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4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, VA 22003 703.642.4229

AP seen on ABC

More FCPS budget problems arise

by Richard McCormack Profiles Editor

by Reid Edwards News Editor

Superintendent Daniel Domenech has proposed a $1.16 billion budget for Fairfax County Schools. The plan, proposed earlier this month, would take effect July 1, the beginning of the new fiscal year. The proposal will be sent to the county board of supervisors in May for review.

The budget being adopted in its current form is very unlikely. In past years the board of supervisors has consistently amended and decreased the amount of funding suggested by Fairfax County’s budget proposal.

The proposed budget is 13 percent bigger than last years’ budget. An additional 13 percent in funding would go to teachers’ salaries. Teachers would receive a two percent raise, which some say is meager in comparison to the five percent raise that teachers in Montgomery County received last year. Teachers angry with their low pay last year instated the “work to the rule policy,” in which they stayed after school only until 2:30 p.m.

Although the “work to the rule policy” impacts students learning, AHS Fairfax Education Association (FEA) board member and math teacher Leonard Bumbaca has not ruled out the possibility.

“We’re not sure [working to the rule] would be the appropriate thing to do. We know there’s not enough money, but we know two percent is not enough,” said Bumbaca Another potential problem is that the lack of money in FCPS may cause an increased size of already overcrowded classrooms.

AHS FEA representative Richard Gorrel perceives the classroom overcrowding as the biggest potential problem of the lack of money in Fairfax County. With such a tight budget, Gorrell said that FCPS needs to wait and see how much money the county will give. FEA board members will have a clearer picture of the budget following the Lobby Day on Feb. 4. Despite Gorrel’s concern for a smaller classroom size, the main concern of the FEA seems to be teachers’ salaries.

“I’d like to see the teachers encouraged with a raise. Money is tight, no question,” said Gorrell.

ANNANDALE HIGH S CHOOL

Informing the Atoms since 1954

CHRIS HOGEBOOM

George Stephanopolus, co-host of ABC’s this week, discusses “Roots” with AP US History students.

On Jan. 16, students of Eleanor Shumaker’s W8 AP History class were interviewed by ABC’s George Stephanopolus about the mini-series “Roots”. 2002 is the 25th anniversary of the show, and ABC is doing a special on how it has affected interracial interactions since its premier in 1977.

Today, students who arise early enough will be able see the broadcast of the show, complete with the students, on ABC’s Good Morning America.

Stephanopolus lead the class in a round table discussion over Roots.

The special gave the class the opportunity to meet with and talk to Stephanopolus. Many students quickly became well aware of Stephanopolus’s knowledge of the subject at hand and his engaging personality.

Junior Kenan Marks said,

“[Stephanopolus] came across very well and knowledgeable and was very amicable, I was surprised.”

The interview, which took place during R3, lasted 60 minutes, but set up and break down took up the remainder of the period. Most teachers were willing to permit the students to participate in the interview even if tests were on the agenda.

“Meeting with Stephanopolus was one of the best things I’ve ever had happen,” said Addisu, “I was enlightened.”

The mini-series first portrayed the hardships of African Americans in slavery in a visual form. “Roots” covers slavery from the preRevolutionary era to after the American Civil War. It shows the abduction of blacks in Africa, to Nat Turner’s Rebellion in 1831, to the emancipation of the slaves, who never forgot their heritage.

“Roots” con’t on p. 5

Renovation speeds up Alice in Wonderland rehearsed

by Lauren Sterlacci Staff Writer

After months of being behind schedule, the pace of the school-wide renovation has picked up. By late March, Guidance will move into its new building near the old front

circle, and by April, the math department will move into the new classrooms where the media center once stood.

In the front of the building is the new wall being built outside the front.

“It’s exciting to move and I’m looking forward to a permanent new home. We all have to suffer a little, but when it’s all done it will have been worth it,” said math teacher Joel Cooley.

When the math rooms move to their new locations, some social studies classes will move to the math hall.

Although some may think that working around the students’ was slowing the workers down, Principal Don Clausen said, “The reason we are behind schedule is because of all of the subcontracting.” In other words, the workers are tied up in other jobs as well.

During the first phase, the science, art and business labs were

by Katie Stanton and Shin-Hyung Ahn Copy Editor and Staff Writer

Preparations for Alice in Wonderland, this year’s children’s play, have already begun. The actors and crew have settled into a rehearsal routine, and preparations are running smoothly.

“It’s the second week of rehearsals, so we’re

Senior Joan Diongzon rehearses her lines

CHRIS HOGEBOOM

A construction worker takes down scaffolding in the front entrance.

“Renovation” con’t on p. 4

just starting to get into the groove of things,” said senior Emily Useem, who plays the Queen of Hearts and is in charge of set decoration. “I think things are going very well, everyone seems to be very excited about the play, including myself.”

Alice is completely student directed, with senior Elizabeth Dere in charge. Dere has previously written and directed a Class Acts play and has been in many assorted plays. “It’s really fun to do, because it’s not as high pressure, and that means you’re doing it for the children,” said Dere. “You’re not doing it to get any awards or anything like that, you’re just doing it to have fun.”

Near the end of the month, the tech crew for Alice will be officially chosen.

Scenes for the play will be varied, so sets have to be simple and easy to change.

“Most of it is individual set pieces,” said Dere. “There’s going to be a set for the caterpillar scene... and a wall for Humpty Dumpty to sit on, and the trees that have flowers for the gardeners to paint red. But basically pretty simple.”

“We have to prepare the sets for each “Play” con’t on p. 5

SEAN SULLIVAN

Calculus class gets wired

by Wala’a Elbarasse Staff Writer

Keeping up with the boom of technology all around us, preparations are being made for the first ever web-based AP Calculus BC class, starting at the beginning of the second semester to help students understand theories behind work.

The software, Just Ask, was originally developed in Israel for college-level students that needed the extra help. By offering a free pilot of the program to AHS and George Mason High School, Just Ask hopes to increase its popularity among high schools.

The software offers more than a step-by-step demonstration of how to work out Calculus BC problems; it explains each theory that is used to solve problems. One of the most convenient feature of the software is that it can be used from anywhere as long as there’s Internet access.

“Because calculus is not a level that many parents are able to help out on, this will allow students to go on and get outside help and not only from me. It doesn’t do just step-by-step, its theory based,” said Carol Rychlik.

Rychlik, one of a few National Board Certified teachers in the school, was the first to suggest using the Just Ask pilot program for her Calculus BC class of 24 students.

Rychlik first heard about the Just Ask program last July when she was invited to attend a seminar for math teachers. She teaches Calculus BC, Algebra “Calculus” con’t on p. 4

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SEAN SULLIVAN

Sophomore Honors Chemistry students Stephanie Lugar and Amy Merrill record data for their Science Fair project.

Classes prepare for Science Fair

by Junaid Shams Staff Writer

LINDA FAIRALL

Calculus BC teacher Carol Rychlik teaches to her students.

Rychlik’s class was offered to be part of the Just Ask program.

Do southern football teams have a better winning percentage when facing northern teams in the frozen tundra? The is a sample science fair question that students will answer in the annual science fair, which will be held in the cafeteria on Tuesday, Feb. 1.

The science fair is a require-

ment for all science honors and IB students. Most students have started their research and will be required to let their teacher see their project before the science fair. The science fair involves many steps. The students must first have their idea approved by the teacher and a selected committee, which usually involves science teachers, parents, and members of the community.

hat’s inside

The coordinators for the science fair this year are Gannon Sugimura and Catherine Del Conte. The science fair is just one example of the requirements for many courses. Many honors and IB science classes require students to prepare a project that is judged by an outside source, outside the classroom. About 95% of the honor and IB students are “Fair” con’t on p. 5

A Look Ahead January 22

Sophomore Parent Night in Cafeteria at 7:30 p.m.

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End of Second Quarter

28-29 Student Holiday

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11 After the hockey dad killing in Massachusetts, AHS fans still manage to show sportsmanship

FCPS released its annual Drug Survey. Find out how it relates to AHS.

Disney will be re-releasing its popular classic Beauty and the Beast. Also, E.T. will be released in March.

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Third Quarter Begins

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Eighth Grade Parent Night in the Cafeteria at 7:30 p.m.

Band Impersonation Night in Auditorium at 7:30 p.m.

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Tuesday, January 22, 2002

Proposals to stifle youth sports violence SILENT SATURDAYS — Some leagues have put in place “silent Saturdays” in which parents must watch their children’s games in silence.

CONTRACTS — Parents may be required to sign contracts which regulate their behavior at youth sporting events.

Bench the disgruntled parents A Pennsylvania father was convicted of offering money to a 10year-old Little League pitcher to hit another kid in the face

CLASSES — All parents involved in youth sports will be required to attend classes on how to control their emotions.

Recently I attended my brother’s youth league basketball game. They won, 18-13, but that was not the issue that concerned my father who coaches the mites.

“Those refs were terrible; they are probably the worst in the league,” angrily shouted my dad to me during our car trip home.

“Calm down, Dad,” I said. “It’s a fifth grade league. Half the kids don’t remember if they won or lost anymore, let alone if the ref made a bad traveling call in the third quarter.”

Five minutes later, my dad had relaxed and forgotten all about the game.

He was able to buck the recent national PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY ANDREW SATTEN trend of senseless soccer moms and Hayfield parents Muria Freeman, (left) and Sharon Williams display the high emotions often seen insane hockey dads who have put more in sports during the Freshman girls basketball game last Tuesday. However, these two spectators stock in their son and daughter’s sports refrained from the bickering involved in some high school sporting events. than in the fate of the free world.

Recently, a jury in Boston convicted Pennsylvania father was convicted of be required to sign contracts which Thomas Junta of involuntary manslaugh- offering money to a 10-year-old little regulate their behavior at youth sporting ter in the death of Michael Costin. Junta, league pitcher to hit another kid in the events. The National Alliance for Youth who’s son Quinlan was coached by Costin, face.

Sports, an organization that is involved was concerned about the rough play A few months before that, a New York in preparing adult volunteers to coach during hockey practice. According to father broke the nose of his son’s hockey youth sports, has suggested that all Junta, one of the kids elbowed his son in coach after assailing him with a hockey parents complete a training program on the head during a play. After the practice, stick. how to control their emotions. Although Junta left with his son, Even more galling, the are a step in the right direction, they but then returned alone THE A-BLAST STAFF EDITORIAL during a high school have yet to cause a desired effect. and the coach and hockey game in Texas, a Honestly, if this doesn’t, what will?

Parents need to understand that father exchanged words youth sporting events are for fun father jumped out onto What is it going to take to make parents and then blows which and learning and violence the ice and wrapped his understand that their kid isn’t playing in left Costin dead. deserves no part. arm around the neck of game seven of the World Series? Games The issue that arises a referee before are just that. Games. Kids aren’t playing from this incident is not throwing him to the for the sake of championships; they are only that Junta wound ground. playing for fun and to learn. They’re up killing Costin. It is Clearly it is necesthere to enjoy themselves. They’re there No Yes bad enough that two sary that parents play a to learn skills and to be taught sports0 46 grown men became positive and emotional manship. Children understand that, enough involved in a role in their children’s’ sports. However, parents don’t. It’s the parents that need practice, not even a game—a practice— the rise in violence triggered by youth to grow up. that they were willing to come to blows sports needs to be stifled.

If they don’t, as Junta knows, they’ll over the issue. Moreover, the problem is To help curb the trend, some leagues have their own developmental leagues. not that this is just an isolated incident, have put in place “silent Saturdays” in They’re called prisons. but it is occurring nationwide and needs which parents must watch their to end. children’s games in silence. Parents may Staff Editorial written by Co-Editor in Case and point. Earlier in the year, a Chief David Covucci

Enron collapses, Arthur Andersen unaccountable

by Ryan Croft Sports Editor

Letters to the Editor Everyday Math The Students did a nice job on the math textbook article, [“Math teachers call for new text books,” page 1, Dec. 19]. One minor issue is the characterization of “Everyday Math” as being exclusively conceptual, ignoring practice and drill.

Fortunately, “Everyday Math” isn’t as one sided as that.

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Custodians keep Annandale shining

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ditorials

— Leonard Bumbaca math teacher

Charles Prestwood has worked as a pipeline operator since 1985 with the Houston-based Enron Corporation. In October 2000, he retired with $1.3 million of Enron stock in his 401k. Now thanks to his corrupt bosses and the neglect of Arthur Andersen, he can kiss that money good-bye.

Using a cloak of complex partnerships, which reportedly kept around $500 million in debt off its books, Enron had overstated its profits by an unthinkable $580 million since 1997. When the company released a thirdquarter loss of $638 million, Wall Street was stunned because Enron hadn’t released a bad quarter previously. Enron’s D-Day came on Dec. 2 when it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, officially the largest corporate downfall in American history. The stock plummeted from a high of $89.50 in September 2000 to its current $0.67 value a share. Enron misled investors by overstating revenues and overlooking debt.

Enron profited off buying electricity from generators and selling it to customers, transforming the company to the seventh largest revenue production in the nation. The business’s popularity skyrocketed and had a significant presence in the Houston area.

A 40-story glass tower costing $200 million was built downtown and the company agreed to pay another $100 million over the next 30 years for the naming rights to the city’s new major league baseball park. After enjoying a period of considerable success, high-ranking executives discovered that the company’s success would not be long lasting.

About the time the stock was preparing for its fatal plunge, the wellinformed Enron executives decided to cash out. A staggering $1.1 billion worth of shares were sold when Enron reached its peak and more strikingly, 600 high-ranking employees received more than $100 million in bonuses last November.

To make matters worse, last fall Enron froze the retirement shares of 20,000 employees when the stock began to slide. Enron workers and acquired

workers from past partnerships lost their jobs and, in many cases their entire retirement and life savings. Employees were paid in company stock for their 401(k) retirement plan, which is always a bad idea.

Rick Edelman, a prominent financial adviser who founded the Edelman Financial Center, states “the worst thing people can do is to take the majority of their retirement funds in company stock as opposed to other investments of money.” This helps safeguard an investor in the event of a corporate downsizing or bankruptcy.

It was no secret that Enron had strong ties with President Bush and his campaign. The company and its employees have been the biggest contributor to his campaign. Enron was also a huge contributor to congressional campaigns in both political parties. Although President Bush had ties to the despicable men in power at Enron, he had no link to their unlawful acts.

Previously trustworthy, and one of the “Big Five” accounting firms, Arthur Andersen handled Enron’s audit. After the fall of Enron, federal criminal prosecutors questioned the firm only to hear that its employees in Houston destroyed thousands of emails and documents from the Enron audit without authorization.

Andersen’s destructive policy requires the firm to keep documents on file for at least six years. Investigators are trying to establish if Enron misled investors by overstating revenues and overlooking debt. Anderson’s actions in the Enron audit were fraudulent, unaccountable and worst of all, criminal. The firm’s conduct was so inexcusable that its credibility is lost.

The Enron executives were obviously aware of the impending collapse and they royally screwed over their current and former hard-working employees.

The Justice Department should convict Andersen and/or Enron officials for: unlawfully burning documents, misinforming investors and cashing out with investor’s money. For that, they should be locked up and their assets allocated back to the employees. Maybe in jail they would realize how it feels to be taken advantage of.

The custodial staff should be applauded for its unyielding efforts to keep our school’s appearance in top shape.

The massive volume of students and the mess created by the renovation cause the maintenance of our school to be a daunting task, yet our custodians rise to the occasion and get the job done.

Carryiannis gets NHS Moving

Annandale High School 4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, Virginia 22003 Volume # 47 Issue 8

Editors in Chief Managing Editor News Editors Academics Editors Editorials Editors

P.E. teacher Jamie Carryiannis initiated a program to pair NHS tutors with members of the wrestling team for additional academic help. The program has been successful in providing NHS members opportunities to accumulate service hours since many students were having difficulty coming up with service ideas. It’s great to see coaches playing an active role in an otherwise inactive club.

Charities benefit from corporate sponsorship After the Sept. 11 attacks, a wave of marketing agreements arose between charity organizations such as the American Red Cross and corporate America. Numerous companies are selling patriotic products such as T-shirts, hats and pins, and donating the proceeds of their profits to charitable organizations. This “cause marketing” has created some controversy since some believe that commercializing cause spending is wrong.

Lethal weapon: nail clippers The principal of Burnt Mills Elementary School in Montgomery County has recommended a third grade student for expulsion after a nail clipper fell out of his pocket while he reached for a tissue. The “deadly weapon” was mistakenly brought to school after the eight year old accidentally grabbed his mom’s key chain. It’s reassuring to know that local school systems are dealing with the real problems.

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In-Depth Editors Features Editors Atomic Articles Editor Profiles Editors Cultures Editors Sports Editors Entertainment Editors

Tuesday, January 22, 2002

David Covucci Shant Shahrigian Chris Hogeboom Reid Edwards Philippe Podhorecki Hayley Fletcher Hana Ngyuen Katie Clark Andrew Satten Heather Downen Rebecca Sample Young-Zi Byun Sarah Kelman Chae-Wha Park Denice Miller Richie McCormack Martha Amoaka Cameron Kynes Chris Bagot Ryan Croft Jessica Reyes Mike Mahn

Gallup Award Quill and Scroll International Honor Society 2000-2001

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What do you think about the lunch management’s decision to charge 5 cents for condiments?

“I oppose them making ketchup 5 cents for every lunch you buy because this is school, and everything with your lunch should be free.”

— Jason Thomas sophomore

“I think it’s crap and it demonstrates the beginning of a communist society.”

— Bobby Morgenthaler junior

“I think it is stupid, because when you go into restaurants like McDonald’s you don’t have to pay for condiments.”

— Bonita Sakason junior

“That’s terrible. It’s going to make it inconvenient for people to enjoy their food.”

— Rachel Hailu senior

“[The charge] doesn’t apply to me. I have quality hookups with cafeteria workers, so I’m well above any ridiculous lunchroom charges.”

