east lyme high school east lyme, ct
the vvikingiking ssagaaga january 27, 2009 volume 42 edition 10 Former Leadership, qualifying NFA physical her to become a school Splashing ‘til the End education teacher administrator. Therefore, named assistant when the assistant principal principal position opened up at ELHS, she jumped on by Emily Newton the opportunity. On January 22, Laurie “I’m very big on Zaneski traded in her following your heart and sweats and sneakers for doing the right thing…It pant suits and dress shoes seemed like the right when she started her fi rst thing to do,” said Ms. day on the job as assistant Zaneski who lives just *photos submitted by L.Tucker principal for grades 11/9. three miles down the street “I don’t go to school with her husband Pete and without sneakers on very three children—Alicia, 26, often,” remarked Ms. who is an art teacher Zaneski, who has been in at NFA; Zach, 22, who education for 30 years. For is a professional baseball the past 18 and a half years, player in the Texas Rangers she has been at Norwich system; and Maura, 20, Free Academy—fi rst as a who swims at the University physical education teacher, of Rhode Island. then as an administrative As for the future, Ms. intern and fi nally as the Zaneski explained that The cardboard boat race, run by Tech Ed teacher Lew Tucker, was held on department head of she does not have any January 12. Students, teachers, administrators and even some teachers’ physical education. immediate plans on the children participated in the event; a total of 45 boats took over the pool. Ms. Zaneski recently job. “Getting a feel for this Seniors Matt Baer and Dan Forget (top) fi nished the race with the fastest earned her Sixth Year place is going to be my time of 49.34 seconds and seniors Stephanie Van Alsten, Preston Tischer Degree in Educational fi rst priority.” and Greg Weston (bottom) won the award for best boat design.
Thirty Years and Counting 30 East Lyme High School: Contributing to the Nation’s Report Card n February 5, 52 randomly selected History. The tests will then be scored where ELHS seniors stand in comparison to ELHS students will be dismissed anonymously and combined with the scores students across the country. OOfrom their classes to participate of other students throughout Connecticut to “This test is important because it will in the National Assessment of Educational produce overall results for the state. help policy makers determine the course Progress (NAEP)—a test that over 100,000 NAEP results of the 11 participating of education in the years to come. Each high school seniors across the nation will states will then be released in The Nation’s senior taking this test will be representing partake in. Report Card, which will help the President, approximately 7,000 other students,” In a 90-minute time period, most students Congressmen and the nation’s educators explained Mr. Provost. will be assessed in mathematics, reading or make decisions about how to improve science. A few, however, will participate the educational system. It will also show Note: Information for this article in pilot tests for Civics, Geometry or U.S. Connecticut’s educators and policymakers was taken from a NAEP bulletin.
extreme home top sledding off-season chris brown makeover5 locations6 training9 concert 111review1
inside 2 january 27, 2009 opinion What You Email us at elhsvikingsaga NeeSAYd to Say @gmail.com a beauty queen, a star athlete view them differently. and on. But is perception really or a hip hop dancer, MADE Does anybody else see that big of a deal? contestants strive to prove something wrong with Does it make a huge others wrong. that statement? These difference if your sister’s After watching a MADE people are not trying boyfriend, or a student you pass marathon last week, I went onto by in the hall does not think you the show’s website to read about to be a certain persona are cool? Or if some kid in your students who had the desire because they want a math class thinks you are lazy to become a different person. healthier lifestyle or want and not athletic? Don’t worry And to be perfectly honest, to be more confi dent. about other’s opinions. All that it was pathetic. One hopeful Rather, they “want to matters is your own. participant, going by the name Just think about who is emily newton emily Ashleighx03, said, “I want to be MADE” because they important to you and do not be made into a snowboarder. want to be perceived as waste your time trying to please perception I’ve always wanted to be able to someone else. others. It is time for people to One of MTV’s most do this and prove to people I’m The whole basis of this show stop being worried about what watched programs is MADE, not just the girly cheerleader.” stems from perception. People others think of them. As long a reality show where students Other hopeful interviews went want to be perceived a certain as you are happy with whom are transformed into someone along the lines of saying they way and often are not. Many you are, ignore what everyone they have always dreamed of wanted to be made into a certain want to be viewed as “popular, else thinks and do what you becoming. Whether that be persona in order for others to cool, fun,” – the list goes on want to do.
