The Patriot Issue 2 Washington Township High School, Sewell, NJ November 2006 Mannon crowned Queen Alyssa Figueroa ‘08 it,” stated Turdo, “she represents the senior class well. She is extremely When the ribbon was untied, the well rounded and hard working.” box opened, and the red rose Mannon’s teachers and mentors observed, Jessica Mannon ’08 said felt similar on her achievement. Mrs. she did not process at first that she Foster, Mannon’s psychology teacher was this year’s 2007 Homecoming last year whom she became very close Queen. “I was definitely shocked,” to stated, “Not only was she an asset Mannon said, “it was a surreal academically, but she brought a feeling experience.” of energy and warmth into the On Sat. Oct. 27, the annual classroom that could be felt by Homecoming game took place, with everyone present. I was so the crowning of the Queen during proud…she was rewarded…for being halftime. All 12 nominees, their the amazing person that she is.” escorts, and their flower boys, took “Jessica is wholesome - the stroll down the red-carpet track, peaches and cream,” said Mrs. and were then given boxes containing Costello, her Class Council advisor. a rose inside. The red rose, “She is caring and genuine, and truly contrasting with the 11 other white has the qualities that every parent ones, was given to the winner. wants to see in their child.” Mannon was one of the last to open Not only is Mannon a benefit her box. “I thought we were just to WTHS in the classroom, but she supposed to take the ribbon off, and is involved in many activities outside then they would tell us when to open the classroom as well, including the box!” Mannon chuckled. Class Council for 4 yrs., Peer When she finally opened her Outreach, Freshmen Transition, and special delivery, all the other NHS. She also volunteers and works nominees, as well as others around at Sensory Playhouse, where she her, stormed her with hugs. “I told Alyssa Figueroa ‘08/ The Patriot hosts birthday parties for small her I’d be the first one there!” said Jessica Mannon plans to attend the University of Delaware and children, as well as does activities Mannon’s best friend for 6 yrs. and study dietetics. with teens that have Down’s Homecoming nominee, Gina Turdo for her!” extremely honored,” stated Mannon, syndrome. “I love it!” stated ‘08. “I hugged her and then we were Receiving the most votes from “this really means a lot to me.” Mannon. “It’s very rewarding to crying for 5 minutes! I was so excited the whole senior class, over 700 Many believed she was very see the benefits you can bring to little students, is quite a feat. “I feel worthy of the title. “Jess deserves See QUEEN Page 2 Inside... Students react to job actions Minutemen topple Chiefs News -p. 3 Rich Elles ‘08 Commentary - p. 7 Is your bookbag too heavy? With the added festivities to Features - p. 10 this year’s homecoming weekend at WTHS, it was easy to overlook the Lifestyles - p. 12 annual football game against a rival New Section! People - p. 14 high school. However, after the Cherokee Chiefs football team Halloween highlights arrived at the field on Saturday, Odds & Ends - p. 16 October 27, the action on the field MySpace vs Facebook was the only thing on the minds of Tech Talk - p. 18 the WTHS student body. With an Books - p. 20 impressive offense and a stellar defensive effort, the Minutemen Entertainment - p. 22 prevailed over a conference rival by What’s Happening - p. 25 the score of 24-14. Gina Parker ‘09/ The Patriot See GAME Page 28 Soccer Romps - Sports p. 26 The Minutemen take the field at Homecoming. 2 - News The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 Homecoming Dance destined to stay Matt Neuteboom ‘08 Entertainment as DJs. The cafeteria also came complete with giant October 28 was a night of martini glasses filled with apples as revelry as 850 students packed into Frank Sinatra music filtered through the 9/10 gym for the first ever the commotion. Homecoming Dance. That night, all “The theme was very creative,” grades levels met for a night of stated Nick Down ’08. “The dancing, food, and fun. cafeteria was especially well done.” The Homecoming Dance was During the middle of the dance, made to replace the now defunct students were treated to a special Winter Twilight. The school assured performance by the homecoming students that they would get a queen nominees and their escorts. replacement worthy of the Twilight Students crowded around the stage dance, but many were originally to catch a glimpse of the dance skeptical of having the dance in the performed by the couples. Cheers school gym with all grade levels. For rang out the air as the nominees many however, those doubts were performed their well-choreographed put to rest on Friday night. number. “At first I thought that it As the night bore on, the gym Matt Neuteboom ‘08/The Patriot wasn’t a good idea to include all air became stagnant and humid. The Homecoming Dance marks a new tradition at WTHS. grades,” said Felicia Rivero ’09, “But “The gym was all hot and upperclassmen. Even the freshmen been a huge success according to once I got there it didn’t matter sweaty. Just a little taste of New felt at ease amongst all of the seniors. Student Council, and is here to stay. because I had a good time.” York,” said Chris Neuteboom ’09. “The dance was pretty amazing. This event may just mark the To make the gym fit the chosen Tables, bleachers, and indeed There really wasn’t any pressure, it beginning of the long standing theme of ‘New York, New York’ most of the surfaces in the room were was just a lot of fun,” said Reed WTHS tradition. Student Council completely covered with articles of clothing, Cassel ’11. Student Council will be transformed the gym. That night the purses, cameras, and cell phones. Still, many upperclassmen were conducting a survey on what gym was altered into a stunning Students shed everything they could disappointed over the change. students liked and disliked about the dance floor. The walls of the gym so that they would have more energy “Twilight was all about the dance. Student Council is open to and cafeteria were lined with murals and room to dance. By the time the atmosphere, and was only for the any suggestions for next year. of the Big Apple, and decorations music stopped at 11:30, students upperclassmen. Having homecoming “We have gotten a lot of positive reminiscent of the city were set up were ready to fall to the floor. in the gym, and available for all four feedback from both students and all around the venue. Off to the side The dance was a new grades, really lost something in chaperones, and we can only hope of the room, a giant stage and sound experience for many underclassmen translation,” commented Kristen to make it even better next year and system were set up with TJ and who, for the first time, were able to Linderman ’08. in years to come!” said Ms. Mitch from Dinardo Brothers go to a formal dance with Nevertheless, Homecoming has Francesca LaPenta. Staying positive Mannon crowned queen

