clock in the David Kramer ‘09 afternoon is no problem for me,” she said, “I still What is a military parent like? Most kids who don’t have parents or relatives in the military, have hours until I have to go to bed.” assume that military parents are strict and disciplined, unlike their average civilian counterpart. Many schools around the country are What they don’t realize though is that many military parents leave work, and become another winding their clocks back and letting their person when they get home-A more loving and caring parent, rather than a disciplined and strict students get some extra snooze time. But until soldier. our district does the same, here are some tips for Usually when my Dad arrives at home, he’s really stressed out and looks tired. He comes in, quick power naps or just better sleep in general. takes a seat and reads the newspaper for an hour or so. Most of the time I’ll come into the kitchen “The secret to getting a good nap is to break and we’ll talk for awhile about how a day went, or interesting news in the sports world. Bottom line it off before you enter the deepest part of your is that my Dad is a more mellow and friendly person when he comes home, opposed to him being sleep cycle. Anecdotal evidence suggests that, on at work. average, a 20 minute nap leaves the brain lightly When I was 12 years old, I remember going to my Dad’s office at the NRO (National refreshed” Your Brain the Missing Manual. Reconnaissance Office) in Washington, D.C. At the time, he was an active duty airman, working According to Mind Performance Hacks: with civilian contractors that worked with various branches in the military. As soon as we walked Tips and Tools for Over Clocking Your Brain, into his office, he became a different person. No longer George Kramer, my father, but Technical tips for getting better sleep are, “make a comfort- Sergeant George Kramer. He immediately started giving out orders to his airman (He was supervisor able bed, be somewhere quiet, be somewhere of the personnel department), as well as his civilian workers. Never had I seen my dad with so much warm or cool, be somewhere dark, be well- responsibility. It was shocking to see my dad at work, almost as if there was another side to him that nourished but don’t eat heavily right before sleep, I’d never seen before. From that day on, I realized that my Dad was one person at work, and another and cut out caffeine at least 8 hours before bed.” at home. For us humans, who spend about 20 years My life really hasn’t been strict or disciplined due to my Father’s line of work. My dad is a asleep, lack of sleep is important and can very family-oriented person, and you would never know that he was some sort of military “machine” negatively affect health and daily performance. when you saw him at home. He enjoys watching and playing sports, lifting weights, and spending While you’re busy waiting for school officials to time with the kids. He, like other career military men and women, has two lives - one of a family come around to the idea of changing school hours, man, and another of a military man. get some sleep. March, 2009 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Features - 11 Manuary gets tough, raises funds for charity

Miranda Steinman ‘09 the Monzo Fund. They felt that after a good friend’s mother passed For most, January is a time for away from this disease, raising resolutions and new beginnings. At money was a great way to give the Washington Township High School, family their regards and help other however, the month has a whole families in the same situation. different meaning. “A lot of the fund raising was If one walks down the halls in run by Paul Buono ‘09, collecting, the midst of January, he or she might hustling, extorting,” said see a few things that are out of the Neuteboom, “and the Manuary ordinary. cards were my creation, but Teenagers with facial hair can everyone does their share.” be seen around every corner. These At Monzo Madness, the 24 students can also be found at hour dance-a-thon, the Manuary Denny’s every Sunday eating the participants led several activities Lumberjack special and drinking during the 10 minute break periods. black coffee. Every Friday the boys Each was another motivation for are clad in plaid as the participants people to donate whatever they in this event wear flannel shirts and could. At one point, the boys work boots for “Flannel Fridays.” Maggie Bonanni ‘09/ The Patriot auctioned themselves off for a dance It is all part of a new tradition titled Manuary men show thier manliness by wearing plaid, not shaving to the highest bidder. “Manuary.” their faces, and soliciting funds for a good cause. Manuary 2009 was “The rules go as follow,” said Atzert, Jeff Lamb, Sean Kelly, and This is why you can find memorable because of everyone’s Chris Neuteboom ‘09, “Do not Joe Contino (All class of 09.) several videos posted online enthusiasm and participation. It shave, do not cuddle. Eat Denny’s, “I dropped out of Manuary displaying some of the participants would not be unlikely if future and wear flannel on Fridays.” because I thought my facial hair sawing or chopping down trees as a classes want to out do the pre- The guys in Manuary are no wouldn’t be up to par with declaration of their manhood. ceding years. joke. Anything they deem as everyone else’s,” says Alec “Swiz” Although they are not showing their Hopefully they will take the “unmanly” is strictly forbidden. If Swiecinski, 09, “and I wasn’t man environmental sides, the boys just boys’ wonderful spirit and the rules are broken, the culprit enough to cut down trees.” want to stay true to their titles. determination in raising money as must wear a sign displaying his One of the main points of Although this ‘tradition’ was inspiration for making Manuary not mistake, or he could possibly be Manuary is to be as manly as started last year in Mr. Dan Saia’s only a fun activity, but a great way kicked out of the group. possible. While growing out facial sixth period economics class, the to fund organizations. Next time This happened several times, hair and wearing flannel fit the boys’ festivities hold another meaning for you look at the hairy faces of your and some of the “fallen” members vision of masculinity, a lumberjack this year’s group of “lumberjacks.” classmates, remember that they are included: Steven Romano, Alec would not hold true to his name if The boys have raised money for not only doing it for laughs, but in Swiecinski, Rodrigo Mateo, Luke he did not actually perform the deed. ALS and have given all proceeds to good spirits for a good cause.

FBI visits WTHS

On Jan. 21 and 22, the Phila- delphia branch of the Federal Baeru of Investigation (FBI) had agents visit WTHS Fo- rensics classes. Agent Tom Duffy instructed students on how the FBI uses forensics to investigate and solve matters.

