The Patriot Issue 3 Washington Township High School, Sewell, NJ December 2007 Twp. turns out for toy drive Stephanie Foran ’08 Mrs. Carol Costello. The donations, Year after year during the which are mostly toys, holiday season, Washington first go to disadvantaged Township High School students families in Washington show their generosity motivated Township and then to only by the good feeling of knowing surrounding areas such they helped change someone’s life. as Camden and Salem As the snow and temperature were counties. The money falling on Dec. 6, student’s hopes will be used to purchase remained high as they camped out in gifts mostly for older the Core collecting toys for needy children and teens. Mrs. children. Carol Costello said that “I think it’s exciting because the money normally there’s snow on the ground and all goes towards gift the Christmas spirit said, Ashley certificates to the Sheriden ‘09 Deptford Mall, Wal- Township Toys, also known Mart, and food for the as “24 in the Core” is a school- upcoming months. sponsored toy drive where the One of the biggest Junior and Senior Class Council student donations this spends twenty four hours in the Core year was thirty-eight collecting various toys and cash toys given by Britney donations for needy families in Fera ‘08. Weseley Gallaher ‘08 Township. “It’s good to know This year the drive brought in that kids around here Santa (Alec Swiecinski) takes a break from a long night of collecting gifts. over $2500 and “thousands of toys” are getting toys and it’s great that Mullen ’09. “I would love to surpass last according to Class Council advisor, everyone will wake up on Christmas The advisors had high hopes year’s number. With today’s with a present,” stated Collette for this year’s event. economy and so many people out of work, there are a lot of needy Inside... families out there,” stated Costello. The Odd Couple Teachers on Board to She said the officers for 2007- News -p. 3 2008 were very enthusiastic for the toy drive as well. They made Last minute shopping obtain new contract posters and even created an Features -p. 5 Alyssa Figueroa ‘08 and WTEA’s private meeting to advertisement on the morning Commentary -p. 8 negotiate the contract on Nov. 5 that announcements complete with a On Tues. Nov. 27 teachers, lasted until 2 a.m. Simone said she dancing Santa. Holiday fun secretaries, and other WTEA believed much progress had been Costello, Mr. Steve Swetsky Odds and Ends - p. 11 supporters surely participated in an made, and stated, “I look forward to and Mr. Paul Braciante started the What’s Happening - p. 12 after school activity. That night over a quick, yet fair resolution.” event nearly twelve years ago as a 400 members of the Washington BOE President Gerber then part of their contract as senior class Sleep deprivation Township Education Association announced that remarks made by the advisors. The trio had to think of Lifestyles - p. 13 (WTEA), most wearing red, lined up public were limited to five minutes some way to raise community service Barnes and Noble in front of the 11-12 wing with and should not be of any in the school, thus Township Toys protest signs before they marched “inappropriate reform.” was born. The current trio of advi- Books -p. 14 into the 11/12 Auditorium to face When the meeting was turned sors consists of Costello, Mr. Robert Call of Duty 4 the Board of Education (BOE) and over to the public, WTEA President, Gorski and Mr. Mike Hudock. Tech Talk - p. 15 campaign for a new contract. Mr. Scardino was the first and only The very first year of the fund- Before questions and person to take the floor. Standing raiser didn’t even have to do with Entertainment p. 16 comments were open to the public before the board, he spoke for the toys. That year, the organizers People - p. 18 about the contract, Superintendent hundreds of WTEA members who shaved Mr. Marty Bouchard’s head Dr. Cheryl Simone addressed the were cheering him on. He started by on television to raise money for Winter Sports Preview public with her introduction of the expressing his wish to have had the needy families in Township. The Sports p. 20 situation. She spoke of the BOE See TEACHERS p.2 See TOYS p. 2 2 - News The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 Teachers on Board for contract From TEACHERS p. 1 holiday, and teachers are required contract settled before it had to work that day. expired on June 30, 2007. “But we “This only can be described were met with concepts and as childish,” stated Scardino, “the rhetoric,” Scardino stated, “and [the BOE approved calendar even states BOE] wouldn’t meet until ‘the that ‘in the event school is cancelled WTEA made significant due to snow or other emergency, proposals.’” school days will be added to the Scardino continued by end of the school year.’” expressing his belief that it is unfair As he wrapped up, Scardino “the children aren’t below average expressed the WTEA’s desire to but the teacher’s salary is,” and this meet before Dec. 11, the next below average salary coexists with scheduled mediation session, to get the district’s “first and second the contract settled. “We’ll meet highest administrative salaries.” He tonight,” he stated. also made known that the board had Scardino received a standing paid a lawyer $25,000 to act as its ovation by the public for his speech negotiating advocate, instead of just to the board. After no one else came coming to a solution on the contract. to the stand to speak, the BOE made Scardino also addressed the no rebuttal, as well as no decision BOE’s past claims that the teachers on meeting sooner than the 11th, and use students as “pawns” to receive quickly voted to adjourn the the contract they desire. meeting. “I resent that statement John Scuilli ‘08 The process is still underway, because the teachers continue to “Settle now” along with other signs such as “Respect now” and and as Simone stated at the meeting, give the highest quality of education “Contract now” were carried by many WTEA members at the “There is no doubt that contract negotiations can be unsettling for in the area,” he said. Nov. public board meeting. Scardino then commented on staff, parents, administrators, board the BOE’s controversial calendar had to add a school day to the Easter Sunday. Although many of education members, the decision. On Nov. 12 there was no calendar, and decided on March 20, Catholics believe it is considered a community and certainly the school in the Washington Township Holy Thursday. holiday, the BOE expressed in their students.” school district because teachers In the Catholic religion, Holy district-wide e-mail that under the To learn about how this matter exercised their rights to observe Thursday is the day Jesus had the expired teacher’s contract, which is affecting students, read p. 3 Veteran’s Day. Since students must Last Supper, which occurred three they are currently working under, “Students react to job actions” in attend school for 180 days, the BOE days before he was resurrected on Holy Thursday is not considered a Issue 2 of The Patriot. Township Toys helps A blue school day less fortunate From TOYS p. 1 We’re very well-prepared this response generated a lot of money year and ‘08 brings a lot of enthu- for the worthy cause. The next year siasm,” said Kevin Ernhoffer ‘08 the class advisors actually slept on As for the human aspect of the top of the Marching Band’s van and drive, Costello states that nothing donators filled it with toys. It was can compare. their biggest drive to date; nearly “The families and foundations six thousand dollars was raised. are so grateful when they pick up “The crazier the ideas, the the donations. My voice even more donations you get!” exclaimed quivers a little!” She said. Costello. For both those collecting and The senior class council those dontating toys, Township wanted to do help with the drive as Toys is a great way of giving back well. The advisors moved to the community. Both the Township Toys from the band bus genrosity and the fun extend long to the Core so the students could into the night. Taylor Cohen ‘08/ The Patriot help too. For the past nine years, Last year channel 6 showed up On Nov. 12, many senior girls wore their junior Powderpuff the senior class council had at four in the morning,” said Ryan jerseys and pants during school to commemorate the Township Toys there, with the Walker ‘08, “ A lot of our friends canceling of this year’s Powderpuff. Some girls also students spending twenty-four are coming in the wee hours of the hours to collect gifts. morning.” decorated the hallways and their lockers. December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. News - 3 Isabelle’s eyes raise awareness Gina Parker ‘09 “She is an incredibly smart little girl. She is so bright for her age and On Nov. 10, Paris Restaurant she doesn’t let her lack of sight held the second annual ‘Isabelle’s hinder her ability to learn,” says a Eyes’ benefit in honor of Isabelle family friend and contributor to the Nutt. Put together by the Nutt benefit, Cathy Parker. family and close friends, this event “Isabelle is very picky. She is is held to raise awareness and money fussy about what food she eats, she for the Foundation of Retinal doesn’t like to wear denim, and she Research. The night was a huge doesn’t like zippers.” Isabelle’s success collecting a little over mom, Sue Nutt said. $10,000 in donations, nearly Isabelle has been wearing doubling last year’s total. glasses since she was three and a half Isabelle is a three year old girl months old. Rather than wearing living in Washington Twp. that has them for visual purposes Isabelle been diagnosed with Leber’s wears them to protect her eyes. She Cogenital Amaurosis (LCA). LCA is tries to rub her eyes a lot and if in a rare genetic eye disorder that the future a surgery or cure is results in blindness and occurs in discovered, wearing her glasses will children either at birth or during their preserve her eyes. first few months of childhood. Isabelle’s parents make the A typical day for Isabelle is extra effort to keep their daughter similar to that of many other kids. calm and safe. When trying Isabelle attends Overbrook School something new they describe to for the Blind in Philadelphia. Some Isabelle what she is going to do and things she has learned there include: try to keep new experiences fun for making arts and crafts, learning how their curious daughter. to ride a tricycle, drinking through Isabelle’s favorite thing is noise. straws, and using a computer. One She loves to sing and knows more difference in her lifestyle is that she songs than most could imagine Courtesy of the Nutt family uses a long cane when she walks to someone her age knowing. She likes Isabelle Nutt loves to sing and often goes to Music and Me. prevent her from bumping into to play with her instruments, her to Music & Me. Isabelle enjoys “Out of curiosity a lot of people objects and falling. talking teddy bear, and enjoys going playing outside and swimming. stare at Isabelle. Some become sad while reacting at seeing such a young child blind, but I would just like Teachers thanked with lunch people to be educated on Isabelle’s condition rather than stare from afar. Mary Faralli ‘08 appreciation cards awaiting the entertainment while the teachers I’m always open to answering teachers in the mailboxes, Interact mingled and enjoyed themselves. questions.” said Nutt. November is a busy time for made an effort to show their “I feel it went well, the turn The “Isabelle’s Eyes” benefit members of the Rotary Interact Club. admiration at a hosted luncheon for out wasn’t quite as large as we’d featured a Chinese Auction, a silent The club has labeled November teachers which took place hoped, but everyone that attended auction, and included monetary Teacher Appreciation Month and has immediately after school on Nov. loved it,” said Fernandez, “We’re still donations. Isabelle herself made an sought to convey their gratitude to 26th. Inter- receiv- appearance at her event to say hi the people who dedicate their days act adorned ing thank-you and to thank the adults for coming. to improving students’ education at Cafeteria B letters from the “It’s just a little way to for “It’s a great event, and it’s heart Washington Township High School. with handmade teachers.” the students to show how warming to see so many people eager Interact general members decorations. The to help out this precious girl and the labored over personal, handmade The club much we really so appreciate Interact club foundation,” said Parker. thank-you cards to each individual members made has been them.” If you are interested in what teacher and counselor. Each member fifty personal hosting this -Marissa Fernandez ‘08 you can do help the Foundation for made at least two cards to ensure flower pots to event for a Retinal Research, Interact is that every teacher in the school adorn the three couple of sponsoring a cell phone drive. If you receives