w w w. t h e n h s p a w p r i n t . o r g
The Norwalk High School
Paw Print “How the Bears make their mark”
FEBRUARY 2011
Honors Courses
Valentine’s Day Singing Grams Photo Credit: Pa ula Araujo
Norwalk High School Chamber Singers perform Singing Grams on Valentine’s Day.
VOLUME V, ISSUE 3
Matt Cranston ’11
Executive Editor The application process to be admitted into an honors course has become less demanding over the past few years. With little or no effort, any Norwalk High student, whether their GPA be 3.5 or 2.5 can be admitted into one of these advanced courses. According to the NHS Honors and Advanced Placement Program in the Student Handbook, “an honors or advancement placement program for the highly motivated and academically talented is available for students in grades 9 through 12.” Social Studies Department Chair Mr. O’Shaughnessy is all for the freedom given to a students education. “I am all for pushing a student to his or her best abilities as long as they are achieving satisfactorily.” In recent years, to apply to an honors course a student would require a grade of a B in his or her recent class along with a signature from that teacher. In the new 2011-2012 subject selection guide, the teacher signature requirement has been removed. Superintendent Susan Marks believes that “there should not be a lot of barriers put up for students to get into high level courses.” She went on to say, “We just don’t want students who are motivated to take higher level courses to be excluded.” Each year a committee meets from both NHS and BMHS to review the subject selection guide. Mr. Mecca who is now in his fourth year as principal of NHS believes that the changes made to the subject selection guide were to “make some classes truly open and more accessible to students.”
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Budget Cuts Create Financial Headache Meredith Pramer ’11
NEWS
FEATURE
Photo Credit: Meredith Pramer
Marks explained about how they went about creating these preliminary cuts. She Staff Writer also stated, “I have great dreams for the As the members of the Board of Education and the Sucity, but I am also a very practical person. perintendent posted the proposed budget, city residents I am trying to get as much resources as I became enraged. can for our students.” Superintendent Dr. Susan Marks submitted a budMembers of the Board of Education agreed get of roughly $155 million to the City Counsel, which and approved the new budget of roughly according to her letter to the parents of Norwalk Public $156 million dollars, which makes it a Schools, is a 3.32% increase from last year. 4.25% increase, instead of 3.32%. This The proposed budget will cut one high school housenew budget proposed by Jodi Bishop Pulmaster, a librarian from Brien McMahon, the Schoollen, caused a standing ovation from the to-Career program from the high schools, an assistant crowd. principal from Ponus and West Rocks, a shared guidance Emily Aguillar, and Norwalk High counselor from Ponus and West Rocks, and a shared guitar School graduate, who is also a member teacher from Ponus and West Rocks. It also cuts from the of the fi rst budget committee, composed elementary schools, two assistant principals (school yet to of city offi cials and selected parents that be determined), all Grade 1 instructional aides, intervenMigdelia Rivas, Susan Hamilton, Dr. Susan Marks at the budget cut meeting have anticipated and shape the budget. tion aides, three Columbus aides, and one strings teacher Wolfpit Elementary School. Now that the BOE has increased the proposed budget (strings start in Grade 4). The budget also includes elimiHe was far from alone, in fact there hundreds of par- she feels, “ It’s all about prioritizing what’s best for the nating the two co-op high school sports teams, swimming ents that expressed their concern and outrage to the BOE students. It’s like a balancing act of the programs, but we and hockey and $20,000 from both high school bands. about the impact these changes would have on their chil- need to create something we can live with and not just The Budget committee members are trying to include dren, our students, staff, and the future of the city. Another settle with what is presented.” the community members as much as possible by holding Norwalk resident mentioned in her speech, “Can you even Both Marks and Aguillar also expressed the impormultiple meetings where Norwalk residents are able to put a price on our child’s education, you do not realize tance of coming to the meetings to show the dedication of voice their opinions about each topic. what is actually at stake here.” keeping the programs you love alive and also showing the The many residents at the board meeting on January 6, On the other hand Dr. Susan Marks, Norwalk’s su- support that education should be of paramount importance 2011 and on January 11,2011, vigorously expressed their perintendent and leader at the BOE, is in a very diffi cult for the city. concern that their children’s future are being jeopardized position trying to optimize the education on the students The next meetings will be held on 2/22, 3/14, and by the cuts in the new budget. while balancing the budget. “This year we had to look 3/23. For any additional information on the budget please “For a city in need of improvement, I am appalled by at the bottom line of the budget, trying to make fair cuts go to www.norwalkpublicschools.org. the fact that we have to keep fi ghting for the future of our in every level (Elementary, Middle, and High School),” children,” said a Norwalk resident whose child attends
IN
T H IS A&E
IS S U E: SPORTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS News......................1 Editorial....................7 Feature.......................8 Arts and Entertainment...10 Opinion.....................12 Sports.........................15
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NEWS
fEBRUARY 2011
THE PAW PRINT
Class of 2011 Looks Forward to PGP Eric Scatamacchia ’11
Executive Editor
Honors Courses
Continued from Page 1
Winter Break Evan Opdahl ’11
Interview with Student Government President Ricky Joslyn Brendon Prescott ’11 Q: As a whole, what has Student Government been able to accomplish so far this year? A. We received a lot of positive feedback about the way we set up Spirit Week and the Pep Rally from teachers and students. We were also able to meet with Mr. Mecca to present a case for reform on new study hall policies. Students no longer have to go to the resource center that corresponds to their study hall teacher and four students at a time are now allowed to go to the library. Q. So how about the three-minute rule? A. Unfortunately we were unable to change the rule. Students will still have to report back to their study halls three minutes before the end of the period. Q. What methods have you been using to voice student opinion? A. We have had two open sessions so far this year, in which students express their grievances over certain issues. I actually set up a new system this year in which we form committees on certain issues. Q. What are committees responsible for? A. Each committee is devoted to a certain issue. Our three main committees deal with the weighing
of honors classes, passing time, and study hall. These committees are chaired by either high ranked elected officials or reliable representatives. Q. What have you guys done this year to make Student Government more efficient than last year? A. On top of the comitees, we are actually in the process of restarting Toilet Talk in the NHS bathrooms. We also have had meetings outside of Student Government with a Select Seven representatives to check up on what we have done every two weeks or so. Photo Credit: Meredith Pramer
Former NHS Principal Tony Daddona is a member of the committee that overlooks the changes done to the subject selection guide. “The committee felt that all students should have the opportunity to challenge themselves academically,” said Daddona. “It was also believed that the process should be objective and teacher signature could imply subjective decisions.” E-House Guidance Counselor Mr. Sullivan believes that this policy is all centered on “exposure and a calculated push for students.” A-House Guidance Counselor Ms. Domino felt that the reason for the revised course selection was to “push to diversify the advanced programs in our school.” The student population at NHS is made of 48% Caucasian, 23% African American, and 25% Hispanic. Of that, 18% of low-income, African-American, and Hispanic students are meeting state goals across all subjects according to ConnCan.org. At surrounding schools such as Darien High, some classes require students to meet a certain prerequisite to get in. “The classes that do have a prerequisite vary,” said Darien High Head of Guidance Paul Ribiero. “Some need a certain letter grade and teacher recommendation while others have a placement test.” At Brien McMahon, the application is the exact same as NHS. Head of Guidance Karen Amaker said on the topic of honors courses, “We do not require students to ‘apply’ for honors or AP courses. However, we encourage students to meet with their counselor and current teacher to better understand the requirements of such demanding courses.”
Photo Credit: Kristen Cordero
The Post Graduation Party (PGP) is a party held every year at St. Philip’s for the seniors the night of graduation. This party is run by NHS parents who start planning more than a year in advance. Many parents spend a great deal of time helping and volunteering for various jobs for preparation during the party and after the party. Approximately thirty-five parents hold meetings once a month to discuss plans for the party and delegate jobs and roughly ninety parents volunteer to work shifts during PGP. Mrs. Linda Dunsmore, the treasurer for PGP, said, “There are many jobs involved in putting on a great PGP, but the main ones are: arranging for volunteers to work shifts from 10:00 P.M. to 5:00 A.M. on the night of PGP, fundraising to ensure that we have the $17,000 needed to hold an event the Class of 2011 will find memorable, coordinating the vast quantities of food for the night, decorating all the rooms in the party venue according to the theme chosen by the parents, organizing the games and entertainment, and finally soliciting and buying the numerous raffle prizes that will be awarded that night.” As a result of the high cost for PGP the parents also hold the Senior Fashion Show which is the main fundraiser for PGP. Only graduating seniors are allowed to attend PGP, which is meant to provide a safe environment for seniors to have a good time after graduation. The idea behind this party is that rather than having students hold their own
James Huang (’11) summarized PGP as, “One last bang parties were there is a greater chance of them getting in trouble, the school holds a supervised party which keeps out with everyone in the school.” He also explained, “You students safe. In order to ensure that students are safe, will not see some of your classmates again until they are there is a strict policy against students leaving the party and then returning. Abby Fry (’11) said of this rule, “I think it is a bit strange that you cannot go outside and then come back in. I am sure that it is enjoyable but personally I would like to go outside somewhere instead of being stuck inside for the entire night.” Mr. Mecca commented in regards to PGP, “I think it is great. It is a great place for students to have fun and keep them out of trouble.” He continued, “It is only as good as the parents make it and the NHS parents are fabulous.” Every year parents choose a theme for PGP, which determines the decorations for the party and some activities. Parents start decorating St. Philips according to the chosen theme a week before the party. Students are not told the theme until the night of the Last year’s seniors enjoying PGP, which was organized by NHS parents bald party. In the past, themes have included Broadway, Carnival, Cruise, Hollywood, Board Walk, and and fat, so it is a good way to remember them until then.” Mrs. Dunsmore concluded, “The parents know it is Western. During the party there are a variety of activities such the last time the Class of 2011 will all be together so we as dancing, card games, palm readings, ping-pong, foos- plan to do our best to make it special.” ball, Wii, and raffles for prizes.
Q. What problems have you run into when trying to stimulate change? A. There is never a clear-cut path to changing policy. There is a lot of red tape we have to cut through between the school administration, Mr. Mecca, and the Board of Education. We cannot actually change anything, but we can influence people to make changes. Q. Any messages you would like to extend to the students? A. Look out for Color War and elections will take place in May. Anyone interested in running for an elected position should talk to Mr. Karl or Mr. Seaburg (114B and 116B).
Staff Writer The Norwalk Public School systems have come to a decision regarding the February break. They have retracted three of the five vacation days leaving Tuesday through Thursday as school days. Norwalk seems to be alone in the decision to put school days into the spots of vacation days. No other school system took similar action. Shelton is doing something somewhat similar during their February break. They have decided to bring their teachers in for four days. The students have optional days and are not required to come into school. The teachers will be providing tutoring for the state tests which are rapidly approaching. This will cost the school district $40,000 and will not cover any of their snow days. So these teachers are required to come in for the day and they still have to add all of the snow days onto the end of their school year.
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R R WA O L O C HOW S N O I FASH
LOOK OUT FOR THE FINALIZED CAPT SCHEDULE
DODGE BALL CAMPUS CLEAN UP SPRING MUSICAL SPRING FLING
NEWS
THE PAW PRINT
February 2011
Page 3
More Credits For Students Means Less Time To Slack Mike Corasaniti ’11 Staff Writer By being handed a new rotating, eight period schedule on their first day of school freshman year, the Norwalk High School class of 2010 was presented an opportunity to be mathematically finished with high school before they even reached their senior year. After years of operating under a seven period schedule, NHS changed to allow for students to take more classes, but never raised the graduation requirement for students (twenty credits). Therefore, many students never took advantage. “By the time I finished junior year I had close to twenty-two credits. The thought of loading up my schedule with study halls crossed my mind, but I decided against it. Many others didn’t though,” said Brenna Beluk (’10).
