T H E O F F I C I A L N E W S PA P E R O F O A K T O N H I G H S C H O O L
INSIDE
Viewpoint
Cheating creates an emphasis on quantifying intelligence rather than being intelligent
Spotlight
VOL.7 | ISSUE 4 | DEC/JAN 2013-14
Standout gifts: What memorable holiday gifts have teachers received from students?
snailmail from the editors
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outlook staff
eason’s greetings, Oakton. It’s almost time for Winter break to begin and we have an exciting issue for you cougars to enjoy for both December and January. Since you won’t be seeing another Outlook until February, we decided to make this one extra special. The Best Buddies of Oakton attended a Wizard’s basketball game this month (pg. 5), which is generating a lot of attention. See what all the buzz is about! Ever wonder if you’ve really seen it all at Oakton? Perhaps you haven’t, if you haven’t been to the art room. See what the artists are up to and play a game of Eye Spy (pg. 11). Ever heard rumors going around in the athletic rooms? Students share their odd experiences while working out in the weight room (pg. 15). Our editorial this month focuses on the rights of the students. Are students’ voices truly being heard? (pg. 18). One of our biggest stories is concerned with SR&R. Do students actually have the rights they think they do? Do teachers? Get to know your rights! (pg. 22). And finally, we have a lengthy amount of Showtime entertainment for the next two months. Movies and albums are on review, a guide to the secret menu of Starbucks is unveiled, and a wonderful taste quest for anyone with a taste for culture can try something new this Winter break (pg. 25). Have a wonderful two weeks of break and see you next year!
regards,
Carly Stonehouse Alana Peters
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adviser
Elizabeth Fortenberry
editors in chief carly stonehouse alana peters
newsworthy editor alex driscoll showtime editor anee nguyen touchdown editor
torri marquis
viewpoint editors alex xenos spotlight editor jennifer prosser indepth editor reina datta online editor laura murphy business manager katie xenos copy editor erin preaskorn photo editor sunni bean staff writers veda bhatia
jacque groskaufmanis
maggie campbell
christiana meyers
jenna colturi
sam rutzick
morgan cooper
sonaj senior
courtney do
nikki singh
nancy nyamaa
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 sent via e-mail to carly. stonehouse.oaktonoutlook@gmail.com or dropped off in Mrs. Fortenberry’s box in the main office or in room 135. The Outlook reserves the right to edit submissions for grammar and content provided the meaning remains unchanged. cover photo by sunni bean student body: 2204 circulation: 1300
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newsworthy
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courtney do
shanalikeban
Junior Ben Wang is awarded by the Siemen’s Foundation for his work in math, science, engineering and technology.
ana.com
spotlight
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12 Hours: Nontraditional tourist spots in the DC Metropolitan area.
courtesy of ben wang
touchdown
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Boy’s basketball starts the season off right with a when against Madison and a sweep in Lee High School’s annual tournament.
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viewpoint
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Oakton’s newly implemented “Mandatory Fun Day” is beneficial for students as it serves as a break from school stressors.
courtesy of bill smith
showtime
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15 VOL.7 | ISSUE 4 | DEC/JAN 2013-14
jacque groskaufmanis
See what all the hype is about in the secret menu of one of the top coffee companies in the world, Starbucks.
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2013-14
| Contents| 3
Memorable Moments See what fellow students have to say about everything happening this month in Oakton
katie xenos
“I get so intense about holiday music.” -Sydney Lukehart | 12
“I love Butterfield’s student advisory.” - Allie Cortese | 11 “I’m going to
“Snowmance.”
- Casey MacLean | 12
Germany for holiday break.” - Karoline Davis| 9
“I’m starting to “My birthday is January 1st, so when the ball drops, it’s a countdown to my birthday!” fall in love with BC - Jess Malc | 12
“Elements can be “Do you wanna start something?” people’s names.” -William Li | 10
Calc... in a Stolckholm Syndrome kinda way.” - Amitav Kamani | 11
- Sragdhara Khakurel | 10 “My craziest dream snack is “Beware the day cats in “My an ice cream-sprinkle- dream involved space rule the world.” marshmellow-cupBeyonce.” - Reed Timoner | 11
cake.”
- Tee Nguyen | 9
“I love League of Legends.” - Grey Bae | 9
“Spoilers are life.” -Kirtana Pathak | 10
-Mike Lee | 9
“My weirdest socks have reindeer hanging off of them.”
- Caitlyn Diehl | 9
“We’re in full swing of auditions for choir.” “I don’t have anything school appropriate to say.” - Katie Juliana | 12 - Onjoli Landsdowne | 12
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newsworthy| Best Buddies visits the Wizards
A quick overview of the past month and a brief look at upcoming school events. Be sure to check oaktonoutlook. com for more newsworthy stories.
Key Club works hard to serve during the winter season
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From the Special Olympics game to NBA player Kyrie Irving visiting Oakton’s Best Buddies basketball game, Best Buddies tends to have basketball tied into its events. On Friday December 6th, the Best Buddies Oakton chapter went in on the metro with chapters from schools across the state to watch the Washington Wizards play against the Milwaukee Bucks and meet the team afterwards. Occupying a large section at the top of the stands, the initial purchase of 110 tickets was sold out within a week, with an end total of 220 students at the game for Best Buddies from across the region. “The way we got the tickets was that one of our schools, TC Williams, reached out to the Wizards team to see if coming was a possibility,” said Ryan Erickson-Kulas, program manager. “and so the Wizards reached out to me back in the end of October.” The wizards lost the game though with a score of 109-105, a tight game to watch for the Oakton fans. “When we were at the game, the Wizards were struggling even though Hoang [student] and I were cheering,” said Kyler Reese, senior. “When they were back on defense they couldn’t even get the ball.” One big supporter of these type of events is Ted Leones, the owner of the Verizon center, the Wizards, the Capitals, and various other teams. Holding parties before big Best Buddies events and enabling the tickets to be cheaper for attending students, he has allowed for Best Buddies to grow with hosting larger events like these. From one basketball game to the next, the Virginia chapters of Best Buddies plan to recreate the trip. “Were hopefully going to do this event again,” Erickson-Kulas said. “Maybe in the spring, but we hope to continue to make it bigger and better.”
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With the holiday season rolling around, now is the prime time to give back to the community. The Key Club works hard year-round to volunteer and serve the local and international community. The Key Club is one of the oldest and largest service programs for high schools and is a student led organization created to help the local communities and teach members about service and reaching out. President of the Oakton Key Club, Senior Caitlin Yee, was more than merry to share her experience as part of the club since her freshman year. “I was peer-pressured into joining, but I ended up liking it a lot,” said Yee. Now she works as the President to organize fun events for the club to do in order to raise money and gather supplies. For example, upon hearing about the disastrous typhoon in the Philippines, the club was able to organize a school-wide food drive and collected 131 cans in just a single day. In the winter months to come however, the Key Club is hosting their annual “Winter Carnival” through which the organization raises money for projects. “The carnival is filled with fun games and activities; we usually raise over two-thousand dollars for the Lemonade Project,” Yee said. Through the Lemonade Project, the club works to supply vaccinations to countries in need. Thus, the carnival is not only a fun time for all, but it is for a good cause as well. Now that the colder months have hit, it is a time to take notice of those less fortunate. While the Key Club gears up for their annual festivities, local shelters and kitchens could definitely use extra hands to help keep everyone warm during this season.
torri marquis
courtesy of caitlin yee
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MacDonald publishes cappie-tastic critique
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The Cappies organization is a critic and awards program for high school students interested in journalism and the theatre. In this program high school students are trained as critics and attend local shows in their area. Each of the reviews has the possibility of being published, and when junior Laura MacDonald reviewed Herndon High School’s ‘Seussical’, hers was. Every time members of Cappies goes to see a play, a group of judges selects the best reviews of the show, and when MacDonald’s was chosen, it was published in the Herndon Patch. “It was my first review that was published and I was really excited that it got picked,” said MacDonald. The Cappies season starts in the early fall when each group selects a show to review, usually a local high school’s big play or musical. A couple dozen students’ form critic teams and teachers volunteer as mentors. The student critics are often trained with help from local papers as well. Throughout the year each student is able to review five different shows and all of them are submitted to the Cappies website where teacher-mentors select which reviews should be published, usually choosing around five or six. “I really love journalism and drama, and joining Cappies was a good ways to see shows as well as work on my writing,” MacDonald said. Cappies is an organization that celebrates high schools students in drama and journalism programs. By seeing live shows, it provides them with the chance to expand on their skills with the hopes of being published.