at least one and the notes long tables, complete with imitation years, and members say that there have any old or non-working cell were filled with personal ways in flowers and attached thank-you was much more enthusiasm this phones, you can drop them off in which that teacher affected the notes. The teachers were invited to year. room I-103. student. take a flower centerpiece as a gift. “The teachers really “It’s just a little way for the The food was displayed on the appreciated it. We got tons of emails Interested in helping students to show how much we cafeteria tables and the teachers were and cards from people that didn’t the community? Join really do appreciate them.” said offered hors d’oeuvres, snacks, and even come,” said Victoria Gardner Interact! Contact Ms. Interact president Marissa desserts. Steve Laraia ’09 and Justin ’08, who chaired the event, “We’re Naval in room I-103 Fernandez ’08. Bernardo ’09, from the school expecting more teachers to come out or visit their Eboard. In addition to the numerous orchestra, provided musical next year.” 4 - News The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 The Odd Couple goes on Margaret Bonanni ‘09 the play and many students Every year students anticipate found the play the fall play. This year the Way Off enjoyable. Broadway Players, under the “[The play] direction of Mr. James DiGennaro, was great, and I produced The Odd Couple by Neil loved Jackie Simon. Smith’s Set in New York City, the play performance,” is centered on two friends, Florence, said Megan Julia Hanh ’10, and Olive, Nikki Hipszer ’08, “I Black ‘08. Olive is divorced and very found the play to independent. She is the complete foil be really rela- of Florence, who has a more maternal table, and liked and clingy attitude. After Florence the humor.” separates from her husband, Olive To pull off proposes that she moves in. the play’s hu- With clashing attitudes, mature mor, the cast humor, and comical predicaments, stayed after the two help each other move on, almost every day and cope with their losses. for about seven “I chose one of Simon’s plays weeks of because they’re usually funny,” said rehearsals. These DiGennaro, “I picked the female rehear-sals, version because we had lot of although talented girls try out. It gave them a stringent, were nice chance to shine.” needed to per- Because of problems concerning fect the timing Margaret Bonanni ‘09/ The Patriot the play’s rights, the production and tempo that is The cast had weeks of rehearsals to perfect the play’s comedic tempo. took an unexpected turn. Instead of essential to a running the show from Nov. 15-17, comedy, said DiGennaro. They also Many actors, such as Young and Couple in order to draw from it ran on Dec. 6-7. Despite the came in for most days over the mid Black, studied accents to add depth Oscar’s character,” said Black. concerns, the play had its expected November break to run scenes. and color to their performance. It’s that type of dedication that turnout, and was well received by “We rehearsed everyday for “I started preparing for my part made this play worth watching. The the audience. about 2 months. They were fun but by practicing a New York accent, cast was as dedicated to their roles Laughter could be heard a lot of work,” said Jackie Smith which I didn’t actually use in the as they were to each other, and throughout the 11/12 auditorium. (Sylvie) ’08. show, but it definitely helped me get bonded throughout the production Hilarious punch-lines and vivid Some actors took preparation into character…I also watched clips process. characters added original comedy to for their parts above and beyond. from the original movie The Odd “The cast in general felt like a big family. Like any family, people are going to disagree and argue, but usually we had a great time DECA inducts new members rehearsing and made many memories Brittany Tartaglia ‘09 DECA shirts the day of the related competitions. Mrs. Olivo, the together. Sometimes we almost had ceremony. advisor of DECA, prepares students too good a time and it was hard to On Nov. 13, 2007, the At the ceremony, select for their Regional, State, and get through scenes because of all the organization known as DECA students were chosen as board National conferences. This year, the uncontrollable laughter,” said Black. inducted 257 new members at the members. Jessica McBride ’08 was National conference is taking place annual DECA Induction ceremony. chosen as DECA President. Kristen in Atlanta, Georgia. Interested in DECA is student-organized and Abdallah ‘08, Sean Kelly ‘09, Members also do community gives students the opportunity to Doreen Manukus ‘08, and Seamus service. Some of these include arts photography? have a fun, but is also a helpful Meintel ’08 were chosen as Vice and crafts with senior citizens, activity to participate in. Along with Presidents, who are also known as Adopted Families, which took place vocal and leadership skills, students Diamonds. Nov. 28, cleaning the Veterans Park, Come snap some acquire better skills in marketing, Along with honoring current March Madness, and the wing bowl. management, finance, merchandising, students, a past student was also Competitions and community shots for The and entrepreneurship. honored. Alicia DeFillipo, WTHS service are just a few of the many Patriot! Meetings In order to be inducted, the graduate of 2003, was inducted into things that DECA does. Members students had to be in a business the WTHS DECA Hall of Fame. also gain the valuable experience of on Tuesdays in class, and be interested in joining the The purpose of DECA is to the business world. To join next room D-8. organization. After signing up, they allow students to participate in year’s DECA group, see Mrs. Rosell, had to pay a $20 fee, and wear the conferences, which are business or Mrs. Olivo. December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Features - 5 Features Last minute shopping easy to do Sarah Kurtz ‘10 wonder of the world. Maybe a gift card isn’t personal enough for You’re on the phone with your best friend the message you want to say. Maybe it’s a loved when she tells you how excited she is to give you one you want to impress. Ordering anything her gift. The gift that you both agreed you online is extremely pricey at this time of year, weren’t getting for each other. Now you have a especially if you’re looking to over-night it. A problem. What do you do when you lack the quick stop at a nearby florist always does the time to shop for a great gift with no time? trick. A dozen roses can be pretty pricey, so a Purchasing a last minute item doesn’t need to be bouquet of tulips would do great. Add a box of nerve racking or nail biting. The key is to stay chocolates and you’re golden. A great idea would cool, calm, and collected. be to subscribe for the magazine for that person If it is the day of the planning to exchanging for a year or two. Everyone has magazines lying gifts, you’re best bet is to go with a gift card. around their house that they flip through or read. Even non-last minute shoppers purchase these. It’s not pricey and every time they get the They’re a great buy and you know that the person magazine they’ll think of you. receiving it can pick out something that they are If you’re looking to buy your mom or sure to like. One great place to purchase these is relative a quick gift, a trip to the spa is always a Barnes & Nobel. You can’t go wrong with giving good way to go. When you go to the spa to someone the opportunity to get away and cozy purchase the gift card, you can pre-order some of up with a good book and giant chocolate chip their activities so that it looks like you put time cookie. If a bookstore is not their style, try a mall and effort into something that didn’t take long at gift certificate. These are great for the shopper. all. This way they can have a day of pampering With an abundance of stores to choose from they on you. can get something they really like and it is your The easiest way to shop for someone is to treat. If you’re at a complete loss of where they plan ahead and take your time. Yet we sometimes would like to shop, try a Visa gift card. This gift run into those last minute situations that drive us card is acceptable at almost any retailer. You can nuts. Just remember to stay calm, and the buy food, gas, even clothing with this handy card. shopping will go smoothly. Who knows, you’re For the last minute shopper, it is the eighth- last minute gift could end up being their favorite. Stephanie Mordente ‘08 Winter holidays give reason to celebrate Katie Mount ‘09 they will receive presents. celebrate Hanukkah with other traditions. Some “My family and I go to church on Christmas treats enjoyed through those eight days are gelt What defines a holiday? Some may describe Eve. After that we spend time with my mom’s (chocolate coins) and potato pancakes. Families a holiday as a time of rest and relaxation. Others side of the family.” Victoria Monte ’09 said. “Then often enjoy playing dreidel, a four sided, spinning may say it is a time of religious observance. At the on Christmas day, we spend time with my dad’s top. end of every year, most American families celebrate side of the family.” “Hanukkah is a time to be with my family one of three winter holidays; Christmas, For the Jewish community it is the and friends.” Jennifer Ruegg ’09 stated. “We play Hanukkah or Kwanzaa. Each holiday is season of Hanukkah. Hanukkah is the dreidel and light the menorah.” celebrated differently, and each family holiday that commemorates the The latest addition to the holiday season is spends that time uniquely. victory of the Maccabees over the Kwanzaa, created by Ron Karenga in 1966. Unlike To Christians, Christmas is the Hellenistic Syrians. When the Christmas and Hanukkah, Kwanzaa is not a celebration of the birth of Christ. It is Hellenistic Syrians were defeated, the religious holiday. Kwanzaa celebrates African always celebrated on Dec. 25. Many Temple of Jerusalem was American family, community and culture. It is traditions that accompany Christmas, reclaimed. The Maccabees celebrated from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1. such as holiday feasts and caroling, held a celebration in order Festivities associated with Kwanzaa are dated back over 4000 years to the to rededicate the temple. candle lighting, feasting, pouring of libations (a Mesopotamians. Other than lighting ritual pouring of a drink as an offering to a god) There are many different the menorah, Jew- and gift-giving. Families dress up in African symbols that have come to be ish families garments and play music. Many families discuss a associated with Christmas, such chapter in African history. This is to pay respect as Santa Claus (also known as to their ancestors and family. Saint Nicolas) and candy canes. Family…it seems all three holidays have this Families decorate trees and in common. No matter how differently someone place presents under them for celebrates a holiday, they spend it with those they Christmas Day. Children leave care about. So enjoy your holidays and remember out a glass of milk, cookies, and a what’s important to you. note for Saint Nicholas, in hopes Dom Capcino 08’ Happy Christmahanukkwanzaa! 