Issue 11

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Editorials

Health

explains the consequences of the new SOL testing schedule.

looks at the dangersof summer beauty practices.

Academics

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14

Photo

helps prepare students with organizing summer assignments.

looks back at graduating seniors from their freshman years.

Entertainment asks students whether they prefer books their movie counterparts.

ANNANDALE HIGH SCHOOL

the VOLUME #59 ISSUE 11

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9

4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, VA 22003 470

Informiing the Atoms siince 1954 4

WEDNESDAY, MAY 28, 2013

(703) 642-4229

Zero tolerance changes Changes to SR&R handbook to be debated at meeting As of June 8, the highly controversial ZeroTolerance policy in FCPS may no longer be in existence due to a variety of changes being made to next year’s edition of the Student Rights and Responsibilities handbook.

The Zero Tolerance policy, according to the FCPS Discipline Process Reform, is described as “the policy or practice of automatic imposition of severe penalties for the first offence,” or “the absence of leniency of exception in the enforcement of a law, rule or regulation.”

“The current zero tolerance policy is very rigid. I do understand the purpose, but every circumstance does not fit this policy. There are always situations that need stiff consequences, but each situation deserves an investigation and discussion,” PTA President Kathy Ryan said.

Currently, the handbook, commonly referred to as the SR&R calls for the expulsion of any student caught with an illegal drug: real or a look-alike.

Between 2004 and 2010 alone, over five thousand cases were heard in the FCPS Hearing office that resulted in long- term suspension or expulsion due to the current Zero Tolerance, or ZT, policy.

“When a student is caught with drugs, they are automatically recommended for expulsion.

We are stuck in a bind. There’s nothing we can do” Administrator Jamie Carayiannis said.

One of the most recognizable cases in regards to the ZT policy was that of Nick Stuban, a 15year old Woodson student that was caught with K2, a look-alike to marijuana, in 2011. A football

By the numbers

1 7

The number of sports still competing for AHS. See page 13

The number of acts preforming in Battle of the Bands See page 7

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY OLIVIA LAFFERTY

BY DESTINY GAMMON Co-Editor in Chief

Proposed changes to the current SR&R will prevent teachers from being able to reprimand students without parents present.

player and overall “model student,” Stuban’s life took a downward spiral between the stress of his consequences and everyday life.

Just days before his second hearing, Stuban took his life making himself the second student in only two years to commit suicide during the fallout of a disciplinary infraction in Fairfax. Another change considered, that also relates to Stuban’s case, in the SR&R is that of “in loco parentis” which states

that when a child is in school, the administration has the ability to act as the child’s parent.

“As an administrator, I have certain authorities to have some latitude to be able to work with kids on certain issues. In the SR&R, it’s described as ‘Principal’s Discretion.’ I would say that 95% of the stuff is through my discretion to discipline kids,” Carayiannis said.

“Zero Tolerance” continues on page 3

22

The number of seniors leaving The A-Blast this year.

See page 16

31

The amount of years Coach Adam’s worked at AHS. See page 2

575

The number of seniors graduating this year.

See page 8-9

Staff loses valuable members Teachers announce their retirement

BY JAROD GOLUB News Editor With each new school year there are new faces present at AHS in the form of students and teachers alike. However, with each passing year and each fresh face there are also many people who leave AHS and move on to the next step in their lives.

Seniors will graduate and teachers will retire. This group of driven, dedicated people who call AHS their home will never be the same.

This year, AHS is losing many familiar faces, including, physics teacher Thomas Chorman, US-VA History teacher Gregory Reed, Topics teacher Mary Richardson and Assistant Director of Student Activities Dick Adams.

There are many reasons for a teacher to not come back the next year.

COURTESY OF THE ANTENNA YEARBOOK

12

The number of music festivals occurring along the east coast this summer.

See page 15

For example, Chorman is going back to graduate school to get his Masters Degree in engineering.

“I want to go back to grad school because I miss engineering,” Chorman said. “I want to gain more experience in engineering that I can then bring back into the classroom.”

It is very hard for a teacher to leave after becoming so connected to a school.

This is why AHS has so many longtime teachers, including Reed, with 16 years, Adams, with 31 and Richardson with 13.

“I really enjoy the community feel that [we] have at Annandale,” Reed said.

AHS is more than just a school.

The students and teachers make this a community. This community gives people a lot of things to look back on later.

“I’m really going to miss it here,” Chorman said. “I know that this is a really awesome school to teach at, and I know when I go back to teaching that “Retirements” continues on page 3

Science National Honor Society Sponsor Thomas Chorman, back-row left, is taking a break from teaching in order to recieve his Master’s Degree in Engineering at Northwestern U.

Religious leaders come together Interfaith panel planned in Clausen Garden Festival On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to read a story about the unveiling of AHS’s garden.

BY OMNIA SAED Co-Editor in Chief As means to bridge the religious diversity that accompanies the cultural diversity at AHS, the MSA along with a student run non-profit will be sponsoring an Interfaith Panel, Thursday, May 30, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Clausen Hall.

The event is set to bring together leaders from the three largest monotheistic religions, as guest speakers. The speakers include Reverend Clarence Brown, senior pastor at the Annandale United Methodist Church, Imam Makhdoom Zia from the Mustafa Center Mosque and Rabbi David Kalender,

head rabbi from the Synagogue Olam Tikvah.

“Islam is all about high tolerance. Raise the bar to be positive. I have to accept you . . .If I don’t respect you I have a problem. . .” MSA sponsor Ola Layaly said.

The two-hour event will begin with an hour long Q&A session of already pre-created questions towards the religious leaders around the events main theme: Religion in the 21st Century, Teenagers and Faith.

Questions, will surround topics from interreligious dating to religious profiling post 9/11.

“I personally consider myself a practising Muslim and a person of faith and therefore I find a great amount of interests in the area of ethics,” junior Kowthar Said said.

Following a 15 minute break, for refreshments and hors d’oeuvres, the second half of the event will be student and audience led. The audience will have the opportunity to step up to the mic or write

down their own questions.

Along with the MSA, the event is sponsored by a group of AHS students through a jointly created venture, RealTalk Radio. RealTalk, created and initiated by a group of AHS students as a multi-media forum for teens to simply talk about contemporary current event issues.

This is their first live event.

RealTalk also hopes to host future events, based around different themes. In the future they hope to hold a political debate between the Young Democrats and the Young Republicans as well as a guy panel and girl panel, based around gender perspectives highlighting the old-age question around who really has it harder.

“We’re just starting up,” Said said, “We’ve been organizing our website, blogs and podcasts but this event will be our first discussion brought to life.”

“Interfaith panel” continues on page 3

Do you think people these days have too much pride?

“Yes because they are overly supportive of the things they advocate for.”

—Vanessa Nikolic freshman

“Yes, because people get too confident in themselves and what they believe.”

—Kayee Lynch sophomore

“Yes because in these days nobody wants to lose, especially on an important issue like politics-to let the other person win.”

—Lewis Folli junior “I think so because the spread of education makes people think they know everything, and sometimes that’s bad.”

May 28, 2013

Is the government governing?

The leaders built on value of cooperation; does not cooperate

BY JAMES BARKER Special to The A-blast All throughout American history, people have debated and argued over all sorts of topics, including slavery, federal government, and freedom of speech. Those in Congress were able to share their beliefs about what they believed was right, but in the end, it all came down to who was willing to sacrifice some of their beliefs for the good of the country.

Then why can’t we do the same now?

Roger Sherman and Oliver Ellsworth presented the Connecticut Compromise, also known as the Great Compromise, in order to solve the issue on how to choose the number of delegates a state gets in Congress. This was a huge deal for a new country with not much experience in official politics.

Many other compromises have been created throughout American history to help please both sides of the political spectrum.

Throughout the history of America, taxation has caused many debates and arguments. Conservatives have always wanted less taxes, as they believe that the people have the right to choose what to do with their government, not the government.

Liberals believe that there should be higher taxes, especially on the rich, as they have more money and should help the poor.

These are polar opposite ideas, yet there must be a middle ground so that Congress can come to terms

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY SHAMAIM SYED

2

EDITORIALS

with one another.

One of the most controversial issues that has been circulating Congress is gun control. Liberals want to restrict the amount and types of guns, and Conservatives want no restrictions, giving people all the rights they believe they are given the right to.

Standing up for what you believe in is what makes America the country it is. We are allowed to protest in the streets and even write editorials for a school newspaper. In many countries, I would be thrown in prison for the stories I have written.

Yet, with all this freedom, why can’t people come together with others to discuss their views and move toward a center point to come to terms with one another?

The main reason that this issue is so prevalent in today’s society is because of pride. Pride in one’s self can make a person egotistical. It makes them so proud of what they have accomplished that they believe

that they are the most important person and no one else matters.

It is my belief that this sense of pride starts as a young child. Many parents tell their children that they are special and wonderful, making them believe they are impervious to failure. Schools have now begun to get rid of ‘F’s, believing it will hurt a student’s feelings if they fail.

Failure is a part of life. There is no way around it. Failure teaches us that this world isn’t perfect and you won’t always succeed.

These can all lead to a prideful person, which can lead to other corrupt attributes of a personality, such as hate and envy.

Our government is in direct control of our society, as the people are the ones with the power. If we can change the way people view themselves and each other, then we will see a big change in the way our government handles its issues in the future.

If our government decides to not get along, then heated issues, such as

abortion, will never be solved. Even with these delicate topics like abortion and gay marriage, there is a middle ground, just waiting there to be found.

I hope that the leaders of our government will look past their views and see what is best for their country.

And before any of them point fingers at each other, I hope that they will look inside themselves to see what needs to changed.

Very recently, a reform was passed to go through Congress to reform immigration. This is but one of few cases in which both parties can come together to make an agreement that can change America for the better.

If everyone can fix themselves, then our country will become an even greater nation. One of peace and compromise.

S o l e t ’s b e c i v i l a b o u t o u r arguments and find the center goal between the two for a brighter future.

Boycott Abercrombie and Fitch Clothing company only caters to “cool and popular” thin kids “Although there’s a wide range of perspectives today, I think people rely too much on their pride because it gives them a sense of selfentitlement.”

—Marwa Eltahir senior

QUOTE COLLECTION The A-Blast wants to hear your opinion. Your response to the following question might be features in our quote collection:

What is your opinion of Mike Jeffries comment, do you think it was justifiable?

