June 2011

The

Falcon News

MONROE TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL |1629 PERRINEVILLE ROAD| MONROE TWP, NEW JERSEY 08831 | VOL. XII ISSUE V | June 14, 2011

Movin’ on up

The history behind the new high school

by JARED HUSSEY Executive Editor

A debate over raged over 10 years ago in Monroe Township about the growth of the student population. The end result of the debate was the decision to construct a new high school. Although it will become the new MTHS in the next school year, many people do not realize the amount of work and time that went into creating the plan for the new school.

Original plans were to build the high school on the plot of land where Oak Tree Elementary School is currently located. Those plans were thrown out after the referendum was voted down. The main concern was the amount of

land. This sparked a debate on whether or not to continue building on the presumably sacred land.

The Native American artifact controversy stalled construction for over a year, as the two sides continually presented different reasons and points, both not seeming to break the deadlocked debate.

Debates did not stop until late 2006, when then Governor Jon Corzine realized Monroe’s need for a larger school. He supported the idea, and allowed for Monroe Township to pass the referendum allowing them to begin construction.

Construction began in 2007 and, not before long, the new high school was finally taking shape. A little over three years was spent building the three

Photos/Dana Speizer

money it would cost to construct the school, along with the various sports fields necessary for a high school on the opposite side of town.

The township then decided to build on a section of land that was obtained from the county in a land exchange. The area of land was over part of the soccer fields in Thompson Park. It seemed everything was falling into place and the township would commence construction, but another problem concerning the area of land arose.

Opponents of construction claimed the area was over an eighteenth century Bethel Indian town, and several sacred artifacts were found over the plot of

story school and constructing the different facilities and rooms.

The only setback during building was the error on the name in the front of the school. Construction workers made the mistake of putting “Monroe Township Community High School”, rather than the basic “Monroe Township High School” due to a miscommunication. The error was quickly noticed and corrected without much of a hassle.

The first day of school next school year marks the official opening of the new high school, but it is just a minor stepping stone for the history of Monroe Township and its school district.

Features of the brand new MTHS

by SAKINA HUSSAIN Section Editor

The students of Monroe Township High School, specifically the freshmen, sophomores and juniors, were given the opportunity to take a tour of the new high school during the last weeks of May. During these tours, most students were amazed by the enormity and freshness of the school.

Of course, students had heard numerous rumors about the size and features of the high school, not to mention that monroetv. pegcentral.com had numerous video tours of the new high school with Principal Goodall.

However, even though we knew what to expect, as we entered the school, we were all overwhelmed.

Transitioning to the new school will definitely be a challenge. Long time MTHS math teacher, Mr. Barton Mix says, “There will likely be some unanticipated problems, but that goes with anything new.”

The school’s first floor mainly consists of all elective-related classrooms, such as the newspaper and yearbook room, culinary lab, auditorium, media center, the

gyms, and, of course, the cafeterias.

Also on the first floor is a little piece of the old MTHS brought back after being demolished from this building approximately 20 years ago. It is located right in the middle of the first floor, so that if a student were to lose their way, whichever hallways they are in would lead them to the commons and allow them to start over. Also, according Mr. Goodall, the commons will be where all students will go in the morning before the first bell. It seemed as though the commons served its purpose right away; during the tours, if people got tired or just no longer wanted to roam around, they would just sit around the commons and hang out.

The most exciting aspects of the first floor were definitely the performing arts center and the gym, as both rooms are considerably larger than the ones we have right now. The gym is twice the size of our current gym and, although we could not see it in its entirety because the bleachers were pulled out, the fact that the number of seats provided by the bleachers is so enormous and that, even with the bleachers out, the

size of the gym seemed huge allows one to assume that this gymnasium is anything but ordinary.

The performing arts center is also very large and seats a considerably larger amount of people than the Marasco. Also, the stage is much larger and there is an orchestra pit.

This auditorium, along with being huge, is much more professional.

The second and third floors of the school are more academically-centered, filled with run-of-the-mill classrooms. The only hindrance is that it is unfamiliar territory and it will take a while for students to adjust to it. That, and the floors seem to contain many more classrooms than in our current school, allowing the hallways to create an even more complex maze.

All in all, the Monroe Township High School, located on 200 Schoolhouse Rd., will be the new home of the Falcons. Although the transition will be difficult, and leaving behind the familiarity of our current school is definitely making a sacrifice, our new home will undoubtedly make the difficulties worthwhile with its incredible qualities. We all look forward to moving into our new home.

GETTIN’ SCHOOLED (TOP RIGHT): Over the past several months, students, parents and teachers have been allowed to walk the grounds of the new school. These tours have been led by Principal Goodall, along with several other members of the school district.

SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW (CENTER LEFT): A perfect view of the age-old MTHS commons brought back from the past and into the future of the school.

SCORE ONE FOR THE NEW GYM (BOTTOM RIGHT): The main gym at the new MTHS has two sets of bleachers that spell out FALCONS on one side and MTHS on the other. The gymnasium is rivaled in size by only a few other schools in the country.

CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER: Actors Chris Evans and Hugo Weaving dicuss the newest superhero movie “Captain America: The First Avenger” at Comic Con last year. The movie will be released to theaters around the country on July 22, 2011.

Photo/Flickr

The Monroe Falcon Staff salutes all American soldiers

What’s Inside This Issue

School News............... 2-3

Features................... 10-11

News...............................4-5

Health.......................12-13

Entertainment.............6-7

Op-Ed.........................14-15

Senior Special..............8-9

Humor.............................16

School News

Page 2

June 14, 2011

And we’re going digital!

The June issue of The Falcon News

marks the last issue to be printed on paper

Photo/Dana Speizer

Feet off the table, please

Materials and Methods class constructs coffee table for new high school

by BRIAN BAUTISTA Staff Writer

Photo/Stephanie Wo THE END OF AN ERA: Hundreds of old extra issues of The Falcon News, previously known as The Monroe Falcon are shown above.

Each print yields hundreds of extra issues that go untouched. The future online issue of the paper will dramatically cut this waste of paper.

by STEPHANIE WO Staff Writer/Layout Writers, artists and editors have been contributing to our school’s newspaper for half a century. In an effort to “go green” and cut costs, the school district has decided to end The Falcon News’ run on paper and switch it into the digital world.

Considered a school tradition, the paper covers many aspects of our school and local community from School News to Opinion.

This switch reaps many benefits, ranging from reaching a wider demographic to cutting the use of paper.

However, many mourn the fact that they will never be able to feel the grainy texture of our school paper again.

“I like feeling the paper in my hands. It’s more personal and in this day and age, it means a lot that there is something more substantial than digital mediums, especially since print newspapers are becoming obsolete,” says senior Angela Wo. Some see going digital as a sentimental mark, signifying an end to one tradition of our school and the beginning of a new one. Others think the switch is a much needed change that conforms to the tech-savvy age of today’s society.

“Going digital will allow us to save money by saving paper. It also allows people other than students and teachers to access issues easier

than before. The online interface will also open up the realm of archives so anyone can easily access previous issues. Some people may argue that society is becoming too dependent on technology, but in this situation, going digital reaps too many benefits to turn down,” says junior Sammy Othman.

Former Falcon News adviser Mrs. Sandy Appel agrees; “The newspaper industry has suffered

“Whatever the result, only time will tell which prediction the switch lives up to.” financially throughout the world due to the immediate access to online news sites. In order to survive, news corporations have spent years reconfiguring their publication models to include complete online issues enhanced by offering not just traditional news coverage, but interactive videos and blogs. It makes sense for The Falcon News to embrace new media, create an original online issue, and

possibly work to set a new standard for high school journalism.”

Not only will a digital switch cut costs, it will also catapult the paper into the modern age where many use the Internet as their main news source.

Some ideas for future online issues of The Falcon News are videos, a twitter feed, new sections, and even an application for Android, Blackberry and iPhones.

Even with the promise of new features, teachers still believe that going digital will decrease the amount of people that read the paper.

“No one is going to take the time to read it,” says Advanced Placement United States History teacher Mr. Matthew Defilipis. “If the teachers don’t mandate that the kids read it, no one will take the time to go home and read up on new articles. It is also very sentimental for people to keep an actual hard copy of their high school newspaper to look back on when they are older.”

Although the school has already decided the fate of the newspaper, some people are still reluctant to accept the switch from paper to an online interface. Even with new features, many believe that less people will take the time to read it.

On the other hand, others welcome the change that it will bring and the money that an online interface will save. Whatever the result, only time will tell which prediction the switch lives up to.

The Monroe Falcon Staff Editor-in-chief Julie Kelly

Graphics Stephanie Lorenzo

Executive Editor Jared Hussey

Artists David Morris James Stochel

section Editors Sakina Hussain Jaclyn Vogel Brittany Hastaba

Layout Editor Angela Wo Layout Design Bethany Chan Jeevan Nagpal Danielle Ostrager Stephanie Wo Photographer Samantha Kolavitch

Staff Writers Aidan Barclay Brian Bautista Andrew Dinicolo Theresa Gonzalez Leaundra Lane Matthew Gordon Stephen Kenney Katerina Martinez Kathryn Oliva Jeremy Roth Lindsey Zybrick

Winners of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association 2009 & 2008 Gold Medalist certificate 2007 Bronze Medalist certificate

As we move to the new high school, we have to keep in mind that the walls and classrooms won’t be the only things getting a makeover. The new administrative office will also be graced with a new object: a new coffee table built by students in the Materials and Methods II class.

The concept behind the project was to make something special that can be on display in the new office.

“We wanted to create a gift, but it wouldn’t just be an ordinary gift.

We wanted to make a gift that keeps on giving,” says Materials and Methods teacher Theodore Powoski. Mr. Powoski, along with senior class advisor Brooke Yudell, presented the table to Principal Robert Goodall on May 25.

The gift itself is painted glossy with a simple, yet creative design on it. The graphic is a digital rendering of the new high school and part of the area around it, with a falcon in the top corner.

“We didn’t want the design to be too busy,” Mr. Powoski says. “We originally planned to make it more ornate, but we decided that a simple

design would do the job just right.”

The design looks particularly impressive when lit up. During the presentation, the lights were turned off and two lamps were put underneath the table, shining upwards through the glass top. The white design glowed (in a sense), and actually allowed more details to become visible.

Mr. Goodall was very pleased and surprised to receive the table.

“It seems that they’ve put a lot of thought into this. I’m quite thrilled that they thought of me and built it, and I’m looking forward to putting it on display in the new high school’s office. I was more than willing to accept the gift.”

The students, especially seniors Joey Zelasko and Dominic Polidoro, also showed enthusiasm in creating the gift. “I was honored to make this table,” says Zelasko. “It’s kind of like giving back to Monroe.”

The table will be displayed in the new office in the new high school.

It won’t be just another coffee table buried underneath paper and vases and all the usual things that go on a coffee table. Mr. Goodall stated that it would be used, but it wouldn’t be in an area where people could just “put their feet up on.”

Say bye-bye to french fries French fries are eliminated from school lunches starting 2011

by ERIN ALSTON Staff Writer The rumors are true; starting next school year the french fries from Monroe Township’s school cafeteria will be taken out of the every day food choice, and only available once a month in portion-controlled sizes.

The choice to take away the caloriefilled side dish was not up to school officials, but up to the government.

“I don’t think it’s a good idea, but its government run; we have no choice in the matter,” says Miss Sandra, who works in Food Service at MTHS. The school food choices have already been strictly diminished in past years, from the reduced sizes of cookies to not being able to bring in cakes or sweets for birthdays.

Childhood obesity is why the government is regulating food choices and portion sizes.

“The government believes that if unhealthy school options are

replaced with healthy choices, it will motivate kids to eat healthier outside of school,” says Chicago Foods’ official Maria Santiago.

Sophomore Alicea Etheridge says, “Getting rid of the french fries at lunch is pointless. People will go to fast food restaurants or go home and eat unhealthy foods anyway, so what is it going to solve?”

The french fries will be replaced with alternative options, such as vegetables or fruit.

The only silver lining to the disposal of the cafeteria french fries is that they will be available to student’s once every month in portion-controlled sizes.

“Monitoring what we eat is a lost cause,” says sophomore Emily Puc. “The government can’t force a person to not eat what they want to eat; it’s your life, not the government’s.”

Starting the first day of the 2011-2012 school year, the french fries will officially be taken away and replaced with more wholesome food choices.

School News Page 3 Sen’11ors wrap up their high school careers with senior award night

June 14, 2011

Various donors award scholarships to seniors on senior award night at the Marasco Center

by STEPHANIE WO Staff Writer/Layout

Photo/Samantha Kolavitch TRADITIONAL DANCING: Sophomore Haritha Reddy wore brightly colored, traditional Indian clothing during one of her two dance performances at ‘Bhangra Fest.’

