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ANNANDALE H IGH SCHOOL

Informing the Atoms since 1954

4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, VA 22003 703.642.4229

h t t p : / / w w w. f c p s . k 1 2 . v a . u s / A n n a n d a l e H S / A B l a s t / 2 0 0 2

Key Club goes Trickor-Treating All proceeds from Oct. 31 event will go to UNICEF

by Paul Gleason Staff writer

Its that time of year again, where you might have a little devil or vampire ring your doorbell and make you that famous offer “Trick or Treat.”

This year though you may be surprised to see one of those devils looking surprisingly like that kid who sits next to you in class, because the Key Club is going trick or treating for UNICEF. For the past four years the club has gone trick or treating to collect money for UNICEF. Last year the club donated the money to children with IDD, Iodine Deficiency Disorder.

This year, though, the money will go to children with VAD, Vitamin A Deficiency.

“I’m really glad that the Key Club is getting involved with these important causes,” said Julia Ehrenfeld, treasurer. “I’m glad that we get the chance to help out, and I’m hoping it will be really successful like the past couple years.”

The UNICEF trick or treat tradition started over 50 years ago when $17 was collected by students from Philadelphia. “Trick or Treat for UNICEF,” is now an annual event, which has brought in over $105 million for children all over the world.

VAD caused over 3 million deaths and is the cause of up 250,000 cases of children going blind, all over the world. The money the key club collects will help decrease maternal death, strengthen the immune system, prevent blindness, and it will help save the lives of up to

DAVID COVUCCI

COURTESY OF YEARBOOK

Senior Catherine Owusu-Sayki practices on the cello, preparing for the upcoming concert.

Orchestra performs

by Morgan McEvilly Staff Writer

The orchestra will hold a free concert at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 30 to remember those who died in the terrorist attacks.

“America the Beautiful” by Samuel A. Ward, “America” by Henry Carey and “Salute to Freedom” by James “Red” Mcleod are only some of the songs that will be performed at Tuesday night’s concert.

“The concert is being held in support of our country. By coming to the concert you are supporting our country,” said Jesse Vollrath, a sophomore and president of the orchestra. “I feel that it is nice music to be playing because of what happened.”

“Trick-or-Treat” con’t on p. 4

Members of the Men’s Chorale sing Jingle Bells during practice on Monday.

Chorus sings in concert

At the concert there will be two speakers, Frank Foley and Elaine Filedelfo, both juniors. They will be talking about what it means to be an American. After the concert there will be a reception and a variety of refreshments.

The idea to play the patriotic music was thought up by conductor Valerie Weintraut.

“The class loved it,” said Vollrath. “Its a great way to show how much our orchestra loves America,” said Kristina Taylor, a sophomore. “Come because we are extremely good and we do have a fun and patriotic line up,” said Foley.

“Orchestra” con’t on p. 6

by Rachel Jones and Katharine Kishiyama Staff writers

AHS’s five choirs, accompanied by 20 orchestra members, will perform the Vivaldi Gloria during the annual Fall Festival Sunday, Oct. 28 at St. John’s Methodist Church at 7:00 p.m. The Fall Festival consists of the Vivaldi Gloria and solos from selected students.

The singers will be dressed in their classical costumes, which consist of black ties and skirts, and blue dresses for women’s ensemble.

Students have been working hard and there will be a dress rehearsal on October 25.

The first half of the Fall Festival gives singers opportunities to

perform solos in from of an audience. The solos will be available for students who take private voice lessons and can perform arias if they want to try out.

“It is a great opportunity for choral students who study privately to showcase their talents before an audience that would not otherwise hear them,” said junior Lauren Simmons.

The Vivaldi Gloria will be performed by all five of the choirs in the chorus department: Mixed Chorus, Concert Choir, Women’s Ensemble, Men’s Chorale and the Annandale Singers. Chorus director, Carleen Dixon said that the Vivaldi Gloria is “Chorus” con’t on p. 6

Homecoming week instills spirit in student body

by Lauren Sterlacci Staff Writer

sports teams proudly came down when they were During spirit week and on announced while the student the day of the pep rally, the body listened to their coaches students showed their true talk about the ups and colors. With Twin Day, downs of their season.

Hawaiian Day and Pajama Another anticipated event Day, students were able to that took place was the express themselves and their accounement of the Homeschool spirit. “I was comfortcoming King, in which Elliott able all day!” said senior Millan was crowned.

Christine Van Der Eijk.

Before the big game, the Although a lot of students parade went on at St. wear pajamas when they Michaels in which numerous please, this was a day when clubs, sports teams and the just about everyone was seen Homecoming court took part wearing them. in. It was a chance for On the day of the pep rally everyone to see who is seniors throughout the school involved in different extrawore togas, while the juniors cirricular activities throughand underclassmen wore the out the school. colors assigned to their grade The stands were packed level. At the pep rally students to their fullest and the waited to see the exciting crowds were shouting louder performances from all the with each quarter that went cheerleaders and the members by. Confetti was thrown all of the dance team. around the crowds in an All the different varsity “Homecoming” con’t on p. 5

ANDREW MENEGAT

Guidance Counselor Erin Wheeler listens to students voice their opions during “Life After Sept. 11.”

Students voice concerns

by Andrew Menegat Photographer

On September 11, 2001, terrorists struck fear into the American people. As a result, people of all skin colors and religions were deeply affected and have since then been coming together to help put this nation back together. On October 16, MHz Networks aired a special program entitled “Life After September 11: Teens Speak Out.” Hosted by WHFS DJ Allen Scott and WPGC DJ Michel Wright, the program

allowed high school students from various high schools to talk about stereotyping, discrimination, and what they think of what’s going on. Among the high schools represented were Annandale, Park View, Damascus, and Fauquier.

Students discussed possible ways to deal with these problems. “We need to really come together and work as one,” said sophomore Clovis Fleming. He and many other students felt that the need for unity in the area and “Students” con’t on p. 5

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JENNY BEAM

Senior Darrius Adams runs through a tunnel of cheerleaders during the Pep Rally.

hat’s inside

A Look Ahead October 25-26 Company Day 30

Fall Orchestra Concert at 7:30 p.m.

November

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14 Students are taught the value of a buck in Cindy Hook’s Personal Finance Class.

Boo! Halloween is fast approaching, and the smell of pumpkins is in the air. Learn how to carve the perfect Jack-o-lantern.

Oh, go climb a wall! Learn the best places to go indoor rock climbing in and around the Annandale area.

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End of First Quarter

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SATs at AHS at 8:00 a.m.

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Varsity Football at T.C. Williams at 1:00 p.m.

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Student Holiday

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Underclass Make-up Pictures

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Ice Cream Social

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Fall Play at 7:30 p.m.

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Wednesday, October 24, 2001

The 411 on the chemistry grading policy

Chemistry policy causes anxiety In an effort to emphasize the importance of ethics and accuracy with regard to scientific experimentation, a number of chemistry classes have adopted a strict lab grading policy. When labs are conducted and data recorded in scientific notebooks, students are not to erase, white out, or scribble through any data or other information pertaining to the lab, but rather draw a straight line through the mistake. Further, all work and calculation steps must be shown in detail, with regard to measurement labels. For the first quarter teachers will be lenient with the policy ANDREW MENEGAT allowing students to make up Bayla Whitten and Megan Ogletree work on a lab in their science class. Under the chemistry policy, students may receive a zero if they erase or whiteout data. mistakes. These are all legitimate mandates which attempt to forward nant role. Teachers are also atings? scientific learning, however, the Fairfax County establishes a tempting to prepare students for penalty for not adhering to one of detailed grading scale which is college level courses and scientific these requirements, receiving a already one of the most difficult in careers in which these procedures zero for the grade on the lab, proves are required for legal purposes. the nation. If students are to be to be counterproductive to the held to such a high standard, Further, forcing students to collect learning process. teachers should at least adhere to accurate data and do the lab in its Scientific labs are a time in this grading policy. Omitting a entirety has improved overall which students should make calculation step or erasing data scientific underinquiries and should not result in a zero, but standing and discover principles, THE A-BLAST STAFF EDITORIAL grades. However, rather should be penalized by not be stressed this policy fails to subtracting a proportional amount The chemistry lab grading about accidentally of points. The grading scale is address the fact policy should be amended. leaving out a implemented for a reason, so that most of the calculation step. teachers should avoid deviating instances in The accuracy and from it. which an eraser calculation eleA zero does not accurately mark or scribble ment of a lab are represent the amount of work the are used are Yes No important, howstudent put into the lab and the subconscious 61 1 ever the conceptual mistakes that are scientific knowledge they acquired. facet of the experiment should not not intentionally done to forge data. Even though teachers are attemptbe punished due to a slip up in the ing to prepare students for college Receiving a zero has a devastating other area. Considering that the and work field, high school stuimpact on students’ grades, and is majority of students enrolled in all the more bitter when due to a dents are still in high school. The chemistry will enter into fields labs that are performed in chemistechnicality. Further, this policy unrelated to science, learning the try class are conducted primarily does little to deter those students concepts is more crucial than the who choose to manipulate data. If a for scientific understanding, not for calculation process. professional companies attempting student is that adamant about One of the reasons this policy to unlock the secrets of cloning. The changing data, what is stopping was instituted was to train stupolicy should be modified to them from making bogus recorddents for the I.B. curriculum in enhance the learning process, not ings without having to erase by which ethics assumes a predomiadd anxiety to it. copying another student’s record-

A zero does not accurately represent the amount of work the student put into the lab and the scientific knowledge he or she acquired

“ZERO” OFFENSES

—Erasing, Whiting out, or scribbling through data (Data is to be changed by drawing a single line through the mistake) —Omitting calculation steps —Omitting measurement labels

GRADE WEIGHT

—In most classes there are four to six labs per quarter which make-up roughly 25 percent of the students grade.

TEACHER’S LOGIC

“Whether they are going to be a great engineer or a good vet assistant, chemical lab procedures and reasoning skills are critical for their success in college and the work force.”

—Tom Pratuch Chemistry Teacher

Winning isn’t everything As a coach of a varsity sport, I am compelled to respond to Mr. Croft’s very un-color-ful “Color Commentary.” Lacking in its clarity, cohesion and coherence, the article is difficult to read; I am curious as to the point Mr. Croft was attempting to make. A greater failing, however, is the misleading opinion of coaches presented throughout the article.

I am mostly offended that our athletic program’s success in Mr. Croft’s mind is based only on winning; so, I will speak to that point. Success is many things.

As a coach, success can be as simple as improving at a skill, setting a goal for oneself and achieving it, and finding pride in a job well done.

In some cases, success can mean just showing up. I would have shared that point with Mr. Croft had he asked. Few athletes win State Championships (but isn’t that some of their value), but many student-athletes will experience success through organized sports. In fact, I believe that it is a fabulous success that we even have an Atoms volleyball team.

Everyday the program experiences many successes. I

Letters to the Editor am proud to have coached our first years of volleyball. Contrary to the article, coaches do strive for common successful goals: we hope to bring new people to new experiences, to teach athletes to set goals and achieve them, to model commitment, dedication and sacrifice, to teach discipline and self motivation, to honor hard work and lastly to win.

—Nikki Holmes English teacher, Varsity Volleyball coach

What really matters Ryan Croft states “The buzz around most all varsity coaches in Annandale recently is the lack of success” and he reports only Coach Adams’ opinions about experience, youth leagues, etc.

There are 24 active varsity sports at AHS and 22 varsity coaches.

Did Mr. Croft interview “most” varsity coaches? If he had, I

M akin’the Gr ade Cookin’ up a victory

A A C F

The culinary arts department headed up by Sarah Hobrowski deserves recognition for the service it provides to AHS athletic teams. Every Friday, Hobrowski, along with a few students, prepare a pre-game meal for over 40 varsity football players as well as serving dinners to the cross country team before key meets.

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ditorials

Blair backs the United States British Prime Minister Tony Blair has played a crucial role in the United States’ war on terrorism. Great Britain has aided the U.S. militarily and financially, as a number of its own citizens were casualties of the Sept. 11 attack.

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

Emergency procedures in question The emergency response procedure of the administration has come into question after a student in Mrs. Richardson’s AP Government class experienced a breathing emergency. The class was located in a trailer, and a new procedure must be implemented to provide students with immediate relief. Nevertheless, the student was treated and is now back in class.

Election mudslinging While party lines are nearly disappearing in Washington, it’s disappointing to see the bickering between gubertorial candidates, Mark Earley and Mark Warner. They have both spent money and time discrediting the other instead of making their plans and platforms clear to voters.

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Editorials Editors

Sports Editors Entertainment Editors

—Nick Veizaara sophomore

“I don’t think it’s necessarily fair, yet it’s something that has to be done.”

—Torri Higgins junior

“I think so, because they weren’t very supportive of our cause.

They need to show respect for our citizens.”

—Mike Scott Junior

Recently, the relationship between the senior class and the Student Government Association has deteriorated. We, the seniors, after experiencing September 11th, wanted to construct a float with a patriotic theme, in remembrance and honor of the horrible events. Immediately, the idea was shot down by the head of the SGA, saying it was “not fair to the other classes” if we got the advantage of the patriotic theme. But isn’t the senior class entitled to a little “seniority” on matters such as these?

So the ultimatum was set, no float means no powder puff football game for our senior girls against the juniors. Here we were, caught in a Catch-22. We didn’t want to do any float at all, but if not, our girls would not play in the game. And if we chose to do a float, our theme was ANDREW MENEGAT set by the SGA and an amendment The senior class experienced some to it was out of the question. What adversity in the Homecoming festivities. exactly was the SGA trying to pull?

Were they missing the point? Isn’t the whole point of the Homecoming week to enjoy it and not be hounded by the SGA and their resolute demands? So, the senior class completed a more-than-respectable float with the help of a slew of seniors and Jan McDonald, a senior parent who donated her house, time and money yet again to help out our class. The project was completed in about three days. After all the time, labor, money and everything we put into the float that the SGA forced us to make, we arrived for judging at the time we were told, only to hear that we were too late. “The judges have left. You are disqualified.”

Before Homecoming, the SGA mistakenly sent out two separate forms with conflicting meeting times for the parade. Though the SGA accommodated our class by grabbing volunteer firemen to quickly re-judge the floats, the new “firemen” judges were apparently unaware the float requirements.

Now, perhaps the SGA should look back and learn from the numerous mistakes it made with our class over a mere two-week period and make attempts to correct them in the future.

Annandale High School 4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, Virginia 22003

Academics Editors

“Yes, because we need to make their government realize that they need to hand over bin Laden so their citizens don’t die...we mean business.”

By Ryan Croft Sports Editor

—Cindy Hook Math teacher, Field Hockey and Lacrosse coach

Managing Editor News Editors

Do you think that it’s fair to risk killing civilians in Afghanistan in order to get back at the Taliban?

Seniors snubbed Homecoming week

believe he would have heard more of success and I assure you that every student-athlete and coach at AHS is striving to win each time they put on their Red and White.

[Our teams] deserve our respect and support. Mr. Croft focuses on state championships and ignores the real measure of a team’s success: the positive development of individual players and of the team as a whole. Our coaches work hard to instill the values of sportsmanship, self-discipline, respect, dedication, commitment, honesty, self-sacrifice, teamwork, mental toughness and responsibility.

We help our athletes prepare to compete honorably in studies.

We win a lot! Count the teams advancing to regionals. Many players earn college admission and scholarships as a result of their acedemic and athletic sucess. Annandale studentathletes become valued members of our community and communities around the world. The “winning tradition” is alive and well at AHS- “the [real] state of Annandale athletics.” Go Atoms!

Editors in Chief

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tomic Reactions

Wednesday, October 24, 2001

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

(703) 642-4229 email: ahsablast@aol.com website: www.fpcs.k12.va.us/ AnnandaleHS/ABlast/2001 fax: 642-4197

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, Shin-Hyung Ahn, Kyle Smeallie, Lauren Sterlacci, Morgan McEvilly, Mohammad Edris Qarghah, Laura Hollowell, Sara Bizer, Jared Smith Principal Don Clausen Adviser Alan Weintraut Atomic Athletics Editors Arts Editors

Trophy Class Virginia High School League 1999-2000

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, 2001.

editorials

Is it worth all the work?

Homework load detracts from high school experience

by Edrice Qarghah staff writer

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his “presidency.” The other rebel leaders were outraged and at this time a new military power came to play in Afghanistan, the Taliban.

The Taliban was created by multiple governments, including the U.S. to depose of Rabani, but more importantly to clean the country of weaponry, such as U.S. supplied stronger missiles, that might be used for ill, as was the case with Rabani.

The Taliban, for the most part, succeeded in their goals, they stripped most of the militants of their weaponry and took down Rabani’s dictatorship.

They, however, established a new set of objectives, to established a new government, one ruled by their radical religious beliefs.

Twenty years of war was not without result in Afghanistan. Much of the country is devastates, millions of lives were lost, millions fled the country, educational institutes were destroyed, ignorance took hold and the economy failed with the destruction of much of the country’s infrastructure. Now, more then 40 percent of the country is below the age of 15. disease is rampant, and the country is on the brink of famine. Afghanistan is also one of the most heavily mined countries in the world, meaning that even in time of peace, which are few and far between, there are casualties of war. A consortium of nations has provided a lot of money in aid over the year, and despite their valiant efforts, Afghanistan has fallen into decadence.

Due to the face that we failed to maintain control and sensor to whom we provided military aid, we have left Afghanistan in a status far worse then what we found them in. Our intentions were good, but our actions required more caution. Though we did not personally commit atrocities in Afghanistan and we do not advocate such crimes, we did supply the radical groups, the Taliban and Rabini are only the most powerful of those we have supported, with the weapons they used to wreak havoc on a nation. If we provide the power are we not responsible for its abuse? If we provide a man with a gun and he uses it to kill an innocent child, are we not partly responsible for that child’s death?

Looking into the anthrax epidemic

slan

As I drove down that road to Kabul last year, I learned the results of war, the nature of devastation.

What once was a comfortable threehour trip, from Peshawar, Pakistan, to Kabul, Afghanistan, now took ten grueling hours. The roads, if one could still call them that, were only the most basic example of the destruction wrought upon a nation of people. All throughout this arduous odyssey, I saw, besides the rugged and parched landscape, the carcasses of tanks no longer functional, mine fields, and entire villages, ghost towns, which have been practically leveled. All those remnants of 20 years of strife, however, had not the impact on me that the sight of one child did. For there, shivering on the side of the road, was a starving seven-year old child, in the rags he had undoubtedly worn for several months, shoveling sand onto the road in a vain attempt to soften the bumps for cars driving by. As we passed, the sand he worked so hard to shovel was kicked up by our tires and yet he saluted us, perhaps with the hope that we might spare the five hundred Afghanis (roughly seventy thousand Afghanis to the American dollar) that would provide him with the piece of bread he would live on for the next week. Later I learned that he is but a small detail in the larger picture of an impoverished nation. In the past decades the history of the United States and Afghanistan have been inextricably intertwined. Though the United States has spent a large amount of money on projects in Afghanistan, we continue to be responsible for the current statues of the nation.

Not only did the United States show great interest in the nation, but Afghanistan also served as a staging point for the cold war. In the aftermath of the originally Soviet induced war we must accept that we are partially responsible for the current status of Afghanistan.