From QUEEN page 1 Parades, made posters, and went to dance rehearsals to practice for their preformance at the Homecoming kids and teens that can’t function as Dance. we do.” “I was taken aback being Mannon hopes to attend the surrounded by the great nominees, University of Delaware next year, my escort and flower boy, and the where she plans to major in Dietetics. advisors,” Mannon stated. She also plans on moving to the city Mannon advises girls inspiring of Manhattan. to be Homecoming Queen to, “just “I know Jess is going to go far in be yourself, but remember to be life,” said Turdo. “She has the conscious of others. People have determination and willpower to do so.” feelings and emotions and they will Although going to a new place remember things; be remembered for is quite scary, Mannon still feels she the good things you do. I hope is “very ready to start a new chapter people feel that I am a good person. in [her] life.” I wouldn’t want to be remembered Margaret Bonanni ‘09/The Patriot Still, this last section of her life for anything else. Being Students gathered in the CBAC on Oct. 24 to hear Matt Bellace’s was a great amount of fun she claims. Homecoming Queen is an honor; nationally acclaimed presentation about positive choices. Bellace As a Homecoming nominee, she and however, remember that it is how (right) focused on how students, through positive actions, can the others made t-shirts, participated you live your life that defines you, get a natural high without using drugs or alcohol. in both the Harvest and Spirit not a title.” November 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. News - 3 Students react to job actions Alyssa Figueroa ‘08 situation.” Although events such as Senior You have either heard about it, Trip and proms will still be held, witnessed the effects of it, or have some students still dislike the fact already been affected by it. The that administrators in the district are teacher contract issue at WTHS is the ones who will now be erupting before students who chaperoning. increasingly fear the year will run “It’s more fun to be with your far from smoothly. high school teachers during events This controversy has been than administrators from your brewing since June 30, 2007, when elementary school,” stated Wesley the teacher’s contract expired. When Gallagher ‘08. an expiration occurs, the Board of Some students strongly believe Education (BOE) and the teacher’s that the WTEA should have left as union, Washington Township as option for teachers to volunteer Education Association (WTEA), for events. attempt to come together to negotiate “They should be able to a new contract. The negotiations are volunteer for PowderPuff and still in process, and as they continue Monzo because these events are held students in the district are clearly for a good cause; PowderPuff brings being effected. in most of the money for Project To draw attention to their Jacqui Evans ‘08 /The Patriot Graduation, and Monzo helps out a cause, the WTEA membership great charity,” stated Gallagher. The Coffee House is one of several school events that has been resolved not to volunteer for school “We are going to board postponed or cancelled. events until the contract was settled. meetings - we are supporting our The WTEA also emphasizes that postponed due to a lack of the event every year since she was a teachers,” stated Gina Turdo ‘08, “I writing teacher recommendations, chaperones. freshman. “It’s upsetting that during think they should support us as well and staying after school is Another important student my last year of high school, the event by volunteering for events, and completely optional for teachers, event that is temporarily canceled is will possibly not take place.” together we can make a stronger team since they are not listed as Monzo Madness. The 24-hour This problem is truly against the BOE.” requirements in their contracts. dance marathon to raise money for disappointing many students. Others believe the WTEA is The move has already effected Lou Gehrig’s disease relies on “PowderPuff is postponed, taking a necessary step in the several events. It is the reason the teachers to volunteer as chaperones Spirit Parade did not have such a negotiation process. Powder Puff game has been throughout the night. great turn out from clubs - it’s a “The teachers feel unappre- postponed, since it is the teachers “Monzo is really the event I shame,” said Olivia Devine ‘08. “I ciated, and it is only logical that they who usually coach. The SURE look forward to all year,” stated In- feel like some teachers want to help would have to take a stand to prove Coffeehouse, originally scheduled teract Co-President Marissa Fer- out but they can’t; it’s awful that their point,” stated Sam Baranowski for November has also been nandez `08, who has participated in students have to be put in the ‘08. “It’s effective because everyone could now clearly witness how much the teachers really do outside of their Clubs parade spirit contract. They make the school the Margaret Bonanni ‘09 well organized. way it is, from Twp. Pride to success I think all of the in clubs to making each event we On Oct. 27 WTHS showed its clubs did a great hold a blast.” school spirit at the annual Spirit job perform- Despite the controversy, an Parade. Before the homecoming game, ing,” said Jr. opinion that many students share is selected organizations and clubs Class Council an appreciation for their teachers. preformed and competed for a cash member David “Our teachers deserve the best,” prize. Samsel. said Devine, “I believe teaching is With Student Council’s Spice At half the hardest and most important job Up Your Life taking 1st place, Jr. time, the 2006- in the world, and we are lucky to and Sr. Class Council’s collaboration 07 Minutemen have such wonderful teachers of High School Musical’s “We’re all Baseball Team, preparing us for our future,” she in This Together” at 2nd, and who walked in stated. Sophomore Class Council’s the parade, was As the negotiations proceed, rendition of Grease at 3rd, it was a presented with Margaret Bonanni ‘09 / The Patriot this bumpy year may continue to be tough competition. Also, with the their Cham- The Junior and Senior Class Council’s enthusias- filled with disappointments for both Dance Department’s performance pionship Rings tic choreography was well received by the crowd. teachers and students. It is the hope and Interact’s display of Disney, it by Principal Farrow. The team was Joseph Favatella ’07, “Getting the of many students that this process was not a show to miss. proud to receive their rings. ring kind of sealed the deal in a way, will be resolved, the sooner, the “The dance [department’s] “It’s good to be back with the and brought back all the memories better, so the year can continue the performance was wonderful, and so team for such an occasion,” said about the season.” way it is meant to. 4 - News The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 PTO showcases local eateries Margaret Bonanni ‘09 Taste of Saigon, also had booths at the event along with markets like On October 14, restaurants, Bottino’s and Acme. In all, forty two food suppliers, and caterers from all different businesses were over Washington Township gathered represented, which is four more than in the 9-10 Cafeterias to help present last year. the 2007 Taste of Township. Not only did the number of Sponsored by the Parent Teacher businesses increase, but the selection Organization, the event not only After visiting their choice booths and served as a way to unify the receiving their food, event community, but also raised money participants ate in the 9-10 gym, for students. which was refurbished into a giant “The event is mainly a dinning hall. Complete with fundraiser, but it is also a nice social decorated tables, and musical styling event for Township,” stated Mrs. from This Old House Band, its calm Theresa Saponara, the fundraiser’s ambiance was a contrast from the organizer. hustle and bustle inside the showcase The event was presented as room. foods fair, where each business had “The PTO did a lot of work a separate booth with their featured towards the fundraiser, with over dishes. All different types of two months of planning behind it,” Margaret Bonanni/ The Patriot enterprises were showcased at the said Saponara, “The custodial staff Local restaurants and eateries pitched in to help the PTO raise event, from local eateries like Slack’s helped out a lot by setting up the money for students. Hoagie Shack and Good Fortune, to tables and chairs inside both rooms.” advertise to the public. Many Edible Arrangements, gave out bags chains like Applebee’s, and Brusters. The event not only helped the eateries gave out menus, flyers, and filled with coupons, gifts, and a full Restaurants featuring specialty students, but also facilitated the brochures as a way to promote catalog of the baskets they sell. cuisine, like the Creole Café and businesses by allowing them to themselves. Other businesses, like The event was also advertised through flyers that were distributed to the participating businesses and Seniors kick off new year circulated within the school system. Margaret Bonanni ‘09 generally had a good time, as they thought it was a good way to kick Each flyer had the names of the spent the evening with friends, and off senior year. participating businesses and A downside of the class of ’08 bonded as a class. “It was a lot of fun, for information about the event. is their size. With over 700 students, “I enjoyed the senior kick off everyone to come together for a good Additionally, the PTO ran an it’s difficult for them to unite as a dance, it gave me a chance to bond time with ‘08… it was exactly what announcement in the newspaper. class before their graduation. On with a lot of my friends that I was I expected,” said Kauffman. “The event was advertised on Friday October 12, they were close with throughout the other years The class of ’08 seemed to channel 13, and each person who brought one step closer with the of high school,” said Ali Kauffman have a good time. Some had such a walked in received a brochure with Senior Kick Off Dance. ’08, “It was a good way to kick off good time that they found it hard to the information about all the Despite threats of bad weather, senior year, by introducing the leave. businesses involved,” described this year’s dance was held in Quay homecoming court and having a “It was the first time in a while Saponara. Way with a unique “Under the Board dance for just the class of ‘08.” that [the participants] stayed until The Classic Cake Company Walk” theme. Decorations such as Although most students had they were basically told to go home,” not only came with the intention of string lights, beach balls, and hanging fun and were pleased with the dance, said Palazzo. advertising their desserts, but to also beach accessories were used to give there were some complaints. Some The dance was not only a good advertise their new location. the space the right atmosphere. Also, students did not like the dance being time for seniors, but it was also a Originally located in the Wal-Mart sand was placed in the entrance-way, held outside in cold weather. milestone. The dance was one of their Shopping Center, the business’s new to make attendees feel like they were “It was too cold to hold the first class functions, and marked management decided to move to stepping onto the beach. To perfect dance outside,” said Russell their first step towards becoming a Hurffville Cross-Keys Road. the theme, upon entering the Carmody ’08. united class. “We open on Wednesday, and building, the familiar tune “Under With only one third of their “They seemed generally excited thought this event would be the the Boardwalk” by The Drifters was class in attendance, other students about being there,” said Mr. Joseph perfect way to publicize it,” said softly played as background music. were disappointed that there weren’t Bollendorf, 11/12 Executive Ms. Sharon Mossbrock, of the “The Student Council Executive more people at the dance. Assistant Principal, “The dance was Classic Cake Co. “We couldn’t have Board Seniors thought of the theme,” “I thought [the dance] was put successful in accomplishing the picked a better way; this event was stated Ms. Apryl Palazzo, Student together pretty well. The only mission of giving them an identity phenomenal and was a nice event for Council’s advisor, “[The board] problem the dance had was getting as the class of ’08.” the community to get involved in.” voted on it, and it was unanimous.” students to show up,” said Steve The Senior Kick Off Dance was Brendlinger ’08. Got News? Share it! Email us at not only a way to start off ‘08’s Despite the criticism, the dance [email protected] about events happening senior year, but it was also an met the expectations the participants opportunity for them to unify as a had. Those who did attend appeared in the school or the community. class. Attendees at the dance to have a wonderful time, and most November 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. News - 5 Going with the flow Donors contribute to blood drive success Katie Mount ‘09 the juniors, organizers feel that the outcome looks good. This year Washington Town- “We’re expecting that in the ship High School received the spring more juniors will volunteer Outstanding Achievement award since most will be seventeen,” said from the American Red Cross during Interact Executive Board member Joe the 2006-7 school year for being the Kocher ’09. leading school donor in the When a person volunteers to Pennsylvania-New Jersey region. give blood they must go through an The award caused anticipation for evaluation. They must complete a the next event and led to a big turn questionnaire concerning their health out for Interact’s Oct. 12 blood background. For example, if a student drive. is less than 110 pounds they are not “When I heard about the school eligible to donate. and how we won the award, I was Donating blood can cause side so proud that we could all come effects such as: fainting, nausea and together to help others.” First time dizziness.. To help minimize these donor, Shannon Murphy ’09, said. Gina Parker ‘09/ The Patriot side effects, volunteers are advised to eat a healthy breakfast the “I wanted to be a part of that.” Paul Buono ‘09 prepares to give blood with the support of Mike morning they are due to donate. 370 students were encouraged Mollo ‘08 and Sue Scaramuzzi ‘08. as well to donate. However the Although the fainting has number of donators was over 400. collected and over a thousand lives “It’s great to see all these people discouraged some students, most “Many people walked in will be saved. Although their record coming together for a good cause.” will agree that it’s worth it. without an appointment, asking if from last year was not beaten, For their next blood drive, they “Last year when I walked out they were allowed to donate.” Mrs. Interact is very appreciative. aim to beat their current record. The of the donating room, I thought Tracy Naval, the leader of the “I’m very proud of our school,” current senior class holds over 772 ‘Wow! I just saved a few lives.’” Interact club stated. Gina Parker ’09, a member of the students. With the amount of seniors Sarah Moore ’08 says. “It was a In all, 385 pints of blood were executive board for Interact, stated. that could potentially sign up and great feeling.” Interact organizes night of fun Gina Parker ‘09 Fall Pacesetters dance but our winter one as well is Kenny Swartz. He and As Halloween rolls around, his family started this event and Interact gets busy preparing for their helped in starting the Pacesetters annual Fall Pacesetter’s Dance, an group over 15 years ago. event that they hold for mentally After Kenny got out of high challenged adults. school, he started to lose interaction On Oct. 19, at 7:00pm Interact with kids his age so the Pacesetters general members gathered in cafeteria group was created in order to C/D to dance the night away with combine a group of people to do superman, some pirates, and even activities around their community. Mickey Mouse. This year the theme The Fall Pacesetter’s Dance is just remained the traditional costume one of the many events they attend. party . Although the number of “Everything went well.” said people at this year’s dance wasn’t Kenny. “ This is the best Halloween as large as last year’s group the party ever!” enthusiasm in the room made up for The Patriot/ Gina Parker ‘09 As it turns out, the Fall the small sized crowd. Pacesetter’s Dance was a fun night Interact members and Pacesetters enjoyed dancing and having fun. Interact co-president Marissa for all those who participate. Fernandez said, “ [I] had such an Kocher ‘09, Interact general at the event agreed that the outcome Gradually, Superman, the pirates, amazing time. As I witnessed the members and members of the of the night was well worth it. Mickey Mouse, and others left Pacesetters and Interact members executive board stayed after “In the end our work paid off,” having reconnected with old friends dancing together and having fun I felt preparing weeks before the event. stated Melanie Vizzacharo, “It is along with making new ones. so lucky to be a part of it.” “We put a lot of work into really rewarding seeing the smiles on Behind the scenes this lively making the decorations, painting their faces and knowing that you For more information on inter- event required a lot of time and effort murals and pumpkins, baking the made their night.” act events, visit thier EBoard, to organize. Along with this year’s cookies, and making and sending the One person you can always be or see Ms. Naval in room I-103. chairmen, Adam Stern ‘09 and Joe invitations,” said Kocher. Members sure of showing up to not only our 6 - News The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 On a roll Music department preps holiday show Lillyan Ling ‘08 department is also anticipating an appearance, and the music This year, the music department technology students are working on at WTHS has put together a massive sound mixing as well as any other holiday-extravaganza unlike any musical engineering tasks. In this other: the Siberian Steamroller way, the concert is both educational Project. and enjoyable for members. “When people hear that, they “The music tech students are go ‘What’s that?’” said orchestra going to have a lot of work but also a director Mr. James Beyer, “We’ve lot of fun with this,” said audio never tried this, but we wanted to do engineer and music technology something different. Its kind of rock teacher Mr. Shawn Dessaigne. meets jazz in a concert hall.” Beyer relates the musical taste The Siberian Steamroller of this performance to radio holiday Project features music of the Tran- music’ or something leaning towards Siberian Orchestra with Mannheim a more ‘student-body’ taste. With Steamroller. This project compiles songs such as “Wizards in Winter” the widest variety of musicians that and traditional tunes such as “Jingle the school has to offer: members of Bells” with a modern twist, there is Lillyan Ling ‘08/ The Patriot choruses, orchestras, bands, guitar something for everyone to enjoy. Musicians rehearse their parts in the Siberian Steamroller Project. classes, jazz bands, and rock bands. “We really think this is going Over a hundred musician is not entirely accurate. Although both the eyes and ears. to be a great appeal to the audience,” participants, including staff, will all music is a large part of the Aside from the music said Beyer. “Kick off the winter be integrated together for this special presentation, many visual effects department, the tech crew plans to holiday season.” collective concert. will be incorporated to create the contribute lightshows and other Despite the many scheduling The term “concert,” however, ultimate holiday performance for illustrative media. The dance difficulties, members of the Siberian Steamroller Project have been working hard and rehearsing four days and evenings a week in the band Band hosts competition room since mid-September. These song arrangements are from the actual Stephanie Foran ‘08 the event. At the end of the by Peter Itchaikovsky, and original script, and not watered down competition, prizes are awarded to Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony. to simpler and more basic terms. But The Washington Township each school for categories such as Student soloists in the piece include the constant effort is well worth it. Minuteman Marching Band is Best Visuals, Best Colorguard, Best Aldrin Abastillas ’08 on clarinet, Student members and faculty share nothing short of gracious when it Percussion, Best Music, and Best Zachary VanArtsdalen ’08 on alto the anticipation for the occasion. comes to making other bands feel at Effects. sax, Joe Buono ’08 on trumpet, and “It’s going to be an awesome home. On October 6, they played The eighteen bands that Matthew Frampton ’09 on experience, and it’s so much more host to eighteen bands from all over participated were split up into three trombone. fun than our typical holiday south New Jersey at this year’s groups of five and one group of The amount of work and concert,” said violist Anna Lee Preview of Champions Marching three, plus an exhibition performance dedication that the Marching Band Markano ‘08. Band Competition and Field Show. from the Minuteman Marching puts into their competitions is Students are encouraged to There was a very large spectator Band. Since this was an exhibition astounding. “It’s a lot of hard work,” come out to the CBAC on Sunday, turnout and the proceeds will help show for the Minuteman Marching says Kristen Linderman (’08), “But December 2 at 3:00 pm to support fund the band’s trip to the 2008 Band, they were not eligible to win it’s really worth it in the end.” The and witness the final result of the National Outback Bowl in Tampa, any awards. next show at Washington Township music, dance, and technology Florida over this year’s holiday Groups are split up according will be the Band State department’s long-awaited Siberian break. to the amount of people Championships, taking place on Steamroller Project, the first of its “I’m excited for Tampa Bay participating in the marching band; November 3 in the football stadium. kind to ever take place in our school. this year. It’s a great way to spend group one was the smallest and group The event will be open to spectators, Tickets go on sale in Nov.; To get the holiday break with my friends,” four was the largest. As host, who are welcome to come and tickets see any music teacher or the says Cathy Beatty ‘08. Township ended the show with the support the Marching band. box office. In addition to playing at the grand finale. The Colorguard dazzled football games and boosting student the crowd with their impressive use To purchase tickets for Siberian Steam- morale, the Marching Band of rifles, flags, and sabers. competes in competitions in the Their 2007 show, entitled “A roller Project, contact the box office, or surrounding areas hosted by other Classical Fantasy” featured classical schools. This year, it was serenades such as, “The Firebird” by any participating music teacher. Washington Township’s turn to host Igor Stravinsky, “The Nutcracker” November 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Commentary - 7 Commentary Two year campaign creates grueling race