E-mail your responses to ablast.editorials@gmail.com

CORRECTIONS Vol. 58, Issue 9:

BY GWEN LEVEY Retired Co-Editor in Chief Abercrombie and Fitch CEO Mike Jeffries has recently been in the hot seat again, restating that his company does not cater to plussized women. According to Business Insider, Jeffries issued a statement to the Los Angeles Times on May 16, saying that his “choice of words was interpreted in a manner that has caused offense.”

“In every school there are the cool and popular kids,” Jeffries said in 2006, according to Business Insider.

“Candidly we go after the cool kids...

A lot of people don’t belong [in our clothes], and they can’t belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely.”

Jeffries’ defense of his past comments was prompted by an online petition started by 16 yearold Benjamin O’Keefe on Change. org that has gained over 68,000 signatures.

To that, we only have one thing to say. Are you crazy, Mr. Jeffries?

By remaining “exclusionary,” Jeffries is simply acknowledging one type of beauty – the thin type. In reality, there are countless types of beauty that come in all shapes and sizes.

Jeffries is essentially marketing on the principle that the ‘cool kids’ only come in sizes 00-10. In reality, is that true? No, not at all.

Interestingly enough, according to Fox News, the average U.S. woman’s clothing size is 14.

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY NADIA ELGENDY

— Angel Jomuad junior

Many of the applicants are usually admitted based off looks and model like features.

Abercrombie and Fitch’s top competitors, American Eagle and H&M, both carry larger sizes.

American Eagle carries up to size 16, while H&M carries up to size 18.

His comments sound like a typical insult from the school bully, standing his ground on the playground with his arms crossed ignorantly over his chest in a refusal to let you pass. This is the “cool kids” territory, not yours, so buzz off.

It seems to me like poor Mr. Jeffries was just trying to do society a favor in the only way he can: knocking out plus size and larger sized people from his store so his humble customers can know they’re the ideal Abercrombie and Fitch customer.

“The attractive all-American kid with a great attitude and a lot of friends. A lot of people don’t belong

–– On page 3, the thumbs up and thumbs down were inverted ––On page 19 Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance was pictured instead of Epic.

––On the Sports page, the story on Boys Varsity Baseball team was incorrect because they weren’t playing in districts

[in our clothes], and they can’t belong.

Are we exclusionary? Absolutely.”

How dare those people who don’t have the bodies and faces of the Statue of David and the photoshopped models of the brand dare to even think that they should be allowed to step foot in A&F. I mean, Mr. Jeffries must look just like them too, right?

While reading these statements by a rich CEO, who definitely must insinuate that he too is one of these “attractive all-American” citizens.

But ‘Googling’ his picture, all I could shamefully think was one thing: What. A. Hypocrite.

Of course you let men’s sizes go up into the XL’s for “beefier” accommodations, but for women?

Forget it. In fact, Jeffries dares to state that he’ll keep making the sizes smaller (even XXXS), which I dare say sounds to me like he barely

expects for there to be anything left of a person who would be able to shop at his stores, especially “fat women” who “don’t belong wearing Abercrombie clothes.”

As an owner of a few A&F items, let me also point out that I’m sorry, Mr. Jeffries, but there is really nothing special to them. Sticking a moose in the corner of a polo or charging $80 for a pair of ripped jeans doesn’t quite appeal to anyone in this day and age. Students could go thrift shopping and get four times as many clothes that are just as good quality as your “exclusive” brand.

And get this; even the leftover clothes they don’t sell every season remain exclusionary. Instead of giving them away to the poor and unfortunate, they burn them.

So let’s be real here, buddy: if you’re expecting for people to respect your brand, going around calling people “fat” or “uncool” isn’t necessarily going to garner that kind of attention. Instead, your comments of bigotry are most likely going to make you (literally) look like just another Biff on the playground.

In light of Jeffries’ remarks, we should take a stand. Let’s boycott Abercrombie and Fitch in response to their singular size range of beauty.

In a time when self-esteems are already dropping as a result of the airbrushed, size 00 models on magazine covers, we don’t need such criticism from a clothing industry leader.

So instead of insulting the population, Mr. Jeffries, why don’t you take that time to take a bit of your own medicine and reflect on your own situation. You have a mirror in your house, right?

Good. Now go use it.

Staff

AHS Testing Schedule– best of a bad situation In your smartphone, scan the QR code to read a story explaining the school’s decision to accomodate this year’s testing.

Annandale High School 4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, Virginia 22003 email: theablast@gmail.com

Vol. 57 No.11 May 28, 2013 fax: (703) 642-4299

The A-Blast is an award winning newspaper that strives to inform, educate and entertain the student body and community.

Published every three weeks, The A-Blast will not print any material that is obscene or libelous; or that which substantially disrupts the school day, or invades an individual’s right to privacy. The A-Blast is an independent, open forum for discussion that is printed at the Springfield Plant of The Washington Post. Signed letters to the editor of 250 words or less may be submitted to room 262 or mailed to the school. The A-Blast reserves the right to refuse advertisements. All submissions become property of The A-Blast, Copyright, 2013.

NEWS

A

3 Board re-thinks policy School board changes zero tolerance policy in FCPS schools “Zero Tolerance” continued from page 1

policies in schools, intended to reduce school violence and behavior problems, can actually have the opposite effect.”

“I don’t think we should, as a school system, overreact to one isolated incident. I think we should brush this canvas with a broad brush and cover a large spectrum of students and situations rather than just a few,” Carayiannis said.

The Fairfax Zero Tolerance Reform cites that the current policy infringes upon a student’s protection of due process of law, as well as their First, Fourth and 14th Amendment rights. The reform also calls for a more “reasonable and humane” school system that offers consequences that are “appropriate to the infraction, to the child’s individual situation, and to the child’s developmental stage.”

“Many incidents that result in disciplinary action in school happen because of an adolescent’s or child’s poor judgment, not due to an intention to harm,” APA Task Force Chair Cecil Reynolds said. “Zero tolerance policies may exacerbate the normal challenges of adolescence and possibly punish a

teenager more severely than warranted.”

The new SR&R would also call for parental inclusion in the child’s punishment in terms of the parents receiving notification of their child’s infraction prior to any consequences being decided upon. On top of parental attendance to all meeting regarding the child’s punishments, the student must also be informed that they have the right to remain silent and to contact their parent or guardian before writing any confession.

On top of these changes, all meetings regarding the child’s punishments would be recorded for future reference when the student is on trial and these trials will be conducted as a much speedier pace, no matter the severity of the crime, in hopes of preventing increased emotional strain on the suspect and his or her family.

“Changes to the zero tolerance policy would give school administrators, staff, students and parents better opportunities to get more effective solutions or resolutions to an occurrence.

The ultimate goal is to get the appropriate help for the student and family,” Ryan said.

The next meeting will occur on Saturday June 8 at Luther Jackson Middle School and all are welcome to attend. The FCPS school board will also be discussing the changes in relation

MYP Certificate Presentation Ceremony

Changes to SR&R: 1. Change in the definition of bullying.

JAROD GOLUB News Editor

2. Changes to list of statutory weapons.

These includeany deadly firearm.

The hard work of the sophomore class has finally paid off. On Monday, May 20 they received their IB MYP certificates. These certificates commemorate the hard work that they did throughout freshman and sophomore year, and even in middle school.

“This is really the end of my MYP years, and it kind of represents my transition into full IB,” sophomore Thomas White said.

The certificates are awarded for completing the requirements involved in the Middle Years Program.

These requirements include 50 hours of community service throughout the first two years of high school, completion of the MYP Project and a credit in a fine art class.

However, these certificates are just a piece of paper. Some students do not think that they accurately represent the work that gets put into the MYP Project and all of their classes as a whole.

“I spent five years in MYP classes, and countless hours on my project,” White said. “I don’t think that these certificates show that.”

3. Addition of graphics and better organization.

4. Evaluation of students’ ability to comprehend SR&R .

5. Second Chance: Recommended continued suspension with referral for expulsion accompanying indication of first time possession of marijuana.

6. Revise definiton of parent to remove “in locos parentis.”

“In Locos parentis” is the idea that states that while a student is at school, the teacher acts as their parent. to the issue of suspension alternatives for the 2013-2014 Student Rights and Responsibilities handbook.

“Teenagers do not always make the best decisions, and second chances could help a student learn a great life lesson,” Ryan said.

“I want that latitude to be able to make decisions, other school districts have it, we should have it as well. Give

me that power. Trust me. Trust; that’s part of the problem. I don’t believe there is 100 percent trust coming from the school board towards the schools and the administration. They don’t say ‘We trust your decisions, we value your decisions.’

I want that trust, I deserve that trust,” Carayiannis said.

Panel held for students Imam Makhdoom Zia is pictured here giving a sermon. Zia is one of the religious figures attending the panel taking place at AHS.

to deviate from their religion and if so can that be refrained? How much influence should parents have over their child’s religious choices?

Questions such as these will help to spur on conversation and debate between the religious leaders.

RealTalk hopes to engage the teens at AHS in the conversation and get them talking about current events as well as other topics that pertain to current, everyday society.

“As teenagers we realize how easy it is to talk about the latest gossip, celebrity crush and obsession, but it’s also nice to talk about real-world things. We just want to open up that discussion,” Said said.

Teachers leave AHS Retiring faculty look back on time spent teaching and prepare for their futures “Retirement” continued from page 1

it will be hard to find a place as good as this.”

Despite strong reasons to stay, the teachers will go on to do other things. After retirement, many teachers travel the world or get part time jobs.

“I’m going to enjoy the break from full-time work,” Reed said. “I’ll probably work part-time, and I might end up subbing.”

Each of these teachers has left their mark on their students as well as the faculty of this school.

“Mr. Reed was a very good teacher who was very passionate at teaching,” junior Francisco Lam said. “It gave me inspiration to try harder in classes.”

These are very dedicated staff members who will be sorely missed at AHS both in school and out of school at sporting events.

“He would always be there at every football game, he was very dedicated to the sports program, as well as Annandale itself,” Lam said.

AHS has left these teachers with valuable life lessons that they have learned throughout their years of working here.

“I learned a lot about what good teaching is and I made a lot of good memories,” Chorman said.

“I enjoyed working with the kids, I really am going to miss being around the school” Reed said.

No matter where you come from, why you come here, or where you go after, AHS will have an effect on you. It has some effect on everyone who steps through its doors.

“I went to another Fairfax County school, and I consider myself an Atom,” Reed said.