it. The idea came to me after my uncle Guest passed away two years ago in December. For whatever reason, as soon as I found out what happened, I immediately started Editorial rummaging through my drawers for pictures of him. He passed away during my junior year, but the most recent photograph fun to keep, it is less likely to last you I had of him and I together pictured me at the whole year which, obviously, is kind no more than 9-years-old. of the point. The older I get, the more I
alex addabbo alex My past resolutions have been generic and ineffective. I have promised myself realize that the people you love resolutions that I would spend more time at the gym are not able to stay with you at least three years in a row. For at least forever. Your memories of them, Every year I make at least one New three years in a row I have noticed that just however, will last and it is always Year’s Resolution. Every year I keep up skipping one day creates a downward spiral with whatever changes I wanted to make and before I know it, I’m back to square comforting to have something, for about a month before I make another one. I resolved to stop procrastinating last like a photograph, to help you resolution to try again next year. This year year, but I ditched that idea as soon as I spark them. I decided to change up my strategy; I’m was assigned my fi rst Warykas paper of the Anyone can say that they are going to determined to keep a resolution this year. New Year. eat better or lose weight, but is that really I must admit, I’m a little surprised that This year I made a resolution that I something that you are going to keep? it took so long for me to fi nd the fault in am actually looking forward to keeping. Make a resolution that you’ll want to keep. my previous resolutions. It doesn’t take I decided that this year I want to take Spend more time with people you love, a rocket scientist to fi gure out that if you more pictures. It might sound like a silly laugh more, challenge yourself and make make a resolution that isn’t particularly resolution, but I have a reason behind 2009 your best year yet. the viking saga opinion january 27, 20093 saga soundoff pay-to-play Viking
Saga ellie kleinhans kleinhans ellie
con Staff Editors-in-Chief Emily Newton v. and
pro Ellie Kleinhans Managing
Alex Addabbo brendan welch brendan News join the club it doesn’t belong Ramona Ostrowski Do I think pay-for-play is a good thing? No, not Once again East Lyme athletics might be given Features necessarily. But I cannot help being a bit agitated the short end of the stick when it comes to the town Kit Brown by the community raising absolute hell about budget this year. And once again, the New London the proposal. Day sports columnist Mike DiMauro took the words Sports The truth is that many students have been “paying right out of my mouth on the issue. It’s hard for a Brendan Welch to play” for years, just not in athletics. 17-year-old kid to compete with a professional, but I was in marching band for two years, and both I’ll give it a shot. Entertainment seasons it cost me $125 to be a member, so forgive Pay-to-play does not belong in a public school— Andrea Chrunyk me if I think $80 sounds like a pretty good deal. especially one with such talented athletes. The boys’ Back Page At the same time, I think it is rather shameful that soccer and girls’ basketball teams were runners- the town waits until sports get put on the chopping up in their most recent state championships; both Matt Heath block to bring out the torches and pitchforks. Where swim teams have strong track records in the ECC Advisor have they been while the fi ne arts programs have as well—with the girls and boys winning eight and been slowly, but surely, wasting away at the hands four championships respectively, since the year Jeff Beale of budget cuts? Band and orchestra programs were 2000. And the list goes on and on. Illustrator cut from the elementary schools years ago. If anything, East Lyme athletics should be Catie Cameron Be happy that you even get funding from the receiving more money to keep their programs strong. school. The drama club has to raise every penny in But that’s not the case. Instead, next year students Photographer their coffers through fundraising via ticket sales and may have to pay large fees in order to play sports. Rachel Hutchins vigorous campaigning for program advertisements. With the economy as it is now, we can say goodbye We all have our “thing,” that to the three sport athletes and large selection pools Staff Writers during tryouts. We will offi cially be able to say hello Stefan Aleo activity that we love to do, that keeps to equal playing time (or else angry parents). us going despite the stresses of school East Lyme needs to fi nd a way to Hannah Barner and teenage life. Forgive me for spare $80,000 to keep pay-to-play James Compton believing that the fact that the sports out of the budget. Don’t spend 10 Shane Davies have survived unscathed for this long, grand on a hiring consultant for the Sam Deabay superintendent search, don’t buy while the arts consistently get the Natalie Kazierad more unused Smart Boards. There Charlotte Kenyon shaft, is a bit less than fair. have to be some options in our over My inner communist cannot help but view the $40,000,000 school budget. Kate Kielty possible instatement of “pay-to-play” as more of an Last fall, a few of ELHS’s top athletes transferred Maeve McHugh evening of the scales than a sign of the apocalypse. schools for athletic purposes. If pay-to-play is Emily Mooradian Still, maybe we can all band together and say that instituted, more athletes will switch districts so they Karie Simmons the line must be drawn here. Show the community can play the sport they love on a team that a) does Kiersten Sinko that they have no reason to consistently cut our not cost money or b) is better. budget and damage our extracurricular programs. So call your favorite Board of Education Selectman Raj Thanabal But for now, welcome to the club, athletes. It’s or Finance member