Rather than embracing the opportunities the schedule presents, students continue to grasp onto the chance to be lazy. “I do see more and more students wanting open ends,” said Mr. Seaburg, “I believe that one study hall is reasonable, but three study halls is really just a disservice to the student.” While the Norwalk Public School Student Handbook states that students are “expected” to take a certain amount of credits each year, students continue to find ways to build an easy schedule. “Each year we try to load up our student’s schedules, but they are usually able to find a way out,” said Mr. Sullivan, “A lot of students don’t know how to use their time effectively and end up just roaming the halls.” While many students aim to take advantage of the current system for the worse, others are milking it as much as they can.
Hayley Prescott (’11), who will graduate with more then twenty-eight credits said, “I want to excel at the profession I’m going into, and every class I’m taking is beneficial. And quite frankly, I would be bored in study hall.” For less motivated students who have enjoyed multiple study halls in the past, future changes may be on the way to disappoint them. “The state has put together a proposal for the graduating class of 2015 which would essentially require students to take more credits,” said Mr. Sullivan. The proposal, which is still in it’s “beginning stages”, would require twenty-five credits overall to graduate, among other changes. Teachers and administrators alike have been disappointed at students for not taking advantage of their rotating eight period schedules, but with the possible change in graduation requirements, at least students will lose the opportunity to be lazy.
Shed It and Forget It
Internet Use
Business Editor
Staff Writer
Nataly Monsalve ’11
Photo Credit: www.nbc.com
In 2005, one in every five students in Connecticut High Schools was either obese or overweight. As the new year of 2011 starts, the Norwalk High School health center has taken a stand, by creating “ The Biggest Loser” NHS style. The Biggest loser is “ a weight loss challenge for students at NHS with an emphasis on healthy eating and activity”, said Dale Ford medical assistant at the Health center The two masterminds behind the NHS Biggest Loser are Dale Ford, a medical assistant, and Mary Beth Fessler, a nurse Practitioner, who works in the health center. The biggest loser has drawn in around a page and half of students to participate and is trying to recruit more students. The program will be 15 weeks long, and will consist of weekly weigh ins at lunch, challenges, guest speakers, and motivation, “The program is still being developed,” said Dale Ford. A student stated that she wanted to lose at least 60 pounds throughout the challenge to see a change in herself, and had made it part of a new years resolution. “I don’t like the way I look some times,” said Janneiry Ramirez (’11) as to why she wanted to join the biggest loser. She continued saying “ I want to be healthier, so I can help my family
with their eating habits.” The health center chose to promote “ The Biggest Loser” because “ There are a large number of students we see that need to learn healthier eating habits, which will eventually lead to weight loss,” said Ford. The “Biggest Loser” will help fellow students avoid or decrease the chance of diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and cardio vascular disease, with the motivation that the health center will provide, because in the long run, quitting may be an opinion for some. According to Ford, “One of the hardest tasks for us as leaders is to keep everyone motivated.” A student said “I was happy when I heard about this because this will help people in educating them on their health and with self esteem. I am excited to start this program.” The program has seen excitement within its participants. The health center did its first weigh ins and will continue to weigh in their participants every Wednesday during lunch. Some Wednesday lunch will be provided for the participants along with mini lectures, and discussions. The prize for the winner of this friendly challenge will be clothing store gift cards, which the amount has not yet been determined.
Brendon Prescott ’11 Opinion Editor
While the winter season is usually a time for falling gas prices, this proved not to be the case in 2011. Gas prices have now rose to a national average of about three dollars and twelve cents per gallon, a fourteen percent spike from last year’s average in January. With increasing prices comes budget cuts and at Norwalk High School, students and teachers alike are affected daily through their commutes. In any economy, when energy prices go up, people have to substitute other expenses in order to conform to the spike in cost. Despite massive cleanup projects in the Gulf of Mexico after the BP oil spill of 2010, the United States has still yet to reopen oil drilling in the Gulf, increasing the demand for oil while decreasing national supply. This has contributed to a slight rise in the price of oil and gas. This increase may force more students and teachers who commute to NHS via car to either adjust their gas budgets or find other means of transportation. “I definitely think it hits the teachers hard,” said NHS Principal Lenny Mecca. “We have teachers who use up a tank of gas per day and the difference between paying
As a new age of technology sets in, teachers are divided on how they feel about the Internet’s impact on how students learn and go about their studies. Any student at Norwalk High School this past month noticed the numerous amount of upperclassman walking around with catapults. These contraptions are for Mr. Couture and Mr. O’Reilly’s Honors Physics classes. Mr. Couture, a member of the Department of Higher Education, is also a part of the Ultimate Route to Certification Program. “As a Methods Instructor in this program, I teach new teachers how to teach,” Couture stated. Mr. Couture has been assigning this catapult project for 19 years now and he is merely continuing an NHS tradition that was already in place. Going through very few minor changes, the project guidelines have stayed pretty much the same for over twenty years. Unlike many teachers, Couture values students’ use of the Internet. “It can be a tool for inspiration for students.” Couture does not feel that it has inhibited students’ creativity in the project. “Students can look up designs on the Internet,” Couture states, “but it is still up to them to build, tweak, and make their catapult function.” Couture criticized the school system for blocking all sites that block websites that contained the word “Catapult.” When one of these pages is pulled up, it says that it is blocked because of references to weapons. Couture feels that these pages could be valuable learning tools for more than just his Physics classes. “I would love to be able to take my classes into the resource center and be able to look
forty dollars for gas and forty one can add up to be about $900 more per year.” Mecca along with many other teachers such as Mr. Welsh, Ms. Kopple, and Mr. Von Arter have to make treks from all over the state of Connecticut in order to arrive at NHS every morning. “I have to come all the way from Danbury so I definitely have had to tighten my budget a bit.” added Mecca. Mr. O’Shaughnessy, an AP European History, Civics, and Economics teacher at NHS, only has to commute about a mile a day in order to make it to NHS. While his budget may not suffer, he observed that students may find themselves in a rocky position at times. “I do not think the rising prices will have a large scale effect on the students that drive to school, but students may have to make more sacrifices in order to make it to school every morning. Naturally a rise in gas prices would result in more students carpooling to school, but new Connecticut driving laws have done more to prevent this from occurring.” Evan Bonenfant (’11) drives to school every morning in his Ford Explorer (which gets about fifteen miles per gallon) but tries to cut down on how much he drives outside of school. “It has been really hard managing with these gas prices. I find myself at the pump much more than I would like to be and I have been trying to drive only when it is
Photo Credit: www.zimbio.com
Gas Price Paranoia
dylan Byrne ’11
up the different designs with them. These websites would be great for Latin and History classes as well.” First-year history teacher Mr. Von Arter agrees with Couture’s enthusiasm for the Internet’s usefulness. “The Internet is an amazing resource. You used to have to teach right off of the text books and whatever newspapers you could get your hands on,” Von Arter states. “Now I go to my computer and google any topic and hundreds of thousands of articles will come up written by professors and other people with doctorates and PhD’s.” On the other hand, many teachers within the English Department have been outraged by the invention of online study guides such as Spark Notes and Cliff Notes. Teachers have noticed that students are not reading their assigned books and instead are browsing the Internet for online summaries. Some English students, however, are realizing that it is getting harder to breeze through their classes on Spark Notes. George Bellos (’12) states, “Spark Notes used to be a useful tool for English classes but as the classes get harder, teachers are doing more to make sure kids are doing their work.” Mr. Segers and the English Department have taken some action against this lack of actual reading. Annually, Mr. Segers gives a “Spark Notes” tests to his Freshmen English classes. Instead of the traditional question/answer format, Segers prints out the online chapter summaries and tells his students to write down ten things that were left out of the summaries. Senior Class Vice President, Oliver Viera (’11), had Mr. Segers and says, “It is a great way to see if kids were actually doing their reading.” While some teachers praise the use and versatility of the Internet, others continue to discourage it.
absolutely necessary.” Jennifer Wing’s (’11) parents pay for the gas in her car; however, she finds it difficult to comply with her parents new demands. “My parents are now constantly telling me to conserve my gas but my car is a gas guzzler so it is difficult, especially since driving to school is a necessity for me most of the time.” Jenn also expressed her concern for other students who are not as fortunate as her when it comes to paying for gas. “From what I hear prices are supposed to go way up. It is hard enough for students to keep a job in this volatile economy and if kids cannot pay for gas, many of them will be forced to find other means of transportation.”
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February 2011
NEWS
THE PAW PRINT
Former NHS Students Come Back to Talk College Life James Welch ’11
Sports Editor
On January 5th, Norwalk High School alumni came to the school to visit and talk with some current students in the senior class. This event was created six years ago by Mr. Sullivan, the chairperson of the guidance counselors in order to keep past graduates involved with Norwalk High. “It’s a way for the kids to come back and stay connected or reconnect with old friends or teachers that they had come to know over the four years they were here,” said Sullivan. It took place in two areas this year which was different from recent years. The main reason for the change was because of the large panel of alumni (twenty two students) that came. There was one panel of students in the priority school room and another in the career center to accommodate over one hundred current seniors that attended. Photo Credit: Brendon Prescot
Banners from various colleges hang in Mr. Simonsen’s room.
“Our main focus is to not only know about what you [the alumni] are doing, but more about the journey that got you there,” said Mr. Sullivan about what he wanted the returning students to talk about. All parties involved seemed to thoroughly enjoy the experience. There were numerous comical stories told and many interesting insights on what the “real” college experience is. “I think that it provides a more in depth perspective that students know they can trust. We talk about the good and the bad, whereas tour guides only focus on the good parts which can sometimes be misleading,” stated Michael Lepoutre (’10), current student at Quinnipiac University. Another returning student Mike Welch (’10), who attends the University of Toronto, had a similar, yet different perspective, “My favorite part was being able to speak to everyone about what really happens at a university. What people think happens at a university are usually much different than what actually happens on campus.” Kevin Daniele (’11) agreed that it was an overall enjoyable experience, “I enjoyed it mostly because I got to hear firsthand what college life was really like.” Kayla Smoragiewicz (’11) said, “I liked it because I got to hear about the different colleges and was able to talk to my friends from last year about how they made their decision.” This is the first of a few events that involve NHS alumni getting involved with current students. Coming up this spring, alumni ranging from the ages of twenty five to seventy five come visit the school for a career fair where students can meet people that graduated from NHS that have pursued careers that also interest them. “The career fair in the spring will give current students a chance to pick the brains of alumni about how they got this far and what steps they have to take in order to get into their position,” stated Mr. Sullivan. “This will be another great way for the alumni to stay connected with the school and for the students to learn from people they can connect with.” So if any of the seniors happened to miss the Alumni Day on January 5th, he or she should be sure to look out for the career fair coming up in the spring. It is an extremely unique opportunity to get a firsthand look at what life could be like after college and high school.
