Oakton Outlook 2012-2013 Issue 8

Outlook oakton

vol. 52 | issue 8 | 5.20.13

He said she said Take a look at the similarities and differences between genders while exposing the true perceptions held by both sides.

inside

spotlight

A day in the life of twins and just how much people are “seeing double�

showtime

An close-up on the Great Gatsby including a review of the movie soundtrack

snailmail from the editors

Greetings, Oakton! We are very excited to be your 2013-2014 editorsin- chief of the Oakton Outlook.

Fourth quarter is crawling to an end here at Oakton. Students are finally receiving end-of-year awards (page 7) for all of their hard work. But just because it’s almost the end of the year does not mean we can slack off just yet, cougars. In case you’re already done showing up for class, however, at least try to stimulate your brain by reading about what’s been happening around the world (page 31).

Although the stress of exams is overwhelming at times, don’t be afraid, you’re not seeing double. You’re just noticing the power of the twins at Oakton (page 9). But, if you really don’t pull through on your tests, you may want to look into getting a job over the summer (page 11).

As always, good weather brings good cheer. Lots of outdoor events are happening (page 18), so keep Memorial Day open. Since the weather is so glorious, getting fit is on the to-do list for many student athletes as well. Should you spend your time carefully counting or purposely packing on the calories (page 30)? Whatever you decide, make sure you do what is best for you.

And now we face the ultimate question: he said, she said (page 12)?

What do guys really think about the female fads, and how are girls handling hunks with headbands? What do girls carry in their bags, and guys in their pockets? Our investigation will get you those answers.

your future EIC’s, Alana Peters Carly Stonehouse

outlook staff adviser lauren luna editors in chief

gabriela driscoll michelle lorusso madlin mekelburg marilyn yang

newsworthy editor erin bennett showtime editor carly stonehouse touchdown editor jennifer prosser viewpoint editors sofia crutchfield kim gibbons

spotlight editor karli gillespie indepth editor melanie aguilar online editor oliver lopez-gomez business manager ria bhatia copy editor reina datta photo editor

alana peters

staff writers sunni bean abbey bonin alex driscoll natalie eberhart lauren embroski kenneth hippe jacque groskaufmanis

torri marquis ramya mukalla laura murphy anee nguyen erin preaskorn alex xenos

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 email to marilyn.yang@ oaktonoutlook.com or dropped off in Mrs. Luna’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 alana peters student body: 2138 circulation: 1300

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snailmail 5.20.13

in this issue

vol. 52| issue 8 | 5.20.13 courtesy of ria bhatia

5 courtesy of derek mccleskey

madlin mekelburg

reina datta

9 alana peters

28

19

newsworthy touchdown groups The girls 5 Two 28 from the girls soccer

crew qualify to go to Nationals in Cooper River, New Jersey.

team makes their post season run as other spring sports contend for the region titles

spotlight a 9 Taking look at

the twins in our school. Can you tell the difference?

27

indepth

showtime

there 27 Isa major

19

difference between boys and girls? See what’s in their backpacks and find out!

Plan ahead and learn some fun and healthy snacks for your next test day!

contents 5.20.13

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Follow us on Twitter @Oakton_Outlook

newsbriefs 1

2

Oakton DECA takes over Anaheim

Competing at the DECA International Career Development Conference is a huge accomplishment for high school students around the world. This year, the conference was held in Anaheim, California. Juniors Briana Phan, Ellis Heijst, Michael Prosinsky, Pasha Mosehnin, and seniors Ryan Lucas and Kali Hawkins competed at the National Conference.

Phan placed first in the Apparel and Accessories Individual Series event at the Virginia DECA State Leadership Conference and placed top ten amongst 16,500 of the best DECA students at the National Conference.

“Nationals was much bigger and [more] overwhelming than states. At the national level, since it was so competitive, judges were harder on us because there were so many people. Despite the more critical judges, I worked my hardest to impress them,” said Phan.

“Overall, being a part of DECA has been amazing. Not only did I learn a lot about marketing, but I learned important skills for the future and how to dress for success. I made a lot of friends at the district, state and national level, and most importantly had fun,” Phan said.

A quick overview of the past month and a brief look at upcoming school events. Be sure to check out oaktonoutlook.com for more newsworthy stories.

Girls Varsity Crew makes history

2nd Eight competing at Nationals for the first time

On May 11, the Varsity Crew members competed at the Virginia Scholastic Rowing Championships. The competition took place at the Occoquan Reservoir, which is where the teams practice six days a week.

“On Saturday, both women’s varsity eights got third place at States behind Madison and NCS (National Cathedral School), making 2013 our most successful season yet,” said Casey MacLean, junior. “We’ve been training since November, so it was so rewarding for the hard work to pay off.”

MacLean is a rower on the women’s 2nd Eight varsity crew team and she has rowed for three years. This will be her second time at Nationals, but it is the first time that a 2nd Eight from Oakton has gone to Nationals.

“All the girls except for me and Jill Krajewski are seniors, so it’s really nice for their last season,” MacLean said. The boat is called the Smitty Werbenjagermanjensen. The name derives from a Spongebob Squarepants episode.

“We decided Smitty Werbenjagermanjensen would be perfect because ‘he was number one,’ and that’s what we hoped to be in our races this season,” MacLean said.

The women’s 1st Eight, which is also going to Nationals in New Jersey on May 24, received their boat a week before the competition, and they called it Shark Bait.

“We do this pre-race tradition to chant ‘shark bait hoo ha ha’ from ‘Finding Nemo’,” said Eleni Voudouris, senior. “We call ourselves ‘Shark Bait,’ [and] we have shirts too, so that’s why we decided to name our boat.”

The Shark Bait crew dealt with intense competition that could rival any sports movie moment.

“We crossed the finish line, neck-to-neck with T.C.,” said Lorena Croft, senior. “It was one of those races where you look across the line, and you have no idea who won. We had to wait at the finish line until a referee drove her launch over to our shell and said, ‘Oakton, please head over to the awards dock to claim your medals.’”

The crew had to paddle over to the awards dock and were greeted with cheers.

“We were all ecstatic, and almost all of us were crying,” Croft said.

After Oakton came T.C. Williams High School, McLean High School and Yorktown High School.

“It was a really close race, and none of the other teams really expected us to do as well as we did,” Voudouris said.

courtesy of casey maclean

courtesy of briana phan

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newsworthy 5.20.13

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5

Students shine at symposium

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Independent art students showcased their individual talents and what they learned throughout the year at the Oakton Art Symposium lauren embroski

or their yearend project, Oakton Independent Art students were asked to create and participate in what came to be called the “Art Symposium.” This performance required a lot of preparation but very little time to complete it. Senior Sofia Diez, was among the many students involved in this year’s symposium.

“It was so much work. We would sneak to [Mrs. Shark’s] room for lunch and work on it,” said Diez. “We worked through some Cougar Times, sometimes after school and then presentation day it really hit us hard but we all pulled through.”

Working alongside Diez on a seasonal impressionist art piece was senior Lauren Preaskorn.

“My preparation consisted of studying a lot of impressionist art work. There are a lot of seasonal pieces out there to study,” said Preaskorn, jokingly.

Following Diez and Preaskorn, but taking a different stylistic route was senior Ryan Hintzman who showcased his talents by playing the cello as part of his presentation. Being mainly a cellist, Hintzman was new to the idea of combining the two components into one piece.

“I’m a cellist. That’s all I do,” said Hintzman, “So when Shark asked me if I want to perform in this presentation I had never done anything like that before. It was really strange for me in the symposium because you go out and perform, but then you have to go out again doing something completely different later. I had never done anything like that before so that was a real challenge for me.”

While not everyone was necessarily excited about the time and effort spent preparing for this performance, what the students did share was their common love and passion for art and its history.

