R October, 2013
Volume LXXVIII, Issue 2
EBEL OAR
SWAG
INSIDE
Personalizing School IT Changes 15 Things For Fall
Fairfax High School 3501 Rebel Run Fairfax, VA 22030
October 2013
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News
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5 IT Changes Introduced 6 Virginia Prepares for Elections
A&E
7 Fairfax Produces ‘Almost Maine’ 9 Checking Out New Music 10 15 Ways to Improve Autumn
In-Depth
12 Personalizing the School Day
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Opinion
15 Reevaluating Technology Policies 16 Halloween: How Old is Too Old?
Features
18 Baking With Hannah 19 Last Minute Costumes
Sports 21 Athletes Transistion with Seasons 23 Player Spotlights
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Letter From the Editor
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ear Rebels, Is anyone else in a state of disbelief that we’re already a quarter of the way through the year? Although it seems like we were just trying on first day outfits, think back to the first day of classes, it seems like a lot more than nine weeks, doesn’t it? For a lot of us, the traditional pencil and paper classroom model can get boring after a while. That is why, this month, we’ve highlighted a variety of different options that students at Fairfax utilize to add excitement and enrichment to their school days. Make sure to check out the story in our In-Depth spread on page 12. Of course, the end of the quarter also means the beginning of the end for fall sports. Even as these sports begin to wrap up, many of our teams are looking strong heading into the post-season. These teams are guided by fearless leaders, a few of whom are featured on our brand new Players of the Month page on page 23. This also means that athletes are gearing up for winter sports. For some student-athletes at Fairfax, that means making a quick transition from fall to winter sports in a matter of days. Mike Breslin and Taris Pittman introduce you to a few of these athletes and show you how they do it on page 21. While some students can’t wait to get from one sport to the next, others of us are content spending the end of the quarter with a nice bowl of Halloween candy. I can’t lie, Halloween is totally my favorite holiday. The costumes and the candy; it’s all so much fun. But it can be stressful, especially if you need a costume last minute. Luckily, we have you covered with a guide to the easiest last minute costumes. Don’t miss it on page 19. Not sure whether or not you’re too old to dress up at all? Emily Dillard and Annie Coffie explore the dressing up dilemma on page 16. If dressing up sounds like too much work, have no fear, there’s plenty for you too. Go grab a pumpkin spice latte and then check out our guide to the 15 ways to improve your autumn. It’s all on page 10. Seniors - even in the midst of college application madness, if you’re already 18, I hope you’re aware that Virginians will be electing a new Governor next week. Need a crash course on the candidate? Check out Karen Sheng’s profile on all the candidates on page 6 before taking to the polls on Tuesday. Have a great end of the quarter Fairfax, enjoy the final days of warmth before the short and freezing days of winter set in. As always, we would love to hear from you. Drop us an email at fhsrebelroar@gmail.com whenever. I feel like this is the part where I should say something along the lines of “We are Family,” or “Stay strong Fairfax,” but I’m not going to do that.
George Flynn Editor-In-Chief
Rebel Roar Staff 2013-2014 Editor-in-Chief George Flynn Managing Editor Hannah Flynn Copy Chief Karen Sheng News Editor Aoife Maher-Ryan Entertainment Editor Gillian elliott Commentary Editor Karen Sheng
Features Editors Hannah Flynn Jessica Salguero Sports Editor Emily Verbiest Art Director Gillian Elliott Business Manager Aoife Maher-Ryam Staff Writers Ruqia Ahmed Annie A. Coffie Mike Breslin Emily Dillard
Journey Dionisio Dayna Erdman Brian Fraser Deena Habibi Jackie Hurtado Simon Karae A.J. Noi Jessica N. Pittman Taris Pittman Adviser Carl Irvin
Editorial Policy
Rebel Roar is a published forum of student expression. Letters to the Editor and guest articles are encouraged. Only signed letters 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 encouraged to take an active voice in the student publication. Questions, comments, and letters can be emailed to FHSRebelRoar@gmail. com.
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News
News Briefs By Aoife Maher-Ryan
Government Shutdown Ends
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The government shutdown ended after more than two weeks of searching for a solution to fund Obamacare instead of raising the debt ceiling. Many FHS students were affected with one or both of their parents staying home until the shutdown ended. Members of the GOP tried to prevent a deal from being reached but eventually gave in. According to a Gallup poll, the Republican Party’s approval rate is at an all time low due to citizens’ view of Congress’ bipartisan efficiencies.
FCPS Recieves $140 Million Budget Cut
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The Fairfax County public school system is deciding what to do with a gap in the school budget of $140 million. The cutbacks do not significantly affect the $2.1 billion budget, but they may force some schools to lay off teachers and reduce foreign language programs. In an interview with The Washington Post, Fairfax superintendent Karen Garza said “This is one of the most difficult challenges we have ever faced in Fairfax County public schools.”
Shooting at Nevada Middle School
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t Sparks Middle School in Nevada on Oct. 21 a seventh grader shot himself after wounding two students and fatally wounding a teacher using a gun he obtained from his parents. The police have not released the perpetrator’s name out of respect for his family. The school reopened on Wednesday.
