Issue 2

A

the Olivia Shawish's Benefit Concert

BY HALLEY THADEUS Staff Writer The AHS orchestra will be holding a concert Sunday, Oct. 18 at Mason District Park. The concert will help raise money for Olivia Shawish's surgery. It will be six hours long, and free for anyone to attend. The Annandale Orchestra will be performing, as well as the Fairfax County Orchestra and many other orchestras from all over the district.

Because Olivia Shawish plays the cello in The Annandale Orchestra, they plan on hosting a benefit concert to help her family pay for the costs of the surgery.

After being hit with a ball in the head in her 8th grade gym class and passing out, junior Olivia Shawish was diagnosed with what she puts in simple terms as a "long-term concussion" or "chronic headaches."

Shawish's family's insurance won't cover her surgeries because they consider her surgeries "experimental." With the insurance not covering her surgery, her family does not have the funds to pay for these surgeries as it may cost up to $20,000. With the money, Shawish would be able to get botox injections that would almost

PHOTO COURTESY OF OLIVIA SHAWISH

Informinng the Atoms siince 1954 4

79 56 WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 29, 2015

(703) 642-4229

XC coach resigns Carl Klein steps down

BY HEZEKIEL YONAS Editor in chief

Students and teachers influenced by his holy presence Editor in Chief When Pope Francis visited Washington D.C. last week, it was evident that he truly is an important figure to Americans. It isn't shocking that his presence is powerful because the U.S. has a relatively large Catholic population, but Pope Francis also has a significant influence on those in the Annandale community.

Members of AHS went to see him and celebrate his arrival, such as English teacher Cynthia Sebring.

"It was absolutely phenomenal," Sebring said. "It was wonderful to hear him talk. You think of someone as being the head of the whole Catholic church, not the head of a local church or even a district or a county or a state, the whole world.

This guy is in charge of the Catholic Church for the world, and he's one of a long succession of popes for millenniums, literally."

The fact that he came here means so much to students at AHS, especially to the Catholics, because he is an important leader in modern day Catholicism.

"I think it is a blessing for the U.S. that the Pope came to visit. My family is Catholic and it means a lot to us," junior Joselyn Cabrera said.

"I think all of his words touched and changed a lot of hearts. Pope Francis inspires us to do more good."

His visit to D.C. means a lot here to the Catholics here at AHS because he is a dominant figure in their religion.

"I know many of the Hispanic families are Catholic and this is a

blessing close to home. This is, it's hard to describe, but it's like being around someone like that who represents so much good, I'm sure for them it was exciting just knowing that they were there," Sebring said.

"A lot of people went into D.C. just to catch a glimpse, just to get one look, one photo and that's it. For them that was enough. To be able to sit through a whole mass and get his blessing at the end of a mass was just unbelievable, you can't believe it's happening."

Some students weren't able to take the journey to D.C., but were still satisfied because they had a chance to see him speak on television.

"I loved hearing the Pope and his speeches. He is very loving, humble and what I love most about him is that he is open-minded," junior

Andrea Sanchez said. "I would have liked to have gone and listened to the mass, but sadly I didn't have the opportunity. I did, however, listen to the mass through TV and transmitted an emotional feeling through the screen."

Sophomore Maurine Suarez was lucky enough to not only see the Pope in person, but to shake his hand. The experience made her so emotional that she began to tear up.

"Every time I see him on TV, him or any pope, I feel like I'm not going to see him. At some point in my life I can go to Vatican City but not be able to meet the Pope," Suarez said. "So it just felt great to meet him and shake his hand."

The Pope didn't solely visit D.C. to greet the civilians and give mass, his agenda also included talking to see

pg. 3

Editor in chief

The IB Sceince students will be going to the Smithsonian's UdvarHazy Air and Space Museum located in Dulles, VA on Oct. 7, 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 pm.

Students will be working in groups learning about chemistry, Biology, Physics, and Computer technology. The museum is centered around the ideas of space and ariplane science.

"The idea is that we want Group 4 to be similar from year to year," Physics teacher, David Tyndall said. "[The students] are still going to get the ideas from biology, chemistry, and computer science. It's just going to be through what's on display at the museum." "The biology cocepts might be how an airplane's flight mimics a bird's flight."

The groups of students willbe expected to apply the space science and airplane information they are given in the museum to the four science subjects that the IB program is focused on.

Students from high school newspapers across Fairfax County sat around a conference table anxious to ask superintendent Karen Garza questions about various issues that are relevant in FCPS and the new changes that are being implemented.

Questions from the students ranged from the budget shortfall, to the effect of the budget on the athletics program, to the situation with snow days in the future.

In regards to the budget shortfall, this wasn't something that appeared from thin air, it was predicted many years ago by the leaders of FCPS. "We've actually known this was coming for many years, if you go back to a couple of years ago when I was on the board, I've talked a lot about the budget challenges we were having then, and the ones ahead. We predicted that this was coming and that we needed a longterm financial solution to the school system, it's not sustainable for us to have to experience cuts year after year," Garza said. "The reason we have these shortfalls is because the increases that we get from the county government are insufficient even to cover required increases on

Career center hosts college visits Students meet with colleges in the Career center

BY SUMMAR AYOUB Editor in Chief Colleges and universities will begin visiting the Career center late Septemer.

This will give students the time to visit the college counselors and understand more about the certain school. Students are require to sign up on Family Connections and bring the confirmation page with them.

UPCOMING COLLEGE VISITS

Garza speaks to the students newspaper leaders some FCPS schools about the budget crisis.

the system. So every year the cost of growth, because we add new students, we have to add teachers, typically, that's about $21-25 million every year."

Many fear that FCPS will start pinching pennies and taking away funds for the extracurricular activities such as sports.

"Since 2008, we've cut almost a half a billion dollars out of our operating costs," Garza said. "We've cut everything we possibly could and made a conservative effort in

Flu Vaccines

Marching band

The pros and cons of the vaccine and why it is important

Student gets second place in competition

Health 7

One of many colleges visiting AHS.

see COLLEGE VISITS pg. 3

ALEX ZERNIK

Editor in Chief

Cross country coach Carl Klein resigned from the team after a meeting with activities director Karl Kerns because he believes the team has not received their fair share of money during his tenure as coach.

Assistant coach Jordan will be the interim coach until another one is hired.

"I have been pushing for fairness and equality for not just our team, but all those teams that may not be the "bigger sports," Klein said. "I have asked to have some support percentage of our fundraising money go to the team plus other concerns and have failed at it. Coach Jordan and I had a meeting with Mr. Kerns and it did not go well."

Klein's bold, daring action to resign was him taking a stand against the insufficient funds cross country has been given.

"We do fundraisers for the school every fall, every sport has to sell gold cards or red cards. We see RESIGN pg. 3

IB Science POPE students Superintendent speaks about budget visit the Smithsonian Dr. Karen Garza discusses budget cuts with students Air and

BY HEZEKIEL YONAS Space Museum

BY SUMMAR AYOUB

Today’s Weather

Mostly Sunny

POPE FRANCIS VISITS D.C.

BY HEZEKIEL YONAS

see BENEFIT pg. 3

4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, VA 22003 470

PHOTO COURTESY OF CYNTHIA SEBRING

VOLUME #61 ISSUE 2

ANNANDALE HIGH SCHOOL

Arts 9

these past years to cut in ways that have the least amount of effect on student programs in schools, that's been a conscious effort on our part.

Probably the only place that's really effecting at our schools to date is some of our class sizes."

Garza discussed about the drama of #closeFCPS and the issues concerning snow days. She said that she vividly remembered the incident on Jan. 6 when schools were kept open because the snow was expected to be "light dusting"

but instead there was an adequate amount of snow which should have resulted in the closing of schools.

"I don't think they're inconsistent, I just think that sometimes they make the wrong calls which has an effect on me because I walk to school," senior Gelila Reta said.

The event was particularly informal for the students who attended as Garza updated them about the present state and future of FCPS.

After School app Read all about the new phone app that has students talking Entertainment 19

9/30 Cleveland Institute of Art: 9 AM 10/1 Virginia Tech- 1:30 PM 10/2 Rochester Institute of Technology- 10:00 AM University of Richmond- 1:30 PM 10/5 Mount Saint Mary University12:30 PM Morehouse College- 1:30 PM 10/6 University of Maryland College Park- 8:30 AM University of Cincinati- 9:30 AM

2 EDITORIALS Plagiarism made easier

Sept. 29, 2015

Islamophobia is an American issue

Technology puts countless ideas at students' fingertips

BY SADIE MODICA Editorials Editors

Students often hold their phones under their desks to search for ideas.

Teachers have several methods of catching plagiarists, including an online tool called SafeAssign that searches through the internet to find documents that resemble students' work.

SafeAssign, though not always entirely accurate, is good at seeking out the most blatant form of plagiarism, when the student copies another' s work wordfor-word.

"I think [plagiarism is] a terrible thing to do, to take work that somebody else did and try to pass it off as your own, and like I've said to students, if you do get away with it, you shouldn't feel good about it, it's not your work," Hanson said.

"We're here to learn, I think it's better to, if you're really struggling time-wise, or put in a tough situation that way, to ask the teacher, tell them your situation, if you had extenuating circumstances outside of school, could you have an extension. Or, 'I really don't know how to do this,' come early and get extra help. We want student learning. If you're just copying what someone else did, you're not learning."

The general regard for students and their mistakes is comforting, but there is another variety of plagiarism that is often disregarded, one that is sneakier and

often more difficult to detect.

It is the theft of not words, but ideas. Most students do not realize that going online, reading an analysis of Night, and agreeing with and adopting one of the ideas from said analysis is under the umbrella of dishonesty that is plagiarism.

In the words of Mark Twain, "There is no such thing as a new idea." Every idea is not a breakthrough, and that is what has allowed us to have schools of thought on certain subjects, and not just every man either without opinion or vying to have his opinion heard.

People extrapolate on others' ideas, they make them better, different.

Ideas are exchanged and rearranged every day.

Students taking tips from external sources or simply having the same idea as another person shouldn't be grounds for punishment.

It is more than likely that two or more people may have the same idea. Similar works should not be considered plagiarism unless there is definite proof.

Also, in terms of class work or homework, several students have similar work styles and work ethics. If a few students have similar ideas, that should not be immediately labeled as plagiarism until proven.

I'll pass on that parking pass Students question the high prices Why take the bus when you can get some extra sleep and leave on your own schedule without having to rush?

As an upperclassmen, it is natural to want to avoid riding the bus. No one wants to wake up early to sit among rowdy high schoolers inside a stuffy vehicle. That is why most juniors and seniors try to apply for parking passes, but is it really worth it?

It costs $200 for a student to receive a parking pass in Fairfax County but with the county's budget deficit increasing, that fee may rise to $300 for the next school year.

The high price seems ridiculous considering the fact that these are students, who may or may not be working, that are paying for these expenses, but the school has a monopoly on parking spots.

Despite the high prices, 147/150 passes have been sold. Students simply don't have any alternative options.

Students should not have to pay that much money in order to simply park at a school.

Even for those who have jobs, their

COURTESY OF WALEED AWAD

BY JULIE NGUYEN Editorials Editor

Fairfax County has an official pass that needs to be displayed when students park.

incomes do not allow them to casually throw out a couple hundred of dollars for something as petty as parking.

"They are pretty expensive," junior Waleed Awad said. "But I have free lunch so I only paid $20."

Students with free or reduced lunch only have to pay one tenth of the original price for a parking ticket while other students have to pay the original $200.

Although $20 may seem too low of a price to charge all students, the price should still be lowered to a more reasonable number for students without free or reduced lunch.

Some students are not as privileged to have their parents pay for their pass and are forced to gather $200

themselves.

The students have to rake up a couple hundred dollars on their own, whether it be through a part-time job or weekend baby sitting.

At Annandale, the student parking is not even all that great.

Those who park by Ossian Park still have to walk past the entire track before officially arriving in the school, and we all know how troublesome that can be especially during months of winter when the weather is particularly harsh.

"I feel like the school and the church are taking advantage of us because they can," junior Emily Pope said. "It does not cost the school or the church that much to let us park."

For those who park at the church, the distance to walk to the school is not as far, but the students still have to beat the traffic on their way to school.

With start times now at 8:10, there is no doubt that the roads are blocked.

High school students are not the only ones on the road at that time in the morning, but parents and other adults are also rushing to get to their work places on time.

The location of our school also contributes towards the immense traffic seeing as how it is situated within the inner roads of a neighborhood.

The roads leading into Annandale are rather small and there are several stop signs, delaying the route to school even more.

With all of these factors involved, it seems that the $200 fee is a bit unreasonable.

Of course, the students should be paying for the spaces, but the high price is uncalled for.

Students should not have to pay a couple hundred of dollars when all they are trying to do is come to school and get an education, especially considering the fact that high schoolers do not have a steady income.

The situation is not fair for students who have to balance school and extracurriculars because they also have to find a way to make $200 just to park at school.

Clearly, the parking pass fees should be lowered for the benefit of students.

MANAGING EDITOR Alexandra Zernik NEWS EDITORS Mohamed Elhag Teagan Foti EDITORIALS EDITORS Sadie Modica Julie Nguyen

Raphael Yu PEOPLE EDITORS Conrad Shartel Julie Swenton WEEKEND EDITORS Cayley Byrne Biruk Negash INTERNATIONAL EDITORS Nancy Evora Timothy Gray

COPY EDITORS Linus Bumbaca Sharon Sanchez

ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS Daniel Yenegeta Ahmad Ayub

IN-DEPTH EDITORS Binqi Chen Aseal Saed

LIFESTYLES EDITORS Thida Pathammavong Tipyan Omer

SPORTS EDITORS Ryan Gammon Andrew Gonzalez Nebeyu Solomon

HEALTH EDITORS Sabrina Hawa Phuong Nguyen

SPORTS XTRA EDITORS Marem Atef

PHOTOGRAPHY EDITORS Soulisa Pathammavong Marilyn Rivas

ART EDITORS Alaina Garay Kailyn Garay ACADEMICS EDITORS Marife Baragano Kiara Patino WEB EDITOR/MASTER Christopher Han HEAD VIDEOGRAPHERS Faisel Hassen Bailey Oliver AD MANAGER Hussein Salem CIRCULATION MANAGERS Jeanine Barakat Maria Suarez STAFF WRITERS Almaz Abedje Sheila Aguirre Seham Ahmed Lina Al Taii Laura Clemons Anthony Dinh Serene Ghul

Grace Hogye Nicole Jordan Jennifer Kang Lucie Lefbom Kirk Lindberg Angelo Lopez Crew McCarthy Ruth Mekonnen Julius Miller Nicholas Mortensen Amani Muntu Judy Nanaw Duy Nguyen Andrew Nunez Sergio Pozo Cory Pringle Kadijah Sesay Kavi Shamdin Rachel Shogren Camilia Soruco Halley Thadeus Karungu Thuku Melanie Valencia Firdousa Wasuge PHOTOGRAPHER Tooba Siddique ADVISER Alan Weintraut

Ahmed Mohamed, a Texas freshman, was arrested for making a clock that was mistaken as a bomb.

anywhere, but it is especially evident at airports.

Anyone who appears to be Muslim or from the Middle East are especially watched and examined. They receive unnecessary stares and extra screening just because of their religion or ethnicity. This makes them feel like they have done something wrong simply by being Muslim, which is a ridiculous notion.

Being Muslim does not mean someone is a terrorist and does not guarantee that someone is a threat to this country, but plenty of people throughout the country believe nonetheless that Muslims are inherently more dangerous, even innocent kids like Ahmed.

In many places, such as Irving, Texas, the town where Ahmed is from, being a Muslim puts you at a disadvantage.

Trustworthiness is an important aspect of success, and it wouldn't matter if Ahmed was the trustiest kid in the town, the teachers and police of his area stereotyped him nonetheless, imposing on his 14 year old frame decades of mistrust.

If Ahmed were a white kid, chances are the authorities would not have been called. On the other hand, if Ahmed were at AHS, he probably wouldn't have had the experience either.

It all comes down to diversity and the comfort and trust that comes along with it.

We exist in a different environment than most of the country. Annandale is a diverse microcosm in a country that loathes diversity. Students would find it hard to be racist in a school so full of different cultures, races and religions.

For the most part, our student body embraces different cultures, and would have no trouble understanding that a Muslim student showing off his new invention is just that-- and nothing more. It's a matter to be appreciated and considered.

If the whole country was so accepting of all cultures, wouldn't things be better?

Diversity is something you can learn from. Having numerous different cultures surrounding you can give you a new perspective, or several. You learn how to interact with people who have different backgrounds, different aspirations. It makes life interesting. Being accepting of others, regardless of race or religion, and being willing to learn can change someone's life in countless ways. I can't wait for the day that America is ready to embrace that.

Dos and Don'ts: Football Games

Staff CO-EDITORS IN CHIEF Summar Ayoub Hezekiel Yonas

NBC.COM

In the age of smartphones and technology, it is easier than ever to pull out your phone and google "Major themes of King Lear" or "Symbols in The Alchemist."

There are even sites that are dedicated to giving synopses and analyses of those books and many more.

Students often resort to using said sites when they don't give themselves enough time to do a project or are feeling lackadaisical.

Whatever the reason, using any online, paper or people resources could result in startling consequences such as suspension or even expulsion, and these consequences often hinder students' ability to get into college.

The consequences have changed since last year, getting more strict after an increase in plagiarism incidents.

"This year there's a new policy under the honor code... students are allowed to make it up the first time, giving them the benefit of the doubt, if they made a mistake, they can redo it, because we want them to master the work." IB English teacher Stephanie Hanson said.

The consequences get worse as the student plagiarizes more.

"After that point, on a repeat, they still are expected to, and given an opportunity to make up the work because we do want you to be doing your own work, want you to learn that lesson," Hanson said. "But then it's up to the teacher's discretion how much credit to give for that work."

So what constitutes plagiarism? Plagiarism is defined as "the act of using another person's words or ideas without giving credit to that person." (merriam-webster.com)

SADIE MODICA

BY SADIE MODICA Editorials Editor

Last Thursday you might have noticed some empty seats in some of your classes. Most of the AHS population is aware that day is Eid Mubarak, a Muslim holiday where families gather and money is distributed among the younger family members.

That evening when talking to my parents, I discovered that they had no idea what Eid was. Although their ignorance wouldn't necessarily be classified as ethnocentrism, it's clear that Islam is a misunderstood religion.

Americans still expect assimilation from other races, and don't bother to learn about the cultures that surround them every day. Along with ethnocentrism comes a fear of other races and religions, especially Islam.

Islamophobia is a real thing, and it permeates today's society in a marked way. Ahmed Mohamed is a perfect example.

Just a couple of weeks ago, there was a media outpour when the 14 year old Muslim boy was suspended and harangued by police forces at his Texas high school just for bringing a homemade clock to show to his engineering teacher.

Ahmed's engineering teacher, upon viewing the clock, was wary of its appearance and told Ahmed he shouldn't show it to anyone else. Ahmed complied, but in his English class it kept beeping so after class he showed it to his teacher. She didn't say much, and he headed to his next class, during which he was arrested. It later came to light that the clock was mistaken for a bomb, and Ahmed had already been handcuffed, transported to a detention center and interrogated by the time he was cleared of blame.

