Buccaneer Bulletin Oswego High School’s Student Voice March 2008
Frank Saya Wins Prestigious Gold Key Award Page 2
Graphic Illustration and Photo by Morganne Atutis
Volume 11 Number 5
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News
New Laws Hope to ‘Catch a Predator’ e-STOP bill restricts offenders’ access.
By Kristen Diment Reporter
After receiving much criticism for their lack of safety, online social networks including MySpace and Facebook have joined in on New York State’s efforts to implement a new bill that would hinder a registered sex offender’s access to these websites. The bill, called “e-STOP” (Electronic Security and Targeting of Online Predators Act), was unanimously approved by the New York State Senate last month. It requires registered sex offenders to register their e-mail addresses, instant message screen names, and other online aliases with
the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services. The information will then be made available to social networking sites and the sites can ban the user from associating with minors. Blocking users from networking sites isn’t the only thing on e-STOP’s agenda; the bill also allows sentencing courts and the state’s parole board to limit an offender’s other online activities if they are a high-risk offender or previously used the internet to victimize a minor. If successful, e-STOP could prevent these offenders from striking again. Andrew Cuomo, Attorney General, found that MySpace and Facebook were not offering enough security to their ever-growing population of young users. Cuomo dubbed his bill, “the most comprehensive, smartest, toughest
law in the nation” in regard to social networking sites. Cuomo hopes the legislation will be enforced across the United States, possibly at a federal level. Like anything else, e-STOP raises doubts. People feel that it would be simple for offenders to falsify their information to preserve their anonymity. This would be simple to do, but if an offender was caught doing so, he would be violating his parole and committing a felony. This perpetrator could be tracked through his Internet Protocol (IP) address if any suspicions were raised. Any new screen names would have to be registered within 10 days or the parole or probation officers would have permission to search an offender’s computer. The fact that the bill does not cross state lines is also becoming an
issue. While 49 states and the District of Columbia are considering the bill, it’s too early to assume that the law would actually be enforced elsewhere. While the future of e-STOP is unknown, MySpace’s Chief of Security, Hemanshu Nigam, like Cuomo, has high hopes for the bill. “We hope e-STOP becomes a model for other states to follow,” he said. The e-STOP bill comes after months of ridicule due to the lack of safety measures taken to protect online users. In this day and age, it’s not uncommon to hear of tragedies occurring because of the internet, especially these social networking sites. While e-STOP’s flaws can easily fuel the fire of skepticism, it could make the internet a safer place for younger users.
Saya’s Landscape the Best in New York State By Blair Harvey
Reporter
The Gold Key Award is a prestigious honor given to a Central New York student who shows highest quality in the artwork of his categor y. I n Fr a n k Saya’s case, t hat categor y is computer a r t. He won this award with his g raphic entitled Meadow Landscape. This award was given as the only computer art, Gold Key Medal i n the 20 08 Cent ral New York Scholastic A r ts Competition. This achievement will allow Saya to have his art landscape move on t o t he n at ion a l c omp et it ion i n t he c omput e r a r t cat egor y. Central New York has been a participant in the Scholastic Art Awards for over 55 years. Students from 91 different schools submitted 4,500 works of art to be judged by 60 professional artists, educators, and photographers. “Frank’s piece wa s c r e at e d i n Adobe Illustrator “ I ’ ve a l w ays b e e n and demonstrated a high level of mastery in the program as well as being vi- interested in creating sually stunning,” stated Mrs. Melissa things, and I’ve always Martin, Saya’s art instructor. In addition to computer art, Saya also is in- h a d a k n a c k w i t h terested in drawing, photography, computers...” computer graphics and 3D animation. He plans to apply to Frank Saya cated in Orlando, or Full Sail, which is loThe Miami InternaOHS Student tional University of Art and Design. He wants to pursue a career in Computer Graphics and Animation, and is currently working on a portfolio. “I’ve always been interested in creating things, and I’ve always had a knack with computers, so I’ve grown up creating things here and there. I originally taught myself how to use a few of the tools. This year, I took Computer Graphics, where I learned how to use this new tool, and with that, I have been able to combine this with previous knowledge. I have always been into drawing and any little sort of creativity, I’ve found it a hobby, and now I’ve put it together technologically,” said Saya.
Buccaneer Bulletin
March 2008
News
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Technology Coming Soon to Oswego High By Emily DiFabio Business Manager
The Oswego High School is going wireless. A wireless connection will be phased in throughout the school and hopefully by February 2009 the entire school will be wireless. The wireless connection will work the same here with your laptops as it will at home. The areas of the school that the technology department will start with downstairs are the library, the main office, the Career Center, the teachers’ work room, staff lounge, and rooms B-1, B-2, and B-3. Upstairs, it will be room 219, the math office and the language office. Mr. Brendan Fear hopes that they will be able to get these rooms wireless over this summer, so when the 2008-2009 school year starts, students will be able to bring in their laptops and do school work. There will be the same restrictions and firewalls on laptops that there are already on computers here at school. The main reasons to make OHS wireless is to make it possible for there to be more computers for students to use, says Fear. If the wireless internet goes well at OHS, then the plan is to make other schools in the district wireless, starting with the middle school. Mr. Chuck Rowlee, one of the teachers whose room would be among the first to become wireless said, “It will enhance my class efficiency. It would allow my students to be able to use their laptops when they are out in the lab.” The technology department’s reasoning for making OHS wireless is to
make the school more Most of the forhigh tech. They also eign language teachthink it is good to ers said that they will have st udent s get be taking advantage used to the wireless of the wireless interinternet so that when net in the language students reach college office, but they (and levels, they will know most other teachers) what they can expect. are concerned over We s e e m a n y the fact that the displaces all around our trict has not yet made area and throughout any policy regarding the country that have the use of laptops in more and more arthe classroom. As to eas where people can that Fear said, “The use their laptops and use of a laptop would have the Wi-Fi conbe no different than Buccaneer Bulletin Graphic nection, like OHS will the use of “regular” soon have. But many Signs like the one above will mark Wi-Fi internet computer in the classzones throughout OHS when parts of the campus go people are concerned wireless. room. The teachers over the fact that laphave, and always will tops cost a lot of money, and don’t want any thing to have, the final say over what will and will not be used happen to this expensive device. The average laptop in their classrooms. The laptop will be treated no runs from about $400 to over $1000. Many students differently than any other computer in a classroom. and teachers are concerned over the fact that if There are no plans for a special policy on laptops.” anything does happen to them, that they would be It is also the same for the math teachers. Mr. RJ out that amount of money. Magan Johnson said, “I Vayner said, “I would use the wireless connection and think that it would be great for taking notes and it I would let my students work on them during free time.” could be a lot easier for teachers, but I just would be Mrs. Elizabeth Crannell said, “I think that it would be worried if something was to happen to my laptop.” good for the school and I would take advantage of it.”
OHS to Assist in Autism Awarness Activities By Kate DiVita Editor-in-Chief
Autism Awareness Month (April) is rapidly approaching, which means an increase of awareness efforts and projects for the recently formed Oswego County Autism Task Force (OCATF). This fifteen-person committee has been gaining strength and support for the past three years since its inception, and is aiming to further enhance the lives of people touched by Autism Spectrum Disorder. OCATF is made up of a diverse group of people including parents, students, service providers, and medical field representatives. According to Mrs. Julie Chetney, an active member of OCATF, the committee is working to provide bulletin boards and autism assemblies for all nine school districts in Oswego County. She said, “Everyone knows someone who is affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder directly or indirectly, so OCATF can provide support and educational opportunities for all students and faculty.” OCATF has several goals and projects for the upcoming year. Members hope to organize awareness walks, children’s social groups, workshops, and educational lectures for parents and children. Chetney noted, “Many families have to travel outside Oswego County to participate in such events.
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We hope to make it easier on these families by creating similar opportunities for them here.” One of OCATF’s most successful activities in the past has been the Autism Awareness Walk. OCATF members hope that this year’s walk, scheduled for
“Everyone knows someone who is affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder directly or indirectly, so OCATF can provide opportunities for all students and faculty.” Mrs. Julie Chetney
Member of OCATF
April 26, will gain more momentum from mounting publicity the event has received. Last year the walk was held at the Armory and its attendance reached 250 people, including nearly 100 children affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder. This year, the event is to be held outdoors at the OHS track, weather permitting. It is expected that the over-
all turnout will double. OCATF members have prepared for almost 400 people and 200 children. OHS is becoming more and more involved in OCATF. Not only is the 2008 Autism Awareness Walk to be held at our track, but the Junior and senior classes have made generous $75 and $100 donations to the cause respectively. Also, many National Honor Society members have already signed up to volunteer their time to the awareness walk. The new OCATF online website has recently been unveiled. Chetney said, “It can be overwhelming for families searching the Internet for information on Autism Spectrum Disorder because there’s so much out there. We have a lot of local links so families can find about services, support groups, and therapies.” OCATF members had been trying to make their organization accessible online for some time, and this goal has recently been accomplished. OCATF vice-chair Tammy Thompson added, “We are pleased to offer this [website] to anyone who may need direction in finding what is available for a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder.” Anyone who is interested in more information concerning Autism Spectrum Disorder or volunteer opportunities for OCATF should visit ht t p://w w w.oswegocou nt y autism.org.