6 - Features The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 Project 540°: Students turn for a change Going Sam Baranowski ‘08 Civic Engagement. Though not green all high school students would jump upon hearing the phrase, one club at WTHS is truly passionate about new trend improving our school and community. Nicole Heath ‘10 “Project 540° gets its name from a 540° turn. It’s a full 360 and In the seventies it was disco, a half to represent looking around at eighties big hair, the nineties boy our world and then taking an extra bands. And now in the first decade step to change it,” said Katie Jewell, of the twenty first century, the new a member of the 2007-2008 fad in America is going green. Leadership Team. Katie is joined on From fuel efficient cars to green the Leadership Team by seniors roofing, the new trend of using Justine Hunsicker, Doreen Mankus, environment friendly things is and yours truly. The team catching on. More and more people coordinates facilitator training and Mary Kate Young ‘08 are going out of their way to by organizes the presentation of four Project 540 teaches students how to change the world around products that will lessen damage to different modules throughout the them. the ecosystem. Hybrid cars are hot year. is a rewarding experience, benefiting can be improved, and how to go on the market, and so are other Project 540° has already helped each member in their own way. about making those changes. So be simple things such as fluorescent improve our school in many ways; Senior Gina Benigno says, “I on the lookout for the first part of a bulbs and solar panels. All these the evidence of their involvement is learned a lot about how our school revolution coming to your classroom products are being sold to help stop everywhere you look. They helped functions from Project 540°. We soon. If you really want to get the spread of oil and fossil fuels into pass the Bond Referendum for new help get the students get involved in involved, it’s not too late to become the air. facilites including the all-weather policies and finances that make our a facilitator! Club advisor, Mr. Steve Though environmentalists have track and two turf fields, and also school what it is.” Gregor and any member of the team existed for decades, the popularity changed policy to allow students to This year, Project 540° will will be more than happy to get you is growing mainly due to the recent wear flip flops in school. Every visit all the history classes in WTHS started down the road to making a documentary by former vice member of this group agrees that it to discuss aspects of student life that difference. president Al Gore, The Inconvenient Truth. This documentary showed the by Jessica McFadden ‘10 effects of fossil fuel use on the earth One Day at a Time and how they contribute to global warming. This documentary received Shutting off wasteful habits rave reviews and Gore won a Nobel Peace Prize for the film. Thanks to One Day at a Time is a new column by letting the water run in their When you’re outside, there are this widely viewed movie, the that will focus on things that all of us shower and waiting for the water to quite a few things you can do to environmentalist movement has can do to help save our planet. get scalding hot. Most people, conserve water. Don’t water your been growing uncontrollably. subconsciously, leave the water lawns on cold, windy, and extremely In addition to documentary, the Although our Earth is roughly running when they shave, wash their hot days. Watering your lawn during cause has been spread largely by the 70% water, we waste gallons and face, washing dishes, or when using the aforementioned periods of time media and celebrities. Many celebs gallons of it each day. Taking long a garbage disposal. wastes more water because the water like Leonardo DiCaprio and Owen showers, watering lawns, and running Some people also run water to either blows away in the wind, Wilson have spread the cause simply water while brushing your teeth are make it hot just to thaw out meats! freezes, or evaporates! by showing their support. just a few ways that we all waste Instead of using water to thaw out It is best to water the lawns in Commercials and channels like water. People do not understand your meats, you can just sit the meat the early morning, to avoid Animal Planet and Discovery how simple it is to fix this problem. in your refrigerator over night or you evaporation. When you are mowing repeatedly show their support for Everyone can take part in can also use the defrost setting on the lawn, don’t cut it as short as you the growing effort to stop Global conserving water, even children! If your microwave. generally would. If you leave the Warming. we each take shorter showers, we, Another way to conserve water grass about a notch higher on your But will this new fad go as a whole, would save so many in your bathrooms is to test your mower, that decreases the risk of out like light up shoes and giga pets? gallons of water a day. It’s not a hard toilets and sinks for leaks. To test a evaporation of rainwater or sprinkler It’s not likely. Airlines, car, and even thing to do, turning off the water toilet for a leak, you should put a water. Also, do not let children play buildings are being changed to better while brushing your teeth. It’s colored dye into the tank of the with the garden hose! With the help the environment stay clean. actually quite simple. toilet. If the colored dye floods into children not playing with the hose, Even the Christmas holiday is going By turning off the tap water the toilet bowl without you flushing you are saving ten gallons a minute. green with Christmas lights that while brushing your teeth or shaving, it, then you have a leak in that Keep in mind the effects of won’t cause damage to the you are saving up to six gallons a specific toilet. By finding out that running the tap. If everyone makes ecosystem. With new inventions on week between the two activities! you have a leak in one of your toilets, an effort to conserve water, we will the market, and more easy ways to People all over the globe waste you are saving up to four hundred continue to have enough water to stop fossil fuels, this fad just might hundreds of gallons of water a day gallons of water a month! meet our society’s needs. go the distance. December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Features -7 AIDS Awareness Month Lauren Finneran ‘08 medications to keep the immune system working. When someone says It has been reported that there December, the first thing that pops are over 38.6 million people into many people’s minds is worldwide living with HIV. In the Christmas, Hanukkah, New Years, United States, there are more than or winter break. What doesn’t pop 1 million people living with HIV into many people’s minds is AIDS and there are about 40,000 new Awareness month. cases of HIV each year. Getting this Although that may not be at information out there is what AIDS the top of your list of things to Awareness month is all about. think about, it is a very important Knowledge is only the first subject that should not be over- step. There are many ways to show looked in the hustle and bustle of support for victims of HIV and the month. AIDS. You can buy red ribbons, December 1 is World AIDS magnets, wristbands, and pins. Visit Day. The World Health this site www.awarenessdepot.com/ Organization established world aids1.html if you’d like to know photo by yahoo AIDS Day in 1988 to educate There are 1 million people in the U.S. living with HIV, and research- more about ordering anything to people about the dangers of the show your support for the AIDS ers believe 25% of them do not know they are infected. Acquired Immune Deficiency cause. Syndrome or AIDS. The day is over time ruins the immune system When a person contracts HIV The only way to stop this devoted to educating about how and causes AIDS. HIV is spread they have a window of about 10 to epidemic is to be aware of it and AIDS is spread, how it can be only three ways; through sexual 12 years before their immune avoid being ignorant to this growing prevented, and how to get tested. intercourse, blood (sharing needles, system is damaged to the point of problem. Don’t turn a blind eye and AIDS is the result of the an open cut), or mother to child (if being diagnosed with AIDS. The be okay with having limited Human Immunodeficiency Virus the mother is infected, she will entire time a person has HIV or knowledge. Find out more so you (HIV), which infects the body and pass it on to her child). AIDS, they must be on expensive can better the future. Asian Awareness Club is stepping out Matthew Griechen ‘10 With the purpose of learning about plans to expand their movie event join,” said vice president, Danielle Asian cultures, the club also includes and make the Asian Movie Day a Burgo ’08. Asian Awareness is an restaurant visits so that the members monthly fixture. Also, a new Asian Awareness is one of the interesting club that has the goal of can experience the cuisine of fundraiser which involves selling many clubs at Washington Township teaching not only its members, but different Asian Cultures. fortune cookies with myriad flavors High School and it is in the midst of also the entire student body about Last year, the club went to a is an upcoming event to look for. preparing a variety of events that Asian cultures. It also has goals that local restaurant, Sakura, to enjoy The club hopes to be able to are available to the entire student include: giving back to the Japanese and Chinese cuisine. This accomplish a major project that body. If you are interested in the community and making the club an year, Asian Awareness plans to add involves the various cultural clubs Asian culture, this club is exemplary enjoy-able experience for all. many appealing projects. The club at Washington Township High in learning about the culture and This year, under the new School. This event would attempt having fun. leadership of Mr. Hart, the to incorporate the other cultural club plans to become more clubs and to create an event in which involved in school each club can have an area where they Join the functions and activities. could show aspects of their cultures. With the introduction of This event would be a fairly new new and exciting events, experience for many students. along with participating in Asian Awareness has only one Patriot the traditional events for the club, requirement for members, which is Asian Awareness is going to have attendance. Meetings are held Meetings on an exciting year. every Wednesday in room E- Some events that the 12. Asian Awareness is Tuesdays club members have open to all students at participated in are the the high school. Festival of Friends and Relay “Asian Aware- for Life. Along with ness is a fun and Room D-8 participating in major school exciting club that events, the Asian Awareness club also everyone should has hosted an Asian Movie Dday. 8 - Commentary The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 Commentary Outside the Box by Alyssa Figueroa ‘08 Negotiation battle unsettling Did you know that the real sensible that the teachers do not volunteer problem underlying the teacher’s for events and do other actions that are contract issue took place months not in their contracts. As a senior myself, before the old contract even expired? I know that it is not ideal to have events Last year, on Tues. Apr. 17 it you have anticipated for so long to be seemed sensible that taxpayers in the postponed or endangered of being community would vote “No” for cancelled. It is natural for students to be having higher taxes. However, what upset with the teachers. However, they most community members and should challenge themselves to look at students alike do not realize is that the situation through a teacher’s point of this directly affects them the view. following year. Last year, the If the school year ran smoothly, there budget was voted down, the existing would not be as many students attending contract with the WTEA expired, board meetings, community members The Board of Education (BOE) now writing letters to the board, and student claims it does not have the efficient publications about this topic as there are amount of funding to increase now. When teachers stop doing all of teacher salaries. The teachers are not the unpaid assistances that they usually getting paid nearly as much as other do for the school and community, they teachers in the county, and then essentially wake up everyone with a students are whining about the loss piercing call. of Powderpuff. Hopefully, the contract will soon get Still, this issue cannot be blamed settled, but in years to come all should solely on the budget being voted Alex Parkin ‘08 look back on past mistakes. The BOE down. It also falls heavily on failure to address to students because we truly could use a longer should work hard to come up with a new contract the issue early enough to hammer out the issue break before taking on the rest of the year. before the old one expires, and taxpayers should before the contract expired. It is kind of like leap Instead of playing games, the BOE should become aware of the tremendous effect their vote year, the expired contract comes around every focus on paying teachers. Teaching is the most for the budget has on their community. couple of years. It would make sense for the important profession in the world, and the fact Washington Township taxpayers, most who, in BOE to be readily prepared and eager to settle that Washington Township teachers, who are fact, do not come out to vote at all, need to put the contract before it started affecting the unquestionably extraordinary, are receiving below more thought into their vote because the benefits students. The BOE turned down the Washington ordinary salaries is unsettling. Increased budget gained for a few extra bucks is worth it. Township Education Association (WTEA), who or not, someway, somehow, the BOE’s number Although it seems like a price is being put wanted to settle the contract before June 30, one concern should be raising teachers’ salaries. on education, what students walk away with after because they refused the WTEA’s proposal, and Without the salaries they deserve, it is only twelve years is priceless. declared they would only meet until the WTEA’s proposals were significant. In doing so, the BOE apparently created their own definition of The Patriot “negotiation,” which is supposed to be a process Issue 3 - December 2007 in which both sides have to compromise to reach an agreement. Editor-in-Chief - Alyssa Figueroa ‘08 One must also realize that the whole matter Senior