Admittedly, the United States did not outright cause the problems in Afghanistan today. Quite to the contrary, we have provided Afghanistan with a lot of money in both military and humanitarian aid.

However this aid, particularly the military aid, was, at times, more than a little misdirected and worded contrast to their intended purpose. In effect, these efforts were like trying to extinguish a fire with kerosene or merely ignoring the fire and treating the wounds of those burned. In the 60s several countries had taken quite an open interest in Afghanistan. Each of these nations, France, Germany, and most importantly the Soviet Union, helped to develop urban Afghanistan in their own likenesses.

Though the 60s and into the 70s, the United States and the Soviet Union’s developmental aid in Afghanistan were the epitome of their cold war competition. Both the United States and the Soviet Union established Universities and sold their products on the market, trying to gain sway in the country. In the late 70s, we failed.

In 1979 the Soviet Union aided a the coup d’etat of the Afghan government. The Soviet military directly involved in the conflict and a cleansing of the society took place. Not ethnic cleansing, but something far broader, the execution of any possible opposition to the new, tyrannical communist regime. However, before this objective was completed, the United States supplied militant groups in Afghanistan with funding, training, and the weapons they would need to fight the Soviets. This loosely organized network of rebel factions eventually overthrew the communist regime.

Next, there was a temporary power vacuum. The rebel factions could not agree on how to establish a new democratic government, as directed by the U.N. resolution for broad base government. Eventually, it was decided that there would be a succession of transitional presidencies while rebuilding the nation, which would be followed by a grand assembly of all major tribal, political and religious leaders, and eventually a democratic election. Burhannudin Rabani became president. With the country and military power in his hands Rabani became unwilling to hand over the presidency, he rigged the grand assembly and maintained

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Afghanistan: The hot spot of the Cold War

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BY CHAE-WHA PARK AND ANDREW SATTEN

The time is 11 p.m.. I stare blankly in front of a computer screen that has become an all too familiar sight, contemplating a thesis statement for an essay.

The rest of my family retreats to bed and I am bid adieu with the habitual, “Don’t stay up too late tonight, Andrew.” I take a sip of my Red Bull energy drink and my night of homework drags on...

This is not an uncommon scenario for students, as each year excessive pressure is placed on teenagers to undertake a rigorous course schedule. Academic competition has reached an excruciating state, and for students to get into the college of their choice they are forced to pursue an unbridled work load. According to colleges, one of the most important factors determining acceptance is strength of schedule. Only a month into my junior year, notorious for its challenge, I am beginning to question if` submitting to this academic challenge is worth the burden.

For students enrolled in a multitude of advanced classes, educational labor is detracting from the high school experience, an invaluable four years before embarking on the working world. Academic pressure presents time constraints, causing many to forgo clubs, sports and other social activities. Neglecting these experiences deprives teenagers from living high school to the fullest. Further, many of the extracurricular and social activities provide more worthwhile lessons than an inconsequential advanced calculus formula memorized to pass an A.P. exam.

Andrew Satten When high school is Editorials Editor examined from a nostalgic perspective, the memories that come to mind do not concern time spent completing homework and working in class, but rather have more of a social origin. This year I have made an effort to maintain my extracurricular activities including sports, A-Blast and piano, along with the ever so important social aspects of high school life. Because of this decision my sleep intake has suffered. In a recent survey of juniors who recently received an academic letter for having a GPA of 3.85 or better, those that participated in extracurricular activities were only able to get about six hours of sleep per night.

This is not to say that school work should be disregarded, as the primary purpose of high school is to receive an education to be equipped for success.

However, a happy medium must be found between academic endeavors and social activities.

This academic pressure has grown exponentially over the years. For the most part, my parent’s generation, experienced a smaller homework load and less of an emphasis placed on testing. At the end of my sophomore year, over 24 days I took 19 tests for the SOL’s, IGSCE examinations and final exams, some of which lasted over 2 1/2 hours. My Sunday nights are characterized by a rush to get work done to prepare for the week ahead, while at my age my parents were sitting down to watch Bonanza. And in the end, after all this work and testing, do we really come out any smarter than our parents did?

As more and more students take a majority of hard classes, they are pulled in so many directions that the learning experience is actually hurt. Without adequate time to complete assignments and study, they go into many classes unprepared. Further, this leads many students to suffer academic burnout. Students are forced into hard classes earlier and earlier. In middle school, many students are electing to take high school classes such as Spanish and foreign languages. The cycle continues in high school as students commonly take a number of college level classes. If this trend continues, we may have to rename our school Annandale University.

The academic pressures placed on students are in no way the fault of teachers or the administration.

High school is a time in which students should concentrate on academics and at the same time be able to have a good time. The work load placed on students is making this a difficult balancing act.

WHAT IS ANTHRAX?

— It is an infectuouse disease — It is almost always deadly when not treated — Can be produced in aerosol, powder and liquid forms

THREE SERIOUS FORMS FOR HUMANS

— Inhalation — Cutaneous (skin) — Intestinal

RECENT CASES OF ANTHRAX

— Boca Raton, Fl one death, one contraction and six exposures to anthrax

— New York City two people tested positive for anthrax —Trenton, N.J. two letters mailed containing anthrax

— Washington, D.C. over 30 capitol hill staffers exposed to anthrax

- Washington, D.C. two postal workers of the Brentwood mail processing center died of anthrax earlier this week

Iraqi innocents should not suffer from their ruler’s actions Shantsense

Thousands of innocents are suffering under a despotic government. The United States also happens to be an enemy of this government, and needs to figure out how to attack it without harming its people. Once the leaders of this government are gone, the question remains of who should take their place. What nation does this describe? Not just Shant Shahrigian Afghanistan, but Iraq, too.

Co-Editor in Chief Although the United States has made an overt attempt to show the world that it is not anti-Afghani but anti-Taliban, no such effort has been made regarding American relations with Iraq.Whereas efforts regarding Afghanistan have been a combination of destruction to the government and aid to the people, actions taken against Iraq have been exactly the opposite: innocent Iraqis have long suffered while their despotic government has remained in place.

Ineffective as the American policy with Iraq has proven to be, nothing has been done to change it. The United States should cease the march of folly that has defined its policy towards Iraq since the Persian Gulf War of 1991 and employ the wise one which it has demonstrated in its relations with Afghanistan; the nation should lift the unnecessary sanctions that it has imposed through the United Nations against Iraq.

Given this aim, it is thus ridiculous that politicians even consider attacking Iraq, a nation for which no concrete proof has been presented to link it to the notorious attacks against us. Doing so would not only continue to demonstrate the benelovence of the nation, but would also correct a years-old wrong that continues to take the lives of innocent people.

Differing from the manner in which it has dealt with Afghanistan, the United States has never separated the people of Iraq from their dictator; measures targeted against Saddam Hussein have vastly effected those he rules over while leaving him in power. The only result of the sanctions has been the death of the most vulnerable Iraqis and the creation of intolerable living conditions.

Estimates regarding how much harm the sanctions have done to the Iraqi people vary, but a 1999 United Nations

Childrens Fund (UNICEF) press release cites that at least 500,000 Iraqi children have died since 1990 as a result of them. Including adults, the number easily reaches over 1 million people. The under-five mortality rate has doubled since the sanctions were first imposed.

Those who have died as a result of the sanctions have been the poor, newborn, elderly, sick and young. In addition, the sanctions coupled with American and British military attacks have ruined the Iraqi infrastructure; water sanitation plants, hospitals and other elements vital to a countrys existence are barely operational.

Although the sanctions have obviously done horrendous damage to innocent people, they have done nothing to change the political scene in Iraq.

Lifting the sanctions against Iraq would not only serve to help innocent people—a goal that often tragically takes lower priority in American international affairs—but would also be one less

MAP FROM ASK.COM

reason for radical Muslim groups to hate the United States.

The advocation of this benefit is not to imply that the nation should cater to terrorist groups, but instead a realization that those groups are an extreme representative of a large part of the world which objects to the sanctions. Terrorist madmen are not the only groups that are offended by the sanctions; France, China and Russia, as well as the pope, over fifty U.S. bishops and countless other religious leaders have also voiced their opposition to the sanctions.

The voice within the United States which forwards attacking Iraq is a reactionary one. Saddam Hussein, despotic and anti-American as he is, has not deserved being the scapegoat that many politicians have made him to be during the past several years. Of the many wrongs that President Bill Clinton perpetrated while he was in office, one that many Americans overlook was his blatant attempt to save his hide, so to speak, when he viciously ordered the armed forces to bomb sites in Iraq on the eve of the the House of Representatives vote on his impeachment. That self-serving act is just one example of how Iraqis have suffered when America needs a target.

Historically, a reason for which Iraq be a subject of concern is the possibility that the nation develop “weapons of mass destruction.” Former U.N. weapons inspector Richard Butler has stated that there is no evidence of a connection between Iraq and the recent anthrax mailings; there is also no evidence to link Iraq to the attacks of Sept.

11. Little proof has been presented to evidence the possibility of an Iraqi attack.

Thus far, the nation has been for the most part successful in generating international support for its attacks against Afghanistan and for its war on terrorism. If it were to continue this war by unjustifiably attacking Iraq, it would lose much of this support; allies and many Arab nations could be shaken into withdrawing their support.

The United States has demonstrated its wisdom by attacking the Taliban regime while aiding the people that it suppresses. If the country truly believes in the essence of this policy—that rulers, not innocents, should be the subject of attacks—then it should lift the sanctions on Iraq.

Furthermore, politicians should not rush to judgment and exhibit a reactionary mindset in which the the United States attacks Iraq, under the rule of an enemy as it is.

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3

4 CALENDAR Oct. 24— Vietnamese Parents Night, 7-9 p.m., Career Center Oct. 27— Annandale Fall Parade Oct. 28— Choral Concert, St. John’s Methodist Church Oct. 30— Orchestra Concert, 7:30 p.m., Auditorium Nov. 2— End of first quarter Nov. 5/6— Student Holiday Nov. 6— Election Day Nov. 12— Winter Sports begin Nov. 13— Farsi Parents Night, 7-9 p.m., Career Center

AHS PRESCHOOL The AHS preschool is looking for new students. The cost of any student to attend the school for a semester is $140. The requirements for being allowed to attend are that the child must be three years or older, ready to attend school, and must be toilet trained. School lasts from 9:00-11:50 am.

For all questions call 703-642-4209.

SOL’S 146 schools were given accredited after taking the SOL’s in Fairfax County. 112 schools met the standards, 22 more schools met the provisionary standards, and 16 more schools were given accredidation with the provision that they must improve.

PSATs taken school-wide

by Kyle Smeallie Staff Writer

On Tuesday, October 16, all freshmen, sophomores, and juniors took the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Tests (PSATs). The tests lasted three hours, and students took it during their W2 classes.

These tests are designed to prepare students for the SATs, which are looked at scrupulously by college admission officers.

This is only the second year that the PSATs have been administered in classes to all underclassmen.

Prior to the 2000-2001 school year, students who took the test had to register, pay and take it on a Saturday.

This year as well as last, students have had the opportunity to take the test in school. A major difference this year, however, is that sophomores were exempt from registering and paying for their PSAT scores, as Fairfax County Schools paid for their results. “The county wanted to let the sophomores know where they stood, because juniors will have their scores compared to national averages,” said Dr. Paul Litwinetz.

Unlike the sophomores, the freshman and juniors had to register and pay for their results.

They did this by bringing $13.50 to the cafeteria.

For seniors, a late entrance was allowed, as they had to be in class

at 10:30 am. Yet many opted to skip the entire day, like senior Lara Bellingham. “I caught up on some sleep, and none of my teachers have approached me about it,” said Bellingham.

One of the goals of the PSATs is to introduce the style of the test to the students. “I think the PSATs help the students get used to the format of the SAT’s,” said SAT-Prep Club Sponsor Vincent Randazzo.

The test was consisted of two sections of math and three sections of verbal evaluation. Each section lasted 25 minutes, and the final verbal section lasted 30 minutes.

Between the second and third segments, an eight-minute break was given to students.

During the break, students were allowed in the halls, where they could converse with their peers.

However, phone use by students was prohibited. A shorter “stretch” break was given to students before the final verbal segment. “The breaks helped me out a lot,” said freshman Stephannie McKinney.

“By the time the second break came, I was exhausted.”

The math sections consisted of many multiple choice questions, as well as some questions involving writing the answer in a series of blanks. However, this was not a big challenge for some, who felt “the math section was easier this year, like it was on a pre-algebra

Scott remembered

by Rob Payne Staff Writer

Sophomore Angel Scott lost her mother Janice Marie Scott in the attack on the Pentagon. She was one of many who was affected directly by the attacks.

The memorial service for Janice Marie Scott was held on October 13, 2001 at the Word of Life Church in Springfield. In memorial to Janice M. Scott, her family is creating a scholarship fund in her name. At the service the family requested that instead of flowers donations be made to the scholarship fund.

“The [Janice M. Scott] is going to be based on academics and student need,” said husband Abraham Scott. “Right now we are working on the by-laws with the lawyers.”

Janice M. Scott was born on October 12, 1954 in Memphis, Tennessee. In 1975 Janice met Abraham Scott and the couple

were married in Beaufort, South Carolina on December 27, 1976.

Janice Scott is survived by her husband Abraham and her two daughters Crystal and Angel.

Janice received an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Enterprise State Junior College. later going onto graduate from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1988. Janice Marie Scott worked as a supervisory budget analyst-team leader with Resource Services Washington. She was employed with this organization at the Pentagon when the attacks of Sept. 11 occurred.

“We have been coping with this in a spiritual was by keeping our faith in God and dealing with this as best we can,” said Abraham Scott.

Donations can be made by seeing Ms. Watlington in the Guidance Department.

School takes test in county effort to improve scores on the SATs for area youth SARAH SHERMAN

Junior Cailin Yaroch, centered, takes the PSAT’s in her Math Methods class during W2 on October 16. The tests were taken by grades 9-12.

level,” said sophomore Khalid AbulHawa, who is currently enrolled in Trigonometry.

However some students felt that 25 minutes didn’t leave them a sufficient amount of time to answer all questions thoroughly. “I don’t think they gave us enough time to finish each section. I only completed one section, and I left about 20 blank throughout the test,” said sophomore Charlie Dickinson.

After the tests, a shortened White Day schedule followed. “It was a big relief going to my next classes, because the PSAT’s were finally over,” said sophomore Elizabeth Gill. Despite the tests being a burden for some, it prepared the majority for the important SAT tests.

Students appear on TV Students, from page1 country is high.

During the broadcast it seemed most students had the same ideas and views on the terrorists attacks. They stressed that there was no kind of discrimination at their schools and that people shouldn’t pass judgment on Muslim people because of their culture.

Many Muslim students in attendance explained how their culture is very peaceful and loving, and by all means does not support terrorists.

“People make assumptions about the Sikh religion,“ said a

Park View student. He and many of the other Muslims at the studio felt that their culture is greatly misunderstood.

Students also got the chance to tell of their commitment to the tragedy and told of actions taken by their schools to help the cause. One Damascus girl told viewers of how her school raised $40,000 for the Red Cross in an effort to help those affected by the attack.

Students also spoke of increased patriotism in their classrooms, and the great unity of their fellow classmates. One Damascus girl told viewers how proud she was when her class rose and recited the

Pledge of Allegiance during class.

These various stories, actions, and comments of the students showed how truly important it is to remember that we are all Americans here, and that we should not be judged for reasons of skin color, cultural background, or religion.

These students voices were heard in more than 16 million homes nationwide, and made available to more than 300 public TV stations. During the program people were allowed to call and e-mail the station with comments, and while the show was a success, and gave kids a chance to voice their opinion of the tragedy.

Key Club treats area

DISABILITY DAY Today many Fairfax county schools will participate in Disability Mentoring Day: Career Development for the 21st Century. A breakfast will be held for 28 mentors and students at the Falls Church SilkSource and employment center.

Trick-or-Treat, from page1 100 million children world wide.

“It’s a really good cause not many people know about VAD and or collect money for it and the money that they get from what we’re collecting for could save someone’s life,” said Karen Siles, Annandale’s Key Club’s Secretary.

A full years medical dosage for one child with VAD costs up to 4 cents (two pills, each costing 2 cents) The dosage that is bought

BY SEAN SULLIVAN

The memorial service for Janice Scott, pictured in the middle of the table.

Students meet Dan Rather

“We have increased, on our own presence in the park.”

can reduce death by 25 percent.

About 20 out of 75 of the paid Key Club members are going to be involved with the new. Less than a third of the total members of the popular club.

The key clubbers will be going trick or treating for about 3 hours starting at six o’clock, and will only be collecting money on Halloween. The key clubbers will only be trick or treating in the immediate Annandale High School neighborhood.

Surveillance maintained at Ossian

by Richard McCormack Profiles Editor

Twenty-two days since the incident at Ossian Park, the police presence has yet to be diminished and there are still no suspects.

“As of yet there is no one. But we have increased, on our own presence in the park,” said AHS’s Safety and Security Specialist, Cliff Cornwell.

Many students feel safer now walking through Ossian park with their knowledge of more police in the area, but some are still worried.

“Even though I know there are cops there now, I usually walk in groups through there. You still have to be careful,” said sophomore Amanda Green.

Students are still being urged to walk in groups when ever possible and even if the perpetrator is caught kids should continue to travel together.

Other schools in Fairfax County have been notified to look for similar activity in the area.

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Wednesday, October 24, 2001

KATHY SAUPP

AP Journalism students met with CBS anchorman Dan Rather (right) on Oct. 9 at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. Rather signed some autographs for students who attended the gathering. At the event, he spoke in-depth about the attacks on Afghanistan.

“Dan Rather gave us a personal account of his feelings about the events going on and he took his time to make sure that it was complete and seemingly honest discussion.” said senior Katie Clark.

n

ews

6920-C Braddock Rd. (703) 813-6262

Now accepting donations for families and victims Atoms Special

1 large 1 topping pizza, carryout $7.99

news

Seniors win Powder Puff game Seniors win again with 12 points and a shut out.

by Sara Bizer Staff Writer

The Annual Powder Puff football game, between the junior and senior class, was held again on Oct. 10, The seniors won the game once again, and have never lost a game since.

The juniors wore red shirts, while the seniors had white shirts. Both juniors and seniors had eye black under their eyes, just like the real football players do.

Eye black is supposed to stop the sun from your eyes.

This year in the winning white the seniors won 12-0. The game was mostly dominated by the seniors with many good plays and a hard defense to break.

The two touchdowns were made by Missy Manley and Molly Sherman. The quarterback for the seniors were Nadia Ahmed. The coaches for the seniors were Jay Hutchison, Alberto Santos, William Freeman, Justine Klunk and Kevin Rudd.

The quarterbacks for the juniors were Dorsa Hassas and Meagan Olgletree. “Everybody on the team was key,” said coach Chris Rauer. The coaches for the juniors were Rauer, Jegs Peralta, Bobby Morganthaler and Mike Scott. “The seniors think they are good now, huh? Well, they just caught us on

t

he seniors think they are good now, huh?

Well, they just caught us on a off day. Any other time we Chris Rauer

a off day. Any other time we would have come out on the winning end,” said Raur.

The stands were packed with friends, family and staff members all filled with excitement. Many friends made posters to cheer on the players. Half were on the junior side which was the visitor side,

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Wednesday, October 24, 2001 LINDA FAIRALL

Junior and senior class face off on the football field in the annual Powderpuff football game. The senior class beat the junior class 12-0.