Kurt Pflugfelder ‘08 over the same period. McCain, however, has already reported that This next presidential election he is suffering from financial troubles: will be one of monumental he only has $2 million left in his proportions. Will America elect the campaign accounts and the election first woman president? Will we elect is still more than a year away. If the first African-American McCain is saying that he can’t do president? My personal bet is on anything with that $2 million, I’m the rich white man, only because we sure there are more than enough haven’t elected a president of any people who would kindly take it off other profile for the past two his hands. Now, because of this early hundred years. The fact is, whoever campaigning, McCain may not be we elect will have to fill the shoes of able to run at all. a president who currently has the Currently, there are over lowest approval eighteen candi- rating of all time. dates from just the So who is ready two major political for this year’s “How else could a parties. election? Wait a Unfortunately, minute… You person justify saying there can be only mean it’s not until that he or she is one President of 2008? qualified to hold the the United States. Most of the What’s a rich, candidates fate of over 300 egotistical Chelsea Oliver ‘08 announced that million Americans in politician to do? I they would be his or her hands?” always thought current government officials, these using office hours to campaign for running way back that on top of being candidates should focus more on what will the highest rung on the in November a true leader, a doing their current jobs rather than political ladder of one lucky 2006 mainly president also had candidate. because they all wanted the extra to be the most pompous person in media attention and fundraising time. the United States, or in this case, one The Patriot But should they really have started of the dozen or so candidates. How Issue 2 - November 2007 two years ahead of time? Let’s look else could a person justify saying that Editor-in-Chief - Alyssa Figueroa ‘08 at the numbers. Senator Hillary he or she is qualified to hold the fate Clinton, currently the leading of over 300 million Americans in his Senior Editor- Richie Elles ‘08 News Editor- Margaret Bonanni ‘09 Democrat in the polls, reported to or her hands? But I digress. Commentary Editor- Mary Faralli ‘08 have raised $36 million by April of When the Republican and Features Editor- Nicole Heath ‘10 this year, Barack Obama raised $25 Democratic Conventions come next Lifestyles Editor - Taylor Cohen ‘08 Odds & Ends Editor - Lauren Finneran ‘08 million during that first quarter, and August and September, the parties Tech Talk Editor - Matt Neuteboom ‘08 John McCain raised $13.6 million will have narrowed it down to two Entertainment Editor - Steph Foran ‘08 candidates plus the oddball Ralph Book Editor - Katie Mount ‘09 Nader and whoever else plans on Sports Editor - AJ Nisbet ‘08 Do you want to People Eidtor-Sarah Kurtz ‘10 joining his merry band of hopeless What’s Happening - Lillyan Ling ‘08 receive The Patriot dreamers. By that time, we will have Managing Editor- Kurt Pflugfelder ‘08 newsletter every learned to mute our television sets Photo Editor- Gina Parker ‘09 in between our favorite programs Layout and Design - Journalism II month, containing because we will be able to recite the Printing - Mr. Dale Biebel articles and pic- election ads from memory. By Advisor - Mr. Jim Evangelisti November 2008, most, if not all, of The Patriot is published by the students of tures we need? the graduated senior class will be able Washington Township High School. to vote for our next president. As a 529 Hurffville-Cross Keys Road, Sewell, NJ 08080 young voter myself, I think I share The opinions expressed in the Commentary section and all articles E-mail us at the sentiments of many of my peers labeled as opinion, as well as all reviews and columns, are the views [email protected] when I say that I really just do not of the writer indicated in the byline. They are not meant to represent the views of The Patriot staff, the students of Washington Twp. H.S. and we’ll add you care to see the soap opera drama that comes from starting a presidential or its administration. Unsigned editorials are meant to reflect the views of the publication. to our mailing list! race two years before the voting is scheduled to begin. With many as Please send all correspondence to: [email protected] 8 - Commentary The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 point / counter point Debating the course of action in Iraq Defend our democracy Mary Faralli ’08 Iraq, which will prove a catalyst for essential change in the Middle East. American perception on the Progress has been made. Elections war in Iraq has been muddled and are held in all major cities; they have fashioned by the pessimistic elected city councils and a National assessment given by the media and Assembly. U.S. intervention has critics determined to label the Bush made it possible for them to appoint administration as a failure. Our a cabinet and employ a Constitution. reasoning for entering the war had Perhaps more importantly, been strong. The horrific acts of Americans have made a stand against terrorism on 9-11 forced Americans extremist Islamic terrorism. We have to finally acknowledge and face the acknowledged their threat to our growing threat that the Middle East society and have vowed to fix the possessed. No longer could we problem, rather than put it off for it ignore the hatred for our freedom that to just become more powerful upon festered in that region. being ignored. The future for the President Bush requested a security of America lies within this declaration of war on Iraq for war. We must have patience. Western numerous and valid reasons. To solve democracy has prevailed on three a problem, one must discover the root separate occasions- the German of it and begin there. If you cut the imperialism of World War I, the Nazi Stephanie Mordente ‘08 funding, the hijackers can’t carry out regime of World War II, and the easy and quick battles. If our nation democracy will prevail once again their plans. It was Al-Qaeda who communist attempt at imperialism refuses to pull out of Iraq and and the greatest enemy of our deliberately set out to murder 3,000 during the Cold War. These were not completes our job there, Western generation will be defeated. Americans on 9-11. Saddam Hussein sponsored terrorism. Another reason for entering the war was the implications that Think again, act now Saddam Hussein had and was Morgan Buckmaster ‘11 have found no solid evidence of these “imperialists”. Imperialists are producing Weapons of Mass claims. people who take over countries and Destruction. It is no secret that the The number of people dead in The war has also served as the force them to share their ideals. It is dictator had a large supply of them Iraq: 3849 American soldiers and at basis for undermining some of our hard to argue against that label when throughout the 1980s. At one point, least that many Iraqi civilians, most basic rights that are stated in America is waging a war in another he had enough weapons to depending on who you ask. This the constitution. Suddenly, America country, which has not attacked us, exterminate the eastern United inaccuracy reflects the kind of is debating about whether or not to and holds policies that we do not States. He had previously used them reasoning that lead Americans to war torture prisoners. Also, hundreds of agree with, such as women being against his enemies, whether they in Iraq in the first place. The war people arrested after 9/11 because shut out of society and lack of were his own people or outside was established from a number of of their race or religion are still in religious freedom. But why Iraq? forces. Though Iraq claimed to have misrepresentations from the Cuba, with no hope of getting a fair The world has seen cruel dictators rid themselves of these weapons after government and America’s vulnerable trial or even seeing their own families like Saddam Hussein and other the Gulf War, it was Saddam who position after the 9/11 tragedy. For again. According to Amnesty countries have negative policies that bluntly ignored 17 U.N. resolutions example, at a time when the country International, prisoners routinely go America does not believe in. America concerning the weapons and made was still reeling from seeing the Twin on hunger strikes or commit suicide. didn’t attack Pol Pot in Cambodia, confirmation of their destruction Towers collapse, the government It is a sad picture and one that could who killed millions of civilians. Are impossible for U.N. inspectors to claimed that Saddam Hussein had be somewhat familiar. After the we assuming the role of the “world attain. Where have these weapons something to do with it. Granted, he attack of Pearl Harbor, President police” for a world that assumes that gone? If they were truly destroyed, he was a cruel dictator, but he was not Franklin Roosevelt had Japanese- all America wants is more could have easily allowed inspectors a member of Al-Qaeda, who is the Americans put in interment camps Americans? to verify this. Our entry into Iraq attacking force claiming because of their race, where they Unfortunately, it is not possible gave us control rather than uncertainty responsibility for the attacks. were held for four years, claiming it to erase our mistakes, so our and fear. We can now live with the In addition, the government a security measure. What is the situation now is how to manage peace that he never can restore his claimed that Iraq had a secret stash difference between a Cuban jail and getting out of the mess the Bush weapons program. of Weapons of Mass Destruction, an internment camp? administration has started. America America declared war to defend including biological and chemical As if the loss of life and faulty needs to pull out of Iraq. Dozens of innocent people, potential American weapons, which could easily be used reasoning were not enough, candidates for the 2008 election have victims as well as the Iraqis. We are against the United States. America’s position in the war has ideas about getting America out of liberating an oppressed people and Investigators from the United turned every American traveler into Iraq. Let’s just hope we can get out while doing so, fighting our enemies. Nations, America, and other an unwelcome guest when visiting a of Iraq with the least amount of America is spreading democracy to countries have searched Iraq and foreign country. We are known as damage as possible. November 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Commentary - 9 School security: safe or sorry? Taylor Cohen ‘08 school day. It was the first time I had ever questioned my safety WTHS is a place where students during the school day. From growing should feel safe and secure. In up in such a safe town and today’s society parents feel that their environment, I realized we all may children are safe behind the secure have come to take our safety for doors and under the watchful eyes granted and have grown careless. of a school’s administration.But is The question that remains is WTHS really as safe as we think or simple: how was this strange girl able is it possible for something to to enter our school without being happen here similar to the horrible noticed? events that we watch unravel before There are many actions I think our eyes on the 6 o’clock news? we can take to improve our school’s Earlier this school year, a security level. The most obvious idea teenage girl, who may not have been would be to begin to wear the student a WTHS stu- ID badges again. If this takes effect, dent, managed each student and staff member will to enter the be able to visually identify each school and was person easily. This becomes a found third period safer and more reliable source in the senior girls’ of identification in our Illustrations by Vincent Davidoski ‘09 locker room. During school for both the this time, the girl was students and the walk right into the open doors blame. We let people into our school able to steal money, cell staff at WTHS. unknown. How many times have you throughout the day, leave our purses phones, and other items Another idea opened a door for a “student” or and bags out during gym class, and of value from the careless would be that “teacher” between periods without even do careless things, like let our array of open purses left students should even thinking maybe they might not friends know our locker behind while the students not be permitted go to our school? It’s pretty easy to combinations. If we can change even were participating in gym class. to walk on the play the part if they’ve been paying some of these little things we do daily Along with a large part of the student exterior of the school close attention. without thinking, we can make body, I experienced a feeling of during the changing of periods. With Although it’s easy to blame the massive improvements in our school violation and insecurity during the this in effect no one will be able to school, we as students are also to security. Contraceptives raise controversy

Sarah Kurtz ’08 affect associated with use of the pill. Although it is very rare that a clot Parents send their children to occurs, there still is a risk. school daily believing that they will Although a student’s need for be chaperoned. They entrust school privacy is understandable,parents staff with the responsibility of should get the chance to discuss their protecting and guiding their children. child’s decisions to take brith control But when does a school overstep its pills with a doctor responsibilities? An eleven year old taking birth Earlier this week, an article control is just disappointing. No appeared in the paper about a middle child at this age should even consider school in Maine supplying birth being sexually active. In the effort control pills to girls as young as 11 Image by Google to protect and educate children, it years old. Some parents decided to four years, Portland had reported 17 daughter might not feel comfortable seems as if public schools are either take action against it, while others pregnancies among middle school coming to her to request birth control teaching abstinence is the only key, agreed to it. girls. and she would feel or basically handing a child an After a rise in pregnancies What really “What really shocked secure knowing it “approval” pill to have sex. Schools among middle school girls, education shocked me was that me was that the girls would be available for need to find a balance to educate officials have decided to make birth the girls didn’t need a her. But this situation students without pushing the limit. control accessible to girls as young parents consent to didn’t need a parents poses serious Parents try their hardest to raise as 11 through their health care center. receive the pills. A consent to receive the potential risks. For their children with good morals. King Middle School in Maine committee member, pills.” example, an eighth Sending them to school is one way has become the first, and probably who is also the grader most likely to fulfilling that job. Parents not the last, to go to such extreme mother of an eighth grader attending doesn’t know their family’s medical shouldn’t have to worry about their measures to prevent the increase in the school, supported the school’s history, such as a history of blood children being influenced by a teen pregnancies. Within the past decision. She said that someday her clots. Blood clots are the largest side school’s opinion on sex. 10 - Features The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 Features Heavy bookbags weighing us down? Lauren Finneran ‘10 hips so that your back is not doing all of the work. If you walk down the hallway Often students carry many between periods you are sure to see unnecessary items in their bags, which many students carrying book bags. causes much extra weight. Try to clean Many carry their books for the next out the bag frequently to avoid this few classes while others carry and only include books and items that everything that they will need for an are necessary. entire day. Some simply prefer to have The American Occupational all of their belongings with them, while Therapy Association advises that others just don’t have time in the day teenagers should not be carrying more to repeatedly stop at their lockers. than fifteen percent of their body What does all of this weight on weight on their backs. If you weigh the back really mean for a person’s 125 pounds, you should be carrying health? Many people have never about eighteen pounds, if you weigh stopped to think how exactly carrying 150 pounds, you should be carrying a heavy load for long periods of time about twenty pounds. No one should can hurt. Common problems related be carrying more than twenty-five to “to heavy backpacks” include pounds on their back at any given time. Chelsey Gordon ‘08 sprains, strains, and other types of Stick to this much weight, and you back pains. a reported 7,300 backpack related In order to avoid potential back can reduce your risk of possible back These problems may seem injuries that were treated in the United injuries before they occur, there are a injuries. insignificant to now, but these simple States. Experts say that although this few precautions to take. First of all if Next time you load your bag with back problems can lead to much worse number is incredibly high, it might at all avoidable, you do not carry large books and heavy binders, you might problems later on in life. Some of these only be the start. They say that there loads on your back for long periods of want to think twice. Think to the problems may include scoliosis and are many unreported cases and people time. If this is not possible, try to get future and what possible back injuries deviating of the spine. who don’t realize that they are even a well-padded bag that is worn on both that you might end up with. Try to There has been an extreme having problems. If you are shoulders to keep weight evenly take more frequent trips to your locker increase in the amount of reported experiencing pain when wearing the distributed, also avoid messenger bags or ask teachers if you can have an extra cases of back injuries in teenagers backpack, tingling or numbness, red that put all of the weight on one set of books. These few simple related to improper school bag use. marks, and struggling when putting on shoulder. Try to put the heaviest items suggestions could really save your back According to The Consumer Product or taking off the backpack, you might at the bottom of the bag and transfer in the long run and eliminate potential Safety Commission, in 2006, there was want to seek help. most of the weight of the bag to your problems. Rewind fast forwards to season twelve

Brittany Tartaglia ‘09 new personalities and a change of flow.” The start of a new year means It is hard work, but the students a new cast for Monthly Rewind. This have fun while creating their pieces. year, 16 seniors and 1 junior make “It’s cool to see what you’ve up the group known as Monthly imagined come to life on the TV Rewind Season 12. Rewind students screen,” said Rewinder Alyssa are usually interested in pursuing a Figueroa ‘08. field in Commmunications. Some of these segments Every month students have to include sports events, special school pick a topic, write the story, get film events, and even some original, to accompany the story, and quirky segments.In the past, ultimately create a segment. The students have covered events such segments then have to be put as football games, Toys for Tots, together, edited, and completed. and local bands. There is also a Although Rewind has been going on “Mailtime” segment every month. Keith Marr ‘10/ The Patriot for 12 yearrs, each year stands out The segment features the host of The Monthly Rewind crew prepares the program that will be viewed for a various reasons. “Mailtime,” this year Olivia Devine on television. “Every season is different be- ‘08, answering a letter each month become a family, which makes the every month at 9PM on channel 13. cause of what students bring to the in a comical piece. show that much better. However, you can catch it on table,” says Mr. Bouchard, the advi- Monthly Rewind is more than Each new edition of Monthly channel 13 at the same day and time sor of Monthly Rewind. “There are just a class. The students almost Rewind airs the first Wednesday of following the first airing. November 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Features - 11 Colorguard redefines meaning of elite Kurt Pflugfelder ‘08 WTHS. When his team is asked to exclusive selectivity, only a few Jersey flags in numerous attend an event, their performance people are chosen to join each year. ceremonies for both the school and Many students at WTHS see is usually much more serious. According to new member Joseph community organizations. You the marching band color guard The drill team is one of the Primavera ‘10. may have seen the color guard in when they go to watch a football clubs students who sign up for “The fact that we basically action during the Spirit Parade or game. What some students may AFJROTC class can join. For have to blow everyone else out of at graduation last year. The team not know, however, is that we those who excel at military drill and the water at tryouts in order to is also proud to be the unofficial have another color guard which marching, there is the color guard. join makes us the elite of the corps.” color guard of the Philadelphia performs an entirely different job. Cadets do not join the color guard; Throughout the year, the team Soul arena football team, and they Tom Miller ’08 is the commander they are asked by existing members is called upon to be the honor guard take the field before every home of the AFJROTC color guard at to audition for it. Because of this for both the American and New game to present the colors. “I feel really good about the team this year,” Primavera said. Drill team prepares to compete “We have seventeen members, Nicole Heath ‘10 which is the largest our color guard has ever been. I expect big things When many people think of this year and hope to bring home a sports they think of hard work, sweat, few trophies.” and will power. The ROTC drill team This year, the combined drill is just that. Although many people team and color guard plan on may think a drill team as just stepping, attending at least eight JROTC the ROTC drill is substantially competitions throughout the tri- different. state area to compete against other Different from regular drill teams, schools. This contests that will put the ROTC drill involves precision in our cadets against others from technique, movements, and all round nearby high schools to see which appearance. Even the slightest spot unit comes out on top. Here’s on the uniform can lead to a deduction wishing our color guard the best of of points. The movements and luck on their future victories! marching styles must picture perfect. “It’s all about looking like one person,” said Cadet First Lieutenant Join The Adam Wassmuth ‘09. Wassmuth Keith Marr ‘10/ The Patriot became captain of the drill team last The ROTC Drill team practices formation and discipline. African - school year. He believes to be on the But since Wassmuth has taken competition. Getting up at four drill team you have to have “extreme the reigns, the team is going in a o’clock to prepare for a competition American discipline.” different direction. It wasn’t easy to is a norm for the members. Wassmuth would know. Aside find members who would be dedicated These competitions are packed Culture from being a dedicated leader, he was to the practice and concentration Drill with dozens ROTC members. the first sophomore ever to become takes. “It takes about fifty people Club captain of the drill team. As captain, “I don’t know how we did it,” just to run it [competition],” said Wassmuth has had to whip the team Wassmuth commented on how he and Opel. The judging of the competition into shape. In the beginning half of a few other members reformed the is left to the senior ROTC cadets last year the drill team didn’t seem to team. He believes people showed up and sometimes takes hours. That’s Meetings be doing much. for curiosity of the new sophomore hours of holding their rifles, bracing, “At practice no one would show leader. But others think differently. and standing at attention. twice a up,” said Wassmuth, “It would be only Cadet Captain Brian Opel, 08’, “You have to stay focused and a few people.” thinks it was “the change in be able to deal with people in your month in leadership” that got most people to face telling you instructions,” Cadet join. Whatever they used it worked. Sara Salah said. With such intense Now, the drill team enters many training and focusing, some may G-102 Join competitions during the course of the wonder how and why they do it. school year. Competitions, like other “For me it’s about the All Are sports, take place at the different competition. It’s strict, but it’s a lot Pieces high schools. But drill competitions of fun,” said Salah. Many members Welcome are like no other sport. Preparation don’t mind the work; they just see it for competitions doesn’t just as more time to be with their friends. Even numbered happen in practice. “The entire drill team is like a Thursdays in Outside of practice, members big family,” said Wassmuth. The Come and K -208 have their uniforms cleaned, shoes practices are three times a week and shined, and hair must be the correct are long, but to the twenty-three Enjoy! length. Most male members take a dedicated members of the team it’s trip to the barber the night before a all worth while. 12 - Lifestyles The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 Lifestyles Winter fashion gets a leg up Sarah Kurtz ‘10 mid-thigh, and match you throw its way. Flats your legging color seem to be the favorite of Sleek and stylish come to mind when thinking accordingly. It’s as the season. The bright about this year’s trendy fashion, leggings. easy as that. This colors are a for-sure eye Not only are they fun to wear, but they look is casual or catcher and are fun to play have the look of the season. From celebrities, to formal. It’s a type of around with. Heels or just everyday people, leggings are sweeping the dress for any even Uggs go great with fashion nation. occasion. There’s no leggings. Also, be creative, Leggings first hit the scene in where else, problem with Converse shoes are but LA, where some of our most fabulous fads leggings. Google image usually a safe shoe to come from. What could be better than a way to For almost ever Leggings make a good wear with leggings. look cute, feel comfortable, and not be girl with a passion fall statement whether You can be out on the overdressed? The answer is all in the legs. It for fashion, you’ll its capri style or full town or in with the girls; doesn’t matter your shape or size, leggings just find this fabulous length (as modeled by leggings are here and ready mold to your curves like a glove. They are similar “it” item stashed in Kayleigh Addari) to stay. Be creative with Tayor Cohen ‘08/The Patriot to spandex, but with a tad more glitz and glamour. their closet. But what your style. Remember, How do you wear leggings you might ask? shoes to wear? The answer is simple; anything. trends have to be set by someone, it might as Well, find a shirt, or dress, that comes to about Leggings look fantastic with nearly every shoe well be you! Nifty Fifties offers a taste of the past