Kalendar is the rabbi at Congregation Olam Tikvah. Kalendar has played a large role in Judaism across Northern Virginia, previously been featured in The Washington Post.

To read a full story on the Garden Festival log on to www.thea-blast.org.

News Briefs Senior Prom

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM

The student members of RealTalk organized the event, calling in the religious leaders and posting signs to advertise. They will also be in charge of the afternoon’s schedule.

“For our first event I think this is really creative to show people what we are about. Hopefully it will be a success in getting people excited about us and what we will do in the future. RealTalk is going to do great things!” junior Melissa Stamp said.

Some of the members gave us exclusive access to a few of their questions: “Our main goal was to start a discussion, to get people talking. So, our questions are going to be hard, at times controversial, but in the end really fulfilling in bridging this idea of understanding,” Said said.

Questions include: How have your religious view been affected by the uprisings of social issues, such as abortion and gay rights? Does a diverse environment influence people

PLEDGE25OHRKODESH.BLOGSPOT.COM

“Interfaith” continued from page 1

JAROD GOLUB

PLEDGE25OHRKODESH.BLOGSPOT.COM

Religious leaders gather to answer student’s questions about controversial topics in today’s world

Photos from the AHS Garden Festival

JAROD GOLUB

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May 28, 2013

Pictured above, Reverend Clarence Brown of The Annandale United Methodist Church.

Prom will take place on June 7 at 9 p.m. at the Fairview Park Marriott Ticket sales are during all lunches or in room 326. Current cost is $40 cash only. Please be prepared with all forms filled out. Forms can be found outside of room 326A, in the Main Office, Activities, or Attendance offices.

Yearbooks

Yearbooks come out on May 31st this year. The cost is currently $80.

Order now!

Battle of the Bands The 2013 Battle of the Bands is on Friday, May 31st at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium. Doors will open at 6:00 p.m. and admission is $7.00.

SOL Retakes Reading SOL: May 29, a.m.

History SOL: May 29, p.m.

Science SOL: May 21, p.m.

Math SOL: May 28, a.m.

SATs Take place on Saturday June 1

Graduation Graduation is taking place on Thursday, June 13 at D.A.R Constitution Hall.

Traffic Safety Program On Wednesday, June 5 the last parentteen safety program of the year will be held in Clausen Hall at 6:30 p.m. This class is required to get your green card that enables you to take Behind the Wheel.

IB Diploma Candidate Reception Friday, June 6 at 5 p.m. the IB diploma candidates will be recognized for their achievements.

Graduation Rehearsal Graduation rehearsal will take place on Wednesday, June 12 in the auditorium.

Senior Awards Ceremony Seniors will be given awards on Thursday, June 6 at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium.

NEWS

Dick Adams by the numbers The number of state championships Dick Adams won while coaching football

2

The number of regional titles Annandale won under Adams’ head coaching

3 7

The number of Patriot District titles Annandale won while Adams was a coach

9

The number of years Adams spent as the Assistant Director of Student Activities

19

The number of years Adams coached football

31

The number of years Adams taught at AHS

Teacher leaves legacy Dick Adams retires, his hard work is seen throughout the halls and fields of AHS

BY BAYLEY BRILL News Editor There are few people who can honestly say they embody AHS as a whole; Dick Adams is one of those people. Many know him for his back-to-back state championships, but he also was the varsity and JV wrestling coach, as well as the assistant track coach, on top of being a history teacher.

As an AHS graduate of the class of 1975 he was not only an instrumental part of the teaching and athletic departments of AHS, but the sports teams as well. He was one of the first people to go to AHS as a student, then return as a faculty member, and began the tradition of doing so. He is part of an exclusive group of people who have been able to touch and shape thousands of teenager’s lives over the course of 33 years in the education system.

He did not impact just students and players; but family as well. Jamie Carayiannis, an AHS administrator shared a special bond with Adams.

When Carayiannis was in 7th grade, his father married Adams’ mother, and they became step brothers.

“We hardly knew each other before our parents got married. Athletics was the thing that created the bond between us,” Carayiannis said.

Carayiannis recalls Adams as a player on and off of the field.

“He was an outstanding football player. The thing about Adams was he was the guy I wanted in my huddle, not because he was my brother, but because of the kind of person he was and the kind of player he was. If you were in a fight, he was the kind of guy you’d want next to you,” Carayiannis said.

Halfway through his second year as a security guard at J.E.B. Stuart High School, Adams’ former football coach Bob Hardage found a job for him teaching at AHS. He became a history teacher here, and began his 31 years at AHS. He took over

BAYLEY BRILL

4

May 28, 2013

Dick Adams works on paperwork, which is one of the last things he will do as Assistant Director of Student Activities.

as head wrestling coach, assistant track coach, as well as assistant football coach.

In 1990 when Adams’ former coach retired, he took over as the head football coach. Throughout his coaching career he was known for his nononsense style of coaching, but he had a reason for it.

“I taught all of my kids to be courteous and respectful, and [through that] you would be incredibly successful,” Adams said.

And to former players, his no nonsense coaching style paid off.

“He expected us to work harder than we thought we could, which made us grow as people,” Bill Curran said. Curran is currently the FCPS Student Activities and Athletics Director as well as a former player for Adams.

In 2001 the former Assistant Director of Student Activities left to become the Director of Student Activities at Stuart, and Adams took over the position.

“I take care of the fields, all of the fundraising like gold cards and Atoms Challenge, as well as schedule transportation for all sports and the scheduling for all teams,” Adams said.

Throughout his career at AHS, Adams has touched thousands of lives, and changed many for the better. He has left a legacy that is uncomparable to many, and will not be forgotten anytime soon.

“I met Coach Adams when I was 13, and for

“I will miss Coach Adams because he taught us a lot about punctuality and helped us become better men.”

COURTESY OF DICK ADAMS

Students say good-bye to retiring teachers

17 years he’s been the only man and real father figure in my life,” former player Jeremiah Davis said. Davis is now the head football coach at West Potomac High School. “When I was a junior in high school he sat down with me, and told me I could be great, but he told me about the importance of getting my grades up. I did, and ended up committing to Penn State.”

Despite tirelessly working for AHS for the past 31 years, Adams is looking forward to his retirement.

“I started a landscaping company 33 years ago to make ends meet, and I recently merged with a former teammate, and we plan to continue that,” Adams said.

Adams also has started to work with USA Football and their Heads Up program, which tries to make every level of football safer, by trying to change the rules and playing style of football, reducing head first collisions.

Unsurprisingly, Adams does not think the idea of coaching again is too far fetched.

“I wouldn’t mind to coach again, even if it’s at the youth level,” Adams said.

Adams is not entirely excited about leaving, though. He will miss coming to the school everyday and doing what he loves.

“I’m here almost seven days a week, every year— I don’t know many people who love getting up early to go to their job every day— and I do. I’ve been incredibly fortunate,” Adams said.

Players celebrate after beating Chantilly and extending their winning streak to 24 in 1994.

—Adnan Alam

“Coach Adams had a lot of spirit and was really good at motivating us.”

–Ayobami

Fakulujo sophomore

COURTESY OF DICK ADAMS

COURTESY OF DICK ADAMS

freshman

Adams poses in his office for a Washington Post interview in 1994.

Adams and his assistant coach watch on the sideline during the 1994 state championship game.

—Ahmed Mohammed senior “Mrs. Richardson retiring will be a big hit to the history department because she was such a great teacher.”

—Tyler Laffin senior

Coach Adams throughout the years On your smartphone, scan the above code using the application “QR Code” to view a photo slideshow of Coach Adams.

Richardson retires after 13 years at AHS IB Topics and senior USVA government teacher retires

BY BAYLEY BRILL News Editor Many teachers like to go from school to school and see the differences between each other; but not Mary Ann Richardson. Throughout her 15 year teaching career, she has spent all but two of those years at AHS. “I’m a very loyal person; when I came here 13 years ago I had kinda already decided that this would be my home,” IB Topics teacher Mary Richardson said.

Before Richardson worked in education she worked in government. She held a government job for 26 years where she worked in Congress, as well as under the Clinton administration. Her mother, a nursing teacher, was the one who convinced her to teach after she left her government job.

“I was looking for a new challenge, I knew humanities well and I wanted to teach the new generation of students; I saw it as a community service,” Richardson said.

Throughout her 13 years here, she has taught IB Topics and USVA Government for seniors.

“It’s a lot different teaching seniors as opposed to freshmen. When you say good-bye to them at the end of the year, you never know if you will ever see them again—it really is good-bye for good,” Richardson said.

Reflecting on her years at AHS, Richardson has realized that learning truly is a lifelong process, as well as a slow processes.

“The kids who get the best grades aren’t necessarily the people who will be changing the

OLIVIA LAFFERTY

“What I will miss most about Mrs. Richardson will be her sense of humor and how she would always help us with our essays.”

Mary Richardson gives one of her last IB Topics lectures of the school year, this is one of her final classes of her career.

world later on in life,” Richardson said.

She will also miss her students above everything else next year.

“I’ve had kids who’ve changed me as a person, and hopefully I’ve helped change some of their lives as well,” Richardson said.

And her students agree, many of their lives have been impacted by her teachings.

“I learned that history is not just about memorizing facts and dates. It’s about reflecting on what happened in order to learn patterns that are occurring in the present,” said senior Harris

Fitzgerald.

Richardson has many plans for her retirement.

“I have a month and a half long trip to Europe planned for this fall, and I plan on spending a lot more time with my family as well. My life goal is to read all the great books before I die, and so far I have a list longer than my arm. I’m looking forward to be able to read books and not have to grade papers,” Richardson said, “The question is not what I will do when I’m retired, but how will I find enough hours in the day to do everything.”

PEOPLE Student Spotlight: Justice Garrish A

the

May 28, 2013

Senior decides to take a mission after graduation due to his Mormon faith

BY CHLOE LOVING People Editor Q: For how many generations has your family been of the Mormon faith?

A: Since my grandparents. My grandma converted from Catholicism because she did not agree with the Catholic teachings. They left some of her questions unanswered.

Q: What is Mormonism?

A: We believe there is a living prophet today and that the church was restored by Joseph Smith. We believe in the Book of Mormon which is another testament of Jesus Christ.

Q: What are your plans for after high school?

A: I will be serving a two year mission. I do not know where yet but I will probably find out within two weeks. It could be anywhere.

Q: How has religion stayed with you throughout high school?

A: I have been more dedicated to my religion and stuck with the standards of my faith such as no sex, no drinking, no partying, in that sense. It has kept me out of trouble.