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courtesy of montgomerynew.com
The Ben Wang theory leads to national award
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The Siemens Foundation provides over seven million dollars a year in support of education in areas of math, science, engineering and technology. Every year a select number of projects submitted from students across the nation are given awards by the foundation. This year junior Ben Wang was one of the Siemens Competition in Math, Science and Technology finalists. “It was really amazing,” said Wang. “I didn’t expect to make it to the regional finals, it was an honor to get this far” The competition for the award is very competitive seeing as the foundation received over 1700 applications this year. Only a total of 30 entries are chosen though, five projects from each region. In order to qualify for the award, applicants had to study a problem and then write a research paper that was then submitted to the Siemens judges. Students could also gain assistance from a mentor in order to receive help and guidance throughout the project. “I found out about the program two years ago, but it wasn’t until this summer that I decided to apply and do the project with a couple of my friends from [Thomas Jefferson],” Wang said. The Siemens Foundation provides students with an outlet to challenge themselves through science research and the opportunity for their academic achievements to be recognized.
Young democrat, young hero; Frank Feeney takes on Washington
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Oakton senior, Frank Feeney, was recently elected to the Young Democrats’ Disability Caucus. This organization is devoted to ensuring the “full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by people with disabilities,” as said as part of the charter of the organization. Feeney previously volunteered as part of Terry McAuliffe’s campaign for governor as an intern. In that capacity, he met both Governor-elect McAuliffe and Bill Clinton. Feeney’s position in the Disability Caucus is Vice Chairman for the Virginia Young Democrats, a statewide position. Feeney is a member of Best Buddies and recognizes the challenges of disabled people. “I know how hard it is to work with a disability and the lack of coverage and support there are for disabilities across the country,” said Feeney. Feeney was chosen for the position through his role in the election of Terry McAuliffe. One of Feeney’s co-workers, who knew of Feeney’s deep connection to disability issues, asked him to be his Vice Chair. The caucus is, at the moment, primarily focused on working on Obamacare, parts of which are highly advantageous for the disabled. The Obamacare policies would work to provide more comprehensive care to those with disabilities, a cause very close to Feeney’s heart.
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courtesy of ben wang
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courtesy of caiticurrey.wordpress.com
Oakton advisory class makes a difference Mr. Clark’s class signs a petition to make pediatric cancer research a national priority
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atching videos during class is the usual for Donald Clark’s advisory class, but on December 12, Clark’s class watched a video and made a difference after viewing “The Truth 365”. This documentary gives a voice to kids fighting cancer, and informs the public that there is a critical need for funding for childhood cancer research and that they, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and our elected leaders are in a position to help. Most viewers are at first unaware of the pediatric cancer world, but are soon touched by the personal and compelling stories courtesy of gracemelinda.com of the children fighting cancer. The Truth 365 wants the public to take action on behalf of children with cancer. This support will send a strong message to Congress, the White House, and the NCI. At the end of the film, The Truth 365 gives an action plan. First, you can share the film on social media networks, “Awareness is key”. It also gives the option to sign the online petition or to print a copy and collect signatures. Clark’s class printed a copy that totaled 18 signatures, which will be added to the online total. All signatures will be hand delivered to our elected leaders at a future date in 2014. The Oakton Administration is working to get “The Truth 365” to be shown during all Advisory classes in the near future. The right to petition is guaranteed by the First Amendment to the Constitution. Showing this video will increase awareness and inspire students and teachers to petition. With a student body of 2,204, Oakton has the potential to make an extensive difference in the world of pediatric cancer.
jenna colturi staff writer
all photos by jenna colturi
“I think this is a great cause, and hopefully it will save many lives in the near future. Seven kids dying from Pediatric cancer a day is too many,” said Sarah Clinton, sophomore.
“It would be hard for me to think of anything more worthy for our learning seminar than the powerful and compelling video. I sincerely hope more students will be able to participate in this worthy and noble cause,” said Donald Clark, US History teacher.
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Would you sign the petition?
X
Do you think the petition will be effective? “I think it’s a really great idea, but the
100% of students asked said yes
Based on a survey of 65 Oakton students randomly selected
“I, the undersigned, urge the President and Congress to take leadership roles by making pediatric cancer research a national priority in the budget. In addition, I ask the President to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop and implement a national plan for the advancement of childhood cancer research across all appropriate functions of the Department.”
85% 12.3% ... of students said no ... of students said yes
focus should be more on a program that has funds and already supports cancer research,” said Savannah Hard, Junior.
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2013-14
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a day falling in love spotlight|12 hours: Spend with the nation’s capital (Based on the New York Times travel series, “36 hours”)
all photos by jaque groskaufmanis
5:30 am The sunrise over the Jefferson Memorial is worth waking up for. Interestingly, if you go on a Saturday morning, you will find that you are not alone. The shores surrounding the memorial are scattered with photographers ranging from Washington Post employees to amateur instagramers, along with your average Washingtonians enjoying the view. This is one of the best spots in the city to watch the sunrise from, and the atmosphere on a weekend morning is both unique and refreshing.
2:00 pm With the evolution of Amazon and the kindle, bookstores are meeting their match and running out of business. However, with the run-down of corporate bookstores comes the renaissance of individual, used bookstores. The Capitol Hill Bookstore is among the best in the area, with books literally piling from floor to ceiling. The store, while small and cozy, seems to go on endlessly with entire rooms devoted to certain genres. This organized chaos is heaven for book loves, and easy for one to get lost in.
jaque groskaufmanis staff writer
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11:00 am After experiencing the beautiful sunrise, warm up with something delicious. The Coffee Bar is a hidden gem around the U Street Metro station that offers some of the best, most exotic blends that exist today. The Washington Post ranked the Coffee Bar among the best cafes in the DVM. Not a fan of the delicious drink? Not a problem. The Coffee Bar offers breakfast foods and seasonal hot-cocoa.
5:30 pm Finish up the day poking around Eastern Market. The Market is especially spectacular during the holiday season, as it is home to Christmas trees, seasonal foods and an abundance of cider and cocoa. The flea market or the artisan stands could potentially be the perfect place to buy your holiday presents. At Eastern Market, local artists, farmers and producers all come together to create a shopping experience unlike any other.
6399 Little River Tnpk. #101, Alexandria, VA 22312
Books in reality, what would you do?
Fictional characters often make questionable decisions, if you were in their situation, what would you do and who does that make you? If your significant other left you forever, what would you do? hint: think Twilight
If your significant other wrote you 365 letters, every day for a year, what would you do? hint: think the Notebook
live life, crashing motorcycles and jumping off cliffs in hope to see him/her again. A Recklessly everything he/she said and try to get back B Disregard together anyway. that things are over and try to move on. C Accept and systematically kill him/her and all of D Slowly his/her friends.
in length to each of them, sending back 365 A Reply letters, one for every day of the year. B Keep the letters but respond once a month or so. back to him, removing the need for letters. C Run them all. They didn’t need to be written, D Burn you left for a reason.
