November 2006

BuccaneerBulletin Volume 10 Number 2 November 2006

Bulletins Survey: Don’t Trust Online Peer Reviews

A Cornell University study of online peer review systems estimates that one percent of reviews on Amazon.com are copied from reviews of similar products on the site or posted multiple times under different names for the same product.

Online review systems are mushrooming as an alternative to traditional expert reviews, but researchers Shay David, a Cornell graduate student in the Department of Science and Technology Studies, and Trevor Pinch, a professor, fear the reviews are too untrustworthy.

Oswego High School’s Student Voice

CURFEW?

STOPPED Program for Teen Drivers Parents are notified about their teen’s driving infractions.

Mallory Kelly Layout Editor

The Oswego County Sheriff’s Department has announced its participation in the Sheriff’s Telling Our Parents and Promoting Educational Driving (STOPPED) program, established by Being Without a Car the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office.

Isn’t That Bad for Teens The STOPPED program is a voluntary notification system for parYou’d think living without a car could ents.

Parents can register the vehicle drive you crazy, but it can be a real gas. their teen is driving to be notified of That’s the word from Chris Balish potential driving problems.

This is of Los Angeles, author of How To Live similar to the “How’s my driving?”

Well Without Owning A Car. He says car bumper stickers on tractor trailers, that ownership is an addiction and breaking also give you an 800 number to call. the cycle can improve your quality Once the car is registered, an of life almost instantly. In his words, identification sticker is placed on the BUCCANEER BULLETIN PHOTO “I went car-free about four years ago City parks currently close at dark.

If these postings don’t work, city windshield to indicate it is part of the and immediately noticed I had $1,000 councilors could consider a teen curfew to curb crime and vandalism. program.

If for any reason a driver unmore in (spending money) because I der the age of 21 is pulled over in the wasn’t buying gas, satellite radio or registered vehicle, the sheriff will write other things connected with a car.” down the time of stop, driver’s name, Although he feared being without a Ashley Johnston and how many passengers are in the car would ruin his social life, he found Managing Editor car.

They will also include the reasonThere has been talk of implementing a teen curfew in Oswego, it improved. Not only did he have more for the stop, and if a ticket was issued. money for dates, but his new habit of meaning that all kids under the age of 16 will not be allowed to be in While this program is intended to bike-riding rid him of pesky love handles any public place after 10:00 pm without an adult over the age of 21. provide teen drivers with a visible re The committee to address a possible curfew met for the first time on Tuesday, and made him more attractive to women.

But being car-free is not without its October 24 to talk about the issue. Over the summer months there were many minder of parental supervision, it also price. Balish says he now had to actu- complaints of violence and vandalism such as cars being keyed and riffled, provides parents with the capability of ally plan things in advance and can’t things being stolen out of yards and urination on people’s lawns. With all of this correcting poor driving behavior before be as spontaneous as he used to be. trouble, and problems in the city, the curfew was mentioned as a possible solution. it is too late. “I disagree with this pro This summer, along the river walk, there were rumors of drug deal- gram and its effectiveness. I think it sets

- Wi r e l e s s F l a s h among kids and teens. City councilors were told that kids would an example of parents over stepping the Coat Drive Underway ings walk along the river selling drugs to any kids they could find to buy them. boundary. Driving is a privilege that The annual National Honor So Barbara Donahue, the Second Ward Councilor and chair of the commit- you wait sixteen years to attain,” stated ciety holiday coat drive is current- tee, stated, “The curfew has not been put into place yet. Many of the council senior Andrea Boyd. “This program ly underway. “Gently used” outer- members and students who attended thought that it wasn’t a good idea.” Do- is trying to promote communication wear may be dropped off in room nahue mentioned that if there was a curfew put in place, it would be modeled when in actuality it’s just putting a wall 235 anytime before December 21. see “stopped” page 2 see “vandalism” page 2

City Considers Teen Curfew

Schrader Walks the Plank...

Page 8

What’s Your Opinion on the Curfew Page 11

Record Breaking Performer!

Page 17

Also Inside ...

Clublicity Powder Puff Controversy Activities in Oswego?

2

News

Teen Curfew May Curb Vandalism

1 parents thinking. She would also like to get the news media’s after Buffalo, New York’s curfew. The Buffalo city cur- help in advertising any events, they try to put on for teens. few states that all kids under the age of sixteen cannot Putting on a farmers market or teen-only concerts be in public places after ten o’clock Sunday through behind Steamer’s, much like the one for adults would Thursday and at eleven o’clock on Friday and Saturday. help curb the problems. There is also mention of getThe committee is also looking at curfews from a few ting the YMCA involved to put on some events for other communities. If they decide on a curfew, they will teens. Donahue said that at this time there is a youth find which ever they think will work best for Oswego. center, but not many kids seem interested in going.

Donahue stated, “Many parents don’t feel they need to There has been a curfew placed in all the city parks. be accountable for their kids, they don’t know where their After dark, no one is allowed to be in them. This summer kids are or what they are doing half the time.” But with there was $2000 worth of repairs made on the Little League some of the memconcession stand “Many parents don’t feel they need to be due to vandalism. bers of the council being opposed accountable for their kids; they don’t know Donahue recogto a curfew, there nized, “I know, where their kids are or what they are doing it’s not all kids have been many other possible soin the town, but half the time.” lutions mentioned. a lot of kids Barbara Donahue with It is realized coming from Second Ward Councilor New York City, that there is not much in Oswego Syracuse, and for kids to do, especially throughout the winter months. many other places where things like that hap“We want to get the people involved, including the news p e n a l l t h e t i m e , t h e y b r i n g a l l o f i t h e r e . ” media, and parents to help solve the problem,” stated Do We also want to get the schools involved. Representatives nahue. “I want to talk to the YMCA director, and see what from the high school will be attending the meeting on Novemwe can do to make it so there are things for the kids to do.” ber 15. With the school’s involvement, they could advertise any Donahue stated that she would also like to get the news events that the city would put on, encouraging kids to attend. media involved. A few years ago one of the news channels City officials emphasize that the curfew has only been would air a scrolling banner across the bottom of the screen, talked about; it has not been into place, and certainly not set kind of like a warning, saying, “Do you know where your in stone. But Councilor Donahue stated, “If the things we are kids are?” She would love to have this be done again to get the trying out don’t work out, then you can bet on a stiff curfew.” continued from page

Has Your Vehicle Been STOPPED? continued from page

1

between teens and their parents. Trust is the number one key with your kids, and parents need to realize that,” she said.

While most teens can agree with the feeling of freedom being taken away, parents feel differently. Annually, there are 3,000 drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 who die because of car crashes in the United States. These types of statistics make parents feel different about so called “freedom,” “Kids are kids, and if they think they can put something over on their parents, they’ll try it, and that’s not a good thing when safety is a concern. If this program prevents one kid from being hurt, then it is definitely worth it,” commented OHS technology teacher Warren Shaw.

Although driving is a privilege, we should use caution while driving. Hopefully the STOPPED Program will help decrease Oswego’s teen car accident rate .

Buccaneer Bulletin

Buccaneer Bulletin Oswego High School’s Student Voice Editor-in-Chief Kevin Kearns Managing Editors Ashley Johnston, Chrissy King Entertainment Katie DiVita Alumni M.Waruguru Gichane Layout Editor Mallory Kelly Clublicity Editor Sophie Rosenbaum Desktop Publishers Sarah Dehm Web Team Pat Dougherty, Greg Lyons, Lindsay Marsh, Lindsay Usherwood Sports Editor Zach Grulich Sports Writers Kailyn Gray, Kathryn Lazarski Art Director Fred Maxon Art Staff Amanda Bingham Cheif Photographer Abby Martin Photographers Alycia Clohecy Emily Mclaughlin Alyssa Holland Buisness Manager Casey Morley Ad Representatives Samuel Austin, James Gunn Ad Designers Mary Mulcahey Reporters Colin Etherington, Morgan McNamara, Sophia Rosenbaum,Lauren Dimarco, Genevieve Hall, Chelsea Waters 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 Palladium-Times. Opinions expressed are those of the students and do not necessarily reflect those of the administration or the advisers.

November 2006

Columns

3

Home Alone Four--The OHS Sequel What’s better than messing with the substitute teacher?

How about not having a substitute at all? A shortage of substitute teachers and a new sub-calling system have created more and more of a problem recently here at OHS, with some classrooms being left uncovered for periods at a time, and classes going on, without teachers.

While the blame for this problem cannot rest solely on one individual, it is in the best interest of students and teachers alike that this problem be taken care of immediately. One teacher, Mrs. Eve Phillips, of the English Department had a mishap concerning a substitute teacher in October.

This particular day last month, Phillips had to attend the funeral of a family friend during the middle of the school day. She used this year’s new substitute assignment system (called sub-it, though one teacher said it’s more like ‘flub-it’) to assign a sub, and went about her plans for the day as normal.

Little did she know that for the rest of the day, her classes would be without a teacher. The next period, during Phillips’ study hall, there was no teacher. “I

know I did things as well as I could from my end,” scares me the most,” Phillips said. “If someone had Phillips said. “Somewhere else is where it fell apart, gotten hurt, I have no idea who would’ve been held and I’m not sure where that was, but that just can’t responsible.” happen.”

Mrs. Phillips’ next class wasn’t much different.

Furthermore, when Phillips inquired with the This class, being her speech communications class, office as to what could have happened to cause found the notes Phillips left for her substitute, and this error, no one was sure. “I have asked a couple did everything she left for the sub on their own. of times and they’re still trying to find where the While Phillips commends her students for doing the breakdown occurred,” Phillips said. Possibilities right thing, she says they shouldn’t have had to do include someone agreeing to sub for her and it unsupervised. “I wish they would have reported failing to show up, to it to someone, because the substitute caller simply not safe,” she “If someone had gotten hurt, it’s not finding a sub and said. stopping the search. “The I have no idea who would’ve It is likely that bottom line is we didn’t this incident was not been held responsible.” have anybody, and we isolated. Students can have to find out why,” Mrs. Eve Phillips hear talk in the halls she said. classes being left English Teacher of Luckily, the students unattended for whole in Mrs. Phillips’ periods, not knowing classes were well behaved. “We thought that she what to do. If the new system for assigning would be back in like five minutes,” said Donald substitute teachers does not have all its kinks Delpriore, a student in her study hall, “so we didn’t worked out yet, its use should be postponed until do anything that could get us in trouble.” Having they are. With the amount of student violence across responsible students in the study hall was lucky, the U.S. this school year, it’s only a matter of time in that if something serious had occurred, such as until something bad happens here, especially if a fight, illness, or lockdown, it is unclear what the students are left unsupervised for extended periods consequences would have been. “That’s the part that of time.