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Alumni
Los Angeles Attorney Has Oswego Roots OHS and Cornell University graduate Bryan Lazarski is working for large Los Angeles law firm.
where he studied industrial and labor relations, with every intention of going into finance. “Then September 11 happened and all the big Wall Street f irms froze their hiring,” he said, By Kaitlyn Scanlon “so I decided that the Reporter Bryan Lazarski went from small- University of Mintown high schooler in Oswego to nesota for law school big-time lawyer in Los Angels, prov- would be a good place ing that under any circumstances to hide out until the it is possible to reach your goals. job market opened Lazarski is an associate in L.A. at up. It ended up worka large full-service firm, Greenberg- ing out pretty well, Traurig. His work consists mostly of though, because I representing companies and business love my job, while my people in work-related disputes. He friends in New York also advises clients on their business in finance seem to do practices and drafts contracts. Being nothing but complain in L.A., Lazarski doesn’t just have about the brutal hours ho-hum clients; many are from the they’re work ing.” Today at his law entertainment industry, which he says Buccaneer Bulletin Photo firm, Lazarski works makes his work pretty interesting. Lazarski graduated from Os- some big cases, includ- OHS alumnus Bryan Lazarski (Class of ‘98) and his wife Stephanie enjoy the lifestlye of wego High School in 1998, but de- ing a few in the nine- the metro Los Angeles area, though he looks back fondly on growing up in Oswego. spite his success, he still remem- digit money range. b e r s h is d ays at OHS fond ly. His favorite case was around entertainment and celebrities, basketball and cooking. Recently, he“There were a lot of teachers when he defended a producer of a big which he considers a big plus. Not only found a new pasttime, poker. Last year, who said stuff that has stuck with me budget movie in a labor dispute last year. does his work contain “big names,” he played in the World Series of Poker, through the years. If I had to pick one, This was great because he got to inter- his home life is affected, too. The which was an amazing experience, even I’d say Mr. Mark Mirabito. The les- view the stars in the movie as witnesses. previous owners of Lazarski’s home though he didn’t finish in the money. Lazarski’s least favorite cases were Carmen Electra and B-Real sons he gave in health and psychology If Lazarski could offer any advice are always ones that involve tons of from Cypress Hill; he still gets pieces to an OHS student about building a on how to evaluate statistical studies are a really important thinking tool.” documents and paperwork. In one case, of their mail sometimes. Also, two future and being successful, it would Lazarski’s time wasn’t all fun. He Lazarski had to look through 250,000 summers ago, Scarlett Johansson ac- be try to live and work in a big city because there are so many opportunities. don’t think growing up in a If Lazarski could offer any advice to an OHS student about building a small“I place keeps you from being future and being successful, it would be try to live and work in a big city successful,” he said. “If anything, it makes you a more interesting person.” because there are so many opportunities. still remembers his not-so-pleasant Spanish days, but what he lacked in foreign language, he gained in math skills. Like many students at OHS, Lazarski was an athlete. He played volleyball, basketball and tennis. Lazarski had many good times playing sports, but just hanging with all the guys on the team, laughing and talking on the bus rides to and from games was enough for him. His worst memory was as a senior, when he finished his last tennis match and realized his days as a Buccaneer were over. After Lazarski graduated from high school, he went to Cornell University,
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pages of documents as evidence. “Overall, I really like helping our clients solve their problems,” Lazarski said, “We really try to come up with some creative solutions to some pretty wild situations, and I like thinking through them and pitching our ideas to clients.” Lazarski is really happy with his job, even though he saw himself as an architect or engineer when he was younger. Now he feels that the only thing he would change about his career is the morning commute. L.A. traffic is always a nightmare. Living in L.A., everything revolves
cidentally broke into his apartment. Lazarski is not only a working man. He has a wife, Stephanie, and a pug named Stinker. He also is close with his parents, who live in Oswego and admires them because they have been excellent life role models. He values his time with f r iends and family the most and he hasn’t forgotten his roots. Lazarski craves snow sometimes, but nothing can beat the California weather. His hobbies are still the same for the most part, as well. He enjoys playing tennis, watching Syracuse University
If there’s an OHS graduate that you’d like to see featured, on the alumni page of a future edition of The Buccaneer Bulletin, send the name and contact information to Kaitlyn Scanlon at kscanlo2@oswego.org
March 2008
Columns
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Whining Leads to Change of ‘Battle’ Judges T hat’s How T he Way I Live Patrick Dougherty One of the few school-sponsored events which is able to hold my attention is the Battle of the Bands, put on every year by the yearbook. I’ve attended “The Battle” every year I’ve been in high school and enjoyed myself thoroughly each time. I mean, who doesn’t like to hear live music, be it impressively good or laughably bad? Recently, it has come to my attention that there will be a slight change in this year’s Battle of the Bands. The corps of judges--comprised of teachers from the school, that has been consistent through the first three battles, has been replaced with a new group of judges being gathered from the community. At first, this didn’t really concern me, as there could be any number of reasons for this change. Maybe there was scheduling conflict which caused problems for the original judges, or maybe they had just decided they no longer wanted to judge
the battle. Unfortunately, I learned the reason for their departure is far more upsetting. Apparently, the change in judges came about at the request of prospective participants in this year’s battle, who weren’t happy with the way they placed in a previous showing. When I heard this, I was flabbergasted. Where does a band get off complaining about the judges of the battle of the bands? It’s hard to believe there could be a conspiracy against a band, when you have the pool of judges being pulled from different areas of our school’s faculty. Judges who, mind you, were selected for their diversity, as well as their knowledge of music and showmanship. Regardless of a band’s opinion, the three judges who presided over the previous three battles kept their jobs by doing them well. I honestly can’t think of an instance where I have disagreed with their decisions, and I am far from biased. Every band that has won the Battle of the Bands has earned it. But, I guess there’s at least one band out there that disagrees with me. Hearing about this band’s successful crybabying got me thinking; what if the rest of the world could change who has power over us so
easily? If we could, I’m sure the New England Patriots would have won the Super Bowl this year, arguing, “But we did really well all season! You referees are just Giants’ fans. We demand new officials!” And can you imagine the scheduling nightmare our guidance counselors would have if every time a kid failed a class, his parents came in and demanded a new teacher! Unfortunately, the world doesn’t work that way. When we have a problem with someone in a position of power, we have to adapt. One band’s complaints should have as much bearing on the selection of judges for the Battle of the Bands as my indignant ramblings about how Juno should have won Best Picture at the Academy Awards should have on the Academy’s judging. This is high school. We shouldn’t cry to mommy and daddy when things don’t go our way anymore. We have to deal with them like big boys and girls, just like we’ll have to for the rest of our lives. I guess there are some of us who haven’t learned that yet. Oh well, I’ve got to go write to Fox because Randy, Paula and Simon must be removed from “American Idol.” They eliminated my favorite contestant.
This Top Ten Booklist is Well Worth Reading King a Da Hill Chrissy King One thing that is universal among high school students is that everyone is assigned a lot of reading. For some, the novels and plays that are assigned they’re daunting, and for others just plain boring. Throughout my high school career, however, reading has been one of the assignments that I’ve truly loved to complete. There have only been two books out of all the literature I’ve ever been assigned that I just plain didn’t read, The Canterbury Tales and Beowulf, but who could blame me? So, I’ve compiled a list of the top ten favorite books that I’ve been assigned to read during my time at OHS. 10 The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne. The novel begins in Puritanical seventeenth century Boston. The story is that of Hester Prynne who is ostracized after giving birth out of wedlock and then
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refuses to name the child’s father. She is forced to wear a scarlet letter ‘A’ to illustrate to the whole town her sin of adultery. The story follows Hester as she tries to make a new, dignified life for herself and her daughter. This story is great because you can see how even little whispers behind people’s backs and shamed, downward glances as they walk past, can cut deeper than words. It is also great because it encompasses a lot of the human condition, including love, sin, hate, and redemption. 9 Forgotten Fire by Adam Bagdasarian. This memoir is the story of a boy who survived the Armenian genocide in the Ottoman Empire during the First World War. This is a different type of book from most of the ones that get assigned to high school students. That fact alone makes it very interesting. The true story of the deportation and murders of half a million Armenians makes the memoir not only sad, but scary. The trials and tribulations of Adam throughout the memoir almost seem like they had to have been fictionalized, because they are so
terrible, but you know that it’s all true. For that reason, this book is truly a great read. 8 Bless the Beasts and The Children by Glendon Swarthout. This novel is about a group of boys who live together in a camp for troubled youth. On an outing one day, they pass a ranch full of buffalo. The boys convince their counselor to let them go see the buffalo, but what they get is not what they were expecting. At the ranch, a certain number of buffalo are being shot due to overpopulation. However, the people shooting them are simply people off the street who don’t know what they are doing. This is cruel to the animals, so the boys decide to sneak out and set them free. The story follows them as each boy deals with his personal issues to grow up and free the buffalo. This story is great because everyone has his/her own issues to deal with, like the boys. Readers can connect with one of the boys in some way, and because of this, you get drawn into the book and experience it with the characters. 7 Lord of the Flies by
Willian Golding. This novel by the Nobel-Prize winning author William Golding is not only a great story about school boys stranded on a desert island, but it is also a terrific commentary on the failures of society built by man. The school boys try to govern themselves on the island, and soon fall prey to savage behavior that results in disaster. 6 A Separate Peace by John Knowles. This is a coming-of-age novel that is very appropriate in a high school setting. This novel follows two best friends, Phineaus the great orator and athlete, and Gene, the scholarly and quiet one as they grow up at Devon, a prep school. Gene is jealous of Phineaus because he feels that he is better than him and the imagined competition between them eventually leads to the breakdown of their friendship. This is appropriate for high school, not only because it’s the story of high school students, but it has the underlying theme of loss of innocence, which is something we all deal with during this time in our lives. 5. A Tale of Two Cities by Continued on Page 17
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Clublicity
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Clubs Tackle Competitions and Fundraising Future Engineering Club Members of the Future Engineering Club participated in the Entergy Science competition held recently at Oswego County BOCES. Among the competitors were Oswego’s Ali Finn, Steve Snyder, Chris Wallace, and Sara Finn. The group placed fourth. On Saturday March 29 from 8 am to 1 pm, the group will be competing in the prestigious Sensis Engineering Contest. This competition is by invitation only. Joe Purdy, Steve Abramski, Anthony Sterio, Mike Vivlemore, Chaz Kuczawa, David Harrington, Sarah Hill, and Lindsay Johnson were invited to participate. The main focus of the competition is to get kids in high school to choose engineering as a career. The students will be tested on critical thinking, organizational skills, theoretical principles, and presentation. The club also plans to compete in other local and national competitions throughout the year.
Poetry Club Poetry Club is preparing for its big event, open mic night. The event is divided into two categories: open mic and slam. The rules for open mic are that you must have pre-approval for the poem being read; you must bring your own copy of the poem to read from; and gestures, costumes, and props are not allowed. For slam, you must also have pre-approval for the poem. The poem must be memorized and read with gestures and facial expressions. For this type of poetry, props and costumes are against the rules as well. The two categories are further broken down into age groups. Grades 7 and 8 are the first division. Grades 9, 10, 11 and 12 are the second division participants, eighteen or older and out of school is the third division. The deadline to submit a poem is Friday, April 11. On this day, the poem, application, and $1 must be given to club adviser Mrs. Carrie Patane. Anyone who fits into one of the divisions from any school and follows the instructions may read a poem. You don’t have to be an OHS student. Open mic night is on Friday, April 25. The public is welcome and it’s free to watch.
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Red Cross Club After extensive training, all ten members of the Red Cross Club became certified lifeguards on January 22. The club will be holding an informational meeting soon for all interested candidates for the 2008-2009 school year. All interested students should see Mrs.Kasmer in the PE office. The club is intended for students who want to obtain certification in life guarding and CPR for the professional rescuer. Anyone who has an interest in learning about water safety is encouraged to join.
Travel Club Students who sold the products from the Tastefully Simple Chocolate fund raiser in the fall did well. So far, twelve students are going on the trip to Greece. Upcoming sales will take place in April. They will continue to sell Gertrude Hawk Chocolate and lollipops. There will be a parents meeting concerning the trip to Greece at a later date yet to be announced.
