R November, 2013
Volume LXXVIII, Issue 4
EBEL OAR
Fairfax High School 3501 Rebel Run Fairfax, VA 22030
INSIDE
Rebel on the Runway Career Talks Begin Cheer Wins States
November 2013 12
On The Cover:
Junior Tessa Harnisch balances school with professional modeling. Read about it in the In-Depth spread.
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News
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5 Van Gogh Comes to Washington 6 FHS Introduces Career/Talks
A&E
7 Youtube Makeup Tutorials 9 Reviewing Music Videos 10 The Best of Morning Radio
In-Depth
12 Rebel on the Runway
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Opinion
15 The Trouble With IT Changes 16 Reevaluating Qualifications for Subs
Features
19 Fairfax Celebrates Thanksgiving 20 Fairfax’s Favorite Pens
Sports 22 Player of the Month 23 Cheer Takes States at VCU
Letter From the Editor
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ear Rebels, Happy Thanksgiving! With just a few days until turkey day, I hope I’m not the only one who’s been preparing his stomach for overload. One of my favorite things about Thanksgiving is the many traditions that come with it. Don’t judge, but, at the Flynn house, our traditions include waking up for the Macy’s Day Parade and eating Ho Hos during the commercial breaks (it’s a long story). For other students at Fairfax, Thanksgiving brings an array of traditions. Jessica Salguero and Hannah Flynn reveal just a few of Fairfax’s Thanksgiving customs on page 20. We all have much to be thankful for this year- a good school, great teachers and supportive friends- the list goes on. However, one thing some of us aren’t quite as thankful for is the commute to school that is insanely early in the morning. While it might be pushed back in the future, for now the reality is 7:20. To make the commute a little more bearable, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best morning radio shows for the drive on page 10. If chit-chat isn’t quite your style, don’t worry, Karen Sheng has reviewed some of the hottest new music videos for you to check out on page 9. If you have family in town for the holiday, chances are they’ll want to see our nation’s capital at some point during their visit. While the monuments and White House are always cool, why not switch it up a bit? The Phillip’s Museum has an exhibition of Vincent van Gogh’s work on display and Aoife Maher-Ryan has the story on page 5. After this upcoming long weekend, we hit the home stretch of the year. In the season of giving thanks, try appreciating that trusty old pen that has gotten you through countless worksheets and essays. Check out our profile on all the must-have pens on page 20. Also consider stopping by a few of FHS’s new Career/Talk discussions during IT; Dayna Erdmann explains the new program on page 6. Give thanks, Rebels! In just a few days you’ll be sitting at home feasting with friends and family. This year, I am thankful for all of you and, as always, would love to hear from you at fhsrebelroar@gmail.com. Eat Up,
George Flynn Editor-In-Chief Editor-in-Chief George Flynn Managing Editor Hannah Flynn Copy Chief Karen Sheng News Editor Aoife Maher-Ryan
Rebel Roar Staff 2013-2014
Entertainment Editor Gillian Elliott Commentary Editor Karen Sheng Features Editors Hannah Flynn Jessica Salguero
Sports Editor Emily Verbiest Art Director Gillian Elliott Business Manager Aoife Maher-Ryan Staff Writers Ruqia Ahmed
Editorial Policy
Rebel Roar is a published forum of student expression. Letters to the Editor and guest articles are encouraged. Only signed letters are considered for publication. The editors reserve the right to edit all material in the interest of clarity and space. Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent those of the staff or school administration. The staff writes unsigned edito-
Annie A. Coffie Mike Breslin Emily Dillard Journey Dionisio Dayna Erdmann Brian Fraser Deena Habibi Jackie Hurtado
Simon Karae A.J. Noi Jessica N. Pittman Taris Pittman Adviser Carl Irvin
rials on a majority basis. The Rebel Roar accepts all advertisements deemed appropriate for a public forum meant for young adults and are subject to the discretion of the editors. Students are encouraged to take an active voice in the student publication. Questions, comments, and letters can be emailed to FHSRebelRoar@gmail.com
Corrections
In the September 2013 issue, Jeannine Budynas and Vick Rodgers’ quotes were accidentally swapped in the Homecoming Court story. We apologize for the error. In the September 2013 issue, photos for the Fairfax Welcomes New Staff story were taken by Ruqia Ahmed and Dayna Erdmann. In the October 2013 issue, Drew Basalyga’s favorite athlete was identified as AJ Peterson in the player of the month profile. It is actually Adrian Peterson. We apologize for the error. In the October 2013 issue, the photograph of Anne Kohlbrenner was taken by Karen Sheng. In the October 2013 issue, a portion of the world hunger editorial was omitted. The last sentence should read “For more information, please go to stophungernow.org.” We apologize for the error.
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News
News Briefs By Aoife Maher-Ryan
Affordable Care Act Website Flounders
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he controversial Affordable Care Act gained more attention recently with the setbacks of the registration website. Many looking to sign up for health insurance were unable to do so, and others who were promised that they would not need to switch health care coverage received letters informing them that keeping their plans is not possible. Enrollment numbers for Obamacare arrived last week and only a little over 100,000 people have registered for next year.
Typhoon Haiyan Strikes the Phillippines
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he Philippines was struck by a deadly typhoon called Haiyan earlier in the month. According to satellite measurements, Haiyan was one of the most powerful storms ever recorded. Almost 4,000 people are confirmed dead and more than a thousand are still missing. The U.S. has pledged $37 million dollars in aid to those affected to supplement global relief.
