Outlook Oakton
Voume 45; Issue 1; October 1, 2010
Second Glance
A Closer Look at Islam at Oakton
Feature
Young Democrats and Republicans foster bipartisan spirit.
News
Homecoming arrives early with a sizzling summer theme.
Opinions
Sports
Early Homecoming and new ‘Cougar Time’ evoke strong student opinions.
Profiles and previews of Oakton’s fall athletic teams.
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Don’t be Felled by Fall: A Few Simple Steps to Start the Year Quizzes and homework and tests, oh my! Summer’s over, school’s in and it’s still hot enough to melt your flip flops. Junior year can be a by Ned Johnson, big adjustment Founder and President while senior year of PrepMatters, Inc can feel like a race to the finish line. But, with a little planning and a little common sense, you will be just fine. Summer is over and so are summer schedules. If you are still trying to stay up late and play like you did over the summer (when you could sleep the day away), you may be in for some trouble. If you are cutting your sleep short day after day, watch out! You are going to get sick sooner or later, since sleep deprivation lowers your immunity. So does stress ("Ack! Two tests and a paper due tomorrow!") Put them together and you are practically begging germs and viruses to "bring it on!" Your life will not be improved if you have to pile on work from missed days of school. Get your work done by planning your sleep. Really! Plan to get 8 hours
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of sleep. Make that a goal. Then, work is even better, of course. backwards: Figure what time you need to get to sleep to get eight hours (say Plan your academic and testing 11 p.m.) and set that as your new calendar well. Don’t take the SAT or deadline. Then, you can calculate how finish your college admissions essay many hours you have from dinner the same week that your term paper, time to 11p.m. Say, for instance, that science project and Spanish leaves 3.5 hours. Then, looking at all of presentation are all due. Likewise, if your assignments, allocate 30 minutes you’re the lead in the school play, the for this and an hour for that. Work to weekend of opening night isn’t such keep on pace. We all work faster and a great idea. And, people do get sick. harder with a deadline. Heck, some of Plan your life so us work ONLY if learn more tips that there is always there is a deadline. Register now for our Common a fallback position. Application Workshop or RSVP If you WERE to get Having deadlines for a free seminar. sick one day and for each assignment miss a test date or and the total night's Follow us on Facebook or paper deadline, work can help you Twitter for more tips and would you be do 3.5 hours of work important dates. stuck? Do you in 3.5 hours, rather have a plan? than in 5 hours take a test (Check out the To schedule a free diagnostic which, I'm pretty ACT, SAT, or subject test, call PrepMatters sure, we've all done 703-356-6390 or send an e-mail YouTube Channel before. If you miss to frontdesk@prepmatters.com for many more the 11 p.m. tips, guidelines deadline, make a new one for 11:30. But, try even harder and “how to” videos: youtube.com to get the work done and go to bed. /prepmatters) Since you cannot change the assignments your teachers give you, Planning for success also means it's up to you to change how you do planning contingencies. Plan your that work. Working efficiently and days and your year. Staying well and productively means less time doing being successful go hand in your work and that's good. More sleep (Purell-drenched) hand.
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Table of Contents
page 03, oct. 1, 2010
news Students celebrate “Sweet Summertime” at Homecoming The student-voted homecoming theme attracts hundreds of students, despite the dance being weeks earlier than previous years.
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feature Oakton alumni on America’s Got Talent 2007 graduate Danny Kang wins third place on “America’s Got Talent” as a member of the now-famous dance group Fighting Gravity.
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in-depth On The Cover: Religious reactions Student-provided input and compiled statistics reflect reactions towards Islam, as well as Muslim athletes’ religious and sporting commitments.
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opinions Homecoming too early for students Student’s input on the newly implemented “cougar time,” an addition to the Oakton schedule that students and faculty are still adjusting to.
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sports Golf team participates in districts As the golf team’s regular season comes to an end, the athletes prepare for the upcoming district competition.
25 sports Fall’s top atheltes expect a successful season Profiles of the season’s top athletes, including cross country, volleyball, field hockey and football.
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arts & entertainment Studen’ts attend summer Warped Tour Student’s experience the famous summer concert festival for alternative music.
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letter from the editors
page 04, oct. 1, 2010
The Buzz in the Newsroom...
Deadline Day Drama
A warm welcome from your new Outlook editors, Kirin, Vipin, and Zoe, and adviser, Lauren Luna Zoe: You guys, we’re finally senior editors!
their stories on the newspaper board? Kirin: It was a moment of rage! Can we please just forget about it?
Mrs. Luna: Kirin’s not… She’s definitely still a junior on my class roster…
Vipin: No, Kirin, we can’t. I will remind you – that staffer has yet to return to school.
Kirin: Hey, Mrs. Luna, you’re as new as I am. Just smarter… But really, it’s a mistake. I’m a senior!
Zoe: OH NO! Guys! This is more important – LOOK at this page. What are the circles for? …OH, those are graphs.
Mrs. Luna: Maybe one day… (walks away, leaving Kirin looking ridiculous)
Kirin: I know those are graphs.
Zoe: I can’t believe we’ve been on newspaper so long. And known each other for so long (eye-roll). Remember the first day we met? Kirin: Err. Not really…you do? Zoe: Funnily, yes. I remember it like it was yesterday – and by yesterday, I mean five years ago. It’s probably because I was so scared of you. You know… because I heard stories about you injuring other kids, and I was seriously worried that you were going to smack me down. Kirin: Right… well… I was a very violent person. Vipin: Was?! Didn’t you beat up that staffer once when they didn’t post
Zoe: Well, I thought they were picture circles, which we did last year. I went back and fixed them, and they still looked bad. Journalistically, you’re just not supposed to do circles! They’re 360 degrees of pure newspaper evil. Vipin: Um… Kirin: Yeah… Zoe: Come on you guys! Get some work done! Vipin: Zoe, the issue is in! What are you panicking about? Kirin: I’m with Vipin. Let’s relax. This is just the first issue, and already we’ve done our best to cover everything from abridging American freedom of religion to breaking it down on the gym floor. Vipin: This is about as good as it gets, kids. Enjoy.
tara gupta
Outlook Staff Editors in Chief Kirin Gupta Zoe Mitchell Vipin Reddy News Editor Chris Papas Feature Editor Michelle Chu In-Depth Editor Allen Luethke Opinions Editors Nikki Clemons Dorothy Yen Online Editor Koorosh Massoudi
Sports Editors Allie Berube Alex Buscemi Photo Editor Daniel Chait Copy Editors Shannon Ragan Sarah Crain (Ast.) Business Manager Sarah Crain
Adviser Lauren Luna Staff Melanie Aguilar Michelle LoRusso Alex Belden Emma Mankin Erin Bennett Madlin Mekelburg Tim Collins Shyann Mirza Spencer Conley Cole Neuffer James Craig Cassandra Noda Sofia Crutchfield Michelle Oh Conner Dick Chris Peterkin Gabriella Driscoll Emma Pfeifer Lauren Embroski Chloe Pierce Christian Forbes Sonya Price Roxy Ghamgosarnia Shayda Shahbazi Kim Gibbons Rachita Singh Morgan Harwood Becky Singerman Caroline Hipwell Shayda Shahbazi Sarah Hong Rachita Singh Nicole Jakstas Anita Tadakamalla Callum Kelton Penelope Tangamu Isabella Kidane Marilyn Yang Christina Lee Alexa Williams Oliver Lopez-Gomez Kate Zhukova
Editorial Policy The Outlook is an open forum for student expression. Unsigned editorials reflect the collective opinion of the Outlook staff. Signed editorials represent the opinion of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Outlook or Oakton High School. Reader opinions are important to the Outlook and contributions are welcome. Make your voice heard by sending us a line about what’s on your mind. Letters to the editor may be may be sent via email to kirin.gupta@oaktonmedia.net or dropped off in Mrs. Luna’s box in the main office or in room 196. The Outlook reserves the right to edit submissions for grammar and content provided the meaning remains unchanged.
page 05, oct. 1, 2010
Re-opened, the Oakton Writ-
ing Center. The Center, which focuses on providing a free and easy tutoring service for students and by students, anticipates another successful year after instilling many new changes to the program and hopes to expand their efforts this year. This year, students can show up at the Writing Center without needing to sign up. “We want more students from more disciplines coming in to get assistance with their writing and all stages of the writing process,” said Beth Blankenship, the Center’s sponsor (below). At the Center, students spend twenty minutes working on any aspect of the writing process they need whether it be editing, brainstorming or drafting. This help will allow students to get help early in the writing process, before they turn in the piece for final grading. “[Students] get to show their teachers they made an effort, showing their determination to learn,” Blankenship said. “Teachers love to see students go out of their way to improve their writing.” The Writing Center is open during Cougar Time, during lunch every day but Wednesday and afterschool on Wednesday as a quiet place to write and receive help with the editing process. “It’s really easy to get help: just show up,” Blankenship said.
tim collins changed that policy,” said AP English Literature teacher Sidney Dillon. “I still am not sure about the students paying for their tests. The main factor is whether or not it affects the number of students taking AP courses.”