Editor- Rich Elles ‘08 Sports Editor - AJ Nisbet ‘08 is not just an issue of dollars and cents, it’s also News Editor- Margaret Bonanni ‘09 People Editor-Sarah Kurtz ‘10 about respect. Some BOE members left their Commentary Editor- Mary Faralli ‘08 What’s Happening - Lillyan Ling ‘08 Features Editor- Nicole Heath ‘10 Managing Editor- Kurt Pflugfelder ‘08 seats during public meetings when the topic was Lifestyles Editor - Taylor Cohen ‘08 Photo Editor - Gina Parker ‘09 heating up. The WTEA also was largely Odds & Ends Editor - Lauren Finneran ‘08 Layout and Design - Journalism II disrespected when the BOE made Holy Thursday Tech Talk Editor - Matt Neuteboom ‘08 Printing - Mr. Dale Biebel, Ed McGuire ‘08, Entertainment Editor - Steph Foran ‘08 Perry Wilson ‘09, Maria Brasco ‘10, Phil Jaffe ‘11 the day added to the calendar to make up for Book Editor - Katie Mount ‘09 Advisor - Mr. Jim Evangelisti having no school on Veteran’s Day, a legal holiday The Patriot is published by the students of teacher’s chose to observe. Washington Township High School. It was a clear tit-for-tat move because the 529 Hurffville-Cross Keys Road, Sewell, NJ 08080 BOE knew most believed the day would be added at the end of the year. Plus, deciding if Holy The opinions expressed in the Commentary section and all articles labeled as opinion, as well as all Thursday is or is not a holiday is definitely a reviews and columns, are the views 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. or its administration. subject too vague for nine members of a BOE to Unsigned editorials are meant to reflect the views of the publication. judge. Even with the “Holy Thursday” issue aside, taking away a vacation day is displeasing Please send all correspondence to: [email protected] December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Commentary - 9 Opinion Don’t let charities fall victim to talks Katie Mount ‘09 This contract dilemma has already caused Last year, Interact raised over $15,000. The other issues, such as the postponement of the money went to a great cause and helped I’m glad to hear that Monzo Madness is powder puff football game. researchers come one step closer to finding a cure. going to go on as scheduled, but I am concerned Though I was disappointed by powder In my opinion, the possibility of taking away about the status of other charity events. puff, it did not upset me as much as Monzo events that benefit those in need is upsetting and Although WTHS will be because Monzo Madness is unfair. I am glad Monzo will run as scheduled; hosting its annual Monzo not for pure amusement like however, I am concerned that other charity Madness, the event was in ...the possibility of powder puff is. fundraisers could be affected. danger of being cancelled. This taking away events Monzo Madness is a I understand the position that teachers are prospect had stunned and fundraiser run by the Rotary in. One of my teachers said that it’s tearing her angered me, but what shocked that benefit those in sponsored Interact Club. The up inside because she enjoys volunteering for me more was the reason be- need is upsetting and event raises money for school events. However the teachers voted against hind the potential cancellation. research regarding amyo- volunteering in order to call attention to the The charity event was unfair. trophic lateral sclerosis problem with negotiations. threatened because the (ALS), often called Lou The effects of this problem are now going teachers were not volunteering to supervise Gehrig’s disease. beyond the walls of the school. I am strongly because of a conflict with their contracts. A friend of mine was personally affected by urging the Board of Education to address the The teachers are currently working on last ALS. After two years of battling the disease, her problem before it gets out of hand. year’s contract. The Board of Education is not father died. I participated in the event last year A solution needs to be reached as soon as meeting the teacher’s demands. Teachers feel they to help raise money in hopes that I could help possible before it affects even more people and are not receiving the pay raises they deserve. prevent others from suffering as her family had. threatens other valuable WTHS traditions. Letters Supporting our troops, Skateboarding coverage staying on course praised, corrected Patriot editors, About 3,000 people died in the Patriot editors, 9/11 attacks. These people were I am writing in response to the innocent and knew of no risk. The article “Defend Our Democracy” in number of soldiers who have given I read [Amber Ogden’s] last article on skateboarding [“Skateboarding our school newspaper. I was very their lives is 3849. These people rolls into modern era” Nov. 2007] and I thought it was put together very pleased to see that there are other voluntarily joined the armed forces well. All of your information was on key and factual. I also liked how you young republicans in our school. I to defend the innocent when they didn’t make it seem like all skateboarders are no-good, rebel, punk kids as thought the article, which was knew the risk for themselves. They most people think. You made it sound like skaters now are more modern supportive of our Iraqi occupation, died heroes. and diverse. was very well written. If these oil funds get into the I also liked how you said that skateboarding isn’t really a walk in the I would also like to take the hands of the wrong people, park, its quite hard. I especially liked how you mentioned all of the opportunity to point out other key thousands more innocent people injuries, broken bones, dislocations, and all of the dangers of skateboarding. points in why a full withdrawal of may die. That’s America’s worst I But the one thing that I did not like was your image and caption for the troops would be harmful. fear. These victims would not be image. It doesn’t look like Ryan Sheckler is doing an ollie because as you Some say that our worst strangers, but our families at risk. stated in your article; “an ollie is when the skateboard sticks to the nightmare is to lose American boys I’m not a Bush supporter. I skater’s feet.” In the image the board is clearly not “attached” to his feet. overseas, not quite. Iraq sits on one don’t think we should have fought Other than that little flaw I thought that your article was great. If of the worlds largest oil beds. Where the way we have. I am only a you haven’t already guessed I am a skater myself. there is oil, there is money. Radical concerned citizen and a future groups now occupy Iraq because member of the military. there is no strong government to - Jesse Bolt ‘09 suppress them as in the past. - Devlin Rogers ‘08 If these terrorists, whom may be worst than Hussein, take hold to this oil, then there is unlimited The Patriot welcomes letters from its readers. funding for biochemical and nuclear The Patriot reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, content, and space. research. There may not have been Letters should be limited to 200 words. weapons of mass destruction when we arrived, but if we leave there are Please submit all letters to [email protected] sure to be plenty. 10 - Odds & Ends The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 Odds & Ends Humor Global Warming: An Aid to Society Rich Elles ‘08 without the need for complex irrigation systems. The concept of As the effects of global warming droughts in reference to crop have grown more prominent in recent production would disappear quicker years, the debate over climate control than the polar ice caps themselves. has heated up. Activists have battled The problem of nationwide with large corporations to change obesity would also gradually policies regulating carbon dioxide dissipate with a massive amount of emissions, fought with the general water, as those who have weight public over cleaner exhaust fumes, troubles would have to swim to get and made a strong case against around. The absolute necessity to deforestation. With a core temperat- exercise to get from place to place ure constantly rising, the Earth could would ultimately allow all people to be in serious trouble sooner than we lead a more healthy life. ever projected. Of course, it is common know- But truthfully, it would be ledge that one of the largest natural much more beneficial to the human threats on the planet is the Ursus race if we accelerated the process to maritimus, or polar bear. I, as well reap the short-term benefits. Lillyan Ling ‘08 as many others, have an irrational Think about the end of the Secondly, all places in the ing new, diverse cultural ideas to fear of polar bears and feel as though summer and how the feeling of dread world would feel like a tropical those with nearly unchangeable trad- the threat should be contained. With climbs into the minds of every student island. Every town in America could itional values. melting polar ice caps, the pop- as school looms each September. If become a potential travel destination Another concerning effect of ulation of bears in the artic circle we all drove gas-guzzling trucks and for world explorers, drastically global warming is the melting and would quickly drop off, as their burnt more fossil fuels, the summer boosting the economy. With more eventual elimination of the polar ice natural habitat would be slowly would never end, as global temp- sun, the need for tanning booths caps, which could cause global disintegrating. Society would finally eratures would gradually increase. would become obsolete, as everyone flooding. But should we really be be able to get a handle on the serious Schools never assemble students would always look tan and suave. concerned about an excess of water? polar bear threats and contain the during the hottest months of the year. Tourists from all over the world Those in need of water and suste- population in artificially created, and This would leave kids and teenagers would create excitement in small nance around the globe would be hopefully heavily monitored, to enjoy a never-ending summer. communities across the land, spread- served, because crops would flourish environments. Clearly the advantages out- Life As... by Nicole Heath ‘10 weigh the problems that could arise if we speed the global warming process. An endless summer, a ...A Procrastinator booming tourist economy, a world free from droughts and obesity, and It’s five o’clock in the morning, Now it’s true. As a student, I be pushed to the backburner. a final solution to the vicious danger and I’m up writing my paper. Sure, procrastinate. It’s a hard habit to But it seems that regardless of that is the polar bear would make my history teacher gave the class break. It’s like getting a crack addict this, my fellow students and I are life better for everyone around the over a month to write it. Most of us off drugs, separating guys from Halo, always called procrastinators. We are globe. If we all took the time to em- did use the time. Most of my or Michael Jackson from nose jobs. advised that we need to learn to pty countless aerosol cans into the classmates sat down in an orderly Yet, this doesn’t mean I always pro- ‘manage our time’ better. When in air, agreed to add burning fossil fuels fashion and carefully constructed crastinate. To be clear; I don’t always truth, that’s exactly what we did. It’s to the list of national pastimes, and their paper. procrastinate. Sometimes I’m forced not our fault there’s only twenty- refused to carpool and use public Most of them did. to do things last minute. It’s called four hours in a day. I can only abide transportation, a life of paradise I didn’t. prioritization. And as a busy stu- by the clock, not change it. It’s not would be on the heated horizon. Instead, I chose to write my dent, I have no chose but to do so. fair that many students, such as I, paper less than four hours before it Every student has encountered are always reprimanded for procras- DO YOU HAVE ANY was due. And as I came into those weeks in which everything is tination or laziness, when in fact, we QUIRKY IDEAS? homeroom that day and proceded to due. A chemistry project, algebra only ‘managed’ the allotted time. tell my friend Esther Kang about my homework, history paper, not to The point is, just because we endeavor, she asked the same mention the vocabulary quiz first procrastinate on little things, WRITE FOR THE ODDS & question that you’re probably period. When we are stuck with these doesn’t mean we do it all the time. ENDS SECTION! wondering: why did I wait to the types of weeks, we have to So before you call someone on last minute to do it? Before I could prioritize. We have to sit down and procrastination ask yourself; even answer, she respoded, weigh out which needs to be done Procrastination or Prioritization? EMAIL US AT “procrastinator.” first. And sometimes things have to That is the question. [email protected] December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Odds & Ends - 11 Happy Holidays!