Multicultural fair unites cultures from across the globe ‘Bhangra Fest’ featured traditional Indian acts

by SAMANTHA KOLAVITCH Staff Writer/Photographer Students of every culture crowded into the cafeteria on Friday, May 20 for ‘Bhangra Fest 2011,’ sponsored by the Multicultural club.

The club, lead by Dr. Manjit Sran, organized an evening featuring different aspects of several cultural backgrounds. The main focus was Indian culture.

As students, teachers and families filled the brightly decorated cafeteria, the DJ booth played some popular pop songs. Many students wore traditional Indian clothing to get into the cultural mood.

Several large tables were filled with food from all around the world.

The menu ranged a wide variety of clutures, from baked ziti to lo mein and also featured different kinds of rice, salads and chips with salsa.

Once everyone was seated with their plates filled, the lights dimmed and the music switched to more traditional Indian music. The audience’s attention was directed to a colorful runway lit by twinkling lights where club members held a fashion show displaying cultural Indian clothing.

Sophomore Rijul Kumar strutted his stuff in the fashion show and said, “The show was really interesting because it displayed the indigenous clothes of India.”

Several musical performances followed the fashion show. The first was juniors Arthi Suresh, Christine Chhatwal and senior Rishi Sharma performing “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele. Their performance stuck out after Sharma’s speech about raising money

to buy solar cookers to donate to women in South Sudan. Throughout their song, people brought up money and put it in his guitar case.

Sophomore Katie Leung said, “It was very kind and compassionate that he brought that up. He was also great at playing guitar.”

By drawing attention to the cultures we are not exposed to every day, people were forced to think about how diverse the world really is.

The following, less serious performances by sophomore Saranya Ganapathy and junior Marielle Sumergido, then sophomore Anurag Corumutla and Arthi Suresh brought everyone back to a festive mood before the dance performances.

Both boys and girls choreographed several dance routines that featured traditional Indian dancing while throwing in modern twists.

Sophomore Haritha Reddy appeared in two dance performances and said, “Compared to other schools, our multicultural fair was more involved and relaxed. The dancing is fun because there’s no pressure and it’s great to perform in front of people to share Indian culture.”

The final dance performance welcomed the entire audience onto the dance floor, truly mixing every culture that was present. Before everyone went home for the night, talented artists painted temporary henna tattoos for everyone who attended.

‘Bhangra Fest 2011’ was ultimately a wonderful success, drawing attention to the diversity of our community and school.

Several organizations, associations and independent donors awarded a total of $81,600 in scholarships to many seniors on May 26 as recognition for their effort in school and the community from freshman to senior year.

“Applications for most awards were open to the entire senior class, and given to 129 select individuals who were eligible. Others were given to winners without application,” says guidance counselor Cathy Ielpi and guidance secretary Joan Fiumefreddo.

The ceremony progressed by categories: math, science, language, history, sports, extracurricular activities, and various education and character awards. As speakers called on students to receive their award, a brief page of the students’ achievements and activities in high school appeared on a projector on the stage.

Several associations and organizations contributed toward the ceremony. Some of these included the Monroe Township Education Association, which awarded the Future Teacher Award to Emily Gorelick, Marisa Guerra, Allison Pron and Jenna Volkman for pursuing a career in education. The Kiwanis of Rossmoor awarded the Kiwanis Key Club Scholarship to Jessica Dipierro, Jarvis Grantham, Mita Joshi, and Jenny Lin for demonstrating leadership, drive and dedication to the

Photo/Dana Speizer

AWARDS CEREMONY: Senior Jill Shah receives the Student Council Award on senior awards night. Donations from associations, organizations and independent donors totaled $81,600.

school, community and society.

School clubs and organizations also donated funds for several awards. The MTHS Student Council awarded The Student Council Award to Reena Dholakia, Megan Bonamici, Jill Shah, Shaena Gupta, and Julie Kelly.

“I really appreciate the award.

It is an awesome feeling to know that my dedication to the club paid off and I was honored to receive it,” says senior Julie Kelly.

Additionally, there were several independent donors, such as the Arena family who awarded The Brian Joseph Arena Memorial Scholarship to Amanda Boccardi, in honor of their late son, Brian, and for Amanda’s pursuit of a career in teaching and involvement in school activity and community service. The Walp family awarded The Ryan E. Walp Scholarship to Jamie Costa, Mi-

chael Mahmoud and Meghan Williams for their performance in basketball, involvement in clubs or community service, and determination to overcome adversity during their high school careers.

Senator Linda Greenstein also contributed to the awards night, awarding the 14th Dist.

Leg. Award to Christopher Santiago for his demonstration of distinguished involvement in leadership and government.

Also, Mayor Richard Pucci awarded the Mayor Richard Pucci Scholarship Endowment Fund to Nicholas Lafata for his effort in furthering his education in college for a career in public service.

The numerous awards exemplified the generosity and helpfulness of the community. The scholarships will help the seniors as they continue down the road toward a new chapter in their lives.

Awarding accomplishments Members are inducted into SHS

by LEAUNDRA LANE Staff Writer

Inductions of the newest members in the Spanish Honor Society on May 18 in the Marasco Performing Arts Center prove to be a positive addition to the club and excite club leaders.

Numerous students filed onto the Marasco Auditorium stage, candle in hand and smiling, glad to be inducted into such an admirable society.

May 18 marked an important date for these new members, giving them a sense of accomplishment and belonging in the society. For some, all the money, hard work and accomplishments became overwhelming.

Inductee and sophomore Christine Lee says, “I’m proud to be inducted into this society.”

The requirements to be a part of the Spanish Honors Society are to be enrolled in a spanish class, keep an 85 percent average in that class, attend society meetings and participate in mandatory society fund raisers. All of the new inductees matched these requirements, devoting extra time and hard work in order to keep up their grades and do what it is best for the society.

Language Arts teacher and SHS supervisor Ms. Beth Wolk says, “I was so pleased with the way inductions went! The newest members are a dedicated high-achieving group.”

Following the inductions, new members and their sup-

Photo/ Beth Wolk

BEGINNING INDUCTIONS: Spanish Honor Society inductees recite the pledge that is required for them to be accepted into the society.

porters gathered into the foyer to celebrate and enjoy refreshments, which included a large customized cake shared with the French Honors Society.

SHS has many supporters and a solid back bone, setting a great example and doing what is best for the students and members, making the ceremony one to remember.

Ms. Wolk says, “I would especially like to thank the board members who showed up an hour early to help set-up.”

As the year comes to a close, elections will take place this month in order to replace graduating board members and shift responsibility.

New members will have to top this year’s accomplishments, which were outstanding. For example, the leukemia fundraiser earlier this year raised a greater amount of money than last year, and the 5k run in April had an amazing turn out.

Ms. Wolk says, “I look forward to hearing ideas from the new board after elections at our June meeting.”

Page 4

News

June 14, 2011

Chaos in the South The 2011 tornado season devastates the south

by KATHRYN OLIVA Staff Writer

Tornados ripped through the South, causing devastation and destruction to many cities and towns.

On Sunday May 22 around 6 p.m., a deadly tornado tore through the town of Joplin, Missouri. Joplin was in the direct path of the tornado and suffered extreme damage from the storm. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this twister was the deadliest since they first started keep records in 1950.

According to meteorologist Bill Davis at Spring Field, MO from the office of the National Weather Service, the tornado was on the 8-9 level on a scale from 1 to 10.

Schools, apartment buildings, fire stations, and megastores were destroyed by the tornado. A state of emergency was declared and the National Guard was called

by Governor Jay Nixon on Sunday night.

The death toll in Joplin alone was at least 122 people.

The tornado crushed nearly a third of the city of Joplin. It destroyed 2,000 buildings,

cut off power and damaged water treatment and sewage plants. Some buildings that were badly damaged were the high school, a WalMart and St. John’s Regional Medical Center.

Out of the 183 patients at St. John’s Regional Medical Center, five of them died as a result of the tornado. Others were injured and sent to other hospitals in three other states.

Tornados such as this one have left millions of dollars in damages, and hundreds of people dead in the last couple of months.

These tornados have been part of a weather system where cold and warm fronts crashed together over the middle of the country, which creates these monster storms.

President Obama and Governor Nixon, along with many others, gathered at Missouri Southern State University for an emotional community memorial service on May 29.

This was Obama’s third time in a month seeing the damage of the natural disasters and offering some support for those trying to overcome the hardships they have suffered.

Although the damage has been substantial due to these tornados this season, citizens in the South are trying to rebuild their homes and communities.

Photo/ AP Images

PICKING UP THE PIECES: Tornado victims, such as the residents of Joplin, MO, try to pick through the wreckage and rebuild their town in the wake of destruction

Sharing isn’t caring, it’s illegal Netflix sharing prohibited in Tennessee

by BRIAN BAUTISTA Staff Writer Netflix has become one of the best places to rent movies online for a very low price.

All one person has to do is create an account, connect a credit card to it, and gain access to unlimited movies. However, some people share their accounts with friends just so they can watch movies as well. However, in Tennessee, a law was passed that criminalizes the sharing of Netflix accounts.

A lot of people share their Netflix accounts.

It is just as popular as illegally downloading music. If you have a friend who is already paying for Netflix and would not mind someone else mooching off their account, then why not do so? It makes things more convenient, and you now have an entire library of movies at your disposal.

Unfortunately, this has been viewed as stealing, and this convenience is now a crime in Tennessee. Sharing passwords in that state can land you a $2,500 fine and/or a year in jail.

The new law does not just apply to Netflix, however. It includes Rhapsody accounts and Hulu as well. In fact, sharing the password to any subscription-based streaming site is now illegal in Tennessee.

There is some speculation that other states are trying to adopt the same law. Ideally, it will prevent this new form of “stealing” from becoming more popular across the country.

Sadly, the law cannot be enforced well.

Just like with music downloading, there are over a million Netflix users, and it

would be close to impossible to accurately track down every user who is sharing their password with a friend or two.

The law is scheduled to go into effect on July 1 of this year. Whether the rest of the country will follow suit is unknown at this point. What is known, though, is that Netflix may receive more legitimate subscribers from Tennessee who do not want to get arrested for trying to watch “Toy Story 3” with a friend’s account.

Photo/ Flickr

NETFIXED: Tennessee hopes to remedy a “moviestealing” problem within their state by criminalizing the sharing of Netflix passwords with friends.

Photo/ AP Images

THE CREW: Mark Kelly, Greg H. Johnson, Mike Fincke, Roberto Vittori, Drew Feustel, and Greg Chamitoff stand side by side as the crew of the Endeavour space shuttle.

Endeavour takes final launch Endeavour lifts off in NASA’s next-to-last shuttle flight

by JEREMY ROTH Staff Writer The Endeavour space shuttle took to the skies on the morning of Monday, May 16 in one of the final shuttle flights NASA will run.

The shuttle quickly disappeared through the clouds from Florida’s Space Coast, despite being delayed two weeks due to electrical problems.

Before the shuttle’s launch, Commander Mark Kelly said, “It’s in the DNA of our great country to reach for the stars and explore. We must not stop. To all the millions watching today, including our spouses, children, family and friends, we thank you for your support.”

Watching the space shuttle take off was Kelly’s wife, Gabrielle Gifford. The Arizona Congresswomen was severely injured in a shooting in Tucson, Arizona in January.

The crew of six headed to the International Space Station to deliver the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer, a $2 billion magnetic instrument that is used to seek out antimatter and dark energy in the universe.

The mission consisted of four spacewalks, each lasting for about six hours.

These were the last scheduled spacewalks for the shuttle crew members.

The Endeavour completed its mission with

a smooth landing on Wednesday June 1.

“122 million miles flown during 25 challenging space flights, your landing ends a vibrant legacy for this amazing vehicle that will long be remembered”, said astronaut Barry “Butch” Wilmore as the shuttle touched the Earth.

This flight was Endeavour’s 25th and final flight. The shuttle was built to replace the Challenger, which was destroyed during liftoff 25 years ago.

The Endeavour’s first flight was to find and repair the satellite that was lost by the Challenger.

The shuttle carried the first Hubble Space Telescope repair team, which restored the observatory’s vision in 1993, and the first American piece of the space station in 1998.

In total, the Endeavor logged more than 116 million miles, circling the Earth about 4,500 times. It has spent a total of 283 days in space and carried 170 people.

The 30- year- long NASA program will come to an end after its final launch of Atlantis in July. After its launch, it will be another three years at best for Americans to be launched from U.S. soil.

NASA will use this time to focus on eventual expeditions to asteroids and Mars, which they are currently unable to do due to the budget constraints.

June 14, 2011

News

page

5

Another billion dollar deal

Microsoft acquires Skype for $8.5 billion

by JEEVAN NAGPAL Staff Writer/Layout Microsoft is embracing technology that revolutionizes the means of communication at home and at work.

