November 2012

Buccaneer Bulletin Oswego High School’s Student Voice

How can we help the homeless? -- Page 3 www.buccaneerbulletin.wordpress

Volume 1 Number 2 November 2012

PHOTO BY PATRICK BAER

Editorial

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Drawing Board

Buccaneer Bulletin Oswego High School’s Student Voice Editor-in-Chief Madison Rhoades Managing Editors Chloe Martin & Taylor Falls Business Manager Gabrielle Sacco Chief Photographer Patrick Baer Photographers Olivia Drake-Connolly Hannah Griffin Art Director Jordan Oatman Entertainment Editor Shannon Crary Ad Representatives Morgan Cook Carrie Kelly Sports Editor Alanna Maldonado Sports Writers Nick Czerow Kellie Gorman Reporters Sage Dudley Rachael Purtell Catherine Wells Jake Jones Webmaster Tara Stacy Advisers Bill Reeser Heidi Conland Sheffield 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.

Opinions expressed are those of the students and do not necessarily reflect those of the administration or the advisers.

On the Cover: Chief Photographer Patrick Baer utilized his carving skills to create a Halloween jacko-lantern and promote The Buccaneer Bulletin.

Buccaneer Bulletin

CARTOON BY JORDAN OATMAN

. . . to OHS students Julia and Michele Lavery who were awarded the Liberty Medal, one of the highest civilian honors a New York citizen can receive. They received this award when they helped save three people at Sandy Pond last summer. . . . to OHS senior Joe Bertonneau who was invited to participate in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Band in San Antonio. Bertonneau will be one of 125 students chosen from across the country to perform at this event. . . . to the OCSD staff and students who participated in the American Red Cross blood drive held on November 2. . . . to the girls varsity volleyball team for winning the Section Three title. It’s the first time Oswego has brought home this title in 22 years. . . . to all the OCSD employees who participated in the November Red Cross Blood Drive.

. . . to teachers who do not update jupiter grades regularly. How are students supposed to stay informed about their grades and missing assignments? The purpose of the website is for students to check their up-to-date grades, not from a month ago. . . . to the clocks in the OHS classrooms not being synchronized to the same time and/or bell. . . . to the teachers who do not turn on WBUC during homeroom, and the loudspeaker announcements interrupting the show. A lot of work is put into the production of the show and it deserves respect. . . . to the teachers who do not hand out the Buccaneer Bulletin in homeroom, it is only produced seven times a year it’s not a huge burden. www.buccaneerbulletin.wordpress.com

November 2012

Editorial In Our View . . .

Let’s help the homeless in our own hometown with a shelter Recently, a young local girl named Emily Bradshaw was shocked by the huge problem of homelessness in Oswego and was even more upset when she discovered that Oswego does not have a shelter. We at the Buccaneer Bulletin agree that this is a problem and something needs to be done about it.

Homelessness could be affecting anyone in the county, even people in this school. Some of the kids who we walk the halls with everyday are considered homeless. OHS Principal Brian Hartwell said, “at any given time at least two dozen kids could be considered homeless.” Yet with homelessness being such a big problem, we don’t have a shelter for these people.

Bradshaw has become the face of homelessness in Oswego. She is constantly writing the mayor, aldermen, legislators, and the governor. She thinks this is a simple problem, and it could be easily fixed if we were to just have a shelter. Bradshaw is also trying to help by collecting personal care items and filling bags with them that can be handed out to people through school or Social Services when needed.

Last year, Social Services placed 263 people into temporary housing. That’s a large number, and sometimes the housing help isn’t enough, but other programs to help such as food stamps can take time before the person receives them. There were 15 documented homeless families last school year. How can we claim to be such a great place when we can’t even help care for the people in our community?

At OHS, we have someone to help work with people who are homeless or at risk, Runaway Homeless Youth School Specialist, Alyse Fleming, According to Fleming, “Right now, I have at least 45 people that I’m working with in the district,” ) She works with people who are covered under the McKinney-Vento Act, which allows students who are in temporary housing to still attend the school they last attended. It provides them transportation to and from school and a free school lunch.

While these things help, they still don’t put a permanent roof over someone’s head. Oswego has come together as a community for good causes and disasters many other times, so why is this issue any different?

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What’s Your Opinion?

“What would you do to prevent or help homeless people in our community?”

Megan Clary Freshman

“I would start a food drive.”

Natasha Mezza Freshman

“I would start a can drive and then with the money that’s collected, I would build houses for the homeless.”

2012 Empire State School Press Association Buccaneer Bulletin Award Winners

Gabby Castiglia Sophomore

“Get tax payers’ money to build a homeless shelter.”

Buccaneer Bulletin Staff Gold All NY Gold Overall Newspaper Buccaneer Bulletin Staff Gold Service to School “Coverage of Teachers and Student Leaders”

Mackenzie Oatman Silver Personality Interview “Artist of the Month-Rice”

Buccaneer Bulletin Staff Gold Editorial Page Nov. 2011 and Feb. 2012

Mackenzie Oatman Bronze Personality Interview “Artist of the MonthFleischman”

Buccaneer Bulletin Staff Gold Use of Advertising Dec. 2011 and Oct. 2011

Mackenzie Oatman Bronze Portrait Photograph October 2011 cover

Buccaneer Bulletin Staff Gold Design

Justin Peterson Gold News Story “Oswego Read Controversy”

Buccaneer Bulletin Staff Gold Front Page Mar., Oct., Nov. 2011, May 2012

Justin Peterson Bronze In-Depth Coverage “Oswego Read Controversy”

Buccaneer Bulletin Staff Bronze Layout &Typography Nov. 2011, Mar., May 2012

Carlie Morley, Taylor Falls & Chloe Martin Silver Special Topic/Event Coverage “Class of 2012”

Mackenzie Oatman Gold Photographer

Madison Rhoades Gold Feature Photograph “Vinyl Record Sales on the Rise”

Mackenzie Oatman Gold Editorial “Use Tax Money to Restore Programs”

Patrick Baer Silver Feature Photograph May 2012 cover

Mackenzie Oatman Gold Personality Interview Story “Artist of the MonthMahaney”

Carlie Morley Bronze Sports Photograph “Athlete of the Month-Nelson”

Mackenzie Oatman Gold Portrait Photograph “Artist of the Month-Rice”

Alexis and Paige Daniels Silver Editorial Cartoon “Drawing Board”

Mackenzie Oatman Gold News Photograph “Occupy Protests Emerge”

Kaleigh Fitzsimmons HM Feature Story “OHS Alumnus as Illustrator”

Buccaneer Bulletin

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Nick Boone Junior

“Give a man money, he’ll have money for a night. Give a man a job, he’ll have money for life.”

Rob Zeigler Senior “I would create more jobs so people can work to earn money.”

Mr. Galka

Math Teacher “Trying to get more government funding for housing and create more jobs to provide income.”

November 2012

News

4

Leaders take action to combat U.S. obesity problems

By Chloe Martin Managing Editor

In a society where pizza is considered a vegetable, it’s no wonder that 12.5 million children are considered obese in the United States.

Children who are overweight have an increased risk of developing an array of health problems including diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea, and high cholesterol. Along with these health problems, overweight children are more likely to face social and selfesteem issues.

The problem with childhood obesity is that it doesn’t just affect the child who is overweight. A group of retired military leaders are trying to argue that the obesity epidemic in America is a threat to national security.

In a new report entitled “Still Too Fat to Fight” published by this group, being overweight was found to be the number one medical reason why people do not meet the requirements to enlist.

The group is calling on school districts to limit the sale of junk food in schools, which they believe is a big factor in childhood obesity. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the amount of junk food children purchase and eat in schools within a year is equal to 90,000 tons of candy.

However, new government regulations and laws have been made to limit the amount of junk kids can eat in schools. According to OCSD Director of Food Service Dennis Jerome, each student can only be served 850 calories a day. Those calories must

include protein, whole grains, fruits and veggies, and milk. Milk must be 1% if unflavored and fat free if flavored. In one week, five different types of vegetables must be served.

Those types include dark greens, other greens, starch, legumes, and red/orange vegetables. Jerome stated, “The amount of protein we can serve went from being a minimum of 2 ounces, to a maximum of 2 ounces, but the servings of fruits and vegetables have doubled over the years.”

