3501 Rebel Run Fairfax, VA 22030 FHSRebelRoar@gmail.com
December 20, 2010 Volume LXXVII, Issue 4
Table of Contents
4. 13.
The Winter Wear Drive started December 3 and ends on December 21. Help the leadership class clothe the needy by bringing in winter clothes.
What is cheating to you? Obviously, for most students at FHS it’s not that big of a deal. See what a recent poll determnined about the morals of students when it comes to homework and tests.
24. 29.
December 20, 2010
The winter season presents many challenges that prohibit people from modeling their sharp fashion sense. Take a look at the Winter Fashion preview to be inspired by some creative ways to look your best. FHS hosted the 2010 Wrestling Classic on December 10 and placed tenth out of thirty schools.
2010 16. & 17.
The first decade of the 2000s is complete and under review. What did you miss? What did you remember? What were you a part of?
Front Cover photo by Helena Contes.
Rebel Roar Staff 2010-2011
VHSL First Place in Newsmagazines 2009-2010
Editors-in-Chief Sports Editors Staff Writers Emily Buzzard Sam Brott Suha Akhandker Jordan Sharpe Walker Carlson Brandon Blankenship Managing Editor Copy Editors Natalia Colon Emily Stone Rachel Tran Helena Contes News Editor Nikki Strickland Kristina Hurd Aneela Wadan Art Directors Steven Kendall Commentary Editor Toni Rayder Elliot Meyer Matt Reihing Jordan Rummel Gabrielle Severson Entertainment Editor Business Manager Daniela Torres Zafar Shaw Jessie Mason Features Editors Advisor Emily Robinson Carl Irvin Emily Stone
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Editorial Policy
The Rebel Roar is a published forum of student expression. Letters to the Editor are encouraged. Only signed leters are considered for publication. The editors reserve the right to edit all material in the interest of clarity and space. Opinions expressed do not necessarily represent those of the staff or school administration. The staff writes unsigned editori-
als on a majority basis, The Rebel Roar accepts all advertisements deemed appropriate for a public forum meant for young adults and are subject to the discretion of the editors. Students are encourgaed to take an active voice in the student publication. Questions, comments, and letters can be e-mailed to FHSRebelRoar@gmail.com.
Corrections and Clarifications for Rebel Roar November issue: Humor: “English Dept. Kills Trees“ Mrs. Carol Lambert actually replants seeds of knowledge in her students.
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letter from the editors
appy December Fairfax. My favorite month of the year, complete with an abundance of candy canes, hot chocolate with marshmallows, and general holiday cheer. I like the holiday season, not necessarily because of presents or hot chocolate, but because everyone acts a little differently. People tip a little bit extra at restaurants, smile a little bit more in the hallways, and are generally just happier. Some people go out of their way in this season to uphold their morals. Our school collected about 17,000 cans to distribute to Food for Others in November, and we put forth efforts to keep the homeless warm this month with the Winter Wear Drive. However, there are parts of society that tempt people to compromise their values. This month we explored the exploitations of our government system due to
Photo by Helena Contes.
Wikileaks.org and researched an embarrassing side of Fairfax High School, when we learned that 78% of students admit to cheating. Sometimes, when the end seems unreachable, it is tempting to take shortcuts. Whether this be cheating on a homework assignment to get it over with, or avoiding the traffic light and going through the church parking lot to make it to school on time, temptations for the easy way out are all around us. We chose our cover photo to symbolize the fight between hard work and taking the easy way out. As the year comes to an end, I want to remind all of you to uphold your values. Looking back at this year, I realize that we didn’t just experience the year, we survived it. We made it through 2010, maybe with a few bumps and bruises, but all of the hardships that seemed to come flying at us this year are now minor obstacles that we overcame. Whether it is a unit test that you decided to study for instead of cheat, a game that you won when all odds were against you, or a fight with a friend that you worked through, everything throughout this year is now in the past. Congratulations Fairfax and good luck in 2011. Happy Holidays!
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Teacher of the Year
School Board Chairman Janice Miller recognized Virginia High School League Publication Winners, Theater CAPPIES award and Best Costume Design, Virginia Honors Choir, Virginia Girls and Boys State Attendees, Virginia Governor’s School Attendees, Hispanic Heritage Award, National Achievement Award, and National Merit Award.
Two Minutes with the
News Briefs
news Ms. Varanavage the Calc BC, Multivariable Calc, and Pre-Calc teacher was awarded Teacher of the Year on December 14.
This or that?
FHS along with many other Fairfax County Public Schools lost power for over an hour on December 1. All students were told to stay in the gym during the time period. The rest of the day ran on a regular schedule.
Coke or pepsi? Diet coke Cats or dogs? I don’t like either. I prefer puppies and kittens. Day or night? I don’t really care. Manual or automatic car? Automatic Chocolate or vanilla? Too much chocolate gives me a headache. I’ll go with neopolitan. What’s your favorite part about teaching? The students
Day-to-day Winter Break Kristina Hurd ‘11 Calendar Staff Writer
Thursday, Dec. 23 Friday, Dec. 24
Saturday, Dec. 25
Sunday, Dec. 26
See “ICE!” at the White Elephant National Christ- TV or Movie Marathon National Harbor Each person mas Tree and Watch the ChristTake a trip to the brings a gag gift Menorah mas movie maraGaylord National and wraps it with- Every night in thon on ABC FamResort’s “ICE!”. The out a name tag. December there ily. It’s a great way show is a journey Then, everyone is live music and to spend Christmas through an ice picks a number seeing the tree and and preferably wonderland with ice which becomes menodone in reindeer sculptures. the order of the rah is PJs, surrounded by gift truly wrapping paper. selecmagtion. nificent.
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Monday Dec. 27
Skiing, snowboarding or snow tubing at Whitetail Ski Resort Just get a group of friends and race down the snow tubing hill
news
FHS Participates in Observership Interview with Senior Laura Goad
Fairfax Inova Hospital for Children will host the observership, which includes 12 students from FHS. Photo courtesy of inova.org
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welve students in Anatomy and AP Biology classes from Fairfax High School have been chosen to participate in the Inova Fairfax Hospital for Children and Fairfax High School Observership. Open only to seniors, this opportunity allows each of these students to shadow a member of the medical community at Inova Fairfax Hospital for a total of fifteen hours. Participating students will attend rounds with the hospitalist team on a one-to -one basis, one student to one staffer. Students will record what they learn during their time at the hospital through journals and notebooks. They will be required to follow strict HIPPA guidelines, which dictate that the students may not speak to or touch the patients they observe. The 2010 participants in the obeservership are: Denisse Aquino, Tehreem Butt, Nissa Chaghtai, Laura Goad, Emma Griffin, Ellie Jordan, Mycah McNett, Sarah Medina, Victoria Nguyen, Roshni Patel, Francine Vo, and Aneela Wadan. After the three five-hour days have been completed, students will complete a research paper and power point presentation on what they saw and learned.
Tuesday, Dec. 28
Eat at Cosi This restaurant located at Reston Town center is great for winter break because you can eat s’mores, indoors! While you are there take a spin on the outdoor ice skating rink with your friends.
Why did you apply for the observership? Well, I want to become a nurse practitioner, so getting to experience working in a hospital would be really beneficial in the long run. How hard was the competition to get in? Once we got to the interview stage, and I saw who I was up against, I got pretty nervous; but Mr. Smith was awesome at calming us down and was super encouraging! What are you looking forward to the most? I requested to visit the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, so I’m really excited about that. Just being in the hospital is going to be awesome though!
The observership program is still in its infant years; this is only the second year it has been offered to students. However, as the program grows, so will the opportunities. Anatomy teacher Steve Smith said that as the observership program matures, it’s possible that it can be expanded into other disciplines, with students observing people like registered nurses, physical therapists, or physician’s assistants.
Jessie Mason ‘11 Business Manager
Wednesday, Dec. 29 Thursday, Dec. 30 See the Wizards Play Indiana Pacers With tickets as low as $14.40, this is a great thing to go to with all your friends.