Microsoft, leader of software, services and solutions, bought Skype for $8.5 billion on Tuesday, May 10. Both boards of directors agreed to this acquisition.

Skype, an Internet software that provides people the ability to communicate through video, voice and message for free, supports over 170 million users each month connected for more than 100 minutes on average.

The software also offers users the ability to call landlines and cell phones all over the world at low costs. Recently, Skype introduced group video, where two or more people are able to communicate.

Skype proves to be a major asset to Microsoft in many ways.

“There are a lot of great opportunities to optimize Skype services in Microsoft products,” says Steve Ballmer, Microsoft CEO. With this merge, Microsoft now has an advantage in the fast-growing market for Internet communications. This deal with Skype helps Microsoft gain a consumer Internet service and helps sustain its other businesses as well.

Microsoft plans to expand Skype’s business by linking Skype users with Lync, Outlook, Xbox Live and other affinities, while Skype will endorse Microsoft devices like Xbox, Kinect, Windows phones and other Windows devices.

This deal also helps Microsoft compete with Google and Apple, two giants in technology.

Like Skype, Google provides free Internet phone calls and video messaging services.

Berge Ayvazian, a telecommunications consultant says, “Skype has been a forerunner, and this deal is Microsoft trying to become relevant in this new age of Internet communications. It could really change things for Microsoft and accelerate the spread of this new technology.”

Microsoft’s growth is lingering, but with this acquisition, the company can identify a revenue stream in selling the service to other companies.

It can also benefit from Skype by placing advertisements for their products on the software.

Microsoft aims to keep people connected at home or at work.

“Skype is a phenomenal service that is loved by millions of people around the world,” said Ballmer. “Together we will create the future of real-time communications so people can easily stay connected to family, friends, clients and colleagues anywhere in the world.”

The Microsoft-Skype merge proves to be a disruption in the telecommunications industry. Due to low costs of Internet communications, traditional carriers, specifically their landline phone services, are under pressure.

Mark R. Anderson, chief executive of the Strategic News Service, a technology newsletter, says, “The computer guys

are going to teach the telecom carriers about the future of communications.”

Although Microsoft did not announce immediate plans about changing Skype, this merge helps Microsoft greatly in the competition with Google and Apple, and it helps Microsoft enter the Internet communications market.

Photo/ AP Images

ACQUISTION OF SKYPE: Steve Ballmer, Microsoft CEO (right), announces the merge with Skype and closes the deal with Tony Bates, Skype CEO (left), on May 10.

NASA packing it up

by ANDREW DINICOLA Staff Writer

Photo/Dana Speizer

A NEW HOPE: The Samuel and Josephine Plumeri Wishing Place on Perrineville Road in Monroe Township will open sometime during the fall.

Make-A-Wish finds a new home

The foundation is taking root in a new wishing place for seriously ill children

by STEPHANIE LORENZO Staff Writer/Graphics The Make-A-Wish foundation has been dedicated to granting wishes of children with life-threatening diseases for over 23 years, and now MakeA-Wish is granting a wish of its own.

The foundation, which is completely dependant on donations, focuses its money on granting wishes, from meeting a favorite celebrity to a trip to Disneyworld.

Recently, Make-A-Wish received its largest single donation, a whopping $2 million given by Joe and Nancy Plumeri.

Make-A-Wishes largest donation is being dedicated to the construction of the ‘Samuel and Josephine Plumeri Wishing Place’, a dream come true for the foundation. The purpose of the wishing place is to expand and enhance Make-A-Wish experiences, and provide a place for on-site children’s events and activities.

Included in the castle is a wishing area and well, which are designed to stimulate and reveal to children facing serious illness the possibilities of a wish.

While the funding for the wishing place is

all based off of private philanthropy, the cost comes in at three to four million, a heavy price tag for a donation-only foundation.

While the Make-A-Wish’s largest donation is going to the new location, other donations are well-spent granting wishes.

Children can ask for anything from a family vacation to a new playroom in their home.

The wishes don’t stop with the little ones; teens are always included in the fun as well.

Mother of a Make-A-Wish recipient, Diane Lorenzo says, “I think what Make-AWish is doing is so important, and so is donating. The gift my son received from the foundation made him so happy. People don’t understand how much a company like Make-A-Wish can improve a child with a terminal illnesses life, they’re going through so much and they deserve something nice.”

With the new Make-A-Wish castle, kids and their families will have even more to explore and a new place to find refuge from their situations.

The new castle is located on Perrineville Road by Route 33 in Monroe Township, NJ, and will be the first and only of its kind on the east coast.

The NASA shuttle space program plans to make Atlantis’s last launch on July 8, 2011, the end to their project.

This mission will be the 135th shuttle mission, and then NASA is retiring their continuously successful efforts of traveling near Earth’s low-orbit after 30 years.

The mission is planned for 12 days to resupply at the International Space Station, but more specifically Atlantis will carry the Raffaello multipurpose logistics module to deliver supplies, logistics and spare parts to the International Space Station.

The reason why NASA seems it fit to discontinue the space shuttle program is so that they can refocus all of their attention back to designing rockets and spaceships that would be going much farther than Earth’s low-orbit, and further out into the solar system.

Right after Endeaver’s successful last flight, landing on June 1, many scientists and engineers are sad that they had to see the youngest shuttle officially complete its time in space, but are also twice as excited to see Atlantis take off and return to Earth.

Its very disheartening that something so great to be witnessed and a part of American history and technology is just going to end after so long. However, it is a hope booster to know that with all that NASA has accomplished with their project, people all over the world can’t even doubt the limits that they could push passed with spaceships and going beyond the solar system. Sophomore Anthony Santiage says, “Its amazing how much NASA has done in the past 50 years and how they accomplished things others couldn’t, including flying to the moon on various occasions.”

During the flight, Atlantis will also carry a failed ammonia pump back to Earth from the International Space Station. The purpose for this is so NASA could investigate the failure and design better modules so they could be better prepared for future spacecraft.

Some NASA scientists express concerns for the space shuttle mission and state that, “too much mission content and not enough flight time” even though the flight is supposed to last 12 days, NASA is trying to

cut down on certain tasks like acquiring the Raffaello multipurpose logistics module to around 123 hours as opposed to the original 140. Also, it is under consideration to delete minor tasks such as transporting things throughout the space shuttle.

People all over the world will watch in anticipation as Atlantis takes off on July 8, and another advancement in history is made.

Photo/Flickr

FINAL FAREWELL Atlantis is going to take off July 8, to carry out NASA’s last space shuttle mission after 30 years.

Page 6

Entertainment

June 14, 2011

‘In brightest day, in blackest night’ “Jersey Shore” faces reality Green Lantern’s light shines from comic book pages to theaters everywhere

by SAMANTHA KOLAVITCH Staff Writer/Photographer On June 17, the classic DC Comic “Green Lantern” will premiere on the big screen across the country.

The traditional tale is being brought to life with modern special effects in an exciting new superhero film. Ryan Reynolds stars as main character Hal Jordan who becomes the first human member of the protectors of peace and justice, The Green Lantern Corps.

Each Green Lantern is equipped with a ring that gives the wearer super powers to aid in keeping intergalactic order. When a new villain, Parallax, threatens the well-being of Earth and the entire universe, Hal Jordan is forced to step up and fight.

Encouragement from his childhood sweetheart Carol Ferris, played by Gossip Girl star Blake Lively, keeps Jordan focused through this trying challenge in his life.

This highly anticipated film is premiering alongside several monumental superhero movies such as “X-Men: First Class”, released on June 3, and “Captain America”, which comes to theaters over the summer. An obvious trend of classic superheroes reaching the big screen in this summer’s films has become apparent.

However, “Green Lantern” stands out with the extra hype it seems to be generating from sources outside of the movie.

Local amusement park Six Flags Great Adventure recently

unveiled an exciting new roller coaster on May 25 named for the hero. This new ride allows thrillseekers to stand instead of sit.

It has caused such a stir and drawn so much attention to the commonly overlooked hero.

As a result, excitement for the film has only built.

Sophomore Brittany Hastaba says, “I can’t wait to go on this new ride, it seems intense but exciting. I would love to go straight to the movie theater afterwards to see the movie.”

Reynolds and Lively have also done their fair share of adding to

the anticipation. Having such popular, talented actors as the main characters creates interest among more than just the comic book reading community.

Sophomore Saranya Ganapathy says, “I think Ryan Reynolds is great and a good choice for this role. I’m really excited to see the movie with all of my friends, the trailers really create anticipation and excitement.”

Even if you are not the stereotypical die-hard comic book reader, the exciting plot, impressing special effects, and amazing actors promise an entertaining movie experience.

Photo/ Flickr

GREEN LANTERN’S LIGHT: The thrilling new film, starring Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively, takes the story from classic DC Comics and brings it to life on the big screen, keeping the main plot. The newest superhero film will be released to theaters around the country on June 17.

Decreased viewership causes spin-offs

Photo/ AP Images

REALITY KICKS IN: Pauly D, JWOWW, and Snooki (center) will all star in their own reality TV shows next year.

by JACLYN VOGEL Section Editor Three cast members from MTV’s popular program “Jersey Shore” will soon be starring in their own reality shows for 2012.

Paul DelVecchio, also known as DJ Pauly D, will star in his new reality show on MTV that will acknowledge his efforts to begin a career as a professional disc jockey.

Junior Stephanie Guzzo says “I’m looking forward to the debut of Pauly’s new show. He was my favorite cast member on the “Jersey Shore” and to see him without all the drama will be more entertaining.”

Nicole Polizzi, known as Snooki, and Jenni Farley, known as JWOWW, will star in a show that will incorporate their friendship away from the “Jersey Shore”.

Each show will expand on the lives of the three away from their housemates and summer rents.

Sophomore AJ Tesorio says, “I don’t usually watch “Jersey Shore” on a regular basis, but I think it would be interesting to watch each person be themselves.”

Preparing for the day when the original “Jersey Shore” loses its popularity is the reason behind creating the new shows.

The third season of “Jersey Shore” drew an average 7.9 million viewers per week, making it MTV’s biggest hit by far. However, viewership decreased as the season progressed.

Sophomore Darby Owen says “Even though this season of “Jersey Shore” wasn’t as entertaining as the past two years, I’m excited to see the cast in Italy. A different environment might change the members’ outlooks and personalities.”

The two new reality shows, which have not been named, will be produced by 495 Productions, the same company that makes “Jersey Shore”. The network ordered 12 episodes of each show so far.

Freshman Julia Scott says, “I cannot wait for the premiere of each member’s new reality show, along with their entire season in Italy. I think seeing them without all the drama between roommates will give me a clearer idea of who they really are.”

“Smallville” soars to an end The superman series concludes after ten years

by BRITTANY HASTABA Section Editor After a decade of following Clark Kent’s journey to become Superman, the “Smallville” series sadly concluded on May 13 with a two-hour episode.

The CW’s “Smallville” premiered on October 16, 2001, based on the DC Comics character Superman created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. The series follows the adventures of Clark Kent (Tom Welling), who lives in the rural, fictional town of Smallville, Kansas.

Born as Kal-El on the planet Krypton, he was sent to Earth as a child by his father, Jor-El, to save him from Krypton’s imminent destruction. He was discovered and adopted by a farmer, Jonathan Kent (Jon Schneider), and his wife, Martha (Annette O’Toole).

The first four seasons centered on Kent and his friends during his high school years. He discovered his alien, superhuman abilities and learned to use his powers for the benefit of humanity, such as helping others in danger.

Kent quickly befriended Lex Luthor (Michael Rosenbaum), a billionaire’s son, after saving his life.

Their friendship fell apart as the series progressed, and they soon considered each other as enemies.

After the fifth season, the show

began to focus on Kent’s career as a reporter for the Daily Planet, a newspaper located in Metropolis.

Familiar DC comic book superheros and villains emerged throughout the series, either aiding or hindering his road to becoming Superman.

Lois Lane (Erica Durance) finally arrived in Smallville to investigate her cousin Chloe’s (Allison Mack), Kent’s best friend’s, supposed death.

Lane was hired at the Daily Planet and developed a close and friendly relationship with Kent. She began to fall in love with him, thus paralleling the legendary love interest of Clark Kent and his alter-ego Superman in the original comic.

In the finale, Lane finally got to walk down the aisle with Kent by her side, instead of him waiting at the alter. Kent shared his loving vows, promising Lane, “I pledge the rest of my life to you.

You’ve always believed in me, and I believe in you. When you believe in someone, it’s not for a minute, or just for now, it’s forever.”

After ten years of seeing Clark Kent go from a small-town high school boy to Superman, the highly anticipated finale was exciting, yet saddening nevertheless for fans who grew up with the show.

