“A beacon of truth.” Issue 1, Volume 36 HuntingtonDispatch High School Oakwood and McKay Roads Huntington, NY 11743 08 Senior lounge in limbo by CODY JACOBS

NOVEMBER Have you been curious about PHOTO: MIKE MCCOURT the possibility of a closed cam- news in short pus, dreaming and hoping it will Lau, Payne at top of class never happen? Well, unfortunate- Seniors Chris Lau and ly the possibilities are endless. Dylan Payne have been named Dr. Leonardi is exploring all the the valedictorian and salutatori- ideas with her colleagues. In the tan, respectively, of the Class of future Huntington High School 2009. might work with a Pizza or Chi- These honors are awarded nese restaurant for bulk orders of to the students with the highest takeout for the seniors. cumulative grade point aver- This would require a great ages in their class, and are met deal of student involvement and with praise from the entire stu- commitment. In the event that the dent body. campus is closed, the smaller caf- eteria will be turned into a senior Derbyshire visits HHS class lounge. Many options have been In mid-October, Mr. considered for the student lounge, Baronʼs journalism class was including possible computer ac- visited by John Derbyshire, a cess, takeout orders, and comfort-

nation-wide known freelance able seating. Eventually another WEST MATT PHOTO: writer whose articles can be lounge would be built outside, Seniors Mike Crawford (left) and Kevin Freeman (right) enjoy their lunch at KFC. Next yearʼs senior class found in magazines such as the near the garage. Both lounges may have to eat lunch in the school cafeteria, as plans to construct a “Senior Lounge” have come to a halt. National Review and the Ameri- would require a large amount of can Conservative. fundraising, especially the out- ments or time tables seem to have to be taken and he did not know a reality, there will be a combi- Mr. Derbyshire has been side one. The student government been made on the closure of the when it would be. Mr. Finello nation effort of the students and writing since the 1980ʼs, and is already raising money for the open campus. The fi rst time any- was a man of few words. Noth- staff on a senior student lounge. If has written four books. possible student lounges with one mentioned the closed campus ing can be done until Mr. Finello any meetings are going to be held He spoke to the class about The Brick Project. For those of option was two years ago by Dr. takes action on that letter and an- about the closed campus situation his experiences and routines you thinking that a closed cam- Leonardi. She sent a letter to Mr. nounces his position. Everything parents, teachers, and staff will be as a writer, giving students an pus means there will be a replace- Finello, the superintendent, mid seems to be a mystery, and no one informed. To be ready for a pos- idea of what life as a journalist ment senior privilege, youʼre out last year expressing her concerns can be sure of what 2009/2010ʼs sible closed campus in the fall of is like. of luck. about the open campus. When future might hold. However, 2009, an approval before the bud- As this issue of The Dis- contacted at his district offi ce, Mr. some things are known. If the BY LENA FREED patch came to print, no set agree- Finello said that no action has yet closed campus petition becomes see LOUNGE on page 2 INSIDE FEATURES ‘Kids Funding Kids’ in Africa

page 3 OPINION The Dispatch’s Presidential Endorsement:

page 6 GOLDSTEIN AMANDA PHOTOS: Students at St. Justinʼs school in Ghana (left) read used childrenʼs books donated to them by the “Kids Funding Kids” program. A St. Justinʼs teacher (right) poses with some other donated materials. ENTERTAINMENT by AMANDA GOLDSTEIN and AIDS education, which costs created a pen-pal system, so that and both the students and faculty $3,000 per year. We also send used the children at the school feel at Huntington High School, a Tour de The children of St. Justinʼs childrenʼs books, which they val- really connected to where and difference in the lives of the stu- School, in Ghana, Africa, live in ue a great deal. whom their sup- dents at St. Justinʼs School can be extreme poverty under squalid In September of port is coming made. You can help get involved Delicatessens conditions. Many of their fami- 2005 we started “Many of their from. These let- by raising money, writing a letter lies are stricken with AIDS and working with families are ters truly make or donating gently used childrenʼs our assistance is greatly needed. Jenny Coley, an impact on books. These children are in des- page 8 I am involved in an organization an African mis- stricken with the children perate need of any aid that they INDEX called, Kids Funding Kids, which sionary for the AIDS and our of St. Justinʼs can get and would appreciate your Homecoming...... pg. 2 supports the St. Justinʼs School Anglican-Epis- school. We have help. When they receive either a Election Coverage...... 4 in Africa. We provide assistance copal Dioceses assistance is received many letter, a book or money for treat- Basement Horrors...... 5 by donating used books to build of Accra, Ghana. greatly needed.” letters back, in ments they are encouraged not to Point/Counterpoint...... 7 libraries, and fi nancial support for She helps us by which they ex- give up. If you are interested in Whatʼs Hot/Not...... 7 AIDS medical treatment and edu- transporting the pressed great helping in anyway please contact Teacher Feature...... 9 cation. books and money to the school. gratitude for what we have done Amanda Goldstein for more in- Sports...... back page We are trying to raise money In addition to raising money for them. formation. to supply them with nursing care and sending books we have also With the help of Jenny Coley, The Dispatch 2 NOVEMBER08 NEWS Homecoming split due to poor weather

by LAUREN CAMPBELL Once the rain began, Dr. Leonardi homecoming games.” On the students from each class worked tle the Harborfi elds tornadoes in called the members of the student other side, Dr. Leonardi stated diligently on their class fl oats for a challenging game that ended in As every student attending council as well as school person- that “These changes will only six hours straight, from 6 pm until an ill-fated loss with a fi nal score Huntington High School knows, nel in for a meeting to discuss serve to lengthen the celebratory 12 am. The theme for the 2008 of 17-19. However, the game this yearʼs homecoming festivi- the fate of homecoming week- spirit that surrounds this event.” class fl oats was board games. proved to be thrilling, with many ties were split into two weekends end. The consensus was that all As the end of the school The freshman class of 2012 de- twists and turns, and Huntington due to an unfortunate spell of rain indoor activities were to be held day neared on September 26th, cided to base its fl oat off the game fans kept good spirits despite the during the weekend of Septem- as scheduled, but the outdoor ac- the students and faculty of HHS Twister. The sophomore class of loss. ber 26th. Originally, Homecom- tivities were to be postponed until piled into the gym to attend the 2011 chose to decorate their fl oat At half time, the High step- ing weekend was to consist of the weekend of October 3rd and 2008 pep rally. Students cheered like The Game of Life. The junior pers and the marching band each fl oat night on the night of Friday, 4th. Thus, the pep rally and dance on their peers as members of the (2010) classʼ fl oat was inspired performed outstanding shows. September 26th, the homecom- remained as planned, but fl oat varsity sports teams were intro- by the game Monopoly. Lastly, Then the class fl oats were dis- ing football game during the night, the football game, and the duced. Adding to the mix, the the senior class of 2009 went played and the winning fl oat was afternoon of Saturday,Saturday, parade were postponed. high steppers performed their with the childhood classic Can- announced—the seniors with their September 27th, and Some students were current dance routine, featuring dyland. The seniors described Candyland fl oat. Next, the Royal the homecoming disappointed by the de- fl ips and splits, with perfection. their reason of choosing Candy- Court was introduced, which dance during the eve- cision to create a split The Blue Devil Marching Band land because “it represents a part included homecoming queen ning after the football homecoming, but others also played a spectacular stand- of every one of us; colorful, fun, nominees Caitlin Ortiz, Christina game. However However,, as were thrilled about it. ing performance of their routine, and containing personality.” The Boshko, Lindsay Hackett, and the clouds rolled in Kelsey Iwanicki com- Bacchanale. Overall, the pep next morning these fl oats were Kristy Lyons, and homecoming and the skies dark- mented, “Homecoming rally was a success and many stu- paraded down New York Avenue king nominees Joe Brown, Matt ened, everything seemed dif differentferent than in dents left the gym with smiles on in the homecoming parade. Also Miller, Steve Perini, and Brian changed. the past. Neither game was their faces, and a renewed sense in the homecoming parade were Ruggiero. Superintendent John fi l l e d with as much of Huntington Blue Devil pride. student government members, J. Finello crowned the ecstatic spirit as I The next night, the home- various sports teams, the Royal winners, Caitlin Ortiz, and Steve expectedexpected coming dance took place in the Court, and the marching band. Perini was crowned by Dr. Leon- from my school gymnasium. Students The parade ended at Huntington ardi. experi-experi- danced for hours on end, and had High School, just in time for the The split homecoming, al- ence at a great time. One student said, big game. though quite different than in past previ-previ- “Everyone looked great at the As nearly 2,000 spectators years, proved to run smoothly. o u s dance, and it was a ton of fun.” took their seats, the pep band Students seemed happy to extend The dance had a record turnout of played various songs to lighten their celebrations into a two week approximately 500 students. the mood and provide a cheery ordeal, and still attended all of the The following weekend, atmosphere. The sun shone down numerous homecoming events. a.k.a. “Homecoming Part Two” to create a lovely, sunny, 65° day. Homecoming was enjoyable for Seniors Steve Perini (left) and Caitlin Ortiz (right) were voted the was jam-packed with even more Students, alumni, parents, and all members of the community PHOTO: HUFSD.EDU Homecoming King and Queen, respectively. events. On Friday, October 3, faculty watched Huntington bat- and school. HHS introduces new LOUNGE from front page aged 17-18 have proven to be the more daring and, dangerous driv- get would be preferable in pre- ers, with the highest percentile of recycling program parind the senior student lounge. fatalities. Adding that to students by REBECCA FRIEDMAN art, the boilers are original to the ergy light fi xtures called T8. We Nest yearʼs seniors might be al- being in a hurry with only 45 building [1957] and could be up- went from using 32 watt bulbs to lowed to go out next year, if a de- minutes for lunch is a hazardous Looking around the class- graded to a more energy effi cient 30 watt bulbs.” Motion activated cision isnʼt made soon enough. combination. “You canʼt predict rooms, you may have noticed system” says Rispoli. The multi- lights also help lessen the amount When interviewed, Dr. Leon- the future and limits have to be something new this year: a recy- fuel system uses both natural of energy consumed. ardi recollects what lead her established somewhere,” as Dr. cling bin. Recycling white paper gas and fuel oil, depending on Mr. Rispoli and Mr.Giani, the to become so concerned about Leonardi put it. is one of several ways in which the temperature of the air, and assistant superintendent, are also Huntington Hight Schoolʼs open If the campus is closed, fund Paul Rispoli, director of facilities, the cost of fuel on that day. The seeking alternative energy sourc- campus. She remembers reading raising for a student lounge will and the Buildings and Grounds district also combines with other es, such as solar and wind energy. various articles about student ca- be started. Both sides of the argu- Department are helping Hunting- districts in Suffolk County in or- If the district opts for solar energy, sualties and accidents during an ment have strong support. While ton High School “go green.” der to reduce the cost of fuel by it would take approximately 18 open campus lunch period, espe- much of the faculty believes that Every Tuesday, the contents buying it in bulk. months for construction to begin. cially an account about six years the closure of the campus is es- of the recycling bins are brought On September 1, 2006, the One drawback to wind energy is ago that ended with a fatal acci- sential, most of the student body to the maintenance garage. The New York State Education De- that the only useable location is dent after school at Huntington disagrees. Although it seems that town picks it up every Wednesday partment passed a law that re- the high school. High School. In other school dis- the decision is weighted heav- morning, and takes it to a private quires all schools to use green It is no secret that every tricts, where there have been trag- ily on the closing of the cam- facility. From the private facility, cleaning products. Huntington school seems to be hopping on the edies during a senior lunch peri- pus, there is still a possibility the paper is shipped to a mill in High School is taking further “going green” bandwagon, and od, the open campuses have been that it will remain open. Maybe Canada. While the school is at steps to be environmentally con- with the hard work of Mr.Rispoli closed. Dr. Leonardi sympathizes the student body will agree that this time only recycling white scious. According to Mr.Respoli, and others, our school is one of with the students, and realizes safety is more important than the paper, Mr. Rispoli says that the “The school has saved millions them. that lunch is a time of relaxation open campus senior privilege, or school board is actively discuss- of dollars by switching to low en- and socialization for seniors. Dr. maybe ideas will be generated to ing the possibility of recycling Leonardi says her only concern address safety, while maintaining water bottles. is that of the safety of the student the privileges of the past. There are other steps that the body. She stated that, students school is making in order to be deemed green that are not discern- able to the average student. The heating and ventilation system was upgraded two years ago to a Join The Dispatch! more energy effi cient one. In the past, it was run by the custodial staff, and required them to turn a Be part of the “beacon of truth” series of switches on and off. Ac- cording to Mr.Rispoli, “We have installed a computerized energy management system that turns on the heating plant. It is on a sched- ule that brings the school up to sixty-eight degrees one hour be- New members always welcome! fore the start of school, and self adjusts itself depending on the GRAPHIC: DAN RABINOWITZ outside air temperature.” The high schoolʼs new recycling program has made Blue Devils more Meetings after school on “While the control system aware of the effect they have on the environment. and burner heads are state of the Tuesdays, Room 242 The Dispatch FEATURES NOVEMBER08 3