This is not the first time such an event has happened. Muslims all around the country are mocked, shunned and discriminated against due to their religion on a daily basis.

Discrimination against Muslims can be detected almost

Do show your school spirit-- cheer for your team with the hypesquad Annandale High School Vol. 61 No.2 4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, VA 22003 703.642.4229 September 29, 2015 Adviser: Alan Weintraut ajweintraut@fcps.edu

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 emailed to theablast15@gmail.com or 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, 2015.

Don't be obnoxious on the bleachers-shoving is not cool

Do dress up according to the weekly themes

Don't forget to bring a jacket! Friday nights can get a little chilly!

EDITORIALS 3

Sept. 29, 2015

Dress code: is it biased?

Students address the clothing policy

BY OLIVIA YOUNG AND SARAH WOODWARD To write out a list of rules regarding how students should dress during school hours is understandable, even invited.

But when teachers and administrators pinpoint certain students rather than others, it becomes an issue.

For instance, take a girl who is tall and thin. Most of the time, she can get away with wearing a tank top or something similar without it being a problem or a distraction.

Now take a girl who's a bit on the shorter, or one who's a bit "bigger." Chances are, if she were to wear a tank top to school, she'd get dress-coded before her first class.

It's hard to understand why one girl can freely walk the halls with the band of her bra on display while another can barely make it out of her car, and only because of a difference in their measurements.

To tell a girl, or anyone for that matter, that they can't dress for the weather because of their body type is no longer a dress code issue, but practically equates to bodyshaming. Students should not be penalized for something they can't control.

This comparison, however, is not only seen between girls (though that usually is the case), but between different genders as well.

Clear examples appear many times as you walk these halls, in that boys can get away with wearing certain clothing when girls can't.

If a boy is allowed to wear a tank top or a muscle shirt without an issue, then shouldn't girls be allowed to do the same? And while

COURTESY OF OLIVIA YOUNG

Special to The A-Blast

Students showcase different types of outfits that may be considered inappropriate.

schools are trying to cut down on the number of instances, boys sagging their pants or shorts is still a glaring problem.

In our opinion, this should be taking priority over whether or not a girl's bra strap is showing. When every boy is forced to wear their pants the way they should be worn, we can begin to talk about bra straps.

Tank tops are not the only dress code "violation" that people are skating around.

When school first starts, around the end of summer, girls are still wearing shorts and skirts to help stay alive in the August heat, before making way for cozy sweaters and leggings that come with the colder months that come ahead.

However, nowadays it's practically

impossible to find shorts, skirts, or dresses that meet the school's dress code.

Even the more practical stores like Old Navy and Kohl's have started doing away with the longer shorts and knee length skirts in favor of the more popular "booty" shorts and "mini" skirts that we often equate with Hollister or Abercrombie and Fitch.

Not that there is a problem with these items of clothing, it just makes it harder to find clothes that will meet the county's already unreasonable standards.

In an effort to appease the school system yet still wear what they want, girls have started wearing sheer tights underneath their shorts and skirts, but it doesn't have the same effect that wearing no tights would

provide.

The point of wearing shorts is to keep cool, but that does very little to help when you still have to cover up with tights or leggings underneath. In 100 degree weather, you might as well be wearing jeans.

For many girls, the issue of shorts' length arises when their height comes into question. Girls with shorter legs are able to get away with a pair of shorts that a taller girl wouldn't, simply because of how tall they are, even though neither girl's arm reaches the bottom of the seam.

This readdresses the issue from before; you can't penalize a girl for having long legs.

The length of your legs or the width of your hips is completely out of your control.

Girls in high school already have a skewed image of what they think their body should look like.

By telling them that if you had the exact same pair of shorts as another girl, you would get dress coded before her because she's a size two and you're a size eight, or she's 5'2" and you're 5'10" (or vice versa) only increases this dissociation between how they view themselves and others in society.

This promotes the idea that you have to look a certain way in order to be successful in life.

What a girl wears should have no relationship on how she is viewed by others.

Enforcing a dress code that persuades girls to remain completely covered because "boys will be boys" only encourages the sexualization of body parts that need not be sexualized.

While we realize the need for a dress code in a professional environment, the one we have now is severely outdated and a bit unrealistic.

One of the current flaws is found in the fact that dress code violations are left up to the individual teacher's discretion.

While it allows for bias, it can also make many girls feel uncomfortable. If you were to get caught by that one conservative teacher who was already in a bad mood, you'll be in big trouble; even if any other teacher who happened to see you had no problem with the outfit.

One of the goals of every school is to ensure the well being and safety of its students.

For many, having a teacher, especially a male one, point out something about their clothing or body to them, can make them feel unsafe, even violated.

By providing a dress code that gives one universal list of what must be covered, it makes it easier for teachers or administrators, as well as less uncomfortable for students.

What's your opinion on the new bell schedule?

"It's not that bad because I don't have to wake up as early as last year, but I really wish there was more time after school."

"Well, I'm kind of used to it already just because middle school got in just 15 minutes earlier."

"I don't like it because we get out of school later and no matter what time you wake up you will still wake up tired."

AMIR ABURISH

"It doesn't really affect me. I get to sleep more since I'm a walker and I can just get here on time, it's EMELY AYALA not really a problem." freshman JOHN LOPEZ

freshman

sophomore

sophomore

MARIAM MOHAMED

"I actually like it because I used to sleep at 3 or 4 a.m. doing homework."

"[It's] horrible. Sports get out so late and then we have no time to do homework OMAR ABUHASHISH anymore." junior BITANIA ENDALKACHEW

"For me personally, I like it. For some reason, I feel in the morning like I'm more energized."

AHMED MOHAMED

"We have to leave later therefore a lot of conflicts with clubs and sports happen."

KIM MAI senior

senior

junior

Facebook is desperate SADIE MODICA

Addition of a new "dislike" button causes a stir Buses rush to arrive on time to pick up students.

Bell schedule conflicts

BY JUDY NANAW Staff Writer This year FCPS decided to change the bell schedule for high school students in the county. This change was made based off the consideration that students were not getting enough sleep and it may be affecting their studies and health.

Pushing the school's start time forward an hour had been what the county thought would solve this issue.

Did it really or did it just bring upon a whole set of new problems?

High schools share their school buses with the middle schools in the county. Before picking up the high school students from their stops, the buses would have just finished sending the middle school students off to their classes.

With the chosen start time for school now being 8:10 a.m., morning traffic makes it near impossible for the buses to reach Annandale before the late bell rings for first period.

According to safety and security administrator Chris Tippins, 4-12 buses have arrived late in the past 2-3 weeks, but the solution is not up to the school, rather it is up to the transportation department to fix the problem.

Arriving to school at least 10 minutes late and still needing to head to their lockers makes students nearly 10 to 15 minutes late to the beginning of class. This is the time in which they miss a whole lot of information and directions given from the teacher.

"I was very aggravated," sophomore Hidaya Hussen said. "I missed 30 minutes of discussion and I didn't like

being behind."

Teachers were notified to accept the late students coming in, but understandingly, the students who are bus riders will not make them stop class and wait for them.

The new schedule made the mornings a stressful time for students when it should be the opposite. With the old schedule, students who ride the bus arrived to school early with some minutes left to relax and gather their materials in peace.

Because school starts later, they dismiss later as well. High school students used to leave school at 2:10 p.m. With the new schedule, students are being dismissed at a later time at 2:55 p.m.

This cannot be good news to the students who stay after school to participate in sports and extracurricular activities, which is most of them. Where is the time for homework?

With practice not finishing until 7:00 p.m., and still needing to shower and eat when they arrive at home, students continue to have to stay up until midnight and after doing homework leaving us right where we started- they are still not getting enough sleep.

The original schedule was said to be giving students less sleep. When the new one was put into place this year, the middle schools in the county had to be given the old one. It does not make sense to give the younger students a change in routine that gives them less sleep when this routine benefits high schoolers more.

Fairfax county should return to last year's schedule.

It fits much better with traffic and gives extra time to finish work at home- time every student desperately needs.

BY JULIE NGUYEN AND SADIE MODICA Editorials Editors Facebook CEO, Mark Zuckerburg, finally addressed the public's desire for a dislike button on the well-known social network.

Zuckerburg revealed that a button that would allow users to express another feeling besides like was underway but did not explicitly mention what it would say.

After the announcement, the public went wild and took Zuckerburg's words out of context and immediately assumed that a dislike button was in the process of being made. They felt his ambiguity gave them a license to draw conclusions. However, don't seem to be so clear when one examines what Zuckerburg really said.

He simply mentioned at an event that "liking" something was not always appropriate, especially if someone were to post a sad article or terrible news.

It seems that Facebook's intention is not to provide users with a long awaited dislike button, but instead, a button to express sympathy.

Manipulating the media was smart on Facebook's side in the aspect that they gained the attention of users worldwide and received coverage through newspapers and several online articles.

This case of false advertisement is beneficial for Facebook's side. This news should raise the amount of users on Facebook as people will be eager to see the new "dislike" button and try it for themselves.

With several other social media networks like Twitter and Tumblr rising in popularity, Facebook has to step up their game in order to beat their competition.

They have to stay relevant in the sea of competitors or else their outcome may be nonexistent. Without any new tweaks or updates, users will start to get bored and will desert the site.

Facebook does not want to fall off the grid and the fact that they are willing to beat around the bush about this new button reveals their desperation.

If they don't keep up to date with the new trends, Facebook will die out and turn into an abandoned site like Myspace or Foursquare.

Facebook also has to compete with app-based social

medias such as Snapchat, Instagram and Vine. Especially in light of Snapchat's new filter update and Instagram's new picture sizes, Facebook is in a sense falling behind ind in addressing the public's wants.

Although Zuckerburg never specifically said there would be a dislike button, the public was able to pick up the news and create a buzz around it.

Despite their desperation to catch up in the market, Facebook is far from obsolete. Its user base is ever growing, and since its inception has slowly evolved from a younger group to an older group. Now the youngest social media users typically opt for applications such as Instagram or Twitter.

The older user base is a more reliable one because they're more likely to use Facebook for a longer period of time. They tend not to jump from app to app like the younger people, who will use whatever is in style.

Facebook's influence on the world of social media is long-lasting, and its mark hasn't faded. Or course it must take actions to keep the users that it does have, but it's a good thing that Zuckerburg recognizes that need.

The implications of an actual dislike button are difficult to pinpoint. Such a button could initiate the ability of users to express their distaste for something on social media (other than in comments).

It could be a window for things like cyberbullying, or a window for beneficial changes, ways for users to express more wholly how an image or story makes them feel. Especially for sites like Facebook, a more in-depth array of buttons could definitely be a positive change Even though it doesn't look like Facebook is making a dislike button any time soon, it is a fascinating thing to ponder.

4 NEWS

Sept. 29, 2015

Atom Branch Opens its Doors Staff Writer The Atom Branch, a branch of Apple Federal Credit Union at Annandale opened it doors for the 2015-2016 school year on September 22. The branch will be open during all red day lunches, for the remainder of the school year, from 11:20 to 1:20.

The Atom Branch is run, almost entirely, by Annandale students and can help prepare them for jobs they may have after they graduate from Annandale.

To qualify to work at the Atom Branch, students need to take one year of accounting, and then move on to advanced accounting. Once they are enrolled in advanced accounting, they can apply to work for the branch.

Albert Steppe is the current teacher advisor for the Atom Branch. The role was passed on to him from the previous liaison, Helen Silverman.

"We have a smaller staff this year. In previous years we had about nine students, and this year we have four," Steppe said, as he discussed some changes the Atom Branch has undergone this year.

He hopes the Atom Branch will bring in numerous new members this year, and that he, as the advisor, can help student to learn more about money and how they can manage it effectively.

"I want the students to learn how to save money at a younger age now and continue to do that as they get older," Steppe said.

Junior Salima Khan is one of the students in advanced accounting who is working for the Atom Branch this year.

She believes there are numerous benefits to working the Atom Branch.

"It's a great learning experience, it looks great on college apps and it's also a good work experience for the future," Khan said. "Members will come in and deposit checks or choose to open new accounts, and I can help them do that. I also encourage other students to open accounts."

Senior Tim Johnson also has an account at the Atom Branch. He has had this account since the beginning of his junior year.

"It's easy to get money out of my account. The Atom Branch is convenient and I can go to it anytime and talk to anybody about any trouble I have with my account," Johnson said.

Many teachers have also opened accounts at the Atom Branch, believing that it is an easy way to support the school and because it is so so convenient and easy to access.

Junior Salima Khan working in the Atom Branch office.

News Editor

TEAGAN FOTI

spirit week

Teaches: Biology

Monday 10/19

Years teaching: 2

Lions & Tigers & Bears O'Monday

Education: Bachelor's from Longwood University and Master's from George Mason University Why do you like teaching: I like sharing about something that is so fundamental to everyone since biology is about everyone and is what makes us, us.

Dress for Animal Day! Tuesday 10/20 Twisted Twister Tuesday Dress for Wacky Tacky Day! Wednesday 10/21 Dress for Twin Day! Thursday 10/22

Favorite food: Is coffee a food? I know it is not, but after coffee I would say pizza or cereal.

Whip the Wicked Stallions of the South

Tired Toto Thursday Dress for Pajama Day! Friday 10/23 There's a Storm Coming Friday

Biggest pet peeve: When students are mean to each other and cannot empathize with each other, and also when I have to repeat myself because a student was not listening.

Freshmen wear Red!

Most excited for this year: I am excited to meet all of the faculty and staff and to work with all of the students here at Annandale. I love teaching and so any day that I get to do something I love is a good day.

Seniors wear Togas!

IT'S ACADEMIC

BY MOHAMED ELHAG News Editor On Saturday, Sept. 26, the AHS IT'S ACADEMIC team competed on NBC against West Springfield High School and Blake High School for the Scholastics Bowl Districts competition.

The team faced against the teams who won the state championship four years in a row. Although they didn't have high hopes of winning, they had a goal to come in second place.

Our team ended with a score of 300 points for the first round, losing by a huge margin to the team placing first, Blake high school, with almost 600 points.

IT'S ACADEMIC is the nation's largest high school trivia and quiz program. Many high schools and secondary schools compete each year on IT'S ACADEMIC. At Annandale high school, IT'S ACADEMIC is a club for people who enjoy trivia and quizzes. Questions are asked of every subject, including music, history, literature, math and science. Just like other popular game shows, IT'S ACADEMIC uses buzzers during their competitions.

The objective of the competing teams is to answer as many questions as they are able to, out of the total

As the second week of school comes to a close, senior pictures do also. Senior pictures are a tradition most high schools do in order to honor the graduating seniors and commemorate the years spent at the school. Although some students are meticulous about their wardrobe choice, others see it as just another picture day.

"Make up, eyebrows, and I am probably going to buy something if I don't find anything in my closet," said senior Mahlate Bereket as she described what she is going to do in order to prepare for her pictures.

"Just a haircut I guess," senior Ibrahim Quiroz says in a tone that makes it obvious that it is very unimportant to him.

Quiroz is not the only senior that brushes it off his shoulder, as there is an abundant amount of students that prepare last minute.

There are multiple packages seniors are able to choose from that differ on the amount of background choices and poses that are included. The students are able to decide how they want to pose along with what they want to wear. However, there is a fee that ranges from $15-$60 depending on the package the student chooses. On top of that, the students must also pay to order the pictures. " chose the one with the suit and tie because it's free," senior Ananda Poudel said.

Nevertheless, it is the senior s last chance to avoid a bad hair day and show off their pearly whites. It is also a way to express themselves once more.

Although some students might not take it as serious as others, these pictures are forever and a memory that will never fade. Seniors will be able to look back at these pictures and either regret or applaud their decisions.

Which, Witch Wednesday

Hobbies: I like sports Washington Redskins and Detroit Red Wings. I also volunteer with a local animal rescue and help when I can. I am a runner and currently training for my first half marathon which will be in April 2016. My family also lives close and I spend a lot of time with my nieces and nephew.

AHS IT'S ACADEMIC team loses in first round on Saturday

Seniors take final portrait

BY MELANIE VALENCIA

New teacher profile Homecoming COURTNEY KREFT

Senior Natnael Weldegiorgis poses for senior portrait.

number of questions asked, before any of the other teams buzz in for their answer. Although you must buzz first to give your answer and get points to win, if you buzz before the question is fully stated, your team will not be allowed to answer the question.

Last year the AHS team lost the IT'S ACADEMIC bowl.

Compared to last year's final round score of 370-400420, which was much closer, this year's results were much less favorable "Even though we lost the IT'S ACADEMIC bowl, I feel like the experience in the studio will help us do better during the next Scholastics Bowl, and the NBC taping," senior Chris Lee said at the end of the last year's season.

One reason which could've led to this was that there was more time to prepare last year and the competition started later in the year, around spring time. Because this year's competition started shortly after the season started in September, they couldn't attend other practice scrimmages and competitions against other schools, which helped them better prepare themselves compared to this year.

They plan to go through more procedures to help prepare for their upcoming competitions and challenges that they will face in the future.

The next biggest meet is at Woodson for the scholastic bowl districts competition. For the next competition, going to all the meetings and going over material will help prepare them more.

The IT'S ACADEMIC team has regular meetings and will attend scrimmages throughout the school year in order to prepare for round two and later rounds. The team strives to learn more and have better results in the competitions they go to.

Sophomores wear White!

Juniors wear Black!

On your smartphone, scan this code using the application "QR Code" to read about the Lifetouch's pictures.

Powderpuff returns Major changes made to the widely popular

BY TEAGAN FOTI News Editor

PHOTO COURTESY OF ERIN JOHNSON

BY LUCIE LEFBOM

LUCY LEFBOM

Apple Federal Credit Union introduces new plans for 2015-16 school year

As Annandale rolls into fall festivities, the annual powderpuff game is rapidly approaching.

The game, planned and organized by the leadership classes, will be played during this year's homecoming week on Tuesday, Oct. 20.

Powerpuff is a greatly anticipated event at Annandale and for the second consecutive year all classes will be able to participate, not just Last year's senior team getting fired up before powderpuff game. upperclassmen. Each class will have its own team, game day tourney where the competition will be tough. coaches and cheerleaders. Teams will be selected based Although powderpuff may be a played by girls, guys on when hopeful players sign up. Positions on the team also have an opportunity to participate by either coachare given out on a first come first serve basis, and the ing or cheerleading. There are limited coaching positions same goes for coaches and cheerleaders. and those usually fill up quickly, but the cheerleader po"I love powderpuff because it is really fun to play with sitions are plentiful and equally as fun. The cheerleaders everyone," junior Tehya Moss said. "It's also very com- practice and prepare for a halftime dance and are equalpetitive which just makes it more enjoyable and it's a ly as entertaining to watch as the game itself. great way to show school spirit."

The next biggest meet is at woodson for the scholasPowderpuff also gives students a chance to meet and tic bowl districts competition. For the next competition play with students that they may not otherwise talk to. going to all the meetings and going over material will "I met a lot of new and fun people last year on the help prepare them more. team and that made the experience even better," Moss said.