Named, by the National Merit
Scholarship Corporation as National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists, five Oakton seniors. Kirin Gupta, Joseph Choi, Raymond Daniels, Catherine Mahoney and Grace Neuman are among a group of 16,000 students nationally who qualified out of an applicant pool of 1.5 million students. Students qualified by sarah crain taking the Prelimi, by nary SAT/ National the College Board, the policy on peMerit Scholarship Qualification Test in nalizing students for leaving a question October 2009. unanswered. Previously, unanswered , as a Finalist in questions were not marked wrong; ten categories for the 2010 VHSL but now a full point will be deducted State Writing/Photo/Design Conif a question is left blank. In additest, Opus. The literary magazine was tion, Fairfax County Public School named as a finalist multiple times in students will now pay $75 for each AP the categories of Photograph, Drawexam they are planning to take. After ing, Painting, Computer Art and Pothe implementation of new budget cuts, Fairfax County will no longer be etry Spread, while also being named a finalist in the categories of Concept responsible for paying for students’ Packaging, Cover, Table of Contents, exams. The money will be collected prior to taking the test. “I guess as far 3-D Art, Prose Spread and Infographics/Secondary Packaging. as being penalized for a not marked question, I never understood the grading for that so I am glad that they
Changed
Nominated
Practiced, at Oakton High
School, the Virginia Tech Marching Virginians. The band (above) worked on routines on the upper fields of Oakton on Sept. 6, before performing later that night at the against Boise State at FedEx Field in Landover.
news in brief
news
Moved, to the former IMS lab
in the Library, the Career Center. The Center moved to allow the expanded Writing Center to take its place. In addition, Danielle Travis has taken over as Career Center Specialist after Marion Kendrick departed at the end of last year. “One of the things I’m really excited about is meeting with all the college representatives,” said Travis. “It’s great for me to be able to meet with them as well as the students because they can provide a lot of insight on what they’re looking for in terms of applications, essays, letters of recommendation; and since those things are so specific to individual schools, it’s really helpful when they can come and share their insight with the students.”
For more on these stories and others, go to
www.oaktonoutlook. com
this month in your words
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fantabulous
OHS is ! You know, because all the activities are fun and the people are awesomepossum.
maddy defreece, calmly composed freshwoman
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I really like the new Personal Finance
teacher, Mr. Haen. Not like-like! But like. I like him.
stephen jordan, extremely articulate senior
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Homecoming turned out exceptionally well, despite how early it was... To be honest, I had a really
dope time.
kit mahoney, reserved senior class president
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double concussion
This month I got a from P.E. classes. Hit in the head… Twice. The ride from here to the hospital is really fun.
pauline henenlotter, well-coordinated sophomore
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different
My teachers are so from middle school. They talk so much faster without stopping for questions. And they don’t remember me. But they’re nice! They are nice.
evelyn wang, still-adjusting freshwoman page 06 outlook news oct. 1, 2010
Marching band hosts upcoming oakton classic
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he Oakton Classic, a band exhibition in which area schools are invited to compete, has been the focus of the marching band for the last five weeks. The competition, which will be held on Oct. 16, requires extensive preparation involving demanding sets and drills. Although Oakton is not competing in the event, they will be performing during exhibition and are still aiming to impress the judges and other band ensembles. “The judges are usually ‘big name’ college professors,” said senior Nick Steel. “Although we are not competing, they still judge us so we can get feedback and constructive criticism. [The pressure is there] because we are still performing in front of a crowd.” In addition to performing, the Oakton marching band is required to volunteer throughout the day. Although Oakton Classic is a competition for area schools, it is also a fundraiser for the Oakton band. The funds and donations brought in by the Oakton Classic will be used to buy uniforms, instruments and sheet music. “It has been very successful in years past and I expect it to be again this year,” said senior Katherine Black. During this year’s exhibition, Oakton will be followed by West Virginia University’s marching band. “Every year for the
alina suyama In anticipation of their performance at the Oakton Classic, the marching band performs “Jesus Christ Superstar” during half-time at the Homecoming game on Sept. 24. Classic, we invite a college band to play at exhibition. [Usually we invite] bands from Virginia, but this year, we went out of state to get a different perspective,” said senior Maura Brennan, drum major. As the biggest high school marching band competition in Virginia, the Oakton Classic provides funds that allow the band department to continue providing students with the quality resources and equipment they need to hone their skills. The Classic benefits Oakton by building teamwork and a sense of community, which enhances nicole jakstas their musical cohesion and anita tadakamalla overall performance.
staff writers
County offers new finance and economics class
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inance and economics has never been offered as a Fairfax County course until this year. Students around the county now have the opportunity to enroll in the class, with the exception of two schools. Finance and economics this year is taught by Luke Haen. The class covers how to manage personal finances, teaching students how to make, spend, invest and save money. “The course is probably one of the more immediate benefits to [students] because it deals with money,” Haen said. “Everyone in the school can relate to that.” Although the course is considered to be a basic social studies elective, students will cover many aspects of finance and economics spanning from the individual’s role in the economy to the government’s role in the economy. “We are learning about how the government regulates money in the economy,” said senior Joey Cooper. “I think it will be beneficial because a lot of the stuff we’re learning we will use later in life.” The finance and economics class is not a requirement for this year’s incoming freshmen, but in the near future, state legislation will determine whether to make the course mandatory. “The state deferred the requirement of the class for a year,” said Michelle Taylor, Assistant Principal. “When the state legislation reconvenes then they will revisit [the topic]. It is not in effect yet, but we will find out in the spring.”
tim collins Finance and Economics teacher Luke Haen instructs the class during the first week of school, preparing students for a quiz on scarcity and opportunity cost. “I’m excited for the new curriculum and to be new to Oakton this year,” Haen said. Once legislation reaches a decision, the administration will announce whether or not the class will be a mandatory course for freshmen. The reason for making the class a requirement is the need for students to learn how to efficiently manage their money. “Economics is a study of choices,” shayda shahbazi Haen said. “I hope that [finance erin bennett and economic students] make the staff writers best choices in the future with their resources and money.” page 07 outlook news oct. 1, 2010
Early in Fall, school celebrate the Sweet Summertime through Homecoming festivities Students displayed school spirit during Homecoming celebrations, including the Pep Rally and Spirit Week, concluding the spirit of the summer and the start of fall.
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s the third week of school gone better.” approached its end, A new addition to the dance was students bustled about in the game room. the crowded hallways dressed in “The game room was for burgundy and gold with an air of students when they wanted to take a “Sweet Summertime” for the first break,” said Leadership teacher Sean dance of the year, Homecoming, Greeney. “Students played games which was held on Sept. 25. like cornhole and ladder golf, This year’s Homecoming was basically yard games.” held earlier than previous years Students felt the game room was due to a conflict with the Oakton an improvement from past dances. Classic. Such an early date has led to “The game was a really big frustration among some students. improvement from last year,” said “I thought it was too early, Wendy Xue, senior. “It was better especially for freshmen or people because instead of getting trying to get dates, because three refreshment, it was a great weeks isn’t enough time to get to alternative for people who didn’t know someone,” said senior Ceci want to dance.” Nyguen. Pep Rally was See page 15 for heldThe For the freshmen on Sept. 24 to more on class, this was the first allow the whole student school dance they had body to encouraging Homecoming the opportunity to school spirit through attend. class games and introducing the “I wanted to go to Homecoming Homecoming court, which because there weren’t many dances consisted of 20 seniors and ten in middle school so it seemed like it juniors. would be lots of fun,” said freshman “The Pep Rally was worse than Maddie Rosenstein. last year, because it was too hot,” At the same time, many said Soomin Gwag, sophomore. freshmen chose to opt out of their Leadership students volunteered first dance. to come early to set up the scene of “I still didn’t know exactly what the dance. the school did,” said freshman Aqila “[Setting up] was frustrating Wakeel. “I didn’t know anything at times but to see the end result about the dance at that time, but was worth it,” said Steele Shemed, I’ll probably go next year because I senior. [will] know more about the school.” Homecoming ended at “Sweet Summertime” was the midnight with positive feedbacks. theme of Homecoming. Students “[The dance] was nice, it was dressed in pajamas, all-black, musical good to see all the students themes, superheroes and supervilhaving fun with friends,” said Steve lians, and finally in burgundy and Eslami, Spanish teacher. “It’s all gold for Spirit Week. about coming to dance and students “There were a couple of days were havpeople really responded like black ing a good michelle oh out and burgundy and gold,” said time.” rachita singh Jhossy Perez, senior. “It could have staff writers page 08 outlook news oct. 1, 2010
penelope tengamu Giving their tickets, freshmen Ramya Mukulla and Stephanie Harvey wait to be admitted in to the dance. Homecoming was the first school event freshmen attendend. “My favorite part of [the night] was hanging out with my friend,” Mukulla said.
alina suyama Catapulting t-shirts in to the crowd, seniors Chad Carroll, John Titus, sophomore Patrick Moore and junior Michael Gillooly rouse the crowd. The Leadership class decided to give away t-shirts in order to raise spirits during the Pep Rally.
allie berube Helping each other stretch, junior Sophia Calopedis and sophmore Lindsey Bolger prepare for their performance. The Dance team performed their routine for the Homecoming game during the Pep Rally. “We were really excited for this dance,” Calopedis said. “There was more variety this year.”
alina suyama Walking to the field, juniors Norman Claros, Michael Filipponi, and Jake Farrar approach the scene of the Homecoming game. The game was against Annandale High School with Oakton winning 35-21. “I was really excited [for the game], because I felt like we were going to beat Annadale,” Filipponi said.
mimi dabestani
Competing with students, seniors Kevin Shaver and Zack Fabian attempt to win the donut eating contest for the senior class. The donut eating contest was one of many games created to raise school spirit and a little class competition. “We wanted to represent the senior class,” Fabian said.
alina suyama alina suyama Smiling at the crowd, juniors Kelsey Clarke, Taylor Johnson, and Emily Corridon ride past cheering students at the Pep Ralley. There were five girls and five boys on the junior Homecoming court. “I was really excited,” Corridon said. “We all were really happy to get nominated and it was fun in the car.” page 09 outlook news oct. 1, 2010
feature
page 10, oct. 1, 2010
Government teachers inspire young politicos
Young Democrats and Young Republcians colloborate to improve political awareness at Oakton.