Mary Faralli ‘08 The service was excellent. Though we had a All those neon signs long waiting time, the waiters and obscenely bright lights got the people in and out. decorating the Black Horse There was no one in the Pike can only mean on thing: restaurant who wasn’t trying the opening of a new Nifty to help lessen our waiting Fifties right here in time. Our waitress was Washington Township! friendly and attentive and Nifty Fifties is an brought our food to us imitation 1950’s diner. The within about ten to fifteen retro theme is completed by minutes of seating. waiters in paper hats, blaring My experience at Nifty fifties music, and bright Fifties was very promising lights. and I’ll definitely be back, Upon entering the diner, even to just get a milkshake! I was immediately greeted It’s a family friendly with a twenty-five minute restaurant that has easily wait, which involved Gina Parker ‘09/The Patriot turned into a local hang out. standing in a disorganized Nifty Fifties offers diner style food in retro setting. The verdict: Nifty Fifties is line in a small and crowded waiting area-and a spicy fries. Though the cheeseburger was small a great place for a cheap, quick meal! rush of familiar faces. Nifty fifties takes it upon enough to force me to order another one, it was themselves to hire local kids to compose the very good and the spicy fries were delicious. But majority of their staff. It’s great to go in there and the food isn’t really the main reason why know the people that are serving you. customers flock to Nifty Fifties. Let us know As far as food goes, it’s a burger and fries They offer a huge variety of soda choices. joint. The kind of place you go to get a full yet Their soda fountain satisfies everyone’s tastes. about great inexpensive meal. The menu is a standard diner It ranges from many variations of chocolate flavor menu, which includes a variety of greasy, grilled to ones such as bubble gum and cherry grape. restaurants! food such as cheese steaks and chicken The best part of my Nifty Fifties experience came sandwiches. after the meal, when I got a Reesey Cup milkshake E-mail us at The only meal Nifty Fifties offers for those to go. The milkshake was so good; I went back who don’t eat meat or prefer to eat healthier is a the next day and got another one. As with their [email protected] Caesar salad. I had the classic diner meal- a coke, sodas, they offer customers an assortment of a cheeseburger, and Nifty Fifties own famous thirty one milkshake flavors to choose from. November 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Lifestyles - 13 Skateboarding rolls into modern era Amber Ogden ‘10 performing, soaring 4-foot ollies, many people assume that the board Skateboarding—often is somehow attached to the skater’s portrayed in the media as an extreme feet. sport —can be a form of art, a hobby, Although that common or a method of transportation. It has assumption is false, the ollie is a hard been shaped and influenced by many trick to complete. What’s even more skateboarders throughout the years. amazing about the ollie is that to get A 2002 report by American the skateboard to jump up, the skater Sports Data found that there were has to push down on the board! 12.5 million skateboarders in the Now it may look fairly simple, but world. Eighty percent of don’t let your eyes deceive you. skateboarders who had polled were As you learn more tricks and said to have used a board in the last develop skills the tricks get harder year, and were under the age of 18. and more complex, as do the injuries. Skateboarders of the 30s, 40s, Broken bones, dislocations, gashes, and 50s had a straightforward cuts, bruises are just some of the mission: Start at the top of a hill and most common injures in skate- ride down. The primary goal was just boarding. Image by google to stay on the board and avoid Many people see the injuries collisions, given the humble Ryan Sheckler performs the Ollie for an onlooking crowd. as a major turn off towards the sport. equipment and rough road condi- For onlookers and beginners, it become a skateboarding fund- Many skaters don’t just ride down tions, it was no small task. can be hard to follow the action, let amental. This became the basis for hills and streets anymore. As In a blur of flying movements, alone answer the question that many other more complicated tricks. skateboarding has progressively skaters leap and skid over and onto springs naturally to mind: How on What’s so amazing about the gotten more popular, certain devices obstacles, executing flips and turns earth do they do that? Ollie is the way the skateboard were invented to make the ride more of ever increasing complexity — all Invented in the late 1970’s by seems to stick to the skater’s feet in challenging. at top speeds. Alan “Ollie” Gelfand, the Ollie has midair. Seeing pictures of skaters Ramps and rails have become the most popular obstacles. These are equally as dangerous as the tricks preformed. It’s not just the tricks Turkey day traditions that are dangerous but it’s also the ramps and rails involved. No matter Taylor Cohen ‘08 potatoes, sweet potatoes, gravy, who you are you will get hurt, it cranberry sauce, corn, turnips, won’t necessarily be a large injury, The 4th Thursday in Novem- yams, and for dessert pumpkin but injuries cannot be avoided when ber is usually something the pie is the season’s special. skateboarding. students at WTHS look forward. The day after Thanksgiving is Some classic films portrayed We get a couple days off, get to followed by a famous holiday in skateboarders as reckless rebels. The see family and friends, fill up on the retail world known as Black image of the skateboarder as a good food, and hopefully, watch Friday. This marks the start of the rebellious, non-conforming youth an exciting football game. holiday shopping season. This is has faded in recent years. Thanksgiving is a national holiday usually the busiest day of the year The rift between the old image that we all enjoy celebrating every in terms of customer traffic. Stores of skateboarding & a newer one is year. usually open around 4 or 5 in the quite visible: magazines such as The traditional celebration morning. Thrasher portray skateboarding as began back in 1600’s with the early The following Mon. is what the dirty, rebellious, and still firmly tied settlers of Plymouth Colony in internet has named Cyber to punk, while other publications, Massachusetts. When the pilgrims Monday. Within the past 10 such as, Transworld Skateboarding came to the US they had no idea Image by google years, online shopping has become paint a more modern, diverse, and how to live. Unsure on how to more popular between parents controlled picture of skateboarding harvest food and survive, they says that the Native Americans were shopping for their children. With the stars. befriended the Native American, present, there is no evidence that pros of no lines and no angry people, So get out there and just do it! Squanto, who educated them on how they were. This is one simple thing the popular items are always sold The sport is growing larger day to grow and catch food, as well as that started a tradition that soon out or backordered, and most by day, so you’re bound to find interpreting the native language became something that would be websites have trouble with all the someone willing to teach you. between the other Native Americans. celebrated every year. volume from customers they have. All you need to do to be the Soon after they had planted Nowadays, when Thanksgiving The holiday season is right next skateboarding sensation is a their first seeds, the pilgrims had rolls around, we think of a nice around the corner Township! Get board, a good set of shoes, passion their first harvest in 1621. This was dinner with family and friends. ready to gain a few pounds, see some and determination...oh, and high pain a celebration that involved food and Turkey is usually the favorite around family, watch a good football game, tolerance level! praying to God. Although the story the table, followed by mashed and get some shopping done. 14 - People The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 People Musician aims for success Nikki Black ‘08 music, and enjoys classical, jazz, blues, rock, and metal. “I’m really Aldrin Abastillas ’08 lives in a into different indie groups right world saturated with music. now,” he said. “I play clarinet, piano, and When Abastillas isn’t playing guitar, and I’m in jazz band, guitar with his friends, he’s playing marching band, and As We Are, a the clarinet or piano in school bands. local indie-rock band,” he said. In marching band, he plays the Abastillas plays guitar in As clarinet, which he began playing in We Are, which is also comprised of the fourth grade. Dion Daguanno ’08 on bass, Craig The marching band meets four Hobbins ’08 on drums, Mike Otto or five times a week, and he feels it ’08 also on guitar, and Joe Granato requires great dedication because of ’07 on vocals. its competitive nature. Besides “We write our own songs, competitions, the band plays all of sometimes do covers, and play the school football games. shows,” said Abastillas. “I like performing in front of Steph Foran ‘08/The Patriot The band meets every other large crowds, but I get a little nervous Aldrin Abastillas plays guitar in the local rock band, As We Are. week to practice, because the perfor- during my solo. Sometimes my the Asian Awareness club, and and the subject I’ve always liked in mers all have busy schedules. Aba- clarinet stops working, so that’s kind French club. school.” stillas’s favorite place to play is at of scary, too,” said Abastillas. This year, he hopes to keep his In order to prepare for his the Brunswick Zone bowling alley. Jazz band meets about twice a grades up and hold onto his friends, future, Abastillas has taken classes As We Are also plays at both week, and the genre is relatively new most of whom he met or bonded with such as A.P. biology, anatomy and of Washington Township High to Abastillas, but he’s enjoying it through his musical interests. physiology, and physics. He also School’s coffee houses, so he feels it nonetheless. “It’s definitely He hopes to go to the volunteered at a laboratory in is easy and inexpensive to see the different. I never really played jazz University of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia over the summer. band. Abastillas said he doesn’t try before… it’s a whole different feel attain a degree in Bio-engineering. Abastillas is not the first of his to emulate anyone in his music, altogether,” he says. “Just because you’re going into a family to enter into the field of because he is “influenced by so many Aside from music, Abastillas is field like Bio-engineering doesn’t science, as his mother is a nurse and different types of music it would be involved in many different school mean you’re going to make a ton of his father is a laboratory technician. hard to choose just one person.” activities and committed to his money,” he said, “I feel there’s a need “I find get a lot of support from my Abastillas has a varied taste in studies. He is involved with NHS, for scientists. It’s what I’m good at family,” Abastillas said. Dempsey considers teaching “best job” Kaitlin Shockley ‘09 opinion the best job. I get to brother named Sean and a younger study and talk about sister Laura. Mr. Michael Dempsey teaches mathematics and I get paid to He also has a wife and two math, (Pre-calculus and AP statis- do it. Also [I enjoy]June, children, Colin (2) and Keira (10 tics), but there were many different July, and August.” months). Half of his mother’s family events that led him to this position. The two teachers that lives in Ireland, and if he were able Dempsey went to Washington most influenced him to join to, he would eagerly visit them. Township High School as a student Township’s staff were Mr. “My mom is one of eleven then went to Rowan for college. The Robert Gorski and Mr. David children, half of her siblings are still teacher that he remembers most is Wright. Dempsey had been over there and I don’t see them Mr. Tom Crane. teaching for three years at much,” he said. Dempsey said his favorite another school before ap- While Dempsey’s family is courses were history and math plying to Township. important to him, he also has several because “I like to read and solve “I didn’t see any harm in hobbies. In his spare time, he enjoys problems.” interviewing here,” he said. spending time with his family, Until he went to college, Sarah Kurtz ‘10/The Patriot “After the interview, I knew reading, golfing, and watching Notre Dempsey was interested in being an Mr. Michael Dempsey enjoys spending that this would be a better Dame and Eagles football. accountant. his free time with his family. opportunity and a place I He also plays guitar. His “My mom has always worked would enjoy being for the length of favorite kinds of music are hymns for an accountant,” he said, “so After he began college, he my career.” and worship music. although I saw how lucrative it can decided to go with teaching instead. Dempsey’s career is not the He said, “I like a lot of different be, I also saw that it wasn’t very “I think the great teachers I had only thing he enjoys. He comes from stuff, but hymns and worship music exciting.” were inspirations, but it is in my a family of five and has an older are most relaxing and focusing for me.” November 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. People - 15 Helping students follow their hearts Nikki Black ‘08 1800s because he respects “the people of the time and the causes Mr. Robert Barnshaw has been they fought for.” He believes people teaching history courses at of this time period were less Washington Township High School hampered by the beliefs of others for the past twenty-six years. He and unafraid to stand up for what feels that history is an important they believed. course for many reasons. Barnshaw first decided he “I don’t think history repeats wanted to become a teacher in his itself,” he said, “but I think situations junior year of high school. “The bug echo. They’re like ripples on a pond. bit me early,” he explained with a One group of circles creates another smile. He considered going into a group of circles, so the common military or religious service, but threads are worth knowing. If you’re ultimately found that teaching was going to navigate the waters ahead, the best fit. you’ve got to have some idea of how Teaching history is only one you got there.” aspect of Barnshaw’s career. He also Barnshaw feels that Americans runs the Bible club, which has are going through a particularly Gina Parker ‘09 combined with the Future Christian tough time at the present, and that Mr. Barnshaw shares his love of history with his students. Athletes club this year. by studying history we can have a Barnshaw feels that this merge better understanding of how to deal methods of combating the lack of it easier for students to become is a wonderful idea and will provide with the current situation. interest students have for the subject interested in the subject matter. a space where Christian students can The most important piece of matter. He uses humor, oftentimes “I don’t think the students are be who they truly are without fearing advice he feels he could give to his poking fun at himself, and “lots and unwilling to learn, but maybe judgment from their peers. students is to “show what’s closest lots of documents,” he said. Many uninterested. Many students just He said that throughout his to your heart to the people you of the documents were written by want to get the history course out of years as a teacher he has seen many love.” Barnshaw has never had a people of the time period reacting to the way so they can take other students, even those strong in class he wasn’t able to handle. “I’ve important events or movements as courses,” Barnshaw said. He believes character, buckle under pressure and been very blessed with my they were happening, as opposed the American that modern citizens conform to their peers’ views of how students,” he said. to the mere recitation of facts some should most try to emulate is they should act. For some students, history history books seem to give. The Abraham Lincoln, for his simplicity He said, “It is those students courses often have a reputation of direct connection to the past and honesty. Barnshaw’s favorite who are not afraid to be their own being boring or slow. He has various provided by the documents makes time period is the mid-1700s to the person who are closest to my heart.” Student seeks future in print Kaitlin Shockley ‘09 Clements enjoys writing, husky mix and is especially fiction, and has been pur- “not the sharpest Dave Clements, ‘08, can most suing it as a hobby for a while now. tool in the shed.” He often be found in the locations he He looks forward to the day when has lived here in most enjoys, Drama Club, Game he can make it more than a hobby. township for his Club, or his Journalism/Creative Other than writing, Clements whole life, and Writing class. likes metal or death metal music. He attended Wedge- Clements’ friend originally told plays electric guitar and has even wood Elementary him about drama club. He had been known as saying it is his “love.” and Chestnut Ridge described it much like Whose Line Is “Headbanging songs get me Middle School be- It Anyway?. A fan of the show, pumped up and make me feel good,” fore WTHS. Clements eagerly joined. Clements he said. Even though also joined Game Club for much the Clements enjoys a wide variety going to school is not same reason. of things, from books to movies to his favorite activity, “It gives me a chance to not video games and music. If given the Clements has been think of school work,” he said. choice, Clements said he would rather known to think Kaitlin Shockley ‘09 / The Patriot When he does think of school stay in township because he is almost rationally in Dave Clements would like to pursue a career work, his Journalism/Creative done school, anyway. situations most writing fiction. Writing class is most interesting to As part of a small family, people are not able him, not for fun, but because he Clements is the only one in his family to do so. He said, “The first three Clements has even replied to wants to go to college for writing. still in high school. He has an older things I’d grab in a fire would be my the age-old glass half-full/empty “I plan on going to a four-year college brother who is in college at Kean wallet, the dog, and a fire question with an answer of his own. for writing,” he said, “then plan on University. He also has a dog named extinguisher,” rather than the classic “That depends on whether you’re putting that to use in the real world.” Tasha. She is a German shepherd/ response of some material items. filling it or drinking from it.” 16 - Odds & Ends The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 Odds & Ends