Each team meets and practices to prepare for the

NEWS 5

Sept. 29, 2015

CONT. "COLLEGE" Students will be required to print out a conformation page then show it to the teacher, who's class they will be missing.

These college visits consist of the actual college counselors going over material that will benefit the students during the application and admission process.

Students will be given the oportunity to ask questions and learn more about the college life and experience in the certain college.

To look at the upcoming college visits, students can go to their family connections account found on blackboard and sign-up for the college visit of their choice.

The students should sign-up for the visit soon because some of them have limited slots for the visits.

Benefits Concert CONT. "BENEFITS" The surgery is also supposed to reduce the time it takes her to do her schoolwork; it takes her about three times longer than the average student.

With Shawish already having had a surgery in may of last year, her parents had to take out loans to pay for it, putting a major strain on her family.

The orchestra will be asking for donations in hope of raising the money. They will also be putting on a "Teacher Talent Show" where participants in the show will have the opportunity to win the AHS talent king or queen crown.

The idea to raise money for Shawish's surgeries came from her orchestra teacher Ms. Ammerman. She thought of the idea after Shawish's parents had told her about how much of a strain paying for these surgeries was on the family.

To ensure that no money goes to waste Ammerman said, "If there is money left over, all of the money will be going to a proceed of Olivia's choice." Ammerman also tells us about the type of person Shawish is and she says, "If you don't already know her, Olivia is one of the most selfless people I know."

When asked about how Olivia feels about the orchestra doing this concert to raise money for her surgeries, she says, "Ms. Ammerman is my guardian angel. It's just so kind. It's crazy to think about how many people are actually there for you. I love them all so much."

New AP chosen

Pope Francis visits DC CONT. "POPE" Congress about serious, modern subjects, such as the death penalty.

According to The Washington Post, the Pope said this regarding his belief that the death penalty should be abolished, "I am convinced that this way is the best, since every life is sacred, every human person is endowed with an inalienable dignity, and society can only benefit from the rehabilitation of those convicted of crimes.

Recently my brother bishops here in the United States renewed their call for the abolition of the death penalty. Not only do I support them, but I also offer encouragement to all those who are convinced that a just and necessary punishment must never exclude the dimension of hope and the goal of rehabilitation."

"That's tricky for me. On one hand I see his point and that yes, if you are going to view a human being with someone with an eternal soul, then yes you need to think about the eternal consequences. Sadly we still have a prison system where people do

BY CREW MCCARTHY Staff Writer A friendly face is making a return to the Annandale community. If you are a senior and went to Poe Middle School then the name Paula Meoli might ring a bell.

The previous Poe administrator left the narrow hallways of middle school behind and joined the ranks at Fairfax High School as their assistant principal. Now she is coming back to help guide Annandale High School and its students as our new assistant principal.

"I have lived in Annandale for a long time. From between 1987 until 2012, when I left Poe, I either lived or worked in the neighborhood that's

by Annandale High School.

So when I went to Fairfax High School it was the first time pretty much since I lived in Virginia that I wasn't in some way connected to the Annandale community and I found that I really really missed it," Meoli said when asked why she chose AHS. "When I moved out to Poe and you know middle school is a little different than high school, but when I moved to Poe I really enjoyed the students and getting to know the students and it's just been different at Fairfax and so I wanted to get back to the community that I really love."

Meoli is a dedicated educator who is living her lifelong dream by being a Fairfax County employee.

"It is kind of silly and corny but it's the only job I ever wanted to have. Even when I was a little kid I tried to teach my three year old brother to read... it didn't work," Meoli said.

She went to Roanoke college to get her bachelor's

escape and go out and do things again and people will argue, well if you had executed him, then those five people wouldn't have been dead now," Sebring said. "So it's hard to know, to say everything should be just one way for everybody. I know emotions play a big role, you know the bombing in Boston, that person killed many people and maimed people for life that will never recover from their wounds. So people are thinking, what right does he have to live anywhere, even in a prison. I understand that, I really do because if that were my brother, cousin, sister that had died or lost a leg or an arm, I'd be furious, I can't even tell you how upset I would be about that."

Some Catholic students are excited to see the Pope confront issues in society because they value his opinion.

"I like that he's from the global south," junior Sacha Silva said. "He understands the struggles that most of the world faces and therefore knows which problems are most pressing in the world and raises awareness for them, as well as creating a more liberal platform for the church."

Assistant principal Paula Meoli smiling at the camera.

degree and she got her masters degree at George Mason.

Meoli has had plenty of experience over the years working at different schools.

She taught reading recovery, which is the first grade reading intervention, second grade, third grade, sixth grade, and eighth grade english. She was also an IB new year's coordinator and then became a middle school and high school assistant principal.

After her move to Fairfax High School, she found her experience to be a much different one than what she was used to.

"Going to Fairfax was really different because my whole career in Fairfax County before I went to Fairfax was in what was cluster free then. It was a totally different community, I had never taught high school so it was a totally different level," said Meoli.

While it was different, she

still had lots of fun and learned lots of different things. She enjoyed seeing her students in different activities outside of school like sporting events and shows.

Now that she's back in Annandale and working in its high school, she has to get accustomed to the way things go here. She wants to meet all the staff and get to know them.

Next she wants to learn the strengths of the school then learn about what can be done to improve the areas where we are lacking.

Those are her short term goals. She won't have her long term goals until she knows for sure what's working well at Annandale.

Overall she wants the best for Annandale and its students and wants to make sure they have the best experience here and that they know she's excited to spend time with them.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CYNTHIA SEBRING

College Visits

Pope waves at his fans in Washington D.C. from his Pope mobile.

Cross country coach resigns due to funding conflict CONT. "RESIGN" did that fundraiser for the athletics department, we raised a little over $5,000, and we saw none of that money," Klein said.

Kerns declined to discuss about the controversy about the lack of support for the cross country team with The A-Blast.

The decision was a very difficult one for Klein, as he has to leave the job he loved dearly because of his frustrations with Kerns and the inadequate amount of support the team has gotten.

"The reason I work at Annandale is because I want to coach full-time. I had an amazing job outside of this where I was making a lot of money. I wanted to come and coach fulltime, that's why I work at Annandale," Klein said. "I just didn't feel like the cross country team and the track team were getting the full support from the school that they needed. I really fought a hard fight, and I didn't want to leave, but I felt like it was the only thing left on the table, in hopes that the kids and

parents would step up and try to fight."

The runners in cross country were so passionate about the conflict that they scheduled meetings with Kerns and Principal Tim Thomas.

"The boys did an amazing [job], I can't believe what they've done. They actually set up their own meeting with Mr. Kerns, they're all dressed up in ties," Klein said." They [already] had a meeting with him, and they're setting up a meeting with Mr. Thomas. Now that I resigned, I'm away from the team, but they're still fighting the fight, and I'm pretty sure there parents are fighting the fight too."

The team was visited by Kerns before a practice last week and he agreed to a meeting with two members of the team about the situation.

Senior Risky Alvarado and junior Beckman Hollis were chosen among their teammates to represent their team during the meeting between them, Kerns and Thomas.

"First they were receptive, they listened to what we had to

say. They answered all our questions, not necessarily what we wanted to hear, but they did answer them. They appeared willing to work with us and meet us halfway with most of our issues," Hollis said. "I'm happy with the way Mr. Thomas handled it. This issue isn't completely resolved yet, there's still work to do. A lot of that is beyond just the team, it's with the athletic boosters and the coaches and the administrators."

As of right now, there is no immediate solution to solve the problem of the shortage of money for the cross country team.

Currently the students have to pay for their own uniforms while the other sport teams loan jerseys to their players and they receive new uniforms every four to five years. Yet Klein still has hope that the issue will be resolved sooner than later.

"I have hope, honestly I do. If it [doesn't] get resolved and everything stays the same, then it's not right," Klein said.

Scoreboard ribbon cutting

BY SERGIO POZO

FCPS administration and the PTSA come together to celebrate the new scoreboard.

After three months of anticipation, it was finally finished in the middle of August. In addition to the new turf field was the stadium scoreboard which was put up on Friday.

The scoreboard can prove to be a great investment as there are sections for sponsors and corporate ads. Along with new fields and a new scoreboard is a plan to upgrade the home side bleachers. The turf field will not only benefit football but also

Soccer, Lacrosse, Field Hockey and the Marching Atoms. Another benefit is that there will be a $39,000 in annual savings from reduced maintenance costs.

Although the turf fields and the score board have been installed, AHS has not been able to reach its goal to pay off the turf fields. In order to reach the goal, AHS would have to somehow raise $60,000 more to reach $175,000.

SUMMAR AYOUB

Before last Friday's football game, a ribbon cutting was executed to mark the start of a new season.

The Atoms held a lead over Woodson with a score of 48-43 at J. Wallace Bolding Stadium.

Although the field had already been played on, the ribbon cutting still holds significance. In attendance in cutting the ribbon were Tim Thomas, Ryan McElveen, the owner of the Annandale Boys and Girls club and other donators.

The turf field was able to become a reality thanks to donations by the Annandale community and especially Annandale Boys & Girls Club, Dr. David Hughes Orthodontics, Dominion Power and CCCI which donated $70,000, $25,000, $5,000, and $2,000 respectively towards the two fields.

Coach Scott and the football team also did their part in raising money for the fields by organizing car washes and selling gold cards.

Construction for the fields was approved to begin on May 15, 2015.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TIM THOMAS

Staff Writer

Human peace sign Students and their W4 teachers come together to form a human peace sign organized by the Just World Interact club on Sept. 21, which is also known as the Internation Peace day.

NEWS BRIEFS PRIDE TIME BEGINS

ORCHESTRA TAG DAY

PLAY IN A DAY COMPETITION

COLUMBUS DAY HOLIDAY

BLOOD DRIVE SIGN UP

October 5th will mark the beginning of pride time. Pride time will run through W4 and will operate as it did at the end of last year.

Staurday, October 3rd from 8am to 3pm orchestra will hold its annual tag day.

On Oct. 7 from 7pm to 9pm the theatere department will host the play in a day performance competition. It will take place in the auditorium. Entry fee is $5.

Monday October 12th all Fairfax County Public Schools will be closed in observance of Columbus day holiday.

Starting on Tuesday, October 6 studenst and teachers can sign up for th eannual blood drive during all lunches.

GOLF TOURNAMENT

SENIOR DUES

STUDENT HOLIDAY

PSAT ADMINISTRATION

CLASS ELECTIONS

Senior dues will be collected on Tuesday ,October 6 and Wednesday, October 7 during the school day. Dues must be paid before a student can graduate.

Their will be no school on Friday, October the 9th for all students. It is a school planning day for teachers.

Wednesday, October 14th Freshmen, Sophmores and Juniors will take the PSAT in their asigned classrooms. Seniors will have no school that day.

During W4 on Thursday October 1 all classes will host their class elections in their respective locations.

The 6A regional gold tourneyment will be held at Twin Lakes Golf Course. It will be October 6th through the 8th.

6 ACADEMICS National Merit Scholar Semi-finalist

Sept. 29, 2015

BY ANGELO LOPEZ

COURTESY OF REBECCA SOULEN

Staff Writer "I'm thrilled; it was unexpected but a really pleasant surprise," senior Rebecca Soulen said. "It's a nice recognition and it's particularly cool this year because I'm the only one from this school."

For Soulen, being a National Merit semi-finalist is electrifying. She would have never thought that she would come this far and be the only one at Annandale to do so.

Soulen took the PSAT her junior year, like any other student, but by the beginning of September she had been chosen out of 50,000 high school students. Narrowed down to the top third of

students Soulen was able to acquire a spot as a semifinalist.

The National Merit Scholarship Program began in 1955. It's a program that offers scholarships to those who take the PSAT and excel in it.

Once taken, the National Merit Scholarship Program chooses 50,000 students out of 1.5 million highest scorers and this year, Soulen was one of them.

Soulen, being the only one at Annandale to get to the semifinals, has taken an incredible step towards achieving her academic goals.

"The organization has about 7,500 scholarships.

Some are sponsored by colleges, some are sponsored by the corporation and some are sponsored by businesses," Soulen said. "My application is due

October 7th and I should be notified of my standings as a finalist in January and I'll know if I actually receive the scholarship in May." Things like this can be nerve racking, thinking about if you are going to make it to the finals or not, but for Soulen it is the exact opposite, she is very calm and confident about it.

"If I get a scholarship then that's great but if I don't I'm still a finalist," Soulen said.

Being a semifinalist, Soulen is going to represent Annandale and hopefully, at the finals, she will amaze us and continue to amaze us because it doesn't end there for her, it is only the beginning.

DOs AND DON’Ts

BY JENNY KANG Staff Writer Freshly sharpened pencils, blank notebooks and new textbooks. The start of the school year is both an exciting and dreaded moment for students as they assimilate themselves back into studying mode. An extra responsibility weighs on the shoulders of the seniors as due dates for college applications steadily near. Fortunately, technology has gifted students with a method to make submissions more easily accessible and manageable- the Common Application.

According to the Common App website, over 60 colleges and universities have become affiliated with it for 2015 and 2016 admissions.

Not only does it lay out the necessary information that must be included in college applications, it is also a source that provides a foundational understanding of college for students without basic knowledge.

"Overall it's a really good app to use for applying to colleges and I would highly recommend it," alumni Bethel Mahoney said, "I only used it for when I applied to UMW, and it had everything I needed to apply to UMW." Nonetheless, despite its convenience, some find it confusing and not useful. Typically, this stems from the issue that the Common Application does not yet have full coverage of all the universities available nationwide. Therefore, it's not practical for those whose schools do not apply.

"I would like for common apps to have all colleges, and for it to have some sort of tutorial on how to use it," senior Kasana Nguyen suggests.

In addition to some students not being aware of how to use the Common Application, others only know the primary use. Other functions for the Common Application encompass the preparation for college.

Do fill out the application

Don’t Procrastinate!

Reach out to your counselor

Don’t mix up deadlines for different schools

Prepare envelopes for teacher recommendation and transcripts

Don’t ask for recommendations last minute

Do apply to more than one school

Don’t go over word limit

SAT/ACT Word Search

on college essays

New SAT coming this spring

BY KIARA PATINO Academic Editor

COURTESY OF ELEARNERS.COM

The SAT has officially changed. No more stressing over the all the sneaky tricks the SAT tries to play on you. As of this year, College Board announced that they will be creating a new SAT which will start spring of 2016.

The new test will be from a 1600 point scale, unlike the older SAT which is from 2400 point scale. The writing section of the SAT will now be optional allowing students to opt out of writing if it is not their strength. Another aspect of the new test that is different from the old one is that the SAT will now be available to take online and on paper, when it was only available on paper before.

There will be no penalty for wrong answers now as well, much like the ACT. With the current SAT, there is a quarter of a point deducted for every wrong answer.

The math section will be divided into three main categories: Problem solving and data analysis, algebra, and advanced math. For 25 minutes of the 80 minutes of the math portions, students will not be able to use their calculators.

The vocabulary is also modified to use more common words and more words used in the

workplace and higher education. Lastly, the reading passages will be more focused on historical documents and scientific topics.

Many people are upset over the fact that they will be changing the test, especially seniors who have already taken the old SAT. However, this change was made because of the decreasing scores over the past years.

"It's annoying that they are making it easier for the upcoming grades because I know people who have spent so much money on classes and training so it seems unfair," senior Ashley Britton said.

As many Annandale students know, the SAT has a great impact on which university people go to. Getting a better score on your SAT will increase your chances of getting into your top schools.

"It just depends as to what piece of the SAT, depends on where their weaknesses and strengths lie," Career Specialist Robin Roth said.

Students should look at online places that can help them prepare. They should take the PSAT and pay to get their results. They should also work on the areas that they need improvement on so they can get a better score. Everyone should take both the ACT and the SAT so they can pick the one that is easier for them.

What do you think about the changes to the SAT?

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"I'm actually really upset about the changes made. I wanted to be able to take the new SAT but I already sent in my scores to schools."

BROOKE THADEUS senior

"I think the new changes are actually really good! I'm glad I'll have the chance to take the new SAT." GRACE HATCH sophomore

"I don't really mind the changes made to the SAT. I'm going to have to take it either way."

LIAM CONROY junior

"I do not like the new changes to the SAT because seniors this year don't get to take it."

VINICIUS RANGEL senior

HEALTH 7

Sept. 29, 2015

Passing off the flu shot Do you want to get protected this season?

BY PHUONG NGUYEN SABRINA HAWA

AND

Health Editors

CDC.GOV

Colder weather, sniffles and coughing are reminders that the flu season is almost here.

Each year, many people stop by at the nearest doctor's office, CVS or Giant to get the all-important needle inserted in their arms in hopes of avoiding several days of being stuck on a sick bed. Despite the annual routine, people are turning away from flu vaccinations.

Getting the flu shot is not as common as one may think. During last year's abnormally active flu season, only 46 percent of Americans got their influenza vaccinations.

Flu vaccine started this September and everyone age six months or older is recommended to get a regular shot or nasal shot.

At Walgreens in Annandale, a flu shot costs only $35.99 without insurance and In addition to inconvenience, Americans no copay with insurance. Americans still and also because there are some people vaccine's inability to combat changing strains concerned of what is actually in the of the influenza virus. often misbelieve that the flu shot causes a turn away from the needle.

At AHS, many students regard the flu person to get sick afterwards.

Despite the low cost which does not vaccines," school health aid Tiffany Schatz "The one year when I did get the flu shot, usually exceed $40, Americans are still said. "That is why [people] are hesitant about shot as a nuisance and do not get it regularly.

Some students have never gotten the vaccine I got sick," Perla said. getting the vaccine in the first place. avoiding the needle.

According to the Centers for Disease at all.

According to the CDC, the flu vaccine Low vaccination rate can be attributed "I have never gotten the flu shot because is made with dead, non-infectious viruses. to equally low confidence towards the Control, the 2014 flu vaccination had an overall effectiveness rate of only 19 percent.

I do not need it," senior Casey Nguyen said.

Nasal sprays also do not cause illness as the effectiveness of the flu shot.

"I don't take the flu shot every year viruses in the vaccine have been "weakened."

"I think that people are very concerned A flu vaccine usually carries a 50-60 percent Likewise, people commonly associate about the effectiveness of the flu [vaccine] effectiveness rate during normal flu seasons. because I don't think it's necessary and it can The aforementioned was primarily due to be inconvenient," senior Nancy Perla said.

nonthreatening side effects such as headaches, muscle pains and mild fevers as signs of illness but this is not the case.

Students such as Perla may have acquired the flu before getting the vaccine when symptoms were not yet visible.

Although recent results suggest that the flu shot is unsuccessful in fighting disease, doctors and healthcare workers remain confident about the vaccine's benefits.

Without a proper vaccination, there is no protection from illness.

"I think that [getting] a flu shot is definitely a good precaution," senior Julia Quizon said. "The flu gets passed around quickly and easily that the shot not only protects you but also the people around you."