and let them know that pay-to- Dana Tricarico really not so bad… play is bad for our school. the viking saga 4 january 27, 2009 news News in Brief Class of 2009 is Looking Fine! by Kiersten Sinko and Stefan Aleo The senior class is in good hands fundraiser alone. It is halfway through the year and the by Kiersten Sinko Although the senior class offi cers would junior class has stepped up their game! like to keep the amount of money they Winter Ball is approaching on January 31, have confi dential, senior treasurer with tickets priced at $10. The junior class Ashwin Maheshwari said he believes senate does not have a goal for the amount $20,000 would be a reasonable of money they want to raise. “We’re going amount to obtain by the end of this to try to make as much as we can, and see year, once everyone has paid their how it goes,” says junior class president class dues. Nathan Kastner. In order to obtain this amount, the Additionally, the class is planning future senior class offi cers have planned events. They are hoping to host an ice- on doing more tournaments such skating fundraiser in February. as volleyball, another dodge-ball and even a teachers versus students Next time you walk past the Viking basketball tournament. The money Vault, take a good look at the sweatpants. that will be raised will go to funds such Along the side is an updated design of as the senior prom and class trip. “Sven,” the current Viking logo. Plans are running effi ciently for This as-of-yet unnamed Viking is both of these events. Senior class friendlier looking—he is more of a cartoon president Brittany Watts confi rmed with a body that the senior prom will be held at the complete Pequot Museum, but the decision for with a the class trip still remains uncertain. sword and After the class trip, the last event shield, that is on the agenda is the graduation rather than j.compton/saga party. Eileen Wilson, chair of the just a head. Someone is having a bit too much fun at the craft fair... event committee, said, “The plans Senior for the graduation party are going nicely. Meredith The senior class of East Lyme High We’ve looked at many different options for Hedden, School was able to raise $5,000 at their where it will be held, and are starting to the creator, recent craft fair. narrow it down.” photo submitted by m.hedden agrees. “My This money does not go directly to Last year, the graduation party for the The new Sven? teacher the senior class, however. It is strictly Class of 2008 was held on Block Island. said that if for the drug/alcohol free graduation The party had dancing, beach volleyball I could make a better logo, then we could party which parent representatives are and even a bonfi re. Hopefully the Class of use it [on the merchandise].” currently planning. 2009 will be provided with the same, if not Meredith, a student in Ms. Derr’s Mind Additionally, the senior class sold better, entertainment. Your Business class responsible for the Viking ornaments during the craft fair. One “I think once we reach graduation everyone Vault, did some research on Vikings, then hundred ornaments were ordered for this will be excited about it,” said Watts. “I sketched out a design and presented it to the fundraiser and priced at $10 each. Eighty believe anyone will be pleased with any of class. Other students created logos as well, ornaments were sold on just the fi rst day. the outcomes. I think whatever happens, but Meredith’s design was the favorite. The class hopes to raise $1,000 from this that party is going to be the bomb!” “He’s very cute,” she points out. “The logo is more universal to everybody.” Senior Rachel Sievers, also in the class, Ask DunkinA Donuts Little Green Goes a Long Way likes the new design, too. “He’s a good submitted by Sara Schwartz Bring your old to fi ll up your little mascot,” she says. “I think with batteries to the personal coffee mug Rinse out and recycle peanut butter and some good advertising, he will replace school to be every morning. yogurt containers. Sven someday.” recycled. For now, the Viking Vault will feature Meredith’s creation on a limited number Do not throw away plastic Unplug appliances, Stop the faucet when of sweatpants and sweatshirts. The cost cups. Plastic utensils can especially cell phone washing your face to save is $25 for the new sweatpants and $35 for also be put through the chargers, when they are water. Also, brush your the sweatshirts. dishwasher and re-used. not in use. teeth in the shower! the viking saga news january 27, 2009 5 An Expensive Search Seven Days, 1,000 Volunteers, commentary by Ramona Ostrowski One Very Deserving Family liza Holcomb, an independent E contractor for the Connecticut Extreme Makeover: Home Edition builds a local family a new Association of Boards of Education, was home after tragedy strikes hired as a consultant for the expanded search for the new superintendent. by Maeve McHugh The original plan was to internally On Sunday, promote someone to the superintendent February 8 at 8 position. I fi nd it interesting that, p.m., ABC will air after a “world-wide” search for the an episode of its high school’s principal, the Board of hit series Extreme Education would not automatically do Makeover: Home the same for the person who runs the Edition that hits close entire school district. After residents to home. and school faculty expressed their In the spring of dissatisfaction with the internal search 2007, the Girard at a meeting in December, the Board family of Voluntown, agreed to broaden the exploration. Connecticut was I am not alone in questioning why helping at a charity this necessitates hiring a consultant event when their whose services will cost the school home was destroyed photo submitted by j.berry approximately $9,200. At a time when by a fi re. By the Crews work through the night to fi nish the house for the big reveal the school budget is tighter than ever summer, they were and teachers’ and other staff members’ ready to buy a new house. A few days before teacher at East Lyme Middle School and