If a strange ginger family told you to run through a brick wall to get to a magical platform that would take you to school, what would you do?
If you found out someone threw a party specifically for you every night, what would you do? hint: think Great Gatsby
hint: think Harry Potter always tell the truth, so you run headfirst into A Gingers the wall hoping to not miss. them, but trust the gingers because they look like nice people. B Question don’t need them to tell you because you C You already know. them out of the way because you don’t take D Push orders and they’re unworthy of your time.
If you’re being assessed and no one is paying attention to you, what would you? hint: think Hunger Games Flagrantly curse them and their institution for
A testing you in the first place. an arrow at them, receiving attention and gainB Shoot ing their respect in the process. with the task in hope of some recognition. C Proceed wouldn’t happen because everyone always D That pays attention to you.
up to all of the parties, pledging your undying devotion. A Show Watch the parties from afar and admire them. B Show up to the party every now and then, trying the relationship. C toRunworkoff out but jealously burn down the guests in the process. D house andwithalltheof thehost,party
If you opened your wardrobe and it was snowing on the other side, what would you do? hint: think Chronicles of Narnia into the snow and gleefully make snow A Run angels. B Immediately shut the door and never come back. sure that everyone inside is okay and sacrifice C Make everything for anyone in need of help. D Quickly and efficiently conquer the land.
if you picked mostly... are driven by your are reasonable, using are brave and take BYou AYou CYou emotions and over react to your emotions as well as inreasonable risks to do any situation you encounter. You could be Bella, Ron, Gale, Noah, Gatsby or Lucy.
tellect to respond to situations. You could be Jacob, Harry, Katniss, Lon, Jordan or Peter.
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what is right. You could be Edward, Hermione, Peeta, Allie, Nick or Aslan.
have a mean streak and DYou can respond violently to sit-
uations. You could be Rosalie, Draco, Cato, Mrs. Hamilton, Tom or The White Witch.
jennifer prosser spotlight editor
nikki singh staff writer
I spy in the Oakton art room Odd and inspiring items from room 194
sonaj senior staff writer
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he Art Room is full of items meant to motivate students to create, build and dream up masterpieces. Separate from the vanilla hallways of the school is a place brimming with colorful pastel paintings, handmade pottery and fashionably-dressed, headless mannequins. Everyday items somehow look magical under the dim lighting. Is that an outlet covered in pottery clay? Or is it Art? Is that an empty carton of milk or a sculpture that represents a wasteful society? Is that a book or... oh wait, it’s just a book. Anyway, from the thought-provoking, to the bizarre, the items in the Art Room make sure there is no such thing as a creative block. all photos by sonaj senior
This piece of wall art represents freedom and affection in a world where everyone is scared of being loved. Its shouting for everyone to come together and unite. Or, a student was bored and decided to test a can of spray paint on a stencil. Who knows?
This child’s toy represents the fragility of youth. How the feeling of what it is like to be a child is often forgotten and put on a shelf, never to be thought about again. But then again, it could just be a toy that was brought it to be used for parts.
Overseas: abroad living in Laos
THIS is a serious piece, a commentary on modern excess. A statement on Americans who are always striving for more and more and never know when they’re full. Or someone could’ve just left their lunch on a pedestal...ART
sunni bean photo editor
Oakton student Monica Larsen has spent the semester abroad in Laos, a country in South East Asia for school with family. photo courtesy of monica larsen
Larsen poses in Luang Prabang with an elephant. “You can ride elephants and such, but I didn’t wanna do that cause I feel bad for them,” Larsen said. “So I just fed them bamboo instead.”
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enior Monica Larsen began her senior year 8,500 miles away in Laos, a country between Vietnam and Thailand. As a senior, Larsen has been able to transfer her credits at the international school to meet Oakton’s requirements. Coming back mid-year, Larsen will transfer back into the similar classes at Oakton. Staying with her dad and brother in Vientane, Larsen has had to adjust to living in a different continent for the past four and a half months. But even being with her dad and brother, she’s left behind other family. “The most difficult part was probably leaving my sister for five months cause I’m with her basically all the time,” said Larsen. “So it’s kind of weird not seeing her every day.” Meeting a new set of people, Larsen has had to immerse herself in the Lao International School Panyathip which has students from all over the world. “The biggest cultural difference is definitely that everyone is friends with each other,” Larsen said. “Like there are no cliques and stuff like that.” But not only are the people different, the culture is different as well. Along with a different language and school, the Laos is also a communist country. Significantly different politically, the Lao culture emulates a system that differs from the United States in the pace and attitude. “My favorite thing about Laos is probably that everything is super laid back and no one really cares about anything,” Larsen said. “There are laws but since it’s a communist country you just pay off police and you can pretty much do what you want so I guess there are pros and cons to that.” DECEMBER/JANUARY 2013-14
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Gifts triumphs and tumbles
Teachers reflect on some of the best and funniest gifts they have received Adam Cheney: Starbucks overload
inaneadam.com
Adam Cheney: High tech surprise
It’s no secret that Starbucks is one of the many local hot spots in Oakton. But unfortunately for Adam Cheney, psychology teacher, receiving over $100 worth of Starbucks gift cards was a little much. “The thought itself of gift-giving was nice, but it was a little excessive. I had to put them all onto one gift card and it took months to use it up,” Cheney said.
apple.com
According to Kelly Butterfield, another psychology teacher, no gift is a bad gift. Her favorite present? “I got a BeDazzler once. It was awesome. I BeDazzle everything now. It’s like they knew me,” Butterfield said. susankatzkeating.com
menorah.com
Lesley Hogan: Wrong Holiday
Lesley Hogan from the math department loves the thoughtfulness of gifts from students, especially back when she taught elementary school. But sometimes the cute little kids don’t realize that not everyone celebrates the same holidays. “I got a set of Santa cups and stuff but I’m actually Jewish! But I still kept the towel with the snowflakes on it,” Hogan said.
Sometimes students don’t think gift cards or baked goods are enough for their favorite teacher. Why not go all out? “My first year teaching here, a whole bunch of students pooled together their money and bought me an Apple TV. It was only like 15 bucks for each of them. I loved it,” Cheney said.
Brandon McCulla: Colossal card
Kelly Butterfield: A BeDazzling gift
amazon.com
alana peters editor in chief
Brandon McCulla, a teacher in the history department, loves getting a good laugh from the creativity of his students. “Two years ago my student gave me a giant thank you card filled with pictures of things that came up when she Googled ‘Brandon McCulla.’ When I saw it I just laughed. It was the most creative gift I ever received,” said McCulla.
Lesley Hogan: Math lovers, unite
alana peters
Sometimes it’s the humor in a present that warms a teacher’s heart. Not everything has to be expensive if it is meaningful and tickles the funny bone. Hogan received a funny pin from a student. “It says ‘Dear Math, I’m not a therapist. Solve your own problems,’ which is so cute,” Hogan said.
Gift ideas that can’t go wrong Don’t flub it up with your favorite teacher... these gifts will help you maintain your “teacher’s pet” status. “That is so four score and seven years ago” mug. $10 on Cafepress. cafepress.com
...for a history teacher
Amazon gift cards. Any price ($10, 15, 20, 25) on amazon. com.
Red Faced Math Wall Clock. $17 on Cafepress. cafepress.com
...for a math teacher
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amazon.com.