Code of Conduct
NHS Prepares for Germ Warfare
Photo Editor
Staff Writer
Ashley Cortes ’11
As the winter sets in, so does the cold and flu season. Many people at this time of year are reaching for their bottles of hand sanitizer and spending extra time in the bathrooms to wash up. These people are often referred to as “germaphobes.” However, germaphobia is not an actual disease. “Germaphobia” has become the generic name for the pathological fear of dirt and contamination that is actually mysophobia. With last year’s outbreak of the H1N1 virus (swine flu), the dangers of spreading germs and sicknesses are a real threat for any of the 2,000 people that walk through the halls of Norwalk High School each day. Honors Biology teacher, Mrs. Silva, explained how students and staff members can transmit such diseases. “First, students cough or sneeze into their hands and then they proceed to touch the things around them like books and papers,” said Silva. “Other students touch these things and eventually they will put their hands near their eyes or mouth. The original germs then make it into other student’s systems.” A popular Discovery Channel show, Mythbusters, has done several experiments on the spreading of germs. Using an invisible fluid that glows under black light, the mythbusters held a small dinner party to see how germs can spread over a large amount of people in small amount of time (30 minutes). After the party concluded they placed the partygoers under the black light and discovered that most of the guests were covered with the glowing liquid. Only one guest escaped the pseudo-germy fate because they were instructed to behave like a germaphobe. Many of the guests’ faces were glowing from the fluid and the myth was ultimately confirmed that
Winter Break
even a simple runny nose could spread germs “far and wide.” Most students and teachers overlook these dangers, however, others have made rituals to prevent the spreading of these contagious pathogens. Many teachers now have bottles of hand sanitizer and tissues on their desks that are for their students. Ms. Abrahamsen of the English Department provides both for her English classes and feels they benefit the school. “I think every teacher should have them,” said Abrahamsen. Modern technology has even modified itself to accompany the needs of those who have mysophobia. Popular companies like HP and Kensington now offer washable keyboards so any user can be sure that they are not being contaminated. Photo Credit: Brendon Prescott
The code of conduct is something that any Norwalk High School Student can get their hands on, but few seek out that opportunity. The school is expected to follow this code, just as much as the students are expected to obey it. It is “a guide to what they can do.” The Code of Conduct is essentially a rulebook that contains the consequences for inappropriate actions. One example would be the cell phone policy, in which it states the consequence for first offense being caught with a cell phone is “$5.00 Fine Confiscation return to student upon receipt of fine.” Dr. Karagus said about the topic of the cell phone policy “We get a lot of opposition, refusal to hand in items…how would we keep records of all of this?” When asked about how much the code of conduct is used Mr. Mecca said, “ It’s much more black and white than it is gray…this has happened, here is the code of conduct, here are the consequences.” When questioned about his place in situations concerning the use of the code of conduct, Mr. Mecca explained, “Anything major is always reviewed with me.” “Ninety-five percent of the time the house masters do the suspension,” said Mecca. At NHS there is one particular housemaster who is on a board that is reconstructing the code of conduct. Dr. Karagus is on a committee of about ten to fifteen people who are reviewing and reconstructing the code of conduct. When asked about what they are fixing Dr. Karagus said “Nothings wrong we’re reconstructing because the state of Connecticut has mandated that school districts add in school suspension.” He also stated that the school follows the code of conduct “exclusively”. What Head of Security Robin Beavers had to say was “I think there’s always room for minor changes…make the adjustment and follow through.” “We take you into a house office,” said Beavers when explaining his part of enforcing the code of conduct. “I would like the code of conduct to be more followed through.” Mr. Mecca said, “In most cases based on the incident we go to the code of conduct.” What Beavers had to say on the use of the code of conduct was that the security staff believed in a “different variation” of the code of conduct; “a stronger variation, they (the housemasters) want to be on the lighter side.” The fact is that in the first paragraph of the code of conduct it states, “These guidelines are not intended to constrain or limit the professional judgment of the administrator…” This states that even though the code of conduct should be used, if there are unusual circumstances that are not defined in the code of conduct the administration has a right to act on the problem as they see fit. The code of conduct is an important handbook; it is the rules of the school and the guidelines of the students. It is important to read it and understand it and to remember that even though the administration must follow it, they are not limited to it.
Dylan Byrne ’11
Student reaching for a hand sanitizer despenser.
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In a letter to the public Dr. Susan Marks, superintendent stated, “As superintendent of the Norwalk Public Schools my vision is to lead the district to ensure that all students learn at high levels, and are ready for college and/or post-secondary training by the time they graduate. To accomplish this goal, there must be a rigorous curriculum and instructional program that engages students throughout their school career.” Dr. Marks as well as most school officials feel education and preparation are much more important than vacation. The required number of school days must be met. Students and teachers alike have planned vacations that cannot be cancelled and they will unfortunately miss the school days that have been supplemented. “I myself am going to miss two of the three school days due to vacation. I am using this these days to prepare my students for CAPT testing,” said Mr. Anastasia, freshman science teacher at Norwalk high. Students seem to be happy about this vacation change. “It’s good that we get to keep our April break. If students miss classes due to vacation that’s on them, not my problem,” said Tomar Joseph ’13. Summer vacation as of now begins on the twenty third of June.
NEWS
THE PAW PRINT
LikeALittle Is “Liked A Lot” Neha Patel ‘11 News Editor Online communication and social interaction has been taken to a completely different level with a new site created for college fl irting. Created by Stanford students in October of 2010, www.likealittle.com is a popular website on which college students can post anonymously about people they fi nd attractive. Over 100 colleges have their own LikeALittle site for their students in particular. People are given random usernames after names of food such as Blueberry, Pineapple, or Lemon on the site. Once logged on, they are asked to choose their location on campus, the gender and hair color of the person they are posting about, and are given space to write what they think about the person. An example of a post on the Boston University website is as follows, ‘At sycamore lane apartments: Male, Black hair. I saw you wearing your UC Davis sweatshirt. I got a glimpse of your orange tiger shirt underneath. If only
you took that sweatshirt off, I could be the Nala to your Simba.’ A variety of intriguing posts such as this one can be found on the various college campus sites. While some students use the site to post about crushes, others only browse the site for a good laugh. Ricky Bretherton (’12) said, “To be honest, I think it’s really funny from just reading a couple comments. I would defi nitely post as a joke, even though it would get boring after awhile.” A former NHS student and a freshman at the University of Connecticut, Dom Kruszewski, has had the shocking experience of having someone post about him on the site. The post mentioned that he has blonde hair, is an engineering major, and that he has a Polish last name. “Then, it said that if I don’t talk to her soon she would follow me to Terry Hall (where I live) and basically do naughty things to me. First, I was pumped since someone wrote about me, then I was creeped out that they knew where I lived and I got curious as to who it was. The website is cool because it doesn’t reveal any names…I’m not against it,” he said.
FEBRUARY 2011
PAGE 5
Kristen Cordero, current NYU student, thought, “It would be a good tool to use to connect with a stranger, but not everyone is being truthful and it’s not reaching a large group of NYU students. If users were required to list their identity instead of using an anonymous tag, it might work.” Indeed, there are fl aws concerning the site. There is a slim chance the person you are trying to connect with will see your comment because comments are being posted every couple minutes. If they do see the comment, they may not realize it is about them. Even then, they might not follow up on it to meet in person. “When I was in college, Facebook had just started but it wasn’t a big deal. Technology’s changed. This looks like another thing that will distract kids from what they’re supposed to do,” Mr. Moffett, math teacher at NHS, said. Darielle Cooper (’11) said, “I’m surprised so many students in college actually use this fl irting website. You would think they would have better things to do with their time…it’s something middle schoolers would use.” Only six weeks after the site was launched, it received over twenty million hits (Tech Markia). It will only take time to fi nd out if LikeALittle will last or if it has already reached its peak of popularity.
New Course: “Project Lead The Way” To Better Tomorrow Tevin Christopher ’11
Students signing up for courses for the 2012 school-year will now have the option of taking a few more courses. The new courses are part of the program, Project Lead the Way, which intends to increase the studies of those in the fi eld of Digital Electronics & Engineering. The program, which includes courses in Engineering Design, Digital Electronics, and Biotechnology Engineering aims to introduce students to the fi eld of engineering and technology. This plan involves helping students familiarize with themselves earlier on and giving them better preparation for a rigorous fi eld. The current courses offered as Science credits are taught by Mr. O’Reilly. While students may be reluctant to take these courses he advises: “The courses are project based so they are defi nitely more independent and hands on, which is different from other classes here,” Mr. O’Reilly said. Many students may not have had the discipline for these courses, as suggested decreasing retention rates at engineering and technical schools. “Some students may have the interest but are not aware of, the goal of Project Lead the Way is to present a course that is interesting and can prepare them for college,”
Photo Credit: Tevin Christopher
Staff Writer
NHS Teacher Mr. O’Reilly
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Mr. O’Reilly added. It is also important to note the increasing number of jobs in technology and engineering fi eld increases, where women and minorities have been greatly underrepresented in this fi eld, and one of PTLW’s goals is to change that. The main goal of PTLW is to present these opportunities for a successful career path, which has increased greatly over the years, while preparing students for the next generation to be innovative, productive, pioneering contributors. As students begin to make their course selection, they should keep in mind this incredible opportunity: “This is an increasing job fi eld, and while it may be seen as challenging, if the interest is there, this could possibly be the job fi eld for you, but you won’t know until you try,” concluded O’Reilly.
Security Cameras at NHS
was like when it was not being monitored by cameras. Staff Writer Cam Fuller (’10) was able to fi ll in At the beginning of the 2007-2008 and speak his mind about his opinion school year, Norwalk High School in- about the school without cameras. “Well I stalled security cameras in order to im- would say there wasn’t too much of a difprove the well-being of its students and ference. I suppose at most there were less to help make sure they stayed in class. vagrants milling about the hallways with So far, that investment has proven itself the arrival of cameras,” Fuller said, “But to be worth the money. there certainly wasn’t any kind of major Mr. Beavers, who is the head of se- change other than kids were more secrecurity at NHS, vouched for the imtive of their illicit activities.” portance of the cameras. “They Mecca also went on to give us more eyes,” Beatalk about the cameras vers said, “Six or seven abilities to help the security guards can’t security guards prebe everywhere in the vent people from school. The cameras loitering around give security an exand not going to tra level of awareclass. The camerness which helps as have also been us do our job to the used to help secubest of our capabilirity catch students ties. The camera itattempting to leave self can’t convict anythe school for whatone of doing something ever reason and send wrong but it can help give them back to class where a us a lead to an investigation. ” student belongs. During his time served as Principal, “I don’t know what it was like before Leonard Mecca also fi nds the idea of they were here, but their presence is inhaving cameras in the school helps cut valuable,” Mecca continued. “They show down on any nonsense that kids might us what is happening now, and what may cause in the hall. “The worth of these have happened days before.” cameras is invaluable,” Mecca said, Although the total cost of all the “They (the security camera monitors) are cameras placed throughout the school being monitored almost all the time and could not be determined, the Principal are really put to good use by the security and security guards faithful usage in orguards here.” der to keep students in class and school Mr. Mecca was introduced as the should be enough to answer that the camPrincipal of the school right prior to the eras worth truly is invaluable. What could 2007-2008 school year. Due to him be- possibly be worth more than a student’s ing inducted during that year he had no education? previous knowledge of what the school
Kevin Lawrence ‘11
Budget Cuts Feature
School-To-Career Program Faces Possible Cut
Visit WWW. THENHSPAWPRINT.ORG, to read Amanda Somma and Carly Mammoliti articles on Budget cuts.
“ I don’t know anything about the budget cuts, but I think it will be sad to see the hockey team go.” Most students, rule out what they hear about the budget cuts as only rumors not wanting to think about ake what could possibly happen.” ing to m o y r t e ’r y the ar, s - Gina Mazzola (’11) “I heard and for next ye b e h t uts in budget c to pay more,” e v (’12) we’d ha emarco D r lo y a -T
Adults
“This decision to cut [the team] would hurt not only hockey in the arena, but the life lessons these kids could learn by being part of a cohesive team” -Stephen Welch “It wou ld NHS Class of 98 band tra be easy to rais e mone ns y for teacher portation inste s, aides a d of cutt , and se ing creta -Mrs. S cicchita ries” no Parent o f Studen t
Transportation accounts for each of the high schools will be reduced by $20,000.
$155Million recommended operating budget for the 2011-2012 school year.