Becca’s Closet Prom Project Every year, with the approach of May, thousands of high school students across the country start thinking of final exams, graduation, summer vacation and the prom. For many, this rite of passage is much more than just a dance. It is the culmination of youth, and the transition to adulthood. Memories are formed that will last a lifetime, and for most students, it is their first opportunity to dress formally. But with escalating costs for dresses, tuxedos, dinners, flowers and transportation, there are many who cannot afford to go to this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. This year, Jillian Doty and Morganne Atutis are attempting to help Oswego High School students in financial need have the chance to attend their prom. They have recently joined forces with Becca’s Closet to form a charitable chapter here in Oswego. Becca’s Closet is a national not-for- profit organization that seeks to collect “gently used”
prom dresses and distribute them to students in need. They also seek to obtain donations from local businesses and form partnerships that could provide additional prom items such as tuxedos, f lowers, accessories, etc. Doty and Atutis ask anyone interested in donating dresses, to please contact them at jdoty@oswego.org or matutis@oswego.org. For information regarding the location to drop dresses off, call Golden Gate Bridal at 342-0224.
Editor’s Note Clublicity is a regular monthly feature of The Buccaneeer Bulletin. The following reporters contributed to covering the clubs included this month: Ryan Galloway, Danielle D’Amico, Michelle Stepien, Brittany Ross, Caitlin Sawyer, Olivia Capone, Christy Maher, Morganne Atutis, Joe Bucher, Kristin Hadley, Jack Carmody, Emily DiFabio, Kaitlin Scanlon, Kristen Diment, and Blair Harvey.
TV Club TV Club is step up so students can have access to the television studio and its equipment to create extra TV projects, make movies and music videos, and tape special events. As of now, TV club’s main fundraiser is recording, the “Battle of the Bands,” and selling the DVDs. TV Club meets after school every two weeks in the television studio. All students can join the club at any time during the year, even if they have no previous TV experience. If you are interested, talk to adviser Mr. Chris Mangano.
Yearbook The students in yearbook are taking part in the annual trip to New York City where they will be visiting Columbia University. They had submitted entries from last year’s yearbook which is part of one of the largest contest nationwide. They will hopefully be placing for the award-winning yearbook they produced last year. They will also take part in informational seminars put on by the university which can be applied to the production of future yearbooks.
Photo By Morganne Attutis
Poetry Club president Amber Perry helped sell carnations for Valentine’s day during the club’s annual February fundraiser.
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Trips, Service Projects Enjoyed by OHS Clubs Media Club
Members are now planning POPS, the Port of Oswego Performance Showcase with the Sunrise Rotary for the next two months. The showcase is open to all kinds of musical talent. The showcase will be open to anyone in the county with musical talent. In between that they will be attending a breakfast with the Rotary to decide more on the showcase. If you have any questions, you can email the president Katie Metcalf at kmetcalf@oswego.org.
The Media Club is working toward combining everyone’s efforts on their stories and artwork on a mythological theme. This year, each member of Media Club has chosen a mythological character and will be portraying it in whatever medium he or she chooses. Some will be re-writing the story in the present time, some will be portraying it in graphic form, and others will be composing a screen play to act out. Since the club members have expressed a desire to have their work filmed as the final project, they will be taking a guided tour of the WBUC studio with Mr. Mangano. They will soon learn how to begin to film their production. This will be a major step in the efforts to complete their mythological themed production.
Photography Club
Key Club The Key Club meets every Monday after school in room 200. This month, the club will be electing new officers. The current officers for the club are: President, Ryan King; Vice President, John Collins; Secretary, Chrissy King; Treasurer, Sarah Miller; and Sergeant-at-Arms, Katlyn Smegelsky. The Key Club is planning to attend the annual New York State Key Club Convention. It will also be helping at the Kingsford Park School Carnival. If you would like to participate in any of the Key Club’s community service projects or if you have any suggestions for projects or fundraisers, please contact advisor Mr. Kirk Mulverhill at kmulverh@oswego.org.
NHS The new members for the National Honor Society will be notified of their acceptance on April 3 in their first period class by an NHS officer. There will also be a mandatory meeting for all new members April 4 at 2:35 pm in room 105. The final charitable fundraising campaign of the year is the “Rally against Childhood Cancer” which supports the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. At St. Jude’s, all patients are accepted for treatment, regardless of race, color, creed or ability to pay. The Rally against Childhood Cancer campaign is a letter-writing campaign where students will send letters to family and friends telling them about the mission of St. Jude’s and inviting them to make a donation. If you are interested in making a donation and do not receive a letter by April 15, please contact an NHS officer (Ryan King, Kathryn Lazarski, Alyssa Collins and Shelby Persons).
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photo by Morganne atutis
Art Club member Kathy Irwin paints a festive heart on a student’s hand for Valentine’s Day.
Buccanneer Bulletin Staff members of The Buccaneer Bulletin took home five awards in the annual Newspapers in Education Week Contest sponsored by the Syracuse Newspapers from over five hundred entries. Senior Pat Dougher t y was a f irst place winner in the Editorial writing contest. This year’s topic was “Your Place in the World.” Also receiving accolades were Kevin Kearns (fourth place), Jack Carmody (honorable mention), Katie DiVita (honorable mention), Morgan McNamara (honorable mention), Christian Scaccia (honorable mention), and Fred Maxon (honorable mention). This marks the twentieth consecutive year that Buccaneer Bulletin students have won awards in the NIE Week competition. According to adviser Mr. Mike McCrobie, “These types of contests underscore the value of a strong elective program that enables students to take enrichment courses such as journalism.”
Interact Club
The Interact Club has just finished making baby blankets for the infants in the maternity ward at Oswego Hospital whose parents aren’t able to afford them.
Photography Club is getting closer to deciding a date for its first annual photography contest. Within the next two months, the club will announce when people can start handing in photographs. Anyone who has a picture, can enter. There is a maximum of two entries per person, and a non- refundable five dollar entry fee per photo. All work entered must be your original work and school appropriate. “Our photo contest is a great way for students to display their work for everyone to see,” stated vice president Jillian Doty. Listen for announcements and watch for signs in the halls so you can enter a photo of your own. There will be prizes for the top three photos in each of the two categories; digitally enhanced and not digitally enhanced.
Music Several of our choir’s finest singers have been selected to begin in the state All-County Chorus. This special team is comprised of Chen Cheng, Cody Crouse, Tim Haresign, Mary Losurdo, Maggie McCosky, Teal Palmer, and Annie Taverni. They will be performing April 4 at APW High School. Our school’s Chambers singers will be attending the National Invitational Festival of Gold April 3 in New York City, where they will perform at the Lincoln Center the 6 with 24 other best choirs from around the country.
Class of 2008 There are a few upcoming events for the Senior Class. One event is the senior class trip March first to March fifth. Also the 100 days to graduation is coming up on March 25. The 100 days graduation is a celebration for seniors. Seniors will go to the cafeteria and eat a breakfast. Then they will travel to Leighton gym and get the senior class photograph. Then they will go to the high school theatre and a hypnotist will be there to perform. There needs to be lots of decorations made for this event. Please contact Mr. Burt or Mr. Mirabito with further information.
March 2008
Editorial
8 Buccaneer Bulletin Oswego High School’s Student Voice Editor-in-Chief Chrissy King Katie DiVita Layout Editor Pat Dougherty Entertainment Editor Sophie Rosenbaum Clublicity Editor Jack Carmody Alumni Editor Morgan McNamara Sports Editor Kathryn Lazarski Business Manager Liz Waterbury Sportswriters Joe Bucher, Ryan Galloway Maddie Goulet, Kailyn Gray, Brett McClelland Art Director Fred Maxon Art Staff Amanda Donovan Mike Mordenga Chief Photographer Morganne Atutis Photographers David Abare, Michaela Frost, Blair Harvey, Caitlin Sawyer Ad Representatives Emily DiFabio, Katy Furletti, Christian Scaccia Ad Designers Olivia Capone, Michelle Stepien Senior Writer Kevin Kearns Reporters Dillon Coates, Danielle D’Amico, Lauren Dimarco, Kristen Diment, Christy Maher, Brittany Ross, Kaitlyn Scanlon, Lindsay Usherwood, Kristin Hadley Advisers Bill Reeser Mike McCrobie
The Buccaneer Bulletin, a member of the Empire State School Press Association, and The Quill and Scroll, is published periodically by the students of the Oswego High School, 2 Buccaneer Blvd.; Oswego, New York 13126; (315) 341-2200. It is intended as a vehicle to inform, educate, and entertain the student body. Printing services are provided by The PalladiumTimes. Opinions expressed are those of the students and do not necessarily reflect those of the administration or the advisers.
Buccaneer Bulletin
Drawing Board
cartoon by monique reeser
…to the varsity girls’ basketball team for its outstanding 2007-2008 season. The Lady Bucs finished the regular season at 17-3, including an impressive 14-game winning streak. Due to their many hours of diligent practice, they went 12-0 to capture the league crown and were named the top seed in the Section III Tournament, finshing as runners-up to Corcoran. …to Pat Dougherty for winning first place in The Post-Standard’s Newspapers in Education Week Editorial Writing Contest, a regional contest for high school journalists. …to Mr. Scott Sugar, the athletic director at OHS for his successful efforts to foster more school spirit among the student body. His frequent e-mails concerning upcoming contests and congratulatory information, in combination with the “Oswego Pride” T-shirts, have really brought more support to our athletic teams. ...to senior Kathryn Lazarski, who was named Teenager of the Month by the Oswego Elks’ Lodge for her numerous school and community activities.
…to the discontinuation of the Snack Shack in the cafeteria. The Snack Shack program was a great way for students and athletes to buy healthy food and drinks after school hours. With the removal of the vending machines in the hallway and the Snack Shack program, now there is virtually no place for students to buy such items without leaving school grounds. …to the fact that it now costs twenty-five cents to get salad dressing in the cafeteria. The school lunch program is a not-for-profit organization, and making students pay extra for dressing seems odd. What’s next, paying extra for a bun with our hamburger? …to the girls who have been skipping class and smoking in the girls’ locker room. Not only is this unhealthy, unethical, and illegal, but it is inconsiderate to the girls who use the area for its intended purpose. …to the fact that snow and ice on Liberty Street, Buccaneer Boulevard, and Hillside Avenue are often not completely removed so it is difficult for students and faculty members to determine where the parking spots are divided. This is problematic for faculty and student drivers and also serves as a safety hazard for the rest of the OHS population.