‘There’s Nothing to do in this Town!’

The Oswego summers are some of the best around because there is always something for teens to do, whether it is swimming, sun bathing, or just walking around in the nice weather or at Farmers’ Market.

However, for the six months out of the year that it isn’t summer when temperatures dip to below freezing frequently, there is isn’t much to do for teens in the Port City.

Although school and extracurricular activities are time consuming, there is little to do on the weekends, especially with winter fast approaching. About the only things there are to do in Oswego is go to the

Buccaneer Bulletin

movies, go bowling, and possibly go Boredom can be alleviated in recreation night, maybe for a dollar or skating at Red Planet (if you skate that many ways. First, maybe a modern two to use as a fundraiser. is.) Now, one could argue that those teen center could be opened where Another hazard of boredom places are great for teens to hang out teens can go and hang out with caused by lack of things to do is at and have some fun, which is true, their friends in a controlled setting. obesity. People that just sit around except for the fact that all of these Another idea could be to capitalize at their buddies’ houses and watch places cost money. It isn’t practical for on the popularity of school dances by TV are bound to be less healthy than many teens to go out every weekend having city-wide dances that would someone who lives somewhere where and spend big bucks just going to the be open to all teens. Also, having an they can be out and about. Also, movies. And honestly, who wants to open gym at OHS more often could studies have shown that some people do the same things tend to eat when every weekend they’re bored, which Although school and extra-curricular also contributes to anyway?

The boredom activities are time consuming, there is little obesity. that is caused by lack Some people to do on the weekends, especially with wonder why on so of activities can lead to trouble. A survey many Myspace pages winter fast approaching. conducted by the it reads, “I live in National Center on Oswego, and I hate Addiction and Substance Abuse at be an option so teens can go and play it.” But when you think about it, it Columbia University found that bored games such as kick ball and dodge does make sense because who would teens are 50 percent likelier than teens ball and have fun while being active. honestly like to live somewhere were not often bored to smoke, drink, get We could use the pool, the cafeteria, there is really nothing to do. drunk and use illegal drugs. and the gym once a month for a

November 2006

Alumni

4

Alumnus Pens Civil War Tour Book

By Waruguru Gichane Alumni Editor

Are you a history buff? Does the Battle of Bull Run conjure more than just images of your history teacher droning on and on? Then Mr. David D’Arcy, a member of Oswego High School’s graduating Class of 1985, has written a book for you. Civil War Walking Tour of Savannah, D’Arcy’s first work, was published in August.

David D’Arcy was not your average high school student. Mr. Ted Kerley, a retired teacher, coach and administrator, and one of D’Arcy’s influences in high school said, “David was driven to succeed. He truly is and was a self-made man.” D’Arcy was very active in his years at OHS. He played on the varsity baseball team and was a sportswriter for The Buccaneer Bulletin.

One could say that D’Arcy was destined for success. Kerley commented, “He was always a hard working individual. Intrinsically motivated I might say…more than many high school students.” After leaving high school, D’Arcy attended SUNY Oswego where he received his Bachelor’s Degree in History. His education did not stop there. He then moved to Georgia where he attended Armstrong Atlantic State University

Courtesy of Barnes & Noble.com

Oswego High School graduate (Class of ‘85) Mr. David D’Arcy recently published Civil War Walking Tour of Savannah in collaboration with Mr. Ben Mammina.

at Savannah and acquired his Master’s Degree in History.

D’Arcy was involved during his collegiate career as well. He was the president and director of a sports fraternity.

After finishing his education, D’Arcy took up a rather different career path.

He began selling real estate in Georgia, his state of residence, and in neighboring South Carolina. In April of 2004, his career hit a turning point. People were requesting a book on Savannah Georgia’s role in the Civil War. D’Arcy took the initiative and began writing a book.

Civil War Walking Tour of Savannah was the product. The book encompasses four tours that guide the reader through Savannah’s rich Civil War history. The book

was published by Schiffer Books and is available at Barnes and Nobel.

D’Arcy has several other projects in the works. He plans on writing more books pertaining to the Civil War. Future topics include Gettysburg, Charleston and the South Carolina low country. The book on the South Carolina low country is due out in January, and the one on Gettysburg will be released in May of next year.

“I can do whatever I want to do,” is D’Arcy’s philosophy of life. It is how he became the successful man he is today. Mr. Thomas Frawley, D’Arcy’s eleventh grade Humanities teacher and greatest inspiration, was not surprised when he heard that D’Arcy was a published author.

Frawley said, “He was one of those kinds of individuals who maximized opportunities. He was a hard working, responsible student and player.”

D’Arcy can serve as inspiration, not only to students at Oswego High School, but to students everywhere.

He is a great example of how determination and hard work can take you to the top. Kerley said D’Arcy’s achievements are “A tribute to his OHS education and his drive to succeed.”

Alumni Notes

Katie Frawley (’02) returned to the Oswego High School recently as a guest speaker in Mr. Ed Stacy’s Syracuse University Economics 101 class.

The OHS grad, who was valedictorian of her high school class, is now an economist for the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in the Department of Producer Price Indexes.

Frawley talked about her job, college, and internships that she participated in while in college. While attending Illinois Wesleyan University where she majored in economics and political science, she interned one summer in Congressman James Walsh’s office, spent a semester at the Office of Homeland Security and one summer with the Cornerstone of Government Affairs.

She also talked about her experiences as a college student-athlete as a standout softball player at IWU.

Buccaneer Bulletin

Maureen Mancuso (’05) helped lead the Executive Board at SUNY Geneseo at the meeting on October 30. The OHS grad is the secretary of the board and seeks approval to establish a club ice hockey team for girls. Mancuso played on the varsity ice hockey team at OHS and has a true love for the game.

Close to thirty girls showed up at the meeting and were interested in playing, but only ten had ever played before. Two girls have already written the club’s constitution, but the application process is slow. Mancuso said, “It’s taken a long time, but we are hoping to be on the ice next semester.”

Mancuso is a sophomore biology major and hopes to become a physical therapist. She is in Circle K and Phi Eta Sigma, which are equivalents to Key Club and honor society.

Jennifer Rinaldo (’03) recently landed her dream job at Children’s Hope Chest, a non-profit organization that gets orphans in Russia in touch with mentors here in the United States. She is the new Administrative Assistant to Mr. Tom Davis, the president of the organization. Rinaldo will be scheduling meetings, answering e-mails, and doing whatever is needed for the organization Along with working at her new job, Rinaldo is attending the Leadership Institute at Colorado State University. She had been interviewing for weeks, and was glad to have received such an amazing entry-level position. Rinaldo said, “I really believe in what the organization is doing and I’m glad to be a part of it.”

•

If you know of any distinguished alumnus that should be featured in The Buccaneer Bulletin, e-mail Waruguru Gichane at mgichane@oswego.org.

November 2006

Features

5

Overeating, Inactivity a Recipe for Obesity

By Morgan McNamara Reporter

Go to a ny public place tod ay a nd you’ll star t noticing a trend. About 1 in 3 A me r ica n s is ove r weig ht a nd t he ob e sity rate is higher than ever. Who could blame Americans? Eleven billion dollars are spent annually to advertise food; the portion sizes in restaurants are bigger, and in these times, TV dinners are more popular than ripped jeans and ipods. Nearly 300,000 Americans die each year as a result of these conditions, and the obesity-related diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and asthma are affecting younger ages than ever before. The reasons are no shock: more fast food, more television and, less physical activity.

W hy are Americans waistlines expanding? The simplest answer is that the majority of people are eating more calories than they’re burning. Many families are overscheduled and do not have time to cook a good meal, so they rely on meals away from home or highly-processed prepared foods.

Low-income Americans have a higher case of obesity than the average American, because according to the Surgeon General, “Eating healthy costs a lot of money.

Realistically, foods that are higher in fat are cheaper. think obesity is a huge problem these days, many kids Fresh fruit and vegetables tend to get downplayed live solitary lives and are not as active as they should because they are more perishable and they’re more be,” said school nurse Mrs. Christina Chamberlain. expensive at the supermarket.” Another reason why Obesity is best treated by a restricted diet and exerpeople do not eat healthy is because most healthy food cise; the more severe the obesity the more important the is perishable and diet restrictions. it’s easier just to Some people Fast Food Physical Weight Sex Age go in the cupboard base their size on Per Week Activities and find a bag of genetics, “I was 250 M 17 2 Gym Class cookies or potato born this way, I chips than an orcan’t help it,” they Tennis, 160 M 17 0 ange that might go say. But the real Volleyball bad in a few days. question is can 150 F 16 2 Nothing Many teenagyou? “I think that 115 F 16 0-1 Running ers these days are most kids, in generGraphic By Amanda Bingham glued to the comal, could use more puter and TV for There are relationships among weight, fast food exercise in their hours a day, which consumption, gender, and types of exercises; Females daily routine. Obeis not only a bad seem to be able to eat more fast food with less effect on sity is a problem habit, but also bad their weight than males of similar age. everywhere,” said for their health. It physical education takes out time that they could be exercising or doing teacher Mr. John Finch. Even if you can’t change your something productive, rather than watching reality size completely, you can at least live a healthy lifestyle.

TV and filling up on candy and a bag of Doritos. “I

How Much TV is Too Much TV for Teens?

By Katie DiVita

Entertainment Editor

Ever since television invaded American homes in the mid-1900’s, it has altered the way young people spend their time. Before television, teenagers would spend their time playing games that challenged their minds or exploring their surroundings. Now that technology has become more advanced, teenagers no longer have to find ways to entertain themselves. They have found a source of entertainment that is accessible, amusing, and virtually effortless, in television.

According to studies conducted by the University of South Carolina, teenagers spend about three hours a day watching television on average.

That means that the only thing they spend more time doing is going to school and sleeping! Mr. Chris Magano, the adviser of the student-run WBUC Television Program at the OHS said, “Kids watch way too much TV. What happened to going outside and getting some fresh air and exercise?”