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themselves in D.C. as well. “We’d like to go see a Nationals Game, or maybe even have an election night return party where we’ll hang out, eat and watch the results as they come in,” Small said. While on these field trips to Washington, Small and Henry plan on fostering a sense of unity between the two clubs, bonding students through their passion for politics. “It would be interesting to hear the different perspectives of the students,” Henry said. “It’s a good thing to have a friendly, civil rivalry.” Senior Stephen Michaelis, who was a member of Young Republicans during the 2008-2009 school year, supports the idea of a joint effort between the two clubs.
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It’s a good thing to have a friendly, civil rivalry. joshua henry (R)
“I’d like to see the club have more members,” Michaelis said. “There were only ten to fifteen members when I was in the club and this year I’d like to see us getting more involved and volunteering for campaigns.” With all the changes that the clubs are planning to implement, Michaelis is looking forward to participating in the events that the clubs have planned. “Young Republicans has inspired me to vote and actively morgan harwood participate kate zhukova in politics,” michelle chu Michaelis staffer writers and said.
feature editor
Next club meeting: TBA Meetings are once a month in Room 256 for both Republicans and Democrats.
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his year, the Young Republicans and Young Democrats clubs are revamping their image. Republicans’ advisor Joshua Henry and Democrats’ advisor Rebecca Small are collaborating with hopes of increasing political awareness within the student population. “The club provides an opportunity for students to get involved in the political process,” said Henry. “It’s important [for students] to be involved in their community and what’s going on around them.” Small may not agree with Henry in terms of politics, yet they both believe that Oakton’s location is ideal for getting students interested in government. “Students would be given the opportunity to volunteer and intern in D.C.,” Henry said. “We would volunteer at campaign fundraisers for upcoming elections.” Small has many ideas for the future of Young Democrats as well. “I want to use the fact that we’re so close to D.C. to get students involved in the political process,” said Small. “We’ll use our club meetings to prepare for field trips into D.C. by raising funds and preparing questions for important members of Congress that we hope to go see.” In addition to working, the students in Young Democrats and Young Republicans will explore politics through visiting up - and - coming people and places. “We’re planning on having two field trips so far: one to the National Rifle Association and another to see Senator Jim DeMint, a Tea Party member from South Carolina,” Small said. “Both have been in the spotlight lately, and it would be wrong not to take advantage of this treasure chest of history.” However, the clubs plan on enjoying
Why do you want to join Young Democrats or Young Republicans? “To be honest, Mrs. Small made it sound really cool.” Emma Weil
senior
“Second Ammendment rights: that’s what it’s all about.” Patrick Quinn
freshman
Young Politicos visit Senator Jim DeMint
South Carolina Republican Jim DeMint is famously conservative. A major proponent of the far-right movement (the Tea Party movement) for smaller government, lower taxes, and minor government agency roles, DeMint does not seem the type to meet freely with a variety of political affiliates. But drop their ages a few years and this so-called ‘uncompromising’ senator is open and willing. Rebecca Small and Joshua Henry took both the Young Republicans and the Young Democrats to see the Senator on Sept. 29 to sit down for a quick Q&A session. DeMint opened the session by stating simply “I understand that there are Democrats and Republicans here and probably neither of you like us [the Tea Party movement]. But I am here to take your questions.”
Q&A In 2006, you voted yes for the “Same Sex Mar-
riage Resolution”; a constitutional amendment to define marriage as consisting of a man and a woman and to prohibit individual states from recognizing marital status and/or legal benefits from any other unions. Other than for religious reasons, why would you vote that way? Family is the foundation of our culture. Single parenting leads to destructive behaviors. People should be free to live the way they want, but I believe government sponsored same sex marriage is unconstitutional. We have guidelines on marriage, because, for example, we don’t want men marrying their sisters. But there is a difference between putting these guidelines on marriage and redefining it. Marriage is the most sacred institution in our society and has been around longer than the constitution. Governments should not sanction something that so many people think is morally wrong. Statistics in Scandinavian countries permitting same sex marriage show that after a while marriage does not mean anything at all.
Q&A In 2006 you voted against the Teen Preg-
nancy Education Amendment that would authorize funding for sexual education programs for teens to help prevent teen pregnancy. The programs included both contraceptive and abstinence education. Why did you vote against this Amendment?
I thought you guys were going to throw me some softball questions! (laughter) Well, I don’t remember how that one was structure, but I don’t see any redeeming value of government sponsored sex education. All the programs in schools are supported by liberal-led teachers unions. They refuse to teach morality or religion with abstinence, so I prefer to support private grants which will. I believe teaching mainly about contraception is like saying ‘It’s okay as long as you do it this way.’ The government should take an abstinence stance. The government should not be promoting behavior that is destructive.
Q&A If the Tea Party is dissatisfied with the Repub-
lican establishment, why not form a third party as an alternative for voters?
I would not rule that out. We have had a lot of success. Right now the Republican party is separate from Republicans in the country. The party is milking the federal treasury trying to bring money to their own states. The Tea Party is saying what the Republicans have said for years and if we want a big tent party then we should join these people; they are vigilant activists trying to take back their country. Excluding them would be a fall of dominoes that would bring the country to its knees. Thirty percent of the tea party supporters are Independents and Democrats. I am taking on my own party – I don’t want to be here for six years more with the same people that are here now (laughter).
Raising Awareness on Oakton’s Football Field The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) will be October 15, 2010 holding an awareness night at the varsity football game Varsity football raises awareness on Friday, Oct. 15., with a table at the entrance to the to support the fight against Cougar Path with “Penny Jars for Penny Wars,” one for Leukemia and Lymphoma Oakton and one for Herndon, and an LLS high striker, similar to those at carnivals. Proceeds from both will Richard Sumner directly abet LLS. Also, the cheerleading squad will be Burke, VA Owner throwing t-shirts into the bleachers to further publicize Licensed/Insured the fight against Cancer. Additional awareness will be raised by Andrew Luckabaugh and Skyler Hundley attending the game with their families. Luckabaugh and Hundley are two Cleaning • Screening • Repairing inspirational children who have found the courage to Roof Repairs combat their diseases resiliently and will be at the game to publicize the efforts of LLS. Students can also show their support for LLS and for the fight against cancer by attending the game.
MR. GUTTER
(703) 323-4671
page 11 outlook feature oct. 1, 2010
Oakton welcomes foreign exchange students
daniel chait
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oming to a new school is hard: making new friends, learning the school, meeting the teachers. Entering a different country, however, is like an alternate universe. The culture, the language and sharing a house with stangers. This perspective is a reality for students involed in the foreign exchange program. With the ringing of Spain’s victory at the World Cup still in his ears, Jamie Alvarez de Lorenzana Morate, decided to take a year off from his school in Madrid to immerse himself in American culture. Maria Dos Anjos Dantas of Brazil follows her brother’s footsteps and exchanges her life for the American lifestyle. From the small counrty of Moldova, Iana Eache wants new expreiences melanie aguilar-rojas to make her last year sarah hong of high school unique. staff writers daniel chait
Jaime Alvarez de Lorenzana Morate embeds his Spanish culture into his American experience by practcing soccer in gym class. “I want to try out for the soccer team in spring,” Jamie said. While continuing his normal activities, his host family is teaching Jamie about American traditions. “We are introducing him to American football,” said Ben Webster, senior. page 12 outlook feature oct. 1, 2010
Iana Enache is continuing her interests in the fine arts through journalism. “I enjoy writing because it’s an interestig subject,” said Iana Enache, junior. She is learning to write articles and is thinking about attending a university for journalism. Outside of journalism she enjoys other hobbies. “I love music, movies, photography and doing fun things with family.”
melanie aguilar-rojas
Maria Dos Anjos Dantas is adjusting to life in America. “When I arrived in America, I had no friends, no family and no idea about school,” said Maria Dos Anjos Dantas, junior. She had difficutly making friends because back home she had life-long friends. “ I was basically starting from zero. In Brazil, I studied with the same classmates since kindergarten, and when I came here, I didn’t know anyone,” Dos Anjos Dantas said.
Student continues work with summer neuroscience internship
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enior Matt Johnson spent his summer working on an internship with a research team made up of college students at George Mason, led by a college professor, conducting neuroscience experiments on rats. Johnson and his team tested rats for memory recall skills in a simple experiment called the Morris Water Maze. They placed rats in a pool of water where they were expected to swim around until they could locate a platform in the water. “We were interested in how long it would take them to find the platform. The part of the brain that is in charge of episodic memory is the hippocampus,” Johnson said. Episodic memory is the ability to recall recent events, “like your date last night, or in this case, swimming in a pool,” Johnson affirmed. According to their research, a younger rat’s hippocampus is not fully developed, therefore they do not perform as well in the test. “When we inject the younger rats with a
drug called Ampakine, they preformed better on this test,” Johnson explained. Johnson learned about this internship opportunity at George Mason over the internet. The program is called ASSIP, or the roxy ghamgosarinia Aspiring Summer Senior Matt Johnson dissects a rat. At his summer internship, Scientists Internship Johnson and his team disected ratsin order to study their brains. Program. “We did experiments on rats to test for their memory recall,” said “My parents wanted Johnson. me to work, and it my project, looking at how Ampakine was between beneficial interesting work makes rats’ memories better and my sumand lifeguarding. ASSIP was an amazing mer [experiences],” Johnson went on to opportunity, and it looks amazing for colsay. lege,” Johnson said. “I’d recommend it for Johnson is continuing his internship at people interested in biology, psychology George Mason through the school year to and chemistry.” allow him roxy ghamgosarnia While completing the internship, these to continue aspiring scientists were required to create a oliver lopez-gomez with the poster with a presentation. madlin mekelburg summer “The project was about the findings of staff writers research.