Indoor Water Park at the Massanutten Resort One of the key features of the water park is the FlowRider which simulates a wave.
Friday, Dec. 31
Bull Run Festival of Lights and Winter Wonderland Holiday Village After your midseason escape, this drive through light show is a great way to get back into the winter, holiday spirit on the last day of 2010.
Saturday, Jan. 1
Make a List of everything you want to do in 2011 Make this year the year all of your resolutions come true. On the first day of the New Year start with a clean slate and think of a bucketlist. .
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news
Winter Wear Drive fights Homeslessness
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he weather is now getting colder and we’re all hoping for another “snowmageddon,” but this also means that hundreds of homeless families in our area are struggling to find ways to stay warm. Fairfax County's homeless population has new concerns to add to the old. Freezing and hypothermia add to the ever-present issue of hunger among the homeless. According to the Fairfax County website; the number of
Boxes were placed around school so students could rop of their garments.
people who were homeless in the Fairfax Community has decreased nearly 11 percent. On January 27, 652 single individuals and 892 were people in families who were reported to be homeless. This past month FHS helped feed these families through the canned food drive raising over 16,000 cans. Now it’s time to keep them warm for the winter. From December 6-20, leadership students hosted the annual Winter Wear Drive. It benefits hundreds of homeless families in Fairfax County. This year all donations will be sent to the Lamb Center, as well as a donation site set up by the American Red Cross Association. All winter clothing; jackets, sweaters, gloves, hats, etc. can be donated through boxes located in the commons, all subschools, teacher work rooms and the main office. Ms. Sherry Noud, a member of the FCPS Homeless Liason said, “Hosting a drive such as the Winter Wear one, raises community members' awareness and encourages community members to be generous in their assistance to people in need.”
Aneela Wadan ‘11 & Toni Rayder ‘11 News Editor and Art Director
Photo by Toni Rayder
FHS DominatesVJCL Convention
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n November 22, FHS’ Latin Club attended the Virginia Junior Classical League Latin Convention. VJCL is a meeting of all the Latin Club members in the state of Virginia who want to celebrate the language. At the convention, these students take a wide array of tests on topics such as Roman culture, mythology, and history in order to be ranked in the state. They are also able to enter projects for review and listen to college professors give lectures. Fifteen of Fairfax’s own journeyed to Richmond and stayed overnight to represent Fairfax High School and many came back with awards. Senior Hae In Jun won first place in both the Mixed Media and Children’s Book categories and Sophomore Sidney Yi placed first in Ornaments. Senior Rosie Perash also won an award, placing second in Grade 12 English Oratory. Freshman Andrew Orvedahl said, “VJCL is more than just studying Latin and taking tests; it’s about having a blast and meeting new people. I made tons of friends that week that I can’t wait to see again at nationals.” The students were able to take part in a toga dinner, karaoke, and even a dance. Also, the students took the opportunity to raise awareness and money for a great cause. They walked around the convention with boxes and played the ukulele to raise money for Read Across .
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Banner from the VJCL Convention. Photo courtesy of Shannon Berenbaum
America, helping in the VJCL raise one thousand dollars. Historian of the VJCL, Senior Shannon Berenbaum, said, “Two days in a convention center with sixteen hundred Latin students and teachers is all that is necessary to show someone that Latin is not dead. Latin is a great choice not just because it helps raise your SAT score or because it looks prestigious when applying to college, but because it introduces you to a new world of academic success and social interaction.”
Daniela Torres ‘11 Staff Writer
news
WikiLeaks Causes an Uproar
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ikiLeaks, a website dedicated to publishing confidential files, began releasing the first of over 200,000 government cables, a few of which contained sensitive information on United States intelligence gathering on November 28. Only weeks later, what was a relatively modest concern about a breach of national security, culminated into a whirlwind of protests and what some are calling the world’s first “cyberwar.” Those corporations who supported WikiLeaks by making it possible for people to donate to the organization and by hosting the site, namely Mastercard, Visa, Paypal, and Amazon, severed their ties with the site and Wikileaks was shut down. A group called “Hackers Anonymous,” known for its anti-censorship position, united against these corporations, crashing their websites. After Julian Assange, the founder of the website, was arrested for charges unrelated to WikiLeaks, a wave of anger from his supporters moved them to protest. In Madrid, thousands of people, many sporting Guy Fawkes and Julian Assange masks, gathered in front of the British Embassy, holding up signs that said “Free Assange” and “I am Julian Assange.” It has yet to be seen whether the United States will seek to press charges against Assange. However, As-
sange’s actions caused officials to focus on where the line between freedom of speech and national security should be drawn.
Daniela Torres ‘11 Staff Writer
Protesters rally for WikiLeaks’ founder’S release. Photo by Associated Press
Connolly Answers Questions
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n November 18, the Rebel Roar conducted an email interview with Gerry Connolly, the newly elected congressman of Virginia’s 11th Congressional District. Connolly closely defeated Keith Fimian during the midterm elections, with 49.2% of the vote. Connolly shared his political history, opinions about education in the US, and advice to students interested in politics. 1. How do you feel about the budget 3. How can people who are too cuts that have been taking place in young to vote get involved in the education, with students having to political process? pay for their own AP tests, etc…? Student Government Associations I believe every student should have are a great way for people of all ages the ability to strive for the best educato get involved with politics. Get tion possible, and we need to ensure involved in local civic activities and in the opportunities are available to your community. them. 4. What would you recommend to 2. How did you become interested in students who would like to become politics? involved in politics as a future caI worked on Capitol Hill throughout reer? the 1980s on the Senate Foreign RelaBe active. You are the future leaders tions Committee. I became active to of this nation. America needs more ensure our neighborhood got the help Gerry Connolly answers questions. young people to become active in their we needed. Ever since I helped solve Photo courtesy of washingtonpost.com community. Getting involved early in that problem, I knew I wanted to help life is a great way to start a career in the community. I was in local govern- Emily Stone ‘12 politics AND public service. ment for 16 years. Features Editor .
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entertainment
Emily Over: Holiday Edition I
’m sure by now you have already gotten tons of invites to holiday festivities and instead of being boring and doing your regular look, how about you add some glamour to your look when you go out. This month, I did a Taylor Swift inspired look on senior Dani Fajardo. Everyone knows Swift is super glamorous and is known for her her frequently worn glitzy gold eye look with winged eyeliner, bold red lips and infamous spiral curls for a perfect, festive holiday look! Step four: Take a black Step three: Apply a bronze Step one: Apply Step two: Apply gold liquid liner and make a thick base all over eyelid. shimmery eye shadow all brown color eye shadow line on your lash line. in crease. over lid.
Make up:
Step five: Make a perpendicular line upwards at the end of the line you previously made, connect it to the line again. Then fill it in.
Step one: Apply a heat protectant all over your hair.
Step Six: Apply a lot of mascara on bottom and top lashes.
Hair:
Step two: Section hair off Step three: Take a one inch by creating a half-up half curling iron and start wrapping down do, leaving a small hair around the curling iron amount of hair on the over the clamp, curling outward bottom. from your face.
Step Seven: To finish off the look apply a bright red lipstick!
Step four: Let another section down and repeat steps one through three. And apply lots of hairspray.
Before 8.
After
Photos by Emily Robinson
Emily Robinson ‘11 Features Editor
O.M.G!