Parents, Adults (and Students) Don’t Understand
Students
“Many of student government members are going to meetings to know what is going on so they can let everyone else know about it.” -Meredith Pramer (’11)
“As the boys swim coach, we will explore every possible option in order to keep the girls and boys swim team together for next year and for the future.” - Mr. Marchetti Boys Swim coach
Swimming and Skating Do Not Make The Cut
playing hockey at NHS and it is my hope too, that the future students of NHS have that same opportunity,” Stephen Welch (‘98). He further adds that the timStaff Writer ing of this decision would fail students on life lessons. “The team seems FINALLY to be headed in the right direction and this Budget cuts are something serious and something being negotiated is the exdecision to cut [the team] would hurt not only hockey in the area, but the life ecution of hockey and swimming as an extracurricular activity in the Norwalk lessons these kids could learn by being part of a cohesive team,” Stephen Welch Public Schools. (‘98). On the swimming spectrum, an alumni from the class of 2010 adds his To run these two teams there is $35,000 spent on the swim team, and view on the issue. $45,000 for the hockey team. A record breaking swimmer from the girls 2010 team, Rachel “It is extremely important that our reSmolensky, understands the stress on money, but Photo credit: Dylan Bryne sources are utilized effectively in support of suggests her proposing opinion. student achievement,” said Norwalk Super“Swimming is a two school team so it is crazy intendent of Schools Susan Marks. This beto say that together they cannot support it,” Rachel ing said, the budget cuts still include no more Smolensky (’11). swim team, and no more hockey team. Play“If the high school team was cut while I ers and athletes appear to be demonstrating was still in high school, I would not have been their disappointment to the proposal. noticed by colleges, these college coaches and “We should not cut the hockey team,” recruiters show up to the opens (or meets) to see Rocco Bocchetta (12’). Although Rocco Bocfast swimming. In other words, I might not be chetta is a player of the team who clearly does swimming at the Division II school I am right not want to give up what he does, he suggests now, where swimmers that have gone as far as other alternatives. getting third in the Olympic Trials and have bro“We should look at cutting some of the ken American records have been produced,” Oscar freshman teams, for instance football and soccer Castillo (’10). have three teams each. If the freshmen teams are When a senior has the opportunity to win a scholcut, then students will strive to do better to make arship, seniors on the team highly defend the facts. JV or Varsity,” Rocco Bocchetta (12’). Rocco has “There are upcoming students who could get scholarships been playing since he was fi ve years old, and he through swimming, cutting the team would take that opportunity has one more year to play. With hopes to play in away from them,” Chris Crothers (’11). college, he questions what opportunities he will Coaches too have much to say while they dedicate their time to have to be recruited if his school will no longer work with the students that are active in the same activity that they have a team. love. The boys swim team displays a willful attitude. As a current player with an aspiration to com“As the boys swim coach, we will explore every possible option in order plete his fi nal year at NHS, he does not stand-alone with his opposition to this to keep the girls and boys swim team together for next year and for the future.” proposal. A hockey captain graduate from the NHS class of 98’ also expressed Two activities with people past and present, certainly brings the heart disapproval. out of the sport. With the cities proposal in cutting both teams, Norwalk High “I would ask Ms. Marks, not to end all funding for the hockey program, but speaks out. keep it afl oat and ask for more contributions. I learned many great things from
Ashley Coto ’11
Photo Credit: Meredith Pramer
Susperintendent Susan Marks stated that $4 milllion will be cut from the budget next year.
When asked what she sees as a great success coming from the program Mrs. Riveccio said, “When our students come back from college and are hired by their School to Career employers.” “The reduction eliminates the program. At this time, if it is grant funded, the cost of the program will eliminate another grant funded program that will have to return to the local budget. About 5,300 students participated in various aspects of the program over three years,” said one of the documents concerning the School to Career cuts. “I am disappointed that the School to Career program may be in jeopardy, because it helped me and taught me so many things nobody in the school has helped me on. Now, that I am a senior in high school, I’m frustrated that other students can not take advantage from this because of the school budget. This is a program that more than 80 percent of the students can benefi t from,” stated Catherine Rosales (‘11). The budget cuts will affect the school all around because students have relied on the program for advice and career guidance.
Norwalk High School is supposed to cut a Security Guard, A housemaster, school- to- career center, and the police officer outside.
Board of Education approved budget for 2011-2012 to be increased by 4.25%.
days and fairs, post-secondary school visits, job shadowing opportunities, and company tours. Staff Writer When asked if School to Career helped her, Brien McMahon High School student, Paola Ceja At both high schools here in Norwalk, students have (‘11) said, “They helped me apply and get my fi rst the opportunity to get a jump start on their lives after job. They trained [and] worked with me for days on high school through the School to Career Program, my interview skills so that I was prepared for my inbut with the budget being discussed by the comterview. They also gave me advice on my job, when mittee the program is now in jeopardy. Every year I needed someone to talk to.” the budget committee has to make a decision on the Now that the program is being threatened stunext years’ budget and for the 2011-2012 school dents might not be able to have a jump start on their year, cuts have to be made. careers and train for the “real world”. Rumors about “In the past, we have been able to preserve the Guidance Department helping students have school based staff and programs. However, for been circulating but nothing is set in stone. 2011-2012, we will not be able to have an operating Mrs. Evon and Mrs. Riveccio are the facilitabudget that will not impact schools,” explained Dr. tors of the program. They have both been running Marks in her December 22, 2010 letter to parents. the program between both high schools and when On the chopping block is the School to Career one is at NHS the other might just be at BMHS. The Program. Although things are not fi nalized yet the program has been around for about ten years. future of this program that has helped 5,330 students “The more knowledge they have the better prebetween both high schools just last year alone might pared they are for the next phase of life,” stated Mrs. be cut for the next school year. The program assists Evon, one of the women who run the program at the students by providing internship programs, career high schools.
Farrah Marin ’12
EDITORIAL
THE PAW PRINT
Staff Box The Paw Print
Norwalk High School 23 Calvin Murphy Drive Norwalk, CT 06851 (203) 838-4481 ext. 1808 The Paw Print would like to thank all Journalism students for their work in the creation of this newspaper. The following writers are those whose work appears in this issue. Executive Editors Matt Cranston Eric Scatamacchia ___________Design Team:___________ News Editor Neha Patel A&E Editor Jillian Winters Feature Editors Eric Scatamacchia Opinion Editor Brendon Prescott Sports Editor James Welch Photography Editor Ashley Cortes Buisness Editor Nataly Monsalve Web Editor: Ashley Cortes Staff Writers: Jamel Brown Matt Brown Dylan Byrne Stephanie Canales Tevin Christopher Karolyn Collins James Cooksey Mike Corasaniti Ashley Coto Nicole Dunsmore
Kristin Harris Lydia Krenicki Kevin Lawrence Carly Mammoliti Brian Manby Farrah Marin Nick Milliman Evan Opdahl Meredith Pramer Clifton Prophete
Advisor: Mr. Karl
Please let us know what you think. Students are welcome to submit writing either in person to room 116B or visit our website at thenhspawprint.org Our Next Issue Will Be out In April
Policies: Our newspaper reserves the right to edit all submissions for space and clarity. All entries must include name, year in school, and phone number for verification.
FEBRUARY 2011
PAGE 7
Making the Decision: The Military Matt Cranston ’11 Executive Editor
A crucial life changing choice that each high school student is faced with is whether or not to join the armed forces. Whether for the thrill and excitement of the disciplinary training or the pride in ones country, the choice is one that keeps many thinking. Sitting home on a Saturday afternoon in October the phone rang in my house with the caller ID reading ‘United States Marines.’ Hesitating whether or not to pick up, my brother was clueless enough to do that for me in the other room. After speaking with the young gentleman for more time than I expected, I began to think more and more about becoming a marine. What I began to learn throughout the following week was that most of my friends and classmates had also received calls from the Marines but yet they did not speak with the man on the phone. They simply said that they were not interested and hung up. This left me in a predicament similar to many others asking myself “why did I show interest?” After speaking with my step-uncle about his experience with the Marines as a teenager, my feelings about joining were altered. He explained how he joined to get away from his problematic home. My feelings of joining the Marines for the unique thrill and excitement of the intense training were changed into believing that the armed forces were more of a place for men and women who wanted to get away and help themselves and their country. The choice is no doubt a tough one to make. You have to put into perspective that you are agreeing to at least four years with the armed forces upon signing up. Playing Call of Duty and carrying a weapon in reality are two completely different things; you do not just respawn after getting shot.
Midterms Cause Stress at NHS Eric Scatamacchia ’11 Executive, Feature Editor
For most students, midterms and fi nals are times of stress, anxiety, and studying. During this period of exams students are confl icted with the diffi cult decision of putting their lives on hold to study for countless hours or simply wing it and hope for the best grade possible without preparation. Regardless of which decision is chosen, students are faced with an amount of work that at times seems insurmountable. At no other time in a person’s life will they be asked to explain everything they have learned in a four month period in the form of a two hour test, then have a ten minute break, and then asked to prove their knowledge in another fi eld. Some may even argue that the hardest part is before the tests when students are expected to review month’s worth of material in a span of a few days, or in most cases, just one day. Although the importance of midterms and fi nals is undisputable, the schedule in which students take these tests should change. Rather than have all of the exams crammed into four days, the exams should be spread out over six days. The schedule for these six days would be a
half-day in which students go to periods one through four on the fi rst day. Then, students would have period one and two exams on the next day and periods three and four exams the following day. On the fourth day there would be another half day in which students go to periods fi ve through eight. The last two days would be periods fi ve and six exams and then periods seven and eight exams. By spreading out the exams over six days, students have more time to study and are given a breather in between exams. In college, students only have one test a day during exams and they usually have one or two days in between exams. It is unnecessary for high school students to have a more rigorous testing schedule than they will face in college. With the current testing schedule, students are not given ample time to prepare for their exams. When each test is followed in successive days without a break, there is no chance for students to study ahead of time, so they must resort to lastminute preparation. Breaking up midterms and fi nals into two four test chunks would not only help students study more effi ciently, it would also lessen the stress and anxiety that normally looms over exams.
Letter to the Editor: hall to resource centers besides the one from the subject area teacher. In addiAs your elected Student Government tion, an additional student will be admitPresident, I would like to update the stu- ted to the library, making four total. It dents of NHS on the progress of modi- is my hope that the rules will be more fying the new study hall rules. Through understandable and implemented fairly Open Session and comments from the by teachers. Students have the right to be prostudent body, the student government understands your criticisms of the more ductive, but the faculty is also required restrictive study hall policy created in to know where students are during school hours. If students do not cooperresponse to student abuse last year. I attended a meeting in Mr. Mecca’s ate with the administration by abusing offi ce with the original authors of the leniency, then it is diffi cult to argue that new rules. One goal, eliminating the more freedom equals more productivity. so-called “three minute rule”, proved to Use this time wisely. Please keep me informed. Tell me be impossible because of its popularity among your teachers and the staff as an on Facebook or in person about your effective way to keep track of students. experiences in study halls and if our I was successful in bringing atten- changes make a difference. tion to the lack of available resource centers. The administration will work Sincerely, to make more resource centers and com- Ricky Joslyn, President of Student puters available during each period. The Government study hall rules will also be modifi ed to allow more students out of each study To the editor:
Interested in working on The Paw Print? Come by room 107D or 116B and speak to the staff or Mr. Karl about all the oportunities the course has to offer. Students can sign up their sophomore, junior, and senior years. Check out: thenhspawprint.org or speak to any of the staff. Have your voice heard.
PAGE 8
FEBRUARY 2011
FEATURE
THE PAW PRINT
Teacher’s Thoughts:
Mr. Laughton- “I think cheating is wrong it is not fair to the other students. I think it is an easy and lazy way out. I think it is frustraiting as a teacher. You hope they have the values and you are upset when they take that route. In the end you will get much more out of learning the material then cheating off of somone.”
Mr. Moffett- “Mostly a problem with kids who are lazy. Mr. Allaire- “Cheating Eventually it will catch up tpo upsets me and it unfothem. Seniors will soon have runately shows us that to cheat simply because they they are not learning.” do not know anything. Cheating pisses me off, it is disMs. Gleason- “I think repectful for a teacher when they are doing themstudents cheat. The biggest selfs an injustice. They thing kids do not realize is that are truley cheating if they get caught in college themselfs. They should they can get expelled from get a zero and they deschool or fail a course.” serve a zero.”