Katie Mount ‘09/ The Patriot 12 - Lifestyles The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March, 2009 Lifestyles Avoiding sunless tanning’s pitfalls Grace Glennan ‘11 Many people go to tanning salons such as Hollywood Tans and We all know that everyone wants use the tanning bed technique. a summer tan all throughout the year. Although effective after the first few It unfortunately doesn’t work that uses, safety is questionable. Tanning way. We get burnt, we get tan, and beds put you really close to UV then by mid September we are back (ultraviolet) rays. The UV rays to our normal skin tone. damage skin. Teenage girls especially are With this type of tanning you also always looking for have to worry ways to keep the Just remember that each about your eyes. tan. The only method has its side The tanning beds problem with that emit so much light is it isn’t always effects so take the it can damage healthy. necessary precautions your eyes. This is If you do not when tanning. why when you go have time or access tanning you need illustration by Chris Adams ‘09 to the tried and true method of to wear the goggles. tanning in natural sunlight, there are Another way to a sunless tan As with natural tanning, most artificial means can have drawbacks. several different ways to tan. You is using the airbrush technique. While could lie in a tanning bed in a salon, it may protect you from those not applied properly. According to solution called dihydroxyacetone use an airbrush tan, or take tanning harmful UV rays, it can prove www.oregon.gov the FDA has (DHA), this is safe to apply pills. harmful in other ways if the spray is approved a chemical in the tanning externally but should not be sprayed in or around the mouth nose or eyes. They cannot give exact side effects because none are known but as a Controlling teen obesity precaution you should not spray in Jenn Gordun ‘12 might not think that it’s a big deal, Having an increased amount of these places. but it’s the little things that matter. weight also affects the health of your Just as you need to wear goggles to Many teenagers are found Even just twenty minutes of exercise joints and muscles. Adding extra use a tanning bed the FDA, according obsessing over the way they look. three to four times a week can help weight to your body puts stress on to www.oregon.gov, states that you Whether it’s getting a hall pass fight off obesity. It’s not a difficult your knees and hips. Joint should wear goggles in this type of and fixing their make-up in the task to help keep you healthy, and it replacement surgery might not be an tanning as well. They also bathroom, or checking their hair in can be easy and fun. option because an artificial joint has recommend you to plug your the hallway mirrors, teenagers are Instead of coming home and a higher risk for loosening and causing nostrils and ears and use a lip balm. meticulous with their appearance. sitting down to watch TV, just go damage. Obesity also causes for a Tanning pills should be avoided One aspect of appearance that for a walk, or do some quick sit-ups higher risk of cancer in both males as they are deemed to be dangerous. teens obsess over is their weight. while watching TV to get your blood and females. They unlike the chemical DHA are Obesity is defined as being at least flowing. The little things make all Obesity also causes extra not approved by the FDA. 20% heavier then your ideal body the difference. weight to the chest and lungs and According to mayoclinic.com, they weight. It is something that 15% of The effects of being overweight could cause sleep apnea (when contain a color addictive chemical. teenagers worldwide are going and staying inactive are very serious. people stop breathing for brief These chemicals will stay in your through, and 15% more are in danger Being inactive and not getting enough periods). This can cause little sleep body and your skin and can cause of experiencing. exercise can increase your blood at nighttime and drowsiness during eye damage as well as nausea and Many people do not take pressure. Additional fat tissue in the day. It also can cause heavy cramps. weight seriously. They figure, “I like your body requires more oxygen and breathing and snoring. These are all If you are looking for a year- to eat, I’m a little fat, so what?” Not nutrients, so the blood vessels and affects to the respiratory system, round tan, the things to beware of many people recognize the serious heart have to work harder to get that when the added weight of the chest are the chemical DHA in the spray danger that they put themselves into extra oxygen into your body. This walls squeeze on your lungs. and lotion tan, the UV rays in tanning when giving in, and eating that one can eventually lead to high blood Most of these problems can be beds that cause damage to your skin junk food that they cannot resist. pressure. avoided with preventative care. So and eyes, and pills that will only It’s not just eating too much of Heart disease is also very think twice before you go home after cause more trouble and will not work. fattening foods that puts teenagers common in obese people. The fatty school and go on the computer, or The healthiest choice is spray in serious risk; it’s staying inactive tissue builds up in the arteries, watch TV all weekend. Just a little tanning. and not giving your body the exercise making it harder for blood to flow. exercise a few times a week can not Just remember that each it needs. Many kids come home from Eventually, the artery might only change your appearance, but it method has its side effects so take school, and go right onto the completely close with fatty tissue, can change your outlook on life and the necessary precautions when computer, or go and watch TV. Some causing a heart attack. your future health. tanning. March, 2009 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Tech Talk- 13 Tech Talk LBP provides world of entertainment Jason Frederick ‘10 LBP revolves around you controlling avatars and they are converted into stickers. called Sackboys, small potato sack bag boys There is a story mode to LBP called When looking for a game to play, most brought to life. They are free to roam around the Playstation Trophy. In this mode you can receive people search for something that will draw them world, going to various places and collecting trophies by doing random tasks such as Sackbird in and make them want to continue. They also various items. Of the (remaining in the air for 8 seconds). look for games that are graphically superior to many things you can The game was created by MediaMolecule, others. In today’s market, many games either collect, you can an indie company from England came into the have one of these qualities