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entertainment
Usher is in D.C?!
eginning on November 10, 2010 the Usher’s OMG Usher will supposedly be bringing members of the Tour has hit over twenty cities in the United audience onstage and serenading them with his wooing States, starting in Seattle and expecting to finish lyrics. Not only will each and every concert venue be on March 29, 2011 in Auckland, packed with screaming fans, but New Zealand! The concert onstage dancers, unique guests, features opening acts by Miguel, and special effects will also be Trey Songz, and Khalil. And as part of the extraordinary concert for the main entrée, Usher will experience. be performing a total of twentyAside from Usher’s astounding four songs including “U Remind performances, Trey Songz and Me”, “Yeah!”, and “Burn”. Miguel further enhance the tour. “OMG”, Usher’s hit song, in 2010, Trey Songz is expected to sing is the theme of the entire tour. “Bottoms Up” while Miguel will Moreover, his much-anticipated, be performing alongside Usher kick-off (OMG) tour is expected during his “Pay Me” single. to prove very successful as tickets All things considered, this entire are rapidly selling all across tour will be popping with surprise the United States, Europe, and performances, Usher’s charismatic Australia. On Friday December set list, and onstage choreography 17, 2010 Usher visited the Verizon that will keep the audience Photo courtesy of www.ushernow.com Center in Washington D.C as his twenty-third stop on entertained from the moment they set foot into the his worldwide tour. Usher-dominated arena. In past cities, Usher sang “OMG” as his closing act, Zafar Shaw ‘11 leaving the audience in awe. Throughout the concert, Entertainment Editor
Shaw-ty List VS Have Ya Hurd?
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fter reading the “Shaw-ty List”, I decided it was time for a change. So this month I am challenging Zafar Shaw and creating the freshest playlist to hit Fairfax.
1. “Tonight”-Enrique Iglesias ft. Ludacris 2. “We No Speak Americano vs.
Memories Mash Up”-DJ Dark Intensity 3. “Stereo Love”-Edward Maya & Vika Jigulini 4. “More”-Usher 5. “The Time” (Dirty Bit)-Black Eyed Peas 6. “Rocketeer”-Far East Movement ft. Ryan Tedder 7. “Love The Way You Lie Part 2”-Rihanna ft. Eminem 8. “All She Wrote”-TI ft. Eminem 9. “Heartbeat”-Enrique Iglesias ft. Nicole Scherzinger 10. “Please Don’t Go”-Mike Posner HOLIDAY SONG: “Christmas in Hollis”-Run DMC Zafar Shaw ‘11
Entertainment Editor
1. ”Miami 2 Ibiza”- Swedish House Mafia
vs. Tinie Tempah 2. “Yeah 3x”- Chris Brown 3. “Bom Bom (We No Speak Americano Mix)”- Pitbull 4. “All of the Lights”- Kanye West 5. “Livin’ It Up”- Shwayze ft. Snoop Dog 6. “Bringing It Back”- Master Shortie 7. “Bounce That”- Girl Talk 8. “Sparks Fly”- Taylor Swift 9. “Symphonies”- Dan Black ft. Kid Cudi 10. “I Believe In A Thing Called Love”The Darkness HOLIDAY SONG: “Merry Christmas”*NSYNC Photo by Emily Robinson
Kristina Hurd ‘11 Staff Writer
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entertainment
Food for the Holidays
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ecember brings us Christmas, snow, and great holiday foods. This year customers everywhere will get to experience all the wonderful winter time treats the fast food industry has to offer. Starbucks is offering their delicious seasonal drinks like the caramel brulee, eggnog, peppermint mocha and gingerbread lattes. Dunkin Donuts has also joined along offering holiday flavors like mocha mint, pumpkin spice, vanilla nut, and caramel dulce. Even our country’s beloved fast food chain restaurant, McDonald’s has gotten into the spirit by offering their limited time product the eggnog shake and their ‘holiday’ pie.
Gingerbread Latte from Starbucks:
Oh, how I love the delicious coffee drinks the holiday season brings us. I have to say this Starbucks treat is truly scrumptious. Not only does it warm you from head to toe but you’ll feel like its Christmas every time you drink it. The wonderful smell of gingerbread that wafts you makes you reminisce about the good old days when winter break was spent eating gingerbread cookies and not used to finish piles of homework.
Caramel Dulce Latte from Dunkin Donuts: They say America runs on Dunkin; well now I know why. This confection was a delicious blend of caramel and dulce that definitely satisfied your sweet buds. However, this drink is meant to be drunk in moderation so I suggest when ordering this drink do not, I repeat do not order any size bigger than a small or else you will be in for a sugar rush.
Eggnog Shake from McDonald’s:
Ah, eggnog. The epitome of Christmas time drinks. This delightful drink was recreated into a supposed delectable milkshake by McDonald’s. Unfortunately McDonald’s attempt was horrific. While at first when the cold drink tasted delicious on your tongue, it had this awful after taste that did our beloved Eggnog no justice. Although I absolutely love McDonald’s chocolate milkshake, they failed at trying to turn this traditional drink into a fast food delight.
‘Holiday’ Pie from McDonald’s:
I bought this pie from McDonald in hopes of completing my holiday treat endeavors but I came out of the store puzzled about what I was eating. This pie was no ordinary pie. It was a mystery. The filling was creamy and sweet with a light orangey-yellow hue so you’d think it was peach right but no; it tasted nothing like peach. After a long time of thinking up possible flavors I just couldn’t figure it out so finally I did what any teenager in this day and age would do. I googled my question and came to the conclusion that the mystery inside of McDonald’s holiday pie was . . . custard. That’s right McDonald’s was (and still is) selling custard pie. Now it may sound a little crazy but I have to admit this pie isn’t that bad. It’s an improvement after the Eggnog shake but it definitely doesn’t beat McDonald’s famous apple pie.
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Photos by Suha Khandker
Suha Khandker ‘13 Staff Writer
Advertisement
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commentary
Fairfax Hallways Harbor Havoc
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’m not usually one to complain, but when the hallways of Fairfax become almost dangerous I feel it’s time to speak my mind. There may be more students in the building this year, but it’s a bit ridiculous how hard it is to get from class to class. I am a little tired of being shoved this way and that trying to get to class on time, and at the same time, not having nearly as much time to talk to my friends. •Consider walking through the halls like it’s driving during rush hour. There are certain things you just don’t do. You wouldn’t stand/sit/dance/anything-else-you-can-do-in-one-spot in the middle of the road, so don’t do them in the middle of the hallway! If you really must, you can dance your heart out in an alcove in the halls where doors are, or at least off to the sides a little. •The mornings may very well be the worst for getting around. There’s a lot of time before classes start, so it’s to be expected that people will stand around the hallways. But the middle of the commons is not a good place for the hundreds of students to stand. Not to point fingers or anything, but really freshmen, you’re like a brick wall in the busiest hall in the school. •And stopping without any warning? Not OK. You can’t just decide to stop walking in the middle of the hallway and think that no one will run into you. You should know by now that there are other people in the halls, and odds are there’s at least one behind you. If you’re going to keep stopping suddenly, get brake lights. •Don’t even get me started about how annoying it is to follow you with your six favorite friends, slowly walking down the halls. You have friends, good for you. But no matter how preoccupied you are with your fascinating conversation it shouldn’t be that difficult to speed up your walking just a little bit. •Couples. I’m not sure how to make this any clearer than NO ONE WANTS TO SEE YOUR PDA! Holding hands blocks the halls causing people to awkwardly try to walk between you. Looking each other dreamily in the eyes as you walk means you’re not paying attention and you end up running into anything in your path. You may be the cutest couple in the world and that wouldn’t make a difference, save the public displays for when you’re not in public, please. •However bad the halls might be, pushing and shoving does nothing to improve them. People seem to have the idea that pushing thier way through the halls makes it easier for them to get around school. But guess what-this news might shock a few peolpe-pushing and shoving does absolutely nothing to make our halls better! In fact, maybe ff you didn’t push other people around, then they wouldn’t push more people, and the halls would be much better for everyone.