— Chris Rauer junior

(703) 642-4229 email: ahsablast@aol.com website: www.fpcs.k12.va.us /AnnandaleHS/ABlast/2002 fax: 642-4197

Atomic Athletics Editors Arts Editors

Kristie Moore Rebecca Kraushaar Abby Segall Weekend Editors John Bernhardt Caroline Friedman On-line Editors Monica Price Leah Selim Business Ryan Teichler Advertising Manager Crystan Blanco Copy Editor Katie Stanton Photography Editor Jenny Beam Photographers: Sean Sullivan, Andrew Menegat, Sarah Sherman, Linda Fairall Staff Writers: Junaid Shams, Paul Gleason, Saman Hussain, Rachel Jones, Maggie Owner, Evan Ashe, Sam Molavi, Annette Bouadi, Rob Payne, Walaa Elbarasse, Aminah Kakeh, ShinHyung Ahn, Kyle Smeallie, Lauren Sterlacci, Morgan McEvilly, Mohammad Edris Qarghah, Laura Hollowell, Sara Bizer, Jared Smith, Katharine Kishiyama, Kathy Saupp, N’hawa Tangula Principal Don Clausen Adviser Alan Weintraut

Trophy Class Virginia High School League 2000-2001

All American National Scholastic Press Association 2000-2001

Published every three weeks, The A-Blast is an award winning, tri-weekly newspaper that strives to inform, educate, and entertain the student body and community. The A-Blast will not print any material that is obscene or libelous; or that which substantially disrupts the school day or invades an individual’s right to privacy. Unsigned editorials represent the staff opinions which solely represent the opinion of the newspaper staff. The A-Blast is an independent, open forum for discussion which is printed at the Springfield Plant of The Washington Post. Signed letters to the editor of 250 words or less may be submitted to room 225 or mailed to the school. The A-Blast reserves the right to refuse advertisements. All submissions become property of The A-Blast Copyright, 2002.

editorials

Euro sells out Europe The new currency undermines a legacy of European culture Sa tten ’s This bill, approved by Congress last month, has aroused controversy among the education community. Among the bill’s provisions is the call for federal testing for third through eighth graders in math and reading. The bill directs more aid to schools who show trouble in these, and other, test scores. However, if improvements are not met within two years, schools staffs may be replaced. Those who support the bill favor the plans to lessen achievement gaps between poor and rich students. Also local and state school systems would get more freedom on how they may spend federal dollars, but in return the school is required to produce school “report cards.” The bill’s opponents argue that there is no call for mandatory funding for disabled students. Many are also angered that the bill puts the burden of more standardized tests on teachers and that the cost of producing and administering tests will be required without enough federal funding. In other words, states already struggling with the signs of a recession may be forced to spend more than they have.

Whatever the opinion, Bush has made it clear that it is his intention to have every American child read by third grade.

MPAA ratings demand revision Theatres should change policies regarding teens

By Mike Mahn Entertainment Editor

Every week millions of teenagers flock to the movie theaters as a recreational activity. These teenagers, some are on the brink of turning 17 (the right of passage into R rated movies), wish to see a new R rated film, but are prohibited, not by their own parents, but by the Motion Picture Association of America and the theater in which the movies are playing.

The MPAA states that any film receiving an R rating should restrict anyone under 17 unless accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. However, enforcing this recommendation is completely voluntary by theaters playing MPAA reviewed films. Therefore, theaters should change their current policy so that kids with parents who consent to letting them to see certain R rated movies may actually watch them (whether they are accompanied by a guardian or not).

Most films produced by legitimate studios submit their movie to be rated by the MPAA. These films are then taken to a reviewing board composed of ten parents. These parents then watch the film and unanimously select a rating based on what category (G, PG, PG-13, R, and NC-17) they believe the film

belongs.

However, these parents have no training or knowledge of what constitutes material that should not be seen by people under 17. They do not understand the psychology of adolescents and should not have the right to prohibit these juveniles from hearing a few too many obscenities. A system should be created at theaters where parents can fill out forms that show that their children may see R rated

Mike Mahn was denied from viewing the movie Not Another Teen Movie, pictured above, due to its R rating. The MPAA decision to rate this film R and deny the majority of the teen audience for whom it is aimed at is just one of the faults of this faulty organization.

films containing all or some of the specifications that made a movie R rated. Therefore, if a parent does not actually want to sit with their teenager in an R rated movie but they do allow them to watch one, the theater will have the family on their computers or on file and know that the parents consent.

The MPAA was founded in 1922 as a private organization working to strengthen the American film market and the chairman, Jack Valenti, founded the MPAA ratings system in 1968. Their rating system is completely voluntary and carries no force of law. However, because so many theaters strictly adhere to the guidelines set forth by the MPAA, film studios producing goodnatured films that receive R ratings suffer drastically at the box office.

Because they can not gain a teen

audience, which accounts for a large portion of moviegoers, they suffer low earnings. Of the top 50 of the

American Film Institute’s Top 100, less than a third receive lower than an R rating, which means of America’s greatest movies, the MPAA only allows 16 year olds to see one third of them.

Revisions within the MPAA are necessary and theaters should take a more liberal stance on R rated films.

Just because a panel of ten parents say a 16 year old cannot see gratuitous violence or hear more than six profanities does not mean that the adolescent brain can not handle it. If your parent or guardian allows you to see an R rated film, you should be allowed to see that film — with or without them.

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By Chae-Wha Park

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The American dollar is a classic symbol of our nationality, patriotism and history. Our national heroes and timeless sayings are sanctified on the faces of these notes. ` Even minor changes to the appearance of United States Andrew Satten currency has proven to trigger great Editorials Editor discontent and tumult from citizens, as can be seen by the negative public sentiment that exploded in response to the facelift for dollar bills that took place in 2000. In this time of voracious patriotism, the notion of terminating American money and replacing it with a unified currency system would be deemed traitorous to our national pride.

Imagine if we went the way of the Euro, joining forces with Mexico and creating a currency called the “Continental” that pictured George Washington on one side and Miguel Hidalgo on the other, a national hero who led the fight for Mexican independence. This measure would never pass approval by the United States public. Even though the dollar is a strong currency and the United States is not in need of unified monetary system, our unbridled sense of nationalism would not be sacrificed for economic purposes of this nature.

Nevertheless, this has become a reality for 12 European countries, who are selling out their popular sovereignty as the Euro makes its debut and is in the midst of a two-month conversion period. The Euro is equivalent to about $1.13, and is being introduced as part of an effort to improve the European economy.

Although the Euro currency may help to stabilize European prices and provide greater convenience for European citizens and American travelers, these benefits do not compare to the value of European nations having distinctive currency that reflect their history and nationality. Other still weighing whether to join the Euro coalition, including Sweden, Denmark, Greece and the British, should retain their national money.

The European currency that is being replaced is not only considered money, but rather works of art as well. American money pales in comparison to the holographic images, spectrum of colors and unique features that adorn the Franc, Lira and Doitsmark- just a few of the unique currencies being replaced. Each of these currencies honors important leaders and significant events, and replacing them does not do justice to their contributions. The Euro’s appearance has often been compared to Monopoly money. Instead of celebrating famous European leaders, structures and locations, vague symbols of bridges and walkways are features on the fronts of the bills.

The Greek currency, the Drachma, which has been in existence for over 2,500 years and was used in purchasing materials for the building of the Parthenon, could become the next victim to the Euro conversion. European nations must realize the true value of their current money, instead of cashing it in due to some

The Euro currency that is being introduced to the European economy is adorned with symbols of architecture, places and events native to Europe. Its appearance has often been mocked as resembling monopoly money. One Euro is equivalent to approximately $1.13.

The French currency, the Franc, first came into existence in 1360 during the Hundred Years War. The word Franc originally stood for “freedom.”

The Drachma has been a Greek currency for over 2500 years.

Though Greece was barred from joining the Euro coalition for not meeting economic standards, attempts are being made for the nation to convert to the Euro.

The Lira was first named the official currency of Italy in the 19th century.

The Lira has experienced a history of inflation crisis.

During the 1920s the currency had reached such a dire state that Italian dictator Benito Mussolini declared his “battle of the lira” plan in which he made extreme economic decisions.

School shootings: the trend of Generation Murder Shantsense

If the generation before us was cynically dubbed “Generation X,” then perhaps we will come to be called “Generation M.” Here, as in the famous Alfred Hitchcock film or in any mystery novel, the M stands for Murder.

Why? Of course we know why. In fact, we know so well that we hardly even pause to think about it anymore.

School yard shootings and Shant Shahrigian massacres have become so Co-Editor in Chief horrifically frequent that when one occurs, it is barely considered newsworthy. How many of you were even aware that two separate incidents of school violence occurred just one week ago? On Jan. 15, a student in a Manhattan high school shot and seriously injured two of his classmates, and one day later, a student at the Appalachian School of Law here in Virginia shot and killed a dean and two of his fellow students.

No practical solution exists to amend this problem. The reason why we deserve to be called Generation M is because we live in a society that is more extreme than ever before: The type of student who would perpetrate a Columbine is

nothing new, but his (and thus far, it has been only a “his”) violent form of expression is.

Moments of Silence or forced recitations of the Pledge of Allegiance will do nothing to stop school yard violence; it would be specious thinking to conclude that the lack of violence in Virginia public schools is due to those efforts. But sadly, the only possible solution to the problem is completely unfeasible. In order for there to never be another school shooting, we as a generation and nation would have to refuse to become desensitized to such incidents, and be just as aghast at future incidents as we were at Columbine. In sum, we would have to artificially—and this would be artificial—create a culture in which the idea of a taking a gun to school would be completely unimaginable to students.

As this cannot be achieved on a nationwide level, the best that school systems can do is buy more metal detectors and train their teachers to lock their doors when they hear gunshots. In the mean time, expect to see more school shootings in the back ART BY CHAE-WHA PARK pages of your newspaper.

No practical soulution exists to amend this problem

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Wednesday, January 23, 2001

NEW FIRE ALARM COVERS INSTALLED

The school recently finished installing plastic covers (above) over all fire alarms in the school. The covers will emit a loud sound when opened to alert nearby people that the fire alarm has been opened. The covers have been implemented in response to the recent false fire alarms.

The covers should deter students from pulling the alarm.

CHEESECAKE SALE COE students are selling Sweetz Cheesecakes. The sale started January 7 and end tomorrow. The cheesecakes will be delivered on Valentine’s Day, February 14. For any questions go to room 211 or ask a COE student.

GOLF COMMITTEE During the month of January the PTSA Golf Committee will start their planning for the annual Golf Tournament that will occur during May. The tournament provides the majority of the money to the PTSA’s budget.

DECA Contest held at mall Marketing students go to Tyson’s Galleria, contest between marketing student results in wining of crap

by Kyle Smeallie Staff Writer

As sophomores Alex Silano and Tracie Hiatt, two hard working DECA (District Education Clubs of America) students, prepare their presentation, their ten-minute time limit slowly ticks away. The team’s task is to promote a senior citizen tour group in front of a pressing group of judges.

On Jan. 10, the DECA Club attended the annual District DECA Contest in Fair Oaks Mall. The Annandale DECA Chapter had very successful results—30 of the 52 DECA members were recognized at Oakton.

The District DECA contest involved schools from all over the county. The contest has three parts: two role plays and a test on marketing terms and techniques. In the role plays a student is graded by a judge on his effective use of solving the problem presented in each scenario.

Various scenarios called for different problem solving techniques. Some involved trying to please an angry customer, performing managment duties or coming up with marketing ideas for a product.

Silano and Hiatt came out with a third place trophy, good enough to advance them to the state competition in Richmond, Virginia. “We work really well as a team,” said Silano.

Hiatt is a one-year member of DECA. She was very apprehensive about the competetion. “I was afraid of getting nervous, because presentation is really important in the competition,” said Hiatt.

To help calm the nerves of people like Hiatt, the club advisors held an hour-long session to help students practice their presentations and critique what parts needed improvement.

Other DECA members, such as senior Scott Frankel, will join Hiatt and Silano at states. This year Frankel came to the contest looking to improve last year’s results. He finished in overall first place this year, and set himself in an elite group with only five other AHS students.

Frankel assumed the role of a person in the food marketing career at the contest. He then tried to work out his given scenario, trying to impress his judge as he went one on one.

The AHS DECA Chapter has not only seen an improvement

Next phase to conlcude within 9 months

“Renovation” from p. 1 successfully completed at a cost of $4.5 million.

AHS is in the midst of its second phase, which is expected to last until 2003 and cost $21 million, the most of all three phases. Assistant Principal Brandon Cooley said, “Things will pick up, but the next 8-9 months will be the busiest times of renovations. We are working on catching up where we have fallen behind and working around the clock.”

Replacing the old Guidance Depart-

ment will be a black box theater, orchestra, drama department and a place for storage. Drama teacher Vicki Farish said, “We are just really anxious to move.”

Spanish teacher Felicidad Hunt said, “The construction hasn’t bothered me or my classes. The only complaint they have is walking to the trailers when it’s so cold outside.”

So far the workers have done their best to make sure that they get their job done without any inconvenience towards the students learning. Senior Quala

Hassan said, “I have some classes in the trailer, but none of the construction has affected my classes.” Trying to keep safety and education as their main priority the workers seem to succeed in this big renovation period. Geosystems teacher Bob Lamons said, “A couple years ago it affected me, but phase two is only a minor inconvenience. But I do look forward to the new bathrooms after the loss of the faculty bathrooms.”

The Inspector/Owners Representative of Annandale, Ted Deane said that every product is approved before engineers and

architects which also contributes to the amount of time it takes for everything to be accomplished.

“I’m there to make sure they do their job. We have to limit the noise, dust and ensure safety for everyone,” said Deane.

After the second phase is completed, hopefully in the summer of 2003, the third and final phase will take place. In all, the complete renovation of Annandale is costing around $38 million, which is expected to be finished by either the fall of 2004 or spring of 2005.

Grand Opening!!

The AHS preschool program is offering to train high school students for careers in a day care profession and prepare them for becoming a parent. The children are three years old. Each semester costs $140.

Applications can be sent now. If there are questions contact Ellen MacMahon or go to the office.

Mountain Kim Martial Arts

Mountain Kim Martial Arts is continuing its 29 years of service in the Northern Virginia area with the Grand Opening of our new school in the Ravensworth/Safeway Shopping Center at Braddock Road and 495. We offer a wide-ranging curriculum, with classes to suit everyone in the family. Also be sure to ask about our popular After School Martial Arts Program for your child. All of our programs develop self-confidence, discipline, respect and physical fitness. In addition, you will develop strong self-defense skills and most importantly, you’ll have a great time!

n

ews

Wallace-Reader’s Digest Funds will give a $862,000 grant to FCPS. The grant’s purpose is to help students achieve more. The grant can be renewed for each year for up to four years to recieve a total amount of $4,138,00.

in quality of performance, but many more students have elected to participate in this club. “We went from just 27 students last year to 52, a huge difference in itself,” said club sponsor Pearl Springfield.

At least 12 students for AHS will be travelling to Richmond for the DECA State Leadership Competition, held March 1517. National will be in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Last year, Hae-Sung Lee represented AHS at the national level in California. This year he is headed to the state competition, in which he looks to once again compete at the national level.

After all participents had respnded to their scenario, they travelled to Oakton High School for the awards ceremonies where numerous awards were given to AHS DECA members.

“Annandale just did an amazing job. Our results were wonderful. It shows how students took on a challenge and met it,” said Springfield.

“Calculus” from p. 1 1 and IB higher-level math; therefore, she had an incentive to attend, and she liked what she saw.

“I went to the seminar and I said ‘I want this,’ and of course the goal of the company and the people that wrote it was that they wanted to be able to pilot it for high school students,” said Rychlik.

Rychlik stressed the importance of understanding math as opposed to memorizing it, and that is what Just Ask enforces. It will repeat any step or theory for you for as long as you want. “When there are word problems that require you to visualize, the software will show you a visual picture over and over for as many times as you need it, until you formulate in your mind that you know what’s going on,” said Rychlik Currently, only 36% of the Calculus BC students pass the end of the year exam. With Just Ask Rychlik hopes that students will receive a more thorough understanding, resulting in an increase to approximately 50%.

In order to access the Just Ask website, each Calculus BC student will be assigned a laptop that was bought by the county and a password to use as a resource. “When students are having difficulty, they can use the laptop as another resource to help them understand the process in terms of solving the problems they are working with,” said Assistant Principal Benita Toler. Toler is working with Rychlik and Principal Don Clausen with the Just Ask pilot.

Probably one of the most helpful features of the program is that the teacher can see who accessed the site and what they were having trouble with; that way the teacher can pinpoint the class’s weaknesses.

Renato Guevara, a senior Calculus BC student, is eager to begin using the software at the beginning of the second semester. “I’m looking forward to the usage of computers in math class because a lot of the students need help in math.

It’s simple, there are a lot of people and there are times when we just need help, or we just don’t understand some of the concepts. Unfortunately, we can’t always get help from Mrs. Rychlik because we don’t have time, so this way we can use information on the computer and get it to help us,” said Guevara.

This software is not only designed to help the students, but also to help teachers. “I’m hoping the software will help me, because I really can’t do it all,” said Rychlik.

The success of the program will be measured by how many students pass the Calculus BC exam at the end of the year, and if everything goes well, the county math coordinator will choose to purchase a site license to go on using the Just Ask software.

Construction catches up after being behind schedule

AHS PRESCHOOL PROGRAM

FCPS RECIEVES GRANT

ANDREW MENEGAT

Sophomore Alex Silano and marketing teacher Jennifer Hendrickson talk during a marketing class. The DECA contest was filled with mostly marketing students. Silano and his teammate sophomore Tracy Hiatt won third place.

Math leaps to the Net

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New intern arrives

by Katharine Kishiyama Staff Writer

“Play” from p. 1 different scene that they have, we have to do lighting for the different kinds of lighting things they do, we have to prepare the sound cues for musical settings, and we have to paint a lot of stuff, especially for the a-frames,” said assistant stage manager sophomore Amanda Green. “The lighting scheme’s going to be awesome.”

The tech crew is also in charge of making costumes, taking care of programs, and advertising to promote the production.

A good deal of the actors in Alice are new to the drama department, and this is their first play; despite this, drama teacher and producer Vicki Farish expects the production to turn out well.

“I have high expectations because you have some new people, which is good, but you surround them with people who are veterans, who have quite a few different shows under their belts,” said Farish. “It’s always exciting to have fresh blood in.”

For some, this is their first significant role in a drama performance. Sophomore Ashley Lippolis, who plays the lead character, Alice, is one example. “[There are] a lot of people who either haven’t had major roles or are new,” said Farish. “Having Ashley in a lead position when last year she was part of an ensemble... all of the sudden having that responsibility is pretty big.”

“I didn’t even think I was going to get in, and if I did I thought I was going to get a really small part, so this was a very big surprise,” said Lippolis.

Lippolis’ previous experiences with the stage have mostly involved her singing ability, including 42nd Street and The Magic Flute, an opera put on by her voice studio. She has also been in numerous chorus productions and is in Women’s Ensemble.

“Singing is acting, depending on what you’re doing,” said Lippolis. “Even when you’re just in a concert performance, you have to act, so it’s almost the same family.”

“She’s a very talented actress, so that’s why she’s in,” said Dere.

Rehearsals have been occurring since Dec. 10, with a break for the winter holidays with a few difficulties. Many people need to use the auditorium for various reasons, and lots of

news

Play to be performed

SEAN SULLIVAN

Seniors Emily Useem and Ellen Connor rehearse for the upcoming play int he auditorium. The play will hold its first performance on Feb. 7.

actors have other obligations.