While my friends were going out, I chose not to and stayed away from hoodlum activities.

Q: Why do you think its important to share your faith?

A: In today’s society, people are often blown from one opinion to the next without having a strong foundation. They are swayed by public figures so we are trying to help them find what they believe in, not what their friends believes in.

Q: Why do you believe your religion is the one to be shared?

A: In a sense, I believe my religion is the true religion, the true faith.

Q: Where do you want to go to college after your mission?

A: It is either BYU [Brigham Young University] or I really want to play college football somewhere.

Q: What was your best high school moment?

A: A wrestling match junior year, I was losing 3-10 and pinned him in the 3rd period and won.

–Photos courtesy of Justice Garrish

Q: How do you begin your mission?

A: You get a mission call from the MTC which is the Missionary Training Center.

They are stationed in Utah, England, and Mexico City. Then you get trained in the language of your mission country. If it is something like Japanese you’re going to be there for a longer period of time. It can range from 6-9 weeks. The mission extends for 2 years. I get to write letters and emails to my family and two phone calls each year, one for Mother’s Day and one on Christmas for an hour.

Q: Why are the missionaries kept from contact?

A: Some missionaries suffer from homesickness, so if you come visit them that is a distraction. They want the missionaries to stay focused. There have been a lot of cases where missionaries get homesick and choose not to finish. Some people say that as a Mormon there are a lot of rules but as a missionary, they get kicked up.

Q: Have you ever considered being a church leader in the future?

A: The way that the Mormon church is set up is it is more of a calling. You cant choose to become one, they have to call you to it.

You do not get paid, it is a service. I have held some callings for the church as a youth representative where I go to big meetings and planned big trips. You can deny it [the calling], it varies case by case.

Q: Does your faith preside over all other priorities?

A: I order my priorities like this: Faith, family, football.

Q: What is the biggest misconception that people have against your faith?

A: Polygamy. I get annoyed because most of the time they are being stupid.

Q: What are your family values?

A: Going to church every Sunday, and other church activities such as seminary and bible study before school. High schoolers have church activities on Wednesday nights with the other youth.

Q: Why did you decide to participate in a mission?

A: Because I want to and also because of my religion.

Q: What do you seek to accomplish on your mission?

A: To convert other people to Mormonism, the members of the church already help them with their faith if they are struggling

with things, or falling away, they give them a refresher as to why they are Mormons.

Q: Do missionaries participate in community service?

A: Yes, it ranges from as small as helping someone across the street or with yard work or something as silly as laundry. It can also be like relief, for example when the hurricane hit the York River [a few years back], they [missionaries] were there.

5 What is your favorite senior memory?

“I really enjoyed playing tennis with my teammates again. I’m going to miss them and the memories.”

Q: How has religion affected your athletics?

A: There have been instances where I have had to choose my sports or my faith and I end up choosing church stuff.

Q: Why do you believe your religion is the one to be shared?

A: In a sense, I believe my religion is the true religion, the true faith. Yes they can share theirs [religion].

Q: What are the living arrangements on a mission?

A: Usually you stay in an apartment with a companion. You rotate partners. You may meet them before like at MTC but it is rare.

There are missionaries coming from all over the world so sometimes they do not speak the same language. You communicate through the language you are supposed to know from the Missionary Training Center.

—Michelle Gonzalez senior

“My favorite moment was finishing my AP tests, forever.”

—Jalen Barcenilla senior

“My best senior moment was cheering on Atoms football on friday nights.”

Q: Are you worried about your mission setting you back academically?

A: No because I have planned for it. It is such an early age, I have always just accepted the fact that I will be going on a mission.

Q: What are your career goals?

A: I am either thinking engineering or physical therapist. Those two fields interest me at this point.

Q: Have you ever been discriminated against for being Mormon?

A: Being on different sports teams, a lot of kids make fun of you. Kids have always tried to get me to go against my faith.

—Connie Tran senior

“My best senior moment was when we beat Lee at our last football game.”

—Ahmed Mohammed senior

Q: Are you worried about your mission setting you back in your academics?

A: No because I have planned for it. It is such an early age. I have always just accepted the fact that I will be going on a mission.

“Taking my IB exams and then using my study days to go to Smith and Clarkson’s.”

—Daniel Turcios senior

Celebrity Birthdays June

1 Morgan Freeman 3 Rafael Nadal 4 Angelina Jolie 7 Michael Cera 8 Kanye West 9 Johnny Depp 10 Kate Upton 11 Shia Le Bouf 14 Lucy Hale 15 Neil Patrick Harris 17 Kendrick Lamar 18 Blake Shelton 22 Meryl Streep 24 Lionel Messi 26 Ariana Grande 27 Khloe Kardashian

76 27 38 25 36 50 21 27 24 40 26 37 64 26 20 29

Who Am I? On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to see this issue’s “Who Am I”.

HEALTH

By the numbers

1/5

Of the US will develop skin cancer once in their lifetime.

3

Decades hold more skin cancer patients than the amount of cancer patients combined.

86

Percent of melanoma cases are caused by UV rays.

9,480

People will die because of melanoma in 2013.

Source: SKIN CANCER FOUNDATION

Three ways to get a sufficient amount of water

Unsafe summer habits Tanning, hair coloring and mosquitoes are making their way back

BY BERTA TARQUI Health Editor Around a year ago the public was horrified by the “Tanning Mom,” her skin crisped to a caramelized brown, and the accusation that she brought her six year old daughter in the tanning booth. After that was over, people starting questioning whether minors should be able to tan artificially. The government is warning about the dangers of summer, such as tanning, West Nile virus and chemicals in hair products.

The FDA wants to require a warning label on the tanning bed revealing the long-term effects in hopes that teens will think twice on whether they should tan or not.

However some may agree, that the warning will have no effect on minors because most of them are already aware that excessive UV exposure can cause skin cancer, eye damage and faster aging.

So what would difference would it make to have a sticker on the booth? Warnings are on cigarette cartons, but most people continue smoking.

However, making sure that people are aware is the main goal of the FDA as skin cancer, particularly melanoma, is one of the deadliest cancers and commonly comes back even after treatment.

“I probably would read it and think about it and maybe stop. I used to go tanning [out in the sun] but then I started hearing about melanoma, so I started to use sunless tanning lotion,” sophomore Adriana Villarroel said.

People began turning to a “safer tan,” or spray

WWW.CSMONITOR.COM

6

May 28, 2013

Patricia Krentcil, also known as “tanning mom” allegedly put her six year old daughter in a tanning booth.

tanning because it is a quick bronze without the harsh UV rays. Even though the skin is not exposed to radiation, this does not mean its 100 percent safe.

According to the FDA, “The use of DHA in tanning booths as an all-over-spray has not been approved by the FDA, since safety data to support this use has not been submitted to the agency for review and evaluation.”

Breathing in the various chemicals present in spray-tanning liquid can also cause damage to lungs. In order to protect themselves from inhalation, some individuals will ask for nose plugs or mouth covers. Others will hold their breath for as long as they can.

As well as bronzed skin, many people like to lighten their hair in the summer. However, harsh chemicals present in these dyes can do a lot of damage to hair.

According to CBS News, “The most problematic hair dye ingredient is a family of chemicals called Arylamines. Arylamines are a known risk factor for bladder cancer and have been found to cause

cancer in experimental animals.”

Some people are allergic to the chemicals in many store bought hair dyes and can experience irritation of the skin and scalp, but many people do not get it professionally done as this can be expensive. Even store bought hair dyes can be expensive depending on the quality and brand.

Although hair dyes give individuals their desired color, they can cause dryness and make hair look damaged. Hair dye is also not good for thick or frizzy hair because it will dry it out further.

Other dangers that come along with the summer is the West Nile virus. The summer of 2012 was one of the worst outbreaks of the West Nile Virus for several years. More than half of the U.S. had reported cases of the virus, with southern states reporting the highest amounts.

More than 1,000 people were reported as being infected and 286 died, but there could have been more because the virus takes time to develop and some are not aware that they have it. Ways to protect oneself in case an outbreak occurs are fairly simple, but there is still no vaccination available.

One is using bug spray wherever you will be outside for long periods of times. If there happens to be another outbreak, stay away from water because they are the breeding ground for mosquitoes.

“I stayed indoors and used a lot of bug spray to keep mosquitoes away from me,” sophomore Saroona Khilji said.

If you do not like bug spray then you may want to try “Off Clip-On.” The last prevention method is to cover up. Since it is hot outside, it is not recommended to completely cover up; but have a loose long sleeve shirt to make sure you do not overheat.

Whether it be mosquitoes or sunburns, summer should be enjoyed. Try not the let the bad aspects weigh out the good ones.

How-to: lemon lightening

THEDECOROLOGIST.COM

1. Have a water bottle with you at all times: Wherever you go, school, work or outside, have a water bottle with you. Take frequent sips even when you are not thirsty, because thirst is one of the first signs of dehydration. Having easy access to a water bottle will make it easier to consume the right amount of water for you. Refill as often as you can.

COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG

2. Eat fruits and vegetables with lots of water: People forget that the food they eat has a some water in it, especially fruits and vegetables. Vegetables like cucumbers and celery hold a lot of water. Fruits such as watermelon are nearly 90 percent water.

3. Have a goal in mind: Your goal could be drinking half of one 16 oz. bottle every hour or one to two bottles a day. If you usually do not drink water, start small.

Another healthy snack On your smart phone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to view a recipe to make a spinach snack.

BERTA TARQUI

WWW.GOODHOUSEKEEPING.COM

Using a lemon to create subtle highlights may be the safest way to go because it is natural

This works best on lighter hair because it is seen easier.

You will need: Lemon Juice (or five lemons) Bowl Spray bottle Optional: Hair conditioner

1. Cut all the lemons and squeeze them into a small bowl. You can also add some conditioner to make the solution less harsh.

Mix them together and put the concoction into a small spray bottle.

2. Spray it on the spots where you want lightening to occur whether it be on the ends or a few strands. Wet your hair beforehand so the lemon mix will stay on better. Make sure to thoroughly dampen the hair to get the best results.

4. Go outside for two to four hours to get the best results. Remember to use sunblock; then shower as regular. Use conditioner if you have any because lemons are acidic. Repeat every week to see better results.