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Nikki Strickland ‘13 Copy Editor
commentary
Cheating Epidemic Creates Education Upset
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s many have seen on local news stations and even CNN lately, West Potomac High School’s principal, Cliff Hardison, recently implemented two seemingly absurd policies. First, the principal introduced a policy to give cheaters second chances. Not just one second chance, but as many as they need. Secondly, the principal decided that since he was already on the road to insanity, he’d just go ahead and do away with F’s, too. As many would agree, we’ve all been told not to cheat for as long as we can remember. Hardison, on the other hand, thinks otherwise. The policy implemented at West Potomac gives cheaters second chances by letting those caught to redo the assignment. This is ridiculous however, because the cheater would have already had the chance to see the exam or assignment. Besides this, it is just completely wrong. In college, it’s one strike and you’re gone forever. So shouldn’t high school think about tightening up just a little bit? The other plan, which is also stupid, makes it easier for students to avoid getting F’s. Instead of seeing an F on the end of quarter report card, a student would see an “I” for incomplete. Essentially, students would be allowed to redo assignments so that they could earn higher grades and replace the old grade. Had they done the assignment well the first time, though, they wouldn’t be in this position. Parents are also worried because it would make it easier for students to fall behind in subjects such as math and physics that require comprehension of previous materials in order to progress. Parents’ outrage was voiced, like everything else, on Facebook. West Potomac parents and students alike posted on the wall of the page “Real World, Real Grades” to get their point across. One major issue that the parents raised was that the school was not discouraging students from cheating. To find out more about cheating at Fairfax, the Rebel Roar took a conducted an anonymous poll, receiving more than 300 responses. Sadly, only 40% of our student body believes cheating to be wrong. About four out of every five students admit to cheating on homework assignments and nearly every other student admits to cheating on tests, quizzes, or essays. Overall, between both assignments and assessments, the average student cheats about three times per week. What’s worse is that out of the 25% of students that have been caught cheating, only 17% of them have been punished for it. That’s 200 students that were caught cheating but not punished. Are we really heading down the right path here? To the pleasure of the parents and students at West Potomac, the principal sent out a letter just a week after implementing the new policies to cancel them. However, it seems that we still have some major problems. There are many cheating and there are many who are caught but not punished. It’s a problem here and and it’s a problem around the country, and it’s a problem that needs to stop.
Sam Brott ‘11 Sports Editor
Cheating at Fairfax... All surveys are results of a poll on 311 students during all lunches on December 2 through December 6.
45% of Fairfax High School students admitted to cheating on tests.
78% of Fairfax High School students admited to cheating on homework.
49.5% of Fairfax High School students said that cheating is only wrong depending on the situation, 40.8% said that cheating is wrong, and 9.6% of students said that cheating isn’t wrong.
13.
commentary
The Buzz
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or me, Christmas Day is marked by the most difficult decision I have to make all year. The choice lies between watching the Elf marathon on USA, or watching A Christmas Story on TBS. Both movies are fantastic, but essentially the choice depends on whether you want to experience the classic tale of a kid who shoots his eye out, or learn how to be human with Will Ferrell while he uses hilarious terms like “cotton-headed-ninny-muggins.” Good luck in making this choice Fairfax, and have a great Winter Break.
HOT Tosh.0
Firstly, Daniel Tosh is a hunk. His cardigans paired with v-neck tees make the perfect combo of a great looking man. The show is similar to The Soup in that he highlights and analyzes viral videos, but Tosh.0 is more current and newer. The show airs on Comedy Central, and is the perfect way to spend a late night.
NOT Glee
Sorry gleeks, but Glee is getting old. I like the music, obviously the artists are talented, but I am not a fan of the story line. I can probably predict everything that is going to happen for the rest of the season. I am ready to give up on this predictable show.
Pajama Jeans
According to www.pajamajeans.com, these pajama pants are “stylish, sexy, soft and comfortable.” Wrong. There is no such thing as “sexy” pajama pants, that’s an oxymoron. I advise everyone to stick with the Snuggie look and avoid this ridiculous fad.
Soccer Pants
There is nothing hotter than sporting the “lazy chic” look by wearing soccer pants. Although soccer pants are generally for people that love kicking around balls, it is fine to wear them even if you aren’t a soccer fanatic. This comfortable style is a classy alternative to the old sweat pants.
Nicki Minaj
I used to dislike Nicki Minaj because all she really does is rap about herself. But when I look deeper, I realize that she has the right to rap about herself. Wouldn’t you rap about yourself if you were pretty, unique, and Trinidadian? Yes, yes you would.
Snow
Snow, hot? Get it? But really, I predict that this winter we are going to receive another couple feet of snow. I can’t wait to miss two weeks of school because I can’t step outside of my home.
Emily Buzzard ‘11 Editor-in-Chief
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Brett Farve
I just want to apologize in advance to any die hard Brett Farve fans that I call my friends. I hope we can still talk. However, I can’t let my friendship interfere with my journalistic duty to report, and lately I have just been disgusted with Farve. He sent pictures of his genitalia to a poor girl, even though he is married with kids. He is part of the reason I am tempted to put “Boys” in the Not column next month. Just quit football already.
Cruggs
These are the ugliest things ever. A mix between Crocs and Uggs, these shoes make me want to vomit. Although they aren’t really a fad yet, I want to ensure that these heinous shoes never become popular. Even if there is a foot of snow on the ground, don’t wear these. Ever.
op-ed
The Situation:
The Transportation Security Administration implemented scanners that produce a full-body image that includes outlines of genitalia. For those who want to opt-out of the scanner, the TSA has a second option available. Instead of the scan, passengers may choose to submit themselves to an intensive pat-down.
Did the TSA Go Too Far?
Full Body Scanners Aren’t a Big Deal
Gate Rape: Scanners Invade Personal Privacy
he TSA has implemented new full body scanning technology. Many airline passengers are uncomfortable with this extra safety measure. Movements across the nation urge US citizens to boycott the scans by choosing an invasive pat down, joining in protests, and even refusing to fly. Can you say overreaction? Privacy is extremely important. At the same time, I value my life. Is it not worth it to sacrifice an ounce of privacy to ensure one’s, not to mention entire airplanes full of people’s safety? It’s time to swallow your pride, America. Let’s be honest here—the lone TSA agent who sits in the back room monitoring the negative x-ray images of your body doesn’t give a crap about the size of your junk. That TSA agent is only there to make sure that no weaponry or explosives are carried on board the airplane. Concerns have risen over the potential harm that could be caused from repeated exposure to the scanner technology. Experts on the subject are confident these fears are unwarranted; says Dr. Andrew Einstein, director of cardiac CT research at Columbia medical center, in an interview originally reported by HealthDay. com, “A passenger would need to be scanned using a backscatter scanner, from both the front and the back, about 200,000 times to receive the amount of radiation equal to one typical CT scan….the general public has nothing to worry about in terms of the radiation from airline scanning”. As for the pat-downs, I think a passenger has even less of a right to complain. Having chosen to bypass a harmless, speedy, and fail-safe body scanner, it is still of utmost importance that the TSA makes sure that no illegal items are making it onto the plane. Yes, the pat down can feel invasive but that’s the point. If it weren’t invasive, then bombs or weaponry could easily be smuggled in through the breast or groin regions. I know that the public values its privacy, but at what point does privacy become more important than the lives of those around them? Can’t we all make a small sacrifice to ensure that our flights be safe and secure?
afety is valuable. There is nothing more valuable than life, and in order to live, safety must be ensured. What are we willing to give up in order to be safe? Benjamin Franklin said that, “those who sacrifice liberty for security deserve neither.” We live in a country where liberty is the foundation of our government, and to disregard that by using invasive full body scanners in airports is the first step towards a government that controls every aspect of our lives. The full body scanners invade personal privacy. This form of security” can be humiliating and uncomfortable especially for people who are self-conscious, amputees, or even sexual assault victims. Sure, flyers can opt out of this, but the alternative is an invasive pat down that involves a stranger touching the flyer’s breasts and groin area. Pick your poison. The issue of privacy is only half of the battle. What about the radiation that is being released in these full body scanning images? According to wewontfly.com , a website dedicated to ending the use of full body scans, “the risk of dying from scanner radiation is equal to the risk of dying in a terrorist attack”. For frequent flyers, this risk is increased. In actuality, the full body scans do not even detect the most current bombs that terrorists are using. Pentaerythritol tetranitrate or PETN is the plastic explosive that both the Shoe Bomber and the Underwear Bomber attempted to use, but failed to detonate. The scanners cannot detect this form of terrorism. The only thing that can detect this explosive is the use of trained bomb dogs at TSA checkpoints. Obviously, change needs to come with the TSA system. Just one terrorist with intent to kill getting onto an airplane demonstrates that the TSA system is flawed. However, full body scanning is an inefficient way to detect these potential terrorists.