“One thing... [that is] kind of stressful for some of the actors who are in chorus as well as drama is that the district chorus is the same day as the performance,” said Dere. “People are going to have to go quickly from district chorus to Annandale for the performances.”

“Everyone really likes the play... and everyone is really motivated and into it,” said stage manager junior Pat Giannico.

Since the audience will be mostly made up of children, actors are looking forward to the performance nights, and are hoping for “complete and utter adoration from all the little kids that are going to be watching,” said senior Sarah Paterson playing Cheshire Cat. “On the days of the play you get to see these kids, and after the play they get all excited,” said Dere. “They want to get your autograph, like you’re famous or something. They just think it’s so cool.

The play is scheduled for Feb 7, 8 and 9 at 7 p.m.

“Annandale has a lot to offer to students,” said Minjon LeNoir, a new administrative intern until May. However, LeNoir is already a familiar face around school.

She has worked at Annandale for the past two years as an academic coordinator for mathematics in the STAR program.

LeNoir moved to Virginia from California after she was accepted into the Masters Program at Howard University.

“She [LeNoir] is a nice teacher. She always helps your whenever you need help,” said freshman Umar Mohammed.

LeNoir is currently working towards her Masters degree and educational leadership in administration. She aspires to obtain her Ph.D. in education and become an administrator. LeNoir hopes to start her career as a viceprincipal and become a principal in a few years. She was inspired to become an LENOIR administrator “because over the course of my career, I have recognized the plight of today’s youth. I feel that teachers as well as administrators play a crucial role in offering guidance to future generations,” said LeNoir.

Internship demonstrates how theories and methods learned in the masters program can be applied to an educational environment. So far, her internship has taught her that there are “greater dynamics within the school that go on outside of a classroom,” During her internship, LeNoir will be working under the direct supervision of Assistant Principal, Shawn Hearn. “I think that the administrative internship is the most practical experience that one can have in preparing to be an administrator. My goal is to give her the most well-rounded experience as possible,” said Hearn. LeNoir will be assigned administrative duties such as attending faculty meetings and supporting school and county initiatives. Interning will give her the opportunities needed to explore all the duties administrators have to perform on a daily basis to keep the school functioning efficiently.

“From what I have observed, the administrative staff at Annandale is one to be modeled,” said LeNoir.

Do you think the construction is a distraction?

Sometimes. Once in history class, everyone could hear the men working. But overall, it’s not really a problem.

–Faheem Azizi freshman

Icebox dance heats up school Students flock to school to get their groove on at annual winter ball

by Evan Ashe Staff Writer

SARAH SHERMAN

Junior Bayla Whitten auditions for the upcoming musical, Hello Dolly.

Whitten became one of five finalists for the musical, which will be held in early April.

Auditions held

by Rachel Jones Staff Writer

After auditions were held last week, Victoria Benson, Stephanie Glotfelty, Stacey Langner, Paige Singh and Bayla Whitten were chosen as finalists for the spring musical, Hello Dolly, which will be performed April 11, 12 and 13 at 7:30 P.M. Hello Dolly is a romantic musical about a widow, Dolly, who is a professional matchmaker. While trying to find a match for Mr. Barnabey, she realizes her love for him. The storyline revolves around her trying to get him to reciprocate that love.

Although there are few lead parts in the play, most people are not nervous and look forward to the opportunity to sing instead of just act.

“I have been in all the musicals so far,” said junior Bayla Whitten. “I auditioned for this one because I love singing and musical theater.”

The auditions for Dolly required each person to sing a song from either 42nd Street, last year’s musical, or The Sound of Music. S Musical theater is not for everyone, but it gives actors and actresses more chances to showcase their different talents.

“Some people prefer to dance, some sing, some just act, most like doing it all...depends on the person,” said senior Paige Singh, who was selected as a finalist for the musical.

Although musicals are perhaps the most difficult productions to organize, Director Vicki Farish, is confident in the students’ choral abilities.

“When you do a musical you need to know you have the talent to do it [and] we have accomplished singers,” said Farish, who held auditions with bnak teacher Jack Elgin.

Hello Dolly is a collaboration between all the performing arts departments; band, choral and drama. The choral director Carleen Dixon chose Hello Dolly this year. The three department leaders, Dixon, Farish and Elgin, take turns choosing the yearly musical.

Elgin will conduct the band members in the “pit,” the area in front of the stage.

The symphonic and gold bands along with the orchestra will all play in the pit with Elgin.

“It is a good cross section for a lot of people to play,” said Elgin, who is excited to work on the collaboration.

“It gives the whole department time to collaborate on something.”

The musical is getting off to a good start and most people are excited to begin rehearsals.

“It’s going to be great,” said Elgin.

The annual winter ball, this year known as the “Ice Box” took place on Saturday, January 12 at 8 p.m. in the AHS cafeteria.

The cafeteria was decorated with blue and white balloons.

Along poles, walls, and vending machines white Christmas lights were strung to add a winter effect.

Also to enhance the effect of the colored lights on the D.J. table there was a for machine placed in the front of the cafeteria.

“I went to the dance because it was more casual than homecoming. I also didn’t have to spend as much money,” said sophmore Elizabeth Gill.

The majority of AHS students in attendance at the event were female students.

This is most likely due to the fact that

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and hip-hop.

Favorites seemed to be Juvenile’s “Back that Thang Up” and “Party Up” by DMX. Of the few rock songs played were Alien Ant Farm’s “Smooth Criminal” and Limp Bizkit’s “Nookie.”

During the playing of “Nookie” a large mosh pit broke out near the center of the cafeteria that was broken up near the end of the song by Assistant Principal Shawn Hearn.

While in the early stages of the dance, it was hardly crowded, by around 9:00 students began to pile in the cafeteria doors.

Many who chose not to attend the dance found it easy to justify not going.

“I was at my friend’s house eating pizza and watching the Raiders game, I wasn’t about to miss a play-off game for a dance,” said sophmore Justin Wade.

Many shared Wade’s ideas and chose to stay home.

Some left early, rather than miss the football game.

Overall, this years “Ice Box” seemed to be a success.

Nearly all in attendance seemed to enjoy themselves and most were caught up in the dancing environment.

“Yes, because [the work] can be heard during class, and it’s hard for me to concentrate while I learn.”

–Brent Sullivan sophomore

“Not really. But sometimes after school when some of the halls are blocked off, it’s hard to get around.”

–Calin Yaroch junior

Students to compete in science fair Students showcase science skills during fair “Fair” from p. 1 entering the science fair. Some of the other alternatives for the science fair that students were offered were to write essays, create a boat, or enter online competitions. “I think the science fair is a great idea and it helps students express their ideas,” said IB Physics teacher, John Hrubec.

The science fair is grouped into two categories: sensitive and nonsensitive.

The sensitive involve projects that deal with animals, people, and hazardous chemicals. These projects need to follow certain rules, which are set by a committee. The nonsensitive projects must also be approved by a committee and administrators, but it’s very easy to approve these.

“The science fair is a lot of work, but if you win, its worth it,” said sophomore Mike Perucci.

A multitude of judges will include teachers, volunteers from the community, parents, scientists and student graduates.

These judges will not only judge and

“Only when you’re in class and they’re hammering outside.”

–Marquette Lee senior

PHILIPPE PODHORECKI

Juniors Mike Flint and Michael Nakamura do research for the upcoming science fair. Both are in IB classes and are thus required to participat the fair

evaluate all of the 150 projects that are entering fair, but will also ask questions to understand the true investigation of all of the projects. The science fair projects will be evaluated on there creative ability, scientific though, thoroughness, skill, and clarity.

The winners of this years’ science fair will move on to the regional level where

all of FCPS and certain private schools are entered. After the regional level, students can go to the state, national and international competition. The prizes for the winners include a small amount of cash and a certificate.

“The science fair allows the student to research their interest and explain it in a scientific way,” said Sugimura.

Stephanopolus interviews history class “Roots” from p. 1

classroom assistent need

girls rather than guys are more into dancing.

“I went because I thought it would be fun and I knew a lot of people that were going,” said sophmore Katie Payne.

“I went to have fun, to enjoy myself, and see some booty,” said sophmore Oheneba Boateng.

Others went to the dance because they it was less expensive movies or going out to eat.

“I went because of the cheapness.

That was cool because I didn’t want to spend a lot of money,” said sophmore Billy Steinbuglar.

Girls and guys attending the dance seemed to get many ideas on their clothes for the dance from this years fashion show.

Most girls wore either tube or tank tops, along with leather pants or skirts.

“I liked getting to dress up differently than I would on a normal Saturday night, this was a chance to be more expressive with my clothes,” said sophmore Cassie Holcomb.

Guys wore mostly button-down shirts or sweaters, with kaki pants.

The music was for the most part rap

In 1977, when the mini-series first aired, the producers felt it would be a success. It was consequently scheduled for eight nights in a row playing for two hours a night.

By the final night130 million people had tuned in to at least one episode and were listening to its dramatic story of Kunta Kinte family and their struggles.

In contrast, last week the final episode of “Survivor: Africa” brought in 30 million viewers, the highest of last weeks ratings, but nowhere near those of Roots.

Since its first showing it has been played over many times and will be for a long time to come.

Roots means a lot to many people. To junior Marks, a participant in the interview, it shows glance in the past at a different time in America. Roots shows how society has advanced through time.

It shows the complete contrast between how it was and how it is now, with so many cultures and races in the same area,” said Marks.

Anteneh Addisu, an other participant, truly feels a link with the series.

He first saw the movies at the age of eight and has seen them twice after that

each time he learns something new. “I only vaguely remember the first time I saw it but by the third I had learned so much.”

“The name Kunta Kinte means strength and perseverance and this is how I look at him,” said Adddisu.

Shumaker was notified the morning of the Jan. 15, giving her only one day to inform the students of their 15 minutes of fame.

She used the last period of the day to finish up viewing more of the video.

However, many of the participants had not completed the viewing of the entire sixteen hour long series.

“Of course it is. It’s mpossible to shut school down and send us somewhere else while it’s being done.”

–Vicki Farish Drama teacher

aBlast

the

Wednesday, January 23, 2002

5

6 aBlast

the

Wednesday, January 23, 2002

ATOMS PRIDE

The following are the recipients of Atoms Pride TShirts for the month of December: Abubakar, Majid Adams, Kendra Agegnehu, Daniel Aguilera-Artega, Ariana Ahmed, Ahmed Amoak, Juliana Asamoa, Kojo Aultman, Stephen Bangali, Joseph Bartnek, Melanie Boateng, Maame Brassard, April Briggs, Danielle Calhoun, C.K. Canales, Guillermo Cherinet, Yarid Dale, Donald Daley, Laura Deibes, Christine Dinh, Monica Dulo, Nick Edwards, Bryan Fagot, Amelie Farrar, Jonathan Foley, Frank Fox, Kevin Frankel, Scott Freeman, Natalie Freiden, Sergio Gab Allah, Sharin Garcia, Maria Gibson, Christina Grandon, Kevin Green, Shelley Guevera, Renato Guzman, Dennis Hand, Courtney Hanidias, Erit Hashi, Adna Hill, A.J. Hussein, Abdul Hussein, Rukiya Hyde, L.J. Johnson, Travis Kelly, Laura Khan, Areed Lazo, Julie Le, Viet LeCount, Shakara Lujan Salvatierra, Alexandra Manana, Paul Marroquin, Carmen McQuaid, Lindsay Miller, Katharine Miller, Kathleen Misner, Blaine Mohamud, Ahmed Mrad, Rita Nguyen, Dung Nguyen, Phuong Osman, Mariam Pak, Enoch Peyton, Nick Pham-Nguyen, Paul Quiroga, Louis Razjouan, Faezeh Rehman, Abdul Sabotta, Christine Sambrana, Carolina Sample, Rebecca Sanchez, Julie Shadyac, Coury Sharifniazi, Anahita Silva, Claudia Smock, David Stehr, Nicole Suddarth, Amy Tadesse, Samuel Tetteh, Lilian Trau-Tieu, Hong-An Triqueros, Zepeda Vacarro, Pete Vandereijk, Christine Velasco, Gustavo Welsh, Mary Alana Willis, Austin Wise, Spencer Witkowski, Ryan

Shepard Club holds first meetings

by Denice Miller Profiles Editor

“No one was like, ‘Are you gay or straight?’ No one made any assumptions.” about each other,”

The Shepard Club held its first meeting on January 10th and its second one last Thursday, the 17th. “I thought it was amazing how many people showed up because there had been a lot of backlash against the club,” said senior Emily Hardesty.

Few negative incidents have come up since the club was first publicized, but there haven’t been any known fights or confrontations. Various students are sometimes overheard joking about the posters of equality. “That’s your mom up there,” one student said to another, pointing to one such poster. Another incident occurred after the first flier of the GSA came out. A cut out of the article was taped to a wall in a busy intersection of the school with derogative comments and drawings.

Despite these isolated occurrences, 40 students and faculty members

showed up for the first meeting and expressed the interest and desire to keep going. At the first meeting, handouts were available that promoted the National Youth Advocacy Coalition and listed books that were written to help children and adolescents with either their own sexuality or those around them.

A few of the faculty members that had attended spoke about why they had come, and then the group voted on the officers: senior Alan Yao, president; junior Michael Weinberg, vice president; junior Bayla Whitten, secretary; junior Victoria Benson, treasurer; and seniors Ayo Odejimi and Emily Hardesty as publicity managers.

“I went because I think this cub is much needed and I just wanted to be there to show my support of the club,” said guidance counselor Jennifer CrumpStrawderman.

Yao then rose up and addressed the

group, explaining why he had founded the cub. At the meeting last Thursday, a brief history was given for Matthew Shepard, a young man beaten to death for his homosexuality, a discussion was held of topics for open forum and materials were distributed.

“It was nice that when you walked in the room, no one was like, ‘Are you gay or straight?’ No one made any assumptions about each other,” said Hardesty.

Hardesty is also the President of the SAFE club. “I feel really strongly that everyone has equal rights. I don’t know why the gays, lesbians and bisexuals, as well as those who are transgender, don’t already have equal rights under the law.

I think this is disgusting because America is supposed to be the home for freedom,” she said.

One problem Odejimi saw at the meeting was more females than males were present at the meeting. “I was glad to see a lot of people there but we need to

First ever night pep rally held

PHILLIPE PODHORECKI

This poster, hanging on walls throughout AHS, has gotten the attention of students, teachers and faculty.

see more guys. It is the gay-straight alliance, emphasis on straight. It’s not just for gays, it’s for everybody. When asked why he thought more girls turned up than guys, he didn’t have an answer but said, “I know guys are more stubborn when the subject is homosexuals.

Guys are trained not to like homosexuals.”

Latin club show

by Morgan McEvilly Staff Writer

Legion XIV puts on performance for Latin students

The first ever night time pep rally happened on January 10 at around 7:30 p.m.

Approximately 400 people attended, including parents, and students, and all the winter sport athletes. The band played the fight song with cheerleaders and others did the fight song dance.

The night was officially started with LJ Hyde and Maame Boateng [The announcers] welcoming every one. The Annandale singers sang the alma mater school song and the National anthem.

The dance team started off the night with a performance to the song “Smooth Criminal” by Alien Ant Farm.

Next the coach’s of the swim and dive team and the wrestling team announced to the crowd their top competitors.

The freshman, JV and Varsity cheerleaders performed next.

They had some technical difficulties with the freshman music.

Also JV cheerleader Andrea Ampuero fell from her stunt and had to be removed form the floor.

“The cheerleaders are the best part because they were the most organized. Plus that’s why everyone comes to the pep rally,” said cheerleader coach Bridget Przywara.

Girls basket ball followed the cheerleaders. With the varsity team throwing out T-shirts. The boys team came on next.

Coach Hughes introduced the undefeated freshman, JV, and varsity with a record of 7-4. After that the Varsity boys had a

by Aminah Kakeh and N’hawa Tangula Staff Writers

An estimated 440 Latin teachers, students and parents from all over Fairfax County gathered in the AHS auditorium on Jan. 4 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Spectators were entertained by Legion XIV, a world renowned, historic CHRIS HOGEBOOM The cheerleaders led by junior Cecilia Mallory (center) perform a cheer at reenactment group, whose main objective is to reinforce the the night pep rally. prominence of ancient European culture, through interactive education on the varying aspects of the ancient society. dunking drill. Some members of the crowd came up to try to “We learned day to day life facts, it was really interestmake a basket. ing,” said freshman Aaron Brown. Their goal is attained Last but not least, was sumo wrestling. This was where through global tours of schools and public arenas, in which some students dressed them-self’s into enormous sumo suits. the group employs impressive displays of ancient military Then they were give a certain amount of time to wrestle down techniques and equipment in order to share their expertise their partner. with the audience and educate them as much as possible.

“This was the best part of the whole pep rally. It was great,” In the summer of 2001, Legion XIV contacted Latin said sophomore Jen Ott. Keith Nolan and Jake Edward’s fight teachers in Fairfax County to inform them that they would resulted in Nolan whipping Edwards. be touring Virginia and wished to arrange a time to “I thought the pep rally was great and it was much better perform within Fairfax County. Two shows were scheduled than all the other pep rallies because it was not so rushed,” within Fairfax County one show in the eastern sector and said Mike Borowski. the second in the western sector.

Latin teacher, Paul Weiss, volunteered Annandale High School as a venue. Weiss remarked that, “it wasn’t hard to organize at all because the Latin teacher community are all very good friends; thus, communication was simple”.

With the help of visual aids and audience participation the group displayed certain aspects of ancient Roman life and on the trip due culture in a two hour show. Freshmen, Steven Skeldon, to its time participated in one of the many activities. during the with friends and kick back for a weekend “They were doing a military exercise, I volunteered and swim season. and not worry about school,” said obeyed the Latin commands,” said Skeldon. “It was really Those students exciting, the guys were really loud and mean, they got on sophomore Ramin Naghdi. “I wanted to on the swim go last year, but I didn’t want to be one our cases if we were performing the commands incorrectly.” team were of the only freshman on the trip.”

Also, the presenters presented many interesting facts to given the choice the audience. Specifically they discussed the making of The cost of the trip is $359, divided by The town of Tremblant of going on the three payments. The payment covers the mouthwash, “they would urine in a jar and leave it to settle cost of the bus ride, the hotel, and the lift trip or being suspended from the team. for three to four weeks, after the waiting period, they The choice of going skiing here in ticket. There are about seven representawould have mouthwash,” said Brown.

Virgnia or going on the trip to Canada tives from AHS, who are like salesmen Also recognized as historical researchers, Legion XIV comes down the presence of the Catskill for the trip. For every person they sell creates all the equipment utilized in their reenactments.