“Studying art history gives you a different way of looking at things and a broader perspective on the world,” Hintzman said, “People may know history, they may know some literature, but when you study art you can really figure out what they were saying, what they were doing and how they were living just by what they created instead of simply reading in a book about what they did. It’s a great way to approach things, and having the skill to see things from a different perspective is the most important thing art history has given me.”

Studying art history in depth has helped the

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newsworthy 5.20.13

staff writer

students make better connections in other areas of their education.

“Art gives more of an emotional depth to everything,” Diez said. “When you are learning history you get the broad perspective, but if you think about it, there are millions of people out there and art, I think, gives more depth to the individual and a better understanding of who they are. It gives a better appreciation to humanity through our thought and expression and, although now-a-days there’s a lot of negativity in the world, art, to me, is like a little bit of hope.”

At the end of the presentation Hintzman left the audience to ponder over the rhetorical question, “What is art?” Junior Eric Lim, one of the musicians in the performance, gave his take on what he believes art is.

“At least for me, I think art is the way people can communicate things to other people,” said Lim. “They don’t necessarily have to have an audience or a specific person they’re speaking to but it’s just a mode by which we, as humans, have been able to funnel our ideas to other people.”

Differing in opinion, Hintzman shared his idea.

“I left ‘what is art’ as the rhetorical question on the end of my presentation because to be completely honest, I can’t give you a definition,” Hintzman said. “I think it’s fine to say that you just don’t know. You can look at it and sort of get a grasp of it but to actually articulate into words what art is can be very difficult. Art is always changing. If you were to ask someone 100 years ago what art is, they might point to something that they thought was art but if you ask someone now, there’s probably someone that can give you an articulate definition of what they think art is, but it’s always changing and that’s one of the beautiful things about studying art history.

It’s infinitely vast.”

courtesy of margaret sharkoffmadrid

Hintzman showcased his musical talent at the Art Symposium for Independent art students. “I’m a cellist. That’s all I do...

I had never done anything like that before so it was a real challenge for me.”

Recognizing students’ success

alex driscoll staff writer

oakton’s clubs and students are awarded for their extracurricular and academic accomplishments

W

ith the end of another school year comes the award season and the opportunity for students to demonstrate their excellence. After working hard all year, varsity debate and science Olympiad made it to state competitions, Latin students excelled on tests taken throughout the country, and a few select students made it into Governor’s School. Through their different clubs, extracurricular activities and academic achievements, students are recognized for their exceptional performances.

The varsity debate team of juniors Monica Hanratty and Evelyn Wang made it to the VHSL state competition. The pair competed in the semi-finals and was one of the top four teams that competed in the Policy division.

“It was definitely more exciting than normal tournaments,” Hanratty said. “I was very satisfied with it.”

The science Olympiad team attended the state competition in April. The team placed ninth in the state and received a place of tenth or higher in 14 out of 24 events. With their “Designer Genes” project, senior Julin Justin and junior Shinar Jain received a third place medal. The team of junior Ksenia Sokolova and sophomore Tommy Clark also received a third pace medal with their project “Robot Arm”.

“A lot of the better schools were there and it got pretty competitive,” said Clark. “The robot had to be built to meet certain requirements and be able to pick up certain materials in a specific time limit.”

In April the Paragon, Oakton’s yearbook, was announced as a one of the 2012 Pacemaker finalists awarded by the National Scholastic Press Association. The yearbook was one

of only 50 books nominated out of a total of 402 entries. The yearbooks are judged by a group of experienced journalists and educators, and being chosen as a finalist is a challenging and impressive accomplishment.

“It was really cool, it’s the highest award that you can get for yearbook,” said editor in chief, Kat Fleckenstein. “It really showed off all of our hard work and motivated us to make this year’s book just as good.”

The school year is a long distance race. For many students it’s time to dig deep and reach for the finish line. However, there are those among us who dig a little deeper, accelerate in the final stretch and strive for gold and recognition. courtesy of janine d’amura

Students from the debate tournament line up for the centennial commemorative picture. “It was really exciting just being there as part of the group that qualified and made it to states,” Hanratty said.

Medusa Latin Mythology exam This past March, students in all

This is a national test that assesses students from all levels of Latin on their knowledge of Greek and Roman mythology.

Silver Medal

levels of Latin were given the chance to take the National Latin Exam. This test is taken by students across the country and covers the Latin language, history, culture and mythology.

Bronze Medal

Gold Medal Recipients

Freshman Sammy Ortiz Sophomore Bronson Hall Freshman Andrew Brennan.

Corona Laurea Certificate Sophomore, Jane Nguyen

Corona Olivae Certificate Junior Patrick Holcombe

Juniors Patrick Holcomb, Kimberly Rigger and Anna Ernst Sophomores Jane Nguyen, Alexa Villaflor, Bronson Hall and Eileen Chen Freshmen Sean Xie, Lauren McDermott and Ryan Hill

Governor’s School

Each year a limited group of students from high schools across the state are accepted into Governor’s School. This is a month-long program during the summer where students study an area of specialty, whether it is academic or a visual and performing art.

The program is extremely competitive and students compete on a school, county and state level in order to be accepted.

Visual and Performing Arts

Juniors Emilia Brennan and Neil Holcomb Sophomore John Ferri

Humanities Program

Sophomores Eileen Chen and Catherine Sun Junior Pooja Seth Hayes Parker-Kepchar

Agriculture program

“

Juniors Christopher Suh and Evelyn Wang You had to study really hard for the test; it felt like I was spending all my time on Latin,” said Xie. “I ended up doing really well; I was among the top one percent of students that got a perfect score on the test.

”

Life Science Medicine program Sophomore Megh Kumar

newsworthy 5.20.13

7

spotlight

The face behind the microphone

karli gillespie spotlight editor

We have all heard her voice, however some may not have the face to match with it. We hear her every morning - she tells us the daily announcements and what is on the lunch menu. Meet Judy Manilli, the Burgundy Office Assistant and our daily announcer at Oakton for the past seven years.

How long have you been making the daily morning announcements?

“I didn’t always make the announcements; we use to have students make them. But then it got hard to get the kids in here, and coordinate which kid would make the announcements, so [the job] just kind of fell back to me.”

QA:

Did you make the announcements when you were in high school?

QA:

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Back in the Stone Ages there weren’t daily announcements, everything was just put on bulletin boards. In high school I played field hockey, I was also in the front guard of the marching band. I was also on intramural teams. At my high school there weren’t organized soccer teams or basketball teams for the girls. I played volleyball and basketball too.”

QA:

Have you ever had the yogurt or hummus biteables before?

QA:

Where is the best place you have travelled?

“I have never had the pleasure of eating either a hummus or yogurt biteable. And no, I do not have the desire of eating a hummus or yogurt biteable.”

“New England is my favorite. I love the coastline and Martha’s Vineyard. I was born in Pennsylvania, but I love traveling up there.[When driving there], I like going up the East Coast and traveling down the west side of it. So going up by the water, and coming down through the mountains. It’s a very nice place to hike and just drive.”

“Well, I love to craft things and make things. Right now, I’m working on building a greenhouse in my backyard. But I love scrap booking, crocheting, cross stitch, quilting and sewing. I’ve been doing those kinds of things for years.”

karli gillespie

QA:

DoubleelbuoD Seeing Harris PLatt rUCKER Liam

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Lars

lARS lIAM fav. color: blue

fav. color: blue fav. sport: hockey lucky #: 86 ideal vacation: Boca Grande, FL

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fav. sport: hockey lucky #: 11 ideal vacation: Boca Grande, FL

rom their shared birthdate to their favorite sports, Liam and Lars Rucker have always been similar. Being identical twins, their parallel appearance is usually the first thing people notice about them.

“People have different ways of telling me and my brother apart,” Lars said.