Jordan Rummel ‘11
Emily Buzzard ‘11
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Art Director
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Editor-in-Chief
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Janaury
Mrs. Allen leaves FHS as the 12the grade subschool to become the Math Coordinator for grades K-12 in Cluster IV. Avatar became the highest-grossing film of all time. Somalian Pirates hold cargo ship and captain hostage. Haiti was hit with a devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake on January 12.
February
New Orleans Saints won Super bowl XLIV The XXI Winter Olympics began in Vancouver, British Columbia Canada. An earthquake with an 8.8 magnitude hit Chile on February 27.
March
Mr. Terrell is hired as the new sub-school principal for the sophomore class. Canada tops the medal count in the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. FHS Science Olympiad Wins First Place.
April
Aditya Mazmudar won first place at the Regional Science Fair. Apple released the innovative, new iPad. The BP Oil Spill, caused by a drilling accident in the Gulf Coast, was the largest accidental marine oil spill in history.
May June
Retired FHS teacher, Mitch Sutterfield, wins a seat on the school board. Kevin Simonds was announced the 2010-2011 Rebel football coach, after Coach Haddock got a new job with Centerville. The Class of 2010 graduated on June 16, 2010. Former Vice President Al Gore and his wife Tipper announced their seperation. wo thousand and ten. Termed the International Year of Biodiversity by the United Nations and International Year of Youth, the first decade in the 2000s was filled to the brim with exciting achievements, devastating events, spectacular inventions, and incredible feats. Take a look at our Year in Review highligting those important moments that happened in the school, in the US, and around the world.
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Jordan Sharpe ‘11 Editor-in-Chief
July
Spain beat the Netherlands 1-0 to win the World Cup. LeBron James held a one hour TV news conference to make the decision to play for the Miami Heat during the 2010 season.
August
Mrs. Boehme was welcomed to FHS as the new 12th grade sub school principal replacing Mr. Matt Eline, who became the principal at Rocky Run. Professional golfer, and father of two, Tiger Woods, and wife Elin Nordegren get a divorce after his affair with multiple women was made public.
September
Fairfax High School celebrates in 75th Anniversary, and holds the earliest Homecoming in the history of the school.
October
Chilean miners are rescued a month earlier than the predicted rescue date after their Senior Rosie Perash was selected to the 2010 Virginia Honors Choir. mine collapsed.
November
The annual Canned Food Drive brought in over 17,000 food items to donate to the Food for Other Organization. This is the most FHS has collected in the past five years. iTunes finally adds The Beatles to their music library.
December
WikiLeaks.org released government secrets. R. Kelly released his newest album, Love Note.
Top 10 Obsessions of 2010
10.“ 9.“ 8.“ 7.“ 6. “ 5.“ 4. “ 3. “ 2.“ 1.“
as told by FHS Rebels
Tea Party
They’re fed up with the government and it makes it appealing to most. -Junior Robbie Ashton
Justin Beiber
Haiti was hit with a 7.0 earthquake on Tuesday, January 10, 2010.
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As Dale Doback says, ‘his voice is a combination of Fergie and Jesus. His luscious hair blows in the wind’. - Sophomore Zach Duda
Sperry Topsiders
You can wear them in the winter, you can wear them in the spring and fall, and you can wear them on boats in the summer! -Sophomore Samantha Bryan.
Taylor Swift
Spain beat the Netherlands 1-0 to win the World Cup on July 11.
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She’s a genuinely nice person, not a Lindsey Lohan, she has morals. And very nice hair. -Senior Kevyn Richmond
iPad
Its a giant iTouch. The iPad is awesome because you can type on it like a computer. -Senior Zoe Robinson.
Inception
Inception blows your mind. I literally left the theater screaming... like screaming! -Senior Patrick Mortierre
Plaid
The BP OIl Spill, which happened on April 20, 2010, caused harm to the gulf coast and enviornment.
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It’s all about Lumberjack Thursday. -Junior Jessie Brown
World Cup
The World Cup united the world in peace. -Senior Rachel Fulmer
Silly Bandz
I have a whole jar full of Silly Bandz! I like how they come in all different shapes and colors and you can find a set that suits your interest. -Senior Abby Royer
Jersey Shore
Modern Family won Comedy of the Year.
The things that they say and the things that they do are just so outrageous. And who doesn’t want to watch a guido!? - Sophomore Jula DeCrosse
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features
The Best Holiday Movies: From Classics to New Releases The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
A Christmas Story
Little Fockers
Photos courtesy of iwatchstuff,com, impawards.com, shockya.com, and allposters.com
Brandon Blankenship ‘12
The tale of the Pevensie siblings is a curious one; they aren’t like most teens their age. Before the eldest reaches his 18th birthday, they’ve all collectively encountered talking lions, evil snow witches, battles with mythical creatures, and a door way to a magical world through a wardrobe they found during a game of hide-and-seek. In this third installment to the Narnia series, the kids are transported back to Narnia, this time through a painting to finish off the White Witch. This movie will leave you and your family on the edge of your seats in anticipation.
No matter who you are, what holiday you’re celebrating this December, or what your family finds appropriate, this classic is a movie every family is sure to enjoy. This is a story of Ralphie Parker, a boy that only asks for one simple thing this Christmas, “an official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot range model air rifle with a compass in the stock, and this thing which tells time.” The movie follows Ralphie and his zany family and friends as they try to avoid the bullies, save their turkey from rambunctious dogs, and win the Little Orphan Annie decoder contest. This movie runs 48 straight hours from the 24th to the 26th, you really have no excuse to miss this wonderful classic.
This is the story of Clark Griswold and his Christmas experience that took a turn for the worse when all his relatives decided to come to town. Along with his family and wacky relatives, including Uncle Eddie, Clark struggles to keep his sanity while enduring the holiday season. With rude neighbors, ridiculous amounts of Christmas lights, squirrels in the tree, frying a cat with an electric surge, and many other laughs, this is a must see for the holiday season. So grab your family and gather around to watch the hilarious struggles of the family that puts the fun in dysfunctional.
We all know the story of the Focker family from their two hilarious previous installments “Meet the Parents” and “Meet the Fockers.” It really is true in this case, first comes love (Parents), then comes marriage (Fockers), and now here’s the baby in a baby carriage. In this third feature of the current trilogy, the story follows the recent Focker parents (Ben Stiller and Teri Polo) as they try to raise their children while dealing with Polo’s unruly parents who bring more than just disapproval to the table. What shenanigans Jack Byrnes (Robert DeNiro) will get the family into this time is unclear, but one thing’s for sure; this is a holiday movie your family will regret missing. Staff writer
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features
How to Keep the Romance Alive this Winter
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ust because cold temperatures and snow are about to arrive doesn’t mean that the warming passion of love ever has to end! This winter, it’s crucial you know the most romantic, and cost-friendly places to take your date to keep your romance steamy, even in the brutal cold of winter. Elliot Meyer and Jordan Rummel are back to break down four of the most exquisite date locations in Fairfax.