Safer alternatives to tanning Jergens Natural Glow Instead of using a tanning oil to help speed up the process of getting tanned in the sun, consider using a safer alternative that will still get you a healthy glow. A frugal alternative is Jergens Natural Glow Lotion. This will give you a gradual golden look. The key thing to remember is that putting on too much will give you an orange tone. Finding the right one to match your skin tone is essential to prevent looking unnatural.

Where you can buy it: Local CVS Pharmacy for $9.99

Alba Botanica Golden Tan Sunless Tanning Lotion Alba Botanica is another alternative to tanning safely. This a natural product and is vegetarian for those who do not want animal tested products. This may take a few days for a visible tan to appear but will get the job done if it is used correctly. This works for all skin colors so getting the wrong color will not be a problem.

Where you can buy it: Amazon.com for $10

This year’s Battle of the Bands, an AHS PTSA fundraising event, is going to be held in the AHS Watson auditorium at 7 p.m. The community-wide musical competition is an opportunity for local bands to perform in front of a live audience and will be held on May 31. For this competition, the audience will act as judges in determining the winner.

Admission, which includes two voting tickets, is $7.00. Additional voting tickets cost $1.00 for two tickets and $5.00 for ten tickets. “[Battle of the Bands] is a great event to go to and participate in. It is entertaining and lets bands show off what they can do,” event MC senior Andrew Riddle said.

A total of seven bands, consisting of a mix of seasoned performers as well as first timers, will make their way to the AHS stage. Audience members can expect a variety of music genres featuring each artist’s unique style.

“Acts range from heavy metal groups all the way to possible solo dubstep, so there is a wide range of talent,” Battle of the Bands organizer and participant junior Austin Costello said.

JAZMINE BOUNDS & SARAH BERGEN

BY SANDRA WEBB AND GILLIAN THOMAS Arts Editors

year’s Battle of the Bands will feature both.

The event has been a long-time community favorite. Although it was canceled due to severe weather last year, it is returning this year with plans to continue in the future.

“I’m really hoping this will be a fresh new start to Battle of the Bands and the beginning of a new tradition at Annandale,” Costello said.

This year, the winners chosen by the audience will receive a prize, most likely a gift card to a local music store.

Battle of the Bands is a widely anticipated event throughout the AHS community and many look forward to seeing both the new talent and old stars. “[The battle introduces] a new generation of bands and I am excited to hear them,” Riddle said.

Battle of the Bands also serves as a food “Oh, Satellite,” previous winners of the 2011 Battle of the Bands, will drive; audience members are encouraged to return to compete this year. bring canned food to help restock the food Bands are not limited on the number of songs they may perform, but have a time limit of 15 pantry that helps support the AHS community.

“I’m looking forward to...the revival of the event minutes with another 5 minutes to set up their equipment. However, these time limits are subject to which I hope will become a major tradition at change depending on the number of acts. Bands are Annandale,” Costello said. allowed to play original songs or cover songs. This

Senior Joey Shifflett is plays drums for Morningwood.

Q: How long have you been a band and how much stage experience do you have?

A: About three years. We do a bunch of shows especially early [last year] when we played about 4 shows in a year.

Q: What songs will you play?

A: All originals; I’m not sure exactly what songs we’re playing yet but probably ‘Slumber,’ ‘Wheel,’ ‘No Name,’ ‘Wait’ [and] maybe ‘Hourglass.’

Q: How long have you been a band and how much stage experience do you have?

A: [We’ve been a band] on and off for three years, but really going strong for about a year.

We’ve played live a couple times, not very much...it’s been a long time since we’ve played live.

COURTESY OF ALEC STEWART

Q: What songs will you play?

A: We’ll be playing one of our older songs, Nickname Jeffrey, and we’ll also be playing Tessellations. Beyond that, we’ll keep it a secret.

Q: What songs will you play?

A: We have three written songs. One is called Ben [and] the other two don’t really have names.

Q: What are you looking forward to most?

A: Just to perform in front of people and then to just let people hear what we’re playing. [We’re looking forward to] hearing everyone else and seeing the competition.

Q: How long have you been a band and how much stage experience do you have?

A: About a year [and] none.

Junior Austin Costello from ‘The Hero Disease’

Senior Alec Stewart from ‘Oh, Satellite’ Q: What is the name of your band and what style/genre do you play?

A: Oh, Satellite. We used to be kind of a post hard-core type genre, but now we just kind of play whatever comes. I’d guess rock in general.

Q: When did you decide to start creating music?

A: I started making music on a computer 4 or 5 years ago. I picked up guitar roughly 3 years ago. I taught myself the basics from Youtube videos and I’ve been practicing since.

Q: What is the name of your band and what style/genre do you play?

A: Morningwood. We don’t have a style or genre, we’re just us.

LAELLE MEKONNEN AND TIFFANY HUYNH

Q: What are you looking forward to most?

“We just want awareness. We want people to know about us; we don’t really care about winning, we want people to listen to our music and like us.

Q: What is the name of your band and what style/genre do you play?

A: ‘Save Me, Barry!’ with an exclamation point. [We play] things like Indie- rock.

Senior Alec Stewart is the only ‘Oh, Satellite’ member to currently attend AHS. The rest are AHS alumni.

Q: What is the name of your band and what style/genre do you play?

A:‘The Hero Disease.’ We play a wide range of rock music from hard rock to heavy metal.

Q: What songs will you play?

A: We’ll be doing three covers.

We’ll also be playing our newest single ‘Yes, this song is about you.’

Senior Austin Costello (right) is also one of the event organizers for Battle of the Bands.

Junior Kaitlin Martindale will perform both original titles and covers of other songs.

COURTESY OF AUSTIN COSTELLO

Q: What is the name of your band and what style/genre do you play?

A: Afterdawn. We’re originally alternativehard core, but for this show we’re going to play punk and some originals.

Senior Shaun Weber plays guitar and is the lead vocalist for his band, Save Me, Barry!

Q: What is the name of your band and what style/genre do you play?

A: I‘m just doing an acoustic set under my own name. It is a bit unspecific, but I really love singer-songwriter music.

Q: Why do you create music?

A: Music gives me an outlet to express myself to my fullest potential in both how I feel and the conveying of those feelings.

In most cases people need some form of hyperbole to get a point across, but music is so fantastically incredible in that it generates instant emotional connectivity which is a wonderful thing to think about.

LAELLE MEKONNEN AND TIFFANY HUYNH

SARAH BERGEN

Freshman Leif Jomuad will perform with both ‘After Dawn’ and ‘The Hero Disease’ in this competition.

Sophomore Steve Aderton creates both acoustic and electronic music.

Senior Joey Shifflett from ‘Morningwood’

COURTESY OF SHAUN WEBER

Senior Shaun Weber from ‘Save Me, Barry!’

Battle of the Bands solo acts

Q: What are you looking forward to most?

A: I’m really looking forward to hearing the other artists play.

I’m not very competitive and think the real spirit of the battle of the bands should be based on the music.

Backstage pass with: Freshman Leif Jomuad from ‘Afterdawn’

7 COURTESY OF STEVE ADERTON

ARTS Battle of the Bands rocks AHS May 28, 2013

Q: How long have you been a band and how much stage experience do you have?

Q: What are you looking forward to most?

A: The three original members have been a band since we met our A: We definitely want to see the crowd moving and the guys all graduated, so it will be nice to see them back at their old school.[We’re hoping for] something freshman year. We’ve gone through many members and name changes and have evolved into the band you see today. exciting and empowering.

Q: What style/genre do you play?

A: I don’t really know, but I’m doing some cover songs so it would be like ‘Mumford and Sons’ and ‘John Mayer’ kind of stuff, like his old things.

Q: What songs will you be playing?

A: I’ll play Below My Feet by Mumford and Sons, I’m Yours by Jason Mraz, and then some of the songs that I wrote. They don’t really have titles yet.

Q: What are you looking forward to most?

A: To sing in front of people and show the talent that I have .

Q: How do you think you’ll do?

A: I have extreme stage fright, but hopefully I can overcome that and overcome that, just like chill.

Q: Why do you create music?

A: Because it’s a good way to get emotions out and just take all your anger out or whatever you’re feeling. Just put it into a song and leave all those emotions in the song and get rid of them.”

Botanical art DIY On your smartphone, scan this code above using the application “QR Code” to see a photo tutorial explaining how to make spray paint botanical art.

10

ADVERTISMENT

May 28, 2013

ACADEMICS

May 28, 2013

End of year slows learning After testing, students have no academic activities By now, most SOL review and testing is over with, but there are still three weeks of school left.

Students are under pressure to prepare final projects or study for the final exams, but at this point very little learning is going on as a result of the adjusted schedule and students missing in class while they take the SOLs. The adjusted SOL schedule provides longer class periods, but many students will be gone if they have SOLs or other testing during that time.

“We focus on students who have to retake tests, to help them raise their grade before the end of the year,” said Algebra 1 teacher Timothy Murphy.

Murphy ends math units by the third week of April, the rest of the time being spent on remediation and review.

When SOL scores start coming in, students are divided into two groups: students who have a high enough SOL score and class grade, and students who are failing.

Remediation takes up a lot of teachers’ time and concentration, meaning they don’t have as much

LINUS BUMBACA

BY LINUS BUMBACA Academics Editor

With mandatory units and SOLs finished, teachers use movies and to fill excess class time.

time for students who have a good grade but still need help.

“It’s hard to tell a student who is doing well in the class and getting work done when they have a 399, meaning they have to retake the SOL,” said Biology teacher Marcia Bellamy.

Remediation for students who already have an understanding of the content doesn’t teach them anything new, just gives them more practice

for answering the type of questions on the SOL. On the other hand, there are students who were able to pass the SOL but still need help understanding things they learned in class. The students who have passing scores get assigned some final projects, but a number of classes end up watching movies or doing activities that require little supervision while teachers get failing

students caught up.

“If there are too many students missing, I like to show documentaries,” Murphy said, “that way, students will at least be able to get something out of being there.”

For the final project, Murphy has his students apply what they learned in math to real situations, letting them continue to think with more depth about what they know.

Bellamy uses the time after SOL review to teach FLE, but ends regular units a week before the SOLs begin in order to review. Throughout the year, she takes twenty minutes out of class periods to make sure the students have understood the content necessary for passing the SOL. After the SOLs, Bellamy assigns a project that is a continuation of the last lab her class has done, so her students have new notes and an appropriate mindset for the content rather than memories of what they learned.

The changes in the schedule are another factor that makes teaching new content difficult. Rather than go to Atom-Time to get help in the classes they are struggling in, students go to a different class each white day for an extended period of time. Some students and teachers at Annandale find the schedule adjustments to be disorienting.