Deeds Recovers From Attack
C Theatre Department Debuts Play
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airfax High School’s theatre department debuted their adaptation of the romantic comedy “Almost Maine” over the weekend. The play was split into nine parts that revolve around characters in the fictional town of Almost, Maine. Erich Dicenzo, the new drama teacher, directed the production.
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reigh Deeds, the Democratic candidate for Virginia’s 2009 election and current senator was stabbed inside his home and his son, Austin Deeds, was fatally shot. This happened the day after Austin was turned away from a mental clinic because of over-capacity. Police suspect that Austin perpetrated the murdersuicide. Deeds was stabilized from critical condition to fair at the University of Virginia’s Medical Center.
Van Gogh Stars at the Phillips Collection
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By Aoife Maher-Ryan he Phillips Collection is hosting an exhibit of Vincent van Gogh’s repetitions from Oct. 12 to Jan. 26. The 35 paintings have been loaned from different art museums around the world including the Musee d’Orsay in France, the Metropolitan Museum in New York and the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. Vincent used repetitions to describe paintings with the same idea that were altered. Most of the paintings were completed in the later years of his short stint as an artist. The museum was able to get more information on the repetitions after reading letters sent between van Gogh and his brother Theo, an art dealer. His brother became one of the closest people in van Gogh’s life and cared for him during his mental breakdowns. The most notable works in the exhibit feature van Gogh’s neighbors, the Roulins, from his time in the south of France. The Dutch painter didn’t just reimagine his own paintings; he also based sketches off of the creations of artists that he Van Gogh’s “The Bedroom” is featured in the exhibit. admired such as Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn and Jean-François Millet, some of which are displayed in the exhibit. A particular set of repetitions in the show “The Postman” reveals the most notable differences- color choice, relative size and texture gradient- in each reworking of the six illustrations. The paintings are based off Joseph Roulin, who van Gogh befriended during his stay in Arles, France. Junior Tara Gillen will go to the Phillips Museum this weekend. “It’s a really amazing opportunity to see so much of his work so close to where we live,” said Gillen, whose favorite painting, “Entrance to the Public Gardens in Arles” is on display. Many people have flocked to the Dupont Circle area to get a look at the first van Gogh exhibit held at the museum so “it’s no wonder; he is one of the most acclaimed artist of our time,” said Gillen. Van Gogh is not the only famous postimpressionist painter being shown; Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Claude Monet’s works are also included. The museum suggests buying tickets ahead of time due to the large turnout and limited space.
Bombing Suspect Awaits Trial By Aoife Maher-Ryan
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he remaining Boston Bomber could be waiting another year before he goes on trial for killing three people and injuring more than 200 at the Boston Marathon in April. The manhunt for the younger brother, Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, ended in April after he was discovered under a boat tarp in a Massachusetts resident’s yard with multiple injuries from a standoff with police. He was later taken to the hospital to treat his wounds and due to a throat injury, was asked “yes” or “no” questions. He is currently in solitary confinement for 23 hours a day at the Federal Medical Center in Massachusetts. A date was set at a recent hearing to decide whether or not to recommend Tsarnaev for the death penalty.
Shooting Suspect Awaits Sentencing
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By Karen Sheng
ames Holmes, the suspected perpetrator of the 2012 Aurora theatre shooting, was transferred back to jail from the Colorado Mental Health Institute in Pueblo, Colorado. Accused of killing 12 people and injuring 58 from gunfire, Holmes could face the death penalty. Although he attempted to plead guilty to escape the death penalty, prosecutors declined the offer, as they aimed for Holmes’s execution. Recently, prosecutors have filed two motions to request another psychiatric evaluation of the suspect. The motions, sealed by the judge, ask for further examination of Holmes’s mental state to determine whether or not he is too mentally ill to face the death penalty. Holmes has pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. Photos courtesy of photobucket.com
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News
Fairfax Holds Career Talks During IT By Dayna Erdmann
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airfax High School is experimenting with new Ted-talk inspired sessions that take place during Intervention Time in the Multi-Purpose Room. (possibly include time and place later on in the article) The seminars, dubbed Career Talks, are designed not only to provide an opportunity for students to learn about different careers from specialists in those fields, but to motivate them to take an active role in their own future. “The more you visualize your future, the more likely you’re going to make it happen,” Mr. Goldfarb told students during the Engineering session. “We very much want you to leave here knowing that you have the knowledge, skills and behavior to be successful in your first career.” The seminars began on Nov. 18 during IT 7 and 8 and featured professionals in engineering and entrepreneur careers, respectively. Two more Career Talks will take place on Nov. 22, featuring nursing (IT 3) and finance and accounting careers (IT 5). Each session features a specialist of that field that describes the challenges, benefits and drawbacks of their occupation, as well as advice on how to prepare for it during high school and college. Students are free to ask questions either during the session or after, in order to find out more about the career that they are interested in. The first Career Talk, which occurred on Monday, featured Dave Rigotti, a former Fairfax student and current employee
at Northrop Grumman, a leading global security company. Rigotti graduated from FHS in 2006 and continued his education at Virginia Tech where he earned a bachelor of science in aerospace engineering. When asked about the experience of working as an engineer, Rigotti described everything from the high salary offered by many engineering careers to the work in improving technology. “I get to deal with multiple different fields of engineering [and] each design definitely presents a unique challenge,” Rigotti said. He added that “being an engineer means that you have to be meticulous” and that “you really do need to manage your clock.” In addition to detailing the benefits of his field, Rigotti described the different types of jobs that he does, including designing drones and running simulations. He also talked about the classes that he took while attending FHS (especially AP BC Calculus taught by Julia Varanavage), the importance of seeking out internships and the average salary of an engineer. “You could get anywhere from the high 40s to low 80s,” he said, attracting the attention of those who weren’t already interested in the field. So far, the Talks have attracted an impressive turnout. Students actively participated during the seminars to learn about the new fields they are planning to pursue. If students continue to show interest, administration considers organizing more seminars featuring other careers in the future.