Studies have shown that too much television not only has an effect on our minds, but also on our physical health as well. Recently links have been made that connect excessive television

Buccaneer Bulletin

viewing to obesity and poor scholastic performance. Teenagers who watch too much TV don’t enhance their minds or exercise anything but their eyelids when they occasionally blink as they sit entranced, hour after hour, in front of the TV. The TV causes them to choose mindless, convenient entertainment as opposed to reading or going outside in the sunshine. According to Dr. Jay Martin of the University of South Carolina, some teenagers may develop short attention spans as a result of too much TV. Because they’re used to having quick, fleeting images flow across them hour after hour, the contrasting atmosphere of the classroom proves to be difficult for them. Not to mention, excessive TV viewing is normally paired with excessive snacking. Sometimes there is nothing better to accompany a sitcom or Lifetime movie than a favorite junk food item. Unfortunately, snacking in this manner, without balancing the habit with exercise, can have devastating results on teenage bodies.

Martin believes that a characteristic of television that can be a blessing and a curse is the fact that it requires no intelligence and doesn’t challenge any aspect of the brain. When teens have just

gotten home from putting in six or seven hours of school and two hours of a sports practice, the last thing they want to do is something that further tests them mentally or physically. They’d rather watch other people be tested mentally or physically by means of their TV set.

TV can be relaxing and the perfect way to decompress from a stressful day to some teens. Sophomore athlete Nikki Lautensack said, “I watch about two or three hours a day on average.

When I watch it, it’s normally because I’m bored or tired after soccer.”

The downside to the convenience of television is that it is so comforting and entertaining that teenagers become addicted and don’t take the responsibility to turn it off to get their schoolwork done. According to Dr. Robert Thompson, Director of the Center Study of Popular Television and a professor at the S.I. Newhouse School of Communication at Syracuse University, “We turn to TV in a weak, passive state, but it’s like quicksand. Once you step in, it’s really hard to get out.” This is especially true when “getting out” involves writing a tedious, less than entertaining research paper or completing repetitive arithmetic problems.

Teenagers can sometimes begin watching so much TV that it replaces other aspects of their lives. While most teenagers are not going to quit a sport or give up on doing their homework to watch TV, they may be affected in other ways without even knowing it.

OHS freshman Zach Sizemore said, “I don’t think my television viewing has a big impact on my schoolwork or playing sports. Sometimes I’ll watch TV and do my homework later on after something I want to see, but that’s all.”

Lautensack also admitted that she sometimes watches TV while she does her homework, and sometimes gets drawn into a TV program and procrastinates on her schoolwork. She said that the TV fills the silence in her house, but can sometimes distract her. Magano stated, “How can kids watch TV while doing their homework? It’s almost impossible to concentrate with [the television] on!”

TV can replace healthier ways of releasing stress or emotions. After a hard day, teens often turn to their TV instead of their families to distract them from their troubles. While this approach may be temporarily comforting, rarely does it truly relieve the person’s stress. Instead of dealing with their Continued on page 16

November 2006

Clublicity

6

Dozens of Clubs Keep Students Involved Class of '07

WBUC

��������������������� The Senior Class has quite ��������a few things planned for the upcoming months. Advisers of the senior class are Mr. Bob Burt and Mr. Mark Mirabito, and the class officers are Eric McCrobie, president; Rachel Knight, vice president; Dorothy Strahley, treasurer; and Corey Gill, secretary. �������������������������� The officers have started ��������� planning a design for senior t-shirts; they should be available to order in November.

The semi-formal has been scheduled for December 2 at the D.A. Lodge.

Lastly, the second payment for those attending senior trip is due December 20 to Burt’s or Mirabito

Class of ‘08

The Junior Class kicked off fundraising this year with the annual homecoming dance on October 13. Despite the date being scheduled for unlucky Friday the 13th, there was an excellent turnout and the Junior Class raised over $2400. In the same weekend, the junior and senior classes were able to add a combined $1100 to their accounts by means of the Powderpuff Game on October 15. All of the money earned from these two events will be put towards the Junior Prom in May. Mrs. Heidi Sweeney and Mrs. Jennifer Dempsey hope to continue their fundraising success with the Junior Variety Show. Performances are scheduled for April 20 and 21 in the Faust Theatre at 7:00 PM. There will be a meeting in January and the auditions will be held on February 28.

Interact Club

Interact Club is a community service-based club that is incorporated with Rotary International. Club adviser Mr. Warren Shaw said that the club will be participating in such activities as working in soup kitchens and caroling at nursing homes during the upcoming holidays. Meetings are held every other Friday, in room B-3 after school and new members are always welcome.

“It’s an opportunity for people to get involved with the community and feel good about what they do,” stated adviser Shaw. So if volunteering and giving back to the community is something you’re interested in, then make sure you find your way to B-3 every other Friday to interact.

Buccaneer Bulletin

Buccaneer bulletin photo

Senior Eric McCrobie records a girls’ soccer game vs. Fulton recently at the OMS field for WBUC’s Prime Time Sports.

Class of ‘09

With the start of a new school year comes new responsibilities and new experiences. Mrs. Stacey Seubert is learning the ropes of becoming the Sophomore Class adviser for 2006-2007.

The Class of ‘09 has plans for fund-raising this holiday season. “Basically, the tenth grade is fund-raising and earning money that can be put into their senior class funds,” said Seubert. If you are a sophomore who would like to get more involved with your class, contact Seubert or your sophomore class representatives.

Marching Band

The Marching Bucs changed hands this year when Mr. Stephen Defren became band director. Junior drum major Jennifer Cigler stated, “He’s new, but he’s doing a great job.”

On Saturday, October 21, they went to Baltimore, Maryland where they competed with 25 of the best bands in the nation at the Bands of America competition. Prior to the event, Defren talking about his expectations said, “If we can just make top ten, that would be really great for us.” The band didn’t make top ten, but they played the best they had all season according to Defren. The staff was very proud of the band's improvements.

The Marching Bucs ended their season on October 29 with a seventh place finish at the Carrier Dome.

Foreign Student Club

This year the OHS has fifteen foreign exchange students. These students, as well as several other OHS students, comprise the Foreign Student Club, supervised by Ms. Janet Bernreuther. “I’ve tried to pair up the foreign students with a student from around here to act as their contact person here in Oswego,” said Bernreuther.

A main goal of the foreign student club is to acclimate foreign students to life here in Oswego. The club plans activities to help this process along, from group outings to dinners. “We’ve talked about having some international dinners, where we’ll ask the foreign students to prepare something that is typical of their native country. We’d like to invite the host families and gather in the cafeteria,” said Bernreuther.

Any questions can be brought to Ms. Bernreuther in the media center.

Drama Club

Drama Club preformed the dark comedy Reckless by Craig Lucas last week in the Faust Theater. It was a humorous show about a husband who hired a hit man to kill his wife and all the mishaps she went through avoiding her killer. The show starred Bethany Hinckley, and had a young, up-andcoming supporting cast. Ms. Mali Dorsey, adviser and director, said, “There were a lot of new people, but the cast seemed to really work well together.”

The Oswego High School TV program has long been a source of pride for the school, as well as the community.

This year’s advisers for WBUC are Mr. Chris Mangano and Mr. Thomas Frawley. Mangano first got involved four years ago, starting out by helping Mr. Bill Bellows. Mangano then took over for Bellows when he retired last December.

Frawley has been with the program for eighteen years. When asked to describe WBUC, Mangano said “WBUC is student television, for the students, and by the students.”

WBUC meets every day to produce the Sunday, Monday, and morning shows. It is a half-year course that can be taken up to four times. There about sixty members, but the club is always looking for new recruits. The TV program is currently planning a five-year studio upgrade in order to catch up with current technology.

Also, if anyone would like copies of the primetime sports broadcasts, please contact Eric McCrobie, emccrobi@ oswego.org, or contact Colin Lea, clea@oswego.org. Some of the sports available are girls’ volleyball, football, and girls’ soccer. They also plan to cover all of the boys’ hockey games.

Art Club

The Art Club, which meets every Thursday in room 213 after school, is planning to paint new murals in the halls this year. In addition to painting and drawing, the Art Club does many group and individual projects that include pottery, jewelry making, and sculpting. The Art Club is always open to new members. See Mrs. Peterson in room 213 for more information.

us h t i ew s i t er !

Adv here

November 2006

Clublicity

7

Extracurricular Activities Prep for Holidays Student Council

This year’s student council has started brainstorming activities to improve the OHS. Recently they acquired a new Alma-matar banner, which we saw at the last pep rally. In addition they have been working hard to fix student issues. “We’re working on the lack of parking spots for students, and we would also like to have clocks installed in the hallways,” stated student council President Gabby Rumrill.

Nominations for Student Staff Recognition’s are also taking place. Students recognized were Sarah Hartley, nominated by Mr. Anderson, as well as Maria Bellardini, who was nominated by Mr. Caswell.

National Honor Society

National Honor Society is a national service organization offered to students in grades 10-12 and advised by Mrs. Mary Beth Fierro and Mrs. Tami Palmitesso. Over the last six years, they have raised over $20,000 to their charity of choice, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Throughout the year, they undertake many fundraisers including candy sales, a car wash and selling the Buccaneer magnets, which can be purchased for $3.00 by either contacting Mrs. Fierro or Mrs. Palmitesso. There will be a mandatory meeting for all those interested in applying in mid- March and applications for join will be available online in late March. Make sure to keep your grades in the 90’s and have a minimum of 20 hours of community service completed and documented to be eligible to apply.

French Club

Mrs. Kathy Olson, adviser of French Club, is looking forward to the many new and upcoming events French Club has to offer this year. Throughout the month of October French Club was involved in many activities including “La Pétanque,” better known as lawn bowling. Olson hopes to introduce some of the French culture in time for it’s trip to Quebec City in April. The group is selling candy to raise funds. As a celebration to holidays, French Club hosted “Fete de Halloween,” on October 26 in which students were encouraged to dress up. As well as holidays, food plays a major role in the French culture, allowing Olson to share different tastes with the students.

Any student wishing to join should see Mrs. Olson.

Photo By abby martin

OHS teachers show off their cheerleading and dance skills at the fall pep rally at Powers Gym.

Photography Club

After a brief absence, due to cuts in our school district budget for the 2005-06 school year, the Photography Club is back with thirty-six members. The Photography Club meets in the room B-3 on the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month. The club is planning its first fundraiser, which is yet to be determined.