jobs are on the line, is it not vital that they were preparing to move, however, the a volunteer who worked at the cantine every dollar spent is scrutinized? family was struck by a worse tragedy with distributing food, was astounded by the Ms. Holcomb will be doing the deaths of Thomas and Marc, the father level of commitment determination of “important” tasks in the process: and the oldest son. everyone involved. “They are willing to do interviewing Board members, Since then, the family has been living with whatever they need to in order to complete arranging community forums, Carol’s parents in Old Lyme. Thankfully, the project on time. It really shows that facilitating discussions with the Boards they have now been given a chance to if you put your mind to something it can of Selectmen and Finance, conducting recover by their friends and neighbors back happen,” she said. focus groups and distributing a survey, in Voluntown. “We had to bring food to the construction among others. All of these necessary Their close family friend, Johanna site in the middle of the night because the steps took place in the hiring of the Kotecki, nominated them for Extreme construction workers felt they couldn’t high school principal last year, but by Makeover: Home Edition after the deaths leave because they were three hours internal consultant groups who worked of Thomas and Marc. Considering that the behind,” said Stacy Anderson, who also for free. show receives upwards of 200 applications worked at the cantine. In addition to Ms. Holcomb’s fee, each day, she considered it a long-shot. “The love that was shown there was the Board of Education is paying But when the news came that they had amazing – for so many people to come out approximately $2,500 for advertising been selected, the entire community and volunteer and donate materials during in newspapers and specifi c forums to was electrifi ed. a time when everybody is feeling economic “attract qualifi ed candidates.” The goal to build a fi ve-bedroom house pressure is truly amazing,” said Anderson. Yes, everyone in the East Lyme in one week was extremely ambitious. Deabay said, “All of the people from district wants the best for our schools. Senior Samantha Deabay said of the around the country were so incredible – Yes, most agree it is necessary to project, “It’s really amazing to see all that some of the contractors from the Carolinas examine all the options for a position was accomplished. They went from having had never really had to work with snow of this magnitude. However, it seems no home to having the biggest home on before but they worked together with the to me that the Board has taken this a the street.” contractors from around here and it all bit too far. There must be some middle The family’s old house was torn down on worked out. I think that it will be great for ground between not spending any Saturday, December 6, and the new house the rest of the country to be able to see how money and spending over $11,000, or was complete by Thursday, December 11. so many people pulled together when the between searching just within our own Mary-Beth Marchand, a social studies episode comes out.” buildings and the entire world. the viking saga 6 january 27, 2009 features Student by Day, Aspiring Veterinarian by Night Sophomore saves the lives of Fidos everywhere (or, you know, southeastern Connecticut)
by Charlotte Kenyonhalf with a pump.” animals. “My neighbors call my family After school every Thursday sophomore Taylor has been preparing her whole Noah’s Ark because of all of our pets,” Taylor Farley can be found in the life for moments like these when she can she said. Many people do not know that most unlikely of places: the Old Lyme help animals like the baby deer. “Growing most of the animals on “Noah’s Ark” were Animal Hospital. up, kids always said they wanted to be rescued. “We saved one of my horses from “I look forward to it all week,” she said. something big like an astronaut or a police being slaughtered.” “On an average Thursday, I act as an Her lifelong love of animals has led assistant technician. I fold laundry, her directly to Old Lyme Animal Hospital. fi ll vaccines, put out medications, “When I was involved with 4-H, two of my help in surgeries and even examine coaches also happened to be the owners of fecal matter.” the hospital and gave me the opportunity One particular Thursday did not go to volunteer.” as planned. “It was an emergency For her, volunteering is a major stress- case involving a baby deer that had reliever. “Everyone I work with is so nice,” been hit by a car. All of the actual she said. She fi nds that “the hands-on technicians were out so the doctor experiences are really helpful and I feel and the on-call technician needed an like I do not even want to be paid because extra pair of hands. I was so excited photo submitted by t.farley of that. It is really awesome.” to put on my scrubs and be involved Taylor also has big goals for the future. in the actual science of being a vet,” Taylor sitting in at a surgery at the animal hospital “I hope to do really well in school and go Taylor said. offi cer or a doctor. I always said I wanted somewhere with a really good vet program Ultimately she was not needed in the to be a vet and it has stuck with me my like Tufts or Cornell. I just have to stay operating room, but she was able to whole life.” motivated and keep my passion for helping “breathe for the animal for an hour and a Taylor has grown up around lots of the animals.”