1
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all.
Heard in the Halls: What is the mos
Ciara Fuller (’11) “Using a little piece of paper”
Nigell Rivera (’11) “Taking a picture of your notes on your phone”
Julia Keehn (’12) “Making a note in your iTouch”
Irvin Saavedra (’12) “Writing the answers on the desk”
FEATURE
THE PAW PRINT
hl dpa O n Eva iter
FEBRUARY 2011
PAGE 9
’11
ed can: hang nch you nd c s a are i ok, a ion h nicat bs a squ n facebo u m r com fW thum ost o nts Staf obile ing your e web, p m stude nf h o r v t o o d h f l ly m earc wor turn no lo The r. By on e a call, s . rong lary test defi w g e a k f n u forev text, ma ur banki e taking ocab rization o .com v A a o y b send anage y is may on tests. d memo ictionar mes h d m n t d a d e eco even owever, ucce context ss to loa llowed b s y H e f a la y. th o way e study before c no notes d anywa ability e h t and quires th minutes est with and use act, the givt e e p e e ger r s but fi v . A math n a phon ore com nts whil le to o e e b n m d e n nitio our pho y pictur getting -fi ve stu impossi . b y y s y t l e n r o e a en onto captured w phon er tw kes it ne t their ph any will v e o s n e not the atch se a sy t, m t ma With hers to w o need i ck glimp e to chea ke the ea i c u h a u e tea ry st t to t antag se w saq for th lp to tho ho take nfair adv e momen h not eve ir adw e u g h fa ing h a student le get an heat of t . Althou e an un v e e p a h h o h t m c cat do n pe er ti y in e and Whe portunit t at a lat nes who hom heir o i g p o t the gret the o use e can take ut, but re t phone, eopl ome in, dy until p , e r o stu dc ntag ed way as a sma adva a test an uggles to verwork d h r i t a f n r o st un de sai d for age. k it’s an prepare yone else rtired an he test,” t n a v e t r in “I th thing to hile eve es in ov ark on y ch a m w m n o d a A o oo or su ing dc an f d g n t a e t e a t o t g a n h e ir pl noth e and e nig chiev n the the arts, ngless’ o phon urs of th ble to a h c a o nd ani mu e so sports a on a ‘me bs after all h ill are un (‘11). v a h l t jo d t nt but s Bonenfa gh schoo urses an y way ou ork and nd gives i o s w h c n a t e a e h a m Ev eople in een AP ng the p ho venly lig without u i w P k t g a e mt hea sts e, b ndin g ag mou s with a full of te m fro youn ping the . With w y glo p a da iz is sto ulary qu rt phone through a t b voca l, the sm o make i t o y o a h w sc nts a in. stude their bra g usin
st common way for students to cheat on tests?
Rachel Fablo (’13) “Moving the desks closer together to copy off of each other”
Darius Colson (’13) “Texting a friend for the answers”
Megan Viera (’14) “Writing the answers on your hand”
Thomas Arduino (’14) “Whispering to your neighbor”
PAGE 10
FEBRUARY 2011
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
THE PAW PRINT Photo Credit: redhotchilipeppers.nufcneilo.co.uk
Chili Peppers Red Hot New Music Mike Corasaniti ’11
album, By the Way) have enjoyed much commercial success, diehard Chili Peppers fans worry that they have gotten away from their With new albums from Lady Gaga, Drake, Kanye West, alternative, funky roots that created their amazand dozens of other pop stars expected to drop sometime ing success in the 1990s and earlier. Critics believe that after their 1999 album Californicain 2011, Norwalk High School students are ignoring some tion, the band went in a completely different other exciting releases. The most notable of which among direction. However, supporters of the band alternative rock fans is the highly anticipated chart from do not necessarily believe this is such a terthe Red Hot Chili Peppers. rible change, including lead vocalist Anthony The album, which will be the Chili PepKeidis. pers’ fi rst album since the 2006 Grammy Award “I hate the feeling of being contained,” winning Stadium Arcadium, is expected to come out sometime in late spring after months said Keidis in a 2003 interview with NY ROCK magazine. “I never want to stop exof setbacks. “It’s been a long time in coming,” said ploring different styles and different aspects drummer Chad Smith in an interview with consequenceof- and…that’s what makes music thrive, not suffer.” Whether the Chili Peppers deliver another hit with sound.net. “But we probably have only three to four weeks more of cutting tracks…and we should have the album out their new album, which is expected to explore Afropop and heavy metal infl uences, at least one NHS student will no later than the summer.” be more excited for it’s release than Snoop Dogg’s DogThe album, which has yet to be named, is just gumentary: myself. as controversial as it is anticipated. While the two previous albums (Stadium Arcadium and the 2002
Wrestlemanics!
CT Photographer
Bobbi Lane
Photo Credit: Mr. Franco
Annually, WWE produces thirteen pay-perviews. The price for all WWE pay-per-view events, except for Wrestlemania, is $44.95. Wrestlemania, since it is one of the more popular pay-per-views, Jamel Brown ’11 cost $54.95. These pay-per-views take in about 4 Staff Writer million views overall. During the shows, various World Wrestling Entertainment, better known as wrestlers fi ght to gain the upper hand or to win WWE, is a world phenomenon that is watched by championships. Some might even catch their favorite wrestler fi ght it out. millions throughout the world. Jalin Sead, a freshman at St. Francis College However, some non-viewers may ask: why? in Brooklyn, New York, states, “ My favorite wresBernard Gill (’11) says, “I watch WWE because tler is Randy Orton because he is so ruthless and it gives me a rush to watch guys fi ght and just go he fi ghts real hard.” Louis at each other all reckless says, “My favorite wrestler with no fear.” On the other “These cuts will likely not ef- was Batista because he alhand, there are some others that do not watch it at all. fect my life but what might hap- ways had strong and quick moves.” Reggie Louis, an eighth pen is bothersome.” When asked how the grader at West Rocks MidWWE has impacted the dle School, said, “I don’t wrestling team here at NHS, Coach Fernandez rewatch WWE because its fake, it’s not that interesting plied, “It hasn’t impacted us (the team) very much anymore like how it used to. I grew out of it.” because its not closely related to what we do.” The WWE franchise takes in millions of dolOverall, the WWE will always have those who lars from their sold out events and million of viewers think open minded about the show. Waring says, “ who watch at home. When asked what makes people It’s (the WWE) harmless, all out of good fun. Just watch The WWE, Matthew Waring (’11) replied, “I think people watch it just for entertainment purpos- keep in mind it’s just entertainment.” Frantzie Laues, and it’s a way to get together for social gatherings ture (’12) comments, “I don’t think it’s a bad show but just don’t do any moves on people.” with friends.”
Photo Credit: www.ballardinteractive.com
Staff Writer
Bobbi Lane recently paid a visit to the Norwalk High Photography classes.
Oscar Buzz Spurs Debate Over Who Will Be Victorious Farrah Marin ’12 Staff Writer With the Academy Awards almost here, the buzz about who will be taking the Oscar home for Best Picture is getting louder and louder. Obviously we all know who will be winning. If you have to second guess then you must rush to your nearest theater and go purchase tickets for the next showing of Black Swan. No other fi lm can win this award, Black Swan deserves it. The movie is a psychological thriller that keeps you at the edge of your seat. No other fi lm can compare to the raw emotions that you will get while experiencing this work of art. The plot is rich with symbolism, creativity, and beauty. Natalie Portman plays the character of Nina, a dancer in a New York City ballet company who struggles with competition with a fellow dancer as well as with herself. Nina becomes obsessed with her role as the duel role of a swan in the famous ballet, Swan Lake. She has to play both the sweet, innocent white swan and the dark, seductive black swan. The role of the black swan consumes her. Black Swan needs to win the Oscars. The movie is intriguing and blows movies such as The Social Network out of the water. The movie has real depth and is not common knowledge like the basis of the movie The Social Network. The movie is creative and took passion to create. From the make-up to the acting the movie is perfection. The Oscars will be a waste if Black Swan does not win the coveted golden trophy that every movie producer aims for. Black Swan not only deserves the Oscar but the movie will win.
Matt Brown ’12
serves Best Picture because it is one movie that I can be amazed and it doesn’t need those crazy viStaff Writer sual effects. The Social Network doesn’t have cars blowing up and big fi res. It amazes me by having The 83rd Academy Awards will be taking place this guy never giving up on anything and he on Febuary 27th 2011. There are going to be ten always tries to persevere. This fi lms nominated for Best Picture and the one fi lm fi lm is truly a fi lm that can that will be nominated and deserves to get that keep me interested with out honor will be The Social Network. crazy special effects. The Social Network was an extraordinary, Black Swan is a fi lm heart-warming, and just plain amazing fi lm. Aarthat was also received well on Sorkin wrote this amazing story about a guy by critics. I do not think that who just wanted to be part of something. In the it derives “Best Picture” end he created one of the greatest and most powover The Social Network. erful networks in the world. The Social Network can This movie was beautifully directed by Daconnect better with audivid Fincer. He received a Golden Globe for “Best ences because it is a more Director”, something that he totally deserved. He current fi lm then Black was able to create a movie where if you had an Swan. I would rather see a idea then you could make something out of it. movie that is about something The movie had an ensemble cast. It feathat has changed the world, tured an amazing performance from Jesse Eisensuch as Facebook did, than a berg. Eisenberg played the Facebook founder fi lm about ballet. Mark Zuckerberg. Eisenberg was able to make The Social Network is this character a character that could have made truly a fi lm that can teach you you laugh, cry, be excited, and make you smile. a lot and that can make you Eisenberg no doubt, deserves a “Best Actor” Osfeel good as well. The Social car nomination and a “Best Actor” win. Network deserves its “Best This great cast also featured an amazing perPicture” because it is outformance from Andrew Garfi eld, and Justin Timstanding, fantastic, and berlake. Rooney Marie, Armie Hammer, and amazing. Brenda Song did a great job as well. One reason why “The Social Network” de-
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
THE PAW PRINT
FEBRUARY 2011
Showing Too Much Skin?
Pretty Little Liars
Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Tevin Christopher ’11
Somewhere between the cancellation of MTV’s music video targeted show, TRL, in 2009 and the growing demands to appeal to Generation Y, the MTV network has managed to take strides above and beyond its competitors to ‘win’. After its reality gimmicks of shows, such as Teen Mom and 16 & Pregnant, which explicitly shows off the nature of what it is to be pregnant and living with your parents, they have extended to cheap measures to capture this audience. Where Guido’s and Guidettes run amuck in their everyday party-hardy lifestyle, to Jersey Shore. MTV has clearly shown its dedication to take over this lucrative market. As if those reality series were not enough, now comes the styling of a new entire “reality” with the introduction of their newly scripted series, Skins. The characters of this original British teen series supposedly represent what it is like to be a teenager living in a current ‘peer pressure driven’ atmosphere, as it attempts to explore the decadences of a
PAGE 11
Nicole Dunsmore ’13
Photo Credit: www.dontconformtransfor
teenager’s world. The heavily scrutinized acts of teen stars in the media have surely rubbed off on the directed programming to our teenagers. MTV’s packaging label on Skins, tells you these are not your average teenagers, who are surrounded by drugs and sex, and it all seems too forward to be true. The plot, attempting awkward sex-planning talks with drug scandals comes off as overly contrived, and pits to be ‘cheap’ as only MTV has weakened their network to be. As an adult, if you fi nd yourself almost shocked at teenagers smoking weed in a school bathroom and debating the confusing jesters of teenage sexuality, then Skins is clearly doing what it was intended to do. While it does make good entertainment, in its awkward and forced attempts to refl ect teen life, it fails as it purports us to be just drunken sexually intrinsic animals almost. As MTV wins over its lost audiences, after the decline of TRL, the costs come at our innocence and how our teenagers are portrayed. The reality is, our teenagers know the truth and if you are paying no attention to its ridiculous contents and not overly stunned at what MTV has declined to, Skins becomes just what it’s title says; bare with no remorse for the future of our world, it is just raw, risqué television, showing its skin.