Jerome believes it’s all about choices and providing students with the healthier choice, “You won’t see a lot of chips and things. As for our a la carte items, the ice cream all has to fit certain nutritional values. The slushies are 100% fruit based, the soups are all homemade, every tray is required to have fruit or veggies. We’ve been transitioning to this new program for the last four years.”

Additionally, the group of exmilitary leaders reports seeing worse results in the required physical fitness test, and different health requirements recruits must meet aren’t being achieved. Many recruits have to go through pre- fitness testing before heading off to basic training. The report estimates the military spends over one billion dollars every year on programs to help with weight related problems and medical insurance for military members and their families who face obesity related problems.

Soldiers who are overweight are more prone to sprains and fractures

BUCCANEER BULLETIN PHOTO

Despite a national effort to limit portion sizes and promote healthy eating, many teenagers still consume supersize portions like the hamburger pictured above.

and cannot be deployed with their units. A soldier’s failure to pass the military’s physical fitness test could result in a soldier being discharged from duty. Combined with other factors such as lack of education and criminal backgrounds means about 75 percent of young adults are not eligible to join the military. These factors along with the statistic that only 1 in 4 Americans is eligible to join the military is what is causing the nation’s first line of defense to be compromised.

With the percentage of Americans who are obese being expected to

rise to 42 percent by the year 2030, it’s more important now than ever to combat obesity in America. It’s important to stress the benefits of exercise and eating healthy at a young age because obese children are more likely to be obese as adults.

Switching white bread for whole grain bread, fruits and veggies for chips, and water for soda are small steps being taken in school cafeterias to deal with obesity. Encouraging children to be active and exercise for at least 30 minutes a day can also help.

Many teens opting to delay getting driver’s licenses

By Tara Stacey Webmaster

There was a time when rushing to the DMV on your 16th birthday was the norm for American teens.

Just ask your parents; it was true of their generation.

However, that’s just not the case anymore.

In 2010, more than 30% of American 19-yearolds did not have a driver’s license. One of these teens is Oswego High School alumna Nikole Bonacorsi.

“Originally, I wanted to wait until I took Driver’s Ed.,” stated Bonacorsi, who was the 2010-2011 valedictorian at OHS and she was also involved in multiple extracurricular activities. “I was too scared of driving in high school to take my road test, and by the time I did take Drivers Ed., I didn’t have much incentive to just take the test.”

Bonacorsi isn’t the only one, between 2006 and 2012 alone, there was a 10% decrease in teen drivers according to a study by the Department of Safety and Motor Vehicles. Researchers have also found that this trend is not only occurring in the US but in seven other countries including Germany, South Korea, Canada, Norway, Sweden and Great Britain.

Although experts state that there are many factors to the steady decline of teens getting behind the wheel, many agree that the most prominent reason is the rise of social media. One of the main reasons teens looked forward to driving in the past was not only personal freedom but for the communication with friends and family. In the age of the Internet and

Buccaneer Bulletin

PHOTO BY PATRICK BAER

Teens of the past used to have licenses; many teens today only have their permits.

cell phones, talking face to face just isn’t a priority anymore. After all, the mind-set of today’s teen is why would you meet up with friends to tell them something when they’re just a text away?

Of course, there are other reasons teens are delaying driving; environmental concerns, no access to cars, and, undoubtedly, the economy. High gas www.buccaneerbulletin.wordpress.com

prices and lower public transportation prices don’t exactly entice teens like Bonacorsi to step behind the wheel.

“Now that I go to school on a small campus where I wouldn’t need a car anyway, I don’t really have much incentive to get my license,” said Bonacorsi.

Naturally, she’s not alone. According to the US Department of Transportation, 28% of 16-year-olds had their license in 2010, as opposed to 44% in 1980.

Various experts have different opinions whether these numbers are favorable for the country or not. Some believe that teens waiting could prove advantageous, as teens are involved in three times the amount of fatal car accidents as adults. Whether it be texting and driving, drinking and driving, or simply being careless or inexperienced behind the wheel, many argue that the roads would be safer without teens.

However, Robert Epstein, a research psychologist and author of Teen 2.0, stated in an interview, “We are making it harder for them to enter the adult world. We are teaching them to be helpless, dependent and to feel entitled.”

Regardless of whether people believe it is beneficial for teens to be behind the wheel, it is the opinion of many that eventually teens should get their licenses. Bonacorsi stated, “I think that I will have to [get my license] eventually, because not having it is definitely restricting. I just don’t know when that will be.”

November 2012

Features

5

Oswego High School has two doctors in our midst

By Catherine Wells

Reporter Donned in a white coat, scalpel in hand, Dr. Sweeney prepares to make the first incision. Across the hall, Dr. Naron is suiting up. Gloves and safety glasses on, she readies the flaming rings of death.

Are they in a hospital? No, these doctors operate their respective classrooms right here at OHS. Dr. Sweeney, who teaches Anatomy and Living Environment, is dissecting a frog. Dr. Naron is setting up her favorite AP Physics lab. These doctors specialize in education, not medicine.

Both received their doctorates online from Walden University within a few months of each other, Sweeney in February and Naron in May of 2011.

When asked about her motivation to undertake the Herculean effort leading to the title change, Sweeney said they had been taking classes together already when they asked themselves, “Why just keep taking odds and ends classes when you can work towards a degree?” And work they did. It took the pair five

years to become doctors, with three consisting of course work and two devoted to a study (or thesis) that adds to the body of knowledge already existing in the field of study, in this case education. This massive undertaking made both teachers balance being a student themselves while educating others.

Dr. Naron, who took on teaching AP Physics the same year she began the college classes, said, “I had no life.” Sweeney agreed, adding that looking back now she’s not sure how she managed it all. “You just get it done, but it took a lot of sacrifice and most weekends were homework.”

The most important factor in the two getting past all the work involved in a doctorate was their friendship. Naron said that there were times they both wanted to quit, but talking all the time and having classes together helped them pull through.

Sweeney added, “I can’t thank Dr. Naron enough, I wouldn’t have been able to do it without her support. We both had dark days, and it would have been hard to do it alone.” What was their

New school psychologist loves her job at OHS

By Carrie Kelly

Ad Representative

Have you heard of our new school psychologist? Her name is Ms. Erin Reilly. Ms. Reilly is from Westchester Valley, which is outside New York City, and she attended Briar Field High School and got her master’s degree at SUNY-New Paltz. Later on, she completed her degree at SUNYOswego. At first, she wanted to be a teacher but then she changed her mind and decided that she wanted to become a psychologist.

Reilly first had an internship at Leighton Erin Reilly OHS School Psychologist before she came to OHS Reilly was inspired to become a psychologist because of the relationships she had with her own counselors and psychologists growing up.

Now that might make you wonder, “What is the difference between a school counselor and a school psychologist?”

Ms. Reilly was asked about the difference and she said, “There isn’t much of a difference. We both help students in all areas including academic, social and emotional problems. What psychologists do is we perform evaluations to make programs to help guide students to academic success.” One of the methods they use is called cognitive therapy. This is Ms. Reilly’s favorite kind of therapy and it is a part of behavioral therapy; she said it’s her favorite because she’s seen it be successful. Ms. Reilly said that she very much likes her job and her favorite part would definitely be the students!

Maybe you’d like to know a little

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motivation for such a demanding task? Sweeney said, “I consider myself a lifelong learner, so what other way to show students and my own children the importance of education?” Naron also said as an educator herself, she wanted to further her own education.

As students within OHS may have noticed, some pupils call the teachers “Dr.” while others can’t break the habit of “Mrs.” Both Sweeney and Naron both said they aren’t bothered either way, but they introduce themselves as “Doctor” and agree it is nice for recognition of the title. After learning how much work went into earning the degree, this reporter will think twice before making another joke about having a heart attack and needing a doctor. I did suggest getting nameplates, but Sweeney said Mr. Altman already made them signs for their classroom doors. All in all, these ladies don’t faint at the sight of blood, hard work, or problem students. Congratulations from the Buc Bulletin on the doctorates!

bit more about Reilly. Reilly is really active; she likes to run and hike. Her favorite sport is basketball, but she also mentioned her least favorite sport is football because she really doesn’t understand what is happening. Reilly also enjoys scrapbooking. She likes to read and write; that could be why her favorite class in high school was English.