Junior Jon Kim says, “I still remember it like it was yesterday. I

was seven years old and was the happiest person to know that my childhood superhero would become a televised phenomenon. I’m sad to see the show end but it had a fantastic run. “Smallville” will surely remain the most memorable show for the rest of my life.”

Although the series is over, it will always remain a big part of people’s lives because it was an entertaining family show for all ages.

Sophomore Saranya Ganapathy says, “I’ve been a fan since the beginning and “Smallville’s” always been my favorite show. My brother and I don’t have too much in common, but watching “Smallville” was always something we did together so it meant a lot to me. I loved it so much and I don’t know what to do with myself now that it’s over!”

The series also included a plethora of significant life lessons.

Many characters exhibited admirable traits throughout the series.

Clark Kent’s unquestionable trust and helpful nature are respectful qualities that are important in life.

“The show taught me a measure of character through its underlying moral lessons and kept me inspired to emulate a sense of superman myself. Following the show for such a long time even made every character’s experience personal for me,” says Kim. Clark Kent embraced his destiny

to save the world, maintaining control of his flying abilities and finally putting on his famous Superman costume after years of waiting.

The end of the season finale left viewers more than satisfied with

the 1978 Superman theme song playing while Kent dramatically ripped his shirt open, revealing his notable Superman “S” emblem with a limitless sky of possibilities and the world at his hands.

Photo/ Flickr

June 14, 2011

Entertainment

Page 7

Hold the slushies for “Glee” in 3D

Gleeks excited for summer premiere of concert movie

by BRITTANY HASTABA Section Editor Twentieth Century Fox is making dreams come true for all “Glee” fanatics by releasing a 3D Glee extravaganza called “Glee! Live! 3D!,” a concert documentary with performance and backstage footage from the “Glee Live! In Concert!”

North American tour. This feature film will have a two-week theatrical run beginning August 12.

“Glee” is a musical comedy-drama series that follows the high school’s Glee club, New Directions, preparing for and competing in a show choir competition while delving into its members’ relationships and social issues.

According to a Fox spokesperson, there will be narrative footage in the movie as well, taken from this year’s tour. “Glee Live! In Concert!”, which began May 21 in Las Vegas and will wrap up June 18 in New York.

The idea for this film follows the footsteps of previously released concert movies, such as Justin Bieber’s “Never Say Never” and Michael Jackson’s “This Is It,” due to their high success rates.

Kevin Tancharoen, who directed the remake of “Fame”, will direct “Glee! Live! 3D!” and produced by the show’s co-creator, Ryan Murphy.

Murphy says, “There were only

so many cities we could get to. We knew that not every fan who wanted to attend a concert would get that opportunity. Now, thanks to our friends at Twentieth Century Fox Film, we’ll be able to bring the concert experience to movie theaters across the country in full three dimensional glory. We promise every passionate Gleek a cinematic experience that will have them singing and dancing in the aisles.”

The release of this extravaganza in movie theaters allows Gleeks who could not get tickets to the tour a chance to easily experience the concert without the hassle of crowds and madness of the fans.

“As much as I would have loved to go see Glee’s concert tour, I guess I wouldn’t mind watching their performance in the movies. It would give me a chance of having Glee in the summer before Season 3 airs in the fall,” says sophomore Danica Calusin.

Most of the popular “Glee” cast will appear in the film according to their performances on tour, including Lea Michele (Rachel), Cory Monteith (Finn), Amber Riley (Mercedes), Chris Colfer (Kurt), Kevin McHale (Artie), Jenna Ushkowitz (Tina), Mark Salling (Puck), Dianna Agron (Quinn), Naya Rivera (Santana), Heather Morris (Brittany) and Harry Shum Jr. (Mike).

Photo/ AP Images

PRACTICING FOR THE BIG SCREEN: “Glee” stars jam out at a concert in Arizona during the 2010 tour.

Relatively new “Glee stars” Chord Overstreet (Sam), Darren Criss (Blaine) and Ashley Fink (Lauren) are confirmed to appear in the movie as well as a few members of the Warblers.

Mainstays Matthew Morrison (Mr. Schuester, director of the Glee club) and Jane Lynch (Sue Sylvester, cheerleading coach and callous bully to the Glee club) are current-

ly absent from the concert lineup.

However, Morrison and Lynch may make a surprise appearance during the tour, considering their unexpected pop up at a New York City show at Radio City Music Hall last year.

The cast is set to sing songs from Season 2, including Katy Perry’s “Teenage Dream” and Britney Spears’s “I’m a Slave 4

U,” as well as some from Season 1. Also, they will perform their original songs, such as “Loser Like Me” and “Hell to the No.” The release of this film during the summer will satiate “Glee” fans’ craving for the show until its return in the fall.

Gleeks hope this theatrical event will be a great experience that will get them dancing and singing along .

Retirement of a legend

Shaquille O’Neal announces retirement at 39

by JACLYN VOGEL Section Editor

Photo/ AP Images

WASHED ASHORE ON STANGER TIDES Captain Jack Sparrow, Angelica and Blackbeard the pirate are pictured here in a scene from the new movie “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides”.

Avast to see “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides”

by KATHRYN OLIVA Staff Writer Johnny Depp, Geoffrey Rush, and others from the famed “Pirates of the Caribbean” movies are back again for a fourth installment of the franchise.

“Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” follows the third installment of the film, “Pirates of the Caribbean: At Worlds End”, which was released in 2007. “At Worlds End” followed the adventures of not only Captain Jack Sparrow (Depp) and Captain Hector Barbossa (Rush), but also William Turner (Orlando Bloom), Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley), and the crew of the Black Pearl on their quest to rescue Captain Jack Sparrow and Will’s father from Davy Jones’s Locker on board the Flying Dutchman.

The third movie ended with Captain Barbossa looking at a map with the crew of the Black Pearl, hoping

to venture on their next mission to find the Fountain of Youth. The part of the map that would have led them to the fountain was cut out by Captain Jack Sparrow, so the movie ends with Captain Jack sailing off with the map, determined to find the fountain.

The fourth installment of the movie does not include the characters William Turner or Elizabeth Swann. Instead, new characters join the cast, such as Blackbeard (Ian McShane), Angelica (Penelope Cruz), King George (Richard Griffiths), and many others.

Directed by Rob Marshall, “Pirates 4” follows Captain Jack Sparrow as he tries to find the Fountain of Youth. On his journey, he crosses paths with a woman from his past, Angelica, whom he is not sure if she is in love with him or if she is using him to find the Fountain of Youth.

Angelica forces Jack onto the Queen Anne’s Revenge, captained by her farther Blackbeard. Dur-

ing their journey to the fountain, they have to face new challenges, such as mermaids, in order to reach the Fountain of Youth.

“My sister and I have always been a big fan of the Pirates movies. We saw the movie opening day and we loved it! Even though the characters Will and Elizabeth weren’t in this one, Johnny Depp did a great job as always in the role of Captain Jack,” says East Brunswick high school student Kelsey Oliva.

This installment of the “Pirates of the Caribbean” movies is the first to be presented in Disney digital 3-D and IMAX 3-D. Although critics gave the movie a mere 37 percent approval, fans seemed to really enjoy the comedyadventure mix that it delivered.

Disney is already planning a fifth and sixth installment of the franchise and, if all goes well with the fourth movie, plans to shoot the two films back-to-back and release them in the upcoming years.

After 19 seasons and four championships, Shaquille O’Neal announced his retirement from the N.B.A on Wednesday, June 1, 2011.

Posted on O’Neal’s Twitter page, Wednesday evening, Shaquille proclaimed his departure via video. In his video he states, “We did it, 19 years baby, and I want to thank you very much. That’s why I’m telling you guys first.

I’m about to retire. Love y’all.”

Sophomore Kiana Valentin says, “I think it’s about time for him to retire because he’s not as good a player as he used to be and I think it would benefit the team a lot if they let him go.”

O’Neal had just ended the first season of a two-year contract with the Boston Celtics; however a leg injury put him on the sidelines for most of the season and all of the playoffs. He said he did not want to go through surgery because he was hoping to return next season.

“I was shocked to hear that Shaq was retiring because he is a basketball legend and I wouldn’t think he would retire at such a young age.” says sophomore Chelsea Richards.

Shaquille has had 28,596 career points ranking fifth in the N.B.A. “I really really thought about coming back, but this Achilles’ is very damaged, and if I had it done, the recovery would be so long, we’d have the same outcome as last year—everyone sitting around and waiting for me”, O’Neal said.

Junior Nick Haddad says, “I find it very considerate of O’Neal to care about his fans. Consid-

ering coming back was enough to show that his team was important to him, but he had to face retirement sooner or later.”

Shaquille O’Neal had memorable moments, big plays, and rewarding performances in his career, and is a hero to all basketball lovers.

Photo/ AP Images

O’NEAL TAKES A TURN TO RETIREMENT: Shaquille O’Neal officially retired from the Boston Celtics at age 39, leaving with high hopes that his team succeeds next season.

Page 8

Wait, I’m graduating?

Senior Special

Page 9

Sunset for senior students

The final graduating class takes to the skies

A look back at my years in Monroe schools

by JULIE KELLY Editor-in-Chief Fourteen years in the Monroe Township School District and I am finally done. Over a decade ago, I began my journey as a preschooler at Falcon’s Nest and now, years later, I am the typical senior diagnosed with senioritis, excited for senior prom and graduation, and anxious to call high school a part of my past. Although I cannot wait to get out of here, I do have to admit that Monroe has provided me with plenty of experience and memories.

Before my eyes, the school district has transformed and after this year, everything will change. It seems like just yesterday that one drove by the high school and still saw dozens of soccer fields while the politicians were in the midst of debating whether or not should build a new high school there instead.

After delaying the process for years because of the discovery of artifacts on the land and being indecisive about such a big transition, I really cannot believe that it is actually happening now. After all, my grade was supposed to be there for senior year when the plans began what seems like an eternity ago.

Clearly the process took a lot longer than expected….and so we do not get to attend the new high school, but we can say something that no other grade can. We are the last graduating class of the original, one and only Monroe Township High School located at 1629 Perrineville Road.

In the past, the days seemed to pass with ease. The only thing everyone was worried about was making sure every student got the best opportunity to learn and have an amazing school experience. Now all the focus is on money and whether or not there is enough in the district to provide for school activities and funds.

As for my own personal experience here, regard-

less of the changes, Monroe has certainly prepared me for my future. Getting involved in high school was the smartest decision I have ever made. I joined multiple clubs, participated in Varsity level sports and took honors and AP classes. The experience that each of these has offered me is priceless.

The friends I have made, the coaches I look up to, the teachers I respect, and the experience I have gained over the years has prepared me for anything.

I remember entering the high school at orientation and being that scared little freshman who was nervous about school but wanted to act like I was too cool to be there. I can remember the tour and not having any idea how I would find my blue locker among the sea of them. We toured the school and the murals on the wall amazed me, and now they are being painted over, which almost makes me happy to be leaving along with the murals. The walls look bare and boring without them, taking a piece of everyone’s high school memories with the fresh coat of white paint.

I think back to Latin class freshman year and being one of the only underclassmen feeling lost with all the seniors in my class, or when I nervous that I would not find a seat in the crowded cafeteria.

My worries were cliched, just like everyone else’s.

The four years certainly passed just as quickly as they warned us they would at orientation. I will never forget the times the power went out and we went home early, or when the annoying “Power Ranger’s” theme song was played on someone’s phone every two seconds, or when the seniors had a silly string fight in the lobby, or when the football team won the state’s game while I was taking my SAT’s, or when we got last place for hall decorating…as seniors. Being a student at Monroe has been a crazy ride for sure.

by DAVID MORRIS Staff Writer/Artist

One of the best things about my time at MTHS has been my journey on the school newspaper. Entering the class during my junior year was difficult; I was the only upperclassman and simply felt out of place. I kept to myself, but was writing for the paper in no time and felt proud of my articles as a guest writer in the paper in my first year. I was able to become a more creative and opinionated writer and filled my head with tons of journalistic guidelines over the course of the year while learning to take constructive criticism with an open mind.

My senior year in the class, I transformed into a completely different journalism student. I was chosen to become Editor-in-Chief and really opened up to my class and gave my ideas, help and encouragement whenever possible. I love to come into the class and receive different ideas for articles or edit an article from someone who has improved in their writing over the year. I feel honored to have been such a big part of the newspaper during my senior year and am grateful that I was able to have teachers and peers in my class that helped me to develop into a confident writer and student.

Next year, I will be attending Rowan University and everything will be different. Who knows where I will end up and what types of people I will meet and what my future has in store for me? All I know, right now, is that Monroe has certainly prepared me to handle whatever life throws at me. I am thankful for my experience, yet also relieved that my high school years are over. Although I will not be getting the perks of the new school and all of the different changes, I am happy to be leaving before all of the chaos starts. Our grade will leave the old high school behind, but the legacy will always be there. After all, everyone knows they saved the best class for last.