that triumph receive outfits market in 2006. They produced pre-made levels over the other (usually it’s the for him that lie (50 in total) for story mode which touch on such graphics), or altogether they around the places as Japanese gardens, Russian icelands, fall short. Recently one world in small African savannahs, and New York City streets. game has stepped above the bubbles. There are also moons in LBP that you can rest in individuality, fun factor, Once you use as level creation slots. These levels can be party play, and graphics; that have found shared online with friends and the public to view. game is LittleBigPlanet (LBP). the outfits, Such things can be made like an Escape from The PS3 was well noted for its you are free Alcatraz level, levels to help other players collect Core Processor unit to fully trophies, or you could remake your favorite when it first came LBP uses avatars customize songs using music tiles. out, but not too resembling potato his ap- There were a few minor glitches such as many games have sacks that can be pearance freezing while in the air and levels not loading. been able to fully accessorized. using the However, MediaMolecule is attempting to fix utilize it. Many PopIt menu. and correct many of these glitches. www.spin1038.com multi-platform Another set of This game will appeal to both hardcore and games have not touched down because they look items you can collect are stickers that you can casual gamers. If you are looking for a game to the same on both the 360 and PS3. LBP has taken put around levels randomly at your disposal. You that will keep you wanting more, than advantage of the Core Processor, and the effects can also take pictures of Sackboy in various LittleBigPlanet is definitely a game worth can clearly be seen while playing the game. poses, with different faces, clothes, and such, checking out. Online role playing creates hype David Kramer ‘09 where the main focus is defeating monsters and completing quests. There are many games that Players are also required to keep people pre-occupied for days, make a character. There are set races weeks, even months. But no game to choose from which belong to either has seemed to be as addicting as the Alliance or Horde. Humans, World of Warcraft (WoW). With dwarves, elves, and gnomes belong more than 11.5 million subscribers, to the Alliance while the orcs, trolls, World of Warcraft holds the record taurens, and undead belong to the for being the largest MMORPG Horde. With the different types of www.gagogeek.com (Massively Multiplayer Online Role races, come classes. Classes range Playing Game) in the world. from Warriors and hunters to mages Blizzard Entertainment has already released two expansions. World of Warcraft is an online and warlocks. and players throughout the world. 2.4 million copies in 24 hours. The game that takes place in the fantasy Like many other MMORPGs, Players can also form groups expansion after that one, Wrath of world of Azeroth. Players control a World of Warcraft requires that their throughout their adventure to tackle the Lich King, released in November character avatar within the game players pay a subscription fee via harder quests and advance levels at a of 2008, sold 2.8 million copies in world, exploring multiple credit card or game cards that can be faster pace. Gameplay in WoW will 24 hours, making it the fastest landscapes, fighting monsters and purchased at local game stores. keep hardcore gamers at their selling computer game of all time! their bosses, and completing quests World of Warcraft’s gameplay desktops for hours. Both of these expansions contained throughout the virtual world. is based off a very unique leveling World of Warcrafts fan base is new character races and classes, Prior to starting this epic system. By fighting various only getting bigger these days. along with new quests to complete. adventure, players are required to monsters and characters and Although the game was released in The growing addiction for this choose a realm, or server, to play completing quests throughout November of 2004, there have been game has already given it the title of through. Each realm differs through Azeroth, characters advance in level. two expansion releases that have Game of the Year for 2004. With set-categories. There are PvP (player Quests usually involve killing a kept fans on the edge of their seats. currently over 11 million users versus player) realms where players number of creatures, gathering The first expansion to the logging on every night to play, the can fight against each other, and PvE resources, visiting specific locations, game, The Burning Crusade, was addiction for WoW will only get (player versus environment) realms and interacting with various objects released in January of 2007 and sold stronger within the coming years. 14 - Arts & Entertainment The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March, 2009 Arts & Entertainment Dog tale captivates audiences Sarah Hollins ‘09 it’s a true and sad portrait of the overwhelming feeling of losing The newest gem for dog and yourself and your dreams when you animal lovers everywhere is Marley settle down and have kids. and Me; a beautifully crafted Marley and Me’s biggest “dramedy” about the true story of a enticement for audiences is its leading troublesome dog and how he impacts stars. Providing some of the best his owners’ lives. performances of their career, Aniston The movie is based on the and Wilson carry the movie on their autobiographical novel written by openness, honesty, and commitment John Grogan. It covers the thirteen to the characters. years of Grogan and his family’s life Aniston breaks out of her while Marley, the golden lab, was “girlfriend” image, playing a mother living with them. which is a first for her. She is John (Owen Wilson) and wonderfully tender as Jenny and Jenny Grogan (Jennifer Anniston) brings much humility to the role, start the movie off as newlyweds. making you feel sorry for Jenny We watch John and Jenny enjoy the while she and John fight. new marriage bliss. Chasing John’s Wilson gives his first dream of being a news writer, the performance since his suicide couple moves to Florida where he Google Image attempt last year and brings that gets a job at the “South Florida Sun- Marley’s heart-warming story touches dog lovers everywhere. heartache to the role, giving it a real Sentinel” newspaper. box in the garage to sleep during a Marley and Me surprises its heartbeat. Jenny is ready for kids but John thunderstorm, frightened by the audiences. People are deceived, by In a recent Vogue interview, is not, so he buys a puppy to test thunder, he trashes the garage. the funny commercial promos, into Aniston commented on Wilson’s the