Her favorite book is The Teacher Who Couldn’t Read and her favorite movie would be August Rush. Her favorite celebrity is Kate Hudson. Kate Hudson is her favorite actress because she is very humorous, and she absolutely enjoys the movies she’s in! When you watch movies you can’t help but eat popcorn, which is Reilly’s all time favorite food because it’s just so delicious!

Reilly also said that her favorite color is purple. Why purple? Because purple reminds her of growing up and developing and it is also the symbol color of the Acceptance Coalition Club, which Reilly runs. Reilly is also very strict when it comes to bullying.

She believes that you just don’t do it because you don’t know what anyone’s going through. Reilly said that her role model is her grandma. Her grandma has taught her a great deal about working with people, and she is also a very genuine person.

Reilly is very genuine and understanding. Reilly does a quote of a day in her room, and every time you walk in there, you can’t help but read it.

When you really think about them, they can sometimes change the way you look at things. Reilly has two favorite quotes. One was a very common one that we’ve all heard at least once in our life, “Don’t let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” Her all time favorite quote was from Walt Disney, “All of our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.” www.buccaneerbulletin.wordpress.com

November 2012

Columns

6

Do as I say not as I do! Parents drive us crazy Parents; there are so many ways you can describe them. They are the people who tucked you into bed when you were a child. They feed you, they house you, they buy you new things, they love you. And you love them too; except there’s just this one little thing about them that you can’t stand.

Parents can be such hypocrites that it drives us all crazy!

“Do as I say and not as I do,” is a useless phrase. Growing up, kids learn by watching. From a young age they learn from watching TV and movies, but mainly they learn from watching the people they’re around the most; their parents. All the bad habits we have were mainly inherited from our parents, so for us to not do something, our parents better plan on not doing it either. Then there are other things we do that aren’t habits at all. They’re just little things that we can’t help doing because we have no choice.

And the most irritating thing is for your parents to yell at you for doing something and then turn around and do it themselves. How many times do your

parents say they’re only they want us to do early in the morning to forget. But then when we forget to a phone call away when when we wake up, something that we clean our room, we’re grounded for you need something? But have to do later that evening. They forgetting. once you actually call don’t understand that throughout the One thing I heard a lot when I was them, they never answer! school day our mind is so focused on a child when it came to cleaning my They always give you other things, like schoolwork, drama, room was, “Did you clean your room crazy excuses, “I was sports, and all things that lead to stress. my way?” When parents get mad at us busy and couldn’t pick We forget what was told to us when for not cleaning something right and up,” “I didn’t hear my we were half awake that morning. One doing it the way they wanted us to do phone go off,” or “I had no reception.” phrase I hear a lot is, “Well, you just it, we can’t help but clench our fists They never tend to realize that, as can’t forget!” I mean, I understand and not want to spit back at them. Of students, we can be busy too. Between that you don’t want me to forget, but course, the way they want it done isn’t being in school with sports, after school it’s not really something a person can something we can achieve. No matter clubs, rehearsals, homework, work, help. If we chose to remember and to how hard we strive to clean something other organizations and special things forget things, then we really wouldn’t or do something the way parents want we take part in, along with trying to fit have forgotten something extremely us to, it won’t ever be what they want. in hanging That’s because out with something “Do as I say and not as I do,” is a useless phrase. it’s friends in that’s envisioned there too, in their heads. The parent’s only way they can don’t seem to realize that we were important we needed to do. get it exactly perfect is if they do it probably too busy and too wrapped Of course, though, it’s okay for themselves. That goes for everything; up with things to answer a phone call. them to turn around and forget things. don’t expect others to do something Even if they do realize, sometimes they Parents forget to do things we need exactly the way you want it done. If don’t even care! They get angry at us all the time. They forget to pick us up you do, you’re just setting yourself up about for not getting back to them right from something on time, they forget for disappointment. away, and then it’s too late for them to to sign papers and permission slips on Why can’t parents think like that, talk to us what they needed to talk to us time, or they forget to wake up early though? If only they thought about about. But what about when we need enough in morning. So, we end up late how we’re busy too, or how forgetting something from them? Well, to them, for what’s next in our schedule because something is natural and that expecting it’s not as important. they forgot to send the permission slip your children to do something you Another “do as I say and not as I in on time so we can’t go to that field want exactly perfect is just out of the do,” that can become irritating is when trip we really wanted to go to, or we ballpark. Maybe if parents weren’t so they get upset with us when we forget end up late for class. When it comes to hypocritical, the teenage life would be things. Parents will tell us something things that affect us, it’s okay for them less stressful!

SAT and ACT tests are key for college entrance

You know when you’re younger and you heard the same cliché out of every adult’s mouth, “Your life flies by.” I, like most other students, thought this was an inaccurate statement. I felt as though school would never end, and I never thought the time would come when I’d apply to colleges. Well, the time is here.

When summer was coming to a close, I was actually excited to start my senior year. Little did I know what I’d be in for. I have never been so busy in my life. Between after school meetings to writing three page essays, I have little down time. The short amount of spare time I have is mostly committed to filling out college applications and studying for the SAT and ACT. The SAT. Those two little words can make any junior or senior in high school cringe. It’s the dreaded four hour long test that, by the end, you have either have ripped out most of the hair on your head or have chewed through a couple of pencils. I’m being completely honest when I say it was the longest and worst hours of my life, and I’ve taken it two times! It’s not that it’s the most difficult thing I’ve ever done, necessarily, but it’s just a lot of critical thinking. I could’ve sworn my brain was fried after I got out of the

Buccaneer Bulletin

test.

Taking the ACT wasn’t as terrible. It’s a much easier test but still extremely long. What irritates me the most about these tests is not the content but how repetitive they are. There are ten sections and half of them are the same, just different questions. So I sat there and answered what felt like millions of the same types of questions.

I did well on both the SAT and ACT but not excellent. I’m terrified of not being accepted to colleges based solely on these grades. I don’t quite understand how these tests can have so much importance in college admissions. I’ve never been an ideal test taker. Before tests, my anxiety level is ridiculously high and as soon as I see the test, I feel as though I never learned one thing that is on the test. I’m sure there are plenty of people that breeze through tests with no worries and that’s great, but I’m positive there are more that feel as I do. For those who can breeze through tests no problem, the SAT and ACT could be an excellent indicator of their level of intelligence. For the rest of us, it’s honestly not fair.

I know that these tests aren’t the only thing that can prove our intelligence levels, but colleges do base a great deal on how well you do on them rather than transcripts. I can see in some cases where this may be beneficial because some grades are just fluff that teacher’s give out and sometimes aren’t earned. I worked hard for the grades I’ve earned, though, and to have them just overlooked or pushed aside in a college application irritates me. www.buccaneerbulletin.wordpress.com

The National Center for Fair & Open Testing FairTest FairTest finds that nearly 850 four-year colleges do not use the SAT I or ACT to admit substantial numbers of bachelor degree applicants.

See the searchable listing of schools at: h t t p : / / w w w. f a i r t e s t . o r g / university/optional BUCCANEER BULLETIN GRAPHIC

November 2012

Features

7

Is body piercing worth parental permission?

New York State passes law requiring parental consent for anyone 18 and younger to obtain body piercing.

Some teens feel this law is beneficial, while others think the law does not prevent infection. The purpose of the law is to protect young people under the age of 18.

By Shannon Crary Entertainment Editor

Governor of New York State, Andrew Cuomo, has passed a law stating that if you are under 18, you must have parental consent to get any body piercing due to the high risk of infection from the piercings.

Cuomo states, “Body piercing can result in severe health risks and it is our obligation as New Yorkers and parents to make sure that our teens are taking every precaution to remain healthy and safe.” The goal is to provide better protection from infection and blood borne diseases from them.

The term ‘body piercing’ would include any body part that is not the ear. This requires body piercing places such as Bodified or Extreme Underground to check identification for a body piercing. Before this bill was passed, having parental consent was a security measure for piercing studios; it is now officially a state law.

As teenagers, most of us have felt the need to do something to our body to change its appearance, to stand out from others. For some, it is the want for something that “everyone else is getting”. Most people in OHS have some sort of body piercing, whether it’s lips, nose, or belly button for girls or guys with their ears. Some would even say it’s a right of passage to get a hole in their body but students tend not to see the risks associated with getting a piercing.