Currently club members are planning their first photo competition, scheduled to take place in January. The annual Photography Club trip has also been discussed and is in the planning stages. Club president, Danielle Eason, has extended a personal invitation for anyone interested in Photography Club join by contacting her or the advisor Mr. Warren Shaw in room B3.

Math Club

After being cut from extracurricular activities last year, the Oswego High School Math Club has once again sparked the interest of a number of students.

Math Club consists of one after-school practice and then a contest the following Tuesday. A practice can be done any day after school with Miss Beckwith.

The contest usually consists of six questions ranging Travel Club from elementary math up through pre-calculus. All Travel Club will be taking a trip to London, contests must be completed within thirty minutes, England for eight days in June 2007. They will be with at least two of the problems not requiring a visiting a number of various sights and museums calculator for computation. Participating in this throughout England. The club is planning to spend club looks good on college applications and may time in London, Bath, Oxford and Stonehenge. lead to college scholarships because of the “higher Tr a v e l C l u b b r i n g s m o r e t o t h e t a - level” thinking involved with some of the problems. ble than just the ability to explore new counKaitlyn Smegelsky, a junior at OHS, is partries and to quench that thirst for adventure. ticipating in Math Club this year. “I’m doing it “Students come back with a greater appreciation (Math Club) for college…” stated Smegelsky. for what we have here in Oswego and more broadly Math Club meets after school every in the US. Their eyes are opened to a life that exists week, excluding the month of December, in outside of their own world,” stated Mrs. Gretchen room 231 with Miss Beckwith for practice and Fronk. In Travel Club you are given the chance to see problem-solving skills. New members are alfirsthand the places you’ve learned about in school. .

Buccaneer Bulletin

Poetry Club

Poetry Club held elections for its officers earlier this month. Former Poetry Club Member, Morgan Snyder is president this year. According to Club Director, Mrs. Carrie Patane, this club is filled with creativity, imagination, and artists. Patane said “one of the highlights of this club is “Open Mic Night” which is in April.” Fundraisers, such as the carnation sale for Valentine’s Day are to help build the prize for the winner of “Open Mic Night.” For the month of November, The Poetry Club will be discussing Holliday Poems. Their next meeting is November 22. They welcome any ideas and support creativity.

Media Club

The Media Club at OHS is a fun way to get into activities that deal with the media. The Media Club members read books, watch movies (some on books they’ve read), tell stories, and share poetry.

The Media Club is currently dealing with the book Mountains beyond Mountains by Tracy Kidder.

Oswego State University is also involved with this book. On Monday October 30, the college held a lecture by Tracy Kidder about Mountains beyond Mountains that the members of the Media Club attended.

Media Club will also be attending a health and humanity film series at the college on November 15 related to this book. If you are interested in any kind of media you should see the club adviser, Ms. Janet Bernreuther, for more information.

Clublicity compiled by Kaitlyn Gray, Emily Mclaughin, Zach Grulich, Waruguru Gichane, Pat Dougherty, Lindsay Marsh, Katie DiVita, Kathryn Lazarski, Alyscia Clohecy, Morgan McNamera, Casey Morley, Amanda Bingham, Chelsea Waters, Sam Austin, Sophie Rosenbaum, Mallory Kelly, Colin Etherington and Sarah Dehm.

Anyone wanting to post a clublicity annoucnment should contact Sophie Rosenbaum at Srosenba@Oswego.

November 2006

8

Walking the Plank

Pat Schrader is Spotlighted on the Plank Pat Schrader enjoys his days at Oswego High School tremendously, but is planning to graduate in three years to move on to the college experience.

BB: What is your full name?

PS: Patrick Michael Schrader III… I’m not afraid to admit my initials are P.M.S. BB: What do your hobbies include?

PS: Well I like women… and I like to party. I don’t think I can get into any more details because this is school.

BB: If you could describe yourself in three words what would they be?

PS: Let’s see.. three words… I am outgoing, I’d have to say. I am fun to be with… yeah I’m fun… and I will say that I am an intelligent individual. Okay, fun fact, fun fact! This happens to be my third year of high school yet I am graduating this year.

I am doubling my junior and senior years so I will be able to graduate.

BB: If you could have dinner with any three people who would they be?

PS: Jessica Alba, Christina Milian, let’s see… can I say Jenna Jamison?

BB: If you were on a deserted island and could have only three things

with you what would they be?

PS: My mommy.. yeah I’m a momma’s boy… my music collection, and my computer for AIM because I am addicted.

BB: How do you want people to see you?

PS: I want people to know me as a highly attractive human being.. haha oh and someone who has a great sense of humor.

BB: How would you describe your medical condition?

PS: You know I’ll be totally honest.. it has something to do with my heart.. but when the doctor talks, I usually put on my ipod and I try not to listen. So I don’t know the real medical terms.

BB: How do you maintain such a positive attitude?

PS: I believe you just have to look at the best aspects in life… just have fun and be yourself. I don’t really care if someone has something negative to say about me. I just dust off my shoulder and keep on truckin’.

BB: How is the infamous scooter working out for you?

PS: To tell you the truth, I’m having a blast on this.. sometimes I’m late to class just cruising around the halls, but whatever.. sometimes I even give people rides on my scooter.. just for fun you know.

BB: What kind of rules are set on you, perhaps by your parents?

PS: Haha.. rules…I can’t stay out past 2:00 a.m. That’s my usual curfew… except at Harborfest then it’s 4:00!

Uhm.. I can’t smoke, and I have to maintain at least a B average in all of my classes, which I usually do.

BB: Who is your dream date?

PS: Oh my dream date… well I don’t wanna embarrass anyone because I have someone in mind but they go to this school. So my number two would have to be… Jenna Jamison.

BB: What kind of music do you like and what are some of your favorite bands?

PS: Basically metal is my favorite type of music. A few of my favorites are Black Label Society, Cannibal Corpse, Deicide, Opeth, Arch Enemy, and Trivium.

BB: What are your favorite movies?

PS: Bench Warmers was good too, and Scarface. Also, Godfather… parts I, II, and III… but Godfather II was the best… and Good Fellows.

BB: Is there a particular quote or line that you live by?

PS: Yes, actually there is, it’s… “Everybody wang chung tonight.” That’s it, right there. You just gotta party, party hard.

BB: What are your first thoughts waking up in the morning?

PS: Ughhh what time is it?

BB: What are your plans for after high school?

PS: I’m going to college, a four-year school somewhere, but I don’t know where yet. I want to gain an education in business management and hopefully own

something like Bodified… great store.

BB: What makes you laugh?

PS: I laugh way too much. I can laugh at anything because I’m always happy.

I can laugh at the dumbest things ever.. like nothing. What really makes me laugh is complete silence. There always has to be something going on.

BB: If you could have one wish that was guaranteed to come true what would it be?

PS: I would wish to be a model.. not that I’m not already there… I mean, come on! Look at this!

BB: If you could teach the world a lesson what would it be?

PS: Don’t hate, appreciate.

Editor’s Note: “Walking the Plank” is a regular feature in The Buccaneer Bulletin.

This month’s installment was compiled by Abby Martin. If you know of an OHS personality who you would like to see “walk the plank,” contact her at amartin@ oswego.org

photos by ashley johnston

Buccaneer Bulletin

November 2006

News

Senioritis Plagues Would-Be College Students Imagine you are all set for college, you have your books, you’ve registered for your classes, and you even have your college sticker on your car…only to find that your admission had been revoked! What is the cause of all this confusion? Senioritis. Senioritis is a well-known “sickness” that is joked about amongst high school seniors almost everywhere, but little do most students know, it can have devastating effects on your college admission.

Seniors work hard for three years, taking tests, completing projects, and preparing for college. However, when senior year rolls around, some students just lose interest in school work and school-related activities as soon as they get their acceptance letters from the college of their choice.

Even though you have been accepted, many colleges require final transcripts so students won’t slack off their senior year. When students get this contagious “sickness,” it can lead to other disastrous things.

Some of them could include a student beginning college on academic probation because he/she slacked off or losing scholarships. Also, relaxing as a high school senior can affect the performance at college because you slacked off so much that you just weren’t ready, or worse yet, getting your admission revoked!

“Colleges can revoke their offer of

admission. This seems harsh, but many colleges have revoked their admission offers to students due to senioritis.

Many college acceptance letters even include warnings to students such as, ‘Your admission is contingent on your continued successful performance.’ If your grades start to slip duringyour senior year, many colleges take that as a sign that you don’t want to continue your education,” according to the website http://www.ecampustours. com/collegeplanning/senioritis.aspx.

couple years ago.

This student was in the top ten in her class. She was even accepted to an Ivy League school. After the student was accepted in January, she dropped two full-year courses that she had put on her admissions letter.

When the school found out about the dropped courses, the student lied to them, which made matters even worse. Though, the student’s admission wasn’t completely revoked, she was put on academic probation.

graphic courtesy of paramount pictures

Ferris Bueller is literally the poster boy for senioritis as pictured above in the 1986 film, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.

Some students think that they’re invincible and that things like this won’t happen to them, but they’re wrong. It has even happened to students from Oswego High School.

According to Mr. Geoffrey Baer, House 1 guidance counselor, there was a student that caught the “disease” a

"College is challenging enough, but to begin your career on academic probation is a poor start," stated Baer.

In a similar incident, a student’s admission was revoked. However, many would disagree on how it was handled. The student didn’t find out about the admission being revoked

9

ntil mid-August, after he had already registered for classes. Even after receiving word about being rejected, the family still continued to receive mail for parking permits, welcome stickers, etc., things that just added insult to the pain of having their admission revoked.

“Senioritis is something that is contagious to juniors and even sophomores… so just don’t catch it,” Baer said. Seniors are usually role models to the younger students, so they need to be aware of their actions and what the implications are.

There are numerous things a student can do to help avoid getting senioritis according to the website http://www.ecampustours. com. Some of them are: • C h a l l e n g e y o u r s e l f . Ta k e the most rigorous courses available at your school.

• During class discussions, bring up new ideas.

• When studying, don’t just memorize; think outside the box.

• Continue to set academic goals that you want to reach.

• Make schoolwork more interesting.

Form study groups with your friends. Invent academic games to make studying more fun and easier.

• Stay involved. If you stay active in sports, volunteer work, and other extracurricular activities, you will be more likely to remain focused .

• Take a college course. What better way to avoid an academic slump than to take a college course?

This will introduce you to the rigors of college work, and you will also receive college credit.