Ice Skating: Nothing says “I love you” like skating arm-in-arm
around an ice-rink with your boo. Check out the Fairfax Ice Arena for cheap rates and affordable gear. Jordan Rummel:There’s nothing more adorable than helping your date across the ice. Make sure you wear something warm, and water resistant; I fell a few times and there was definitely some major water-seepage occurring through my jeans..NOT comfortable. The date was fairly expensive. The entrance fee, plus the cost of rental skates, and the inevitable post-skating hot-chocolate drinkfest can really add up, so if you’re planning on paying for both yourself and your date, bring some cash. Elliot Meyer: The cliché date to an ice rink turned out much FINAL TALLY (1* to 5* with 5* = better than I had expected. The chilly activity goes well in contrast to the the best) warmth of affection shared by two lovers. Hand in hand, you can glide for Romance Rating: *** hours with that special someone around the rink, just make sure you don’t get lost in each other’s eyes, you’ll end up colliding into someone else. You do Unique Rating: ** have to have some skill to be able to skate; nothing ruins a date like falling on Cost-Friendly: **** your face. Ice skating is cost friendly, but it can get very crowded on the ice. Also, a footnote: Outdoor rinks are more romantic than indoor and I do not recommend trying to skate on a frozen lake or creek. Hypothermia is not romantic.
Outdoor Activities: “Let it snow, let it snow!” When your world is covered in a thick white blanket, there are a plethora of activities
you can do with your crush. Snowman building, snowball fights, sledding, snow angel making, igloo constructing, whatever your mind can fathom, you can accomplish in a winter wonderland. Check out Van Dyke Park for huge sled spots and prime snowball fight locations. Jordan Rummel: I love the outdoors. Although I usually consider myself a warm-weather person, I still find a certain beauty in the blustery-winter cold. To brave the weather, make sure to bundle up with gloves, scarves, and even neck warmers, if you so fancy them. Take your prince charming (or princess) out into the Winter Wonderland that is Fairfax, and do some exploring! Even better, once you’re done outside, move indoors for some cuddling. Nothing says “love” like an electric blanket, s’mores, and a full serving of movies and tv shows.
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Elliot Meyer: First off, you need snow for any of these things to work. Cross-country skiing gets very painful and sledding is a literal flop without some fluffy, white snow under your feet. A blizzard is the most beautiful gift of winter - transforming a dead, cold, unsightly world FINAL TALLY! into a magical play-land where anyone can reconnect Romance Rating: **** with their inner kid. The innocent fun can be shared Unique Rating: *** with your love, it costs nothing to have a great time, and once you both are Cost-Friendly: ***** rosy cheeked, you two can curl up around a fire with cups of hot cocoa.
features
Baking Cookies: Got the munchies or a devious sweet tooth? Nothing can better
satisfy those hunger pangs than whipping up some holiday goodies with the one you love. Jordan Rummel: There’s nothing like gettin’ down and dirty in the kitchen. It’s just you, your significant other, and a load of delectable goodies. My number one tip for the best baking date ever? Be messy. More mess equals more fun. Don’t be afraid to fling the bag of flour around! Do a little face painting with some icing (a variety of colors is encouraged. Pull out the can of whipped cream! Your options are limitless. The bigger the mess, the sweeter the cleanup. Yum!
FINAL TALLY Romance Rating: *** Unique Rating: ***** Cost-Friendly: ****
Elliot Meyer: Tis’ the season to bake scrumptious, mouthwatering treats that delight your special someone. Baking is easy and anyone can be successful at it; you need to be able to turn on your oven and follow a recipe. It gives you an opportunity to wear festive smocks or aprons and work as a team with your love to make some yummy nom noms. From Gingerbread houses and cakes, to pies and cookies, the possibilities are endless! It is very cost friendly and gives any romantic duet some quality time to explore delicious experiments that result in sweet bundles of joy.
Starbucks Coffee Shop: What better way to warm each other’s hearts than over a steaming hot cup of java? Starbucks and Caribou Coffee both work.
Jordan Rummel: “I really liked the coffee shop date. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and it was so cute how Elliot let me try his peppermint mocha. It did take some time for our drinks to be made by the barista, but the great taste of the beverages was well worth the wait. I would definitely take a date to the local coffee shop; it’s the best way to beat the cold and keep the romance burning!” Elliot Meyer: “After a long walk with my love through the wintery weather, nothing was more perfect than a hot cup of coffee to warm my chilled lips. The coffee shop atmosphere, with its comfy leather upholsteries and hot, festive coffees puts anyone is the holiday spirit. The waiting time depends on what time you are looking to order coffee; I recommend avoiding mornings. The cost is the only downer, I think paying $5.00 for a cup of coffee is pretty overpriced, but if the two of you like the same drink, you can split a Venti and share the love.”
Jordan Rummel ‘11 & Elliot Meyer ‘11 Art Director & Staff Writer
FINAL TALLY Romance Rating: **** Unique Rating: *** Cost-Friendly: ***
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features
Dance, Dance, Rebelution
Fairfax Dance Team Crushes Competition
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he twelve members of the Fairfax Dance Team are performed with Varsity Spirit, which was a combination preparing to perform at eight of the home varsity of cheerleaders and dancers from across the country. basketball games and outshine their opponents in “The dance summer camp that the FHS dance team goes upcoming competitions. So far, the team has performed to, UDA (Universal Dance Association), offers captains in two competitions, a local competition at Paul VI on and co-captains the chance to participate in the parade” November 13, and a George Mason Invitational on Fulmer says. December 12, where they placed fifth for their kick The team began practicing in July at the team summer routine, and sixth for jazz. At the PVI competition, they camp. Junior Erin Joyce joined the dance team this year, placed fourth for their kick routine, and sixth for their and said “At the camp we completed our own routine, varsity pom routine. learned new dances, and each The team captains, Arenn person attended two or more Martin, Elizabeth Fulmer, and classes to learn a different style Rachel Fernandes, got the of dance.” Besides coming up opportunity to participate in with choreography at the camp, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day there is other choreography parade this year with over 750 that has to be learned other cheerleaders and dancers throughout the year. Junior from high schools across the Captain Rachel Fernandes country. The dancers were said, “We (the captains) have watched by over 44 million choreographed one dance people across the country, and Dance team performing at the George Mason this year, our jazz dance that made a showing as a sea of hot Invitational. we take to competition. Our pink that marched down the Photos courtesy of Lynne Fernandes coach choreographed our kick street. routine and anyone on the team Junior Captain Elizabeth Fulmer described the process who wants to choreograph has an opportunity to during of learning the routine, “We had to learn the video from basketball season.” The team is also looking forward to the computer before we arrived in New York. Then future competitions. Fernandes said, “In March, we’ll when we got to New York City we had rehearsals be competing at EDA Nationals in Myrtle Beach.” just about every day from Saturday to Wednesday for Stone ‘12 about three hours.” Martin, Fulmer, and Fernandes Emily Managing and Co-Features Editor
Girls Learn International Works for Human Rights
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he United States puts a lot of emphasis on education and basic human rights. Not every country stresses these same values though, and many third-world countries deprive girls from having an education. In order to resolve this universal problem, an organization called Girls Learn International has been established throughout the nation. According to www.girlslearn.org, this club requires members to learn about “girls’ rights”, and “raise a minimum of $500” which goes towards “school fees/tuitions, school supplies, (and) school room and board.” To date, all of the U.S. schools that participate in this program have donated a total of “approximately $115,000 for their Partner (foreign) Schools worldwide.” Though Fairfax High School has not made a contribution yet, sophomore
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Marla Surette, the club’s organizer, said, “We plan to raise money by selling the items that third world countries send to us.” The girls in the club meet almost every other Friday and have been working towards the first objective of the organization, learning and understanding about girls’ rights. They recently wrote a collaborative letter to girls in Old Seemapuri, India. “We talked about U.S.’ human rights and how we hope to influence their government into giving their citizens more rights,” said club member, sophomore Christy Yee. Despite the organization’s name, Girls Learn International is not limited to females. Males are also welcome to join, so anyone interested in helping girls in third-world countries gain human and education Rachel Tran ‘13 rights should contact Marla Surette; it’s not too late to Staff writer join!
features
A Look at the Fierce Ping-Pong Competition
A
rguably the greatest sport of all time, Ping Pong has revolutionized the way we go about our everyday lives. Also known as table tennis, it originated in the 1880’s after a genus British person had the grand idea of moving his tennis battle with a fellow chap indoors due to the intense afternoon heat. And from a Brit’s pansy fear of sunburn, Ping Pong was born. The first official world championship was held in 1926 in London. Soon after, the United States Table Tennis association was formed in 1933. Today, the game of Ping Pong has progressed to one
of the fiercest competitions ever to sweep the halls of Fairfax High school. Students are banding together in pairs to take on each other over a green table and miniature net. Fairfax beware: this game is not for the weak. Some of Fairfax’s most competitive students are undertaking the challenge to become the next ping pong champions. Here’s the inside scoop of the most talked about teams; these pairs definitely have the balls to paddle their way to victory.