Marketing Students Conduct Study By Taris Pittman
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inancial literacy is the ability to understand how money works in the world, how someone manages to earn or make it and how that person manages it. Kellie Husketh, Meredith Hill and Jacob Demps are doing a manual project on the promotion of financial literacy within the community. Recently the group surveyed Fairfax High School students and 78% of the respondents had never taken a whole semester class on either personal finance or money management. Concerning this, Meredith Hill said, “A few years from now we’re going to need to know how to be more independent money wise, so these are the key years to learn how to be financially literate.” For many students, these “key years”are during high school. According to the Bureau of Labor of Statistics in 2012, 66.2% of high school graduates were enrolled in a college or university. For these students who went on to a higher education, personal finance education is almost nonexistent. Few colleges and high schools offer a personal finance elective and even fewer require a personal finance class as a graduation requirement.The students that do not graduate or choose not to go to college are immediately thrust into the world where they have to effectively manage their money. However, in 2012 the Vir-
ginia general assembly made taking a personal finance class mandatory for graduating, but the current upperclassmen are not subjected to the personal finance graduating requirement. A recent survey determined that over half of the upperclassmen have never had any formal finance education. The ability to develop a spending plan and maintain a cash flow is extremely important in the current economy. Most people who are in debt right now have spent their money aimlessly without planning for the future. In 2008 the housing market had crashed because of mortgages that people could not afford. Had they had an effective spending plan and cash flow they would have been able to pay their mortgage. When asked about her opinion of financial literacy Kellie Husketh said, “Going into college and the workforce, we are going to need to manage our money and to not let ourselves fall under debt. It is important that we are able to stay afloat in this economy.” Financial literacy is very important to the rising classes of 2015 and 2016 and it will affect them very soon. When it comes to money there are two kinds of people in this worldthose who are money managers and those who are managed by their money. Additional Reporting by Mike Breslin
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Entertainment
The Best YouTube Channels for Makeup By:Jessica Salguero
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f you are having any beauty product questions or are having any issues applying makeup, go to these cosmetic gurus for help. These professionals have notable tutorials on their channels to help the average person be able to accomplish a flawless complexion. Not only are they gifted in applying makeup, but they are experts in their field, and are willing to help the average person improve his or her cosmetic routine. These makeup artists have a variety of categories with videos that cater to your needs. They include tutorials for flawless makeup, contouring and highlighting, celebrity makeup and skincare tips.
Q&A With Wayne Goss
Notable YouTubers to watch: Gossmakeupartist Lauren Curtis Charlotte Tilbury Jaclyn Hill Shaaanxo SaturdayNightsAlrite
Photo courtesy Wayne Goss
What inspired you to begin a career in makeup?
What are your top favorite cosmetic companies?
What prompted you to create a YouTube channel?
Tom Ford
I had acne in my early 20s so having flawless skin is how my career began.
There were so many talented people on YouTube but very little teaching. This is what i wanted to do most of all - explain something and help people realise its not that hard.
What inspires you to create certain videos?
I get my ideas mainly on the bus! I’m just sitting and my mind
is ticking over [it]. The same when I’m out walking.
What is the most rewarding thing about having a YouTube channel?
Getting to connect with people all over the world. Its amazing.
Who is your favorite makeup guru? Charlotte Tilbury. She’s just amazing.
What are your other favorite makeup YouTube channels?
Charlotte Tilbury. Kevyn Aucoin. Most of my time is done reading interviews on makeup artistsIi respect. I love reading. I have all the books on makeup and read them when in the bath!
Make Up For Ever Charlotte Tilbury Hourglass Makeup Atelier Paris
If there was one thing that you want your viewers and subscribers to take away from your videos, what advice would you give them? Just to listen and realize that some people are very talented and can make makeup seem like you need a degree in art. You don’t. Everything has steps and can be broken down. It’s not rocket science.
What are your most memorable moments about your makeup career? Getting booked from recommendation only. I never had a website. I never had business cards but I still worked seven days a week.
How do you interact with your subscribers?
Twitter. Facebook. Instagram. I try and respond as best I can … but as you can imagine it gets difficult!
How much makeup should one wear?
What is the most rewarding thing about being a makeup artist?
What is your favorite staple item that is a
What is your favorite quote concerning makeup?
As much as you personally feel comfortable wearing. For some it’s full on; for others it’s mascara. Whatever makes you feel the best.
must have?
Seeing someone see themselves as beautiful. I love that aspect.
“No amount of makeup can mask an ugly heart” Kevyn Aucoin
Blush. It’s just prettiness in a jar!
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By Aoife Maher-Ryan
At The Movies
Ender’s Game
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he movie adaptation of Orson Scott Card’s science-fiction novel “Ender’s Game” has come to cinemas with Asa Butterfield(“Hugo”) starring as the title character. The film is set on Earth in the distant future with humans fighting against invading aliens. Finding no end to the war, the military starts training children such as Ender Wiggin to come up with new strategies to defeat the extraterrestrials. Although the script was weak, the strong cast makes the movie a gratifying experience; Butterfield, a Briton, had a competent American accent and a grasp on the lead role. However, the movie was overly long and was too fast paced in parts. The way the plot ended supports a sequel. “Ender’s Game” opened first at the box office with close to $30 million.