by LAUREN CAMPBELL movie? No. This very incident basement seem to be hot spots by the band room.” Will Jenne ing to Rebecca Lader and Angela happened to Shelby Clarke, a ju- to encounter our school “pets”. also had a musical encounter with Bosco, “A cockroach decided to Imagine this; youʼre a fresh- nior, at the beginning of her high When asked about his encounters cockroaches and says, “Freshman crawl out and hang out (literally) man and youʼre opening your school career.career. Shelby swears she with roaches, Jack Russo stated, year, when I was in band, a roach on the ceiling above the studentsʼ locker for the fi rst time. After a has never used any lockers since. “Cockroches? I practically live crawled on this kidʼs shoe so we heads, so our class had to wait few turns of a Master lock, your Huntington High School with them! In the football locker all took turns beating at it with for the bell to ring in the hallway locker pops open. You look seems to be a paradise for cock- room, a day doesnʼdoesnʼtt go by with- old music stands.” Well, at least in case it decided to let go of the down, and thereʼs a huge cock- roaches, despite measures that out some kind of encounter of the the roaches provide a source of ceiling and end up on someoneʼsomeoneʼss roach crawling around to greet have been taken to exterminate unwanted kind.” Sammy Saint- entertainment and humor. head. LaterLater,, it jumped down and you. Could it only happen in a them. Locker rooms and the hill adds, “Last year in the boys crawled behind something.” locker room there was a huge Cockroaches detract from dead cockroach and everybody “A cockroach learning in the classroom and freaked out.” when spotted, disrupt classes. The music wing also has a ate my family... Something greater than the previ- largelarge population of roaches. Ac- by the band ous extermination attempts needs WORDWORD ON cording to Katie Levittan, “In my to be done. Cockroaches are un- sophomore year,year, I saw two in a room.” sanitary and can carry diseases matter of ten seconds in the mu- such as dysentery, typhoid and THE STREET sic hallway… one by the stairs poliomyelitis, as well as gastro- and one by the chorus room.” If However, you know it has enteritis. They can also live in youʼre in any music classes, I ad- gone too far when cockroaches virtually any condition, so any If you could nominate one person for the vise checking your mouthpiece fall from the sky. Last year in diseases cockroaches may have presidency who is not currently in the race, for any of our little friends to Mrs. Casazzaʼs Spanish class, are quickly spread. Cockroach who would it be and why? avoid an unwanted crunchy after- a cockroach crawled out of the horror stories may seem fun and noon snack. Also, you may want hung ceiling and fell straight to amusing on the surface, but deep to watch your back in the music the fl oor. A similar incidence down there is a risk of disease. wing, as Jake Fleisig exclaims, happened this year during Mr. “A cockroach ate my family... Agnelloʼs health class. Accord- “50 Cent, because heʼs a smart person. And because he had a HHS builds two new science labs hard life. And he got shot nine times.” by CARRIE FANTE Over the summer in the social studies wing of Huntington High Rickia Bollar, Sophomore School, two brand new chemistry labs replaced three former so- cial studies and ESL classrooms. These new classrooms now hold “If Tim Russert was still alive, I the Regents and AP chemistry would nominate him. He was a classes and are used nearly every very bright man who was diligent period. They have been outfi tted in every aspect and knew his with better technology and pro- politics.” vide more space, which makes it easier for chemistry students to conduct labs. They also give

Caitlin Etri, Junior teachers more fl exibility with HUFSD.EDU PHOTO: which labs they are able to do. Junior Ryan Greenhill uses a bunsen burner in one of the high schoolʼs The Huntington Science Program two new science labs. has always been excellent and students have always done ex- sides so students can see what large boards are convenient for tremely well on science Regents the teacher is doing. Also in the teachers who need to put a lot of and AP exams. These new chem- past teachers who wanted to do notes on the board. Unfortunately, “Alec Baldwin- because heʼs istry labs will help ensure that the labs that involved ice had to bag the boards werenʼt installed until good with the kids.” science program at Huntington the ice beforehand and bring it to nearly two months into the school continues to grow and excel. the classroom. Now, there is an year, making things harder for the Being able to perform labs ice machine shared between the teachers in the beginning. For the Marc Acevedo, Freshman is really important for students two rooms that makes setting up most part, however, all the work because it helps them learn and labs involving ice much easier. to the new labs was completely understand necessary concepts. Finally, both of these classrooms done before the school year start- Learning something in a “hands are especially large which helps ed, so they caused minimal dis- “Grandpa Phil from “Hey on” way, where students get to provide more space for students ruption. Arnold!” Heʼs got good stories, observe chemical reactions as and teachers to move around dur- It is clear that the new chem- an eating title under his belt, and they occur, can really make a ing labs. In smaller rooms when istry labs are a big improvement a solid laugh.” difference to the studentsʼ under- the students are working closer to the schoolʼs science depart- standing of the material. A lot of together, it can be harder to com- ment. The students are happier in the new features of the chemis- plete the labs and keep everything brand new classrooms with new try rooms were added to make it organized. equipment, and the teachers are Joe DʼEsposito, Sophomore easier for the classes to perform Other new features include happier with more space, better labs; for example, some of the gas jets that whistle if they are technology and resources to help labs and demonstrations done in left on, more storage space, and them with demonstrations and chemistry use chemicals that can eighteen foot white boards at the labs. The new classrooms are the be dangerous if they are inhaled. front of the classrooms. Leaving largest of several recent improve- “Jesus. Heʼs old school, good In the past, teachers that wanted gas jets running can lead to leak- ments to science classrooms (in- at avoiding fi ghts, invincible, to do some of these demonstra- ing, which is a safety hazard, so cluding work on some of the magical, forever young, and tions had to do them outside, or the fact that they whistle if they Earth science and biology labs), grizzly.” just cut them out all together.together. The are left on helps eliminate that and while not all of the chemis- new fume hood that was added to risk. Chemistry labs require a lot try classes get to use them, they both rooms vents fumes out of the of equipment, and the extra cabi- make a big difdifferenceference to the many Ken Holden, Senior room and is transparent on three nets are very useful. The extra classes and teachers that do.