Elliot Meyer ‘11 Staff writer
Sally Dillinger and Meg Murphy: Alex Glaum and Kevin Feehan: If the Greek gods had ping pong, then Hercules and Hyperion would be the equivalent of these two Juniors. The paddles are their thunder, the ball is their lighting, and a win is in their forecast.
These girls shouldn’t be crossed. Deriving their skills from six combine years of varsity soccer, their lighting reflexes make them unstoppable on the table. To the competition: “I hate the Zach Attack. Watch out. We’re going to crush.” – Sally Dillinger
To the competition: “Our offense is impetuous and our defense is impregnable.” – Alex Glaum and Kevin Feehan
Photo courtesy of www.alz.org
Photos by Elliot Meyer
Zach Duda and Zach Burnett:
Also known as the Zach Attack, the essence of fire and ice will be battling for glory, never accepting defeat. Opponents are going to have to bring their best game to the table if they’re looking to give this dynamic duo a run for their money. To the competition: “Crush? Nothing can crush our indomitable squad. The only thing going to be crushed is [their] frail bodies.” – Zack Burnett
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features
Winter Fashion:
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ot cocoa, cold crisp air, snow ball fights, and staying up to see the ball drop; Ah, the many wonders of winter. Tis’ the season to look fabulous! It’s time to put away all of those shorts and flip flops you’ve been trying to rock all fall and
Look Cute and Stay Warm this Season
embrace the warmth of winter fashion! Here are five tips to get you ready for the upcoming freezing weather:
Emily Robinson ‘11 Co-Features Editor
1. Fur
It’s a very hot trend that not only looks good, but is also functional and warm! I personally am against real fur, but I’m all for rocking a cute faux fur jacket with a sweater, skinny jeans, and boots.
2. Fringe
Fringe is probably one of my favorite trends coming in for winter. Fringe was super popular in the late 60’s and 70’s and is slowly making reappearance. Not too sure how to rock fringe? Fringe boots are all the rage right now, you could pair the boots with a warm winter coat and jeggings (which are also super in right now!)
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3. Sequins
Photos by Emily Robinson
Sequins were a popular trend for fall but are making a huge appearance in winter collections. A sequin covered dress with bright colored tights for New Years would be cute and effortless. And if you’re not afraid to be bold and wear sequins on an everyday basis look for a shirt with smaller sequins that you could rock with black ripped jeans.
features
HOW TO MAKE PEANUT BUTTER BLOSSOMS
{ Ingredients
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{
Baking Directions
his recipe was created in 1957 by an Ohio woman named Freda Smith for the ninth annual Pillsbury bake-off. It did not win the grand prize, but has become increasingly popular.
Adapted from “Hershey’s Kisses Peanut Butter Blossoms” Recipe found on Hershey’s Kisses Package
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48 unwrapped Hershey’s Kisses ½ cup of shortening or butter ¾ cup of creamy peanut butter 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar 1 egg 2 tablespoons milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 ½ cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt Granulated sugar
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees, and remove wrappers from about 48 Hershey’s kisses (this can also be done while cookies are baking). 2. Beat shortening (or butter) in large bowl until well blended. This is easiest with a handheld mixer. 3. Add 1/3 cup of granulated sugar and brown sugar; beat until fluffy. 4. Add egg, milk, and vanilla; beat well. Be sure to crack the egg in a separate bowl before adding, to ensure that it’s not a bad egg and doesn’t ruin the other ingredients. Also, be sure all pieces of the shell are removed. 5. Stir together flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl, and gradually beat into the peanut butter mixture. 6. Shape dough into 1-inch balls, or approximately the size of a ping pong ball. It’s okay if they’re a little larger or smaller, just make sure they’re all the same size. 7. Roll balls in granulated sugar and place on an ungreased baking sheet. 8. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned. 9. Immediately after removing baking sheet from the oven, press a Hershey’s kiss in the center of each cookie. 10. Place each cookie on a wire cooling rack.
Emily Stone ‘12
Managing and Co-Features Editor
Photos by Emily Stone
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sports
Virginia Ices Hockey Out been playing are in this league anyway.” The NVSHL is technically a non-affiliated clublevel league, but one would hardly be able to tell by watching a game. The Fairfax high school team still skates out in Rebel Blue, Madison is still the Warhawks, and the students from Langley are still richer than you. It’s probably the closest thing to an actual varsity hockey league that we’ll ever have in Virginia. But hockey is a sport that is growing fast in our area, with the help of the success of the Washington Capitals and leagues like this, even though some schools in the NVSHL still don’t have a deep pool of players to pull from when forming their teams. Fairfax is among the several teams in the league that have to combine with other schools to make a full roster, teaming up with the Potomac School. While this gets the Fairfax/ Potomac hockey players their 10 regular season games, combined-school teams don’t get to compete in the league’s playoffs. ccording to FairfaxHighSports.org, six Rebel There are seven Rebels skating for the Fairfax/ teams will represent our school at the varsity Potomac team; Grose and his brother senior Alex level this winter; two basketball teams, one Grose, juniors Kevin and Katie Richards, junior Thomas gymnastics team, one swim team, an indoor track team, Frederick, senior Emily Buzzard, and freshman Colin and a wrestling squad. Woods. Hopefully, as the popularity of the sport grows But, despite the fact that sports like gymnastics and so will the number of players from Fairfax. And with track and field are great wintertime sports, let’s face it, enough players, maybe one day there will be a seventh neither of these sports were made for cold-weather. winter sport on FairfaxHighSports.org: Varsity Ice You’ll never see a gymnast going from a backward Hockey. somersault into a perfect-10 split while doing the Walker Carlson ‘13 hurdles on an icy sidewalk (on purpose, that is). Sports Editor Isn’t it odd, then, that the one sport that screams “WINTER,” is missing from our list of varsity teams? After all, could you even call a winter without hockey winter at all? Well, Virginia high schools are trying to, at any rate. Ice hockey has never been an official high school sport in this southern state, and probably never will be. Hear that? That was Canada’s jaw dropping into a snow bank. Although the Virginia High School League (VHSL) clearly has no room for the ultimate winter sport, high schools all across Northern Virginia, Fairfax included, have their own hockey teams. Since 2001, teams from 28 different schools have been competing in the Northern Virginia Scholastic Hockey League, even though, according to their high schools’ sports sites, they don’t exist. Right: Team captain Alex Grose is a lead scorer for “I don’t really mind (hockey not being a varsity the Fairfax team. Left: Standout defenseman, junior sport),” said sophomore Nicky Grose, a player on the Thomas Frederick, searches for the breakout pass. Fairfax team. “All of the teams we would have Photo courtesy of Fairfax Ice Hockey.