Z D K W A N Z A A O R C J S T C F B R C ANGEL T A X J A R E S M Z L E N S R H X I E O CANDYCANE B E A N G E L R L U R O T H R L D N E O CAROL W R H E I I Y F M G W B K N E L A T D K CHRISTMAS P B Y L I M A F M M S A M D I C P O N I COOKIES Z R H D D U J O A I D R I E Y W K I I E DREIDEL O E H A K K U N A H S E A D C P D L E S FAMILY U G O H H G M R Y F R T N E R J O G R X GINGERBREAD P N N C Q S K W E D A A L E Y R X D J O HANUKKAH A I L N L A Y K V X C M S E A W P O B C KWANZAA T G O R C H K A U K S E Q C T U E R E K MENORAH N S J H X C U M J L N C Y R T O S N T P MISTLETOE A Y R R S N J M E T Y A J D C L E A T K NEWYEARS S L F F W T J U S N T G M W Q W E M G E ORNAMENTS C H R I S T M A S L O R H Q G C A E P W PRESENTS P P Y A Y Q A P Y S Z R E T K Q K N F G REINDEER Chelsey Gordon ‘08 N U I L T Y K K J X K Z A E D J A T Q A SANTA O G W S J F A Q T A C Z B H G C E S D H SNOWMAN Happy Holidays J M G E I X K Q L I Z H K Y Q D S U E L TREE from C T C S U Q Y V L P K U W T D H L B H V WINTER The Patriot! Holiday Horoscopes! Capricorn Taurus Virgo (12/23-1/20) (4/21-5/21) (8/22-9/23) It’s nice to be generous, Stay close to the ones you Hang your stocking by the but too much holiday love this holiday season, fire early this year, you shopping could leave your they will be your best might be lucky enough to pockets empty. winter companions. find a special surprise. Aquarius Gemini Libra (1/21-2/19) (9/23-10/23) (5/22-6/21) You’re feeling spontane- As the new year ap- Stay home and sit by the ous this month, grab your proaches, find a resolution fire this holiday season; crush and head under the and stick with it and you you need the relaxation. misteltoe. will be rewarded. Pisces Cancer Scorpio (2/20-3/20) (6/22-7/22) (10/24-11/22) Make sure to be close to Leave extra cookies out Spend extra time with your your crush when you ring for Santa, and you will find family this seson and you in the new year, you never many presents under the will find the true meaning know what could happen. tree. of the holidays. Aries Leo Sagittarious (11/23-12/22) (3/21-4/20) (7/23-8/21) Anticipate surprises this Don’t let anyone, friend or Don’t put off your work holiday season, the gift foe, bring you down this during the holidays, time that you unwrap may not holiday season, you will pass by before you be what you are expect- Natalie Zagone ‘11 deserve better. know it. ing. 12 - What’s Happening The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 What’s Happening  Hey, everybody! It’s the FREE iPod SENIOR DIRECTED CABARET Video!

Answer SATquestions Directed by on IMC eBoard Nikki Black and Christie Garcia T-Shirts for winners January 17th and 18th every week 7pm in the 11/12 Auditorium Cost: $5 Listen for your name on Monday’s Morning  Announcements

Holy Family STUDENT CHORAL BAND WINTER CONCERT Church BOOK CLUB will discuss December 19 is looking for people to help with So Yesterday 7pm by Scott Westfeld “Breakfast CBAC With Santa” ORCHESTRA WINTER CONCERT December 22 9am - 1pm December 18

(May count to- December 18 7pm wards volunteer 2:20 in the IMC hours for NHS) CBAC

Local music scene...

DATE WHERE BANDS COST

12/22 Stir It Up, Mullica Hill Boy With Robot, Joe Granato & the Peace Corps, more tba. Free 12/25 The Troadero, Philadelphia Harry & the Bipeds, The Ooaah Ooaahs $10 1/11 Savage Rock School, Blackwood As We Are, The Atlantic, Empty Spaces, Spire. $5 December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Lifestyles - 13 Lifestyles Poor sleep habits take toll Mind, Body, Soul Leanne Abrams ‘11 by Maggie Bonanni ‘09

Teens, especially those in high school, cope with a lot of stress. Stress can be caused by problems in school such as breaking up Extend with boyfriends or girlfriends, getting a date to prom, trying to fit in to the “popular crowd”, and youself with earning good grades. Teens often are faced with pressure from coaches, parents, teachers, Yoga employers, and friends. A sleep study conducted by The National Sleep Foundation, When most people think of yoga their initial found that stress can lead to reaction is far from excited. Most smirk and say depression, sickness, failing in “yoga is pointless, it’s just stretching.” I can even school, self destructive behavior, admit that my reaction was similar when my gym and in extreme cases, suicide. teacher informed me back in September that my Stress is characterized by feelings class would be practicing yoga for the second of tension, hopelessness, Taylor Cohen‘08/The Patriot marking period. But after my first few days of frustrations, worrying, sadness, Students are not getting enough of sleep, and actually doing yoga, I realized that it was much and with drawal. Thirty percent missing out on classwork. more than what I expected. of high school students feel may wake up feeling over tired, Sleep deprivation is defined I found out on the first day that yoga was stressed or depressed. According depressed, and even stressed out as a lack of sleep that teenagers not only stretching, but a full workout. Each to Mary Carskadon, Ph.D, from not getting enough sleep. really need. This is a serious side position is focused on a specific area of the body. “Talking with friends and instant Freshman, Jessica effect from stress. Sleep depri- When holding the position you not only stretch messaging keep adolescents from Jewusiak said “I’m really tired vation affects tens of millions of your body, but you also tone it. This requires the feeling tired in the evening.” and don’t want to go to school,” teen each year in the United use of muscles that are not used frequently as Because teens are suffering when asked about how she feels States alone. Some effects well as balance. Because the positions are done in from stress due to a variety of after staying up too late. that stress and lack of sleep can rotations and flow from one pose to the next, you factors, this causes them to stay Freshman Emma Johnson said bring for teenagers are clinical also receive a moderate cardio workout. up late hours. This, of course, “I feel like I can’t do anything, depression, weakened immune I also discovered that yoga is not only makes them fall behind in sleep can’t focus on my school work, system, head aches, and weight physical but mental. Because the original purpose they need to function. They then and all I want to do is sleep!” loss or gain. of yoga was to better the spirit, a large portion of It is very clear that stress it involves meditation, breathing, and centering contributes to many problems yourself. This causes the body to slow down from among teenagers. If you are one its usual state of alertness, and improves Box Office of the millions of teens suffering concentration. It cleanses the mind, and alleviates hrs in Core: from stress or depression due stress and tension that can build up over the day, which can help if you lead a busy lifestyle. Yoga M-F (3:30- to sleep deprivation, here are some ways to cope. Try to do also makes people feel good about themselves 8:30pm) & something relaxing such as and raises self esteem. Sat (10-2pm) writing in a journal or talking to After doing yoga for a few weeks, I started a close friend or family member. researching it online. I found plenty of websites You may also want to listen about it, and each website had positions that WTHS to relaxing or music. Another ranged in difficulty that ranged from beginner to students possible way to help you with expert. I also found out that Yoga not only helps you physically and mentally, but also improves $5 off stress is to set aside time everyday to do something you your immune system. Yoga has been proven to tickets when really enjoy. help asthma, carpel tunnel syndrome, arthritis, they show In the end, the most important lower blood pressure, and can even help manage anxiety. student ID at way to deal with stress is to make sure you keep the ones I ended up liking yoga so much that my gym the box you care about close for comfort class was not enough; I started doing it at home. I office. and love. Just remember that suggest yoga to anyone who’s open to try it. It’s you aren’t alone….so get some the perfect workout for someone who is looking sleep and you’ll be able to focus to better themselves as a whole. It’s the perfect on ways to deal with your many way to benefit mind, body and soul, and fits responsibilities! perfectly into any lifestyle. 14 - Books The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 Books B&N creates fun environment for readers Maggie Bonanni ‘09 advantage of is their book clubs. In these clubs readers can praise, Whether they buy books, read discuss, or even complain about in their comfortable lounge chairs, novels they have read, while meeting or have a caffeinated beverage in their and connecting with other enth- café, an avid reader can always find usiasts. Clubs are not just based on something that interests them at books, but on many other topics such Barnes and Noble. as writer’s workshops, genre Since 1917, Barnes and Noble discussions, and those that center on Booksellers have been providing different authors. Discussers can people with reading material. even go online and visit thousands Transforming from a mom and pop of discussion boards ranging from store in Wheaton, Illinois to the knitting to Shakespeare. country’s top bookseller brand for Between the vast selection, the fourth consecutive year (accor- book clubs, discussion boards, and ding to the EquiTrend® Brand café, it’s hard to believe that a store Study by Harris Interactive®), they Google Image can offer much more. However, sell almost three million books per Barnes and Noble stores are known for their large variety of Barnes and Noble goes above and year. activities including book clubs, book signings, release parties, beyond. They also hold community With selections from science and even children story hours. events in their stores for readers of fiction and children’s books, to self all ages. Release parties, perfor- help guides and classic novels, they calendars. Along with printed tory desserts, chocolate, and mances, book signings, and children’s offer every type of selection. It material, they also sell games, DVDs, sandwiches. They also have a seating story hours are just some of the seems that their offerings are always music, and even toys. Fans can find area for reading, studying, talking to events readers can attend. expanding. Their selections are not paraphernalia from favorite series friends, or relaxing. Whether buying a book on only taken from best sellers and such as Harry Potter or Star Wars. Throughout the store, literary Vietnamese cuisine, looking for award winning writers, but from Almost anyone can find something lounges complete with couches and Hedwig stuffed-animals, or stopping small publishers and college presses. they enjoy when they walk into the chairs can be found so readers can in for a Starbucks Mocha-latte, a Books are only one part of their store, or shop online at bn.com. have the ultimate experience of reader can find anything they need business. They also sell dozens of While looking through aisles of reading their favorite book while at Barnes and Noble. With shelves special interests magazines, travel materials, readers can also indulge in sipping their coffee or drink. stocked with thousands of books and guides, audio books, posters, sta- Barnes and Noble’s café, which serves Another aspect of Barnes and novelty items, one can only image tionary, and even planners and Starbucks Coffee, Cheesecake Fac- Noble that an avid reader can take the possibilities. Dragonfly foretells success for series Brittany Tartaglia ‘09 cheerleader, her boyfriend is tattoo, don’t do it.” However the deal with her problems is for you to popular and attractive, and she is a editor wouldn’t put it in the find out. Don’t Die Dragonfly is the member of the school’s newspaper newspaper. Sabine also has another Overall, I thought that Don’t first book in The Seer series by staff. Everything seems to be going problem. Her malicious ex- Die Dragonfly was a very good