2007 Oakton alumni wins third place on America’s Got Talent
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y fall, most college students “At first I was really excited but I Courtesy of fighting gravity website wasn’t sure if they were going to make are already in class, working vigorously to earn their it. When they made the top four, I was degree and party their weekends away. so proud of them!” But Virginia Tech senior Danny Kang When asked if Danny treated her difis in Hollywood, preparing for the ferently after his group’s success, Stina America’s Got Talent concert tour denies it. with twelve of his fraternity brothers “No, he didn’t change at all! Surprisof Pi Kappa Alpha. The brothers’ ingly he took all my calls even if he local fame began in 2009 when they was really busy—I would call him right competed in a university-wide philanbefore they performed and wish him thropy talent show that benefited the Kang, front left, will be on the America’s Got Talent good luck.” sight-impaired. Their name, Fighting tour this fall. “I definitely think it’s going to be a great Now that the season has ended, the Gravity, is derived from the illusions theyexperience,” says his sister Stina. group is preparing to go on the AGT perform that seem to fight the concept tour. of gravity. “All the guys in the group have to take the fall semester off, so I Danny’s sister, Stina, is also a recent Oakton graduate and curwas kind of worried about him [Danny] because he’s a fifth year rently a sophomore at Bridgewater College. She describes how senior,” said Stina. “But I definitely think it’s going to be a great Fighting Gravity came up with the inspiration to audition. “They experience.” started at a talent show at a Virginia Tech charity event called AnFighting Gravity will be performing live with the America’s Got chor Splash and they ended up winning for their fraternity,” said Talent tour at the Landmark Theater in Richmond (Oct. 18) or at Stina. “Then they decided to send a video [of their performance] the D.A.R. Constitution Hall in DC (Nov. christina lee to AGT and got in.” 11). staff writer Stina is very supportive of the group’s audition. page 13 outlook feature oct. 1, 2010
“McFly” McNamee Races his way into top standing
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photo courtesy of patrick fulghum McNamee races to the finish line in his personal favorite event, the 800m run. He is currently the fastest runner on the cross-country team. “I joined track because I knew it was something I could be competitive at, because I’m a very competitive guy,” said McNamee.
unior Michael “McFly” McNamee has taken the spotlight as the fastest runner on the cross country team. It’s his first season running cross-country and he has already captured the admiration of his teammates, coaches and friends. “I joined track because it was something that I knew I could be competitive at because I’m a very competitive guy.” McNamee said, “I enjoy running because it keeps me in great shape and the great coaching and friends on the team keep me motivated.” McNamee participated in both indoor and outdoor Track and Field during his freshman and sophomore years, but never in cross-country. He now holds the number one position in this cross-country season. “I was all district in three events, all region in two events and 10th in the state in the 800m run my sophomore year.” His success is indicative of what drives McNamee in this sport. “The best part of running would have to be the competitions,” McNamee said, “racing in the meets lets me know exactly where I am at that current point in time and points out exactly what I need to work on.”
Moving up to the big leagues
Students, staff share thoughts on freshman transition program
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he freshman transition program took place during Cougar Time for the first three weeks of the school year. The program, which was implemented countywide last year, instructs freshmen on learning styles, setting goals, time management, graduation requirements and social skills. “The goal of the program is to help freshmen acclimate to high school and make the transition smoother,” said Sarah Fronckel, guidance counselor. “It helps them make connections and makes the experience better. I think it’s great since it gives freshmen all of the skills they need throughout high school in the beginning.” FCPS implemented the program after seeing a trend in freshmen and their high school experiences. “The program helps freshmen feel more comfortable,” said Brooke Alexander, guidance counselor. “Based on a lot of statistics, it’s shown that ninth grade is when students require the most support. It’s make page 14 outlook news oct. 1, 2010
As much as the track is home to McNamee, the sidelines are as important. “I get along very well with my teammates,” McNamee said, “We push each other through workouts and we want our peers to succeed.” McNamee’s performance is not the only reason he is valued by his teammates. “He’s always supportive and he’s great at cheering you on during a race, but his humor is by far the best,” said teammate, junior Hannah Berlin. Although it may seem that someone with such high athletic expectations only has running on the agenda, McNamee manages to keep academics a priority. “Generally running doesn’t affect my school work,” McNamee said, “There may be some days that I need to get home and work or study, but I usually get home around 6 so there is plenty of time to get my work done. I try to manage my time well and get plenty of lauren embroski rest to ensure emma mankin success in the alexa williams classroom and staff writers on the track.”
Cougar Quote: What is your opinion on the transition program?
it or break it time.” After each lesson, students were given tests which helped counselors gather student The transition feedback. program is a smart “Based on the data we got, we can tell that and efficient way to the students were learning something every help us deal with lesson,” Alexander said. the high school chris graham environment. Students also gained knowledge about freshman high school life. “It made me more confident,” said I think the program Francis Feeney, freshman. “I learned about is too long. Also, the counselors talked GPA, goals, time management and the a lot about time expectations from Oakton.” management and Although the county provides the lessons, using planners but julia gerow individual schools can decide how to run we didn’t even have freshman the program. The guidance counselors are planners yet. considering making more changes for the following year. The program is “For next year, we’re thinking about helpful because it spacing out the freshman transition program improved my time rather than having it all at once,” Alexander management. said. “We might try marilyn yang to make the lessons john fee staff writer freshman monthly.”
opinions
page 15, oct. 1, 2010
Early Homecoming unnecessarily complicates student plans
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resh from the buzz of the Homecoming notice given. football game, settled back into the rouNew students at Oakton had an even tougher tine of school and prepared to get dolled time, since they just barely started making friends up for the first dance of the year. That’s how at the three-week mark. Friends that were made the routine usually goes when the Homecoming were shaky at best, being as fresh as they were. dance rolls around near the end of October. It’s Without a comfortable group of friends to go a time when students have just gotten with, many new students opted out of attendused to being ing the dance. Older students had a lengthy list back in school, of reasons for not attending the dance. The having made reasons ranged from the lack of a dress to new friends and the lack of a date. Many students weren’t reconnected with even aware that Homecoming was that old ones. weekend. This year howThe explanation for ever, Homecoming Homecoming’s early took place on Sept. date is understand25, a mere three able. The weeks into school Oakton and nearly a month Classic, a earlier than previous gathering of years. bands from all Homecoming’s over northearly date raised a ern Virginia, series of issues is scheduled to for students. take place around Greg Pavek Three weeks into the time that Homecoming would school, students usually take place. The event is a were still adjusting from huge amalgamation of bands from the laid-back summer schedule to the the area and takes place right here at rigid schedule of school. With other things Oakton. on their minds like adjusting to new classes, Many other schools in the area were in the the homework load and getting up at five or six same situation as Oakton, leaving them to schedin the morning, Homecoming wasn’t even on ule their Homecomings on Sept. 25 as well. The most students’ radars. practicality of this situation doesn’t change the Social reasons included finding a date, dinner fact that Homecoming’s early date made it difreservations, groups with which to attend the ficult for students to attend. dance and a dress to match the occasion. For The traditional later Homecoming would many ladies, the search for a dress takes more draw more students into attending, seeing as than a week or two; and for many they would actually have time to The Staff Editorial guys, gathering up the courage to ask plan for the occasion. Time to the cute girl in their government class is the official opinion get friends, make reservations–all takes just as long. Finding a group factors that would make students of the Outlook of friends to go with, deciding what actually show up and find the restaurant to eat at and matters of transportation courage to ask that cute girl in their chemistry barely had time to be considered with the short class.