Marching Band Stomps Competition
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airfax High School’s marching band won big at Saturday’s Parade of Champions at James Madison University. Fairfax competed against other local high schools at the competition and earned first place in Best Drumline, Best Visual Effect, Best General Effect, Best Color Guard, Best Music and first place overall.
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Photo by Gillian Elliott
Photos courtesy photobucket. com
Intervention Time Changes Announced By George Flynn
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n October 10, Fairfax High School principal Dave “a lot more strict than last year.” Goldfarb unveiled changes to the school’s IntervenOn the other hand, Social Studies teacher Jessica Hodgtion Time (IT) program. son expressed satisfaction with Many changes to FHS’s remethe new system. “I love the diation program were unveiled, fact that i get to work with my including the designation of cerstudents for an extra period,” tain students as “Rebels in Good Hodgson said of the changes. Standing.” Junior Lexi Rummell expressed In a video address to the school, frustration with the changes, Goldfarb defined Rebels in Good saying “the new IT would be Standing as “students [who] have much better if we could choose to all As, Bs and Cs on their most go to any teacher for help if you recent interim or report card. This are a Rebel in Good Standing, means that [students] cannot have similar to the R&R system.” any Ds or Fs on your interim or Rummell is referring to the report card if you want to be a school’s old remediation period, Rebel in Good Standing.” In addisplit between “Pride Time” and tion, Goldfarb said “with regard “R&R.” Pride Time was similar to attendance, [students] cannot to today’s IT; students went to a have more than five unexcused rotating class period for half of tardies, more than one class cut or the fourth period block, durmore than one all-day unexcused ing which teachers could teach absence to be a Rebel in Good new material or help reinforce Photo by George Flynn concepts. R&R, the other half Standing.” He also stipulated that Students who meet the Rebels In Good Standing freshman would not be allowed to of the period, was a time for requirements received stickers like this to place leave their classrooms for at least students to see any teacher they on their Student ID cards. the first semester, regardless of their chose, or to go to the cafeteria or standing. library. Students who were failing a class were mandated A referral program was also introduced. Teachers may to spend R&R with the teacher of that class. This system now request that was replaced by a student spend IT after the 2011several IT periods 2012 school year. in a row with them. Some students About the referral have suggested system, Goldfarb that FHS return said “Teachers can to this model. refer or request to However, Goldmeet with indifarb has been vidual students for 5-10 extra IT periods, which usually clear that he believes the IT system is very beneficial to happen over a 1-3 week period. This means that instead of students and that it is here to stay. According to him, rotating through the normal pattern of IT periods, stu“Our goal is for all students to learn and perform at high dents will see the same teacher often during IT for a small levels. We want all of you to graduate from our school and amount of time.” have different options available. We have created a more Reaction to the changes was mixed. Sophomore Clare flexible IT structure for you to have opportunities to get Goco said that the new IT system is “too complex and over- some extra time to improve in your classes. You are going done.” Goco suggested that students “should have more to succeed in all your classes; you just haven’t met all your liberty to go other places,” saying that this year’s system is learning goals yet.”
“Our goal is for all students to learn and perform at high levels. We want all of you to graduate from our school and have different options available.”
Additional Reporting by A-J Noi, Brian Fraser, & Journey Dionisio
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News
Virginians Prepare to Elect Governor By Karen Sheng
Virginia citizens will vote for the candidates running for governor on Nov. 5 in the 2013 gubernatorial election. Here are the candidates:
photo courtesy of cuccinelli.com
• • • • • • • • • •
On education: Cuccinelli would advocate charter schools and empower parents to take over thier children’s failing schools. He wishes to double the number of female students focusing on science and technology as well as expand online education. Cuccinelli would also seek to amend Virginia’s constitution to allow government funds to go to religious schools. • • • • • • • • • •
Photo courtesy of terrymcauliffe.com
Ken Cuccinelli
Republican Party Current Attorney General of Virginia Represented Fairfax County in Virginia Senate Supports gun rights Opposes marriage equality Opposes abortion Opposes strict regulation of environmental issues Opposes illegal immigration Supports Virginia’s Sodomy Law Supports strong sex-trafficking penalties
Terry McAuliffe
Democratic Party Businessman, politician, fund-raiser Former chairman of Democratic Party Supports universal background checks, an assault weapons ban and a handgun purchase limit Supports marriage equality Opposes new state health and safety regulations on abortion clinics Supports regulation of environmental issues Supports Affordable Care Act and expanding Medicaid Supports eliminating business taxes Supports expanding the Metro Silver Line
On education: McAuliffe calls for boosting teacher salaries with any freed up funds and adjusting teacher evaluations to relfect student’s pregress.
Robert Sarvis • • • • • • • • • • •
photo courtesy of robertsarvis.com
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Libertarian Party Politician, lawyer, software design, businessman Supports gun rights and Constitutional Carry Supports marijuana legalization and decriminalizing hard drugs Supports marriage equality Opposes new state health and safety regulations on abortion clinics Supports stronger regulation of water and air pollution Supports open-immigration Supports ending the car tax and the business/professional/occupational license tax, the machine and tools tax. Supports ending the income tax Supports property tax reform
On education: According to his campaign website, Sarvis proposes to reach his vision of education in Virginia by “maximizing school choice”, “ending education fads”, “deregulating private schools”, reforming public schools and fostering “an open and competive market for education services.”