Many male members of their respective classes cheered them on.

while the other half were on the senior side which was the home side. On the sidelines teammates were cheering on teammates, encouraging them to always do their best.

“The cheerleaders were very funny and funny looking,” said Emily Miller. At this game the cheerleaders were not made up of cute girls bouncing around in cute outfits. The cheerleaders were boys who would attempt to jump around like little school girls. “They were one of the main reasons why I came to the powder puff game,” said Miller. “Even though their rhythm was off they were fun to watch,” said Jonathan Levy.

There were many athletic seniors who played in the game. Yet the seniors were missing many players.

Members of the field hockey team were not allowed to play in the game as the result of a coach’s decision.

The game was refereed by Gabe Romano The Powder Puff game was just as exciting as a football game, and is a good opportunity for students to show their school spirit.

NEWS BRIEFS

K-MART FUNDRAISER

LINDA FAIRALL

K-Mart is donating a minimum of $10,000,000 dollars to schools this year.

When purchases are made at K-Mart using the card pictured above, the money will be donated to the school.

Seniors Molly Sherman and Helen Houff show off their shirts for powderpuff. The powderpuff players each made their own shirt for the game which was held on Oct. 10 at the football field.

Annual Oktoberfest celebration continues

by Reid Edwards News Editor

“The purpose of Oktoberfest is to introduce students of Annandale High School to German food and culture,” said German Club President Preston Gisch.

German Club members fed on bratwurst, sauerkraut, and chocolate cake, and other authentic German food.

Besides eating German food, students listened to German music played a German variation of jeopardy, and did a modern German dance.

Students in German teacher Birgit Rutledge Riel’s German classes organized the German jeopardy. The contest, consisted of two teams answering questions about the German culture, language and geography.

During Oktoberfest, traditional German music was played, and at the end, students got in a circle and performed a modern German dance, called “The Chicken Dance.”

Former German teacher Ingrid Hester attended this years Oktoberfest.

“It’s wonderful to see my former students,” Hester said, “but it’s extra special to come to Oktoberfest to see all my old students in their German culture.”

Former students were also happy to see Hester back at Oktoberfest.

“We were really glad to see Mrs. Hester there,” said

CHRIS HOGEBOOM

Freshman Andrew Gisch and senior Emily Hardesty look on as German Club sponsor Birgit Rutledge-Riel, (middle) prepares food.

Gisch. “With her and Frau Rutledge there, there was a real sense of German authenticity.”

Rutledge-Riel, a first year teacher at AHS, as well as first year German Club Sponsor, was proud of her students resolve to continue the Oktoberfest tradition at

COLLEGE STRATEGIES ADMISSION

AHS. “I think it was amazing how much time and energy the students put into the preparations,” said RutledgeRiel.

Riel was particularly proud of Gisch’s involvement in the preparations for Oktoberfest. Being President of the German Club, Gisch was the main organizer of Oktoberfest, and distributed tasks to members of the German Club in order to make the event successful. Gisch and Rutledge Riel, put in extra time in order to make Oktoberfest an authentic German experience. “[Gisch and I] went to a German food store in Falls Church and bought German sausages, cheeses, and authentic German bread,” said Rutledge-Riel.

In the end about 30 people ended up showing for this year’s Oktoberfest. Most of these were members of the German Club, but several were students who just decided to stop by.

“I think Oktoberfest was a big success,” said RutledgeRiel. “It was great to see people who just stopped by and had food.”

As a result of the huge success of these years Oktoberfest, Rutledge-Riel has established that the German Club will definitely continue this long-standing tradition.

Dr. Robert Massa from Dickinson College is held a discussion last night about helpful tips concerning college applications. The event took place at 7:30 in the AHS auditorium.

“HELP THE HOMELESS WALK” A Help the Homeless Walk is taking place to raise money to assist homeless Americans, on Nov. 17. The Fannie Mae Foundation makes a donation to the fund for every participant.

AHS teacher Georgiana Tomisato in T9 is offering registration forms for any interested.

Homecoming becomes a night to remember Homecoming, from page 1 attempt to pump up the spectators. In the end, the Atoms came out with a victorious win over the West Potomac Wolverines, 37-25.

As halftime began, the Homecoming Queen nominees were announced and the Homecoming Court Lady, Duchess and Princess rode in one of the cars being driven across the field. Riding along with them was the Homecoming Queen, Maamee Boateng, who was crowned during halftime by the previous winner, Alissa Wunder.

The class floats were a huge success, with the senior class choosing to do ‘Aladdin’ while the junior class chose ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ and the freshman decided upon ‘The Gingerbread Man’. The judges seemed to like the sophomore class’ “The Three Little Pigs” the most which won money for their class.

Sophomore Ashley Jones said “Our class worked really hard on the float and it was a really nice and quite shocking feeling when they announced us as the winners.”

On the day of Homecoming, students did their best to get ready to prepare and wait for the eventful night ahead of them. Many girls went and got their hair and nails done at a salon while some even went to get their makeup done by a professional.

Homecoming Game Result Final Score: Annandale:

West Potomac

37

25

Stats: RB- Orlando Roa: 30 att. for 154 yards, 3 td QB- Travis Johnson: 9 com. for 127 yards, 1 int.

TE- Spencer Jones: 3 catches for 44 yards

LINDA FAIRALL

The sophomore floaters celebrate on their float. They won the contest at the Homecoming football game.

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A WRAP-UP OF AHS CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS

MUSLIM STUDENTS’ ASC.

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY

Sponsor: John Nemeth President and officers: President Amina Kakeh, Vice President Wala’a El Barasse, Secretary Deena Razik, Treasurer Rasha Dauab Next meeting: October 31, room 206 and every Friday Prayer.

Number of members: 35 Quote from sponsor: “[We invite] all Muslims to come [and] not just Muslims, but all other people to come and get the knowledge of Islam and learn what Islam is.”

Sponsor: Maghan Hall Next event: A tutoring center on Mondays and Wednesday for all ninth and tenth grade students, in room 145.

Number of members: 80 How to get involved: Must fill out an application. Candidates require a 3.5 GPA or above.

Quote from sponsor: “I am really looking forward to this year. I think the tutoring center is a great service to [the] Annandale High School population.”

“It’s hard picking out the right dress and worrying about going to get your hair done, but in the end its worth the effort,” said junior Caitlin Mckinney. Most groups even went to someone’s house before hand and took pictures of this formal outing.

Many different thoughts and opinions were given on the dance. While there were some who thought it could have been better, there were also a good number of other students who seemed happy with the results.

Sophomore Jason Bracken said, “We went to dinner at the Chart House which was very nice, but the dance itself was a lot better last year because everyone seemed to be more into it.” Before the dance itself, many groups went out to dinner at nice restaurants and enjoyed themselves thoroughly. Senior Keith Nolan said “I had a great time at dinner, but it was a really fancy place and a little too expensive. But I got a whole chicken for my meal.”

With decorations done by the Leadership class and the help of volunteers, the dance seemed to be off to a good start. Although the dance had a set time, people arrived at all sorts of different times depending on how long they were at dinner.

Junior Anne Nguyen said, “Get all dressed up was really fun and the dinner and dance turned out to be better than I had originally thought.”

JV MATH TEAM Sponsor: Anna Frome Next event: Practice on Oct. 31, from 2:15-2:30, room 244 How to get involved: Open to all students Quote from sponsor: “We did so well in our last meet, I was very impressed. Everyone is welcome, always.”

DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY Sponsor: Paul Weiss Next meeting: Meeting on Thursday, October 25.

Next event: Will work at homeless shelter Saturday, October 27.

Number of members: 15 How to get involved: Come to the meeting on Octber 25, in room 216 Quote from Founder: “We just want to create an atmosphere where people can learn more about how to make a positive difference in the community and become active in making it happen.”

YOUNG DEMOCRATS & REPUBLICANS Sponsor: Mary Richardson Next event: Members will campaign for the November election.

Quote from sponsor: “If you are interested in getting connected to political candidates or you want to get involved in actual political events.”

SAFE CLUB Sponsor: Linda Wheeler Recent event: “Face to Face” held last week, HIV speakers came.

Number of members: 25 How to get involved: Talk to Mrs. Wheeler in the guidance office.

Quote from sponsor: “[Safe Club] empowers [students] with info to make good decisions for themselves, and in terms of educating their peers.”

MU ALPHA THETA

AFTER-SCHOOL DRAMA

Sponsor: Carol Rychlik President and officers: President Christina Rhee, Vice-President Holly Popal, Secretary Dorsa Hassas, Treasurer Walter Fedrowitz Next event: October 29, at 2:10 in the cafeteria Number of members: 85 How to get involved: Stop by room 238. dues are $10.

Quote from sponsor: “We’ve had a great attendance at all the meetings, and hope for that to continue.”

Sponsor: Vicki Farrish Next event: Fall play, “The Miracle Worker” comes out November 1517th.

How to get involved: Every Monday-Thursdays after-school in the auditorium, students work on the four major productions.

Quote from sponsor: “Kids come down [for after-school drama] because its completely different from anything they’ve dealth with during the day.”

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All fun and ‘Games,’ for seniors at Class Acts Seniors win Best Picture award for the play, entitled Games.

by Aminah Kakeh Staff Writer

NEWS BRIEFS

DIVERSITY AWARENESS 2001

The PTSA held a meeting, organized by chair Deborah Foreman on Oct. 17, in order “to promote understanding about different cultures and hear various perspectives on parenting and educational issues.”

FLU SHOT A flu shot will be administered in the AHS gymnasium on Monday, Nov. 5 at 12 p.m. The vaccination costs $12, and checks should be made payable to INOVA Flu Shot Program. The shot is available to all AHS faculty members.

PANORAMIC PICTURES Seniors got panoramic pictures taken during FLEX on October 18.

Any appropriate gestures or “gang symbols” made by students resulted in the assessment of a $10 fine.

EDUCATION FUNDING A meeting is being held at Woodson High School to discuss where the additional education funding from the increased sales tax is going. The meeting is being held on Oct. 29 at &:30 p.m. in Woodson’s cafeteria.

The Seniors captured awards for Best Picture, and Best Supporting Actress at Class Acts this year. The drama departments annual competition of Class Acts was delivered to the Annandale community last week filling the auditorium with laughter and enthusiasm. The four classes competed to see who would put on the best performance.

The senior play, Games, brought a total new face to the Class Acts, for it wasn’t a lighthearted comedy like the rest. Games was something different from the norm, and conveyed a message to the audience, centered on the childhood of a young boy and the effect that teasing can have upon impressionable children. Elizabth Dere, as Liz, Stephanie Glotfelty, as Patricia, Sarah Patterson, as Meg, and Emily Useem, as Julia, recounted their childhood at a reunion they had.

Other characters came into play, such as the little boy John, played by John McDowell, whose character died at 19.

Despite the change, it did retain the elements of a comedy. The seniors also picked up Best Supporting Actress, which was taken by Stephanie Glotfelty. “I wasn’t expecting it at all, but I was happy. We put all of this together in a month. It took many hours but overall we were pleased with the general performance, it was most definitely one of the best shows we have ever put to stage.”

Meg Stoltz directed the junior play, Rome is Where the Heart is, which picked up Best Actor for Owen Beste’s part of Charinus. He was the center of a comical love triangle that existed between him, his father and a slave girl; his performance was indeed mystical and elaborate.

The cast obviously was well prepared and were extremely coherent. “The talent was amazing and we had a really good cast,” said junior Victoria Benson. The costumes the cast wore were extremely realistic and added to the Roman ambiance of the play. The characters were dramatic and artistic in their performance, adding to the plays brilliance.

CHRIS HOGEBOOM

(Left) Freshman Tony Sanchez and Keris KrennHrubec perform the play The Day the President Called... and Called... and Called .

Katie Burton was one of the main characters in the junior play, Rome is Where the Heart is.

The sophomore directors, Coury Shadyac and Peter Lereshce, went all out in Monster Soup. There was a brilliant usage of special effects, including fog machines and bright lighting, which completely enhanced the “creepy” effect the play was conveying.

Sophomore Keris KrennHrubec said, “We were surprised at how well we did, but it helped to know all the people we were working with.” She played the part of Ade May. The sophomores did pick up one award for the night: Best Actress for the part of Granny Ghoul, which was played by Ashley Jones. The play proved to be very funny and kept the audience on its toes. It was about a family of ghouls who couldn’t pay their mortgage, so Granny Ghoul tried to marry off one of her three ugly daughters to the mortgage man in order to keep her house in her own possession.

Also living with Granny Ghoul is her niece, whom they don’t perceive as being as “pretty” as the other ghoul sisters, although she was obviously attractive by human standards. In reality, the ghoul sisters were

Students listen to Virginia delegates

by Crystan Blanco Ad Manager

“I think Watts has promise and her plans should be put into effect as soon as possible,” said sophomore Matt Hubacher.

In just a few short weeks the Virginia House of Delegates election will be held. Unlike elections of the past, this year’s election is fairly important due to the recent redistricting (the shifting of county boundaries due to the increase of population) which may give either party an advantage.

The three candidates were invited to speak during Flex Oct. 10. Government students and members of Young Republicans and Young Democrats, were invited to listen to the speeches.

First to speak was republican candidate Chris Craig. He mainly talked about the election, but also answered some students’ questions about the budget process, new driving laws and funding education without increasing taxes. The budget is changed every two years. In 2002 there may not be spending authority, which means that the 2000 budget might remain in effect.

Craig expressed that “he didn’t realize the restrictions on driving were a big issue” nor does he “think it will promote safety.”

Craig has been informed that the problem is not the new drivers, but those in their early 20s.

Senior Molly Sherman said, “I can see the reason why someone would want them [restrictions] but I also see the point of view of those who don’t. There are disadvantages and advantages. I guess safety wise— it’s a good

JENNY BEAM

Virginia delegate candidate Chris Craig addresses the AHS student body. Chris Craig’s opponent in election on Nov. 7 is current Virginia delegate Vivian Watts.

idea.”

Funding education without increasing taxes was a major concern of students. Craig says there are several ways to fund schools. One of the problems is that the state doesn’t take responsibility for funding the education of schools.

Funding that schools do receive are mostly from bonds which requires a ten year waiting period which is too long, he said.

Vivian Watts, a democrat, spoke mostly on potential improvements in transportation, including the congestion of main roads and other future project plans. Her main objective is to achieve a ‘win win’ situation when dealing with people involved in projects.

Congestion on main roads is caused by multiple reasons, for

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example inadequate turning lanes and nonconsecutive lights. These problems are somewhat easy to fix, but without money and the cooperation of industries around the project sites, it’s difficult, she said.

Though she seeks overall satisfaction, Watts’ would like to reduce class size to a better student to teacher ratio. When asked about her feelings on abortion, Watt’s is pro-choice because she supports those who vote on moral decisions that affect them personally.

“I think Watts has promise and her plans should be put into effect as soon as possible,” said sophomore Matt Hubacher.

Last to speak was libertarian candidate, William Peabody. His

campaign is focused mainly on lowering taxes, abolishing the death penalty and controlling the circulation and legalization of drugs.

Peabody didn’t elaborate on his plans to lower taxes other than saying, “Less government equals less taxes.” He moved on quickly to the death penalty, which he believes “makes the state the murderer.”

Peabody said that jails are overcrowded and those imprisoned are the dangerous ones and ‘junkies’ aren’t dangerous. Peabody believes people caught with narcotics should face a 30-60 day punishment involving sleeping in a tent, wearing pink underwear and eating less than a dollar’s worth of food a day, along with hours of manual labor.

To most AHS students, who are either republican or democrat, Peabody’s views seemed outrageous, unprepared and irrational.

“Having no prepared speech and attacking the crowd, Peabody lost most of his votes,” said junior Jose Gonzalez.

Though there was bias among students as to which candidate is best suited for the delegate position, the assembly proved to be a good experience for students in government and those with political interests. “The students’ participation and behavior was great. They asked great questions and forced the libertarian candidate to explain his far-out positions,” said history teacher Jonathan York.

Chorus makes preparations

Chorus, from page 1

Chorus, from page 1

Weintraut is looking forward to a fantastic year. “The group is playing really well” said Weintraut. She feels that they will do very well in future events such as their trip to Canada (which will be from May 1-5).

“This year we are going to do a really good job as a group,” said Weintraut.

“We work very hard to get to where we want to be, I put in about 3 to 4 hours a week,” said sophomore Elsa Mekonnen. “This year I believe that the orchestra will work together to extend our knowledge in the work of music,” said Taylor.

“This year the students are progressing greatly and working hard, we are going to do really well,” said Frank Foley.

“This years fund-raising is going to be great, we have established an orchestra board so we will be able to raise money faster,” said Weintraut. Some of the plans to raise money for the orchestra are: selling chocolate (last year the chocolates were a big hit) and to have quartets that get hired out for money. “I really want the orchestra better known,” said Vollrath, ”so we really need to get out there and do stuff.”

This summer the Orchestra had students come from England to AHS and three other schools in the area. Members of their, “traveling orchestra,” stayed at the houses of different Orchestra members. The British orchestra and Annandale played songs from “Lord of the Dance.” “This was extremely fun and challenging and has added to our orchestra’s technical abilities,” said Foley “It will be a great evening of music and patriotism,” said Filedelfo.

“So don’t miss it,” said Taylor.

“a wonderful, all classical, great masterpiece written 300 years ago.”

The Vivaldi Gloria performance lasts about 45 minutes to an hour and is comprised of eight chorus movements and four orchestra movements. Other solo opportunities are available during the main portion of the Festival. Choir members are only allowed to sing one solo and have to choose if they want to sing before or during the Vivaldi Gloria. Tryouts were held the week of October 15-18.

Junior Michael Weinburg will perform a solo from the German piece, Widmung, composed by Robert Schumann, in the first half of the festival. Weinburg said he chose this because “it’s a piece I enjoy and is challenging enough musically. Translated, the title is Dedication, which I felt was appropriate for this type of setting.”

DAVID COVUCCI Weinburg enjoys performing solos because it is an Sophomore Jonathan Seiden opportunity to be in front of an audience, and because he practices for the choral concert. wants to perform music as a career and needs as many of these opportunities as possible.

Senior Nicole Murphy will also be performing a solo during the first half of the performance. She will be singing Deh Vieni Non Tardar from Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro. She was inspired to sing this piece after seeing the opera and her voice teacher suggested it.

Although it is many singers first year, they have few jitters about the show. “It is my first year being in Annandale singers, but I am not nervous because we have been preparing real hard,” Simmons said.

“I am not really that nervous because Ms. Dixon wouldn’t have picked such a hard piece if she didn’t think we could handle it,” said Weinburg.

Some performers are becoming very concerned about the Fall Festival. “I think women’s ensemble is ready,” said junior Alex Mott, “but I am worried about the new people in the choir program who haven’t experienced singing with all the Annandale choirs put together.”

n

ews

Wednesday, October 24, 2001

hideous, but they were conceited and saw themselves as beautiful, which was obvious to the audience. Ade May’s role however did eventually have a surprising twist towards the end, which wraps up this comical play.

And last but certainly not least the freshmen play, entitled, The Day the President Called... and Called... and Called, was directed by Amber Panik and Matt Pena. Their hard work was notable; however, the cast’s performance was typical of novices to the stage.