So thanks Monroe, it’s been a unforgettable 14 years.

“The end of high school doesn’t just symbolize a departure from the good ol’ purple and gold, it represents ascending into adulthood. The past 12 years of our lives have been leading up to this.”

Photo/ Dana Speizer

Making memories Senior picnic at Frogbridge a blast

by TOM MARTINELL and JULIE KELLY Staff Writer and Editor-in-Chief The Senior Picnic to Frogbridge on June 7 was a great way to relax and bring the school year to an enjoyable end for the graduating seniors.

The class was able to leisurely walk around the camp, participating in intense volleyball games, tennis matches, mini-golf, kayaking, paddle boating, or just hanging out by the pool.

The seniors, finally carefree and relieved from the pressures of the past four years of high school and recent college stresses, were all found with smiles on their faces.

They posed for pictures with old friends, dove on the sand in their bathing suits during the volleyball games, raced each other on the kayaks, and screamed as they went down the slides at the pool.

The weather was mostly sunny with a high of 88 degrees, providing the class of 2011 with the perfect day to relax poolside with friends one last time.

Unlimited food and drinks, such as cotton candy,

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For us seniors, the conclusion of high school is approaching fast and furiously. It seems like yesterday that we were tiny, weird little freshmen, prowling the halls, confused as to where the bathroom was located. If you deny that you were a weird freshman, you’re only fooling yourself.

The end of high school doesn’t just symbolize a departure from the good ol’ purple and gold, it represents ascending into adulthood. The past 12 years of our lives have been leading up to this. Some will move on to college, others will jump straight into the workforce. But first, let’s enjoy summer 2011.

As depressing as my tenure at MTHS was, senior year actually felt like one massive party with all the scrumptious cream filling stuffed at the end, such as prom, senior brunch, etc. It was even more of a party if you were one of the millions of seniors afflicted with the deadly disease: senioritis! In fact, I found myself struggling with the debilitating most recently. Let’s just say this article was severely procrastinated.

For me, and probably plenty of other students, high school was a vicious proving ground. With the onetwo combo of mundane, tedious schoolwork and the daily harassment from nasty peers and dealings with crusty, grumpy teachers, high school is an incredibly challenging experience. As mentioned before, most of us dealt with bullying and some faced inner-conflict

within. Yes, high school is an arduous process, but I feel that it’s completely necessary. It’s a place that’ll toughen you up for the outside world, so you aren’t soft, fluffy and marshmallow-like when you leave.

In addition to marking a milestone in our lives, we’re marking a milestone in history. We’re the final graduating class of MTHS. We’re leaving behind a legacy. However, it’s a shame we didn’t get a cool year to combine with the word “senior” (I.E. Sen10r).

Now, the underclassmen are being passed the torch and are inheriting the luxurious, but grey Monroe Township (Community) High School. They’ll leave behind a legacy also: they’re the first graduating class of the new school.

I just have one request for my younger peers: please paint some really good murals in the new school.

Seniors, now is the time to look back and reminisce about not just your high school career, but your school career as a whole. It’s time to take a breath of fresh air and relax. It’s over.

Now, did high school teach me some important life lessons? Yes, yes it did. Am I going to look back fondly on these awkward and girl-less years of mine? No, probably not.

Now it’s time to look ahead to a bright shining future, one hopefully free of I.D. checks.

We’re moving into the big, scary world and I couldn’t be more excited. To quote “Lost”: “Where are we going?” “Let’s go find out.”

soda, chips, snow cones, hamburgers, hot dogs, salads, ice cream and watermelon were available for the students at their convenience, allowing them to regain their energy after the long day in the sun.

The field trip is one that the seniors look forward to every year, giving them the opportunity to bond with their classmates before preparing for prom, graduation and college life.

Senior Kaitlyn Simons says, “I laid by the pool the whole time; it was very relaxing and an awesome way to end my senior year.”

According to Ms. Michelle Ballard, one of the senior class advisors, about 300 seniors attend the trip every year. Costing $48 to attend, the price was relatively higher this year due to bussing and additional costs.

This was one of the last events of the year for the class of 2011 as a whole. After the picnic, the seniors looked forward to Senior Brunch and Senior Prom on June 10, and graduation on June 23.

As senior Megan Bonamici says, “I feel like the picnic brought our grade together and created a sense a unity for the class of 2011.”

Save the last dance

Seniors celebrate the end of their high school careers

by MARIELLEN NOEL Staff Writer The seniors celebrated the end of their high school years together on June 10 at the Grand Marquis in Old Bridge, NJ for Senior Prom 2011.

Girls looked stunning in beautiful gowns with dates at their sides dressed in crisp tuxedos. As they entered Senior Prom, they sported bright smiles.

“It was amazing seeing people dressing their best and having so much fun dancing and hanging out with each other,” says senior Jose Polo.

Their night of fun continued as the Class of 2011 gathered on the dance floor, only stopping for dinner, which consisted of a buffet table with chicken, prime rib, vegetables, pasta salad, and more. Later, a sundae bar and cotton candy were available for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Starting at arrival, the seniors began voting for Prom King and Prom Queen. Couples were on their toes, wondering who would win these prestigious titles.

Joey Romanczuk and Jamie Costa were the two honored with being this year’s Prom King and Queen.

However, Romanczuk and Costa were not the only ones to be awarded that evening. Other awards including Nicest Gown and Most EyeCatching Gown were won by seniors Madison Markulin and Jessica Sabanos, respectively.

“Senior prom was an experience unlike any other,” says senior Kuldeep Yadav. “As I danced, ate delicious desserts, and took a plethora of prom photos, I truly enjoyed socializing with my friends who I have come to admire these past four years at MTHS.” Senior Prom ended on a bitter sweet note.

Their prom came to a close, meaning graduation and good-byes have come even closer, but they have their memories and prom weekend in Wildwood to keep the party going.

After four long years of high school, the Class of 2011 came together for one last party before graduation day.

Features

Page 10

June 14 , 2011

Don’t judge the class by its name New studies show that tough courses aren’t as great as they sound

by KATHRYN OLIVA Staff Writer

Photo/ AP Images

RONALD MCDONALD FIRED: McDonald’s is under pressure to fire their icon due to his promotion of unhealthy foods toward children.

Ronald McDonald is not “lovin it” McDonald’s under pressure to fire their “mascot”

by JACLYN VOGEL Section Editor Over 600 health professionals and organizations have signed a letter to McDonald’s Corporation, asking the manufacturers of happy meals to stop promoting junk food to children and retire Ronald McDonald.

On Wednesday May 18, the letter appeared in ads in six metropolitan newspapers around the country. It acknowledges that “the contributors to today’s health epidemic are manifold and a broad societal response is required.

But marketing can no longer be ignored as a significant part of this massive problem.”

“I don’t think it’s right for anyone to even consider firing Ronald.

Children make their own choices, such as which foods they want to eat, and I feel its Ronald McDonald’s job to market the food McDonald’s produces. It isn’t anyone’s fault but the company’s,” says an anonymous source.

McDonald’s says, “We are committed to responsible advertising and take our communication to children very seriously. We understand the importance of children’s health and nutrition, and are committed to being part of the dialogue and solution. We serve high quality food, and our happy meals offer choices and variety in portions just for kids. Parents tell us they appreciate our happy meal choices.”

“I don’t think McDonalds should have to ditch their mascot if they don’t want to. I think when children go to McDonald’s, they’re typically going with adults and it should be the adult’s respon-

sibility to take charge of what the children are eating,” says sophomore Heather Fleming.

This campaign is organized by the watchdog group Corporate Accountability International, and includes an effort to get McDonald’s to make a report evaluating its “health footprint”.

Food makers that market to children are coming under increased examination. Last month, federal regulators proposed standards to which ask food makers to follow when marketing food to children.

“I feel guidelines are necessary to follow when promoting food to young children.

However, I don’t feel it’s necessary to put McDonald’s under pressure of firing someone who has been with them for so long and is a symbolic figure that children love,” says sophomore Aj Tesorio.

Food marketed to children ages two to 17 would have to contain healthy items and limit sugar, fat, sodium, and calories, according to the proposed guidelines issued by the U.S Department of Agriculture, Federal Trade Commission, Centers for Disease Control, and Food and Drug Administration.

From the use of Ronald McDonald to happy meal toys, the letter urges McDonald’s to stop marketing food high in salt, fat, sugar, and calories to children.

“Ronald McDonald should be used as a character at McDonald’s as an advertisement technique because it should be up to the parents whether they choose to go to McDonald’s or not, and parental guidance is important when making meal choices,” says sophomore Monica Blizniak.

“...when children go to McDonald’s, they’re typically going with adults and it should be the adult’s responsibility to take charge of what the children are eating’ ”

More and more students are signing up for difficult-sounding courses. According to the Department of Education, the number of high school graduates who have taken these classes has almost tripled in the past two decades.

Even though students have signed up for advanced classes, they are not scoring any higher than students in standard classes on standardized tests and end-of-course exams.

The reason is because the class expectations do not fit the name.

A recent federal study of 38,000 high school transcripts showed that the number of high school graduates taking advanced placement classes has risen from five percent in 1990 to 13 percent in 2009.

According to researchers, schools label courses with impressivesounding names to fulfill parent interest in harder coursework for their children, and the courses make schools look good by offering these impressive classes.

“I am in honors classes and have been since my freshman year.

When I read the description of my classes in the class selection book, they looked very challenging. They are very difficult, but some of the descriptions made them sound basically impossible,” said sophomore Emily Moyes.

In 2001, researchers at Michigan State University studied 13,000

Photo/ Dana Speizer

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CLASSES: These classes are part of a program by the College Board to give high school students the option to take college level classes.

eighth-grade students’ Timss, an international math and science exam, test scores. They compared the school’s math courses with the textbooks used in these classes. In about 15 percent of the cases, the textbook covered less than the course’s name suggested it would.

Disbelief about the actuality of the courses from parents and policy makers has led to the rapid growth of Advanced Placement courses.

These courses are the College Board’s program of college level courses for high school students. Over the last 10 years, the number of Advanced Placement exams taken by students has jumped from 1.2 mil-

lion in 2000 to 3.1 million in 2010.

Hoping to encourage tougher classes beyond the traditional program, politicians and educators in many places have promoted the Advanced Placement program.

Although the number of students taking these courses has risen, so has the failure rate on the AP exams. The exams are graded on a one to five scale. The percent of students earning low scores of a one or two rose to 42.5 percent in 2010 from 36.4 percent in 2000.

Researchers said that course inflation is easier to recognize in Math and Science, but it is happening in subjects such as English and History as well.

Not exactly left for dead Health agency blogs about zombie protection

by BRIAN BAUTISTA Staff Writer There are plenty of jokes people throw around, stating what they would do in the case of a zombie apocalypse. Chainsaws, shotguns, first aid kits and all the typical zombie video game items are included in most guides dealing with the undead. However, thanks to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people now have a better idea of how to prepare for these supposedly imminent hordes.

The CDC has been known for providing helpful information about certain diseases and viruses, and how to avoid contracting them. In 2009, for instance, the CDC provided the public with information of the H1N1 virus.

That being said, it was very surprising to many when “Preparedness 101: Zombie Apocalypse” was posted on the CDC public health blog.

“Preparedness” was not entirely about zombies, though. In fact, it was a typical guide on how to survive natural disasters such as tornados and earthquakes, but had a few references to zombie movies and video games thrown in to make it more fun for readers.

It provided sound advice, such as making sure that you identify the kinds of disasters that can occur in the area you live in and making sure that you plan an evacuation route. The bullet explaining evacuation routes also stated, “Plan where you would go and multiple

routes you would take ahead of time so that the flesh eaters don’t have a chance! This is also helpful when natural disasters strike and you have to take shelter fast.”

Surprisingly, the idea was not completely shut down upon its inception. Instead of discouraging the writing of this edition of “Preparedness”, Dr. Ali S. Khan instead encouraged it, even going as far to

say, “Let’s form a zombie task force,” to his colleague, David Daigle.

With many people losing interest in the CDC’s more recent reports, this new zombie-themed entry may be what they needed to turn everyone’s eyes back toward them.

There may even be more amusing ideas on the way, such as an attempt to make hurricane season look sexier.

Photo/ Flickr

OH THE HUMANITY: The CDC posted an entry on their public health blog explaining how to deal with zombies. Although at first glance it seems like a joke, the post actually provided sound advice to survive real disasters.