Entertainment
Almost, Maine Comes to Fairfax By Ruqia Ahmed and Dayna Erdmann
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airfax High School’s theatre program presents the modern romantic comedy “Almost, Maine.” The play revolves around nineteen people residing in Almost, a mythical town in Maine. Tears are shed and hearts are broken as the citizens of Almost fall in and out of love in unexpected ways.
The play will take place on Friday Nov. 22 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday Nov. 23 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 24 at 2:30 p.m. in the auditorium. Tickets are $5 for Fairfax students. Written by John Cariani in 2002, “Almost, Maine” is one of the most frequently produced plays of the past decade, having been performed by over 2,000 American and international theatre companies and high schools. “The show is fantastic. It’s broken down into multiple vignettes- they’re not necessarily scenes, they’re vignettes of how human beings make or break connections with each other, [and] ultimately, how they fall in or out of love,” said director Erich Dicenzo. “It’s this romantic town where these crazy things are happening to these normal people. When you watch it, it feels like you’re watching a sitcom or a movie. These are real people in real situations.’’ This is the first time Almost, Maine is being performed by FHS student and is being directed by Dicenzo, the schools new theatre teacher. “Mr. Dicenzo is really awesome! He keeps talking about how he wants to apply a new fresh coat of paint to the theater department here and I think he’s doing a great job so far!” said senior Erin Sullivan.
Photo by Ruqia Ahmed
Photo by Ruqia Ahmed
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At The Movies
EnterBy Aoife Maher-Ryan
Gravity
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tomach clenching, thigh squeezing, and hand holding are the experiences “Gravity” triggers. Alfonso Cuarón is the director behind the intense space drama and is known for his acclaimed films “Children of Men,” and “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.” The film follows two astronauts, Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) and Matt Kowalski (George Clooney), as they drift through space after their work on the Hubble Space Telescope is disrupted by debris from a destroyed Russian satellite. Each scene is well thought out- not too brief, but not drawn out either. Every time the audience thinks the peril is over, the intensity increases, and the audiences frustration is palpable. Cuarón knows how to make people feel uneasy and makes them imagine what a nightmare it would be to float alone through a celestial ocean. Had the film lacked an emotional storyline the anxiety would have been unbearable, but Dr. Stone’s account of a tragedy on Earth adds human quality. Bullock is alone on screen through much “Gravity,” had a big first weekend opening, raking in 55 million of the film, and that’s fine because she’s the one to follow. When Dr. dollars, and has continued to top the box office for the last three Stone is distressed the audience is distressed. The 3D version is worth weeks. watching because it emphasizes the stunning visual effects. Cuarón has created an impeccable space classic- his direcing merits more acclaim.
Captain Phillips
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The Maersk Alabama used on set is the sister ship to the actual one where the events unfolded on four years ago.
aptain Phillips,” retells the exciting events of the hijacking of the Maersk Alabama by Somali pirates on the East Coast of Africa in 2009. Tom Hanks plays Captain Richard Phillips, who is taken hostage after a failed takeover of a cargo ship. The U.S. government gets involved in the rescue of the Captain and pursuit of the pirates. The film feels true to the .However, Hanks overacts at times which makes some scenes too melodramatic. The actors who play the Somali pirates are a refreshing sight compared to the familiar onscreen presence of Hanks. The actors who play the hijackers give realistic performances although other elements, such as the impossible amount of ammunition the pirates carry, fail the realism test. Overall “Captain Phillips,” a great action-packed film that delivers some moments of theatrics, but mostly an intriguing story.
Previews Catching Fire
Thor: The Dark World
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he sequel to “The Hunger Games,” based on the young adult series is hitting theatres. Lionsgate is expecting to gross millions around the world, because of the large fanbase.
arvel’s second superhero action flick about a mythical strong man presents it’s sequel. The film picks up from the end of The Avengers uniting to Thor’s conflict.