Life As...by Nicole Heath ‘10 ...A Non-trick-or-treater Halloween memories. Every- The disappointed kids weren’t one in elementary school all dressed the worst thing. It’s the ticked off up. Classes having the best custom parents that really got to me. They contest. Teachers handing out would stare at me like I was some decorations to put on the door. kind of a monster, because I would Everyone talking about what candy not add to the over stretched bag of was their favorite and how full their candy their kids were carrying. bag got last year. Parents trying to Many might say that it’s hard curb their child’s sugar intake by only to be a trick-or-treater, but I say that letting you eat two pieces of candy. it’s harder to be a non-trick-or-treater. Good memories right? Many are not aware of the skill it Well, I have different ones. I takes to dodge the little kids with remember being in Wedgwood the costumes or how hard it is to not Elementary School and watching all answer the door bell when the kids of the other kids parade around the repeatedly hit it. Or the annoyance school in their new costumes, while of having little children and their my brother, sister and I waited in parents, who you have never seen in the library with all of the kids who your neighborhood or life, come to didn’t celebrate Halloween. Trust your doorstep and demand candy. me, there weren’t many. Many Halloween nights my family Chelsey Gordon ‘08 I remember the times when kids just gave up on answering the door would knock at the door and scream and decided to go to dinner. There’s no peace at home because of I would think that my neighbors trick or treat. My reply to them In elementary school we sat in the trick-or-treaters and even the TV would finally get the point that we would be, “We don’t celebrate the library, but in middle school and is filled with Halloween shows. The don’t celebrate Halloween. Halloween, sorry.” I learned to shut high school it is worse. We had to only way to find peace is to sleep There are a few of us who on the door really fast, not wanting to explain to every teacher, every with a pillow over your head. Halloween who would just like to see the disappointed faces as the schoolmate why we did not celebrate These are the memories I’ve come be left alone. So if you see a house trick-or-treaters absorbed the fact Halloween. Getting asked the same to live with. Don’t be confused, I’m completely dark, with no lights or that they would not be getting candy question and giving the same not bitter at all. It’s just that by now decorations. Do me a favor, please from this household. answers can drive people crazy. after a decade of living next to them, don’t knock. Colbert takes political comedy to the masses Stephanie Foran ‘08 that usually wins with Colbert’s actions. Colbert is a the support of well-known politcial satirist, but he On Oct.16, Stephen Colbert, their home states does not have any actual political host of The Colbert Report, declared easily. background. They believe his that he was running for President. “When I first candidacy mocks those who pursue Unfortunately for Colbert and his heard about it a career in the government and the supporters, the South Carolina [Colbert running government itself. Democratic Party (SCDP) decided for president], I Keith Marr ’10 believes that that he wasn’t a serious candidate thought it was just Colbert would be “taking votes from for President. He was denied a place a joke,” states canidates who deserve them” and it on the South Carolina ballot. Kurt Pflugfelder would be like throwing away a vote. Colbert originally announced on ’08, “but it seems The SCDP seemed to take a The Daily Show with Jon Stewart, “I now like he’s similar stance and voted Colbert’s am officially considering whether or trying to prove a campaign down thirteen to three. not I will announce if I am con- point. He’s saying Carol Fowler, respresentative of the sidering running for President of the Image by Google a comedian could SCDP, called Colbert herself to break United States.” Colbert’s presidential campaign was short-lived run for President.” the bad news. Colbert also expressed that he when he was denied a place on the South Caroli- Colbert’s pur- She reassured him he would wished to announce his candidacy na primary ballot. suit of the highest receive his campaign money back in on a “more prestigious” show: his own. in the South Carolina primary as office in the land reminds many of the mail and encouraged him to run After “fifteen minutes of soul- running on both the democratic and Man of the Year, a movie where a in the next election (in 2012). searching”, Colbert announced that republican tickets as a “favorite comedian (Robin Williams) runs for Perhaps this isn’t the end of the he wished to run for President. son”. The term ‘favorite son’ is President and actually wins. Colbert dynasty; maybe it’s just the However, he would only campaign defined as a presidential can-didate Other students beg to differ beginning. November 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Odds & Ends - 17 Halloween 2007 at WTHS 18 - Tech Talk The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 Tech Talk