Linda Joy Singleton. Sabine Rose is back to normal; Sabine has not had boyfriend discovers her secretive book. It had a great plot and was a just a teenage girl who would want her premonitions in a long time. past and blackmails her. definite page-turner. However, quite nothing more than to be normal. Not only does her grandmother Sabine does a few of the scenes However, this is not the case. Sabine think she lost her gift, but Sabine is not know what to Sabine has a special in the book lacked has a special gift, a psychic gift that even giving into her own lies. Gift do. As if that isn’t gift, a psychic gift that detail; I thought enables her to be able to see the or no gift, Sabine still hears the enough, she has enables her to be able they should have future and be in touch with the spirit helpful, yet bossy voice of her spirit problems at home had more infor- world. These gifts are the same ones guide Opal. with her grand- to see the future and mation to make the that got her kicked out of her last One night Opal shows Sabine mother. Due to the be in touch with the story more under- school and her home just a year ago. a horrifying dream that seems to be fact that Nona spirit world. standable. Also, the In order to escape ridicule and getting worse every night. The thought Sabine had book is not very prevent further embarrassment to dream is of a girl with a dragonfly lost her powers, she takes on a new long which makes it a quick read. her family, Sabine moves in with tattoo, and the dragonfly is dripping apprentice, Dominic, who can talk Fortunately for fast readers, there her grandmother (Nona), who also blood. Being that Sabine helps with to animals. Sabine has to juggle are four other books in The Seer shares the same gift. the horoscopes section of the news- problems with Dominic, the girl series that have been released. All in Now, Sabine can start anew: paper, she tries to add a warning, with the tattoo, and her own social all I would give this book 3 ½ stars her new best friend is the popular “And to the girl with the dragonfly life. Whether or not she is able to out of 5. December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Tech Talk - 15 Tech Talk Guitar Hero 3 rocks home consoles Tom Gill ‘10 later gigs. You’ll play forever on the more difficult modes of Hard Since 2005, software publisher and Expert. Red Octane has been rocking and Some of the fans of today’s shocking the gaming industry with more contemporary music may not its smash hit Guitar Hero series, the be huge fans of this game’s song game in which you trade in your air list due to it mostly being older guitar for a guitar controller. The songs, but any fan of rock music innovative idea of gamers playing could easily recognize most of the their favorite songs with a specially songs on this game. Not only can made guitar controller has really you play these songs over and revolutionized the idea of what good over, but also, on the Xbox 360, gaming is. It’s now 2007, and Red you can download packs of songs Octane has produced another solid from artists such as the Foo installment in the Guitar Hero Fighters. Google Image franchise with Guitar Hero 3: With its hours upon hours of Rockstar Judy Nails plays at a venue remniscient of the Burning Legends of Rock. game play and it’s extensive list of There are many new changes to Man Festival. songs, Guitar Hero 3 should keep this game which makes it just as new game mode is the addition of Hero 3 you can play over 70 tracks you interested for a long time. And enjoyable as it was in the past. Some online play for the 360, PS3, and Wii including Hit Me With Your Best Shot, if you get bored of playing on your of the more recognizable changes are, versions. This adds a new aspect of Sabotage, Even Flow, When You were own, you can now go online or take of course, the new wireless guitars challenge where you can put your Young, One, Welcome to the Jungle, the game to a friend’s house and for the Xbox 360, PS3, and Wii guitar hero skills to the test against and many others. Granted, the song challenge them to a face-off. This versions. You can now change the people from all over the world. selection is huge, and you’ll never get game is a must-buy for anyone faceplate of the guitar, as well as However, the most important bored playing your favorites over and who is looking for a fun game detach the neck in case you wanted aspect of the Guitar Hero game is over again. This game is harder than which you can enjoy for a long to stow it in something like your obviously the song list. In Guitar the previous two, especially on the time. book bag. As well, the game’s graphics have been slightly tweaked. Most Call of Duty 4 reinvents modern warfare of the characters and sets have gotten Kurt Pflugfelder ‘08 without all the settings turned down, simply cannot walk away from a makeover, and the rock meter has this game is amazing. Printed pict- CoD4. been rebuffed to a newer and more Anyone who has played the ures simply cannot do this game As soon as you fire up multi- contemporary look. The score box first or second Call of Duty (CoD) justice. Every character has a wide player, though, there’s no going has also been tweaked to resemble an knows just how spectacular the variety of facial expressions and no back. Starting out, you’re a basic amp, and the addition of the note games are. The first installments in two faces are exactly alike. Puffs of Private rank with only five primary streak indicator is a cool bonus that the series followed the courageous smoke rise from every misplaced weapons available. By defeating adds to the amazing game play you fighting men of Russia, Great bullet and tracers fly through the sky other players and completing special experience in Guitar Hero 3. Britain, and the United States during so beautifully that you might find challenges, you can advance in rank But after all the visual aspects World War II. yourself just watching the battle rage and unlock new weapons, weapon of the game are appreciated, we’re What set these games apart around you. attachments, and abilities called left with game play. Much of the game from the rest of the innumerable But of course, the graphics “perks” that allow for things like is similar to the previous games with WWII games on the market was the won’t keep you from getting killed sprinting longer distances or steadier a few exceptions. There’s the new amount of detail and depth the in battle. Whether you’re playing aim while sniping. At first I found it battle mode in which two players developer Infinity Ward added to as Sgt. Paul Jackson of the USMC hard to level up because there were compete against each other on a song. the games. No longer was the story 1st Force Recon or “Soap” McTavish so many people already at higher In this mode, instead of collecting star just about the single character you from the 22nd British Special Air ranks. But after adapting my tactics, power, you collect attacks that you controlled, but about your comrades Service Regiment (SAS), the I quickly progressed. Now, after can use against your opponent, such in arms fighting by your side. Quite singleplayer missions are nonstop playing for nearly 13 hours, I’m a 1st as breaking a string, making them frankly, I was blown away. Nothing, action. Though most missions take Lieutenant II and I admit that I still switch to left handed mode, and however, could have prepared me for place on foot, some involve manning have a lot to learn from the Colonels causing them to have an amp the next installment. a mounted gun on a helicopter and and Generals out there. overload. Upon first starting the game, I another, my personal favorite, has Honestly, if you are even Not only can you play against a immediately noticed the game’s the player controlling the weapons remotely interested in a story-driven friend in this new mode, but you also outstanding graphics. First off, I still on an AC-130 gunship. While there first person shooter, this is the game play battle mode in single-player have an old computer by today’s is a lot of variety, I think I walked to pick up this holiday season. It’s against guitarists such as Slash of standards. Of course, this means that away from this game still wanting been said that war isn’t pretty, but Guns N’ Roses and Tom Morello of I have to run CoD4 on the lowest more, as the story was much too I’m sure whoever said that never Rage Against the Machine. Another graphics settings available. Even short for my liking. Then again, you played Call of Duty 4. 16 - Entertainment The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 Entertainment Backstreet Boys make comeback Sarah Kurtz ‘10 The album contains songs that make you get up and dance as well as songs Let’s face it, we were all that put you in a blue mood, a obsessed with boy bands growing combination the every album should up. The two major rival bands were have. Their first single titled, Backstreet Boys and N*Sync. Inconsolable, describes breaking up Unlike N*Sync, BSB is still releasing and the hardship of loss. Other songs albums. It’s hard to believe that on the album are more upbeat such fifteen years have gone by since they as, “Something That I Already first released an album, but BSB is Know” and “Helpless When She still going strong. Their music Smiles.” These songs brings forth changed pop culture forever. Starting more of the rock talent in the album. with their self-titled album in 1992, Then you have your typical boy- to their most recent album band songs like “You Can Let Go” Unbreakable, the boys are a and “Trouble Is”. Google Image sensation. Even though only four out Backstreet returns stronger than ever after losing a member. Every song on the album is of the five boys on the new album, handpicked to change your mood as their sound is still better than ever. After a four year break, the boys artists have on their whole albums every good song should be. They The Backstreet Boys have decided to give it another go. In 2006, today. may have lost a member, but they come a long way since they first the Backstreet Boys came out with After the tour for Never Gone sure have not lost their magic. started out in 1997. Nick Carter, the all too literal titled album, Never was complete, one member of the Although the album has done Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell, AJ Gone. band decided that he was hanging up extremely well up against Britney McLean and Kevin Richardson have The album immediately sky his boy band towel and heading for Spears’ new album Blackout, we all grown up now, just like their fans. rocketed to the top of the charts. home. Kevin Richardson left the haven’t heard of a tour yet. The boys started families, recorded The boys made it clear that they group with a full blessing of his Unbreakable by Backstreet solo projects, and even got caught meant business. The songs still teammates. Boys really shows that they are in up in the fast and dangerous life of obtained the same quirkiness that all Despite losing a strong member this business for good. Maybe young Hollywood, like most stars boy bands have, but at the same time of the band, Backstreet Boys another album could be on the way, have today. But the group remained had a contemporary rock sound. decided to try one more time. Their but it’s too soon to tell. But one strong and kept with the one thing Songs like “Climbing the Walls” and latest album, Unbreakable is still thing’s for sure: Backstreet’s back, that held them together, music. “I Still” have more passion then most fantastic despite the loss of Kevin. alright! Writers’ Guild strike affects media world