...for any teacher
touchdown
Winter highlights of Oakton cougars on the prowl for victory courtesy of katie pierce
Swim & Dive Unfortunately, after two consecutive undefeated seasons for boys’ and girls’ swim and dive teams and two consecutive state championships for the girls, Oakton Swim and Dive lost their first meet of the season against Robinson on Friday, Dec. 6. “Despite the loss, there were a number of great swims and state cuts in various events,” said junior Katie Peirce. The team will hope to finish the season strong and beat Robinson the second time the two schools meet, which will be in mid-January.
courtesy of karlie cronin
Girls Varsity Basketball Varsity girls basketball is off to a great season, with an undefeated record of 4-0. Despite game cancellations due to the snow days, the team is looking forward to competing in their holiday tournament that will occur over the winter break. After the break, the team will face their toughest opponent, Mount Vernon, who they lost to last year. Afterwards, they will continue normal competition against teams in their district.
Boys Varsity Basketball
courtesy of oakton athletics
Varsity boys basketball starts of the season with a successful 3-0 record with wins against Madison, Lee, and McLean. “I think we will have an overall successful season,” said captain Will Smith. “We have a solid starting five and will overall do well. We have a lot of competition coming up after winter break but I feel that we will come out on top. Our toughest games will be against Robinson, Herndon, and Chantilly. Chantilly is always a big game but I feel we are prepared.” christiana meyers
Track & Field Although it is early on in the track and field season, the team is off to a great start. Led by Coach Byers and Decker, as well as captains Jack Stoney, David Atkinson, Matt Livingston, Miles Lindsey, Paul Greenough, Allie Klimkiewicz, Hailey Dougherty, and Anna Jordon, the Cougars are off to a 2-0 start in league wins against Chantilly and Westfield. However, the invitational was not as successful as the team had hoped. “This invitational was the first one of the season and the first one for a lot of the people on the team,” said Coach Byers. “Over half of the team this year is new but I have confidence that once people’s technique improves and they gain more experience the season will end successfully.”
christiana meyers staff writer
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2013-14
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Weight room shenanigans
alana peters editor in chief
Athletes reflect on the strangest things they have seen in the school’s work-out room
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he weight room is a place for individual teams to work out together and focus on strengthening and conditioning during the off-season. “We try to coordinate teams getting alana peters into the weight room and everyone gets an equal opportunity to be in there,” said Grif Barhight, Assistant Director of Student Activities. But sometimes the unpredictable happens or a surprise guest may appear for a quick work out. Many athletes have experienced some outof-the-ordinary occurrences, and get a good laugh when reflecting on what they saw. “Once, the track team was in the weight room doing Zumba, and so the whole football team joined in. It was pretty fun,” said senior football player Daniel Vogel. “And another time [teammate] Eric South danced for 45 minutes [in lieu of] his workout which was hilarious.” In once instance, the girl’s soccer team didn’t witness another student in the weight room, but an administrator. “We had to be at the school at 6 AM for weight lifting, which was crazy,” said Katie Veltman, a senior on the soccer team. “But
we were all waiting in the hallway and we didn’t know why we couldn’t go in so we opened the door and Dr. Banbury was in there by himself just going from machine to machine. He was reppin’ the Oakton spirit in a gold Oakton shirt and had a towel around his neck. We weren’t allowed in and we felt really weird like we were intruding on his time because apparently he does that a lot.” Sometimes with such a busy schedule, faculty needs to get a work-out in, too. The reason students who aren’t associated with a sport don’t have permission to use the weight room is because of safety and scheduling reasons. That’s why students won’t typically see just anybody working out at random times, unless it’s Dr. Banbury. “The problem is when students who are not involved in activities try to work out. It’s just not safe because they don’t have supervision and usually they don’t have a physical or anything either,” Barhight said.
A season starting with a bang
carly stonehouse editor in chief
Boy’s varsity basketball concludes their tournament with 3-0 lead
*team’s record as of December 7th* s the Boy’s varsity basketball tournament at Lee High school took to a close this past weekend, it became apparent of the team’s slamming success. Despite the snow and ice, the boy’s finished off with a strong win against Maclean and Lee, adding to their victory against Madison for 3-0 record. Senior captain Will Smith and the rest of the basketball team, believes they truly have potential to go far this upcoming season. “I think we have a very solid squad. We haven’t had too much competition yet this season, but some good games should definitely be against Chantilly, Robinson and Herndon,” said Smith. Junior and first year Varsity player Josiah Walker, is excited for the teams success so far this season. However, he attributes this success to the leadership the Seniors bestow on the underclassmen. “We have really good Senior leadership this year compared to my team last year. The boys really guide us and without that we wouldn’t be 3-0,” said Walker. Not only this, Walker is excited about the team’s size this year. “I really like that the team is small,” said Walker. “It really builds a sense of a better companionship between all the players.” Overall, the Cougars have high hopes for a solid season this year. Jack Chapman, senior player that returned to play basketball after a break his junior year, is excited to get back in the swing of things. “I’m just excited to get back out there and go up against some of our biggest opponents, said Chapman. “I’m hoping to win some division titles and really make a statement this year to Virginia on what kind of team Oakton really is this year.”
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14 | touchdown | D E C E M B E R / J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3 - 1 4
courtesy of bill smith
Basketball schedule
Dec. 20th FRI. Jan. 7th TUE.
(H) vs. STONEBRIDGE (H) vs. MT. VERNON
Jan. 10th FRI.
(H) vs. WESTFIELD
Jan. 14th TUE.
(A) vs. ROBINSON
Back on the ice
torri marquis touchdown editor
Hockey has high hopes for the season
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n Friday, Nov. 22, Oakton hockey players hit the ice for their first game of the winter season against Battlefield High School. Although they weren’t able to come away with the win, they are still confident about their chances of having a strong season. “We played a pretty good team,” said junior Alex Morgan. “It wasn’t the result that we wanted but in the end that one game won’t make that big of a difference. The season will probably go in our favor.” Junior Trey Aiello also has faith in his team. “I think we’re probably going to be better than last year’s team, so hopefully we’ll make a good run through the playoffs,” said Aiello. “It’s looking pretty positive.” One of the reasons that the season looks bright is the new freshmen on the team. Although some talented players graduated last year, these new freshmen Alex Morgan are expected to make an impact. junior left wing “I think we have a strong group of freshmen,” Aiello said. “They are definitely going to be some major contributors. We lost a couple good seniors last year, but I think the freshmen are going to step up really well and help us out there.” Even though they played their first game at the end of November, the hockey team had been practicing in the months leading up to the game to prepare for the winter season. Just like any other sports team, hockey used its off-season training to work on extra skills. “We worked a lot on transitioning between offense and defense,” Morgan said. “We also worked a lot on individual development as well as team development and setting up our lines and seeing who works well together.” Hockey games take place at rinks around Northern Virginia, but that doesn’t stop students from going to support. Hockey games have always been a popular Friday night event. “Last year it got pretty intense,” Morgan said. “The games were always exciting, people always came out. It was a good time.” The remainder of the games this season will take place at Reston Skate Quest, which is close to where most Oakton students live. Reston is generally the players’ favorite rink because people come out to those games the most. Overall, Aiello and Morgan hope to have a successful season and make a good run in the playoffs. “Free admission and no administration, that’s our go-to slogan,” Aiello said. “It gets really hype, so people should definitely head on out to the games.” Oakton hockey plays its next game tonight (Friday, Dec. 20) at 9:40 p.m. against Broad Run at Reston Skate Quest.