waters. John brings home Marley’s antics end up providing believing this movie to be a silly performance, saying,“Everything he Marley, who turns out to be quite a John with inspiration for a column “dog behaving badly” comedy. The went through in the last year really handful. he ends up writing. Giving up his movie ends up being completely allowed for a beautiful performance. During Marley’s first car ride dreams of being a news reporter for contradictory to these beliefs. He arrives in this film.” with John, he chews through the this column, John feels like he’s While Marley is wonderfully Marley and Me is a truely seatbelt. When John puts him in a settling. peppered with hilarious moments, special film and a definite must see. Rourke’s gripping comeback Anthony Rue ‘09 Considering the fact that his own career in to ever make the right decisions. Despite all of the acting business almost parallels “The Ram’s” this, the viewer will find that it is impossible not The Wrestler has been widely regarded as wrestling career, many think that Rourke is to care about the washed up wrestler- even if no one of the best dramas of 2008. Quite often, perfect for this role. Once a big time Hollywood one in his own life does. movies are made revolving around someone whose actor in the 80s, Rourke has since struggled to The realism of the film’s setting also life is falling apart at the seams, whose family overcome drug addictions and other personal accentuates it’s high quality. Aronfsky went to rejects them, and whose dreams are unatainable. problems, and his career suffered because of it. great lengths to make the wrestling scenes seem Mickey Rourke’s performance, in which he plays Rourke portrays the character in such an as genuine as possible. He gives you a look into a character that he relates to, has landed him a excellent fashion that audiences will feel sorrow the lives of professional wrestlers, demonstrating Golden Globe Award for best leading actor. for “The Ram” throughout the film even though the brotherhood in the locker rooms and the In this film, the viewer is captivated by the his character flaws are obvious.Throughout the respect that they all have for each other. ups and downs of the sorry life being portrayed film he tries to redeem broken relationships with Also, all wrestling matches that take place on the screen. Darren Aronfsky‘s The Wrestler is family members (his daughter Stephanie, played in the film were very consistent of what you a beautiful interpretation of the wrestling career. by Evan Rachel Wood) and friends (Cassidy, a would see from any independent promotion The movie stars Mickey Rourke, who plays strip club dancer played by Marisa Tomei.) but across the country. Rourke was trained for the the role of Randy “The Ram” Robinson, an aging other things constantly get in the way of making wrestling scenes in the movie by former professional wrestler in the present who is still things right. professional wrestling champion Afa Anoa‘i. clinging to his glory days of the 80`s . The man Whether it be a drunken night on the town Wrestling fan or not, this movie will who was once in the limelight of wrestling fans when he was supposed to meet with his daughter, captivate viewers like no film has been able to do across the world now goes show to show or a wrestling match that he enters three weeks in quite some time. This is definitely a must see wrestling in his mid 50`s, not only to relive his after having a heart attack despite Cassidy`s for any movie goer in the coming months. glory days, but to maintain a living. pleading him not too, Randy appears too flawed March, 2009 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Arts & Entertainment - 15 Curiosity results in Oscars Sarah Hollins ‘09 aging backwards; he is getting younger while everyone is growing A newly beloved character is older. currently ruling the box offices. His In the old folk’s home, he meets name is Benjamin Button (Brad Daisy and is immediately entranced Pitt). His story is told in a hospital by her. He never forgets her no matter room during Hurricane Katrina. where he goes. When Benjamin A dying old woman, Daisy comes of “age”, he decides to go to (Cate Blanchett), asks her daughter, sea for years and finally returns Caroline (Julia Ormond) to read to home and to his family and Daisy. her out of Benjamin Button’s diary. Daisy and Benjamin end up It tells of how he was born under involved in a rollercoaster unusual circumstances. relationship. She is constantly back “While everyone else was aging, and forth over her love for Benjamin, I was getting younger... all alone.” but he never leaves. Their relation- Google Image Benjamin was born an aged baby, ship is a model of true love. Benjamin Buttons ages backwards, and grows younger each day. riddled with arthritis and cataracts Benjamin learns many life so bad he couldn’t see. Viewed to be lessons and the audience learns right and hope for in a film. The message what it takes to be legendary. a monster by his father, he was along with him. Benjamin’s is simple and beautiful: to live. The Director, David Fincher (Zodiac, abandoned at an old folk’s home, extremely optimistic outlook on life dialogue is quotable and inspiring. Fight Club), has created a masterful where the caretaker, Queenie (Taraji is what makes the movie so special. The music sweeps you up and film out of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s short P. Henson), finds him. Despite his difficult circumstances, takes you from the 1920s New story, and had been nominated for Queenie takes care of Benjamin Benjamin stays optimistic and never Orleans and transcends with you as “Best Film” and “Best Director.” and loves him as if he were her own lets life beat him down. it brings you back to the city in Fincher is clearly skilled at taking a flesh and blood. It is predicted that “Our lives are defined by present day. book to the screen and breathing life Benjamin will not live very long; but opportunities, even the ones we With an Oscar for best visual into it. Benjamin Button has crept every year he surprises everyone by miss,” he says. effects, best makeup, and best art into our hearts and changed our lives. growing healthier and stronger. The Curious Case of Benjamin direction, this film has proven This film is a definite must-see for Benjamin soon realizes that he is Button has everything you could ask to audiences everywhere that it has movie lovers everywhere. Smith tackles emotional role Do you Luke Verrillo, ‘10 like He’s played an alcoholic super hero, an alien-vanquishing secret to write? agent, a robot-fighting cop, and even a shark-slaying fish. But now, Will Smith is tackling one of his most Sign up for emotionally gripping roles yet as