Stephanie Foran ‘08 at the Santa Monica Chronicle to make enough money to live On Nov. 2, the Writer’s Guild comfortably. of America went on strike after the As for the duration of the strike, expiration of their contract with the it is most likely to be very long and Alliance of Motion Picture and ugly since neither side is willing to Television Producers (AMPTP). negotiate. “It’s going to get a lot There are currently twelve thousand worse before it gets better,” said writers on the picket line. At least Rosell. Talks for a new contract have one of them has a local connection. not begun and most likely won’t un- Mrs. Eileen Rosell, a marketing til 2008. Viewers have already seen teacher at WTHS, is the mother of the effect of the strike—reruns are one of those writers. Her son is a on the air because writers refuse to Google Image writer for It’s Always Sunny in write. The WGA consists of two branches. The west deals with Holly- Philadelphia. She recently went out When Rosell went to California, wood and the east is in New York City. to Hollywood to join the protest. she protested along with guild them. Many of the picketers had have already seen the devastation of Rosell stated she’s worried for her members in front of Fox Studios. signs asking people to honk their car the strike. Even more shows will be son because of the cost of Protesters wore red shirts to show horns to support them; postponed in the months if the strike comfortably surviving in California. their support for the writers. unfortunately those who did were continues. “The people who are new to However, there were more than pulled over by police for a noise Hopefully the AMPTP and the the industry are affected [because just writers present. Actors such as violation. Writer’s Guild come to an agreement the pay is very low],” said Rosell. Robin Williams, Ray Romano, and Fans of Saturday Night Live, 24, soon so everyone’s favorite shows Her son even had to get a second job Julia Louis-Dreyfus rallied with and Late Night with Conan O’Brien can go back on the air. December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Entertainment - 17 Demonically different Avenged Sevenfold’s new album hits big Chelsey Gordon ‘08 It just doesn’t pack that same punch that made City of Evil so Avenged Sevenfold’s newly memorable. Not to mention it was released, self-titled album has short. With only ten tracks, you definitely struck a chord with their reach the end and wonder, “What fans. However, some argue they happened to the rest?” They also could do better. Their first album, use a synthesizer, which is really out Sounding the Seventh Trumpet, there considering their genre. released in 2001 (and re-released in Each song has its own style, 2002) made it clear they were a force from southern rock to something to be reckoned with. straight out of Tim Burton’s head. The band hit it big with their Listening to it for the first time, you second album, Waking the Fallen, in get the impression that a three-year- 2003. Two years later with the old just slapped some macaroni on a release of City of Evil, just about paper and hung it on the fridge. everyone knew who Avenged Looking at the album positively, Sevenfold was. you get the sense that each of the The band members are M. guys contributed to it in their own Google Image Shadows (Matt Sanders) on vocals, way. In fact, “A Little Piece of Synyster Gates (Brian Haner, Jr.) on Avenged Sevenfold’s new album sold about 94,000 copies first week. Heaven” was written entirely by lead guitar, Zacky Vengeance (Zacky riffs, compliments of Synyster Gates definitely took a small step The Rev himself. Baker) on rhythm guitar, Johnny and Zacky Vengeance. Add in The backward. As usual, the guitars were I think it’s a little jumbled and Christ (Johnny Seward) on bass, and Rev drumming like a demon, and perfectly harmonized, and The Rev the songs don’t really blend as The Reverend Tholomew Plague Johnny Christ’s bass lines, and it just keeps on drumming like the smoothly as they could, it is still a (Jimmy Sullivan) on drums. was a solid album with M. Shadows demon we all know he is. But, even great album. The fans were slightly City of Evil, their third album, screaming his heart out. with an orchestra, something seems let down, but happy to see a new is a nonstop blowout of heavy guitar However, Avenged Sevenfold to be missing. album. Opinion MTV misinterprets reality Matt Neuteboom ‘08 their parents house or have even given jobs. We’re talking under- not mean that they are brainwashed attempted to integrate with society. experienced adolescents are handed sheep. And in the real world the only Back when I was a kid, adults Their social experience is glaringly high profile jobs in the media with thing you can do is tolerate it. You always used to tell me that TV would lacking, and cast members are often little or no effort on their part. can’t force someone to change their rot my brain. I always thought that spoiled and whiny because of their This had got to be the biggest opinion. If it bothers you that much, they were just too stiff to enjoy upper-middle class lifestyles. fabrication I’ve ever seen a show then don’t associate with that person. television like kids do, but as I got The moans begin almost as portray. In the “real” real world you But the thing that gets to me older I’ve learned that they weren’t soon as the cast moves into the need a degree to get such jobs. Even the most is the lines in the opening against easing your brain with some house. Being the spoiled adolescents then, the application and credits: “find out what happens mindless television: they just they are, if they don’t get the room interviewing process can kill you, when people stop being polite...and recognized that TV is just garbage. they like, they have to complain not to mention that there are other, start getting real...” Taking center about it. probably more qualified individuals You have to be quite a whiny stage is MTV with ...God forbid if you The show gives who will also be trying to get the individual to think that people are their show “The you a free man- same job. fake if they’re polite. Whining and Real World.” The don’t get the bed you sion complete With the experience and arguing is not expressing yourself; it show is already like, the world has to with a Jacuzzi, a qualification range of the individuals, just shows how self-centered you going into its 20th pool table, and the strangers would probably be apt are. Polite people are not fake. season, but for stop until the many more ex- for jobs mail room clerks. In the real We’re polite because our parents those unfamiliar pensive luxuries. world, not everyone has a cool job. taught us manners, unlike yours, you with the show, the dilemma is solved. Most people In most cases, you do your job spoiled brat. idea is that seven would kill for because you have to, not because In The Real World, the people strangers live in the same house for some room space and a decent cot to you want to. are given a free mansion worth several months while cameras film sleep on, but these kids are so upset Then, conflicts arise as the millions, and are given a high-profile, their unscripted drama (hence with a simple conflict of sleeping strangers start to realize that people interesting job with no schooling or MTV’s emphasis of its “reality.”) arrangements. In the real world you have different opinions than they do! experience. In the real world, people Don’t ask me where MTV pay thousands of dollars a year to Gasp! Not everyone thinks like they spend $50,000 on college training, found the genetic rejects that rent an apartment, but God forbid if do! People have to accept the fact get a boring low-paying job, and have auditioned for their show, but each you don’t get the bed you like, the that others are not the 2D cutouts a three room apartment. The fact character’s personality is about as world has to stop until the dilemma that the media makes people. that even most people are content flat as day-old Coke. It seems like is solved. Humans have layers, and just with the latter makes one realize how none of these people have ever left Next the strangers are literally because they disagree with you does fake The Real World truly is. 18 - People The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 People Multi-sport captain takes last shots A.J. Nisbet ‘08 field hockey, was named Academic year she was a captain of the All American in lacrosse, and won a field hockey team, and later Hard work and commitment are student Athlete award for basketball. on in the year she will be only few of many words that apply Fort has been a part of varsity teams captain of the girl’s lacrosse to senior Sheri Fort and her success- since her sophomore year, even team. ful athletic journey during her high seeing time on the varsity stage as a “Sheri has always been school career. freshman. a dedicated and hard- While being a three sport Not only has Fort been a part working person on our team. athlete, Fort has made the 2nd Team of varsity teams for years, she has Her constant work ethic All Conference in both lacrosse and also held two captain roles. This helps motivate the rest of the team, especially me,” JV Soccer said Michelle Martin’08 one of Fort’s teammates and fellow captains on the Lanza looks ahead Minutemaids field hockey Kevin Whitehead ‘10 team. “She’s very important Soccer. It is the most popular to our team and I’m sure will sport in the world. So when you talk be greatly missed next year,” to someone who loves the game and Martin continued. can share his knowledge—you listen. While taking part in David Lanza ’10 is an three varsity sports, important part of the Washington basketball, lacrosse, and Township JV soccer team. Most, field hockey, her favorite who know him, think highly of him sport is lacrosse. and his playing skills. He excels in “The openness of the A.J. Nisbet ‘08/The Patriot this sport because of his speed and field allows me to use my Sheri Fort served as one of the cap- extremely aggressive play. His speed, it is a team sport, and tains for this year’s field hockey team. motivation on and off the field are it has some of the same Alyssa Figueroa ‘08/The Patriot his brother, and his two other sisters. concepts as basketball like running Though missing much of the All of whom have played for the plays and defensive principles,” said Fort also seems to share similar WTHS soccer program. season, David Lanza helped Fort. characteristics to her favorite athlete, “I want to be as good as them,” provide leadership for the Fort has been a part of the Mike Richards of the Philadelphia Lanza said. undefeated JV soccer team. winning tradition of the Minutemaids Flyers. To reach that goal he strives to Varsity Soccer Team finished the lacrosse team, as the team has been “He works hard every play, be a better player but he feels his season at 10-0-1. crowned Olympic Conference and will do whatever it takes for his weaknesses are completely covered “From one to ten, I would give Champions the past three years. team to win. He is a good player by his strengths. His strengths are our team chemistry a ten,” Lanza While being successful on the offensively and defensively, plays his speed, aggressive play, and poise said. lacrosse field, Fort was also part of both ends of the ice, and puts his on the field. Before soccer games A soccer team needs chemistry the Group 4 Sectional Finals the past team before himself,” said Fort. Lanza listens to “Welcome to the and teamwork to be successful and two years with the Minutemaids While success seems inevitable Jungle” by Guns and Roses to get move in the right direction. The field hockey team. on an athletic surface for Fort, she is him pumped up. Junior Varsity soccer team has a Fort’s most memorable sports also committed to her school work On game day, his mind is couple of standout players. moment during her high school career and studies. Fort has maintained entirely set with a winning attitude. According to Lanza, their most thus far was when the field hockey good grades in mostly honors classes, He’s willing to do whatever it takes prominent player on defense was team tied Eastern(the number two and is part of the National Honor to win the game that day. Also, as he Jerry Guzzo until he moved to the ranked field hockey team in the Society and despite her packed says, he hates to lose. Varsity team. Presently, Steve country who was seemingly schedule she still finds