Enough Said
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he last film completed by the late James Gandolfini and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, “Enough Said,” tells the story of two single parents, Albert and Eva, balancing a new relationship and an empty nest as their children leave for college. The relationship becomes more complicated when Eva befriends a new client, who happens to be Albert’s ex-wife, in her job as a masseuse. The plot-line is clear to the audience and the small twist in the middle of the film was predictable. Parents with older kids will relate to the nostalgic pang of letting go of their kids, and adolescents will understand the novel feeling of freedom. Louis-Dreyfus and Gandolfini sparkle with chemistry and the funny moments flow naturally between them both. “Enough Said” is an ebullient rom-com that may cause a tear to shed from the heartfelt emotions and from the sad realization that Gandolfini will never flash another crinkly smile on screen again.
Previews The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug
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he second part of “The Hobbit,” the film series adapted from J.R.R. Tolkien, is coming to theaters Dec. 13. “Desolation of Smaug” introduces the dragon who protects the dwarves’ treasure. Benedict Cumberbatch (“The Fifth Estate”) plays Smaug and Martin Freeman plays Bilbo Baggins.
“Enough Said” has received strong reviews, with 95% approval rating on
Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy
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he sequel to 2004’s “Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” will be released Dec. 20. Will Ferrell (“Step Brothers”, “The Campaign”) will be returning as Ron Burgundy who is joining his humorous counterparts on San Diego’s 24-hour news channel.
The second film is based off the successful original “Anchorman.” The main characters, Bilbo and Smaug, in the second part of “The Hobbit” also star in the BBC’s “Sherlock.”
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Photos courtesy of photobucket.com
Entertainment
Music Video Reviews By Karen Sheng
On Top of the World by Imagine Dragons
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magine Dragon’s new music video for “On Top of the World” is jaunty and fun, albeit boring. The video centers on a literal interpretation of ‘I’m on top of the world’ and riffs on the fake moon-landing conspiracy theory. The plot of the band faking the moon landing in a Hollywood studio is sadly simplistic, although the shots of the reactions of children, housewives, politicians and hippies are cute and intriguing. The visual touches with quirky, 1960’s America are endearing and the best parts of the video.
Lies by CHVRCHES
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A+
HVRCHES’s new music video for “Lies” draws from George Orwell’s 1984 and Stanley Kubrick’s “A Clockwork Orange” with occult overtones and Illuminati symbolism. Directed by Sing J. Lee, the video transports the viewer into a shadowy world of electronic beats and soaring vocals. The alternating scenes of mind-control, grey dystopia and futility of existence create an ambiguous and incorporeal feel that melts with the lyrics to create a beautiful work of art. The video adds another layer of meaning to the song’s lyrics, accomplishing something most video directors fail to do.
Come a Little Closer by Cage the Elephant
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he new music video for “Come a Little Closer”, a track from Cage the Elephant’s third release Melophobia, is a funky, psychedelic clip that shows the band’s journey across an exotic extraterrestrial terrain teeming with neon creatures. The use of cheesy green-screen effects somehow enhances the melancholic lyrics with artistic juxtaposition. The video’s composition resembles the vibrant and eclectic music videos of MGMT, detracting from the brilliance of what could be a novel and creative clip.
What Now by Rihanna
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ressed in goth-style clothing, Rihanna exposes her sensitive side in the “Exorcist”-themed music video for “What Now”, a track from her seventh studio album “Unapologetic”. Nothing much happens in the video, but Rihanna looks better than ever as she works it for the camera. The video’s bleak tone matches her past relationship struggles and it brings out a new depth to the underappreciated song. Unfortunately the video is so boring it is challenging to want to watch more than once.
Photos courtesy of photobucket.com
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Entertainment
Breaking Through the Static of Morning Radio By George Flynn
The Boxer Show - 98.7
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ust like the music they play, The Bert Show stars, Boxer and Amy, bring a little country to your morning. The duo love to chat about life in an exciting way without being overwhelming. They also play a lot of music, especially on commercial free Tuesdays, which is great.
The Tommy Show - 94.7
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relative newcomer to the DC morning radio scene, The Tommy Show is the area’s calmed-down response to the Kane Show. The show prides itself on being family-friendly. At times this can be a little juvenile and boring, but it can also be comforting to listen to some G-rated chit chat before dealing with the drama and absurdity that is high school.
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The Kane Show - 99.5
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t this point, The Kane Show is a little bit of a NOVA institution. With staples like War of the Roses; Kane, Intern John and crew are not to be missed. At times, the cast can get a little risqué, but the raunch kind of takes the burn off the fact that you’re awake and on your way to school before sunrise.
The Pablo Show - 95.5
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othing can prepare one for a day at Fairfax High School quite like the contemporary hip hop and rap of WPGC 95.5. Pablo and his team keep the music rolling and keep the chit chat to a minimum, which is a plus when you can barely keep your eyes open, let alone try to comprehend conversation. However, the music is interrupted for just a few minutes for Clarissa Jenkins’ Taps on the Tens, in which Ms. Clarissa redefines the prank call in major ways.
University Mall Theatres$ 2
Tu e
sd
Every Movie $4!
ay s!
Tessa Harnisch: Rebel on the Runway By Gillian Elliott
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ov. 5 Tessa Harnisch, junior, makes a spontaneous trip to New York with her mother. The trip is not a vacation, not even a weekend getaway; it is a day trip to meet with her agent and to audition for an upcoming fashion show. Harnisch is a signed model with HEARTLAND Model Agency and has walked in numerous shows in New York, Washington, D.C. and Boston’s fashion week. Recently she was cast in New York for a fashion show, under the brand Sarar, set in Washington DC on Nov. 13.