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Cougar Time provides extra help for students kim gibbons staff writer
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e’ve all been there. You forgot to do last night’s chemistry assignment, you need to catch up on your AP reading or you need to study for that test next period. Last year, you would not have had the time to complete these dreadful tasks before the bell rang and your teacher would give you a zero for the assignment. However, this year our teachers and administrators have finally shown us some mercy with the introduction of a new period: Cougar Time. For about a half hour every day, students can choose a classroom to visit so they can catch up on assignments or work on homework for other classes. Cougar Time not only provides the opportunity for students to work with their teachers but also gives them a chance to make up missed tests or quizzes without staying after school or missing practices. If you find yourself too tired to study late into the night after working hard at practice, your job or at school, you can always put work off until the next day. The addition of this extra time can definitely increase the pitiful amount of sleep you get each night. Despite the help it provides, students don’t always use Cougar Time for academic purposes. Usually, I ask my friends where I can find them and come to their class to hang out. This provides a nice break if I am rudely awakened by a pop quiz during first period. Of course, some people don’t have any work to do during this time and would rather not socialize with friends. In this case, Cougar Time provides an excellent opportunity to catch up on something we are all very much deprived of: sleep.
page 18 outlook opinions oct . 1, 2010
Student prefers break over Cougar Time
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e all lisa remember baumgartner break, save a&e editor the current freshmen class which hasn’t had the pleasure to experience it. It was a wonderful fifteen minutes during which we could do whatever we liked, from grabbing food in the cafeterias to actually having time to put things away in our lockers located across the prison-like maze of a school congested by awkward teenagers gaggling along in the hallways. This year our beloved break has been replaced in favor of a different model with a slightly less cool name: Cougar Time. Break maybe not be as constructive as Cougar Time or as productive, but 30 minutes isn’t exactly enough time to write a novel. Enough time to finish a worksheet or read the rest of a chapter, but I can already foresee the overestimating of what can be accomplished during this half hour period and scrambling while the students in the classroom around me talk and laugh. This scene doesn’t strike me as very pleasant. So far, the thought of being able to be in any teacher’s classroom is a little discombobulating, especially when I have no idea which friends might be where; and the thought of being completely alone with any teacher is more awkward then pleasant. I greg pavek have found myself just staying put in the room I had first period rather than moving around sheerly out of laziness, which doesn’t really seem like the point. The overall idea leaves me a little uneasy, like carefully monitored free time, handed down to give students the feeling of independence but keeping it under close scrutiny to reject the will of the masses— but I’m probably just being skeptical. I can certainly see the usefulness of the time and how in theory it seems effective, but overall Cougar Time leaves a bad taste in my mouth- not to mention the growl used to signify its beginning and end makes me very uncomfortable.
“C
hildren of Israel! Call to mind the special favor which I bestowed upon you, and fufil your Covenant with me as I fufil My Covenant with you, and fear none but me.” Sound familiar? It’s from the Bible, right? Nope. The Torah? Wrong again. It’s the Koran. While others have been threatening to burn the holy book of Islam, I’ve taken the opportunity to read it. Here’s another one: “That they said (in boast) ‘We killed Christ Jesus, the son of Mary, the Apostle of God’; but they killed him not… Nay, God raised him up unto Himself; and God is Exalted in Power, Wise.” I know what you’re thinking. That must be from the Bible. Sorry. It’s the
roxanna ghamgorsarnia staff writer
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s students found themselves piled into the corridors for yet another school year, many were anticipating the location of their new burgundy metal friends. After forms were filled and the week simmered to an end, lockers were issued to all who qualified after submitting their dreaded paper work. Now traditionally at Oakton, locker locations typically depend on grade level. There are a couple of reasons for this system. First of all, the obvious social reasons: keeping a graduating class together in the same vicinity allows students to mingle in their downtime, before school and between classes. Of course seniors always have had the upper hand and have many privileges including the senior park-
page 19 outlook opinions oct. 1, 2010
Christianity, Judaism and Islam are not so different Koran again. In the caophany of idiocy that the 24-hour media cycle produces, simple truths are lost. Christianity, Judaism, and Islam are three religions, bound together by their basic foundations. All three speak of Abraham and Moses. All three speak of God’s covenant with Israel. All three are inherently decent and peaceful sources of religious and moral guidance, yet it sometimes seems that only two of these religions are accepted with open arms by society. When these basics are forgotten or neglected, that’s when irrational fear takes hold of society. Those basics, however, can be the key to creating understanding in our society and can most easily be taught within these
chris papas news editor
halls. English teachers have lessons on the Bible, the Torah and literature from the Islamic world. The Koran more than deserves its place among those works, not only as the single most influential book ever, providing a foundation to a religion more than a billion strong, but also for being a simply beautiful text. We live in a pluralistic society, made up of many gropus, many peoples and many beliefs. Humility and the hope of a better tomorrow can begin in these halls if only we learn that not only educational lessons, but moral ones as well. Only when we understand our Islamic brothers and sisters can we truly, as a society of religious plurality, be at peace with one another.
Seniors have a right to the senior hallway ing lot, lunch line and senior court. One of those privileges included locker locations in the main hallway. This year, though, seniors were baffled to discover their lockers dispersed around the school instead of waiting in the main hall. Naturally, many were unhappy. The senior lockers have been a symbol of authority and are in a prime location. The main hallway is the easiest to access, making entering and exiting the building swifter. However, and most importantly, students are concerned as to where to meet their friends. The class of 2011 started out in the biology hall freshman year, math hall sophomore year and history hall junior year, and it was time to make the main hall class territory. Stu-
dents plan and meet up in these locations to talk and catch up. So now because they are unsure of their peers’ whereabouts, there are an increased number of mobile devices and fingers pounding key boards texting to figure out where people hang out. Questions have risen as to why there is a change in the system. The change has caused a great inconvenience for many students in the class of 2011, who wish to receive the same treatment in which other seniors took pride. It will be interesting to see what the future years hold, maybe it was just an unfortunate turn of events and next year Oakton will be back to its former and more logical ways.
kivan taghavi senior lorelei christie sophomore
it
mimi dabestani jurnior
ha
“My dad is Muslim and I don’t like the religion at all. It’s too demanding. Fasting and praying five times a day is a little ridiculous.”
lc
“You see discrimination at Oakton with the cliques. Theres a big separatism. People silently judge each other.”
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slam is a hot issue right now with the anger caused by the proposed Islamic community center near Ground Zero, the recent passing of the ninth anniversary of 9/11 and the fundamentalist preacher Terry Jones’ efforts to create “international burn a Koran day.” It’s frightening that such discrimination can still exist in 21st century America, but what’s even more frightening is that this antiAbove: Students bow their heads in prayer at an afterschool meeting of Islam sentiment might even exist the Muslim Students Association. right here in Oakton. Fortunately, Below: Abdi Abdi leading students in prayer. Abdi Abdi, the president of the “and there will always be extremists. But that’s Muslim Student Association (MSA), was willing only a small minority of people in a religion to sit down and dispel any misconceptions. that has twenty-two percent of the world’s “All the hatred in America for the Islamic population.” faith started with 9/11,” Abdi said. “People Fortunately, we live in a well educated didn’t understand the and rational area, and while people still might history or anything harbor prejudice towards Muslims, they keep about Islam. All they it to themselves. “I have never personally knew was that the men experienced any discrimination in this area,” that had flown the said Abdi. “We have a really strong Muslim planes into the towers community here at Oakton. It’s a great support and the Pentagon were group.” Muslim, and that’s However, not all of America is so fortunate. all they wanted to Many areas - as has been shown in Florida know.” Superficial by preacher Terry Jones’ severely anti-Islamic stereotypes had predjudices - still are under the influence of already been ill conceived discrimination directed towards ingrained in Muslims. “People need to understand the the minds of beautiful nature of the religion,” stated Abdi. Americans, Islam is not some extreme cult churning out and 9/11 only terrorists – it’s pacifistic, and as Abdi said, “it’s reinforced a way of life.” these uninformed opinions. “What allen luethke people need to in-depth editor understand is that there are always chris peterkin minorities in any staff writer group,” stated Abdi,
nie
“There is absolutely discrimination towards Muslims in America. Even before 9/11 there was discrimination. My dad, who is Muslim, back in the 80’s, was refused service on a public bus because he was Muslim. Even here at Oakton people assume that I’m hardcore Muslim because I’m Iranian.”
Abdi Abdi shares his views on Islam da
“I actually don’t see discrimination in America, at least not first hand. I’ve always been treated equally.”
page 20, oct. 1, 2010
A little perspective
daniel chait
waris wakil senior
something to say
in-depth
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Shahadah
The first of the pillars, , is a profession of faith, typically recited in Arabic. When translated to English, it comes out to --“I profess that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is the messenger of God.”
A Cornell poll in 2004 found that 44% of Americans felt that Muslims should have civil liberties curtailed.
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Salah
The second of the pillars, , is the daily prayer of Islam. Salah consists of five prayers, Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha’a, which are said at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening, respectively. All prayers must be directed towards Mecca.
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Zakat
The third of the pillars, , is the practice of alms-giving, or making charitable donations. Muslims consider it a personal responsibility to ease the economic hardships of others and eliminate inequalities.
The same Cornell poll found 27% of people thought Muslims should have to register their address with authorities.
A Newsweek survey of nonMuslim Americans reavealed that 64% of people would not allow their children to date a Muslim.
IV
Sawm
The fourth of the pillars, , is fasting, which is an obligation during the month of Ramadan. Unless it would be considered dangerous, Muslims must abstain from food, drink, and sexual intercorse drom dawn until dusk. They must also be extra mindful of other sins.
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Hajj
The fifth and last of the pillars, , is a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca that all Muslims must go on at least once in their lifetime so long as they’re able, financially and/ or physically, to make the trip.
alex rodriguez senior
5 percent of Americans
“Muslims don’t pose a threat to the nation, but terrorists do. There’s a distinction, and I wish more people understood that.”
alex le senior
Despite how widely discussed Islam is, many people still don’t know the religion’s most basic tennants.
Statistics
something to say
“All discriminations have legitimate foundations. There has to be a basis of truth in order for a stereotype to form.” darneya halatai freshman
The Five Pillars of Islam
“There is definitely some discrimination of Muslims in America. It came out of nowhere after 9/11. There wasn’t really any before then.” tommy sorenson senior
Islam by the numbers
“My best friend is Muslim. We were best friends before 9/11 and we conitnue to be after. It hasn’t changed anything.”
page 21 outlook in-depth oct. 1, 2010
henry sellars sophmore joey cooper senior
“It’s important to express freedom of religion, but I know it could offend the people who lost loved ones on 9/11.”
patrick eberhart junior
“I think it’s kind of morally wrong...it’s not in good taste. You could build a mosque somewhere else, you don’t have to put it right there.”
nesli ozcan junior
“As long as they are respectful, they can build it where they would like. But they need to keep the families of the victims in mind.”