PHOTOS: MIKE MCCOURT PHOTOS: 06/07 YEARBOOK

The opinions expressed do not necessarily refl ect the opinions of The Dispatchʼs staff, nor the HUFSD School Board or any affi liated. The Dispatch 4 NOVEMBER08 FEATURES other races to consider The forgotten elections: on November 4 NY’s Second Congressional District NY’s Fifth Senate District

Steve Israel (D) Frank Stalzer (R) Carl Marcellino (R) Matthew Meng (D)

by NICK MAIARELLI towards college. Steve Israel supports bills by ANNABEL JOUARD overburdened taxpayerʼs pocket.” that would protect the environment, and is Matthew Meng (from East Nor- In the excitement surrounding the working to raise awareness about the crisis This November, Democrat Matthew wich), Senator Marcellinoʼs opponent, presidential elections, many people have in Darfur. Meng will challenge the incumbent Re- is trying to connect more with the voters overlooked the fact that this November, The candidate running against Steve publican Carl Marcellino. Marcellino cur- based on his business experience run- the people of each state will have to elect Israel is Frank J. Stalzer (R). The son of im- rently represents the 5th district of the New ning Little Garage, which fixes specialty a representative to serve in the House of migrant parents, Frank Stalzer grew up in York Senate, encompassing everything be- cars, for 28 years. “Iʼve been fixing a lot Representatives. Every state is divided Valley Stream, NY. After graduating from tween Fort Salonga, Commack, Bethpage of problems all my life and I think I can into districts based on population. New high school, he attended NYIT, and gradu- and Glenwood Landing. solve a lot of dysfunction in government,” York state is made up of twenty-nine Con- ated with a B.S. Degree in Public Admin- Marcellino (who grew up in Syosset) Meng reasons. He also is committed to en- gressional Districts. Long Island includes istration. He supports offshore drilling and is running on his environmental record, vironmentalist legislation, saying, “I think a total of sixteen Congressional Districts. nuclear energy. He also supports reducing citing the 114 laws he has written towards we need to aggressively set new standards Huntington is in the Second Congressional capital gains tax from 15% to 10%, and clean air, fuel and roads since his first term to get better gas mileage. When it is done District. reducing the corporate tax from 35% to in 1995. “It is imperative that Congress de- across the board it is easier for all car com- This year, voters who reside in Hun- 25%. In addition, he supports making the velop a far reaching energy program that panies to compete.” American ingenuity, tington will have a choice of two candi- tax cuts made under the Bush Administra- will fund alternative fuels and vehicles and he argues, is the answer and will survive dates that they can elect for this posi- tion permanent for all Americans. Stal- those who create these technologies,” said through the financial crisis, concluding “... tion: Steve Israel (Democrat), or Frank zer believes in keeping American troops the senator. He also commented on how the most important issue in the state today J. Stalzer (Republican). Steve Israel (D) in Iraq until Iraqi forces can defend their the Senate will have to work so as to not is in one word- the economy. That and how has served four terms, and is running for own country. He promises to support ef- burdern the New York taxpayer even more to as painlessly as possible close the defi- a fifth term. He supports alternative en- forts that will empower the Department of during this financial crisis, explaining his cit gap in Albany... There were warnings ergy, and for years has been working on Homeland Security. Stalzer is pro-life, and experience would give him the ablility to out there for a long time that the economy an initiative that would limit greenhouse believes that the amount of terms a con- do so: “We need to focus on job creation was overleveraged and now we all have to emissions, decrease American dependence gressman can serve should be limited to 6 and stability. We need to focus on reducing pay the penalty unfortunately. And now, on foreign oil and support the growth of terms. Stalzer has experience as a business the tax burden for both young and old. We everything has to be reviewed and on the renewable energies. He also supports a bill manager, but will be serving for the first need to slash government spending and table.” that would give middle class families with time if he is elected to the House of Rep- keep the money where it belongs, in the an income of less $200,000 a $5,000 credit resentatives. NY’s Tenth Assembly District NY’s Ninth Assembly District

James Conte (R) Jeffey Stark (D) Andrew Raia (R) Karen Kerr-Ozimek (D)

by MIKE MCCOURT has failed to bring “effective, meaning- by MIKE MCCOURT sembly keeps him out of touch with the ful change” during his service in the As- concerns of the normal citizens of the dis- Republican James Conte will seek an sembly. Stark has proposed tax breaks for On the other side of town (east of Park trict. eleventh term representing the 10th Dis- towns and counties that take environmen- Avenue), Republican Assemblyman An- She says that as a parent and business trict of the State Assembly against Demo- tally friendly initiatives. “That would send drew Raia will face two other candidates owner, she can better represent the inter- crat Jeffrey Stark on Tuesdayʼs election. the message that we are serious about re- in his bid for reelection. ests of the average Huntington resident. Conte, who is also running under the ducing our dependence on foreign oil and Karen Kerr-Ozimek of the Demo- Kerr-Ozimek hopes to use her 18 Independent, Conservative and Working would jump-start an industry that is slow cratic party and Michele Mastrangelo of years of prosecuting experience to work Families parties, has vowed to continue growing,” he said. “If you put the effort in, the Working Families party are also in the with other legislators an judges in Albany. his efforts to better the district he serves. the market will take off.” race. “Iʼve spent years negotiating with judges “I still have the fire in the belly to go to Al- Both candidates have emphasized in- Raia has said he is fully committed and lawyers, dealing with victims and bany and do what we need.” he said. Conte creasing funding for education, lowering to the State Assembly, working as a “full- people who are accused of committing has stated that his main priority will be to taxes, and keeping the Huntington area time legislator.” He says he often works crimes,“ she said. ”Each of those negoti- lower property taxes for residents of the environmentally clean. late nights six days a week to better his ating skills requires a different technique. tenth district. He has supported a statewide The race should prove to be very district. These negotiating and advisory skills will property tax cap and the Taxpayers Protec- close, as their are only 1,000 more regis- He has worked hard during his six serve me well in Albany.” tion Act, which shifts tax burdens from the tered Republicans than Democrats in the years in the Assembly to provide for senior Mastrangelo decided to throw her the local to state government. He has also area. citizens and keep the area environmentally hat into the race because she felt neither pushed to rid of the state gas tax to reduce Conte and Stark have done door to clean and safe from sexual predators. candidate would benefit the working class the price of gasoline. door campaigning, hoping to appeal to as Kerr-Ozimek, on the other hand, citizens in the area. His opponent, Stark, agues that Conte many residents as possible. claims that Raiaʼs commitment to the as- The Dispatch FEATURES NOVEMBER08 5 HHS Students mock the vote Basement horrors Vote on presidential, congressional and local elections take positive turn by MR. JOSEPH LEAVY by AMY EISEN around program. Both courses Over the course of three days, are extremely alike, only Turn- Huntington High School students The Huntington High around was for students in tenth immersed themselves in a civ- School building is not in perfect grade, while Transition is for ics learning experience in which condition. There is no air condi- students in ninth. they voted with actual election tioning, itʼs always cold in the Despite Ms. Guarinoʼs suc- machines in a mock election that winter, and the turf may cause cessful attempts in improving will long live in their memories. cancer. In addition, there are hun- the room, by redecorating the Not only will they remember the dreds of cockroaches roaming walls, rearranging the desks, and event, they will also have practi- the halls along with the students. adding color and light, the room cal skills in how to negotiate the And thatʼs just above ground. still suffers irreversible damage. sometimes complicated process Below ground, in the basement, “Ventilation can be a problem.” of discerning who to vote for and is a different story. The Transi- Mr. Bisogno says. “Poor ven- how. tion Room, located in a slightly tilation and lack of exposure On Tuesday, October 28 c o n c e a l e d to fresh air through Thursday October 30, all hallway in the cause further social studies teachers brought basement, is “Not only are p r o b l e m s A student waits on line to vote in the main lobby. their classes to the main lobby a model ex- there cockroaches, during times to vote not only for national and For state elections, students lenging process of not only vot- ample. Not of humidity. state elective offices, but also for chose between the incumbent ing, but also know how and for only are there but frogs and The room be- an important referendum, asking Carl Marcellino (Republican) and whom. cockroaches, mosquitoes.” comes damp students to weigh in on the best the challenger Matthew Meng The Social Studies staff, one but frogs and and musty.” way for students to serve suspen- (Democrat). Finally, two separate and all, did a remarkable job in mosquitoes. Despite the sion. The question read, “Are you booths enabled students to cast guiding and teaching students one Due to lack of efficient drain- mounting list of problems, “The in favor of a six hour community ballots for their assemblyman, in of the most important civics skills age systems, water overflows by room has great potential to be a service alternate to in-school sus- either district 9 or 10. they need to know. one of the windows, and with it model classroom for the future,” pension?” Students learned that depend- A forum, offered on Wednes- comes mold and puddles, which Mr. Bisogno adds optimistically. The results of this referen- ing on where they live, they may day October 29th, enabled inter- make it a home for creatures to He hopes for computers to line dum will be shared by the princi- be in either the 9th Assembly dis- ested students to go a step further live and reproduce. the wall, and smart-boards and pal and addressed further through trict, which has Andrew Raia (Re- to see where they stood on spe- The Transition program is projectors to be readily avail- the student-faculty forum, which publican) representing them, or in cific important issues and which a project to help students gain able. The roomʼs large size is originally proposed the question. the 10th, which is represented by candidate most closely repre- the academic skills needed for also a helpful factor. The Transi- Preliminary results available James Conte (Republican). Each sented their views. A participat- success in high school and the tion Room can be a great loca- at the time this paper went press student was able to vote based ing alumni, Ken Wood added that future. The program is restricted tion for students to learn, only if, indicated a strong Obama victory on their residency between these this experience will “teach stu- to ninth graders, and is currently however, they are not distracted among students, with a close to 2- incumbents and their challengers. dents how to vote in this election in its second year. English and by frequent visits from cock- 1 edge over McCain. All precincts Conte is up against the Democrat and future elections, not based on social studies are the only two roaches, mosquitoes, and frogs. have not yet reported. Jeffrey Stark and Raia faces Kar- who is the slickest candidate, but classes taught in the Transition After the Dispatchʼs inves- Students also voted for their en Kerr-Ozimak. rather which candidate will repre- Room. English is taught by Ms. tigation of the issue, the prob- local US Congressman, choosing Many students expressed sent me on how I feel.” Guarino, and social studies by lems of the Transition Room between the incumbent Steve Is- that they learned a great deal from Mr. Bisogno. Before the room were quickly cleaned up and rael (Democrat) and the challeng- this hands-on experience and now was used for the Transition pro- resloved. er Frank Stalzer (Republican). know how to manage this chal- gram, it was used for the Turn- The Huntington High School Drama Club presents Auntie Mame