Photos courtesy of photobucket.com
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Album Previews & Reviews M
iley Cyrus’ new venture, “Bangerz”, has certainly generated a lot of buzz in the music blogosphere, but the ex-Disney star’s latest pop album is nothing but a lukewarm attempt to salvage a controversial image. The elements of synth, country, hip-hop and pop combine into nearly an hour of stadium-ready songs that are fun to sing along to, but markedly less enjoyable after the novelty wears off. “Bangerz” would be infinitely more enjoyable if the instrumentals did not overshadow Cyrus’ voice and if the music was not accurately reflected by the cheap and trashy cover. All in all, the kitschy release is still worth listening to, even if it’s only at the club. Notable tracks: “Wrecking Ball”, “Maybe You’re Right”, “FU”
By Karen Sheng
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he sophomore record of a relative newcomer to the indie pop scene, “Static” is a dreamy, hazy album about ending romantic relationships and the pressures of growing up. “Static” differs from Cults’ first album in terms of subject, however the second album still holds true to their unique style of poignant lyrics and crisp melodies. With nothing but song after song about breaking up, it loses its unique edge and the short songs morph into one ambiguous blend, sounding like a tedious rehash of their earlier record. Still, “Static” proved to be a resplendent release that shows Cults is still going strong. Notable tracks: “Always Forever”, “I Can Hardly Make You Mine”, “High Road”
By Karen Sheng
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his August, Lady GaGa debuted “Applause” at the VMAs to popular acclaim, setting the backdrop for her new album “Artpop.” The album will be an upbeat mix of heartfelt songs and cryptic lyrics. In anticipation of “Artpop’s” drop, Lady GaGa has released the names of a few select songs. Additionally, her new song, “Aura,” made the soundtrack of Robert Rodriguez’s gonzo action flick “Machete Kills,” which GaGa also appeared in as assassin La Camaleon. With plenty of publicity for her fourth album, Monsters can only wait with excitement for Nov. 11. Release date: Nov. 11 Notable tracks: “Applause”, “Aura”
By Jessica N. Pittman
Photos courtesy of photobucket.com
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Entertainment
Upgrade your Autumn
Put down the pumpkin spice latte and refrain from Instagramming that photo of fall leaves- it is time to upgrade your autumn. The arrival of crisp air, colorful trees, and comfy sweaters are some of the many favorites of the season, yet there is much more to these three months of orange and red. This year, expand your typical autumn experience and discover new ways to enjoy the season with style.
1. Desserts Treat yourself to a scrumptious fall delicacy. Autumn is a great time to enjoy seasonal flavors in creative recipes. With decadent desserts and pastries, now is the time to allow yourself to eat whatever you please.
3. Sweaters
2. Study Tips
Studying: No one wants to, but everyone has to. When it is time to cram, it is time to focus, so grab a caffeinated drink and get to business. Make the best use of your time by getting cozy, comfortable and constructive. Research suggests that memory is affected by location, so every time you study somewhere new, your brain forms new associations with that place and is more likely to retain information. Hold cram sessions alternating between the library, Starbucks or in front of your fireplace. Finish first quarter strong to set the bar high for the rest of the year by finding the most effective study methods.
4. Thrift Stores
Chilly fall mornings give anyone an excuse to throw on a hoodie, but there are other options to stay comfortable while looking good. For a more fashion forward look try a cable knit sweater or military jacket.
Thrift Stores in Fairfax
Macklemore was right, thrift shops are awesome. It is surprising how much $10 can buy at vintage shops around Fairfax- one can repurpose old jeans, pick up an oversized sweater or make a statement with a bold Hawaiian shirt. Thrift stores are full of hidden treasures waiting to be found by the creative and low-budgeted.
-Goodwill located on 9960 Main St -Inova Fair Oaks Thrift Shop on 9683 Fairfax Blvd -Second Chance 1 Thrift Store on 4057 Chain Bridge Rd
5. Boots
With the crisp crunch of colorful leaves, autumn is the perfect time of the year for leather boots. Upgrade your wardrobe with combat boots, riding boots, booties or dress up boots.
6. Varsity Jackets
ATTENTION: Sporty is the new prep! Show off your style while staying warm this season with a classic varsity letterman jacket. Easy enough for any lettering student-athlete to do, the Fairfax letterman jacket shows school spirit and style. One can also find a variety of varsity-style coats in stores such as Forever 21 and Zumiez. Stay trendy and warm, Fairfax.
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Show Spirit
Ask any sports fanatic, nothing is as exciting as watching your favorite team play. In the midst of the NFL, NBA and NHL seasons and MLB post-season, there are ample choices of teams to support, several in the Washington metropolitan area. It is always a good time to become a sports fan, so ignore the bandwagon labels and pick a team to support throughout the season. Show your team spirit on game days, and make the season something to get excited about.
8. Spa Day
By Jessica Salguero, Gillian Elliott and Emily Verbiest
Take a break this season for some rest and relaxation. Although first quarter is ending, school is still stressful and sometimes an escape is necessary. Indulge in a spa day or simply pamper yourself to ease a bit of the academic pressure. Going to a salon or spa to get a manicure, a massage or a facial can infinitely improve your day.
10. Fragrances
9. Scented Candles
Change up your signature scent with new autumn fragrances as chic designers are releasing fresh new colognes. Michael Kors recently released a new line of perfumes ranging from sporty, sexy to glam; these new fragrances are sure to fit every occasion. Make your fall experience unique with a new scent that can lift your mood.
Light up your home with scented candles. Organic candles are beneficial to the environment and smell phenomenal. Ecoya and Yankee Candle have uniquely delightful fall scents that will brighten anyone’s day.
11. Decorate your House
Revamp your living space by adding simple seasonal decor like plush pillows and fuzzy blankets in orange and cream colored hues. Skip the cheesy holiday decorations and create a luxurious atmosphere with scented candles, fresh flowers and a cashmere throw over your couch.
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12. Fall Drinks
Warm up your mornings with a chocolate chai latte or a salted caramel mocha from Starbucks. These tasty, caffeine-filled drinks will give you energy to rise before the sun and stay awake through your classes.
