Table of Contents
4. 11. 14.
October 29, 2010
A house fire in Country Club Hills interrupted the 75th Anniversary Homecoming Parade making the 75th Anniversary one to truly remember.
Many students listen to The Kane Show on their way into school every morning, our own Sam Brott expresses his opinion on why it is so popular. Topping the box office for three consecutive weeks, “The Social Network“, the movie about Facebook, has become a favorite for students at FHS.
22.
On September 28, senior students participated in the first ever Volunteer Fair to learn about the importance of volunteer services. This fair showcased many different organizations available for volunteering including the Red Cross, the Christmas Box and soup kitchens.
16. & 17.
Photos by Jordan Sharpe, Helena Contes, and Sam Brott.
National breast cancer awareness month is observed each October. We take a look into the different ways of honoring breast cancer awareness this month.
26.
The girls volleyball team ended their season on a high note, winning their senior night game against McLean two games our of three.
Rebel Roar staff 2010-2011 VHSL First Place in Newsmagazines 2009-2010 Editors in Chief Emily Buzzard Jordan Sharpe Managing Editor Emily Stone News Editor Aneela Wadan Commentary Editor Matt Reihing Entertainment Editor Zafar Shaw
2.
Features Editors Emily Robinson Emily Stone Sports Editors Sam Brott Walker Carlson Copy Editors Rachel Tran Nikki Strickland Art Directors Toni Rayder Jordan Rummel Business Manager Jessie Mason
Staff Writers Suha Ahandker Brandon Blankenship Natalia Colon Helena Contes Kristina Hurd Steven Kendall Elliot Meyer Gabrielle Severson Emily Taylor Daniela Torres Advisor Carl Irvin
The Rebel Roar is a punlished 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 editorials 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.
letter from the editors
A
fter our first issue was distributed, we couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming amount of pride seeing students looking through the 32-page-thick newsmagazine. We worked hard on it, had many near aneurisms in the process, and we were happy to simply produce the Rebel Roar. Sometimes though, when looking at a huge project, it is impossible to look at the project without only noticing the errors. As Editors-in-Chief, we only tend to look at the mistakes we want to fix for the future, rather than the successes we achieved in the past. For October, we want to stress the importance of success. Success in fighting for the cure for breast cancer, success in expressing freedom of speech, success in athletics, success in academics, and of course, success in the journalism room. We are executing this plan in every section, by making the successes of our school known. From high AP exam scores in News, to survivors of breast cancer in Spread, we portray our triumphs as a school as well as the triumphs of the city of Fairfax. As the first quarter comes to an end, it is easy to look at that period of time as a project. Just like each issue of the Rebel Roar, you may choose to look at the first quarter in two ways: a series of failures in which you can learn from, or a series of successes that you want to continue. Good luck as this
quarter draws to an end Rebels, and we hope that you can improve next quarter, just like Rebel Roar plans on doing.
binson
Photo by Emily Ro
Have a successful end of the quarter, and a happy Halloween,
3.
news
House Fire Interrupts Homecoming Parade
One fire fighter carries a hose from the truck to the scene.
O
n September 24, Old Lee Highway was lined with children, parents, students, and teachers celebrating the 75th Anniversary of FHS at the annual Homecoming Parade. At every homecoming parade, the dance team and marching band lead alumni, clubs, and sports teams, down the blocked off street towards the school for the pregame tailgate. This year, however, the event was interrupted by fire trucks, and rescue vehicles, racing past the people on the streets in response to a house fire in the Country Club Hills neighborhood. At approximately 4:30 pm, a house on the 9900 block of Farr Drive caught fire. The fire began only a half hour after the Parade began. A fire truck that was participating in the Parade, was immediately called and .
4
sent down Farr Drive in response. Shortly after, more fire trucks and rescue vehicles came down Old Lee Highway and turned into the neighborhood. The fire began in the garage and quickly spread to the rest of the house, engulfing the kitchen area in flames first. The flames were enormous; taller than the house itself, and the smoke that came from the fire could be seen over the trees from Old Lee Highway. First responders and fire fighters were able to put the fire out in relatively good time. The garage and kitchen area of the home that is visible from Farr Drive was completely lost. No one was injured or killed in the fire, except two pets; a dog and a bird that died in the house.
Jordan Sharpe ‘11 Editor-in-Chief
The flames engulfed the garage, which quickly spread to the rest of the house.
A firefighter rushes to the scene. All photos by Jordan Sharpe.
news
Fairfax Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
H
ispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15th to October 15th annually to celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors are of Hispanic descent. This is done through many various celebrations, exhibits, and cultural festivities held throughout the world by families and crowds alike. Since 1968 Hispanic Heritage Month, originally known as “Hispanic Heritage Week,” was created by President Lyndon Johnson and expanded under the influence of Ronald Regan in 1988 to span a 30 day period. And after much debate and hesitation, it was finally enacted into law on August 17th, 1988; just in time for the twentieth anniversary. Lasting so many years, and striving through a world of such rapid change, Hispanic Heritage Month is one of the last real things we as Americans have left to come together over. It is significant in the fact that it’s not only celebrated by Hispanics, but other ethnicities as well throughout gathering families, community events, and a common love of the culture.
Brandon Blankenship‘ 12 Staff Writer
All photos by Bran
don Blankenship.
5.
news
Good-bye Ms. Benson
F
or our many band and other musically involved students, change is in the very near future. Our band teacher of the past three years, Ms. Meghan Benson, will be leaving Fairfax High School. Ms. Benson has had a huge influence on the Fairfax Band, leading them to many victories in the past three years. Not only did they achieve superior ratings at the District Orchestra Festival and a perfect season for the marching band, but they won, for the first time, Virginia Honor Band. After contemplating the decision to leave Fairfax, the hardest decision of her life, Benson is now moving on to make a huge difference in more than just her local community. She is preparing for a new career with the Department of Education, deciding how best to use federal money to help graduating students achieve admission into college. According to Benson, this career change will allow her to, “have the opportunity and ability to help thousands of students instead of just the 150 at Fairfax.”
Gabrielle Severson & Brandon Blankenship‘ 12 Staff Writers
Ms. Benson, enjoying her last few days at FHS. Photo by Brandon Blankenship.
College Fair Craze
6.
Students talk to the many college representatives at the fair. Photo by Emily Stone.
A
total of 324 colleges participated in the annual College Fair at Fair Oaks Mall, handing out piles of brochures and answering the questions of prospective students and their parents. Virginia schools had the largest representation and their tables had large crowds around them vying for a quick talk with one of the college representatives. Juniors Kelly Seibold and Shyla Strickler both attended the College Fair. They both seemed to find the fair to be informative and helpful in making plans for life after high school. Kelly Seibold checked out the tables for The Culinary Institute of America, Johnson & Wales University, and VCU. “Before I went to the college fair I didn’t know what I wanted to do after high school, but now I have a general idea of what I want my future plans to be” says Kelly Seibold. Shyla Strickler was interested in learning more about Christopher Newport University, University of North Carolina, and University of Delaware. Strickler said, “The College fair had a lot of information and brochures, and the representatives were really helpful.”
Emily Stone‘12 Features Editor
News Briefs
news Team Ball Boys won the inagural 5v.5 soccer tournament on October 22.
Senior Rosie Perash fills one the 130 slots in the 2010 Virginia Honors Choir. She was selected out of 800 applicants.
Jimi Gibson hypnotizes the selected audience using psychological techniques at the Hyponosis Show that took place on Senior Rodolfo Bustos was awarded a bronze October 24. mediallion for Mathmatics and Engineering through the Hispanic Heritage Youth Association.
Upcoming Events College West Virginia University
Location Career Center
Date 11/3/10
Time 10:30 a.m.
Davidson College
Career Center
11/4/10
8:00 a.m.
Longwood University
Career Center
11/4/10
9:00 a.m.
Maryland Institute College of Art
B-139
11/18/10
10:30 a.m.
6.
entertainment
:S p u e k a M
Emily Over: Halloween Edition
o it’s that time again, when kids go from door to door harassing people for candy. Yep, it’s Halloween time and the Emily Over is here to help you with your Halloween dilemma. This month I made over sophomore Bita Davoodi I gave her bold fairy inspired make up and a cute Tinkerbell bun.