Features

June 14, 2011

Page 11

A postponed doomsday The truth about what really happened May 21

by THERESA GONALEZ Staff Writer

Photo/Flickr

SKIP1.ORG HELPS OUT CHILDREN IN AFRICA: Skip1.org travels around the world, helping out children in need. Using the donations from skippers, they are able to provide clean water and food for children worldwide.

Make a difference by skipping Skip one thing for a day and donate to skip1.org

by JEEVAN NAGPAL Staff Writer/Layout Skipping one thing for one day can make more of a difference than imagined. It can provide children and families in poverty with food and clean water.

It’s quite effortless. Skip a dessert, a snack, a car wash, a bottle of water, a pack of gum, a magazine, a new shirt, a latte, a manicure or any other small luxury, then use the saved money to donate to skip1.org.

Skip1.org is an organization that collects money from skippers and helps children across the globe in various ways.

Donations are used to distribute food and water worldwide.

Uganda, Peru, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti are just a few of the areas where Skip1 accommodates these necessities.

Skip1.org skips “because 1/6th of the Earth’s population is undernourished.” They also skip because “25,000 people die every day from hunger and related causes” and “every 6 seconds a child dies from hunger and related causes.”

Shelene Bryan, Hollywood producer, created this charity af-

ter visiting Africa and realizing that one small luxury can supply a child with numerous things.

Bryan and her husband, Brice, adopted two children in Africa, specifically in Uganda. Each month, they sent $50 to support her children.

Struck by curiosity, Bryanwanted to know if these children existed, and if her money was well spent on them.

Unannounced, she hopped onto a plane and flew to Uganda. Bryan arrived at a miniscule hut and opened the door of the hut, which was covered by a tattered bed sheet.

A child ran toward Bryan, but she did not recognize the child because the child grew since the photo was taken.

It was Omega, one of her children. Bryan was delighted to know that her money was keeping this girl healthy and in school.

She also found her son, Alonis, and was inspired to make a change.

Bryan says, “I was reduced to my knees, taken out of my comfort zone - and brought face to face with compassion. I made a promise to Omega and Alonis that I would never forget them or their friends. I would

go back to my home in America and advocate for these children.”

She flew back to the United States and started Skip1.org.

Since then, she visited Uganda a few more times and implemented a farm, a health center and bought bicycles for Omega and Alonis’ village. Bryan also hopes to finish building a clean-water drinking well by this summer.

“Skip1 is not about one person making a big donation. It’s about lots of people making small ones, something they can easily skip, and help change the world instead,” concludes Bryan, In May 2010, the organization visited the Lumbrera de Caballona, where 50 students go an entire day without eating a single meal and share one bathroom, hidden behind curtains.

The foundation used the donations from skippers to build two bathrooms and a kitchen to provide the students with food.

By skipping one thing for one day, many children worldwide can receive the necessities they need to survive one day longer.

Skip1 accommodates children in need and helps them to survive.

Millions worldwide were caught up in Harold Camping’s Rapture, a doomsday scenario, scheduled for May 21. They believed that this day would begin the end of the world, and a judgment by God. Camping, a radio preacher, described a day in which a worldwide earthquake would shake the world, and believers would survive as the nonbelievers perished on Earth.

He also said the good people would rise to Heaven and the bad people would perish and eventually end up in Hell.

He stated that the world would be covered with blood and distraught for five months until it was eventually destroyed on October 21.

A rolling earthquake would begin in the South Pacific and cross the globe, rolling dead bodies out of the ground and leaving horror on Earth.

Camping built up this scenario that failed to occur. His followers were filled with doubt, and Camping has now postponed the Rapture until October 21.

Several of his followers, were such strong believers in his preachings, that they sold their

houses, spent life savings, quit their jobs, and spent money helping him publicize the event.

News spread like wild fire as many people stopped to consider the possible end to the world.

Sophomore Erika Fidacaro says, “I never really thought the world would come to an end, but the fact that this story was in the news was a little scary.”

On May 17, David C. Pack, “Real Truth” magazine Editor-in-Chief, stated, “When his prophecies fail, the man who uttered these predictions will have only two options: admit he is a false prophet— highly unlikely—or spin events by claiming his prophecy was fulfilled in some mysterious fashion.”

Camping’s ‘spin’ is that the bible is spiritual and factual, so even a prophet can misinterpret its deep meaning. He said that the Rapture occurred, but the world will be further judged and destroyed in October.

Camping falsely predicted the end of the world in 1974 also.

He has destroyed many people’s lives with his false prediction and will continue to unless the world can look past his mistakes and no longer believe in him.

Photo/NASA

STILL WHOLE: After false predictions by Harold Camping, the world was not destroyed on May 21, 2011.

Yo u T u b e’ s boo t c a mp program Learn to create viral videos from Youtube stars

by JAMES STOCHEL Staff Writer/Artist

Winners of a recent talent search sponsored by YouTube won a prize to participate in a boot camp at Google’s Manhattan offices, where some of YouTube’s most successful stars led sessions on how to create a viral video, build an audience and bolster a brand.

March 2011, as new effort to increase original programming, Google purchased Next New Networks, a Web video production company that now also delivers training and support to video makers in YouTube’s Partner Program. The 25 people who won YouTube’s talent search began receiving help from Next New Network at the boot camp.

2007, YouTube identified those amateur and professional video makers whose channels were drawing audiences and YouTube

shared its advertising revenue with them under its Partner Program.

Some tips given to the winners were, don’t upload videos on Friday afternoon, send e- mails to at least a dozen key bloggers and ask them to post a link and surprise your audience. Lastly, never, ever put the word sex in a title or tag.

It could cost you some of the advertising revenue that YouTube shares with its content creators.

Junior Robby Glade here at Monroe Township High School says, “It’s hard to get an audience because of the competition, so to get your videos out there start with telling your friends.”

The boot camp is part of YouTube’s campaign to find its own original high quality video content.

Video makers will face fierce competition from Web video services such as Hulu, iTunes and Netflix.

YouTube is looking to increase the range of content and im-

prove the quality of its channels as it continues to try to make more money, even though it doubled its revenue, according to Google’s last quarterly report.

In It is difficult to persuade brands to spend advertising money on many videos that were not getting a lot of views, but last year the top channels under the Partner Program generated 100 billion views and attracted millions of dollars in advertising revenue. While most of them are big brands earning millions, there are several hundred people who began as amateurs who now make more than $100,000 a year.

People trying to go from hobbyists to part-time job to business to career to stardom, will have the chance to make good money with this new program that YouTube had created to help those who make good videos become known in the YouTube’s community.

Art/James Stochel

YOUTUBE BOOTCAMP: To bec a popular and famous YouTube star you must learn how to make interesting videos.

Page 12

Health

June 14 , 2011

such a turnoff Earbuds harmful to hearing Smiling, What smiling really means Scientists have discovered that listening to loud music through earbuds is damaging to the ears

by BETHANY CHAN Staff Writer/ Layout Since the invention of earbuds, audiologists discovered that they have been damaging the hearing of music listeners for many years.

Wendy Leopold, a writer for “Observer Online,” says that audiologists began cautioning lovers of loud music in the 80’s about hearing loss due to the result of listening to their electronics.

According to statistics, this kind of hearing loss is found more frequently in younger people or young adults who want to block out all other sounds, except for their music.

Leopold says, “Not only are earbuds placed directly into the ear, they can boost the sound signal by as much as six to nine decibels.”

The extended battery life and larger memory of music devices has encouraged people to listen to music for longer periods of time, increasing the possibility of hearing loss at a younger age.

Dean Garstecki, a Northwestern audiologist and professor, advises people to

use the 60 percent/60 minute rule. He recommends that music listeners should not listen to their music devices for more than about an hour everyday. When they do listen to them, they should put the volume below 60 percent of the maximum volume.

The usage of older style, larger headphones that rest over the ear openings are highly suggested because they allow listeners to listen safely while blocking out other sounds. Although these older styles may not be able to completely cancel all noises, they are much safer than blasting music directly into one’s ears.

However, there are noise-cancelling headphones that omit background noises.

Therefore, music lovers do not feel the need to escalate the volume to the point of permanently harming their hearing even more.

Depending on people’s preferences and choices, they can either damage their hearing so they are almost deaf, or they can preserve their hearing and listen safely, even if it means using the biggest, weirdest looking headphones.

Photo/ Dana Speizer

ARE EARBUDS HARMFUL? : Earbuds can cause permanent hearing loss because of the sound intensity. It has been proven that headphones are better for listening because they are less harmful to the ears.

Photo/ Sam Kolavitch

INTERPRETING FACIAL EXPRESSIONS: Men are more attracted to women who smile compared to women who get turned off by any sign of desperation or a smile.

by KATERINA MARTINEZ Staff Writer Physical appearance has always been important to the opposite sex. Whether to make a good first impression or look well put-together for a party, outer appearance is what people most judge.

Studies show that women find men that have a “preppy, more happy” attitude less attractive. They prefer men with a more “dangerous, yet understanding” physical appearance.

According to the American Psycological Association, men who smile more often than not are less sexually attractive. Their highspirited attitude gives off an uncomfortable vibe, which compels women away from them.

For example, expressions such as smiling are looked at as too feminine. Women find that a call of desperation. Most women are not attracted to men who come off too friendly because it makes them think they are not ready for any kind of commitment. They want someone who appears proud and confident.

Women tend to choose men that need to be “fixed”. They have a certain motherly reaction and want to be the reason men change. Men who smile are the ones that women feel do not need any help or have any sense of mystery about them.

Sophomore Michelle Cho says, “I don’t have a type so I don’t focus on a specific look or attitude. However, a smile on a guy shows confidence , friendliness and warmth in his heart.”

On the other hand, men are the complete opposite. A smile is what catches their eye and sometimes it is even considered a woman’s best quality. Women who smile seem to be more appealing, rather than others who slouch in depression.

Men are attracted to women who display a sense of happiness and pride. A woman who is miserable or creates drama turns men off. They look for specific facial expressions or body language.

Happiness is shown through a broad smile and men can sense pride if a woman has a raised head or a puffed-up chest. Shame is seen if she had a lowered head or averted eyes. They like the feminine smile with a lack of control.

Junior Jared Hussey says, “Men don’t want women who don’t smile because then we’d have to deal with their problems. In general, men don’t talk about their problems so women don’t have to deal with it.”

Men and women respond differently to displays of emotion. Each are picky, but they both desire a nice personality and a connection toward each other.

Foreign accent syndrome A disorder that causes a sudden change in speech

by KATERINA MARTINEZ Staff Writer Foreign Accent Syndrome (FAS) is a rare disorder that causes a sudden change in verbal communication after a tragic injury and forces people to live with “foreign” accents.

It is most often caused by brain damage from a serious injury, multiple sclerosis, or a conversion disorder. A serious injury that may lead to FAS is a stroke.

Health-related injuries may not always be the case for such an extreme result. About a year and a half ago in Portland, Oregon, Karen Butler developed FAS after receiving mouth surgery. Regular side effects like her swollen face and throbbing mouth subsided over the next couple of days. The pain also vanished, but she soon acquired a new British accent.

She was clueless as to how this came about until months later. It took a while to diagnose because foreign accent syndrome is so rare.

Fortunately, her accent softened over time, but she will never be able to speak like a native Oregonian again. She is the first case of anyone developing FAS in Oregon.

Sophomore Erika Fidacaro says, “I never realized how serious head injuries can get, and hearing about these situations makes

me more cautious of my surroundings.”

The case best known was discovered by a Norwegian Neurologist, Georg Herman Monrad-Krohn. In 1941, a 30-year-old woman was hit in the head by shrapnel from a German air raid. The injury left her with a German accent. It gradually improved, but at the time, no one could identify the problem.

At first, the woman tried to reach out for help from her dentist and family physician. Both realized the drug used to sedate her caused the change. The main reason this case is considered so extreme is because the speech alteration was caused by a drug, not a serious injury.

Presently, FAS is still considered a rare side affect from surgery or a head injury. Around the world, physicians and doctors have documented FAS cases and discovered specific accent changes and patterns. For example, British English to French, Spanish to Hungarian, or American English to British English.

This change is speech will not exactly sound disordered and it stands highly intelligible. Some common speech changes associated with FAS are consonant substitution, deletion or distortion, trouble with consonant clusters, or voicing errors. For example, using ‘bike’ for ‘pike’

would be considered a voicing error.

Although this disorder is rare, people

can try to avoid being affected by being more aware of their surroundings.

Art/Stephanie Wo

FOREIGN ACCENT SYNDROME: The brain controls how one speaks and, if it is seriously harmed, it may lead to changes in speech patterns such as FAS.

June 14, 2011

health

Page 13

One more call to cancer The debate about cell phones and cancer is reignited

by ANDREW DINICOLA Staff Writer The connection between cell phones and cancer has been disputed ever since cell phones became popular. Most scientists argue that there is not enough evidence to bring up the argument that extensive cell phone use can cause cancer.