Weekend Trip
Get away for the weekend and enjoy the crisp autumn air on a hike at Shenandoah Park or pick out the perfect pumpkin from a local pumpkin patch. If you’re in the mood for a little road trip head to a sleepy beach town like Nags Head or Virginia Beach for the perfect Fall escape.
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Car Accessories
For all the car owners of Fairfax High School, take pride in your ride by adding fresh and stylish accessories. Clip in a car freshener from Bath and Body Works and fill the interior with scents like Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin and Autumn Day. Keep hands warm during chilly mornings with a heated steering wheel cover that plugs into the car power outlet, available from Amazon. Personalize your car to make that painfully-early commute to school slightly more enjoyable.
15. Books
De-stress and grab a good book to read over the weekend. For an engaging novel, pick up Nicholas Sparks’ “The Longest Ride” about the lives of two couples. For a more suspenseful book, opt for Orson Card’s “Ender’s Game”, where the government breeds child geniuses to become soldiers. Photos courtesy of photobucket.com
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Personalizing By George Flynn
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or over 100 years, education in America has consisted mainly of students behind desks listening to teachers in front of chalk boards. However, Fairfax High School students are challenging this stereotype and leaving pencil and paper at the door. These students are taking charge of their education and personalizing their school days in a variety of ways. Some students choose to work at their own pace by taking some of their classes online. Others choose to focus on a career path by taking an Academy class. Some even opt out of a morning class to be able to get more sleep and focus more during the rest of the day.
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Academy Classes
tudents enrolled in FCPS high schools have the option to take Academy classes at different high schools throughout the county. These Academies are describes as schools within schools, each focussing on a different subject or career area. Fairfax High School is home to the Academy for Communication and the Arts. It houses classes such as Professional Television Production and Musical Theater. In addition, students can go to different high schools to take classes at their Academies for part of their school day. These programs allow students to get an in-depth look at a career or specific subject.
Ari White Senior
I am enrolled in two academy programs in Fairfax High School: TV Production and Profession Photography. I have taken these classes because I have a passion for the photography and the way TV is produced. People take these kinds of classes when they are passionate about going to a career and want early experience. These kinds of classes differ from regular classes because it teaches who how to ready in the real world.
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Molly Craig Junior
“I’m in the Criminal Justice Academy class at Chantilly. I love Academy because it’s a chance to go deeper into what I want to study in college before I get there. All I had to do to enroll was fill out a paper and write a paragraph on why I wanted to take the class.”
The School Day F
Online Campus
airfax County Public Schools offers a variety of classes through its online campus. According to its website, “FCPS Online Campus is a program run by Fairfax County Public Schools to offer new educational choices to students. It is designed to present educational material and credit courses at the high school level to students using online resources.” FCPS students can take online classes as part of traditional classroom courses, or in addition to a full in-school course load.
Anne Kohlbrenner Junior
“I like taking an online class for first period because I can sleep for an extra hour and a half or get up and train [cycling] on Blue Days while dictating my own schedule. There’s less teacher interaction so it’s really easy to procrastinate but I think that studying history on my own time is worth it.”
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Sleeping In
n the summer of 2013, the Fairfax County school board announced that starting this year, seniors who were on track to graduate would be allowed to drop a first or second period class if they did not need it to graduate. Although the program was only open to seniors this year, it is expected to expand in years to come.The decision was part of a larger FCPS goal to allow more options for students to get more sleep, a topic that has been high on the school board’s agenda for several years. Regardless of reasoning, many seniors at FHS were quick to sign up for a few more hours of shut-eye.
Allie Copeland Senior
I don’t have a first period. I like it because I’m lazy and I like getting to wake up later and go to bed later. That’s basically the only reason. Photos by George and Hannah Flynn
Jon Evanston Senior
I really like not having a first period because I can get Panera before school. I didn’t need the class I had first, and as a teenager, sleep helps me do better in school.
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Commentary
For Your Flynn-formation By George Flynn
Hot Yankee Candle Boy
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rew Yauch, affectionately known as Yankee Candle Boy, is kind of my spirit animal. The up and coming YouTube sensation has yet to disappoint with his constant reviews of different Yankee Candle products; his favorite scent is caramel pecan pie. If Hoarding: Buried Alive did a candle episode, Drew would Who needs friends when you’ve be too severe a case to got candles? show, but he’s kind of perfect that way.
Miley Cyrus
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magine walking into your doctor’s office and being greeted by a nurse in a corset two sizes too small and a skirt two inches too short. It would be really weird, not to mention extremely uncomfortable. Why then, does dressing up as a “Naughty Nurse” seem like a good idea? By all means, Halloween is about suspending rules and having a little fun, but I don’t recall it throwing taste guidelines out the window. How about a family friendly pediatrician costume?
If you’re that determined to show the world your passion for medical professions, try this wholesome alternative.
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s Miley Cyrus teaches, I am in fact “forgetting the haters” because not only does somebody love me, but I love her back. That person is Miley Cyrus. Her music is actually decent and her whole “I don’t give a darn” attitude without Amanda Bynes crazy thing is pretty cool if we’re being completely honest.
Blankets
Not Trashy Halloween Costumes
Twitter Notifications
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Clearly, “Nobody’s Perfect” was nonautobiographical.