March 2008
Editorial
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Noise Annoys in the Library There are some obvious words that people their work, but would they do that if it weren’t associate with libraries. “Books”, “librarians”, true? Do your work and there will be no proband “quiet” are just a few. A library is sup- lems with talking in the library. If you say that posed to be a place where you can go read, do you don’t have any work to do, I bet you could research or do your homework. However, the always be studying and if not, then most defilibrary here at OHS is a hotbed for slackers who nitely reading. Although, I know it seems inconaren’t interested in getting any work done at all. ceivable to many people to read for fun, try it! Many periods of the W ho k nows day, the library is filled If you say that you don’t have you might lear n to capacity with people something! on the computer and at any work to do, I bet you could Most peothe tables. Under most always be studying and if not ple have lunch in circumstances, this would this school, so why be a great thing, because most definitely reading. don’t you take that one would think that these period to relax and people would be doing work or being pro- talk to your friends and use study halls in the ductive. But much of the time, people are library to get some work done. Plus, there is an sitting around talking, playing computer upside to getting work done in school, because games, and basically being very unstudious. then you don’t have to worry about homework That is ridiculous! The library is not meant at home or doing work that isn’t up to par to be a lounge, it’s meant for people to be able to because of your procrastination and rushing. make use of all the resources that our school has There are people who come to school to offer such as computers, reference books, and to do work and learn, and it’s rude to those a huge selection of fiction and non- fiction books. people for others to talk and make a ruckus We understand the argument that there when some are trying to concentrate in the is no other place for people to go and talk, library. For those who don’t go to the library because most of the OHS study halls are to do work, we have a suggestion: Shhhhhh!!! quiet study halls. But our question to that is, Why you are talking in the first place? Teachers all ride their students for not doing
Letters to the Editor Where’s the Support for the Marching Band, Color Guard? I would like to say something about the “Thumbs Down” column on the pep rallies that we have here at OHS. If we are supposed to acknowledge our sports teams, then why do so many other extra-curricular activities like the Marching Band and Color Guard get left out? I know that coming from a “band geek” this means nothing, but we work our butts off trying to win competitions. Just like all of our sports teams, if we don’t work hard enough, we work that much harder. Sure, it doesn’t seem like it’s difficult to play music and march around or spin a flag, rifle, or saber, but (newsflash!) it is actually hard. It’s not right for all of the sports teams to get recognized for their hard work, when we barely ever get recognized. From having us play the “National Anthem” at the rallies, to people leaving at half time during football games because it is only the Marching Band.\, it shows lack of respect. I say that everyone who is on a team, or in Marching Band or Color Guard should get fair treatment. Christine Mansfield Class of 2009
Buccaneer Bulletin
Wrestlers Should Start Earlier on Pee-Wee Teams I believe that our school district’s wrestling program would improve greatly if we had a pee-wee wrestling club. It has been proven that if young kids start wrestling at an early age, they have a better chance to get on teams in middle school and high school. Schools such as Fulton and Phoenix have good, strong, and supportive teams because they have the kids that want to do it. These teams seem to have better chances of winning because a majority of their wrestlers start out on pee-wee teams. I believe that we could have a successful pee-wee program if we had the school district’s support and the Board of Education’s support to give us the backing we need to have one of these programs.
Do you think the OHS library should be a quiet place? Why or why not? Brittany Bruce “No, because people are still capable of getting work done. For others, it’s an escape f rom bor ing st udy halls.”
Aaron Berlin “Yes, because that is what the library is for. It’s a place to study.” Class of 2011
Maia Czarnecki
“No, because it should be a break from your schedule so that you can get a chance to relax and not worry about anything for a period.”
Class of 2010
Lauren Longley
Phil MacDougal Class of 2010
“I think it should be quiet. Some people need quiet to concentrate on their work.”
Letters Policy
It is the policy of The Buccaneer Bulletin that letters-tothe-editor be signed. We may, however, withhold the name if the writer requests. We ask that matters of good taste be kept in mind. Letters may be edited for length or content. They may be sent to mmccrobi@oswego.org or given to any member of The Buccaneer Bulletin staff.
Class of 2008
Class of 2008
March 2008
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Walking the Plank
Cammeo Returns After Near-Death Experience Editor’s Note: “Walking the Plank” is a regular feature of The Bucaneer Bulletin. This month’s installment was compiled by Kevin Kearns. If you know an OHS personality who you would like to see “walk the plank,” contact Chrissy King or Katie DiVita at cdivita@oswego.org or cking2@ oswego.org.
Buccaneer Bulletin: First off, how are feeling? Cammeo Lazzaro: Good, somewhat back to normal. BB: When the accident first occurred what were your thoughts? CL: I was just thinking about my sisters. I wasn’t thinking about me, I was wondering if they got hurt too. BB: Many people say that your recovery was a miracle, would you say the same? CL: Not really. BB: How has it been being back home? CL: Really good, because I hate staying in the hospital.
BB: What has changed in your life since your accident? CL: I can’t be in the sun, so summer is going to suck. I also have to wear pressure garments so I won’t scar as much BB: Have your views on life changed? CL: Yeah kind of. I am glad that I am alive, but I don’t know how to explain it. BB: There were a lot of students here in Oswego who did whatever they could to try and support you. Is there anything you want to say to them? CL: Just thanks. There is nothing really I can say. BB: If you could describe yourself in three words what would they be? CL: Shy, fun, and easy-going. BB: If you were stranded on an island and could only have three things with you, what would they be? CL: A bag of food, my boyfriend, and a first-aid kit. BB: What are your hobbies? CL: Playing tennis, and most-
ly just hanging out w it h f r ie nd s a nd being silly. Camping and pretty much any thing that has to do with summer. BB: Do you have any idea what you want to do after high school? CL: Yeah, I’m actually working on (my college applications) right now, I am thinking Oswego for my first year because I have to stay at home. BB: What are your plans for a career? CL: I want to be a kindergarten teacher. BB: Do you want to live in Oswego? CL: Yes. BB: Do you have a role model? CL: My dad. He was with me the whole time during the accident. I just have a new feeling about him. BB: If you could have dinner with any three people, alive or deceased, who would they be? CL: I wouldn’t really want anyone famous, probably just some friends and family.
CL: Turquoise. BB: What do you to relax after school? CL: I usually read or just lay down on the couch. BB: Do you have a favorite book? CL: No, I usually just like books that have to do with real things; I don’t like fairytales. BB: Do you have a favorite author? CL: Sarah Dessen.
BB: What about the desert? CL: Pie, most likely some kind of fruit pie.
BB: What genre of movies do you like to watch? CL: Comedy and some horror. Mostly comedy, though.
BB: What’s your favorite kind of ice cream? CL: Moose Track.
BB: Do you have a favorite movie? CL: No favorite, it’s hard.
BB: Where is the one place in the world which you would most like to visit? CL: Japan, because my cousin is there right now and she says it is really cool and interesting. BB: So, do you want to learn to speak Japanese? CL: Probably, if I go there I will have to. BB: What is your favorite color?
Buccaneer Bulletin
Photo by Morganne Atutis
BB: What T.V. channels do you watch? CL: Spike T.V. BB: Are there any shows that you never miss? CL: Degrassi. BB: What will be your first thought when you walk across the stage at graduation? CL: I was able to graduate on time, I’m thankful for that.
March 2008
BuccaneerBulletin Special Edition March 2008
Travel Tips
Oswego High School’s Student Voice
Bridging History
To help you better prepare for the anticipated traffic-related issues during the “Bridge Project,”The Oswego City Police Department has developed a list of items that you should consider.
DO: PREPARE FOR DELAYS Expect delays of 15-30 minutes or more during peak travel times. DO: PREPLAN YOUR ROUTE Familiarize yourself with alternate routes prior to the start of the project. DO: BE CAUTIOUS OF
PEDESTRIANS With an anticipated increase in pedestrian and bicycle traffic, there will a need for heightened awareness.
DO: PAY ATTENTION Many new traffic regulations including traf f ic signals, parking re strictions and signage will be in effect during the construction period. DON’T: BLOCK INTERSECTIONS It is a violation of New York State Law, and will severely hinder the traffic flow if vehicles are “caught” in the middle of an intersection when the light turns red. Make sure that you can safely pass through the intersection before you enter. DON’T: GET FRUSTRATED There will be times where your wait will be made longer by minor traffic issues that may arise. You may also face instances where you will be directed by police to travel in a direction that you were not intending. DON’T: CUT CORNERS Trying to avoid an intersection by “cutting” through a parking lot is not only a violation of law, but is also very dangerous.
The 1943 dedication of the Oswego Bridge Street Bridge brought out local dignitaries and troops returning from World War II.
By Sophie Rosenbaum Managing Editor
Due to decaying infrastructure, The Bridge Street Bridge will be closed within the next few weeks. The bridge closure will affect everyone in Oswego--businesses, visitors, and especially the Oswego City Schools.
School Day
The Oswego City School District (OSCD) has been planning for the bridge outage and making changes
for months. At the February 5 meeting, the Board of Education voted on one of the three options to modify the school day. Currently, the high school and middle school function on a 7:30 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. schedule and the elementary schools run a 9:00 a.m.- 3:35 p.m. day. The board opted for a plan which changed all OSCD starting and ending times by 15 minutes. This would mean that both the OMS and OHS would begin at 7:15 a.m. and end at 2:15 p.m. The elementary schools’ hours would be 9:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. This was the only option that affected all students’ schedules. Mr. Peter Colucci, Assistant SuperintenContinued on page 12
Teachers Respond
Students React
Busing Issues
Inside
Inside
Inside
Also Inside: Parking, Detour Routes, and more!