Mountain Range in Tremblant. The the trip to that representative gets $20 The group also provides their expertise about ancient large base of snow in Tremblant is also off, and if they sell the trip to 16 people, Roman and Greek culture to movie sets in order to further much greater that that of the Blue Ridge the historical accuracy of the armor and other props the trip is free.

Mountains in Virigina. Additionally the There are many students that have a utilized in the films. For instance, they constructed, by snow is better and the temperature is far hand, Russell Crowe’s sword for the movie Gladiator, and conflicting issues if they want to go on the trip. Bruce Fisher, Annandale’s swim lower in Tremblant they had it as a part of their showcase at AHS. They also team coach, forbade students from going made costumes for Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings.

Students are going to ski in Canada

by Paul Gleason Staff writer

On the 25th don’t be surprised if you see a flock of students migrating north for a long weekend, to go skiing in Canada.

Around school the trip is simply known as the Canada trip, and the simple mutter of the two words creates a stir of people asking “are you going on the Canada trip?” This tip has been occurring annually for three years.

The students are planning on going to Mon Tremblant ski Resort in Tremblant, Canada. The trip is going to start January 25 and go till the 29. It is not being held through the school, but it is being sponsored by businesses like the local radio station WHFS. “I want to go on the trip to have fun

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Grils’ Varsity B-ball v. Lake Braddock, Away, 7:30 p.m.

Varisty Wrestling v. West Pot., Home, 7:30 p.m.

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3rd Quarter Begins

8th Grade Parents Night, 7:30 p.m., Cafeteria

Science Fair, 12:407:00 p.m., Cafeteria

Varsity Wrestling v. Yorktown, Home, 7:30 p.m.

Report Cards Mailed

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Boys Varsity B-ball v. West Pot., Home, 7:30 p.m.

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All-State Chorus Auditions, 2:20 p.m., Auditorium

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Swim/Dive, Districts, Lee District, 6 p.m.

Grils Varisty B-ball v. West Springfield, Home, 7:30 p.m.

Boys Varisty B-ball v. West Springfield, Away, 7:30 p.m.

Varsity Wrestling, TJ, 1:00 p.m.

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Swim/Dive, Regionals, Oak Marr, TBA

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Girls Varsity B-ball v. West Pot., Away, 7:30 p.m.

Boys’ Varisty B-ball v. Lake Braddock, Home, 7:30 p.m.

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Girls Varsity B-ball v. Robinson, Home, 7:30 p.m.

Boy’ Varsity B-ball v. Robinson., Home, 7:30 p.m.

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Guitar and Percussion Concert, 7:30 p.m., Auditorium

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Annandale High School Calendar of Events

—Compiled by Atomic Agenda Editor Chae-Wha Park

academics

Lights! Camera! Class!

Movies indulge the whims of teachers and students Some movies shown during class are purely educational and others are just for fun.

While some students appreciate the movies watched during class, others find it appropriate for nap-time

by Kathy Saupp Staff Writer

“Films can really help bring art alive to students.”

While films are a positive way to add to the art experience, Weinstein believes in keeping her class hands-on. “Students like The lights are dimmed, the lecturing stops, and your to be active and creative in class, and sometimes watching films teacher flips on your familiar old friend: the TV. It’s time to can take away from that,” said Weinstein. To her, movies should watch a film. Students across the school have different never be used as an excuse not to teach. reactions to being taught visually. As the lights go down in Government teacher Mary Richardson incorporates film into different classes, several heads droop down to desktops, her classes in order to display to her students how politics grateful for the nap time. applies to the media. Richardson shows campaign commercials Just as students show their different views on the use of from the 1950’s. “These commercials help underscore how movies in their classes, teachers in all subjects have their own campaigning has changed, how technology has impacted our reasons for using films while teaching. Their methods for electoral system, and to tell the story of the media in America.” employing visual learning in the classroom vary as well. said Richardson.

Sophomore World History teacher John Nemeth knows In addition to the commercials, Richardson uses Hollywood that there is more to teaching history than what is on the page dramatizations of political events to underscore key things in his students’ heavy red textbooks. “Watching a video in about government. “[I use] All the President’s Men for class can help complement learning—it’s just another way of Watergate, Thirteen Days for the looking at history. Students today are President as foreign policy part of a very visual generation,” said manager...and Henry Fonda in Gideon’s ovies are just a different Nemeth. Among the variety of film clips Trumpet to illustrate the operation of that Nemeth shows to supplement his approach to teaching rather the Supreme Court and the evolution of lectures in class are A Tale of Two Cities the right to counsel in America,” said than me just talking. The and All Quiet on the Western Front.

Richardson.

While many of the film clips he shows images I show stay with the students.

While some educators show movies in class are fictional, Nemeth feels that and clips for fun, others let their —John Nemeth they can be just as useful as any students take movies to another level.

History teacher documentary in teaching. “Even though History teacher Joe Valentino shows his fictional movies mostly revolve around students episodes of The Simpsons to their own story lines, I use clips from reinforce lessons and give them a fun outlet. videos like A Tale of Two Cities to help students visualize the Another example is Bill Brock and Will Stravino’s teamculture of that time, to see things like the people and the taught 10th grade English class, where students are creating clothes,” said Nemeth. their own original video version of John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Overall, Nemeth stresses the importance of moderation in Men. “Our early casting choices include Slava Bratishko as the film use, as well as skill in film editing. “Most of my Lennie and Matt Henderson as George,” said Brock. students like the videos, but I try to keep them under 15 In order to reinforce lessons during the in-class reading of minutes so they don’t get bored. I only show the parts of any the novel, Brock played a 10 minute video mixed with clips that movie or film that apply to the topics I teach,” said Nemeth. portrayed characteristics of Lennie and George in various ways.

After finishing a long novel in English class, it is often The video included Rainman, Young Frankenstein, The refreshing and different for English students to watch the film Producers, The Simpsons , and Forrest Gump. version of the classic novel or play they have read. In Vincent These teachers uses movies in their classes, though other Randazzo’s 10th English classes, students watch Of Mice and teachers are less enthused about using the film as a way to Men, Frankenstein, and Dracula, but always after they read teach. Indeed, in some classes, there is a lot of information to be the literature. “The movie version can sometimes distract taught and not much time to do it. This can influence a teacher ’s from the literature, that’s why we always read it first,” said decision of whether or not to take the time to show a film.

Randazzo.

“There is a Spanish video about the fifteenth birthday that can While it can be distracting, Randazzo believes that the film be used to show students Spanish culture and tradition, but can be used to complete the literature experience for many of with the new text and material, we can’t really take the time to his students. “Students experience a variety of emotions when show it,” said Estes. watching the film, it’s always interesting to see if what they Other teachers speak of the same issue as Estes. “I don’t imagined matches the Hollywood creation,” Randazzo said. show movies all that frequently; if I had longer class periods or Every student imagines setting and characters differently we met more often I could balance the showing of films with in reading literature, and watching the film can help spark studio time,” said Weinstein. discussion about this issue. “Some students are shocked to see Even film-laden subjects such as health have to be cut down the representation of their characters on film, while others are due to time constraints. “I could show a video every able to identify better with them after seeing the characters class, but I don’t,” said sophomore health teacher on screen,” said Randazzo. “We will discuss what they are Gabriel Romano. “Every now and then I’ll save seeing throughout the movie, and at pivotal scenes I will time by skipping a video and teach the see what they think.” material other ways,” he said.

Video use is key in classes that have a visual While there are pros and cons to showing aspect, and art class is as visual as it can get. Besides movies in the classroom, most teachers agree maintaining a creative studio environment, art on the fact that, when used properly, they teacher Joyce Weinstien occasionally takes the time can reemphasize ideas, generate discussion to show her art students different films of art history, and spark renewed interest for many biography and even fiction. students. “Movies are just a different Weinstein believes that looking at art is almost as approach to teaching, rather than me just important as doing it. “If my students see the talking. The images I show stay artwork, it’s easy to open up the world of art to with the students,” said them,” said Weinstein.

Nemeth.

In order to do this she shows a variety of films. “I show films about art history, as well as biographies of famous artists,” said Weinstein.

Movies made from classic tales OF MICE AND MEN

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The novel By: John Steinbeck The classic American novel about the tall, lanky Lennie and his best friend George. The novel focuses around their dream of finding a “place of their own.”

The movie Staring: Gary Sinise and John Malkovich.

Director: Gary Sinise.

Rating: PG-13 “A more than respectable rendering of Steinbeck’s war horse . . .[with] robust performances and impressive sun-baked look make [the movie] worthwhile,” said Leonard Maltin, movie critic.

ROMEO AND JULIET

The play By: William Shakespeare The classic tale of tragic love between the doomed couple, Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet.

HAYLEY FLETCHER

History teacher John Nemeth uses videos clips from a variety of historical movies during class, including A Tale of Two Cities, All Quiet on the Western Front, and the famous Sister Wendy with her artist commentary.

Film Study puts movies into ACTION!

by Sarah Bizer and Maggie Owner Staff Writers

DRAWN BY KATHY SAUPP

While some students watch Raiders Of the Lost Ark solely for entertainment, students in the Film Studies class, taught

by Alan Weintraut, watch it for educational purposes. They analyze each scene for character changes, climax to denouement and various techniques in order to learn the important aspects to the study of film.

Film Study is a Fine Arts elective that gets a large turnout. “It seemed like a class I would enjoy, you watch movies and get to make your own,” said sophomore William Williams.

“I like to watch and make movie, so I felt like I would enjoy Film Study,” said sophomore Matt Ebner.

The students critique classic movies from all types of genres. Some examples are Casablanca, Star Wars and Citizen Kane. “My favorite movie that we have watched so far is Indiana Jones [Raiders Of the Lost Ark], because it was an action movie,” said Ebner.

Citizen Kane is an example of a movie that viewers and directors do not always agree on. “Viewers believe the movie is a mediocre movie. Directors on the other hand love the cinematography. Almost

every shot imaginable can be found in that movie,” said Weintraut.

Throughout the year, students are also hard at work writing, producing, directing, editing and starring in their own films.

Their finalized movies will debut at the AHS Film Festival towards the end of the school year and satisfy the final grade requirement.

Film Study students improve their computer skills by using the Casablanca Video Editing System.

This program enables the movie maker to add and subtract scenes and delete glitches. “We learn the operations of the camera and scene shooting,” said Ebner.

Almost every high school in Fairfax County has a class that is related to the study of films. “One reason Film Study was originally created is because people tend to watch movies and television for their source of entertainment,” said Weintraut.

This video still of the homecoming parade is just one of the many scenes planned to be portrayed in the video yearbook,

The movie Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes.

Director: Baz Luhrmann.

Romeo trades in his sword for a gun but still maintains Shakespearean dialogue in the 20th century, MTV-style remake of Shakespeare’s play.

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“The class is fun and exciting, I have learned a lot of things I never knew about films,” said Williams. Film Study is offered to in general to grades 10-12, while some freshman are admitted.

Tuesday, January 22, 2002

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Tuesday, January 22, 2002

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

The Heritage Festival gives students from all different backgrounds the chance to show their cultural pride through a talent show

• Born in Atlanta on January 15, 1929 • Roots in African-American Baptist church • Grandson of Atlanta’s NAACP founder • Received a doctorate in systematic theology in 1955 from Boston University • Gained national prominence through skillful speeches defending Rosa Parks and others who refused to move to the back of the bus • Made periodic speeches motivating black civil rights activists •Was assassinated on April 4, 1968 while seeking to assist a garbage workers’ strike in Memphis

What makes you proud of your heritage?

organize a festival, similar to the one in Falls Church that would demonstrate the cultural pride of the students. Therefore, he was eager to create a Heritage One of the best features about AHS is its diversity; it Club in AHS that would assist and participate in the holds within its walls students from almost everywhere festival. in the world, with different backgrounds and cultures.

Watlington and Hsia are encouraging anybody who Social studies teacher Paul Watlington and Evenlyn would like to share his or her culture with others to come Hsia, a George Washington Intern for the ESOL and participate in the festival. “There are a lot of people department, along with the help of the members of the who are hungry for knowledge, especially for cultures,” Heritage Club, are organizing a Heritage Festival in said Watlington which students will be allowed to share their cultural “It’s a chance for traditional art to meet modern art, differences with the whole school. and it helps bring different cultures together,” said Hsia.

The Heritage Festival closely resembles an internaThe Heritage Festival is meant to show everyone that tional talent show, in which each representation lasts AHS students are not only multi-cultural, but also multithree minutes. The show will talented. The members of the feature a mix of different perforHeritage Club are anticipating the mances from students with arrival of the feast and are excited different backgrounds and give here are a lot of people who about the chance that they have people a little taste of every are hungry for knowledge been given to represent their culture. It will feature everything culture. especially for cultures... this is from salsa dancing to break Renato Guevara is a Hispanic a chance for students to show dancing. However, the show will student and one of the dance not only be limited to dancing. It their cultural pride, performers. He will perform Salsa will feature a variety of cultural Merengue with a group of other —Paul Watlington talents. students and Capoeira-Muay Thai Social Studies Teacher Aside from dancing, there will kick boxing, a sort of dance-martial other forms of entertainment that art. “I want to demonstrate the exemplifies the cultural heritage of beauty of Latin dancing,” said the participating students. A dinner with parents, Guevara. faculty, and invited guests will also accompany this Also a Heritage Club member, Greg Loewer plans to international talent show. do a martial art performance for the show. “I learned it On April 25, the festival will take place in the because I wanted to learn something, it has something to auditorium from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and a preview do with hand-eye coordination and I’m good at that,” will be give during both flexes. It is open to all students said Loewer. who wish to represent their country and want to give Tryouts for the festival will be held on the first week other people a taste of their culture. “This is a chance for of February.

These tryouts will not be held to select students to show their cultural pride,” said Watlington. potential participants; however, they will allow the Watlington and Hsia have been planning the festival sponsors of the festival to know the kinds of activities since the beginning of the year in part by organizing the that they should expect from students. Participating Heritage Club. They hoped that the club would expose them to students of different cultures everyday, and they students are required to attend every one of the afterschool meetings. hoped that the club would be a learning tool for them as According to Watlington, there could not be a better well as other students. Presently, the club has 10 time to hold the festival because it allows juniors to have members, and they meet every Monday after school in a chance to have a little fun and relax from the pressure Watlington’s room. of the SATs and ACTs. He believes that it also gives For the past 10 years, Watlington had been organizseniors the chance to enjoy their last quarter in high ing the Heritage Festival at Falls Church High School. school.

TheHeritage Festival at Falls Church was huge activity “There is so much student talent in the school and so that involved many students and faculty members of the many cultures as well, and it will be important to see school. When he came to AHS, Watlington wanted to some of the talent represented in April,” said Watlington.

by Annette Boudai Staff Writer

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“I was born in Bolivia and both of my parents are Hispanic and in a way it’s like representing my culture.”

—Karen Siles senior

“Because it is my country and my tradition. If I’m not proud of my heritagethen what can I be proud of?”

—Hanah Beshir junior

“I’m proud that I’m Puerto Rican because we are not labeled for doing one thing.

We’re multi-cultural. Look at J-Lo, Ricky Martin, and Mark Anthony, they can do many things.”

—Monica Ortiz-Ateca junior

“Because I was born in the Middle East. And I am a Muslim and that makes me proud. Also the people in my country are hard workers.”

—Syed Ahmed freshmen

Black History Month Committee prepares activities

by Martha Amoako Cultures Editor

Black History Month is a time of celebration and reflection in which everyone, regardless of their race, can partake. The AHS Black History Committee, which is made up of various faculty members, is organizing activities that teaches all students about the month as well as allowing them to participate in the celebration. These activities are meant to be informative, entertaining and fun. “I want to be able to get across to people that this is something that everyone can take a part in, both by learning and teaching,” said committee member Kerry Richardson.

Throughout the month, there will be many activities and learning tools that are intended to educate all AHS students.

Daily trivia questions will appear alternately in the morning bulletins and announcements. There will be two display cases, which will feature information that test students’ knowledge on African American history in school.

c

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•After his death he remained a inspirational symbol of the AfricanAmerican civil rights struggle

Showing cultural pride

The library will also have a book display featuring African American literature.

A panel of HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) graduates will share their experiences with students on February 6. During this time, students will have the chance to speak and interact with professionals who have received their undergraduate and graduate degrees from historically black colleges and universities. The celebration of the month will continue with a performance piece that highlights the achievements and legacies of African Americans on February 11 and 22.

Oration was an important tool used by Civil Rights leaders in their journey to achieve civil rights for all races. In fact, Martin Luther King Jr. captured the hearts and minds of millions of Americans with his enthralling oration, particularly his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Therefore, the celebration of this month will also include an oratory contest. Tentatively scheduled on February 13, the oratory contest will give participating students the chance to perform an original or selected speech. The speeches are expected to be memorized, and

5230 - C Port Poyal RD. Springfield, Va 22151 (Ravensworth Shopping Center)

original and selected speeches will be judged separately.

On February 26, there will be a Black History Bowl, which will feature an interactive game between four teams from each grade level. The game will test the teams’ knowledge of African American achievements and accomplishments.

Many AHS students are anticipating the arrival of Black History Month. “Black History Month teaches you what African Americans have contributed to society and we live in such a multi-cultural environment that it is important to study all cultures’ contributions and achievements,” said junior Mariko Carrington.

“I hope that there will be many activities this year that exposes students to African American history. Annandale is such a multi-cultural school and every student should have an understanding of other cultures and histories,” said sophomore Phylicia Foreman.

Any student interested in participating in the activities or sharing comments, suggestions, or inquiries can contact any of the members of the Black History Month Committee.

(703) 321-1820

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TRAINING DAY

TRAINING FACTS Sophomore Rebecca Frece does rehab for her torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) by using the cyrocuff, a device which combines ice and pressure. Frece tore her ACL in one of the first basketball games of the year and is out for the rest of the season.

Head Trainer Kathy Ayers makes one of her always important phone calls. Ayers spends a lot of time on the phone with parents and physicians to figure out the best course of action for a student’s injury.

The athletic training program has flourished in the last decade under the watchful eye of Head Trainer Kathy Ayers. The training room has undergone extensive remodeling with a new paint job and an influx of topof-the-line equipment.

The new and improved training room is always open for students who need assistance.

Kathy Ayers has been a certified athletic trainer at AHS for 12 years.

Jen Hogan, assistant trainer, joined the training staff two years ago.

“The best part about being a trainer is being able to help athletes acheive their goals,” said Ayers.

The sport with the most injuries is track, but the sport with the highest percentage of season-ending injuries is football.

There are eight student trainers in the winter season for boys basketball, girls basketball and wrestling.

Senior Natalie Parcell ices a leg injury in the slush bucket after school. Parcell is one of many students who work on homework in the training room while doing rehab.

Sports Medicine is a class that teaches students basic human anatomy and injury treatment techniques. The class has grown in popularity and increases in size every year.