The play was quite humorous, for the plot centered on an injured girl who got hit with a golf ball while the President was playing golf. The President’s staff tried to call her home and apologize on his behalf; however, the phone was continuously occupied by her eccentric family.

Overall it was a good, lighthearted comedy. The Class Acts was an overwhelming success, it provided its audience with an entertaining evening that none of us will soon forget.

academics

M NEY TALKS Students learn the value of a buck in Personal Finance Class

by Hayley Fletcher Academics Editor

There are many difficult tasks involved with transferring from student life into the real world. Living in the real world can be very stressful, especially if you don’t know the basics. The Personal Financial Math Class at AHS helps students learn the basics and more.

The Personal Finance class is an elective, formerly a math class, that is taken mostly by seniors who are about to go out on their own. “[The class] is for everyone because everyone at some point will have to get stuff and live on their own,” said senior Natalie Parcell.

The students study essentially everything that deals with money in the adult world. Their first chapter is the different wages that jobs offer, like salaries and hourly rates. They have also already learned how to decide which bank best fits them personally, and how to balance their checkbook to make sure the bank statement matches.

Over the course of the year, students study a variety of other financial requirements such as the stock and bond market, renting and buying cars, real estate, banking, saving, investing, and even starting a business. The main goal of the class, however, is to develop a personal budget.

The students learn to take care and protect themselves in the real world. “[The class] is to provide the knowledge to avoid pitfalls of debt or rip-offs,” said teacher Cindy Hook.

“We hope that they learn from the class, not from experience.”

The Personal Finance class doesn’t target a specific career. Hook said, “It targets life and how to take care of yourself in out in the real world.”

Learning credit is another important aspect to the class.

“Students don’t realize how soon they will be bombarded with offers and how easy it is to get in trouble with credit cards,” said Hook. The pressure of owning a credit card and paying bills adds to the pressure of college life. Colleges make money by credit card solicitors on campus. Credit cards are available but the information of how to use them responsibly is not.

The class is open and discussion-oriented; it encourages students to share their experiences. Most students have bank accounts, jobs, investment accounts, or credit cards that increase the participation in class.

They share personal situations of what to look out for and how people may scam others. “My advice,” said Hook, “is if it seems to good to be true, it probably is.” Distinguishing the honest, respected businesses from the others that

don’t provide much service and just try to make money is very important. Hook said, “People need to be educated to realize the difference because sometimes it’s really hard to tell.”

Math is involved with the class applying it to real, ordinary situations. “What people don’t realize is how much math is used in every day life,” Hook said. “And yes, even algebra!”

Most students have taken three math credits, they are either in Algebra 2 or have already taken it.

The class also deals with current events like the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11 and how it has affected the economy. “It’s affected us in many ways. We try to work on the financial side,” said Hook.

Parcell said, “Most things we learn relates to what’s going on.”

The class does not have a tremendous amount of homework. Most of the work is done in class. There are occasional small projects each quarter. The class usually researches prices of cars, or job offers. “A girl in my class last year was actually looking for a car and used her project to compare prices to buy one,” said Hook.

“I expect to learn lessons that I’ll take throughout my whole life,” said senior Melanie Bartnek. Senior Thonnie Grisby said, “[The class] is not easy, but it’s not too hard.

You learn how much money you make and get better at handling it.” Parcell said, “Overall [the class] is pretty easy.

People usually know the terms [discussed in class] it just goes in depth. I’ve learned a lot. It’s a lot of fun.”

Personal Finance students may take a future field trip in the spring. Hook would like to visit the Washington Gas Co. in Springfield, a Bank and Credit Union, and a realtor selling a house, all in one day. “It’s still in the planning stages,” said Hook. The class would compare the services of the Bank and Credit Union, and also see the variety of career choices in a single company. “[The Washington Gas Co.] is a good example of a company that someone can go in starting at ground level and work their way up,” said Hook.

“The class is really useful,” said Hook. “I always run into people who have said that it was the best class. It’s a good feeling to know you really help with things that will last them a long time.”

Parents usually assist their children, though they won’t be there all the time. The Personal Finance class helps students understand and feel confident going into the adult world.

— The U.S. produces approximately $696 million per day.

2

HAYLEY FLETCHER

Seniors Natalie Parcell and Melanie Bartnek work on problems in Personal Finance Class.

are generally seen as “debt” cards because the user doesn’t see an instant reduction from their accounts.

When high school students work and In 2000, on a national level credit earn the money, the first thing they want cards were used by 95% of all college to do is spend it. But do they use cash, students had credit cards, and 32% of all credit, or debit? high school students. However, 10% of While some students are still secure students with credit cards owed more with using cash, others are turning to than $7,000 and 25% owed more than indirect forms of currency debit and credit $3,000. cards. But what’s the difference between Generally, obtaining a debit card is the two? easier than obtaining a credit card.

Debit cards are also known as check Using a debit card cards. They instead of writing look like credit checks saves you cards or ATM from showing (automated hen I use my czredit card, I feel like identification or teller machine) I’m getting what I want for free giving out personal cards, but information at the because I don’t have to pay until a later operate like time of a transaccash or —Liz Tran tion. When personal junior returning items checks. While purchased with a a credit card is debit card, it is treated as if the purchase a way to “pay later,” a debit card is a way were made with cash or a check. And to “pay now.” When you use a debit card, possibly the greatest part about using a your money is quickly deducted from your debit card is that it is a quick, “pay now” checking or savings account. product, giving the user no grace period.

On the other hand, credit cards are a This means, no time for debt. way for students to spend money they In 2000, two-thirds of American don’t necessarily have yet. Credit is money households had a debit card. Debit cards made available to you by a bank or other are expected to rival cash and checks as financial institution, like a loan. The a form of payment. With the debit card, amount the issuer allows you to use is you are using your own money, not the determined by your credit history, income, issuer’s money. debts and ability to pay.

In addition to watching what they are Remember that you may use the credit spending, cardholders should watch with the understanding that you will where they put their debit and credit repay the amount, plus interest if you do cards as well. Like cash, credit and debit not pay in full each month. Generally, you cards can be lost or stolen at any time. will receive a monthly statement detailing Usually, there is a $50 to $100 liability your charges and payment requirements. fee if the card is reported lost or stolen “When I use my credit card, I feel like within two days. The liability fee I’m getting what I buy for free, because I increases to $500 if the cardholder don’t have to pay until a lot later. Since it neglects to notify the lost or stolen card is a joint card with my parents, sometimes within 60 days.

I don’t have to pay for my purchases at As students face the dilemma of all,” said junior Liz Tran. choosing which method of payment, Debit cards are usually thought of as remember that there are pros and cons safer than credit cards because you are to both credit and debit cards. spending only your money. Credit cards

3

by Hana Nguyen Academics Editor

— A stack of dollars a mile high would be 14.5 million bills.

— 45% of bills printed are $1 bills.

— There are over 1 million millionaires in the US. — There are 450 billionaires in the world and 150 of them live in the US. — Last year George Lucas earned $400 million and Oprah Winfrey earned $150 million. They are the two richest celebrities.

— It costs 5 cents to produce a one dollar bill.

— A dollar bill’s average life span is 12-18 months. source: www.millbill.com

How much money do you earn a week, how do you earn it, and what do you do with it?

“I work the front desk at Wakefield Rec Center and earn about $130 to $150 every other week. I use the money to make car payments on my new Civic.”

—LJ Hyde junior

“I mow lawns during the weekend and usually get $15 to $20 a week. I use the money I earn on the movies or go out to eat.”

—Ben Berglund freshman

“I work at Olive Garden and get $200 to $300 a week.

Generally, I tend to save the money I earn.”

—Jallal Bahsoon senior

—Sarah Salvatierra freshman

1

Chargin’ it with cards

FUN FACTS ON MONEY

“My mom and dad give me $20 a week and I spend the on clothes or try to save it.”

Try to name the presidents and match them with their dollar bills

w

To charge or not to charge?

What’s the deal behind credit and debit cards

4

A. B. C. D. E.

5

$1 $5 $10 $50 $100

Answers 1. B (George Washington) 2. D (Abraham Lincoln) 3. C (Alexander Hamilton) 4. A (Ulysses Grant) 5. E (Ben Franklin)

CREDIT CARD CARRIER Type:

MasterCard

Uses: How many times used: Paid by:

Gas and small expenses

Limit: Likes: Dislikes:

$300 a month

Quote:

“My parents gave me the credit card because I needed an easy way to pay for gas for my car.

They promised to get me one for my 16th birthday. I’ve had it for about a year now.”

aBlast

the

About once every two weeks Parents

Wednesday, October 24, 2001

Convenience of it Nothing

Junior Robert Edwards

7

8 THE WINNING SPIRIT a

the

Blast

From Pajama Day to the bonfire; to the pep rally to the football victory and the crowning of the queen and king, Homecoming 2001 was a week to remember. School pride filled the school and was obvious in every corner: seniors in Togas, students dressed as twins and the Atom’s red and white.

Wednesday, October 24, 2001

Head Coach Dick Adams throws deisel fuel on the bonfire on Wednesday of Spirit Week

LINDA FAIRALL

JENNY BEAM

The sophomores won the float competition and $100 this year with their float of the Three Little Pigs.

The theme for the competition was fairy tales, and the freshmen used The Gingerbread Man, juniors float was based on Little Red Riding Hood and the seniors theme was Aladdin.

Senior Elliot MIllan celebrates his Homecoming King title with the rest of the football team at the Pep Rally.

JENNY BEAM

The seniors hold up newspapers while the freshman cheerleaders perform at the pep rally.

JENNY BEAM

Seniors Laura Barnes, Alison Sanders, Allison Brennan and Laura Massie show off their togas at the pep rally. Toga Day is on the Friday of spirit week and is the chance for the seniors to show off their status.

JENNY BEAM

The traditional bonfire goes up in flames after it is lit by Coach Dick Adams.

JENNY BEAM

LINDA FAIRALL

Junior Dae Yoon sings the fight song with the rest of the football team at the pep rally. The football team carried their enthuiasm from the rally to the game Friday night and defeated West Potomac, 37-25.

Sophomore Lindsay Miller executes a stunt during the varsity cheerleaders routine at the pep rally. All three cheerleading squads performed for the students.

s

napshots

JENNY BEAM

Homecoming Queen Maame Boateng hugs sophomore duchess Chelsea Duffy. “I’m so excited and it’s the best experience of my life,” said Boateng.

JENNY BEAM

Seniors Allie Prosch and Molly Sherman rejoice after defeating the juniors in Powderpuff, 12-0. The seniors have never lost a powderpuff game.

LINDA FAIRALL

Senior Helen Houff and junior Itzel Perez say Aloha on Hawaiian Day. Other spirit days included Twin Day, Pajama Day and Toga Day.

cultures

Students journey to America Fatma Kandeh came from Sierra Leone to the US three weeks ago. She and her family hoped to seek a safe refuge from the raging war going on in their country.

very high,” said Hermann.

Many of the students came from a country that lacks technology and other school supplies. “In my country we don’t have computers, technology.

We pay a school fee and here we don’t,” said freshman Eku Jah. Annandale High School is comprised of students from 86 countries who speak more than 40 languages, and 51 percent of Annandale’s students speak English as a second language.

The ESOL program is made up of 374 students. When compared with other schools Annandale’s ESOL program has more teachers and courses available. “It’s a lot bigger so it’s a lot more established, [has] more teachers, [and has more] levels,” said McConnell. “The kids don’t have the same teacher all day.”

“Annandale has many ESL students...[so] some schools don’t have as many classes [as Annandale does] for ESL students,” said Hermann. She believes that Annandale’s diversity benefits students, saying that they are “very lucky because the world is very diverse and the students are ready for a diverse world.”

Some of the students have had their education interrupted by conflicts in their countries. There is a new club at AHS called RISE (Really Intelligent Students Excelling) for students with an interrupted education. “I think it’s very scary to come to a place where you don’t understand the language...everything is totally different,” said Hermann.

Fatma Kandeh came from Sierra Leone three weeks ago. “We were running away from the war,” said Fatma. “My oldest sister applied for us to come to America. I came here with my parents and my three brothers.

[Sierra Leone] is nice but because of the war things are difficult. I think here is a safe place for me, a place for opportunity. If things change in Sierra Leone then maybe I will go back, but I do not think so.”

Another problem faced by students is that many of them came to the U.S. with incomplete families. They normally came alone or with only some of the members of their families. For instance Hibo Jama came from Somalia to the U.S. with only part of her family. Her mother initially came with her little sister then she joined

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

All of the students in the ESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages) have at least one thing in common: they have had to adjust to a new culture, despite many difficulties that set them apart from other students.

Many of students have go to a school where they do not understand the language nor know anyone. “I didn’t know how to speak English, I didn’t have any friends,” said Somalian Hibo Jama.

Most of the students have never been taught English before coming to the U.S. and are unsure of what to expect. In some cases, English isn’t their second language but their third, fourth, or fifth (the reason for the change from ESL to ESOL). “[When you first arrive] you can’t speak the language and you don’t have anyone from your country,” said freshman Mehwish Chaudhry.

“I was scared because I thought I was the only one who couldn’t speak English. Even when you’re on the bus, everyone speaks a strange language,” said junior Son Troung Vo. The ESOL program helps students learn to speak and understand English with four levels, ranging from beginning to advanced difficulties.

New to AHS this year is the first IB ESOL class, which is for “really advanced ESL students,” said teacher Susan McConnell.

w

e were running away from the war [in Sierra Leone]. My sister applied for us to come to the United States.

—Fatma Kandeh

sophomore

In each of the levels, teachers use different methods such as repetition of words, establishment of a daily routine, reading books, and many more to help their students.

Teacher Kathy Hermann uses pictures in her beginning ESOL class to convey the meanings of abstract concepts like the word “observe.” “It is very hard to learn high school level material when your language is not

SEAN SULLIVAN

ESOL student Deka Mohamed came from Somalia two years ago. She likes the United States because of the personal freedom and opportunity it gives her.

them later. “There’s a lot of kids who weren’t here with their own family, they have trouble settling,” said McConnell. “There’s also a generation gap. It’s bigger here because kids are becoming adults and U.S. adults.”

Because of the diversity of cultures and languages, teachers must be “very flexible...good English communicators, and very patient because sometimes it takes a while,” said Hermann. “I think we really have to enjoy people from other countries. It’s never boring. I always say, ‘A surprise walks in the door everyday.’” “[A teacher should have] understanding of how a person develops language...it’s not overnight,” said McConnell. “Understanding that helps you know which mistakes are important.”

Some of the students feel alienated because they can not speak English well. “People made fun when I tried to speak English,” said sophomore Majid Abubakar. “But I make fun when they try to speak Arabic.”

“When they [other students] are in a higher level, they make fun,” said freshman Eku Jah. Others, however, do not think that they should feel discriminated against

because they cannot speak English.

“ESL students just came to the US. They need time to learn English and get used to life,” said Vo. “We should be proud we can speak English and another language too,” said Chaudhry.

Even though the students have come from all over the world, they experience the same feelings while learning to speak a new language.

“They share learning a language and that makes you bond with people,” said McConnell.

At the same time the students acknowledge the differences between their culture and the American culture. “America is very different from my country. The culture is different and the elections are different. Everything is different,” said junior Deka Mohamed.

Despite the many obstacles they face, ESOL students have high hopes and aspirations. Many of them plan to go to college and have a career in the US. “I’m going to stay in this country. I want to be an ESL teacher,” said Chaudhry.

“After a year in the U.S.”, Vo said, “I feel like it’s home now.”

Annandale High school is comprised of students from 86 countries and who speak more than 40 languages. With a population of 2,325 students, Annandale is a visual representation of different world cultures. The following is a representation of languages spoken in the homes of AHS students. Six students were chosen as an ethnic representation of the primarily languages spoken by students at home..

SPANISH 17%

VIETNAMESE 5%

AHS has students from 86 different countries

AHS has over 40 languages represented by the students

51% of AHS students speak English as a second language

964 students at AHS are from countries other than the USA

COUNTRIES REPRESENTED

BY STUDENT POPULATION

NATIVE LANGUAGE SPOKEN AT HOME

ENGLISH 52%

CULTURAL FACTS

(Birth/Citizenship) USA— 1361

KOREAN 4%

URDU 3%

OTHER 19%

Bolivia—113 Vietnam— 92 Pakistan—79 South Korea— 67 El Salvador— 66

CHRISTINE COX

MICAHEL HERRERA

VAN PHUONG TRAN

YOUNG LEE

NOORUL HUDA

Somalia— 63

ESOL explained

From Saudi Arabia to America

Sierra Leone— 50

by Martha Amoako Cultures Editor

by Nhawa Tangula Staff Writer

India—27

When interviewed on Tuesday, October 16, Kathy Hermann, the head of the ESOL department, spoke confidently about the program. She is pleased with the outcome of the program and the effort that the teachers have put into it.

AHS prides itself in being a great microcosm of the world. Many students have amazing stories of determination, the will to survive and succeed. The third of seven children, junior Nadia Beshir’s story is one of the same nature.

In 1975, her maternal family emigrated from Eritrea, a small country in East Africa, to Saudi Arabia, when a devastating war broke out.

There, her parents met and got married. She was born and nurtured there.

Both of her parents were not denizens of Saudia Arabia, so Nadia and the rest of her siblings were not granted citizenship. They were treated with prejudice.

In September of 2000, the Beshir family left the place they had become accustomed to calling home, this time under different circumstances.

In pursuit of a better life and refuge from discrimination, Nadia and her family immigrated to America, the land of opportunity.

Adjusting to life in a different country presented Nadia with new challenges and experiences. “First time I came here I was confused” said Beshir.

In Saudia Arabia, a kingdom characterized by male supremacy in every sector of the society, women are viewed in the primordial sense, as subservient subjects, whose duty is to comply with the wishes of men. Most girls stay home with their mothers housekeeping. They are not allowed to drive and they do not enjoy the privileges that American girls do.

Unlike the United States, in Saudi Arabia, immigrants are not granted citizenship

Q: What are your duties as ESOL department head?

A: I help with the ESOL schedules to make sure that students have the right classes.

I also help other ESOL teachers with anything that they need. I meet with parents of students. I also answer any questions that other teachers may have about ESOL. Q: What is the goal of the program?

A: The goal of the program is to help students get ready to take regular classes with everybody else. We help them with their speaking, listening, and reading skills to get them ready.

Q: How does the program help students academically?

A: The program helps students learn enough English so they can function in regular classes in a few years. We also teach them academic skills, we teach them how to use books, we teach them how to use the dictionary, etc. All of the ESOL teachers work after school to help the students. We have a club that meets after school with Ms.Duran and Ms. McConnell. The club helps the kids with homework. Sometimes the honor society tutors help the students with their homework.

Q: Why was the name of the program changed from ESL to ESOL? A: We changed the name to English to Speakers of Other Languages because English as a Second Language was not

KATHY HERMANN

really true. Many of the students speak two or more other languages.

Q: How does the program reach out the parents of the students?

A: Ms. Watlington, who is one of the counselors has meetings in different languages with the parents. She makes sure that there are translators so that the parents understand everything.

ESOL teachers come to these meetings and answer any questions that the parents might have. The Adult Education people in Annandale also give me papers that tell about the classes at night, and I give it to the students to give to their parents.

Q: What kind of outside help does the program receive?