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Bridge Street Bridge Renovation
claimed, “It’s not fair that we have to get up even earlier schedules. Mr. Peter Colucci, Assistant Superinten- because the city has a bridge in bad condition! Students dent of Business, reinforced the fact that, “It’s part already complain about having to be in class by 7:30 a.m.” of their responsibility to be at a particular place at a Senior Jordan Holliday seemed indifferent when he said, particular time--that’s the student’s responsibility.” “I’m at school by 7:00 a.m. anyways. We’ll have more The other proposed options put busses on the bridge time before New Visions and less time after for lunch. It’s at “peak times.” Secondly, a compromise by everyone only a 15 minute difference, so it’s not too big of a deal.” seemed like a better option, rather than making one of Some students such as senior John Collins are also the other school’s suffer more than another. Mr. Peter looking to what seems like the “far-off future.” Collins Myles, Executive Principal of OHS, stated, “Given stated, “[The bridge closure] will definitely create problems [these] three options, [Option Three] was a nice com- for traffic and is affecting our school schedule, but once promise. It affects everybody’s school day equally.” we get through it, we will have an amazing new bridge.” Maggie Tiballi, president First period teachers of the Board of Education, will also be faced with the “The closure will be agreed with Myles by adding, situation of students showinconvienent to parents “This bridge is inconveniencing up late (legally or illeand students who will ing all of us, so let’s all be gally) and being unmotivated. have to wake up earlier. inconvenienced together.” Mr. Kurt Phaneuf, English Elementary students start Due to the change in teacher, said, “There is no later than us anyway--they should start earlier.” schedule, Tiballi followed student-based merit in startKatelyn Bateman ing the school day fifteen the suggestion of fellow board Class of 2008 minutes earlier. Students member Fred Maxon that the schools should begin operatare already unproductive ing on the new bell schedule enough. We’re adding another starting March 25. It would be problematic to start fifteen minutes of unproductivity into our school day.” it sooner because of Easter break and days off in the month of March. This gives the schools about a week to Busing get used to the change before the actual bridge closure. One board member explained, “This is just a penance we Between the elementary schools, the high school, have to pay before we get something good out of this.” There were never any options brought up that and the middle school, there are a total of 42 bus routes. would shorten instructional time. Myles explained that Of these 42 routes, 23 have to cross the bridge for their the OHS is a school in need of corrective action based OHS or OMS runs. Of those 23 routes, 10 of them then on students’ scores on the math regents and the ELAs. have to cross the bridge again for their elementary run. According to Myles, it would seem “ridiculous” to cut Only three out of those 10 drivers can use the Minetto Bridge to cross the river. any instructional time since Colucci and Mr. Tom Gunn the school was not performing (Director of Transportation) to the state standards to begin addressed the board and with. “In order to maintain “Bridges are good, we explained that the goal of the what we have, without losing need them!” Bridge Committee, which anything, whether it is class Mr. Robert Burt was made up of numerous time, instructional time, or OHS Social Studies administrators, teachers, and after school time, this option representatives from each seemed like the best,” Myles school, was to increase the stated. Tiballi agreed stating, time in between bus runs by “Changing instructional time a half hour. This increased was not a decision; it’s too time will is designed to give the bus drivers enough important.” Myles pointed out, “We have to deal with this time to make it to their second run because the busfor the spring, then we can evaluate how well it ses will not be on the bridge during “peak times.” worked. If we like the way it worked, we can keep This will most likely decrease the amount of time it the same for September, but if not, we can make it will take them to make it to their second route. Colucci suggested that students take the bus to and some changes. Nothing is set in stone though.” from school because it is “the safest mode of transportation on earth.” Continued from page 11
Student/Teacher Perspectives
For students and faculty alike, the bridge closure will mean waking up earlier, dealing with intense traffic, and adjusting to many other changes. Because of the change in the start of the school day, many students have been up-in-arms about how early they will have to be up, functioning, and at school. Junior Susan Al-Salameh ex-
Buccaneer Bulletin
Detours Closing the bridge has caused the Department of Transportation (DOT) and city officials to map out two detours for people to use while the bridge is out of commission. Eastbound traffic traveling into Oswego
via Route 104 will take a right onto Hillside Avenue. Hillside Avenue will be turned into a one-way street from Route 104 past Turrill Street (applicable to southbound traffic only). People exiting from Turrill street (behind McDonald’s) must turn left onto Hillside Avenue, and then left onto West Utica Street where they will cross the Utica Street Bridge. Then, they will take another left onto East First Street. The detour will be complete once traffic turns right onto 104 on the east side of the city. Westbound travelers entering Oswego via Route 104 will be directed to take a left onto East First Street and then take a right onto the Utica Street Bridge. All traffic will travel west onto West Utica Street and will then take a right onto West Fifth Street (at the corner where Stewart’s is located). West Fifth Street will be a one-way street from West Utica Street to West Mohawk Street (for northbound traffic only). Traffic will continue to travel “My bu north via West Fifth Street. minute Once the traffic turns left onto bridge Route 104, the detour will end. miss th These are just the “desonce th inconv ignated detour routes” which parent means that people cannot travel using alternate routes. Yet, traffic lights will be timed in favor of the designated detour routes. There will be an additional traffic light added at Route 104 and West Eighth Street as well as at West Utica Street and West Eighth Street to help drivers who are traveling between Route 104 and West Utica Street. There will also be signs added throughout the
ns Will Affect Entire Community
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school] to take the bus.” He explained that there will be no stopping on Utica Street. Eastbound traffic will not be allowed to make left-hand turns onto Utica Street at any time. Dehm added that, “Anyone on the detour route who violates it, will be ticketed and towed.”
entirety of the detour route, including on some side streets, to help direct traffic and help restrict parking.
Parking
Most are already aware of the fact that Utica Street is a main component of the bridge’s detour and that, of course, goes right past OHS. Therefore, during the duration of the bridge closure, there will be no parking on Utica Street. This includes the part of Utica Street located across the street from the high school. For OHS students and faculty, this means that cars can no longer be parked along the perimeter of the street. This will inevitably cause problems for students and staff who currently park there. Parking at OHS is, and always has been, a problem. Myles stated that there are not enough parking spots us will be coming 15 for the number of people es earlier once the who drive daily. He added closes. I’m going to that the school has looked at he bus more frequently alternative places to help ashat happens and it will sist students and faculty with venience me and my the burden of parking. Close s a lot.” Sarah Cooley neighbors such as the Moose Class of 2009 Lodge and SUNY Oswego’s Romney Field House have already said that students/ faculty cannot use their lots to park in. The parking lot across the street from the high school (next to the tennis courts) is still being looked at, but there are safety issues with the proximity to Leighton Elementary School. Chief Dehm said “Tell [everyone at the high
the state is paying for the entire bridge project. Had the state not made this offer, we may have waited to repair the bridge and the taxes to the public would have increased dramatically in order to pay for such a large project. The bridge is located in close proximity to many locally-owned businesses. These businesses are looking at new, creative ways to attract customers to the downtown Sports area. Stores such as the River’s End Bookstore realize that the bridge closure will impact business, but they are Sports teams will also be impacted by the taking proactive approaches to the situation. Many busibridge closure in many different ways. Because some nesses want to continue focusing on the positive atmoOswego coaches come from other districts or elemen- sphere in the heart of downtown. The bookstore, as well tary schools, practice times may have to be adjusted to as other businesses, will work together as a team to do the allow the coaches enough time to get to OHS. Mr. Scott best that they can for the duration of the bridge outage. Sugar, Athletic Director, mentioned that away games Downtown Oswego is in the process of rebuilding may be rescheduled for a itself to become something later time for the same reason. eye-catching. Vanouse exColucci was worried that, plained, “We are blessed to “I am not driving to school “As all this is kicking in, it’s have very cool businesses once the bridge closes going to be kicking in at the downtown and we need to because I know I won’t get same time as softball, track, support these businesses… to school on time due to and baseball seasons and All businesses need the comthe traffic delays.” there are going to be people munity to support them.” She Devon Harris here who aren’t from the area, added that the community’s Class of 2008 who aren’t going to underspirit needs to be the backbone stand the new traffic patterns.” for these local businesses. As for tournaments and Shopping in town also home games, Sugar has taken a proactive approach to no- boosts the local economy because approximately 95 tify other districts of the new traffic and parking regula- percent of the businesses are owned by local people. tions. “I’ve distributed a pamphlet to every school in our This means that the money is then pumped back into league that explains where the detour routes are, instruct- the City of Oswego. ing traffic to come through Minetto or Fulton, and to try to avoid the ‘bridge scene’ as much as possible,” said Sugar. Emergency Vehicles Sugar stated, “It’s going to be a nightmare.” Changing schedules, game times, tournament dates, Due to the increase in traffic, the police department etc. will pose a problem for most athletes. If you parwill have two officers stationed at either side of the bridge ticipate on a sports team, be sure to keep up-to-date during peak hours (2 p.m. – 5 p.m.) to help push traffic with any game, practice, or tournament changes. in case an emergency vehicle needs to get through. The Sugar is determined to keep people informed and police department will also be allowed to use the Border distribute information as soon as he is aware of it. Patrol building located on East Fourth and Schuyler Community streets for a temporary po“They should have built a lice station on the east side. bridge on either Cayuga Drivers are urged to As stated previously, the Street or Seneca Street make sure to move as far bridge closure will affect evin order to avoid the to the right as possible if eryone and everything in the problems that we are they see or hear an emerOswego area. Although some facing now.” gency vehicle. may shed negative light on the Mike Vivlemore bridge, Mary Vanouse, Director Class of 2008 of Community Development, identified some of the positive aspects of this. Vanouse The Bottom Line stated, “Look at what happened in Minnesota last year.” The bridge collapse in Minnesota resulted in pollution, a big mess for the Minnesota area, but most of all, loss Change is not popular, and yet, change happens. of lives. Like the Bridge Street Bridge, the Minnesota Although the closure will inconvenience all of us, Bridge was a main route for transportation. Without it is something that has to be done. It will be difficonstruction, our bridge has the potential to repeat cult to accept that it will be routine to wait in traffic the devastating events that occurred in Minnesota. and have other minor inconveniences added to our Originally, it was believed that the bridge only need- busy schedules, yet, our safety is paramount. Soon, ed new pedestrian walkways, but since that would put the it will become routine as well and before we know bridge out of service anyway; the state suggested a more it, we will have a new bridge to take pride in. So, extensive repair the bridge now. Dehm pointed out that relax and be patient – good things come with time.
March 2008
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Special Edition
Bridge Street Detours Begin This Week
courtesy Of Mary Vanouse, Community development director
The renovated Bridge Street Bridge will feature light fixtures that tie in with the historic look of downtown as well as new pedestrian walkways like the bridge pictured above.
Buccaneer Bulletin
March 2008
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Features
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Students Need to be Politically Informed Don’t Know
Jack
Jack Carmody
Many young people react to the idea of political involvement with a general disdain. As high school students, they feel that they have no influence on the government, so what goes on in our country isn’t of their concern. That mind set shouldn’t be considered strange; in fact, it’s quite understandable. The media often tries its hardest around election time to promote more young people to get involved, to register
to vote. The commercials say how it’s a privilege to voice one’s opinion on a ballot, but they never promote the idea of young people grasping a strong (if not moderate) idea of how these candidates differ, or what makes a certain one be the choice an individual would prefer. This unforeseen circumstance ends up with people voting for “that black dude” or “Bill Clinton’s wife,” and not the respectable, qualified candidate they would believe has the best ability to run the country. When our public student survey showed that less than half of the participants knew who our current New York governor was (before the scandal), I got a headache trying to figure out how they couldn’t have known. Many students are discouraged by the idea of politics and politicians,
because they are underclassmen and won’t be able to vote for some time. But that attitude isn’t a good one either. If a president or vice president is voted into office when you’re a freshman, by the end of one term, you could be a smoking, voting, Army-enlisting taxpayer who may end up in some desert country fighting a fight you didn’t want to, just because you felt that your opinion didn’t matter when you had the chance to speak up four years ago. If you should still find politics to be unworthy of your time, think on a smaller scale. To know how our state senators and governor act is a vital way of understanding what makes our state so different from others. Did you know that our minimum wage in New York is nearly two dollars per hour
over the country’s minimum? You can thank our state government for that. Or maybe you noticed people freezing outside because they can’t smoke in public places. Again, look to our state government for that law. Many problems or policies that you see as unfair or too lenient, are often matters of the state. What is my point? How can you voice your opinion or present a valid thought across to our elected officials, if you have no idea who they are or what they can do for you. I’m not saying that students need to watch seven hours of C-SPAN a day for the good of the country, or that Participation in Government class should be taken every year of high school. The message is a simple one: have a decent idea on where our country is going and who the heck is driving it.