"I am Type I Diabetic so I have to get the flu vaccine every year and it does actually help me stay healthy throughout the flu season," Schatz said. "I will still get a cold occasionally, but I definitely do not get the full blown flu."

The CDC recommends that everyone six months of age and older should be vaccinated against the flu. In preparation for this year's onslaught of the seasonal flu, approximately 171-179 million doses of vaccines will be sent to clinics and hospitals across the country.

Unfortunately, not everyone will show up to get their shots.

The next time you see a person coughing their lungs out in class or hacking in the bathroom, they probably would have been better off being vaccinated.

Heard in the halls: Do you get the flu shot?

"Yes, I get the flu shot every year because I do not want to get sick."

"Yes, I get the flu shot because I want to do better in school."

"Yes, I get the flu shot every year because my mom makes me."

CHRISTIAN MENDOZA

SANDRA REYES

CHASE ROBSON

freshman

sophomore

freshman

"Yes, I get the flu shot so my body can defend against diseases."

RICARDO PERIERA sophomore

"Yes, I do get the flu shot every year because my mom is responsible and she does not want me to get sick."

"No, not anymore because my brother contracted a disease off one of them."

YOUSSEF EL BOUKRI

VIVIANA SANDOVAL junior

junior

"No, I do not get the flu shot every year because I have not gotten sick enough to get one and I don't feel the need to get them."

"No, I do not get the flu shot every year because the first time I did, the doctor told me it is unnecessary to get them every year."

LAYLA MOHAMED

MUNTAQIM ELHI

senior

senior

Hard reasons to ditch soft drinks "I do not really drink soda because it's not good for me and has no benefits."

"I love soda because I worked for Coca-Cola for 20 years.

The taste is really great too."

Nafiesa Abdelhag

Howard Dwyer

sophomore

Business teacher

Soda contains a lot of artificial ingredients such as sweeteners and flavors. Soda also contains MSG and citric acid which can cause disruptive behaviors such as aggression and ADHD.

Drinking soft drinks can lead to tooth decay. The sugar causes cavities and the acids deteriorate tooth enamel.

A Harvard study has shown that soda can cause heart disease. It stated that one daily 12-ounce serving of regular soda increases the risk of cardiovascular disease by 19 percent.

Soda is high in sugar and calories, which lead to obesity, diabetes and blood sugar imbalances

Soft drinks have no benefits in it whatsoever. Some drinks such as orange juice or apple juice contain vitamins such as A or D.

Caffeine has proven to be an addictive drug and it can affect the development of the brain. Children should not consume any caffeine, yet a typical soda provides 35 to 38 milligrams of caffeine per 12 ounce can.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Sodas have been proven to be dehydrating.

They have diuretics just like coffee, tea and alcohol.

·

50 percent of children under eight years of age drink soda daily.

·

More than 15 billion gallons of soft drinks were sold in 2000.

·

Soft drinks are sold in more than 60 percent of middle, private and high schools.

·

A 20 ounce soda contains a whopping 13 teaspoons of sugar.

·

25,000 Americans have died due to contribution from sugary drinks.

- Compiled from the US Department of Agriculture, the National Soft Drink Association and Scholastic.

The excessive amount of sugar in the soda could also lead to severe fatigue, moodiness, headaches, allergies and a suppressed immune system.

Source: The Washington Post / Harvard University

8 PHOTO

Sept. 29, 2015

Atoms go gold for pediatric cancer

Seniors Melanie Valencia and Symone Jenkins go all out and show their spirit for the gold out supporting pediatric cancer.

SOULISA PATHAMMAVONG

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANDA ADENAN

Before the Atoms beat their rival the Woodson Cavaliers 48-43, the class of 2016 poses for an Instagram picture as they do at every game.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANDA ADENAN

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANDA ADENAN

Students support National Childhood Cancer Awareness month by wearing gold

ANDREW GONZALEZ

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANI MUNTU

Seniors Molly Gormley, Melanie Valencia, Amanda Adenan and Mongnhi Nguyen take a picture with well-known school board member Ryan McElveen.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANDA ADENAN

Senior Davian Gonzalez holds up the hype squad flag before running through the jock lobby with the seniors.

MARILYN RIVAS

Sophomores Halley Thadeus and Amani Muntu pose in their yellow attire during halftime.

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANDA ADENAN

The Hype squad supports the football players by putting up spirit fingers for moral support and good luck.

Leadership's Hype squad committee finished blowing up balloons to decorate for the game against Woodson.

Juniors do their own thing and get decked out in yellow paint and apparel before joining the AHS Hype squad.

Students from all grades fill the bleachers and stand together to support the Varsity boys against Woodson.

ARTS 9 Marching band's clinic experience

Students get 2nd place at Competition and clinic

BY SERENE GHUL Staff Writer

The Annandale band had something very special marked on their calendars last week their competition and clinic. The AHS marching band competed in an FCBDA MB clinic. The competition and clinic took place at Robinson Secondary School on Saturday, Sept 19.

The band competed against many other schools such as Robinson, Langley, Lake Braddock, Woodson and Robert E. Lee. AHS started off their performance with their opener entitled, "Birdland." They also performed their ballad "Blackbird," and closed with their piece entitled "Firebird."

The whole show together is called "The Bird is the Word."

"I think they did really well, we've been working really hard," band director Joseph Witkowski said. "I'm very proud on how they did that day and what we've accomplished."

Every school performed their show twice and was given tips on how to improve from a table of band directors.

"I think the performance went very well and we could also work on adjusting as a band and be more aggressive when we march," freshman Han Gyul said. "The judges gave us comments that could really help us in the future."

The band was conducted by its two drum majors, senior Anya Montes de Oca and Hamaad Lodhi.

"Our performance went amazing," sophomore Nicky Sheppard said. "The drum line was great."

The band had their first performance at around 12:30 and were back to warming up for their second performance at 3:30 after being given a short break.

Senior Michael Ryan was surprised at how well the band's performance went. "It went really well, better than expected," Ryan said.

Aside from having to worry about marching and playing their instruments, one other thing on a lot of the band members' minds was the weather.

With the weather being around 80 degrees that morning, many members of the band struggled to keep cool. With their uniforms being long sleeved shirts and long dress pants, keeping cool was not easy.

The band members were given

SERENE GHUL

Sept. 29, 2015

Marching band performing one of their pieces at Robinson Secondary School.

opportunities to drink water and stay hydrated, but even with that, some members started to see black and feel dizzy. Sheppard had passed out as soon as he sat down.

"The weight of my drum is no help either," Sheppard said.

Even with these complications, the band managed to shine through and went out on the field and gave the best performance that they could give.

"Overall, the performance went well.

There were a couple of mistakes that can be fixed with time," sophomore William Buckley said. "We also need to work on tempo and timing, but other than that I think we have a chance of winning."

After the band's first performance, the band was given a chance to watch the other school bands perform. When asked about which school they see as their biggest competition, many members of the band had said Lake Braddock Secondary.

Even with the other competitors, Annandale is still confident in the performance they put out.

"I think that we did the best that we could," junior Mustapha Al said.

The results from the performance were not revealed on the day of the competition, so the band members were anxious to find out the success of our school.

Although they were hoping to get first,

they got second place at the competition.

They are going to take the tips they were given to get better scores at future competitions.

Watch the full video On your smartphone, scan this code using the application "QR Code" to watch the marching band's clinic and pre competition.

Museum spotlight: Torpedo Factory

BY ANDREW NUNEZ During WWI the U.S. Navy planned on constructing a torpedo factory to assist them during the war. The construction began at the end of WWI, production of torpedoes weren't needed until WWII began.

After WWII was over, production of torpedoes came to an end In 1969, The Art League president had plans for making the factory into studio space for artists. After five years of work and construction, the Torpedo Factory Art Center was open to the public.

The Torpedo Factory is an open art gallery that allows artists to demonstrate how they create their works. When they are completed, they sell their pieces to anyone who is interested. The Factory also has artists that provide classes to teach their techniques and their skills.

The classes vary from all different forms of art such as sculpting, painting, drawing, wood engraving, jewelry design and much more.

ANDREW NUNEZ

Staff Writer

"You can watch the artists work as they

The Torpedo Factory is an excellent

paint in one of the many studios and even buy their original works," junior Georgia Chow said.

place for any artist who is trying to improve their talents, or who are just looking for any interesting pieces of art to buy.

The opening doors to the Torpedo Factory Art Center.

"It's awesome, I got to see some creative pieces and some very interesting sculptures," junior Kevin Aviles said.

Art products that are available to buy are jewelry, paintings, drawings, wooden sculptures and glass designs. The Factory is also great spot to spend time with a girlfriend or a boyfriend and see the unique and beautiful art!

"It's like going to an art museum but the artists are right there for you to talk to," junior Olivia Shawish said.

There are some artists that will do a requested art piece that you may have for them.

Some interesting upcoming events are fall classes, that will begin Sept 21. There will also be an exhibit on a collection of frames from the 19th and the early 20th century from Nov 5-29.

The Torpedo Factory Art Center is an amazing place to be for creative minds that want to express themselves through art, and for those who want to witness others express themselves.

Torpedo Factory Art Center information Address: 105 N. Union St. Alexandria, VA 22314 Telephone: 703-838-4565 Email: info@torpedofactory.org Daily: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Thursdays: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Extra info: The Torpedo Factory sometimes closes at 5 p.m. for private events. It's best to confirm availability before your visit. The Torpedo Factory is closed on all national holidays.

Q & A with artist Bebhinn Tyree Q: What do you create and what got you into doing it?

A: I draw collage, and occasionally take pictures. My mom was an artist, and my parents actually met in the Air Force working on photography, so I took interest in both, naturally.

Q: What is it about creating art that you enjoy?

A: It's a way to express myself without using words. Your work is open to interpretation, so while you know what it means to you, viewers can take from it as well.

Q: What do you like most about your artwork?

A: I like that I have my own style. I've been told that developing your own style is rather difficult, which I can confirm from experience, so I'm really proud of that.

Q: What advice do you have for other young, developing artists?

A: Make art everyday! Art blocks come from not creating often enough. Even something as simple as doodling on class notes is qualified as practice.

Q: What do you plan to do with creating art in the future?

A: I always thought I would pursue art as a career in my future, but I've come to realize I'm terrible at commissions and meeting deadlines with customers,

DONATE YOUR VEHICLE TO THE AHS AUTO PROGRAM

BEBHINN TYREE

Q: What materials do you use for your artwork?

A: I mainly use Prismacolor pencils and art markers for my more traditional sketches. I collage occasionally and I prefer to use clippings from National Geographic magazines, but those are kind of hard to track down, so I mainly use Teen Vogue.

so I'd prefer to keep it a hobby. I am going into the cosmetology field, though, which is technically another form of art.

Q: Do you have a favorite piece of artwork?

A: I've always loved Gustav Klimt's work because he used a lot of gold leaves while painting during his "Golden Phase. PHOTO COURTESY OF BEBHINN TYREE" My favorite piece by him is The Kiss.

Q: What would you say to someone that wants to get into creating art?

A: Do it! Anything is considered art nowadays. There are so many different forms of it. I really love the term Bob Ross uses when he messes up; he calls them "happy mistakes." You learn from mistakes and lots of practice, just like everything else.

Chorus teacher's husband sings at the redskins game

The Annandale High School Auto Program needs your vehicle. By donating, you may be able to deduct up to the full value of your vehicle.

BY SHARON SANCHEZ Matthew Irish, master sergeant and beloved husband of chorus teacher Jessica Irish, sang the National Anthem at Redskins game on Sunday, Sept 20. Irish's husband is part of the premier choir of the United States Air Force, the Singing Sergeants. He sang in honor of the U.S. Air Force's 68th anniversary.

They also sing for military leaders, host public concerts, preform at the Air Force memorial and entertain dignitaries from other nations and the President.

"He sung the national anthem many times for high profile events, but this one was one of those performances that made him the most nervous," Irish said. This was the first time Matthew Irish had sang at a Redskins game.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JESSICA IRISH

Copy editor

Matthew Irish singing the national anthem.

The process is fast, easy and helps the best automotive program in Fairfax County Public Schools. To schedule your donation, please call: Joe Desio, instructor, 703-642-4212 or email at jfdesio@fcps.edu

10 IN-DEPTH

Sept. 29, 2015

THERE IS NO EXCUSE Give us the truth and stop the abuse

T

he temperature is over 80 degrees. Monkeys are clawing at their cages. The stench of feces fills the air like a cloud. You cannot leave, you are stuck in a cage with barely any room to breathe. Eventually you are let out after two days, but only to be electrocuted, deprived from food, to test how far the mind will go.

This is the life of the monkeys that were tested on at the Institute of Behavioral Research (IBR). This cycle of testing continued until they died or considered useless.

The issue of animal testing was made big in 1991 when the People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) organization released an expose about the IBR's testing cruelties, in which they tested on monkeys for behavioral research.

In one experiment, monkeys were retrained to a chair with packing tape, and pliers held their arms, fingers, leg, and toes. Then, administered electric shocks.

In another, monkeys were locked in a small box and were administered shocks until they used their disabled limbs.

One of PETA's founders, Alex Pacheco, was a student at the time when he went undercover and found 17 monkeys in tiny cages that were filled with years of accumulated feces.

This same narrative has been repeated in movies, books and articles about the animal testing system. However, the question that is yet to be asked is why teenagers should care? Most importantly, why should students at Annandale care about animal cruelty?

First and foremost, animal testing is a morality issue.

It deals with one of the most controversial battles: human life versus animal life.

A major problem is that many quantify animal lives much lower than those that are human. Counting an animal's life as unequal to that of a human is wrong, especially in the way that the tested animals die, with torture.

It should not be forgotten that humans are animals too.

Additionally, humans have lived alongside animals since the creation of mankind. Throughout all of these years, animals have all been a part of an ecological chain that is interdependent.

In knowing so, it is vital for effort to be made that animals are protected.

Although humans have felt the rewards of the successes of the research, animals should not be subjected to pain and suffering for the benefits of human luxuries.

Many people are misinformed about what tests are being done to animals when they are being experimented on.

When asked about animal testing, the first thought that

comes to mind is the thought of putting makeup on a rabbit.

When in reality, animals are injected with chemicals, electrocuted and cut and prodded to the point of torture.

Ironically, all of these tests are done for human welfare, but the animal welfare is ignored. Many say that animals themselves benefit from the 'research', but pictures and studies further prove this to be incorrect.

Another concern is what happens after an animals is tested on, for the consequences can be horrendous. Animals can be left with immobile limbs and loss of nerves.

Ethics also dictate that the value of each life can't be chosen over the potential of another. Testing on one child for the lives of 100 adults would not happen in today's society.

Additionally, it is important to realize that animals feel pain almost the exact same way humans do. Every day, animals are being tested on by being subjected to pain through chemical and electrical torture.

Companies are not the only ones that test on animals.

Universities also test on animals for research.

At many universities, including University of Utah, University of California-San Francisco, and University of Washington, monkeys have holes drilled into their head, metal restraints clamped on their heads and electrodes inserted into their brain.

There are alternatives available to animal testing as well. There are human clinical and epidemiological studies which have been proven to be more reliable.

The problem is most people do not care, and find this problem trivial and pointless. They do not see the point in being involved in something that does not affect them.

However, being involved does not have to mean being a full activist and being involved in protest, but there are other ways to be easily involved.

There are many alternatives that can be replaced in anyone s cosmetic selections or in their closet.

Many other cosmetic companies such as Physicians Formula and Nyx Cosmetics are alternatives that are cruelty free. Bold for Men is a cruelty free shaving cream, that can be used instead of Gillette, which tests their shaving creams and gels on animals.

Even the most popular brands, such as Post-It, which tests for blindness and skin irritancy on animals.

Crest, another major brand also tests on animals by injecting animals with Again, why should students care or even be aware of the subject?

With all of this knowledge, students have choices.

Armed with the ability to understand their choices, students are now more aware.

Being informed about this issue can make you aware about popular products that fill stores, and make you rethink what products to choose.

Pictures printed with permission from PETA

BY ASEAL SAED In Depth Editor

Would you ever consider being a vegetarian or vegan?

"No, because I need my daily dose of protein."

JUSTIN PEREZ freshman

"Yes, because animals shouldn't be treated the way they are in slaughterhouses"

"Yes, being vegetarian is a healthy lifestyle and it can help me prevent illnesses."

TIYA AYELE

CLAYTON PEDRO

freshman

sophomore

"No, because I think meat is an essential part of my diet."

SERENE GHUL sophomore

"No, because I like to eat meat too much, and I just couldn't go without eating normal food"

"No, because most of my favorite foods include meat or are only meat"

ADRIANNA ROMANO

senior

NATNAEL WELDEGIORGIS

junior

The truth about animal testing...

To capture monkeys for testing, trappers shoot the mothers from trees and capture the babies that cling to their dead mothers

Over 100 million animals are burned, crippled, poisoned and abused in other ways in US labs every year.

Chickens are drugged to grow so large, causing organ failure, heart attacks, and crippling leg deformities.

Rabbits backs are shaved and corrosive chemicals are applied to their raw skin, and after the experiments they are killed.

92 out of 100 every 100 drugs that pass on animal tests fail in humans.

In slaughterhouses, male cows are shot through their brain with metal rods and hung upsidedown with their throats slit.

Pictures printed with permission from PETA

IN-DEPTH 11

Sept. 29, 2015

FOR ANIMA ABUSE A week of being a vegetarian

DAY 1: 9/14

DAY 2: 9/15

DAY 3: 9/16

DAY 4: 9/17

Breakfast: Blueberry pancakes Staff writer, Grace Hogye endeavored to become vegetarian for a week. She articled her feelings and meals The first day was the hardest. I felt like I had less energy. Breakfast was the easy part, but throughout the day I felt like I had less and less energy.

Snack: Cinnamon Roll As a morning snack I ate a small cinnamon roll which was quite filling. I wasn't thinking about meat all day because I was confident from the day before.

Lunch: School Salad The third day was also difficult. I decided to try the lunch vegetarian option which was disappointing. It was not filling and left me hungry.

Lunch: Macaroni and Cheese This was a typical meal, and I realized that it was quite easy eating as a vegetarian. A lot of simple meals do not have meat and not all vegetarian meals requires a salad.

DAY 5: 9/18

DAY 6: 9/19

DAY 7: 9/20

Dinner: Dumplings and Corn The fifth day also gave a good outcome, I found a lot more options of food around the house. It was easy finding options, and made me more aware of my healthy choices.

Snack: Peanut butter and Jelly A perfect afternoon snack is a small peanut butter and jelly sandwich. It was getting easier to live without meat. My body felt much better stronger.

Dinner:Veggie Burger The veggie burger was significantly better then I expected. I never really expected this journey to be so easy. The beginning was hard, and I felt weaker. However, if you get other alternatives to your daily dose of protein than it is easy.

Warning: Are YOU supporting animal testing?

Colgate

Ralph Lauren

Maybelline

Gillette

Neutrogena

Colgate tests for its deodorant, shampoo, shaving creams, shower gels, and their toothpastes. An alternative is Tom's of Maine.