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f you can provide a feeling better than curling up under a blanket after coming in from the cold, smother me now. The best part of autumn is the fact that you don’t need a reason to spend your entire weekend under a big fluffy blanket watching Netflix because chances are that all of your friends are doing the exact same thing.
ear twitter, I feel creepy enough from the twitter stalking I do as is. So it really is unnecessary for you to constantly alert me to every follow or favorite that any of my twitter peeps makes? Honestly, I feel like any day I’ll be getting notifications about every breath a follower takes or any time they use the bathroom. Who needs the NSA to spy when you’ve got twitter? If only it wasn’t so accurate...
Dark Mornings
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She knows.
aking up at six a.m. is hard enough, but having to do it when it is pitch black is borderline cruel and unusual. I woke up yesterday and almost went back to bed because I thought it was the middle of the night, yet it was 6:30 in the morning. Yet another reason that, if nothing else, nap time should be a serious thing in high school. A picture of 6 a.m. or a black box? The world may never know.
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The Technology Policy is Poisonous and Detrimental
By Karen Sheng
Fairfax High nology usage during the school School’s technology day leads to decreased academic policy needs urgent performance. There is a reason revamping. that a common study tip is to turn Currently, celloff all electronic devices and rephones and other move them from proximity- studyelectronic devices ing efficiently without procrastiare allowed to be nating takes an iron will, and the used in the hallpresence of easily-accessible social ways and cafeteria, media or games corrupts any and may be used in motivation. classrooms accordFurthermore, if students know ing to individual that they can tweet instead of teacher policy. Such writing an English essay durtolerance encouraging IT, then what point is there es academic dishonin coming to school? The whole esty and is devaspurpose of school being a sanctutatingly distracting ary solely devoted to learning and for people who want self-enrichment is defeated once to concentrate on tablets, iPods and cell phones are schoolwork. given free reign. A decade ago, Photo by Simon Karae All in all, revising the current successfully and ef- Freshamn Andrew Troutner uses his phone in the cafeteria, a green technology policy would be the best ficiently cheating on zone under the current technology policy. choice for the students of Fairfax. tests with technology It is true that granting increased would be nearly impossible, but now it is a common and easy freedom to use technology is an idea based on rational reatask with the aid of small and concealable phones. The prevasoning, but the current rules will simply prove malignant lence of such academic dishonesty is a major reason the cell towards students in the long run. Technology use should be phone policy should be amended. If cell phones are unacceptencouraged in other ways, such as promoting computer classes able in classrooms, then the temptation to cheat with a phone or emphasizing courses like AP Computer Science. If school stowed away in a pocket is greatly reduced. Granted, some administrators really wanted to curb the excessive technology people will still use their phones to cheat, but the rate should use in school, they should establish definite penalties instead of significantly decrease once more rational limits are instituted. encouraging it. Most importantly, perhaps, is that allowing widespread techThe current technology policy seems great, but it really isn’t.
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Commentary
Halloween: How Old Is Too Old? The Dressing Up Dilemma
By Emily Dillard
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f you think you are too old to dress up for Halloween, think again! Halloween is a time to fantasize, to hang out with friends and to mooch some free candy from the neighbors. Getting in the Halloween spirit is the perfect way to temporarily forget the stress of school and drama. The holiday itself is also a fun and festive time- we can all remember the pervasive excitement on the Photo by George Flynn night before Halloween, candy corn in a bowl on the kitchen table, phony cobwebs covering the front porch and the finished costume lying on the living room floor. Why should teenagers be forced to give that up? Society barring teenagers from participating in trick-or-treating is like forcing Starbucks to advertise pumpkin lattes but only allowed to serve water. Furthermore, the high school assumption of being labeled as a “dork” or a “geek” for trick-or-treating with a costume is false. Dressing up for Halloween and having quality fun is not the equal of being a loser or a nerd, it means having the confidence to enjoy an activity considered suitable for small children. The amazing experience of dressing up for Halloween should not end at a certain age; the time will come, but not yet.
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By Annie A. Coffie
alloween is a time to have fun, not to act like a four-year-old and dress up in costumes. I get that most people think that trick-or-treating and creating costumes comprise a major part of life, but Halloween festivities are best confined to childhood, and childhood only. Costumes make everyone except small children look immature and strange. Imagine 16 year old teenagers going around Photo by George Flynn and knocking on houses to ask for candy. If young adults still want to wear cute costumes and eat candy then costume parties are a viable alternative, but trick-or-treating is definitely out of the picture. For example, some states (Virginia included) have laws limiting the ages that people can go trick-or-treating and some cities even limit trick-or-treating to children under 12 years old. Furthermore, it’s not fair to young children who look forward to the event all year only to have to compete with teenagers to bag the most candy before people run out. Trick-or-treating is a thing of the past that should be limited to small children; it’s not like adolescents don’t have any other ways to enjoy themselves.