“Usually people can see a difference because Liam has a freckle under his left eye and I don’t.”

But a mop of blonde hair is not the only trait the Ruckers share; Liam and Lars have pursued similar activities throughout their lives.

“Everything one of us does, the other one will usually do,” Lars said. “We both have played hockey our whole life, and we’ve been doing crew together all of high school.”

Similar interests can lead to competition, especially between siblings. But it can also help to reveal differences and similarities between people.

“Lars is definitely more outgoing than I am,” Liam said. “I rely on him a lot more for social interactions and things like that. He uses his phone a lot, and I usually don’t. He also usually sets up like when we’re going to hang out with our friends. He might not be better than me at going out and interacting with people, but he definitely does it more.”

jack

12

Wade

jack wade

fav. color: orange fav. sport: lacrosse lucky #: 27 college: CNU

W

fav. color: orange fav. sport: baseball lucky #: 1 college: GMU

ade Harris may have been born nine minutes before his twin Jack, but it has never been an issue.

“Wade was born nine minutes before me,” Jack said. “But it doesn’t matter, because I’m bigger than him.”

Despite their age gap, Jack and Wade share similar passions and pursuits.

“We have a lot of the same interests,” Jack said. “We like a lot of the same things, like sports and music and things like that.”

The Harris twins have an older brother, but they acknowledged that they have a special bond, as is often the case with twins.

“We’re definitely closer with each other,” Jack and Wade said simultaneously.

While the Harris brothers feel the same about their relationship, they have unique opinions on being twins.

“I don’t really like being a twin,” Jack said. “People always assume you’re the same person, just because of that.”

Wade disagrees.

“It has its downsides,” Wade said. “But it’s nice to know that you always have someone who is there for you.”

Anna

10

Haley

anna HALEY

fav. color: purple fav. sport: swim lucky #: 6 fav. food: mac & cheese

A

fav. color: blue fav. sport: dance lucky #: 27 fav. food: mac & cheese

nna and Haley Platt may share a birthday, but they have little else in common. At first glance, their physical similarities are obvious, but with a closer look, their unique attributes that classify them as fraternal twins become clear.

“I really don’t think we look alike at all,” Anna said. “We’re like totally different people.”

Their appearance is not the only thing that differs between them, their interests and hobbies vary as well.

“I think our age is honestly our biggest similarity,” Anna said. “We don’t really have any of the same interests.”

Despite different hobbies and pursuits, Anna and Haley experience a healthy dose of competition that is evident in every sibling relationship, but heightened between twins.

“We’re really competitive,” Haley said. “Anna got her license before me, and she got it late, so she’s trying to make it so I have to get mine late too.

We’re competitive about things like that.”

madlin mekelburg editor in chief

spotlight 5.20.13

9

Oakton’s newest officers

jennifer prosser touchdown editor

The ballots are in, the votes have been counted, next year’s elected officials have big plans to improve the school

SGA

SGA President Ellis Heijst (2014)

“After my experience as class president, working with teachers and planning events, I realized that I’d love to be able to do that for the whole school,” said Ellis Heijst.

class of 2014 President: Ellis Heijst Vice President: Katherine Dunwoody

“I like being a representative for the class, getting students’ input and making decisions to make the school a better place,” Dunwoody said.

Executive Council: Ali Eagen, Carly Stonehouse and Bailey Uitz

“I was really excited to hear that I get to be on the Executive Council again,” Uitz said. “We’re in charge of all the senior events like ChickFil-A days, t-shirts and everything graduation.”

Sponsored by Sean Greeney and Kristi Layman

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spotlight 5.20.13

class of 2015 President: Milan Khadka

“I want to be president so I could make an impact on the school and help bring it together,” Khadka said.

Vice President: Giovanni D’Ambrosio

“I’m new to the school so I wanted to get involved right away,” said D’Ambrosio. “Student government is a great way to make friends and know the administrators so I can make an even bigger difference.”

Executive Council: Veronica Silva and Nima Noori Sponsored by Stacey August and Dean Grenfell

SGA members left to right: VP and Student Advisory Council Katherine Dunwoody (2014), Executive Council and Student Advisory Council Carter Lawhorn (2014), Executive Council and Student Advisory Council Ali Eagen (2014), Student Advisory Council Gillian Townsend (2013)

class of 2016 President: Wilson He Vice President: Anya Heijst

“My brother is school president so I thought it would be a cool legacy thing,” said Anya Heijst.

“I want to lead my class and make it a really fun four years.”

Executive Council: Rebecca Clarke and Alex Marquis

“I want to create an enjoyable high school experience for me and my peers,” said Marquis.

“I’m looking forward to all of the opportunities of being on Executive Council.”

Sponsored by Brandon McCulla and Adam Cheney

Jobs for hire

gabriela driscoll editor in chief

if you...

if you...

Looking to find the perfect job this summer, but not quite sure where to look? Follow this guide to find a job opening in the area that matches your strengths and interests.

13035 Fair Lakes Shopping Center Fairfax, VA 22030

contact:

(703) 803-1050 Visit www.snagajob. com/job-seeker/jobs/ job-details. aspx? postingid=12788840 and apply online.

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then you should...

location:

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contact:

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Work as a Sales Team Member and help customers meet their toy needs.

$ $ $ $ $

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description:

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how to apply:

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(703) 435-4715

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contact:

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13354 Franklin Farm Road Herndon, VA 20171

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then you should...

then you should...

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description: Work on the Restaurant Team Member Crew and perfect your burrito building skills.

Are neat and organized

$ $ $ $

if you...

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Are good with directions

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$ $ $ $ $

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$ $ $ $

if you...

description:

Work as a lifeguard to supervise and ensure the safety of everyone in the park.

location:

1400 Lake Fairfax Dr. Reston, VA 20190

(703) 435-0778

contact:

how to apply:

how to apply:

Visit www.snagajob. com/job-seeker/ jobs/job-details. aspx?postingid= 12153312 and apply online.

703-471-5415 Visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ rec/watermine/employment.htm and apply online.

spotlight

5.20.13

11

indepth

why women dominate college

acceptance

Throughout the past few decades, women have outnumbered men in receiving college acceptances with more qualified resumes; resulting in more challenging acceptance rates for women

Average GPA

Female: 3.1 Male: 2.9

Enrolled in College Female: 57% Male: 43%

SATS (Overall)

Female:1501 Male: 1525

-Writing

Female: 501 Male: 488

-Math

Female: 500 Male: 533

-Critical Reading Female:500 Male: 504

sunni bean staff writer

12

indepth 5.20.13

T

he carefully worded rejection. While colleges were once male dominated institutions, times have changed. Although certain fields of study are mostly male, female presence has grown to encompass 57 % of undergraduates according to Time Magazine. A transformation changed the selective colleges such as the University of Virginia and Dartmouth, that weren’t fully co-ed in just the 1970s, to now having to limit their female acceptance rates because of the high number of qualified female applicants. So what has changed in the last 40 years making women so much more qualified?

In the end, it can be attributed to grades and the ways children are taught. College acceptance is based on a variety of academic factors, and women tend to apply for more leadership positions and end up having higher grade point averages, with women at an average of a 3.1 and men at a 2.9 according to The Washington Post.

While men and women do just as well on standardized tests and SATs, the discrepancy between learning habits is instilled before any of those factors even matter. Beginning in childhood, grades are based on behavior and the ability to sit still. It is a fact that girls mature faster, and it seems a given that their ability to be attentive in school follows; causing the trend of higher grades.

But can young boys really be at fault? The system revolving around sitting still for a long time beginning at the age of five is a hard one to adapt to, and the work

ethic that is established as kids grow up is sometimes lost on boys who mature at a slower rate. Between females being more willing to put themselves out there for leadership positions to the domination of AP classes according the U.S. News and World Report, there is a more competitive atmosphere among high school girls stemming from childhood.