Up to ¾ of teenagers with piercings do not have parental consent when obtaining them, which is the

main reason for the passing of the law. OHS senior Taylor Gibbs said, “I feel that having parental consent is a good idea so that kids are not going out and getting piercings without permission, but that’s the only reason I think it’s a good idea.” A recent survey showed that at least 15% of the world’s population is pierced.

Although students may see the passing of this law as a bad thing, it is only in the best interest of young people Let’s face it, students tend not to look at the long-term effects of something they really want. Senior Melissa Valentine said, “I support PHOTO BY HANNAH GRIFFIN the law because I think most parents are trying Underage OHS sophomore Kayla Pierce shows off her nose and lip ring. to keep their child from She was pierced in a local piercing shop. making a choice that they’ll regret in the just for getting piercings but restricting the right to future. When the person turns 18, they may realize express themselves by changing the body in some they didn’t really want the piercing and were just way. Piercings date back about 5,000 years ago. The acting on impulse. If they really want the piercing, way the body is pierced today is much safer than they’ll be willing to wait a few years to get it before, but there are still risks. Most piercing studios themselves.” If not well taken care of, a piercing can already make you have parental consent before become infected which is painful, and oral piercings getting pierced, so most teens already know the can lead to broken teeth. protocol.

Although it hasn’t happened to many, a recent When it comes to piercings, you should be educated study showed that more than 3,000 people visit the about how to take care of them. The risk of infection emergency room each year due to piercings, many of is very minimal if you know the basic treatments for them between the ages of 14 and 17. Piercings also the piercing you have on your body, but the law is to leave scars which people may not want when they are protect from the harm that could possibly occur from older. But, if you are healthy and a piercing that you the piercing. As it is, piercings are a safe way to modify obtained becomes infected, it is very easy to medicate your body but when getting one, you need to think the infection. about the effects it could have on you in the future.

To many teens, this law is a restriction not

Park on school property after driving course BY

By Taylor Falls

Up until recently, many schools had not made a mandatory driving If you have not heard the course to be able to park on school complaints lately about the limited grounds. However, many schools space in the senior parking lot, then across the nation have adopted this you must be deaf. Sure, we can all course into their mandatory curriculum. protest against school officials to “Every day, I’ve got the largest group give us more parking spaces, but of at-risk drivers in this county in my what students do not parking lot,” stated realize is the amount of Corey Murphy, Its main purpose is to educate teens responsibility the school principal of Beaufort has just for students High School in in driving safety and responsible parking on school South Carolina. driving. grounds. Any accident One of these that could occur is the specific courses is school’s responsibility. called Alive at 25, There are tons of stories about school grounds or at school functions which was developed by the National tragic accidents that result in many to focusing on the serious effects of Safety Council. Its main purpose deaths initiated by a teenage driver. drugs and alcohol in health class. is to educate teens in driving safety Whether it is from consumption “Driving is such a big responsibility, and responsible driving. The class of drugs or alcohol or simple and OHS definitely wants safety the is typically set up like the normal carelessness, it creates a big impact. first priority,” stated Brian Hartwell, five hour course that’s taken before It’s devastating to schools because principal of OHS. receiving your license. “I think any Managing Editor

Buccaneer Bulletin

it’s highly likely that the teenagers who die in fatal car accidents were students who had friends in school.

School administrators have tried many techniques to try and help with the driving recklessness of teenagers.

They’ve done things from enacting strict punishments for drinking on

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program that could open teen drivers’ eyes to the dangers and hazards of the road would be beneficial to our school,” stated Stacey Seubert, an English teacher at OHS. Statistics have shown that this class, along with enforcing seatbelts, has greatly reduced the number of highway deaths between the ages of 15-24 by 23 percent.

Some school officials think a course like this would be highly effective because it forces kids to be educated in all areas of driving before receiving the benefits of having a license, such as driving to school. On the other hand, some have opposing viewpoints on the topic. “It is an excellent opportunity for students, but I wouldn’t want it to be a punishment,” stated Hartwell. “There has to be that balance between the education aspect of driving and the hands-on roadwork,” he added.

November 2012

Feat

8

BULLYING AN ISSUE NOT TO BE IGNORED!

By Madison Rhoades

B

Editor-in-Chief

PHOTO BY PATRICK BAER

Many classrooms sport this Safe Zone sign in an effort to promote acceptance and tolerance of everyone. Harrassment and disrespect will not be tolerated.

Buccaneer Bulletin

ullying is a serious thing; it can happen to anyone and it keeps getting worse. It can range from making a threat to someone, to spreading a rumor, to physically hurting. With the new advances in technology, kids have many more opportunities to bully others. Due to the advances in technology, bullies can now attack their victims using social networking sites and through text messaging, making it much harder for the victims to escape or try and hide from the bullying. Not only has the way kids bully gotten worse, but the things they bully about and the severity of it has worsened. Kids don’t think about the consequences of their actions, so they keep pushing with the bullying, and sometimes the consequence might be something as serious as the victim ending their life.

But it shouldn’t take a child ending their life for someone to notice the severity of bullying and to say, “Hey, we should probably tell kids to stop doing that.”

Not only should it be taught that kids shouldn’t take the bullying but not to bully. It’s not right to make someone else feel so insecure and bad about themselves that they think the only way out is to end their life.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death for people ages 12 to 18. Depression is a major risk factor for suicide, and victims of bullying have a much higher risk of depression. Some kids don’t come to school because they feel unsafe, and they want to avoid the torture. No one should be made to feel that way, and this gets in the way of their education. Almost fifteen percent of absences are due to the fear of bullying. Heather Robillard, social worker at OHS, said that many of the absenses that she

deals have to do with bullyin bullies create and being scare that they need to drop out in o One out of every ten kids wh repeated bullying.

Sometimes, kids take sui they don’t know how or who they feel weak asking for hel communication need to be ke helping organizations out the more. Having that one person they’re not the only one migh them from doing something d with this by talking to their ch everyday things like how the sat with at lunch, encouragin and things like that.

Schools can also help by the help that’s out there, inclu the school like the school psy There are several hotlines suc Prevention Hotline, the Cybe National Hotline. There are p waiting by the phone. They’r to be used. In most schools t or someone that kids can talk encouraged to talk to them.

However, when most sch tolerance policy for bullying, staff that either are part of the don’t do anything about it. A in 2007, nearly one third of th incident said the school staff

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tures

ng. This unsafe feeling that ed makes some kids believe order to get away from it. ho drop out say it was from

icide as a way out because o to talk to about it, or lp. That’s why lines of ept open and the many ere need to be talked about n listen and tell them that ht be the thing that changes drastic. Parents can help child and checking in with eir school day went, who they ng them about their grades

y letting people know about uding the help that is within ychologist and social worker. ch as the National Suicide erbully Hotline, Boys Town people trained to help you re a resource and they need there are psychologists k to, and kids should be

hools say they have a no , there may be teachers or e bullying, or they see it and According to a study done he people who reported an did nothing about it. How

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9

Taking a stand and telling someone is key to preventing bullying.

Bullying is absolutely unacceptable in any form!

PHOTO BY PATRICK BAER

can we expect kids to come out and admit that they’re being bullied and need help if nothing is being done?

Or, how are we supposed to expect kids not to bully if teachers are doing it too? But, this summer an act was put in affect to help stop this. On July 1, 2012, The Dignity for All Students Act was put into affect to help provide a discrimination and harassment free school environment.

Staff members also have to go through training that teaches them how to discourage the bullying.

Another outcome that could happen due to bullying is a school shooting. Revenge against bullies is the strongest motivation for school shootings. Think about it, it’s never the most popular kid who has everything going for them who walks into school with a gun; it’s the kid that gets shoved into their locker everyday and told that he or she is fat. If they think the only way to get revenge against the bully is to murder them, then it is obvious the bully wasn’t very nice. Sometimes the things we say and the actions we take against people can be taken to heart.

Don’t pick on someone for the things that make them different, whether it be their looks or their interests. You have no clue what they have been through or what could be happening in their life at that time.