While no special training is needed prior to becoming a student trainer (just talk to Ayers if you’re interested), most trainers have taken, or are currently taking Sports Medicine.

Trainers learn through experiences.

Junior Lindsey Grant puts treatments into the computer to ensure that kids are keeping up with their rehab. Grant is one of three student trainers for the boys basketball team and regularly helps out in the training room after school.

Trainer Jen Hogan examines senior David Fishman’s knee after he injured it in a wrestling match. “The trainers couldn’t be more helpful. They’re always funny, nice and always willing to help,” said Fishman.

Either Ayers or Hogan are present at all home games for all sports. For away games, a student trainer will go with each team to back up the host-school’s trainer.

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Wednesday, January 23, 2002

The training room is much brighter now thanks to a personalized paint job. There are handprints from many student athletes and alumni on one wall, the ‘Athletic Training’ logo on the back wall and red splatter paint on the other wall.

—All Photos by Jenny Beam and Linda Fairall

Trainer Jen Hogan buddy-tapes an injured finger. Buddy taping is when an injured finger or toe is taped to an adjacent, uninjured finger or toe for support while it heals and is a common practice among athletes from all sports.

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Top 5 most common surgeries Women 1. Chemical peel .$1,500 - $2,000 2. Collagen injection $1,000 - $1,600 3. Liposuction $2,500 - $3,700

Beautiful

Despite the public’s general disapproval of plastic surgery, it is growing in popularity among teens

by Young-Zi Byun and Sarah Kelman Features Editors

AHS junior Alleen Altounian had seriously contemplated changing her look before she underwent plastic surgery.

“I’d been considering it for three years,” said Altounian, who paid $1,500 for the procedure.

“When I first thought of it, it was kind of sudden. I looked in the mirror and I was like, ‘I would look better if I had a nose job.’”

Altounian then had the surgery performed over summer

4. Eyelid surgery $2,800 - $4,000 5. Laser skin resurfacing $2,500 - $4,500

Men 1. Hair transplantation $2,700 - $5,000 2. Rhinoplasty $1,500 - $4,000 3. Liposuction $2,500 - $3,700 4. Chemical peel $1,500 - $2,000 5. Collagen injection $1,000 - $1,600

Step-by-step eye surgery

1 Before surgery, the surgeon marks the incision sites, following the natural lines and creases of the upper and lower eyelids.

2 Underlying fat, along with excess skin and muscle, can be removed during the operation.

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The surgeon closes the incisions with fine sutures, which will leave nearly invisible scars.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALLEEN ALTOUNIAN

Junior Alleen Altounian before she underwent plastic surgery.

break, arriving at school this year with a new nose and a changed self-image.

“I feel more confident about myself now. It feels like a weight has been lifted off of my shoulders,” said Altounian.

Among the several types of plastic surgery procedures, nose jobs (or rhinoplasties) are some of the most popular. Other procedures include facelifts, eyelid

reshaping (blepharoplasty), liposuction, breast enlargement and reduction, tummy tucks (abdominoplasty), chemical peels, collagen injections and hair transplants.

Contrary to popular belief, plastic surgery is just as popular among males as it is among females, according to a 1998 study by the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. In addition, since 1992, there has been a 153% increase in plastic surgeries.

Certain procedures are geared toward older patients, like facelifts, eye surgery or liposuction. As a precaution for other procedures, surgeons recommend that teens wait to get operations like rhinoplasty until facial growth is complete. For girls, this means about age 13 or 14, and for boys about age 14 or 15.

Although teens under the age of 18 have to receive parental consent in order to undergo plastic surgery, the percentage of teens having plastic surgery done has risen.

“It’s natural for teenagers to feel insecure about themselves, and appearance is definitely one of their concerns,” said school pyschologist Terry Aliabadi.

Kathrine Lambiase, a patient relations coordinator for the Center for Plastic Surgery in Annandale, said, “Normally, three to four percent of our patients are teens.”

Society’s opinion of plastic surgery is also gradually becoming more favorable among the general population, according to the same 1998 study. It has a 59% approval rate among women and a 53% approval rate among

men.

However, while plastic surgery’s popularity may seem to be on the rise, many people still view it disapprovingly.

“I’m against plastic surgery because I don’t think appearance is everything,” said senior Young Hoon Lee. “I really think judging a person from his or her looks is wrong because your looks don’t really reveal your personality.”

“I just don’t think everyone needs to look like a Barbie,” said sophomore Chelsea Duffy. “I think people need to appreciate their natural beauty.”

While some teens consider having plastic surgery, they are intimidated and deterred by the procedure and the the pain after the operation.

“The procedure wasn’t that bad,” said Altounian. “I think they break the bone, and it

YOUNG-ZI BYUN

Altounian, after she had plastic surgery on her nose.

sounds kind of scary, but it really wasn’t. I wasn’t in a lot of pain afterwards, either. It was kind of sore for a little bit, but now it’s fine.”

ARTWORK BY SARAH KELMAN

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The perfect eyes, a cute nose, ideal lips — but do they make an ideal combination?

Plastic surgery is neither condemnable nor praiseworthy. There is no certain trend in public opinion on whether the procedure is acceptable or not. But at the same time, it is undeniable that getting plastic surgery has transformed from sheer artificiality to simple beauty enhancement.

“I’m not afraid to share my interest in getting a nose job,” said senior Ji Yeh Kim. “I disagree with people who think those who want to get plastic surgery is because they have low self-esteem. Although it is true that you yourself would be most satisfied with your new look, I don’t think your confidence solely stems from your appearance.”

Many plastic surgeons will recommend that candidates undergo plastic surgery only if it is their own decision. The opinions of family, friends and peers are significant, but only to

a certain extent.

“Since my surgery, my friends haven’t really treated me any differently. I guess it’s not that big of a deal,” said Altounian. “I wanted to have the surgery done not because I cared what other people thought, but just for my own good.”

There might be a plenty of reasons why people might get plastic surgery, but the most common reasons are either physical anomaly or just plain desire to look more attractive.

Aliabadi is unfavorable of the latter reason.

“Looks are the most tangible quality we possess,” said Aliabadi. “But you can’t blame everything on your looks and you can’t hope your life would change if you get something done to your face.”

However, Altounian’s advice for those who are thinking about getting plastic surgery is to “go ahead with it because even if you feel pain, it’s only for a week and the results are worth it.”

Making the cut: celebrities who have had plastic surgery Check out these famous personalities to find out who has (allegedly) gone under the knife for the sake of beauty...

Rumored to have had a nose job (among other plastic surgeries) performed, the Michael Jackson of today looks quite different from his Off the Wall and Thriller days.

Movie actress Melanie Griffith supposedly had collagen injections in her lips, which could account for her I-justgot-my-mouth-stuck-inthe-vacuum-cleaner look.

Remember Jennifer Grey from such ‘80s classics as Ferris Bueller’s Day Off and Dirty Dancing? Be careful, you might not be able to recognize her with her new nose.

Magazines love to speculate over whether gameshow host Regis Philbin has had a facelift, although it’s not an uncommon procedure for men, especially in Hollywood.

Television actress Roseanne went public about her breast reduction a few years ago, when the character she played on her show underwent the same procedure.

Baywatch actress Pamela Anderson had breast augmentation surgery, and then decided to get rid of the implants a few years later. Rumor has it that they’re now back in.

The professional opinion: Q & A with Center for Plastic Surgery The Center for Plastic Surgery provides answers to some commonly asked questions Q: What kind of consultation will a patient recieve if he or she is considering surgery like rhinoplasty?

A: During the intial consultation, we ask the patients to look in the mirror and point out what they would like to see improved.

This will help us to understand their expectations and whether they realistically can be achieved.

Q: How would a patient be informed about possible risks?

The subject of risks and potential complications of surgery is best discussed on a personal basis between the patient and his or her plastic

A:

surgeon. You can help to minimize certain risks by following the advice and instructions of your plastic surgeon, both before and after surgery.

Q:

How should a patient prepare for surgery?

A: If you are a smoker, you may be asked to stop smoking well before surgery. Aspirin and some other anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking them for a period of time before surgery.

Your plastic surgeon will provide you with other pre-operative instructions that are more specific to the procedure.

Q: What will the day of surgery be like?

Medications are given to you for your comfort during the actual surgery. You and your plastic surgeon will have decided in advance what kind of anesthesia is to be used. For your own safety during the operation, there will be different monitors checking your heart, blood

A:

pressure, pulse and amount of oxygen circulating in your blood.

Q:

How long will it take to recover after the surgery?

A: When surgery is finished, you will be taken into a recovery area where you will still be closely monitored. There might be some discomfort, but this will be controlled by medication which you may continue taking at home. You probably will be allowed to go home after a few hours, but the real recovery period lasts much longer. For instance, procedures like eyelid surgery, liposuction and breast surgery take about 5-7 days for the initial phase of healing to begin. But surgery like facelifts usually take about 10-14 days.

For rhinoplasty, however, the final stage of healing may take as long as 10-12 months for the swelling to completely go down.

YOUNG-ZI BYUN

Nurses at the Center for Plastic Surgery in Annandale

Q: How are the costs of surgeries

as soon as possible. Your plastic surgeon will first complete an evaluation before your individualized surgical plan can be developed. The fees required for your surgery will be further discussed with you. While most insurance plans will not pay for plastic surgeries, they often will cover, for example, surgery performed on the internal structures of the nose to improve breathing problems. Your plastic surgeon can discuss this with you at the time of your consultation.

determined?

It’s understandable that you would want to know about costs

Q: What information about a patient’s medical history would

A:

the surgeon need to know before operating?

A: We will want to know about any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have recieved, previous surgeries and medications that you currently take. For more specific operations, e.g. breast surgery, you will be asked whether you have a family history of breast cancer and about results of any mammograms. It’s really important that patients provide complete information in order for the operation and for postoperation healing to go well.

Q: What are some of the most extreme cases of plastic surgery that your clinic does?

A: Craniofacial surgery is performed nearby at Inova Fairfax Hospital for Children, where they have a specific Craniofacial Program. There, they specialize in surgery to correct cleft and lip palates, deformed ears, eyelids, noses, lips and chins in order to make more normal facial contours.

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aBlast

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Wednesay, January 23, 2002

13

14 Curious about Cats?

The purrrrfect role for AHS student

aBlast

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Sarah Paterson is the cheshire cat

small ball like a cat would do.

The costume is a large part of playing the Cheshire cat. The extra additions to the outfit consist of a tail, mittens and ears. “The costume

by Sarah Bizer is a couple years old, so the drama department must fit it to my size,” staff writer said Paterson.

Cats have pawed their way into our hearts over the years and There are some ups and downs to acting as a cat. “The ups are into the world of pop culture. Milo and Otis, Homeward Bound, getting to do special effects with your head,” said Paterson. In one and Aristocats, are just a few films to feature felines. The part of the play, Paterson must only have her head showing. cartoons Pink Panther, Garfield and Heathcliff have also made “The downs to being a cat is the tail is always getting in the way, their way into reader’s hearts. Now cats are making there way to and always grinning is a down too,” she said.

AHS. This winter the drama department is putting on the “Cats are one of my favorite animals,” said Paterson. Paterson children’s play Alice in Wonderland. Sarah Paterson will portray does not have a cat of her own, but really likes them. the Cheshire Cat. Paterson started acting when she was in sixth grade. Mrs. Burns, “I think that the [cheshire] cat was very cool because he could the theater arts teacher at Glasgow Middle School, helped her fall in change into the different scenery,” said sophomore Erica Robey. love with theater. She played Puck in her eighth grade play, A “The Cheshire Cat is remembered easily by kids because he Midsummer Night’s Dream. acts funny and does crazy actions,” said Paterson.

Since middle school, Paterson has been in many of the school’s “When it comes to portraying a cat, it is really fun because you plays. Paterson has had a role in eight AHS plays alone. get to incorporate cute cat characteristics,” said Paterson. She must use her paws to play with her ears, sleep, and curl up in a

Tuesday January 22, 2002

Movies, Cartoons and music featuring cats...

Designer bids au revoir to the cat walk

by Rebecca Kraushaar Arts Editor

The Truth About Cats and Dogs is a movie about a petpsychiatrist who falls in love with a man who doesn’t even know her.

The animated movie Cats and Dogs is a newly released movie which was very popular over this past summer.

REBECCA KRAUSHAAR

January has been a month of goodbyes.

Dave Thomas, proprietor of Wendy’s, died at the age of 69 on Tuesday Jan. 8. Marty Schottenheimer said goodbye to the Washington Redskins after being fired on Sunday, Jan.13. And Yves Saint Laurent retired on Monday, Jan. 7.

While the name might not ring a bell, his YSL label should. Saint Laurent, the legendary Parisian clothing designer, shookup womens’ fashion in the ’60s and ’70s.

In 1962 he founded his own house of fashion. His designs were influenced by the Civil Rights Movement and womens’ liberation. In a press conference on Jan. 7, Saint Laurent said “I wanted to reassure them [women], to give them confidence, to enable them to assert themselves.”

This meant throwing the norms of fashion out the window and putting women in pants.

His revolutionary tuxedos, pantsuits, and peacoats reevaluated traditional gender roles.

“We can wear whatever the hell we want

to and nobody cares,” said Sophomore “I think it’s great that women’s fashion Meagan McCurdy, reflecting Saint Laurent’s has evolved. There are so many choices and legacy. it really reflects the social changes and However, not everyone agrees with the progress that women have made,” said elitism of the catwalk and the fashion sophomore Emily Miller. industry. “I’m not a fan of the idea that one designer gets to decide what everyone is wearing,” said sophomore John Reiss.

Not too mention the lavish and expensive nature of it all, obtaining a designer garment can cost around $10,000 and more. “I shop at the Salvation Army. I find it easier to pay $.99 for a shirt rather than paying $20 at some department store,” said Reiss.

“Some of the things they put on the runways are just crazy. Who would really wear that it public?” said sophomore Coury Shadyac. Saint Laurent’s styles were about defining society rather than Yves Saint Laurent poses with a model for his final fall/winter practicallyclothing it.

collection. He was one of the first designeers to put women in pants.

Cat Stevens: his life and meowsic

by Maggie Owner staff writer

Garfield is a popular comic about a cat whose only desire is to eat and sleep.

Blink 182 put out a CD entitled “Cheshire Cat.” This popular CD shows a picture of a Siamese cat.

With all the current musicians front lining the music scene, it’s hard to remember the singers from the ‘60s and ‘70s. But back a few decades ago our Britney Spears was Joni Mitchell, our James Taylor was Enrique Ingesia, and our Justin Timberlake was Cat Stevens.

During the ‘60s and 70s, Cat Stevens was a pop sensation. He rode the singersongwriter wave with James Taylor, Carol King, and Joan Baez. He wrote thoughtful, spiritual, and reflective material and had a number of top selling albums. Then, in the late ‘70s, Cat Stevens announced he was leaving the music business to become part of the Islamic faith.

Cat Stevens was born Stephen Georgiou in the west end of London. As a young boy, he attended a Roman Catholic school. His parents hoped that it would teach him the basis of a good moral grounding, and he would learn about good and bad and morality in general. Steven’s, as a Roman Catholic, was taught to keep his distance from the Muslims, including the family that lived down the street.

Stevens was the youngest of three childeren. At the age of eight Stevens’ parents decided to split up. But since his father owned a restaurant below the house, Stevens parents resolved to still live together.

After his parent’s separation, Stevens’ mother tried to find a home in her native land of Sweden. Stevens’ only went to school there for six months before returning to England. When he returned, Steven’s began to show talent in drawing and artwork. His mother encouraged him, and would stay let him stay late up into the night drawing.

Soon his interests spread to music. With the help of a grand piano that lay dormant at their house, Stephen soon learned how to play. Later he switched to the guitar and started writing songs. Here he could express all his inner thoughts and feelings. Stephen recorded his songs onto a demo tape in a studio just down the road. After assuming the alias Cat Stevens, Stephen Georgiou was on his way to stardom.

By the age of 18, Cat Stevens already had his first hit song with “I Love My Dog.” Immediately Cat’s lifestyle changed dramati-

The famous musical, Cats, did not only run in the United States, but all over the world.

This Cats poster comes from Germany.

cally. He was being interviewed, photographed, and being mobbed by girls.

Photography students develop fuzzy prints

Sophomore Julie Bowes took this picture for a minumum and maximum depth of field assignment. “I wanted to focus the cat and make the rest blurry,” said Bowes.

a

rts

Senior Megan Matchett exposed the photo while developing it in a process called solarization. “I thought it would work out well because she’s siamese and has contrasting colors,” said Matchett.

Cat Stevens box set CD collection, “Yhe Very Best of Cat Stevens.”

A year later he faced a near death experience when he contracted tuberculosis.

Cat would not re-emerge in the music scene until the mid-70s. He resurfaced with more integrity, and more material. Through out the 70s he topped the charts with songs like Wild World, Cats in the Cradle, and the Father and Son. Then, in 1978, Yusuf Islam, formerly known as Cat Stevens, announced to become a converted Muslim. He said he was wholly committed to the Islamic faith and that everything he wanted to say was written in the Quran. This musician who had once been raised to keep his distance from Muslims has now converted to their religion.

Cat Stevens become a musical sensation almost overnight. Although he loved making music, he did not love the spotlight. During his period in the music scene, he wrote and sang several songs that reflective and spiritual. He also had numerous top selling albums. Despite his success Cat decided to leave his music career and assume a new life as a Muslim.

Senior Liz Hopson ended up taking this picture of her cat, Eggo, because she “needed to use up film.” Once she developed the photo, Hopson used an exacto knife to carve out a message.

“We took the baby to the vet and she was diagnosed as mentally retarded,” said senior Sara Wood. She’s taken various pictures of her because she’s a “funny subject.”

Junior Anne Nguyen shot this photo of a friend’s cat for a freedom project. “It was really hard to get them to stay still,” said Nguyen. “I got scratched a lot taking that picture.”

Riding in style: Nancy Grim revves up her six vehicles

by Saman Hussian Staff writer

Just imagine having three Corvettes, one Blazer and two Harley Davidsons parked in your garage, all ready to be revved up and rolled for a drive around town. For most of us, it’s a far off and bleak prospect of wishful thinking, while for Nancy Grim, this is a reality.

Cruising around in a variety of different cars, the AHS English teacher prizes her swank collection of motor vehicles.

“Believe it or not, it’s [car collecting] not really a hobby,” said Grim. Rather, it has been more of a necessity for Grim over the course of 30 years. “We just bought one [Corvette] and it became the family car, so it came to the point that we couldn’t sell it,” said Grim. “It’s a family car.” So they bought another Corvette, after which pretty much the same situation arose where “it was like okay, we can’t sell this one either; it’s going to be a classic car,” she said. Now Grim had two potential classic cars parked in her garage and actually

a

toms who matter

N ANCY G RIM Motivation: “I had two teachers that motivated me greatly; one was my English teacher, and one was my coach.”