Come support your friends!

November 14 & 15 @ 8PM General Admission: $10 Students and Staff: $5 The Dispatch 6 NOVEMBER08 pinion The Dispatch endorses change with Obama Over the past eight years this country has been led by a Republi- 2007/2008 Staff can administration. Now, at the end of George Bushʼs fi nal term, this country Editor-in-Chief is facing many serious problems. The Mike McCourt decisions and leadership that have got- Managing Editors ten the country to this point have not Carrie Fante Lena Freed been benefi cial. The country is now in what is the worst economic crisis since Copy Editors the Great Depression, in a war it canʼt Lauren Campbell Diya Kapur seem to get out of, leaving millions Nellie Derbyshire Natasha Stollmack of people without health-care, more Tatiana DiPaola Cat Tacopina dependent on foreign oil then ever, in trillions of dollars of increasing debt, Business Editor Creative Director and putting an excessive amount of Amanda Goldstein Annabel Jouard fi nancial burden on the middle class. Contributing Staff With this coming election comes an opportunity for change. Jason Chisholm Cody Jacobs Senator Barack Obama represents Morgan Corley Alex Lau the nationʼs best chance for change and Joe DeMarco Dan McGale for dealing with these problems. Hav- Matt Duffy Dan Rabonowitz ing Senator John McCain as president Amy Eisen Max Sender would only be a continuation of the bad Emily Feldman Michael Valente decisions of the past eight years. As a Rebecca Friedman Matt West man who has voted alongside George Advisor Bush ninety percent of the time, John Mr. Mickey Baron McCain would only lead this country further into crisis. The Iraq War is one of the major The Dispatch is Huntington High Schoolʼs offi cial causes of this countryʼs increasing student publication. Written for the estimated 1100 debt and is costing us the lives of many students attending HHS, The Dispatch is distrib- soldiers. Barack Obama is the candi- uted to all students, staff and school community date who knows that we never should members at the school free of charge. have been in Iraq in the fi rst place and has a timetable for getting us out. He able to obtain affordable health insur- nancial burden on the middle class. The Editorial Board is the newspaperʼs decision- has voted against the Iraq war from ance regardless of their health record Other examples of Obamaʼs poli- making body, organizing and directing its opera- the start. He is the candidate who real- by setting up social health-insurance, cies that make him a better choice than tion. The Dispatch staff has adopted the following izes that the real threat from 9/11 came where employers cover the costs of the McCain are his policies on renewable editorial policy to express the rights, responsibili- from Afghanistan and that is where our health insurance of employees. Mc- energy and abortion. Though the Unit- ties and philosophy of the newspaper for the 2005- military efforts should have been fo- Cain does not plan on doing this. ed States is one of the worldʼs largest 2006 school year. cused. The country was sidetracked by Obama and McCain also vary in consumers of oil, we only hold three Iraq and now needs to get out. McCain their tax-cutting policies. Though they percent of the worldʼs oil. While Mc- The Dispatch of Huntington High School is a pub- refuses to say when he would get the both intend on cutting taxes, Obama Cain proposes offshore drilling as a so- lic forum, with its student editorial board making troops out of Iraq, while Obama plans plans to tax the lower class very little lution to the United States dependency all decisions concerning its content. Unsigned to remove the troops from Iraq within in contrast to the wealthier class who on foreign oil, Obama recognizes that editorials express the views of the majority of the sixteen months. will be taxed more, whereas McCain offshore drilling is harmful to the en- editorial board. Barack Obamaʼs plan for health- plans to cut the taxes for large corpo- vironment and will not eliminate our care is more effi cient than John rations and the upper class. Obamaʼs dependency. He proposes investing in Letters to the editor are welcomed and will be pub- McCainʼs in many aspects. First off plan makes the most sense because the renewable energy such as solar and lished as space allows. Letters are preferred signed, Obama plans to lower the cost of upper class has the greatest amount wind energy that would be better for but may be published by request. The Editorial healthcare by at least $2,500 per year, of money, and so when they have to the environment as well as making Board reserves the right to edit letters for gram- whereas McCainʼs intentions will lead pay the greatest taxes the wealth can the US less dependent on the Middle mar and clarity, and all letters are subject to laws to a rise in costs to $5,000 per fam- be more evenly distributed. Both East. Barack Obama also supports governing obscenity, libel, privacy, and disruption ily for each year. Also Obama will be Obamaʼs health-care system and tax of the school process, as are all contents of the pa- looking to help the middle class to be plan will help relieve some of the fi - see OBAMA on page 10 per. Questions, comments, and letters to the editor should be sent electronically to dispatch@hufsd. edu or submitted to The Dispatch mailbox located Letter to the Send your letters to: in the main offi ce. Editor [email protected] Opinions in letters are not necessarily those of the Ordinarily, a parking sticker is ex- deface the sticker to put on a new one. staff, nor should any opinion expressed in a public actly that: a parking sticker. If a student continues to deface the forum be construed as the opinion of the adminis- This yearʼs parking sticker, how- sticker, the school can and will revoke tration, unless so attributed. ever, has created some controversy and that personʼs parking privileges. taken on a signifi cance that was never Meanwhile, most seniors couldnʼt The Dispatchʼs goal is to provide readers with in- intended. Although the bright, multi- care less about the color of the stick- teresting content in a wide variety of areas. Such colored stickers were chosen to make er. Many feel that “…itʼs a parking areas include the news coverage of school and spotting them easy, some seniors have sticker; what are you going to do? You community events, as well as features on relev- begun to confuse the multicolored have to have it.” Although many se- ent topics. In addition, The Dispatch will provide stickers with the symbol of gay pride. niors may feel uncomfortable with the opinionated editorials on controversial topics, as Because of this confusion and the sticker, they deal with it and realize well as provide previews and reviews for upcom- highly homophobic nature of certain that “itʼs just a parking sticker that says ing school and professional sports seasons and students, some seniors have received I can park at the school.” And noth- other forms of entertainment. the wonderful surprise of fi nding their ing could be closer to the truth. One cars covered in homophobic graffi ti. teacher, and the advisor of the schoolʼs The Dispatch accepts advertisements from local Others have been made fun of, called Gay/Straight Alliance, had this to say, businesses and student organizations. The basic “gay,” called a “fag”, and other derog- “This is ridiculous; itʼs just a parking rate for advertisements is $2.50 per column inch. atory terms – all because of a simple sticker, and itʼs defi nitely not a gay Some students have defaced their Requests for specifi c pricing, and examples of past sticker. pride sticker. The gay pride sticker has parking stickers to cover up the tie- advertising may be requested via e-mail through Some of the seniors dislike the specifi c bold stripes of color. When I dye pattern. [email protected]. The Editorial Board reserves color of the sticker, going as far to say look at it, all I think is tie-dye.” the right to refuse any advertisement deemed inap- that “rainbow stickers are for rainbow Even though plenty of students its blend of colors has evoked, how- propriate, specifi cally those that reference illegal guys,” and “Itʼs a symbol of gay pride; fi rmly believe that the parking sticker ever, speaks volumes. Perhaps it says or controlled substances, products, services and/or itʼs unfair to make us advertise it.” calls to mind the symbol of gay pride, that despite our tendency to embrace paraphernalia. In response to the rainbow-col- the school could not and would not diversity, there are some colors that we ored sticker and the harassment that re- force students to put gay pride stickers are not yet ready to accept. sults, a number of seniors have colored on their cars. So the sticker is, in fact, Sincerely, over it with a sharpie, leaving only the just a brightly colored parking sticker; Joey Adelmann number showing. The school, howev- it says nothing more than, “Iʼm al- Mr. Adelmann is President of the er, prohibits this and forces those that lowed to park here.” The response that high schoolʼs Gay/Straight Alliance. The Dispatch p-ed NOVEMBER08 7 Siding with the lesser of two evils by MIKE MCCOURT ther would bring any sort of prosperity or However, our nationʼs economy ing or being overly greedy by either can- stability to the Union. would be far worse off under the leader- didate. EDITOR-IN-CHIEF The problems this country faces can- ship of Senator Obama. His repeated pro- Senator Obamaʼs universal health care The upcoming presidential election not be solved by concepts as simple as posals to “redistribute wealth” and argu- plan may offer coverage to every American has been said by many to be the most im- hope and change as Senator Obama sug- ment that the Constitution was constructed citizen, but will compromise the quality of portant decision of our time, and indeed gests, and contrary to the arguments of with a “fundamental fl aw” that does not care for those who are currently insured. it is. On November 4, Americans will be Senator McCain, being a leader takes more require the government to assist with such Obama promises the same coverage that faced with a diffi cult question: who will than having the ability to “reach across the redistribution threaten the very foundation government employees receive, but giving mess up our country less? aisle.” of our capitalist society. Obama wishes to that caliber of coverage to each and every Given the candidatesʼ stances on the Despite his shortcomings, John Mc- play the role of Robin Hood, stealing from American is overly ambitious and impracti- issues at hand, it seems improbable that ei- Cain offers the American people signifi - the rich and giving to the poor. This echoes cal. Nations with socialized medicine have cantly less national damage than Barack the Marxist concept of “from each accord- shown to have a signifi cantly low number Obama. ing to his abilities, to each according to his of doctors and an unsatisfactory level of The primary concern of voters is the needs.” overall care. Rather than decrease the qual- nationʼs economic state, and naturally, they Senator Obama has proposed tax hikes ity of health care, John McCain proposes have turned to the government to blame for for citizens earning more then $250,000 a a $5,000 tax deductible to any citizen who and fi x their fi scal problems. year. Obamaʼs tax plan also includes rais- wishes to make their health care more af- Both McCain and Obama have tried to ing taxes for corporations, which could fordable. appeal to the American people by demand- cripple the very economic class he is trying McCain also understands the impor- ing more economic oversight and chastis- to help. By raising corporate taxes, he will tance of using an “all of the above” solution ing the lenders and Wall Street for their in effect raise the prices of the goods these to the nationʼs energy problems. He has supposed greed. corporations produce, making them less proposed using renewable energies such as It is important to understand that the accessible to the middle and lower classes. wind and solar power, while drilling off- meltdown of such companies as Fannie Obama also proposes increasing taxes shore and in Alaska to decrease Americaʼs Mae and Freddie Mac was not caused by on gas companies, falsely believing that dependency on foreign oil. corporate gluttony, but excessive govern- by increasing gas taxes, gas prices will de- Senator John McCain may not be the ment oversight and control of these com- crease. Both he and McCain have scolded ideal candidate for the presidency, but he is panies. In light of this, it would make very the gas companies for making record prof- undoubtedly the least threatening. little sense to trust the government to get us its in the past year, ignoring the fact that out of a hole it dug itself. the average oil company made about 10% Note: the views expressed in this arti- With both major candidates supporting profi t last year. As a comparison, Apple cle are separate from those of the adjacent more government oversight, the economic Computer made 14% profi t this past year, editorial, and do not represent the views of state in this country can only get worse. but has not been charged with price goug- The Dispatchʼs editorial board as a whole. Point / Counterpoint Tenure protects the unworthy Teachers in need of job security by MIKE MCCOURT by EMILY FELDMAN