We need to start thinking before we speak and realize that there could be some serious consequences for the things we say and do. If you see someone bullying someone else, step in and stop it. If you’re being bullied, report it to a teacher, your parents, anyone until something is done about it. If you’re the one bullying, knock it off. Everyone deserves to be happy and not live in fear.

And think about it, if someone were to walk into school tomorrow with a gun, would you be safe? Or are they coming after you?

PHOTO BY PATRICK BAER

Social media has become a platform for bullying in many schools across the country. Help is a person or a phone call away; you just have to take the step.

November 2012

GRAPHIC BY MADISON RHOADES

When you see bullying, what will you do?

10

Walking the Plank

The Buccaneer Bulletin’s Guide to Brooke Krassowski BB: What’s your full name?

Brooke Krassowski: Brooke Christopher Krassowski.

BB: What are some of your hobbies?

BK: I play video games, and I built a city out of Legos.

BB: If you could have any super power, what would it be?

BK:Telekinesis, it’s the ability to move stuff with your mind.

BB: Do you play any sports?

BK: I don’t play any sports, but I work out every day after school.

BB: What’s your biggest fear?

BK: Screwing something up for someone else, basically making someone else fail.

BB: If you were stranded on an island and could only bring three things, what would they be?

BK: A multi-tool, a fire starter kit, and a helicopter.

BB: What’s your favorite subject?

BK: My favorite subject is science because I’ve always been fascinated with the world around me and how it works, and it’s one of the few classes where I can play with fire.

BB: Who’s your inspiration?

BK: Weird Al, Abraham Lincoln and Batman.

BB: What are three words you would use to describe yourself?

BK: Insane, intelligent and modest.

BB: If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

BK: I’d like to live in Washington D.C. to see how the government works in action..

BB: What are three things you can’t live without?

BK: My flashlight, the Internet and people.

BB: Do you have any pets?

BK: I have a dog names Alex and a cat named Zelda.

BB: What’s your favorite high school memory so far?

BK: Being interviewed for Walking the Plank.

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BB: What’s your favorite book?

BK: A Hitchhikers Guide to the Universe.

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BB: Do you play an instrument?

BK: I play the violin.

BB: Why do you like playing the violin?

BK: I like playing the violin because I’ve always liked music. It’s fun to make different sounds and it’s really just a beautiful thing.

BB: If you could have lunch with any three people, dead or alive who would they be?

BK: Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt and Harry Houdini.

Editor’s note: “Walking the Plank” is a regular question-and-answer feature of The Buccaneer Bulletin.

If you know a student or staff member who you would like to see walk the plank, contact Madison Rhoades at mrhoades@oswego.org This edition of “Walking the Plank” was written by Alanna Maldanado.

November 2012

Point Counter-Point

11

Private or state college: which is for you?

Private schools offer more quality

State colleges are a better value

By Gabrielle Sacco

By Patrick Baer

Business Manager

Chief Photographer

With it coming time to start applying to colleges, you’re likely to be finding yourself contemplating if you should attend a state or a private college. Here is your answer: private college.

When you first think of a private college, it’s normal to think of the extreme amount of tuition you’ll have to pay to attend. Even though private colleges do come at a higher cost, they also have higher financial aid budgets. Private colleges usually have a lot of funding that comes in from donors and endowments allowing the college to extend a bigger grant package to its students.

According to Tony Pals, the director of communications for the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, institutionally provided student aid at private nonprofit colleges increased 7% for the 2011-2012 academic year. He also says that institutional student aid budgets are increasing at a faster rate than the published tuition. Look beyond the advertised price of a school. As with buying a car, the sticker price can be negotiable.

There is so much more to a college than just its cost. One characteristic regarding private colleges usually rises to the top among all the factors one can consider: quality. Private colleges focus more on producing quality rather than quantity, whereas public colleges produce more quantity. “What private liberal arts colleges provide is very high quality,” states Peyton Helm, president of Muhlenberg College. Your college education does depend highly on what you make of it, but private colleges provide the extra boost that is commonly needed to freshman and continue to provide a high quality education throughout the college career.

Private universities are known for their highly competitive learning environment.

Due to this, you can be rest assured that the professors teaching the classes are knowledgeable and experienced.

Classes and lab sessions are taught by professors, whereas at public universities, graduate students sometimes lead the class.

The typical classroom size at the private college is much smaller than state colleges. This means that the student to teacher ratio is smaller, allowing for more one on one time and focus on each student’s individual needs. A smaller classroom provides for a more comfortable setting for the students, which makes it more likely for a student to speak up and ask questions.

Private colleges also offer a smaller range of majors, but this allows for a particular academic focus. Higher retention rates and higher graduation rates are found at private colleges. On average, it is said that 79 percent of students who attend a private institution graduate in four years, compared with 49 percent at state universities.

Another advantage of private colleges is their strong alumni networks. Since private colleges do tend to be smaller, the alumni network is much more intimate. The college also creates an exclusive atmosphere around its student body which can create for an elite feeling.

Depending upon the student’s career choice, sometimes the reputation of the school will affect future employability. Some private schools are quite prestigious, and many offer internships or entrepreneurial opportunities as part of their training process.

Private colleges are frequently known for having a strong base of traditions that are passed down through the years. Traditions help create a sense of community and strong bonds between students and alumni. These bonds can lead to lifelong friendships.

The decision to attend a private institute of higher learning depends on a great number of things. Choosing a college that is a personal fit is a huge decision and responsibility. Private colleges provide one of the most elite educations and experiences you could imagine which is exactly why they are the right choice.

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This time of year brings the question of what type of college to pick, and when it comes down to it in the search for a college, a state college is a much better choice. Many people contemplate whether to apply to private or state colleges, but when you apply to a state college, you’ll be much better off if things like being closer to home, cheaper all around, and less debt after you graduate appeal to you.

First, it’s cheaper. Much cheaper. The whole idea of a state college is for it to be the same great education at a lower cost. Having two brothers, one at a private college and one at a state college, I have been exposed to the bills after scholarships and loans, and I have come to realize that it’s very true about the good quality of a state college.

In my experience, I have heard more of my peers say how much they, “hate this town and want to get as far away as possible,” but then end up transferring back to a nearby college by the time the first semester ends. Some students realize before they make the mistake of going far away that of course, they’re going to be homesick. We all get a little homesick and just want to see our families. But being somewhere far away makes that a difficult task and not exactly a cheap one either. In New York State, there are over 60 different public college campuses, so if you’re worried about a variety, you have many to choose from.

When picking a college, you have to take a lot into consideration. Do you want to be in a new climate? Do you enjoy the weather you’re already used to? Do you like the city? Would you prefer a more rural or small town feel? Will you get along with people from other parts of the country or international students? Think about it.

Many people don’t like change; they would rather try and keep things as normal as possible so they aren’t too overwhelmed. For the most part, it may be harder to get into a college out of state, especially if it’s private. Different states have different education standards and requirements. “Schools will have a particular quota for how many out of state students they’re going to take, so it’s usually more competitive applying to an out of state school,” says Bob PHOTO BY PATRICK BAER Sweeney, a school guidance counselor at Mamaroneck High School.

Let’s talk about life after college. No matter what you pick, unless you’re at the top of your class; it’s unlikely you will get a full ride. So, that means each semester you had to pay thousands of dollars for your education. And now that you took out loans, you have debt that you’re going to be paying back for awhile. I know my parents will be paying back almost 350 dollars each month for the next ten years for my brother who decided on a private college. That’s a lot of money, about the same as a car payment. So think about it in the long term, and the debt may end up being a huge deciding factor.

Overall, when you’re looking for a college, I say pick state, it’s cheaper, it’s closer to home, you’ll have less debt, and it could just be the right thing for you!

Editors Note: “Point Counter- Point” is a regular debating feature of the Buccaneer Bulletin. If you have a topic that you would like to see debated, contact Madison Rhoades at mrhoades@oswego.org.

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November 2012

Entertainment

12

Swift’s new album Red getting fans back together “We are never ever ever ever getting back together.” Unless you live under a rock, you’ve probably heard Taylor Swift’s new song, “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” on the radio at least 50 times a day, and you probably sang along with that lyric in your head. The hit single was the first of five to be released in the five weeks leading up to October 22, 2012. When Swift fans first heard her new song, some were shocked at the very “pop-ish” feel the song had to it; it’s definitely much different than the music from her first three albums, which are more country-oriented. Fans took to it immediately though, and it went number one on iTunes the day it came out.