A: Sometimes people in the community will call us and say that they want to volunteer, so we find something for them to do.

Q: What future plans do you have for the program?

A: One of the things we are trying to work on is trying to find more ways to help ESOL students do better on the SOLs. Because right now some of the ESOL students are having a hard time because the English is very hard for them. It’s going to be sad if some of the students do not graduate because they did not pass the SOL. They have to pass it just like everyone else.

CAMERON KYNES

Nadia Beshir has dreams and aspirations that are atypical of the average Saudi woman. She hopes to become an engineer someday.

after residing in the country for a specific number of years.

Those who were not Saudia Arabian natives were denied certain rights such as free public education.

i

was born in that country [Saudi Arabia], but I didn’t have any rights, that’s why I don’t like the place.

Nadia Beshir

sophomore

“I was born in that country, but I didn’t have any rights, that’s why I don’t like the place,” said Beshir. Her parents, as individuals of intellect, realized that education was the only valuable gift they could give to their children. They placed a strong emphasis on education and in giving all their children an equal opportunity to better themselves. So, Nadia and her siblings were sent to private schools.

In Saudia Arabia, all lessons were taught in one classroom with a different teacher for each subject. Furthermore, schools were gender segregated;

teachers were also not allowed to educate pupils of the opposite sex. In America, she found a society of equal opportunity, As she recovered from the culture shock of residing in a liberal society, Nadia became more receptive to the accompanying changes and declared that “this is a free country, this is good for me.”

After this, Nadia decided to take advantage of all her opportunities and privileges and utilize them in attaining success in life. “I realized that in this country, you could be whatever you want” said Beshir.

One day, Nadia aspires to become an engineer. Therefore, she has devoted all her energies into her studies. She is slowly but efficiently mastering the English language, which at first proved to be an obstacle.

She is doing exceptionally well in her ESL English class; now in level A3, Nadia hopes to move up to B1, the fourth of six levels, before the end of the year.

Nadia strives for academic excellence and she works hard to do her best in all her classes.

After high school, Nadia yearns to attend Georgetown University and major in engineering.

“My parents are successful in their lives, I want to be successful too” said Beshir.

Peru— 46 Ethiopia— 41

Afghanistan—20 Phillippines—20 Ghana—16 Guatemala—12 Nicaragua—12 Iran—11 Iraq—11 Argentina—10 Egypt—10 Honduras—10

NADIA BESHIR FAVORITE AMERICAN FOODpizza, chocolatechip cookies, cakes FAVORITE NATIVE FOODBasbu FAVORITE ARTIST- Toni Braxton, Whitney Houston, Rashed Al- Majed FAVORITE ACTRESS- Kate Winslet FAVORITE MUSIC-R&B and Arabic music

aBlast

the

Wednesday, October 24, 2001

9

12 aBlast

the

Virginia governor’s election

Heats Up

Wednesday, October 24, 2001

The candidates at a glance:

Earley’s Platform

Warner’s Platform

Mark vs. Mark

• Supports the bill that would require parental notification before performing an abortion • Favors the full implementation of the car tax cut and the reduction of sales tax on food

• Favors a referendum, allowing Northern Virginia voters to decide whether to increase the sales tax to pay for improvements in education and transportation.

• Favors a law banning guns from Fairfax County recreation centers and a state law limiting handgun purchases to one month per person.

• Is opposed to raising the sales tax at all in order to pay for improvements in transportation and education

Republican candidate Mark Earley • Received his bachelor’s degree in Religion and earned his law degree from William and Mary • Practiced in Tavss, Earley Fletcher, and King law firm for 15 years • Won a seat in the Virginia Senate in 1987; served for 10 years • Became the Virginia Attorney General in 1997 • Named “1997 National Legislator of the Year”

• Does not believe law banning the carrying of guns into Fairfax County recreation centers to be necessary, but vowed to veto any attempt to repeal the state’s law limiting handgun purchases to one a month per person

• Supports DNA testing for accused criminals charged with capital crimes • Wants Virginia legislation to expand upon its hate crimes law to protect those victimized because of sexual orientation or disability

• Promotes the expansion of commuter rails • Favors implementing pay raises for teachers that up to the national salary average

Republican Candidate Mark Earley

• Supports tuition cuts for Virginia state universities and increased funding for historically black institutions

• Created education plan that provides for every student to receive vocational and technical education by the ninth grade

Democratic Candidate MarkWarner

• Advocates changes in the Virginia juvenile justice system that would make a stronger commitment to re-entry programs

CAMPAIGN 2001

• Advocated legislation to decentralize Virginia’s education system and to allow citizens to elect school board members directly • Created a plan to evaluate teacher competency, provide duty-free lunches and reimburse them for money spent out of their own pockets on classroom supplies

• Supports restoration of voting rights for offenders who have served their full sentences • Advocates putting an end to racial profiling by ordering a review of the frequency of the practice and encouraging law enforcement to hire more minorities • Favors Virginia’s law providing a mandatory arrest policy in cases where there is evidence of domestic violence

• Favors a “Chokepoints initiative” that will fund projects to alleviate traffic by focusing on key points of congestion, synchronizing traffic lights and widening targeted roads

• Supports raising teacher salaries to at least the same level as the national average

• Favors juvenile justice and welfare reform

• Supports teacher accountability but believes that “teachers shouldn’t be held accountable for things they cannot control”

• Recognizes the benefits of stem-cell research but believes that stem-cells should only be harvested from adult donors and not from embryos

source:www.markwarner2001.org

source: www.markearley.com

Quiz:Where do you fall in the political spectrum?

Quiz: Examine each of these issues and then decide which statement agrees the most with your opinion.

Libertarian candidate Bill Redpath • Earned undergraduate degree from Indiana University and Masters degree from University of Chicago • Vice President of Consulting for BIAfn, a financial consulting firm

Economy Economy

A B

• Has run twice for the Virginia General Assembly.

• Served as a member of the Libertarian Party National Committee from 1989 to 1993

C

• Was a chair of the Libertarian Party of Virginia

D Democratic candidate Mark Warner • Attended George Washington University and graduated from Havard Law School • Founding partner of Columbia Capital Corporation • Founding chairman of the Virginia Health Care Foundation • Serves on the board of Virginia Union University, George Washington University, and the Appalachian School of Law

f

eatures

• Served on the Virginia Commonwealth Transportation Board

People will produce according to their ability and take according to their needs There should be limited government involvement in the economy and the government should limit taxation Government should intervene by creating jobs, caring for the needy and seeking to control free enterprise

Government should control unacceptable behavior and should also support taxes to fortify government needs to control population

Authority vs.

Individual freedom

Civil Rights

A B

Everyone is equal and should be treated equally The courts can use the constitution as it stands to support civil rights; no compensation for past sins is needed

C

There should be a strong federal action to desegregate and the government needs to support affirmative action and programs to compensate for injustice

D

Government should not be involved

A B C

D

Modes of Change

Humans are self-sufficient and needs no authority; can be trusted with total freedom

A B C

Humans will act correctly when informed Humans must be directed for their own good

D

Humans must be controlled; too much freedom allows evil to be exposed

Revolution or violence, when appropriate Content with the status quo; views no need to make change within the system Reformer, not revolutionary Revolutionary, seeks change back to old order

Mostly A : you are a Radical Mostly

B: you are Conservative

C : you are a Liberal Mostly D : you are a Reactionary

Mostly

source: Mary Richardson, Government teacher

School-wide Opinion Poll

Poll indicates lack of interest

by Young-Zi Byun and Sarah Kelman Features Editors

The Oct.18 poll revealed that the majority of students were not deeply concerned about the 2001 Governor’s election. The survey was also conducted at an inopportune time when seniors had just finished taking panoramic pictures and only few could participate. The Governor’s election is mostly centered around the issues of taxes and transportation; however, the poll indicates that AHS students are overwhelmingly

concerned about security topics.

The poll also demonstrated how most students do not relate their political affiliation to the choice of candidate for the election.

A significant portion of students who participated in the poll weren’t sure which candidate they would vote for, or of their own political affiliations. This could possibly be a result of a lack of information and involvement pertaining to national and local politics at this time, especially in light of the Sep.11 terrorist attacks.

This poll was conducted during and R7 Flex periods on Thursday, October 18 If the election for governor of Virginia were held today, for whom would you vote?

Grade Freshman 18% Sophomores 27% Juniors Seniors 8%

Gender Female Male

35% Mark Warner (Dem) Mark Earley (Rep) 15% Bill Redpath (Libertarian) 3% Not Sure

48%

54% 46%

47%

What is your political affiliation?

36%

Democrat Republican

30%

Independent 1% Libertarian 0% Not Sure

Which issue is most important to you?

Abortion 8% Education 10% Gun control 5% Taxes 15% Welfare 10% Security

40%

Transporta- 12% tion

32% Madison H.S.

Other 1%

What do you think about the negative media campaigns occurring in the Virginia Governor’s election?

“I don’t think it’s right to make false or exaggerated advertisement about the other candidates. All people care is about the real things.”

—Marsha George freshman

“Candidates should only tell the truth and if someone tries to deprecate another person, he’s going to end up lowering his own reputation.”

“I don’t think it’s right, but I’m not really surprised at people saying bad things about each other because it happens all the time.”

—Charlie Dickenson

—Cecilia Mallory

sophomore

junior

“It’s not needed; they only need to talk about their platforms because that’s all I care about is what they represent and not what they have to bicker about each other.”

—JR Romain senior

“I don’t like the negative tactics they use, especially at time like this — I think it neither necessary nor appropriate.”

—Gabe Romano P.E. Teacher

Students discuss reactions, feelings on tragedy

by Shant Shahrigian Co-Editor in Chief

Over a month after the tragedy of Sept. 11, students are still talking about the event. Muslim students, being of the same religious persuasion as the suspected terrorists, have had a different experience regarding the attacks. On Sept. 17, The A-Blast held a discussion in which several Muslim students related their views regarding the notorious events. Freshman Abubaker Abubaker, sophomores Khalid Abul-Hawa, Mariam Ali and Tamoor Ijaz, junior Ibrahim Najdi and seniors Deena Razik, Maisara Ahmed and Sara Dajani participated. The following are excerpts from the discussion.

Q: What were your first thoughts as you saw or heard the attacks

they want on their head and practice whatever religion, but after this we see that some people are that ignorant to target a group as though they were the culprit.”

unfold?

Dajani: “We’re bicultural students; we come from a certain culture, but then again we’re Americans. We were first confused and shocked and surprised just as anybody else is... We didn’t defend it or condone it.

It’s the total opposite; we condemn it just as much as anybody else does, and even more.”

Q: Do you think the U.S. has taken the appropriate course of action since the attacks?

Ahmed: “When I saw the plane crash into the Twin Towers... it blew my mind.”

Abubaker: “I didn’t believe it happened. I was surprised where it was because I was at the Twin Towers like two weeks before it happened. I was on vacation... me, my dad and my brother.”

Q: What do you think caused the attacks?

Dajani: “I don’t exactly think there was a direct cause...

Probably the feelings and frustrations of a distinct group rather than an organized ef-

REBECCA SAMPLE

On Sept. 17, the author held a roundtable discussion with Muslim students on their views regarding the recent terrorist attacks.

fort in a country.”

feels...”

Najdi: “I think it was caused because a lot of people in the world think America puts its nose into other people’s business and somebody was really offended and did a terrorist attack.”

Ijaz: “I don’t know what the people who attacked were thinking... Maybe the United States did something to them”

Dajani: “If there is resentment, then it would stem from what’s going on and how they [different Arab groups] go through this [incidents like the terrorist attack] every single day; of course, I’m not justifying the attack and not saying that this is the exact cause of it...

How shocked we were: they go through that every day.

They leave their houses not knowing if they’re going to come back. They send their kids to school no knowing if they’re going to come back.

And this is not just Palestine and Israel—it’s Afghanistan, they’re starving; it’s Lebanon...

For them, this is daily life—maybe that’s why they took it a little lighter than us. Over there, they’re still feeling with us. if anybody could feel with us, it’s them... they know how it

SHANT SHAHRIGIAN

Sophomore Mariam Ali

Q: Have you experienced anything that you would connect with the attacks?

Ali: “I just transferred here from California. I flew [here]... on Sept. 21... and I had to fly without my scarf so that I could just enter the plane. And my grandmother, who is an old lady in a wheelchair, had to wear her scarf not even the right way.

Like just wear it as if she was just covering her hair...

Why? Because of the fact that if I wore it and they saw me, they would not allow me on the plane.

“I didn’t even have it [scarf] on and they were looking at my grandmother as though she was going to bomb them. Security was very, very nice, actually. The flight attendants, the people who were waiting... they all looked at my grandmother up and down.”

Dajani: “At the beginning, out of pure fear, my parents didn’t want me to stay for Friday prayer or any big gathering of people. “In America, we thought that everybody’s free to look how they want to look and dress how they want to look and put whatever

Ijaz: “I don’t think so.

Afghanistan is already a weak country right now and they’re [America] making it more weak by attacking the people. And the people are dying... How are you going to attack them even though we don’t know for sure that Osama bin Laden did it.”

Dajani: “Maybe the United States was rash in its decision to [attack] Afghanistan. This just reminds us all of the Oklahoma City bombing when a Muslim Arab was accused... then it turned out not to be.”

Ijaz: “Americans are saying that since they assume that Muslims did this that we’re with them. We’re not totally, but what do you expect?

We’re Muslim—they’re Muslim. If you’re an American, you’re going to stick up for another American.”

Ali: “Yes, I am a citizen. But I’ll always be an Arab; I’ll always be a Muslim. But I honestly do feel sorry for Americans... because I know how it feels to be going through what they’re going through. We’ve been going through it for... years.”

Dajani: “We feel the same exact way as every other American feels, except with an added fear... But everything else is the same. Our lives have been altered just the same and we’ve been effected the same.”

Q: What would you ask that your peers do in light of the attacks?

aBlast

the

Wednesday, September 24, 2001

STUDENTS WHO PARTICIPATED IN DISCUSSION

Abubaker Abubaker freshman

Khalid Abul-Hawa sophomore

Mariam Ali sophomore

Tamoor Ijaz sophomore

Ali: “Don’t be judgmental.”

Afghan student relates travails of home country us [her and her family].”

Before the Northern Alliance took over, Hesham’s father was a The media has done its best to translator for a radio station and provide Americans with an her mother was a teacher. After, accurate portrayal of Afghanistan, however, “the Northern Alliance a nation which had previously fired everybody and closed the barely registered in the American schools” and the Hesham family consciousness. But nothing less had to resort to its life savings to than living in the country can buy food and other necessities. convey the true strife of what life Leaders of tribes—of which there was like. One student who Hesham said there were at least has experienced the struggle first five—in the Northern Alliance led hand is senior Maynosh Hesham. attacks against each other.

These Born in Afghanistan, Hesham often took place in the streets of the lived there until the age of 11, city. “If you went from Kabul to when she and her family left for Kandahar [or any other Afghani neighboring Pakistan. Until that city], they would kill you just point, however, her life was because you’re from Kabul,” said confronted with death and destrucHesham. Troops would gain control tion on a daily basis. of a city and kill any Afghani from Most students in the United a different city on sight.

States are not usually greatly While Hesham was in Kabul, affected when a shift in power fighting took place “every day” in occurs in the state or national the form of “rockets and gunshots” government. For which Hesham, occurred not however, far from her changes in the f you went home.

Afghani political from Kabul Although climate had a many men to Kandahar, direct effect on were forced to they would kill you her lifestyle. support the After the groups just because you’re Northern Maynosh Hesham that roughly Alliance, junior from Kabul. make up the Hesham’s Northern father Alliance had managed to evade them.

When Afghani president Dr. Najeeb Ullah interrogated by forces who and his brother assassinated, a attempted to coerce him into previously unstable situation donating funds to the group, became far worse.

Maynosh Hesham and her mother The Afghan school system was were able to contact friends who modeled after the German one, got him out of the tough situation. with grades one through 12 held in Hesham had no funds to give the the same buildings. Although less forces, anyway. technologically advanced than the During the period when the U.S. system, Afghani schools Northern Alliance was in power, featured desks, labs and libraries Hesham and her family lived in the in its buildings. basement of an apartment complex.

After the shift in power, though, She described the atmosphere as everything changed. Accompanying “dark, wet [and] polluted” and the shutdown of public buildings windowless. came unprecedented violence As bad as her situation was which occurred in or not far from when Afghanistan was under the cities. Born and raised in the control of the Northern Alliance, it nation’s capital, Kabul, Hesham got “much worse” when the saw such violence “right in front of

f eatures

MUSLIM STUDENTS REACT

Ibrahim Najdi junior

by Shant Shahrigian Co-Editor in Chief

i

Deena Razik senior

SHANT SHAHRIGIAN

Maisara Ahmed senior

Junior Maynosh Hesham during German teacher Birgit Rutledge-Riel’s W6 Flex. Life is “absolutely better” in the United States, said Hesham.

Taliban, consisting of Pakistanis and other Arabs, took over in June 1997. Under their control, the freedoms of women like her, her mother and sisters were greatly restricted.

“Before... women could go out, but when the Taliban came, it was death for women. They can’t go out, go to school or got to work,” she said. Violating those rules resulted in death.

Living under these conditions, Hesham said that women had no choice but to “stay at home and be afraid all the time.”

Whereas the Northern Alliance had only shut down schools, the Taliban went further and burned them down along with other buildings. They also confiscated and destroyed private electronics and entertainment media.

Entering Pakistan was difficult for Hesham and her family. In order to do so, the family had to first travel by foot for one to two hours to find a taxi to take them to Jalal, a city near Pakistan’s border.

They lived there for one month, after which Hesham said “we faced a lot of difficulties when crossing the border.”

Once the family finally did enter Pakistan, they took up residence in Islamabad, a northern city.

Hesham said that living there was “pretty much okay” but that there

was a “lack of jobs.” They lived there for seven years.

The Hesham family arrived in the United States two years ago by way of Hesham’s uncle, who lives in New York, sponsoring their entrance. In reaction to the tragedy of Sept. 11, Hesham said that she is “sad and in shock.”

Hesham said that “the thing I love about Annandale” is that even in light of the terrorist attacks, she has not been discriminated against.

She also wished that Americans “please don’t say that the Taliban is Afghan and hate Afghans” and that they “please not hate Muslims because of one Osama and the Taliban. Life has been so hard for [Afghans] already.”

Life, Hesham said, is “absolutely better” in the United States.

Afghanistan

Sara Dajani senior

13

14 aBlast

the

You Don’t Know JACK about Jack-O-Lanterns

Wednesday, October 24, 2001

How to carve Halloween pumpkins

Are pumpkins just a food?

Supplies Needed: Pumpkin, newspaper, bowl, spoon, knife, toothpick, pattern, candle and matches Band: Smashing Pumpkins Who’s the band?: Billy Corgan, Jimmy Chamberlain, D’Arcy and James Iha Popular CDs: Siamese Dream, Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness, Gish...

Sad news: The band broke up after about eight great years.