Step one: Apply a white
Step eight: Apply a bright
matte eye shadow base,then appy a light pink eye shadow on the inner corner
pink blush and glitter to your cheeks, also place the glitter around your eyes. And dont forget mascara!
Step two: Apply a bright
Hair:
purple eye shadow on the middle of the lid.
Step three: Take a bright
Step one:
Brush your hair out, and make sure there is no tangles.
greeen eye shadow and apply it to the outer “V” of your lid and bring it up in the crease.
Step two: Slick
Step four: Line your water
Step three: Tightly
line and lower lash line with a light green eyeliner.
Step five: Take the bright
green eye shadow you used in your outer “V” and put it under your bottom lash line
Step six: Take purple liq-
uid eye shadow and draw curved lines outward to your temples in different directions.
back your hair into a high ponytail with no bumps. twist ponytail and wrap it into a bun.
Step four: Pin
bobby pins into the bun to secure.
Before:
Step seven:
Take stick on rhinestones and place them at the end of the lines of eyeliner you just drew.
8.
Emily Robinson ‘11 Features Editor
After:
entertainment
the social network
F
Rebel Roar likes this.
acebook: we’ve all heard of it, we’ve all seen it, we’ve all experienced it. It has changed the way we communicate through the internet. By taking social networking to a whole new level, Facebook uses status updates, profile pictures, photo albums, various groups, wall posts, etc. to liven up online interaction. With just a click of a mouse, we are connected with ALL our friends, coworkers, colleagues, and mentors. We can send convenient messages, add new friends, rekindle old friendships, and even network, professionally. Not only does Facebook allow us to set up individual personal profiles but online users are able to make accounts for celebrities, certified businesses, or interest groups. Rolling Stone Magazine acclaimed The Social Network “ the movie of the year”. The film details the birth of the widespread phenomenon known as
Facebook. The movie follows Mark Zuckerberg, the cofounder of Facebook. It portrays his personal life at Harvard, partnership with former friends, and the heated law suits that claimed he stole the entire idea! The movie also enlightens moviegoers with exactly how Facebook began and its transformation over the years. Some critics propose that Zuckerberg was portrayed negatively in the film, as a selfish, overly-intelligent, founder of Facebook. The film portrays how he duped his longtime friend and fellow co-founder while on his way to becoming one of the worlds’ youngest billionaires. With leading cast members, Justin Eisenberg and Justin Timberlake this decade-defining movie impressed all 500 million Facebook members when it hit theaters October 1.
Mark Zuckerberg, creator of the facebook, showed the world what “friends” really are. Photo courtesy of www.thesocialnetwork-movie. com
Zafar Shaw ‘11
Entertainment Editor
Bieber Fever Speads to FHS
C
anada has contributed many but isn’t obsessed with Justin Bieber. Bieber great things to world culture, fever is when someone listens to all of his including maple syrup, music, knows all of the lyrics, plans on going Degrassi, Hockey, and now Justin to a concert, and most likely owns a shirt Bieber. Bieber fever is sweeping the and his cds, and is someone who has a great nation as the sixteen year old pop star infatuation with Justin Bieber himself. tours the world, serenading girls of all At age sixteen Justin Bieber has sold more ages. albums than any one at his age. Bieber is Bieber was signed to Island Records able to appeal to all groups of people and in 2008 with Usher endorsing him. has captured the hearts of girls all over the Justin Timberlake wanted to sign him world, from ages six to 19. With the amount onto his label but in the end Bieber of talent and the number of fans he has signed with Usher. accumulated over the past year since his first If you are a Bieber fan you know album was released, things can only go. there are several levels of appreciation In 2010 Justin Bieber is now a rising star for him. There is just the basic fan, with his hit song “One Time”. One thing there is the believer, and then there that all of these artists have in common is are those who have caught Bieber that they have all been successful with more Photo courtesy of www.justinfever. Don’t be fooled, they may seem than one album selling, and are still known the same but they are very different. The biebermusic.com around the country. basic fan is someone who simply listens to his music and may even own a cd or two. The believer Emily Taylor ‘11 is someone who listens to all of his music, and enjoys it Staff Writer
9.
entertainment
Falling for this Fall’s TV Shows
L
uckily for all high school students who are heaped with homework every night, with the arrival of all-nighters comes the arrival of the new fall television season. There are those shows we absolutely love, those we love to hate, and those we hate to love (in other words, those we think should have ended two seasons ago, but we can’t stop watching). During the week of September 20th the hallways were buzzing with talk of the fall premier week. Though it may pain some few outsiders, the show most people were anxious to start watching again was Fox’s witty success, Glee. Senior Amanda Kelley thinks the start of the second season has been simply “Amazing!” and Shannon Berenbaum commented excitedly, “New Directions will totally decimate Vocal Adrenaline!” Its first episodes thrilled its fans with some of their favorite songs and the return of their favorite cast members. Another show whose second season was much anticipated was ABC’s Modern Family, which airs on Wednesdays at 9/8c. When asked about the Emmy-winning comedy,
10.
Photos courtesy of FOX and ABC.
Senior Sudeep Nugooru responded, “Modern Family is ridicu-licious.” Veteran shows that returned to a happy and loyal audience include Fox’s Bones and House; NBC’s The Office, Law and Order: SVU, and Chuck; and ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy, Desperate Housewives, and Brothers and Sisters. Although these networks have ongoing, popular shows, the race to have the next big, successful series is never-ending. The third week of September alone, NBC premiered three brand new shows: Undercovers, Outsourced, and The Event. Both Undercovers, featuring a husband and wife spy team, and Outsourced, about workers in a call center in India, had some ambivalent reactions from critics for their first episodes. The Event which airs on Mondays at 9/8c, was highly anticipated, which should come as no surprise since it came from the creator of 24. It follows the uncovering of a government conspiracy about a biological threat. Mr. Bryan Pahl, FHS English teacher, commented, “Even though it resembles Fox’s The X-Files, it has a really interesting story that makes
me want to keep watching.” CBS also premiered some new shows, The Defenders, about two flashy Las Vegas lawyers, and Hawaii Five-O, a remake of a 1968 show which follows a crime-fighting task force in Hawaii. The worst thing that can happen on a premier week is suddenly finding out one of your favorite TV shows was canceled. ABC had more than a few, including FlashForward, Eastwick, and Happy Town. NBC had some losses as well with the shortlived Mercy and with the end of Law and Order after its 20th season on air. Despite these cancellations, students can count on many shows this season to distract from the stress of everyday schoolwork and to further promote procrastination and the continuing spread of Senioritis. For those students who plan on passing this school year and still enjoy their favorite shows, it is a blessing to have a DVR and that most networks have new episodes online the very next day.
Daniela Torres ‘11 Staff Writer
entertainment
Books of the Month
S
hadowed by the excitement of Halloween and Columbus Day, the fact that October is National Book Month may be lost upon most people. If students can’t seem to muster any appreciation for this celebration of literature, perhaps because they are stuck overanalyzing a book in their English class, they need only be reminded of all those books they enjoyed before everything had to symbolize something and have a deeper meaning. Our admiration for books can be found if we look even twelve years back when most of us were awed by Dr. Seuss’ ingenious rhymes. The simple phrase “Green Eggs and Ham” brings forth a rush of memories of our childhood favorites, such as The Giving Tree, A Series of Unfortunate Events, The Magic Tree House,
and Junie B. Jones books. This month students should take time to appreciate those books that have made us laugh and cry by enveloping us in their own little world, with simple words transporting us from the comfort of our homes to a battlefield, a place where vampires coexist with regular people, a dystopia thousands of years into the future, or a Transfiguration classroom. Use this month to get back to the plain enjoyment of reading and if you can’t seem to find new books to immerse yourself in, check out one of the books on our list of Rebel Roar staff picks.
Daniela Torres ‘11 Staff Writer
Taylor Swift: More Than Great Hair battle with others’ snide comments and how she overcame them. It sounds like Hollywood is actually high school part two. When she says “someday I’ll be living in a big old city and all you’re ever gonna be is mean”, her subliminal advice is to realize that one day the comments won’t matter.
Taylor Swift doesn’t hold back.