This catchy tune, along with 15 others, is found on her new album Red. Most of her songs are about being in love and her various relationships as we all know Swift is notorious for.

Swift told Good Morning America that with this album she, “explored the edges” of what she’s allowed to do.

That is certainly obvious! With songs like “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together,” and “22,” Swift will have you tapping your foot and singing along in no time. Although the songs are different from her typical music, filled with deep and meaningful lyrics, they are just as good. They are a nice break from her “heavy” music, and are instead very light and fun. Her song “I Knew You Were Trouble.” is arguably one of the most different songs with hints of dubstep following the chorus.

She said she, “started with just the piano” then added a giant bass drop and just let the song take its course.

Her songs “Begin Again” and “Sad Beautiful Tragic” take us down a notch, however, with their soft and

peaceful melodies. She collaborated my, what a marvelous tune, it was the paper lying here ‘cause I remember with Ed Sheeran, who happens to best night, never would forget how we it all too well”. You can hear the pain be one of her favorite singers on the moved, the whole place was dressed in her voice at this part as it shakes track “Everything Has Changed,” to the nines, and we were dancing like slightly while she’s singing. Her which is about meeting someone and we’re made of starlight.” Swift uses comparison between herself and a immediately falling for them and phrases like “marvelous tune” and “crumpled up piece of paper” allows realizing that, as the title suggests, “dressed to the nines” to give the song you to clearly imagine and feel what everything has changed. She has a an old fifties-pop feel to it. she’s feeling. Then, as usual, she few powerful songs on this album, My absolute favorite song on closes her song on a quiet note. In including “State of Grace” which this album is “All Too Well”, which my opinion, she couldn’t have done a is filled to the brim with her usual starts off simple, slow, and quiet, and better job. metaphors and puns. then grows as the song goes on. In Swift has been nominated a total of The title track, 170 times in her entire career “Red,” is already one of and has won 112 awards. She my favorite Swift songs. won two Grammy awards Her comparisons of her in 2010 for Fearless as best emotions to colors such as, album of the year (she was “losing him was blue like the youngest artist to ever I’ve never known, missing win) as well as best country him was dark gray all album. She won two more alone” are absolute genius. awards for the song “White She also has a song, “The Horse” as best female Last Time” that she sings country vocal performance with Gary Lightbody who and best country song. In you will recognize from the 2012 she won two Grammy Irish/Scottish alternative awards for “Mean” as best rock band Snow Patrol. This country solo performance song is a perfect example and best country song. Not of Swift telling us the only has she been nominated sixteen-year-old girl we for countless music awards, heard singing about school but she was also nominated crushes on her first album for best kiss in the movie is gone. She is definitely Valentine’s Day with Taylor growing up, and her music Lautner. An interesting fact tells us that. some of her fans might not The song “Stay Stay have known is she was listed PHOTO BY HANNAH GRIFFEN Stay” is an interesting song, in the Guinness Book of Taylor Swift’s new album Red. an acoustic guitar greets us World Records for having the with a bouncy fun tune, and then Taylor my opinion, she captures the emotion fastest selling digital album by a female Swift starts singing, “I’m pretty sure perfectly and channels those emotions artist. we almost broke up last night, I threw through her voice in a very controlled I think it’s safe to say Swift nailed my phone across the room at you.” way. In the song, she is telling the story it with this album. Although some Despite these seemingly violent words, of a particularly harsh breakup and fans might be slightly disappointed her voice is just as light and bouncy as how she remembers certain moments in Swift’s new album because of how the music playing along with her. She “all too well”. It’s obvious where the different it is, others will see that she continues on to sing “I was expecting climax of this song is intended to needs to keep her music modern and some dramatic turn away but you be when Taylor raises her voice and relative with other genres of music stayed,” describing the entire premise sings, loudly and in a higher pitch than during this time. I have no doubt, of the song. the rest of the song, “You call me up however, that this album will end up The song “Starlight” is unique in again just to break me like a promise, being just as much of a hit as her first that it takes place in 1945 as she states so casually cruel in the name of being three. Overall, I give Red a definite in the lyrics. The chorus says “Oh honest, I’m a crumpled up piece of standing ovation.

Taken 2 sequel offers more of the same excitement

Essentially, it’s just like the first one except Liam Neeson is on the defensive side more than the offensive side, but of course, someone is taken.

That doesn’t mean that the movie is bad, it’s just something you’ve seen before. It’s your standard run-of-the-mill sequel. Basically, Liam Neeson’s character (Bryan Mills) is on vacation with his family in Istanbul. That was their first mistake because, as it turns out, a funeral was being held for the bad guys in

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the first movie just a few miles away.

A group of kidnappers (led by the father of one of the victims in the first film) takes Mills and his wife hostage. And, of course, Bryan (with the help of his daughter) has to get out of the mess that they are in. It’s not very original in the sense that it’s just another Taken movie, but it is original in the sense that Bryan’s daughter Kim (the one taken in the first movie) is the one that does most of the rescuing.

There are some really cool parts to this movie.

My favorite, in particular, is when Bryan wants to triangulate his position; he calls his daughter and instructs her to throw a hand grenade outside so that way he can determine their whereabouts. What I loved about the first movie was that Bryan’s motive was the love and respect for his daughter. In this latest entry, the tables are turned and it is up to his daughter to save his wife and him. www.buccaneerbulletin.wordpress.com

The only real downside to this movie is that the bad guys are really just out for revenge and don’t use any advanced tactics to take out Bryan. They know what he’s capable of, but they make the same mistakes that the first guys made; they let him escape!

I’m pretty sure that if I were trying to exact revenge, I’d do it as quickly as possible.

My only other complaint is that the producers made Istanbul (where the movie took place) look like a shanty town, which in reality is entirely opposite, and I realize that the movie isn’t about realism, but every little thing counts.

Overall, Taken 2 is a welcome sequel, one that shows not every sequel is terrible. I think this series has enough potential to bring out one more movie, but definitely stop at three. There just isn’t enough staying power for a plot to continue when the plot itself doesn’t change that much.

November 2012

Artist of the Month

13

Busy, busy, busy defines this month’s artist have another theme that Chrissy is still deciding but will most likely incorporate zoo animals.

Reporter Chrissy is planning to fill her schedule once Many stereotypes define the high school artist as more in college in her quest to become a nurse a turtle neck wearing type, holed up in a studio with practitioner; although, she won’t be able to dedicate no outsiders allowed. While there is nothing wrong as much energy towards art as she would prefer. with that approach, this month’s featured artist, “Going into the nursing program senior Chrissy Abare, chooses to I won’t have time to do it in do as many things in her life as school.” She would also like to she can while still making art a travel to disaster sites around the priority. In a typical day, Chrissy world through her work. is up at 5:30 to make it to an Besides art, Chrissy enjoys early swim workout at 6:00. She swimming, being with her family, leaves school after a few classes, community service, and making including Advanced Art for the people smile, an attribute she’s New Visions program where she perfected.

She says this ties into takes college courses and visits a her love of community service, variety of settings in the medical which is apparent; Abare is an field. Swim practice is from 3:15 officer in Key Club, National to 6:00 pm, and then it’s time for Honor Society, and Interact Club, dinner and homework. Somehow, while also participating in Young she makes time to create award Life Club and Becca’s Closet. winning art work! Sources have “PIGS! Put that in all not yet confirmed if she sleeps, but caps!”

Chrissy says excitedly, it doesn’t sound like it. when asked about her favorite Chrissy has always loved animal, making a similar art, but she didn’t really start request with her food of choice, getting into it until freshman year “POTATOES!” with art teacher Mrs. Melissa However, one question Martin, who, by Chrissy’s own that has become a staple at the admission, has influenced her the Buc Bulletin stumped Abare most as an artist. Abare then took for a while, the classic “If you Studio in Art, Computer Graphics could have dinner with three Design, Advanced Graphics, people, dead or alive, who would design work through Yearbook, you choose?”