Past Games Trey Aiello junior center
11/22/2013 vs. Battlefield (L 0-10)) 12/6/2013 vs. Madison (W 10-2) 12/13/2013 vs. South Lakes (W 7-1)
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Upcoming Schedule 12/20/2013-9:40 vs. Broad Run @ Reston Skate Quest 1/3/2014-9:40 vs. Langley @ Reston Skate Quest 1/17/2014-6:10 vs. Heritage @ Reston Skate Quest 1/24/2014-9:40 vs. North Stafford/Colonial Forge @ Reston Skate Quest 1/31/2014-9:40 vs. Herndon/West Springfield @Reston Skate Quest 2/7/2014-9:40 vs. McLean @ Reston Skate Quest
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2013-14
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Acting / Theater Musical Theater Classes Productions
204 F Mill Street, NE Vienna, VA 22180 703.938.7301 www.harmoniaschool.org
Now Registering
viewpoint
Oakton students share their opinions on controversial topics at Oakton and in our community
alana peters
Students left unheard The opinions of students are largely ignored
Fairfax County Public Schools and Oakton High School act like Blackboard accounts about the effectiveness of the education they care about what students have to say, but do they? It is true provided to them. The questions were extremely vague and will that the county does make a small effort to observe the opinions unlikely have an impact on the decisions that the school and the of their students, but it often appears that those opinions are county make going forward. As for Oakton, the school makes esignored. sentially no effort at all to hear students out. If students’ voices were heard it is unlikely that funds would be The students themselves also share some blame in this predicaallocated the way they are. The school building is in terrible shape ment. Students make little effort to go out of their way to have and the laptops used by the science department are unbearably their voices heard. It is extremely rare to see students organize old, yet little is done to solve this. to implement changes. If there are changes that students feel Learning Seminar is a perfect example of like need to be made, they should petition the students’ voices not being heard. Both teachThe Staff Editorial is school or county; or get into contact with the ers and students have expressed dissatisfaction principal or other officials. This is the only way the official opinion of to get changes brought about when no effort is with the period. Most feel that it is a waste of time. Students would rather have longer couthe Oakton Outlook made to obtain the feedback of students. Ungar times to receive help and get work done. fortunately, students have no problem talking Teachers also do not seek the feedback of their students enough about problems, but have little motivation to get those problems or do, but disregard it. Teachers should ask their students whether solved. they feel assignments and homework has helped them or not. This The situation can be said to be double-sided. Both Fairfax Counis a critical point. If teachers are going to assign things, should ty Public Schools and Oakton High School show little intention of they not see if the assignments actually helped before assigning actually listening to students. However, at the same time students them again? Most homework assigned feels pointless and ineffecshow little effort to actually have their voices heard. This has led tive. the student body to be largely ignored. If students want their As stated before, it is true that students’ opinions are often voices to be heard, they have to take action and organize. Otherobserved by the county, but they are not observed nearly enough wise, students will have to be satisfied with what they are given. Students recently were directed to take a survey through their
18 |viewpoint| D E C E M B E R / J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3 - 1 4
Mandatory fun for everyone?
courtney do staff writer
There’s been an addition to the Oakton curriculum: fun
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courtney do n the depths of second quarter, students who are in over their heads with school work are in desperate need of an opportunity to take a break from their busy day to de-stress and have some fun. Eight consecutive hours of constant work is a lot to ask of students every day, and can definitely take its toll on a teenager. The school counseling board implemented Mandatory Fun Day in hopes of bringing some relaxation to an ordinary school day, and I think they achieved just that. Mandatory fun may seem like an oxymoron, but Oakton’s first ever advisory fun day was a success. Mandatory Fun Day originally started as Faculty Fun Day for teachers to relax and get to know each other better. The school counseling board decided this would be a good opportunity for students to do the same. Learning Seminars were created last year in an attempt to close the age-driven gap between grades so that the school would become Mrs. Hartley’s advisory gathers around to play a game of music trivia in a more knit-close community. With the help of Mandatory Fun the auxiliary gym. “We had to guess the title and the artist of the song Day, this goal just might be accomplished. that was playing,” says junior Lauren Harvey. “We thought it would help build relationships [within advisories] because that’s hard to do when everyone’s too busy working,” While met with varying degrees of enthusiasm, Mandatory Fun said school counselor Karyn Mrowka. Day definitely provided a getaway from schoolwork. Whether Although many advisories ended up playing a movie while they liked it or not, students were forced to step away from studystudents were on their phones in the dark, several hosted some ing for an hour, something the faculty is starting to focus more awesome activities. The math department participated in board attention on. It actually is possible to overwork the brain, and stugames and charades at stations in the auxiliary gym, while other dents seem to be getting closer and closer to achieving this every advisories gathered in the main gym for an old-fashion game of day. The faculty took a step in the right direction with Mandatory Gatorball. Festivities ranged from a school-wide scavenger hunt Fun Day, and whether it was actually fun or not for students, it with Ms. Fortenberry and Ms. Insanally’s advisory to tie-dying in beats sitting in a room in silence for twenty-five minutes. Ms. Conley’s room to a crash-course in golf around the upstairs hallways with Mr. Fowler’s class. “We actually got to bond with our advisory teacher and everyone got along really well. We got to know each other better than we did before,” said junior Kate Bogert. courtney do
Using Mr. Fowler’s golf clubs junior Carolyn Dixon, and sophomores Annie Crowe and Sarah Craig practice their swing. “We were supposed to go outside but it rained, so we made golf balls out of paper and tape and played around the school,” said Craig.
A poll of 50 Oakton students were taken at random to find who would like to see Mandatory Fun Day again sometime this school year.
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2013-14
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The truth behind academic dishonesty
How the pursuit of success overshadows the hard work required to achieve it
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ccording to recent data, cheating is more of a persistent problem at Oakton than some may realize. In a poll, less than one percent of students were able to answer that they had never cheated during their academic careers. Equally alarming was the fact that, in the same poll, ninety-seven percent of students admitted that, given a consequence-free opportunity to cheat, they would. It’s not to say that these students are necessarily bad people or morally corrupt; instead, they are simply provoked by the successobsessed culture in which they live. According to a survey, eighty-one percent of Oakton students said that given the choice between good grades and intelligence, they would choose the grades- a few temporarily meaningful marks on a sheet of paper over a lifelong, adroit mind. When broken down, this decision can be attributed to the practically omnipresent fixation on success, specifically regarding to college. Because of this, students have been taught that their resume takes higher importance than their actual intelligence or integrity. This distorted view of success is one of the main reasons why students cheat. The lazy and apathetic are not the only culprits in the cheating world; honor students have joined the bandwagon as they strain themselves to maintain perfect resumes.
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“[Honor students] have high expectations, so they feel compelled to cheat in order to meet those expectations” said *Alex, student member of the Oakton Honor Council. It is becoming increasingly evident that the emphasis is shifting from being smart to appearing smart, and that superficial knowledge triumphs over legitimate knowledge so long as it receives validation. This validation can range in forms including straight A’s and a “good” college name on a hoodie. “There’s a stigma associated with going to a ‘bad’ school,” senior Owen* said, “and I think that’s why I’ve cheated. Avoiding that social judgment is worth sacrificing [my academic integrity] once or twice.” Ironically, it is the very pursuit of success and positive quantification of intelligence that is leading to demise. Bad, dishonest habits do not simply go away after being swept under the rug. Corners are being cut and rules are being broken, all to satisfy this desire to succeed. What many people don’t know it that these cut corners are adding up. The United States currently ranks seventh in literacy, twenty-seventh in math and twenty-second in science. Unfortunately, these types of global assessments are not the kind that we can deceive with our interminable tendency to cheat.
...the emphasis is shifting from being smart to appearing smart.
*names have been changed for privacy of the students
20 |opinion| D E C E M B E R / J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3 - 1 4
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jacque groskaufmanis staff writer
Mood: Burned Out Athlete burnout is occurring as a result of overtraining and inadequate rest. Even Oakton Athletes are feeling the burn.