“Cause two can keep a secret if one of them is dead,” sings the theme song of the hit new television show Pretty Little Liars. But what if one of them is not dead? The eight book series by Sara Shephard was recently created into a television series. The fi rst season premiered back in June and the show received hundreds of thousands of views. The show’s popularity increased after the word started to spread about how great the show was. “My friends told me about it!” exclaimed Nina Robertson (’13). For those who have never seen Pretty Little Liars, it is based on a group of fi ve inseparable best friends; Aria, Spencer, Emily, Hanna, and Alison. One night, the fi ve girls are sleeping out in a barn in Spencer’s backyard. When they wake up in the morning, they realize that Alison is gone. After she does not return for hours, Alison is reported missing. The show continues through the lives of the remaining four girls. They have grown apart, until they all start receiving mysterious text messages signed by “A”. “A” stands for Alison, their friend who has been missing for a year now. The girls had assumed that Alison was dead, but now they began to think otherwise. Soon after they started receiving these mysterious messages, Alison’s body is found. After being dug up from the ground, it is identifi ed as her. But the four girls continue to receive the messages; these messages contain private secrets that only Alison knew about. So who else could be sending the messages but her? The main reason viewers keep going back for more each week is because of the anticipation. “I love the suspense,” stated Kayla Sodaro (’13). “The show is so suspenseful! You never know what’s gonna happen next,” explained Robertson (’13). “I like it because it has crazy twists and it’s kinda creepy, plus I love the theme song,” elaborated Halle Gavrielidis (’13). The most gripping detail is the constant debate about who exactly is “A”. For those who have read the books, they may already know the answer. “I’m pretty sure it’s Mona, but who knows if the show will be different from the books,” said Gavrielidis (’13). Of all the characters in the show, there are some that seem pretty evil. “I don’t really have a favorite character, but my least favorite is Jenna; she’s really creepy,” reported Robertson (’13). “I do not like Mona,” claimed Allie Chieffalo (’13). If anybody has never seen this show, they should really sneak a peek. “I would recommend this show to everyone,” encouraged Chieffalo (’13). “Yeah, I defi nitely would recommend it,” agreed Sodaro (’13). Pretty Little Liars airs every Monday on ABC Family at 8/7 Central; it is a must watch!
m.files.wordpress.com
Murals Become Catchy Sights Around NHS Carly Mammoliti ’12
Staff Writer Seeing a painting on a wall at Norwalk High School is nothing out of the ordinary for the students. It has become a great tradition in the school for artistically talented students to express inspirational meaning through a work of art on a wall. There are currently four new murals either being painted, or fi nished as of September 2010. Mrs. Ellett, the art teacher in charge of Mural Club, explained the actual process of creating a mural. “A proposal for a mural has to contain what they want to paint, where it will be, why they want to paint it, and who they want to paint it with.” “There has to be a meaning behind it. “More people should paint School spirit, a message, or represent some murals, it’s a lot of fun” sort of theme that would be appropriate for -Stephanie Meckley (’12) school,” said Ellett. Once Mrs. Ellett and then Mr. Mecca approve the fi nal product on paper, the student begins their masterpiece on a wall. “They are a great way to brighten up areas in the building, but some are just not getting fi nished,” Mecca stated as his biggest concern. A few of the new murals that have started to be seen around NHS consist of the antibullying mural in fi rst fl oor A House, the optical illusion mural in third fl oor B House, school spirit mural in second fl oor E House, and another to be painted in fi rst fl oor S House.
Melissa D’Acunto (’12), one of the painters of the mural in fi rst fl oor A House explained her reasoning behind the painting, “ my friend Ayelet Brandman (’11) came up with the idea, but I really liked patterns and she suggested a group of different people to kind of show that everyone should get along so we combined the two. It was a lot of fun.” Another artist to join in this tradition is Stephanie Meckley (’12) who is painting the optical illusion mural in third fl oor B House; the basis for her mural is not to judge other people by their looks. “I feel like I’m leaving my mark at Norwalk High by having my own painting,” explained Meckley. “More people should paint murals, it’s a lot of fun.” According to Mrs. Ellett, Mural Club is a club opened to the entire school and not just those taking art classes. Also, that some of the older murals “don’t seem like they fi t anymore,” and that Mural Club is planning on fi xing up some of the ones that will be staying. Painting on the walls was always something reprimanded by parents, but is accepted at NHS. However, it is clear that these are not just simply random paintings on the walls. There is a lot of time and effort that goes into these works of art, each having their own specifi c meaning and message to give to the students and faculty of the school. These murals at Norwalk High truly are inspirational messages for Bears and all.
Photo Credit: Stephanie Canales Photo Credit: Stephanie Canales
PAGE 12
FEBRUARY 2011
OPINION
THE PAW PRINT
Battle of the Budget Cuts
The hockey team, rumored to be cut from Norwalk High for a couple of years now, is fi nally having a successful season this year. With the back and forth nature of its coming and going the program could be called the “Brett Favre” of the school. However, cutting James Welch ‘11 the team now that they are fi nally doing well is an awful idea. The players are learning a terrible lesson from this. As soon as they begin to succeed at something, they have to Sports Editor stop doing it because of a few dollars. They lose the ability to learn how to work together There have been many rumors over the past couple of months at Norwalk High School in a team environment. about the possible budget cuts for the next school year. There are many vital components needed to run a school. A housemaster is one of the As a senior, these cuts will likely not affect my high school life, however the rumors most essential parts of running Norwalk High. Cutting the need for the position would of what might happen are still bothersome. increase the workload on the housemasters that would remain. It seems a little odd for Although these budget cuts will do nothing to hinder or improve the district to do this to the school. With the increased my high school experience, it will hurt the possibility of those who “These cuts will likely not ef- workload (and loss of a security guard), the housemasare not graduating this year to have a less than enjoyable 2011-2012 ters would be working behind their desks more often and school year. fect my life but what might hap- it would impede their ability to interact with the students The proposed cuts include cutting the swimming and hockey at Norwalk High. They would also be dealing with more pen is bothersome.” teams, a housemaster, a security offi cer, and the police offi cer outdisciplinary-oriented issues, since there would be one less side the school. security guard and police offi cer. There are some potential issues with these cuts. If the police offi cer is removed from These are merely rumors at this time, but if these cuts were to pass and go into effect the outside of school there is no way for the faculty to prevent kids from leaving school it will greatly change and hurt life at Norwalk High School. Hopefully for the good of the early and cutting classes. This can also result in a lower cumulative GPA of the students students that will still be at Norwalk High, a majority of these cuts will not be passed and and make the school look academically bad. Obviously, these are some radical possibilithe school will maintain its sports teams and other vital elements that make it enjoyable. ties, but they are not impossible.
DEBATE: WHICH IS BETTER: IPHONE/DROID Tevin Christopher ‘11
Nick Milliman ‘11 Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Since the beginning of 2009, when Steve Jobs presented the iPhone as the new gadget being created by Apple, the technology community has been very excited about the possibilities of this new device. Now two years later, it is clear that the iPhone has taken the phone market by storm. With its slim and unique design, the iPhone has set the standard for smart phones, blowing by its top competitor the Motorola Droid. The difference between the iPhone and the Droid is simply all the iPhone has to offer. To start, the iPhone is not just a phone; it is widescreen iPod with touch controls that lets you enjoy all your content — including music, audiobooks, videos, TV shows, and movies — on a beautiful 3.5-inch widescreen display. The advanced safari browser can let you see any web page the way it was designed to be seen, and then easily zoom in by simply tapping on the multi-touch display with your fi nger. This technique will change mobile browsing forever. The OS X operating system has all the power and sophistication of an advanced operating system that can give you access to true desktop-class applications and software, including rich HTML email, applications such as widgets, Safari, calendar, text messaging, Notes, and Address Book etc. The iPhone is fully multi-tasking, so you can read a web page while downloading your email in the background. This software completely redefi nes what you can do with a mobile phone. The iPhone features the most revolutionary user interface since the mouse. It is an entirely new interface based on a large multi-touch display and innovative new software that lets you control everything using only your fi ngers. The iPhone lets you select and listen to voicemail messages in whatever order you want — just like email using a revolutionary new feature called the visual voicemail. Compared to the Motorola Droid, the iPhone has far less problems than its top competitor. Some common disadvantages associated with the Droid are that applications are constantly freezing and it leaves echoes when you talk. The Droid also has a loose battery cover that constantly falls off and just a poor battery life in general. Overall, the Motorola Droid cannot match what the iPhone has to offer, in any of the major categories. The unique design and operating system prove it no match for the Droid or any other top smart phone.
Over the past few years, smart phones have grown extremely popular and have become the must have items for the technologically savvy population who want more than just another ‘cell phone’. At the crown of hierarchical smart phone comparisons in 2009, was Apple’s aggressively marketed iPhone and their redundant “there’s an app for that” slogan, which was almost drummed into my ear to consider purchasing it. Fast-forward to 2011 and the smart phone market has profusely grown, with new budding competition from Google’s Android. With its extremely user-friendly and easily customizable interface options, the Android features sleek, interesting specs, that are more than meets the eyes. Other advantages of being ‘Team Android’ also include quick action multitasking that features a dropdown notifi cation bar, which helps users easily transition from as many apps and third-party contents as they would like. The other features that are incomparable is the built in Android OS (operating-system). The power of Google’s usefulness comes fully packed with its Gmail system, and many other adaptable applications for Google’s fi rmware. With two different software’s competition, potential consumers are upping the standards for what to expect with smart phones. An anomaly of the Android and its Droid products are its yearly over the air updates, which do not leave its users feeling the need to always purchase a new version. While many of the smartfeatures are there with the iPhone, such as media aspects and countless applications, the Android OS has signifi cantly outpaced the iPhone in its commitment to producing results that are ‘user friendly’, and to fi t ‘YOU.’ For economic conscious budgeters, the price of DROID lines are less expensive than the iPhone, which exceeds prices of $200 and north, as the typical Android device runs from $99-$199, while the iPhone exceeds prices of $200 and north. If you have in mind to get a smart phone and want to make even smarter shopping decision, an Android handset is the right choice. Besides being relatively new, the Android platform is constantly being updated so it still poses room for improvement and has already outpaced the iPhone as the smart phone with the most growth. A couple of improvements in its growing market and sustained ability to be easily customized, and should remain on track as the premier smart phone.
VS.
Clifton Prophete ‘11 Staff Writer
Everyday at Norwalk High School, during third time block, the announcements are played on the loud speaker with information for students and faculty. Before they begin to list the important information, the pledge of allegiance is played and students and faculty are to stand up and respect the fl ag. If one were to walk into a classroom during announcements, they would see some teachers teaching while announcements are going, and students talking. Announcements seem to be a waste. If students are to be called to the main offi ce or to a house offi ce, the announcements seem
Prudential Linda Dunsmore REALTOR
Connecticut Realty 124 East Avenue Norwalk, CT 06851 Bus 203 899-3221 Cell 203 722-5445 Fax 203 857-7842 lindadunsmore@prudentialct.com An independently owned and operated member of Prudential Affiliates, Inc.
Photo Credit: Brendon Prescott
Say What NHS?