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sports
Concussions Impact FHS C
onfusion. Nausea. Constant headaches. Memory loss. Sound fun? These are all symptoms of concussions, along with many others. Concussions are among the most serious sports-related injuries at our school and are becoming more and more common. 32 concussions have already been diagnosed among FHS student athletes this year. Last year there were around 60 total FHS athletes diagnosed, and as indicated by WebMD there were nearly 3.8 million in the U.S. from sports and recreation alone. But these numbers are just the concussions that are recorded. According to FHS Certified Athletic Trainer, Mr. Brett Gustman, concussions are like icebergs. Only about 5-15% of concussions are reported so you never know how many there actually are, just like you don’t know how big an iceberg is under the water. What exactly are concussions? Concussions are injuries to the brain caused by a sudden jolt in which the brain shifts around inside the skull. While some concussions are easy to spot because of symptoms like a loss of consciousness, not all show symptoms, which is why they are especially important to look out for. Concussions are pathophysiological injuries, meaning that they can greatly affect your judgment, intelligence, and even your personality. There is no real way to prevent a concussion. The only approach to help prevent them is having “a good education and proper technique,” says Gustman, and once you have a concussion “rest is the best medicine.” Although there is no known medical test to prove a patient has a concussion, there are steps to be taken to determine whether or not an athlete has one. Fairfax High School student athletes are given an impact test to test their normal reaction times, ability to identify shapes and colors, and other neuropsychological tasks. This test provides a baseline so that when an athlete takes a particularly hard hit to the head they can retake the test and compare scores. If there is a significant deficit in the scores of the second test, a concussion is highly possible. The most important step to identifying and working to correct a concussion is reporting it, and talking to your athletic trainer or a doctor about any symptoms you might have. If you take the time to heal after having a concussion, you are no more likely to have another later, Gustman states clearly. However, if you don’t let yourself fully recover, you can be subject to Secondary Impact Syndrome (SIS). “SIS is what people die from,” Gustman explains. A hit to the head after already
Pfeiffer has suffered two concussions over the last two years. Photo courtesy of Julia Pfeiffer having a concussion can cause the brain to completely shut down. On the other hand, if you do recover completely, a second concussion doesn’t have to be any worse than the first. Just ask sophomore Julia Pfeiffer who has had two concussions in the past two years, with symptoms for the second no worse than the first. Pfeiffer’s second concussion could have been much worse had she not listened to her doctors and gotten lots of rest. Concussions are not to be taken lightly. They are serious injuries that can have lasting effects. According to the Journal of Neuropathology and Experimental Neurology, one possible effect is developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a progressive tauopathy clinically associated with behavioral and personality changes, and dementia. Recent studies show that both CTE, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease), a fatal progressive degeneration of motor neurons in the brain and spinal cord, are related to an increase in head injuries, as published in the Journal. One hit too many to the head and your whole life can change.
Nikki Strickland ‘13 Copy Editor
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sports
Basketball Brief BOYS: 1 win, 4 losses
(as of 12/16)
Dominion Titans
Woodson Cavaliers
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66-42: W
efense shone in Fairfax’s first win of the season over the Dominion Titans. The Rebels held Dominion to only four points in the first quarter, while they spread their own points around.
66-59: L
n the annual game against their crosstown rivals, the Rebels fell to the Covaliers, ranked 10th on the Washington Post’s AllMetSports.com. Sophomore Zack Burnett had 15 points to lead the team.
Walker Carlson ‘13 Sports Editor
Sophomore John Robic runs the offense as the team gets into position against Woodson.
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All photos by Alysa Baird.
Junior Matt Frank gets ready to box out the defense as the shot goes in.
sports
Fairfax Finishes Top Ten
O
n the morning of December 10, as mats were being rolled out and the scorers were preparing at their tables, parents and wrestlers from 32 high schools across Northern Virginia filed into the Fairfax High School field house, while the Rebel Varsity wrestlers waited eagerly for their turns on the mat. While they sat anxiously waiting for their turn, the wrestlers were preparing themselves by listening to music or by watching their possible opponents wrestle another from one of the other participating schools. “I feel confident,” senior Shaun Hasenpflug said as he sat on the side awaiting his match. “I’m ready for my shot.” I’m ready Junior Luke Cox says he prepares himself by for my “just chilling and psyching himself up with the shot. anticipation,” after wrestling earlier in the day -Shaun Luke said he “need(ed) to be more aggressive, Hasenpflug take more shots, and be more careful,” if he wanted to continue participating in the Classic. Meanwhile, senior Joseph Vanderplas fought his way to the championship round in the 215 weight class and finished in second place, and junior Nick Lowstuter finished in sixth in the 103 weight class by the end of the Classic the following day. The Classic was a great way of showing the amount of determination and effort the wrestlers put into what they do and how they use it to achieve greatness, as the team finished tenth one of the largest wrestling tournaments in Virgina.
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All photos by Helena Contes.
Natalia Colon ‘12 Staff Writer
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humor
The Art of Regifting
D
uring this festive time of year, a myriad of might be given to someone, but it might not fit them gifts are exchanged during holiday gatherings, personally, or physically. Going back to the previous be they Christmas, Hanukkah, or even the example, what if a little old lady had received a 12 workplace’s Secret Santa gift exchange. These gifts are gauge for Christmas? Would anyone feel comfortable normally greatly appreciated by all parties involved, letting her keep it, and even use it? Probably not. mainly due to the charitable nature gift exchanges Unless this lady has a gun collection, or a passion exude. for bagging big game animals, this would be a prime Unfortunately, there are some presents that garner example of a gift that would be acceptable to regift. All no more than one has to do odd looks is just wrap and scoffs. it back up Items such and attend as tacky the local sweaters, National Rifle socks, used Association garden (NRA) implements, chapter’s and holiday gift B-Movies of exchange. a bygone era Undoubtedly, are all shooa number ins for the of members inevitable would be snide overjoyed at remarks the prospect that follow of receiving a gifts of that new firearm. caliber. When Even being giving burdened presents or Seniors Alexander Steigerwald and Moh Khan have mastered the tricky art of by gifts that regifting. Photo by Helena Contes. regifting said you aren’t presents, one interested must always in, but someone else might be, such as an elderly keep in mind who will be receiving the present. If it grandmother receiving a hunting rifle, can be cause doesn’t fit who it’s going to, the best course of action for alarm and confusion. A simple and efficient would be to just get them something else. Also, if it solution exists that can resolve the most difficult comes down to needing to regift a gift, be sneaky about holiday conundrums. The answer lies in the practice of it. Don’t just wrap the gift again and give it back to regifting. the person who originally gave it, or someone in their Regifting, for those of you who are unaware of its family. Another important tactic in regifting is time, if meaning, is the method in which one slyly takes an it’s impossible to avoid regifting someone’s gift in front unwanted gift and wraps it back up to give at another of them, wait a few months/years/ decades and let time gathering. This practice is considered a lifesaver by erode their memory of that specific present. Regifting some and a dastardly deed by others, who claim it is a good tactic for removing unwanted gifts from one’s demeans the original giftgiver’s attempt to present the possession, but keep the feelings of those who gave he recipient with a nice present. There are clearly two gift in mind. How would it feel if granny turned her opposing camps on how regifting should be handled, nose upwards in disgust after you carefully selected but in the end, regifting is not all bad, and is even her new Bear-Bagger 3000 hunting rifle? acceptable in some situations. A number of reasons support this stance. Matt Reihing ‘11 Chief among these is that a good present Commentary Editor
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rebel recreation
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Word Search rebels goldfarb basketball snow reindeer christmas hanukkah antlers hockey swim dive Varanavage wrestling holiday cookies
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Operation Christmas Child
Operation Christmas Child is a program where volunteers pack shoeboxes full of small gifts to be sent to needy children in countries across the world. The program was created by Samaritan’s Purse, and has served 130 countries since 1993.
TOYS
small cars, balls, dolls, stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump ropes, small Etch A Sketch®, toys that light up or make noise (with extra batteries), Slinky®, etc.
SCHOOL SUPPLIES pens, pencils and sharpener, crayons or markers, stamps and ink pad sets, writing pads or paper, solar calculators, coloring and picture books, etc.
HYGIENE ITEMS toothbrush, toothpaste, mild bar soap (in a plastic bag), comb, washcloth, etc.
Shoeboxes shipped to: Operation Christmas Child 801 Bamboo Road Boone, NC 28607