Ralph Lauren fragrances tests on animals, for both men and women. Alternatives include Bath and Body Works and LUSH Cosmetics.

Maybelline tests for their mascara, eye shadow, foundation products. Alternatives include BH cosmetics and E.L.F. Cosmetics.

Gillete tests its shaving creams and gels on animals.

Alternatives include Pure Silk and Avalon Organics.

Neutrogena hasn't disclosed what products they test on.

However, Neutrogena naturals are not tested. An alternative is Physician's Formula.

Sorce: Alertmedical.org

A field of greens: Atoms making an ethical change Students explain what made them vegetarians

By BINQI CHEN In Depth Editor

M

any students cannot imagine a life without meat. Cattle, poultry, and dairy are products that have become staple pieces in many diets.

However, sophomores Megan Lee and Anna Vogus have made the life-changing decision to ditch the meats and become vegetarians.

Vegetarianism is the practice of not eating meat, fish and poultry. Vegetarians who decline the use and consumption of any animals products such as milk, eggs, cheese, leather and wool are called vegans.

There are many other subdivisions of vegetarianism such as being a lacto-vegetarian, someone who does not eat meat but does allow dairy products, or a ovo-vegetarian, a vegetarian that consumes eggs.

These different choices are made strictly due to the personal beliefs of one person and can vary widely from one vegetarian to another.

There are many reasons why people decide to be vegetarians, including ethical reasons such as compassion for animals rights, worries of world hunger and environmental concerns.

Other chose this lifestyle simply due to health reasons or disliking the taste of animal products.

For Lee and Vogus, they were influenced by someone

else about the lives of animals and later conducted their own research.

Vogus was inspired to go vegan after a conversation with her best friend Katie Dow. "We were talking about how makeup companies use animals for their projects, and I realized that I didn't know that much about what animals are put through."

Vogus then went online and watched educational videos on the topic.

There were specific scenes that left an imprint in her mind such as one when the farmers struck a milking cow after she had given birth to keep her pregnant.

"They had this machine that they put the little chicks in by their beaks," Vogus said.

Currently, there are many documentaries such as "Cowspiracy", "Earthlings" and "If Slaughterhouses Had Glass Walls Everybody Would Be a Vegetarian" that highlight the cruelty and environmental dangers that the agricultural industry has created.

Although the vegetarian lifestyle has gained popularity in recent years, many people still express their questions and doubts about this diet.

One of the most frequently asked questions about this lifestyle is whether or not a person is able to receive all the nutrients and protein that they would normally get from animal products.

These concerns are set to rest because vegetarians can still load up on all the nutrients they need by eating foods such as peanut butter, soy, kale and spinach.

"I eat a lot of beans and rice mixed with a variety of sources of wheat. The list goes on of how many vegetables you can benefit from that are full of protein,"

Lee said, "Tofu and other "meatless meats" are another easy way to fit in protein and any other vitamins I may occasionally miss out on."

Despite various concerns and misconceptions about lacking vitamins from onlookers, both Lee and Vogus say that being a vegetarian has improved their overall daily energy and mood.

"In one video, farmers struck a milking cow after she had given birth to keep her pregnant."

Anna Vogus sophomore

Vogus said that without the heavy meats in her meals, she feels much healthier than before the switch.

Lee is a three-peat athlete and being a vegetarian is definitely an advantage."I definitely feel much more energized than I ever had been before, and I believe it's helped me with my day-to-day stamina and endurance," Lee said, "It's helped me maintain a healthier lifestyle overall."

Vogus has been a vegetarian since the eighth grade and Lee started her switch by being a pescatarian,

eating fish as her only source meat, for nine months before becoming fully vegetarian five months ago.

Since they have already made the switch to becoming vegetarians, Lee and Vogus both say that they are open-minded to the vegan lifestyle as well.

Vogus said that she plans to go vegan once she goes to college.

"Once I go off to college and have to do my own grocery shopping, I will definitely make the switch," Vogus said.

Even though both sophomores are the only ones in their respectives families that are vegetarians, they still receive their parents full support.

Lee's parents were originally against the idea because they were worried about her performance as an athlete.

"Not only are they okay with it now, but they support me and help in any way that they can, whether it's making a meat-free dinner or making sure I get all the vitamins I need," Lee said.

When asked about giving encouragement to others who are considering the vegetarian diet, the girls show their full enthusiasm.

Both say that even though the transition might be difficult at first, the end result and the cause one is supporting is worth it.

"One person can really make the difference," Vogus explains, "You are saving a ton of lives just by limiting your intake. Treating everyone, even animals, equally really shows how much you care and value every life."

12 INTERNATIONAL Russia complicates Syrian situation Putin heightens military presence in Syria, tension increases

BY NICK MORTENSEN Staff Writer The Islamic State is not known for its prowess in the use of attack helicopters or supersonic fighters. Despite this fact, Russian and western officials have confirmed that Russia is sending several SA-22 "Greyhound" air defense systems to Syria as a part of its military aid to the Assad regime.

The presence of these systems, while presenting an eight-wheeled, boxy eyesore to the occupants of Latakia (where many SA-22s are being stationed), also presents a possible danger to Western militaries fighting against the Islamic State, as well as a larger geopolitical concern.

Though Western militaries headed by the United States have not committed their own soldiers in the region, they have carried out airstrikes against ISIS for around a year.

Many of these airstrikes take place in the sovereign airspace of Syria.

Though the Syrian military is overextended fighting Syrian rebels and the Islamic State, the presence of these air defense systems is still a cause for concern, and not because these systems pose an immediate threat to Western air forces.

The SA-22 is advertised as a "short range" air defense system (imagine the anti-aircraft guns of WWII, but add modern firing computers and make them fire several hundred times faster). Additionally, these systems have thus far only been deployed in Latakia, an Assad stronghold, so it is unlikely that Western air forces would be flying within range of these systems.

That said, the presence of these systems do not pose an immediate military threat. Instead, they represent a worrying long-term military threat.

At this point in time, it is clear that Russia has completed, or is very close to completing a base in Syria.

Russian troops have been deployed into Syria in large numbers, and Russian fighter squadrons are being moved into the region.

The presence of troops, planes and armored vehicles can be excused by Russia's commitment to protecting

the Assad regime. However, the presence of air defense systems creates uncertainty of what Russia's true intentions are.

As previously mentioned, the Islamic State does not have any air force to speak of. These weapon systems are essentially useless against the Islamic State, but are still being deployed in significant numbers by the Russian military, and are being operated by Russian crews.

These systems are being deployed to defend a Russian base located close to a warm water port, an economic asset that Russia holds in limited numbers.

It is evident that Russia is using the Syrian conflict to exert greater control over the Middle East. The creation of a base in the port city of Latakia, the deployment of air defense systems and the commitment to propping up the Assad regime all indicate that Russia is exploiting the current instability in Syria as a means to political and economic gain.

The aforementioned warm water port would be a massive asset to Russian shipping, and the increased military aid to Syria is no doubt helping Russia's defense industry.

That being said, Russia's presence in the region is a major long-term threat to peace within the Middle East.

Once Russia seizes a region, the nation is generally unwilling to give it up.

This has been a running theme in Russia's recent history, including its unwillingness to grant autonomy to Warsaw Pact nations until the very end of the Cold War, and its recent annexation of the Ukrainian-owned Crimea.

Though the West has tolerated Russia's annexation of Crimea, a military base right next to a warm water port held by different nations is another matter entirely.

There is no guarantee that the Assad regime will survive the Syrian conflict, and if a potential successor state wants the Russians to leave, there is a risk that the Russians will refuse. It is this possibility of refusal that makes the presence of Russian-crewed air defense systems in Syria such a cause for concern.

It is an act that indicates that the Russians are willing to defend their base against a force that actually has an air force.

Since the Assad regime is in no position to be bombing a base belonging to the country that is essentially arming the Syrian military, the only possible threat Russia could be anticipating is from Western militaries.

If the West wanted Russia to leave Syria and threatened military action, Russia would have the capability to fight against land or air forces. In a world where many Western nations and Russians are increasingly at odds, this is a very real possibility.

The Syrian conflict in a five year timeline

PETER BUSSIAN USAID.GOV

Sept. 29, 2015

Syrian children growing up in Jordan participate in a fingerpainting activity representing peace.

Do you think the United States should be involved in the Syrian War?

March 2011

July 2012 A bombing took place at the Syrian National Security building in Damascus. The bombing took place during a political meeting at the building where four were killed.

The fighting spread to the largest city in Aleppo. rebels took over the half the city.

Protesters gathered at Damuscus asking for democratic reforms, civil liberties and freedom for prisoners. That day was called the "Day of Rage."

JOE GARCIA freshman

"I do not think so because it is not a domestic issue for the U.S. The war is between ISIS and the Middle Eastern countries"

"Yes, I think the U.S. should be involed because we love world peace."

KASEY RICHITT junior

"No because we have been overseas before and it takes longer for the troops to come back."

JANAN GOKTURK

SOYED SAYED

"I would have a hard time reconciling that this is truly important to our national security.

We should not have boots on the ground."

senior

sophomore

JOEL JEPSON teacher

American Stories June 2013 As the conflict progressed, Syrian rebels took over different cities. More than 1,400 civilians died near cities that possesed chemical weapons.

January 2014 Different rebels spread to different locations of the country, forming the Islamic State of Iraq and the levant. Islamic State groups took control over Syria's largest oil field.

Also, Brahimi resigned as UN Arab League envoy to Syria.

Islamic States take over northern and western of Iraq. ISIS now controls half of Syria and Iraq.

Violence and deaths increases over time.

"No, I do not think we should be involved in the war because we are on the other side of the world."

Sept 2015 The U.S. decided to take action on the conflict.

The U.S. sent airstrikers to the conflict zones. A report released by UN revealed that more than 220,000 civilians have died.

source by Al-Arabi Website.

Student shares her transition from El Salvador to the U.S.

BY YOSELYN CABRERA Special to The A-Blast My new journey started on December 16, 2013. I was 15 years old when I first came to the United States.

I had to be separated from all the people who I grew up with. After 15 years of living in my country, I had to say goodbye, which was the worst goodbye ever. My world was divided into two parts.

I still remember the tears on my face. I will never forget that day because it was the beginning of a new chapter in my life.

First of all, in life you learn that sometimes it's good to move some place else from where you lived before. I came to the U.S. with my mom. She went to my country El Salvador, to bring me here with her.

She wanted me to come to the U.S. because she wanted me to have a better future. My impression about this country was really good since the first day of my arrival.

I liked to see how clean the streets were compared to some places in El Salvador. I also liked to see people from different cultures living together. I never imagined how different everything would be here in the States.

The climate was so different from my country. The day that I arrived here in Virginia was very cold. I had heard that in this country, when winter comes, it gets very cold, but I never imagined it like that. At the end, I met my siblings for the first time.

I was so happy to see them, but I also knew how difficult it would be to live with them. In the beginning, it was hard to live with them but as the time passed, we learned how to live together, and our relationship got better over time.

Furthermore, I had to adapt to a lot of new changes. One of them was adapting to the language. That was hard but not impossible. At the beginning, I felt so bad because I heard all the other people speaking in English, and I just knew a little English.

Also, one of the biggest changes was to live with my new family here in the U.S. I used to speak to them on the phone when I was in El Salvador, but it was a different experience living with them.

However, They tried their best to make me feel good. I could tell it was hard but it was also a new experience to start a life with them.

Finally, I matured a lot when I came. I understood a lot of things that in the past I thought were different. In this country I knew that I could do a lot of things that I could not do in my country.

In conclusion, when I moved away from my country, I used to think a lot about my family in El Salvador. They were so far away from me, and I thought that if something happened to them, I was not going to be able to do anything to help. I felt lost from the inside.

A part of me was here, but the other half was over there in my country. Also, being separated from my family and friends was not easy for me.

However, they gave me a reason to keep trying and make them feel proud of me. As time passed, I made new friends and I also met new amazing people. I missed all the things that I used to do with my family like celebrating my birthday, Christmas and sharing time with them.

Finally, I have a lot of dreams that I want to come true because dreams don't happen by themselves unless you do something. I want to study hard and be a professional in the future. I'll never forget where I came from.

I can tell my journey wasn't easy but now I'm here and I have to keep moving forward to complete my journey. There comes a time in life when you'll have to leave everything behind and start something new. That was exactly what I did.

I had to adapt to another country which was completely different from mine but I'm happy living here now. I missed my old life but I understand that I now have to think about my present and work hard for a good future.

13 PEOPLE

Sept. 29, 2015

Students excel in club sports ROBERT FIGLEY: Rugby

TYLER WESTFALL: Ice Hockey

When did you start? I started playing rugby when I was 13.

How did you start? My dad has been playing since he was in high school so he originally got me involved with rugby, so I've grown up around the sport.

Do you wish AHS had a team? I wouldn't mind if AHS had a team, but I'd still play for my club that I play for now because I have grown up around the coaches there and they are like my family.

What is your favorite thing about the sport? My favorite thing about rugby is that anyone can get the ball and run down field and score.

Do you plan on doing this sport in college or after high school? I plan on playing for the college I go to and plan on continuing to play after college as well.

Is it hard to balance being an athlete and student? It's actually easier to participate while being a student because practice is usually only two or three times a week.

When did you start? I started skating and learning how to play when I was about five years old.

How did you start? My dad grew up in Rochester, New York which is a big hockey area, so he played almost all his life and he introduced me and my brother to the game and we loved it.

Do you wish AHS had a team? I would love for AHS to have a team. I really enjoy going to AHS and I would like to represent my school.

What is your favorite thing about the sport? The thing I love the most about hockey is the complexity of it. There is so many things that you can work on making you a better player.

Do you plan on doing this sport in college or after high school? I am definitely planning on doing Hockey after high school and it would be incredible to play it in college.

Is it hard to balance being an athlete and student? It can be hard to balance playing hockey and being a student because there are a lot of late nights trying to finish homework after hockey practice.

JENNIFER HALL: Figure Skating

ADITYA CHATURVEDI: Cricket

When did you start? I picked up ice skating when I was about eight years old.

How did you start? I remember always thinking that it was such a cool sport, and then when I was about seven years old, one of my close friends threw her birthday party at an ice rink in Reston called SkateQuest.

Do you wish AHS had a team? I don't think I'd want AHS to have a team, mostly because it's more of an individual sport.

What is your favorite thing about the sport? My favorite thing about this sport is that I've never felt like practicing was a chore.

Do you plan on doing this sport in college or after high school? I think I will be too busy to continue this sport throughout college, though I will definitely go once in a while to have a good time and get some exercise.

Is it hard to balance being an athlete and student? It's definitely hard to balance being a student and doing a sport outside of school.

When did you start? I started playing cricket at the age of eight.

How did you start? I was born in India, and the major sport you play is cricket. Just like in America how many boys and some girls play football.

Who did you play for India? I played for fun and then for the school team when I lived in India, and later for the state of Deli.

Who do you play for now? I now play for the state of Virginia team, Virginia 11.

What is your favorite thing about the sport?

I like cricket because it taught me how to be patient, as well as how to be confident. It has also taught me leadership qualities.

Do you want to play after high school? If I go to college in the U.S. I wish to play for a collegiate team.

Do you find it hard to balance school and the sport? I don't find it hard to play cricket and manage schoolwork because I just think of it as fun.

How often to you play? In the summer I play every day, and during the school year I only play on the weekends. I am also starting the cricket club.

GRANT THOMPSON: Ice Hockey

FEIHONG RODELL: Fencing

When did you start? I started playing hockey when I was about four or five.

How did you start? I got into hockey because of my dad. He love hockey and started me off with skating lessons, which eventually led into playing the sport.

How did you start? I would love if AHS had a team, because then AHS could come support and watch me play. The ladies would love me.

What is your favorite thing about the sport? My favorite thing about hockey is scoring. I feel great when I score and I feel like I did my part on the ice.

Is it hard to balance being an athlete and student? Playing hockey and being a student can be hard at times. As long as you manage your time, you'll be fine.

How much do you do it every week? I spend a couple hours a day practing, then a couple hours on the weekend at games.

Who do you play for now? I play for the Northern Virginia Ice Dogs.

When did you start? I started fencing when I was eight.

How did you start? It was too long ago to remember how I got into fencing, but I was hooked when I started.

How did you start?I wish AHS had a team because there is a lot of team pride in fencing.

What is your favorite thing about the sport? My favorite part about fencing is how I get to travel to Europe for competitions.

Do you plan on doing this sport in college or after high school? I plan on competing in NCAAs in college.

Is it hard to balance being an athlete and student? It's a difficult task to be a student athlete, however it is possible to make it work.

How much do you do it every week? I fence three hours minimum, four days a week, excluding cardio and weightlifting.

Who do you play for now? I fence for the U.S. Team and D.C. Fencers Club. The organization name is United States Fencing Association.

WHO AM I? I attended UVA, Arizona State, Oklahoma State, Penn State, George Washington University and VCU

Alumni Postcard Rahel Tecle Background: Tecle graduated last year with the class of 2015.

While at AHS, she participated in Leadership and The A-Blast.

I was born in Atwater, CA My pets consist of a guppy and a yellow fish

College life: Tecle currently attends VCU. She is a doublemajor in International Studies and International Relations.

My favorite activities are hiking, going to the opera and anthropological science

Favorite class: Her International Relations class.

My favorite vacation was to London, Stockholm and the French Alps

Biggest fear at college: Failing a really difficult or important exam.

My favorite movie is Solaris and my favorite TV show is

Doctor Who

Best thing about college: Being independent and living your own life like an adult would.

My favorite color is blue and my favorite food is hummus My favorite genre of music is the opera

What I miss about AHS: Seeing all of my friends and the teachers I had there.

If I could live anywhere in the world, it would be the International Space Station On your smartphone,

What its like visiting AHS: Its weird coming back and having this not be my home anymore, it's still weird to think that I graduated.

scan this code using the application QR Code to find the answer to the Who Am I.

Advice to graduating seniors: Form a good studying habit because you don't want to fall behind or fail your first semester of college.

I have been at AHS for six years

14 LIFESTYLES

Sept. 29, 2015

F

ALL ASHION Sweater dress

Just because summer is over, it does not mean you cannot wear cute dresses. Sweater dresses are super warm and cozy while still being fashionable.

You can wear your sweater dress with either high knee socks and booties or pantyhoes and knee high boots. You can find this sweater dress at Forever 21 for a reasonable price of $15.95.

Turtleneck

Instead of a scarves, turtlenecks are an excellent way to stay warm if you do not have a scarf. They are also very comfortable and can be incorporated in many different ways with your outfit. You can find this sweater in many colors at Forever 21.

Booties

Get rid of all your sandals and bring out the boots!

These booties are from Zara for $50. You can wear them with almost any outfit; dressed up or dress down.

Trench coat

You're going to want to cover up this fall and an easy and stylish way to do so is by wearing a trench coat! You are able to wear these types of coats with almost any outfit and get away with it.

One way you can wear it is with a sweater, high knee socks and a skirt. You can buy this coat from H&M for $40.