“Announcements seem to be a waste. There are days when I wonder if the announcements are ever played.” to be an easy way to contact them. Derick Edwards (’12) after being asked if he ever pays attention to the announcements said, “I do sometimes, but when I hear the announcements I just see other students talking so I just talk too.” Being a student here at NHS, I can tell you that I barely ever pay attention to the announcements. When they go on either my classmates are talking and not paying attention or the teacher is talking. After the pledge of allegiance, everything else goes blank. There are days that I wonder if the announcements were even played. Maybe if we had the announcements on TV’s in every classroom, more students would pay attention, but in reality that will not happen. There should be a little spice in the announcements that catch students’ attention, because we are so easily distracted. Maybe a trivia question everyday with a reward for the students such as follow Mr. Mecca around for a day or an apple card. So, sorry Ms. Sherrill and Mr. Cundiff I still
Does anyone really know what the announcements are saying?
love you both but it is hard for me to stay focused and listen to the announcements everyday.
Have any ideas to improve the announcements or communication at NHS? Let the Student Government or The Paw Print know about it. thenhspawprint@gmail.com
OPINION
THE PAW PRINT
Teen Gossip “Did Ya Hear?” Neha Patel ’11 News Editor
Page 13
think of what we heard about them right away, even if we do not mean to. A major misconception people have about gossiping is that girls are the only ones who do it. This is completely untrue; guys gossip just as much as girls, if not more. People just do not notice because they are quiet and more conserved about it. There is no doubt that gossiping will continue, but it can definitely be decreased if people try to be genuine towards others. If you have a problem with someone, tell them how you feel and try to work it out instead of lashing out at them by gossiping. Photo Credit: Brendon Prescott
Every student at Norwalk High School has one thing in common: they have either gossiped before or have had someone gossip about them. Walking through the halls, on the courts or fields during practice, in the classroom, and in the cafeteria, students are gossiping beyond imagination about the latest argument, fight, breakup, or hookup. A single juicy rumor, no matter how untrue, can spread through NHS in the course of a day at an unbelievable rate. What surprises me the most is that the majority of gossip occurs between best friends and those that people are closest to. It is easier to talk about someone to others behind their backs than telling them how you feel to their face. Gossiping stems excitement, entertainment, and drama, so it is obvious why teenagers are so addicted to talking badly about others. It makes life interesting, which is probably why people can recite Mean Girls line for line and cannot resist watching new Gossip Girl episodes. We have all seen the harmful effects that result from gossip. To an extreme, it causes suicidal thoughts and tragic deaths. More commonly, though, teens lose self-esteem when they hear that others have been talking about them. It affects them psychologically and changes their behavior towards others. We all believe what others say unconditionally, even though most of what we hear is untrue. No matter how hard we try to ignore these rumors, we still take them into consideration. The next time we see the person that was being talked about, we will probably
fEBRUARY 2011
Has teen gossip become the next epidemic to sweep through Norwalk High School?
A Long Dark Day at the DMV Stresses A Need For Courtesy Lydia Krenicki ’12 Staff Writer
Ashley Coto ’11
Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Sitting in Journalism I was given the task to list the things I would like to do before I die, better known as making a “bucket list”. I realized that even if I were to sit there and write down all of the ridiculous things I want to do in my life, only half of them would be possible. The fact is, besides the TV show “The Buried Life’, where they go around the world doing outrageous things that would be almost impossible for a normal person not backed by a major TV network to do, I found practically no one that actually decided to follow an actual bucket list. That was until I found http:// bucketlist.org. Here people are allowed to keep track of their own bucket list, and a user can look and see other people’s accomplished tasks. However, in my opinion, looking at recently finished tasks I found that some of them are everyday things that a person could do. Some examples of these are, such things as flying a kite, getting a nickname, building a snowman, or laughing until I cry. While they may see these things as “accomplished goals”, the question arises if the things on your bucket list should be of a certain quality. Some of the more daunting goals on the website include writing a children’s book, starting a business, seeing the Eiffel Tower, and running half of a marathon. What is the point of being assigned the task of making a bucket list if the person is not going to have the self-motivation to finish or even start it? I personally would never even attempt to start or carry out a bucket list. If you plan on making a bucket list make sure you do two things. First, make sure you are dedicated enough to finish what you start. And second, make sure your tasks are challenging yet practical.
As a center for education, including a high school, university, and any other learning functions, the library is a symbol of knowledge. It is the place where one can reach a limitless amount of resources, quiet space for personals studies, and use of computers for internet access. At Norwalk High School, the library is not a place fully taken advantage of. There is a cart of twenty-four computers, open end students are allowed there with out a pass, and they even carry some of the English departments reading curriculum books. In addition to all of this, it is open after school Monday’s- Friday’s until 3:00pm. That means internet for typing up papers, somewhere to sit for studies, and a book to use when you have left yours “on your bedside.” Also, it is the best way to get studies out of the way, to continue your day free of obligations. Now one could easily argue, that they can do just fine studying at home, but for others,the studying is not there. My argument is that the lack of studying could easily be repaired if one would simply take advantage of the tool in which we have at our fingertips. Instead of using it as a social hub to meet your friends or see who is there. It appears that the library only works as the place in which students resort to going to in order to get out of their boring study hall room. One attempt to remedy this is having passes be required to have a sending teacher to fill out the subject in which the student would be working on. However, that was easily made up and in fact created it a more daunting process truly not required. In a more positive view, the library has been increasing in its usage. The upsetting part, is that it seems this way only because it get students out of their study hall. It
should be a place in which students chose to use for their educational benefits, rather than a path away from their boredom. A factor contributing to the poor usage is due to the fact that it is the only designated place in which a study hall teacher has permission to send a student. Also, it does not require the lousy rule that forces the student to return back to study hall three minutes before the end of the period. When the library is opened Monday through Friday until 3:00, one should attempt to use this to their benefit and maybe complete the homework that they would have to do at a later time. The library is a quiet place to exercise brains, not ones mouth. It is stressed that a library’s job be fully taken advantage of, as it is true and college students can attest its usage becomes much more frequent in the universities. Photo Credit: Ashley Coto
Karolyn Collins ’12
/
What Library?
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Bucket Lists
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smiles and greets you, but the friendliness ends there. The employees of the DMV have a reputation for being unfriendly. This got me thinking about how general courtesy to other human beings is declining. Not only at the DMV, but also throughout daily life people are often rude and inconsiderate.
h t:
“The employees of the DMV have a reputaion for being unfriendly.”
People do not say excuse me or please and thank you. It seems that the idea of Cr being nice to people has decreased as e people think more and more about themselves. There are still some people who are nice to others and smile when they see you in the hall, but for the most part a person faces at least two encounters of rudeness everyday. The society of the United States and the way we operate adds to this. We live in a very fast-pasted society were everything is instantaneous. By slowing down, people would be more friendly and think of others more often. Examples of this widely increasing trend are seen everyday. They are everywhere you turn. There are also opportunities to change this with every turn as well. Ph oto
di
High school is a time for milestones, one of those being getting your driver’s license or learner’s permit. In order to do this, one needs to travel to the Department of Motor Vehicles. When you first walk in, there is a friendly man who
We see it here at Norwalk High when walking down the hallways. It is always a struggle when crowds do not move and people stop randomly to they can talk to their friends. People’s respect for others seems to have declined over the years. Driving is also a common place where this declination of common courtesy is apparent. Cars do not give people the right of way and drivers get angry and shout at people in traffic. There are even classes to take on road rage. This idea of declining common courtesy is shown outside of NHS everyday when trying to enter or exit the parking lot. It takes people so long to get to school or get out of the area because drivers do not think of other people.
OPINION
FEBRUARY 2011
PAGE 14
THE PAW PRINT
Hip Hop Is A Flop
Don’t Flick the Chick Flicks
Brendon Prescott ’11
NEHA PATEL ’11
Opinion Editor
News Editor
Photo Credit: google.com
The world of hip-hop is coming to an end. It appears as if the old rules of writing songs with legitimate meaning no longer apply to modern day rappers. Instead of writing about love, the projects, or even shooting up a convenience store, hiphop has taken a turn for the boastful. Lil’ Wayne, Drake, Kanye West, Waka Flocka Flame, and other so-called music geniuses (yes I left out Soulja Boy Tell Em but he is included) should all be sent to lyrical purgatory for some of the songs they write. Each and every one of these hypocrites has replaced meaningful hip-hop with trashy and cocky boasts and clever comparisons of their “fl ow” to female cleanliness products. Apparently rappers of the twenty-fi rst century are no longer concerned with “fi ghting the power” and have shifted their concerns to how many grams of marijuana they smoked before going to the club and picking up loose women. In the early 90’s hip-hop developed into a voice for political change. Songs such as “Fight the Power” and “Straight Outta Compton” became infl uential juggernauts and inspired a counterculture of African Americans. Now singers are selling out and mentioning products in their songs to increase their own revenue instead of displaying social messages. Another extremely irritating trend that seems to have seeped its way into music is commercialization of a band, singer, or group of singers in the actual songs. Ridiculous chants such as “Jason Derulo” and “Young Money” can be heard blaring through the radio of my pink 2009 Honda Odyssey before “Weezy” and “Drizzy” tell me how they can make my bed rock. No thanks Mr. Flintstone. Imagine if the Beatles yelled “John, Paul, George, and Ringo” before belting out a lyrical masterpiece. When the Sugarhill Gang put hip-hop on the map with “Rapper’s Delight” they used a little bit of boastful humor but I doubt Wonder Mic wants to say hello to rappers who “smoke until they get chest pains.” Hip-hop needs a complete rebuffi ng. I do not know what “pretty boy swag” is but I am sick and tired of hearing such awful music. Socalled hip hop rising stars such as New Boyz and Waka Flocka Flame would not have even be considered artists back at the height of the hip-hop revolution in the 90’s. So before my poor car dies of a thug overdose, will someone please save hip-hop?
Even though there are many people who fi nd chick fl icks to be offensive and degrading, they are still enjoyable and personally fulfi lling to watch. Chick fl icks are movies that appeal mostly to teenage girls and women. Although many people characterize them solely as sappy and cheesy romantic movies, they also can cover deeper themes such as friendship, relationships, family matters, self-confi dence, and life lessons. I admit that a lot of chick fl icks do have scenes that portray girls as shallow, ruthless, and coldhearted. But honestly, how many times in your life have you seen girls planning to sabotage someone to the extent Cady did to the Plastics in Mean Girls? How many cheerleaders really have the guts to say ‘You’re fat’ to another girl’s face like the ones in Bring It On do? How many women will physically tackle their best friend while she is walking down her wedding aisle like in Bride Wars? On screen, girls are also shown as ignorant and naïve towards the rest of the world. Many of them have their priorities completely out of line, with shopping, clothes, and weight at the top of the list. Not many girls are so addicted to shopping that they hear mannequins trying to convince them to buy a scarf or that they charge over $50,000 on their credit card in the course of a day, like Rebecca Bloomwood does in Confessions of a Shopaholic. And I am sure every girl would realize that dress-
ing from head to toe in bright pink is a clear fashion violation, something Elle Woods never grasped in Legally Blonde. Even the most sensible girl, Andy, lost herself to the world of egocentric fashionistas in The Devil Wears Prada. Another pattern in chick fl icks is that the heroine usually is madly in love with the idea of being in love and tends not to appreciate who or what she already has, like in 27 Dresses, 13 Going on 30, and Never Been Kissed. My point is that most of this never happens. Filmmakers exaggerate what women are like to point out their fl aws, create hilarity, and evoke laughter. Most of the time, they do not give credit to what girls are really like: sensitive, kind, passionate, and genuinely heartfelt. Instead, they tend to show guys as the experts in relationships like in Hitch and The Ugly Truth. Since when do guys know what girls are thinking and what girls really want from a guy? Either way, the content of chick fl icks should not be taken seriously; they are only made for pleasure and should be viewed with that idea in mind. Some people watch them while going through an emotional rollercoaster, after a break-up or loss of a close one. Others watch them for a good laugh. There is no doubt that they are addicting - even guys cannot resist watching classics like The Notebook or Titanic, even though only true men will admit they cry while watching them.
NWA and The Beatles share two different types of genres.