No Tolerance Policy Greets Frequent Fighters Greg Lyons Web Team

Principal Peter Myles announced on October 18 that a new “No Tolerance” policy would be enacted in response to the recent bout of fighting.

With the new policy, anyone demonstrating “fighting, bullying or aggressive behavior” will be given a 3-5 day suspension, followed by a superintendent’s hearing to determine if a longer sentence will be issued.

Myles explained that he issued the No Tolerance ruling because “students should come to school and feel safe,

Buccaneer Bulletin

they shouldn’t feel like they’re going to which Myles stated is unacceptable. come here and get bullied... if we have to In a related development, OHS lost take a hard-nosed approach, we will.” “If we have to take a hard-nosed While the number in of fights approach, we will” in September Mr. Peter Myles decreased from Principal 2005 to 2006, Myles feels that we still need to make a change. In recent its school resource officer this year, years, teachers such as the now-retired who had the ability to make arrests on Mr. Mike Sullivan and Mrs. Barbara campus. Mrs. Patricia Runeari, who has Merrier have been injured in these fights, already broken up two fights herself this

year, commented, “Any loss in security has the potential for a problem.”

However, the school still has two full time-security personnel and another part-time worker who patrol the halls daily, along with several hall monitors.

So far, there have been far fewer fights in the OHS halls since the no tolerance policy was announced.

Myles has already used the new rule several times to suspend and remove “problem students.”

“If you’re not here for academics,” Myles concluded, “go home.”

November 2006

Editorial

10

Drawing Board

Do you think that a curfew is a solution to the teen crime and vandalism problem in Oswego?

Jen Delles “No, because if kids want to be out that late, they will be, no matter what.

Also, the movie theaters are open late. Business will go down for them.” cartoon by Fred maxon

Class of 2008

Brett McClelland “No, it’s not. They won’t be able to enforce it effectively, so there’s no reason for it.”

Class of 2009

Tiffany Hudson

…To Mr. Mark Polky and Jessica Lewis for winning Teacher of the Month and Student of the Month awards from the Student Council respectively. It is an excellent idea to start recognizing individuals who go beyond expectations. …To privileged seniors getting their own parking spots, instead of having to fight over a spot every morning. With the limited number of student parking places, it’s a great idea to give the parking privilege to students in good standing. …To the Paradox and Buccaneer Bulletin for winning gold awards in overall yearbook and newspaper respectively at the Empire State School Press Association awards last month at Syracuse University. Not only are our publications among elite in the state, but they also took home over 20 individual awards. …To Alyssa Holland for winning best photographer in NYS at the ESSPA convention for her picture which appeared on the front page of the March issue of The Buccaneer Bulletin. It is incredible for one of our own students to be recognized as the best in the state.

“No. no matter how late you’re out, people will still vandalize.”

Class of 2008

Amanda Donovan

“No, it will just make it worse.”

Class of 2008

Buccaneer Bulletin

….To newly instituted mid-terms not regulated by NYS or the teachers here at OHS. Mid-terms should be given because a teacher sees the need for their students to be tested, not because an administrator feels they are needed. …To all of the seniors who skipped school already on November 1. Please at least wait until later in the school year for your skip day. “Senioritis” shouldn’t be happening before seniors are even accepted to a college! …To all of the seniors whining over their Powder-puff loss. You lost the game, it’s over with, and it’s not going to ruin your year because the juniors outplayed you. Learn some sportsmanship and realize that sports aren’t meant to be “rigged.” …To all of the people, including teachers, who turn left out of the Utica Street parking lot after school despite the signs which clearly prohibit it. This may help you get home a little quicker, but it causes unbelievably congested traffic. …To the teachers who ignore the homeroom bell to get a couple extra minutes of teaching in. No other teacher is getting this time, and not showing your students the announcements is not only stopping them from going where they are needed, but also it is completely disrespecting the work of the WBUC students who produce the morning announcement show.

November 2006

Editorials

11

In Our View . . .

A Teen Curfew is Not the Answer

Lawmakers here in Oswego are considering Mr. Peter Myles puts it, the “Five percent who instituting a teen curfew of 10:00 p.m. Sunday cause the trouble.” through Thursday and 11:00 p.m. on Friday and There is no way the Common Council will Saturday to lower crime, especially vandalism ever eliminate teen crime. If someone plans to blamed on minors. We, at The Buccaneer Bulletin commit a crime, they are certainly not going to completely disagree with this curfew, which would follow a curfew. The types of teens who commit most likely have little or no effect on the crime the crimes aren’t the ones who will abide by a rate. curfew. A more sensible solution to reduce crime We believe that this would be completely would be to make the punishment more severe, so unjust for several reasons. Wouldn’t a city-wide it instills even more fear of getting caught into the curfew limit a parent’s right to decide when they trouble makers. How many teens are going to risk want their kid’s vandalizing curfew to be? something There is no way the common council will when they As of right now, the only ever eliminate teen crime. If someone will end up exception to a plans to commit a crime, why are they spending this curfew is if night in jail, you are out with hours after going to listen to a curfew? a parent. What hours of about times community like Harborfest service, hefty when you are easily out past 11:00 p.m. and fines and probation? your parents are out even later? What if you go We commend city officials for making an to a late movie? Shouldn’t you be able to go get attempt to lower the crime rate, especially the pizza afterwards and not have to worry about senseless vandalism in places like Fort Ontario, the cops bringing you home? If the Common Breitbeck Park, and the Imagination Station at Council decides to institute this curfew, then they West Park, but giving teens a curfew is not the way are basically punishing everyone for the few to accomplish it. A curfew is just another law that trouble makers, or as our principal teen troublemakers would break.

690

The number of people that the code enforcement office and the Oswego Fire Department say are allowed in the OHS cafeteria at one time.

444 Buccaneer Bulletin

Do you think that a curfew is a solution to the teen crime and vandalism problem in Oswego?

Matt Castiglia “Yeah, probably. I think that with kids being indoors, it will cut down.”

Clas of 2010

Corey King “In some cases, yes.”

Class of 2010

Mackenzie StoneSweeting “Yeah, there’s no reason for kids to be out so late.”

Class of 2010

Mr. Guild

The actual number of seats in the OHS cafeteria on any given day, with 37 tables and 12 seats at each table.

“It could be part of the solution, but not the solution. It could solve some of the problems.”

Faculty

November 2006

12

Column

The Myspace Debate: To Ban or Not to Ban?

Buccaneer Bulletin

gr

ap

hic

way to keep in touch with friends, but I like making fun of people that use it as a popularity contest.”

Along with a few other websites, Myspace is banned at OHS. Most people say it’s the parents who are to blame.

They complain that they don’t want their children on it because too e many people ll bu have access r ee an to their personal c c u B information. When you have something that most everyone likes, why ruin it for people just because you have a problem. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for wellopinionated people, but I’m also all for Myspace staying right where it is. n

It’s what people everywhere are asking. Should they ban Myspace?

Well, they can try, but I doubt they’ll succeed. All the hype about Myspace is discussed among people everywhere. You will hear the good, the bad, and the ridiculously overexaggerated. Lately, there has been a lot of talk, especially “There are a lot of creepy people among parents on Myspace, and I think it should about the appropriateness be banned.” of Myspace.

Liz Searor Maybe it’s not the Senior website that’s inappropriate. Maybe it’s the people Myspace, then they should find a way using it. to stop their children from using it.

Banning Myspace is probably not Why say anything about kids and the best idea to keep your kids off the their usage of the website if their internet. They have other sites similar parents have no problem with it? such as Facebook, Friendster, Live Now, that’s not to say there is nothing Journal, Xanga, and more. So unless wrong with it.

Like almost all websites, it has its pros and cons, and of course, people’s differing opinions. “Myspace creates too much drama and gets old after a while,” said sophomore, Morgan Murray.

Senior Liz Searor stated, “There are a lot of creepy people on Myspace, and I think it should be banned.”

In the website’s defense, the majority of the students at OHS like Myspace. Junior Sarah Izyk says “It’s a great way to talk to friends that you don’t see everyday.”

Some people even share what they see good and bad in the website.

Senior Brittany Gilbert commented, “I like Myspace because it’s an easy

ti

they intend to ban twenty or more websites, they had better give up.

A small minority of the population familiar with Myspace wants it banned. That small portion of parents should stop worrying about getting it banned and try to focus on getting their kids off it, or focus on teaching their kids to use it responsibly.

Parents are questioning whether or not it’s safe to have their children’s pictures and information online for everyone to see. The truth is, they’re overreacting. If parents have a problem with their kids using

November 2006

Entertainment

13

Expert: Video Games Have a Bad Rep

By Katie Divita

Entertainment Editor

In the last few years, the television debate has been extended to video games. The impact of video games on teenagers has been the subject of heated discussion and recent scientific research.

Like TV, video games consume hours of teenagers’ time that could be spent doing schoolwork or more enriching activities. According to psychologist Mr. Daniel DeNoon, the addictiveness of video games causes teenagers to be sucked into the virtual world and dismiss their responsibilities. But Dr. Robert Thompson, the nationally-renowned Director of the Center Study of Popular Television said, “A few hours of video games are okay. They improve hand/eye coordination and can be quite enjoyable.”

With video games, there is an ultimate goal behind the hours of play. Video gamers want to overcome the perils of their games and gain the satisfaction of completing them. When the character in a video game “dies,” rarely does the player give up on the game. Instead, he will pick up the controller a second time, or however many times it takes, and try to complete the particular objective.

However, critics seem to attack the harmful content of video games more than anything else. The violence that is connected to games such as Mortal Combat or Grand Theft Auto is argued to have a lasting impact on the behavior of teenage video gamers. In many aspects, video game violence is even more harmful than TV violence. When watching TV, teens witness fictional characters commit acts of aggression and bloodshed. When playing a video

Graphic by chelsea Waters

Is this what teens look like after hours and hours of brain cell-killing gaming?

game, the viewer is actively involved in the violence.

DeNoon believes that, like learning a new concept in school, many teens learn more effectively through hands-on techniques such as labs or group activities. Video games can be the equivalent of these techniques teaching teens more effectively

than TV about violence and brutality. While TV is more of a visual demonstration, video games actually make players feel like they are committing the violence and can more severely detach them from reality. Violence, as experienced through the first person, has a much more powerful effect.