Supplies Needed: Pumpkin, knife, bowl and spoon

Supplies Needed: Pattern, toothpick and pumpkin

Step 2—Carve a large hole around the top of the

Step 3—Hold the pattern against the pumpkin, Use

newspapers. Now put the pumpkin and supplies out.

stem. Take the spoon and start scooping (put scraps in the bowl.

the toothpick to poke around the pattern to create an outline

Supplies Needed: Pumpkin and knife

Supplies Needed: candle, match and pumpkin

Supplies Needed: Your very frightening jack-o-lantern

Step 4—Remove the pattern. Take the knife and

Step 5—Are you having fun yet? Place a small

carve around the outline you created on the pumpkin.

Be careful!

candle (preferably a votive) in the center of the pumpkin. Light the candle (use a long match if possible) and be careful not to burn yourself.

Step 6—Carry the jack-o-lantern outside.

Step 1—This will be messy, so cover a table with

PHOTOS BY ABBY SEGALL

Movie: Pumpkin Head Starring: Lance Henriksen Description: An angry man goes to a witch so he can summon the Pumpkin Head demon in attempt to avenge his sons death.

Released: 1988

Don’t turnip your nose on pumpkins TV-Movie: It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown Description: Charlie and company are out celebrating Halloween as Linus goes to the pumpkin patch to watch for the Great Pumpkin to arise.

Released: 1996

Book: The Little Pumpkin Book Plot: About a brother and sister who go through an adventure while growing a pumpkin for Halloween.

Genre: Child’s fantasy

by Maggie Owner Staff Writer

What do turnips and pumpkins have to do with Halloween? Why do we carve out a squash before going trickor-treating? What possesses us to reach our hand into the gooey pit? The story of the jack-o-lantern all started with a man named Jack a few hundred years ago.

According to Irish mythology, Jack was a miserable old man who liked to play tricks on people.

One day he ran into the Devil.

Jack was able to trick him into climbing

up an apple tree for a piece of fruit.

When the Devil reached the top, Jack engraved crosses around the trunk.

Unable to get down, the Devil swore that he would not claim Jack's soul.

When Jack finally died, the Devil kept his promise and would not let him enter Hell. Yet when Jack was sent up to Heaven, he could not enter because his poor life was filled with drinking and playing tricks. Jack returned to the Devil and asked, Where can I go? the Devil replied, Back where you came from! Jack asked how he could leave as there was no light. The Devil then tossed him a live coal from the fire of Hell. Jack placed the burning coal in a turnip he had been eating to light his way back.

From that day on, Jack has roamed with his jack-o-lantern, searching for his resting place.

For hundreds of years on Halloween, the Irish have hollowed out

turnips, rutabagas, gourds, potatoes, and beets and placed a candle in them to keep away evil spirits. Villagers, fearful of the possibility of being visited by ghosts, would dress up in costumes to scare them away. They also hollowed out the turnips and other vegetables and carved faces into them, hoping that the image of a damned soul would scare the spirits away.

The Irish Potato Famine of 1845 to 1850 encouraged over 700,000 to immigrate to the Americas. With them, these people brought their traditions of Halloween and jack-o-lanterns, but turnips were not as available as they were back home. They found that the pumpkin was a more than sufficient replacement because it is bigger and easier to carve out. Now the pumpkin jack-o-lantern is one of the most famous symbols of Halloween.

REBECCA KRAUSHAAR

Pumpkin Pie

Spicy Pumpkin Cookies

Pumpkin Raisin Muffins

Ingredients: 1.5 cups cooked, strained pumpkin (or canned) 2/3 cup sugar 1/4 cup brown sugar 1.5 cups evaporated skim milk.

3 eggs 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon 1/8 teaspon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ginger 1 teaspoon grated orange peel 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 unbaked pie shell Directions: Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Mix the pumpkin, sugars, orange peel and spices into a large bowl. Next stir in the evaporated milk and eggs. Put the crust into a pie pan and scrape off excess crust. Pour the pumpkin filling into to pie shell and put it into the oven for about 15 minutes. Now reduce heat to 350 degrees and bake for 45 more minutes.

Ingredients: 1/4 cup butter 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup cooked (or canned) pumpkin 1 egg 1 cup flour 1/2 cup raisins 1/2 cup chopped almonds 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ginger 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup diced, candied orange peel Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Sift the flour, baking powderm cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg and salt into a large bowl. In another bowl beat the butter and sugar until fluffy. Now beat in the egg and pumpkin. Slowly stir in the flour mixture. After everything is mixed well, add in nuts, orange peel and raisins. Make round balls out of the dough and place them on a cookie sheet. Bake for twenty minutes.

Ingredients: 1 cup fresh or canned pumpkin 3 1/2 cups flour 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 1/4 cup 2% milk 1/4 cup butter 1 cup raisins 4 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon salt Directions: Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Put muffin cups into muffin tins or grease the tins. Cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Next beat the eggs and pumpkin into the mixture. Mix the raisins into half a cup of flour. Sift the remaining flour and spices together.

Pour the milk into a mixing bowl and add all the dry ingredients. Now stir the milk-flour mixture by hand until just mixed and stir in the raisins.

Spoon the mix into the muffin tin or paper cups and bake at for 20-25 minutes

Do you really know your pumpkin facts?

a

rts

a

tomic reactions

How do you decorate your Halloween pumpkin?

“Each year I use a different pattern. This year it’s a witch.”

—Meg Nelson freshman

“I go traditional. The traditional scary face.”

—April Brassard

More than one way to eat a pumpkin

Q—What is the world record for the largest pumpkin?

A-—1262 pounds Q—What is the record time a person has carved a pumpkin?

A—Fourteen seconds by elementary school teacher Steve Clarke

Beware of jealous neighbors and have a happy Halloween!

Q—Have pumpkins ever been used for anything except for food?

A—Yes. In the past they were used to cure snake bites and remove freckles.

Q—Where do pumpkins come from?

A-—Central America

Q—Where are pumpkins on the food pyramid?

A—Contrary to belief, pumpkins are a fruit not a vegetable.

Q— How did the pumpkin get its name?

A—It originated from the Greek word, “pepon” or “large melon.”

sophomore

“I cut it up and make a mean face. My family gets five pumpkins each year.”

—Joshua Buzzell junior

“I make a big afro. I have this wig and I put on a goatee to make him look like a guy from the 70s. I call him Pimp-Halo.”

—Nick Dulo senior

“My husband and I carve pumpkins for Halloween, and they are always different. Sometimes they’re cartoon pumpkins because my husband likes that, but we carve and watch the Charlie Brown Halloween Special.”

—Niki Holmes English teacher

Are students at AHS seeing double or are their just twins in the air?

With over 10 sets of twos walking the halls, Annandale boasts a proud twin population

By Saman Hussain and Wala’a Elbarasse Staff Writers

“How did that guy just change his clothes?” said Sami Alghamdi, a new sophomore at AHS. Passing by was senior Timothy Greer. Just two minutes earlier, his twin, Christopher Greer had strolled by.

Alghamdi was unaware of the fact that he had just come across one of the few pairs of identical twins at our school.

The two brothers came into this world just minutes apart from each other. Tim, being the older one, considers himself more mature and responsible. He’s the more talkative and rambunctious twin.

“Tim’s loud because he has a lot of anger filled up in him, so he talks more. I’m more calm,” said Chris.

Same height, blonde hair and piercing blue eyes, the Greer twins are mirror images of each other.

“Tim and I look alike so we always get confused. That’s the bad part about it [being twins],” said Chris.

Appearances however, can be deceiving. Just because the two look alike doesn’t mean they share the same personalities.

“We’re different. Chris is a better dancer than me but I’m a better athlete even though he tries to act like he’s better,” said Tim. As far as popularity is concerned, Tim has the opinion that “when people look at the Greer twins, they look at Tim being the more popular twin, which is obviously me,” said Tim. “Both of us get along well. Tim is my best friend because our whole life, we’ve always been

AHS DOUBLES • Megan and Morgan Barr • Nicole and Victoria Barrentine • Jaron and Lashonda Brown • Elisa and Maggie Conteh • Chris and Tim Greer • Matthew and Stephanie Halkyard • Abbas and Alusine Kandah • Azza and Motaz Masoud • Anthony and Monica Ortiz • Christina and Helena Rhee • Daniela and Danitza Rosas • Leah and Shelley Selim • Esra and Mahelet Tilaye

WALA’A ELBARASSE

Back row: Azza Masoud, Chris Greer, Elise Conteh and Monica Ortiz. Front row: Moataz Masoud, Tim Greer, Maggie Conteh and Anthony Ortiz. These were only four out of 13 pairs of twins at AHS.

together...we have the same group of friends and play the same sports,” said Chris. One of Chris’ strong points is being able to excel in academics and at the same time maintain consistency on the track field. “In school I’m better. My grades are better, but on the SATs Tim did a little bit better than me,” said Chris. All in all, the Greer twins thoroughly enjoy their unique experience being brought up as identical twins.

“I wouldn’t want it any other way because I can’t imagine him not always being there for me,” said Chris. “The best part about being a twin is that you always have someone to be with. If I wanna play nintendo I don’t have to call one of my friends to play with. All I have to do is call upstairs and say, ‘Hey Tim, come down and play nintendo with me.’”

Another pair of identical twins are Maggie and Elisa Conteh.

Originally from Germany, the two sisters made their journey to America two years ago. Unlike others, they did not have to worry about having no one to talk to on the first day of school or sitting alone at lunch. “In the beginning people usually don’t have friends, but we didn’t have to worry about

that. We had each other,” said Maggie. They enjoy the privilege of being twins by sharing clothes, shoes, cosmetics, secrets, the same

f I want to play nintendo I don’t have to call one of my friends to play with. All I have to Chris Greer do is call upstairs senior and say, ‘Hey Tim come down and play

i

taste in music and hanging out with the same group of friends. The two sisters can always depend on each other and consider themselves to be the closest of friends. “Our friendship always comes first. We would never sacrifice our friendship over a guy or anything stupid like that,” said Elisa.

“For some reason people think twins have to be identical. When I tell people that I have a twin they don’t believe me because they say that they haven’t ever seen anyone who looks exactly like me at

school,” said Monica Ortiz. Monica and Anthony Ortiz are faternal twins. Monica was born two minutes before Anthony, but she feels that Anthony is the more responsible twin. “I take studies more seriously than Monica but we both try equally hard,” said Anthony. Both of them get along quite well and barely ever have any serious fights. “I am closer to him than any other person,” said Monica, “Both of us share little dumb secrets with each other once in a while.”

However, both feel that they are totally different people. “We were born as a boy and girl, but we live our close, yet separate lives,” said Monica. “People expect us to do things and feel the same way 24/7 just because we’re twins. I don’t think that’s how it really is,” said Anthony. Both of their friends sometimes amuse themselves by cracking “twin jokes.” “People playfully tease us saying ‘Where’s your other half? Can’t you teleport your thoughts to him?’” said Monica.

Azza and Moataz Masoud are a relatively new pair of faternal twins who switched schools from T.C. Williams at the beginning of the school year and are now juniors at AHS. Moataz is more on the athletic side. He enjoys basketball, football and soccer but is also fond of playing video games. “We have more differences than similarities and I think that’s because we are of different genders. He’s a guy and likes the usual guy stuff while I like shopping, traveling and hanging out with friends,” said Azza.

Despite their differences, they consider themselves to be good friends. “Whenever I look at her it seems as if I’m looking at myself...except that she’s a female version of me. But overall it’s fun because I have someone I can relate to,” said Moataz.

“It’s a fun experience being twins. Sometimes people think Azza’s my girlfriend or they’re like you should go out with her, because you look exactly like her... and I’m like ‘she’s my sister!’”

profiles

Twins: double trouble or double joy?

aBlast

the

Wednesday, October 24, 2001

OTHER NOTABLES

NADYA COURTNEY HAND Grade: 10 Hobbies: Cello, writing, painting, drama, reading and song writing Special deed: Awarded Volunteer of the Quarter from the American Red Cross and the “Editor’s Choice Award” from Poetry.com for a submitted poem.

What do you think is the best or worst part about being a twin?

Quote: “Writing is the only place I can express my thoughts and not be afraid of what anyone else will say. I can complain, laugh, cry or backstab and no one will care.”

“The best thing is that we have our birthdays on the same day.”

—Moataz Masoud

“The best thing is you always have somebody there for you to take your back.”

“You always have someone to help you with homework. If you have the same class you can do it together.”

—Tim Greer

“I think it is the worst part because I don’t get all of the attention.”

—Azza Masoud

“You always have a friend. You’re never lonely.”

juniors

—Chris Greer seniors

“If you’re alone somewhere or you’re lonely you always have your twin. ” —Eliza Conteh

—Anthony Ortiz

“If I forget a book he will have it.

And if I have trouble with something he will help me out.”

“The bad part is that people think that you’re like your twin.”

—Margaritta Conteh juniors

—Monica Ortiz juniors

GEORDIE CAMPBELL Grade: 12 Hobbies: White water kayaking, theatre and climbing

Security Assistant tells of 15 years with students

RICHARD MCCORMACK

Aubrey Merchant sifts through the lost and found periodically and gives the old clothing to the Salvation Army. Articles of clothing are kept in the security office across from the cafeteria.

I enjoy this job. I had my own automotive business for thirty years and after I retired for a year and a half, I needed something else to do. I had a brother-in-law that was working here and he said he needed somebody over here so I decided to come to AHS and work.

And I must’ve liked my job because I’ve been here 15 years, working on 16.

There’s been a big change from when I started until now, but I think that’s due to the different nationalities of kids coming into the school. We still have some fights and things. We have a lot of other things happening now that we didn’t have happening back then.

There were more fights when I first started. But now I think it’s peaking off again. I think we’re back down to the same level that we used to be. We’ve educated the kids to let them know that we’re not going to stand for that kind of behavior and I think it’s coming back down.

We still have a majority of the students who want to learn, they want to come to school, attend their classes, but you’re always going to have part of the kids that don’t want to go to school and don’t want to learn. You’ve got to realize that we’ve got almost 24 hundred students here so we’re bound to have a difference of how kids deal with their education.

When I started out I was an

TALKING UT O AB MYSELF

By Aubrey Merchant awareness aid, I just walked the halls and monitored the kids. I would catch kids for smoking. But like any job you come along, they’ll [the employers] add something else for you to do. I wasn’t here very long when I took on the pass room.

That was an in-school suspension.

The kids sat in the classroom and they stayed there all day. That required getting work for them to do in the classrooms. That job was the same as being a teacher, you had to watch them all day and give them assignments. When we added another awareness aid, I had help in there, I didn’t have to stay in there all day.

Lost and found speaks for itself.

The kids lose stuff. They turn it in to me and if it has a name in their book bag or on their book, we give it back to them. If it doesn’t have their name on it, it stays with us and if they come looking for it we give it to them. We only have to keep lost articles of clothing for 30 days, after 30 days if they haven’t

gotten there sweatshirts or gym stuff, we just give it in to the salvation army. Sometimes people lose cameras. We have very expensive cameras in cases. They usually come back and get that type of stuff. Kids usually lose walkmans, gym clothes, jackets, scarves, dresses and things like that. Kids will wear something to school for a special day and then they take it off and put it aside and it gets left and lost.

I moved up from being an awareness aid to a security assistant because they needed more security in the building.

Instead of someone walking in the halls, they needed more people in the school with more eyes on kids, someone to deal with the kids, pay attention.

I’m head of the lost and found but KW and Kenny still turn stuff in. They have the same job as I do.

I’m not over them and they’re not over me. I think we have a good team here. I think we probably have a better safety and security here then in any other high school in Fairfax County.

There were more fights when I first started. But now I think it’s peaking off again. I think we’re back down to the same level that we used to be.

Special deed: Director of the winning Class Acts play, Stage Manager for 42nd Street, one of the lead males and Set Master for the Miracle Worker.

Quote: “I’d love to take full credit for success of Senior Class Acts but if it weren’t for my cast, we’d never have pulled it off as well as we did.

Thank you guys.”

15

sports

Field Hockey rams into regionals Rob Payne Staff Writer

The Atoms are riding a fourgame winning streak into the regional tournament and are gearing up for regionals. The girls will be enter the regional tournament Thursday of this week.

They are scheduled to play Oakton at Oakton in the first round of the Northern Region Tournament. The team will be entering the tournament as the number two seed from the Patriot District behind only Lake Braddock who is seeded first.

Rounding out their amazing season, the field hockey team finished up the regular season with a 10-3-1 overall record and a 8-3 district record. The Atoms ended their season with a four game winning streak, beating Hayfield, West Springfield, West Potomac, and Robinson.

“Our regular season went really well. The team worked really well together on and off the field,” said senior Laura Massie, “The best regular season game we had this was on our Senior Night against West Potomac. We were really fired up about the game and everyone played with a lot of heart. Our second best game would be against Lake Braddock because we went into overtime with them. We definitely gave them a run for their money even though we lost.”

The team had suffered three consecutive losses mid season.

A 2-3 loss to West Potomac in overtime, 1-2 loss to number one seeded Lake Braddock and a 1-2

regional play.

“I’m excited and looking forward to the regional tournament this Thursday. I think that Oakton has a similar style of hockey as us. Although I give us an advantage because we have advantages in experience, speed, team work, and an overall will to win,” said Hook. “Most of our players have already played in a regional tournament before, they know what it is like and they know what they have to do.”

Standing out at the end of the regular season is senior goal keeper Jenny Beam. Beam is ` one of the leading goalies in the area and currently is holding an impressive record of 99 saves out of 125 shots, giving her an 88% save ratio. Beam has only allowed 12 goals for the season as well as having 6 shutouts.

Leading the team in scoring this season is senior Natalie Parcell with 7 goals and 1 assist. Senior Melanie Bartnek is leading the team in assists with 5 assists and 1 goal for the season. The Atoms for the season have scored 35 goals against their opponents.

When the Atoms go up against Oakton in the first round of regionals they will be going into the tournament with a host of returning players who are veterans of regional play.

CHRIS HOGEBOOM

Juniors Riana Bovill and Lindsay Grant scuffle for the ball in practice, in preparation for their regional match at Oakton.

double overtime loss to T.C. Williams.

“I would say that we had a tough week against Lake Braddock, T.C. and West Potomac; but the team rebounded extremely well to finish out the season with four straight wins,” said Head Coach Cindy Hook.

“Three of which were shutouts.”

“Our team has great potential,

not only to win regionals but to do well at states. Our team may not be overly skilled in any one position but we have all the basic components,” said Massie. “We have the complete package.”

When the Atoms go up against Oakton in the first round of regionals they will be going into the tournament with a host of returning who are veterans of

Stars of Fall sports

KRISTIEMOORE

Senior Nick Crowley, the leading receiver this year for the Atoms.

Q & A: Would the real Orlando Roa please stand up

Name: Nick Crowley Grade: 12

played tailback, defensive guard, and linebacker. I was defensive player of the year and played in the all-star game.”

Ryan Croft and Christopher Bagot Sports Editors

After transferring from Marshall before his junior year, senior running back Orlando Roa busted onto the Annandale football scene by compiling a 991-yard rushing season in his first season for the Atoms.

Spotlight Athlete

Sport: Varsity Football Position (s): Free Safety, linebacker and wide receiver

Q: After rushing for nearly 1,000 yards last year, how did you feel playing defense at the start of the season?