TOP SHOWS: ◊ New York Fashion Week, Emerge ◊ Washington, D.C. Fashion Week ◊ Boston Fashion Week ◊ HEARTLAND Fashion Week, New York
TOP PRINTS: ◊ Fashion Avenues News Magazine
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HEARTLAND Model Agency, an agency based in Sweden, has offices in New York, Paris, London, Moscow and Toronto. Harnisch, signed to the New York office, travels up to the city to meet with her agent and to cast for photo shoots and shows. “It’s hard because you have to pick and choose which castings you do, and then you may or may not even get the show,” said Harnisch. “It would be easier if they were all local.” Harnisch did not get selected for the Sarar fashion show that she auditioned for on Nov. 5. It was the middle of the summer of 2013 when Harnisch said she first thought to try modeling. “My mom took pictures of me and we sent them to a few local agencies, but they took months to reply.” When agencies failed to immediately respond, Harnisch reached out to a friend, a model signed to HEARTLAND, for advice. “I was only looking for tips, but my friend said her agents was looking for models and asked for my measurements,” said Harnisch. She invited Harnisch to meet with her agent in New York, where Harnisch did a photoshoot for Fashion Avenues New Magazine. The next Friday, Harnisch returned to New York and signed with HEARTLAND Model Agency. Harnisch’s agent Jorgen Jorgensen said, “Already the day she got her contract, she was booked for several modeling jobs. That doesn’t happen often as new faces need to be trained before entering the [industry].”
In her shoot for Fashion Avenues News Magazine, Harnisch modeled both jewelry and dresses. “The funny thing is my wrist ended up in the November issue of the magazine!” said Harnisch - not bad for a model’s first photo shoot. The modeling industry is often stereotyped as cruel, shallow and competitive. However, Harnisch spoke only of her positive experiences in the business. “I’ve made friends with all the models; everyone is really nice and kisses each other’s cheeks.” While signed with HEARTLAND models, Harnisch participated in a number of notable shows, with her favorite during Boston Fashion Week. “Fashion shows are really fun,” Harnisch said. She discusses the fun in getting her hair and makeup done by professionals, and then describes the behind-thescenes chaos that comes with a fashion show. “They never ever start on time, and sometimes I have to run around backstage to change outfits in time.” As the student model travels the east coast for castings, photo shoots and fashion shows, one of the biggest struggles is
balancing her blooming modeling career with school. Tessa’s mother, Patty Skiffington, said “When this first started, I told Tessa if her grades went down she would have to stop. Her grades went up.” Harnisch explained how modeling gives her something to look forward to, motivating her to get her schoolwork done early. Skiffington accompanies Harnisch to all her events. “She loves it,” Harnisch said, “Even though it stresses her out.” Harnisch’s older brother traveled frequently for sports, and Harnisch said that “it’s more fun for my mom to travel with me than my brother.” “I don’t have that many concerns,” said Harnisch’s mother. “I guess my biggest concern is that she’s safe and treated respectfully.” “Tessa is one of those rare talents that we have the pleasure to sign now and then,” said Jorgenson. “Her future as a model looks very bright.”
Photos courtesy of HEARTLAND Model Agency
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Opinion
For Your Flynn-formation By George Flynn
Hot JFK
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t’s bizarrely difficult for me to accept the fact that President John F. Kennedy has been dead 50 years this week. Maybe it’s because I feel like he and I are secretly best friends, or because his entire family is kind of my spirit animal. Whatever the reason, there’s no doubt that JFK is still missed dearly by Americans and people around the world.
kay time for some real talk; under no circumstances whatsoever should high school boys not shave for an entire month. No-Shave-November for people under the age of at least 25 would definitely be more accurately referred to as nicetry-but-you-have-nofacial-hair-November.
Rest in peace, Jack.
Sweats
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know, I know; Really? I’ll be the first to admit that for a long time I basically equated sweats with giving up on life; but I’ve had a revelation. Sweats help you embrace life, not give up on it. If you want to go about your day in sweats, who should stop you. They’re comfortable as anything and can make a bad day just a little bit better. Plus everyone has at least one pair of secret sweats that they’ve always wanted to wear in public but never have. Well today’s the day kids. Throw on those sweats and go If Zac Efron can rock sweats conquer the world.
in public, you can totally rock sweats in public.
Volunteering
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s Black Friday sales slowly creep into Thanksgiving evening, it’s becoming easier and easier to forget all about the Holiday spirit. Take a couple hours in the next month to give back. It really is rewarding and I promise will make you so much more thankful and appreciative for everyhting you have and get between now and the end of the year.
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Not Movember
Two words come to mind: creepy and ew.
Bleached Eyebrows
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o we’ve established my love of Miley, (see October 2013) she does her own thing and doesn’t let other people’s opinions stop her; and that’s pretty cool. But these eyebrows, or lackthereof, are weird as heck. Like, let me just go make it looke my eyebrows are gone for fun. It’s so weird and oh so uncomfortable. All I can think is that this decision must have been made after a long night of some hardcore twerking.
Family
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“She’s just bein’ Miley.”
lease don’t get me wrong, I love my family dearly. But with Thanksgiving this week and the Holiday season just around the corner, the idea of never-ending extended family is a tad daunting. How many times can you be asked in one week where you’re looking at college and how your grades are and why you don’t have a significant other and why you’re looking “a little pudgy?” A lot. Like a lot, a lot. That’s how many. So prepare yourselves now. “Wow nana I really love it thank you so much!”