“It’s two blocks away from ground zero, so it’s fine. You just can’t perescute the whole religion, just because a small group of people did something.”
Is intolerance an issue? Muslims in our community overcoming predjudice
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he mosque near Ground Zero is planned to open on Sept. 11, 2011. While some may disagree with this project, the local Muslim community doesn’t understand the conflict. Khalid Iqbal, deputy director and chief operating officer of the All Dulles Area Muslim courtesy of ADAMS Center Society (ADAMS Center) ADAMS Center mosque in Sterling. believes the mosque would improve the Americans and Muslim Americans have more community’s attitude toward Islam. “The mosque should be built,” Iqbal said. “It in common than people tend to believe. Some students at Oakton are even a part of the ADAMS is going to bring a lot of reconciliation in that Center community. There is a youth gathering area.” every Friday night to interact with other Muslim The tragic event of 9/11 not only killed kids their age, including teenagers. thousands of Americans, but it also impacted “My family only goes on holidays. Really families and worldwide relations for years to religious people go every weekend.” said Karima come. Statistics show that 1,714 hate crimes were Abutaleb, sophomore. reported to the Council on American-Islamic Abutaleb also discusses the atmosphere of Relations nationwide since 9/11. Iqbal made it Oakton. clear that people aren’t seeing the big picture. “I haven’t really felt out of place in Oakton, Americans of other religions weren’t the only ones but I can’t speak for the country,” Abutaleb said. killed in the 9/11 attack. “The only time I’ve experienced anything, was People forget there were Muslims who died in one summer in the airport traveling to Egypt. A the attack,” Iqbal said. security officer pulled my mom aside, when she “It’s in human nature to fear the unknown,” didn’t even have anything stated Iqbal. “Just dangerous.” because we look Abutaleb voices her different or dress opinions on missing different.” school for holidays she When asked khalid iqbal doesn’t celebrate, while what the Muslim school is still in session community was doing to fight intolerance, Iqbal had an optimistic outlook, explaining community for holidays she does celebrate. “I guess I understand where they’re coming service programs such as the FoodSource from, but I still think it’s unfair, because I have to Foundation. Every month, people from the miss school when other people have days off for ADAMS Center gather to help the less fortunate. their holidays.” “We do positive things to fight intolerance. Iqbal expands on American intolerance. We have a feed-the-hungry program, where people “Intolerance is something that is against come together to make lunches for the poor,” American values. We are the same as everyone Iqbal said. else.” The ADAMS Center also holds toy drives, caroline hipwell fundraisers for various charities, and clothing gabriela driscoll drives for the homeless. Iqbal reasons that
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It’s in human nature to fear the unknown.
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something to say
staff writers
page 22 outlook news oct . 1, 2010
Muslim athletes struggle to keep up with teams as well as traditions
something to say
In the past, [fasting] affected me by not being able to go 100 percent in athletics because I’d be fatigued, and eventually it just became too hard to fast during the football season. [Therefore] I’m slowly making up the days that I’ve missed later on in the year until I complete them all. It was a joint decision with my parents a few months in advance and I had to be cautious not to eat around them or be disrespectful in any way. [My coaches and teammates] only asked why I made the decision and we just moved on from there, never really going back to the topic.
michelle lorusso and dorothy yen staff writer and co-opinions editor
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Media misinterpretation affects Oakton
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n July 21st, Oakton alumnus Zach Chesser, also known as Abu Talhah AlAmrikee, was arrested for threatening the creators of South Park. His post to RevolutionMuslim.net followed the show’s 200th episode in which the Prophet Mohammad was depicted in a bear suit, a grave offense to Islam. Chesser has also been accused of trying to join the Somali militant group, Al-Shabaab. Fox News and ABC World News both printed full stories about the incident. Fox News, however, devoted a sizable portion of the article to Chesser’s extracurricular activities from his time here at Oakton and to the school itself, listing the current Newsweek rankings and where the school stood on
the ranks back when Chesser attended Oakton. The only other Oakton alumnus mentioned by the article is Michaele Salahi, aka the “White House dinner party crasher.” Facts such as those are irrelevant to Chesser’s recent activities, and Salahi is hardly representative of the caliber of Oakton’s alumni, which also includes Sean Parker, the co-founder of Napster and former president of Facebook. Media sensationalism had made Oakton synonymous with terrorism and un-American activities, affecting the way Oakton students are viewed in other parts of the country. The repercussions of antagonizing an entire religion have reached directly into becky singerman staff writer Oakton’s halls.
“To me, Ramadan is a month of reflection, patience and charity. It’s a month to feel blessed for what we truly have compared to those who have nothing. I might get a little tired [during Ramadan, but] before Ramadan I just focus on a new page and the idea of starting anew. It’s like New Year’s Eve for me.”
greg leonard senior
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[The] big issues are dehydration, heat exhaustion [and] that they’re going to find it harder to recover. It’s been difficult, especially with two-a-days for football, because they can’t eat or drink during that time frame. They’re usually pretty good for the first practice, but by the second they’re fatigued, worn out and the risks become much more severe. Beforehand, We ask if anybody practicing Ramadan has any issues that we can help with. That way we can look out for problems before they happen. There are different levels of fasting. Some athletes will allow themselves to put food in their mouths and spit it out. Some only can drink water but they can’t eat any food. If they prepare all night long and are prepared when they get here, it’ll just be harder to recover when they start to go south.
mehdi fadli, 11
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paul rupp athletic trainer
rawan elbaba junior
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise and sunset, a factor that could seriously impede an athlete’s performance. From health risks to personal decisions, the subject of fasting has been a prevalent topic among student athletes.
“We only have one Muslim [in cross country’s] top seven [runners], and had he not fasted for Ramadan I don’t think I would have even taken notice to his religion. He accomodated for not eating during the day by running early in the morning with [the rest of the team] after he had a meal. He seemed to be in pretty good shape when we ran together during Ramadan, so the team wasn’t too concerned about his health.”
page 23 outlook indepth oct. 1, 2010
sports
page 24, oct. 1, 2010
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Sport of the Month Dwarf Tossing, also known as Dwarf Throwing, is exactly what it sounds like. Large men throw their verticallychallenged partners, who are equipped in Velcro suits, as far as possible against a Velcro-covered wall or mattress. The distance and height of the throw are important factors in determining the winner. Unfortunately for these athletes, it seems the world just isn’t big enough for the game of Dwarf tossing-- the sport is banned in Florida and New York.
the latest in sports gear and goodies
EA Sports NHL 11 With developer EA’s bonecrunching physics alongside the new Ultimate Hockey League mode, which allows players to create their own dynasty down to the most minute detail, NHL 11 could easily be the sports game of the year.
Adidas Jabulani The panels of this soccer ball are bonded together with heat, creating a perfectly round, waterproof surface. Jabulani allows for consistently far, precise kicks—so much so that its use during the World Cup was controversial. All pictures taken from the official websties
Alumni Shout-Outs Runningback Keith Payne (class of ‘06) has a total of 150 rushing yards and 5 Touchdowns this season at UVA. Amanda Steinhagen (class of ‘10), golfer for Longwood, won the Virginia Woman’s Amateur Title Jessie Daley (class of ‘10) tabbed as the CAC Women’s Cross Country Athlete of the Week Cody Grimm (class of ‘06) signed four-year, 1.85 million dollar contract as a back up safety/special-teamer for Tampa Bay.
Round the district: Oakton football face entire concorde in October
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allie berube
Madison in the Outback Bowl 49-21, escaping with a win at West Springfield 14-13, cruising past T.C. Williams 29-14, and dancing by Annandale 35-21. Oakton is sitting at 4-0 entering the Concorde ring in less than a week. Key players moving forward have already emerged both in practice and more importantly on Friday night. Senior lineman Geoff McLaughlin and junior lineman Jake Farrar constantly pressure the quarterback or protect him. Junior linebackers C.J. Reimann, Michael Terminello, and Zack Isakowitz share virtually every tackle and anchor down the defense. Senior defensive back Akil Jones is bound to have more than one blocked punt this season and Crushing Madison 49-21 in the Outback Bowl, the sophomore defensive back Oakton Cougars began their season with great Andy Boone is a QB’s worst momentum starting out-of-district play. nightmare already with three picks. show their versatility in Oakton’s spread On the offensive side of the field, offense as well. senior quarterback Jimmy Boone has exOakton has countless weapons, and the emplified his agility and ability to read the season should prove successful if Cougars coverage. Sophomore D’Andre Johnson, continue on their allie berube junior Tuck Masker and senior Luke Willis dominating war path. sports co-editor
Westfield Bulldogs Preview
Robinson Rams Preview
alina
tatistics show that after Oakton has a disappointing season, the following year big things happen. If that is any indication of Oaktons’ fate this season, Head Coach Joe Thompson and the Cougars will have something to celebrate. “We’re excited about this year,” Thompson said. “Not only because of what we did at the end of last year with our young players but because of the offseason we’ve had.” During training camps around the Concorde, teams struggled with their fitness, while Oakton ran sprints in the blistering sun after twoa-day practices. Oakton was in the weight room over six months before the Outback Bowl to prep. The Cougars are clearly ready to conquer the Concorde. Play outside of the district in the beginning of the season has so far been successful. Crushing
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suyam
AWAY 10.08.2010- 7:30 p.m.