IRS Creative Writing agent Ben Thomas in Seven Pounds. The film tells Thomas’s story and Journalism. as he tries to better the lives of strangers around him. A woman Earn credit for with an abusive boyfriend, a hockey writing poems and coach who inspires his less fortunate players, and a child service worker. short stories. These are only a handful of the people Thomas attempts to help. Google Image Learn to write However, as the marketing of Smith plays a more sensitive character in this touching film. news, opinion and this film has pointed out, not all is Dawson, most commonly affected by Thomas. feature pieces for what it seems when it comes to Ben recognized for her roles in Sin City Though it has not proved Thomas. Until the film’s climax, and RENT, shines as Thomas’s love popular with critics, general The Patriot. when the story finally comes interest. The chemistry between the audiences everywhere are together, audiences aren’t even sure two is palpable and strongly applauding the film. It will have you See Mr. Evangelisti in whether he’s the good guy or not. captivates the audience. Woody guessing at the end of every scene D-8 or contact your The film’s cast is superb. Will Harrelson, not normally one to be a and crying at its finale. Seven Pounds guidance counselor Smith, as always, is at the top of his part of dramatic films, manages to is a rare film that makes you question game and is a strong presence in each hold his own as the blind Ezra what you believe in and inspires you for more details. scene he appears in. Rosario Turner, one of the many people to be a better person. 16 -Arts & Entertainment The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March, 2009

iTalk, You listen Tough girl goes soft by Miranda Steinman ‘09 Sarah Hollins ‘09

Although the Women who character of Christine Collins is far more reserved than Angelina tell it like it is. Jolie’s previous action In each edition, Steinman will talk about break movie roles, it is just as through music artists. impressive. Changeling is a Women music artists have always struggled portrait of the to rise above the status quo while some have corruption of the Los made it bigger than they would have ever dreamed. Angeles police in the They were few in number compared to the male 1920’s and their horrible artists in previous years. Present day, however, treatment of Christine women have been taking control and showing what Collins, the mother of a they can do with a microphone (and a few music missing child. notes.) It movingly shows Lily Allen is one of the first British female how she stood up to artists I listened to. I had heard her most popular the police and refused song, “Smile”, on the radio. The chorus about to back down. Based on Allen’s break up which states, a heart wrenching true Google Image “At first when I see you cry, it makes me event, this movie will Collins (Jolie) shocks police when she tells them that the boy smile,” reveals a dark humor that intrigued me to strike a chord in they return to her is not her son. hear what else she had up her sleeve. audiences everywhere. Hitting close to home is zoom in at key points and fade to reveal other I bought her album, Alright, Still and the idea that this could happen to you, to your actors’ reactions, the powerful yet subtle lighting, immediately fell in love with it. Her sinister sense child, to your family. and the amazingly historically accurate sets never of humor and blunt In their home city of LA, Collins’s son goes outshine one another; they all play a part in making lyrics keep listeners Made of Bricks, missing. The police department returns her son the story unforgettable. eager and excited for the to her, only for her to suspect that he is an The most beautiful aspect of this movie, radiates a next song. Most of the imposter. The evidence of this mistake is however, is Angelina Jolie’s outstanding songs are upbeat, and quirkiness that overwhelming and many citizens rally around her. performance as Christine Collins. some of the linguistic makes it impos- Because she starts making the police look bad, In this career-defining role, Jolie sheds the differences between they put her away in a mental institution to shut comfort of her typical “Laura Croft” action sible not to British and American her up. heroes. Jolie creates a character that is tender, word usage definitely smile while you Director Clint Eastwood (Million Dollar feminine, motherly, soft spoken, and well- add to the cheekiness of listen Baby, Flags of Our Fathers) delivered, yet again, mannered; an extreme contrast to her usual the entire musical with a fantastic movie. The result was more than characters. She shines as a light of hope collection. Fans are thrilled with Allen and are just a film, but a beautiful piece of art. throughout the movie; the only one who believes electrified by her cleverness. With lush backdrops that really transport her son could still be alive and never gives up on Like Lily Allen, Kate Nash’s album, Made you to the time period and simple music that him. of Bricks, radiates a quirkiness that makes it envelops you in the story and never distracts This movie deserves to become a classic. impossible not to smile while you listen. Nash from the plot, the movie transforms the screen Changeling is definitely one of the best of the also uses honest lyrics, but they go along with into another world. The camera angles that smartly year. bubbly tunes. Her songs are easy to understand and relate to because she is so frank about all of the situations they describe. I was thrilled by Nash’s album because it has a variety of beats Great Reads Book Sale and styles which keeps it exciting. It is a great CD to sing along to or background music for a party. April 1st - Save the Date! The Ting Tings’ album, We Started Nothing, also emits a party-esque essence. The English New & gently used books will be on sale for $1 each. duo consists of Jules De Martino, (guitar, drums, vocals.) and Katie White (vocals, guitar, bass Stop in early for the best selection! drum). The entire album makes you want to dance Proceeds from the sale will benefit First Book, an organization that because of its mix of electronica and pop sounds. provides books for children in need. White’s vocals are not particularly technical, but they definitely justify the duo’s rising popularity. Sponsored by WTHS Book Club. The British female artists have been very successful and are “tearing up” the American music scene. March, 2009 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Books - 17 Books Dust the Spine by Theresa DiGravio ‘12 Mr. Monk attempts to balance assistants Imagine living in a world where It has comedy, mystery, and everything is the same. Everything everything