The problem is that even if the heightened acceptance rate is undesirable to females, neither is a school dominated by girls. Take William and Mary: the acceptance rate was 18% higher for men in 2007 making it harder for females to be accepted. Girls dominate the college accounting for 55% of the student body, and nobody wants to go to a school with such an imbalance. As the director of admissions, Henry Broaddus, told the Washington Post, “Even women who enroll expect to see men on campus. It’s not the College of Mary and Mary; it’s the College of William and Mary.” Does the need for a gender balance outweigh the need for qualified applicants? In the end, if people are driven away by the strong female population, then the most qualified applicants will look elsewhere too.

The debate for equality in colleges has been bounced around for decades. Trying to balance the ratio of genders, as well as upholding a high standard becomes increasingly difficult as the gap between the sexes becomes more pronounced. However, if colleges do not value the presence of men, The Washington Post argues that they would often end up with around 80% of the student body being female. And then it comes down to the question is the pressure of being held to a higher standard for women necessarily a bad thing?

The competitive push is a positive for women because it gives them a challenge.

There are still male students who strive for leadership positions and have a high GPA. In the end, it doesn’t come down to the individuals but a system built on perfectionism, leaving little wiggle room for the ever growing gender gap.

The perfect date

kim gibbons viewpoint editor

“

“

Dinner and a movie depends: did I make dinner, or did we go out to eat?

Did we go somewhere nice? It also really depends on the girl. And if we see a really cool movie, like a superhero movie, that would be fun.

Dinner and a movie is really fun because it’s kind of like the classic romantic date that every girl wants to go on. You can really jazz it up and you can go somewhere really special for dinner and go see a funny movie; there are a lot of options.

“

”“

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I love picnics. I’ve actually been planning one of these. You can go for a stroll in the park and then sit down for lunch or dinner. Dinner is great, because you can stay there afterward and just wait for the stars to come out.

My girlfriend loves baking, so we do that a lot when we’re at home. When you see your date doing something that she really likes and you get to do it with her, she’s just so happy and you can tell she had a lot of fun. Plus, I get to eat it at the end.

eryn cooper, sophomore

henry yen, senior

Here are some suggestions for all the couples stumped about how to shake things up for their next date. And for those of you too shy to ask that special someone, maybe these will give you an idea about what sparks his or her interest.

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I think a picnic date would be really romantic, especially if the guy makes the food, or if you both contribute, and then you can go to a really special place that the two of you may share.

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Personally, staying at home is my favorite. I like the simple stuff the most. I love to bake, so that could be a really cute activity to do together, and just snuggling up on the couch afterward; it’s the simple things.

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What’s in his/her bag?

A look into what students’ “essentials” are

Though you may not realize it, the items you keep in your backpack could say a lot about you. The difference between what’s in a girl’s bag verses what’s in a boy’s might just surprise you.

Her

backpack

Oakton girls can almost always be seen with their Vera Bradley lunch boxes Diamonds are a girl’s best friend.

Jewelry is common in many girls’ backpacks Girls are notorious for leaving their hair ties everywhere Makeup is an essential in a girl’s backpack.

Ladies always seem to forget to clean their bags of movie tickets and other evidence of social outings

A guy’s backpack says a lot about him.

The underarmour backpacks seem to be very popular.

In order to keep their mouth minty fresh, guys carry packs of gum in their bags.

Snacks are a must have for any guy who needs energy for sports or school An iPod is a must for guys who want to avoid awkward small talk or mindless girly gossip

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backpack

Guys can keep time while still looking styling with a big watch.

His

Fashion in his/her eyes

What do they really think?

Do you think girls are the only ones secretly critiquing each other’s outfits? Wrong. Guys also look at girls’ outfits, and girls look at guys’ outfits. Whether or not it is said, it is inevitable that some people will have strong opinions about what others are wearing. Sophomores Armand Jeffris and Danni Nicholls share their thoughts on what the opposite gender wears.

What he says: Armand Jeffris HAIR: I prefer it when girls wear their hair down. Pixie cuts aren’t attractive, and a girl looks weird if her hair is too short, so long hair is better. Also, pigtails look silly, we’re not in preschool anymore. Girls shouldn’t do crazy things with their hair, like dying it too much, because it looks much better when they keep it natural. Unnecessary piercings like the nose are a no. Generally, girls wear too much jewelry. My opinion is that girls look better without so much makeup on. The more natural look is better. Some shades of lipstick and lip gloss look really bad. Generally, just go without. A casual look is best. I also don’t understand why girls wear hair ties on their wrist.

What she says: Danni Nicholls HAIR: A guy’s hair shouldn’t be longer than a girl’s.

I don’t like their hair when it’s too long, or when they have a buzz cut. Guys also should not get mohawks; it doesn’t look good. Most importantly, guys should not wear those stupid head bands. Flow bands are a no. It’s also really gross when guys have greasy hair. I think it’s weird when guys wear earrings. Guys should not wear jewelry under any circumstances.

CLOTHES: First of all, I don’t understand why guys wear another shirt underneath their shirt. Muscle shirts are usually attractive, but it definitely depends on the guy. T-shirts and sport shirts are better, but not super tight shirts. Those are just creepy. I also like when guys wear casual jackets. It makes them look dressed up, but not in a weird way. The more simple a guy’s outfit is, the better. Their shorts have to be at the knees; it looks odd if they’re any shorter. I think it’s stupid when guys show their boxers. Just a little bit is fine, but not when I can see your whole booty.

Guys should not wear skinny jeans. Colored shorts, like pastels, look good, though. I like it when guys dress up, but the outfit has to work together. Some people wear dress pants and really casual shirts and that does not look good.

CLOTHES: Girls tend to wear skinny jeans a lot, that’s pretty nice. A lot of girls wear yoga pants to look casual, and that’s a good thing. Girls also look nice when they dress up for game day.

They look good in athletic clothes. In general, keeping it simple is always a good look. I find that girls look better in softer colors. Sundresses are ok, but when they’re too formal, it looks awkward. However, I prefer when girls do not wear sweatpants because it just looks sloppy. Sweats are only ok during the winter. Overall, guys don’t care as much about what girls wear, their looks are more important.

SHOES: It’s unattractive when girls wear basketball shoes. It’s also not a good idea to wear high heels to school. Boots are good for the winter, but flip flops and sandals are better for the spring.

SHOES: It’s weird when guys wear flipflops, but I don’t like dress shoes either.

Athletic shoes are generally better.

reina datta copy editor

erin preaskorn staff writer

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showtime

Want something fun to do on a rainy day? Looking to learn more about ViVa Vienna? Need to know some healthy snacks that will help you think? Read on, and explore showtime.

ViVa Vienna

The town of Vienna brings back its best annual attraction photo courtesy of mctcampus.com

Junior, Katharine Dunwoody, makes sure to go to Viva Vienna every year. “Viva Vienna is always so much fun because it is a great place to hang out with friends and take in all of the festivities. Once I go to Viva Vienna, that is when summer starts for me,” said Dunwoody.

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very year, the town of Vienna comes together to hold its famous carnival, Viva Vienna, right in the heart of the town up and down Church Street.With musical entertainment, thrilling rides and captivating games, Vienna shows its town pride. For the residents, it always has personal meanings and experiences that make it a special event to remember.

Junior Rachel Huggins, has lived in Vienna for her whole life and has always enjoyed the experience of exploring her community.

“I love how Viva Vienna makes me feel involved in my community. It truly makes me feel like I belong here and have a place to come back to after college”, said Huggins.

“When I was younger, I loved the excitement of the rides and the awe of the musical perforshowtime mances.

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The musicians always played my favorite kind of music,” Huggins said.