However, the debate of this undying topic was brought up at a panel for the World Health Organization, the first big health organization to hold this discussion.

The myth that cell phones can cause cancer originated when it was discovered that they give off a weak form of energy called non-ionizing radiation. Upon this discovery, an uncountable number of tests were performed to see if this radiation could be harmful to humans.

The results showed that the radiation was linked to three different types of very rare tumors that are highly unlikely to develop from cell phone use alone.

In 2010, a study was conducted in 13 different countries to see if cell phone use affected certain individuals, and if that there was a higher risk of brain tumors.

The International Journal of Epidemiology stated that there is no bond between cell phones and brain tumors, but those who did use cell phones excessively had a 40 percent higher chance of being di-

agnosed with the brain tumor glioma.

In this day and age, nearly every pre-teen or teenager has a phone by the age of 12 or 13 in the United States. Since most of U.S. adults have a cell phone for business or just for recreational use, there is no question that the majority of the population uses their cell phone excessively and that there is a small, but increased risk for brain tumors to develop.

So what course of action should be taken to warn those of excessive cell phone use?

Nothing; in fact, the connection between the two is not even confirmed yet because scientists are still arguing whether or not the radiation emitted from the cell phones is too weak to cause any damage or brain tumors.

However, another reasonable course of action is to use a Bluetooth headset. Bluetooth uses a wireless communication system that may possibly gives off the same radiation as cell phones do. Scientists have not studied these headsets like they have cell phones, and therefore information about Bluetooth being related to cancer is inconclusive.

Certain people are always going to make a fuss about cell phones causing cancerous tumors, and there will always be investigations about the same topic.

Though there is no true evidence to suggest that there is a direct link between cell phones and cancer, those who are users should be cautious and not talk on the phone five hours a day.

Photo/ Flickr

THE SILENT KILLER: Though this phone might not give you cancer, the one in your pocket may certainly be able to.

Is snow white too bright? Drop the gym, get a dog Constantly bleaching and whitening your teeth has consequences

Dog owners seem to be more active then non dog owners

by KATHRYN OLIVA Staff Writer

Photo/ Leaundra Lane

SAY CHEESE: Sophomore Emily Ho grins for the camera, showing off her pearly whites. Too much bleaching and whitening can rode enamel and ruin your teeth.

by LEAUNDRA LANE Staff Writer Teeth whitening has become one of the newest trends in America, but when performed excessively, it can be unhealthy.

According to an article on msn.com, a whitening treatment from the dentist costs about $300 and the procedure lasts 45 minutes. Patients can turn to home treatments, which are less pricy, but do not have the highest concentration of chemicals used to whiten teeth to the fullest.

Therefore, the process of achieving pearly white teeth takes more time and patience.

Whitening toothpaste and whitening strips are commonly used by many to obtain a perfectly white smile. Unfortunately, whitening strips may slip out of place and irritate the gums, resulting in discomfort.

Sophomore Emily Ho says, “I used whitening strips over the summer, but I

stopped because they’re bad for your teeth, but [they] still keep your teeth white.”

Excessive whitening leads to tooth sensitivity, which may make it uncomfortable to eat, brush or even speak.

Experts say that people who go overboard with whitening products are weakening their enamel and may have dental issues in the future.

Expert Golub-Evans explained to MSN that this is because teeth can only reach a maximum white color. Teeth cannot pass the particular amount of whiteness that nature intended.

Although it is necessary to continue taking care of your teeth so that they can be healthy and strong for a long time, it is imperative that you do not overdo it for risk of complications in the future.

Ho frequently arrives at school with a naturally blinding, and beautiful white smile. She says, “I just floss and give my chompers a good ol’ brushing.”

A recent study has shown that dog owners are usually more physically active than people who do not own dogs.

A study by Michigan State University showed that owning a dog generally makes a person more active due to walking the dog daily or multiple times a week. The study showed that owners have about 30 minutes of exercise per day, five days a week, while only one-third of non-dog owners could fit in that exercise.

Michigan State researchers took the exercise routine of 5,900 Michigan residents, 2,170 of whom were dog owners.

Two-thirds of dog owners took their dogs for regular walks, lasting at least 10 minutes. Dog walking was highest amongst young adults: 18 – 20 years olds are twice as likely to walk their dogs as people of 65.

Also, college graduates were more than twice as likely to walk their dogs over those who are less educated. Younger dogs were more likely to be walked than older dogs, and larger dogs were taken for longer walks than smaller dogs.

“One of my family members walks my dog everyday. It’s one of those workouts

where you don’t even feel like you’re doing anything, but eventually you see results from all of the walking you and your dog do,” says sophomore Samantha Cicatello.

Although most dog owners benefit from the exercise they get from walking their dogs, not all dog owners walk their dogs.

Forty percent of dog owners who said they do not walk their dogs said that they let their dogs run free in their yards, so the dog does not need to be walked. Eleven percent said they hired dog walkers.

“We don’t usually take our dog for a walk because we have a huge back yard with a fence, so our dog just runs freely through it. When he’s out in our back yard, he can stay out for as long as he wants and do whatever without us worrying about him,” says sophomore Erin Allegro.

Another study last year by the University of Missouri showed that dogs are better walking companions than humans. Dog walkers show a much greater improvement in fitness than people who walk with other people.

Since dogs are dependent on their owners, it is their owner’s job to take them for walks. People who do not have dogs do not have that responsibility.

Dogs can be the gateway becoming more active and living a healthier lifestyle.

Photo/ AP Images

MORE ACTIVE THAN THE REST: A recent study by Michigan State University reported that people who own dogs are more active than people who do not own dogs.

Op-Ed

Page 14

The Falcon News Editor-In-Chief Julie Kelly

Executive Editor Jared Hussey

Executive Editor-Layout Angela Wo Advisor Dana Speizer

DANA.SPEIZER@MONROE.K12.NJ.US

Editorial Policy The Monroe Falcon is a newspaper dedicated to accurate, ethical, and responsible high school journalism.

June 14, 2011

2-4-6-8 who don’t we appreciate?

Cheerleader causes case battle for freedom of speech

by LINDSEY ZYBRICK Staff Writer

A teenage girl from a small sports obsessed town in Texas was kicked off her cheerleading squad after refusing to cheer for the young man that raped her.

When HS, who the girl will be referred to as, was 16 years

old, she attended a house party where she was reportedly raped by a fellow student named Rakheem Bolton. Bolton was arrested and pleaded guilty to the misdemeanor. The court gave him two years of probation; community serviced and required him to take anger management classes.

Bolton was allowed to return

Photo/ Flickr

FREEDOM OF SPEECH: A cheerleader from a small Texas town, known only as HS sued her school unsuccessfully for kicking her off the cheerleading squad after refusing to cheer for her attacker. On May 2, 2011, the Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal for HS’s case..

to the school’s basketball team.

In January 2009, HS became a member of the school’s cheerleading squad and was at the basketball game, cheering on the players. When Bolton, her rapist, had stepped up to the free throw line, HS stood with her arms crossed refusing to cheer.

The school’s superintendent was furious at HS’s display and told her to leave the gym immediately. He told her that she must cheer for Bolton and HS quickly responded that she would not endorse a man that had sexually assaulted her. With that comment, HS was immediately expelled from the cheerleading squad.

Lawyers were hired, and a lawsuit was underway against the school by HS and her parents.

Their lawsuit said that HS’s freedom of speech and her right to exercise expression were violated.

Two courts in Texas ruled against her saying that by being a cheerleader, she waived her constitutional right to free speech by being a “mouthpiece” for the school and not for her personal views.

In September 2010, a federal appeals court also heard HS’s case and agreed with the two courts in Texas. Along with upholding the decisions of the two previous courts, the federal court also required HS to reimburse the school district $45,000 because she filed a “frivo-

lous” or foolish case against them.

“It’s not fair to her, she was standing up for what she believed in, and for the court to not listen to her is going against her freedom of speech. If I was on the cheer team and that was my rapist out there playing, I sure wouldn’t be cheering him on,” says junior Alexa Fucito.

The courts siding with Bolton is ridiculous. In the eyes of the law, rape is supposed to be a crime. Since when are the victims punished for not wanting to cheer for their attackers at a basketball game?

It is understandable that she is a “mouthpiece” of the school because she is in a uniform that is supposed to represent the school in a positive way. However, the school and the superintendent should have been more compassionate to the pain that this young lady was going through and the reason why she refused to cheer for the basketball player.

“The girl should not be forced to cheer for someone who caused her physical and emotional pain,” says sophomore Damien Swaine.

The courts and her school refuse to hear HS’s voice and aren’t letting her get justice. This happening is not just about a cheerleader who was kicked off her squad for refusing to cheer for someone, it’s about all students’ freedom of speech.

On May 2, the US Supreme Court refused to hear HS’s case.

Shedding pounds or self-esteem?

People of all different sizes throughout the world struggle with the dilemma of changing for the wrong reasons

by SAKINA HUSSAIN Section Editor People all over the world are constantly part of the struggle that is self-image. Everyday we are faced with a new list of standards that have to do with race, sexuality, and most commonly, weight.

Obesity is an epidemic in America, and a number of different programs and campaigns are going all out in order to decrease the number of obese people in the United States First Lady Michelle Obama herself is leading a national public awareness campaign called “Let’s Move.” According to ABC news, the purpose of the campaign is to eliminate childhood obesity by helping parents make better food choices, offer better food in schools, and encourage children to exercise more. The intentions behind programs such as “Let’s Move” are almost always good, but that does not necessarily mean that the results will be just as good.

The problem with these programs is the stigma that they induce. Although the point is to help overweight people pursue a healthy lifestyle, the message that is sent is more along the lines of “We love you, but right now, you’re just not good enough.”

Undoubtedly, people will argue that this is not what is really being said, and anyone making that inference should be more sensible. However, when a person is bullied and criticized con-

stantly about his/her weight, it almost becomes instinct to take the negative meaning behind all weight-concerning comments.

Of course, there are a certain number of people who will understand that the intentions behind these programs and comments concerning their weight are for their own good, but the people who are unable to see anything but the negativity behind said programs have to be taken into consideration.

There are several factors that lead to obesity and even more factors that have to do with the difficulty of overcoming it. All of this needs to be considered when trying to come up with a horde of weightloss programs that are mostly good for increasing stigma among already insecure obesity “victims.”

The first thing that people need to understand is that even if a person is overweight, they can still be healthy. If that is the case with someone, then the best thing to do is to leave them be. Pressuring someone else to lose weight for the sole purpose of looking better will increase insecurity and will send the wrong message.

If, however, someone is overweight to the extent that it is affecting his/her health, then a loved one can and should encourage him/her to pursue a healthier lifestyle. Even in this situation, though, it has to be emphasized that the person in question is aiming toward becoming healthier because that is top concern.

Here is when problems begin to arise. Being overweight tends to begin at a younger age, therefore leading to the person being ridiculed and criticized by peers and even some cold-hearted and ignorant adults throughout all his/ her life. So, when trying to help this person become healthier, even if the point of improving his/ her health is clearly emphasized, said person will most likely feel insecure about the fact that he/ she is being forced to change.

Acceptance is something all people strive for, and the perfect body image, in today’s society, is a large part of receiving that acceptance we all so badly want. Even when someone manages to be accepted, there is still the question of being loved. When people are being told, “Sure, you’re fat, but I accept you,” they will begin to fear if acceptance is interchangeable with love and loyalty. The sad truth is that these people most likely are led to believe that the two are, in fact, not interchangeable. Sure, their friends will say that they accept their weight, but then, they will stop talking to them.

Not only are there endless programs dedicated to controlling children’s weight, but there are also several programs dedicated to anti-bullying that completely ignore weight discrimination. In fact, the only state that outlaws weight discrimination is Michigan. This is most likely because people probably feel that if they ward against

weight discrimination, then it might be interpreted that they are saying, God forbid, that being fat is okay and that fat or overweight people should not be punished.

Now it only makes sense to say that if people believe that being told to lose weight equates to not being good enough, those people are insane. However, if it is possible that being told to stop bullying innocents in the form of overweight people could lead to the belief that being overweight is completely fine, which it is, then people will do nothing about weight-related

bullying so as not to send the wrong message. The sad part is that this is not even exaggerated.

The bottom line is that being fat, overweight, obese, or whatever you want to call it is not a bad thing.

There is a difference between being fat and being unhealthy, and it is time people learn the difference.

People can absolutely be large and beautiful, and it is time people learn how to accept that. It is time that people start paying attention, stop being ignorant, and start accepting each person for who he/she is.

Photo/ Flickr PUBLIC ENEMY #1: This machine is what has people all around the world questioning their self worth and losing their self-esteem.