Athlete burnout is a physical, emotional, and social withdrawal from a formerly enjoyable sport activity. The cause of the withdrawal is from emotional and physical exhaustion of one specific sport, such as overtraining and inadequate rest. Many student athletes have gone through it or are going through it today at Oakton. One example is Mia Hamn*. “I was burned out, said Hamn. I needed a year off because I had played for so long and was getting tired of the sport.” Sometimes playing one sport for too long becomes a chore rather than an activity they love doing. Some teams, such as dance have four to five, three hour practices a week. “Sometimes we can be over worked and become too tired to perform,” said an anonymous dancer on the team. Coaches usually don’t realize that too much demanding can cause an athlete to become burned out. “Burnout is a process involving four stages, such as situational demands (high intensity training and high expectation for success), cognitive appraisal (does the athlete believe he or she has the resources to reach those demands), physiological responses (demands outweigh the resources resulting in fatigue), and behavioral responses (behaviors of coping),” stated Sport Psychologist, Ron Smith. Some students are even feeling forced to play their sport. “I feel pressured by my parents to practice everyday,” said an anonymous Oakton basketball, field hockey, and soccer player. No athlete should feel forced to do something they no longer enjoy. Sports are supposed to relieve stress not cause it.
The Communication Problem With the Administration is Growing
Katie Xenos staff writer
Maggie Campbell staff writer
Students are barely aware of what is actually going on
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o one expects any school administration to be perfect, The administration also has trouble keeping us informed about but there are a few areas of the current administration what is going on in our community. When a local gym teacher that deserve some scrutiny. One of the most concerning from Franklin Middle School, a feeder school to Oakton, died issues is the lack of communication between the the administration did not even acknowledge it. On administration and students. Unlike parents, stuDoes the administrations December 5th, 2013, Nelson Mandela passed away and keep you well informed? instead of recognizing his death they recognized the dents do not receive a briefing e-mail almost every week. These briefings include announcements of 71st anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Though No 79% fundraisers, reminders of games, and special meetthe attack on Pearl Harbor is important, Mandela ings or events being held by the school. should have been commemorated. Yes 21% Even though some events are mentioned in the anThe administration should be helping students become nouncements the parents are better informed than aware of what is going on in their global community. In the students are. How is it fair that while parents an article about the need of students being be aware of receive written reminders students must rely on current events on the PBS website it says that students their memory and listening skills to be able to actubeing aware of what is going on in the world helps Poll out of 112 students ally be aware of the littlest things? Though many them be able to make decisions on how they want to Oakton students have the ability to be great listenlive their own lives. This is why the administration ers, its difficult to remember all the announcements made during should start to acknowledge headlines in the local and global the second class of the day. To be honest not all classes are quiet news during announcements so that students can have not just a during the announcements any ways. Due to the extra noise in better peripheral understanding of their school community but of these classrooms its usually difficult to be able to make out each their global community as well. announcement. DECEMBER/JANUARY 2013-14
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Indepth
The truth behind the SR&R: Student Edition
Rights students think they should have “The ability to choose alternative assignments for ourselves in order to get the most out of the lesson.” - Chris Skangos, 9
“The right to take as long as you need on assignments without penalty, as long as they are turned in by the end of the quarter.” - Claire Rosenberg, 11
“The ability to do off- campus lunch, or personalize our parking spots.” - Ellis Heijst, 12
“The right to keep social and personal life separate from school issues.” - Katie Anderson, 11
You have the right to...
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Express opinions freely through speech, assembly, petition, and other lawful means
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The popular myth that we check our rights at the door has proved to be just that: a myth. Overall students have more freedom of speech than they realize. While violence by any means is not tolerated, students have the right to get together and state what they believe, both the good and the bad. Students can start petitions to protest things that they believe are either unlawful or unfair.
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Present a complaint if conditions or decisions do not seem to be in the best interest of students, and to expect a response.
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Students always complain that certain rules are unfair, and that they never get a say in how they are governed. However, this is not entirely true. Students have the right to campaign for an adjustment, retraction, or insertion of any policy, and expect a response. If a student is not satisfied with the treatment of a situation by a school staff member, he/she has the right to meet with the principal. It is important to remember that just because a student deserves a response; it does not mean it will be in your favor.
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Dispute a suspension or expulsion decision.
“To have the vending machines open during class and lunch.” - Carly Brennan, 9
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A common misconception is that a disciplinary decision is final. However, students or parents have the right to request reconsideration, a less severe punishment, or an alleviation of the resulting consequence. The administration is careful and works hard to give a fair trial and punishment, though, so don’t over-exercise this right irresponsibly.
If you have a complaint for your school about a teacher or a student right, here are the places that will help you:
• http://www.fcps.edu/dss/ips/ssaw/SRR/index.shtml (FCPS has a PDF of the student conduct through this link) • http://www.virginiarules.com/virginia-rules/student-responsibilities (The Virginia Government’s website lists the most common questions students have about their rights)
22 | indepth | D E C E M B E R / J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3 - 1 4
Fight for your right
reina datta indepth editor
erin preaskorn copy editor
morgan cooper staff writer
Although the SRR covers most student rights, there are some rights that are often overlooked, or even forgotten. Room 189: If you’re wander-
ing the hallways for Cougar Time and happen to get caught by a security officer, you may be escorted to room 189. You have the responsibility to go to a classroom during that time period; if you can’t find one, one will be appointed to you by security. While you may be under the impression that you are being sent to detention in room 189, that is not the case. In fact, this classroom is simply where students who have no place to go are sent. Being there during Cougar Time is nothing like actual detention.
laura murphy
That’s confidential: The
counselors are here for more than just help with school related issues. Students can go to them for anything with the promise that what they confide will stay between the student and counselor, unless the information proves harmful to the individual student, or anyone else.
Tell me what you really really want Anonymous teachers and Administrators let us know what rights they wish they had... “I’d like the right to have flex hours, to be able to work later, and to have long weekends.” “I wish once a month we would have Friday off, and I would like a couch!” “A master key, a recliner, and a TV.”
reina datta
Eighteen cool: With age
comes certain privileges and responsibilities. As a new adult, though still in that awkward in between phase, you may think you have the ability to sign yourself out of school. However, that is not the case. As long as you are still living with your parent or guardian, a note or call from them is still required.
“I think the classes should be set up like college classes so students can leave and study after being assigned work.”
reina datta
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2013-14
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Behind the scenes of SR&R: Student Stories Everyone has had that one teacher who made them think about never setting foot in a school again. That Mr. or Mrs. I-Only-Began-Teaching-Because-Torture-Is-Illegal. Someone who, years after the fact, you still remember every snarky comment or lipstick-stained sneer. In some situations, it is a funny story to share after you’ve left the class, but sometimes it’s bullying by someone who is in power. If you have ever felt that your voice wasn’t being heard properly, know that you always have the SR&R on your side.
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Make-it-Rain
In 10th grade I had to go to the bathroom and my teacher wouldn’t let me and played water noises and talked about rain and rivers instead.
” Long Hair Skinny Jeans Don’t Care “ “ ” ” My vice principal called my mom and told her I shouldn’t wear skinny jeans because my thighs are too ‘voluptuous.’
At my private school, we weren’t allowed to have hair extensions and my vice principal decided to rip them out herself. I had cancer.
No MAC On My Masterpiece
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I had a teacher who made students put make up on all their art work and she hated me because I refused to put blush on my pictures.
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Child Left Behind
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In 7th grade, my mom noticed my grades were always C’s or D’s so she decided to do my homework for me and I still was failing and it turns out she was just marking down my work because she didn’t like me.