Favorite item on my desk: “A picture that shows a golf green early in the morning and, below the picture, the word SUCCESS, and underneath that is the definition of success.”

Aim in life: “Professionally, to do the best for my students. As a human being, to present myself in an honorable fashion and to be an involved citizen.”

Most influential person in my life: “My parents, because they ensured that I would have success no matter where I went.”

needed one for driving. The pattern continued and yet another Corvette was bought. “I hate to say this, but we really fell into it,” said Grim.

Grim and her husband both occasionally go on motorcycle drives.

“We went to Rolling Thunder together, it’s where motorcycle riders from all over the country gather on Memorial Day weekend at noon,” she said. “It’s like a motorcycle convoy.”

She usually drives to school in one of her Corvettes. Once, however, “she came in her Harley Davidson and her husband was worried about her, so he followed her,” said administrative assistant Mary Wolfe.

The teacher, like any owner of three Corvettes, “talked a lot about them [her cars] when she got her new Corvette, but she doesn’t talk about them anymore,” said Wolfe.

Speeding or racing with other cars on the highway is out of the question.

“I’ve grown up,” said Grim, “I obey all traffic laws and don’t speed, that way you live longer.”

Building up such a collection is definitely not a piece of cake; it takes time and money. “We got these cars over a course of 30 years. And you sure save money,” she said.

Just because she has the resources to be the owner of over three cars doesn’t mean cars are what her life is all about. “It’s not like we live, eat and sleep cars. We just happen to have them,” she said. She doesn’t have any plans on selling her prized cars “anytime in the near future.”

Take out the luxury vehicles parked in her garage and you find an extremely dedicated English teacher who has been teaching at high schools for 28 years. “One of the most important things in my life is teaching,” said Grim. Of those 28 years, 14 years have been spent at AHS. “It’s interesting to get the different perspectives of students. It also makes it challenging,” said Grim. “In your classes you’re not just trying to hit various ability levels, but you’re aware of cultural sensitivities at the same time.”

Grim has managed to reach a point not many teachers are successful in getting to: making her class alive and getting her students involved in it. “She’s so into every class when she teaches and she’s got so much energy.

profiles

English teacher sports motor collection

a

toms who matter

Joshua Buzzell

PHOTO PROVIDED BY NANCY GRIM

Grim sits on one of her two Harley Davidsons wearing her cruising outfit. Grim’s collections of cars and motorcycles accumulated over 30 years.

The class would be really boring if she “frustrating challenge where it’s you wasn’t so energetic,” said senior Carol against this stupid little white ball... so Dwan. She is also one of the main graduait tests your patience and managetion coordinators. “At the end of the year it ment.” [graduation] becomes one of the driving In fact, she has also been a golf forces for me,” said Grim. coach at AHS in the past. “It was “She really gets enjoyable and fun involved with her watching the kids students and is a improve and he’s so into every class when she perfectionist during watching them teaches and she’s got so much graduation,” said get their first win energy. The class would be really Wolfe. Grim puts in in several years,” her utmost effort to said Grim. boring if she wasn’t so energetic. make graduation a At the end of a —Carol Dwan worthwhile and long school day, Senior memorable experiGrim packs up ence for both students her bags and and their parents. “When the ceremony is strolls towards her 1999 silver full of dignity and meaning, you don’t want Corvette. Even though she goes to it looking bad,” she said. occasional car shows with her husDespite being a full-time teacher and a band, her “car collecting” days are graduation coordinator, Grim finds time to over. “I don’t have any plans on buying go golfing. “Golf is my passion,” she said. more cars—I think this will do it.”

The unique characteristic of golf is it’s a

s

Grade: 11 Hobbies: Tech work in drama, scouts, Order of the Arrow, Model UN, Young Democrats and Debate Team Special deed: Volunteers at St. Stephens United Methodist church once a week for 2.5 hours Quote: “It is nice to apply what I’ve learned in school to give back to the community every week. It makes me feel good.”

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Grade: 12 Hobbies: Snowboarding, photography, stressing out Special deed: Volunteering for Vision and Hearing screening at Mason District Park for the Lion’s Club Quote: “I felt good knowing I was helping people. My friends were alongside me, so we all shared in the feeling that we were making a difference.”

aBlast

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Wednesday, January 23, 2002

15

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Swim team prepares for Districts

aBlast

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i

Wednesday, January 23, 2002 Upcoming Events JV Wrestling at AHS vs. West Potomac Today, Jan. 23 Time: 6pm Varsity Wrestling Home Pack the Pit vs. West Potomac Today, Jan. 23 time 7:30 p.m.

Boys Varsity/JV/Frosh Basketball vs LB Friday Frosh @4:00 p.m.

JV @5:15 p.m.

Var. @ 7:30 p.m.

GirlsVarsity/JV/Frosh Basketball at LB Friday Frosh @4:00 p.m.

JV @5:15 p.m.

Var. @ 7:30 p.m.

Swim/Dive Meet vs. West Potomac @Lee Districtr Friday, Jan. 25 8:30 p.m.

been the only loss for the boys this season.

“Our boys team are much better qualified swimmers,” said Fisher. “Although they do have a little more Jumping into the last part of the season, the swim depth than we do, which somewhat balances it out. Yet, and dive team is preparing for districts after having I do believe that the boys will beat Robinson, it will be been extremely successful in their last few meets. With close but I do know that they will do it. Other than only one more meet to go before districts, there are high Robinson, we haven’t faced any really tough competition hopes for both the boys and girls teams. from any of the teams we’ve faced.”

“The boys will most likely go undefeated for the rest Not worried at all, senior John Merrill is enthusiastic of the season,” said Head Coach Bruce Fisher. “Barring about the district meet. a catostophic event, the boys “I’m really looking forward to should be looking at winning the districts, we should do really well, f everyone stays healthy, I really district championship and the probably taking first or maybe think our chances of winning girls placing in third or fourth.” second,” said Merrill. “After that The Atoms next meet will be the district are very high. we’re looking towards regionals.”

West Potomac this Friday at 8:30 When asked what has been the —Bruce Fisher p.m. at Lee District Recreational Head Coach most challenging aspects regarding Center. this season, Coach Fisher stated that This being the last meet before “the biggest problem we’ve had is districts, senior Matt Horn said, “I keeping everyone healthy.

If everyone stays healthy I don’t think that there should any problem at all beating really feel like our chances of winning the district are West Potomac. It’s basically just a warm-up for disvery high.” tricts.”

The girls dive team is lighting up the competition Heading into this week’s meet against West Potomac and is currently undefeated this season. With senior the boys will be sporting a 5-1 record and the girls will Yukari Nakumura and freshman Stephanie McKinney look to break .500 with a record of 3-3. However, both having already qualified for regionals, the team looks at the boys and girls teams have been undefeated since placing in the top spot at districts as well as placing well Christmas break. in regionals.

Battling it out in the district meet with the boys is “I think our girls dive team is the strongest team in the team’s arch-rival, the Robinson Rams. The meet the Northern Region,” said Fisher. against the Rams resulted in a close defeat, but has

by Rob Payne Staff Writer

SARAH SHERMAN

Junior Jose Varela listens to Coach Fisher’s instruction during practice.

Girls B-ball slumping, faces Bruins

by Kristie Moore Atomic Athletics Editor

already been done. The final score was 39-78, in favor of the Seahawks.

As the majority of the senior class is scurrying around sending college applications and then waiting in most cases until April to find out if they’ve been accepted, Erin Gaston doesn’t have that on her mind.

She’s known know for a while that she will be attending Towson University in the fall on a basketball scholarship.

Gaston, along with her AAU coach, parents, uncle, and Barb, who helped her with her recruiting, got offers from Boston College, Penn State, Akron, and Eastern Kentucky.

“I chose Towson because right now they’re struggling and I want to help the team succeed,” said Gaston. “I also want to be an elementary teacher, and Towson was originally a teacher’s college.”

Improvement is always the key in any sport. For the Lady Atoms, they have been improving a great deal throughout the season.

“In the beginning of the season we started with many new players who weren’t really ready for the varsity level, but they worked very hard and now we’re a competitive team,” said Frece.

“T.C. was our last game of the first round,” said Frece. “The players are continuing to keep their heads up.”

As today marks the half-way-point of the regular season, the 3-9 Lady Atoms look to improve their standings as they face-off against the Lake Braddock Bruins this Friday at 7:30 p.m.

The Atoms lost last Fri. Jan. 18 to the South Lakes Seahawks 39-78.

The tip-off to begin the game went to the Seahawks, but no points were immediately scored. It wasn’t until about a minute later when the Seahawks scored the first points, only to have senior Cindy-Kate Calhoun echo the points. Throughout the remainder of the half, the Seahawks took turnovers and fouls made by the Atoms and turned them into points, enhancing their lead and making it increasingly difficult to catch up.

The Seahawks dominated the first half, outscoring the Atoms 22-49.

“We started off great in the first half, but South Lakes took us out of our rhythm,” said Assistant Coach Mickey Frece. “Erin Gaston is a big part of our offense, and when she was put in foul trouble, we had a hard time picking up the slack.”

At the start of the second half, it appeared that the Atoms were executing plays to a greater deal and the outlook seemed brighter. The number of turnovers and stolen balls may have decreased, but the damage had

LINDA FAIRALL

Coach Lori Barb consults with Towson-bound Erin Gaston, senior.

Winter Track continues record-breaking season

by David Marin Staff Writer

The winter track team continued its strong season Saturday, Jan. 12 with a strong performance at the Montgomery Invitational. School indoor records were set in all three boys relays, the 4x200 meter, 4x400 meter, and the 4x800 meter.

“We had great performances at the Invitational, all of our boys relays qualified for regionals, we showed that we have the best relays in the region,” said senior Chris Greer.

Other runners who have qualified for regionals include seniors Moh Williams and David Blau in the 55 meter dash with times of 6.5 and 6.6 seconds, respectively. Junior Robert Edwards also qualified in the 55

weekend’s meet versus West Springfield, McLean, and meter hurdles with a time of 8.4 seconds.

Fairfax, as well.

Williams and junior Afua Amponseh are the only two “At the intersquad meets, we usually do really well, athletes on the team who have qualified for states. and I expect that we’ll do the same,” said senior Thonnie Williams qualified in the 55-meter Grisby. hurdles with a time of 7.7 seconds.

The team’s next meet is this Amponseh has qualified for states am working on the state cut. I Friday, Jan. 25 versus Falls Church, so far in two events, the 55-meter Robinson and Westfield. Elizabeth dash and hurdles. Her hurdle time am only one-tenth of a second Gill set a girl’s polevaulting record of 8.59 seconds is also a school off the cut. when she cleared 7.5 feet last week. indoor record.

Last Saturday’s meet was Still, they are not satisfied with —David Blau their performances. senior cancelled due to inclement weather.

The majority of the team arrived at 6 “I’m working on states,” says a.m. for the meet and were told by Blau, “I’m only one-tenth of a the coaches that the meet had been postponed. The second off the cut.” reschedule date is TBA. The team was expecting to do well at this past

i

Winter Track Team Shatters Four Record 4X200 METER RELAY

OLD

NEW

4X800 METER RELAY

Moh Williams, Scott Judson, David Halloway, Publio Agrafas, Chris Greer, Dawit Hailu, David Blau Chris Hiatt 2001 2000 1:36:14 8:27

Tim Greer, Chris Greer, Moh Williams, David Blau 2002 1:34:91

Doug McClennan, Mike Flint, Publio Agrafas 2002 54:00

STATE QUALIFIERS

4X400 METER RELAY

Chris Hiatt, Chris Greer, Tim Greer, Doug McClellan 2001 3:39:24

Moh Williams senior 55M hurdles 7.7 Afua Amponsah junior 55M Dash 7.49

Tim Greer, Chris Greer, Chris Hiatt Doug McClellan 2002 3:36:54

Afua Amponsah junior 55M Hurdles 8.54* * New Indoor School Record

Junior Ryan Daggle puts his back into the shot put.

Atomic Athletics: An update of Freshmen and JV sports

s

ports

JV Boys Basketball

JV Wrestling

JV Girls Basketball

Frosh Girls Basketball

SEAN SULLIVAN

Frosh Boys Basketball

Coaches: Craig Hamilton, Rod Cambell

Coaches: Paul Kehrer, Jamie Caryiannis

Coaches: Rocky Carter, Nikki Wood

Coaches: Amy Lipicky, Nora Mahn

Coaches: Frank Hill, KW Williams

Key Players: Billy Purdon, Robel Abraham, Chris Flowers

Key Players: Noah Crowley, Nick Peyton, Andrew Judge, Brian Bagot

Record: 1-8

Record: Coach would not divulge record

Key Players: Mike Torbert and Davis Murillo

Result of Last Game: 61-58 loss to South Lakes

Result of Last Game: Jan. 12th Tri-Meet

Key Players: Amy Fagot, Mary Gaski, Megan Berry

Result of Last Game: 69-67 win over TC Williams

Next Game: Today vs West Potomac at Home 6 p.m.

Result of Last Game: 42-29 loss to South Lakes

Result of Last Game: 45-36 loss to South Lakes

Next Game: 4 p.m. Fri vs LB

Next Game: Friday Lake Braddock at Home 5:15 p.m.

Next Game: 5:15 Friday at LB

Coach’s Quote: “The effort is there, we just need to play smarter and harder.” said Coach Craig Hamilton

Coach’s Quote: “The first couple of matches the kids took a beating, but the JV has turned it around. Now we are kicking [posterior].” said Coach Caryiannis

Next Game: 4 p.m. Friday at LB

Key Players: Samantha Hickman, Diana Hollingsworth

Coach’s Quote: “They have improved a lot as the season has gone on and they are the hardest working team in the district, bar none” said Coach Cartner

Coach’s Quote: “Overall we are doing pretty well this season, but we have lost a lot of close games.” said Coach Lipicky

Coach’s Quote: “The quickness, speed and smart play of these freshman is going to take AHS to the top of the Virginia High School basketball world” said Coach Hill —INFORMATION COLLECTED BY KRISTIE MOORE, SENIOR

by Sam Molavi Staff Writer

Boys basketball has been practicing extra hard for their upcoming District

In a hard fought game last Friday night, senior guard Jay Athey lead the Atoms to a last second victory. With ten seconds remaining in the game, Athey grabbed the ball and made a clutch three-pointer to lift the boys over South Lakes 76-75.

But Athey, who finished the game with 32 points and 4 assists, was not alone in contributing to the victory. The team as a whole put together one of their best performances of the year with seniors Justin Zormelo scoring 16 points, Aaron Habtom with 10 and Ewart Renner with 9. With the victory, the boys improved to 8-6 on what has been an erratic season thus far.

“The season has been all right so far,” said Zormelo. “We already passed more victories then we had total in out past four seasons and I think we’re closer together as a team.”

Zormelo feels confident that their play has been getting better as the season moves on and is keeping high hopes.

The Atoms have been going on

spurts this season, posting streaks of three and four victories in a row only to end up losing the next three each time. However, many of their loses have only been by small margins. Those heartbreaking losses could turn into wins in their much anticipated district tournament.

Despite the hard fought loses, Athey feels very confident in his team.

“I always see this one cheerleader who is never in uniform and I think that attributes to our team not playing as well in some games.

Regardless, I know we will bounce back from these losses and put up the points we need to win the games,” said Athey.

As the season moves on, the district tournament is fast approaching and all the players agree that those games are foremost in their minds. The Atoms are 2-3 in district play right now and played another critical district game last night at home against the highpowered T.C. Williams Titans. The results of the game were too late for this issue. They will play at home versus Lake Braddock at 7:30 p.m.

sports

Boys B-ball hosts Bruins Friday

Spotlight Athlete

Stars of Winter sports

` JENNY BEAM

Varsity coach Pat Hughes tries to ignite his team during a recent victory over South Lakes. The team will play Lake Braddock for the second time this Friday.

Anthony Cavalero is an exemplary studentathlete.

Grappling Atoms take on Wolverines tonight at home

by Jared Smith Staff Writer

ANDREW MENEGAT

Junior Dae Yoon drills with senior John Frank during an intense practice in the mat room.

Coaches Depart

In a very important district match the Atoms will be wrestling a dual meet at home versus West Potomac tonight at 7:30 p.m. This will be the Atoms 5th district matchup of the season in which they are 1-3 in (4-5 overall). In the West Potomac meet, the key matchup will be in the 152-pound weight class in which AHS will send junior Dae Yoon, who is making his district debut, to wrestle the 152-pound 2001 District Champion from West Potomac.

“It’s a team sport,” said Head Coach Will Stravino, “but we are really concentrating on individuals for the district meet.” This match will have an important effect on individual district seeding.

The Atoms will also wrestle in one of their biggest matches of the season Jan. 30 against Yorktown in the “Pack the Pit” match in the upstairs gym. During this annual tradition all of the student body and faculty will pack into the upstairs gym to watch the meet. Each individual match will be under a spotlight as the rest of the gym is dark.

“They have a good feeder program,” Coach Stravino said.

“They are young, but they are tough team to beat, we will have to wrestle hard.” The wrestlers are equally confident going into the match.

Senior Andrew Marfull said, “Yorktown has been tough in the past but I think we are going to beat them this year.”

In the last match on Saturday

A Look back in time . . .

by Shant Shahrigian Co-Editor in Chief

This year the sports department is facing an unusual amount of vacancies in key coaching positions. As of now, there is no coach for varsity volleyball, varsity boys and girls tennis and JV softball. Although softball can use a parent who has volunteered in the event that no other coach can be found, if no coach is found for boys tennis this coming spring season, “then we have no team,” said Student Activities Director Angelo Helios.

“It was a difficult decision because I started the program,” said English teacher and retiring volleyball coach Nikki Holmes. She cited her family life, increased classes she is to teach next school year and her pursuit of a degree as reasons for her retirement. Holmes also would like to “see more of [her] husband.”

“There will only be two returning varsity players so it’s a good place for a new coach to start,” said Holmes.

Math teacher Judy Fisher expressed similar reasons for her retirement from coaching the boys and girls tennis teams. She said that coaching the teams took away from teaching challenging honors classes and would also detract from pursuit of renewal of her teaching degree, which she will need to do next year. “I also want to play more tennis,” she added.

“I loved it, and I had some goals I wanted to meet which I think I did,” Fisher said. She said her goals were to get her athletes uniforms, repave the tennis courts and lead both teams to district championships, all of which were accomplished. “I just felt that my goals have been met,” she said.

Although Fisher has officially stopped coaching tennis, she said she is willing to assist and “mentor” the next coach.

A blast from the Atoms’ illustrious sports past.