Outdoor Fun Music & Movies 1998 was the hottest year on record in the With so many computer animated movies NINETIESNostalgia 20th century with an average temperature out now, it is hard to imagine that 1995’s Remembering the best decade of 54 degrees in the U.S—and what helped Toy Story was the fi rst fully computer that ever was us cool off was a blast of water from a animated movie—quite advanced for its Super Soaker water gun. The ability to hold time! Other popular movies included by Stefan Aleo massive amounts of water in its container Titanic, Jurassic Park, Lion King and and shoot from a range longer than other Home Alone. Hit music included songs Every student at East Lyme High School water guns added to its popularity—an from Backstreet Boys, Smashmouth and grew up in the 90s. Do you miss it? We excellent feature for soaking friends with Britney Spears. But the only collections know we do. Here are some of our favorites little effort. Also fun to enjoy outdoors that came close to compiling together all that we thought we might never see again: was the stylish but affordable Razor the hits were the NOW! That’s What I Call Television Scooter, perfect for cruising around the Music CDs. neighborhood. Whether it was waking up early to watch Food Doug on Disney’s One Saturday Morning, Fads “Lose the spoon, dude!” was the catchphrase or staying up late to watch All That on Remember going to the toy store to buy for Go-gurt—yogurt that came in a tube Nickelodeon, the simplicity of cable more Beanie Babies or “petting” your for people to enjoy on-the-go. Another proved that one did not need 200 channels virtual Tamagotchi pet? Almost anything memorable quote came from Bart Simpson to satisfy their entertainment needs. Other that was small or virtual or morphed into telling people, “Nobody better lay a fi nger popular shows to remember are Teenage another object made it onto the “most on my Butterfi nger!” Maybe Bart would Mutant Ninja Turtles, Power Rangers, 7th wanted” list for Christmas. Other popular enjoy a Ring Pop—candy that could be Heaven, Magic School Bus and Recess. items included portable CD (or cassette) put on a fi nger. Also, remember having a Most could probably remember watching players, creepy but furry Furby’s and birthday party at Chuck E Cheese’s—just Pokemon—and being in the middle of all Tech Deck Dudes—miniature people on because of the pizza? Biting into their the merchandising that emptied allowances skateboards that did “tricks” using only warm, cheesy pizza made it “the cool place faster than anyone could say, “Pikachu!” your fi ngers. to be a kid!” the viking saga features january 27, 2009 7 Something Fishy is Going DoubleTake on in Mr. Hine’s Maritime History Class Twins Jess and Jackie Blodgett go Jess pretending to be Jackie Parent Trap style on their teachers In contrast to Ms. Moger’s by Karie Simmons classroom, this room was very It had been talked about for days, planned well-lit, leaving Mr. Hine with for hours and on Tuesday, December 16 at no excuses. At the beginning approximately 12:45 p.m., it was fi nally of class Jess walked in the put into action: seniors Jess and Jackie room, with Jackie’s backpack Blodgett would at last use their twin power and all. With a “Hello” to Mr. for evil to trick Psychology teacher Alison k.simmons/Saga Hine and a simple “Hi Jack” Moger and history teacher Jason Hine. in response, class seemed to Moger and Hine pose, begrudgingly, after an act of tomfoolery Their weapon? The old switch-a-roo. start as usual. Besides a few her straight in the eyes when she hands her glances in Jess’s direction, Mr. Hine acted Someone is Playing Mind Games in Ms. the papers, but still notices nothing. quite normal. Moger’s Psychology Class 1:44: Jackie walks up to Ms. Moger’s desk, At approximately 1:55, Jess excused Jackie pretending to be Jess pretending to be confused about the answer herself from the classroom and met her Convinced that I was writing an article to one of the questions. Ms. Moger explains sister in the hallway and the twins returned about psychology, Ms. Moger allowed me to the correct answer, looking directly at her to their rightful places. observe the class. The room was dark except the entire time. It was not until the end of class that for the glow of the television screen on 1:55: Jackie asks to go get a drink of water. the real Jackie revealed to Mr. Hine what which a movie played. Ms. Moger was busy During the time she is gone, she and the tomfoolery had taken place. “I feel totally, grading tests at her desk while the class took real Jess switch back. They stray from the totally busted. Like, totally,” he said. notes on the fi lm. With her back to Jackie, plan and switch shirts to make Ms. Moger He claimed he had a slight inkling that it seemed as if she would never see her. even more confused. something was going on, but never said 2:09: Deciding that the prank has gone on anything. 1:14: Jackie asks, “Ms. Moger, can I go long enough, the real Jess says, “Ms. Moger, “Something drew my attention in to to the bathroom?” Ms. Moger responds, I was just wondering if you noticed anything her eyebrows.” Whether this is true or a “Yes” without hesitation, not even so much different about me.” It is quite obvious she desperate attempt to save his dignity, there as a puzzled glance. did not. Yet with time, a smirk came across is no question that Mr. Hine was fooled. “I 1:40: Ms. Moger stops the movie and begins her face when she fi nally began to fi gure it don’t know what the truth is anymore,” he to pass out test grades. When she calls Jess, all out. “I’ve been Punked! That’s so funny! said. “I don’t know who’s who. I’m in a Jackie goes to get the test. Ms. Moger looks Honestly, I did not know.” continuous cycle of being Punked now.”
Local hills to shred powder on this winter
Sledding Spots: by Karie Simmons
IANTIC ENTER CHOOL LD YME OUNTRY LUB
N C S O L C C C OOKS M C
If you are looking for somewhere low-key For the extreme sledder, there
The beach is no longer just for catching
with minimum thrill, the Niantic Center is no place like the Old Lyme rays and getting a tan. Those who seek
School is the place to go. The hill can be Country Club. This grassy a taller peak might fi nd enjoyment at
found in the very back area hill located off of Route 156
McCooks Point Beach in Niantic. This
of the playground, in Old Lyme is fi lled with hill can be found behind the beach parking
and is intended for bumps, sandpits, twists and lot, to the right of the path which leads to
smaller turns aplenty. One thing is the pavilions.