Debate The Great MySpace-Facebook Faceoff MySpace gives freedom to users Margaret Bonanni ‘09 of hiding their comments. They also let users confirm or One of the newest communication trends deny what comments their are networking sites. By allowing users to keep friends can see. in touch with their friends and meet new ones, Myspace also has it’s no surprise that the sites’ popularity has another way for users to skyrocketed over the past years. contact each other. Blogs are a But with popularity comes controversy. way users can post their Myspace and Facebook, two of the most popular thoughts, ideas, opinions, and networking sites, are often compared, and their writings, or can advertise merits debated by many internet users. Although events. Users can control who Facebook is the newer website, using Myspace sees, subscribes, and is more enjoyable. comments on their blogs. They Myspace allows users to not only socialize, can also manage their blogs by but also lets them show thier creativity in the editing or deleting them at process. Unlike Facebook, it does not constrict anytime. users to a bland, white profile. They are given Because Myspace lets the freedom of leaving their layout plain, making their users have more control their own using Profile Editor, or choosing from over their layout, gives them thousands of layouts you can find online. more privacy, and comes with Because Myspace is HTML based, users unique features, it’s clear why Lillian Ling ‘08 can take creativity to a whole new level. By using more users would prefer it various codes, they can change their profile’s font over Facebook. and structure, and can even hide elements such as their last log-in, comments, general information Facebook offers privacy and protection panel, and top friends. They can also make scroll Katie Mount ‘09 Facebook is also cracking down on security boxes, graphics, contact tables, picture captions, when it comes to hackers and spammers. It uses and comment boxes that add flare to their layout. Social networking websites are one of the a program called a “Catpchas.” These are tests Myspace is more user friendly. Facebook biggest fads among adolescents. These types of that are used to prevent spammers from using requires users to add applications to have features websites were created to provide users with a programs or bots to create fake accounts and spam such as top friends, and profile songs. Myspace way to interact with friends. Two major websites users. When a user requests to be friends with already comes with these features, and eliminates are leading the trend: Myspace and Facebook. another user, they must type in a security code the hassle of finding the application users need With all of the hype surrounding the two sites, it to prove they are not a spammer. and going through the process of adding it. In seems as though there is a silent rivalry between Myspace does not have the same security addition, users are given the privilege of choosing them. Most young people find themselves measures as Facebook. Therefore their site is filled the number of top friends and songs they would debating on which site is better. with hackers and viruses. The advertisements at like to have on their profile. When it comes to social networking the top of the page are filled with spyware. Users that have accounts on Myspace are websites, I believe Facebook wins by a mile. An annoying feature on Myspace is the also given more privacy. Facebook requires users What most impresses me the most about control they allow their users to have when it to have their full name as their display name, Facebook are their security measures. When I comes to layout. Most of the time, Myspace which can be very uncomfortable. Myspace gives first registered, I decided to skip putting in the users will change their layout to make it look users the option of using their full name, name of my high school. When I attempted to “pretty”. This usually makes their text harder to nickname, a quote, or anything they want. Users move onto the next step I received a message read, which coincidentally makes it extremely can also control who sees their profile by making saying “Sorry, that registration option is only difficult to navigate around the site. it private. These aspects give users another available for users 18 and over. Please register Facebook does not give their users that much creative outlet that Facebook doesn’t offer, and through your high school or college below.” control over their page layout. Myspace users makes it easier to stay safe. At first I found it a little personal for the may argue that this limits their creativity. Users Facebook also has News Feed, which lets site to require the name of my high school. It can decide whether it is easier to find information users friends see what they’ve done to their wasn’t until later that I fully appreciated it. In when you don’t have to search through a page of profile, what groups you’ve joined, and what order to join your high school’s network, you glittering graphics and obnoxious backgrounds. they wrote on other people’s wall (the equivalent must be approved by an already accepted student. The debate on Facebook vs. Myspace is still to comments). This is a great tool to prevent pedophiles a hot topic among teenagers. It’s obvious that Although this feature can be helpful at times, from pretending to be teenage high school students. social networking websites are here to stay. I hope it is a huge invasion of privacy. Myspace does Myspace pedophiles can simply fill out fake that many will decide to go with Facebook. It’s not have this feature, and gives users the option information, and then click a button to join. much safer than Myspace. November 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Tech Talk - 19 Players get wired at Gamerz Edge Matt Neuteboom ‘08 it from a friend of mine, and he told me I could find it at the very end of For such a large town, Johnson Rd., across from the Washington Township has intersection with the Wawa (Gamer’s surprisingly few gaming centers. Edge must also mean “the edge of There’s a couple of game stores near Township”). the Wal-Mart center, and that’s about Whereas many LAN centers it, save for large retail stores. That’s are open well into the night for all why I was very happy to hear that a night gaming sessions, Gamerz Edge new LAN center had opened near opens at 4 o’clock on most days Whitman Square. and closes at 10 o’clock on the LAN centers are few and far weekdays and midnight on the between outside of a metropolitan weekends. This gives many area. They rent fast, top-of-the-line students a good opportunity to set computers to those who don’t own aside some time to head over there, Matt Neuteboom ‘08 them at an hourly rate. Essentially, as their hours fit perfectly into an Gamerz Edge is the new LAN center located at the corner of it’s an internet café geared towards after-school schedule. Johnson and Berlin Cross Keys Rd. hardcore gamers, and has energy Upon first stepping into glowing equipment. Countless whopping $5 an hour. They offered drinks instead of coffee. Gamerz Edge, it was clear that the computer stations lined both walls me a catch saying that if I was a The new LAN center, Gamerz new center was professional. all the way into the back of the center. member for $25 a year, the rate Edge, opened up about a month and Carpeted and decked out with sleek At first, I was not impressed would lower to $4, and that would a half ago around the start of décor, the dimly lit center radiated by their rates. It was $2.50 for your also include privileges such as using September. I originally heard about an otherworldly blue from all of the first hour, but after that it cost a day passes and participating in tournaments. Why LAN Centers Exist Sitting down at the computers, though, I understood what the money At a first glance, many people are confused why those who can’t even afford to pay a high-speed cable was going to. Top of the line systems LAN centers exist. Why pay exorbitant rates for bill. adorned the shelves above my head, something that we can get at home? LAN centers also make it easier for community and each keyboard came with at least One reason is price of renting vs. price of owning. gaming and tournaments. Having your teammates 50 additional buttons which could be Newer games continue to push the limits of what a sitting right next to you in a high-end tournament (some mapped to various game functions computer can do. My own computer can’t even play people make a profession out of this stuff) is much (tournament players take their games most of the PC games from last year, let alone those better than having them stuck over a phone shouting VERY seriously). Each station came that debut this Christmas season. For the pauper like orders. The top of the line computers guarantee that with its own convenient headphones me, I don’t have the time or money to upgrade my there is no lag or slow-down, that all graphics are crisp for privacy in-game. system (which often costs upwards of $400), or buy and clear, and that game performance isn’t hindered. The game list was saturated with the games, which are now nearing around $60 or even Also, the dark, isolated environment makes LAN plenty of brand new games, both $70 a pop. LAN centers are especially useful for centers ideal for concentrating on a computer screen. competitive online and single player. While the computers offered the Opinion staples of Guild Wars, and World of Warcraft, there was little else besides “Sandbox games” destroying an industry first-person shooters and strategy Melanie Moore ‘11 a monotonous, repeating platformer remaining copies of this horrible game games. However, the game list was that will definitely not convert anyone were buried in a landfill in New very recent, including games which The only thing that’s more who is not already a fan of the genre. Mexico, because it was way too were released barely a month ago. annoying than ranting fanboys are This pattern of repetition is how these overproduced, and no one was buying Gamer’s Edge also offers “sandbox” games. They are those games earned their rightful title. They copies. members the opportunity to play essentially lacking games based off are called “sandbox” games because I would advise even the most console games and compete in local of movies or TV shows that are none of them go “outside the box” and casual gamer to let these games rot tournaments for prizes. Not only notorious for clunky controls, last- do something innovative or unheard of. on the shelves, and start building that, but the center keeps track of generation graphics (or lower), and Instead, they up your own all your stats, which can be viewed remotely no interesting core perpetually linger taste for genres from their webpage. As you play gameplay. The targets for the B-grade in the same area, Sandbox games are truly based on classic, more on their computers, you can developers are usually young kids and hindering the at fault for the decline of yet cutting-edge earn neat incentives which include casual gamers; people who don’t absolute future of games. Sandbox T-shirts, cash prizes, and even free really care about the quality as long gaming. quality for the platform games are truly hours. as it features their favorite characters. Take the genre. at fault for the I am happy to know that For the rest of us, we’d rather ancient Atari decline of Gamer’s Edge offers me a new chance play games that define innovation, and 2600 game quality for the to play the computer games I do not sandbox games certainly do not fit “E.T.”, for example. It is the father of platform genre. After all- our own or cannot afford. If you’re into the definition. It is irritating to find all sandbox games, and it even caused generation now will affect the competitive or even single-player PC these games clogging the shelves the infamous video game crash of 1983. future of gaming. Will we excel, gaming, it’s worth taking a trip to because they are all generally the same: The game was so abysmal, the or remain in the sandbox? Gamer’s Edge to see what’s going on. 20 - Books The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 Books Scott creates gold with The Alchemyst Novel explores Margaret Bonanni ‘09 age comes to life. It’s no wonder readers were genetic ethics The Alchemyst: The Secrets of excited to read Scott’s newest novel. Kerry Dougherty ‘11 the Immortal Nicholas Flamel by It is a unique mix of history, myth Michael Scott, one of Ireland’s finest and thrilling characters. Many of the My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi fantasy authors, is one of the most characters in the book are taken from Picoult tells the tale of a charismatic, spellbinding science fiction novels to Mythology, such as the Greek young girl named Anna who is no recently make the New York Times Goddess Hekate, the Egyptian stranger to hospital waiting rooms. Best Seller’s List. With its innovative Goddess Bastet, and Flamel’s Irish She’s not sick, but she’s undergone spin on saving the world, the young accomplice Scathach. Others are numerous surgeries, transfusions, adult novel can be appreciated by actual historical figures, such as and shots to help her older sister, readers of all ages. Nicholas Flamel, his wife Perenelle, Kate, fight the leukemia that she’s The novel is set in sunny San and the novel’s antagonist John Dee. had since the age of three. Francisco, where twin siblings Regardless of their origin, all the But now, Anna’s parents want Sophie and Josh are spending the characters were well developed, and a kidney for Kate. It seems Anna summer with family while their add their own unique twist to the was born to keep Kate alive. Her parents are off on an archeological story. parents hired a scientist to hook up dig. They decide to get jobs at The novel’s plot was also her mother’s eggs and her father’s neighboring shops. One day a strange unique. In each chapter it becomes sperm to produce genetic material Google Image man steals a book from Josh’s The Alchemyst is the first in a clearer and grows, so that the reader to perfectly match Kate’s. This employer, Nick Fleming. During the is left to piece details together. The makes Anna the perfect donor. planned series of six fantasy, robbery, Sophie and Josh witness plot also is surprising, and takes However, at age 13, Anna knows her Fleming and the stranger dueling each adventure novels. readers into a new direction with legal rights to her body. other with magic. potential to destroy the world. each turn of the page. So with the help of an attorney, After the stranger flees, Fleming also confesses that he is This novel is the first Campbell Alexander, and a Fleming explains exactly what the actually the legendary alchemist installment in a series Scott plans temporary guardian, Julia Romano, twins had witnessed. The book the Nicholas Flamel, who used the book on writing. Although there are six Anna fights for the right of her body. robbers stole was an ancient book to find the Elixir of Life. books total, the events in The The reason Anna doesn’t want to called the Codex, which he had been Overwhelmed, the twins doubt Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas donate another organ will surprise entrusted to guard. The robber was whether or not Fleming is telling the Flamel only happen over two days, everyone, even her own mother. John Dee, a spy for Queen Elizabeth truth. Yet, with Dee after them, they and the entire series will span one In a way, Anna is like every I. Dee stole the book because not must help Flamel find the book month. The next installment, The teenager - she wants her own life. only did it contain prophecies and before the world they live in is Magician is scheduled to come out There’s a bit of all of us in Jesse, powerful magic, but it also held the destroyed, and a dark and terrible in May of 2008. Kate and Anna’s brother, who is very protective of the people he loves. You’ll also relate to Julia Romano, Classic manga series worth reading the quirky guardian, who’s suddenly Melanie Moore ‘11 faltering hopes for “the curse” to always laughing or ready to shed a sucked back into her teenage years break, while Tohru tries to keep tear. All of the characters have their when she finds who the attorney is Furuba by Natsuki Takaya is everyone smiling. own idiosyncrasies and societies that she will be working with to help the manga (Japanese comic) series The reason why so many have within. Anna. that is on almost every collector’s embraced this manga so readily is Fruits Basket successfully Jodi Picoult’s characters will bookshelf. It has touched the hearts because of Takaya’s notable ability breaks away from the traditional and make you laugh out loud, then of American fans since 2004, when to create characters with such deep trite shojo (manga aimed at a female sympathize with them. Her the English translation, Fruits personalities and to fill the story audience) formula. The story is extraordinary characterizations will Basket, was first published by with drama, romance, and comedic carefully woven from volume to make you see a part of yourself in TokyoPop. charm. volume with many details and every character. Her witty banter and The basic plot is relatively easy Currently at volume seventeen, interesting situations intertwined. thoughtful dialogue shows her to understand in early volumes. The the series is still being published. The Fruits Basket fan base is intelligence and understanding of the story unfolds as an orphaned girl Takaya keeps the eager fans hooked very large and active. They produce human race. named Tohru Honda stumbles upon by the mysteries of the curse and a grandeur fan sites, dojinshi (self- This book guarantees to a strange family, the Sohmas, with a love triangle including Tohru. published novels) and fan-fiction. squeeze a few laughs, a few tears, mysterious secret. One of the most interesting Numerous types of merchandise and a few thoughts out of the most Based on the Chinese zodiac, aspects of the series is the art style. have also been released, ranging from insensitive people. It’ll tug on your whoever is born in the corresponding All of the characters look drastically plush toys resembling the characters heartstrings and won’t let go. It’s a year, will turn in to that animal when different and beautiful, ranging from to lip gloss. great piece of literature that’s suit- hugged by a member of the opposite a goth who can sense waves, to an Overall, Fruits Basket has able for a generation of rebellious sex. After some odd circumstances, enigmatic novelist. With the vast earned my respect ever since I teenagers. I dare anyone to put it Tohru is welcomed to live with the number of characters populating this reluctantly turned the last page of down after reading the first five Sohmas. They live each day with story, you are never bored; you are volume one and continued to read. pages. November 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Books - 21 Young adult fiction becomes predictable Nicole Heath ‘10 students like teachers, classes, or even grades. The shelves of Barnes and Other books like The It Girl Noble are lined with an array of develop an entire story around high books. Some have decorative covers school drama. True, high school with fancy writing. Others are leather drama is fun to read about, but when bound with golden engraved text. all the books are about the same As you make your way to the problem and have the same young adult section you notice how outcomes it tends to get boring. all the books have brighter colors, The only positive side to comical titles, and eye-catching novels such as these is the humor. cover graphics. All the books seem Most young adult novels can be to be so different But they’re not. described as poignant and funny. Recent series like The Clique But with the use of the same plot or The A List all seem to grab readers’ and similar characters, even the attention, but once they begin to read jokes get old. the book, they realize that the plot Many of these books are is not colorful or original at all. beginning to look like Disney These new teen books are movies like High School Musical beginning to lack the creativity and and shows such as Lizzie McGuire. authenticity the genre once had. Photo Illustration by Katie Mount /The Patriot Recent novels look way too much Outside of fantasy and historical To many readers, bookshelves have become a lot less colorful. like movies. For example, Mean fiction, original plots are becoming Girls and Bring It On are all plots harder to find. school. This plot has been used so high school is completely false. that are commonly found in books. A favorite cliché that authors often its once funny and unique Most teen books describe high Although many teen books are like to use, is a girl or boy moving to storyline has become a predictable school as a place where a bunch of conforming to predictability, there a new school and miraculously story. Plots are losing their depth. cliques all trying to ‘rule’ the school. are a strong few. defeating the oppressive ‘popular Not only are the plotlines These authors barely touch the real Authors like Meg Cabot take kids’ clique that dominates the overused, but the description of things in high school that effect the everyday plot and add a twist. The same can be said for fantasy writer Gail Carson Levine, who Vampire novel sucks in readers instead of rewriting the same fairy Brittany Tartaglia ’09 Zoey is different; she has more tales, creates her own spellbinding powers then the older students, and story. Marked by P.C. and Kristin Cast no one knows why. Zoey soon finds Other writers like Christopher is a story about a girl named Zoey herself in the middle of a murder case, Paolini and Stephenie Meyer are Montgomery. Entering the dark, when students’ bodies start rejecting also unique. But most of these magical world of the House of Night, the change. In the short time that she authors belong to the fantasy genre, you see the world of vampires spends in the school, Zoey makes not the realistic fiction. If more through her eyes. She was a typical friends, enemies, and falls in love. authors relied on their own reality, teenage girl until she was “marked”. Marked was a creative and rather than following the norm, the Zoey has two choices: turn into hypnotic book that I could not put world of realistic fiction would be a a vampire, which to the human mind down. The ending seemed to leave happier and more interesting place. is the equivalent of being a monster, you wanting more, and makes you or her body can reject the change and draw conclusions on what’s to she’ll die. Real- happen next. izing that she has This novel no real choice, Zoey has two choices: turn into could appeal Have you read any Zoey moves into a vampyre, which to the human to anyone good books lately, the House of who likes mind is the equivalent of being Google Image and are interested Night, a private vampire a monster, or her body can in sharing your boarding school books such Just recently, Betrayed, the second opinion? for vampires. reject the change and she’ll as Twilight book in the series was released. If the Taking on a die. and Vampire sequel is anything like P.C. Cast’s new life requires a Kisses. other paranormal romances, it will be Write for the book new identity; she The a captivating and exciting book. section! chooses to be Zoey Redbird, after her Casts, a mother and daughter team, Betrayed is said to have twice the Native-American heritage. are gifted with the art of detail. They action, adventure, romance and Email us at Think being the new kid in high make you feel as if you personally should be more dark than Marked. school is hard? Try being the new kid know the main character. Zoey All in all I would rate the book [email protected]. in a school full of vampires. Just like becomes a beloved character that is four out of five stars. It was a great any other school there are cliques, only hated by the jealous teenagers book, and I consider it to be one of mean girls, and wannabes. However, of the House of Night. my favorites. 