In New York State, a public school satisfy students, parents and administra- When students think of the term aca- way the teacher can lose his or her job, is if teacher can receive tenure after three years tors, leading them to seek a certain amount demic tenure, different opinions come to the teacher resigns or conducts an inexcus- of experience, a series of classroom obser- of job security. They fi nd comfort in ten- mind, one being a positive opinion. able act. Tenure also allows a teacher aca- vations, and recommendations from the ure, a title that was once a distinction re- Many teachers in Huntington High demic freedom, meaning that the teacher department chair, principal and district served for teachers that have consistently School have tenure and look at it as a can freely express emotions and opinions superintendent. Under this current system, displayed educational excellence but has blessing. When a teacher is given tenure, through teaching, without being ques- tenure is much too easily achieved and evolved into a life raft for mediocre educa- that teacher is granted job security and a tioned by authority. With academic tenure, maintained. tors who would be much better suited for steady position for as many years as he or a teacher is able to show more personality One of the most important professions other fi elds of work. she wishes to work in the school district. in lectures, without infringement by higher of our age is that of a secondary school The intention of tenure should be to This is benefi cial to many teachers, be- authorities. teacher. Due to their importance, high distinguish teachers who have worked in cause it prevents teachers from constantly Overall, academic tenure ensures that school teachers are put under a tremendous an establishment for an extensive period having to look for teaching positions every a teacher has the right to teach in nearly amount of pressure to help students achieve of time in which they have displayed a su- few years. With tenure, it is diffi cult for a any style he or she chooses, and that he or success. This pressure causes many teach- teacher to be let go from his or her posi- she will not get fi red from their job as eas- ers to feel that their performance may not see TENURE on page 10 tion. This helps a teacher because the only ily as a teacher without tenure. the Dispatch examines . . .

1. Hope and change- the 1. The Stock Market - Wall Street What’s high schoolʼs recent poll has What’s seems to be in a nosedive, with no turn shown Barack Obama light- around in sight. years ahead of his opponent, Not Hot and national polls predict a 2. Kanye West- similar outcome in the national recent singles off election. Yeezyʼs upcoming album have left fans wondering: what happened to 2. Producing- more and more stu- the rap? dents are making their own hip-hop beats on ACID Pro, FL Studio, or Ga- 3. “W.” - Oliver Stoneʼs bi- rageband. opic of President George W. Bush fl opped at the box offi ce, and failed to make a signifi - 3. Tina Fey- this SNL star can do a cant impact on the election as Stone had hoped. Sarah Palin better than Sarah Palin. 4. Brett Favre - even when the guy wins, heʼs 4. Northern Thrift- The rush to fi nd Halloween costumes at a rea- under fi re. The Jets changed their entire team to sonable price led to a sharp increase in the profi ts of this New York Av- accomodate him, but have still played mediocre enue thrift store. football.

5. The Texas Longhorns- the #1 team in 5. The College Board - the same company college football has pummeled all of its opponents, that administers the SAT has created a new test- even those within its own conference, which is widely for eighth graders. Because itʼs never too early to considered the best in the nation. create college application angst. The Dispatch 8 NOVEMBER08 ENTERTAINMENT Tour de by MIKE MCCOURT AND MAX SENDER Delicatessens Itʼs noon, and youʼre hungry. Bay Deli like conservatives cling another Huntington classic. tains fried chicken breast dipped Let us first say that Porcoʼs You havenʼt eaten yet today, so to guns and religion. This deli Just one look around this deli in buffalo sauce and smothered in had by far the most helpful and you want to have some breakfast, has been on New York Avenue in would tell you that this like stays bleu cheese dressing. Donʼt take personable staff. They werenʼt but society and its unfair stan- Halesite for more than 20 years, classy. A wonderful copy of “The it lightly; when they say itʼs hot, afraid to ask us how school was or dards are pressuring you to have making it our most established Kramer” hangs proudly in the they mean it. The Buffalo Soldier talk about the weather. Customer lunch at this time of day. establishment. corner. is a good choice for any customer interaction leads to customer sat- What do you do? You have Many people consider the This deli managed to provide who finds that donʼt have enough isfaction. brunch. Bay Deli to be not just an eatery, us with an overall satisfactory ex- perspiration or indigestion in their Porcoʼs provides picnic ta- Where do you get this but a “way of life.” perience, but in this review, satis- life. bles outside so that customers can “brunch”? Thatʼs easy: the deli- If these people truly do live faction doesnʼt cut it. Park Aveʼs egg sandwich was enjoy the view of the harbor. This catessan. to Bay Deli and Bay Deli to live, Rob Royʼs food is like John the best we had on our tour. time of year, eating outside is Any deli would be more than then they are missing out on a Mayerʼs girlfriends: we know Overall, the place was great, less than desirable, but when the happy to provide you with a com- much more satisfying existence they could do better. but not quite what were looking weatherʼs nice, thereʼs no better bination of breakfast and lunch from other delis. Rating: (1/4 sandiwch) for. place to eat a meal. foods at a reasonable price. Only The Bay Deli had a most de- Rating: (3/4 sandwich) Now donʼt think we forgot here can eggs, meat, cheese, and lectable egg sandwich, but was about the food. The egg sand- hash browns live together under lacking in the lunch sandwich de- wich, while not quite as good as one bun in a kind of harmony that partment. that of Park Ave, was still deli- would make John Lennon proud. Rating: (1/2 sandwich) cious. And “The Huntington,” So letʼs discover the world with roast beef, russian dressing of delicatessens together. And ex- an cheese on a garlic roll, was the pect to share, because in the true Park Avenue Deli best sandwich weʼve had during Lennon/Lenin spirit, there are First off, Park Ave was the Porcoʼs our review. no possessions when it comes to only place to provide indoor seat- Weʼve got it. Rating: (1 full sandwich) food like this. ing in which to enjoy your meal. Porcoʼs, located on Milldam Extra points right off the bat. Road, is the Juliet to our Romeo. Bay Deli Rob Roy We sampled the deliʼs fa- Itʼs the jelly to our peanut butter. Huntingtonians cling to their This Park Avenue place is mous Buffalo Soldier, which con- Itʼs the Ashley to our Mary Kate. m Album Review m Radin connects with Simple Times Equilibrium (2002)