Rebels Address Global Hunger By Sophia Lam, Michelle Lee, Kristina Nguyen Guest Writers
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ost Americans regularly eat three meals each day, but for one in eight people around the globe, eating one meal a day is a struggle. Contrary to popular belief, Asia and the Pacific have the highest number of hunger victims. Unfortunately, many Fairfax High School students are unaware of these statistics. World hunger is a serious problem- it undermines economic development, health and education. The media often highlights acute hunger or starvation. We have all seen images of hungry mothers trying to breastfeed their children, refugees fighting for food rations, even helicopters airlifting food to earthquake victims. These emergencies are results of crises such as war and natural disaster. However, emergencies only account for eight percent of hunger victims. Most hunger victims experience daily undernourishment.
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Daily undernourishment affects people in a less visible way. Undernourished people live on significantly less calories than the number required to sustain health. Since the body has to compensate for the lack of energy, it slows down mental and physical processes. This affects children the most because they cannot concentrate and learn. Hunger also weakens the body’s immune system, making victims more susceptible to disease and infection. In fact, almost 7 million children under the age of five died, with one third of those children dying of malnutrition. According to the World Food Programme, 78% of malnourished children live in countries with food surpluses, one of them being the United States, which wastes approximately 6,700 tons of food everyday. Students who would like to help end hunger can support Stop Hunger Now. It only takes 25 cents to make one nutritious meal for people in undeveloped countries. For more
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Features
Baking With Hannah : Homemade Ozzie Rolls
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zzie rolls, a delicacy of Northern Virginia that bring customers into Artie’s, Coastal Flatts, Ozzies and Sweet Water aren’t just in the restaurant anymore. This month, learn how to make the delicious treat and that mouth-watering honey butter at home.
Cinnamon-Sugar Doghnut Holes
Honey Butter
1 can Pillsbury Grands Honey Butter Homestyle Biscuits Vegetable oil 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 tablespoon cinnamon
1/4 pound unsalted butter, at room temperature 3 tablespoons good honey 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
Finished product
-Place 2 inches of vegetable oil in a pan on the stovetop on medium -In a medium sized bowl, combine cinnamon and sugar -Place biscuits out on counter or pan -Cut each biscuit into quarters -Using tongs, place biscuit quarters into oil, turning over when one side is golden brown -Once quarter is plumped up and golden brown, remove from oil with tongs -Place on paper towel and dab off excess oil -Place doughnut in cinnamon sugar and roll around to evenly cover doughnut in mixture
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-Place one stick of slightly softened butter in a mixer -Place honey, ground cinnamon, and salt in mixer -Mix on medium until completely combined -Place butter in bowl and in refrigerator until hard
Last Minute Costume Ideas By Gillian Elliott and Aoife Maher-Ryan
Forced to take your little sibling trick-or-treating this year? Invited to a Halloween party the day of? No costume, no problem. Here are the best last-minute costume ideas for the procrastinators and the creatively-challenged.
“Fantasty” Football
- Snuggie - Wand - Football
-Red bandana -Red lipstick & winged eyeliner -Jean shirt
Bouncer
Grapes -Purple shirt -Purple balloons -Safety pins -Leaves for hair
-Black suit -Black sunglasses -Clipboard/list
Photos courtesey of photobucket.com
Rosie the Riveter
Breakfast at Tiffany’s
-Cardboard box -Red spray paint (for box) -Red solo cups -Rot glue gun
-Little Black Dress -Pearl Necklace -Hair in a High Bun -Black Sunglasses
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Sports
Athletes Transition with the Seasons
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By Mike Breslin and Taris Pittman
s fall sports start to wrap up, the winter sports season begins. How do students who play more than one sport back to back handle everything that comes with it? According to sophomore Noe’ll Taylor, a junior varsity volleyball player and varsity basketball player, “It gets hard. You have to transition really quickly. You don’t really get a break in between. Sometimes I just have to put school first to get work done.” Student-athletes at Fairfax High School have mixed opinions on the difficulty of balancing the demands of school with the demands of high school athletics. Jumping from one sport’s conditioning to another can also be difficult for most two-sport athletes. Varsity football players Max Kavaljian and Troy Springer, highlight the differences between their seasons, Springer, who is also a swimmer notes, “With football its all about being strong, big and fast. With swimming it’s all about lean muscle and endurance. So yes, it can be hard.” Kavaljian, a wrestler in the winter season, also finds that the physical transition can be difficult, “I’ll usually have to get back in the groove of it, start training for the actual wrestling part, but conditioning wise, for us it’s a lot harder because for football you don’t really run that much as compared to wrestling. So you have to get your conditioning way back.” Two sport athletes can also be a hassle for the coaches. Sometimes the end of the fall sports season continues into the beginning of the winter season. Preseason workouts and green day practices take place during other seasons and athletes struggle with the decision to either go to the practice of the team that they are currently on or to go to the green day practices. The school’s athletic department has a policy about attending workouts and green day practices for students who are committed to a sport already. Kevin Simonds, Assistant Director of Student Activities and varsity football head coach explains, “When you’re in a season, you’re committed to that season, so you’re not supposed to do other sports; green days or anything like that they're not supposed to be doing it. The coaches aren't supposed to be asking you to.” One of the reasons for this policy is because of the fear