Some of the musical groups that are featured include local,emerging singers, aspiring dancers from the Cuppett Performing Arts Center and unique individuals with extraodinary talents, such as magicians .

For example, there is Camille Thornton, a 15 year old pop/country singer-songwriter in Northern Virginia, who will be performing an orginal song on Saturday, May 25.

Teenagers can introduce the magic of Viva Vienna to their younger siblings.

“Now it warms my heart to watch my little cousins feel the same excitement that I felt when I had a new adventure at Viva Vienna,” Huggins said.

Many students are appreciative of the Vienna Council for providing this wonderful Memorial Day weekend spectacular to the residents including Alison Ford, junior.

“It’s great that Vienna cares so much

about its people and veterans, that they would organize this event for everyone to come together,” said Ford.

“I love going on the pulse-beating rides that give you such a rush,” Ford said.

Ford is one of many Vienna residents that has experienced the rush and exhilaration at this occasion. “The festive atmosphere is fantastic. The joy is contagious,” At Viva Vienna there are attractions for all ages that define the sentimentality and memories of the town. Viva Vienna will be from Saturday May 25 to Monday May 27th; 10 am to 10 pm; featuring games, music, rides and plenty of celebration.

Check out their website below. www.vivavienna.org

abbey bonin staff writer

anee nguyen staff writer

Cocoa crazy Dark chocolate has antioxidants that help the brain focus, which is essential to studying. The higher the percentage of cocoa, the better it will help boost studying energy. Healthy dark chocolate snacks are essentially dark chocolate covered items: berries, pretzels and graham crackers. An alternative to covering food in dark chocolate is eating plain dark chocolate and enjoying the study stimulation.

Fruits, especially berries, are extremely healthy and also stimulate brain functions. Berries help reduce stress because of the high antioxidants. You can eat berries plain, freeze dried, or frozen, and some “berry” healthy choices include yogurt parfaits, mixed berries and dark chocolate covered acai berries.

“Berry” your problems

ts.com

courtesy of shortfac

With final exams, SATs, and SOL testing coming up, studying has become a must. While you study, here are some fun and healthy snacks to help boost your cranium activity.

Brain food: food for thought

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Mint is a natural remedy for many brain related dilemmas.

Most commonly found in gums and candies, these refreshing sweets will keep you awake and focused, by helping your cranium stay active. Healthy choices are mint teas and mint jellies. For a fun bonus, try freezing a spring of mint inside and ice cube and putting it into your favorite drink.

Minty fresh mind

Lots of nuts are high in Vitamin E, like cashews and almonds. Nuts can be eaten roasted or salted, but preferably unsalted as it is recommended to keep sodium intake at a minimum. Try checking out trail mixes that include a variety of healthy nut choices.

Nutty study buddies

Don’t rain on my parade Never let the spring rain get in the way of having fun on the weekends.

Check out some of these indoor facilities for a great time while staying dry.

www.fairfaxcountry.gov

Located in nearby Chantilly, this indoor water park is a fantastic way to still have summer fun when it is raining.

Be sure to ride their giant water slide or hop on the lazy river. To get a student discount bring your high school ID and pay only $6.50.

703-433-5867

Rebounderz

Cub Run Water Park

703-817-9407

www.rebounderzsterling.com

This giant facility is filled with trampoline floors and foam pits to jump on and into. For just $17 you can jump in the indoor trampoline arena for an hour. The arena is open until 11 p.m. on the weekend. On Tuesday two people can jump for just $20.

703-266-6200

This DC hot spot hosts famous comedians such as Godfrey from “30 Rock” and Bryan Callen from “The Hangover.” Tickets can be bought online for about $17.

Some shows are free but seating is limited.

LifeTime Fitness

D.C. Improv

202-296-7008

www.dcimprov.com

www.lifetimefitness.com

Looking for a way to exercise inside without going to the same old gym? Lifetime Fitness has two Virginia indoor rock climbing locations, one in Fairfax and the other in Centreville. Their website offers a free trial club pass if you are 18 or older.

While most golf ranges will be muddy or closed when it is raining, this indoor golf complex makes it possible to golf no matter the weather. It costs $40 per person and the golf complex is open until midnight every Friday and Saturday evening.

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703- 865-7920

Culinaria

Top Golf

703-924-2600

www.topgolf.com

erin bennett news editor

www.culinariacookingschool.com

Even though a cooking class might seem expensive at $75 per session it is a great way to learn to make delicious food. The best part is at the end of the class you can eat everything you make. The classes are generally at night and about three hours long.

The Great Gatsby sofia crutchfield viewpoint editor

“Gatsby” takes an American classic to new heights

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irector Baz Luhrmann’s adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic American novel “The Great Gatsby” is a high-flying showstopper of a film. While it could have been a victim of over-hype, “Gatsby” shines because it goes out on a limb.

The story takes off in where else but New York during the roaring ‘20s, an environment characterized by grotesque hedonism and continuous partying.

Tobey Maguire plays the narrator Nick Carraway, a young newcomer from the Midwest. The direction of the beginning of the film is off-putting at points; camera shots were shallow and the pace was hasty. People flew by and no one seemed to say anything worth hearing, but the beauty of it is that’s exactly how Nick felt, like an oustider, for this portion of the book.

At a ma-

jor shift in the movie, Leonardo DiCaprio’s enigmatic Jay Gatsby emerges from the hullaballoo of his party with champagne in his hand and something knowing on his face that tells you the story’s only just begun.

From there, the plot unravels in key with Luhrmann’s trademark glorious imagery and what is possibly the coolest soundtrack you will ever hear. Carey Mulligan’s doeeyed Daisy Buchanan takes her place as the tale’s love interest in beautiful rooms of blossoms and luxurious fabrics that never seem to outshine her characteristc radiance. Joel Edgerton’s Tom Buchanan is a force that exudes danger and Isla Fisher’s Myrtle is a perfect hot mess.

The book is a timeless piece that analyzes the paradoxical American Dream, but the movie is a unique experience that forgoes Fitzgerald’s clinical depiction of the characters in favor of an intentionally over-the-top emotional whirlwind. Perhaps “Gatsby” could be considered more style than substance, but it has plenty of both, enough to be the movie of the summer.

SOUND TRACK sonaj senior guest writer

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he visual masterBeyonce’s “Crazy in Love” piece that is Baz melt into the fairytaleLuhrmann’s “The Great esque scenes throughout Gatsby” could have the film. only been accompanied Though “The Great by an equally dynamic Gatsby” is a romantic film, soundtrack. The fusion of there are plenty of scenes phonographic jazz instru- that show how serious parments, dubstep and rap tying was in the Prohibiframe this modern take on tion era. “100 Dollar Bill” a classic. Jay Z, the over- is the movie’s transition seer of the music for the from an ethereal love story film, shows the true range to a fast-paced thriller, of his musical talent along with its blend of Big-Band with his ability to evoke Swing and bass thumping the mood of the twenties rap by Hov himself. This in a 21st Century audience. was an era where dancing The film’s theme song, in a convertible filled with Lana Del Rey’s “Young champagne on the Brookand Beautiful,” is a soulful lyn Bridge was not only and haunting ballad that common, but the only way somehow expresses every to have fun. emotion of the often silent Though the party-goers characters as they stare in the movie are doing longingly at each other. the Charleston and Fox During the moments of Trot, this soundtrack is slow motion close-ups of not stuck in the past. The Leonardo DiCaprio and music connects the target Carey Mulligan, the repe- audience of denim-clad tition of Del Rey’s breathy, twenty-somethings to otherworldly voice gives a an era where the youth feeling of nostalgia. The thrived. You’ll continue to slower songs in the film love this movie long after like Emeli Sande’s jazzed you’re no longer Young up, slowed down cover of and Beautiful.