in between. However, I is symmetrical and perfectly lined could have done without the hints up. Imagine a world where the of romance. clouds are shaped into congruent Author Lee Goldberg cubes, houses are perfectly parallel provides descriptions and to each other. Detective Adrian scenarios that provide insight into Monk would like to live in a world the differences of the personalities like this. and the traits between both major Unfortunately for him, this is and minor characters. not a perfect world. Of course, that does not stop That was when the him from trying to change biggest cockroach I’ve ever everything and everyone in it. seen in my life crawled over However, a few things may stand her shoulder and hissed at in his way. Such as: the return of us. his old assistant, the jealousy of Sharona and I his new one, the bickering between instinctively jerked away, the two, and murders. San Monk instinctively ran out Francisco’s favorite obsessive the door and back to the car. compulsive detective is back, and (page 110) Google he is as out there as ever. Monk often faces some of his biggest phobias while investigating. Seven years ago, Monk’s My cell phone rang. I world came crashing down around is perfect, at least for a little while. Monk travels with both Sharona could tell from the caller ID him when his wife Trudy was Mr. Monk and the Two and Natalie to Los Angeles to that it was Monk calling killed tragically by a car bomb. He Assistants is told from Natalie investigate the murder that Trevor from the car on Sharona’s has always blamed himself for her Teeger’s point of view, Monk’s allegedly committed. phone. death, his guilt growing bigger new assistant. Sharona Fleming, While trying to maintain a “I can’t believe everyday that her killer runs free. the old assistant, returns after balance between the two women, you’re still in there,” Monk After Trudy’s death, Monk unexpectedly leaving both San Monk uncovers multiple snags in said. retrogressed and would not leave Francisco and Monk two years the case. Monk finds himself going “We haven’t talked to his house for three years. earlier. Now that her never-do-well up against a serial killer who not Sally yet,” I said. Now Monk works almost husband, Trevor, has been arrested only understands him, but is one “There’s a cockroach fanatically, solving any case that for murder, Sharona is back in San step ahead. Read as Monk tries to the size of a dog on her,” he can get his hands on. It’s his Francisco. She is ready and willing take down an influential man who Monk yelled. way of apologizing to Trudy for to reclaim her place in Monk’s life. could send everyone Monk knows “It’s jewelry,” I said. not catching her murderer. Every This does not sit well with Natalie. to jail with just a snap of his fingers. “Run,” he said. “Run time a case is solved, Monk’s world After hours of convincing, This book was pretty good. for your lives.” “Not until we’re done,” I said. (page 111)

Picoult reinvents romance Both of these dialogues show Diana Lezenby ‘10 mates. Their dreams end up actually forth from “Now” to “Then”. With the characteristics and differences becoming true. However, when this unique style of writing, the between two of the main The classic love story is everyone began to think that reader gets to see the events leading characters. Monk: easily startled, usually boy meets girl, boy loses girl, everyone was perfect, tragedy up to the tragedy, starting when overdramatic, Natalie: determined. then boy and girl live happily ever strikes both families. Chris and Emily were born. This In this novel, Natalie’s after. Now imagine a different type Now that Emily is dead and innovative writing style makes it is determination will come in handy of love story. A kind of love story Chris is charged for her murder, the hard to put the book down. as Monk is forced to face several where only one person lives, and two families split apart. From the While reading The Pact, you of his phobias in order to solve there is no happily ever after. The time Chris spends in jail to the time might think you know the ending, or these strange cases. Pact by Jodi Picoult takes a classic of his courtroom trial, a lot is what will happen next. But, Picoult The way that Goldberg love story and gives it a big twist. revealed about both Emily and Chris. springs surprises in every chapter. displays the solving of the case, Emily Gold and Christopher The Pact shows just how far one The shocking ending will have you the presentation of the killer and Harte were inseparable since the day person will go for the one they love. begging for more. The Pact is so the revealing of how these crimes they were born. Their parents, who Picoult is a very talented and suspenseful and filled with love and were committed is astounding. Mr. were best friends, always dreamed employs unique techniques. In The rage. This is Picoult’s fifth book, Monk and the Two Assistants is that their two kids would be soul Pact the chapters switch back and and it may just be one of her best. definitely worth the read. 18 - Pro Sports The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March, 2009 Pro Sports This Month in Baseball by Kevin Whitehead Absence of cap good fit for baseball Kevin Whitehead ‘10 baseball fans have dealt with 50 hour long World Series Game fives and Major League Baseball’s off- ties in the All-Star game (thanks Bud season has been headlined by record Selig), the purest baseball fans keep setting figures being offered to free coming back for more. The League agents like Mark Teixiera, C.C. knows they have these die hards in Sabathia, and A.J. Burnett. Such their back pocket as well as their signings have stirred a maelstrom in money. In order to expand the game, the baseball world. the MLB must market a product The “hate ‘em or love ‘em” that is worth watching from any New York Yankees have renewed perspective. Whether fans view a the controversy of buying dynasties game as nine long innings, a three by offering exponentially large prices hour diversion, or an excuse for beer for the top free agents this off- and hot dogs, the league is trying to season. However the Yankees reach out to new fans in search of captured the top available players www.necn.com their dollars. without compromising their future Sabathia and Burnett broke the bank this past winter. To do this, the MLB must have or their payroll and budget. exciting, lace-smashing, and mitt The “money talks” attitude of and a pitcher from the K corner who As signings continue, some popping teams. The 2009 Yankees Hank Steinbrenner has led the also was an 18 game winner with the have claimed there should be a MLB (which almost ranks as a fantasy Yankees to a seemingly set-in-stone team has been an