by CAT TACOPINA seems that they have a hard time by ANDY BENE developing and continue to put ARTIST: Joshua Radin out the same songs with different Equilibrium is an interest- ALBUM: Simple Times lyrics. Not Joshua Radin though! ing movie to say the least. It fol- While Radin still maintains the lows the story of Grammaton You may not know the name pleasant calming songs that can Cleric First Class John Preston but if you are interested in televi- put a smile on your face during in a dystopian future where an sion shows such as “Scrubs” and the early hours of the morning, apocalyptic Third World War “Greyʼs Anatomy.”, you definitely he has also made his songs a bit caused the city-state of Libria know the music. You see, Joshua more upbeat. Instead of just hav- to enforce strict polices to make Radin has a folk rock acoustic ing only acoustic guitar and ran- there inhabitants have no emotion style which is very popular for dom percussion instruments such with a combination an emotional such television shows to play at as the triangle and glockenspiel, musicians share that power, but sedative called Prozium and ban- the end of their episodes (You he has now added in elements of Joshua Radin takes it a step fur- ning all old-world artifacts that know what I mean, the soft song electric guitar and drum set. These ther. When listening to his music are rated “E-10” and could cause which they play when the showʼs instruments, also including piano, you can almost feel that heʼs sit- an emotional reaction, like mu- finally reached a resolution. At add depth to the music, making it ting right by, doing his hardest to sic or pictures. John is part of least for one episode anyway.). more interesting than his previ- sing away your troubles and put an elite police force who capture one through some crazy means Being a fan of Joshua Radin since ous album. True, Joshua Radin is an “Everything will be alright” and kill “Seance offenders”, or and he (or she) must rise up and his first studio album entitled “We taking his time to develop into a smile on your face. Heʼs not just people who do not take Prozium free the people whop-de-do. But Were Here,” I highly anticipated much more developed musician, saying “I know how you feel.”, and experience emotion. John is the movie presents it in a very in- the release of this album. While I but the baby steps heʼs taking are heʼs also helping you to push the top Cleric until one day he a teresting way. See our hero, John did find the songs on the album more than enough for the audi- through. ccidentally breaks his vile of Pro- Preston, went through his whole absolutely lovely and pleasant, ence. In short, I obviously recom- zium and begins to experience life without emotion (even the I was also pleasantly sur- I believe Joshua Radinʼs best mend this album to everyone. emotion. Soon he begins taking capture and execution of his wife prised. gift as a musical artist is his Joshua Radinʼs music is exactly trinkets from raids, like books, didnʼt spark anything). There are Iʼve found that ability to understand what a what you should listen to when and keeping them, just as his old some scenes that illustrate this, when it comes to person wants. Ever notice you need a good cry and when you partner used to do. He eventu- like when he is staring out a win- artists such as that music artists say what realize youʼre so helplessly angry ally meets with a resistance force dow covered in with paper, which Joshua Ra- youʼre feeling and state and just need to calm down. The called “The Underground”, who is presumably there to keep peo- din, it they know how songs on “Simple Times” such plot to kill “Father” the head of ple from seeing the outside city, you feel? All as “Iʼd Rather Be With You” and the state and center of the propa- he suddenly rips off the paper and “Brand New Day” will make you ganda machine used to control stares amazed at what he sees, or smile and feel a bit better about citizens. He confronts “Father”, when he rearranges the things on a day that could have, quite pos- kills him, and destroys the propa- his desk, demonstrating a need sibly, been miserable. ganda machine. for non-comformality. That is, a Congratulations, Mr. Radin. Equilibriumʼs plot seams city of white. No color, no traf- pretty generic at first. Our hero fic, no noise, no emotion. Though is in a dystopian future where a tyrannical dictator controls every- see MOVIE on page 10 The Dispatch ENTERTAINMENT NOVEMBER08 9 Ms. Mellon on the election, Teacher Feature: Vietnam, and Tweety Bird by DIYA KAPUR in this election? Q: If you won the lottery, Have you ever participated in a sion), The Godfather (I), and Ca- A: Let me put it this way. what would be the first thing that protest? sino Royal. Q: If you could have lunch I donʼt like the new McCain be- you would buy? A: Absolutely. A Vietnam Q: Who was your favorite with any one person, dead or cause of his social issues, like A: Well, Iʼd have to go to anti-war protest. I was a student teacher in high school? alive, who would it be? religion and abortion. I donʼt like a Chanel store and decide that at Huntington and the whole stu- A: A man by the name of Mr. A: Tony Blair. He is my polit- Obama because of his lack of ex- when I get there. I dent body walked out of class. Ambrosino. He was a social stud- ical guru. Second only to Queen perience. could spend a (Begins reciting “Hell No! ies teacher. He was very enthusi- Elizabeth I. Sheʼs the first one Q: Who is your favorite car- whole day at We Wonʼt Go!”) astic and nice, always caught my to really show what a powerful toon character? Chanel. Q: What movie attention. woman can do. A: Tweety Bird. I had a stu- Q : do you know every Q: Do you believe that there Q: What song do you like to dent once who drew me a picture line to? is life on other planets? sing in the shower? of Tweety Bird holding a world A: Oh God, A: There has to be. I donʼt A: If I had to sing a song in history textbook. thereʼs a lot of believe weʼre the only people in the shower, it would probably be Q: What band t-shirts are them. 101 Dal- the universe. Thereʼs got to be God Bless America. But I tend not stored away in your closet right matians (the others. to sing because even in the show- now? original car- Q: What do you want to er I sound pretty bad. A: The Beatles, the Stran- toon ver- know about the future? Q: If you were a super hero, glers, and Bruce Springstein. Oh, A: I guess Iʼd want to know what would your power be? and the Moody Blues. I love the if America will still A: To be able to make any Moody Blues. have the same values. woman who wants to be thin, thin. Q: What was your job in high Iʼd like to know that I would be called The Queen. school? the Great Experi- Q: What is your most embar- A: In high school I was a ment was still rassing moment? sales girl at Macyʼs. going on. A: When I failed “skipping” Q: What is your favorite TV (in gym class) on my report card. show? Q: What time is your alarm A: Currently, its Boston Le- clock set for during the week? gal. My all-time favorite is West A: 5 a.m. I have to read both Wing. the New York Times and Newsday cover-to-cover, and go to the BBC PHOTO: MR. BARON news site. Sometimes Iʼll have CNN and a Euro-news station on TV in the morn ing too. Q: Do you prefer regular milk or chocolate milk? A: Neither. I hate milk. I only use it in tea. Q: Who are you rooting for fashion spotlight technology by MORGAN CORLEY Ms. Medina Marissa Benedetto The new iPhone 3G