Name: Anthony Cavalero Grade: 12

Jan. 12 the Atoms finished 1-2 in a quad meet losing to TC Williams and Hayfield but beating Edison High school 40-27. Senior Andrew Marfull and junior Ehab Awadallah both went 3-0 beating one wrestler from each of the other high schools.

Both wrestlers were excited about the wins but disappointed with the overall team effort.

“We had a lot of individuals who did well,” said Ehab, “but as a team we didn’t perform up to par.” Also senior Tony Cavalero, who went 2-1 in the tourney, said, “It wasn’t our best team effort.”

Coach Stravino also said, “We wrestled well but we just have a lot of holes to fill. I felt we started the meet well but we fizzled out towards the end.”

COURTESY ANTENNA YEARBOOK

Position (s): 171weight class Notable Achievements: 22-3 record, placed 3rd at the NOVA Classic, 2nd at Holiday Classic in Pennsylvania, and won the Statesman Tournament.

2nd team all district linebacker in football.

Coach’s Quote: “He’s a hard worker, very confident on the mat.

An all around good person, in the classroom and on the mat,” said Coach Stravino.

Personal: Eagle Scout, 3.7 GPA, thespian, volunteer youth wrestling and lacrosse coach. Plans to attend VMI and play lacrosse in college.

Frosh B-ball: Representing

by Ryan Croft Sports Editor

Year: 1985 The yearbook caption reads: “Taking a break to look at the camera, Miss Hook is ready to teach Math.” (She still teaches math and coaches field hockey and girls lacrosse)

Sport: Varsity Wrestling

The freshman basketball squad got off to a blazing start to their season by winning the first six games. The team is known for it’s “fun and gun” playing style where each member of the team prides itself on taking chances.

Quality victories have come over high-caliber teams like Langley, Jefferson, Lake Braddock and Robinson.

However, the team’s perfect first season hit a small bit of turbulence when it lost back to back games to Hayfield and South Lakes by a total of five points.

Head coach Frank Hill feels that his team has potential.

“The quickness, speed and smart play of these freshmen [is] going to take Annandale High School to the top of the Virginia High School basketball world in the years to come.”

The team’s statistician Bill Maglisceau agrees.

“They can kill people because they are the better athletes and they are deep,” said Maglisceau, “they’ve got sweet hands.”

Brother Trouble: Brandon Flowers, brother of JV guard Chris Flowers, is a contributor on the freshman squad.

The team’s game versus TC Williams last night ended too late for this edition.

Lindsay is cheering this year for the varsity winter squad and will return to play lacrosse in the spring.

Name: Lindsay Miller Grade: 10 Sport: Varsity winter cheerleading Position (s): flyer Notable Achievements: Rarely falls and is an IB student Personal: Lindsay is an IB student who carries a 3.5 GPA and volunteers at Fairfax Hospital. On the weekends, Lindsay likes to stay home and read National Geographic.

Redskins buy Spurrier, must aquire personnel

by Ryan Croft Sports Editor

Jordan, Jagr, Spurrier . . . Unless you have been living in Tora Bora over the past week, you are very well aware that the city of Washington has landed another big named star, or in this case, a coach.

University of Florida coach Steve Spurrier replaced Marty Schottenheimer, last season’s head coach and director of player personnel. He is the Redskins’ fourth coach in 13 months. Although I am ecstatic about the change to Spurrier’s coaching style, the Redskins need to do some serious off-season shopping to acclimate the team to Spurrier’s style.

The first glaring problem that seems to be blinding me is at the quarterback position because Tony Banks is an unsuccessful quarterback who will never amount to anything. On the other hand, since 1990 Spurrier’s quarterbacks at Florida have thrown an NCAA leading 380 touchdown passes.

With a few more minor changes, Dan Snyder can bring his Fantasy Football team to be Super Bowl contenders even by next year

The Redskins should either give up some future draft picks to get Drew Bledsoe from the Patriots or trade up in next year’s draft to acquire a young gun like David Carr (Fresno State) or Joey Harrington

roft’s olor ommentary

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with Ryan Croft (Oregon). By opting for the latter, they may be putting themselves between a rock and a hard place if the draftee takes longer than expected to become “NFL ready.”

At first glance, it would seem that the NFC’s leading rusher Stephen Davis wouldn’t play a leading role in Spurrier’s fun-andgun offense. Wrong. Spurrier’s game plan will do nothing but help the Pro-Bowler. By spreading out the defense with an array of passes, Davis will be gaining more yards than he did last year, with fewer carries.

Next, Dan Snyder should open up his gigantic purse once again to lure ex-Tampa Bay head coach Tony Dungy to be defensive coordinator.

Before pacing the sidelines for the Buccaneers, Dungy served as a defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings. He is known around the league to be very talented and his acquisition would be a monumental step in the right direction.

The next big problem area rests on the shoulders of the players who will be catching the touchdowns.

After the last game of the season, Michael Westbrook said he would leave the Redskins because he felt for the first time in his life that he “wasn’t involved in the offense.”

Mr. Westbrook, it may be because you aren’t good. Bon Voyage. Rookie Rod Gardner, whose grammar is a laugh and a half, and Kevin Lockett will return next year and each will seemingly play a very important role. Expect Gardner to have a break-out season.

But, Spurrier frequently resorts to a four wide receiver set and the Redskins need more speed on the outside to be more effective. The Rams’ speedster Az-Zahir Hakim will be a free agent next year and picking him up would be a wise choice. If the opportunity presents itself, the Redskins should trade up to draft Josh Reed out of LSU. He was the Biletnikoff Award winner

for the nation’s top receiver. Another option could be Spurrier’s phenom from Florida, Jabar Gaffney, who declared himself eligible for the draft. Last season, Gaffney broke the NCAA record for most receiving touchdowns in his freshman and sophomore seasons. A big-time player of his caliber would bring skills and an improved grammar level to the receiving corps.

One thing is for sure, it seems Steve Spurrier and Daniel Snyder have at least one thing in common: They both are ruthless. The former has been criticized time and time again for “running up the score on opponents.” If he is successful on the professional level, I say run it up on the NFL like we’re the St. Louis Rams. The latter seems to be taking his team’s success (or lack there of) personally. I am interested to see how the pair’s abrasive personalities coexist.

As LaVar Arrington likes to say, “we are not far from being where we want to be.” With the looks of it now, the Redskins seem to want to compose a team that is a spitting image of the Rams. With a few more minor changes, Dan Snyder can bring his Fantasy Football team to be Super Bowl contenders even by next year. However, that’s just about as dependable as local weather forecasters.

Khalil Conteh plays both freshman football and basketball.

Name: Khalil Conteh Grade: 9 Sport: Boys Frosh BBall Position (s): point guard, small forward Notable Achievements: Played running back, linebacker on freshman football team Personal: Khalil is involved in the College Partnership Program.

aBlast

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Wednesday, January 23, 2002

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18 aBlast

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Wednesday, January 23, 2002 UPCOMING MOVIES

Celebrating the triumphant return of classic favorites

by Martha Amoako Cultures Editor

Of the 2,500 or so movies released in the past 10 years, which one do you remember as your childhood favorite? Two childhood classics, Walt Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and Steven Spielberg’s ET :the ExtraTerrestrial, are being re-released.

Beauty and the Beast was re-released on January 1 at 100 IMAX theaters and other big screens worldwide. The re-release is in conjunction with the 10th anniversary of the original Nov 22, 1991 release, which was a critical blockbuster hit. ET, is set to be re-

On January 25

MONSTER’S BALL Plot: Drama about a racist that falls in love with the black widow of a man he executed.

Starring: Billy Bob Thornton Halle Berry, Heath Ledger and Sean “Puffy” Combs Rated: R for sexual content, language and violence

ET expresses the look of shock as he arrives to his destination.

released in all theaters in April in honor of its 20th anniversary.

Disney has spent one year in production on the Beauty and the Beast film, enhancing the image and refining character faces, backgrounds, and special effects, in order to allow the film to illuminate on the big screens. Aside from digital enhancements, the movie remains mostly unaltered.

The filmmakers have added an incredible six-minute musical sequence that features the song “Human Again.” The “Human Again” sequence features a lively scene in which the enchanted characters daydream about what they would do if they were to change back into their original forms.

Beauty and the Beast is presently the only animated film to be nominated for the Best Picture category in the Oscar Awards. It was nominated for a total of six Oscars and won for the Best Original Score and Best Song.

The other classic movie, ET, originally ran 115 minutes, but the re-released version will run much longer because of the addition of completely new and edited scenes. The biggest addition is a restored bath scene with ET and Elliot. Spielberg originally cut the scene because his crew could not get the ET puppet to work correctly. Other small changes include a scene in which Spielberg improved the way that ET says his classic line “ET phone home” by digitally making the puppet’s lips match the words.

He also made the Halloween scene in the movie longer and he changed the scene where Elliot’s mother prohibits him from going trick-or-treating dressed as a “terrorist.” As

Beauty and the Beast dance and continue to enchant and bedazzle many fans throughout big screen theaters in 2002.

an alternative, the mom now prohibits him from going out dressed as a “hippie.” Although the alteration was originally performed for the television broadcast of the movie, the filmmakers believed that the change was more appropriate because of Sept11.

However, the biggest and most controversial change to the movie is the scene in which

More awards with AFI

A truely Royal comedy

by Alejandro Salinas Staff Writer STORYTELLING Plot: Comedy that discusses the “fiction” and “nonfiction” sides of storytelling.

Starring: Selma Blair and Leo Fitspatrick Rated: R for sexual content, language and drug use

On February 1

Tenenbaum to recuperate after Royal’s departure, who announces her engagement to The Royal Tenenbaums provides a her accountant (Danny Glover). This triggers creative, fresh and overall witty view on a Royal’s return. dysfunctional New York family, the The film, narrated as a book, chronicles Tenenbaums. The story focuses on the Royal’s attempts to reunite his fractured struggles, achievements and especially the family and the effects of his actions. Royal, failures of this family. The Tenenbaums are now a ruined lonely man, fakes an illness as all remarkable people—Royal Tenenbaum, an excuse to reunite his strange family. Royal played by Gene Hackman, is a successful looks for salvation by bringing his family lawyer and his wife Etheril, played by back together, however, this task is almost Anjelica Huston, is a devoted impossible due to the dysfunctions mother. The real talents are he provoked in his children with his the Tenenbaum children, who MOVIE abandonment.

RATING are all gifted geniuses: Chas The Royal Tenenbaums charms (Ben Stiller), a successful child the viewer due to the strong tycoon; Margot (Gwyneth performances from the cast. Ben Paltrow), the adopted Stiller is amazingly convincing as Tenenbaum, a gifted the angry and violent son; Gwyneth Despite minor flaws, playwriter; and Richie (Luke Platrow demonstrates she really is it charms the viewer Wilson), a tennis champ. an Oscar-worthy actress with her with strong However, not even their gifts performances performance of the gloomy Margot; can protect then from unhapand Anjelica Huston gives the piness. Once Royal leaves perfect dose of emotion as the wife them with no reasonable explanation, their of Royal. But it’s Gene Hackman’s perforworld crumbles. mance as a crude, insensible, dishonest, Twenty years after their father’s irresponsible father which makes The Royal departure, the Tenenbaum children are not Tenenbaums such a remarkable movie. even the shadow of what they used to be.

Hackman adds verisimilitude to the Chas is now a resented, widowed and character, and you can’t help but feel sorry for overprotecting father. Margot is the Royal despite all his mistakes and his depressed, nicotine addicted and pale wife despicable actions. The film is full of laughs of a crazy doctor. Richie is a nomadic and is extremely poignant. With that, The traveler who ruined his tennis career out of Royal Tenenbaums remains as one if not the his love for Margot. All, seeking tranquility most, remarkable movie in theaters now. and sanity, return to their childhood house.

They are received by their mother, now a successful archeologist, the only

B-

BIRTHDAY GIRL Plot: Drama discussing the effects of life exposure.

Starring: Nicole Kidman and Ben Chaplin Rated: R for sexuality and language

SLACKERS Plot: Comedy about being manipulative in order to win someone’s heart Starring: Devon Sawa and Carmeron Diaz Rated: R for sexuality and

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ntertainment

language

H o r o s c o p e s

Aquarius

Jan. 20-Feb. 18

If you haven’t realized it yet, you’ve made a big mistake. But it’s not too late to grab what you lost. You’ve been confronted with an issue this month and there’s more to come. Leo plays a starring role.

Pisces

Feb. 19-March 20

It’s time to allow new people in your life or those who had exited your life. Around this time you are questioning more than you usually do. A Scorpio will begin to play a dominate role and will help you out with whatever you need.

Aries

March 21-April 19

A Leo has their eye on you; pay closer attention to those that you tend to ignore. Do something that you normally wouldn’t consider doing. Help someone and do a good deed; you’ll feel so much better afterwards. Lucky number 5.

Taurus

April 2-May 20

Spend time with family and friends; you never know when they might be gone. Avoid getting into situations that you have no control over. It’s to your benefit that you focus on your problems instead. Libra plays role.

Gemini

by Mohammad Edris Qarghah Staff Writer

The American Film Institute’s first annual Movie and Television Awards jump-started the Awards season on Jan 5.

Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring was honored as Movie of the Year, along with two other minor awards (Production Designer of the Year and Digital Effects artist of the year).

Denzel Washington was honored as Actor of the Year for his powerful performance as the blatantly corrupt police officer in Training Day and Actress of the Year went to Sissy Spacek for her moving portrayal of Ruth Fowler in In the Bedroom.

Robert Altman’s excellent translation of an Agatha Christie murder mystery to film in Gosford Park earned him the highly coveted award of Director of the Year.

Other major acting awards went to Jennifer Connelly and Gene Hackman for their supporting roles in A Beautiful

May 21-June 20

Finally you have come to realize that you really can’t escape your past. Now that it has come back to haunt you; deal with it. You will find yourself more content.

Wear bold colors for luck and stick to the number seven.

Cancer

June 21-July 22

A new love interest is on the horizon. You’ve been working very hard and will soon be complemented for your efforts. It’s time to get in shape; get to the gym or join a sport that you have been meaning to.

Positive results will come about. Lucky # 3.

Leo

July 23-Aug. 22

Break out of an addictive cycle; the more you continue this, the more you will end up hurting yourself. Be honest with yourself and begin to see things realistically.

Don’t be too afraid of the simple truth; this is what will set you free. Wear red tonight.

Virgo

Aug. 23-Sept. 22

You screwed up, again. Very typical of you, but don’t let this keep you from trying to improve Expect what is not expected.

Whatever happens, happens for a reason; keep that in mind. Discuss what is bothering you with a Aquarius friend.

LOOKING FOR A GOOD HOME: 2 year old male rabbit, all black mini lop. Includes a cage, water bottle and some food.

Will NOT be given away as snake food.

If interested, contact Keris Krennhrubec @ 703-849-9725 or Mr. Krennhrubec in rm. 138.

the government agents in black suits are chasing Elliot, ET, and a group of their friends. In the new version, the agents now carry walkie-talkies instead of guns.

Many other classic movies are set to be rerelease this year. One such movie, Back to the Future is rumored to be re-released as well.

Libra

The award that was given throughout the night of appreciation to movies.

Mind and The Royal Tenenbaums, respectively.

Screenwriter of the Year went to Christopher Nolan for his mind-bending inverted Memento. Roger Deakins was honored as Cinematographer of the Year for his black and white masterpiece, The Man Who Wasn’t There, and Jill Bilcock claimed the Editor of the Year award for the bizarre Moulin Rouge, which will undoubtedly

Cooch and Croft’s

Sept. 23-Oct.22

The time has come to let go of the past. This will open up more opportunities for you. If something is bothering you, talk to a friend or mentor for help. Tonight a surprise awaits you. Wear white for luck. Discover something of great value.

Scorpio

Top Ten Top Ten ways Redskins owner Daniel Snyder convinced Steve Spurrier to coach the Redskins: 10. It’s better than the presidential job offered by Argentina.

Oct. 23-Nov.21

Around this time you will be faced with good fortune. However, don’t take these opportunities for granted. You will be given the chance to prove yourself; try not to make a fool out of yourself. Throughout, a Pisces native will play leading role in your life.

Sagittarius Nov.22-Dec. 21 Be careful of what you say and who you say it to. People that you possibly trust aren’t as trustworthy as you think they are. Take control of situations that involve you. Sitting around and waiting for things to happen will only make problems worse.

Capricorn

soon become a cult classic.

While the AFI awards do not even begin to compare with the Golden Globes or the Academy Awards in glitz and glamour, as a respectable company, one can count on the AFI Awards becoming, in years to come, almost as coveted, to the public as well as the acting community, as the other major awards of the season.

9.

No Seminoles in D.C.

8.

There are no Arby’s in Florida.

7.

He said Shant would mention his name on the morning announcements.

6.

He promised the privilege of being geographically closer to Coach Adams.

5.

He offered him Presidential pretzal protection.

4.

Six month pass to putt-putt course at Redskin Park.

3.

He’ll make more money in one day than a stadium usher would make in a year.

2.

Got promised that he would never be exposed to anthrax or Antenna.

1.

Two words: Tony Bank.

Dec. 22-Jan. 19

Accept what you have or you will miss out on the beauty of what’s there and will later regret.

Learn that there is nothing wrong in making mistakes, for they are what allow us to grow and hopefully turn us into better individuals.

Now Hiring!

For Atoms News and Sports

Back to the 50s with Juke Box Diner and Restaurant

Community Newspaper

call for more info: (703) 916 -8300 Located at 7039 Columbia Pike Annandale

Times Advertise your Annandale business today! call your area advertising representative

Jill Saupp 703-437-5400 ext. 2111 jsaupp@timespapers.com

entertainment

Torture for contestants and viewers

By Mike Mahn Entertainment Editor

In the past week we have seen debuts of two new and extreme quiz shows on two of the four main networks, ABC and FOX. The Chair, ABC’s unpromising new game show, premiered last Monday with former tennis champion John McEnroe as the host. FOX premiered The Chamber last Sunday, much to the dismay of the ten million viewers. Both shows are quite innovative, but lack a certain quality needed to last in show business: good taste.

The Chair is a show that relies on panic. McEnroe, tries his hardest to panic his contestants while they are in the hot seat answering questions. For every correct answer you give, your money accumulates. However, if an increase in your heartbeat is detected your cash slowly is taken away. Your turn in the chair ends if you miss a question or if your heartbeat rises too far and all of your prize money is gone. To scare you, if the eccentric McEnroe is not enough, the producers of the show thought surprise elements would do the trick such as flames or alligators. Although this show will not succeed here in the U.S., maybe the producers should try Japan as their next market.