American League salary cap , just as every other major team) for example, will literally force World Series title with the East bottom feeder since 1993. sport does. I say let the general people to watch their upcoming acquisition of these marquee players. They’ll join future Hall of Famers managers manage just like you let dominance. With all these superstars, They have signed a Gold Glove first such as Mariano Rivera and Derek the players play. the ripple effect begins to FOX or baseman, a pitcher two years Jeter. Not to mention Alex Rodriguez The market for baseball is on ESPN, which will make the ratings removed from a Cy Young Award, who has an uphill battle for the Hall. the upswing. And even though and revenue go through the roof. Some may say that the Yankees are trying to buy championships. Sixers pick up pace However the more elite teams have Derek Nipps ‘11 often built within their farm systems. The emergence of teams This season, the Philadelphia Sixers got off to a like the Rays, Phillies, or even the disappointing start. With the acquisition of Elton Brand over Twins illustrates an interesting the off season, the Sixers had slowed down their office and it paradox of how to build champ- just wasn’t working out. With a starting squad consisting of ionships. In 2008, the Rays had the Andre Miller, Andre Iguodala, Brand, and Sammy Dalembert, second lowest payroll while the it’s a wonder how they aren’t winning games. Yankees had the highest in baseball. Then, when Brand went out with an injury, the Sixers started The fact that New York failed to get rejuvenated. They started getting out on the fast break, to make the post season, last year playing defense, and Dalembert started to become a real center proves that teams can sign all the and control the paint. players they want, butwinning This is all because Elton Brand went out. really comes down to players While Brand was in, the Sixers were waiting for him to stepping up at the right time. While get up the court and not playing like they should be. They are the expensive veterans of the a fast, athletic team. If Brand wants to play here, he needs to Yankees choked, and the young guns learn how to run. of Tampa played Ray-diculous During the Sixers seven game win streak, they played baseball down the stretch. great and up-beat. They beat prestigious teams like the San The payroll of a team has a Antonio Spurs who are one of the best teams in the west. limited effect on how good it is. If Andre Iguodala is becoming the leader. He is capable of general managers can stray away running the office, making clutch, and unbelievable shots. They from big contracts for bad players have all the parts in becoming a more dominant team in the (Andruw Jones ), their teams would Eastern Conference. not receive such a hit in both their Also, I think a lot of the Sixers recent success can be www.usatoday.com budget and performance. There is no given to the young guys. Players like Louis Williams, Thaddeus With the loss of Brand, the Sixers have reason to halt these high priced Young, and Maurice Speights are running wild. All the Sixers reverted to their old style of ball of running spendings on players if it’s in the have to do is learn to play together and I think they will the floor and have been successful ever best interest of their team and definitely make the playoffs. since. baseball. March, 2009 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Sports - 19 Sports Minutemen match up to competition Maria Brasco ‘10 head Coach Ralph Ross. “Adding Coach [Tomasette] to our staff has This year Township wrestling sent three had a great effect on our wrestlers. He is truly an wrestlers to the state championships. James asset to this team.” Higgins ‘10, Charlie Huff ‘11 and Anthony Curcio Not only has the coaching staff stepped up ‘09. Curcio placed fifth in the state of New Jersey. a level, so have the wrestlers individually. Shane During states, Curcio set a WTHS record West ’10 (103) worked extremely hard over the for career wins with 137. Higgins also reached a summer to return this season. His work paid off. career milestone by picking up his 100th victory. He made the varsity team and won most of his Township wrestlers not only improved matches. Brothers Matt ’12 (112) and Christian tremendously as a team, but also their coaching Salera ’11 (135) have incredible strength and also staff. This year they’ve added two new coaches did well this season. Steve Swayze ’11 (145), to their staff, Mr. Mark Manchio and Mr. Dave focused on one goal—to one day make it out of Gina Paker ‘09/ The Patriot Tomasette. As the leading captain, Curcio has shown regions. Manchio’s distinguished himself as a high how to wrap up matches all year long. “So far, Swayze looks like he has the skill to school wrestler at Sterling. He was a three-time do so,” Coach Fetty explained, “If he keeps up New Jersey champion (runner-up as a freshman), Coach Manchio helped Township wrestlers step the hard work, I believe he will accomplish this.” four-time district champion, four-time regional their intensity this season. Karch Connors ’10 (heavyweight) was champion, high school all-American, and 1999 Tomasette graduated from WTHS, and was named the unsung hero by captain Anthony Beast of the East a state champion. He was an Curcio ’09. champion. He has the best Anthony Curcio set a WTHS astounding student athlete. He “Outside of wrestling, Karch is like a big winning percentage in New record with 137 career wins. still held the high school record teddy bear, but when he steps onto the mat, he’s Jersey history with a with 136 wins until it was no longer a bear you’d like to mess with,” Curcio record of 125-2 including 93 consecutive; he was surpassed this year by Curcio. Tomasette joked. ranked third in the nation by Wrestling U.S.A. graduated from Twp in 2003 and went onto Higgins (119), Chalie Huff ’11 (125), Curcio Manchio went to the University of Northern college at Hofstra, where he almost became an (130), and Colin Walsh ’10 (189) each won the Iowa, where he earned a varsity spot as a all-American before he pulled his shoulder in the district title. Curcio, Huff and Walsh also freshman and was the first UNI freshman to last round. captured the regional first place titles with Higgins qualify for nationals, since Tony Wieland in 1996. “Tomasette is known for having heart,” said placing second. This year’s team was led by seniors Curcio, Steve Ambrose (140) and Kevin Ambrose (145). Hockey team skates into playoffs Captains Higgins and Curcio are proud of the team’s accomplishments this season. Chloe Dawson ‘10