Foreign Language Senior by JASON CHISOLM der to setup the email, you have to things about the iPhone has have Optimum Boost, to be the application store. I have a 1. Who do you consider to be 1. Who do you consider to be This summer I purchased which is a special online lot of applications on my iPhone, your your fashion icon? a 16-gigabyte iPhone 3g. There service from Optimum. I and my favorite one is probably the fashion icon? Mary Kate Olsen. are many things about the new also donʼt like how short the bat- New York Times because I like to Lauren Conrad from 2. What would you say is a key iPhone that I love however there tery life is. The battery life de- keep up on world news and poli- “The Hills.” accessory to own for the fall? are some things that can become creases depending on what you tics. I also like it because it is free. 2. What would you say is a key A leather jacket. very irritating. The iPhone is very are doing. If you are playing a Another great free app that can pro- accessory to own for the fall? 3. What do you consider a adaptable due to the wide range of game with 3d graphics, then the vide some entertainment if youʼre Scarves. fashion DONʼT? applications available. The most battery life will last for approxi- bored is MotionX Dice, which is just 3. What do you consider a Head to toe juicy notable change is the new mately four and a half hours. a dice-rolling simulator with 3d fashion DON’T? couture. plastic backing (previ- Many companies are making effects. Another fun game is Bi- Wearing ugly shoes that 4. List your top 3 favorite ously the backing was battery packs for the iPhone. iBall because it uses the built in don’t match your outfit. designers. made of aluminum.) The iPhone commercials say that accelerometer for controlling the 4. List your top 3 favorite YSL, Betsey Johnson and My favorite thing about my the price is only two or three hun- ball. designers. Burberry. iPhone is how easy it is to use. dred dollars, however, these pric- I love owning an iPhone be- Gucci, BCBG and Victor 5. What would you call your One of the coolest things about es are only true if you are eligible cause I can make a phone call, Victoria. style? it is the touch screen. In fact, for an upgrade, and if you are not listen to music, and play a game all 5. What would you call your Fun and fashionable. the new iPhone has one of the eligible then you will have to pay in one device. Normally I would style? 6. What is your favorite new most advanced touch screens. three or four hundred dollars. have to have an iPod, a cell phone, Colorful and fun. trend? Anyone who is familiar with One of the most outstanding and a portable gaming system of 6. What is your favorite new Statement jewelry. the multitouch gestures on a Mac some kind, but with an iPhone I can trend? 7. Where is the best place to book can use an iPhone without do it all on one device- plus I can Riding boots. shop on discount? any problems. The new surf the internet! I would definite- 7. Where is the best place to Forever 21. iPhone is slightly ly give the iPhone a nine out shop on discount? 8. UGGs: in or out? rounder than the of ten. Express. Out, but I canʼt stop old version which 8. UGGs: in or out? wearing them. makes holding it in In, I love them! your hand feel more natural. The iPhoneʼs 3g is 4.8 times faster than the iPhone on the edge network. The headphone jack isnʼt recessed, which allows you to use any type of headphones you want. I really like being able to check my email from anywhere I can receive cell phone service. As much as I like the email application on the iPhone it PHOTOS: MORGAN CORLEY can still be annoying because in or- The Dispatch 10 NOVEMBER08 ENTERTAINMENT Dispatch votes change OBAMA from page 6 lars in order to reduce teen preg- nancies by increasing education leaving the choice of abortion up about contraceptives. HHS art students featured in to the woman and the people she With Barack Obama as presi- chooses to include in her deci- dent, this country will undergo sion. Comparatively, John Mc- the change it needs to get us out Garden City company lobby Cain is anti-abortion, even in cas- of the difficult times we are in. As by DAN MCGALE es of rape. The idea that a woman someone who is not an insider in would be forced to give birth to Washington, Obama has the fresh Huntington High School the result of her sexual assault is perspective and the best policies to students Johanna Clifford, Ryan sickening and unethical. It would put this country on a better track. Loscalzo, Daniel Rabinowitz, ruin the lives of both the mother As president Obama will look out Brian Riggs and Marissa Rosen- and the child. Though Obama is for the economy, the middle class, feld are all talented artists and pro-choice, he is still support- the environment, and the troops advanced computer graphics stu- ing ways to prevent unnecessary in Iraq. He has the right priorities dents that were given an opportu- abortions. In 2005 he voted in and skills to change this country nity of a lifetime this past year. favor of paying 100 million dol- for the better. The students were asked to create original digital media im- ages for a major worldwide trans- portation consulting company Tenure too lenient in Garden City called McQuill- TENURE from page 7 them employed). ing headquarters. “The project The concept of tenure as it is was ideal for the students” stated perior knowledge of their subject, currently implemented seems to Joan Fretts, Huntingtons direc- improved test grades and knowl- stem from the faulty premise that tor of fine and performing arts, edge of students, and established people, regardless of their talents “students were able to work col- themselves as revered educators. or abilities, have a right to work laboratively with an organization It often does serve that purpose, in any field they so choose. The outside of the school to solve a but it occasionally protects some amount of job security given to real-life problem and have an teachers who scrape through teachers is unheard of in other authentic work experience”. The three years of teaching, managing professions. Most workers create students were asked by David to satisfy the district and students their own security by doing thor- Saginaw, a Huntington School with a watered-down curriculum. ough work day in and day out. District resident and director of A tenured teacher cannot be Those who do not satisfy their McQuilling headquarters, to pro- let go unless his or her behavior is employers are let go. Something duce the images, which are some- seen to be harmful or destructive, as important or delicate as a sec- what abstract in nature while hint- and even then the process of fir- ondary school education must not ing at the design and appearance ing that teacher is long and costly. be compromised by our sympa- PHOTO: MS. MOHANTY PHOTO: of oil tankers and oil production Junior Johanna Clifford poses with her piece on display in Garden Attorneys must be hired for both thies for hopeful teachers who do facilities. City. parties if a tenured teacher is to be not make the grade and would be The students used Photoshop to ousted, so most schools choose much more successful in other and Illustrator computer software Saginaw and making arrange- photography programs at the high to avoid conflict altogether. occupations. programs to produce five pieces ments to have the work printed school” stated Mrs. Fretts. The The system should be re- An abundance of mediocre of work that were then printed on and installed. Mr. Saginaw gave office staff was so impressed with vised so that only teachers who teachers could drastically decrease eight-foot square canvases and in- the team a budget of $5,000 for the studentsʼ work they requested maintain an exemplary (and not the productivity of a school. A stalled in the office complex. The the project. After expenses, the extra prints of the art work. just satisfactory) record are given satisfactory teacher who has been project could not have been done remaining $3,000 was given as a “I believe that the atrium tenure after five years of experi- granted tenure inhibits the hiring without the help of Huntington donation to the Huntington High project was a great experience” ence. From that point on, they of a new and much better teacher High School computer graphics School art honor society in appre- says Ryan LoScalzo “and I was should be observed once a year to fill his or her place. and photo teacher, Ms. Mohanty, ciation for the work. very happy to have been chosen and evaluated at the end of each There are many teachers here who helped guide the students The funds “will be used to to work on it.” five-year period after receiving at Huntington High School that with their long term projects, purchase supplies and cameras tenure. If the school board, prin- have gone above and beyond to keeping in close contact with Mr. for the computer graphics and cipal and department chair find give a lasting educational expe- them to be still productive, they rience to students, and they have can continue working under the been rewarded accordingly. My umbrella of tenure for another concern is with those teachers five years. If their performance who manage to achieve the bare MOVIE from page 8 be taken lightly.” In other words, Father fight, Father being a fellow is considered unsatisfactory, they minimum and camp out under the it involves going into positions master of Gun Kata, they attempt would be stripped of tenure and umbrella of tenure, which pro- not all the scenes work, like the that reflect where enemy bullets to aim at each other and fire while be reconsidered in another five tects them from the demands to slightly comical scene where a will most likely go, while firing simultaneously parrying the op- years (if their performance satis- justly and effectively educate. puppy runs away from a man exe- where enemyʼs will most likely ponents gun away from their face. fies the district enough to keep cuting his kin right into the hands be. It also apparently involves John eventually gets the better of of Preston, who runs off claiming Pistol whipping and sword com- Father and kills him. the dog needs to be tested for dis- bat because Preston shows him- Despite what the last para- ease. self to be proficient in both. The graph implys the movie actually Goodbye to Shea The real crux of Equilibrium style does sound silly at first, but isnʼt very violent. Really the most is the action scenes, which feature on film its simply amazing. Three graphic thing that happens in the SHEA from back page to look forward to as the Mets what may be the most awesome scenes stand out in my mind. One, movie was the aforementioned will begin the 2009 season in Citi fictional martial arts technique at the very beginning of the movie, face slice (which was incredibly former players appear through Field on April 13th. In honor of ever. Called Gun Kata in the has John breaking into a base full awesome). When people are shot, the right field and left field bull- the great baseball legend, Jackie movie it is explained as “Through of seance offenders. Him and his they just fall down in what I call pens, all entering the stadium to Robinson, there will be a rotunda analysis of thousands of recorded team manage to corner them in a the “Rambo syndrome”, even that immense ovations. An appropri- built of his number (42) in honor gunfights, the Cleric has deter- room and shut the lights off. You (awesome) face slice doesnʼt have ate way to end an era concluded of his accomplishments of break- mined that the geometric distri- can hear them whispering to each much blood in it. Than again the with players from all different ing the color barrier and changing bution of antagonists in any gun other in the darkness, when sud- movies body count (236!) prob- Met teams walking down to touch the game to what it is today. battle is a statistically-predictable denly John starts firing. All that ably discredits my point. home-plate one last time, and then Most importantly, though, element. The Gun Kata treats the can be seen when his guns flash Frankly Equilibrium is a Tom Seaver delivering the final Citi Field will be a place where gun as a total weapon, each fluid are people falling with no time to very solid action film with an in- ever pitch in the ballpark to #31 fansʼ memories of Shea Stadium position representing a maximum react. The lights come back on to teresting plot and a fresh style. If Mike Piazza. It was a fantastic can remain. The physical struc- kill zone, inflicting maximum reveal him standing in the middle you can forgive a slightly generic experience to have attended and ture of the former ballpark will be damage on the maximum number of the room with dozens of bod- setting than I heartily recommend I will always remember my last taken apart and may be forgotten, of opponents, while keeping the ies strewn about him. The other it. ever game at the ballpark I have but what has occurred in the 45 defender clear of the statistically- two moments happen in the last (Oh, I am also aware of the grown to love and cherish. year history of Shea Staidum will traditional trajectories of return scene. First, “Fathers” body guard movies spiritual successor Ultra Although the Metsʼ demise always be remembered. Welcome fire. By the rote mastery of this throws John a sword so they can Violet, which I recommend you was not the ideal ending to a Citi Field, but never Shea good- art, your firing efficiency will rise duel (the guard having a sword stay as far away from as humanly hopeful season, there is still much bye. by no less than 120%. The differ- himself) and as he is starting to possible.) ence of a 63% increased lethal attack, John runs up, does three proficiency makes the master of slices, and THE GUYS FACE the Gun Katas an adversary not to FALLS OFF. Soon after him and The Dispatch SPORTS NOVEMBER08 11 Boys’ and Girls’ V-ball struggle through season at home games. This can help get by JOE DEMARCO the team more energized for each game and inspire them to try thier The 2008 boysʼ volleyball best to come out on top. season contrasts greatly with last Although the Blue Devils are yearʼs season, in which the team not doing as well as they hoped, made it to the playoffs. However, there is still time to improve, with the dedicated team is still practic- many games left in the season. ing hard everyday under coach The team hopes to rally and go on Contopolous, and is ready to turn a winning streak to fi nish its sea- its season around. son on a strong note. Starting right side, junior Similarly, girls varsity vol- Ryan Green- leyball is off to hill, explained “The team shows a rough start. that “the team The team did shows a lot a lot of promise; win their fi rst of promise; n o n - l e a g u e some guys some guys have game, but lost have never set never set foot on its season open- foot on a vol- er. The team leyball court a volleyball court also won its before and the before.” second game of team leaders the season by are teaching beating Comse- the new players how to play the wogue, but then lost three games game.” in a row. The members of the Middle hitter Lauren Visbal spikes the ball through the arms of her Sayville opponent. With key players like senior team know that they have room Matt Duffy (outside hitter), ju- to improve and truly feel that they came up just short. I know we can team can improve even a little it With our support and with the nior Max Smoller (setter), and can do better. The teamʼs starting win games.” The members of this would lead to more wins. hard work from the players, both senior Teddy Calligeros (middle middle hitter, junior Lauren Visbal yearʼs team possess a lot of talent, The athletes on varsity vol- the boys and the girls varsity vol- hitter), the team has lots of skill said, “We are a hard working team with senior captains Jenna Feraco leyball are dedicated hard work- leyball teams have the ability to and hopes for a better result each with a lot of talent, although our and Sarah Paar. Coach Riley and ing individuals with positive consistently win. If everything time they set foot on the court. record doesnʼt show it. This year the team would also love to see attitudes. Both teams strongly goes right, coach Contopolous The team also says that it would is different. We have come very more fan support from students believe that they have lots of tal- and coach Riley hope to turn their like to see more student support close to winning all the games but at the teamʼs home games. If this ent and potential to improve a lot. 2008 seasons around. Favre robs G-men of attention Girls’ Soccer narrowly misses playoff spot by ALEX LAU