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all images courtesy of warner bros

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alana peters

Never judge a book by its cover

People need to distinguish between common sense differences and false stereotypes

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bviously, there are many differences between the two not men who can do four things at the same time; there are sexes. However, in today’s age people are supposed to undoubtedly plenty. The world is vast and diverse, and it is not act as if everybody is equal at everything. In reality, served well by stereotypes that limit those factors. girls tend to be better at some things while boys are better at Stereotypes also have a negative effect on how society sets others. expectations for the two genders. Because of the more active Take physical activities as an example: men tend to build more role women have played in the family home throughout history, muscle, while women tend to be more flexible. It is usually true women were, and are, often unjustly discriminated against in that women are better multi-taskers than the workplace. Despite years of exponential men are. Such differences are not negative The Staff Editorial is progress, women still hold an unacceptably and they can’t be used to argue that one low percent of high-level executive positions. the official opinion of There is also the stereotype that men cannot sex is superior to the other; they’re simply the Oakton Outlook succeed in “effeminate” career paths, such as differences. People should feel comfortable with their differences, and should feel no nursing. Neither men nor women should be need to pretend that inequalities do not exist. dissuaded from pursuing a career because it does not fit what The true problem lies with stereotypes which are often false is expected of them. This highlights the need for our society and offensive. It should never be assumed that because someone to be able to distinguish between common sense, often trivial is a girl that she would not make a good mathematician physical and mental differences and unfair, ignorant cultural or because someone is a guy, he would not be able to do stereotypes. ballet. Stereotypes have no place in evaluating skill sets, and Those who use stereotypes to guide them through life will assumptions don’t benefit anyone. indubitably end up disappointed. There are a lot of women Furthermore, just because something tends to be true does who know how to handle a car and hate talking on the phone. not make it always true. Men tend to be physically stronger There are shopaholic men who can’t tell the difference between than women, but that does not mean there are not strong a Toyota Prius and Shelby GT500. People are always human women or that strong women are rare. Women tend to be more than they are a man or a woman, and their identity is always more than their chromosomes. better at multi-tasking, but that viewpoint does not mean that there are

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Narcissism plagues U.S. media coverage

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Americans have become increasingly ignorant and unaware of current events occurring beyond our borders

n the wake of the Boston Marathon bombings, Americans were left with feelings of outrage, confusion and an overwhelming sense of nationalism. Many watched as Massachusetts police embarked on a manhunt, searching for the perpetrators in a nearly cinematic manner. The whole scene was horrific, so naturally it drew the attention of many. After the initial bombing, Twitter, Facebook and other social media sites were showered with condolences in statuses and hashtags. This response, as a whole, is appropriate in a way that demonstrates our concern. This is the kind of support that needs to be outstretched to victims after they endure a tragedy.

So why doesn’t the American public express identical concern and give adequate attention to everyone when they need it? Just three days after the events in Boston, 185 people, including a vast number of civilians, were ruthlessly killed in Nigeria during a struggle between their military and Muslim extremists. The same day, a 6.6 level earthquake in China killed over 300 people and injured more than 3,600.

If either of these events had taken place in somewhere like Texas or California, people here would still be hearing and talking about them to this day.

A call for decency

jacque groskaufmanis staff writer

Regardless of the magnitude of these two events, they were still practically ignored. First, they received little-to-no news coverage, and even less recognition from the American public as a whole. After gunfire and riots had plagued the streets of Nigeria, and China scrambled to the aid of 3,600 of their wounded citizens, the nightly news in the U.S. barely seemed to change. Replay upon replay of the three-day-old Boston bombing continued to play; meanwhile, hundreds were dying on the other side of the world and nobody seemed to care.

The ways in which news is reported have been swayed in an increasingly U.S.-centric manner. It’s not to say that the American people don’t care about foreign affairs, it’s that many simply don’t notice, and that’s the problem.

The news, Twitter and other social media sites have bred a fixation on localized issues, giving the public information that they think will interest them. Although there’s nothing wrong with being interested in affairs within our own borders, it is vital that we adjust the ways in which we distribute our attention; otherwise we’ll reach a state of utter ignorance.

oliver lopez-gomez online editor

Graduation is more pomp than circumstance

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raduation is 18 school days away and there isn’t much learning I’ll be doing between now and then. As of now, the only homework I’m getting is to finish work that I couldn’t in class. This tiring workload includes in-class projects, assignments based in class intended to keep our brains from rotting, book discussion and a film study (in a class that is not film study). While I do appreciate the change of pace some of my harder classes have taken, I can’t help but match the ease of my classes with an even more apathetic work ethic. I have already taken most of my finals and none of my classes have an SOL, yet there is still a lofty expectation for us to be here every day until our last final in three weeks.

This isn’t me trying to be lazy. I’m just trying to be more, well, considerate of the senior psyche. Unfortunately, for better or for worse, has all but burned out from four years of high school, months of college applications and weeks of finals and AP testing. The only way for us to get cured is to leave school, relax and get a diploma. Terrible I know, but considering this happens every year you would think there would be at least some leeway given to the teachers on how to handle it.

My proposal is to get rid of the final exam requirement, or have that requirement be more flexible for all seniors and Advanced Placement classes. As it stands, every class has to have the

final on the same day in June, but most AP classes have them before the test. Is it really necessary for me to take another final in June for a class I finished in April? Most senior classes are already speeding towards their conclusion, moving the final up by a week or two shouldn’t hurt it too much. By doing so it would cut down on time wasted by both the teachers and the students going over what has already been learned and tested.

For example, this could allow for the final to be moved up to the SOL testing block, if that class doesn’t have an SOL of course and allow that class to use the extra time for something really special and make it worth our while to stay.

Above all else understand this is coming from someone who has learned a lot from this school but has also wasted a lot of time in it as well and I can no longer stand idly by as weeks more are wasted. You know when these extra weeks would have been useful, before the AP exams. The grades are set, the fees turned in, the only thing we honestly have left to do is to walk across the stage and get our diploma, and anything else is really just filler.

I’m more than ready to graduate and I know I’m not the only one.

What do you think? Take the Poll online at www.oaktonoutlook. com

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Teachers Cheat Too

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This editorial was submitted as a letter to the editor from Chauncey Crail, senior. It expresses the opinion of the author and is not associated with The Outlook.

ducators and students alike are often considered exempt from copyright laws by way of fair use: using material that is not one’s own for educational purposes is, in many cases, considered okay—and for good reason. There are many valid arguments for why teachers and students should be able to use material that they didn’t produce to educate or become educated. How could a student write an essay about 1984 without quoting some of George Orwell’s writing? How could a teacher teach history without using sources from the past?

Using the published literary analysis of a professor or writer to provide further insight is a crucial process in studying any literature just as using case studies in an environmental science class is paramount to giving an idea of the real-life application of the material.

Oakton students are held to a certain standard of excellence.

They know that when they write a paper, they have to provide a works cited page to show where they found the information they’re using. They know that while they can almost always use it, they always have to cite it.

Their teachers don’t.

Fairfax County Public Schools does not have a policy that requires teachers to cite their sources for material used on assignments or material provided to students in the form of study guides, excerpts or handouts. In other words: FCPS does not have an honor code for teachers. Only the students are held to the highest of standards. According to the absence of regulation, the teachers can do what they want.

Why not? Why do teachers get an exemption?

While legally there are no applicable laws or district policies concerning direct plagiarism in the classroom by a teacher, teachers should give credit where credit is due for a variety of reasons. First is professional integrity. Leaving out citations, or even forgetting to cite something is grossly unprofessional. In most institutions or businesses, getting caught plagiarizing is punishable by dismissal and/or revocation of a degree. People lose their doctorates and can easily get fired over a simple copypaste. They might not be prosecuted in Fairfax County, but the higher law, the principle should still reign.