Backgrounds Differ Among Presidential Candidates By Dillon Coates Reporter
As an attribute to the upcoming election that many OHS seniors will no doubt be participating in, I’ve compiled some objective information on the backgrounds and standpoints of the Democratic and Republican candidates for the 2008 election. Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton are the front runners for the Democratic Party, and one of them will be facing off against the Republican front runner John McCain. Former First Lady, Hillary Rodham Clinton has led a very politically motivated life. Attending Wellesley College and later entering Yale Law School, Hillary served on the Board of Yale Law Review and Social Action until her graduation, where upon she joined the impeachment inquiry staff advising the Judiciary Committee of the House of Representatives. After this, she relocated to Arkansas to where Bill Clinton would begin his political career. Jimmy Carter appointed her to the Legal Services Corporation as Bill became the governor of Arkansas, and then President. Her role as First Lady had an astounding impact on her as she traveled to other countries hearing the stories of heartbreak and misfortune. She continues to be a means of unification for women worldwide as the first former First Lady elected to the United States Senate and the first woman elected statewide in New York. The ethnically diverse Barack Obama was born in Hawaii to a Kenyan father and small-town Kansas mother. A graduate of Columbia University, he moved to Chicago’s South Side to work with a church-based group that improved the living conditions for the poor, as well as decreased unemployment and the crime rate. After years of local service, Obama went back to school at Harvard where he earned his law degree and became the first African-American president of the Harvard Law Review. He would then return to
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Chicago to practice as a lawyer and teach constitutional law. He would turn down many high-paying jobs to work for a company that specialized in civil rights cases, a particularly unglamorous position that involved constant defense of the “little guy.” Finally, he won enough support to land himself in the Illinois State Senate where he served eight years. He did much to reform the methods of recording homicide confessions and other miscellaneous police work, which included recording the race of each person stopped for traffic violations to eliminate any means for racial profiling. In 2004, he became the third African American to be elected to the United States Senate since the end of the Reconstruction Photo by caitlyn sawyer Era, and only the fifth of all time. John McCain III was born in 1936 Mr. Jason Sawyer, of Oswego, emerges from the voting booth to a line of decorated navy admirals. after last month’s special election for state senator. He was born in the Panama Canal Zone, but fortunately for his political career, both Distinguished Flying Cross, and the Purple Heart. of his parents were U.S. citizens, which granted McCain’s political career began at his father-incitizenship for him. After schooling in Alexandria, law’s beer company, in which he rallied local comVirginia, McCain wasted no time in following his munities’ support. He won a seat as Congressman family lineage to the U.S. Naval Academy in An- for a congressional district in Arizona and won the napolis. He would serve as a naval aviator, attaining Senate position in 1986. This will be McCain’s secrecognition for over 20 years, not to mention his ond attempt for the presidency, as he lost to George capture in the Vietnam War when a missile struck W. Bush in the Republican primary in 2000. At age his plane, rendering him unconscious, and the victim 72, if elected, McCain would be the oldest presiof two broken arms and a broken leg. He was a POW dent to assume office, surpassing Ronald Reagan for five and a half years at the infamous Vietnamese who was 69 when he first entered the oval office. camp, the Hanoi Hilton. McCain’s achievements include the Bronze Star, Silver Star, Legion of Merit,
March 2008
Columns
17
English Curriculum Offers Some Outstanding Choices Continued from page 5
Charles Dickens. This novel is a gigantic soapopera. Betrayal, love, hatred, revenge, redemption are all words that could be used to describe A Tale of Two Cities. The story begins with the years leading to the French Revolution and ends with the Reign of Terror. It follows first with the imprisonment of Dr. Alexandre Manette in the Bastille and then his release and recovery with his daughter Lucie. The Manette’s eventually escape disaster in France despite the efforts of revengecrazed Madame Defarge, who is blood-thirsty for the death of Lucie and her entire family. This novel is great because the story is so well planned out and all loose ends are tied up. It’s not like the more modern novels where you have to imagine your own ending; Dickens uses a circular plot structure so that the reader knows exactly what happens to all the characters. 4 To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee. This Pulitzer Prize winning novel is a timeless American classic. This novel is narrated by Scout Finch starting when she is six years old. She innocently speaks of her older brother Jem and respectable father Atticus. Scout makes observations about her neighborhood, her family, and townspeople of Maycomb, Alabama. Scout also notes the change in people when her father begins defending Tom Robinson, a black man accused of raping a white woman. Lee’s novel is very influential in its commentary on prejudice and tolerance. It is a good read because not only are you reading a great story, but you really get a window into the deep South during the great depression, since the novel is widely autobiographical on the part of Harper Lee. 3 A Time to Kill by John Grisham. If you have ever seen really suspenseful episodes of the television show Law and Order, that is what this novel is like. It takes place in Clanton, Mississippi during murder trial of Carl Lee Hailey who murdered two racist rednecks after they brutally gang-raped his ten-year-old daughter, Tonya. This novel is very exciting and it’s the kind that you hate to put down. Not only does this novel have nail-biting suspense, violence, and racism, but it also has moral questions about guilt, innocence, and what a parent would do for his child. 2 A Prayer For Owen Meany by John Irving is novel narrated by John Wheelwright, as an adult living in Canada teaching English at a private Catholic girls’ school. He tells of a close friendship with a disproportionately short boy named Owen Meany. Owen Meany is considered strange by many because of his short stature and strange voice that make him sound like he is
Buccaneer Bulletin
always screaming. However, everyone knows there Adam and Charles Trask as they grow apart and is something different have their own families about Owen and they are and lives. Throughout protective of him, even the novel, there are when playing pranks biblical references which on him. Owen has an culminate with Adam’s unalterable faith in God sons, Aron and Caleb and believes that God reliving the story of Cain has a special plan for and Abel, the two sons of him. Because of this Adam and Eve. belief, he is in many ways The book exemplifies responsible for John’s how the mistakes of the faith and his success in past can carry into the life. This novel contains future with disastrous issues on the importance results. However, there of faith, the existence of is hope. Steinbeck uses fate, and social justice. one word to show hope Irving does not force any --timshel. The word in of his beliefs down your Hebrew means “thou throat, but he still makes mayest.” Steinbeck you seriously wonder uses this to show his whether fate truly does characters and his Photo by morganne atutis exist, and if so, what readers that they can East of Eden by John Steinbeck continues to the is plan for your triumph over their sins be a favorite book of choice for high school own life? and over evil. students. It’s read at OHS in senior English. 1 East of This book is my Eden by John favorite because it really Steinbeck. I read this book recently, and by far, it makes you think about life and it lets you see all is my favorite book from high school. Although its different types of people, good and evil. length may seem a little intimidating, it is actually Many people believe that they don’t have worth reading every page. It is the story of how enough time to read or that reading is a waste the history repeats itself over and over again. The of time. However, if you truly sit down and take story revolves around the lives of two families, the the time to read these books, or any book, you’re Hamiltons and the Trasks. It follows the lives of assigned, you might be surprised.
March 2008
Entertainment
18
OHS Teachers Battle for Ultimate ‘Loser’ Status By Morgan McNamara Entertainment Editor
My teacher is the biggest loser... but it’s not exactly what you would think. The term “biggest loser” is not tended to be an insult, but rather the term that actually refers to the person who loses the most weight. The television hit “The Biggest Loser” came onto the scene on NBC in October of 2004. The basic premise of the show is that overweight contestants compete to win $250,000 by losing the highest percentage of their original body weight. Not only has this show become very popular, but it has influenced many Americans from all walks of life to attempt to lose weight, including many teachers from our very own school. Thirty-two teachers, staff members and administrators are competing to become the “biggest loser” of the Oswego High School. Every participant has a partner, and the groups are combining to lose weight and claim the title. “Some other teachers and I were just talking about how we wanted to lose weight, so
Photo By Morganne Atuttis
Technology teacher Chuck Rowlee hopes to be Oswego High School’s “Biggest Loser.”
we thought about making a club for it,” said Mrs. Ann Babcock, of the social
studies department. “We thought that splitting into teams would be the best
way, so partners can motivate each other, rather than just losing the weight by themselves.” There really aren’t any rules to the contest such as mandatory workouts, but contestants must weigh-in every Friday. “I’ve been watching the show and I heard other places were doing it, and since OHS has been doing a lot with health, I thought it would be a great idea,” said Mr. Chuck Rowlee. “I wanted to lose weight, so I thought it would be easier if I had others losing with me.” At the beginning of the competition, every participant had a weigh-in and his/her original weight was recorded. Throughout the competition, each participant has a weekly weigh-in to check his/her progress. At the end of the competition, the team that loses the highest percentage will be announced the “biggest loser.” Results won’t be in until June, but if you see less of your teachers over the next few months, this contest could be why.