After a dismal 4-12 season, the New York Jets decided it was time to make a few changes. During the last off-season they bulked up their offensive line with the additions of veterans Alan Faneca and Damien Woody, and their defense with the signing of a 350 pound defensive tackle in Kris Jenkins and a versatile linebacker in Calvin Pace. But clearly, the most exciting signing of the off-season had to be that of Brett Favre, the strong armed, all-time leader in passing touch- downs and passing yards. With these numerous free agent sign- ings, the Jets were looking like a HUFSD.EDU PHOTO: playoff team, and the season had Junior Angela Bosco clears the ball during an early season match not even started. against Eastport/South Manor. With all of these acquisitions by MATT DUFFY Scully and company are by the Jets, everyone quickly for- leaving the program in good got about the other New York hands, as Juniors Angela Bosco, football team. Remember the The Girlsʼ Varsity Soccer Lori Messina, Meredith McCourt team that had that improbable run Season was unexpectedly cut and Maya Yakobi seem ready to to the Super Bowl, where they short this fall when the team bring the team back to glory next were victorious over the then un- failed to make the playoffs for the season. defeated Patriots? Well, it seems fi rst time in recent memory. Sophomores Lauren Ger- as if the Giants are old news, as This yearʼs team was full of bavsits, Emma Hayes-Hurley Brett Favre has basically taken talented, veteran players, includ- and Christina Badalamenti also

New York by storm, leaving the NYTIMES.COM PHOTO: ing Seniors Matte Scully, Olivia showed exceptional skill. Giants quarterback and Super The Jetsʼ acquisition of Brett Favre has distracted football fans from Hayes-Hurley and Emily Laurie. Bowl champion, Eli Manning, in the reigning Super Bowl Champion Giants. the dust. Even though they may be look like a solid team as their have been the more popular team Et Cetera forgotten, the Giants seem to have easy schedule early in the season, in New York during the off-sea- carried over last yearʼs momen- should give them the momentum son, the Giants are defi nitely do- Huntington High School’s literary magazine tum into this year, as they once they need to make the playoffs. ing their best to refresh every- again look to make the playoffs Despite the pre-season hype, oneʼs memory about their success despite a tough NFC East that the Jets, could have trouble if Brett from last year. And, if the Jets do includes themselves, the Super Favre cannot adapt to the Jetsʼ not get on the right track soon, it Bowl favorite Dallas Cowboys, system and learn the playbook seems that they will be refreshing the Washington Redskins and the quickly. Even with the Patriotsʼ peopleʼs memories too; only they Philadelphia Eagles, and despite loss of its star quarterback Tom will not be good memories, but the loss of the teamʼs top two de- Brady, the Jets could still have bad ones. fensive players, in Michael Stra- some trouble making the playoffs Meetings after school han (retirement) and Osi Umeny- if their offense and defense do not iora (season-ending knee injury). get their acts together. Wednesdays, Room 218 Even with these losses, the Giants Even though the Jets may SPORTS Ruggiero, Bollar lead A lot to prove: Blue Devils on the ground by MATT DUFFY losses to Hauppauge, Harbofields, and Deer Park, Bollar, a sopho- The Huntington High School more, led the team to a 19-17 win football team has over Comsewogue on October had a lot to prove 18. He rushed for 224 yards this season follow- and passed for another 64. ing the losses from Other key players the Class of 2008. on the Blue Devil team Last yearʼs have been wide receiv- senior class had ers Josh Daves and Sean solid contribu- Whitney, fullback Brian tors such as Ed- Smith, and lineman Joe die Santos, Deshawn Brown. Thomas, and Quillan The teamʼs last two Respass. games will decide their The Blue Devils playoff fate. have made themselves Huntington plays at playoff contenders un- Westhampton Beach on der the leadership and October 24 and closes performance of quarter- the season at home back Brian Ruggiero and against Miller Place on running backs Damon Mc- November 1. Queen and Calvin Bollar. After several disappointing Sophomore RB Calvin Bollar finds a running lane during the Homecoming Game against Harborfields on QB/FB Brian Ruggiero PHOTO: HUFSD.EDU October 4. PHOTO: HUFSD.EDU A fond farewell to New York’s ballparks The House That Ruth Built “Never Shea Goodbye”

by MIKE MCCOURT the great moments to happen within the by MICHAEL VALENTE of Robin Venturaʼs walkoff “Grand Slam stadiumʼs walls. Single” in Game Five of the 1999 NLCS At the end of September, baseball fans The Yankees fittingly one the game, September 28th, 2008 will always and other amazing memories flashed into across the nation said goodbye to Ameri- beating the Orioles 5-3. It was the perfect be remembered as the day we wavedgood- my head as I began to realize the magni- caʼs most historical stadium. way to cap off the perfect stadium. bye to Shea Stadium. During a month tude of this game, not only for the Mets to Yankee Stadium was known as The It was not fitting, however, to say overshadowed by the ceremonial closing keep their postseason hopes alive, but that Cathedral of Baseball. It was there that the goodbye to the stadium in a regular sea- of Yankee Stadium, Shea Stadium (1964- the Mets should leave their home in a posi- most successful sports franchise in history son game. The Yankees failed to make the 2008) was put to rest as well, leaving the tive fashion. After all of the cheering and played for 85 years, winning 26 World playoffs for the first time since the MLB memories we cherished there as souvenirs. admiring of the Mets legends, it was time Championships. playersʼ strike in 1994. Although it may not be as physically at- for the Mets to begin their 162nd and last Even with the first championship in Despite the teamʼs disappointment in tractive as other stadiums, Shea has been game of the season. the city of Philadelphia in 25 years and the the stadiumʼs final season, Yankee Stadi- a place where the greatest fans around The last game at Shea ended up as a improbable rise of the Tampa Bay Rays, um still stands as the most memorable and the world gathered to cheer on one of the complete disappointment, seeing as the the closing of Yankee Stadium was still the important sports complex in the nation. greatest teams in the world: the New York Mets failed to win against the Florida biggest story of this baseball season. The Other stadiums may be more attrac- Mets. Marlins, while the Brewers held on to cap- Yankees drew more than 4,000,000 fans tive or fan-friendly, but Yankee Stadium As I arrived at Shea Stadium from the ture a victory against the Chicago Cubs. for the forth straight season, despite the consistently brought what fans want to train, I walked along the boardwalk, tak- The Wild Card race was now finished and fact that they didnʼt even make the play- most- victories. ing in all the games and memories I have for the second straight year, the Mets had offs. Every player and fan who has seen or personally experienced as a die-hard Mets failed to enter the postseason on the last I was fortunate enough to see the very played in a game in the House That Ruth fan. It was 11:00 AM when I made my way day of the season. Experiencing the dev- last game in The House That Ruth Built, Built will never forget the experience. The to Gate A to look on at the pre-game cer- astating end to a season firsthand was very which was an experience I will never for- stadium has been home to legends such emony, where past Met greats made their overwhelming. It was hard to allow myself get. I arrived several hours before game as Babe Ruth and unexpected heroes like way down the red carpet. Former players, to remain at the Stadium for the post-game time, hoping to step on the field, but was Aaron “Bleepin” Boone. Every moment coaches, and managers walked along the ceremony. Reluctant at first, I finally told unfortunately denied along with hundreds that takes place there is memorable, be- carpet into the entrance of the stadium. myself that it would be best to stay and ex- of other fans. The pregame ceremonies cause the stadium itself is unforgettable. Among these former Mets were Yogi perience the last ever event to take place in featured such Yankee greats as Yogi Berra, Building new experiences in the new Berra, Tom Seaver, Keith Hernandez, Ron Shea. Looking back on it now, I am thor- Don Larsen, Paul OʼNeil and Bernie Wil- stadium will be exciting, but it will be Darling, Edgardo Alfonzo, Todd Zeile, oughly happy that I was able to witness liams. Seeing these players together for awhile before it matches the mystique of Robin Ventura, Sid Fernandez, Gary cart- one last time brought back memories of the true Yankee Stadium. er, Doc Gooden, and many more. Shades see SHEA on page 11