22 - Entertainment The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 Entertainment All Time Low hits high Mike Cedrone ‘10 very exciting live performance. It gets the whole band involved and makes Maryland pop-punkers All them seem more unified. Time Low are at it again. With their Not only are all the members new album, So Wrong, It’s Right, All of the band singing on most of the Time Low hopes to surpass the tracks, but some unfamiliar voices success of their previous EP, Put Up are also on the album. “Remembering or Shut Up. All Time Low consists Sunday”, one of the slower tracks of Alex Gaskarth (vocals/guitar), on the album, Juliet Simms from Jack Barakat (guitar), Zack Merrick Automatic Loveletter, sings guest (bass), and Rian Dawson (drums). vocals. This adds emotion to the song They formed in 2003, still only and gives it the pretense of an actual in high school. In 2004, they released conversation between two lovers. an EP and full-length album with The album, released on Sept. local label, Emerald Moon Records. 25, sold 14,200 copies in its first Shortly before graduating high school Image by Google week. It peaked on the Billboard (in 2006), the band signed with Alternative Press magazine named All Time Low as one of the Charts at #62. Their previous EP Hopeless Records. “Bands You Need to Know in ‘07.” sold 60,000 copies as of the release The album’s twelve tracks are They promoted the album by talk about common topics in any date of So Wrong, It’s Right. The very optimistic and fun-filled. The playing some of their new songs on teenager’s life. Some of the topics album definitely has a long way to songs are about summer, having fun, this year’s Van’s Warped Tour. They discussed are love, fun on the beach, go to catch up with the success of and basically anything to do with also posted the whole album on their problems with the radio disc jockey, the EP. being a teenager. Fans can easily re- MySpace page a few days before and the repetitiveness of radio and I believe All Time Low will late to All Time Low’s music because the release. This idea let the fans pre- the songs they play. meet their sales since this is one of each member is young and knows view the CD before they bought it. All Time Low has made some the greatest albums of 2007. exactly what their audience craves. Some standout tracks on the positive changes to their sound. This album that will make All The first two singles released album are “Holly (Would You Turn Throughout the album there is a huge Time Low a center-stage attraction, off of the album were, “Dear Maria, Me On?)”, “The Beach”, presence of gang vocals, which is new adding to their already great Count Me In” and “Six Feet under “Remembering Sunday”, “Vegas”, from the last record. popularity. They are a band that will the Stars.” These songs will keep and “Come One, Come All”. The This gives the listener more make some serious noise in the your finger on the repeat button. lyrics are very down to earth and room to sing along and makes for a future. Pushing Daisies digs up good reviews Stephanie Foran ‘08 gift is full of complications—if the Chuck shortly before she is to be Burton feel to it, with the weird revived person is touched a second buried. After being revived, she is events being played against Ned and What would you do if you had time by Ned, they will die ecstatic to see her old friend (so is Chuck’s picturesque hometown. the power to bring the dead back to permanently. If they are brought back Ned). Another unconventional element is life? For Ned (Lee Pace), the to life for more than a minute, Despite Emerson’s urging to the narration (voiced by Jim Dale) protagonist of the new show someone else nearby will die. Ned return Chuck to the grave, Ned which gives each character’s exact Pushing Daisies (ABC, Wednesday states in the first episode, titled, cannot bare to hurt her. As they sneak age, down to the minute. He also nights at eight), he and his partner “Pie-lette”, that it is “a random out of the funeral home, the corrupt gives insight into the lives of the main Emerson (Chi McBride) solve proximity thing.” funeral director dies, as a result of characters. murders by touching the deceased Before the events of the first “the random proximity thing.” It is the first show of its kind, and bringing them back to life, episode, Ned was very careful not Emerson is unhappy to see a dubbed by its creators as a “forensic asking for clues to solve their to let anyone get close to him. He romance budding between the pie- fairytale.” The cast is absolutely unfortunate death. Pushing Daisies made a living making pies in his maker and Chuck, but knows he is superb, right down to Olive’s premiered October 3. restaurant “The Pie Hole”, where he powerless to stop it. The rendition of “Hopelessly Devoted” Ned’s life is nothing short of often dodges the amorous attempts unconventional relationship and Chuck’s optimistic personality complicated. From a young age, he of his employee, Olive (Kristin promises some interesting twists in the wake of her first death. was picked on for being quiet and Chenoweth). since the couple can’t hold hands, Its quirky humor and misanthropic, but it wasn’t because His life does a one-eighty when kiss, or hug because Chuck would surprisingly touching plotline is sure he didn’t want to interact with them; he discovers his childhood die permanently. to make it a hit for 2007. Fans are it was because he couldn’t. sweetheart Charlotte “Chuck” Pushing Daisies received rave eager to see what happens to Ned, Ned discovered his “gift” at Charles (Anna Friel) was strangled reviews from shows such as The Chuck, Olive, and Emerson in the the age of ten when he accidentally on a cruise. He and Emerson travel Today Show and Good Morning episodes come. I’m sure they will revived his dog Digby. However, his to Ned’s hometown and revive America. The show itself has a Tim not be disappointed. November 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Entertainment - 23 Join the Cult by Matt Neuteboom ‘08 Escape from New York: The future is now? It is the year 1998, crime has collapsed skyline. Scenes containing sky-rocketed 400% and the island fast paced action are done impeccably of Manhattan has been transformed well (and still hold up to today’s into a giant prison. The bridges have standards). One of my favorite old- been mined and the shoreline walled time actors, Lee Van Cleef from the off, and inside the world’s most Dollars Western trilogy, comes back hardened criminals are confined to for one of his last roles as the head roam the decaying streets. Once of the police force. Also, Isaac prisoners go in, they never come out. Hayes, (a.k.a Chef from South Park), That is, until the president’s plane makes his appearance as the one and crashes inside the city and he is taken only “Duke of New York, A-Number hostage by the prisoners. Thus 1.” For director John Carpenter, it’s starts the 1981 futuristic adventure Image from IMBD not the best movie he’s ever made Escape from New York. Anti-hero Snake Plissken stares at the ruins of Manhattan. (that honor goes to The Thing), but In steps Snake Plissken, a world peace; it was a matter of life out alive. At first, the mission is it comes in as a close second. former soldier and a new prisoner to and death. simple: get in, get the president, and What Escape from New York the island played by Kurt Russell. From start to finish, Escape get out. But we all know that isn’t truly lacks, though, is a script and Snake is offered a deal: spend his from New York is a highly entertaining simple. The direction of the movie set that does not reek of the 80’s. life on the island or rescue the thriller which will quickly grab your takes Snake all over New York, facing Kurt Russell trying to throw the deep president before the world summit attention. The fact that the movie the various gangs that inhabit it, and gruff voice as the “bad boy” might in twenty-four hours. To help keep takes place all in one day only eventually, the big “Duke of New have been cool back then, but now him on task, the military secretly highlights this fact (predating “24” York” himself. it’s just cheesy. The same goes for implants a microchip in his neck by a full two decades). From the Even for 1981, the special all the one-liners dropped by the which will explode when the summit moment Snake enters New York it’s effects for Escape from New York actors. All of the costumes have far starts. Now rescuing the president a suspenseful race against time to are fantastic, with wide angle shots too much leather, metal, and spikes, wasn’t just a matter of maintaining see if Snake can get the president of the monumental shore wall and also reflecting the punk/hair metal trend just taking root at the time. Still, though, one could argue Beatles tunes inspire new film that this tackiness would be the best Margaret Bonanni ‘09 Rights Movement as they test the rough, Lennon-like voice nicely part of the movie. The 80’s strength of Jude and Lucy’s complimented Wood’s harmonious cheesiness brings back fond Directed by Julie Taymor, relationship. voice and makes for many nicely memories to many who attended the Across the Universe is a captivating The film’s psychedelic feeling sung duets. theatre shouting lines at the screen musical of the romance between two was attributed to Taymor’s use of Each song in the movie is with their friends. lovers, told through Beatles music. stunning visual effects. Trippy charged with emotion of the chaos The movie brings you back to a Mixing the psychedelic feeling and dream-like sequences, scenes shot in of the era, and adds to the intensity time when the future looked bleak the social turbulence of the era, this negative images, and cle-ver camera that most musical movies tend to and abysmal. At the beginning of movie ingeniously captures the man-euvers make the movie a visual lose. the 80’s, times were changing. An all dynamic spirit of the sixties. phenomenon. The song “Helter Skelter” sung new paranoia had sprung up among The movie begins with Jude Blasts of color in the scenery by Dana Fuchs (who plays the trio’s the populace. As crime and pollution (Jim Sturgess), a Liverpool native, and costumes were eye catching and landlord), is one of the most pro- got worse, analysts predicted the saying goodbye to his girlfriend as brought out details that would voking songs of the film because of worst for future generations. he boards an ocean liner to America. otherwise be unnoticeable. These her powerful, deep vocals. This post-apocalyptic sent- There, he sets off to find the father effects gave the movie the element Second to her performance was iment is also echoed in the movies he never knew, a of surprise, which Bono’s cameo of “I am the Walrus”, Mad Max and Blade Runner, both former soldier who is Taymor used to in which he nicely pulls off the from that time period. It’s no currently a handy- Trippy dream-like her advantage. performance of a southern cult wonder that the New York presented man at Harvard. sequences, scenes The actors’ leader. in this movie has decayed into a Not long after interpretations of Across the Universe closed desolate wasteland of criminals. confronting his shot in negative thirty-three with “All You Need Is Love”. This It was recently announced that father, Jude meets images, and clever Beatles songs song not only brought the romantic New Line Cinemas would be Max (Joe Anderson). used in the movie conflict in the movie to an end, but spearheading a remake of the movie. The two become camera maneuvers gives it a genuine also served as a symbol: that love Gerard Butler is already slated to friends and Max make the movie a tone, which is can conquer anything. play the lead role of Snake, and introduces Jude to his often a daunting Taymor’s film is a must see for producers and writers have already sister, Lucy (Evan visual phenomenon. effect for hist- any Beatles fan. The Fab Fours’ hits been attached to the movie. Rachel Wood). orically based were nicely recreated, and still strike So why go see the movie before The two fall in love and the trio movies to achieve. a chord with today’s youth. But finding out what the original is like? moves to New York City. After they The actors’ performances are aside from the music, the film can be Escape from New York is a definite get wrapped up in a bohemian concrete. Sturgess, a relatively enjoyed by anyone because of its cult classic, and one which you lifestyle, the film shifts focus to the unknown actor in the United States, strong romantic conflict and sixties should plan on seeing if you’re a fan Anti-Vietnam protests and Civil makes an impressive debut. His influence. of action movies. 24 - Entertainment The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 Zodiac slays audience Sex & The Sarah Kurtz ‘10 City makes We’ve all heard about those awful ruthless killings, the killings that puts a chill through your spine. comeback Recently, a movie came out that Lauren Finneran ‘08 caught my eye, Zodiac. When I watched the preview for the movie It’s been three years since the they said that it was based on true final episode of Sex and the City aired events. And while killing should on HBO. There have been rumors of never be right in any mind frame, a Sex and the City movie since right they were brilliant. The Zodiac killer after the ending of the series. was beyond cunning in every detail. The four stars, Sarah Jessica He knew how to cover his attacks, Courtesy of IMDb Parker, Cynthia Nixon, Kristin and how to play games with the Robert Downey, Jr (left) and Jake Gyllenhaal (right) play journal- Davis, and Kim Cattrall, are all set police. The man was pure, wasted ists who track a brutal serial killer. for the filming which should begin genius. shows him he can be of help. game, and to the Zodiac, it was. He this fall. E! News reported rumors The movie starts out with two The Zodiac continues to write didn’t take money, purses, or that Cattrall held up the filming. She kids in a parked car on “Lover’s letters encoded with symbols and sexually assault his victims; he just demanded more money and would Lane.” A black car pulls up to the Robert continues to decode them. enjoyed the hunt. He said, “I like not agree to make the movie with car and then drives away. The The letters are disturbing and each hunting man because man is the most the others. woman in the car seemed so one tells about his next murder. dangerous creature of them all.” These problems have been frightened; it was as if she knew him The movie is so mind rattling. If you want a movie that you resolved and the entire cast is on and her fate. They were both shot You’re trying to piece clues together can count on for action, Zodiac is board. Michael Patrick King, several times. He survived, and she like a puzzle through out the movie. definitely your movie. It has plot executive producer and director is in did not. Strangely enough, the Zodiac It’s exactly what the Zodiac wants twists that will have you jumping the process of writing a script, but called and gave a confession about you to do. He wants you to rack out of your seat screaming. If you the plot line has not yet been the murders. your brain to try to figure out these dislike movies that are suspenseful released. Jake Gyllenhaal plays Robert mind-numbing riddles. During the and leave you with a chill, I would The Sex and the City movie is Graysmith, a cartoonist at the film, you see the Zodiac commit suggest leaving this one on the shelf. to be released on May 30, 2008. If newspaper that the Zodiac is several murders, but here’s the thing, The Zodiac was never solved. everything goes as planned, filming contacting. He is a master mind at you don’t actually see the Zodiac. Over the course of twenty-one will begin shortly in New York City. puzzles and begins to work the case The murders were brutal; at years, there was a man committing The movie should start off where on his own time. It becomes his times it was hard to watch knowing ruthless murders and taking credit the series finale ended in 2004. In obsession, and his marriage falls that they actually took place, but to for some that weren’t even his. that episode, each of the ladies was apart. Mark Ruffalo plays Inspector add to the twisted effect, happy Maybe you could be the one to solve paired with their man; Carrie with David Toschi, the main detective on music was played in the the case, so take a shot, and watch Mr. Big, Miranda with Steve, the case. Robert contacts him and background. It was as if it was a the movie. Charlotte with Harry, and Samantha with Smith. The movie will need to have an Austen’s life story captivates extremely innovative and exciting plot line in order to keep the show’s Margaret Bonanni ‘09 to take marriage seriously until she but no one but those two know the faithful followers involved and meets the roguish Mr. Tom Lefroy exact extent as to how far the intrigued. The only differences will Jane Austen was one of the (James McAvoy), a flirtacious, broke relationship went. be the ages of the characters, which most celebrated female authors of the lawyer. Austen and Lefroy soon fall I recommend this film because will alter where the movie will pick 1700’s. Not only did she see a world in love, starting a secretive romance of its top notch depiction of Austen up. that went further than social position that falls fate to an inevitable failure. and the period she lived in. There are many leaks circu- and money but she overcame the This failed romance will become the Everything from the scenery and lating online about what the plot line social expectations for women of her basis of some of her greatest novels. costumes to the vernacular used in will include. If you want to be time. In the biographical movie, Although the movie was a set the film was true to the time. completely surprised when you see Becoming Jane, director Julian in truth, the romance in the movie Hathaway’s portrayal of her the film, beware that certain online Jarrold does an exquisite job of between Austen and Lefroy was character was also very accurate to sites may contain plot spoilers. rendering the events and passion that exaggerated. The screen play for the Austen’s personality, and in my While it is not guaranteed that any would later inspire some of her great movie was based on the book opnion is her best acting to date. of these sources are correct; you romantic novels. Becoming Jane Austen by Joe Hathaway and McAvoy’s should watch out for information The story is set in the year Spence, which was taken from passionate, witty on screen romance that you do not want to know ahead 1795 in a rual English countryside. Austen’s letters and accounts of her was highly entertaining and will have of time. Austen (Anne Hathaway) wants to life. viewers waiting for more. For long-time Sex and the City make a living by her pen, but her Spence’s book and many others Additionally, watching this movie fans who want to be surprised, avoid parents wish for her to marry for about the young author acknowledge will help Austen’s readers better internet fan sites and simply wait financial security. She doesn’t start the romance between the two lovers, understand her work. for the movie to come out. November 2007The Patriot - W.T.H.S. What’s Happening - 25 What’s Happening