In addition, the violence in video games is repetitive. With TV, the viewer will probably witness a particular murder or assault once in a program. In some video games, objectives may have to be done over and over again. The player might witness the same type of act more than five times. Therefore, the brutality sticks in their minds and can seriously desensitize teenagers further. The more times they see the violence, the less it affects them. Eventually, video gamers look at the destruction with indifference. Not to mention, in many video games, violent acts are reinforced. Players receive points or other rewards for killing characters in the game or destroying buildings and cars. Some videos are even based on these very premises and the object of the game is to destroy.

The addiction of video games and the violence that accompanies them have been debated ever since the realization that they have taken over the lives of many teenagers. Like TV, teenagers sometimes abuse their ability to play video games and play excessively for hours and hours every day.

This unhealthy habit has proven to be a problem in many households. However, video games not played excessively, and with the right state of mind, prove to be enjoyable and a great way to escape from reality. Video games can take the player to a new, unexplored world with no real limitations.

Local hardcore Music Scene Booming You’re immersed in a sea of loud music, violent dancing, countless tattoos and piercings. Does this sound like your idea of a good time?

It is for those who regularly attend the hardcore shows put on here in Oswego and towns across the nation.

Bands travel from near and far in order to perform for varying-sized crowds. The atmosphere inside the venue is one of high energy. Once the first notes are played, everyone is overcome with excitement. They begin to walk back and forth across the pit preparing for the time when they can fully let loose in the form of either “moshing” or “two-stepping,”

Buccaneer Bulletin

the two most popular forms of is much like a tight-knit family. gather on the outskirts that still fully dance practiced at hardcore shows.

Despite the violent thrashing of enjoy themselves and the bands.

Most are hesitant to delve into limbs, flying carelessly through the The reason most attend, the love the world of hardcore. It is found to air, those who are moshing actually for the music, is what keeps the scene be intimidating to those who have not look out for those around them. The going strong. The bands put their attended a show. Some of the stories last thing they want to do is cause all into producing what some think resulting from these events are harm to another, and if that happens, is merely loud noise and obnoxious enough to make someone’s stomach most are quick to apologize. There screams, but every note and every turn. Tales of cuts, scrapes, lyric has the power to and bruises inflicted by the listener.

The bands put their all into producing impact others make some terrified Once you enter what some think is merely loud noise the doors of the to come near the building filled with tremendous and obnoxious screams, but every venue, it’s a place noise. As DJ Rose, guitarist where good music note and every lyric has the power to and great friends of local band Hellbender stated, “People who don’t are combined to impact the listener. come to the local shows produce an enjoyable and only hear about them time. Hardcore assume that we’re just a bunch of are the select few who find pleasure is an outlet for many to express hoodlums gathered in one building.” in ‘accidentally’ striking those themselves, so if you enjoy the heavy This is a common belief for those around them, but for the most part, sounds of hardcore or a positive who do not know what it’s like everyone keeps a considerate mind environment, attending a local to be involved in “the scene.” state. If you wish to stay away from show would be a good experience.

In reality, the hardcore scene the mosh pit, there are many who

November 2006

14

News

Bring Driver Education Back to Oswego High “Saving one individual’s life is worth it, no matter what the cost.” These are not the words of an Oswego High School student or a previous Driver Education teacher; these are the words of Mr. Peter Myles, the Executive Principal of OHS. Driver Ed. is a course that gives students an opportunity to have classroom instruction as well as practical driving experiences to learn the rules of the road and become experienced drivers. Many students at Oswego High School wish they could take Driver Ed. because it offers information that would improve their driving skills and reduce their car insurance rates. However, due to the budget cuts several years ago, the only opportunity to take Driver Ed. is after school or during the summer. This makes it more difficult to take Driver Ed. due to busy schedules, jobs, and extra-curricular activities.

The loss of this program is fol-

lowed by the loss of: life lessons, life skills and possibly even lives themselves!

The cost of Driver Ed. is an issue of its own. Mr. Kenneth Kern, a technology teacher at the Oswego Middle School and Driver Education instructor of twenty-six years, stated that it would cost over $150,000 to run Driver Ed. for one complete school year. Although the money is a tremendous problem in tight budget years, Driver Ed. is an important class that should be offered to any student who wishes to take it. Students who had intended to take this class during their junior or senior year with hopes of learning to become safe drivers are no longer offered the opportunity to take the course. Without this course, most students have no way of learning proper driving techniques. This could lead to an increased number of vehicular accidents in our area. Kern stated, “Unfortunately, less than four percent of students nationwide are exposed to Driver Education.” Kern went on to say that more than half of teen-related accidents are caused by teenagers who have not been educated through a Driver Ed. program.

What can we, the students of the OHS, do to bring Driver Education back into our school curriculum?

Students, if you would find Driver Ed. beneficial, then tell your parents! Talk to Gabby Rumrill, our student representative on the school board about addressing this issue at a school board meeting. Any little thing that you can do will help.

Engage others in the community in a discussion about this issue.

Mr. Charles Rowlee, a technol-

topic that needs to be addressed when dealing with the Driver Ed. program.

“Car accidents are the leading cause of death of people under thirty-five in the U.S. and people who have taken Driver Ed. have a ten percent lower accident rate between ages sixteen to twenty-five,” said Mr. Mark Mirabito, a psychology teacher at OHS and a Driver Ed. instructor of four years for the high school and BOCES. This information is the basis for the ten percent discount issued by insurance companies to students who “Saving one individual’s life have taken Driver Ed. Driver Ed. is a is worth it, no matter what the course that offers so cost.” much to inexperienced

Mr. Peter Myles drivers. It is a shame OHS Executive Principal that the cost of this program impedes the positive effect this ogy teacher and former Driver Ed. course could offer to the community; instructor of eight years stated, “The the capacity to have safer drivers. community would have to be behind “I think kids lose out because it, but then you’re getting into what’s there were a lot of skills taught by worth more? Safe drivers and safer the Driver Ed. teachers that are not streets for your community? Or more the bad habits that your parents have. dollars spent on educating students …The teachers were reinforcing the on how to do it?” good behaviors the drivers are seemThe topic of the value of human ing to lose,” said Rowlee. life is a sensitive subject. Yet, it is a

Contact Mr. McCrobie in room 105 or by phone 341-2200 Ext. 6186, mmccrobi@oswego.org, or any Lady Buccaneer Softball player or parent for ordering info.

Buccaneer Bulletin

November 2006

Features

15

Need a Different Sound? Try The Arcade Fire

While most bands hire unconventional instruments out to studio musicians to give normally-bland songs a unique sound, one Montreal-based band uses its own skills and love for music to create authentic sounds for its light odes to growing up an awkward teen in the suburbs and their rock ballads to unrequited love.

The Arcade Fire, in all reality, is a small army of well-trained musicians with the ability to give often-shunned instruments, like the accordion or French horn, a place in their musical arsenal. With seven full-time band members and two musicians who tour with them, the musical powerhouse called “Canada’s most intriguing rock band” by the Canadian edition of Time magazine, is favored internationally by wellknown musicians from today and from yesteryear.

Husband-and-wife duo Win Butler and Regine Chassagne front the ensemble, with Win playing electric guitar (both jaguar and 12 strings), acoustic guitar, piano, bass, synthesizer and singing lead vocals on a number of songs. Regine also sings and plays drums, synthesizer, piano, accordion, xylophone as well as other percussion instruments

and the recorder. Richard Reed Parry plays nominated for the Best Alternative Rock Album bass, organ, and various percussion instruments.

Grammy and made “Best of 2004” lists and some Manning the bass, xylophone, synthesizer, and “Best of the Decade” lists. It earned the privilege percussion instruments is Win’s younger brother, of residing at number thirty-five on Amazon.

William Butler. Sarah Neufield’s expertise is com’s Top 100 Editor’s Picks of 2004 list. wielding the violin. Timothy Rock icons David Bowie Kingsbury adds bass, electric and Talking Heads front man and acoustic guitars to the David Byrne were among band’s symphonic melting the audience members at the pot. Jeremy Gara adds his own band’s early gigs. At 2005’s percussion styling to drive the fashion show entitled “Fashion rhythm behind the music.

Rocks” at New York City’s Accordion? Violin? By famed Radio City Music Hall, now you’re probably thinking The Arcade Fire performed its that they’re a bunch of country acclaimed song “Wake Up” music fanatics who wouldn’t with idol David Bowie. Also, be out of place in Appalachia. they recorded a cover of the However, their composing Talking Heads famed “This skills and passion for music Must Be the Place (Naïve The Arcade Fire’s 2004 debut blend the accordion and violin Melody) with the original album, Funeral. into their unique sound which singer David Byrne. Coldplay is universal in its appeal. lead singer Chris Martin Their first full-length album on their Merge called them the best band in history in a 2006 St. Records label contained ten songs filled with Patrick’s Day concert in Ottawa, and they opened joy, love, despair and strife. Morbidly entitled for the rock legend U2 in their Canadian tour.

Funeral, it received rave reviews from critics If you’re interested in an indie rock band with across the globe. It was released September 14, a passion for music, a small army of band members 2004, and was given its macabre title due to the skilled in wielding fender telecasters, rickenbakers, passing of several relatives during the recording as well as violins and French horns, then The of it, including Alvino Rey, famed jazz musician Arcade Fire is worth investing some listening time. and grandfather to Win and Will Butler. It was

Put Yourself in the Shoes of a Coach’s Family Every season, athletes walk into practice without considering what their coach has given up to instruct them. The truth is, a lot of the time it’s the coaches’ families that are suffering. Many coaches’ families have to deal with an empty seat at the dinner table, late-night games, and having practice come before science projects and dance recitals.

With all the tryouts and workouts, the spouses and children of coaches are often left feeling shutout.

It may not seem like it to fans and players, but the coaches miss a lot of things when the season starts.

It can be small things like helping out on their kids’ homework and tucking the kids into bed at night, or big things like missing school plays or

Buccaneer Bulletin

concerts. The kids often times aren’t outwardly phased by this, or perhaps they’re used to playing secondfiddle to the sport, so they might not notice. Either way, it sometimes takes its toll. The effects can be both positive and negative. Sometimes, the parent’s team becomes somewhat of a group of ‘idols’ to the child or the family. Occasionally, however, the child might resent the team, because the team is introduced as more important than they are.

Although it is hard to sacrifice so much for a sport, it’s not all bad. Sometimes there are instances when the coach takes a night off of practice to sit down and have a nice family dinner, but it often goes unnoticed when compared with the many times that family gets put on the back-burner for the team. While it’s no easy ride living with a coach, Mrs. Mary Beth Fierro says she would never ask her husband to give it up. Most

other spouses of coaches agree.