Scarves

During the harsh fall weather scarves are the best way to keep you warm and add a cute accessory to your outfit! You can find this scarf at Forever 21 for only $10.

MAKE UP DO'S AND DON'TS DON'TS DO'S 1. Do fill in your eyebrows lightly and with a light color

1. Don't fill in your eyebrows too dark.

2. Don't use dark eyeshadows unless you're trying to create a smokey eye.

2. Do use a natural eyeshadow and make sure to blend!

3. Do use a blush that compliments your skin tone, a little goes a long way.

3. Don't use too much blush!

MODEL: ANNA PEREZ, BY THIDA PATHAMMAVONG

4. Don't overline your lips with lipstick.

5. Don't use a darker shade for your foundation.

4. Do use a lip liner to trace your lips.

5. Do use the right shade of foundation that matches your skin tone and blends well around your face and neck.

YOUTUBE MAKEUP GURUS 1. Zoe Sugg (Zoella)

2. Carli Bybel

2,601,430 subscribers

(Carlibel55) 3,374,663 subscribers

Zoe Sugg is the most well -known and successful beauty guru. Her YouTube consists of beauty videos, daily vlogs, and funny collaborations with other YouTubers.

Carli Bybel is very talented when it comes to applying make up. She does a variety of makeup looks, ranging from "a no makeup look" to a more dramatic look.

FASHION SPOTLIGHT Tara El-Achi, 11 Q. How did you learn how to dress?

A. My good friend Soulisa and my older brother Brody.

Q. Where do you like to shop?

A. The stores I like to shop at are Zara, Topshop, Forever 21 and H&M. Q. What are your favorite clothing pieces?

A. My favorite pieces in my closet are my flowy patterned shorts and halter tops.

Q. What is your outfit for school or a date?

A. An outfit for school would probably be flowy shorts and a halter top. My perfect outfit for a date would be jeans, a cute top and strapped sandals.

Q. On your lazy days what do you prefer to wear?

A. On lazy days I usually wear a loose shirt, cardigan and leggings.

Q. What is your favorite season to dress for?

A. Summer, because I love the colors and the freshness.

Q. How long does it take you to get ready?

A. It usually takes me about 40 to 45 minutes to get ready.

Q. How much do you usually invest in clothing?

A. I spend like $300 on clothes.

Q. What are your favorite pair of shoes?

A. My favorite pair of shoes are my strappy sandals, because they go with anything and they're very comfortable.

Q. Do you dress to impress or dress for yourself?

A. I dress for myself, because I just want to look good.

Q. Who is your fashion inspiration?

A. I get my inspiration from Pinterest. The app always has great outfits.

Q. What's your favorite accessory to add to your outfit?

A. My favorite accessories are my watch, rings and bracelets.

3. Nic And Sam Chapman(Pixiwoo) 1,884,832 subscribers The two sisters are not only known for their YouTube channel, but for their Real Technique Brushes that all YouTube gurus use. They both create high-quality makeup looks for anyone to achieve!

15 SPORTS X-TRA

Sept. 29, 2015

Washington's QB dilemma

BY HEZEKIEL YONAS Editor in Chief Some things in life happen so often that they become givens- the sun rising in the morning, the seasons changing and the Washington Redskins being plagued with unnecessary drama.

For the last 20 years, the Redskins have been in the news for controversy about their team name, overpaying free agents that ultimately amount to nothing and most infamously, having issues with the quarterback position.

In February, Coach Jay Gruden said that Robert Griffin III was the starting quarterback, but after a preseason game against Detroit, in which he got completely pummelled until he was concussed, Gruden would later decide to go in favor of Kirk Cousins.

RGIII is the most athletic quarterback in the league, and he might be able to find success on an NFL team, but he won't with the Redskins. His relationship with Gruden seems so tarnished that it can't be mended. But RGIII shouldn't want to play on a team with an abysmal offensive line, a coach that keeps me in a meaningless

Kirk Cousins scanning the field trying to find an open receiver. preseason game where I'm getting pounded by enormous defensive lineman and for a city that uses him as a scapegoat for two decades worth of failure.

And wasn't the sole reason Gruden was brought to Washington was to help RGIII develop his pocket presence? Yet he gave up on him so quickly.

In Griffin's rookie year, he easily had the best season a Redskin's quarterback has had in recent memory.

year. Even though he probably wouldn't start on a majority of teams, he seems comfortable in the pocket, and he's capable of leading the team down the field.

If RGIII isn't the franchise quarterback anymore, why don't they just cut him? Due to how his contract is structured, if he gets injured this season, Washington will owe him $16.2 million for the 2016 season. Doesn't seem like the smartest of deals because Griffin has been plagued by injuries since his college days.

Cutting RGIII would be ideal for both sides.

Griffin would get a fresh start on a new team, and the Redskins can move on from the soap opera that has been going on for the last few years.

Hopefully for Gruden, Cousins will be the right quarterback for Washington. But if Cousins doesn't perform well or gets injured, and Griffin takes his place and plays well, people will wonder why Gruden was so quick to bench Griffin. If this scenario comes into fruition, Gruden's lack of faith in Griffin could get him kicked out the door because owner Dan Snyder is a strong supporter of the former first round pick.

The recent struggles from Cousins in a recent 21-32 loss to the New York Giants makes it seem baffling that someone actually agreed to have this guy start in the NFL. "I don't think Kirk Cousins should start over McCoy or RGIII, because he threw two interceptions, and hasn't converted his passes to his wide receivers," senior Katie Pacak said.

In conclusion, Kirk Cousins is currently the starting quarterback of the team, but who is going to start at the end of the season is anyone's guess.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WASHINGTON REDSKINS

Redskins find themselves in the middle of another starting quarterback controversy

Sadly, the 2012 RGIII doesn't seem like he will show up this year in Washington.

For right now, Cousins is the man at the helm, but will his stint as the starter even last long?

Backup quarterback Colt McCoy had a pretty solid preseason and might create some competition for Cousins. According to ESPN.com, McCoy's quarterback rating of 96.4 was higher than both Griffin and Cousins last

Heard in the Hall: Who do you think should be the starting QB for the Redskins?

"Kirk Cousins because RG3 keeps getting injured."

"I think McCoy will be "Kirk Cousins the next quarterback because RG3 sucks." for the Redskins ANISSA CHEIKH because Kirk Cousins JESSICA ROOP freshman throws too many sophomore interceptions."

ALEX BELLEM

"I think it will be Kirk Cousins, because he has had more success in last games than RG Three. "

"Colt McCoy because he was straight nasty at Texas."

NATNAL ENDALKACHEW sophomore

freshman

"I think that Kirk Cousins should start because RGIII 's past performances have not been good."

"I hate the Redskins and RG3 sucks."

BRANDON HO junior

WILL CHASE senior

"I think Tim Tebow should be the next Redskin's quarterback, he's good, available and the girls love him."

ALY COTRINA junior

JAMIE CARAYIANNAS Administrator

Q&A with Makayla Lopez: The only girl on the field WR/CB takes on freshmen football as the only female Q: When did you start playing?

A: I just started playing this year.

A: Yeah, they're very nice and I'm really close with them.

Q: What made you want to join the team?

A: I've been wanting to join on a team ever since I started playing with the guys for fun but I didn't know when or how to do so, so when I got the chance freshman year, I took it.

Q: When you go to play games and the guys on the opposing team see that you're a female, do they look at you differently?

A: During games they will huddle up and set plays on me, but at the end of a game they say good job and respect me as a player.

Q: How does it feel to be the only girl on the team?

A: At first it was weird because I thought they wouldn't like me, but now they're a family to me and I enjoy being on a team with them.

Q: Do you feel intimidated by the guys?

A: No, I do not feel intimidated by the guys.

Q: Do you plan on playing all throughout high school?

A: As time goes on the guys will get bigger and I'm going to stay small, so I don't think I'll be playing for the next three years.

Q: What position do you play?

A: I play wide receiver and corner.

Q: What interests you about football?

A: The contact part of the sport is what interests me the most.

Q: How do your parents feel about you playing football?

A: My parents don't really mind, they actually encourage me to do it.

Q: What do the coaches expect of you?

A: What they expect of me is what they expect from the guys.

Q: What do you do to stay fit?

A: In order to stay fit, I usually just drink lots of water and exercise

Q: Do you feel like you are treated differently because of your gender?

A: Yeah I do, because when we go to games and what not, they underestimate you and think you're slower than the rest of the players so they put most plays on you.

Q: What are people's reaction when you tell them you play freshman football?

A: I don't really tell people, they are usually just really surprised when they find out that I am a girl on the freshmen football team.

Q: Do your teammates make you feel comfortable and welcomed?

FANTASY FOOTBALL ADVICE: DOs and DONTs WHAT NOT TO DO: what to do: -Do use cheat sheets -Do look out for sleepers -Do go for risks -Do look out for rookies -Do get a variety of positions -Do go for players on the last year of their contract -Do pay attention to NFL news -Do make smart trades -Do download a fantasy football app -Do check previous game logs -Do pay attention to your league's scoring system -Do stock up on wide receivers -Do remember to have fun!

-Don't auto-draft -Don't only rely on predictions -Don't only draft players from your favorite team -Don't go for a kicker until the later rounds -Don't rely on a star player to carry your team -Don't forget about your bench -Don't make unreasonable trades -Don't pick up one day wonders -Don't fall for rookies -Don't make crazy wagers if you cannot pay -Don't pick up old QBs -Don't waste a draft pick on a kicker -Don't accept trades right away -Don't draft your QB too late -Don't take it too seriously, it's just a game!

16 SPORTS

Sept. 29, 2015

Friday Night Lights: The Beginning

BY CREW MCCARTHY Staff Writer Following up that fantastic performance against the W.T. Woodson Caveliers the Atoms go into the battle against the Thomas Jefferson nerds with a lot of confidence. The Atoms opened up the game last friday with a opening touchdown on the very first play by senior Beau Hatch.

The Atom's Varsity Football Team has had a good start to the 2015 season. After the first four weeks, the Atoms hold a 2-2 record which is the same record they had last year after four weeks. The first two weeks did not go as well as the team was expecting. The first was a close battle, the Atoms losing 17-27 to Centreville, and the other was a disappointing 0-40 loss to Lake Braddock.

Head coach Mike Scott said "We played hard in both games, In the Centreville game, we had a lot of opportunities to win but we couldn't finish. In the Lake Braddock game we made too many mental mistakes early and they took advantage of our miscues."

After the losses, the team was hungry for their first win.

Throughout the next week, the

team trained vigorously to ensure their victory in the upcoming game against J.E.B. Stuart. They felt confident about their preparation and were ready to play.

"Win or loss, our goal is to get better every day, every rep, every play," Scott said.

"I challenge our team to get one percent better every day."

The Atoms ended up having a decisive 37-17 victory over J.E.B., their first win of the season. After the win, the team's morale was very high. But when practice rolled around the next week, the team had their mind set towards getting a victory over Woodson.

"To get ready for the game, we do 7v7's, inside run, execution period going through plays and 11v11's," senior starting quarterback Tucker Mack said.

"We had a rough start to the season because we played two of the best teams in the region but we bounced back and feel we are going to do really well for the rest of the season," junior linebacker Matthew Vogus said.

All their hard work put in that week paid off because they ended up beating Woodson 48-43. In the first half the Atoms dominated the Cavaliers on both offense and defense, but in the second half, the

COURTESY OF TUCKER MACK

The Atoms plan on keeping the good time rolling against the TJ

Tucker Mack scrambling away from the Centerville Wildcats on Sept 4. In a loss With a score of 17 to 27

tides turned and Woodson started to come back. It came down to a nail biting ending but the Atoms persevered and came out on top.

"I thought we played great and we played as a team," junior

backup quarterback Liam Conroy said. Throughout the season so far it is clear to see that a major strength of the team is its defense thanks to outstanding linebacker plays.

Although the score lines don't show

it, the team really feels the defense has been showing up.

"Our defense has been really killing it so far," Vogus said. "Other strengths include the physical condition and the physicality we

play with," Mack said. The offense has also made a big turnaround, scoring 85 points in the last two weeks compared to only 17 points in the first two. This is thanks to playmakers like Jalen Jackson, Tim Johnson, Colin Corey, Beau Hatch, Tucker Mack and Justin Foster to name a few.

"All those guys and more can make explosive plays at any time," Scott said. These strengths have the team feeling better than ever. The team also feels that they don't have as many weaknesses and their daily training helps this feeling become a reality.

"Our biggest weakness is probably our depth at certain positions," Mack said.

Obviously the Atoms are looking to win all of their games, but something that will always be there, win or loss, is the hype squad.

The hype squad is a collection of students banded together to root for and cheer on AHS sports teams.

The hype squad go to each and every one of the football games, home or away, and support the Atoms. The 'hype squad plays an important role because they pump us up and help fuel our momentum and play," Mack said.

The Atoms have six games left in their season with the next game being a home game this Friday, Oct. 2 against the Thomas Jefferson Colonials. It will be a blackout so come out and support your Atoms.

What do you think will be the toughest game of the season?

"Lake Braddock, we always lose to them and they have a good sports program."

SESINA BEYENE

"I think the toughest opponent will be TC Williams becuse they have a great football program"

freshman

"Lake Braddock, because they are good at everything."

"Lake Braddock because they beat us 40-0."

"South County because they beat Westfield and they are very strong.'"

" South County because they are fast and very fit, because they work hard."

SAMMY SANCHEZ

CEASAR LOPEZ

"I think it will be South County because they are really good at football."

sophomore

sophomore

CARSON GOETT

RYAN PEICH

JAMIAH HARRISON

junior

junior

senior

JUSTIN PEREZ

"Lake Braddock because they creamed us."

RISKY ALVARADO senior

freshman

Cross Country looks to run up the standings in the Patriot District

BY SHEILA AGUIRRE Videographer The AHS boys cross-country team is making sure they work hard this season and hoping to make best of the season to come.

"Our goal is to work hard as a team and compete at the highest level at every meet, but also have fun and enjoy running as a lifestyle, not just a sport," boys cross country coach Ivy Roe said.

Not only are they planning to work harder than the previous season, each individual has created a goal for this season alone.

"I plan on doing this by working hard every day and not slacking off to achieve my goal of beating 17 minutes at districts," junior Youssef El-Bourki said.

Improvements are key in helping the boys come closer to their goals this season. Sophomore

Natnal Endalkachew feels he has to improve his time and plans to achieve this goal by working hard during every practice. All the boys plan to give a 100 percents during their practices in order to get closer to obtaining their goal.

Coach Roe's view is that teamwork and consistency of training will have every athlete having a positive attitude which will make cross country as enjoyable as can be. New cross country runners like freshman Cam Foti are excited for the season to come and have already achieved one of the goals they set by giving a 100 percents effort at practices.

"I am proudest of my time at Monroe Parker meet," Foti said. "I beat my goal time by two minutes."

The team never lets a negative mindset come forth when preparing for a meet.

"During a race I am always mentally prepared and always tell myself

I can beat the person in front of me," El- Bourki said. Having such a positive mindset helps the members strive to get their goals.

The most recent races of the season were at the PR Invitational on August 27 and at the Oatlands Invitational on Sept. 19. junior Mahiteme Tigabu placed 15th at the PR Invitational and he, as well as his twin brother Dagim Tigabu, placed 19th and 13th. The first quad meet had the team taking the top three spots with Mahiteme Tigabut, senior Risky Alvarado and Dagim Tigabu as well as sophmore Tyler Westfall and freshman Abbey Yared placing in the top 10.

"The team as a whole is very strong and has the best pre-race chant in the area!" coach Roe said.

The meets they've had so far have left members of the team excited about the season to come. Conference gives the chance for athletes to compete hard and move on to Regionals and possibly State.

Boys cross country is excited for all the meets to come and cannot wait to accomplish all their goals with hard work. Come support the cross country team today at Occoquan Park at 5 p.m.

COURTESY OF YOUSSEFF EL-BOUKRI

Boys XC season review

Juniors Dagim Tigabu and Yousseff EL-Boukri racing at the Oatlands invitational

Volleyball tries to collect more wins

BY RACHEL SHOGREN

COURTESY OF IRIS FARRAZOLA

Staff Writer

Iris Arrazola going for a spike agains Robert E. Lee in a 3 - 0 shut out

Halfway through the volleyball season, Varsity has played seven games and one tournament. After falling to the Jeb Stuart Raiders earlier in the week 1-3, Varsity spent Saturday at the Raider Rumble Tournament hosted by Jeb Stuart. Several other high school volleyball teams joined AHS and Jeb Stuart, including Falls Church, McLean, Tuscarora, Westfield, Dominion and George Mason. Varsity tied their first game against Falls Church 1-1, but sadly fell to MClean, Tuscarora and Dominion, 0-2. AHS got knocked out of the first round of play offs.

"Coach K is great. She is very optimistic and always pushes us to do our best," senior Brooke Thadeus

said.

Getting a new coach can affect a team in many different ways, but luckily for this team it has brought them closer and they all seem to love their new coach, Alicia Kranak.

"Our new coach is sweet and really helped us bond together as a team. She motivates us to try our hardest," junior Maddy McCrossin said.

Coach Kranak has nothing but good things to say about her new team, "It's been a lot more work than I thought it would be but I love it and I really could not imagine myself coaching anywhere else at this point."

"The season is going really well.

Each week we are growing and improving as a team and I think that we are going to continue doing so," a

determined Coach Kranak said.

With a record of 2-5, the girls remain optimistic about the rest of the season. They have yet to play any teams in their conference, including Woodson, Lake Braddock, West Springfield, West Potomac, T.C. Williams, South County and Mount Vernon. "The season is going good so far. We've definitely improved from last year," junior Katie Garish said.

"We will do great against conference teams because of our chemistry but we will still need to work hard."

"This year the team is much more close than the past couple of seasons. We had started the season strong but now with all the other teams improving we also have a lot of work to accomplish," McCrossin said.

"If we want to go far in the

upcoming conference, we really need to focus on improving as a team and executing the plays that we spend so much time practicing."

Volleyball's teamwork and dedication is evident during their spirited games. Volleyball has always been one of AHS' more spirited sports. The girls do little cheers before games and after each point is made. Varsity also comes to watch parts of the freshman and JV games.

"It feels really good to know that varsity is there watching you and supporting you," sophomore JV player Jessica Roop said.

Be sure to come out and support AHS Volleyball at their home game on Thursday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m. as they take on Thomas Edison High School.

SPORTS 17 Field Hockey looking to improve Sept. 29, 2015

beginning of the season, but they have started to go downhill. They need to figure out what they have to do to improve as a team. Some of the girls have ideas as to what they need to improve on.

Communication is definitely something we still have room to improve on, junior Sabrina Huynh said. Although our game did not have a great outcome, we still have a long season ahead of us to work and develop on our skills and teamwork.

Communication within the team is something many of the girls agree needs work. They have to improve their team communication in order to work together and win. With the rest of the season ahead, they plan on bettering their level of communication and becoming a stronger team on the field.

I feel like if we begin to work together and talk a lot more we could get back on track and if we go all in and just have fun and play we would do great, junior Anna Fuentes said.