Perpetual Burn Preparing for California Gig Band members headed to Musician’s Institute in Hollywood, California By Blair Harvey Reporter
Last June, the local heavy metal band Perpetual Burn put out its first CD, and by next June, they hope to take an adventure to attend the Musicians Institute in Hollywood, California. They will be going there as a band, but they will be branching off in their own directions with their respective instruments. Joe Motyka will be going for vocals, Paul Heagerty and Jacob Reid will be going for rhythm guitar, David Reid will be going for drums and Oswego High School senior Grant Davis will be going for bass guitar. Motyka stated, “We all have separate plans to go there, but it’s all for this one big plan. We are all just branching off, doing our own things. It’s going to be hard, but overall, it’s going to be pretty good. It’s just the next step, I suppose.” They are semi-signed with Rock Lab, a record company in Chicago; it is a small step in looking for someone bigger. They currently sell their CD themselves for $5. If someone wants to buy it, they can just contact one of the band members. They don’t sell their CD in stores, because they said that it would
Buccaneer Bulletin
be a big rip off, and that the most they would get is fifteen cents a copy. As far as shows go, they just played a benefit for Cammeo Lazzaro which was put on by her family at the American Foundry. They’ve also played in Baldwinsville and Watertown lately, and they like to play at the Rose Garden bar and Toucans. Some of their musical influences are Angela Gossow of Arch Enemy, Maynard James Keenan of Tool, Mikael Akerfeldt of Opeth and Marty Friedman of Megadeth. Photo By BlairHarvey They are most likely not competing in Battle Joe Motyka (right) and Jake Reed of the band Perpetual Burn rehearse of the Bands this year. recently. The band is made up of current and former OHS students. “There probably will thinking about doing the California thing. It will be be a lot of serious downtime for the band. We probably a pretty sweet adventure, if we get in a money situwon’t be around as far as playing goes because we are ation, which probably won’t happen, we are taking sitting home staring at each other getting ready for care of things right now. But if anything would hapthis big trip that we are working on doing, but we will pen, it’s going to be a cool experience,” he concluded. play here and there,” Motyka said. “We’re definitely
March 2008
Entertainment
19
Gaming Addictive, but not a Disorder--For Now The characteristics of video game addiction are similar to other psychological disorders. By Liz Waterbury Reporter
Our society is filled with teens who have addictions. Drugs, alcohol, and gambling are just a few. The latest? Video game addiction. Across the world, psychiatrists and psychologists have weighed in about the controversy of whether or not this addiction could be related to a psychological disorder. Although video game addiction is not found in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, many people have exhibited symptoms that are very similar to other psychological disorders found in the manual. The American Medical Association (AMA) is currently trying to classify this addiction as an official disorder, but research shows these electronic games are no more addictive than school or work. There is no real evidence that there is any true psychological disorder associated with these games, which brings up the thought that Photo by blair harvey psychiatrists and psychologists have agreed to the proposal for solely an increase in money, on their A student sits among piles of video games in his room. Is it a hobby, addiction, or disorder? behalf. This is because after it is officially named Studies have shown that people who play video on it right after he’s done doing whatever he’s doing, a psychological disorder, doctors will refer them games have a very high level of dopamine in their sys- and I definitely feel more distant.” With multiple levels to psychiatrists or psychologists for treatment, tem which is also found in drug addicts, and for some involved, this gives an urge to keep playing to defeat resulting in an increase of clients, and money. people, video games can become as addictive as heroin. levels, to reach the goal of the highest, winning level. Some people believe that there are beneficial “Most psychiatrists would say, nobody wants However, there is not a legitimate treatment for effects to playing video games in moderation. to do that; nobody this problem. For now, this proposal will remain Using the games can wakes up one morn- in question. Diagnosing illnesses or disorders is improve spatial abilities “Most psychiatrists would say ing and says, ‘I’m typically opinionated. All over the internet, quotes and the ability to create bored’ I think I’ll from many psychiatrists or psychologists either nobody wants to do that; nobody and then use strategies. become addicted to agree or disagree with this “disorder.” In the end, Games can also contrib- wakes up one morning and says, video games,” said Mr. the only opinion that matters is that of the American ute to forming critical‘I’m bored, I think I’ll become Mark Mirabito, OHS Medical Association, which creates and edits the analysis techniques. As psychology teacher. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental DisShakespeare said, “Mod- addicted to video games.’ ” It is typically be- orders. The new edition will be published in 2012. eration in all things.” yond a person’s conWhile the multi-billion dollar video game indusHowever, the negatrol to become ad- try is helping out the economy, it is causing harm to Mr. Mark Mirabito tive effects that are inOHS psychology teacher dicted to anything, human minds. Mounds of evidence, from the psychoduced due to the over whether it be video logical adrenaline tolerance and addictions, to the sousage of video games games, drugs, shop- cial deviance, and neurological hormone imbalance, it outweigh the positives. ping, school/work, etc. As the body and mind is proving this addiction could be classified as an offiAccording to www.serendip.com, the effects formed become used to playing a video game for an cial psychological disorder in the future, but, the confrom the excessive use of video games are associhour, eventually this will become insufficient for troversy may keep it classified as merely an Impulse ated with psychological, social, and neurological the adrenaline rush that is sought after. There- Control Disorder until further evidence is gathered. factors. Playing video games offers an emotional fore, their tolerance will increase, meaning one high, otherwise known as an adrenaline rush. The hour will turn into three, three to five and so on. Special Ed. teacher Jim Graham intensity of the most popular video games today, On-Line Gamers Anonymous reports that many is seeking pledges for a pancake stimulates the body to produce adrenaline. The people lose touch with their families, friends, and eating contest at the Marathon Maple body and mind become used to this feeling, much hobbies. There was even one report of a teenager Festival on April 5. He will donate all like a substance addiction, therefore they are prone who became suicidal after playing for twelve hours proceeds to the Cammeo Lazzaro Fund. to play the games daily to achieve this ‘high’ which straight. In an interview with a parent concerning her Contact Mr. Graham in room B8 or at: can lead to excessive use, and become unhealthy. “It son, Heidi Breen said, “He doesn’t have dinner with jgraham2@oswego.org certainly keeps me in a good mood. It arouses me me, all he thinks about is the game and getting back mentally, and physically,” said senior Dillon Coates.
Buccaneer Bulletin
March 2008
Point/Counterpoint
20
Sports Quitting Policy Athletes should It would benefit all be punished for if athletes were not abandoning their teams penalized for quitting At some high schools, On nearly every sports team, there is a rule in the code of there are always the quitters, Counter point Point conduct that states if you quit the non-committed stragglers a sports team you are not identifiable by their lack of effort Chrissy King Katie DiVita eligible to participate in any and enthusiasm in everyday sport the next season. Some activities. They often prove to be people think that this is a an annoyance and a distraction to their coaches and teammates until their names are finally crossed off the roster. good rule because it will discourage players from quitting and letting down their team or to teach them to finish what they start. What’s worse, is sometimes these athletes, after abandoning their teams in In theory, this rule sounds like a good idea. However, in reality, it probably the middle of one season, have the nerve to try out for another team the next won’t work the way that people think it will. If a person wants to quit a team, season. he/she should be allowed to. If they aren’t allowed to leave, they’re going to be Some schools around the U.S. adhere to a strict “no quitting” policy for miserable. Their unhappiness, and most likely unwillingness to try their hardest athletes who want to participate in the subsequent sports season. This states will bring the rest of the team down, not only in that if an athlete quits a sport mid-season, then he or she is not allowed to participate in a sport in the “Pain is temporary. It may last spirit, but in overall performance. Having an unhappy player is not only a strain following sports season. This is meant to reduce a minute, or an hour, or a day, on the team, but also on the coach. A coach’s job is the number of quitters that plague sports teams because they automatically disqualify themselves or a year, but eventually it will to give players the tools they need to become better from playing on future teams by abandoning a subside and something else will athletes, but it can be difficult to do this when a player is goofing off, not showing up, and being a previous school squad. It doesn’t prohibit quitting, take its place. If I quit, however, cancer on the team. There are many players on sports it just imposes a rather harsh penalty on the act. teams, and coaches don’t have time to be babysitting What would make a coach think that a player it lasts forever.” and dealing with nuisances who don’t truly want would be committed to the team if he or she quit a Lance Armstrong to be there. Therefore, it would be beneficial for all team mid-schedule in the previous season? There involved if the player was just allowed to walk away. would be much less stress on coaches with this Some may say that if a player quits one sport, he/she is likely to quit another, policy, because the quitters would already be “weeded out.” They wouldn’t have to be concerned with a player’s commitment level and could instead, focus but what if they don’t? What if that player just wanted to try something new on the contests. If these players don’t put the effort in, they just don’t get to play and after the fact found out that they hated it? What if they would have been the player to win a championship the next season, but they were never given the in the games. Or, if they are a real annoyance, they can be kicked-off. It’s as simple as that. Players also wouldn’t have to worry about scrambling for a relay chance? Sports should be open to everyone no matter what they have done in the team or an offensive forward come Sectional playoff time. Plus, this would past. There are a lot of extenuating circumstances that could have led to their prevent these quitters from repeating the same disrespect in the next season. Not only would this prevent teammates and coaches from being deserted in initial quitting, like a personality conflict with fellow players or coach or maybe they just realized that the sport wasn’t right for them. the future, but benefit the potential quitters as well. Otherwise, they would be Although it’s true that quitting may be an irresponsible thing to do, missing out on the ability to make friends, stay in shape, and add a completed sports season to their resume, not to mention learning what a commitment is all everyone should at least have the option. Students can drop classes if they feel that they are too demanding, so they should also be allowed to quit sports teams about. if they feel that it’s necessary and in their best interests. In short, athletes should be punished for quitting a team. If they get busy, they have other commitments, or they are too involved in something else, they shouldn’t have tried out in the first place! It’s a life lesson: when people quit Is there a hot topic here at Oswego High School that you things in life, there are consequences to face. Quitting a job, for example, could would like to see debated in this Point/Counterpoint forum? result in a bad reference and difficulty finding another job. If so, please e-mail Editors-in-Chief Katie DiVita or Chrissy Athletes should understand – if you start it, stick with it! Or, do your future team a favor and forfeit the privilege of participating in athletics the next King at cdivita@oswego.org or cking2@oswego.org. season.
Buccaneer Bulletin
March 2008
Sports
Wouldn’t it be Nice for Schools To Offer New, Extreme Sports By Christian Scaccia and Kailyn Gray
other sports and try out for them. I do think we need more choices when it comes to sports. It’s limited to Baseball, tennis, track, lacrosse… have we had the general: baseball, basketball, soccer, etc. I think enough yet? The spring sports season is here, and it would broaden our school athletically,” she said. once again, we’ve got the same old list of sports to In our school district, we have facilities that are choose from. These traditional sports are available used for our current athletic programs that could in almost every school district anywhere. Every easily be utilized by other sports. For example, season, athletes prepare themselves for the same we have two pools within our school system that sport that they have probably been playing since are used for swimming and diving. If water polo they learned how to walk. To be completely honest, is offered at the Olympic level, then why not let having the same sports to choose from not only our athletes begin to learn the game now using just in the spring season, but year-round, gets a our pools? Our school also has a Ski Club, with little bit boring. Athletes train and participate in weekly transportation to Labrador Mountain. preseason requirements to better themselves for Snowboarders and skiers are hauled up to the their teammates, but are they really still enjoying mountain for five hours every Wednesday, so why something that they have been doing repetitively not make it a competition? “I’ve been a member of for over ten years? Is it possible that the only reason Ski Club since my freshman year. Yeah, it’s fun, but they are playing their sport is to stay in shape, rather if snowboarding was actually added to the school than have fun? as a sport, it would make it ten times better,” stated School districts regulate their athletic senior Brian Buske. Other schools use the mountain programs according every Wednesday to expenses, If these athletes already devote just like ours; make participation, injury something of it! a portion of their lives to these Many years ago, our rates, etc. These policies prohibit “extreme sports,” then why not district purchased athletes who enjoy rock wall which offer them a chance to compete anow participating in hasn’t been and show their peers and family touched for a few activities above and beyond school why don’t we members what their hard work has years, sports from doing so put it to use! OHS led them to be able to do. while in the school’s supplies the football, environment. These baseball, and soccer activities are often teams with fields that labeled as “extreme sports” due to high levels of could very easily be used for other more “intense” danger, difficulty, and speed. A large portion of sports such as rugby. In college, athletes are able to our student body participates in activities outside take part in rugby, so why not start some training of school sports such as snowboarding, biking, beforehand? skateboarding, etc. If these athletes already devote a New and more extreme sports are created portion of their lives to these “extreme sports,” then everyday in our world. Do school districts around why not offer them a chance to compete and show the world need to think about upgrading to sports their peers and family members what their hard that are far more exhilarating? More and more work has led them to be able to do. athletes are beginning to participate in these sports Other Central New York high schools such outside of school, so what would happen if there as Cicero-North Syracuse, Victor, Baldwinsville, were to be a decrease in school athletic programs? Fayetteville-Manlius, and Henninger already have Sooner or later, time will tell. You never know, we a wide variety of sports to choose from. CNS offers could be missing out on the next great bowling over 18 sports, with field hockey and bowling as star, or the next Olympic skier, simply because of a options. Schools like F-M and Baldwinsville have limited selection of teams. a crew program, and Fairport and Victor both offer Alpine and Nordic skiing. Central Square even has a rifle team! So why not Oswego? Some students agree in wanting an expanded selection for their sports seasons. Junior Amanda Hamilton stated, “I do think that OHS could use more sports, and I think that people would participate in them.” Sophomore Bethany Jung agreed. “The only one I would try personally is field hockey, but I’d imagine other people would like the
Reporters
Buccaneer Bulletin
21
Buccaneer Flashback 11 years ago (1997)
The varsity boys swimming and diving team finished its season nine and four, placing third in the Onondaga League and receiving its first-ever state ranking. “I really hated to see the season end,” said Coach Jim McCaul. “This has to be one of the finest groups of individuals I have had the pleasure to work with.” Oswego finished fourth at the section III swimming and diving championships, its best finish yet.