IT Changes Further Restrict Student Freedom By Gillian Elliott
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airfax High School recently updated its Intervention during R&R. Administration also had no way of knowing who Time policy, introducing the new Rebels in Good Standwas where during this free period. Problems that have both ing designation system as well as the elimination of IT been resolved with Intervention Time. Choice. However, was it really necessary to create an entirely new Since the announcement of the changes in early October, the system because of a few flaws? Probably not, because the pros student body has adjusted to the new cycle of IT. Students of R&R greatly outweighed the cons. The possibilities of R&R must have As, Bs and Cs in all classes at the end of each mark- were endless. Students could see any teacher for help on homeing period to have the privilege of leaving their classroom. work, quiz retakes, test corrections or missed lessons. More Freshmen, however, are not permitted to leave their IT periods often than not, students were utilizing the free period. Classuntil second semester, at the earliest. rooms overcrowded with students seeking help was seen as a Ninth graders, regardless of their grades, problem, when it is really quite inspiring. “IT punishes students If that many teenagers are being proactive must stay in their designated IT classroom. Goldfarb expressed his concern that the their learning during R&R, would you who actually would use with newcomers are too young to be held responeliminate it? No, you would fix it. sible for this privilege. “It’s a lot of freedom,” the time responsibly to Now students are stuck in a classroom for Goldfarb said, and there would be “too many 45 minutes because they may be failing go to classes they need another class, which they are not even able ninth graders making poor choices.” Apparently, since last year it has been to go to because of the IT policy. more help in.” decided that the freshmen are immature, irCritic of Intervention Time, senior Ally responsible and incapable of leaving IT. And Forde, said “I can’t get any help in classes by leaving IT, that means deciding between the library or the where I actually need it.” cafeteria as a destination. Hmm...that is a tough call. Junior Ethan Tourtellotte even has a petition against IT, Another new aspect of Intervention Time is the referral sysinsisting that it “punishes students who actually would use the tem. No, not the same as getting a referral at Lanier Middle time responsibly to go to classes they need more help in.” School- this kind of referral does not meaning you are in Those who do have a RIGS sticker, earned through blood, trouble. A teacher can require a student to attend their class sweat and tears, have the epic choice of visiting the cafeteria or instead of their designated IT class. This power rests solely library. The grade requirements to be a Rebel in Good Standwith the teacher, however, and a student cannot independently ing have dramatically reduced the number of students who leave their designated IT teacher to see another teacher. leave IT from last year. RIGS creates a competitive atmosphere This puts added stress on to teachers, who, if they wish to as it weeds out those D and F earning students. Social Darwinsee a student, must notify the student. Why are we giving this ism in public education? Smooth. job to teachers? It is a student’s responsibility to, if they need IT does provide structure and organization to the mandated help from a teacher, go see that teacher. It is not the other way study period. It also may relieve teachers of the chaos that around. R&R and IT Choice brought, as teachers now know who will Freshmen and sophomores, who were not at Fairfax when the be coming into their class and can plan ahead. However, IT Pride Time and R&R system was in place, are unlucky to have fundamentally takes away most of the freedom students had in missed the days of R&R. years past. Pride Time and R&R (Rewards and Remediation) was FHS’s “By the end of the year, [IT] should be a part of our culture policy up until the debut of Intervention Time in the 2012-13 our way of doing things,” said Goldfarb. “Ultimately we want school year. Pride Time was the first 45 minute block of the 90 students to take ownership of their learning.” minute study period and rotated similarly to IT. Schools are a delicate balance of trust between students and R&R, however, was a 45 minute block in which a student staff, and right now that trust is not seen. For students to truly could go to any teacher for remediation, or go to the library or take ownership of their learning, they must be trusted with the cafeteria as a reward. Students failing a class were mandated responsibility and freedom to do so. to that class for the R&R period. The switch from Pride Time/R&R to IT is attributed to issues with R&R. Many classrooms, especially in the mathematics hall, were often overcrowded as dozens of students sought help
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Opinion
Reevaluting Standards for Substitutes
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By Hannah Flynn
ust like students, even teachers get sick, have appointments and take vacations. On these occasions, students are left to be academically enriched by substitutes. Yet, substitutes are frequently not able to provide adequate instruction while filling in. As stated on the Fairfax County Public Schools website there is a three step process to becoming a FCPS substitute teacher. All that is necessary, pertaining to education, is a high school diploma and 60 hours of college credit (approximately two years). The applicant then must submit two letters of reference and do an online orientation, along with some medical tests to become a verified sub. The majority of this process occurs through the website’s verification process, which is all online. This system displays no language proficiency or communication skills. Both, aspects of a successful teacher that many subs lack. This system has it’s flaws. A substitute teacher, Andrew Fick, has been working for FCPS for two years said, “It pays well, but I do think the process to become a sub is easy in the fact that with the online verification, you tell them what they want to hear, and you can be a sub.” Although substitute teachers are not expected to take the place of teachers with the training and specific skills, the inability to control a classroom or relay the lesson plan to the
class has become an issue in Fairfax High School. “Having a sub is a waste of a day, they just hand out papers and teach nothing. Better suited and trained subs such as retired teachers would be much for effective and a better use of time.” said junior, Mykael Hyman. More training and a tougher application process could elevate the level of actual teaching done by some substitutes. With a face-to-face interview and more education, or more specific education requirements, a day with a sub could end being seen as “wasted.” Not all students are bothered by subs at FHS. Junior, Gauri Tickle included, “Most subs are kind people, who just want a nice job. They’re not ideal for long-term situations, but a day doesn’t really affect me. The retired teachers make great subs as well.” It is true that retired teachers like Mr. Brennan and Mrs. Siggers, who both worked in the building and had long teaching careers make successful replacements for teachers. The ability to control a classroom and actually teach is one valued. As Fick said, “It’s glorified babysitting.” and High School students need more than a “babysitter” when their teacher is not available.