T
aylor Swift released her 4th album Speak Now on Monday, October 25 after recording four singles: “Mine”, “Back to December”, “Speak Now” and “Mean”. Since listening to this album for the past 48 hours, straight, I realize that Taylor Swift not only has insane musical talent, but offers valuable insight on life. Here are the multiple life lessons I learned from the album: This is what I learned from Speak Now: Boys stink. Judging from songs like “Back to December”, “Dear John”, “The Story of Us”, and “Better than Revenge” Taylor Swift has had flings with Taylor Lautner, Joe Jonas, and apparently John Mayer, and they have always ended badly. I would say “don’t waste your time” but the album title is Speak Now, which means that you should take chances and use your words to get your point and opinion across. Speak Now taught me to continue pushing even when boys are holding you back. With success come critics. In “Mean”, Taylor Swift sings of her
Taylor Swift obviously sang about her personal life in Speak Now when she: •Called out John Mayer in “Dear John” all the girls that you’ve run dry have tired, lifeless, eyes cause you burned them out. •Apologized to Taylor Lautner in “Back to December” so this is me swallowing my pride standing in front of you saying I’m sorry for that night. •Reminisced about Joe Jonas in “The Story of Us” and the story of us looks a lot like a tragedy now. •Hated on Camilla Belle in “Better than Revenge” she’s an actress but she’s better known for the things she does on the mattress. •Forgave Kanye West in “Innocent” 32 is still growing up now; who you are is not what you did. Once again, Taylor Swift produced a fantastic album with solid songs. Thank you Tay-Tay for providing the public with awesome music and even more valuable life lessons.
Emily Buzzard ‘11 Editor in Chief
Shawty List: Gone iPod 10. “Secrets”-One Republic 9. “Deuces”-Chris Brown 8. “Whip My Hair”-Willow Smith 7. “Satisfaction”- Benny Benassi 6. “Club Can’t Handle Me”Flo Rida ft. David Guetta 5. “Black and Yellow”-Wiz Kalifa 4. “Misery”-Maroon 5 3. “Just A Dream”-Nelly 2. “Hey Baby”-Pitbull ft. Tpain 1. “Check it Out”-Will.i.am ft 11. Nicki Minaj
commentary
The Buzz
T
his month, I wanted to write “The Buzz” in Ebonics. Since I am fluent, it came second nature and I had a fabulous article, filled with colorful language and fun terms like “What’s Gucci?” and “Gott ‘em.” According to my lame staff I can’t pull off the Ebonics style, so enjoy this month’s “Buzz” in plain old English, with no fun language or terminology.
HOT
NOT
Calling your mom by her first name
Calling teachers by their first name
Your mother may just be the one individual who will always love and accept you no matter what. Why not take advantage of her when she wants you to clean your room and call her “Maggie”? You know she will love you anyway, so it is the most satisfying way to subliminally slam your own mother. However, she may get the sudden urge to slap you, so watch your back.
With the exception of Erus Cribbs, calling teachers by their first name isn’t necessarily a great idea. I know multiple students who had to resist from referring to Mr. Lott as “Cleveland” on a daily basis, because he probably wouldn’t find it funny. Regardless of how cool or hilarious a teachers first name may be, it is always a good idea to refer to them with the usual “Courtesy title + Last name” formula.
Power outages during school Unfortunately for us, our high school experience may have just peaked on September 28th, when the power when out throughout FHS. Freshmen, it doesn’t get much better than that. Nothing is more satisfying than sitting in a dark classroom for two and a half hours, under a teacher who thinks that they can continue on with the lesson plan anyway. Because most students act like apes whenever the power goes out, zero learning gets accomplished, and school automatically becomes fun. Free Weezy When Little Wayne (or “Weezy”, if you are hip) was sentenced to jail last March, people across the nation were devastated. Now that he has released an album while in jail, fans are more ready than ever to free Weezy. Obviously Weezy should not have been arrested in the first place; the world needs his creative talent.
12.
Crowded hallways The next time I walk through a crowded hallway, and see two people stop to “catch up”, while clogging up the already jammed hallway, I may just take it upon myself to punch both of them. Luckily for all you traffic jammers, I abide by the law too well to resort to violence in difficult situations, but it is about time Rebels learn hallway etiquette. First rule of law, keep moving at all times. Secondly, if an upperclassman tells you to move, you better move. Lindsay Lohan Despite her amazing performance in Mean Girls in 2004, Lindsay Lohan has proven herself to be a complete mess. She went to jail for cocaine and recently failed a drug test while on probation. Lindsay, if you are reading this right now, which you probably are, you used to be such a good role model for girls everywhere! I miss Cady Heron, come back.
Emily Buzzard ‘11 Editor in Chief
commentary
Excuse Me? Something’s Missing
The proudly painted Spirit Shed in front of Chantilly High School. Photos by Toni Rayder.
4
One of the many spirit rocks at Paul VI is decorated for their Homecoming. Photo by Jordan Sharpe.
house is ugly, or unappealing to the community. Oth201 Stringfellow Road is the home of Chaners may argue painting a rock encourages vandalism tilly HS and their famous spirit shed. Painted or disrespect for property. Well, here’s the thing, just throughout the year by students for many difbecause someone paints, “Go Rebels! Class of ’11!” on ferent occasions, the spirit shed stands as a symbol of a side of a rock that is meant to be painted on, doesn’t school spirit for the Chargers. mean that they are going to 10675 Fairfax Boulevard, the turn into the next big tagger. home of the Paul VI Panthers, And for those of you that don’t is decorated with spirit rocks; a know, a tagger is someone who boulder for each grade outpaints graffiti on public buildside of their field house. Right ings. As students, we are not down the road, at 3501 Rebel aiming to graffiti our school; Run: nothing. we just want to show off our The halls of FHS overflow school pride. Is that too much with school spirit. Freshmen, to ask? Answer me this: do you sophomores, juniors and really think we would vandalseniors sport their class colors ize the building if we had the and school pride during each opportunity to decorate a spirit spirit week and every game Rebel Run currently lays vacant, lacking any- rock? We are allowed to paint day. Every pep rally, the gym thing akin to a Spirit Rock. Photos by Toni Rayder. paw prints. Currently the only floor is covered with paper way, students, if only seniors, links representing each student‘s attempt to show off can express their own brand of school spirit. their Rebel Pride. The question is not where is our The pros outweigh the cons in this situation. A spirit school spirit, but where is our school spirit displayed rock would only promote more school spirit at FHS, for all to see? and that’s a good thing. The more school spirit, the The Class of 2009 gladly donated a bronze lion more students will want to come to school, and the statue as their senior gift. The lion, similar to Robinson more students will want to come to school, the more Secondary School’s brass ram, stands proud in the Kiss they’ll want to learn! Well, it’s a possibility. I know I and Ride section of the school parking lot. Thank you would want to come to school every day if I could pass Class of ’09 for your gift, it’s actually pretty cool, and a giant rock brightly decorated and radiating with very much deserved by the students and faculty of school spirit. Just look at Pride Rock from the Lion FHS who have gone years without a mascot to protect King. The animals idolized that. We could name our our building. However, its ideal presence is not felt by spirit rock Pride Rock and continue the excellence for all. Bottom line, the lion isn’t a big boulder or a coloryears to come, just with more school spirit. ful shed. You can’t paint it, or decorate it for upcoming events and game day celebrations. We need a rock. Jordan Sharpe ‘11 Editor in Chief Some may say that a large rock outside of our field
13.
commentary
The Art of Individuality (and why we can’t master it)
L
ook around you. Look at the people at your lunch table, next to you on the bus, alongside you in the hallways. Does it ever occur to you that no one sticks out? Despite the fact that each of us try to stand out and be unique every day, the scary truth of the situation is that we are all much more alike than we would like to believe. I know we’d all like to believe that cliques don’t exist here at Fairfax, but they do. There are the Popular Kids, the Drama Kids, the Skaters, the Stoners, the Bookworms, and the Artists. We can’t avoid this harsh reality. There are clearly defined barriers at Fairfax, and in many cases these labels define who we are throughout our four years in high school. And this problem is not just relevant to Fairfax. All over the country, the individuality of kids and students is becoming further obscured and squashed. Students have been sent home for wearing religious garb and symbols. Hats, according to the SRR, are prohibited, as are bandanas. Sagging pants are disallowed; along with studded belts, halter tops, and backless blouses. With so few clothing items that are actually allowed, you’d think that school
Naming the Lion
uniforms would be mandatory. The first amendment of the Constitution promotes freedom of expression, but apparently, this right has no place in our schools. Just last month, I was sent home to change during the pictures taken for Homecoming Court. A teacher, (who will not be named in this article), told me that by wearing jeans instead of the traditional dress pants, I had the potential to “ruin homecoming for everyone”. Grudgingly, I went home, changed, and came back for the pictures, which continued from there on out without incident. Am I the only one who finds it ironic that, although I was chosen to be on the Homecoming Court due to my uniqueness as an individual in and outside of the classroom, It was considered sacrilege for me to actually express myself on the one platform where I had the ability to do so? I believe it is crucial that we retain the individual traits and habits that make each and every one of us unique. This is a call to action: be different, be yourself, and strive to be matchless. Just “do you”, and there’s no way you can go wrong.