“It can be beneficial if we were given more details of the schedule in advance,” said Bellamy.

Required summer reading for all Non-honors English students will now have summer reading Starting this year, students taking nonHonors, AP, or IB English classes will be required to work on summer reading assignments. Not all details have been decided on yet regarding the assignment they will get, but students who now have to do these assignments will be able to choose what books they want to read.

The change has been considered in the past, but not put in place. Fairfax County High Schools are requiring all students to read books over the summer, which led to the extension of summer reading assignments at Annandale.

“It’s something we have talked about doing in the past, and this was the kind of motivation to say we should get this program started,” said English teacher Courtney Dearinger.

By letting students choose what books they read, students can find books that are appropriate for their reading level and ones that they have not read before. The ability to choose what books Students have to start choosing books that capture their interests in order to prepare for their summer reading assignments. they read also encourages students to read more students to easily find books they may enjoy. The discussion, or essay. Not everyone in a class National English Honor Society will be providing will read the same book, so an assessment of than just one book over the summer.

The reading is meant to help students stay books from almost one thousand that were their understanding of the book needs to be prepared for the amount of work expected during collected during their earlier book drive. The AHS applicable to any book that they decide to read. the school year, along with remembering the library will let students check out books over the The assignments will likely have some differences summer, and students can go to other libraries to from the current ones for Honors students. knowledge that was learned the previous year.

“We’re hoping that they will pick a book Once the reading assignment starts, non- find books as well. This way, there are no excuses they like an actually read it,” said Dearinger, Honors, AP, or IB English students will have for a student who says they cannot find a book.

English teachers in each grade level are still “That should make it accessible and hopefully to adjust their working patterns to read and deciding what assessment of the assignment rewarding.” complete what they need to.

Before the school year ends, there are ways for there will be in the fall, such as a presentation,

PTSA Senior Congratulations Andrew Lunsford:

Congratulations! I am so proud of you!

Love, Mom

Harris, You’ve done an amazing

Noah,

we couldn’t be more proud of you. Congratulations on this huge milestone. We know there will be many more to come. With all our love always, Mom, Dad & Harris Congratulations Bobby Evans on graduating from high school! Mom and Dad are very proud of you. You are such a blessing. Our prayer is that you will always trust God to direct your life.

job that’s led you up to this huge milestone. We know that this is only the beginning and we are so proud of you. With all our love. Always, Mom, Dad & Noah

Jackie,

Congratulations, JP Dusek. Your path to success begins anew. I love you, Mom

Clare,

Paul,

Congratulations on a job well done. IT has been a long 13 years but you did it! Luv, Mom, Dad, Peyton, Grandma Lou

Andrew Lunsford: Way to go!!

Love, Uncle Kevin

What do you think about the new reading requirement?

“I think it’s great because you get a head start for the next year.”

––Navneet Bhullar freshman

“I think all students should be reading in order to keep their imaginations active and to build on their reading and writing skills, which are necessary at all times.”

–– Sahrain Zahoor sophomore

“I think it is a great way to get students prepared for the upcoming school year. Reading doesn’t take a lot of energy and it benefits your vocabulary as well.”

–– Atiqa Khan sophomore

“I think that it is a great program because in English, we have to do that and it helps us expand the reader’s literary scope.”

–– Alana Buto junior

BY LINUS BUMBACA Academics Editor

Dear Skye, as you write, direct, and star in the theater of your life, we will always be your biggest fans and supporting cast. Congratulations!

With love, Daddy, Mommy, Kirk & Lincoln

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we are so very proud of you and your accomplishments. We love you and wish you joy at Penn State! Love, Momma and DaddlyE-O!!

We are very proud of your accomplishments at AHS. Wishing you success at UVA. Thank your administrators, teachers, and coaches for your support at AHS. Mom, Dad and Michael.

Congratulations, Debbie Aderton!

What a privilege and pleasure to watch you grow up. Great things are in store! Wahoo wah, and love Mom and Dad.

Congratulations, Matthew! It’s been a great & interesting 4 years at AHS. You got to complete your Varsity Soccer dream. We’re proud of you & will miss you! Go Hokies!

Love, Mom, Dad & Kellie.

Vocabulary Words CYNIC noun Someone who believes all people are motivated by selfishness.

PRUDENT adjective Careful in regard to one’s own interest; provident.

FINAGLE verb To obtain or achieve by indirect, usually deceitful methods.

ESOTERIC adjective Intended for or only understood by a particular group.

DEFERENCE noun Submission or courteous yielding to the opinion.

ADAMANT adjective Impervious to pleas, appeals, or reason.

Andrew Lunsford: You make us proud!

Love, Grandma & Paw-Paw Huge S/O to our favorite A-Blast Co-Editor in chief, Colleen Adenan! We are so proud of you, all that you have accomplished and all that lies ahead! May you keep rocking to Disney! Love, Mom & Dad Congratulations, Rowan! We are so proud of all your achievements, academics, and athletics! It only gets better from here! Love, Mom, Dad and Conrad

Steph-

You are a wonderful young lady with so much to be proud of.

As you begin your journey remember to be true to yourself, always be the BBP, have fun, and do your very best.

Tips on how to prepare for IB/ AP classes On your smartphone, scan this code above using the application “QR Code” to view tips on how to prepare of IB and AP classes

Then & Now

“Don’t be afraid to try new things, get involved in new activities, take new classes, and above all have fun, but not too much fun.”

“Going to college is a bigger leap than you know it is. The change is both wonderful and enormously more challenging than you expect. Get ready.”

— John Hawes History teacher

COURTESY OF JENNY HA

— Rachel Lazar Science teacher

— Jenny Ha

COURTESY OF TESSA IGLESIAS

— Joe Valentino History teacher

“I don’t think I have changed that much from freshman year, but I’m definitely excited that high school is ending.”

“I’ve changed a lot throughout high school.

I came to Annandale knowing no one, and after four years I’m definitely ending my time here as a different person because of all the people I’ve met who helped me to try new things and become more outgoing.”

— Daniel Turcios

— Tessa Iglesias

Senior Daniel Turcios is esctatic about leaving high school, although while looking back on the past years he is “feeling a little nostalgic.”

Senior Tessa Iglesias, right and above left, at her freshman year Homecoming dance and her Homecoming senior year.

“Make a name for yourself.”

“I’ve gotten a lot closer to my teammates and I’ve also increased my maturity level. Since my freshman year I have gained a lot of confidence in my role on the [baseball] team.”

“Well, being involved in the arts means you usually start off at the bottom as a freshman, and as you go through high school you progressively go higher up.

Seniority helps a lot, and you usually end up teaching the freshmen, who are at the bottom like you used to be. It’s pretty cool.”

— Jan Kamide English teacher

— Joey Rainey

COURTESY OF JOEY RAINEY

COURTESY OF ANDREW RIDDLE

— Bill Maglisceau English teacher

“Make sure when you get to college you can balance the social side of it and the educational side.

Have fun without going wild. Take the summer to figure out why you’re going to college.”

— Andrew Boyd

Senior Andrew Boyd completes his last year of high school swimming, and is continuing his education at George Mason University.

“The key to college is going to class and having self discipline to do what you need to do.”

— Catherine Gibson English teacher

“I’ve grown up a lot during high school, and I have gone through experiences that have helped me mature. I’m definitely a different person now, as a senior, compared to myself as a freshman.”

“Being at Annandale High School has changed me in so many ways. It’s shaped my personality, character, and perspective on the world. I have thoroughly enjoyed my high school experience at Annandale and I am extremely proud to be an Atom. I can’t believe this chapter of my life is over and I would not have had it any other way.”

Senior Jenny Ha, above right, is pictured with senior Clare Lazar during their final high school volleyball season.

“Have fun next year but not too much fun.”

From their first moments at AHS to their final year, these seniors look back and reflect on their high school years

COURTESY OF ANDREW BOYD

What is your advice for graduating seniors?

May 28, 2013

COURTESY OF DANIEL TURCIOS

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PHOTO

— Andrew Riddle

Senior Andrew Riddle, a member of the Annandale Singers, Men’s Chorale, the AHS marching band, and the theater department, is leaving AHS with many amazing memories.

Senior Joey Rainey is pictured above with senior Kylee Nisker posing for his last high school pre-homecoming picture.

— Compiled by Chelsea Alfonso, Jasmine Haitalani, and Alexandra Zernik “I’ve become a lot more confident and outgoing.

I’ve also become a lot more comfortable with myself and grown closer to my friends.”

COURTESY OF ELISABETH ZERNIK

COURTESY OF COLLEEN ADENAN AND GUNNAR THOPMSON

— Colleen Adenan

Prom-posals!

Scan this code using the application “QR Code” on your smartphone to see a slideshow of prom proposals.

Seniors Gunnar Thompson and Colleen Adenan show that it is possible to maintain great friendships throughout high school.

“Throughout high school I’ve gone through many changes, such as the transition from ‘Bieber’ hair to buzz cuts, asking my parents for rides to driving myself around, and doing hours of IB homework to filling out college applications, but I’ve been lucky enough to have created great friendships that will last me a lifetime. Peace out Annandale.”

— Gunnar Thompson

Senior Elisabeth Zernik has gone through many challenges throughout high school and is very happy with the person she is today.

“‘Everything happens for a reason’ is what I live by. If I would have seen myself now when I was freshman I would be surprised because my life has not been what i imagined it would be.

I am happy to see that I have grown more mature and I love what I believe in.”

— Elisabeth Zernik

SPORTS

May 28, 2013

Track prepares for states The 4 x 100 relay has high expectations for the state tournament.

BY KYLE PEICH Sports Editor

COURTESY OF MELISSA PRATT

As the Patriot District tournament comes to an end, the track team had many strong individual and team efforts that they hope to carry into the region and state tournament.

Although they did not win the tournament title, they have many things to look forward to as they continue towards upcoming meets.

“We need to get better on our relays and to qualify for the 4 x 100 meter relay,” varsity head coach Sean Miller said. “Every workout we do is tailored to every athletes abilities.”

The boys had many strong races with seniors Alex Ellison finishing second in the 100 meter dash, fourth in the 200 meter dash and Senior Austin Chavez finishing second in the 400 meter dash.

The boys’ 4 x 100 meter relay Senior Brandon Atkins hurdles at a district meet. Atkins also ran in the team’s 4 by 800 meter relay. finished second in the district and hope to repeat their achievement in senior Alex Ellison said. “I hope to Nathan Hogye said. “I just need to place and improve my time.” improve my start and my time.” the regional and state tournament.