Chrissy gave the and Advanced Art three times. matter serious consideration and Obviously, Abare is skilled in a PHOTOS BY PATRICK BAER decided on Adolf Hitler, Rosa variety of mediums. Chrissy’s Above, OHS senior Chrissy Abare works on her latest drawing. Below, she holds two Parks, and her late favorite medium to work of her award winning art pieces. sister, Chelsey. Before with is Adobe Illustrator, our readers jump to but she likes graphite, any conclusions, listen too. Sitting in the to Chrissy’s reasoning “comfy chair” in Mrs. behind meeting Hitler, Martin’s room, Chrissy a surprising choice, explains that art is, “…

“I would just want to very relaxing, and you know why he did what can express yourself he did, why he was such that not always words an angry man, and not can. It portrays, like, an understand him (I would image of yourself type never understand him) of thing.” but, like, learn who he Clearly, one was other than what needs some major textbooks say about intrinsic motivation to him.” Regarding Rosa produce the number of Parks, “She was a brave pieces Chrissy does, but woman not afraid to other people appreciate stand up for what she her work too. Namely, believed in.” Abare the CNY Scholastic stated.

Art Awards that takes Finally, Chrissy place in January every explained Chelsey was, year. According to Mrs. “…my sister, she passed Melissa Martin, out away when she was of the students across eight months old from New York whose work leukemia, and I never is submitted, 80% are met her. I would just like rejected. Out of the 20% to see what she looked of art that’s considered, by submitting both a fine arts and a photography like, how she would have acted, and the similarities less than 5% receive “gold keys,” the highest level of portfolio to colleges with eight pieces each.

Martin or differences between us.” awards given. During Chrissy’s sophomore year, she was quick to point out that this endeavor means This artist of the month is one of the kindest, won that honor for a self portrait done with charcoal double the work, but Chrissy isn’t daunted. most creative students in the high school, and we are titled “Spotlight.” She has also won silver keys for The fine arts portfolio will be themed in self lucky to have her! Wherever you see Chrissy during photography pieces and numerous other awards. She portraits done in a variety of different media such as her busy day, you can be sure she’ll be smiling! was the runner-up for the Harborfest poster contest graphics and drawing.

The photography portfolio will her freshman year. In the words of Mrs. Martin, “She

By Catherine Wells

Buccaneer Bulletin

can do anything, and has won awards for everything.”

Martin described her student as, “…very focused, extremely hard working, very ethical.”

The culmination of four years of hard work for many art students of Chrissy’s caliber is a portfolio of all their efforts. Abare is going above and beyond

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November 2012

Columns

14

The dilemma of receiving effort grades When students hear the word “effort grade,” many different things pop into their minds. But what is an effort grade? That is defined in different ways depending on the teacher. In some classes, an effort grade is a way of showing how much you participate in class. In others, it’s taking a grade based simply on how much effort is put into the work, not the actual content of it.

When I think of effort grades, I honestly think of students slacking off. Everybody knows at least one kid who will write down absolute nonsense on a paper that they know is being taken for an effort grade.

Everybody also knows a teacher who won’t actually read what’s written on the paper and let the kid get away with a 100. Meanwhile, the student sitting next to that kid put in real effort and still gets the same grade.

How is that fair? It’s not. Sophomore Gracie Gilbert said “I don’t like effort grades because they cancel out the hard work a student does.”

Teachers should take precautions

to make sure that doesn’t happen. If their answer. Other teachers give if you aren’t good in a subject and you see much more effort is put in participation points depending on you don’t understand it, you can on one paper versus another, give how many times a student raises their participate a lot and it can help you the student who went the extra mile hand and participates in class. This with your overall grade.” a few bonus points to reward them is a huge relief and lifesaver for the Along with this, there is the for doing more than “getting the job kids who don’t do as well on tests. It problem of teachers changing when done”. Also, effort grades shouldn’t can certainly help boost their grade. an assignment is due. They might always be taken; teachers should take Mr. Jason Primrose commented, hand a packet out that is 4 pages real grades as well. Having a variety “Participation grades are good long and tell you it’s due the next of ways to give students grades is because it forces kids to be active in day. Now, chances are, some kids are important when keeping things fair in their learning and if they’re active, going to hear that and decide there is a public school classroom. The way they learn more.” Just like teachers no way they will do that much work. students learn varies greatly, as well shouldn’t constantly give effort Low and behold, when the teacher as how successful they do in a certain grades, teachers shouldn’t constantly goes to collect the packet, half the subject. If teachers expect us to put in be taking real grades either. If every class doesn’t have it done, so he all of our effort on an assignment, we teacher had a system where some decides to give everyone an extra day. can expect This is appreciated them to give by the kids “If a teacher sees much more effort is put in on greatly us a fair who didn’t do it, grade. one paper versus another, give the student who but what about the But who did? To went the extra mile a few bonus points to reward kids there’s them, it means they them for doing more than ‘getting the job done.’” did the right thing another side to this. Some while other kids did teachers not, and yet they have good reasons for taking effort grades are taken based on content and aren’t being given credit where credit grades. For example, if there’s a some on effort or participation, each is due. Maybe the teacher could really hard topic in math, a teacher student would have an equal chance give the kids who forgot to do the might take an effort grade because of getting a decent grade. “Many of assignment an extra day, and give the she knows how difficult it is for my teachers use participation points kids who actually did it the night it students. Why would she give an and count them for about half of your was assigned extra credit. Something assignment that mostly everyone overall grade and I think it’s great. needs to be done to give the kids will fail? But, if a student does get a Even if you answer the question who do their work the fairness they really hard question right, someone wrong, you still get points,” Natahley deserve. might receive bonus points for Babcock, sophomore, stated. “Even

Top 21 things that no OHS student says

If you’re a social networker, if you’re a tweeter, or even if you’re not, you are somehow familiar with the @S#!+NobodySays Twitter account. There’s also a likely chance that you’ve been reading the tweets posted by the account and maybe even thought of things that no OHS student says. Well, even if you haven’t done that, we’ve come up with a good list of some things that we’re pretty confident no OHS student says… ever.

• There’s so much student parking, I can never decide which open spot I want to park in.

• It doesn’t even bother me to see people making out in the halls between classes.

• The lunch lines are very short so I don’t have to wait half the period before actually getting my food.

• I never trip on the mats on the ramps, they’re

secured to the ground very well.

• It’s definitely socially acceptable for girls to be wearing booty shorts in the middle of October and into the cold fall months.

• Smoker’s corner makes our school appear extremely classy and clean.

• My locker is so big, I have all the room I need for my notebooks, folders, textbooks, backpack, coat, and food.

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• My teachers are so understanding that I have seven other classes besides theirs to do homework in, so they often refrain from giving me too much.

• The best news I’ve ever received was the fact that the Regents exams now count for part of my overall average.

• I take the time to read each packet of class rules, regulations and the entire syllabus before signing it.

• The cell phone reception in the school can’t get much better.

• I often find myself enjoying the really good

smelling hallways.

• We have too many half days, long weekends, and vacations.

• The freshmen never have gigantic backpacks and binders; I have no idea where they keep all their things.

• I can’t wait to run the mile.

• I don’t find it hard to focus through an entire

• Slow walkers in the hallway are my favorite because I wish to waste my five minutes between periods crawling behind them.

• Everybody follows the dress code very closely.

• Our school offers so many field trips and assemblies, I hate having to miss so much class.

double period of science.

• I never want to graduate.

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• Everybody gets along so well, I’ve never attended a school where the drama is at a minimum.

November 2012

Columns

2012 GIRLS SOCCER SENIORS

15

Buc Sports Flashback 26 years ago… (1986)

 Girls’ varsity soccer becomes Section III Class A Champions.  Coached by Deborah Scholla, the lady Bucs beat Fayetteville-Manlius 1-0 at the Carrier Dome.  Sophomore Denise Clark scored the lone goal 30 minutes into the game and goalkeeper Kristina Lenahan shut down an FM breakaway with 2 minutes left in the game to seal the win.  Over five bus loads of Oswego fans attended the contest.

21 years ago… (1991)

 Juniors won Powderpuff.  Dirty play by both classes sparked a rivalry between the juniors and seniors.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ZACHARY JENNINGS

2012 OHS varsity girls seniors soccer players. In front from left: Catherine Wells, Kayla Sharkey, Ashley Sharkey, Mackenzie Palmer. In Back from left: Andrea Folgherait, Jodi Kester, Lauren Peel, Ariel Bouffard, Liz Michaud, Kristina Sharkey.