Jordan Rummel ‘11 Art Director
A
new addition to the Rebel family was installed over the summer; a bronze lion was proudly displayed at the front of the school. Despite the majestic, powerful aura the lion exudes, it still lacks one of the most critical parts to its identity: a name. What’s in a name? Yes, a common tag for the object to which it is assigned, but more importantly, a label by which one can instantly recognize the unique characteristics of said object. The name for the lion should be something regal, something primal. The lion’s name should evoke images of the Serengeti, a lion’s natural habitat, where the strong survive and the weak get eaten. The name should paint a portrait of the beautiful lion stalking its prey, fur glistening in the African sun. It should illustrate the moment before it pounces, scores a meal, and ultimately attains victory. Senior Zoe Rob-
14.
Meet Leonidis: the proud symbol of FHS. Photo by Matt Reihing.
inson suggested naming the lion Aslan, after the character of the Chronicles of Narnia series. Sophomore Bita Davoodi and Senior Kyle Boswell proposed to name the newest member of Fairfax’s luscious grounds “Simba”. Both of these names are cute, but, they do not inspire the fear and awe commanded by the ferocious statue. I, however, am convinced that the lion, the very embodiment of Fairfax High School, should be
christened Leonidas. What better name could be given to such a magnificent statue? The name Leonidas is not only unique, but also translates into “Lion’s Son.” Considering the mascot of our school, the proud lion, the name could only be described as accurate. Even more fitting is that Leonidas was also the name of the Spartan commander, who died protecting Greece from the Persian army. What better name could there be to personify courage, determination, and loyalty, all of which are key factors here at FHS? Besides, opposing sports teams’ knees will buckle when they glimpse Leonidas’ fierce expression, and they will only lose hope knowing that, like the Spartan commander, the Fairfax Rebels will never back down from a challenge, no matter how insurmountable it appears.
Matt Reihing‘11 Commentary Editor
commentary
Why I Love the Kane Show
S
ome people need their coffee to wake up in the morning. I, on the other hand, just need my Kane Show. Kane Show has gotten me through four long high school years now. Each day I wake to the sound of Kane’s voice explaining some crazy story and Samy making fun of him. And each day I drive to school listening to Sarah’s dirty celebrity gossip and last night’s news. The Kane Show is a radio talk show on Hot 99.5 that is hosted by Kane, along with his buddies Sarah and Samy. Each morning from 6-10 the crew discusses topics, not only of pop culture such Lindsay Lohan’s latest jail sentencing, but also news such as Congress’ hottest bill. The crew also features regular bits like War of the Roses and Samy’s dirty joke of the day. The Kane Show is like a cup of coffee in that it starts my day off
Samy, Kane, and Sarah the cast of the Kane Show are like a warm cup of coffee. Graphic deisgned by Sam Brott. just right. Just like a coffee addict can’t go a day without their cup of joe, I can’t go a day without my Kane. Just like coffee, the Kane Show is bitter. It takes a unique personality to make a good radio show and this trio is about as bitter
I’m Late....Again
T
his year FHS implemented a new lunch schedule with four different lunches, A, B, C, and D. As a result, cleaning before and after lunch was eliminated and the school reduced passing times from eight minutes to seven. Although this may not seem like a huge deal to outsiders, students can attest that this one minute difference definitely changes the flow they were accustomed to prior to the change. Also, an influx of freshmen has caused traffic volume in the hallways to swell, making it difficult for students
as it gets. They hate on celebrities, make fun of anything they see wrong, and straightforwardly offer their opinions. But just like every good cup of coffee, there is some sugar in there. Way deep down in their hearts Kane, Samy, and Sarah do have some love and they are passionate about the things that are important to them. For example, Kane’s wife, Natasha, and baby Sam. Most of all, a cup of coffee is warm. The Kane Show is warm because it makes you feel good as it gets you through your day and gives* you topics to talk about at lunch. Plus, it always feels great to know that your life is better than those of the people they talk about. So if you still haven’t found your “morning cup of joe”, the Kane Show just may be that special something.
Sam Brott ‘11 Sports Editor
who need that extra minute to make it to class in one piece. Being banged against lockers, stomped on at busy intersections, and sprinting the last 50 feet towards the classroom door are all part of the experience of sevenminute passing time. Sophomore Mussa Ali says “It’s impossible to try and socialize with friends, get a book from your locker, or go to the restroom, and make it to class on time”. All students dread the ominous roar of the lion, as soon as this two-minute warning bell sounds students, stampede through the halls, like a herd of buffalo as if a real lion were chasing them. These students can’t risk being late twice since it will result in detention so they trample over any obstacles in order to make it to class on time. Senior Amanda Kelley simply states, “I have to go all the way from the Chorus room to the Spanish hallway in literally five seconds, it’s almost impossible without trudging over underclassmen.” All things considered, the administration needs to realize that one-minute between classes adds up to a mere three minutes, however, these three vital moments-in-time are invaluable to hurried students.
Zafar Shaw ‘11
Entertainment Editor
15.
Pinktober: I
Photos courtesy of ebay.com
E
Self Examination
very sophomore at Fairfax goes through self-examination sessions in health class. It may seem like the most uncomfortable 90 minutes of our lives, but Wanda Orr, the Public Health nurse at FHS, explains the importance of finding signs of breast cancer early. Ms. Orr believes it is very important to, “develop habits early for being healthy in the future. If we get [students] to do self-examinations now, it will help them develop the habit for later in life.”
3 Easy Steps for Early Detection of Breast Cancer:
MammogramsYearly mammograms are recommended starting at the age of 40. Clinical Breast ExamTo be done by doctors as a part of periodic health exam every three years beginning at the age of 20. Breast Self AwarenessWomen should be able to detect changes and report them to their doctor.
16.
n honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness month, which is annually observed in the month of October, many people go out of their way to raise awareness. Even if it is girls dying their hair pink, or the entire NFL wearing pink cleats, breast cancer generally gets more attention than any other form of cancer. Female “girl power” groups often begin bandwagon movements around this time of year. Last year girls around the entire United States put their bra color as their Facebook statuses as a way to unite for the breast cancer cure and keep men in the dark. This year girls are putting their statuses as, “I like it...” and completing the sentence with wherever they put their purse when they get home. For example, “I like it on the floor” or “I like it on the chair.” While this may seem like a girl empowerment movement, how does saying where you like your purse relate to breast cancer? Some students like junior, Mikey Mezher, think that these statuses are nothing more than an excuse to make a sexual innuendo; “I don’t think that they support breast cancer very well, I just think they are funny.” These Facebook statuses are hardly a significant portion of the attention that breast cancer is receiving this month. Keep a Breast foundation has recently come out with “I Love Boobies” bracelets to encourage teenagers to start talking about Breast cancer. These bracelets cost $3.95 and come in five different colors; the money for the bracelets goes towards fundraising efforts and educational programs for breast cancer awareness. While these bracelets may seem innocent, much dissent has arisen in schools in the past few months. They are banned in schools across America, due to the sexual interpretation of the bracelets. Over 1.5 million cases of cancer are expected to be diagnosed in the U.S. in the year 2010, according to the American Cancer Society. If so many cases of cancer are diagnosed each year, and only about 13% of these cases are breast cancer, then why, as a society, do we focus the most upon breast cancer? There aren’t bracelets that say “I Love Lungs”, “I Love Skin”, or “I Love Colon”. For sophomore Usman Ahmed, the bracelets meant something different than showing support for finding the cure for breast cancer. “At first I thought [girls] who were wearing them were lesbians, but I later learned that they were to support breast cancer. I think they are nice.” This controversy brings us back to February 24, 1969 in the Supreme Court case of Tinker v. Des
Students Bust Boundaries in Search for the Cure
Emily Buzzard & Toni Rayder ‘11 Editor-in-Chief and Art Director
S
Staff Editorial:
Moines. There are many similarities between the two cases, in that in 1969 students were wearing black armbands to protest the Vietnam War. The students were promptly suspended from the school, and this brought up issues about freedom of speech. The Supreme Court ruled: “In wearing armbands, the petitioners were quiet and passive. They were not disruptive and did not impinge upon the rights of others. In these circumstances, their conduct was within the protection of the Free Speech Clause of the First Amendment and the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth.” There is little difference between the “I Love Boobies” bracelets students are currently wearing and the black armbands in the case of Tinker v. Des Moines. The fact that students across the country are getting suspended for refusal to remove “I Love Boobies” bracelets raises attention towards freedom of speech. At FHS, there haven’t been any issues as far as the bracelets. When asked about the current bracelet controversy, Assistant Principal Kristin Boehme said “I do believe in freedom of speech. On the other hand, most women who suffer from breast cancer don’t use that kind of language, so it probably makes light of a serious situation.” Keep a Breast foundation believes that the bracelets, “allow young people to start talking about a subject that is scary and taboo and making it positive and upbeat.” Sophomore Samantha Bryan has dealt personally with breast cancer. Her mother was diagnosed in 2002, and after a strenuous battle with chemotherapy for two years, she entered remission. When asked about the bracelets, Sam said “I feel like the bracelets don’t really promote finding the cure because the kids who wear them don’t really understand [what dealing with breast cancer is like]. But if they try and understand how intense and emotional cancer is, then I think they could help promote [finding the cure] a lot better.”