Op-Ed

Page 15

Too young to be changed Mother injects 8-year-old daughter with Botox

by AIDAN BARCLAY Staff Writer When an eight year olds mother begins to pump her child full of Botox, one has to ask themselves on what has happened to people’s perception of beauty.

When children come into the world, there is not an imperfection on them. And as we get older, our perfections lessen and so does our innocence, but a child of eight should not have look at herself and believe that she is unattractive. Though the mother claims that her child willingly accepted the treatment, it is hard to believe that a child would willing accept a needle to the face.

The mother had to play some role in influencing her daughter, and that is disgusting. What mother could look at her kid, especially one so young, and think that she requires a radical change to her facial features?

The health problems that may arise with Botox use is another reason why there is something wrong with this mother. Though the effects may not be as severe for adults, who the drug is intended for, it is possible for the drug to have a more dramatic effect on adolescents.

Some of these symptoms include anxiety, neck pain, and weakness.

Psychological damage is the most permanent scar that the Botox could leave. Imagine how bad one would feel if their mother saw something aesthetically wrong, especially on a child so young. If she’s not good enough for her mother, how could she be good enough for anybody is a question that has to be going through her head.

What is even more worrying is if this is just an isolated incident involving a kooky mother, or is it a reflection on our society. Today’s culture, or at least in America, does have a certain fascination with the attainment of visual perfection.

It is almost to the point of obsession, considering all the beauty magazines and products out there.

June 14, 2011

Private photos of Weiner hit Twitter

Anthony Weiner faces multiple allegations

What’s even more disturbing is the fact that visual beauty is considered paramount, while the sentimental aspects of a person are often left on the wayside. Intelligence should be just as, if not more important than beauty. Something tells me that the mother of the child would care less if she got an A, and more if she won a beauty pageant.

Photo/ Flickr

by STEPHEN KENNEY Staff Writer

Photo/ AP Images

JUDGEMENT IN A BOTTLE: Kerry Campbell injected her eight-year-old daughter, Britney, with several treatments of BotoxBotox is a dangerous treatment that should only be used for people 18 and older. Injections should always be done by a professional.

As many have heard, Anthony Weiner is facing multiple allegations about sending erotic pictures to multiple women over social media sites.

On May 27, the U.S. Representative tweeted a photo of his privates to his Twitter page. The photo was deleted almost immediately after it had been posted, but not before a screenshot of the picture was taken. Some are calling it the “Weiner seen around the world”.

Weiner claims that his Twitter page was hacked and that the alleged photo was not of him. However, in a press conference on June 7, the New York Rep. admitted to tweeting the photo and that the picture was indeed of him. After apologizing to multiple people, Weiner claimed that posting the picture was an accident and apologized for lying about it in the first place.

In the matter of the day after he posted a picture of his privates over Twitter, Weiner instantly became the new Tiger Woods. Now, multiple women are coming out the same week claiming Weiner also sent them photos of himself.

However, it’s pretty sad when a Representative who shared an explicit picture to Twitter is the top story for a week when there’s a war going on. Just goes to show the priorities of people now-adays. They just want a good story.

The New York Representative has been serving New Yorkers since 1999 and managed to keep a low profile. It’s very funny how when someone makes a mistake, especially a politician, everyone is quick to jump all over and expose it. Not to say what Mr. Weiner did wasn’t wrong, just that everyone deserves a second chance, and perhaps people shouldn’t be so quick to point fingers.

Adding to the scandal, Weiner’s wife is currently pregnant with their first child. She’s also an advisor to Secretary of the State Hillary Clinton. How ironic…

Despite the incident, Weiner’s wife says she’ll stay by her husband through it all and, regardless of the many people telling him to resign, Weiner’s wife wants him to keep his head up high.

On June 11, Weiner announced he would seek treatment for a sex addiction at an undisclosed rehab center in New York.

Raped of your rights Just saying ‘no’ isn’t enough anymore

by BRITTANY HASTABA Section Editor

House Republicans face an onslaught of controversy as the provision from their “No Taypayer Funding for Abortion Act” bill attempts to redefine the definition of rape.

New Jersey Republican Chris Smith introduced the bill, also known as H.R. 3.

It intends to make permanent the banning of federal funding for abortions. This bill affects the Hyde Amendment, which forbids health-care programs, such as Medicaid, from covering abortions except in cases of rape, incest, or to save the life of a mother.

However, a provision of this bill will significantly narrow the definition of rape in order to reduce the number of abortion cases that are federally funded. It proposes that a woman is only exempt from the Hyde Amendment restrictions if she becomes pregnant as a result of “forcible rape.”

Specifying rape as “forcible” will rule out many forms of sexual assault that will not have federal assistance for abortions, including statutory rape,

many of which are non-forcible.

Therefore, if a 25-year-old impregnates a 13-year-old, it is not classified as “forcible rape” and she will no longer qualify for a health-care program to pay for an abortion.

Other types of rape cases that will not be considered part of the exemption include rapes in which a woman is drugged or given excessive amounts of alcohol, rapes of women with limited mental capacity, date rapes, and adult victims of incest.

Denying abortion funds to such a large variety of rape victims equates taking away women’s rights and their independence.

Many abortion rights activists deeply condemn this provision and are insulted by such little consideration for women.

Donna Crane, policy director of NARAL Pro-Choice America, says that making the “already narrow exceptions for public funding of abortion care for rape and incest survivors even more restrictive is unbelievably cruel and heartless.”

This provision is nothing more than a ruthless attempt to deny victims aid by denying that many of them were raped at all.

This will only magnify the victims’ trauma, as women who are impregnated by their assaulters would need to submit a rape for government approval, adding insult to injury.

They need to prove that they are “worthy” rape victims by claiming they were beaten, threatened, and traumatized enough before they can receive funding to prevent giving birth to a rapist’s child.

To require victims to prove themselves in order to attain medical care is appalling. This attitude that some rape victims do not deserve proper treatment because they were not raped and beaten enough is truly degrading of women’s rights.

It is expected so much more from a society that has been able to overcome racism through the civil rights movements as well as establish women as equal human beings with the same rights as men. This shocking attempt by the Republicans to avoid paying for abortions for rape victims is truly a step back from such a “change for the better” society that has evolved into today.

Activists have already begun voicing their strong opposition towards this bill through media

coverage. Petitions are circulating throughout the Internet and being signed by many women’s rights activists. A Twitter campaign has also been created that challenges the GOP assault on women labeled #dearjohn. This is a reference to House Speaker John Boehner, who dubbed this bill a “top priority.”

With the support of feminists, human rights groups, and concerned citizens, the force of their outcry against this offensive on abortion and rape limitations will start a new women’s rights movement that will not be stopped until the GOP respects the women’s right to choose.

Photo/ AP Images

PLAN TO REDEFINE RAPE: New Jersey Representative Chris Smith proposes to narrow the definition of rape to limit the number of federally funded abortions.

June 14 , 2011

Humor

Page 16

The funniest [expletive] article you will ever read

by JULIE KELLY Editor-in-Chief It all began when I was trying to think of an article idea for this last issue. Then I got the best idea ever. I thought, “wow I have never written a humor article!”

So I went over to Exec Editor J Hussey and told him I was going to attempt a funny article.

As I sat down at my computer to start typing, I realized something quite important…..the truth is, I am really bad at this kind of stuff. I am basically that person who makes really stupid jokes that no one laughs at and tells funny stories that are only funny to me because they do not make any sense when I explain them.

So I was a little upset when I realized that I probably would not write a five star humor article. I would not be able to include any witty jokes or puns or ridiculing remarks, because well…I am just bad at it. But, being that it is my last issue ever for The Falcon News and I will soon give over my title to Editor-in-Chief to someone else that I don’t know…I decided to give it a go anyway.

Basically you have to use your imagination when you are reading my article. For example, I am not going to insert witty remarks about Charlie Sheen or the government or something, because I don’t really know enough about those things to make jokes about them. Usually I say something that makes no sense and then just get laughed at for being that idiot who made the remark that only I thought was funny.

My problem is that things always sound funnier in my head. You know when you are getting ready to tell an epic story? You

replay the situation in your head and start laughing to yourself because of how funny it was. Then you begin to tell the story but get so caught up in the funny part, start laughing, attempt to tell it again, forget the important details, start laughing again when you finish telling it and then awkwardly look around while everyone else stares at you as if you have a ‘kick me’ sticker on your forehead. Okay so maybe that doesn’t happen to you… but some of us aren’t that fortunate and yeah, I am that girl.

So it pretty much seemed like a hopeless idea when I began this article, thinking about how I am basically a failed comedian. I mean if J Hussey was writing this article, he would probably beast me.

It would not even compare, because he can actually say funny things that make sense. As you can probably tell from reading this, I tend to ramble and speak foreign languages when attempting to be funny.

Maybe I just didn’t inherit the humor gene or something, but I think the most important thing is that I give it a try. I mean…I am bound to get better with practice, right…? Yeah, I think so.

All that really matters is that I think I am funny and usually I laugh at all my jokes… who cares if no one else does?

So as you are reading if you find some hidden joke somewhere in this article then that is awesome because I totally did it on purpose…. But if you don’t find any humorous running jokes, then I totally did that on purpose too. It’s like inception, am I blowing your mind yet?

Don’t judge, some of us just aren’t as funny as others.

Photo/DanaSpeizer

JUST HANGIN’ AROUND: Editor-in-Chief, Julie Kelly gets comfortable to make the final touches on the best humor article ever written.

A countless cavalcade of cinema sequels A peek into the future of everyone’s favorite film franchises

by DAVID MORRIS Staff Writer/Artist

As a professional journalist and writer for the highly-lauded Falcon News, (Winner of the Columbia Scholastic Press Association Gold Medalist Certificate-2008/2009) I was given the opportunity to experience a sneak preview of the next red-hot sequels spat from Hollywood’s gaping maw. I was fortunate enough to be granted permission to write about these tantalizing new films, and I’m excited where these franchises are heading.

Now, buckle your seatbelts, but beware, dangerous spoilers lie ahead and some of them are only rough outlines of the final copy. Without further ado, let’s get bready to crumble!

“The Hangover: Part III”

The second sequel to the smash hit comedy, “The Hangover”, this sequel puts the Wolf Pack back in Vegas-again! One of the detriments and huge complaints regarding “The Hangover: Part II” was that it was too different, it strayed too far away from its predecessor and at times seemed like a completely different film. But don’t worry, director Todd Phillips has heard your cries for help.

In my interview with him, he stated, “Yeah, that second one was absolutely awful. Don’t fret, the third is going right back to the franchise’s roots.”

The third film will be an exact duplicate of the first, so no one in the American movie audience will get confused as to what movie they’re watching.

Also, there were rumors that a Part 4 is in the works and it might just be exactly the same as 1 and 3. Let’s keep our fingers crossed.

“Pirates of the Caribbean: The Secret of Monkey Island”

“PotC 5” once again follows the wacky misadventures of the lovable and loony

Captain Jack Sparrow as he searches for the legendary Cash Cow, a mammal that spews money from its udders instead of milk.

Captain Jack is also joined by new crewmates Shmelizabeth Shmurner (portrayed

by Natalie Portman) and a talking CGI Dolphin named Finny (voiced by Seth Rogen).

Surprisingly, “Pirates 6” also began filming and has the tentative title of “Pirates of the Caribbean: LeChuck’s Revenge”. The story may or may not revolve around the legend of the eternally beaten dead horse.

“Th6 F6st 6nd th6 Furi6us 6”

The sixth entry in the “Fast and Furious” juggernaut series features fan favorites Dom Toretto and Brian O’Conner in even more high-octane thrill rides. The once-thoughtdead Leticia Ortiz returns, along with every other character that ever died in the series.

Also, toward the end, The Rock and Vin Diesel combine to form a grotesque mutant named Diesel Rock in order to take down the film’s big baddie. In the end credits sequence, Optimus Prime makes a cameo appearance. Speaking of which...

“Trans4mers: Shia LaBeouf”

After the explosive events of “Transformers: Dark of the Moon”, it’s revealed that Shia LaBeouf now has the power of the autobots.

“Trans4mers” follows him for two and a half hours as he blows up buildings and scores with chicks that are hilariously out of his league.

In order to make the experience more realistic, no CGI is going to be used. Instead, Michael Bay is just going to use home movie footage of himself as a kid, lighting things on fire.

Photos/Flickr

A TRIUMPHANT RETURN: Two favorite francchises, “Transformers” and “The Fast and the Furious”, return with amazing new sequels!

Seniors stumped by senioritis The dreaded and highly dangerous disease strikes again

by DAVID MORRIS Staff Writer/Artist I don’t feel like writing this article. I’m done with high school.

With all of these wondrous Hollywood flicks being released soon, it looks like a bright future for the American theatergoer.

Don’t miss any of these sequels. If you do, people might make something original!

Photos/Flickr