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*All students’ personal experiences have been requested to remain anonymous for the privacy of the students and teachers.
24 |indepth| D E C E M B E R / J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3 - 1 4
sonaj senior staff writer
k o o l t u O y l i a The D n io it d e u n e m t e r c e s s Starbuck
Ingredients
•Vanilla Bean Frappuccino •1 pump of raspberry syrup for tall, 1.5 pumps for grande or 2 pumps for venti
Whole milk steamer: Add Caramel, toffee nut, and cinnamon dolce syrup (2 for tall, 3 for grande, 4 for venti)
Butterbeer Frappuccino
Juxtapost.com
Cotton Candy Frappuccino
Twitter.com
veda bhatia morgan cooper staff writers
#BasicBoys pool taken from 20 Oakton boys
What is a typical holiday drink? 80%
said Peppermint Mocha - $3.95 for a Tall and 320 calories.
Shanalikebanana.com Starbuckssecretmenu
said Gingerbread Frappucciano 20% - $3.95 for a Tall and 310 calories.
What is your most popular choice of a drink? 50% said Caramel Macchiato
- $3.75 for a Tall and 180 calories
Urbanspoon.com
15%
said black coffee - $1.75 for a Tall and 5 calories
misadventureswithandi
said Vanilla Bean Frappucciano
35% -
$2.95 for a Tall and 280 calories
polyvore.com
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2013-14
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‘Tis the season: it’s the Outlook’s declassified, winter survival guide
A Winter Wonderland
Hot or Cold?
Let it snow
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Warm cookies
On the rocks
eing inside might be tempting while the temperature drops, but there are lots of beautiful things to enjoy outside, so why not take a walk and enjoy the world. There are fun places like - Town Center and the Capital’s rink located in Ballston Mall in Arlington where you can grab some skates and go ice skating with all your friends. It’s $10 at RTC, but the cost for this place is worth it. What better way to spend your snow days than sledding on your favorite hill, or window shopping downtown?
n the colder months, stay warm and snuggly. Find some big blankets and I highly suggest a good pair of adult footie pajamas and some fuzzy socks. Staying warm is essential to having the best snow day experience. Remember to bundle up when you go outside; it is a lot colder than you think. Guys, no matter how much leg hair will keep you warm, shorts in the winter is a no-no. And ladies, thin tights only make the cold breeze a lot colder. If you want extra warmth, try firing up the old fireplace.
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Build some holiday cheer
Home for the holidays
hat’s better than a warm feeling in your stomach? When it’s snowing outside, make it snow inside - with some sugar and spice. Baking spruces up the household, making the home smell like warm, fresh baked cookies. Try something with chocolate or peppermint, even some cinnamon and apple tastes will bring out your holiday cheer. Peppermint bark with gingerbread and some nice hot cocoa will really bring out the wintery side of you.
now days are a great opportunity to revisit your childhood. Start a snowball fight in the neighborhood with your friends, create snow angels and even a snow fort for the most adventurous warriors. When you get too soggy, change into a nice outfit and go see a show on ice. Ice skating shows are popular for people in our area, not just toddlers, and you can grab tickets for Disney on Ice: 100 Years of Magic at the Verizon center for $30 - 185 online.
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veryone needs a little family love. While a cute significant other could be nice to snuggle up with, family always comes first. Grab the home movies where everything is embarrassing, and pull out those childhood classics, holidaythemed or not. Or, if you can’t bear anything your family has to offer, rent some movies off of Netflix, or go on a family outing to the movie theater and catch the latest blockbuster. Have a fun family day, you can do all sorts of things from baking to snow fights with your family.
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et’s build some holiday cheer. Making some festive fun stuff will increase your winter fun by ten fold. Buy some gingerbread and some frosting and you can create your own winter house, or get a box set with all the ingredients ready to go. If it gets too stuffy inside, don’t be scared to venture into the snow. If the weather gets frightful, it can still be delightful; run outside and build a snowman to share your winter fun. Put up some fun lights around your house to show your holiday cheer. (Don’t forget the mistletoe.)
isti a na
meyers
anee nguyen showtime editor
The Long Walk to Freedom ends Are you feeling the loss of this great world leader as much as we are? Then here is a theatrical tribute to the late South African President to cheer you up.
M A D I B A Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom (2013) FACTS he Nelson Mandela story will never cease to amaze in this 2013 film adaptation He was imprisoned for 27 years His birth name was Rolihlahla, meaning pulling the branch of a tree As a teen, he was a boxer Favorite food: tripe, the stomach lining of various animals He once ran away from an arranged marriage His birthday, July 18th, is Nelson Mandela International Day facts courtesy of CNN
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of this South African president’s 1994 autobiography. The movie captures the earliest moments of his life, growing up in a rural village, to his 27 year imprisonment on Robben Island, to his eventual rise to the highest political office in South Africa. Idris Elba stars as Mandela, alongside Naomie Harris as his wife Winnie Madikizela. Elba’s portrayal of Mandela is the highlight of the movie, as he brings a certain sense of strength to the role, unique to his abilities. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the many accomplishments of Mandela’s life, this is the perfect way to gain vital background knowledge about this anti-apartheid revolutionary hero. Director, Justin Chadwick, manages to fit the majority of this remarkable human being’s early successes in the 2 hour time limit, leaving you with a feeling of awe and empowerment. Make sure you find the time to watch this soon, as this indie film won’t be in theaters forever.
Invictus (2009)
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nlike “Long Walk to Freedom,” “Invictus” takes place after Nelson Mandela (Morgan Freeman) has been elected to the presidential office. In an attempt to bring the severely divided nation of South Africa together, Mandela uses rugby as an equalizer for native Africans and the white Afrikaans speaking population. Francois Pienaar (Matt Damon) stars alongside Mandela, as the captain of the South African rugby team, working on the field in the seemingly impossible struggle to bridge the gaps apartheid created. The duration of the movie takes place mostly during the 1995 World Rugby Cup in South Africa, while racial tensions are at an all-time high. Mandela turns to the popular Afrikaans sport, rugby, to try to create an atmosphere of understanding and unity between the long-standing national divides. Unfortunately, the team is doing
Everyone can rise above their circumstances and achieve success if they are dedicated to and passionate about what they do.
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poorly, so it is up to Mandela and Pienaar to come up with a solution to win the World Cup and keep the tenuous Rainbow Nation together. For those who are already familiar with the Mandela story or those who enjoy a quality sports flick, this movie provides an interesting marriage that brings the ever increasing global connectivity of everyday issues onto much broader multi-national scales. The performances of both Freeman and Damon are incredibly moving, and their South African accents are almost as awesome as the movie itself.
courtesy of wallpaperzone.biz
laura murphy online editor
Taste Quest
Sheba Restaurant
N OPIA ETHI
media mix
Experience exotic foods from around the world erin preaskorn in your own backyard copy editor
erin preaskorn
Location: 3900 Pickett Rd, Fairfax, VA 22031
If you’re looking for something a little different, try this Ethiopian restaurant. With a great atmosphere highlighted by Ethiopian music, this whole in the wall gives dining experience a new meaning. Sheba is reasonably priced, with excellent, filling foods that feature traditional Ethiopian flat bread. Fork lovers, this is not the place for you as utensils are not provided and you are expected to eat with your hands.
Dulce’s Bakery
LATIN A Dulce’s Bakery is the perfect MERICA dessert stop. Although it ofN fers a variety of yummy treats, this bakery sells more than just sweets. Dulce’s sells many different types of empanadas, including cheese and meat. Quality Latin American food at a quality price is this bakery’s major sell- courtesy of dulcesbakery.com ing point. Dulce’s is closed on Monday’s, but be sure to check it out any other day of the Location: 3900 Pickett Rd, Fairfax, VA 22031 week.