pieces WTHS Music Department Presents Holiday-Extravaganza the literary magazine even numbered SIBERIAN STEAMROLLER PROJECT Thursdays K-208 FEATURING MUSIC OF THE PUBLISH YOUR CREATIVITY TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA AND ANNHEIM TEAMROLLER submit your M S art, Commerce Bank Arts Center photography, poetry, Sunday, December 2 & short stories 3:00pm

to See NEWS section for more info! [email protected]

Local music scene...

DATE WHERE BANDS TIME COST 11/24 Skater’s Choice Attention! Attention!, The Atlantic, 5:30pm $10 The Crosstown Rivalry, I Call Fives, The Revival, When These Days End, Love In A .45, The Fourth Avenue,Major League, Death Do Us Part. 12/15 First Methodist Church As We Are, The Atlantic, The Crosstown Rivalry, 7:00pm $5 I Call Fives, The Skeleton Rock Shock, Slobbergun.

Commerce Bank Arts Centre upcoming events TOWNSHIP TOYS Event Date Ticket Prices

Tegan & Sara Friday, Nov. 23 December 6 & 7 $27.50 Opening: Northern State 7:00 pm 11:59 PM

Dave Coz & Friends Located in the Smooth Jazz Christmas with Tuesday, Nov. 29 $37 - $70 Core Lobby Wayman Tisdale, Jonathan Butler 8:00 pm and Kimberley Locke Come out and donate toys to the less Thursday, Dec. 13 Cirque Dreams: Jungle Fantasy fortunate family for 7:30 pm $47 - $57 the holiday sesaon Tuesday, Jan. 15 Moiseyev Dance Company $27 - $52 8:00 pm 26 - Sports The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 Sports Minutemen advance to semifinal Chris Fox ‘10

Story written prior to state semifinal game.

Living up to their title, the boy’s varsity soccer team has done an excellent job this season. The Minutemen secured the conference title with a win against Eastern, and is a major contender in the state playoff tournament. This season the team posted a strong record while exhibiting positive team qualities like team work. There were few weakpoints in the season where the team established a 14-2-2 record. In addition to a great record, the boys varsity soccer team dominated South Jersey by reclaiming the title of the Olympic Conference Division American champs. Even compared to last year’s team who had a successful season posting a record of 12-5-2, the current team has performed well. They have advanced to the state final having outplayed some of the areas best teams. The Minutemen’s veteran coach, Mr. Tom Patterson, is extremely proud of his players for their performance and effort, but couldn’t really pick a standout player. “We have a very balanced team. Every one A.J. Nisbet ‘08/The Patriot helps everyone to win games,” said Patterson. Darryl Richardson takes a shot on goal after scoring what proved to be the game Captains Chris Dunn ‘08 and Todd winner versus Pennsauken. The Minutemen advanced deeper into the playoff tourna- Kleinstuber ‘08 were able to lead their teammates ment after beating Toms River North. by example and expressed great leadership on do not possess is their lack of difference in skill with a challenge. Winning games took a whole and off the field. between starters and substitutes. team effort. This season, thirteen players on the Another very important aspect of the “I don’t even refer to them as subs, because team scored at least one, making the whole lineup Minutemen soccer team that many other teams there’s no difference between the two groups; a vital part to the team. subs are just as good as the starters this season,” “We’re tight on and off the pitch,” said said Coach Patterson. important starter Kevin McMullen ‘08. This ability to switch players on and off the This is the first time the Minutemen has pitch with no change in skill undoubtedly gave gotten this far since their division title in 1989 the team the boost that helped them eventually and 1990. With few obstacle left in their way, clinch the division. the Minutemen look to be crowned state Many players were spotlighted this season champions for the first time in school history. including John Adamo, the starting sweeper, who is said to be one of the team’s most improved players. Also, John Cicalese ‘08 led the Minutemen in goals scored. “We’re the best, bottom line,” said Cicalese when asked about playing in the state tournament. The Minutemen advanced in the playoffs Thursday afternoon after beating Toms River North 1-0. The Minutemen outshot their opponent 15-5. This victory came days after a 2-1 win against Pennsauken, where the Minutemen were able to come back from an early deficit. This game featured Daryll Richardson’s ‘09 second half game winning goal. A.J. Nisbet ‘08/The Patriot Richardson, and under classmen who will Dwayne Dove’s talent with the ball was just return to play next year, said, “I hope to have the A.J. Nisbet ‘08/The Patriot a piece of the high-powered Minutemen of- same chemistry with the team next season.” Todd Kleinstuber provided senior leader- fense this season. In every game, the Minutemen were faced ship for this year’s varsity squad. November 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Sports - 27 JV squad posts impressive record Weston Eldridge ‘10 so far. As a result, Rearick decided Rearick felt that the team’s best practice is that if a player cuts that Guzzo was ready for the next game so far was when they defeated practice, he will be cut from the team. The Junior Varsity boy’s soccer step, playing on the Varsity team. Shawnee 1-0. Rearick’s discipline methods allow team jumped out to an impressive Rearick then had the difficult job of “It was the team’s best defensive him to keep the team’s full attention 9-0 start this season. Coach Mr. filling his position as sweeper on the performance,” said Rearick. during practice. He feels the these Jeffrey Rearick, is very pleased with JV team. Rearick felt that C.J Walker While the Shawnee game stood methods will lead to team chemistry the team’s performance thus far. ’11 fit all the requirements for the out, the most memorable moment for on the field. Before the season, Rearick wanted open spot. Rearick was when his team beat Aside from being considered a all his players to improve their “C.J. Walker contributes in the Cherokee in their third game of the top notch coach by all his players, fitness, work to potential, and to sweeper position because of his season. It was rewarding for Rearick Rearick is also a P.E. teacher for the implement tactical strategies. leadership qualities as well as because he felt that all the players tenth grade. He’s been teaching for “The team has performed technical abilities,” said Rearick. united as one team to achieve the five years and finds balancing above expectations,” said Rearick. Players were given the chance victory. coaching and teaching comes natu- Rearick feels that Jerry Guzzo to vote for their captains.Rearick Rearick credits the team’s rally because both have similar goals. ‘10 has shown the most named two veteran captains, Dave success to the player’s cooperation He wants the best for his students improvement throughout the season Lanza ’10 and Guzzo. and attendance. His outlook on and players. A View from the Stands by Rich Elles ‘08 Philadelphia “back with a vengence” The start of a new hockey excelled in Buffalo under the new season had always been a time of rules, agreed to an eight-year contract great optimism for Philadelphia with the Flyers, completing the mold sports fans. However, after last for the 2007-8 season. Fans were season’s terrible results and massive not sure what to expect coming into disappointment, the Flyers the season, as the roster contained supporters could not help but be eleven new starters who were not cautious when placing faith into the on the team at the end of last season. 2007-8 squad. This year’s team has raced out At the end of last season, the of gates, seizing the division lead and Flyers were the joke of the National regaining some of the respect it had Hockey League and lacking a true lost last year. The new rules that identity as a team. With the hiring had been constantly berated in of a new general manager and head Philadelphia due to the team’s coach, a constantly shifting roster, inability to adjust are suddenly and a dizzying amount of trades, sitting well with Flyers fans, as the even the most ardent fans might have team seems to be flying around and struggled know the players who swarming to the puck. were forced to band together during The most noticeable changes on that unbear.able schedule. the ice are clearly the ability of the However, new general manager defensemen and the spectacular play Paul Holmgren put his rapid-fire of the goaltender. The valuable shot- trading style and the off-season to blocking skills combined with the excellent use, quickly reshaping a good coverage of the opposing team that finished last season with a team’s most dangerous goal-scorers franchise-low 56 points and 22 wins. have made the job of Martin Biron Though, as in many cases, the Flyers Google Image much easier. And, by posting back- had to get a little worse before they Daniel Briere is a vital piece to the Flyer’s strong start. to-back shutouts against rivals New could get better. After getting below-average remodeling their roster after the Jersey and Carolina in the first few Holmgren began by trading goaltending from a young prospect season had ended with more trades games of the year, the new Flyers away the team’s leader and and a seasoned veteran, the team and a massive free agent signing. The goalie is certainly doing his part to international superstar, Peter moved in a different direction, trading theme of repairing the defense held restore the glory in Philadelphia Forsberg for several young players for goaltender Martin Biron just true into the off-season, as the team hockey. and a top draft pick. Then, minutes before the trade deadline. traded for more leadership and skill Though early season numbers recognizing the team’s major need to Not only did Biron get the oppor- in blue-liners Jason Smith and can often be deceiving, this year’s replace slow-skating defensemen tunity to start in Philadelphia after Kimmo Timonen, who were both impressive squad seems to have with more mobile players to suit the serving as backup in Buffalo, but his captain of their respective teams returned with a vengeance, looking faster style of play in the new era of determined effort and gritty play before donning the orange and black. to return to the playoffs and finally the NHL, Holmgren immediately allowed him to become a fan favorite In arguably the largest signing bring the Stanley Cup to the acquired defensemen Lasse in the City of Brotherly Love. in the NHL over the off-season, championship-starved city of Kukkonen and Braydon Coburn. The Flyers continued Daniel Briere, a center who had Philadelphia. 28 - Sports The Patriot - W.T.H.S. November 2007 Girls win WTHS’s 100th title Molly Sweeney ‘08 with 11 goals. “The hard work, team work, The Minutemaids soccer team and the toughness of the girls are clinched the Olympic Conference what made the season so great. The Championship on Oct. 23 to girls really work hard for each other, become the 100th sports team in and that’s why they’ve school history to win the con- accomplished so much,” said Snyder. ference. The 2-1 home victory gave The Minutemaids recently fell the Minutemaids their second to Toms River North after a 1-0 consecutive conference title. victory over Williamstown on Nov. Scoring the two goals for 1st. Despite the late season loss, the Township were Katie Margiotta ‘08 Minutemaids finished a very and Christina Caltiabiano ‘08. Goalie successful season on Monday. Lauren Cicatiello ‘10 had eight saves Alyssa Pasquini ‘08 thinks the in the title game. 100th conference win is a great The coaching staff was very achievement. pleased to win the conference, but “It’s great to contribute to the head coach Mr. Shane Snyder said school and leave such a great mark the team wasn’t concerned with the (on the school’s athletic history), securing the school’s 100th title. The but the win wasn’t just because of team was looking at it as if it were one person. It was the result of the just another game, not a major school work ethic of the team as a whole,” record. said Pasquini. For next year though, Although the girls’ team is the seniors believe that the excited about setting the school underclassmen can keep the record record, they are even more proud going. of winning their second conference “We wish the juniors luck for A.J. Nisbet ‘08/The Patriot title in a row. The Minutemaids marched through another successful season next season and hopefully the team “We’re very proud of the girls, with a final regular season record of 17-2-1. can keep the conference-winning and winning the conference two trend going,” remarked Margiotta. years in a row is not an easy feat Capturing the title was a record of 17-2-1. Janine Valerio ‘10 With another successful regular considering that Eastern is a good fitting end to an extraordinary was the team’s highest scorer of season and an exciting post-season team and our conference is very regular season. The Minutemaids the season, scoring 12 goals, while run, look for the Minutemaids to be tough,” said Coach Snyder. finished the regular season with a Margiotta followed closely behind back in the mix next year. Homecoming victory sparks momentum From GAME Page 1 teams play by Tom Mihalic ’08. a score in the third quarter and again a nearly flawless game in front of an Mihalic rushed down the field and set up the offense for another score. appreciative home crowd. The first quarter of the game recovered a fumble on a kickoff to Graziano ran a quarterback sneak to Graziano propelled the was a true field-position battle, as set up the offense for another score. punch the ball into the endzone from Minutemen to victory, completing the teams exchanged possession Leading 10-7, the Minutemen the 1-yard line to reclaim the 10- 5 passes on 9 attempts for a total of until Cherokee finally broke through defense held through most of the point lead at 24-14. 87 yards and one touchdown. After late on a long touchdown drive with second quarter to give quarterback Despite the offensive success the game, he commented on the just under four minutes to go. And Steve Graziano ’08 chances to push and long touchdown drives, the importance of the team’s win. as if the 73-yard touchdown drive the offense into the endzone. game’s highlight came early in the “It was one of the biggest games had woken a sleeping giant, the With just 3:44 to go before fourth quarter when the Minutemen of the season and we really played Minutemen began to fire on all halftime, Graziano and the defense put together one of the best well,” said the quarterback, “The cylinders on both sides of the ball. Township offense struck again, as stands of the season. With first and defense was solid all game and made Just two minutes later with the the poised quarterback hit wide goal inside of the Washington the huge stop which was key in end of first quarter looming, receiver Matt Bosnjak ’08 for a 34- Township 5-yard line, the Chiefs finishing the game.” Township running back Skyler yard touchdown, giving the were stopped on four consecutive The win over Cherokee went a Robinson ’09 sprinted 55 yards to Minutemen a 17-7 lead. Despite the plays, including a fourth-down long way toward securing a playoff the endzone, bringing the massive score, the game was not yet in hand, rush for no gain just inches from spot for the Minutemen, who now crowd to life for the first time in the as the Chiefs quickly answered with the goal line, sending the crowd stand at 7-1. With the skilled play game. With the game tied 7-7 the another touchdown run to cut the into a frenzy. of both the offensive and defensive Minutemen special teams and lead to 17-14 at halftime. At the final gun, the Minutemen units, the leadership of a constantly defense went to work. After the halftime festivities, celebrated the victory over the improving senior quarterback, and a Early in the second quarter, the game resumed and the Cherokee Chiefs by saluting the large sense of team unity, the kicker Dan Maltese ‘08 watched his Minutemen defense came alive, crowd just before the fireworks show. Washington Township football team 31-yard field goal sail through the standing tall for the entire second Washington Township did not should be fun to watch when the uprights following a terrific special half. The inspired unit did not allow commit a single turnover and played playoffs begin.