aying that we don’t support the cause for finding a cure for breast cancer would be ridiculous. We support the cause for early detection of breast cancer and finding a cure to save countless lives. But we also support the cause for early detection of every other cancer, to save lives of people stricken by cancer regardless of which portion of their body it affects. By wearing “I Love Boobies” bracelets, students have already successfully gotten their point across. The questionable language used on these bracelets may have raised eyebrows across the nation, but this is why people wear “I Love Boobies” bracelets in the first place- to raise awareness about a horrible disease. Even though students across the country are getting suspended for wearing “I Love Boobies” bracelets, and have been banned locally at Bishop Dennis J. O’Connel High School in Arlington, VA, it is still a priority at Fairfax to uphold students’ freedom of speech. The continuation of “I Love Boobies” bracelets being worn in FHS halls shows more to us than just a strong support of finding the cure for breast cancer. It reflects the progressive area in which we live that students are allowed to wear bracelets that are suggestive of sex. We think that most students aren’t using these bracelets to healthily exercise freedom of speech, or to promote the cure for breast cancer, instead they are wearing them to see how much they can get away with. Do high school boys and girls really appreciate the fight for breast cancer, or do they just want to display the fact that they love boobies?
17.
features
This Girl’s Got Game I
t is safe to say that video games are generally a male dominated activity. Dudes know that nothing beats escaping to your man-cave for a couple hours and “going live” with your friends on Halo Reach. But boys beware - if you end up playing against gamer tag: xo Mrs. Vaughn, you could find yourself getting walloped with a Gatling gun. Senior Francine Vo knows her way around a controller. Noob, pwned, CoD, and WoW are all in her vocabulary and her skills could give most guys at FHS a run for their money. Francine not only loves playing video games, she dominates opponents. Like most gamers, she started at a young age, playing classic games like Dance Dance Revolution that sparked a love for video games. As she grew older, she graduated to an Xbox and was immediately hooked on the best-seller Halo series. Like any athlete or musician knows, practice makes perfect. Francine has devoted hours to honing her skills on Xbox Live, which is paying off today. Vo has been competing in local tournaments in the Northern Virginia area, mostly at local Gamestops, since November 2008. “It’s just human nature to compete,” said Vo. “I love to win, but when I lose, I don’t whine about it. It’s fun to win money sitting on my butt all day!” The benefit to competing is free merchandise, such as t-shirts, posters, and money, but Vo loves doing it just for the fun of playing. If there is one tournament series that is considered the “super bowl” of all tournaments, it would be the one hosted by Major League Gaming (M.L.G.). Gamers from all over America gather for the opportunity to battle against one another under the same roof. They hold competitions for all systems, from computers and Wii to Playstations and Xbox 360s, and for all genres of games. This is not only an opportunity for gamers to show their stuff and earn some nerdy bragging rights, but it is also an opportunity for major gaming corporations to Halo 3 was a popular game at promote new M.LG. Photos by Elliot Meyer games and scope
18.
the floor for talented players to hire. For gamers, these tournaments are a great way to win free stuff, be noticed, and to do what they love. On October 15th, Francine took her controller and game face downtown to compete in the M.L.G. tournament held at the Gaylord National Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. Over 2,500 amateur gamers and 10,000 spectators came to watch teams go head to head in such games as “Halo,” “Super Smash Bros. Brawl,” and “World of Warcraft.” The convention floor, dimmed with blue lights, was filled with cutting edge televisions and surround sound Francine Vo stares down systems to broadcast competitors on a regular the fierce battles. basis. Companies including Doritos, Dr. Pepper, Stride gum, Old Spice, and Hot Pockets sponsored the event, handing out free merchandise left and right. “I loved it!” said Francine after the tournament. “I recommend any gamers out there to get a team together sometime and compete in a M.L.G. tournament. They’re so much fun and are pretty inexpensive to [participate] in. You get to watch the best compete, test games that haven’t been released yet, and get a bunch of free stuff!”While some view video games merely as a waste of time, those who love to play know this is far from true. It serves as a virtual escape, just like your imagination. You’re free to simply have fun and not be bound to the limits of reality. What many struggle to understand, and what Francine has discovered through gaming, life sometimes takes time to put aside your worries and just play.
Elliot Meyer ‘11 Staff Writer
Georgetown Cupcake
features
The cupcakes may be delicious, but are they worth the wait?
S
enior year was supposed to be a time of doors first and only cupcakery,” and it has paid off, as their opening and new experiences for me, which was store now seems to have more business than they know why it was fitting for my editor to call me and what do with. This however, may have more to do with tell me to write about one experience that I have been their new TLC show DC Cupcakes than their lauded waiting to call my own: going to Georgetown Cupcake. confectionery talent. Georgetown Cupcake, located in both Georgetown (the The menu is full of variety and includes at least five flagship store) and Bethesda, was purported to have types of chocolate cupcakes, three of vanilla, salted cupcakes which according to Senior Sam Bechert were caramel, and a “sunshine” flavor. Part of what makes “so good”. Having friends that frequent Georgetown their cupcakes so delicious is that they bake them that meant that I had been hearing about this cupcakery day with only the best quality ingredients. Cupcakes for years, so made at a local admittedly, grocery store can I was pretty hardly make the excited about same promise. finally getting a While many chance to taste do claim that the cupcake that LaMontagne Senior Shilly and Kallinis’ Abbey says “on cupcakes are scale one to ten, a work of art, are an eleven” a surprising Unfortunately numbers of this life changing people have experience was The Georgetown Cupcake line rounds the block. Photos by Helena Contes written that not meant to be. while the Upon my arrival, I was immediately confronted with cupcakes are trendy and good enough, they are a line that barricaded the door, not unlike a mini Great nothing out of the ordinary. Senior Charley BaxterWall of China. My moment of revelation will have to Gagen comments that “although the cupcakes are wait until PSAT day when everyone but the seniors pretty, they aren’t anything to write home about”. My is otherwise occupied being productive members of own experiences with confections have taught me that society. But don’t feel too bad for me; after all I’ve as a rule, people are easily impressed if the frosting waited this long. looks pretty and colorful. Beware of the hype. Store owners Katherine Kallinis and Sophie My advice to anyone considering going: order ahead, LaMontagne opened the first cupcakery in 2008 when and bring a good book, or try the almost unanimously a shop only selling cupcakes was still a novelty. Now, well received Baked and Wired store, also located in of course, we can find such stores anywhere: Cake Georgetown. Love is located in both Tysons and Fair Oaks Mall and Cupcakes Actually is in Fairfax Corner. Kallinis and Helena Contes ‘11 Staff Writer LaMontagne’s own website boasts of opening “DC’s
Customers wait patiently outside the The menu includes the daily flavors famous cupcakery. as well as special flavors.