Plaka Grill
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GREE
erin preaskorn
Location: 110 Lawyers Rd NW, Vienna, VA 22180
Another whole in the wall, Plaka Grill is an unexpected dining hot spot. Though the outside is discouraging, the décor inside makes up for it in spades. Plaka Grill provides a casual atmosphere and superb Greek food. With many entrees to choose from, you’ll be tempted to fill up but try to save room for Baklava, a traditional Greek dessert.
Kob Kun
THAI
Looking for wellpriced, authentic Thai food? Look no further. Kob Kun provides delicious meals with your choice of how spicy it is. Located less than five minutes from school, it is erin preaskorn a convenient place to stop. I personally recommend the Pad Location: 3900 Pickett Thai, and don’t forget to pick Rd, Fairfax, VA 22031 up the complimentary mints.
Up close and not so personal
carly stonehouse editor in chief
Britney Jean Spears’ new album takes a tumble for the worst
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eturning to the 21st era with her manufactured pop sound, music veteran Britney Spears has just released her 8th studio album, “Britney Jean,” to the public ears. Advertised as Britney’s ‘most personal’ album, fans and myself, have been waiting for the upcoming release of her newest album co-produced by will.i.am. But much to my dismay, “Britney Jean” turned out to be nothing but an album filled of songs with forced attitudes to appeal to the younger generation. In short, the album was as personal as a visa gift card on your birthday. The majority of the album lacked the ‘touch feely’ feeling that was promised when first announced and instead, holds a feeling of an over exaggerated cliché version of the last 2 years of her life. Spears’ over eagerness to appear personal to her fans is her downfall. She tries too hard to distinguish herself from the overhaul of wanna be pop princesses that are making their way to the top of the charts. The difference here is how deep she is willing to get, which is barely any. Staying in the shallow waters, Spears’ duet with Jamie Lynn Spears in “Chilin’ with you” is the closest thing she has to personal. I mean they are sisters after all. But regardless of this 3:40 infraction, none of her history has ever shown through into her previous musical outputs and this isn’t a different case. Sure there is some depth to the album with features of top artists David Guetta, Diplo, Dr. Luke, T.I. and will.i.am but her greatest strength comes from her variety of musical taste and featured artists. Songs like “Tik Tik Boom,” “Body Ache,” and “Til It’s Gone” make the album a perfect fit for the dance floor. Then there is “Perfume,” “Work B*tch” and “Passenger” who will make their fame through being replayed on 99.5. The whole album would have been a better representation of ‘personal’ if Britney stayed away from auto-tuned maxed out pop and focused on conveying her personal life. From the sounds of this watered down album, Britney seems to be chasing for success with showtime D E C E M B E R / J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 3 - 1 4 will.i.am’s well-known beats rather than actually making any. photo courtesy of official website
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Concert for a cause
torri marquis touchdown editor
WMZQ’s “Concert for the Kids” raises money to fight childhood cancer On Friday, Dec. 13, country stars joined together for a great show to support an important cause. WMZQ hosted the Concert for the Kids at the Fillmore in Silver Spring, Maryland, and a portion of the profits went to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to fight childhood cancer. First on the stage was the Brothers Osborne, a rising country duo from Deale, Maryland. The two brothers, John Osborne and T.J. Osborne, performed some of their new songs, including their popular single “Let’s Go There” which was released earlier this year. They are signed to EMI Records, and judging from their impressive performance at the Fillmore, they are sure to continue to grow in popularity. Next up was seventeen year old Danielle Bradbery, the recent champion of the Voice. She sang some of her songs from the Voice, along with her top 20 country hit “The Heart of Dixie.” Bradbery amazed the audience at the Fillmore with her talent, proving that she has a bright musical future ahead. Following Bradbery was the country singer and songwriter Cole Swindell, the voice behind the popular country hit “Chillin’ It.” He performed his song along with some of the country hits he has written for other famous artists, including Craig Campbell’s “Outta My Head” and Luke Bryan’s “Beer in the Headlights,” impressing the audience with his vocals and his lyrics. The last on stage was the man everyone was waiting for: Gary Allan. The audience went wild as Allan sang his popular songs “Watching Airplanes,” “It Ain’t the Whiskey,” “Every Storm” and many more. The legend put on a great show, as he has been since the beginning of his music career in 1996.
The Brothers Osborne
Gary Allan
torri marquis
torri marquis
“Frozen” warms hearts despite frosty beginnings
Disney’s newest film goes down in a storm
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Photos courtesy of: moviehdwallpapers.com beyondhollywood.com
isney’s newest film “Frozen”, which premiered on Thanksgiving Day 2013, is sure to become a holiday classic. Many predicted an overblown, re-used story line, as Disney had not come out with anything new and original in the past few years. Recycling old classics like “Beauty and the Beast” gave Disney a chilly reputation. But as cheesy as it sounds, this movie starring Kristin Bell among others, is a heartwarming tale about the power of love. Sisters Ana and Elsa are royalty; however in a twist to the tale, Princess Elsa holds the great power to create winter. When her powers are
revealed on her coronation day, Elsa flees the kingdom and it becomes Princess Ana’s job to rescue her sister and save their land. She begins a journey into the mountains to retrieve Elsa and on the way, makes some rather interesting friends: a snowman, Olaf; an ice trader, Kristoff; and his trusty reindeer, Sven. Together, the team adds a humorous spark to the film. But with this adventure comes powerful lessons, because in the end, the movie does not fail to send the message that family and love triumph over everything. Former Broadway star Idina Menzel (Elsa) had her talent shine through as
she took on solos throughout the musical side of the film. Meanwhile, Bell (Ana) took audiences by surprise as she hit the high notes alongside her costar Jonathan Groff (Kristoff), who like Menzel, has history with Broadway. The stars definitely had chemistry and worked well together to bring life to their animated characters. The story behind the film itself is classically Disney and more than exciting. “Frozen” is definitely a flick to catch this holiday season.
nancy nyamaa staff writer
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2013-14
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anee nguyen showtime editor
PENNSYLVANIA: A Philadelphian squirrel dubbed “Tippy the Squirrel,” has been seen randomly fainting whilst eating nuts. It is supposed to be caused by drunkenness from fermented foods. (Huffpost)
SWEDEN: In a Swedish prison, a 51 year old inmate broke out to visit the dentist due to a tooth ache. He was due to be released the next day, and turned himself back in, only increasing his sentence by one day. (Huffpost)
SOUTH KOREA: In the city of Incheon, south Koreans have started to invest in an invisible skyscraper. Called “City Tower,” and unofficially “Tower Infinity,” the new building uses LEDs to project the image of the sky from behind it, so that it seemingly disappears from Incheon’s skyline. (Weirdasianews)
AUSTRALIA: Jack Mcmillan was arrested and fined for a film of himself riding an emu to work. (Telegraph)
CHINA: A 16 month year old girl was found with a dandelion growing out of her ear. A seed had been lodged in her ear canal, and by the time she visited the doctors, the dandelion had fully blossomed. (Huffpost)
Do current events make you yawn? Does the thought of reading one more article about the economy bring you to tears? Fear no more! Featured below are a handful of truly bizarre news stories from around the world that are sure to strike your fancy.
current events
What in the world?
WASHINGTON STATE: American football fans cheered so loudly at the Seattle Seahawks game against the New Orleans Saints, they caused a minor earthquake. The Pacific Northwest Seismic Network detected vibrations, measuring between 1 and 2 on the earthquake scale. (CNN)
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