Notable Achievements: varsity soccer player

“I liked it since I could do something about them At the start of the season, Roa was moved to strong [opponent] scoring instead of safety to bolster the defense. While standing on the sidelines and hoping his positions have changed, his the other team doesn’t score [on us].” value to the team has not. like all the coaches, but Q: What are your expectation for Recently, after an injury sideCoach Caryiannis is my this year’s varsity team? lined starting one of the region’s favorite coach because he is a “I think we will have a winning premier running backs, junior funny, easy-going coach. He has season. We’ve improved a lot since Monte Moyer, Roa stepped up in last year.” nicknames for me like ‘Bloa’. and the offense barely missed a beat. In two games as a starter, he —Orlando Roa Q: What is the hardest part about has rushed for 212 yards on 52 senior playing your positions during carries (4.1 yards per carry) and the game? (RB, SS) scored 5 touchdowns. Please meet, “The hardest thing about running back is fatigue. I got Orlando Roa: real tired last year against Madison and this year against Q: When did you first start playing football?

West Potomac. The hardest thing about strong safety is reading my progressions. You have to react to what you “I first played football on a team for the James Lee read.”

Razorbacks in Falls Church when I was 12 years old. I

Coach Quote: “Nick Crowley does it all.

He’s an old time player who plays every down like it’s his last and never complains or get injured. He is an all around great kid.”

-Coach Jamie Caryiannis

i

Personal (GPA, volunteer, job): Nick carries a 3.5 GPA and is in the National and Spanish Honor Societies. He also lifeguards in the summer. Nick has played the piano and frequently attends practice and recitals.

Q: Which is your favorite football coach and why?

Grad excels at UVA

“I like all the coaches, but Coach [Jamie] Caryiannis is my favorite coach because he is a funny, easy-going coach. He has nicknames for me like ‘Bloa’.”

Ryan Croft Sports Editor

Q: What goes through your mind right before each hand off?

On October 10th, UVA head lacrosse Coach Dom Starsia announced that 1998 AHS graduate Eric Leibowitz was one of the three captains selected by his teammates. Leibowitz joins perennial All-Americans Connor Gill and Mark Koontz as the elite three captains for their spring season.

As a considerable force on the 1997 state championship lacrosse team and an All-American his senior year, Leibowitz has represented Annandale well at UVA. He is a three-time letter winner and was a spark off the bench for the Cavaliers last season scoring two goals in seven games. Next season, he will challenge for more playing time. Also, Lebowitz won the Lawrie Riggs Award for commitment and citizenship for the 2001 Lacrosse season.

- information was received from the UVA athletics web site

Frosh Football

Key freshman football contributor James Huff.

Coaches: Bill Maglisceau, Mike Brown, Nicky Cavalero Record: 0-5 Result of Last Game: 20-0 loss to Oakton Player of the Game: James Huff Strengths during the game: played great defense, better offense Next Opponent: at Lake Braddock, Thursday @ 6:00 Goal for next opponent: beat LB “no matter what” Coach’s Quote: “We look to beat Lake Braddock and hope to end the season with two good wins.” - said Coach Maglisceau

“I think about where I’m supposed to go or do.”

Q: How does it feel having some of the region’s top runners coming at you every week when you play strong safety?

“It makes me want to work harder.”

Q: What do you do to get ready for the game ahead (eating, dress, locker room rituals or superstitions)?

“I eat dinner with my team and watch films of games that coach Adams has. Then I heat my quads, then get dressed. Last I go to the ‘pit’ and we have a walk through.”

Q: Do you have any plans to play football in college?

“Yes, I’m hoping to play football in college. I would like to play Division I but will play anywhere I can.”

CHRIS HOGEBOOM

Senior Orlando Roa, who ran for nearly 1,000 yards in 2000, started the season at free safety and after a crucial injury to Monte Moyer, he now plays on offense and defense.

Atomic Athletics: An update of Freshmen and JV sports JV Football

Junior varsity standout Andy McQuillen.

Coaches: Mike Scott, Marshall Jefferson Record: 0-5 Result of Last Game: 17-0 loss to Oakton Player of the Game: Andy McQuillen Strengths during the game: defense Next Opponent: at Lake Braddock, tomorrow @ 7:30 Goal for next opponent: always to win, play well Coach’s Quote: “I think they’ll do fine and they’re hungry for a win.” - said Coach Jefferson

JV Field Hockey

Junior captain Crystan Blanco.

Coaches: Katie Stribling Record: 0-6-5 Result of Last Game: 0-0 tie, West Potomac Player of the Game: Crystan Blanco Strengths during the game: passing, teamwork Next Opponent: season has ended Coach’s Quote: “The season went pretty well. There were a lot of close games that could have gone either way.”

-said Coach Stribling

JV Volleyball

Sophomore standout Katherine Keast.

Coaches: Joel Jepson Record: 3-7 Result of Last Game: coach unsure Player of the Game: Katherine Strengths during the game: fundamentals, serves, returns Next Opponent: tomorrow at Lake Braddock @ 5:30 Goal for next opponent: play together as a team Coach’s Quote: “We’re late bloomers.” -said Coach Jepson

Frosh Field Hockey

aBlast

the

Freshman field hockey standout Megan Berry.

Coaches: Jackie Mayhugh, Kelly Ecklund Record: 0-3 Result of Last Game: 3-1 loss to Chantilly Player of the Game: Megan Berry Strengths during the game: drives, passes and shooting Next Opponent: questionable, not sure if the season is over Coach’s Quote: “They have improved a lot with stick skills and player skills.” said Coach Ecklund

—INFORMATION AND PHOTOS COLLECTED

BY KRISTIE MOORE

Wednesday, October 24, 2001

17

18 aBlast

the

Wednesday, October 24, 2001

MORE INTERESTING SHOWS ON T.V On W.B Monday: * 7th Heaven —8:00 p.m * Angel—9:00 p.m Tuesday: * Gilmore Girls—8:00 p.m * Smallville—9:00 p.m Wednesday: * Dawson’s Creek—8:00 p.m * Felicity—9:00 p.m Thrusday: * Popstars II—8:00 p.m * Eliminate Date Deluxe— 8:30 p.m * Charmed—9:00 p.m

Hispanic-Americans showcased in entertainment

by Alejandro Salinas Staff Writer

When you think of leading actors, what comes to mind? not a Hispanic actor.

Hispanic presence in the United States is a growing factor. According to the 2000 census data, Hispanics make up 12% of the national population and represent the fastest growing minority in the U.S. Despite the growing numbers, the presence in television, music and films are almost null.

While it is true that Hispanics are making big progress in the music business with the “latino boom,” the same cannot be said about television and movies. In film and television Hispanics are being stereotyped or portrayed in negatively valued roles that not only suggest that the race is not worthy of attention, but also that they are not worthy of respect.

Hispanics in television The race represents only 2% of prime time television population and the representation has actually decreased since 1999. While teenagers see diversity in communities, school and family life, the reflection on T.V is either microscopic of simply not visible. In addition, when we do see Hispanics in prime time, are they portrayed in a respectful manner?

Some might argue on this.

“Hispanics are not represented sufficiently in T.V., and the few times we are it is as low-status immigrants or non-educated people,” said senior

Friday: * Sabrina the Teenage Witch—8:00 p.m * Maybe It’s Me—8:30 p.m * Reba—9:00 p.m * Raising Dad—9:30 p.m

by Jessica Reyes Entertainment Editor

Monday: * King of Queens—8:00 p.m * Yes, dear—8:30 p.m

Wednesday: * Amazing Race—9:00 p.m Thursday: * Survivor—8:00 p.m * CSI–9:00 p.m Friday: * Ellen—8:00 p.m * That’s Life—9:00 p.m Saturday: *Citizen Baines—9:00 p.m

What separates this from other movies is the acting along with the well delivered dialogue.

In the busy streets of Manhattan, five days before Christmas, two strangers shop, unaware that within time they will collide. Starring John Cusack as Jonathan and Kate Beskinsale as Sara, Serendipity takes off on a good foot. They add so much more to the simple story line of the old fashioned romantic comedy.

Here’s how the story goes: Jonathan and Sara engage in one moment while both reaching for the same, last pair of cashmere gloves.

They have slight conflict deciding who will get to keep the gloves. Jonathan gives in and lets Sara take them. To show her gratitude, Sara buys him coffee at her favorite bakery called Serendipity.

Soon after they go their separate ways, not knowing that they will bump into each other again. When they do, spontaneously they decide to go ice skating and end up having an incredible evening. John has the courage to ask for Sara’s telephone number, and in an attempt to hand her a piece of paper the wind blows it away. To this Sara says that she will write her telephone number inside of a book and sell it to a used book store the next day.

She is a firm believer in fate and believes that if it’s meant to be than he will find the book someday. And he, in return, writes his number on a five dollar bill. They then play a game that tests fate, as they get into to different elevators and hope to both land on the same floor. Complications arise.

Few years later they are at the point of getting married to other people, but come back and remember the enchanted night that they shared.

The viewer can clearly predict what will happen next.

Scorpio

H o r o s c o p e s

e

ntertainment

Karen Siles.

Recent studies made by the National Hispanic Foundation for the Arts show that in many occasions latino characters have been portrayed as “sexy” or symboled as prostitutes and that only one character was played as professional. Latino roles in T.V. and film include maids, criminals, students and nurses. A perfect example of bitter sweet feelings is Benicio del Toro Oscar nomination and winning for his role in “Traffic.”

Although it is praiseworthy for a Hispanic to win an Oscar, “Traffic” portrayed Hispanics, specifically Mexicans, as nothing more that drug dealers and corrupt police officers. The Hispanic population only wants to be

viewed as more than mere delinquents. The ultimate goal is to obtain better roles and to change the portrayals of the race.

Hispanics in Music Many critics and audiences around the world give credit to Ricky Martin and Jennifer Lopez for starting the “Latino Invasion,” but this could not differ more from the truth. Latino influence in general has been present since America’s effort years ago and its musical presence featured throughout the 20th century with Xavier Cugat in the ‘30s, Tito Puente in the ‘70s salsa craze and Carlos Santana and Gloria Estefan in the ‘80s.

However, no decade has seen such a variety of Latino musicians going

Crazy/Beautiful stars Jay Hernandez, who has the leading role with Kristin Dustin

Jennifer Lopez, who stars as Selena in the feature film of the same name.

Ricky Ricardo from the hit I Love Lucy.

Splendid ‘Serendipity’ Concert ‘unites’ audience

On CBS

Tuesday: * Jag—8:00 p.m

Desi Arnez, of the I Love Lucy show, was one of the most prominent Hispanic Actors.

platinum and topping charts. It is important to recognize that while Ricky Martin didn’t start the Hispanic music influence in the U.S he is responsible for igniting a bigger focus of the media towards it. Other artists who have successfully “crossed-over” include Marc Anthony, Enrique Iglesias and most recently Shakira.

“Thanks to these artists, Hispanics are being represented more, before there were very few and we didn’t get as much attention,” said Siles.

According to the Recording Industry Association of America, latin music sales have been growing for the past three years. Suddenly producers, media and conglomerates are now paying attention to a market viewed as unprojectable.

“Because lately Hispanics have been in the music industry, that shows progress,” said senior Saul Cruz.

However, this attention and media coverage has caused some of the deeper issues regarding Latino representation in music to be put aside. One of the many interrogations to the “latin boom” is the doubting of whether the music is really Latino music or just pop and rock with some flamenco` or a corga drum.

Statistics show that 11,340,000 of the U.S population sees Latinos as “lacking ambition and the drive to succeed.”

“Because the people in entertainment are portrayed as non-educated, some people judge us based on that,” said junior Jorge Arias.

se-

Capricorn Dec. 22-Jan. 19 You are not looking at the entire picture.

Don’t make assumptions on judgement.

Rethink your actions, especially around this time.

Cancer native will play role.

Aquarius

comedian and clumsiness within her are visible.

What separates this MOVIE RATING from other movies is the acting along with the welldelivered John Cusack and dialoge. Director Kate Beckinsale Peter Chelsom shine through knew what he was doing when he assembled this cast; they add a spark to the plot.

It’s original, yet at the same time outstanding. This simple romantic comedy can have different effects; you might either leave the theater believing in fate, or sickened by one more happily-ever after movie. If you like films like Sleepless in Seattle,then you’ll be satisfied; otherwise, don’t waste your money.

B

Feb. 19-March 20

Focus on family and friends, you need them around this time. If you need help don’t be afraid to ask for it.

Luck rides with you. ,

Nov.22-Dec. 21

Take initiative to what is important to you. A family member has a secret to reveal. Be prepared and patient. Don’t take the information gathered too riously.

John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale during their enchanted night.

Pisces

Oct. 23-Nov.21

Watch out for unexpected occurrences and an unexpected visit.

You will be at right place at right time.

Lucky number is 3.

Sagittarius

This is what gives the plot a bad rating, yet the actors come to overpower. Cusack and Beskinsale have amazing chemistry that shines through the screen. Molly Shannon is also part of the casting, which makes it even better. She plays Eve, Sara’s disapproving best friend. As in most movies that Shannon plays in, the

Jan. 20-Feb. 18

You will finally get all the answers that you’ve been meaning to find. Be patient and don’t overreact.

Tonight you will reacquaint with a long lost relative or friend.

Aries

March 21-April 19

Lately you’ve been feeling stressed out because you want to get it all done. Take things slowly. The more you panic, the harder the job will become. Lucky number is 4.

by Jessica Reyes Entertainment Editor

Destiny’s Child, P. Diddy and Bette Midler. Also guest starring Chris Tucker and Maculay Culkin.

The Backstreet Boys started off the show by singing a Capella of the “Star Spangled Banner” and then hyping up the audience with songs from their album Black and Blue.

Most of the songs that were

On Sunday, Oct. 21 many demonstrated how they felt about the horrific attacks on Sept.11. Artists of all kinds came to perform at the RFK stadium with the idea of raising money and giving the proceedings to organizations that help the victims and their families; such as the American Red Cross Liberty Fund, the Salvation Army Relief Fund, the Pentagon Relief Fund and the Rewards for Justice Fund. The concert was titled United We Stand: What More Can I Give?

Throughout the show people continued entering the RFK stadium the crowd became overloaded and it was more than oblivious how one RFK stadium was the site of the United We tragic moment had bought people Stand benefit concert. together.

The concert was sold out, as 46,000 performed were said to be sad or songs tickets were purchased for the nine of hope. Every performer added a hour concert. Over $2 million was different kind of spice to the day. expected to be raised.

“When it comes to the time of being According to senior Supachai together the United States gathers to Papee, the concert began at 1:30 pm show pride,” said sophomore Tony and ended at 1:00 a.m. He stayed for Calderon. the entire show and claims that he Many wore tee-shirts and jackets was “pumped-up and didn’t get tired.” embroidered with stars and strips and “The music was great and I had some wore shirts that read NYFD, four giant Pepsi, so I was definitely from the New York Fire Department. pumped,” said Papee. He said that he Towards the end of the day fans spent over $200 in food and souvenirs. were left only begging for more as the The RFK stadium displayed show wrapped up with Michael patriostism in every corner and as Jackson singing a song that he wrote guest entered they were given an specifically for this concert.

All the American flag. Souvenirs that were artists of the day joined in as well. sold also were displaying the American “Backstreet Boys, P.Diddy and pride and money raised was to also be Areosmith rocked the house,” said given to the organizations.

Papee.

“As I looked around I saw that This concert was broadcast on some everyone was united,” said Papee. radio stations for those who could not Performers for the day were: go to the RFK stadium. Parts of the Backstreet Boys, Krystal, Areosmith, show will be televised on ABC, Nov. 1 Michael Jackson, James Brown, Carole King, Mariah Carey, N’Sync,

Cancer

June21-July22

Let go of preconceived notions.

Good results yet to come. Be around those who are dear to you. A Pisces will figure prominently. Make plans to dine tonight.

Leo July 23-Aug. 22 Stay focused and look behind the scenes. There are many choices for you to choose. Many want to be with you. Pay attention to a Taurus native.

Cooch and Croft’s

Top 10 Top Ten Places where Dick Cheney could be hiding:

10. A hospital 9. He’s not, he lost weight, ok?

8. At the Old Country buffet

Taurus April 20-May 20 Don’t procrastinate or you’ll find yourself moody around people.

Think about the feelings of others before you act upon you thoughts. Wear red tonight.

Gemini

May 21-June 20

You will discover some interesting news. Use this to your advantage. A Leo will play prominent role throughout the day. A surprise will await you at home.

Virgo

Aug. 23-Sept. 22

What you’ve always wanted and needed in front of you. Don’t pretend it’s not there and don’t take advantage of those close to you. A Cancer native has something to tell you.

Libra

Sept. 23-Oct.22

You will be asked questions concerning relationships. Make up your mind about what truly matters to you. Sagittarius plays throughout your day.

7. He was seen “approaching” people at Ossian Park . . .

6. In a cave in Afghanistan with Osama bin Ladin 5. Next to Chandra Levy 4. In jail after his cardiac arrest 3. He was promoted to Vice President (of Arby’s) 2. Planning to challenge Michael Jordan for the starting position of the Wizards 1. Six feet under

High-flying fight sequences along with breath taking special effects have allowed a new trend to be formed within the action genre

by Rachel Jones Staff Writer

Movies with well choreographed fight scenes and using amazing body movements are replacing movies that focus on big guns and explosions in the action genre. Movies choreographed by Yuen Wo Ping and others have become the latest trend, and found their way into many none traditional “martial arts” films and have made a whole new audience.

Movies with choreographed fight scenes have become mainstream since The Matrix was released in 1999. The Matrix won four Academy Awards and made $170 million in the box office.

The Matrix was soon followed by Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, which was released in 2000 and also won four Academy Awards. Recent movies that follow the “beat ‘em up” theme are Charlie’s Angels, The Musketeer and Iron Monkey. These movies traditionally have good versus evil plots, where the bad guys lose.

The Matrix is not the old Bruce Lee style movie, which focuses on traditional karate; it relies more on special effects and technology. “The Matrix is amazing with the special effects. You don’t see that kind of martial arts in many films,” said junior Vincent Keung, “I like his [Yen Wo Ping’s] work.”

Viewers are looking for action in the fighting aspects of these movies.

Junior Bridget Agresti said, “I like how

they mix special effects and the action and the fighting.” For some people the special effects and detailed plots take too much away from the action and excitement. “It [Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon] was all right but it didn’t have enough action for me,” said junior Jake McIntyre.

Long before The Matrix made highflying fight scenes popular, there were martial arts films that were similiar. Iron Monkey is part of a series that follows the character Wong FeiHung and is the prequel to Once Upon a Time in China. Iron Monkey was directed by Yuen Wo Ping, who choreographed The Matrix and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Iron Monkey’s choreographer also worked on The Musketeer.

Using specially choreographed fight scenes goes beyond traditional plots and settings. The Musketeer is a retelling of the three musketeers story with a unique blend of fighting and flying. “I like the twist between karate and the old style musketeers,” said junior Robert Edwards. The “twist” does not work for everyone: “The Musketeer was fake; the fighting scenes just don’t fit with the plot,” said Keung.

Charlie’s Angels, which also uses well choreographed fight scenes, especially appeals to girls. “It’s different because the girls get to be the major heroes, it has girl power,” said junior Itzel Perez.

Some people find the unrealistic actions too fake or unbelievable.

“Crouching Tiger was weak, even though they were both unrealistic,” said McIntyre “It worked better in The Matrix, people just don’t fly around like that.” The unrealistic aspect is what some people like though. “Martial arts movies are corny, in a funny way though,” said Erik Rooney.