The store’s awning has the famous logo and name.
19.
features
We CAN Make a Difference O
18.
Photos courtesy of campbellsoup.com and bettycrocker.com
20.
n a recent afternoon at Food for Others, two women came in at the same time, both for the first time. We welcomed them, and explained how to fill out the registration form. As they sat down to this task, one of the women began to weep. We know it is hard to come to Food for Others, harder for some than for others. Her husband had left and had closed their accounts. She had never worked in this country and was in pain. Asking for help had not been something, at the age of 58, she had ever had to do. So she wept. The other woman was the first to notice. She asked us for some tissues. And then, after the crying woman had dried her eyes, they returned to their registration forms and finished together. As they handed in the forms the women embraced each other for a long time. They cried together. Then they sat down, and waited the few minutes to be called. When the loudspeaker called their names, they went out to the warehouse, gathered their food packages, and went their separate ways. This is not the only story Ms. Liz Reinert is able to tell after working with the local food organization, Food for Others, for five years. We as a school have the opportunity to help individuals that are in need. The canned food drive kicks off November 3rd, when Rebels donate nonperishable goods to Food for Others. According to the Food for Others organization, in the Northern Virginia region more than 90,000 people are living in poverty. That number is 37.5 times the amount of students in our high school. 30% of these impoverished people are children who will go hungry. Fairfax, we can help. If each student in our school would donate 9 non-perishable food items we would well surpass our goal of 20,000. On Monday October 4, 2010 at 2:30 PM there were more than 100 families that came to the Food for Others warehouse to receive free food. The average at that time of day is about 45 families. Reinert, Deputy Director of the organization, discussed how great of an impact the donation from our school makes. Other than
federal funding and financial donations, canned food drives are a major source of their non-perishable food items. She said, “The most important thing I hope people your age know is that these are people in your neighborhoods, not Washington DC”. The warehouse supplies meals to both emergency victims and locals off the street looking for something to get them by. Ms. Reinert shared with Fairfax students who visited that some of the people that stop by are so grateful for everything and sometimes have shown their gratitude through giving her items they found on the street, such as bottles and marble slabs. The Food for Others mission is to obtain and distribute free food to those in need in the Northern Virginia area. Reinert said that all of the cans that Fairfax donates go, “into our warehouse, and then primarily into our emergency boxes which will go to families who find an emergency need for food. Then, they will go to families in Northern Virginia and our street corner sites which are also in Northern Virginia”. Everything is local. The people we are helping live in our area and they need help. Ms. Reinert said, “I think it is important for you students to know that you do have the power to create change and you can make one small difference in someone’s lives by bringing in canned goods. It can be something that you start in your school and it grows, so together we can make a difference”.
Kristina Hurd ‘11 Staff Writer
Liz Reinert, Deputy Director of Food for Others. Photos by Kristina Hurd
in memorium
Dylan Harrington September 18, 1992September 22, 2010
D
ylan L. Harrington, beloved Rebel of the class of ’10, tragically passed away Wednesday, September 22, 2010 at Fairfax hospital. He was in critical condition after being involved in a single vehicle crash shortly after midnight on Saturday, September 18th, but taken off life support three days later. The accident occurred on Va. 624 near U.S. 50, when his aunt’s truck lost control after moving at a high rate of speed and struck a tree. The driver, Dylan’s aunt, Debra Schoonover, died at the scene. According to family, they were traveling to Charlestown, West Virginia to celebrate Dylan’s 18th birthday. Dylan’s death comes as another tragic loss to the already mourning student body at Fairfax High school, where six students have passed away over the course of the past year. But Dylan’s life and memory will always be cherished and celebrated by the community at Fairfax. “He was one of the gang, one of the ten or twelve of us running around the neighborhood,” said senior Alex Neblett. “Ever since I was little, I remember us pulling pranks and playing airsoft or football together, the usual trouble making. We were just being kids. I never imagined something like this to happen to
any of us. We’re really going to miss him.” Dylan was highly active in the Auto Tech department at Fairfax and was remembered as “a big ole softie, a.k.a. Teddy bear.” “Dylan was one of those guys that would give you a bear hug whenever you hung out,” Graham Smith, ’10, remembers. “I knew him since we were in 2nd grade and we’ve been good friends until he died. We shared the same birthday, which was always fun to have one big party. Dylan was a nice guy even if he didn’t show it, very trustworthy, and I’m going to miss him a lot. He let his actions speak for himself and would always wear his heart on his sleeve.” Though Dylan’s passing has left many of us at Fairfax in grief, his memory has bound our community closer together. Dylan’s life is a celebration and an inspiration to those who knew him; he led a life that all should model. Dylan, you are loved and will truly be missed.
Elliot Meyer ‘11 Staff Writer
21.
features
Giving Value to Volunteering
E
very year, many FHS students volunteer at “I was so happy with the turnout and I think it was a countless organizations, either for a few hours great opportunity to build connections. It provided for or a few months. However, most of the time we great opportunities to interact with organization and all volunteer with organizations that don’t interest bring the community to the school. We plan on opening us. Why do students do this then? Simple: for college. this up to juniors next year as well.” Many students are Many adults helped willing to sacrifice time Ball organize this event. for something they don’t However, one student enjoy just because it decided to give a helping “looks good” or a class a hand too. Senior Marissa requires it. Bialek dedicated a lot of For every senior her time to this event. enrolled in Government, “Having worked with Ms. one of the first long-term Ball to organize the event, projects assigned is SLP, I was astounded when it the Service Learning finally came to fruition. Project. This is a graded Not only did I personally volunteering assignment feel benefited by the that requires every profusion of opportunities, student to dedicate at I also saw the interest and least ten hours to a single ambition in the eyes of organization. If a student my fellow peers as they Senior Ryan Brennan visits the Fairfax County Public completes 20 hours, he or rotated throughout all of Library volunteer table. she qualifies for a Service Photo by Emily Buzzard the organization tables,” Learning Cord to wear at says Bialek. graduation. If, throughout Seniors who attended the course of high school, the fair unanimously a student completes agreed that it was a 50 or more hours of success. It caused a change service, he or she will of heart in Senior Dylan receive a Virginia Board Lescure. “The volunteer of Education diploma fair made me want to seal for excellence in volunteer not for a good civic education. Most grade, but for that warm classes and clubs, like fuzzy feeling in my heart.” AP Government, require Senior Mohammed that the student volunteer Khan said, “I thought it at an organization not was meaningful, because I affiliated with FHS. am an aspiring volunteer. Fortunately, this year I just want to volunteer FHS hosted its first for the rest of my life, you ever Volunteer Fair on know? I hope to volunteer Students visit the Capital Area Food Bank table. Photo by Emily Buzzard September 28 during with Earth Sangha and supersized Pride Time. study volcanic rocks.” The purpose of this event was to provide students Senior Arenn Martin has already started her with the opportunity to meet and interact with various volunteer service. “I already went to the Green Springs organizations from around the City of Fairfax and the Nursing Home with [Senior] Alex Kuck. We both love Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, to help create a that place. It was so nice, and we felt really welcome more meaningful service learning experience. there.” Ms. Ball, an AP Government teacher and the Jessie Mason & Aneela Wadan ‘11 Business Manager and News Editor coordinator of the fair, enthusiastically stated,
22.
features
Meet Mr. Beall
M
ost students know from the beginning of the year announcements that there are a lot of new teachers at Fairfax this year, but some of you might not know that we have also have an addition to the counseling department. Mr.Erik Beall is coming from Jeb Stuart where he finished his fourth
This or that? year of counseling, after teaching for three years. In a interview Beall said he is really excited about working with all the new students and counselors and beginning anew.
Emily Robinson ‘11 Features Editor
Q&A
Q: How is this school different from Stuart? A: It’s a lot bigger and there are more variations of diversity. There also is a more elite sports program and better leadership. Q: What do you like about being a counselor? A: I like that I get to know students better all four years. Q: What made you want to become a counselor? A: My third year of teaching I’d have students coming to me with problems and I didn’t know how to help them, so I went back to school to get the proper training. Q: Name one thing you like about Fairfax? A: The school spirit.