“We’ve done everything to be ready Hogye finished third in the 400 “We just need to mentally be rested and stretch the day before,” by staying in shape,” sophomore meter dash with a time of 50.89

seconds and was also a part of the teams 4x800 meter relay that placed third at districts.

Although the girls did not have a strong team score, they had many individuals who qualified for the regional tournament.

“We need to run with heart and be able to push through the pain,” junior Melissa Pratt said. “I don’t think I will make states but I hope to place top 10 at Regionals.”

Pratt placed sixth in the 300 meter hurdles with a time of 48.7 seconds and hopes to improve before the regional and state tournament.

There were many strong performances in the field events on both the girls and boys team.

Sophomore Astrid Ligonde autoqualified for the regional tournament in the triple jump and was half a foot away from the school record.

Junior Margaret Njomo placed fifth in shot put with a throw of 34 feet 1 inch while sophomore Tony Gibbs placed fifth in the discus with a throw of 112 feet 4 inches.

“This was Tony’s first big met and is improving while Margaret is state qualified,” throwers coach Sykes said.

Both girls and boys team hope to continue their amazing effort in the district tournament and carry it into the following tournaments.

Keeping your summer body

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Fall Sport Tryout Dates: Dance: June 11

XC: End of July

Football: Aug 6

Marching Band: Aug 12

Cheerleading: Aug 5

Field Hockey: Aug 6

What are you going to do to stay in shape over the summer?

“I am going to run a lot, and play a lot of Lacrosse. I even might do some Lacrosse camps.”

--- Janan Gokturk freshman “I am going to go to lacrosse camps and I really want to take up surfing.”

— Sofia Jorgenson sophomore

The Jack-Knife

Step 1: Lie down on your back and extend your arms above your head, looking up at the ceiling.

Step 2: Simultaneously life your arms and legs toward the ceiling, until your fingertips touch our toes.

Step 3: Slowly return to the starting position. Do 10 reps.

Results: This helps tighten and tone your abdominals

Butt Lifts

Step 1: Lie face up with knees bent, feet hip-width apart.

Step 2: Lift butt and bring knees together.

Step 3: Hold for 2 counts, release knees, and lower butt to just 1/2 inch above floor.

Step 4: Repeat 30 times.

Results: This targets your glutes and even lower back and abdominals

“I am going to go to the gym a couple times a week and do Zumba with my girlfriend.”

— Jordan Fox junior

“I am going to eat healthy, go to the gym and not be lazy by being productive.”

Bicycle Crunch

Step 1: Lie down on your back with your lower back pressed to the ground.

Step 2: With your hands gently holding your head, lift your knees to a 45 degree angle.

Step 3: Move through the exercise like a pedaling motion doing the same thing on both sides.

Step 4: Alternating so that each elbow touches the opposite knee. Do 15 on each side.

Results: This tightens your abdominals This helps strengthen and tone your abdominals

3/4 Sit Up

— Vivian Choe junior

Step 1: Lie flat on the ground with your arms at your side and lift your knees.

Step 2: Cross your arms across your chest and lift your upper body 3/4ths of the way to your knees leaving your butt and feet on the floor.

Step 3: Do not go all the way forward, this sit up is harder that a regular one. Repeat 30 times with 5 reps.

Results: This helps tighten, tone and strengthen your abdominal

Plank

Step 1: Get into pushup position on the floor.

Step 2: Bend your elbows 90 degrees and rest your weight on your forearms. Your elbows should be directly beneath your shoulders, and your body should form a straight line from your head to your feet.

Step 3: Hold the position for as long as you can. Your goal should be to hold it for two minutes. Repeat this 3 times.

Results: This helps develop strength in the core, shoulders, arms, and glutes.

“I plan on staying in shape by playing soccer, and eating healthy.”

---Alex Williams senior

Compiled by: Melanie Bennett

Stay fit with these exercises On your smart phone, scan the code above using the application “QR Code” to view more exercises.

Bolivian Folk Music Thurs., May 30 National Harbor

The Mikado Fri., May 31 Wolf Trap

Taste of Georgetown Sat., June 1 The 9:30 Club

U.S. Navy Band Mon., June 10 U.S. Capitol Building

Sophomore Alejandra Benavides proves that being in a band is more stressful than people presume

BY AYAH OWEIS Entertainment Editor Looking up at the musicians up on stage, the audience is mesmerized. Little do they know, the bandmates had to sacrifice so much just to be on that stage performing.

Sophomore Alejandra Benavides is the daughter of professional musicians; music is in her blood. Somehow, sometime, Benavides was bound to become a musician. Her mother, Judy, plays guitar in a Mexican folk band and has always supported Benavides in her musical endeavors.

“My parents really pushed me to join bands and play music with others,” Benavides said.

At the beginning of middle school, Benavides joined a punk rock band to start off in the music industry. Performing came naturally to Benavides; music was an escape that hid her away from her hectic life.

“I was getting in a lot of trouble at the time for stupid things,” Benavides said. “Music was my gateway.”

Starting off playing the guitar, Benavides soon realized she actually had a good singing voice. She soon started to experiment with new instruments and learned to play the bass and the drums, making her a quadruple threat.

After starting young in the music industry gave Benavides the chance to do something she loved with others who shared a common interest.

“I loved that I shared common interests with others who were around my age,” Benavides said. “I also loved the energy and excitement that came with performing.”

Being onstage came naturally to the young musician, however, along with the fame came the struggle.

Constantly being around bandmates and having packed practice schedules was not what the public cracked it up to be.

To people on the outside, the music industry is all glitz and glam but to the musicians themselves, it is a stressful and ugly world.

“It is a lot of work and it is very stressful,” Benavides said. “It may seem like a crazy fun party but it’s not.”

COURTESY OF ALEJANDRA BENAVIDES

Waterfront Yoga Tues., May 28 National Harbor

Just one of the boys

TOP: Benavides sings at a food and wine festival with her band, School of Rock. TOP RIGHT: Benavides started off playing guitar before she moved on to vocals. BOTTOM RIGHT: The stressful atmosphere is what pushed Benavides to leave the band and the music industry.

Despite the long hours of rehearsal, constant fights with bandmates and struggle to define herself as a serious musician in a stressful environment, Benavides stuck with her band for two years until finally deciding that the music industry was not for her.

Benavides also soon realized that the music industry is a dirty business, especially for a young girl.

“I was constantly fighting with bandmates and being put down for being a female in a predominantly male industry,” Benavides said. “Even showing up to rehearsal was a hassle for me.”

Her experience marred and her expectations crushed, Benavides had to make a decision.

Although music will always be an important part of her life, Benavides can never see herself going back to the tough industry.

“From all of my experiences, I realized music is not my passion,” Benavides said. “I have been scarred from ever returning.”

COURTESY OF ALEJANDRA BENAVIDES

Upcoming events

May 28, 2013

COURTESY OF ALEJANDRA BENAVIDES

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ENTERTAINMENT

Who did it better: Books v. Movies Ryan Cabrera and Jason Castro Wed., June 12 Jammin Java

Zac Brown Band Sat., June 22 Merriweather Post Pavilion

A Series of Unfortunate Events

“The books were better because they were longer than the movie and had more detail.

The books made more sense. ”

The Hunger Games “I liked the books better because the movie was very rushed and did not make much sense to me.”

—Cynthia Weiner junior

—Nathanael Bennett freshman

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey “I liked the book more because it had a lot more interesting details. The movie just glazed over the details.”

—Katie McCann junior

Movies on the Potomac Sun., June 23 National Harbor

One Direction Sun., June 23 Verizon Center

The Host

Bieber gets out of control On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to read a story about Justin Bieber’s recent antics.

“I liked the book better because I didn’t like the actors that were casted. I actually stopped watching the movie.”

—Raheemah Tauhidi senior

Twilight Trilogy “I definitely liked the books better mostly because the movies did not have as much detail as the books.”

—Shalia Johnson senior

Perks of Being a Wallflower “The book was better because it had more emotions and feeling than the movie.”

—Smarti Tangchandaeng junior

ENTERTAINMENT A road trip down the East Coast May 28, 2013

Alive Festival

When: June 19-22, 2013 Where: Atwood Lake Park, Mineral City Ohio Genre: Christian Lineup: Skillet, Switchfoot, Lecrae, Family Force 5, Newsboys, NeedtoBreathe, Matthew West, The City Harmonic, Kari Jobe, For King and Country, Audio Adrenaline, Colton Dixon, Tedashi, For Today, Sidewalk Prophets, Audrey Assad, Wolves at the Gate, Rhett Walker Band,Abandon, Capital Kings, Mr. Talkbox, Project 86, The Wedding, KB, City Harbour, WeAs Human,Ascend the Hill, Children 18:3, Nine Lashes, Andy Mineo, Run Kid Run,An Epic, No Less, Silverline, Finding Favour, OBB, Shine Bright Baby, We Are Leo, Stars Proclaim, Random Hero, Everfound, Love Like Violence, The Walking Tree, Laura Watson, Come Wind, Hour6, New Method, Fue, Andrew In Vienna, Jonnie W, Forecast Light, 3 Shades of Blue, Circle of One, Adam Crozier, The Remnant, Higher Calling, Skywatch, The Undefeated, and Seven.

NYC Popfest When: May 30-June 2, 2013 Where: New York City, New York Genre: Indie Rock Lineup: Grand Resort, My Teenage Stride, Ski Lodge, The Ballet and the Secret History

What music festival or concert are you most excited for?

“One Direction next month because I love their music.”

-Janine Suyat freshman

“I’m looking forward to Drake’s concert because he’s my favorite rapper.”