The team will use the rest of the season to work on communication and improve on playing as a team.

If they put in hard work and effort, they will be successful no matter what the scoreboard says. They have a long season ahead of them and are

Field Hockey standings 1. T.C. Williams (9-1, 2-0) 2. West Springfield (6-3-1, 2-0) 3. West Potomac (6-3, 1-0) 4. Lake Braddock (5-4, 1-1) 5. South County (4-5, 1-1) 6. Woodson (3-5-2, 0-1) 7. Annandale (4-7, 0-2) 8. Mount Vernon (2-6, 0-2) determined to work hard and reach the top as a team.

I think as a team we need to get the same mindset. We all have heart, but we need to beat at the same rhythm, senior captain Ashley Britton said.

With their next games ahead of them they will keep their minds on the task ahead of them and try to get the wins they need to get back onto the track of winning.

It is important to win our next couple of games because it will give us confidence for the playoffs and

we have been working really hard at pratice so hopefully all of our hard work will pay off and we will win, sophomore Lina Osman said.

The remaining games in the season are vital for the Atoms to win.

Seeding for the Conference tournament is decided by each individuals school conference record. The No. 1 seed plays the No. 8 seed, the No. 2 seed plays the No. 7 seed and so on and so forth.

As of Sept. 28, the Atoms conference record stands at 0-2, which earns them a No. 7 seed if the playoffs were to start today.

The meat of their conference schedule is just about to begin, with big rival games against W.T. Woodson, Lake Braddock, and their Senior Night against West Potomac on Oct. 9, a team they defeated 2-1 in overtime last season.

Time is running out for the Atoms.

They need to come together as a team and dig deep to find the strength needed to defeat more of their conference rivals, especially after their 2-1 overtime loss to West Springfield on Sept. 11.

The Atoms next game is on Oct. 1 at W.T. Woodson High School.

Come and support the Atoms!

PHOTO COURTESY OF ASHLEY BRITTON

BY GRACE HOGYE Staff Writer The varsity field hockey team was looking forward to their matchup against the South County Stallions.

During last year s regular season, AHS was down 3-0 at half time to South County. They came back to win the game 4--3 in penalty shootouts.

In the Conference championship last season, the Atoms defeted the Stallions 3-1 to earn their first Conference title in 10 years.

This year though, things have changed.

After their 11-0 loss to the Stallions on Sept. 21, the team has decided that they have to put in more effort to win. In order to do so they have to work as a team and dominate the field.

This loss has motivated the team to work harder and strive to reach their goals by the end of the season.

The team s record has now fallen to 4-7 but they do not plan to add on any more losses.

I think we just need to talk more and get some of our players back, junior Bitania Endalkachew said. A lot of people have been injured.

This is their sixth loss in a row.

The team was doing well at the

Senior Ashley Britton dribbles the ball during their 2-1 win over Hayfield during the Under the Lights tournament over the summer.

Man on the street: What sport do you like to watch most at AHS?

"I like to watch football because it is the most exciting sport."

"I like to watch cross country because calf game too strong."

YVONNE WHITE

TYLER WESTFALL sophomore

"I like to watch football and lacrosse because I am forced to."

DAN CARLSON sophomore

sophomore

"I like to watch football because I'm in cheerleading and it's the only sport I watch."

MOLLIE VALOROSE

"I like to watch football because of the pace and the fans that are into it."

BRANDON HO

"I like to watch football because of the hype squad and intensity of the game."

"I like to watch football because of the intensity."

junior

BROOKE THADEUS senior

senior

junior

ALEX ALFARO

Q&A with new varsity wrestling coach With the departure of long time wrestling coach Keith Sholders, the AHS community was left with a big void, as said by new P.E. teacher and varsity wrestling coach, Derik Sweet. Sweet has coaching experience in wrestling and football at Washington and Lee High School and is very excited to be our new head coach. Make sure to make him feel welcome if you see him in the halls!

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE A-BLAST

Q: Where are you from?

A: I m from Upstate New York near Rochester

New Varsity wrestling coach Derik Sweet with DSA Karl Kerns on Sept. 24

Q:Where did you previously coach and for how long?

A: I coached at Washington-Lee High School for five years. Three years as head coach and two years as an assistant coach.

Q:What is your educational background?

A: I went to Ithica College and got a bachelors of science and PE and I am currently working on my Masters for Sport management at the United States sports academy.

Girls XC runs towards victory For the past few years, the girls cross-country team has performed below average most of the time, going many consecutive seasons without and kind of awards.

We all did really well in our last meet and our times were pretty good even though the course was one of the hardest, sophomore Vittoria Duquette said. We all put our best efforts into running and trying to always beat the person in front of us. The course was super tough, but we pushed through the pain to finish.

The girls cross country team had their last meet on Sept. 19 at the Monroe Parker Invitational at Burke Lake Park, where juniors Emily Pope and Sasha Silva had the lowest times out of everyone on the team.

24:17 and 24:15 respectively.

The runner with the next lowest time was senior Natalie Jones with a time of 27:02.

Our team is really good, so the rest of us weren t too far behind those girls, senior Casey Goettlicher said.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CASEY GOETTLICHER

BY ANDREW GONZALEZ AND RYAN GAMMON Sports Editors

Senior Casey Goettlicher runs during one of her meets this season.

While trying to improve before their next meet, there will be a lot of work that the girls will have to do.

Our team is doing really well and we re ahead of last year s team, Harris said. They are constantly working hard to finish on top even being ahead this year.

Our conference this year is

difficult because of Lake Braddock and West Springfield, who has won the state championship in the past, Goettlicher said.

Even with all of the criticism from the coaches, some of the runners are still working to imrove to be better than the last practice that they had.

Going into our next race, we have to have the mindset of starting and finishing our races strong, and pushing ourselves so we don t let anybody let catch us in between, junior Emily Pope said.

Having this enthusiasm from the girls makes the whole team focus harder on their goals to finish and win races.

Although the team are enjoying their races, some of the girls were unlucky and have gotten injured.

Juniors Jessica Ferson, Kimberly Romero, and Vicky Luu are all out with shin splints and knee problems.

The next meet for the crosscountry team is the Glory Days Invitational on Saturday, Oct. 10 at Bull Run Regional Park in Manassas.

Q: What is your wrestling background?

A: I started when I was nine years old, my dad was a head coach, I won my first tournament when I was 10 and made varsity lineup in eighth grade. I wrestled varsity all five years in high school, I set multiple records while I was there and went on to wrestle at Ithica College for one year but then I decided to switch my focus to education. From Ithica, I came down here and started coaching at Washington-Lee. Q: What are your expectations for this upcoming season?

A: I ve been impressed with Annandale, their team and the cohesion they seem to have at each tournament. The standard is set, the way we must approach this year is to emphasize the importance of off-season training, picking up your buddy when he is down and really working on team building and becoming a family. I am a big believer in building a core with each individual, showing them they are special even if they don t think it or see it, from the bottom of the depths or from the top, everybody has to feel desired or wanted, and that s something that I feel will be established in my room.

The leaders will emerge but I want

everybody to take home leadership qualities and lead by example.

Q: Did your previous team have any major accomplishments?

A: At W-L, my first season we went 11-7, which was the first winning record in almost 30 years. The next years we went 18-7 and took second in the district tournament. The year after that we went 18-5 and took third in the district tournament.

Washington-Lee was a process. Getting that team turned around, putting wrestling back on the map. I was very pleased with the way the kids came together and they really cared about each other s success. We were able to be successful because of that.

Q: Are you excited to be coaching at Annandale?

A: I am more than excited to be coaching here. The support I have already received from the faculty, community, staff, the wrestling team, the football team and anyone else you name it has greeted me with a smile and it has really opened my eyes to a different part of the world because this is so different from W-L. But when I walked into that weight room, the kids just continuously clapped and clapped. It really showed you how much dedication

they have and that s vital.

Q: What was your first impression of Annandale?

A: If I m being honest, my first impression was that it s my alma mater s school colors, so that of course got me really excited. The gentlemen interviewing me were so easygoing and approachable, which you don t often get. The facilities are great which is outstanding. It s a very diverse community but so far I haven t met one person who has had anything negative to say in any aspect, which doesn t happen often.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

A: I would really like to thank the administration and those individuals who are sticking their necks out for me. Moving hasn t been an easy transition. I want to thank them for putting their faith in me and getting this thing organized. I just appreciate the kind of all hands on deck atmosphere that seems to be what Annandale is all about. Go Atoms!

Twin Lakes awaits Golf team

BY TOOBA SIDDIQUE Staff Writer The golfers are all set for the Patriot Conference tournament, which continues today. The tournament is held at Twins Lakes Golf Course in Clifton.

Having a decent run at their first day of the tournament, the team shot a total of 370, which is 82 over par for the whole course. They hope to improve today during day two of the tournament.

For the most part, struggles with putting, and so cutting down on our putts would help the team out a lot, junior Drew White said. If everyone had two less putts today than they did yesterday, then the team shaves an easy eight strokes.

This was kind of a rebuilding year, for the golf team, coach Brian Aldenderfer said. I m not expecting fireworks, but I m hopeful that one of our players will make it to the regional tournament.

Since the last match at Twin Lakes, when Lake Braddock hosted AHS golf, the team had improved tremendously.

Even though the golf team lost

that match to Lake Braddock, they are planning to do better.

There have been drastic improvements. Some kids have gone from not being able to hit a golf ball to playing very well, significantly well, Aldenderfer said.

Coach Aldenderfer also claimed

PHOTO COURTESY OF AMANDA ADENAN

BY ANDREW GONZALEZ AND RYAN GAMMON Sports Editors

Junior Brandon Ho putts at practice

that Drew White is one of the strongest golfers the team has.

Our team did well yesterday for how they normally do, but I do not think we are capable of making it to regionals as a whole team, White said. Most of the team is inexperienced and is a second or third sport to them.

You don t get many fans, on a golf tournament when schools going on, Aldenderfer said. So, I don t expect too much out of the fans.

The team has worked for so long to do well at this tournament and hoping as a team to go under par.

I think all of the starters are good enough to do well at the conference tournament, junior Brandon Ho said. There are going to be a lot of good schools there but if we all play well I think we have a shot to compete.

Having all their starters healthy will be a big factor in whether or not the team performs well today.

They hope to go under par in their next round of the tournament today and fix their putting issues, which was costly to the whole team.

18 ENTERTAINMENT

Sept. 29, 2015

FIFA 16 exceeds expectations Drake keeps The new game brings big changes

crushing competition

FIFA's progression through time

BY SEHAM AHMED Staff Writer

FIFA INTERNATIONAL - 1993 Also known as FIFA '94, FIFA International was EA's first creation in the series that was to become an amazing franchise. It featured 48 national teams with 20 players each.

FIFA 2000 The game FIFA 2000 allowed players to have their career modes span over multiple seasons, which allows relegation and promotion. In addition, the MLS was added to the game.

FIFA 06 In this installment of FIFA, the career mode was extended again to a length of 15 seasons.

Another addition for players is a 16-bit version of FIFA International included in-game.

USWNT players Megan Rapinoe and Sydney Leroux test out motion-capture technology.

five and customize your team either based on chemistry or player ratings.

EA made slight tweaks to have a better feel than the last FIFA but the major change that most fans are thrilled about is FIFA 16 giving the fans an option to play with 12 different women's national teams, including USA, Japan and Germany. Alex Morgan even made the US FIFA cover alongside Messi.

EA has been making the series since FIFA International Soccer and still continues to make it after 22 years, showing they've been doing something right and most likely will not stop anytime soon, as they come out with something bigger, and better every year.

All of these changes have made FIFA 16 a worthy buy, and a much better purchase than the previous FIFA. EA finally cared enough to add new game modes, which enriches gaming experience for both new and experienced gamers. You should definitely go and pick this up as soon as you can.

FIFA 10 Career Mode now allows players to recieve news from what goes on in the world of the manager. Ultimate Team was also included for free for the first time.

FIFA 16 FIFA 16 brings revolutionary changes to the game. Other than the addition of women's national teams, Career Mode allows gamers to train their players every week in-game.

BY AHMAD AYUB Entertainment Editor The BET HipHop Awards are almost here, and the nominations reflect this year well. Drake leads the other artists with 12 nominations, a great feat that not many others can achieve. Big Sean follows closely with 10 The cover of Drake's mixtape from nominations, and Nicki earlier this year.

Minaj has 9.

Drake has had a phenomenal year, with the release of his mixtape/album If You're Reading This It's Too Late. In addition, he's been featuring in many tracks (like "Only" and "Truffle Butter") and releasing several of his own singles using a radio station run by his record label OVO (like "Right Hand" and "Hotline Bling").

One of Drake's biggest publicized actions this year was the release of his two diss tracks directed at rapper Meek Mill, "Charged Up" and "Back to Back."

The songs were in response to Meek Mill's tweets about how Drake should have publicized Meek's album, which he featured on, to a larger extent. Meek also claimed that Drake didn't write his own raps.

On Sept. 20, he dropped a mixtape with fellow rapper Future named What A Time To Be Alive. Drake has been collaborating with the Georgian rapper for a while now, most notably in "Where Ya At" by Future, a song on Future's album that released this year, On your and "Love Me" by Lil smartphone, scan Wayne. this code using Even after all of the application his work he's done "QR Code" to this year, Drake is finish reading not done. about Drake's big year!

Do you prefer Drake or Kanye?

"Kanye's album because he reminds me of myself."

EDDIE MENDIETA sophomore

"Drake's album because it will just make Meek Mill more angry."

ALLEN KOKILANANDA

"I like Drake better because I can relate to him more."

"Drake's album because he is the 6 god."

LENNON WUHRER

DREW WHITE

sophomore

junior

"Drake's album because no woman has ever had him starIRIS ARRAZOLA struck or was able junior to tell him to get his bars up."

"I don't really listen to either of them that much, but I want to see what Drake has to offer in Views."

NAOL BAYISA

DINI MOHAMUD

DAVID PARK

senior

senior

"Drake because he ended Meek Mill's career."

sophomore

"I am more excited for Drake's album because he is man enough for Serena Williams."

senior

Everest fails to capture the story www.independent.co.uk

The book more accurately portrays the tragedy

BY ALMAZ ABEDJE Staff Writer The painful truth of the 1996 Mount Everest trek was somewhat accurately depicted in the movie Everest. The movie came out in theaters for the USA on Sept. 18th.

The trek was also depicted in the book Into Thin Air, which is taught to sophomores at AHS taking English Honors.

The movie starts out with the guides of the different climbing expeditions, Adventure Consultants, and Mountain Madness, at the airport, ready to depart to Nepal. The main character, Rob Hall (Jason Clarke), bids farewell to his pregnant wife, Jan Hall (Keira Knightley) while the others do the same with their families.

Alongside Rob are journalist Jon Kraukauer (Michael Kelly), fellow climber Doug Hansen (John Hawkes), guide Andy Harris (Martin Henderson) and client Beck Weathers (Josh Brolin).

The group boarded the plane to Nepal and after their arrival they met up with climbing manager Helen Wilton (Emily Watson), Dr. Caroline Mackenzie (Elizabeth Debicki), mountain advisor Guy Cotter (Sam Worthington), and guide of opposing expedition, Mountain Madness, Scott Fischer (Jake Gyllenhaal).

The group discussed appropriate safety measures and planned out the overall trek throughout the night.

In the morning, they headed out for Everest, carrying backpacks full of food, water, oxygen, clothes, and other supplies. Once they reached base camp, they met up with other expedition groups that were just as eager to summit.

Each guide met up later that night to discuss their

plans of travel; not surprisingly, a lot of them clashed as they discovered that they all had the same summit date, May 10th. After much debate, no group was willing to change the date. They then decided that they would be working together, not against each other.

The weeks to follow were focused on preparing the clients for the summit and getting their bodies used to the bone-chilling climate. These parts were a bit inaccurate because they showed two clients struggling, in contrast with the book that depicted several clients struggling.

Over the course of about three weeks, the groups would travel to Camp One, Camp Two and Camp Three, then return to base camp at nightfall. Hall was very big on staying together, so whenever one of his clients couldn't make another step, the whole group would go back to Base Camp.

Beck was struggling to adapt to the harsh climate while the more experienced clients, like Hansen and Yasuko Namba (Naoko Mori), were having little to no trouble at all. Namba, one of the most experienced climbers in the group, has climbed six of the seven summits in the world, and wanted to make Everest her seventh. All of the clients, including Namba, did not work together as much as they should have; it was every man for themselves.

The summit date approached quickly, but bad

weather coming their way sparked debate over pushing the date back to let the storm pass. Yet again, no one was willing to be flexible; the summit date would remain the same. As May 10 finally came, the group would set out to summit Everest from Camp Three.

A lot of time between the summit and training was skipped over, which made some parts fuzzy. The groups set out to climb the dangerous Hillary Step. The last test before reaching the summit, the Step has prevented so many before them from summiting Everest, and the bad weather approaching quickly made that test even harder.

A lot of action was missing from this part as well, as it went straight from the beginning of the step to the summit, showing small instances of struggling clients.

Weathers and Hansen struggled the most to summit, Weathers due to an eye surgery he got one year prior.

Hall stayed back with Hansen while he ordered Weathers to stay where he was. Everyone else got to the top of the mountain, but the story would take a fatal turn as four others, Hansen, Hall, Namba and Harris, didn't make it back.

Overall, I would wait till the movie comes out on Netflix. I don't think it captured the essence of what happened on the mountain during those dreadful week.

The book definitely portrays the story much better than the movie. I am giving this movie a 6/10.

Students upgrade to iOS 9

BY AHMAD AYUB Entertainment Editor Apple Inc. finally made iOS 9, its newest operating system for iPhones and iPads, available to download for the general public. The OS, which was released on September 16th, has been met with both appraisal and criticism.

The new software brought several new features, as well as revisions to some old features.

One of the newest additions is the News app. The app combines a countless amount of news sources into one. It takes all of the sources that you choose yourself, and puts them into a feed that you can scroll through.

Junior Matthew Vogus is one of the many students who have updated to iOS 9. However, like many, he has some problems with it.

"I didn't notice a ton of new changes, but I definitely noticed some," Vogus said. "My favorite change was to

Siri. I liked how they updated her to be more interactive and helpful."

This is in reference to the improved intelligence of Siri in the new update. Siri can now understand you better, deliver results faster and give you suggestions before you even ask.

Although this app may only tailor to older users who keep up with the news on a regular basis, it is still useful.

Another huge feature added with the update is the increased battery life. Many claimed that upgrading to iOS 8 shortened the battery life of devices, and Apple is trying to make up for that.

In addition to the improvements to extend the battery life, there is a new "Low Power" mode, which, according to the description in the Settings app, "temporarily reduces power consumption until you can fully charge your iPhone."

Certain settings like mail fetch and automatic downloads, as well as some visual effects, are reduced or turned off.

Students around AHS have upgraded to the new OS, and it has come with a lot of negative comments.

For sophomore Grace Hatch, as well as Vogus, the new multitasking feature, where you double click the home button to see your open apps, was a bad change.

www.washingtonpost.com

Apple releases the newest software

Tim Cook taking pictures with employees at the Georgetown Apple Store.