With the popularity of these new style fighting movies there are sure to be more to come such as Jet Li’s The One.

Bandits has so much to offer. It is by far the funniest and most creative movie about bank robbers. Besides that it is one of the funniest and most creative movies of at least this past year, maybe even longer.

Bandits stars two veteran actors, however they are not necessarily known for giving stellar comedic performances. Bruce Willis plays Joe Blake, the strong robber of the duo of bank robbers, and Billy Bob Thorton plays Terry Collins, the smarter, and itchier robber of the duo. Willis is best known during the 90s as an action star such as in the Die Hard series, however his character shines brightly in Bandits. Thorton, on the other hand, is best known for the drama genre, mainly mediocre films, however this is definitely his best movie ever and he is very funny in it.

The movie begins with the two in the middle of what appears to be a failed robbery because the FBI and Los Angeles Police have the bank completely surrounded. Ironically, the bank’s name is the Alamo. Soon that scene ends and the flashback begins, and we see just how they got in their interesting predicament. Their story begins in the Oregon Penitentiary Facility, where the two met, and Joe decides he will hijack a cement truck that was busy renovating the prison.

Naturally his partner joins him and

they break out.

The two embark on a journey of robbing banks to gain money to fund their dream of buying a restaurant and turning it into a nightclub in Mexico. To avoid getting caught during their venture they devise a new system of bank robbery. Kidnap the bank manager the night before, and rob the bank in the morning, thus giving them the nickname around the country: the Sleep Over Bandits. This system would work perfectly, except after every robbery they split up for two weeks before the next robbery, but this time Terry accidentally brings a girl along. Now with a hostage their plans change. These plans change even more when the two both fall in love MOVIE RATING BANDITS with her, Kate Wheeler (Cate Blanchett).

Joe is at times very stern.

Very creative, with Terry is very hilarious creative, but performanes suffers from many absurd phobias and believes he has many diseases. Every time he learns of a disease he believes he is developing symptoms of this disease, which naturally leads to many hysterical moments. Kate comes on this journey because she “doesn’t think she should be alone right now” and is manicdepressive. Also with the group is Joe’s

A

Corny Romano

Bruce Willis and Cate Blanchett stuck in the same bed with a curtain as a divider, because she is their hostage but doesn’t appear to be hostile, so Willis trusts her in the same bed.

below average cousin who becomes their getaway driver, which also allows for more hilarity.

In its opening week at the box office, Bandits placed second and promises to continue to make more money. However, no sequel is likely to come, though this is one of those films where you would like to see the characters in action again. The characters of Bandits stand and if there is no sequel, these actors should play similiar roles in future movies, especially Thorton.

Bandits combines a really funny script, with a creative concept, with a dysfunctional love story, and some nice action scenes. Ordinarily creating a movie combining all of those aspects would seem hard to do and might result in disaster. However, Bandits is the exception. A little slow at times but overall hilarious and very enjoyable. It is a nice change of pace for both Willis and Thorton.

Corky Romano: you can’t help but love him.

The latest movie by SNL’s comedian Chris Kattan, his previous movies include A Night at the Roxbury and House on Haunted Hill

Kattan as the goofy, reckless character Corky Romano.

The stars of Bandits, Bruce Willis and Billy Bob Thorton, arguing over whether they should keep their hostage.

Bruce Willis and Billy Bob Thorton arguing over who gets to have their love, Cate Blanchett.

Guitar students meet Bono, U2 at MCI Center

TOP: Main character of Iron Monkey, fighting despite the fire. Iron Monkey was directed by the fight choreographer of The Matrix and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

BOTTOM: Main character of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, flying between assailents and simultaneously kicking them during a daring escape. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon had the same choreographer as The Matrix.

LEFT: The stars of The Matrix posing. The Matrix was one the first science fiction martial arts movies.

New releases on video and DVD:

Bandits steals the big screen

by Mike Mahn Entertainment Editor

entertainment

Kung Fu films beat up box office

OCTOBER 30

by Kathy Saupp Staff Writer

Corky Romano: the youngest child of Pops Romano, a mafia boss who is being investigated by the FBI for kidnapping and murder. In order to uncover what the FBI knows about their family business, Pops sends his very non-mafia son Corky undercover at the FBI. This is where things go bad.

Corky’s by-the-seat-of-his-pants access into the FBI office raised serious questions to me about the relevance of the story. However, anyone could analyze the faults in this plot, they are so obvious. Maybe that is the way they are meant to be.

However, it takes a very objective person to realize that the storyline is not what is important here. This movie is about Corky.

From the moment he speeds onto the screen in his wee orange MOVIE RATING convertible,with CORKY ROMANO Take on Me by obsolete 80’s band Aha blaring, it is quite obvious that this is not just Chris Kattan gives another silly a funny performovie. Chris mance, but it is still Kattan is one of bad. those actors you can’t take your eyes off of, not because he’s good, but because you don’t know what he’ll do next.

As the movie wore on, Kattan’s antics surprisingly didn’t get old.

Every situation that Corky got himself into, no matter how dangerous, seemed to work out. Usually in a movie this would frustrate me, but somehow I couldn’t help but feel happy for that strange, little man.

As Corky became celebrated more and more at the FBI for his work, his vision becomes clouded. Choose between his family, or his new found career at the FBI? It gets pretty confusing here, and amidst all of the action Corky comes to terms with his long lost father and brothers in a scene that is the epitome of corny.

As much as I wanted to hate this movie for all of its peculiarities and plot holes, I couldn’t stop myself from sympathizing with little Corky. And as much as I was embarrassed, the laughter came spilling out. So if you go see Corky Romano, go with an open mind, and try to look past the absurd plot and useless physical humor. Just watch Corky.

THE ANIMAL Starring: Rob Schneider, Colleen Haskell Director: Luke Greenfield A comedy about a man who undertakes many organ transplants from various animals.

Might be one of Shneider’s worst films. (rated PG-13)

C+

PS2: Ico’s fatal flaw, it isn’t fun

SWORDFISH Starring: John Travolta, Halle Berry Director: Dominic Sena The newest Travolta movie, has plenty of action and suspense.

However it controversy surrounds it because Berry was paid an extra $500,000 to go topless. (rated R)

SHREK Starring: Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy Director: Andrew Adamson The highest grossing film of the summer.

Shrek also happens to be a computer animated cartoon with a star-studded cast of celebrity voices. (rated PG)

by Philippe Podhorecki News Editor

COURTESY OF LIZ HOPSON

Jammin’ with U2 Top: Senior Mick Wurzer playing his guitar with U2 member Edge. He came with 13 other students.

Right: Junior Nick Walters playing with Bono from U2. The field trip was held last school year in June.

Exciting fast-paced gameplay, fantastic graphics, superb controls, and fun to play; all things Ico, the new game from Sony, lacks. This game does have a couple good attributes, in an abysmal game.

Ico’s story is unique and intriguing. You play as Ico, a boy with horns coming out of his head. You must save a girl, Yorda, from a large castle. However, Yorda is blind and cannot walk around without you literally holding her hand, plus she is no typical damsel in distress but rather some strange being made of wierd black energy. The awkward story is introduced by a long opening cinema.

The other high note for the game is the innovative style it has been produced in. This is not an average game. The mix of puzzles and adventure blend to make a new breed of a classic puzzle genre. However, that sums up most everything good in the game. Now on to the bad parts.

The graphics are not good. The clever use of the Playstation 2’s lighting capabilities is GAME RATING the saving grace for the bland graphics.

ICO The textures in the game are overly smooth in most parts, while in others they are fabulous. Considering that the number of characters in the game at one time are barely over two, the Bad graphics, very characters and surroundings could little action, but gameplay. is fair. have better graphics.

Compared to the controls of the

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COURTESY OF LIZ HOPSON

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the A game-shot from ICO, the main character is looking where to go.

game the graphics are good. The main problem with the controls is simply that the depth perception is terrible.

Another gripe with the controls is the fact that, despite the analog support, controlling the character still seems like it is digital. The character doesn’t move very easily in the 360 degree sense; he jerks in a more digital scheme.

The game is very slow paced with no real action, except for when little black ghost-like figures come out of nowhere to attack you and take the girl away. Even these instances shouldn’t be considered action, but more of a poor attempt to add spice to an otherwise drab game. The game is meant to be a hybrid of puzzle and action, but it does not work. The puzzles are the high point of the game, nothing else is good.

Wednesday, October 24, 2001

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Wednesday, October 24, 2001

THE BEST LOCAL FALL FARMS BURKE NURSERY •Burke •open October 1-31 •features slides, hayrides and phone tubes

COX FARM •Centerville •open October 1-31 •features rope swings, castle, slides and hayrides

COX FARM MARKET •Vienna •open daily •features pumpkin mountain

GREAT COUNTRY FARMS •Bluemont •open Sept. 29- Oct. 31 •features hay maze, tunnels and petting zoo

HEATHER HILL • Fairfax Station • open Oct. 7-31 • features pumpkin fort, hayrides, and pony rides

KROP’S CROPS • Great Falls • open Oct.1-31 • corn bin, and farm animals LEESBURG ANIMAL PARK • Leesburg • open Oct.1-31 • features tractor rides, face painting, moonbounce

NALLS PRODUCE • Franconia • open Oct.7-31 • features pumpkin mountain, corn maze, and slides

NORMAN’S FARM • Reston • open Oct.7-31 • features Witch mountain, pony rides, mazes, and pumpkin carving

POTOMAC VEGETABLES •Vienna •open daily •features cider pressing, pumpkins

SUNSHINE FARMS • Leesburg • open Sept.29-Oct.31 • features hay forts, mazes, slides, and tunnels

Flying high on top of the world

by Sarah Bizer Staff writer

Climbing is an alternative sport that challenges the mind, as well as the body.

The 40-foot tall wall, features an impressive display of slabs, steep walls, arches, roofs, towers and an awesome boulder cave, all in a mega space of 8,000 square feet. The gym’s walls are coated with a sculpted texture finish and are also water streaked to create a more rock like look.

Given the gym’s great location, next to an exit off of I-395 and a 200 yard walk from the metro. “Many people have found that an indoor climbing gym is as convenient as a traditional health club,” said Adam Clarkson. The gym is also very popular with kids from the suburbs of Northern Virginia and nearby D.C. Children see the awesome spectacle of the walls and immediately are inspired to climb.

The gym in Alexandria also sports an extensive selection of classes, both indoor and outdoor, that will meet the needs of any novice, intermediate or advanced climber.

Never climbed before? At Sportrock they teach classes for any age and any experience. They offers classes to teach beginners the basics of climbing. Once you complete this class you will be able to properly put on a harness, tie into the rope and belay for a partner. The classes are Mon. and Fri. from 7-9 p.m. and Sat. from 12-3.

Adam Clarkson is an employee at Sportrock. He has been at Sportrock since the summer. “I took a class at Sportrock and really enjoyed it, so i became an employee,” said Clarkson. Rock climbing is not just a sport; it is “an excuse to get outdoors,” said Clarkson. Rock climbing is also a different kind of sport. Unlike soccer or football, which require mostly physical prowess, while rock climbing is more mental than physical. “You have to figure out ways to get to the top,” said Clarkson. Over the past ten years, climbing has become a very popular sport/activity. “It is a lot of fun to show off what you can do to your friends,” said

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any people have found an indoor climbing gym is as convenient as a traditional health club —Adam Clarkson Sportrock employee

Clarkson.

Rock climbing requires more than one person; there is a climber and a belay. The belay is the person on the ground, who takes the slack and holds the person making sure he or she does not fall. The belay also helps the person down once they make it to the top.

One type of rock climbing is leap climbing. Leap climbing is when you have the rope in your hands while you

Hang On! ABOVE-An experienced climber attempts a cave rock. This is one of the most difficult parts of climbing. Because your body is parallel to the ground, great strength is needed in order to hold yourself up.

ABOVE RIGHT-Hanah Pocok belays for Annie Silverwook. Climbers use teamwork to help each other reach the top, and get back down safety. RIGHT-An intermediate climber attempts to ascend to the top of the low wall. People ranging from beginners to experts can practice at Sportrock.

SARAH BIZER

climb. You attach the rope to clips in the rock and climb up that way. You still have a belay to take the slack and support you. The average way of climbing is when the rope is already at the top. You just climb up the rock, just worrying about what path to take.

Annie Silverwood, 13, and her friend Hannah Pocok, 13, have both been rock climbing for a year. “It is just so much fun,” said Silverwood. Both Silverwood and Pocok think that climbing is “ definitely a sport.” They explained to me the many levels of rock climbing. The levels go 5:0-5:15.

5:15 is the hardest grade, which was made by French rock climber named Chris Sharma. Pocok hurt her hip when she first began rock climbing. So she is only at level 5:8. While Silverwood is anywhere between 5:8 and 5:11. They are both at an advanced level.

Climbing has come a long way. It is a really great activity/sport. There is a lot of mental work along with physical work. More and more people find the excitement in rock climbing.

SARAH BIZER

Skating offers a weekend alternative

by Caroline Friedman Weekend Editor

Teens get a change of pace from regular weekend activities by going to area ice skating and roller skating rinks

Imagine you are Tara Lipinski, gliding around on the ice, wind blowing in your hair. You go into a double toe loop and then, you fall down onto the cold ice. You open your eyes and your friends are laughing.

Popular music is blaring over the sound-system.

This is a typical night for teens hanging out at the new “it” spot, a skating rink. What’s so great about ice skating? Janet Partlow, sophomore, said, “It’s fun because you can talk to your friends and get exercise at the same time.”

Fairfax Ice Arena located at 3779 Pickett Road. It offers a change of pace from the usual Friday night activity. Sick of going to the movies on the weekend? Than this is the place

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t’s [ice skating] fun because you can talk to your friends and get exercise at the same time.

—Janet Partlow sophomore

for you. Teens can hang out with their friends and listen to music while gliding along the ice.

Fairfax Ice Arena has vending machines, hot cocoa machines, and arcade games. You can rent out party rooms and there are group rates for

TOP TEN THINGS TO DO THIS WEEKEND 10. Go to Fear Fest at Six Flags for fun and fright.

Rollercoasters, arcades, and a state of the art waterpark—What more could you want?

9. Climb to new heights at Sportrock in Alexandria. Maybe you’ll have a knack for climbing mountains.

8. Try out the new fitness center at Fair City Mall called Life Fitness. Instead of running around your neighborhood, test out the latest health equipment.

7. See Sheer Madness, which is an interactive play at the Kennedy Center. This murder mystery that the audience must solve is a lot of fun for you and all your friends.

6. Pumpkin patches aren’t a bad choice if you are in the fall and Halloween spirit.

5. See Puddle of Mudd at 9:30 Club on the 25th. The cost is only $5 for an evening of fun. The 9:30 Club in NW D.C. hosts many local and big name bands. No matter what type of music you listen to, you’ll find something you like there.

4. Go cosmic bowling. Disco balls, fog machines and lighted allies. Late night fun. Annandale Lanes is off Little River Turnpike.

3. Go out to eat with your friends. The Great American Restaurants provide good food and a good atmosphere.

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eekend

SARAH BIZER

2. Go to the movies. Iron Monkey and Riding in Cars with Boys look like winners.

1. Go to a Redskins game. It’s more of a comedy show than a professional event. Tickets are probably cheaper than ever.

more than seven people. They also offer lessons.

Fairfax Ice Arena is family owned and operated. The rink is open for free skating from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday until Friday. It is open from 8:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. Tuesday until Thursday and until 10:40 p.m. on Fridays for free skate.

On Saturdays and Sundays, free skate is from 12 p.m.-3 p.m. and from 8:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. on Saturdays and 8:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. on Sundays. It costs $2.50 to rent figure skates and $3.50 to rent hockey skates. To skate it costs $5.75 on weekdays and $6.25 on weekends and holidays. They also offer lessons and have special rates for beginners. Effie Drosos, sophomore, has taken lessons at many rinks in the northern Virginia area, including Fairfax. “ I like Fairfax the best because the coaching staff is better and more qualified,” said Drosos.

Another place to go ice-skating is Reston Skating Pavilion at 1818 Discovery St. Reston Skating Pavilion is an outdoors skating rink and will open around October 30. It is in Town Square with restaurants and cafes all around. Tiny white lights illuminate the canopy, which makes a very romantic setting. The rink applies to everyone from teens to small children and families. It is quiet and relaxing.

Partlow said she liked Reston more than Fairfax “because it had a better arcade, two rinks and the ice was less choppy.”

If you don’t like the cold, check out Franconia Roller Rink at 5508

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tomic reactions

What did you do Homecoming weekend?

ANDREW MENEGAT

The entrance to Fairfax Ice Arena at 3779 Pickett Road. Fairfax Ice Arena has vending machines, hot cocoa machines and a small arcade. Another ice skating rink in our area is Reston Skating Pavilion and roller skating rink is Franconia Roller Rink.

Franconia Rd. in Alexandria. They have a Friday night session aimed for teens from 7 p.m.-11 p.m. You can also call them at 703-971-3334 for all their times. They sell food such as pizza, hot dogs and candy.

Retro music is played and a disco ball hangs over the wooden rink. It also has an arcade. The best thing about Franconia Roller Rink is the variety of ages that go there and how popular it is.

Skating is both fun and relaxing.

It is a change of scenery for most teens and is different from what you would usually do on a Friday or Saturday night. So, if you are planning on heading out to skate, gather a bunch of your friends and bundle up for the skating rinks or get in your retro gear for the roller rink. Have fun!

Good Charlotte rocks D.C. at 9:30 club

by John Bernhardt Weekend Editor

Good Charlotte came to D.C. on October 22 as part of the band’s cross country tour. The band’s show show cost 15 dollars and was at the 9:30 club in NW D.C. Also touring with them is The Movie Life and Mest.

Recently, Good Charlotte has grown in popularity, especially in this area. They have performed the past two years at the annual HFStival. “I saw them two years ago at the festival. Even though Good Charlotte not one of my favorite bands, they can put on an awesome show,” said sophomore John Reiss. “I met them at the 2001 HFStival, and they were all really nice. I even got their autographs,” said sophomore Kari Wolfe.

This local band hit it big with the

song “The Little Things.” After gaining recognition, they put out their first album which is self-titled. “I have their CD, which I like a lot, but probably won’t go to their concert because it’s on a school night,” said sophomore Alex Silano.

Good Charlotte’s members grew up and went to school in Annapolis, Maryland.

The band is composed of four membes, who attended the same school and two of the members are brothers.

Good Charlotte is a fast, aggressive band that would be classified as alternative.

The 9:30 club plays hosts for many well-known bands. The club is located near a rough part of D.C, but it is safe near the club. Parking lots are available nearby the club, and only cost a few dollars. For directions and more information, go to www.930club.com.

“I went to Homecoming with a group of my friends.

I was so tired afterwards, that I went home and just went to bed.”

—Alex Silano sophomore

—Elizabeth Waxler freshman

“I went to a party at a friend’s house instead of going to Homecoming because I didn’t have that much fun there last year.”

“Instead of going to Homecoming, I chilled with some friends, and watch football on Sunday.”

—Jose Gonzales junior

“I went with a good friend to Homecoming.

Then I went to a party and didn’t get home until one in the morning.”

—Noah Yates senior

“I spent a lot of time researching the implications of the expansion fo the European Union for the common foreign and security policy of that union.”

—John Hawes Government Teacher