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Features
Baking with Hannah : Pumpkin Whoopie Pies with Maple Cream Cheese Filling
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umpkin pie and apple crisp are delicious and traditional Thanksgiving treats. This year spice up the table after turkey and mashed potoatoes. Pumpkin whoopie pies with maple cream cheese filling are easy alternatives to pie.
Cake batter balls on cookie sheet before being cooked.
Ingredients for Cakes: - 3 cups all purpose flour - 2 tbsp cinnamon - 1 tsp baking powder - 1 tsp baking soda - 1 tsp salt - 1 tsp ground ginger - ½ tsp ground nutmeg - 1 cup granulated - 1 cup dark brown sugar - 1 cup vegetable oil - 3 cups pumpkin puree - 2 eggs - 1 tsp vanilla extract
Final Product.
Cakes after being cooked in oven.
Flour and pumpkin mixture combined.
Ingredients for Filling: - 3 cups powdered sugar - 9 oz cream cheese - 4 oz unsalted butter - 3 tbsp maple syrup - 1 tbsp vanilla extract
Directions: - Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. - In a large bowl, whisk together dry ingredients of flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger and nutmeg, set aside. - In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, dark brown sugar and oil together. Add the pumpkin puree and whisk to combine thoroughly. Add eggs and vanilla and whisk until completely combined. - Gradually mix the flour mixture into the pumpkin mixture and whisk until fully combined. - Use a small cookie scoop or large spoon to drop a rounded, heaping tablespoon of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. - Bake for 10-12 minutes, making sure that cakes are just starting to crack on the top, and cakes are firm. - Let them cool completely on rack. - For filling: beat the butter on medium speed until smooth with no visible lumps, about 3 minutes. Add the cream cheese and beat until smooth, about 2 minutes. Add the powdered sugar a little at a time, then add vanilla and maple syrup. - To assemble: pair the cakes that cooked as the same sizes. Spoon about 1 tbsp of filling onto one half and press down slightly so that the filling will spread to the edges. - Refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving. Photos by Hannah Flynn
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Recipie courtesy of The Spice and Tea Exchange
What are your Thanksgiving traditions? By Jessica Salguero and Hannah Flynn
Dina Makonnen
“My family hosts the dinner at my house and our entire family gathers to eat. Instead of turkey we have a big chicken. We also have stuffing, potato salad, pumpkin pie, cornbread, pasta and salad. Latter,we watch movies until midnight and afterwards the girls go Black Friday shopping.”
Andrew Troutner
“A tradition that my family has is we listen to spanish music and just have a good time while we eat traditional thanksgiving food.”
Thea Goranitis
“My Thanksgiving is full of a bunch of crazy loud Greek people eating a bunch of Greek food. There are tons of food, pastitchio, spanikopita, tiropita, gyro, tzatziki, souvlaki, Greek salad, kalamata olives, moussaka. They’re delightful I promise.”
Happy Thanksgiving !
Sami West
“My family comes to town and my parents and I spend all day cooking. We have turkey, ham, smashed potatoes, green bean casserole,sweet potato casserole, smoked Mac and cheese, chocolate pie, pecan pie, stuffing, and green beans. We also watch the Macy’s day parade.”
Rahul Bashyal
“We make it brown as heck. The kids do the cooking, and the then we watch a Bollywood film. But this year is a new year for traditions, I’m having Thanksgiving dinner at the Surette’s house.”
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Features
Ink it Up: The Best Practical Pens
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By Karen Sheng
ave you been faithfully sticking to a generic Best pen overall: Pentel RSVP Point types: fine and medium pen? It is time to upgrade your writing Tip type: Stainless steel experience with better tools of the trade. Colors: black, red, blue, green, orange, pink, sky blue, violet Comfort: 5/5 Its ergonomic design, thick barrel and latex-free grip allow the pen to remain comfortable even after writing for hours on end Ink: 4.5/5 The gel-type ink does not bleed through paper and flows smoothly with rare ink clots, which cannot be said for more expensive gel and rollerball pens. The inkdelivery system never leaks and the pen works until all the ink is used. The red is fainter than other colors but is still dark enough for easy reading. Price: 5/5 This pen is truly a bargain. Heavily discounted on Amazon and available in bulk in club stores, the RSVP is cheap and its quality exceeds its price. Where to buy: online retailers, most chain stores
Best pen for essays: Pilot Precise V5 Rolling Ball
Point types: extra fine point and fine point Tip type: needle-point Colors: black, blue, red, green, purple, pink, turquoise Comfort: 2/5 Although the pen itself is light as a feather, its smaller barrel is not comfortable for an extended period of time. The ridged area meant for traction is cumbersome and imprints onto the Ink: 5/5 The needle-point technology ensures skip-free, blotch-free and effortless writing with a fade-proof and waterproof ink. The ink-delivery system claims to remain unaffected by standard air pressure and altitude variations, although the pen may leak on airplanes.The colors are crisp and clear. Price: 5/5 The V5 proves that you don’t always need to pay more for more quality. Although it may cost more than a traditional ballpoint pen, its performance is worth the extra money. The pen is also not meant for important documents like take-home tests, contracts or college applications since heat causes the ink to disappear. Where to buy: online retailers, most chain stores
Best erasable pen: Pilot Frixion