The love of the sport may be great, and sometimes overwhelming, but most coaches are willing to go the extra mile to be able to have both a family and a team.

Personally, I’ve had a firsthand experience with living with a coach. My dad’s been a hockey coach for more than twenty years now, so ever since I was born, I’ve had to deal with coming second to the team. Most recently, I’ve had to deal with him coaching multiple teams, meaning I rarely see him every night, and if I do, it’s only for a few minutes. There are good things about having your dad be a coach though. For my brother, the team became like “big brothers” to him, and it’s been a good influence on him.

Despite the good influence the players can have, the cons seem to outweigh the pros. I can’t even begin to count the number

of disagreements I’ve heard over him rarely being home, or the times I’ve missed out on things because he “had to go to practice.”

He misses a lot of things, and as my mom likes to say, “he spends six months out of every year with his ‘other’ family,” also known as his team. Don’t get me wrong, my mom, siblings, and I love being there with my dad to share in his team’s triumphs and defeats, and I think we’ll always feel that way, but it’s hard to really understand what coaches’ spouses and children go through without actually experiencing it for yourself. Sure, I would love for him to have more time to spend with me and my family, but I also could never ask him to stop doing what he loves, which is being a coach. So it’s a bit of a sacrifice, but what things in life aren’t? A lot of good has come out of him being a coach; especially to the athletes he coaches.

November 2006

16

Entertainment

Like Everything, TV is Good--In Moderation Continued from page 5

problems and finding solutions, people merely push them away out of their minds. As an alternative, parents and educators advise teens to communicate with their families and friends. They believe this could not only help to break the endless TV addiction, but it could also strengthen family bonds and connections.

The time-consumption aspect of television viewing is not only issue. It’s argued that the content of what programs teenagers spend too much time watching is also a problem. Many of today’s youth and “family” programs contain varying degrees of sexual promiscuity, violence, and coarse joking. The programs teenagers watch nowadays can be described as anything but innocent. There isn’t a teenage program airing that doesn’t contain some inappropriate elements. According to Thompson, “It depends on with what intent kids watch [these programs]. It’s

Buccaneer Bulletin

okay if they watch corruptive shows also found that when teenagers had suffering, and other issues addressed like those dating shows for entertain- developed bad TV habits as children, in the majority of programs today. ment, as long as they don’t try to they had been especially affected by Basically, the key to the proper amount apply those ideas to their real lives.” the violent or provocative scenes in of television viewing is moderation.

While teenagers might not become certain programs. Their perception of Thompson said, “TV is neither unviolent or immoral as a result of TV, reality was altered as children by means healthy, nor bad, nor mind -numbing, the fact that teleas long as it is balvision influences anced with healthy “It depends on with what intent kids watch alternatives.” Teleour views on these subjects cannot [these programs]. It’s okay if they watch vision has become be denied. As a way of life for corruptive shows like those dating shows amany result of the studteenagers and ies conducted by has revolutionized for entertainment, as long as they don’t try the University of the field of enterto apply those ideas to their real lives.”

South Carolina, tainment. Teenagers Dr. Robert Thompson should view telelinks have been made between Director of Center Study of Popular Television vision for the apheightened agpropriate amount gression and deof time and with linquency in teenagers and the amount of their TV. If they had people in their the right intentions to enjoy it propof television they watch in a day. In lives to help them sort fact from fiction, erly. Although it has its detriments a multi-year study of 732 teenagers, they could have enjoyed the illusions of to our mental and physical health a correlation was found between the TV properly. It should not have gotten when viewed excessively, television number of violent acts committed and to the point where the teenagers became can be an amusing distraction from how much TV watched in a day. It was desensitized or accustomed to pain, the stress and monotony of daily life.

November 2006

Sports

Point

17

Should the Seniors Always Win Powderpuff?

Counterpoint

Since when do the juniors win powderpuff games? The truth is, they don’t, or at least they shouldn’t. Until this year, the seniors have always won the powderpuff game with only a few rare exceptions before our time. We’ve all seen a powderpuff game. Juniors are competitive, seniors win. Not just the players, but the referees, organizers, and everyone involved usually insure a victory for the seniors.

This time, it seemed as though no one cared that it’s our senior year. We, the Class of ’07, already had our turn to lose last year, when we were juniors. Previous years’ twelfth graders have enjoyed an expected senior-year win after an expected loss in their junior year. Why should this year have been different?

Teachers have always claimed that the game is not rigged, but I’m sure we’d all agree that’s a bit of a stretch. Most of us have witnessed ridiculous game-changing penalties called on the juniors in order to help out the seniors.

This is common and no one is ever surprised that those calls are made.

Although she didn’t attend, Mrs. Carrie Patane of the English Department commented, “If that was the true outcome, and the score was kept fairly, that’s great. Sometimes tradition sets the standard for things like this, but if fairness and honesty set it this year, then it shouldn’t be a problem.”

Unfortunately, after last month’s game, many senior girls were unable to control their anger and ended up being labeled “sore losers.” This is understandable because we all expected to win no matter what. Maybe if we knew they weren’t going to rig it, and that the refs were going to ignore our seniority, we would have practiced harder, planned more, and played better. If we still lost under those circumstances, I’m sure we would be much more understanding, less shocked, and not as heartbroken.

Of course, it’s difficult to understand how truly upset we seniors are unless you’re a senior. Mike Burger stated, “It sucked, but if I was a junior I’d have been happy too. But I still think the seniors should have won.

This year’s game seemed to be set up differently than all the others.”

Senior year is supposed to be fun and filled with happy memories to look back on fondly. A powderpuff victory is supposed to be a cherished senior memory just like The 100 Days Celebration, The Senior Dinner Dance, and walking the stage in June. Powderpuff was anything but a fun, cherished memory. It’s unfortunate that we have to look back on the game as a sad experience, or even betrayal.

Other schools in Central New York also participate in senior versus junior powderpuff games. At most of these schools it’s tradition for the seniors to win. This year, Mexico High School’s senior girls dominated the juniors.

Teachers and students alike have been telling the seniors to get over it and stop whining. They claim we’re being babies about it. Well, this may come as a bit of a shock, but we don’t mind that the juniors beat us, it’s the fact that no one cares that we didn’t get to experience a win that every other senior girl does. So, thank you juniors, teachers, and refs for adding insult to injury.

Buccaneer Bulletin

In his book, All I Need to Know I learned in Kindergarten, by Robert Fulghum states that many of life’s rules of behavior are learned at a young age and stay with us throughout our entire lives. Some of these rules are: always say please and thank you, treat people the way you would like to be treated, and don’t be a sore loser. Apparently, some of the senior girls have forgotten this basic rule of sportsmanship.

At last month’s powderpuff, game the juniors upset the seniors with an unexpected 44 to 28 win. Everyone, including the juniors, was surprised by the outcome because in the twenty-five year history of OHS powderpuff, the seniors have rarely lost. Others expected that the seniors would win because the game is supposedly “rigged” to make sure the seniors win. Although, it has been denied that the annual powderpuff games have ever been rigged in the favor of the seniors, it just happens that the seniors usually win.

After the game, some of the seniors displayed very poor sportsmanship by walking down the line of juniors talking trash instead of saying “good game.” The senior’s unsportsmanlike conduct continued the next day in school when the juniors wore their Powderpuff shirts to celebrate their win by saying things like “juniors suck” when they passed juniors in the hallway.

Now, some seniors argue that it is tradition for them to win. But it has never been a rule (written or unwritten) that seniors have to win the game. Just because seniors usually win the game doesn’t mean it’s a tradition; instead it’s more of a legacy of wins.

Others also argue that it is unfair that the juniors won because the seniors lost two years in a row. What is really unfair is that the seniors are acting like it was their right to win, when the juniors won fair-and-square.

Maybe if the seniors quit whining about losing, they’d realize that the juniors practiced really hard, and if they had practiced as hard as the junior team had, the senior team would have been good enough to win the game.

These seniors are some of the same students who defied their advisers’ orders and trashed the school beyond the guidelines set down. Is this a tradition too? To push the limits and be threatened with canceling the game?

There have been rumors that some of the more annoyed seniors are talking of a rematch in the spring. Another game could be a lot of fun for everyone involved. However, seniors should just beware of what they would be getting themselves into. Wouldn’t it be really embarrassing to get beat by the juniors twice in a the same year? Even if the seniors won this time, your record would only be 1 win and 2 losses over your powderpuff “careers.”

Is there a hot topic here at Oswego High School that you would like to see debated in this Point/Counterpoint forum? If so, e-mail Editorin-Chief Kevin Kearns at kkearns@oswego.org and we’ll consider it.

November 2006

Sports

18

Callen Enjoys Record-Breaking Season Abby Martin

Chief Photographer

Hilary Callen has been recognized as this issue’s Athlete of the Month for her outstanding athletic performances in the pool as a varsity swimmer. Her dedication and love for the sport have propelled her on a record- breaking rampage for the OHS girls’ varsity swim team.

Callen, a junior, has spent most of her life in the water. “I have been swimming for twelve years and competitively on the Oswego Laker Swim Club for ten,” she said.

This season, Callen led the varsity team to a 10-4 record, and has broken a few records. Two of her record-breaking performances were in the 100 yard backstroke at Baker High School in Baldwinsville, with a time of 1:01.79, and in the 200 yard freestyle at West Genesee High School, with a time of 1:58.60.

Besides her record-breaking capabilities, she also does a good job in the classroom. “I am consistently a high-honor student, and I try to balance swimming and school the best I can,” she stated.

Callen’s specialties are primarily in the distance events. However, many will argue that she can swim ab-

solutely anything. “She can do it all,” said senior swimmer Stephanie Battista. “Everything seems to come easy to her and doesn’t phase her while everyone else is freaking out about what they’re swimming.”

“My specialties are distance,” Callen stated. “They include the 200 yard freestyle and the 500 yard freestyle (twenty laps), but I also like to swim 100 backstroke, 100 freestyle, and the 200 individual medley.”

Callen has also been to several big meets so far in her career. “In high school I’ve been to state meet since my freshman year, and placed in the top 20 in the events that I swam.”

“Outside of varsity swimming, I have attended Zones and championship meets.

Zones are one kind of championship meet that represents some of the best swimmers on the east coast,” she said.