HOME 10.29.2010- 7:30 p.m.
After a 1-4 start last season, Head Coach Tom Verbanic looks to improve before they enter Concorde play. “Everybody knows we can’t take anything for granted,” Verbanic said. Despite their 2-2 start and their losses to Stone Bridge and Lake Braddock, they held the top two teams in the state to under 15 points. Verbanic graduated his defensive line so there are inexperienced guys filling those positions. When the Cougars roll onto Westfield’s new field, Cougar running backs should have a big night. Oakton’s defense should pressure Westfield’s new QB, Matt Pisarcik, and exploit his inexperience, keeping the scoring low.
Following a tough loss in the playoffs and one point off an undefeated regular season, it is clear that Robinson Head Coach Mark Bendorf and his Rams are hungry for the 2010 season. Excluding Fairfax’s upset of the Rams, Robinson has crushed their out-of-district competition improving to 3-1. Their dominance is impressive considering Robinson lost most of their offensive line, Concorde offensive player of the year, and all met defensive player of the year. To score a win, Oakton will need to be strong on the defensive line and limit the Rams’ options on offense and pressure their returning QB, Mike LoPresti.
Chantilly Chargers Preview AWAY 11.05.2010- 7:30 p.m.
For the first time since 2007, the Chargers return their quarterback. A team always damaged by graduation, Chantilly Head Coach Mike Lalli is confident that the cap and gown routine won’t deter his team’s skill this year. The experience they bring back has proved successful outside of the Concorde. Improving to 4-0 with a huge win over W.T. Woodson, the Chargers have outscored their opponents 150-83. Limiting their run game and exploiting their inexperienced lines should be a key for Oakton on Senior Night. This game will be a thrilling closer if both teams keep the intensity. page 25 outlook sports oct. 1, 2010
Fall coaches prepare teams to emulate past success
Coach Joe Thompson- This is head coach Thompson’s eighth year coaching at Oakton. He has several successful seasons under his belt including a state championship in 2005 and several state tournament appearances. “A team is really good when all the intangibles are good,” Thompson said. “Showing up to practice on time, understanding your game plan, understanding who you’re playing and why, having good team leadership, those are the things that make a team great.”
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he successes of all Oakton Cougar athletes are represented by a great coaching staff that helps the players grow and prosper. These coaches devote countless hours to their teams on and off the fields-- between practices, afterschool meetings, pre and post game conferences and offseason conditioning. Key coaches, Coach Thompson for the football program, Coach Byers for the cross country team and Coach Drumm for the volleyball team, shared their insight on their teams’ fall sports spencer conley staff writer seasons.
emma pfeifer
allie berube
Coach Alisa Byers- This year, Coach Byers begins her first year as head cross country coach after taking over for winter and spring track last year. “Other than giving them hard workouts and keeping the team positive, I really try to interact with them personally and relate with them,” Byers said. “I give them tips on how to stay healthy and make sure they know that as important running is, it isn’t always the most important thing.”
Coach Steve Drumm- This is Drumm’s third year as head coach of the volleyball team. The team is still improving even after last year’s impressive season, when they won their first district match in three years. “The most important thing I’m learning every day is different ways to motivate the team to do their best and improve,” Drumm said.
isabella kidane
Golf team aims for a state win
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penelope tangamu
Senior C.J. Greco is a big reason for golf team’s high expectations. page 26 outlook sports oct. 1, 2010
olf team went 1-4 last year during the regular season and finished tied for third at district. The team will have just two seniors for the fall season. Despite all odds, the team remains hopeful and has set lofty goals for the season. “Our goal is to finish in the top two in the district and then make it to regionals. Anything beyond that is a positive,” said coach Jack Masich, currently in his third season as Oakton’s golf coach. “Someone is going to need to step up for us to replace [the departing seniors].” An important part in replacing last year’s graduated seniors could be senior C.J. Greco. “I guess I feel like I’m a leader just because I know everybody else on the team,” Greco said. Masich, however, doesn’t feel like much has changed with the seniors leaving.
“I haven’t had to make many adjustments,” Masich said. “It’s part of golf that the lineup’s going to change. I’ve learned to be patient and I understand that there’s going to be peaks and valleys.” The team has gotten off to a solid start, already topping last year’s win total after victories over Centreville and Westfield. A loss to Chantilly and a tie against Robinson has put the team at 2-1-1. “We’ve had our ups and downs,” Masich said. “We’ve played great at times but I’m still looking for consistency, especially from the middle of the lineup.” The solid start has fueled the team’s expectations for the rest of the season. “The season’s been alright so far,” Greco said. “But our goal is to go to state and callum kelton staff writer win.”
The fall lineup: the top athletes to watch
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all sports are currently in the middle of their season with big rivalries and playoffs around the corner. Throughout the season many players have excelled and established
themselves as stars and playmakers. There are also underclassmen that have shown great potential and have earned themselves spots on varsity rosters; some even earned starting
emma pfeifer
Patrick Eberhart - Cross Country This is Eberhart’s second year on varsity cross country and his first year as a captain. He plays a crucial leadership and experience role on the team as a junior during a period of coaching transition. “I’m a captain so my main role is to keep the team’s morale up and the team together,” Eberhart said.
isabella kidane
Adelle Clinton - Field Hockey
Clinton, a junior, is returning for a second season as a starter on varsity field hockey. She has high expectations for her last two years on the field hockey team. “I hope the team gets on the board,” Clinton said, “and I hope we make our team known.
positions. With all of these players in the fall sports program, an entertaining and successful spencer conley season is on staff writer the horizon.
isabella kidane
Emma Olson- Volleyball
Olson’s first year on the varsity volleyball team has been filled with success as she, a sophomore and a heavily contributing setter, has helped the team to a 4-2 record so far. “[The upperclassmen] have actually been fantastic,” Olson said. “They have been very welcoming and so helpful.”
allie berube
D’Andre Johnson- Football
So far this year, Johnson, a sophomore, has rushed for 325 yards on 52 attempts and is averaging six yards a carry. Johnson has also found his way into the end zone, twice in fact, in the Cougar’s win over Annandale. “I’m looking forward to building new friendships, and taking this place to states.” page 27 outlook sports oct. 1, 2010
OVERTIME
Nats Fans...There’s Still Hope
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he Washington Nationals… bottom dwellers of The NL East for the past six years, never posting a winning record. They’ve finished last in the MLB the past two years losing over 100 games and are 5. Roger Bernadina The 26 year old center fielder is very talented and athletic; with more experience he should become one of the National League’s better center fielders and will make an impact as the lead-off hitter.
4. Ian DesmondAt 24 years old he is one of the best shortstop prospects in the MLB. He’s got a good bat to compliment his great defensive play and fantastic glove, and he’s got the talent to become one of the best in just a few years.
3. Ryan Zimmerman The 25 year old is already one of the best third basemen in the league. He hits for a high average above 300, can hit 30 homers a year and 100 RBIs to go with a few gold glove awards. This baseman is definitely on his way to a hall of fame career.
2. Bryce Harper The 17 year old #1 overall pick is a tremendous talent and one of the best players scouts have seen in fifty years. He will be a legendary player and after a few years in the minors, will be ready to make a major impact for the Nationals.
On The Scoreboard Volleyball 8/30 v. South Lakes W 3-0 9/01 v. Madison W 3-1 9/04 v. Centreville W 2-0 9/04 v. South County L 1-2 9/13 v. West Springfield L 0-3 9/15 v. Marshall W 3-0 9/20 v. T.C. W 3-0 9/23 v. Heritage L 1-3
Jamie Craig staff writer
slated to finish last in the NL East again this year. While the Nationals have so far been terrible in D.C. here are five reasons that is going to change over the next five years…
Cross Country 9/04 Peter Geraghty Invitational: Boys - 4/30, Girls - 3/29 9/11 Monroe Parker Invitational: Boys -19/30, Girls - 21/23 9/11 Lake Forest Festival: Boys - 1/16, Girls - 2/15 9/15 Concorde District Meet #1: Boys - 2/3, Girls - 3/3 9/18 Briarwood Invitational: Boys - 7/10, Girls - 7/9
1.Young Pitching Trio Yes, we all know Strasburg is a freak of nature and once he recovers from surgery will be back at top form. But, we also have Jordan Zimmermann who was going to be our ace before Strasburg came along and closer Drew Storen who was the tenth overall pick a year ago.