15 years ago (1993)
The Oswego varsity hockey team won its second Section III title against the top seeded Rome Free Academy, 5-2. Leading the way for Oswego was Jason Bauer scoring three goals. Goalie Jeff DeSantis recorded 29 saves throughout the game and seven in the final period. The Buccaneers played a phenomenal third period, scoring the decisive three goals. The Bucs were defeated in their previous two meetings with the Black Knights.
22 years ago (1986)
Former OHS hockey star Kevin Ahern completed his college hockey career at SUNY Oswego. At Ahern’s first tryout his freshman year, he never thought he would make the team, but his hustle and attitude caught the eye of coach Don Unger. He never gave up, and in his senior year he was named captain and was selected to the All SUNYAC team. Now done with hockey in Oswego, Ahern wants to purse his hockey career in Europe, but he was uncertain where he would be playing. “The European leagues are very good with many different levels,” said Ahern. Editor’s Note: Buccaneer Flashback is a monthly feature of The Buccaneer Bulletin. This month it was complied by Brett McClelland.
March 2008
Sports
22
Sydney Miller is OHS Athlete of the Month By Kat Lazarski Sports Editor
Although the girls’ hockey team doesn’t always attract huge crowds, people should take some time to recognize some of the outstanding athletes on the team. The Buc Bulletin is taking this opportunity to honor one such player, senior Sydney Miller. Syd Miller, a senior assistant captain on the hockey team, is leaving OHS with a long list on accomplishments. Miller has been playing hockey since she was five, and her skills as a player have developed throughout the years. Here in Oswego, Miller participated in the Oswego Minor Hockey Association, which often had Miller on co-ed teams. However, She was never intimidated by her male opponents. “I played on all-boys’ teams until I was 11 years old,” Miller explained. “I was just as good as the boys.” Beating the boys wasn’t enough for her, however, and Miller decided to travel to Syracuse to play. “I played on the Syracuse Stars girls teams for six years after I played with the boys.” All of the commitment Miller put into her game when she was younger paid off this season. The girls’ hockey team made it to the state final four, which
hadn’t been accomplished in a few years. They placed third in the league tournament as a result of two overtime goals by Miller. “It was a great feeling making the final four my senior year,” Miller said. “Although we didn’t make it to the championship, I was very pleased with our overall season. It was a team goal to get [to the final four], but we didn’t finish like we all wanted to. It was definitely one of my favorite seasons.” Miller added that she was glad the team was able to fight through all of the tough times during the season. “I’m most proud of the way our team got along and stuck together through everything this year. We had our share of bad times, but through it all, we were still a family.” While the team was meshing well on and off the ice, Miller had a problem of a different sort. A pesky shoulder injury was haunting her through the season and made it hard PhotO By Morganne Atutis for her to play to. Eventually, Miller Senior Sydney Miller led the Lady Buccaneer would have surgery on her shoulder girls’ ice hockey team to the state Final Four. to try to fix the problem. “My shoulder injury did affect my game more than I thought it would. It was sore and my hardest.” Despite the pain, Miller annoying most of the time I played, did have a tremendous senior season. Next year, Miller will be going to but I played through it and still tried
Cayuga Community College, to figure out what she wants to major in and to get the required general education classes out of the way. “I will not be playing hockey. Though I would love to play in college, my shoulder really put me to the test this season. I wasn’t sure how much it would hurt and if it would drive me to end my career,” Miller said. Even though Miller will miss playing hockey, she wishes the best for the team and the OHS girls’ hockey program as a whole. “I hope the program continues to get stronger. I would love to see them win a final four,” she explained. “The team is very young and I think they’ll be a threat to other teams in the league. The coaching staff is great, too. They’ve taught me a lot and have made my last two seasons great, so I hope they’ll do the same for the rest of the girls.”
Nikki Carroll Reaches 1,000 Point Milestone By Joe Bucher Sports Writer
Before this winter began, only two players in the history of Oswego High School have scored one thousand points playing for varsity basketball teams, Dominic Scanlon and Ashley Wallace. This tremendous accomplishment was reached for a third time on January 29 in front of a packed David E. Powers Gymnasium as senior Nikki Carroll joined the prestigious thousand point club. To raise emotions in the gym even more, it was senior night for Carroll and teammates Megan Boardway and Kristina Licatese. Carroll said, “I was really excited, but at the same time, I just wanted to get it over with, I was really nervous. It was so hard to focus; the pressure was really getting to me.” Needing just ten points entering the contest, each time a bucket dropped for Carroll the crowd rose to its feet and cheers erupted. Fans had set up a banner with number 999 to 1000 and covered up another number with blue tape each time she scored. With just over five minutes to go, Carroll received a pass from junior Lauren Hunt. She slashed to the basket from the baseline and rose
Buccaneer Bulletin
Photo by morganne atutis
Many of Carroll’s coaches and family members were on hand (from left to right). Dessa Carroll, Mr. Reed, Ms. Daley, Mr. Wallace, Mr. Conroy, Nikki Carroll, Mr. Palmitesso, and Mr. Amedio
up for the lay up. Every Buccaneer fan in the gym was on his feet applauding and cheering, “Nikki! Nikki! Nikki!” The game was stopped and the home bench cleared out to congratulate their teammate. Carroll was joined by her family and some of her former coaches to be presented with a ball to commemorate becoming a member of the thousand point club. The jayvee team presented her with boxes of different candies; each box contained a thousand pieces. Of all the emotions that came over Carroll at that moment, she felt relieved. “We weren’t really playing our game and it was a lot closer than I think it should have been, but after it was over, we were able to play our own game.” When Carroll scored the basket, the game was still up for grabs at 31-27, but after a break of several minutes to honor her, the Bucs pulled away to a 52-35 victory. Carroll said that what helped her most on her way to this achievement were her coaches and teammates. Carroll has played AAU basketball for the Unity Wildcats and plans to attend New Haven University in the fall and will be a member of the Charger basketball program.
March 2008
Sports
What’s Wrong with Kids Today? Meet Kevin Hart KSPN Kevin Kearns Meet Kevin Hart. Six foot four, 305 pound senior offensive linemen for his school in Fernley, Nevada who declares to his school at a pep rally that he has made his decision. Hart said he would accept a full-ride from the University of California to play football next fall. The only catch? Hart was never offered a scholarship by Cal, nor was he even recruited by the Bears. It turns out Hart couldn’t stand the fact that his dream of playing big-time college football wasn’t coming true, so decided to try and scam everyone. Hart was actually able to convince his parents, teammates, and whole school that he was being recruited by several Division I schools to play football. Once it was discovered that Cal knew nothing about Hart, law enforcement stepped in to investigate the matter, which forced Hart to come forward and admit that it was all a hoax. Scouts said that Hart’s size was desirable for an offensive lineman, yet Hart lacked the quickness and strength to make it on the D-I level. Although scouts only noted that Hart lacked the physical ability, this instance showed that he was also severely lacking in maturity.
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By the time a student-athlete makes it to his I have no doubt this may have been slightly harder senior year in high school he should have developed for Hart, because his dream probably continued well the maturity to be able to accept the reality of rejec- into his senior year. Yet, at some point, he needed to tion and move on. I know it is tough to realize that realize it wasn’t going to happen, regardless of how your life-long dreams are not coming true, but at bad he may have wanted his dreams to come true. least deal with it in a way that will not have serious, And what in the world were his parents thinking? and embarrassing consequences. Everyone who Wouldn’t a parent typically want to meet the coach knows Hart must have had their opinion of him or at least visit the school where his son is planning changed by this incident. For the rest of his life, to spend the next four years of his life? Honestly, if a people will say, “Hey, aren’t you that kid who was kid is able to scam his parents that badly about someon ESPN for lying about a football scholarship?” thing this serious, it is no wonder that some kids end Not everyone is cut out to be a D-I athlete. Not up involved with drugs without their parents batting only did an eyelash. Hart not Everyone who knows Hart, must have had their Luckily accept for Hart, he opinion of him changed by this incident. For was able to rejection well, he the rest of his life, people will say, “Hey, aren’t escape ler ef u s e d you that kid who was on ESPN for lying about gal trouble. to acHowever, if cept it at a football scholarship?” he is willing all! Apto go this far p a r e nt ly no o ne eve r t old H a r t t h at not with deception, it is almost a guarantee he will get everything in life goes your way. Typically, into trouble later in his life with lies. Next time it may that is a lesson most kids learn early in life. cost him more than just his reputation, it may end up Personally, while I was growing up, there was costing him a job and possibly putting him in jail. nothing I wanted more than to be a professional After all, just ask Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, athlete. Early on in high school, I realized that I or Marion Jones, about the consequences of their alwasn’t going to be able to go as far as I had dreamed, leged lies and deceit. and even at that age, I was able to accept that fact.
Graphic by Chrissy King
Buccaneer Bulletin
March 2008
Courtesy of Bill FOLEY OCSD courtesy of Mike Leboeuf The Palladium Times
March 2008 Volume 11 Number 5
Oswego High School’s Student Voice
Buccaneer Sports
The girls’ varsity basketball team was a perfect 12-0 en route to the championship of the Central New York Counties League.
Ryan Blauvelt enjoyed a championship season on the mats, winning league and sectional titles. He’s certainly enjoying this win!