children for sure: this golf course is
and ns guaranteed to take you for a Due to the extreme proximity to the ocean, m.simmo the faint ed by ride even better than the one photo submitt the amount of snowfall here may vary. of heart. Karie tests out the hill at the club on golf carts. Length: 162 feet long Length: 85 feet long Length: 200 feet long Drop angle: Approximately 12° Drop angle: Approximately 6° Drop angle: Approximately 15° Obstacles: None except for a large cement Obstacles: Playground equipment and Obstacles: A few trees, occasional wall at the end close proximity to the street shrubbery and many other sledders Terrain: Short, damp grass and oftentimes Terrain: Very short, brown grass Terrain: Short, green grass large piles of leaves the viking saga 8 january 27, 2009 sports White-Out Woes A Day in the Life of a Viking Where have all the fans gone? A fi rsthand account of being Sven by Brendan Welch by Samantha Deabay
They made the promise. But have Although almost others anxious or they delivered? every student at East scared, but many Yes, the white-out crew was Lyme High School were willing to supposed to make a comeback. has cheered on give me a high fi ve. In Edition 8 we featured four our mascot, Sven, I was no longer individuals who were supposed only a select few Sam Deabay. For to lead the charge (Kevin Frank, understand what all intents and Ryan Baldassario, Brian Dagle, it is like to take on purposes, I was and Sean Doherty), and show up the role. I found out Sven, through and at a vast majority of the home what it means to be through. One of the basketball games. Sven fi rsthand: It’s offi cial Svens said Apparently, this has not been hot, sticky and even that the best part of the case. Student support has been a bit smelly. the job “is getting incredibly lacking. Even our four It was a Sunday to do whatever you white-out “leaders” are infrequent night in downtown want to do because attendees, and if they do show up, Niantic, and the no one knows they certainly don’t wear white. whole town was it’s you.” The girls’ basketball team is in attendance for Certainly, there 10-2, and quite frankly, basketball the annual Light are some things functions much better as a spectator Parade when I had about being the sport than volleyball, so the lack of my stint as our mascot that are fans is more than a bit perplexing. energetic, spirit- better than others. Come on, white-out crew… loving mascot. Not “Temperature We’re waiting… yet realizing how control is a big difficult the task problem,” said would be, I zipped one of the Svens. MEANWHILE YOU COULD up the robe, fastened Indeed, I found the belt and gained sweat pouring out ALWAYS WHITE OUT THE my balance as I hit of my body within FOLLOWING GAMES: Main Street with the minutes of strutting ELHS crew team. down the street, Girls’ home games: Though I found the which later caused time in the costume a serious heat rash TONIGHT vs. WATERFORD enjoyable at fi rst, on my chin. After it certainly had becoming Sven Tue., 2/3 vs. WOODSTOCK its diffi culties. As once, I could never one of the students imagine how hard Fri., 2/6 vs. LEDYARD who officially it would be to dress serves as Sven up multiple times Tue., 2/10 vs. NFA for school events throughout the stated, “It’s tough school year. Boys’ home games: because you can’t “Being Sven for
see what’s going on photo submitted by a.deabay our school is fun, I Thu., 1/29 vs. FITCH around you.” Sam gives the role of Sven two thumbs up- until she enjoy getting to the At the same time, actually hits the streets during the Light Parade. events and sneaking Fri., 2/13 vs. WATERFORD it became even harder under the bleachers to when children were batting me away in suit up,” said one of our Svens. “But the Tue., 2/17 vs. PUTNAM pure fear of the Viking head. Why they fi rst time is the worst.” are so terrifi ed by the lovable and cuddly Having experienced fi rsthand the good, Fr. 2/20 vs. GRISWOLD Sven remains a mystery. It became hard to bad and ugly facts of life as Sven, I can approach every fan, never knowing what his/ safely say I will not don that suit again her reaction would be; some were excited, anytime soon. the viking saga sports january 27, 2009 9
miracleEast Lyme hockey team shatterson losing streakice by Alex Addabbo If the Boston Red Sox were able to fi nal period at a nail-biting 3-2. The Eagles some East Lyme fans in the stands cheering conquer the curse of the Bambino then held strong for 11 minutes but with four them on to future victories. any team should be able to break a losing minutes left, Windsor East Granby scored “It defi nitely helps to have our friends streak, including East Lyme High School’s and tied the game 3-3. and people we know come watch and ice hockey team. That fateful night fi nally “When they tied it up everyone just support and cheer us on,” said Finnegan. came on Saturday, December 27, 2008 went nuts. The team knew that this was “It gives us a reason to play harder.” when the Fitch East Lyme Ledyard Eagles our one big chance of the year to win a won their fi rst game since February 2006. game and weren’t gonna stop at anything Early in the game, the Eagles took a to get it,” said sophomore and captain The Last Time the Hockey 2-0 lead over their opponent, Windsor Luca Addabbo. Team Had Won a Game... East Granby, with goals by ELHS senior With 2:43 left in the game, Ledyard and captain Jason Finnegan and ELHS junior David Deschenes scored the last - The Pittsburgh Steelers beat the Seattle junior Dan Zack. Unfortunately, after the goal securing the Eagles’ fi rst win. Seahawks, 21-10, in Super Bowl XL... second goal was scored complacency set “It feels good that all that hard work in and allowed Windsor East Granby to tie fi nally paid off,” said Finnegan. “We’d like - Former Vice President Dick Cheney shot his friend Harry Whittington in the face... the score. to have a couple more [wins] this season By the end of the second period the ‘cause everyone’s working really hard.” - “You’re Beautiful” by James Blunt was Eagles had taken the lead once again, Now that they fi nally have a win under the #1 single on the Billboard Hot 100... putting the score going into the third and their belts, all the Eagles need is to see