of injury. “I would be really upset if I were the baseball coach during baseball season, and then a football coach had a football workout, and a kid went to that and he gets hurt, rolls his ankle, when he’s one of my better players. Now I've lost him and my chance at the season.” Simonds said. Mike Barbee, the head coach of the varsity basketball team, acknowledged that it can be beneficial to play multiple sports, “I think its a good thing to play a lot of different sports. A lot of people don’t really do that, but I think when you play one sport, you can get really burned out. It helps keep you refreshed and stay in good shape all the time.” Another reason that playing multiple sports can be beneficial is that, as Simonds pointed out, it reinforces competition. According to Simonds, “There’s nothing that can substitute that type of competition if you're not playing a sport. I would much rather somebody be a three sport athlete and miss football workouts in the spring and all that other stuff because they're playing a sport because again, all we can do is just work in the weight room, and condition, and go over plays and drills and stuff like that. We can't actually do team time stuff and compete against other people.” For some student athletes, the understanding by coaches of other sports about not attending green day practices is unclear, while others find that their coaches are completely fine with their players missing workouts due to another sport. Sophomore Kelly Anderson, a varsity volleyball player, varsity indoor track runner, and JV soccer player, finds that sometimes her coaches expect her to go to their workouts. “Coaches expect you to make their sport your priority when you have to make another sport your priority, and school work, and family.” Senior Brian Monter, a varsity football, basketball, and baseball player, finds that his basketball coach doesn’t mind that he plays other sports; in fact, he encourages it. According to Monter, “He doesn’t mind because he knows that football is a big thing for me, and that the stuff we do at football can help me with basketball, like footwork and stuff, so he respects my decisions to play other sports.”
“I think its a good thing f to play a lot of different sports. A lot of people don’t really do that, but I think when you play one sport, you can get really burned out.”
Photos Courtesy of Washingtonpost.com
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Sports Stats Varsity Football Woodson West Potomac Madison Westfield Thomas Jefferson Langley McLean
WON WON WON LOST WON LOST WON
Photo Courtesy of Washingtonpost.com/posttv
Varsity Field Hockey Lake Braddock West Springfield McLean Westfield Georgetown Visitation Marshall Washington Lee Madison Thomas Jefferson Langley South Lakes Woodson Conference 6 Tournament
WON WON WON LOST WON WON WON WON WON WON WON WON WON Photo Courtesy of fairfaxhighsports.org
Varsity Volleyball Oakton TC Williams Marshall South County Yorktown Jefferson Westfield Stone Bridge Woodson W&L Hayfield South Lakes
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Photo by Gillian Elliott
WON WON WON LOST LOST LOST WON LOST LOST LOST WON WON
Sports
Player Spotlight: Drew Basalyga By Gillian Elliott
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airfax football recently received attention from The Washington Post’s AllMetSports, having two players make the top football plays of the week. Number one of the list of ten was junior Drew Basalyga, having two attention worthy receptions in Fairfax’s game versus McLean. “I felt happy that I could represent my team,” said Basalyga. “Our team has a lot of potential and talent this year, and we’re looking to make a run in the playoffs.” Fairfax has two games left of regular season before attempting to conquer the conference.
Favorite memory: Coming out to home games and seeing all the fans Favorite Pre-game Meal: Spaghetti and chili from Hard Times Cafe Favorite Athlete: Aj Peterson
Photos Courtesy of Washingtonpost.com
Getting to Know Student Athletes Simone Askew Senior Volleyball
Photo by Gillian Elliott
Favorite memory: The day that we (Varsity Volleyball) beat Stone Bridge. Favorite Pre-game Meal: Banana berry blast from smoothie king with a shot of energy. Favorite Athlete: Lebron James
Alex Maguire Junior Cross Country
Photo by Gillian Elliott
Favorite memory: Stealing food from the other teams and being first in the district. Favorite Pre-game Meal: Salmon, rice, and broccoli Favorite Athlete: Galen Rupp
Christina Demps Freshman Cheerleading
Photo by Deena Habibi
Favorite memory: Hitting on the cheer floor before we compete. Favorite Pre-game Meal: Subway with my team before warm ups. Favorite Athlete: The Smoed twins.
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Breast Cancer Awareness October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Rebel Roar has featured pink, the official color of breast cancer awareness, on the cover and throughout the issue to show support. By wearing pink on Wednesdays, holding “pink-outs� at multiple sporting events and vocally supporting the cause, the Fairfax Rebels have expressed their support for raising money and awareness to find a cure. There are multiple ways to make a difference in the Fairfax community this month and for the rest of the year.
Walks
Many societies raise money for research, help patients pay medical bills and raise awareness by holding walks that range from five kilometer fun-walks to three day 90 mile treks. Through funds raised before the walk, participants gain sponsors that pledge certain increments of money for each mile or kilometer completed. Making Strides Walks - American Cancer Society visit americancancersociety.com Avon Walk for Breast Cancer visit avonwalk.com Susan G. Komen 3-Day Walk visit 3daywalk.com
Foundations There are many local, national and international foundations that raise moneyy for breast cancer awareness. All of these foundations are open to contributions and volunteering. National Breast Cancer Organization Breast Cancer Care Foundation American Association for Cancer Research Susan G. Komen Foundation American Cancer Society