Senior players inspire younger teammates

By Rachael Purtell Reporter

The buzzer blares signaling the end of warm-up and I run onto the field with ten other girls who are all focused on the same goal: to win. I huddle with my back four defenders as we vow to shut down any of the other team’s chances to score. We break out of the group, and I run through the six yard box, jump and slap the crossbar before giving the referee the signal that my team and I are ready to begin. The sky is dark, the lights are on, the whistle is blown, and the game begins. Sweat runs in a bead down my face as my adrenaline and anticipation builds…

I was privileged to experience this incredible feeling sixteen times this fall as the starting keeper of the Oswego girls varsity soccer team. A keeper is the only position in soccer that allows the player to use their hands to catch, throw, or block the ball. Their primary role is to stop the other teams’ shots from going in the goal. The two keepers for the Lady Bucs last year were seniors Jaime Bouffard and Cassie Collins, but this year they were off to college thus leaving the position open. Due to the lack of players experienced or comfortable in this position, I was able to seize the opportunity to accept the role as a sophomore. Being a goalie is an enormous responsibility because when any other player on the field made a mistake, they were able to hustle back on defense to attempt to correct or make up for it. However, when a keeper makes a mistake it’s ugly, obvious, and usually results in a goal. It was an enormous amount of pressure, but I was up for the task!

I received an amazing amount of support from my teammates, their parents, my coach, and other Oswego soccer fans. When I did mess up and let in a goal, they did their best to pick me up and convince me that one mistake wasn’t going to lessen their respect for me as an athlete.

Even through my worst games, they never lost faith in me. These people were there to praise and cheer for me during my triumphs as well! The rush of hearing my name being screamed and the cheers after I made a difficult save was an absolutely amazing, indescribable feeling! I wouldn’t be where I am as an athlete today without all these supportive people I’ve been so lucky to

Buccaneer Bulletin

have in my life.

In all honesty, our game play was less than excellent this year. We finished the season with a record of 3-12-1, and we never made it to sectionals. Also, there was no one I had to compete with for my position, so I really didn’t have to work for my playing time, and I never spent a minute of the season on the bench. However, I knew I owed it to my teammates and my coach to consistently give 110 percent and continuously better myself. Frankly, to have been complacent would’ve been uncharacteristic of me. Despite the fact that I had no one to compete with for playing time, I never once wanted to be complacent in my role. I always kept the mindset that I had to prove I deserved the position and didn’t just acquire it by default.

I loved my soccer team. I loved playing with that group of girls more than I’ve ever loved being a part of something in my entire life. There are so many memories that I will hold onto and cherish for the rest of my life. From the first day of pre-season, to our trip to Oswegatchie, to our first win against Rome, to our emotional senior day, to our final battle against Fayetteville-Manlius, the good times just never seemed to end. It was a unique experience to be excited to go to practice and know everybody was going to work hard every day. This was just a spectacular environment for our team. With my best friend pulled up as a sophomore along with me, I could not have picked a better group of people who I’d spend so much time with.

It is so easy for a sports team to become a family because, together, we are put through events that expose our true character. Our teammates are with us through the highs and lows of the raw emotions that are conceived on a playing field. This overexposure gives us the opportunity to connect, and this year something just clicked. We had both the right amount of experienced seniors ready to lead us and the right amount of hungry, athletic, underclassmen to keep pushing those seniors and keep them from being complacent. So many of these girls are admirable and I will love, respect, and look up to them for the rest of my life. As a sophomore, I feel honored to have had the opportunity to play soccer with this amazing group of teens. www.buccaneerbulletin.wordpress.com

16 years ago… (1996)

 Sophomore Abby Delia broke the 100 yard backstroke record previously set by Sally Dowd in 1977.  She accomplished this feat in Liverpool with a time of 1.01.86.

11 years ago… (2001)

 Former OHS hockey player Erik Cole made his NHL debut with the Carolina Hurricanes.  Cole started playing for OHS as a sophomore and went on to score 72 goals in his career as a Buc.  Cole began playing hockey at age five.

6 years ago… (2006)

 The football team moves from Section III Class AA 2 to the Class A American division.  Many factors lead to this class move, such as their league record of 0-5 and the cumulative score of their opponents’ 384 points to the Bucs’ 94 points.  The Bucs stopped playing Corcoran, RFA, Henninger, Utica Proctor, and FM and started playing Chittenango, Cortland, East Syracuse-Minoa, Fulton, Jamesville-DeWitt, and Mexico.

5 years ago… (2007)

 The gymnastics team earned the league championship with a record of 7-1.  This win was accomplished despite the fact that North Country Gymnastics moved facilities, which caused the team to have a late start to their season.

4 years ago… (2008)

 Girls’ varsity volleyball team loses to CNS in the first round of sectionals.  Many blamed the loss on the officiating because it included two trained and paid adult officials on each side of the net but underclassmen from CNS on either end of the court.

Editors note: Buc Flashback was compiled by Rachael Purtell.

November 2012

Buccaneer Bulletin Sports LAINEY CELESTE

MATT DIFABIO

By Morgan Cook

By Alanna Maldonado

Ad Representative

For being in the sport for only 3 years, sophomore Lainey Celeste has really made her mark in the Oswego Cross Country program. She started back in grade 8 and gradually has met many of her goals through the past years. Celeste made it into sectionals and is training everyday to get the perfect time.

Celeste has really come to like the sport. She loves the people who are in the program, and it also keeps her in shape. Cross country has helped her keep her endurance for her other two sports, hockey and lacrosse. “I want to improve my time throughout the rest of my high school career and I plan on increasing my pace,” said Celeste.

When Celeste first started the season, she had a time of 23 minutes, but she has managed to lower her time almost every meet. Her personal best is 20:37; she runs on courses that are 3.1 miles long or 5 kilometers. “Each school has a different course; some may be slightly longer, but the key factors that play into how well we do is if it’s really hilly or flat or even if it’s muddy. Having good competition to keep you going helps too,” she said.

Throughout this season Celeste had many accomplishments. She attended a McQuaid Invitational and placed 22 out of 300 girls and received a medal. She also won her first meet this year. Head coach Dan Greene and assistant coach Rob Talamo both see a great deal of potential in Celeste and see her as a hard worker. “She knows how to push through the pain to be a faster runner,” said Talamo.

With the season coming to an end and then having sectionals start up, Celeste plans on going hard no matter what is coming. “No matter how many times I run a race, I always get wicked nervous right up ‘til the whistle blows, but once I’m running and I just try forget everything and finish what I came to do,” said Celeste.

She stays positive about the meet and usually has a good outcome in the end. When she finishes a race and receives her time, it always seems to turn out well and she feels good about herself in the end. “Her accomplishments in cross country are earning her the most valuable runner award for the girls.” said Talamo.

Oswego High School’s Student Voice

Sports Edittor

Cross country is a sport of endurance. It requires hard work and dedication, which is exactly what Senior Matt DiFabio has.

Defabio started running for Oswego High School’s cross country team when he was a sophomore and has become one of the best on the team. “I like it because of the competitiveness,” stated Defabio. “You get to watch your time go down as you go.” Defabio has shown his dedication and has greatly improved throughout his career on the cross country team.

“My favorite part of cross country would have to be the team atmosphere.” Difabio explained. The team is hardworking and they work together to help lower their times.

In the last meet of the season and Difabio’s final meet as a Buc, he was the first on his team to cross the finish line with an impressive time of 20:59:3.

Difabio plans to attend college and would like to continue running throughout his college career.

For someone who started the team in 10th grade, he’s shown impressive growth and became one of the strongest members of the cross country team. “You get to see your progress,” Difabio stated. That goes beyond just his time. He’s shown progress as a runner throughout the years and his time as a Buc.

Editor’s note: “Athlete of the Month” is a regular feature of The Buccaneer Bulletin to showcase some of the top athletes here at OHS. If you know a student who you think would deserve to be an athlete of the month, contact Alanna Maldonado at amaldona@ oswego.org.

Volume 1 Number 2 November 2012 PHOTO BY PATRICK BAER

ATHLETES OF THE MONTH