time to After a loss he ususally feels Morrone is filling the void for the unbeatable) 2-2 during her participate in the Interact club. that he and his teammates simply promoted Guzzo. sophomore year. Starting in the Fall of next year, did not get the job done and could “Kyle Jordan is probably our With few people being able to Fort will be attending St. Francis have played better. best forward,” Lanza stated, “be- match Fort’s successful resume, she University in Pennsylvania to major Sadly, all this motivation could cause he’s fast and he scores a lot. ” credits multiple things that inspire in physical therapy and continue her not be transferred to the field due to Their team accomplished Lanza’s her to work so hard. lacrosse career. his health issues. Lanza was eligible preseason goal, which was to win a “The desire for competition and With just a few more months to play, but had to wait on treatment lot of games or go undefeated. the drive to do my very best every left in Fort’s successful high school results. He did contributed to the “We’re intimidating because we time I play, and to have regrets,” said career, she is looking forward to team’s success in his brief stint this think that no one can beat us. But Fort when asked about her leading the Minutemaids lacrosse season. This year, the Boy’s Junior we can’t get too full of ourselves.” inspiration. team to a successful season. December 2007 The Patriot - W.T.H.S. Sports - 19 Sports Jones, team tumble records A.J. Nisbet ‘08 All State and ranked second all around in the state. Having not had a single taste of While Jones was a key part to defeat during regular competitions the success of the team this season, during the season, the Washington the team had a strong performance Township Gymnastics team finished from girls in all grade levels. the season with a 14-0 record and “Cara Cianci was a freshman claimed multiple championship that came in strong and kept up the titles. With contributions from hard work all season,” Said Jones. everyone on the team, they were able The team also had a strong to become conference champions, sophomore group in Brittany sectional champions, and earn a sixth Patane, Dana Villisin, and Demi place in the state. Lenox. Patane was often able to While the team was able to overcome adversity this season. break the school record three times, “She always gave it her all no senior and third year team captain matter what, even when her hands Sammi Jones managed to break or were busted and her ankles were tie all standing school records. hurting,” said Jones. Being on top is nothing new for Villisin and Lenox added to the Jones as this season was only one of team success with consistent hard multiple conference and sectional work and commitment. titles. Adding to the Jones’ With another gymnastics successful resume, this year she was season in the books, success is the Photo courtesy of Sammi Jones ‘08 named South Jersey Gymnast of the only word that can describe the team The WTHS gymnastics team finished the season undefeated with a Year. She was also named First Team and their season. 14-0 record. One team, one brotherhood Max Giorgi ‘08 especially for the senior Minutemen. As Marcucci left, he felt what many of the To the Washington Township Football team, players were thinking and says, “I didn’t want a senior class is something special. The same to leave it (the field). I just didn’t want it to be group of guys start out as freshman and grow over. I’ll miss being with all of the guys and and work together for the next four years. They spending time with the team.” become almost like family and when it is all finally This football program changes lives. It turns over, it is a very emotional but also gratifying boys into men, and teaches valuable life lessons. and fulfilling time. It is a program that can mold and shape a person This season was a prime example of this. to bettering themselves. Mike Schatzman (senior starter and captain) Marcucci says, “It builds character and said that, “We definitely overachieved this season. teaches mental toughness.” Patrick Herring We were the underdogs but we won the comments to any lower classmen coming up conference.” through the program to, “Keep your head when The Minutemen were not favored to win faced with adversity.” most of their games this year, and with the grueling Stephanie Mordente ‘08 On the night of the last official practice, loss in first game of the season, critics didn’t Award” at one point during the season. the senior class all met at the stadium. Through have much good to say about the team. But the He talked briefly about scoring touchdowns the dark they heard Coach Wechter say that Minutemen did not panic “in the face of and says, “It’s a great feeling, but it’s more for this would be the last time most of them would adversity”. (A phrase commonly used by Head the team than me. It’s a team effort.” play football. The seniors felt a wave wash Coach Wechter.) They pulled together as a To end the season, the Minutemen lost to over them because they knew how much “brother hood” and won the remaining regular Southern Regional High School 21-7 in the first football had meant to them and how they all season games. round of the playoffs, but soon redeemed weren’t ready to let it go. They knew that a The Minutemen, playing with sort of a themselves with a 27-21 victory over Eastern win against Eastern that Friday was mandatory. chip on their shoulders, overcame all of their Regional High School, which allowed them to be When the game finally came, and when division rivals. The most gratifying perhaps the sole winners of the Conference. Vincent those final seconds ticked away, and when might have been the Homecoming game, a Marcucci had two interceptions that game, and everything became oddly quiet the second before victory against Cherokee. All in all it was also knocked down Eastern’s pass towards the Vince knocked down the pass, they knew they positive season with positive achievements. end-zone that might have put them in the lead. all had done something great together, as team, as Schatzman received the “Back of the Week Leaving the field for the last time was difficult, players, as a brotherhood. 20 - Sports The Patriot - W.T.H.S. December 2007 Winter sports preview Swimmers seek to fill key roles Weston Eldridge ‘10 the team.” “As a captain, I The boy’s swim teams hopes for another provide experience,” said Verrillo, promising season after making it to the State “There are many new kids on the Tournament last season. team, and I will also try to provide “We would like to improve our record over leadership at practice and during last year’s, and qualify as a team for the State meets.” Tournament” said Coach Bill Albertson. With a rebuilding mentality, Albertson’s other goals for the season are to the team works hard in practice. A be competitive in every meet, and have at least typical practice for the team consists three swimmers qualify for the Individual State of stretching in the beginning, then Meet. He feels that it’s important to be the main set, and finishes with a competitive because of the team’s rebuilding warm-down. However, the day mentality after losing many crucial seniors last before a meet, practices are easier so year such as Billy Creager (State Champion), and the swimmers stay loose coming into Blaise Lacca (State Qualifier). the meet. Filling the shoes of those graduated seniors Weston Eldrige ‘10 “I like to mix it up with are Bill DeMarco ’08, Dan Bower ’08, and Matt The team takes a break during a practice session. distance some days, and sprints other Marzolf ’08. They’ll be part of the Varsity three captains to provide leadership and days,” said Albertson. medley relay that looks to be one of the team’s encouragement to the team. As the season goes on, Albertson will also major strengths going into the season. Joining “I feel honored because I’ve been working focus on helping the younger swimmers improve. them and swimming the butterfly is a talented hard for three years to get to the point where I He feels that the younger swimmers’ improvement freshman, Sal Liberto ’11. am now,” said DeMarco, “I’m also glad to have will be important for future success of the WTHS Along with the medley relay, the team looks the opportunity to be a role model and a leader to boy’s swimming program. to be strong in the 50 freestyle, with DeMarco leading the way. Another promising event is the 100 breaststroke, in which Bower hopes to repeat Girls look to start strong last year’s appearance in the Individual State Linda Hanford ‘11 these girls are determined to go all the way. Meet. Senior Captain, Gina Turdo said that she Other events that look promising for the To some, basketball is just another sport, expects everyone to come together as a team and upcoming season include the 500 freestyle, and but to the girls of the Minutemaids basketball have the most successful season possible, make the 50 butterfly. team it’s much more. It’s a sisterhood - a bond it to the state tournament, and have great However, Albertson feels the team’s major that is unexplainable. It gives these girls the heart memories along the way. weakness (setback) is their lack of depth in each and desire they have for the game. Along with That answer seems to be the popular oamong event. finding time to make bonds with each other they the girls, since they’ve known each other for a Albertson named three captains, DeMarco, Nick also put everything into their work ethic. This long time. Verrillo ’08, and Marzolf. Albertson expects these year is different from past years, mainly because “We are a family,” said Ashley Giedemann ‘10. Last season the team ended with a 21-7 record and the conference title. The girls are all hoping to be just as successful this season. Diving into a new season Alex Koutras ‘09 said that one of the main goals right now is just to become the best team Weston Eldridge ‘10 6-dive Meet (Gloucester County all around and improve everyday. Championships). If you are to walk into the gym while The Varsity diving team looks to have To work toward these goals, Elmore felt the girls are practicing you can see the heart another strong season with the return of their that Verderchio and Moreno were the most and care for their friends and teammates, but three top divers (Ben Brendlinger ’10, Elaina deserving of the captain positions on the team. more importantly you can see their true love Verderchio ’08, and Elliot Moreno ’08). “I expect the captains to set the tempo for for the game. “I would like to go to the State Meet again the workouts and display a positive attitude,” With their head coach and former this season and finish better than last year (15th said Elmore, “If the captains are lazy, then the Minutemaid Jennifer Natale, the girls are place),” said Brendlinger. In addition to the rest of the team will be lazy.” guided on and off the court. The team strength of the upperclassmen, Rachael Bunting A typical workout for the diving team chemistry amongst the girls all started when ’11 also looks to impact the team. begins with stretching, body-shaping, Natale became head coach. The girls can Coach Glinnie Elmore hopes to have three positioning, basic rolls, jumps, and relate to Natale in many ways and many feel of his top divers qualify for the State Meet at summersaults. After that, the team practices she has a way of creating a comfortable the end of the season. their dives that they will perform in the meets. atmosphere. This goal was achieved last season when If everything goes as planned for the The 2007-2008 girls’ basketball team is Verderchio, Moreno, and Brendlinger all upcoming season, Elmore expects that fans can something worth coming out to see. Their first qualified. Elmore also expects to be competitive look for the WTHS Varsity diving team to finish game is Fri., Dec. 14th vs. Shawnee at home. in the Tri-County meet, 11-dive Meet, and the in the top three in the 6-dive Meet (counties). Come support the team and see what being a real team is all about.