Callen is always setting new goals for herself and pushes herself in the water towards achieving them. “I would like to finish in the top five at states by the end of my high school career, set more pool records, and become an All-American in high school and at the collegiate level,” she said.

Callen has qualified for sectionals and

Photo By Abby Martin

Hillary Callen training for the upcoming state championships.

states again this year in the 100, 200 and 500 free, and the 100 back. She is hoping to continue her season-long success in those meets by improving her best times and showing what she is capable of doing in the water.

Mr. Josh Lerch has been Callen’s coach for a good portion of her career.

“Hilary has a determination to excel that is unparalleled,” said Lerch. “It

has also been a pleasure coaching her. She will push herself until she is on the brink of failure, and that is just one thing that makes her great.”

“It takes a lot. Practice and technique are two key factors,” Callen said. “But to make a good swimmer on the inside, you need drive, dedication, athleticism, and a whole lot of love for the sport.”

OHS Freshman a State Finalist in PP&K On November 5, Lavner traveled to Ralph Wilson Stadium, home of the Buffalo Bills, to compete in the state finals.

Kathryn Lazarski Sportswriter

Morgan Lavner, a freshman here at OHS, has recently become a New York State finalist in the national NFL-Pepsi Punt, Pass and Kick competition.

Lavner won the regional, which was held in Geneva, for the fourteen to fifteen year-old age group with a total distance of two-hounded and thirty-three feet, which was forty-nine feet more than her closest competitor.

Even though Lavner has only been doing the Punt, Pass and Kick for four years, she said that her “secret ingredient” for winning this year was practice.

“I never really knew I could throw a ball that far, but I guess all it took was some practice,” stated Lavner.

Even though she is a four-year veteran in the Punt, Pass and Kick competition, Lavner was still excited

Buccaneer Bulletin

Photo courtesy of palladium-times

Morgan Lavner advanced to regionals of the Punt, Pass, and, Kick Competition this fall.

about going to states. “(I’m) happy and excited that I won . . . I’ve made it to the regionals before, but never states,” she said.

On November 5, Lavner traveled to Ralph Wilson Stadium, home of the Buffalo Bills, to compete in the state finals.

“It (the competition) was fun and I’m excited that I got to go to the stadium and compete on the field,” Lavner explained.

While at the stadium, she received Buffalo Bills gear as well as a chance to throw the pigskin on the field during halftime of the Buffalo-Green Bay game.

Unfortunately for Lavner, as her favorite football team, the Philadelphia Eagles, took the weekend off, her arm wasn’t enough at the November 5 finals, as this OHS freshman traveled to represent Oswego. Although Lavner wasn’t able place at the finals, she will always remember her years of competition in the NFL-Pepsi Punt, Pass and Kick and return again next year for a final try at the championship.

November 2006

Sports

19

CBA: Should They be in a League of Their Own?

Brilliant, unstoppable, and amazing are three adjectives that accurately describe boys’ athletics at CBA (Christian Brothers Academy). It seems you can’t tune into any high school media without hearing of this larger-than-life athletic powerhouse.

So it leaves us with the question: is there something in the water at CBA, or is there something else going on that enables CBA to dominate?

Ask students and teachers in the halls here at OHS or neighboring schools as to why CBA is so good at sports and 99.9% of them will tell you that it’s because they can recruit their athletes.

It’s true CBA is not like other high schools in the region. CBA operates under Roman Catholic auspices and accepts admissions from qualified students from all faiths. Also, unlike other school districts, there aren’t any geographic boundaries.

The students come from all over. However in the minds of high school sports fanatics, all that means is that CBA can recruit students to attend their school. So with the ability to acquire talented players, comes talented teams.

Let’s look at CBA’s football team. They are currently on a fifty-six home game win streak.

To understand truly how unbelievable that is, allow me to break it down to Buccaneer terms.

Oswego’s football team has won only two home games in the past four years. At that rate, for Oswego to reach fifty-six home wins would take 80 years. The CBA beast has been tamed

2006 2005-06 Football Section 3 Class AA Basketball Record Record 8-1 7-2 4-3 3-6

CBA

Liverpool Corcoran West Genesee

17-6 4-17 13-6 13-8

Graphic by kathryn lazarski

CBA has been a dominant school athletically both on the basketball court as well as on the football. The girls’ athletic program at CBA is also successful

momentarily though, as the Fayetteville-Manlius Hornets defeated CBA in the first round of this year’s Class AA playoffs. You can bet that next year, CBA will try to avenge that loss and continue to add to their remarkable home win streak Another powerhouse team at CBA is the boys’ basketball team. Last year, CBA’s basketball team went 17-6 and made it all the way to the sectional championship game.

It’s not just teams as a whole, but individuals as well that prosper at CBA. Sophomore point guard and captain for Duke University’s 2006-07 basketball team, Greg Paulus hails from CBA. The CBA sports program played a big factor in his career, as Paulus is from the F-M school district.

However, he attended CBA, where he became nationally recognized. Greg’s little brother Mike is on his way as well, in that he will be playing Division I football at North Carolina next year.

The Paulus brothers aren’t the only phenoms out of CBA. Last year alone, CBA’s football team had a dozen players going to play college football, some at the Division I level. Annually they pass on similar numbers to the college ranks.

It’s obvious that CBA would destroy Oswego in most if not all, sports. It’s OK though Bucs, cheer up. We don’t go out scouting for talent. Unlike CBA, we can at least say that Oswego athletes are “home-grown.”

Dropping to Class A Gets Mixed Reviews

continued from page

20

-fense definitely stepped up,” said Linn. “Some of the games, the only reason we lost was because we showed up and mentally we weren’t ready to play, and when you’re like that, there is almost no way to win.”

Despite the fact that Oswego still only managed a 2-7 season, both Dates and Dewey completely ruled out the notion that it might need to move down one more class.

Because of the move, Oswego is no longer eligible to make sectionals. senior linebacker Will Folgeraight said, “Personally, I wasn’t happy with the move, because now, no matter how many games we win, we still can’t make sectionals. I’d rather take my chances in AA. Plus, the kids we played against this

Buccaneer Bulletin

year, really weren’t that much smaller than the ones from last year. We also played some AA schools in which we had our chances to win. Hopefully we

schedule, Dates said “…it’s been twenty years since we last made sectionals. We need kids to keep coming back to our program and if they’re not enjoying their

“Personally, I wasn’t happy with the move, because now, no matter how many games we win, we still can’t make sectionals. I’d rather take my chances in AA...”

Will Folgeraight Senior Linebacker

can get back to AA as soon as possible.”

When asked about giving up the opportunity to make sectionals to play a more equitable regular-season

season because they’re getting killed, there is no way for us to get any better.

Hopefully, this will keep kids coming back and strengthen our program.”

Both Linn and Folgeraight believe that the key to Oswego being able to compete with the schools similar size (in AA) is by working harder in the off-season. “Work ethic, or lack of it, definitely defines our team, because kids don’t want to put in the work during the off-season. They want to just show up in June or August and be able to compete with kids from the AA schools where it is almost mandatory to attend off-season workouts.”

For better or worse, for the next couple of years Oswego will be playing in the Section III Class A American Division. Hopefully with a combination of dedicated players, knowledgeable coaches, and administrative support, Buccaneer football can return to glory someday.

November 2006

Buccaneer Sports Volume 10 Number 2

Oswego High School’s Student Voice

NEW LEAGUE

November 2006

Buccaneer Flashback 5 Years Ago (2001)

Former OHS hockey player, Erik Cole made his NHL debut with the Carolina Hurricanes. Cole began his playing days at the age of five as a member of the Oswego Minor Hockey Association. He joined the OHS varsity team as a sophomore and went on to score seventy-two goals, the fourth highest in the OHS record book.

10 Years Ago (1996)

photo by morganne atutis

This year’s football team struggled offensively, but managed to break into the win column twice.

Change to Class A Considered a Success by Football Staff, AD Kevin Kearns Editor-in-Chief

Opponents-384 Oswego-94

During the ’05 football season the total above were points Oswego allowed and points scored against schools of similar size. After looking at this and other factors, such as an 0-5 record in league play, Athletic Director Mr. Brad Dates met with coaches and parents of the Oswego High football team and decided that the team would be best off moving down a league from Section III Class AA 2 to the Class A American Division for 2006.

With the move, Oswego stopped playing the likes of Corcoran, RFA, Henninger, Utica Proctor, and F-M, and instead started playing Chittenango, Cortland, East Syracuse-Minoa, Fulton, Jamesville-DeWitt, and Mexico.

“I met with the parents and we decided to move down a class so we could provide a chance for our team to be competitive weekly,” said Dates.

“I felt (dropping down a league) would bring

the team together,” said junior QB Jeremy Linn, “because instead of playing against kids who are going to play at D-1 colleges we would be playing against the same caliber kids as us…”

Now, one year into the experiment, the question is, did it work? Oswego managed to finish 2-7 overall and 1-4 in league play. Despite this year’s record being similar to last season’s, Oswego was only out-scored by its opponents by 125 points instead of the 290 point differential of last year.

Head coach Mr. Erwin Dewey believed that there was definitely a huge difference from ‘05 lackluster season. “(This year) we were in a lot of games and made some mistakes early which cost us some wins.

The only game we really weren’t in was the Mexico game and that was probably because of (spirit week) and the guys spent more time getting ready for that than they did the football game,” Dewey said.

“We were definitely more competitive, we scored more, had better drives, and our desee

“reviews” page 19

Oswego varsity swimmer Abby Delia broke the school’s 100 yard backstroke record with a time of 1.01.86 at Liverpool on September 11, 1996. Delia, a sophomore at the time, broke the previous record set by Sally Dowd back in 1977. The rest of the season was very successful for Delia, as she continued to swim well for the team.

20 Years Ago (1986) Coached by Deborah Scholla, the Oswego varsity girls’ soccer team defeated Fayetteville-Manlius 1-0 at the Carrier Dome to become Section III Class A Champions. Sophomore Denise Clark scored the lone Buc goal after thirty minutes of scoreless play.

With two minutes to play an F-M player raced for a breakaway chance, but Buccaneer goaltender Kristina Lenahan shut her down, thus sealing the win. Over five bus loads of Oswego fans made the trip to see their Lady Bucs crowned Section III Class A Champions.

Editor’s Note: Flashback, compiled by Kathryn Lazarski and Zach Grulich, is a monthly feature of The Buccaneer Bulletin.