Point types: fine Tip type: gel rolling ball Colors: black, blue, brown, lime green, orange, pink, purple, red Comfort: 5/5 With a thin rubber grip and a narrow barrel, the Frixion is uncomfortable after writing for a period of time although the pen itself is not heavy. The “eraser” is on the end of the pen, so the cap must be removed to erase. Ink: 5/5 The Frixion is superior to both pencil and pen- it actually erases cleanly without tearing the paper and is smudge-free. However, the black ink is closer to a cashmere grey than a true black. The smooth gel ink also runs out faster than other Pilot pens (according to Pilot’s website, this pen can only write for a fraction of the distance of other pens). The pen is also not meant for important documents like take-home tests, contracts or college applications since heat causes the ink to disappear. Price: 1/5 Even though the Frixion is an amazing pen, it is not worth the expensive pricetag. The ink runs out startlingly fast and refills are not available to American markets. Where to buy: online retailers, most chain stores
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Photos Courtesy of Photobucket.com
Player Spotlight: Aaqib Syed
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By Emily Verbiest and Jessica Salguero
enior Aaqib Syed placed 25th among more than 100 runners at the VHSL 6A State Competition on Nov. 15. He was the only male from Fairfax Varsity Cross Country to qualify for states. Syed accomplished his personal best in the 5K with a time of 16:10. He completed the first mile in an impressive 4:58. Syed said that “the feeling of being free” motivates him to do well. Syed said Coach Whalley is good at “motivating us mentally. We have the ability to go just as far as the best. He tells us to find the freedom in running and to find ourselves.” This summer, Varsity Cross Country bonded at a camp in West Virginia where they went out and ran together. Activities included a blindfold run, where teammates were blindfolded and other teammates guided them up the mountain. Syed said his favorite part about cross country is how “you can compete with other people and you compete with yourself.”
Photo Courtesy of Fairfaxhighsports.org
Q & A with Aaqib Syed How does the team support you? “They run with me every practice even though they don’t have to. Alex Maguire is always pushing me to run faster and is giving me advice. All my teammates are funny guys so it is fun to hang out with them.”
Favorite Movie?
“Studio Ghibli Movies and The Hobbit.”
Most Embarrassing Moment? “When we [cross country] wore jorts and pink v-necks to school.”
Best advice you’ve ever recieved? “Live life forwards but understand it backwards.”
Favorite Book? “Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit”
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How does it feel to be the only male from Varsity Cross Country to qualify for States? “It feels lonely because I miss my teammates because it is more fun to run with your whole team. It’s going to be a different experience without my teammates.”
Favorite Memory of the Season?
“Going [running] up the mountain in West Virginia twice, it was a good experience.”
What is a typical practice like? “Long run with a consistent pace or an interval workout with high intensity.”
Sports
Unstoppable:
Fairfax Cheer Wins the District, Region and State
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By Emily Verbiest
n Nov. 9, Fairfax Varsity Cheer became Virginia State Champions. Their hard work paid off when they received a score of 276, putting them in first place. Senior Sarah Mazzatenta said “I was speechless. All I could do was cry! I was so proud of my team for all their hard work and determination." Senior Victoria Ugwu shared a similar reaction. “I was very surprised and all of a sudden I started crying and screaming and at that moment I knew that all the hard work and pain that we had invested in practice was all worth it. It made my whole entire senior year," said Ugwu. Fairfax Cheer holds the title of 2013 District, Region and State Champions. Ugwu explained what was going through her mind before she performed, “I was hoping that we would hit all of our stunts and that we could all pull together and do what we need to do so that we get what we earned and have spent over three months preparing for." Mazzatenta claims that the team’s success comes from their work ethic, “We are such hard workers. We have the heart, desire, we never give up and we trust one another." Varsity cheerleaders endure long, hard practices to improve their skills and perfect their routines. According to Ugwu the hardest part was, “running the mile everyday and then doing over 100 kicks each week, increasing the amount of kicks and sometimes running a mile and a half." Ugwu said the best part about being a part of the Fairfax Cheer family is, “the bond that we all have towards the love of this sport. We all love and support each other and want the same outcome at the end of the day."
Photos Courtesy of FLASHFIRE Photography
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Real Clever Rebels Thanksgiving Word Search
At what door number can this be seen?
Photo by Emily Dillard
Submit your answer to FHSRebelRoar@gmail.com
Johnny Reb By: Emily Dillard and Dayna Erdmann
LCHTJPYMNSAPYWS EJRPHLUOAPJOPNX AOSAIAVMPCWZASG VHLMNENLPZOIZRA WAYMBEKTKDRACN SFIBCCEASNIVOMQ YXEPIZMRIGYNQNM ERADIEUNRMIVPRI KXEIRKAZUYCVXIH RRVIDCKFSTSLIDE UBCRISQUASHALNP TANRSMARGLIPUAG CAEFOOTBALLIPCF PMMASHPOTATOESE ASEKGXBMBLVGVLK
AMERICA AMERICANINDIANS APPLECIDER FALL FAMILY GRAVY TURKEY FOOTBALL
MASHPOTATOES NOVEMBER PILGRAMS PUMPKINPIE SQUASH THANKSGIVING MACORNI By Deena Habibi
Johnny Reb was the previous mascot of Fairfax High School, however Johnny was removed from the school in 1985 due to complaints from parents and students.