Field Hockey 8/26 v. Madison W 1-0 OT 8/27 v. Westfield W 3-2 OT 8/27 v. Chantilly L 0-1 8/28 v. Westfield W 5-0 8/28 v. T.C. L 1-2 OT 9/02 v. Woodson L 1-2 OT 9/07 v. Langley L 1-2 OT 9/13 v. Marshall L 0-1 9/15 v. South County L 1-2 OT 9/21 v. Fairfax L 1-2 9/23 v. Herndon W 3-0
Next Victim... Football 9/03 v. Madison W 49-21 9/10 v. West Springfield W 14-13 9/16 v. T.C. W 29-14 9/24 v. Annandale W 35-21 page 28 outlook sports oct. 1, 2010
Golf 8/26 v. Fairfax W 153-155 9/07 v. Chantilly L 167-155 9/08 v. Centreville W 158-162
Field Hockey: 10/01 v. Westfield Football: 10/01 v. Edison Volleyball: 10/02 v. Lake Braddock Secondary Golf: 10/05 Regionals Cross Counrty: 10/01 Wendy’s Invitational
a&e
T
he Vans Warped Tour is a slice of heaven for die-hard fans of punk and alternative music. The annual festival was held at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, MD this July with a lineup of almost 200 bands that traveled around the country and Canada, hitting 44 different venues. “What’s unique about Warped is that there are a ton of bands playing, wherever you are,” said sophomore Sarah Snyder. “There’s always something to do and somewhere to go; it’s really fast-paced.” Every band on the tour gets a 30 minute set, whether they’re popular or relatively unknown, which contributes to Warped
page 29, oct. 1, 2010
Students flock when annual music festival comes to town. Tour’s diversity. “There’s something for everyone,” said junior Max Harrison. “Breathe Electric and Bring Me the Horizon are two polar opposites. There were so many bands there.” The experience of the concert is made priceless by the sheer quantity of bands. “One of the best parts was getting to see my favorite band, Pierce the Veil,” Harrison said. Although one of the fun things to do at the show is experiment with new bands, there’s a chance that they might not meet expectations. “I was really disappointed with 3OH!3. They had a poor performance,” Snyder said. Since Warped Tour takes place in the middle of the summer, there are some safety concerns that everyone who wants to attend should keep in mind.
Students go all out for
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f watching a group of middle age men dancing around in platforms and makeup doesn’t sound like a cup of tea, think again. “I went because I love Kiss,” said senior Yasmina Karrackchou. “I have all their records and action figures, and I’ve seen their movie.” She, along with three other fellow seniors, Rebecca Singerman, Nikki Clemons and Gregory Pavek, attended a performance by the legendary rock band at Jiffy Lube Live on Aug. 21. “Kiss is just one of those bands that you have to see live. The stage show is amazing,” said Karrackchou. “Even [from our seats] on
“The heat is terrible,” Snyder said. “I almost passed out in the pit. You have to drink a lot of water.” There are even more potentially dangerous activities to engage in at Warped, such as moshing. Common at rowdy concerts, individuals will slam into each other and oftentimes they will crowd surf. “You go for the music and the moshing. It’s pure adrenaline,” Harrison said. Even if the environment is overwhelming, most attendees tend to have a good time. “The music is just so good that nothing else matters,” Snyder said. “There are great bands everywhere you look; it’s an amazing experience.” All in all, the Vans Warped Tour was a success and has been a success for over 15 years. “There were a bunch of people having a really good time,” Harrison said. “My sunburn was sofia crutchfield totally worth it.” penelope tangamu
chloe pierce staff writers
concert
the lawn you could see the explosions, and [fans] had their faces painted.” The four participated in the face painting festivities after spending a good deal of effort getting the tickets. “We went through three different people [on Craigslist] and finally got them the day of,” said Karrackchou. However, Kiss wasn’t the only excitement of the day for these fans. becky singerman “The Academy Is... opened for them,” said Karrackchou. “They are one of my favorite Preparing for an evening of classic rock and outrageous outfits, senior bands too, and it Greg Pavek gets his face painted in a lisa baumgartner was cool to see true Kiss fashion. a&e editor them together.”
Taste Questing: The search for Northern VA’s.....
Best Cupcakes
Cake Love is a small cake shop with locations
in Tysons Corner and Fair Oaks Mall. Cake Love sells uniquely-named cupcakes along with gluten-free and vegan cupcakes, lemon bars and mini cheesecakes. Although there are flavors for almost every palate, the cupcakes’ overall taste doesn’t match up to their delightfully cute appearance. The cupcakes aren’t freshly baked, but are refrigerated. The frosting is thick and heavy, nearly the consistency of cream cheese; but the cake is tasty with a strong but not overbearing flavor. Individual cupcakes sell for $3.25 each.
Cupcakes! is a month-old cake shop at 527
Maple Avenue in Vienna, a ten minute drive from OHS. Cupcakes! sells adorably decorated treats, but lacks a wide variety of flavors. The cupcakes are not baked at the store, but are brought in by a baker from a separate location. Despite not being baked in the store, the petite treats taste like they’re fresh out of the oven, even if not eaten right away. The frosting is incredibly light, sweet and packed with flavor. Individual cupcakes sell for $2.95 each.
Cupcakes Actually, a snazzy cupcake
bakery located in the center of Fairfax Corner, has a wide variety of flavors and designs to their baked goods. The Simply Red and Actually Dipped Black and White cupcakes were sampled. Despite the delectable icing and sweet smell, the cake portion is on the dry side and leaves little to be desired. Another downside is that not all the cupcakes featured on their website are available in stores at any given time. Individual cupcakes sell for $3.50 to $3.75 each.
shannon ragan and camille may copy editor and staff writer page 30 outlook a&e oct. 1, 2010
media mix
Coming
movie
Legend of the Guardians: Owls of Ga’Hoole
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don’t expect to go into many children’s movies, especially those about the trials and tribulations of talking animals, and enjoy it. In fact, I typically expect the opposite. With “Legend of the Guardians: Owls of Ga’Hoole” I was pleasantly surprised. The plot wasn’t the most masterful I’ve ever seen: a classic story of good versus evil and a prodigal protagonist who aspires to be one of the great; but it worked. It set up a good platform for the beautiful animation and comical characters. Our main guy, Soren,
techonology
isn’t too interesting. He’s full of heart and soul and natural flying talent, but he’s got the personality of a board. The movie is redeemed however by his slapstick band of sidekicks that assist him on his long journey to a magical island, not to mention the short lines dropped in by a couple of bumbling enemies. If it seems like I didn’t enjoy the movie though, don’t get me wrong. The good characters that were in it, were worth a million. They might not fully have explained the evil weapon being crafted by the bad guys, but the action was alright; and even fighting to the death, owls are adorlisa baumgartner able.
a&e editor
new generation iPod touch
“FHD
rom
to OMG” as Apple puts it, the highly anticipated mid-September release of the fourth generation iTouch came with improved features, such as the high definition video camera. Along with the quality, it serves as a dual camera so it becomes more practical and fun to use. Taking pictures and videos gets a lot easier. Facetime is a video calling feature that lets any fourth generation iTouch or iPhone video chat.
Another app is the recently updated “Game Center,” which allows gamers to enjoy a vast selection of games right from their iTouch. The need for iTunes on a computer is almost gone. The new iTouch is thinner making it easier to carry around.The quality of the screen and speed is improved with a 960-by-640 resolution and an A4 processer. The new great quality comes with a price though. The prices range is from $299 to $399 depending on the amount of memory available.
melanie aguilar-rojas staff writer
*all photos takes from official websites unless otherwise stated
Paranormal Activity 2
Based on the novel by Ned Vizzini, 16-year-old Craig checks himself into a mental ward and meets a host of interesting characters.
Sequel to a widely popular predecessor, it follows the same style and terrifying format as the first Paranormal Activity.
Oct. 22
Detailing the creation of Facebook, this movie follows the story of the youngest billionaire in America.
It’s Kind of a Funny Story Oct. 8
Soon
Oct. 1
The Social Network
fall TV preview The World of Jenks My Generation This faux documentary tells the story of the graduating class of 2010. Viewers jump years later to follow the prom queen, nerd, jock and many others to see what they have done with their lives as adults. Some become promising people while others fade into the background creating the perfect stage for a potentially entertaining new TV show. Starring Julian Morris, Daniella Alonso, Anne Son, Kelli Garner, Jaime King, Keir O’Donnell, Mehcad Brooks, Michael Stahl-David and Sebastian Sozzi. (ABC, Thursdays at 8:00pm)
From award winning documentary maker Andrew Jenks, viewers follow as he lives the lives of twelve unique people. Jenks uses his talents to clearly and honestly document the different realities and situations faced by these people. While MTV is not known for thoughtfully provocative television, many viewers and critics have raved about this new show. Starring Andrew Jenkins. ( MTV, Mondays at 10:00 PM)
Highly anticipated new TV show NIKITA features a spy who has escaped from a secret organization which trains elite spies and assassins. Nikita is determined to destroy the organization and free the others that have been forced to join. While receiving mixed reviews from early viewers and critics, this series still has potential to be the next action-packed new television show. Starring Marggie Q, Shane West and Aaron Stanford. (CW, Thursdays at 9:00 PM)
Nikita
what’s the hAPPS? Facebook
Pandora
Angry Birds
Now Playing While it may impress with its fancy new features, including the startling and slightly creepy Places, overall the new version of Facebook for iPhones is not quite an upgrade. It’s slower, less reliable and gets a little over excited about notifications, showing far too high a number and failing to recognize when one is no longer new. Working in a manner very similar format to its popular website based on personally selected radio stations, this app is certainly worth a download, especially as its uncostly price: free. Now in combination with the new iPhone 4 software update, it can continue to play even outside of the application, fixing its only previous major downfall.
Name:
George Hubac Position: Math Teacher Favorite Artist: Matt Bianco, Basia, Barry Ryan, Max Greger, Richard Müller Favorite Songs: 1) “Don’t Look Back” by Matt Bianco 2) “Karezia Suite” by Siberius
Throwing birds can actually be fun. Angry Birds allows the player to catapult different types of birds to combat the evil pig kings and has to be the hands down most addicting game. It is just the right thing to play when there really isn’t anything to do. It can easily be played for two minutes or two hours.
3) “Sukiyaki Song” by FYU Safamoto 4) “Ty” by Richard Müller 5) “Sie Will Nicht Blumen Und Nicht Schokolade” by Max Greger
page 31 outlook a&e oct. 1, 2010