The Chamber, a more sadistic quiz show than The Chair, relies on human torture. After winning a preliminary round, contestants enter The Chamber where their blood pressure and heart beat are monitored and plugged into a stress quotient equation that determines how much danger the contestant is in. Contestants who reach The Chamber will find

that they are questioned on every element of pop culture, all the while facing either temperatures below zero or up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit, 100 mile per hour wind, earthquake magnitude shaking, and to top all of that off, the chair flips upside down. Contestants earn $1000 for each correct question, and if they finish all seven levels of the chamber they get to keep all of their money. If they finish The Chamber and answer at least 25 questions right, their money is tripled. But if they answer two consecutive questions wrong, The Chamber will shut down and FOX takes back half of their money. Also if they give up or if their stress quotient exceeds the danger lever for 20 seconds, The Chamber The Chair’s Host, John McEnroe will shut down and Fox takes back half of your money.

Many times in history tasteless entertainment has succeeded. However, not only do these shows step over the line,

The infamous hot seat, from the twisted new show The Chair.

but they really are not fun to watch. It is a little sick to watch a woman yell “My legs are burning,” but then follow that up with “I want to continue for the money.” The game shows in the U.S. have evolved by leaps in bounds in the past few years, but this is a step backward.

A very sweet and sour Orange County Orange County contains a funny performance by Jack Black, but unexperienced acting by most other characters.

by Sarah Sherman Photographer

“Orange County is not just a place; it’s a state of mind.” Some deep words by ex-surfer dude Shaun Brumder of Orange County, California.

We’ve all seen the commercials. MTV, the film’s co-producers, run it non-stop in between TRL. But for those of you who haven’t, the run through may prove to be a little complicated (but not that entertaining).

Shaun, played by guess who! Colin Hanks, baby boy of successful actor Tom Hanks (the resemblance doesn’t hit you until about 20 minutes into the flick) is a smart, creative aspiring writer. Quitting his surfing days after he finds a copy of Straight Jacket by Marcus Skinner in the sand, Shaun decides he wants out of Orange County. Skinner (played by Kevin Kline) teaches at Stanford University, Shaun’s one and only choice for college. When his college counselor at school sends Stanford the wrong application, poor Shaun is heartbroken.

But wait! His generic girlfriend (Schuyler Fisk, daughter of Sissy Spaseck) knows a girl whose grandfather is on the board at Stanford. One problem: if Shaun’s going to be admitted, grandpa’s gotta meet the fam.

Shaun’s family consists of one alcoholic mother (Catherine O’Hara), one druggie older brother (Jack Black),

and one old guy in a wheel chair.

Needless to say, the meeting doesn’t go well (does Shaun ever get a break?).

It’s not over yet. The aspiring writer, the animal-loving girlfriend, and the probationviolating brother pack up and head to Stanford to talk to the dean of admissions himself. When they see how desperate this guy is, they’re sure to let him in, right?

Hanks and Fisk, both children of successful actors/actresses, prove to be immature and inexperienced for such leading roles, especially for their first big-screen films. Ex-Rosewell cast member Hanks didn’t appear to have enough acting under his belt to pull off being the main character of his first movie. The little on-screen chemistry that Fisk and Hanks did have was too forced, and not nearly believable enough.

Even the directing was too young.

Director Jake Kasdan, son of The Big Chill’s Lawrence Kasdan, didn’t exactly

live up to dad.

MOVIE RATING Young Kasdan also Orange County directed NBC’s Freaks and Geeks for the short while it was on prime Jack Black is funny time. What is this, but the movie is take-your-kids-tooverwhelmed by bad performances. work-day? I kept wondering if these three youngsters hadn’t been the offspring of such prominent Hollywooders, would some other budding characters have snagged the parts?

The rest of the all-star cast proved to be the only entertainment the movie had. John Lithgow plays Shaun’s arrogant father, and Chevy Chase plays Shaun’s Britiney Spears-obsessed principal. O’Hara’s character is drunk throughout half the movie, which also added to the humor of the film. The act eventually got old and, well, pathetic.

It became obvious about a third of the way through the movie that the attention was supposed to be focused on one character: Black. He spent most of the movie in his underwear as the laidback comic relief, begging his brother for urine samples and lounging around on the couch. Black’s character joined O’Hara’s in getting old and weak.

Black’s upstaging of Hanks was too much of an attempt to be funny, and ended up being just plain boring. The

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New releases on video and DVD:

AMERICAN PIE 2 (R) Starring: Jason Biggs, Shannon Elizabeth Director: J.B. Rogers Heartfelt sex romp about former friends coming back home after their first year in college. It is nearly as good as the original.

JAN. 22

Jack Black, from Shallow Hal and Saving Silverman, plays an embarrassing brother.

Hopefully this chapter will be the Final Fantasy FFX Sucks times 10

by Philippe Podhorecki News Editor As the next-generation of videogames goes into full swing, Sony’s Playstation 2 gets yet another Final Fantasy in the highly acclaimed series. Making the leap from the Playstation One before it, Final Fantasy offers more of the same with key innovations to bring a new feeling. The game feels and looks like past games in the heralded series, which is both beneficial and harmful at the same time.

The Role-Playing Game has a classic story that involves the usual plot, save the world get the girl. The story is not stellar as it is far to trite to innovate. The characters are extremely predictable as well. Despite the addition of voice acting, a first for the series, the characters only seem more distant than before. In the game you play as Tidus, a star Blitzball player (basically a soccer game underwater) who has been thrown into a different world. He soon meets the supporting cast within the first five hours or so. Yuna, a summoner, is on her quest like all other summoners to stop one of two antagonists, Sin. Not far from Judeo-Christian theology, Sin appears to be the epitome of evil and the punishment for the transgressions committed by the people of Spira, your world.

Without giving too much of the story away, Tidus joins Yuna along with four other guardians (the name for protectors of summoners) on a quest to stop Sin. The story falters due to the overall predictability of the events, and overwhelming amount of philosophy and theories on the meaning of life and what happens after death. The overall feeling this brings is not one of curiosity but of bewilderment and annoyance. Since the story is

nearly entirely told through voices, the story takes awhile to develop.

Widely criticized for past games made by Squaresoft, the use of cinema sequences or FMV (Full-Motion Video) hampers the story telling rather than aiding it. While playing through the 50 hour-plus game (if you play the minigames for any amount of time or go on side-quests it can easily be expanded) the constant feeling that the gamer is watching a movie instead of playing a game becomes overwhelming. Whenever the game truly reached full speed, it was immediately followed by non-stop talking.

The story appears short and dry in the end, making the gamer wonder where the time went in a somewhat long game time.

The addition of voice-acting was not terrible, but the voices for key characters were downright horrendous. Especially for Yuna, the pausing and overly soft tone becomes annoying and frustrating and the main character, Tidus, has a almost child voice, which, while it did fit the look of the character, should have changed to make Tidus seem more powerful and hero-esque.

Graphically this game is top-notch, but still could use some work. The faces on the characters look extremely realistic compared to other games, but the textures in some areas and on monsters is below par.

The environments are now fully 3D for further interactivity. Also, the stream of the game is not hindered by the transition and change in graphics that many games exhibit, including past incarnations of the series. The graphics look nearly the same between actually gameplay and FMV or CG. The largest innovations are in the redesigned battle system and the newly designed leveling up system.

The battle system strays from the Active Time Battle (ATB) of the past versions into a completely turn-based system. The new system is much better because it allows for actual strategy and the considering of different choices. For instance, if a player casts Slow upon an enemy (an effect that makes them have less turns) the player can see exactly how many more turns they will get. The type of attack also changes the times in which characters can act which provides much more excitement.

Characters can now be switched in and out of battle at any time during battle. This does make the game easier, but goes unnoticeable if the player does not equally involve all the characters throughout the game.

Characters also have advantages over certain types of enemies which further strengthens the system.

A giant Sphere Grid replaces the levels of past games. Though complex at first glance, the Grid is actually quite simple. Characters gain Sphere Levels by obtaining AP after winning battles. Each level is equivalent to one space on the giant board. After an hour or two a player can become quite adept to the system. The board is actually more involving than the basic systems of past RPG’s since there are multiple paths that characters can follow that keep the process enthralling.

Another change, which is not so welcome, is the alteration of the weapons and armor. No longer do they improve stats in the same basic way, now they can be customized to include certain abilities such as Sensor which allows characters to see basic stats of the enemies.

Though this does provide for more work for the player it is more of a hindrance to enhancing characters.

Blitzball, a minigame that is almost always available to be played has a steep learning curve that will frustrate most and turn them away from it.

After several hours, it becomes fun as the player has a fair chance of winning, something nonexistent early on.

Final Fantasy X is everything to expect from a Final Fantasy game on the Playstation 2. Though the game is basically the same game gamers have played for more than a decade, it is still fun and exciting. The new additions to the series only make the game more enjoyable and help to

GAME RATING Final Fantasy X

B

JAN. 15

movie was simply too immature, even for MTV. All and all, I laughed. Once. Or twice.

So it wasn’t a total bust. You may want to wait until it hits University Mall theaters to avoid paying full price.

Other than Black in his underwear and Shaun’s two pothead friends, there wasn’t much else. The dean of admissions’ building gets burned down, and that Crazytown song “Butterfly” is really popular, but the acting and plot were a bore, and I ended up just plain feeling sorry for Shaun.

If only he could act more like dad.

create the feeling of actually being in the game.

Everyone should at least give the game a try if not more.

KISS OF THE DRAGON (R) Starring: Jet Li, Bridget Fonda Director: Chris Nahon A decent Kung Fu film about a Chinese policeman sent to Paris and gets entangled with the mob and a prostitute.

For good graphics, a classic RPG storyline and an interesting battle system that allows strategy.

ROCK STAR (PG-13) Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Jennifer Aniston Director: Stephen Herek An unfunny comedy/love story about a member of a band who gets to live his dream by joining his idol’s rock band and fall’s in love with Jennifer Aniston’s character.

aBlast

the

Tuesday, January 22, 2001

19

20 a

the

Hot spots to go this winter

by John Bernhardt Weekend editor

Blast

“I went to Ski Liberty last weekend.

Even though the conditions weren’t great, I still had a good time”

Tuesday, January 22, 2002

UPCOMING CONCERTS AND SHOWS

SEVENDUST • January 31 • 9:30 Club • tickets available at www.930club.com

CRAIG DAVID • February 4 • 9:30 Club • tickets available at www.930club.com

MICHELLE BRANCH • February 23 • 9:30 Club • tickets available at www.930club.com

a

tomic reactions

What did you do last weekend?

AREA PLAYS CINDERELLA • The Kennedy Center • for tickets or information call (202) 467-4600 or go to http://kennedycenter.org

“I went out with some of my friends to a friend’s house. On Saturday I went to see A Beautiful Mind.”

—Rianne McNair freshman

“I went to the Annandale basketball game. On Saturday, I saw Lord of the Rings with some of my friends.”

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD • Prince George’s Little Theatre • for tickets or info visit www.psychicghost theatre.com or call (301) 946-2882

Best in Northern (703) 256 - 3780 TheVirginia: Steak & Cheese, Gyros, NY Style Pizza & Greek Salads

7406 - B Little River Turnpike (near the new Safeway)

w

eekend

PIZZA SUBS PASTAS Cozy Atmosphere Freshly Prepared Food Great Prices Try Our Fresh 33-Item All You Can Eat Salad Bar

Dine-In/Carry-Out Available

FREE DELIVERY Credit Card Accepted for Delivery $8.00 Minimum Order/ 3 mile Radius

Resort Bryce Mountain

Contact

Location

Distance

Cost

Basye, VA

2 hrs.

$37-$50

www.bryceresort. com

Trails 8 trails

Massanutten

Harrisonburg, VA

2 hrs.

$35-$50

www.massresort. 14 trails com

Wintergreen

Wintergreen, VA

3 hrs.

$45-$66

www.wintergreen resort.com

Wisp Resort

McHenry, MD

3 hrs.

$54-$64

www.gcnet.net/ 23 trails wisp/ski/home.htm

Ski Liberty

Fairfield, PA

1 hr.

$43-$70

www.skiliberty.com 16 trails

Whitetail

Mercersburg, PA

1.5 hrs.

$58-$74

Seven Springs

Champion, PA

3.5 hrs

$53-$69

—Coury Shadyac sophomore

Family Restaurant Italian & Greek Cuisine

NO GUTS, NO GLORY • The Writer’s Center Theater • tickets are $16 • for more information call (301) 770-9337

PHOTO PROVIDED BY PAUL GLEASON

Sophomore Paul Gleason lands after a tail grab off a jump at the terrain park at Whitetail. Terrain parks where snowboarders and skiers attempt do tricks.

“I went to a friend’s house and saw a movie.

On Sunday I did homework.”

CASA D’MAMA

MIDDLE FINGER • ASIA theatre • for tickets or information call (703) 979-0875

BLUES IN THE NIGHT • Arena Stage • for more information go to www.arenastage.org or call (202) 488-3300

With the winter season finally here, ski resorts are now open for business.

Snowboarders and skiers are gathering their equipment and flocking to the slopes.

“I went to Ski Liberty last weekend.

Even though the conditions weren’t great, I still had a good time,” said sophomore Zander Roberts.

As soon as the temperatures dropped below freezing, resorts began producing artificial snow. With a low average snowfall in the area, artificial snow production is essential to resort business. Although most skiers would agree that machinemade snow doesn’t compare to natural snow, still a day at a local ski resort is worth the trip. “The conditions out west make the experience more enjoyable, than the man-made snow here,” said sophomore John Reiss. “Out west there is a ton of natural powdery snow. You can sink down two feet into the snow out there.”

Even though Virginia has a few ski resorts, traveling to either West Virginia or Pennsylvania provides you more for the money.

Massanutten, Bryce Mountain and Wintergreen, the best resorts in Virginia, are 2-3 hours away.

Pennsylvania’s Ski Liberty (1 hour) and Whitetail (1.5 hours) are suprisingly closer than resorts in Virginia and offer the same quality skiing. Also in Pennsylvania, Ski Roundtop and Blue Knob, which are each 2.5 hours, provide more slopes and more varied difficulty levels.

However, within a five-hour drive you can reach bigger resorts. In Pennsylva-

nia these include Seven Spring, with 30 slopes and the Pocono resorts which also offer a large number of trails. Snowshoe/ Silver Creek Resort in West Virginia, five hour drive, is renowned as one of the best resorts on the mid-Atlantic region.

Massanutten, located outside Harrisonburg, has a 1,110 foot vertical drop, which is the most dramatic drop in Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania.

On the downside, only eight trails are available, but the cost $50 for a full day with rental is a definite plus. The slopes aren’t great, but they have an excellent terrain for doing tricks on either skis or snowboards.

“My favorite place is Whitetail because the snow is good and it’s fun to go to. Snowboarding is similar like skating, and I know my skating. But this season I have no money, so I haven’t been able to go yet,” junior Erik Zottnick. Whitetail, near Mercersburg, currently has 18 of 19 trails open, but is fairly expensive, costing $70 for a full day. Ski Liberty has 13 trails open, including a terrain park, and a full day cost $56.

West Virginia’s Showshoe/Silver Creek Resort has a 800 foot vertical drop and 55 trails.

The prices range from $60 to $80, but multi-day packages are available to cut the costs.

If you’re planning to ski or snowboard for one day, either Whitetail or Ski Liberty are the best choices because of their relative proximity and snow conditions. However, if you’re planning to take a weekend trip, a larger resort such as Showshoe or Camelback in the Poconos provide a wider variety of trails.

Larger resorts like these also offer lodging and packages to reduce the overall price of a trip. For information about the closest ski resorts, visit www.weather.com or www.allnva.com.

—Madhu Khanna junior

www.skiwhitetail. com

20 trails

17 trails

www.7springs.com 30 trails

“I made reservations for my trip to Rancho Cucamonga, California. I also moved furniture into my new house.”

—Nick Senires senior

Friedman’s Finds Old Town Alexandria makes for a refreshing weekend by the water

depicts different kinds of people through metal.

Although we couldn’t afford to buy anything, it was really impressive to see Don’t know what to do this weekend? all the different Sick of Annandale? Head on down to Old Caroline Friedman types of artwork.

Town Alexandria. There are various Weekend Editor After leaving ways of getting there. You can go on 236 the Torpedo east, the Beltway or on the Metro to the Factory we went King Street station. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday a bus runs from that station over to Ben and Jerry’s for ice cream and then went to sit on one of the to Market Square. benches along the water. From the On Saturday, Jan.12, Emily Miller, times I have been to Old Town at sophomore, and I took our own trip to night, I know that street performers Old Town. We got dropped off and ate at line the pier to showcase their talents.

Xando Coffee and Sandwich Bar, right It makes for free entertainment and it on King Street. They serve sandwiches, soups and salads. Funky music filled the is loads of fun to watch. Bpats lined restaurant and unique chairs, lamps and the waterfront and sometimes there are boat shows. On the Fourth of July paintings lined the floors and walls. We there is a fireworks spectacular there, both thought that the food was not that too. On Halloween the town is transgreat, but there are tons of other formed into a restaurants spooky wonderland in Old Town. for trick-orEcco Café t was really nice to walk around treating and serves great and see all the stores.

There were haunted houses.

Italian food Old Town is some really nice stores there, so it and Austin intriguing any Grill is just was fun to look around. I really liked the time of the year. right for Torpedo Factory, where we could see Emily said, “It was people who really nice to walk artists working. Old Town is a great place like Southaround and see all to hang out and walk around. western. of the stores. There After —Emily Miller were some really eating, we Sophomore nice stores there, were ready so it was fun to to shop. look around. I Across the street from the café, Banana really liked the Torpedo Factory, where Republic and Gap Outlet stood, just we could see artists working. Old Town waiting for Emily and I to spend our is a great place to hang out and walk money. While Old Town consists of some around.” of the same stores that are in a mall, it Escaping Annandale for once was so was refreshing to be out in the cool, much fun. Being out on a weekend in clean air. The clear sky and the blowing the nice fresh air was just what Emily wind rejuvinated Emily and I. We and I needed. The shopping was great strolled along King Street and passed and we found a bunch of stores you many original shops and restaurants. can’t find in the average mall. While We peeked our heads in a tarot card we could have gone to a better place to reader’s shop and looked at all the eat, there are plenty of restaurants to candles and gemstones. Sophomore choose from. “I’ve been to Old Town a Coury Shadyac said, “Old Town has a lot lot and I love it,” said Ashley Jones, of good shopping and restaurants. The atmosphere is really nice because it is by sophomore. “There is so much to do there, fun shops and restaurants. It’s the water.” the best.”

We finally made our way down to the Old Town is a great change for the waterfront. Right on the pier stands a weekend and is really easy to get to. building called the Torpedo Factory. It In addition, it does not cost a lot to consists of small rooms that serve as spend a day in Alexandria. So next artists’ studios. We went into galleries Friday or Saturday, just travel down to with paintings, jewelry and sculpture.

Old Town for a fun-filled weekend.

Our favorite was a sculpture artist who

i