Warped Tour

When: July 17, 2013 Where: Fiwrst Niagara Pavilion, Pennsylvania Genre: Alternative Rock Lineup:Action Item,Alvarez Kings,Allstar Weekend, TheAmityAffliction, Anarbor,Architects Art of Shock,August Burns Red, BeebsAnd Her Money Makers, Big Chocolate, The Black Dahlia Murder, Black Veil Brides, blessthefall, The Chariot, Chiodos, Citizen, The City ShakeUp, Crossfaith, Crown The Empire, The Early, November, Five Knives, Forever the Sickest Kids, For The Foxes, Go Radio, Hands Like Houses, I See Stars, Itch, Stephan Jacobs, Kairo Kingdom, letlive, Like Moths To Flames, Mac Lethal, Madchild, Man Overboard, MC Lars, Memphis May Fire, Motion City Soundtrack, Never Shout Never, New Years Day, Oh, Sleeper, Outasight, RDGLDGRN, Reel Big Fish, Run DMT, Shy KidX, Silverstein, Sleeping With Sirens, Stick To Your Guns, The Story So Far, The Summer Set, Tonight Alive, Upon A Burning Body, VersaEmerge, Wallpaper, We Came As Roamns, While She Sleeps, Gin Wigmore, Woe Is Me, The Wonder Years, Young London

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-Sulton Naieem

junior

“Bruno Mars because I like his upbeat music and it gets me in the mood.”

Newport Folk Festival

When: June 26-28, 2013 Where: Newport News, Rhode Island Genre: Folk, Indie Pop Lineup: Feist, The Avett Brothers, Beck, Old Crow Medicine Show, Jim James, The Lumineers, The Mountain Goats, Colin Meloy, Andrew Bird, John Mccauley, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Bonnie ‘Prince’ BIlly and Dawn McCarthy, Phosphorescent, Father John Misty, The Felice Brothers, Amanda Palmer, Justin Townes Earle, Beth Orton, JD Mcpherson, Jason Isbell, Michael Kiwanuka, Blake Mills, Iris Dement, Lord Huron, The Milk Carton Kids and more.

-Sarah Samee junior

“Jason Aldean because he is one of my favortie artists” -Eric Stavenjord

senior

Musikfest Festival Mayhem Festival

When: July 23, 2013 Where: PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel, New Jersey Genre: Hard Metal Rock Lineup: Red Zombie, FIve Finger Death Punch, Mastodon, Machine Head, Job for a Cowboy, Butcher Babies, Battlecross, Huntress, Children of Bodom, Behemoth, Emmure, Born of Osiris, Motionless in White, Thrown Into Exile, City in the Sea

“Warped Tour because it’s been a tradition among my friends and I for the last four years.”

When: August 2, 2013 Where: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Genre: All Lineup: Emily Mure, Paulie Knakk Band, Time Will Tell, Dala, Gound Up, Honey Badgers, Post Junction, Bonner Band, Daylight, Post Junction, Friar’s Point, Just So, Cast in Bronze, TheAardvarks, The Smoke Rings, OneRepublic, Craig Thatcher Band, Eric Steckel, Work Release, Carly Rae Jepson

-Samantha Snedeker

Justin Bieber

When: August 3 Where: Verizon Center, Washington D.C. Genre: Pop Lineup: Justin Bieber, Carly Rae Jepson, Cody Simpson, Jaden Smith

Hopscotch Music Festival

When: September 5-7 Where: City Plaza, Raleigh, North Carolina Genre: All Lineup:AmericanAquarium, Backsliders, Black Zinfandel, Cesar Comanche, Chatham County Line, Double Negative, Jeanne Jolly, Maple Stave, Noise Trauma, Old Quarter, Richard Bacchus & the Luckiest Girls, Saints Apollo, Wool, Whatever Brains, Tonk, The South Carolina Broadcasters, The Rosebuds, The Lollipops, Terry Anderson and the Olympic Ass-Kickin Team

Uproar festival

Bruno Mars Concert

When: August 16, 2013 Where: Jiffy Lube Live, Bristow Virginia Genre: Indie Pop Rock Lineup: Alice in Chains, Janes Addiction, Coheed and Cambria, Circa Survive, Walking Papers, Danko Jones, Middle Class Rut, New Politics, the Chuck Shaffer Picture Show

When: August 21, 2013 Where: Time Warner Cable Arena, Charlotte, NC Genre: Pop Lineup: Fitz & the Tantrums, Bruno Mars

senior

Upcoming Indie Movies Watch some of your favorite characters appear in the small screen movies

The East, May 31 The Kings of Summer, June 7 Much Ado About Nothing, June 7

Gentlemen Stopover Tour

When: September 13-14 Where: St. Augustine Florida Genre: Alternative, Indie Lineup: Mumford and Sons, The Vaccines, Bear’s Den, Fun, Half Moon Run, Those Darlins, Willy Mason

Imagine Dragons Concert

When: September 23, 2013 Where: UCF Arena, Orlando Florida Genre: Pop Alternative Lineup: Nico Vega, Atlas Genius, Imagine Dragons

Gulf Coast Jam

Where: Panama City Beach, FL When: September 26-28, 2013 Genre: Country Lineup: Toby Keith, Trace Adkins, Brantley Gilbert, Eli Young Band, Kip Moore, The Charlie Daniels Ban, Pepsi’s X Factor, Winner Tate Stevens, Darryl Worley, Blackberry Smoke

I’m So Excited, July 5 Fruitvale Statition, July 26 Blue Jasmine, July 26 The World’s End ,August 23

Bates Motel Season Finale review On your smartphone, scan this code using the application “QR Code” to read an album review of The 20/20 Experience.

WEEKEND

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May 28, 2013

Editor in Chief

Editor in Chief

Managing Editor

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Name: Gwen Levey Favorite A-Blast Memory: I loved everything like getting to know all of the staff, hacking people, and hearing Weintraut’s jokes Years on Staff: 4 College: University of Mary Washington Studying: Musical Theatre and Film

A s the 2012-2013 school year finishes, the A-Blast says farewell to its senior staff members

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Name: Dana Filipczyk Favorite A-Blast Memory: Mocking Christine Tamir when she talked to her computer because she was stressed on deadline week Years on Staff: 3 College: Virginia Tech Studying: Business

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Name: Abby Barnes Favorite A-Blast Memory: Hacking Andrea Melendez’s facebook when she leaves it open in the lab Years on Staff: 3 College: William and Mary Studying: International Relations

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Name: Betsy Kruse Favorite Eating lunch with Colleen and Rowan everyday and completing each issue Years on Staff: 4 College: University of South Carolina Studying: Pre-med track while

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Name: Carina Chu Favorite A-Blast Memory: Looking at the Weintraut Memes Years on Staff: 3 College: Virginia CommonWealth University Studying: Biology/Chemistry while on the Pre-Optometry track

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Name: Sarah Bergen Favorite A-Blast Memory: Going on A-Blast trips to New York and California and losing Weintraut Years on Staff: 3 College: Coastal Carolina University Studying: Exercise and Sports Science

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Name: Stephanie Allshouse Favorite A-Blast Memory: Going on adventures with Sarah Bergen Years on Staff: 4 College: Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania Studying: Physical Therapy

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Name: Emily Blank Favorite A-Blast Memory: Eating the food during deadline week Years on Staff: 2 College: Old Dominion University Studying: Communications/ Journalism

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Name: Kylee nisker Favorite A-Blast Memory: Hiding Gaby and Olivia in our hotel room when Weintraut checked on us after curfew on the New York Trip Years on Staff: 4 College: James Madison University Studying: Undecided

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Name: Andrea Melendez Favorite A-Blast Memory: Deadline with Ayah and Sarah, talking and freaking out together Years on Staff: 2 College: Marymount University Studying: Political Science and Elementary Education

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Name: Stephen Oakes Favorite A-Blast Memory: Getting yelled at by Ngan every deadline Years on Staff: 1 College: University of South Carolina Studying: Biomedical Engineering

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Name: Ngan Pham Favorite A-Blast Memory: Getting Colleen’s attention only when I yelled in her own high-pitched squeaky voice Years on Staff: 3 College: University of Virginia Studying: Biology

Name: K.L. Hoang Favorite A-Blast Memory: Weintraut showing off his beach bod and putting on his new swimsuit, a pink bikini drawn on a white board.

Years on Staff: 3 College: May attend Maharishi University or travel and commune with Earth and its peoples Studying: Undecided

Name: Noah Fitzgerel Favorite A-Blast Memory: Seeing my work published in two national publications Years on Staff: 4 College: Brown University Studying: Political Theory and Public Policy

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Name: Carli Loeb Favorite A-Blast Memory: The trip to california my sophomore year, especially when Weintraut fist bumped me after telling me that I was dressed like a hoe Years on Staff: 4 College: George Mason University Studying:Psychology

Name: Kate Grandchamp Favorite A-Blast Memory: Going on the California trip sophomore year Years on Staff: 4 College: Goucher College Studying: Health Sciences and minoring in Dance

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Name: Joathan Tedla Favorite A-Blast Memory: The first deadline that I stayed after for because we all had fun but got our work done Years on Staff: 1 College: Penn State University Studying: Pre-Med

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Name: Colleen Adenan Favorite A-Blast Memory: Going through three bags of popcorn with Weintraut in like thirty minutes and trading bad jokes on deadline Years on Staff: 4 College: University of Virginia Studying: Anthropology and Media Studies

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Name: Megan Flynn Favorite A-Blast Memory: Being left alone in California by Weintraut Years on Staff: 3 College: James Madison University Studying: Dietetics

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Name: Rowan Shartel Favorite A-Blast Memory: Weintraut’s “you have to change everything” face Years on Staff: 4 College: James Madison University Studying: Anthropology

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Name: Thien Mai Favorite A-Blast Memory: Pranking people during deadline week Years on Staff: 1 College: University of Virginia Studying: Undecided

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Name: Rachel Wilson Favorite A-Blast Memory: Building the website with my older sister Liz Years on Staff: 2 College: Grove City College Studying: Spanish

DMV Summer Checklist: 18 things you should do before summer’s over Go to an outdoor concert at Jiffy Lube live or Wolf Trap

Go paint balling at Pev’s Paintball in Fairfax, Virginia

Put your golf skills to the test at Top Golf in Alexandria

Try a delicious frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity 3 in Georgetown

Go swimming in Sugar Hollow Swimming Hole

Be a judge at the Safeway National Barbecue Battle in DC on June 22-23

Go fishing at Choptank Fishing Pier in Maryland

Go to Kings Dominion to escape the summer heat

Try DC’s best wings at J Bell’s Wing House

Go white water Rafting with Potomac Paddle Sports

Watch a movie at National Mall at Screen on the Green

Watch a ball game at Nationals Park

Hike Old Rag Mountain Trail in the Shenandoah

Play Frisbee Golf at Burke Lake

Watch the fireworks at the National Mall on the 4th of July

Go camping with friends in the Shenandoah

Go on a romantic date in Old Town Alexandria

Have at family picnic at the National Monument

On your smartphone, scan the code using the application “QR code” to view additional information on the summer activities and events listed.