As the season comes to a close, Winter Sports Update as of 3/2 the boy’s hockey team is now 17-1- 1. Our hockey team has come close Boys’Winter Track- ‘09 Group IV to becoming undefeated. State Relay Champions. Xavier “Having played big games like Fraction selected as Runner of the Clearview, we’re ready for the playoffs.” Louie DeAngelo ’10 said. Year by the SJ Track Coaches Clearview is one of Township’s Association. bigger rivals which usually involves Boys’ Basketball- 16-7. Third place highly competitive games. in Olympic American Conference “We always get in the arena an behind Cherokee (16-5) and Lenape hour before the game and stretch. 17-7. After that, our coach gives an Chloe Dawson ‘10/The Patriot Girls’ Basketball- 20-5. First place in The Minutemen’s upperclassmen have led them into encouraging speech to get us Olympic American Conference. 6-4 in mentally prepared,” said DeAngelo. the playoffs with a 17-1-1 record. conference play and 54.8 PPG.. “The most important part offense. They have speed and consistency to get the job done. before the game is our warm-up song Some key offensive players are Captain Matt Fleekop Shauna Wert reached a milestone of ‘Sandstorm.’ It gets us focused and ’09, Jon Paulo ’09, DeAngelo ’10, and Eddie Sarin ’11. 1,000 points. ready to go,” DeAngelo said. Also adding to their offensive production are the Boys’ Swimming- (7-4) Ocean The team is never intimidated defensemen. Christopher Lyons ’09, Ryan Carr ‘10, and John division champions and Gloucester by Clearview or big games. Rey ’10 also play a major role on defense as well as their County champions. Their hockey team’s success transition game coming out of their defensive zone and playing Ice Hockey- Made it to the fourth comes down to confidence, skill, and the point position on their power plays. round of their playoffs after a loss to their offense. What has made them “Everyone contributes. If it wasn’t for the whole team I Shawnee 7-5. become a top ranked team is their don’t think we could have this good record,” DeAngelo said. 20 - Sports The Patriot - W.T.H.S. March, 2009 Minutemaids dominate hardwood Grace Glennan ‘11 Olympic American Written prior to 3/6/09 Standings as of 3/6 With a regular season record of 20-5, Coach Jennifer Natale can’t Washington Twp. 20-5 help to be proud! The Girls’ Varsity Eastern 22-5 Basketball team has had a great season so far. She has been coaching Cherry Hill East 17-7 the Varsity team for three years and Cherokee 15-7 has previously coached the JV for Lenape 13-12 four years. The two team captains are seniors Pennsauken 3-20 Rachel Armor and Alyse Maiden. up to a certain point in the season. They along with the nine other team If a team qualifies, they play members keep a tough schedule.The teams from all over the state. regular season started the day after “Our best game was versus Thanksgiving and ended in February. Sacred Heart... Everyone had a part “The girls are very committed, in the game,” Natale said. they are good friends on and off the They also qualified for the state court.” said Natale. tournament by having a record above The Minutemaid’s practices .500. The objective is to try to win are from 4:30 to 6:30, four days a your section. If a team wins their week, with games twice a week. They section, they move on to South have five other teams in their Gina Parker ‘09/The Patriot Jersey sectionals, then to the number conference; Cherokee, Eastern, The Minutemaids look to build momentum as the competition will one seat.The Minutemaids are Pennsauken, Lenape, and Cherry escalade later into the playoffs. looking to make a run, but will have Hill East. The Minutemaid’s play “My favorite game so far this watch and also to coach, we came to get by rivals like Eastern. each team twice, one home and one season is when we faced Cherry Hill away with a big victory.” “The hardest games we have away. They play as far as Medford East. There was a playoff type Twelve teams qualified for the played were the only two games we and Mainland and also had atmosphere,” Natale said, playoffs. WTHS is in Group 4 lost. Both were against Eastern,” tournaments in Wildwood. “It was an exciting game to Teams are judged by their records Natale said. Boys’ swimming wins division Weston Eldridge ‘10 Regionals. After a hard fought meet, WTHS Albertson gave credit to divers Ben prevailed with a convincing 118-68 victory. Brendlinger ’10, Ryan Ellis ’10, Ryan Albano It has been a season unlike any other for the “We swam up to the pressure and recorded ’10, and Adam Stern ’09. The four consistently WTHS Boys Varsity swim team. They posted a our fastest times when it mattered the most,” finished atop the leader board, providing the team 6-3 record and captured first place in the Ocean said Luke Verrillo ’10, who swims the 100 yard with key points. Division. Division wins came against Lenape, backstroke. Albertson was pleased with the contribution Seneca, Paul VI, Sterling, and Haddon Township. Albertson thought that the leadership from the youth of the team and felt that incoming “It’s the first time we’ve ever won our displayed by the upperclassmen was a key part freshman Hornibrook and Kyle Hill were quick division, I would call it a successful season,” said of the team’s success. In particular, Albertson to positively impact the team. Coach Bill Albertson. noted captains Jake Klavens ’09 and Charlie With all that the team has already The Ocean Division championship was Borny ’09. accomplished, Albertson still feels that more good decided Jan. 17 at Burlington County College. In “My role as captain was to try to get things are attainable in the near future. a head-to-head battle, both Lenape and WTHS everyone excited for the meets, and to provide While the team did not qualify for the State swimmers knew they would have to turn in some guidance for the underclassmen,” said Borny. Tournament, they did accomplish one of of their strongest performances in order to hoist “Being named captain was an honor, it’s Albertson’s preseason goals by winning Counties. the trophy on Jan. 31 something I’ll always remember,” said Klavens. Their success did not come without hours at South Jersey Along with leadership, the team also brought upon of hours of hard work. The team’s a lot of depth to the table. Leading dedication was evident in their daily two hour the way were Keith Marr ’10 practice sessions at Rowan. Another new element (100,200 freestyle), Borny (500 of the swim season was combining the boys and freestyle, 100 backstroke), girls practices into one pool. Klavens (100 breastroke, 100 “Having practices with the girls pushed us butterfly), Sal Liberto ‘11 (200 and helped us to remain focused,” stated IM, 100 butterfly), and Connor Albertson. Hornibrook ’12 (100 backstroke, “The future of WTHS swimming looks Illustration by Alexandra Pasqualone ‘09 100 butterfly). promising,” said Albertson.