The professional community not only expects teachers to cite, it expects them to lead by example. The number of lectures given yearly at Oakton High School about the correct citation of sources and why plagiarism is wrong probably outnumbers the word count for this editorial. If a teacher doesn’t practice what he or she teaches, then why should students bother to pay any attention? Obviously, little of the lesson will have any value in

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the real world. Students will just assume that when they’re done with school they’ll be done with citations.

Teachers shouldn’t plagiarize because it sets a bad example but it also causes students to disrespect their teachers for this ‘do as I say not as I do’ policy. The teacher-student relationship no longer supports the archaic idea that teacher is always above student. The world is changing. Students now have just as much to offer their teachers as teachers have to offer their students.

Disrespect between student and teacher is the easiest way to create indolent instructors and absentminded pupils.

So how is this relevant? Why should Oakton care?

A simple Google search shows that some teachers are using material directly copied from online ‘homework help’ websites and/or books on the assignments they hand out in class without proper quotation or citation. This has led some to doubt the integrity of a few of Oakton’s most revered mentors.

If a teacher lectures about the pitfalls in using online assistance, but then copies directly from Sparknotes students might feel much less inclined to complete assignments for the class. If students bothered to do the assignment at all, they could use Cliff Notes and probably never touch the book itself. They wouldn’t find any dilemma in regurgitating information rather than analyzing for themselves: Those teachers have set the bar low enough that my classmates and I don’t have to read—or think—to pass. This puts students at a disadvantage in terms of college preparedness and undermines Oakton’s integrity, devaluing the effort of those who complete the original reading.

With Oakton’s ongoing fight for honor, including last year’s “Honor Pledge Competition” and poster campaigns and this year’s new “Honor Council,” it would seem that Oakton High School is doing a great job maintaining its reputation for academic integrity, scholastic honesty and having a strong moral compass when it comes to issues of honor. Oakton students acknowledge the first words of the Honor pledge every time they copy it onto the front page of an exam: “Integrity far outweighs any grade I could receive because it is a true representation of my character.” Oakton High School’s students are taught to respect themselves so that others will respect them.

Oakton has built a name for itself. A name that equates to honesty, integrity and value: a name that means something on the field, in the classroom and on our transcripts.

It is sad that some teachers brazenly undermine it.

FCPS does not have an honor code for teachers.

”

chauncey crail guest writer

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. The Outlook reserves the right to edit submissions for grammar and content provided the meaning remains unchanged.

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Marvel Madness “Iron Man” lives on in its box-office-smashing third installment

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n May 3, “Iron Man 3” came out in theaters, promising lots of new action-packed adventures for moviegoers. The movie features wealthy philanthropist Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) and his stunning assistant Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow) back for more following two amazingly successful movies. This upcoming addition to the prior Marvel comic screen-adaptions is still based in Stark’s regular home, Malibu.

This, however, is one of the few consistencies with the prior movies, as director Shane Black changes things up by bringing a darker side to America’s favorite super hero.

The film opens with Stark having difficulty sleeping due to severe anxiety attacks he feels from the traumatic ordeal he experienced during “The Avengers” spin-off movie. This new side of Stark brings out a more human and relatable figure that fans have not seen previously. Stark, who was always portrayed as a cocky, content success, changed drastically with the addition of this weakness.

Stark isn’t the only character to undergo dynamic character changes.

The super villain Killian (Guy Pearce) uses the character of “Mandarin” (Ben Kingsley), a persona that is both realistic and terrifying. While the original series envisioned the Mandarin with Asian influences, this new take has strong Islamic origins, with thoughts of Osama Bin Laden constantly being imprinted on the audience’s mind. This was a very effective approach in creating a more compelling film, pulling in real-life security threats that are in the public eye.

The addition of a few lighthearted characters was incredibly delightful to watch and helped maintain a light nature to the photo courtesy of official website

movie. Happy Hogan (Jon Favreau), the loyal, fun-loving body guard to Stark and Potts, and Harley (Ty Simpkins), the young sidekick that Stark employs in a rural town, were fan favorites that shook the theater with laughter.

Even considering these refreshing additions, the fact remains that this is the franchise’s “threequel.” Between this and “The Avengers,” has the world received an overdose of the Iron Man trend? Its incredible box office success, grossing more than $949,046,699 worldwide, says no.

These mind-blowing profits render “Iron Man 3” the second most profitable Marvel production ever.

Maybe there truly isn’t too much of a good thing; as the commercial success of “3” seems to suggest. Comic book story lines are designed to be re-imagined in differnt formats, from comics to movies to TV shows to video games. Flexibility is ingrained, so adaptations such as this are given room to expand.

With a more complex storyline, the mature nature of the film steps away from the familiar flashy, action-packed Marvel Studios films.

Downey Jr.’s performance also gives life to the trilogy, busting out witty one-liners and lightening the mood in several tense scenes.

Anyone who has enjoyed the previous editions of Iron Man would definitely enjoy this latest one, though prepare for plenty of interesting plot twists and an ending that will leave you satisfied.

laura murphy staff writer

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touchdown 2

Spring sports show their postseason superiority

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Boys tennis dominates regular season

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Girls tennis their commanding season with only one regular season loss in the past three years. Even more impressive, the lady cougars outscored their opponents by winning a total of 100 individual matches, obliterates and losing only eight. Four of those eight losses occurred in pre-season scrimmages; three against Thomas Jefferson, and one against Woodson. The team hopes to continue their winning ways into competition the postseason, to both the regional finals on May 20, and the state tournaments in early June.

The boys tennis team recently capped their regular season campaign with two impressive 9-0 victories. Their first was against Centreville on senior night on April 23, followed by Westfield on April 25. With their victory over Westfield, they clinched the district title with a final undefeated record of 12-0. Throughout the entire season, the team’s combined record was 96 wins and only 13 losses. The individual district tournament took place on May 1 and 2, which select members from the team participated in.

“We are all optimistic, and looking forward to compete to the best of our ability in the postseason,” said junior Bobby Kurtzman.

The first round of the regional team tournament took place on May 13 and 14, where Oakton fell to McLean 6-0.

Girls soccer anticipates postseason run

After a disappointing 5-2 loss to Yorktown on senior night on April 30, the girls soccer team looks to bounce back as they head into the postseason tournaments.

Despite this loss, they concluded their regular season with a solid 8-4-1 record.

Two of the losses were to teams in Oakton’s district, against Chantilly and Westcourtesy of Derek McCleskey field. Even though they have faced some tough opponents, they have also dominated multiple teams like Lee (8-0) and Wakefield (8-0). After a recent 4-0 victory over Herndon in the first round of the district tournament, they lost to Chantilly 0-3 on May 15 in the district semifinals.They will take the number 3 seed in the regional tournament.

The girls tennis team finished their regular season with an undefeated record of 12-0, continuing

courtesy of Judith Turcott

In loving memory of Coach Patrick “Packy” Purcell Written by Coach Jason Rowley Coach Patrick “Packy” Purcell, a member of the Oakton football coaching staff, passed away early Wednesday morning, May 8, 2013, after a long battle with cancer. Coach Packy, as he was known by the players, graduated from Oakton High School in the spring of 2005. As a senior, Coach Packy started at cornerback where he broke the single season interception mark (9). He was honored as a first team all Concorde District player and first team all Northern Region. He, along with his teammates, won the Concorde District for the first time in 25 years. After graduating, Coach Packy returned to Oakton the following season as a part-time assistant coach where he helped the football program win its second Northern Region title in four years and its first state championship in school history.

Coach Packy enrolled at Shenandoah University in the fall of 2007 where he played football for four years and earned a degree in kinesiology. While attending college, Coach Packy always helped Oakton football in the summers coaching our passing league teams, coaching at camps, and helping during two-a-day practices. This season was his first as a full-time assistant coach. He coached varsity defensive backs and helped coordinate special

teams on the varsity level.