Fairfax Alumni Look Back
Chocolate or Vanilla? Swirl Burger king or McDonalds? Burger king Taco bell or Chipotle? Chipotle Mac or PC? Mac iPhone or Blackberry? iPhone Redskins or Cowboys? DIE HARD DALLAS FAN Summer or Winter? Summer Football or Hockey? Football Dress up or Casual? Casual R&B or Rock? Rock Fairfax or Stuart? Fairfax
F
airfax High School has come a long way since play basketball we had to go to Oakton Elementary its first opening 75 years ago. Our mascot is no School.” At this point, during the WWII era, FHS was longer Johnny Rebel, still located in the PVI we no longer occupy building, so it was much what is now Paul VI, but smaller. Since there was we still have that same no football team, there Fairfax spirit. Hundreds could be no homecoming of alumni came to support football game, so this was Fairfax in the heartbreaking a new phenomenon for the homecoming game Birches. However, to Dot, against Langley on Friday, high school was “just as September 24th. great for us as it is for you Among the alumni that now.” attended the game were Another Fairfax family parents of current students, was Sandy Pullen’s. Sandy teachers, coaches, and graduated in ’78. Not only even some entire families did she meet her husband of alumni. Ray Birch, at Fairfax, but her brother, Alumni Ray Birch, Dot Sherwood Birch, and Susie Dot Sherwood Birch, and and both of her children their daughter Susie Birch Birch at the Homecoming tailgate. became Rebels. Sandy is Photo by Nikki Strickland all attended Fairfax High now a tutor at Fairfax and School. Ray was the first says that the biggest change to graduate in ’42, followed by Dot in ’46, and Susie is “the second floor renovation… because Fairfax was in ’71. When Ray and Dot went to FHS, it was quite already a handy-cap friendly school.” a different experience. “There was no football team, Nikki Strickland ‘13 Copy Editor gym, or auditorium,” Ray says, “When we wanted to
23.
features
Choosing the Perfect Halloween Costume
This year, instead of taking the obvious route of dressing up for Lady Gaga for Halloween, try to be a little original. Depending on your personality, you may want to try one of these suggestions:
Funny:
Pop-Culture Related:
• Facebook: Steal an idea from Jim Halpert of The Office, and paint the word “book” on your face.
Emily Stone ‘12
• Tiger Woods: Wear a polo, golf shorts and baseball cap. Tape Barbie dolls all over yourself, preferably in various states of undress. • Recent Survivor Loser: Don’t wash your hair for a couple days, glue on some scraggly facial hair, and carry a tiki torch. Put a frown on your face, and act bitter. • Angry Jet Blue Employee: Pull a Steven Slater and combine a flight attendant’s outfit and a bad attitude. Bonus points for an emergency chute.
Katy Perry: A close alternative to Lady Gaga, find an electric-blue wig, and put together any outfit that combines as many neon colors as possible. This is also a great option if you consider Halloween to be the one day of the year to dress as provocatively as possible. • Edward Cullen: Spike your hair, and cover your body in glitter glue. • Jersey Shore: Paint yourself orange, and wear something with spandex in it. • Toy Story: One sickeningly cute idea for a couple: Woody and Jessie costumes. Political: Junior Maddie Interdonato displays an • Oil Spill: Too soon? Maybe. Scary: alternative way to be “Facebook” for Dress in all black and pin • The Girl from The Last Halloween. cutouts of dead-looking fish Exorcism: Keep your head tilted Photo by Emily Stone to yourself. all night like your neck is broken. • Michaele Salahi: Fashion a red • Lindsey Lohan’s Halloween sari similar to the one she wore to crash the White costume from Mean Girls: Wear a wedding gown, House State Dinner, and add handcuffs. wig, fake teeth and describe yourself as an “ex-wife”. Opposite of sexy. Lazy:
Fairfax, What’s Your Favorite Halloween Candy? *200 students polled during all lunches on Friday, October 8th Students were given ballots that had ten candy options: Reese’s Cups, M&Ms, bubblegum, Skittles, Milky Way, Sour Patch Kids, Kit Kat. Snickers, Starburst, and Hershey’s.
24.
Candy corn background courtesy of destopnexus.com
•
Managing and Co-Features Editor
features
How to Carve the Perfect Pumpkin
E
veryone has their own tradition for pumpkin pumpkin was throwing up. carving, whether it’s the classic toothy grin Step 3: Design your pumpkin’s “face”. Be creative! for the front porch, or copying an original Everyone does the triangle eyes and big grin, so stencil printed off try to make your face the internet. Junior unique. Would you Cassidy Tammaro goes really want your face for “jagged teeth and the same as everyone evil eyebrows.” With else’s? Sophomore Jenny my family, it’s always Brzezynski says she likes been a competition. “a scary face,” and gets Therefore, as the her inspiration from returning champ that “my parents’ faces… just I am, I’ve had lots kidding.” of experience with My personal favorite is making the best the BOO face, where you pumpkin carvings. carve out “Boo” and use Step 1: Choose your the two O’s as eyes. To pumpkin carefully. make sure you don’t mess Pumpkin choosing up your pumpkin, you takes skill. The perfect should draw your design pumpkin has at least in pen before you carve. one good, clean face, Junior Maruo Bekhit and should have a stem said it best; you should that is long enough to strive for “a pumpkin There are many different options for designs to carve in hold; this will make with attitude.” cutting the top off a lot pumpkins. Step 4: Carve your Photos by Nikki Strickland easier. Great pumpkins pumpkin! The inside are easy to find. Places is hollow, the design is like Cox Farm, in Centreville, are the perfect place to chosen, now all that’s left is the actual whittling. So go. Cox Farms is always stocked with pumpkins and grab a knife, preferably a short and easily pliable one, you can make a day of going with your friends to make and follow your design lines to reveal your face. Cut picking the best pumpkin fun! all of your design first and then push the unattached Step 2: After you choose your pumpkin, the next pieces into the pumpkin to get them free. step is to de-gut it. And by that, I mean that you get The final step to making a winning pumpkin is to your parents to do the hard part of cutting off the top place and light the candle. The candle may very well and taking the insides out. Make sure you clean the be the most important part of a pumpkin- without it, inside of the pumpkin well enough to put a candle on the beautiful face you worked so hard to create won’t the inside. When you empty the pumpkin, separate the show. So don’t forget to light it up and place it on the seeds and cook them with salt and butter, and you’ve front stoop for everyone to see. got a delicious seasonal snack. Last year, junior Rachel Nikki Strickland ‘13 Wray decided to save her seeds and lay them scattered Copy Editor down her porch stairs to create the allusion that her
25.
7
sports
Things You Need to Know About Rebel Football
1.
The team is lucky to have such great team camaraderie. As captain Spencer MacLeod says, “We’re a big happy family.”
2.
The team really looks forward to their pre-game team dinners. Each week dinners are donated by local restaurants like Outback and Hard Times.
3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
They’re all a bunch of sharks. According to captain Sam Bechert, they fight for positions within the team to make sure the right guys go out to start the game. They love chick songs, especially Kelly Clarkson. Their team song is “Lean On Me” and the coach is even known to sing it with them. They’re actors, too. The team ends camp with the chance to perform skits to act out how the coaches have acted. With Seniors making up 36 out of the 51 players on the team, the Rebels have plenty of experience.
Photo by Sam Brott
Tonight is Senior Night! Come out and support the team against Marshall.
Sam Brott ‘11 Sports Editor
26.
sports
Volley-Ballin’
Rebels varsity volleyball sets themselves up for district playoffs
T
he Rebel Volleyball team has set themselves up for success. Last week the varsity Volleyball team held their traditional senior night. In their tye-dye-blue shirts, the Fairfax senior players gave a rousing chorus of the National Anthem, getting the team ready for the match. The Rebels beat McLean in three straight sets to win the game. “I was very happy,” says Coach Zanelletto, “the team did a great job and played really smart. We hope to continue with great team play into districts.” Currently, the team is 16-7 overall and 5-2 in the district, losing to Stone Bridge and taking Langley to the fifth set before falling. After making many improvements from their 7-13 record last season, the Lady Reb’s were ranked among the top ten teams in the region for most of the season, going as high as the number five spot. The team is now heading into dirstricts strong.