One of the best off season training Yuhas Performance Training: facilities available for athletes by Emily Mooradian “The facility is huge and has the best improve your work out, and I’ve had success Spacious, orderly and fi lled with enough and newest equipment with turf,” said there,” said junior Mickey Fiorillo. “He has training equipment to fi t any athlete’s needs, senior Danny Fryburg. “Tim Yuhas is not specifi c workouts for every type of athlete, Yuhas Performance Training (YPT) is an only one of the nicest guys I know but he is which is cool because he recognizes that outstanding training service for anyone incredibly knowledgeable on lifting as well different athletes have different needs.” who wants to get in better shape. as nutrition, always updating the workouts Each day begins with a self massage Located in Old Lyme, YPT is run solely to start the blood fl ow, and activation by East Lyme High School alumni Tim workouts to stimulate muscles that have Yuhas, who has worked in the training become inactive all day in school. They fi eld for 20 years. then move on to dynamic exercises for the “We try to make you the healthiest, nervous system, such as the agility ladder, most powerful, most mobile, most effi cient followed by speed exercises and lifting. athlete possible,” said Coach Yuhas. “We The training alternates daily between want to reduce the chances of the athlete activities targeting different muscles being injured, and teach everybody how and skills. to really train.” The sessions run three days a week Senior Kevin Frank, who has been typically with groups of six. Although the training at YPT since his sophomore year, program is group oriented, each athlete explained the distinction between actual gets individual attention, and everyone training and simply working out. “Training e.kleinhans/saga concentrates on the overall objective of is more like preparing yourself for a sport Strength coach Tim Yuhas is renowned for the becoming a better athlete. instead of just trying to throw up the most edge he gives our athletes, such as Kevin Frank. “At Yuhas we’re trying to become weight possible, which is better for your to not only make us better athletes but to athletes,” said Frank. “And because of it body if you want to be an athlete.” prevent injuries. I’ve never been in the I feel confi dent in my speed and athletic One of the most valuable aspects of shape I’ve been in since I started training abilities when I step out on the fi eld.” YPT is the experience of Yuhas himself. with him.” For more information, visit He has trained every level of athlete, from “Coach Yuhas knows how to do his job yuhasperformancetraining.com. recreational to professional. very well. He’s always looking for ways to the viking saga 10 january 27, 2009 entertainment Working for the Rock GODS Good Old East Lyme High School teacher worked a little unnerving to carry around $5,000,” for legendary rock group Aerosmith said Mr. Rose. by Hannah Barner Though most people disbelieve the Harmony Not only has staff member Caleb Rose lavish lifestyles of rock stars in movies, Ithacapella visits ELHS for concert met Aerosmith band members, but he maybe it is time to restore faith in the and workshop worked for them for two weeks in Hollywood portrayal. by Hannah Barner 1999 when they prepared for the “One time I was told “I’m talkin’ bout soul to soul / Brother Just Push Play tour at Sonalyst to go buy a cappuccino to brother / Ithacapella, sounds good Studios in Waterford. maker that they needed to “I got a job working on a deck have from Starbucks, it to me.” The chorus from Ithacapella, [as a carpenter] and my cell phone cost $4,000. On my way the all male a cappella group from rang one day, it was a friend of to buy it I got a phone call Ithaca College, theme song could be mine from Sonalyst and he asked saying that they wanted heard hummed around East Lyme High if I wanted to make some more it right away so they School’s auditorium even before the money … he said I’d be working M. Heath/Saga were having the one they concert started on January 5, 2009. for Aerosmith,” explained Mr. Mr. Rose was just as excited owned shipped down from Ithacapella, which was created in Rose. “I said I would; only he working for Aerosmith Boston… it was a lot like 2001, has come to ELHS for the last told me I couldn’t tell anyone. I hung up the movie Spinal Tap [a mockumentry satire four years and worked with choir the phone, put everything down that I was chronicling the crazy wild lifestyle of the students in workshops as well as given working on, and told the people on the rock band Spinal Tap].” performances. This privilege is greatly job that I was going to be working with From Spinal Tap-esque lifestyle to derived from music teacher Anthony Aerosmith. They didn’t believe me though,” ELHS teacher, some may wonder how that Maiese’s relationship with the group as he said with a laugh. transition occurred. an alumnus Ithacapella. “I was a runner; if they needed something “[When Aerosmith was leaving] they had In the January 5th performance, they would have us get it. We would go room for one of us on the tour, they took the loudest reaction to the a cappella buy anything from carpeting for the stage the other guy I worked with because he was group was when Maiese made a surprise to cappuccino makers and we would have a better typist. I guess I missed out on my entrance to one song. Maiese later thousands of dollars in order to buy it…It’s chance of Rock and Roll.” joined in again for the traditional closing song for the Ithacapella men, “Coney Island Baby.” The New Credit Card The entire concert was a mix of pop Library cards may be of more stores) to modern romances, like The and traditional choir songs that played up value than you think Notebook. And just like Netfl ix, movies their uncanny ability to perform without by Natalie Kazierad can be ordered from other libraries—at no instruments, yet manage to have the Until recently, library charge. A family may rent up sound of a full band on stage with them. cards have only been to six movies at a time Talent was abundant as several soloists useful for checking out and keep them for a sounded as if a record deal was on the books and accessing full week, whereas way. Crowd favorites included “Burnin’ the Connecticut Digital most movie Up” by the Jonas Brothers, “I’m in Love Library. Today, they stores have a with a Girl” by Gavin DeGraw and can save you lots of money in four-night limit. a Jackson Five number that included little ways. Library cards may choreographed dancing and a singer who Before you consider blowing also come in handy for could have passed for Michael Jackson your next paycheck on those who love to read but himself (pre-surgery). Perhaps the most a stack of movie rentals, cannot seem to fi nd time: entertaining part of the performance consider this: both VHS free downloadable audio was when the raffl e winner, junior Leah and DVD rentals are books are available. With a Citron, was serenaded onstage by the available at the East Lyme library card, you can download entire choir. Public Library for free (with your favorite books onto your No matter if they are performing your library card, of course). iPod and listen to them anytime. songs by John Mayer or the lesser known The library offers a wide Of course there is still the option Sufjan Stevens, Ithacapella is bound to selection of movies, ranging of checking out regular books. keep drawing large crowds and satisfy from classics, such as those So fi nd your library card and the eager fans of East Lyme. from The Three Stooges (which put it to use! It could save you are often unavailable at rental a fortune. the viking saga http://jimsmuse.wordpress.com/ entertainment january 27, 2009 11 A Chris Brown Christmas R&B singer performs over holiday break chanting his name throughout the arena. You,” “Kiss Kiss,” “Forever,” “Run It,” by Karie Simmons One crazed fan, however, was so intense “No Air,” “Gimme That,” “Take You On December 27th, the Mohegan that she cried hysterically, screaming Down,” and more. About half way through Sun Arena was packed with thousands “I love you” for about a half hour. the concert, Chris Brown, Scooter Smiff of screaming fans, anxiously waiting for Nevertheless, she successfully attracted the and backup dancers had a dance-off to the Chris Brown to perform. Anticipation was attention of Scooter’s backup dancers, and song “Freeze,” which really got the crowd high, and rumors of many surrounding fans. cheering. Scooter showed off his break a surprise special Scooter just ignored her, dancing while backup dancers front-fl ipped guest hung in the but his two young back their way across the stage. air. When the clock up dancers waved and What got fans even more excited was struck eight and the blew kisses. when they heard the DJ play the song countdown began, After the opening “Umbrella,” by Rihanna. Screams fi lled no one knew exactly act, the crowd was more the arena as the audience began to realize what to expect. than ready for the main what was about to happen. As most music- What they got was event. Suddenly, the lovers know, Chris Brown and Rihanna 13-year-old Scooter beginning to the song are not only dating, but sing a version of Smiff, a rising hip- “Wall to Wall” echoed “Umbrella” together. Sure enough, Rihanna hop star and young through the stadium and herself walked onstage to sing their song, heartthrob. He Chris Brown descended as well as “Live Your Life.” rapped and sang a http://ecx.images-amazon.com/ from the ceiling on wires Overall, the concert was a blast. With few songs including with his head down. It fl ames, confetti, fl ashing lights, crazy fans, An Exclusive: Chris Brown’s latest album the newly popular was the coolest concert and surprise guests, there was no aspect “Head of My Class” with dubbed in vocals entrance I have ever seen, for most singers that did not exceed expectations. “I’ve been by Chris Brown. Although he seemed to seem to rise up from underneath the stage. to almost a hundred concerts, and this one be lip synching, Scooter might well be Once his feet touched the stage, was defi nitely my favorite,” said senior Joy the next generation Usher; his incredible perfection followed. He pounded through Harriman, who had third row seats from dancing completely made the performance. complicated dance routines and powerful the stage. If you ever have the chance to see The crowd applauded the young rapper, vocals the whole night, singing “With Chris Brown in concert, do not pass it up. s My ng Just Wondering... i week: F h of the a em Oprah, I h T e it ke a th Li ve v e e is f it r a or v He ...why there are no snow days o gs. rite thin by Andrea Chrunyk things favorite built into next Deschanel’s talents extend further year’s schedule? than just her singing abilities. While As any fan of Elf found out, actress Zooey many actresses who wanted to try their ...why we have raindays Deschanel has a lovely voice. It sounds hand at singing employ song writers instead of snowdays? like something out of an (Jennifer Love Hewitt) or d o old movie where a random strictly covers (Scarlett ...why sports teams who win dance scene interjects itself Johansson), She & Him are ECCs no longer receive free for no real reason. different. Their fi rst album Luckily, Deschanel’s is almost entirely written sweatshirts? music career didn’t by Deschanel, with the stop with singing exception of three ...why the cost to check a “Baby It’s Cold songs, and all of the coat and bag at Winterball Outside” with Will songs are surprisingly is $2? Ferrell in the movie. good knowing that. Together with M. Ward For a small band with ...why Salem students get a she has formed the She & a big voice, and subtle 90-minute delay while East Him, a quirky indie band country twang, She & Lyme students still have to go that have released one Him has the best of to school on time? album and have another everything involved. on the way. http://userserve-ak.last.fm/serve/500/7147871.jpg the viking saga 12 january 27, 2009 back page If you could be trapped on a TV show for a month, which would you choose?
“The Girls Next “Entourage because Door because they they have fun” are hot.” -senior -sophomore Matias Francone James Lyons
m. heath/saga m. heath/saga
“Greys Anatomy because of “24 so I could kick McDreamy” down doors.” -senior -senior Kevin Frank Amber Kalolo
m. heath/saga m. heath/saga
“Teletubbies because “Bob Esponja” of tummy vision” -Mr. Wilson’s -senior Tommy Block A Spanish Wyman class
m. heath/saga m. heath/saga
Words of Wisdom with Matt Heath
In most of my pieces, I try to use humor goggles to be scratched and cloudy. to get certain messages across. Regarding When a teacher asks you to do my last column, I was merely trying to something, you should pay attention. It say that the science department’s goggles might not always make sense at the time, are bad and we need new ones. but teachers have your best interest and I was not trying to start a student safety in mind, especially Mr. Harfenist. uprising against safety goggles. I would So to all science students out there, like to send my apologies to Mr. please wear your goggles, not for Harfenist, but also let it be known that me, not for your teacher, but for your it is counterproductive for safety own safety.
the viking saga