Coach Packy is an amazing person. Even when he was getting chemotherapy and radiation treatments for cancer, he never missed a practice nor a day of work. In fact, a typical day for him was to wake up, come to work here at Oakton where he worked as an instructional assistant with students with intellectual disabilities, then head out to the football field for practice. After practice, he would often join his father (Patrick Purcell Sr.) and brother (Sean) on the softball field where they won multiple tournaments and local championships. All of this, while undergoing several rounds of chemotherapy.

Next to God and family, Oakton High School, and particularly Oakton football, was Packy’s top priority. He loved Oakton! He was living his dream of working and coaching football here. He will be remembered for his high character, his infectious smile, and his willingness and desire to help others. Coach Packy’s motto was, “Never give up!” Something he never did. He is survived by his father, Patrick Purcell Sr; his mother, Janita Purcell; his sister, Ashley Shimer; his brother, Sean Purcell; his fiancé, Caroline Staples, and the thousands of Oakton football players that he touched. He will be deeply missed.

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Over the river and through the woods

michelle lorusso editor in chief

Sophomore Brett Hugel spends his summer vacation traveling across the country on bicycle

W

hile most students spend their summer relaxing at the beach or swimming in the community pool, sophomore Brett Hugel decided to spend his vacations doing something a little more novel. Since he was 12-years-old, Hugel has gone on month-long biking trips with his friends, visiting locations ranging from Colorado to Quebec City. According to Hugel, it all started with sleep away camp.

“I got involved with biking when I was ten and went to camp,” Hugel said. “It was just [a camp] for general things, but the counselor that I’m friends with now ran the bike program and introduced me to biking. When I stopped wanting to go to the camp, and he didn’t want to work there anymore, we decided to go and do our own trips. So he planned them and we just went out and did it.”

Although the summer trips have now become a tradition for Hugel, his parents did not initially accept the idea with open arms.

“I was used to staying away from home,” Hugel said. “So that wasn’t the part they were worried about. It just takes a lot of self-responsibility to go on these trips, because it’s basically like living on your own, you know. You have to wash your clothes and find time to take care of yourself.”

Once his parents were on board, however, the trips became more and more extensive, with last summer’s adventure involving a passport.

“Last year we started in Niagara Falls,” Hugel said.

“We drove there and, in eleven days, we biked to the coast. So in eleven days we went close to a thousand miles. Then we drove up to Canada and went to Tadoussac, where we went whale watching, and to Quebec city, where we went around the city for a couple days. Then we came back down the East Coast and went city-to-city, just kind of looking at the cool stuff to see.”

Although Hugel makes the trip sound relaxing, the mileage on his bike tells another story.

“We bike on average 50 miles a day,” Hugel said.

“But most days are closer to a hundred if you don’t count the rest days. It’s pretty physically demanding, so I have to make sure I’m in shape. I don’t necessarily have to train to do it, but that’s just because I normally bike a lot. It’s mostly mental.”

Over the years, Hugel and his friends have perfected their routine for traveling.

“We always have a truck with us that can hold all our stuff, so if there’s bad weather we can just hop in the truck,” Hugel said. “If we’re in a city we’ll just stay parked and bike around, but if we’re going to a destination, our counselor will drive ahead of us, park, unload and bike back to meet us. Then he turns around and bikes with us to the car. He’s like 75 and he’s biked his whole life.”

While the trips may be of interest to some bikers, the timing of the trip often proves problematic for Hugel.

“The problem is you have to find people who are into biking, but aren’t into bike racing,” Hugel said.

If someone’s into bike racing they’re not going to want to go out because, although it is really good training, it’s during peak race season so no one wants to do it.”

Overall, Hugel has found that the trips serve a larger purpose than simply sightseeing.

“You get a full view of all across the country and stuff,” Hugel said. “I’ve been out to the West Coast; I’ve been out to like Colorado. It’s cool to get a sense of how things are different everywhere, because I know I learned a lot about how people live. I know around here it seems like the normal life is living in the suburbs, but when you go out there you see a lot of rural people and a lot of different lifestyles.”

Why do people commute by bicycle?

For the environment

82%

For health and fitness 95% To avoid congestion

52%

To save money on gasoline 46% To avoid parking costs

34%

From a survey of 2400 cyclists done by Bikesbelong.org

touchdown 4.24.13

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Get BIG

I

Junior Connor Fagan amps up his diet and his workouts to prepare for his football future

torri marquis staff writer

t’s 6:30 a.m. and you trudge down the stairs to your tough,” Fagan said. “But in the weight room my numbers kitchen to eat breakfast. You pop a piece of bread in have gone up significantly. I have more energy; I feel more the toaster and scramble an egg. Sounds like a typical athletic.” breakfast, right? Now imagine that meal multiplied by six Fagan hopes that this diet will not only help him for his and you have the typical breakfast of junior football player senior football season, but also for college football.

Connor Fagan.

“My end goal is just to get to play Division 1 football; This breakfast is only one component of Fagan’s current that’s always been my goal,” Fagan said. “I’m starting to 5,200 calorie diet. He decided to take up this diet about get looks, but hopefully this will put me at the next level.” two months ago in order to gain more weight and muscle.

“I’m trying to get bigger for football,” Fagan said. “Division 1 coaches are talking to me now and I know I need to get bigger and stronger and faster.”

Although Fagan’s diet consists of great amounts of food, all of the food is nutritious and good for his body.

“My lunch is three cups of rice, eight ounces of chicken, a cup of lettuce, fifty almonds and a banana,” Fagan listed. “For snacks I have protein shakes and protein bars, and then for dinner it’s four cups of pasta, twelve ounces of chicken, fifty more almonds and two cups of broccoli.”

Not only does Fagan have to persist with his demanding diet, but he must keep up with his workouts. He admits that it is tough to balance it all out, but it is worth it because he has already alana peters seen positive results from his hard work.

Fagan works out after school with the football team. “I do all the football workouts “I need to work out constantly, and balancand then I lift at XSport on the days I don’t have school workouts,” Fagan explained. ing the workouts with how much I’m eating is

Breakfast Breakdown-Bon Appétit!

A typical morning meal for Connor Fagan consists of...

2 glasses of milk 2 cups of fruit 159 calories

50 almonds 347 calories

about 100 calories

6 slices of toast

6 eggs

399 calories

441 calories

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courtesy of connor fagan

What in the world?

IRELAND: A film crew shooting in Ireland captured footage of what is supposedly the area’s own “Loch Ness monster.”

(HuffPost).

FLORIDA: Jarvis Sutton was arrested after allegedly calling the police 80 times requesting the delivery of “Kool-Aid, burgers and weed.” He was charged with the misuse of the 911 system. (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. alana peters carly stonehouse photo editor showtime editor

SOUTH AMERICA: Geologists have announced the discovery of what has been dubbed the ‘Brazilian Atlantis’- a piece of granite formed on dry land, thought to belong to the lost continent of Atlantis. (The Telegrapgh)

DUBAI: While performing a concert, Justin Bieber was “attacked” on stage by a fan. Although the fan made it onto Bieber’s piano platform, she was tackled by security within seconds and Beiber nearly missed a falling piano. (HuffPost) AUSTRALIA: Government authorities have ordered a great white shark hunt after five recent attacks on the Indian Ocean coast of the land “down under.” (HuffPost)

KIRIBATI: “Two fishermen from Kiribati have been rescued after reportedly surviving almost four weeks adrift in the Pacific, surviving on raw fish and rain water. They were found almost 435 miles from their island home,” (The Telegraph)

HEY YOU! Yeah, you.

Do you want to stay up to date on donut days?

Do you want constant news updates about things happening at oakton?

Follow @oakton_outlook on twitter right now. go. misc

5.20.13

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