In stead of seeing the whole app in a scrolling fashion like before, the apps overlap and fade in and out of the screen.

"I do wish I stayed on iOS 8 because it was simpler and I don't think there was a huge need to change over to iOS 9, Hatch said. "I wouldn't recommend this update to others because I don't think it was a necessary update to get."

Vogus agreed with Hatch, saying that he wouldn't recommend it. "It lags so much and just has some bugs that should be fixed," Vogus said.

However, senior Ananda Poudel is keeping a more positive viewpoint on the update.

"If you have an iPhone 5s, you shouldn't update because it becomes laggy and the processor is weaker," Poudel said. "But if you have a new phone, like a 6 or 6s, you should get it because they're faster and they have better batteries." iOS 9.0.1 released on Sept. 27, which brought small bug fixes for apps such as Safari and Photos.

The iOS 9.1 update is coming soon, which aims to fix many more of the bugs and lag issues that users of iOS 9 experience. In addition to bug fixes, Apple is adding new emojis. It would be a much smarter move for consumers to wait until the bug fixes come, as apps like Messages lag to a noticeable extent.

The iOS 9 update came out the same day that Apple unveiled the new iPhone 6s and 6s Plus, which was released on Sept. 25.

The new phone has new features such as 3D Touch, where the phone realizes when you press deeply on the screen, making some operations easier and time saving.

One of the biggest changes is the new ability to shoot videos in 4K video, which, according to Apple, is "up to four times the resolution of 1080p HD video."

www.business.financialpost.com

FIFA 16 recently rolled out onto shelves all around the world and fans are ecstatic about the new game.

FIFA 16 has friends making plans to play FIFA together to prove who the greatest player is, others playing FUT to get started on their team so they can show off their teams later. And somewhere in the world Chad Johnson is tweeting about how great he is in FIFA. According to Financialpost.com, FIFA 15 sold more than 14.5 million copies globally and was the best selling sports game last year, beating their biggest competitors Madden 15 and 2K15.

This year, with many new additions EA hopes to surpass their last record.

Many may argue that the game is the same and they struggle to find a difference between the last FIFA but EA still manages to come out with a new game every year, selling millions of copies around the world and winning awards. According to the Guinness World Records, after FIFA 16's release the Fifa series is the most sold game with 146.13 million sales around the world.

This year, EA focused on in-game mechanics such as passing and dribbling to make the game more realistic. EA notched up the graphics and expanded on player detailing up to the point where you can see the tattoos of the player you're controlling.

EA also included a new mechanic to the game called "FIFA Trainer" for the new players or for players who are trying to get better. FIFA Trainer assists the player by showing what to press while playing, which could attract many new players to the game as they have an easier opportunity to learn and become great at the game.

For FIFA's most popular game mode, Ultimate Team, FIFA came up with a new add-on known as Draft mode where you and your friends have the opportunity to draft your dream team accordingly.

You can choose a player out of a selection of

19 ENTERTAINMENT Empire returns, kicks off season two Sept. 29, 2015

The FOX drama returns, suprises 17 million viewers with season premiere Head Videographer The long wait is over. Empire, the highest rated show on the FOX network, hit millions of viewers each episode in their debut season.

During their first episode of season two they hit almost 17 million viewers according to the New York Times.

Last season, Empire focused on Terrence Howard, aka Lucious Lyon, putting his three sons against each other, with the reward being that one of the three would eventually run the company.

The second season of Empire kicked off right where season one ended; when Lucious Lyon got arrested for murder and either Jussie Smollet or Jamal Lyon would have to

temporarily run the company.

Many AHS students watched the season premier last Wednesday and had different opinions about the show.

"I think it was a great start to the season because it showed life without Lucious and how things would have ran," senior Ayda Osman said.

"There are surprising pop ups in Cookie's life that she thought would never come back and haunt her," Osman said. "It showed us why Cookie left jail so early and the season opened up with many answered questions that may have been confusing before."

Many students were also left surprised with the way the season premier kicked off.

"What surprised me the most

Ayda Osman senior

20TH CENTURY FOX

BY FAISAL HASSEN

"The next episode is a must watch since it looks like Lucious is out of jail."

The season two premiere of Empire aired last Wednesday night

was after Lucious was convicted and they were trying to bring him from prison for saying it was wrong for justice," senior Yoyo Fekade said.

"I thought it was wrong because he was convicted of something he

did and that he killed a man."

During the first episode, there were some guest stars such as Chris Rock and Marisa Tomei that surprised the viewers.

Although some students enjoyed

most parts of the show, some disliked some scenes.

"I didn't like homosexuality being a big thing in the show but I'm not against it, I fully support it and I don't judge or anything," Fekade said. "But I felt they used so much of the viewer's attention to point towards that when they should be trying to show that the family could still stay unified."

Although many students had to do some catching up before the second season kicked off, many were already prepared and had watched

every episode as they came out.

"I didn't have any catching up to do thanks to my sister because she kept me pretty updated and forced me to watch it with her which made me a fan," Fekade said.

"At first, to be honest, I wasn't a fan because I didn't think it was going to be a good show but it caught my attention and I'm going to stay on top of it until I see some things that I really don't like or disagree with."

Many are already excited for the next episode because of how the first episode ended.

"The next episode is a must watch, since it looks like Lucious is out of jail and Anika, Hakeem, Andre and Cookie are trying to bring Jamal down for hostile takeover," Osman said.

AHS students that are fans of the show will be elated to hear that the new season will have 18 episodes, compared to last season which only had 12.

What goes on After School Students react to the anonymous chat room app

BY CAMILA SORUCO Staff Writer "Overthinking after 12 A.M." "When you can't wait to go to school so you could see your crush."

"Ugh why must I choose one boy?"

These are just some of the seemingly endless anonymous posts that students who use the After School app may have come across.

Since its relaunch it has topped the app store charts and been the topic of discussion for students.

Constantly growing in numbers, many wonder if this app will side with Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat as one of the most used social media apps of our generation; or if it will follow the footsteps of Myspace and Flappy Bird that were once as popular but in time have been forgotten.

The app is only accessible for Apple devices and Facebook users. It uses Facebook information in order to verify the school you are attending.

After first downloading the app, it will allow you to select a profile picture from the ones provided; it will then ask what grade level you are in to filter posts to fit your grade and Facebook friends.

The After School app displays a chat room format that not only allows students to post their opinions but also lets them post pictures, like, comment, as well as answer questions about peers.

It has also caused controversy by allowing students to express themselves anonymously and making it impossible to trace a user's identity.

Although this may help students to openly communicate and share with their peers, many have misused the app in order to cyberbully and reveal

personal information about one another.

This led to it being deleted a couple months after its first appearance in October 2014, due to many concerned parents and teachers accusing the app of opening an outlet for students to write hateful posts about each other without facing any consequences.

"People can express themselves but then again they need to watch what they say because it can hurt people," junior Ana Canales said.

Although there have been a lot of complaints about it being anonymous, the app has now come out and said that with its new re-launch their staff is now strictly monitoring all posts being made in order to prevent any offensive or concerning posts.

They have also clearly stated that they have zero tolerance for hatefulness and maliciousness towards other students.

This statement has reassured many parents and school staff members by hopefully putting an end to the recent cases of cyberbullying and changing its infamous reputation.

"The good thing is that people that have a lot on their mind or have a lot to talk about but don't want their identity to be out there, they can use that as an escape," senior Mahlate Bereket said.

This app quickly became a source for Annandale to purge their thoughts and reactions to recent news going on at school and in society. This has been a helpful way to communicate with the entire school and has given a voice to all students who feel more comfortable speaking anonymously.

"The posts are really funny and you can relate to it a lot," sophomore Genesis Laura said.

Overall, Annandale seems to enjoy the app and finds it very amusing to see what their friends are thinking and their perspectives on current events.

Many find it refreshing to see an app that unites the school and shows the similarities between students especially during the first few weeks back from summer break.

What a Time to Be Alive After countless rumors, the Drake/Future mixtape is here

BY HUSSEIN SALEM Ad Manager Drake and Future, two of the biggest names in hip-hop, have come together for a collaborative mixtape.

On Sunday, Sept. 20, Drake unveiled What a Time to Be Alive on his OVO Sound radio show on Beats 1.

The highly anticipated project took over the internet for the past couple of weeks. On Saturday, Drake revealed that he and Future would partner up by posting What a Time to Be Alive's diamond covered artwork on Instagram.

"It's a little soundtrack for people that need it right now," Drake stated about the collab.

With the exception of a couple of songs, Future, freshly coming off a #1 album (DS2), really sets the tone

on this tape, which leaves Drake to sit back and fire multiple disses toward Meek Mill, whom he hasn't forgotten about.

In "Live From the Gutter," Drake and Future go in on their real world struggles and how they've gotten to where they are. Future starts off on the tough childhood he faced, growing up in the streets of Atlanta.

Drake, known for "Started From the Bottom," talks about the stress and surroundings of his superstar lifestyle.

"Diamonds Dancing," the fourth track from the album, was named Pitchfork's Best New Track. Drake and Future going back and forth with their verses made this song stand out more than any other.

Perhaps the biggest banger on

the tape, "Jumpman," is inspired by Drake's recent collaborations with Jordan brand. Drake even raps, "Jumpman, Jumpman, they gave me my own collection."

Drake's year is still far from over, his fourth studio album, Views From the 6, is expected to be released later this year. If the album does release, it would be his third project in 2015 alone.

The production of this project was a major factor. Metro Boomin does an amazing job and was credited for a large chunk of the album.

Overall, the two hottest MC's in the game came together to make an amazing tape, with great beats and production. Rating: 9/10

PHOTOS COURTESY OF DRAKEOFFICIAL.COM AND FUTUREFREEBANDZ.COM

What do you think about the After School app?

"I think the After School app is cool because you can see what other people think of you."

JESSICA ROOP sophomore

"I think the app is sort of a good place to get out how you feel about things but not if you're going to use it in a negative way."

KENDALL MCCLEARY sophomore

"I think the After School app is an interesting app because you get to be kept up on the gossip from all four grade levels."

"I think it's a really good app for people to communicate or tell maybe unique things about each other."

BRYAN BENAVIDES

NORA HASRAT

"I think it's stupid, I got it and deleted it in the same day. But they talked about my butt."

"I think the After School app is funny, I think it geeks, but I kind of think it's dying down."

KATIE PACAK

RUTH TIGUH

junior

senior

junior

"It's dumb because anybody can post anonymous stuff.

Most of it is talking about who likes who, so it's pretty dumb."

"I mean, I think it's a cool app, but I barely use it."

MATTHEW MICHAEL senior

SYMONE JENKINS senior

junior

Honeymoon impresses fans

Rodeo is a promising debut

Lana Del Rey switches it up with new album

BY TIM GRAY

BY AMANI MUNTU

darker, more mysterious vibe the music gives off, which definitely makes it a rainy day favorite. If you've listened to her previous songs, you can see the difference in the style of music, she's changed it up, and once you get into the album,

Staff Writer To any die hard Lana Del Rey fans, her most recent album Honeymoon was definitely not disappointing. If you're a new listener, you should start with her previous hit projects, such as Young and Beautiful, Ultraviolence and Born to Die. In the beginning some of the songs on this album were a bit of a let down compared to her earlier songs.

A lot of the music on this album is slower than her usual tempo which is why some people were not as satisfied. After getting further into the collection of songs, however, her music was restored. You can tell a lot of the new songs on this album have meaning behind every lyric and that's what is so enjoyable about her work.

What sets this album apart from her other works is that there is a

you get used to the dark dreamy sound.

One of the best songs from Honeymoon is "Freak" because it's beautifully written, her voice is flawless and so is the beat.

Something people notice off

the bat about Lana's songs are how catchy some of them can be, anyone who listens to the radio could probably recite the lyrics to "Summertime Sadness" perfectly.

In the future it would be nice to hear some happier sounding music from Lana similar to an older song of hers called "Video Games," which is one of her most popular love songs.

Lana has an older, retro sounding voice and she especially embraces that trait of hers in "Video Games" and a few songs on this album such as "God knows I tried," "Don't Let Me be Misunderstood," and of course 'Honeymoon."

The cover of the album also gives off that retro feel which is why the darkness of the music on this album is surprising.

Even though one wouldn't fall head over heels for this album in the beginning, it grew better after listening to it for a while.

Lana Del Rey is definitely an iconic artist of our generation and one can only imagine the success her music career will bring her in the future.

International Editor The Rodeo has come to town.

Travis Scott (stylized Travi$ Scott) has released his first full-length project, and it is a powerful one for the Kanye West prodigy.

Travis Scott is a Houston rapper who earned his start producing for Kanye West's 2013 album, Yeezus.

Soon after Yeezus released, Travis Scott released his first full-length mixtape, Owl Pharaoh. Upon first listen, Owl Pharaoh was not all that impressive.

It was reminiscent of a dumbed down reflection of Yeezus.

Roughly a year later, Days Before Rodeo was released. It was a fairly solid record. It had its features, it had strong production and it had its catchy tracks.

What was surprising was the fact that Travis barely produced any of his tracks on that album. This comes from such an immensely popular protege to Kanye West, who is highly regarded as a rapper and producer.

It isn't as if the flow and lyricism was mind-blowing, either.

However, Days Before Rodeo warranted the arrival of Rodeo, and although postponed multiple times, much to the annoyance of fans, this was Travis' absolute strongest project yet. Features included Quavo from Migos, Kanye West, Future, 2

autotuned adlibs, Future's highly significant combination of singing and rapping and 2 Chainz' verse describing a life of wealth, saying things such as "backstroke to my children room, maybach in my living room." This track had especially raised excitement for Rodeo.

The opening track to the album, "Pornography", begins with spoken word by T.I, vaguely explaining Travis Scott's choice to ditch authority, and "lead a stampede of lost souls."

The song begins with a mellow mixing of auto tuned and a drifty, dreamy bass. Travis is singing a ballad of a girl who reminds him of his ex, being tempted to do drugs with her. The song quickly transitions into a verse in which Travis details his life as he rises to fame.

Chainz, Justin Bieber, Young Thug, and more.

It also included T.I. opening the album and inserting tidbits of spoken word throughout the project. 3500, the first single, which featured 2 Chainz and Future, was an extremely catchy track. Although long, its strength resided in Travis Scott's

CONTINUATION On your smartphone, scan this code using the application "QR Code" to read about the new Travis Scott album.

20 WEEKEND The Price is Right: NOVA Edition University Mall Theatres

The movie Vacation is currently playing at University Mall.

The University Mall Theatres of Fairfax is the best place to go for movies if you're really tight on cash.

University Mall plays movies after they've passed through the big name theaters. If you missed seeing a big box office movie, just wait a couple weeks and it will probably be playing here.

The benefit of this movie theater is that you get the same movies but for half the price!

The cost for an adult ticket is just $5. For people who are either under 14 years old, over 60 years old, or who have a George Mason student ID, the cost is $4.

Another great deal at University Mall is two-dollar Tuesdays! On Tuesdays all tickets are $2 cash, or $2.50 with a credit card.

Definitely make your way over to this theater for a fun cheap outing with friends!

4245 Markham St Annandale, VA 22003

6625 S. Van Dorn St Alexandria, VA 22315

7356-B Little River Turnpike Annandale, VA 22003

$

10659 Braddock Rd Fairfax, VA 22032

AMF Bowling

TopGolf

Sept. 29, 2015

Bowling is definitely a classic hangout activity to do with friends. AMF Bowling is popular spot in Annandale for this fun activity.

It's fun to get all of your friends together and do something that's fun for everyone. If you're really into bowling you can even join a bowling league!

Food and drinks are also available for purchase at AMF Bowling, so you don't need to take extra time to find a different place to eat!

The bowling alley is open until 11 a.m. most nights, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. If you're looking for something to do on Sunday nights you can get two hours of unlimited bowling for $6 after 6 p.m.

The Mom & Pop coffee shop in the Mosaic District is a new branch from the Dolcezza gelato and coffee company.

The unique and contemporarily designed coffee spot offers coffee, sandwiches and snacks. It is the only place in Mosaic to get Nitro Cold Brew Coffee.

Their drinks are served in mason jars if you're not ordering to-go, which is a nice touch that makes it a little more fun to drink than at other coffee shops.

It's a great spot for a quick coffee or a place to study for a little bit with friends if you don't mind a little distraction from your work. With prices ranging from as little as $2 to $20, it's definitely on the cheaper side if you're not looking to spend a lot of money.

Jukebox Diner is a local resturaunt that serves customers in a diner like setting. The casual diner has booths and tables that accommodate the size of your group.

Based on a 1950s theme they offer a variety of classic American food, like burgers, fries and milkshakes, all at an affordable price ranging from $5-15 just enough to match your budget.

The diner serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a menu full of options from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. The family friendly restaurant also offers a convenient delivery option for when you just want to eat your food out of the comfort of your home.

2909 District Ave Fairfax, VA 22031

7039 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003

$$

If you're looking for a fun place to minigolf on the weekends, or even go to a driving range, TopGolf is the place to go.

With two levels of driving ranges and two separate mini-golf courses, TopGolf has something for people with any amount of golfing experience.

Although the wait for the driving ranges can get long on busy nights, there is usually little to no wait for minigolf.

At $9 per person the mini golf is the cheapest, and most popular option among students. The driving range is a little pricier at around $15 per person.

Cafe Muse is the perfect place to enjoy authentic Korean food served to you all the way to your room. With a convenient location, this establishment will allow you to take singing in the shower to a whole new level in a karaoke setting with your friends.

This is the perfect hangout place to gather your friends and enjoy the night. This will allow you to split the pricey but worth-it check with your friends.

With over 600 songs to choose from, you are sure to find your style of music from classics to the current hit songs. Rent a room, order some food and sing until your heart is content.

Mom & Pop

Now that football season is back, Buffalo Wild Wings is the perfect place to grab a bite and catch the big game.

There are big screens located around the rooms with all the different sports on TV. Known for their famous wings, there are a variety of flavors ranging from mild to hot in order to satisfy all of your sizzling taste-buds.

If you are looking for a good deal make sure to go on "Wing Tuesday" for 60 cent wings!

$$$

5275B Leesburg Pike Suite B Skyline Falls Church, VA 22041-3803

A popular spot for group dinners, the Cheesecake Factory is known for more than just its cheesecake.

This is the perfect place to eat for both formal or informal dinners, with a variety of food choices from burgers and pastas to other unique cuisines.

Come in hungry, because you are able to munch on some fresh bread and butter while you wait for your meal.

If you're not a cheesecake lover don't worry because there are options for everyone. You are sure to leave The Cheesecake Factory satisfied and wanting to come back for more.

1796 International Drive McLean, VA 22102

Class of 2016 Bulletin Senior Colin Corey pauses to catch his breath during an AHS football game.

265

To-do list: September Edition Make sure to do some last minute studying for the SAT or subjects Don't forget to set up a college meeting with your counselor Start looking into making homecoming plans! HOCO is on Oct. 24

days until graduation Friday's game at Thomas Jefferson HS (H) is a...

BLACK OUT!