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ter of the buildOn program! Currently, over 130 million children worldwide are not able to attend school. The You can be a part of the solution by buying a brick for only one dollar for the school to be constructed! Over February Break, two NHS students will be traveling to Nicaragua to aid in the construction of a school.
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THE PAW PRINT
february 2011
Page 15 Photo Credit: Rick Squires
Boys Shoot To Victory
SPORTS
Evan Opdahl ’11
Staff Writer
The Norwalk High School Boy’s Basketball team began the seaon with the realization that it was going to be a struggle to rebuild the team after the giant loss of their six seniors. With their work cut for them the Bears put everything they had into this season. With the lack of experience they knew it was going to be hard, but they were ready. In a previous interview, coach Bobby Trimboli said, “This year is definitely going to be a rebuilding year, with all of these young guiys we really don’t know what to expect.” They had some trouble early on, not able to pull out a victory until the fourth game against Shelton. The Bears contiued to struggle but had a short two game hot streak in the month of January. In February, they played against Trumbull an it was a close game right down to wire and the Bears pulled away with a three-point victory in the closing seconds of the game. With their big game against the cross-town rival McMahon quickly approaching; they know this is the real test of their season. If they previal it would be a huge win for the Bears and an even bigger loss for the Senators of Brein McMahon. “This is definitely going to be a very testing game. They are a very good team, but when cross-town rivals get on the court anything can happen. An undefeated team can
Rasheen Thompson (‘12) drives through the lane against Staples
lose to a team who has no wins. Whoever puts it all out there for better or worse will win this game,” said Clive Harris (‘11). The Bears have gained some much needed confidence after thier nail biter overtime win with the Trumbull Eagles and are rapidly preparing for their big game.
Lady Bears Indoor Track Run Past Crazy Winter Brendon Prescott ’11
Opinion Editor
Photo Credit: Brendon Prescott
The 2011 Lady Bears Indoor Track Team began their season with high expectations. With solid performances from the girls in the Divisional, FCIAC, and State Class Meet, the girls blew away their original goals. The girls finished twelfth in the FCIAC this season, and nineteenth in the LL Division of Connecticut. Stellar efforts were put in by Ivy Chen (’11), Katie Patchovsky (’11), Crystle Hill (’13), and freshman phenom Claire Turner (’14). “The snow days kind of messed us up but I am really impressed at how well everyone did. Individually everyone had a great season and gave it their all with every performance,” said senior captain Katie Patchovsky. “Each girl improved from the beginning of the season to the end. At the Divisional meet, I saw girls score points that I never would have expected to score. We had an amazing season and two girls competing in the State Open Meet,” said Coach Patrick Moffett. Claire Turner, one of the runners who competed at States, ran a time of 1:43.09 in the Girls 600 meter race, obtaining a seventh place finish. Her time shattered the old 600-meter girls record set by Lauren Ventrella of East Stroudsburg University in 2009. On the distance side, senior captain Jennifer Wing believes that the future of the team looks promising. “On the girls side, we had a lot of runners who were very close to running FCIAC qualifying times. Next year I hope that each and every one of them will qualify within the first two meets.”
Claire Turner (‘14) and Crystal Hill (‘13) who will be competing in the State Opens
Look For the Pin to Win Boys Dive into Victory Staff Writer
This year the Norwalk High School wrestling team have held off some of its toughest competition, and sport an overall 11-7 record, which is already better than their season last year. After an average season last year, with only nine wins, the team knew they would have to get focused and be selfstarters if they were to have a successful season. “Wrestling is more than what you do during the season, but also in the offseason, because you have to watch your weight and not get out off shape,” said senior captain Christopher Mateo (’11). While the team has evolved and changed much from last year with new talent, much is expected from the new members of the team. “We also have a great team and promising talent, if they stick with it they will have the best team
Photo Credit: Rick Squires
Norwalk High has seen in a while,” Chris Mateo (’11) added. Senior captain, Kevin Aurilien (‘11) also sees the team is improving and notes their new talent, “While we haven’t done as well as expected, we have more new talent on the team, who are always working hard.” Starting off the season with the less than expected matches they were aiming for, the members of the wrestling team are working to be more courageous, as well as also working to improve throughout the season. The team, which faced Fairfield Warde recently lost in an upset unexpected victory to their team. As the boys keep competing and are expected to keep in shape in their weight class, they see their coaches and captains as pushing them towards their goals. “The coaches and captains are always pushing us to work our hardest, no matter if we are doing drills or condition,” Carlos Teysierre (’13) commented. As the Bears train for their next match they can be found regularly practicing running through the halls of NHS and closely watching their diet.
Stephanie canales ’11 Staff Writer
Currently 1-7, the Norwalk High School boys swim team is being led by Chris “This year has been a lot tougher Crothers (’11), Leo Sweeney (’11) and than last year. We lost a lot of great John Ospina (‘11). seniors that gave us depth.” “This year has been a lot tougher than last year. We lost a lot of great - Leo Sweeney, Co-Captain of Swim seniors that gave us depth,” said Leo Team Sweeney (‘11). After losing five seniors last year, the team is managing to keep it together and hope to win their upcoming meets. Another factor that is holding the team back is all the snow days. “With the snow days and everything, the meets have been getting cancelled and our last few meets have been with tough teams. The upcoming meets are with schools we are more equal with,” said Mr. Marchetti, the head coach. John Ospina, from BMHS, says, “I feel like this year out of my four years being here I have seen the team improve the most and grow closer together even though we go to different schools.” The team is made up of 13 boys. Seven boys from NHS, three from Brien McMahon High School and three from A.I.T.E. “Even with everything going on the team is working hard and getting better with every race we have. We should do great in FCIACs this coming March,” said Chris Crothers (‘11). With the help of Mr. Marchetti and a former teammate Mark Castorina the team looks to achieve great things.
Photo Credit: Rick Squires
Tevin Christopher ’11
Coach Marchetti talks with the team during a recent meet Chris Mateo (‘11) and Jonathan Galarza (‘11) working hard at practice
Page 16
Sports
February 2011
Promising Hockey
THE PAW PRINT
Boys Track Have Strong Year
James Cooksey ’11
Carly Mammoliti ’11
Staff Writer
Staff Writer Photo Credit: Zach Phillipson
It seems not even all of the snow in Norwalk can keep these students from doing what they do, running. Boys Indoor Track did well this winter, finishing eighth at FCIACs this year. According to Adam Robertino (’12), the new Norwalk High School record time holder for the hurdles, “The track team was more into it and more motivated this year. More people qualified for FCIACs and States than thought of.” The boys seem to have gone to FCIACs with a mission this winter, and they definitely came out on top.
Robertino came in first for the 55-meter hurdle jump at FCIAC, with Billy Reyes (’11) coming in second right behind him. Another accomplishment made was by Isiah Bell (’12) who came in third in the High Jump. “We started with a lot and lost a lot of kids, but almost everyone helped out the team in the end,” said Mike Corsanitti (’11), the distance captain of the Boys Indoor Track Team at Norwalk High. The running Bears seem to have done it again, bringing home great accomplishments for themselves and their school. To conclude their season, they finished thirteenth in the State Class meet. Photo Credit: Taylor Sccichitano
Dylan Byrne (’11) sprays the Westhill goalie during a recent game
The Norwalk/Brien McMahon High School Ice Hockey team is off to their best start within the past four years with a 4-10 record. The Hockey team is keeping their heads high to finish up the second half of the 2010-2011 season stronger than they have started. “In previous years we have dealt with a lot of losses so we know what it is like to lose and now we are starting to know what it is like to win” stated head coach Dan Feighan when asked about the team’s performance this year. Feighan continued, “It has been a good feeling to know what it is like to win instead of losing and I want to continue moving forward with that because we like the feeling better when we win.” “This is the team’s best season in a while and we have made tremendous improvements from the last few years,” stated senior captain Dylan Byrne (’11). But, Byrne thinks there are tiny aspects to be fixed, “We need to see more consistent play and intensity from our top two lines if we want to keep winning the way we had a taste of in the first half of the season.” With the second half of the season, the NHS/BMHS team will be facing tough FCIAC teams. As the underdog in the county, if the team can keep their heads high they can upset some good teams to end the season on a high note.
Brendon Prescott (‘11) and Mike Corasaniti (‘11) neck and neck during a recent meet
Girls Basketball Look To Clinch Post-Season Spot Clifton Prophete ’11
Staff Writer
Photo Credit: Rick Squires
With an overall record of 11-7, the Norwalk High Lady Bears are on a mission to clinch a position in the FCIAC tournament. After making states, Junior Briana Ruffin (‘12) said, “We really came into this season with confidence and although we lost some big games we came back and played even harder to win and make states.” With an early season lost of starting center Emma Oyamba (’13) to an ACL injury, head coach Mr. Fuller never lost hope for his team. “Even with the lost of some key players, the girls came together as a team and played well.” But with the post-season just around the corner, the Lady Bears prepare themselves to take on their cross-town rivals Brien McMahon, “Even with the loss of some key which is their last game of the regular players, the girls came together season. In order to make the FCIAC tournaas a team and played well.” ment, the girls have their fingers crossed - Head Coach, Mr. Fuller that Wilton losses to Ridgefield and have
their hearts set on beating McMahon. If that were to happen then they would be the number eight seed in the tournament and would have to go against the number one seed Trumbull Eagles. Starting pointguard, Katie Schmidt (’12) who is third in the FCIAC in made three pointers stated, “I feel that we are going to go far and that we just need to stay focused.” With their eyes on the prize, we wish the girls the best of luck with the rest of the season. The Girls team after a big victorty over cross-town rival McMahon
New Coach At The Helm Of Norwalk Football
Ireland brings a familiar, fresh new attitude to the program and a new identity to the team that everyone approves of.” Staff Writer Likewise, fellow captain Gil Araujo (‘12) saw the benefits of having a familiar face On Friday January 28th, Norwalk High School Athletic Director Wayne Mones called a take over. “He already knows the system and the ability of each player which we can press conference in the school gymnasium to announce the recipient of the long awaited build off of rather than starting over with a different coach.” position as Norwalk High School’s new head football coach. Without a doubt, Coach Ireland already expects a lot from himself and his players for The position had been available since the week before Thanksgiving 2010 when this upcoming season. “I want to change the overall attitude of the program and get kids former head coach Pete Tucci announced his retirement following the upcoming Thanks- to realize that football is a priority. Thankfully, we’ve seen that already as more kids have giving Day Game against McMahon after thirteen seasons as head coach. been in the weight room these past few weeks than ever before. Expect to see kids flying Despite the competition that began with fifteen around fast and hard from day one this season.” applicants which was eventually narrowed down to However, Ireland does not necessarily expect four finalists, it was another familiar face that will that following in the footsteps of Coach Tucci will be once again be leading the Bears on the gridiron again easy. “I don’t look up to anyone else other than my in 2011. father as much as I do Coach Tucci. It’s going to be Mr. Sean Ireland, a health teacher at Norwalk difficult because he was so respected and you want High, was announced at the conference as the Bears’ to make changes but don’t necessarily want to start new head football coach of the future. Ireland, who over either.” also has thirteen years of coaching experience at NorClearly, Coach Ireland is going to have his work walk High, previously served the past five seasons uncut out for him in his inaugural season leading the der Coach Tucci as the team’s offensive coordinator Bears. But at the same time he has kept an optimistic and a wide receivers’ coach before that. attitude that has influenced everyone including his Coach Ireland’s familiarity with the program players for the upcoming season and years to come. combined with the praise received from Tucci himself “I’m very happy about him getting the job,” says surely made him a trustworthy and approved candifellow captain Dave Klein (‘12). “He knows us and I date for the position. see the program being very successful for many years Captain Patrick Whalen (‘12) particularly was New Head Coach Sean Ireland enjoying the moment as he is announced as coach to come.” very grateful that Ireland earned the position. “Coach
Brian Manby ’12
Photo Credit:Rick Squires