All photos by Sam Brott
Sam Brott ‘11 Sports Editor
“
“ “
“ “ “
We’re really awesome. We played really hard and worked really hard as a team. -Kevyn Richmond
We are going to win districts. I loved senior night and I thank all the girls for everything. -Kelsey Phillips
It was an important game to determine the seeding in districts. Because we won we get the second seed. -Andye Belcher
27.
sports
The Capitals Cup Countdown : The Dynamic A Duo lmost half a year ago the Washington Capitals were on the fast track to championship rings, downtown D.C. parades, and a permanently etched home on the fabled Stanley Cup. With the best record in the NHL and an explosive offense to boot, it’s no mystery why. However, two weeks into the postseason, they were left with nothing but headaches. After gaining a 3-1 game lead over the Montreal Canadiens in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, their explosive offense imploded, scoring only 3 goals in the next three games, as they became the chumps of one of the biggest upsets in the 117 years since the Cup was first awarded. “That was harsh,” said sophomore Jake Angeline, “I’ve never been so depressed in my life.” Happily for Angeline and thousands of Capitals fans like him, though, the start of a new season means the start of great things. “It’s all good because in 2010, the Caps will be the Stanley Cup Champions,” he said. Well, let’s not get ahead of ourselves here. Hockey is as physically demanding of its players as any sport, and as Montreal proved last April, anything can happen. I don’t want to burst anybody’s bubble though, so here are 5 reasons why the Capitals will be Stanley Cup Champions.
Walker Carlson ‘13 Sports Editor
5
Some will say that Capitals goalies Michal Neuvirth and Semyon Varlamov aren’t experienced enough to carry Washington deep in the playoffs, but Neuvirth won back-to-back Calder Cups with the Hershey Bears, and Varlamov carried D.C. to the second round of the 2009 playoffs. At 22, these goalies are already proven winners.
4 3
: Home-ice
Washington had the best home record of any team last year, as they sold out every game with fans in red jerseys packed into the Verizon Center. As long as the fans keep coming, the Caps will keep winning.
: Coming of Age
All those high draft picks the Capitals were getting for years have finally paid off, and they arguably have the most talented young core of players in the game. With yet another year of growth under their belts and a chip on their shoulders the size of a French-Canadian, they are more dangerous players than ever before.
2
: Who Else?
Sorry Sid, but it’s the Capitals who have the most talented, exciting, and productive player in the world, not the Penguins. That’s right, Alex Ovechkin will have yet another remarkable season (if he can stay out of trouble for his aggressive style, that is,). Seriously, could it be any other way?
1
: Fuel for the
Sophomore Jake Angeline knows that there are plenty of reasons to get excited for hockey season. Photo by Walker Carlson
28.
Fire
Let’s be honest here, losing to the Canadiens was downright embarrassing. If anyone knows that, the Capitals’ players sure do, and they won’t forget it soon. They’ll make sure they don’t come up short again.
sports
Fairfax Cheer Gets a W-I-N! C
heerleading is a sport unas soon as Fairfax stepped onto like any other. Caustic the mats. After an intricate percompetition combined formance filled with flips, flying, with make-up, fake hair, glitter and cheering, it was obvious that and spandex, makes a formula Fairfax would go into the second that can only equal one of the round of the district competition. most successful teams at FHS. Coach Wes Vaughn said, “I can’t As defending State Champions, even speak! They’re awesome, we the FHS Cheer Team always just need to bring that exact same brings their highest level of comenergy second round”. Stonepetitive energy out to the mats. bridge couldn’t keep up, and FairTheir liveliness and insane comfax was seeded in first place after petitiveness was showcased in the first portion of the competition. the FHS Gym on Tuesday, OctoFour teams went on to the secber 26, when Fairfax faced seven ond round of competition includother schools, including their ing Langley, Madison, Stonebridge, biggest rival, Stonebridge to earn and Fairfax. Fairfax’s performance the 2010 Liberty District title. was equally amazing the second The cheer routines are based time, so they won the Liberty Disupon a number of things, includtrict Championship by a sizable ing the difficulty of the routine, margin. The cheer team made hisexecution of the routine, and even tory by getting the highest score how involved their spectators are. ever to be earned in Virginia- 286.5. Because of this, every team tries According to senior Maria Busch, Senior captain Yesle Soh shows her to exude energy. After watching the Fairfax win did not go undeenthusiasm for the show. All photos by the eight best teams in the dis- Helena Contes. served, “We all came together as trict, it is now clear why Fairfax a family and fought for our title.” won the state championships last year. Their energy was unparalleled by any other team which was shown Emily Buzzard ‘11 Editor-in-Chief
29.
humor
Trick-or-Treat Tips
T
ake a small child or fluffy animal along. If the candy’s what you’re after, this is the way to go. Middle-aged women are incapable of resisting their charm, therefore you and your companion get more of the better candy. Yeah, you might feel a pinch of shame for using the innocence of another for personal gain, but I assure you, once you’re loaded, you’ll forget all your worries. Avoid the popular looking houses: there are always a few houses on your block that all the kids know to hit for the best candy, and I’m sure you’re thinking, “Hey! I’ll get myself some delish candy, as well!” Well don’t even bother. By the time you get there, even if trick-or-treating has only just begun, all that’s left will be Smarties, DumDums, and those strawberry-packaged things that taste like corn syrup-flavored plastic. Just don’t even bother. Make your own costume: remember those gullible middle-aged women I was talking about earlier? Well they not only love small children and fluffy animals, but they also love a good home-made costume. Seriously, they give kudos points in the form of extra candy if you’re rockin’ the thrift store and craft-mart look. Don’t be afraid to look ridiculous, just remind yourself that (THANKFULLY) you’re not dressed in a black mini skirt, beaded corset, thigh-high boots, and strategically pointed witch’s hat.
Dump the orange plastic pumpkin buckets: you know the ones I’m talking about, the ones everyone used when they were 5 and 6 years old. Well guess what, you’re not 5 or 6 anymore, so it’s time to step up your game. If you’re going to be a hard core trickor-treater, you’re going to have to break out the pillowcases. If you’re really getting into the spirit, a large black garbage Cartoon drawn by Jordan Rummel bag is a sound option, as well. Those elementary school punks have plenty of trick-or-treating years ahead of them; don’t be afraid to hog all the candy while you can! Stay safe: yeah, everyone’s heard it before, but it’s true. Safety is important to remember on October 31st. Make sure to avoid the OVERLY creepy houses, the ones whose scariness isn’t contributed to by plastic spiders and pumpkin-scented candles in the window. Also, keep your distance from the 21-year-old freaks who think they’re allowed to dress up as Darth Vader and shove the little children away from the goods. Honestly, that’s just wrong. Finally, something every good trick-or-treater is supposed to know- NEVER EAT OPENED CANDY. It’s common sense really, so don’t forget it! Remember, stay safe and have fun this Halloween!
30.
Staff Writer
“Let’s just hit the next house...”
Gabrielle Severson ‘12
rebel recreation
Sudoku
Scramblers OFBGRLDA ______________________ LLVBLOAEYL ______________________ IOLOBGY _______________________ TCFEIAREA _______________________ WALNEOHEL _______________________
Match the Teacher to the Tattoo a.
1.
b.
2.
c.
3.
Scramblers answers: Goldfarb, Volleyball, Biology, Cafeteria, Halloween.
Answers: a-3, b-4, c-2, d-1
d.
4.
31.
Field Hockey
Defends District Champion Title For the past few months, the varsity Field Hockey team has been on a roll. After going undefeated in the Lee Invitational last month and starting off 12-0-1 for the season, few have been able to outplay our Rebels. This past week the team has continued to shine. After defeating Madison in the quarter finals and Marshall in the semi finals, the Rebels beat Jefferson 1-0 in the district finals, junior Tiffany Balbuena scoring the only goal. “I feel like we just made history!” exclaims senior Lauren Abram after posing with the Liberty District banner for the second time in her high school career. “Back-to-back championships!” coach Beaudoin jokes as the girls celebrate, “I’m going back to Disney World!” The team now heads into regionals seeded number one for the district. Four players represent the Rebels in making first team all-district: seniors Taylor Deivert and Lauren Abram, and sophomores Grace Holman and Sam Zelenack. Between the confidence from their most recent big wins and the strong leadership from the seniors, the Rebels have everything they need for success. Sam Brott ‘11 Sports Editor
All photos taken by Sam Brott.