Issue 10

B LAST A ANNANDALE HIGH SCHOOL

the 3

Informing the Atoms since 1954

John Hawes’ W8 government listened to Assistant Attorney General, Daniel Bryant on March 8 in the Lecture Hall. This was the third high school that Bryant has attended on his mission to increase awareness of terrorism, current events as well as U.S. foreign and domestic relations and policies. Bryant came after Vice Principal Lisa Felix was able to contact a mutual friend and get him to speak.

As Assistant Attorney General, Bryant is responsible for major legal policies in government.

Assistant Attorney General Daniel Bryant speaks to Government Teacher John Hawesʼ W8 class about U.S. foreign and domestic policies.

PTSA prepares for another golf tournament

For the seventh straight year, the AHS PTSA will be sponsoring the Red and White Gold Classic tournament. Held on May 19, the day will begin at 8 a.m. at Andrews Air Force Base on the West Course.

Last year $19,000 was raised at the tournament and even more is expected to be raised this year. The day includes 18 holes, a golf cart, breakfast, lunch, prizes and special awards at the end of the tournament. The cost is $95 per player and the PTSA golf tournament committee will accept donations for the fundraiser.

ATOMversary committee discussed June festival

The ATOMversary committee will hold a meeting next Tuesday from 7-9 p.m. in Clausen Hall. The committee is urging people to spread the news about the ATOMversary by telling friends, neighbors or anyone else who once attendedAHS. TheATOMversary Festival is three months away and will be held on Saturday June 5. For more information or if interested in helping with the committee, e-mail Carol Rychlik at carol.rychlik@fcps.edu.

Ossian Trees A meeting is scheduled tonight to discuss renovation designs of Ossian Park. Local officials are pushing the removal of approximately 100 trees in an effort to deter gang activity from the park. Included in the design are more athletic fields, which would be available for AHS sports team’s practice.

Do you think that trees should be remvoed from Ossian Park?

UNDECIDED

YES

NO

19%

13%

This survey was distributed to 331 students during B, C and D lunches March 14.

Ossian to receive makeover Meeting tonight to determine plans for park renovation; safety a top priority

BY JOSEPH BURKE Staff Writer “The park is a wreck,” said Richard McCormack, referring to Ossian Hall Park, the 30-year-old recreational area on the corner of Four Year Run and Heritage Drive.

McCormack is the school’s golf coach, AHS parent and local resident.

His involvement with the Fairfax County Park Authority began last year when he contacted them about building a driving range at Wakefield Rec Center. When the topic of athletic fields in the areas surrounding the high school was raised, Ossian Hall Park was brought up.

Seeing that the park was in a state of neglect, the Park Authority created a task force to draw up a plan for renovation. Don Clausen, then principal of AHS, asked McCormack to represent the school on the task force. When evidence of gang activity began appearing, the task force knew they had to make efforts to eliminate this through their plan.

According to security and safety spe-

cialist Cliff Cornwell, the park is “the only area on school grounds where we don’t feel as safe as we should.” He said the park has seen seven car break-ins, known gang members loitering, and in the past, several indecent exposures.

Cornwell hopes that the increased visibility at Ossian Hall Park will curb this kind of negative activity. “It needs to be opened up,” said Cornwell.

The task force has recenently released their plan to rejuvenate the park. This master plan includes a lighted plaza, picnic areas, an expansion of the parking lot, which currently only has 20 parking spaces, and the addition of more athletic fields. The trails used for walking and jogging would be more defined and trees would be cut down.

Noting that the least offered recreational facility at county parks is the skateboard park, the master plan also calls for the creation of a skate park of approximately 16,500 square feet, which is about the same size of a double tennis court. The only existing struc-

“Ossian” continued on pg. 6

Renovation plans for Ossian Park specifically aim to decrease gang activity by removing many trees and large areas of shrubbery. Included in the design is a lighted plaza, a larger parking lot, more athletic fields and picnic areas.

Seniors win triathlon

BY CAROLINE FRIEDMAN AND MIKE WIEST Managing Editor and Staff Writer

Senior Mike Perucci cheers after the announcement of the seniorʼs victory in the ATOMversary Triathlon. Perucci was removed from the basketball game for foulplay.

On March 17, with R5 Flex moved to the end of the day, the first Atomversary Triathlon was held in the gym. Classes who signed up or students who got a Flex pass were able to attend. The Battle of the Classes was split into three categories; academics, athletics, and spirit. Each class was trying to cheer the loudest in order to show support for their own class to increase the score for spirit.

The first event that the teams competed in was for academics. The designated team members were to complete a test with questions in math, history and

popular culture. Each teammate was to complete a section of the test in order for their team to advance to the next level. The team to complete the test first received 100 points, but points could be deducted from their total score for wrong answers.

Sophomore Rob Olson said “[the experience was] fun and a good way to show support for your class.”

The second event was in athletics. The teams played half-court three on three basketball with the seniors against the sophomores and the juniors battling the freshmen. The winners from those two games competed against each other in the second round. After

“Triathlon” continued on pg. 6

Student sexually assaulted Heritage night

BY KYLE SMEALLIE News Editor A 15-year-old AHS student was sexually assaulted on March 14 in the Pinecrest area.

Around 3:30 p.m., the victim was walking on the 4500 block of Highland Green Court when a white Jeep sport-utility approached him.

A white male, six feet tall, weighing approximately 190 pounds, advanced upon the child and

engaged him in conversation. The suspect then grabbed the boy, pushing him into an open car door of his Jeep. There he sexually assaulted the victim.

The suspect was last seen getting into his Jeep and driving away. He has short grey hair and was wearing a blue shirt with grey pants.Anyone with information about this case is asked to call police at 703-691-2131 or Crime Solvers at 800-673-2777.

The AHS administration

declined to comment on the situation since it occurred off of school property.

“It [the assault] is a little disturbing, but it is nothing new because crime and violence have been escalating in this area in the past couple months and recent years,” said senior Bill Purdon. “But an assault of this sort isn’t heard about in this area too often.”

“Assault” continued on pg. 4

Future looms for anxious seniors

Post-high school plans have many looking ahead

BY STACEY MARIN Staff Writer

Eighty-four days. Fifty-five schools days. Seniors are looking forward and counting down to the day that they graduate, June 15, 2004. Between now and then, there are several more events that prove that graduation is approaching. The latest of these is cap and gown pictures, which are taking place yesterday and today in Clausen Hall.

“Cap and gown pictures [signify] a coming of age and a milestone. It’s a nice representation of an achievement,” said yearbook adviser Niki Holmes. “Not everyone chooses to buy these pictures, but many students use them as “thank you’s” for family. It’s especially nice because the red graduation caps and gowns are different from other schools,” Holmes said.

Cap and gown pictures are similar to senior portrait pictures in that every senior takes them. However, these are not put in the yearbook, but students again have the option of buying them. The setup is similar to senior portrait pictures, as everyone is assigned a time to take them. It is faster and more time efficient though, because time isn’t needed for people to change. The cap and gown picture schedule is

“Seniors” continued on pg. 6

Senior Elsa Mekonnen adjusts her cap fo the cap and gown pictures, which were taken in Clausen Hall. Tradtions like cap and gown pictures have many students already looking beyond high school.

basks in foreign traditions Annual cultural performance allows diverse student body to celebrate nationalities

BY ABBY SEGALL Co-Editor in Chief

MEGAN BERRY

Assistant Attorney General visits

Trading stadium seating for a living room couch

Coffeeʼs increasing popularity has students supplying the demand

With prom coming ever closer, seniors begin to make plans in preparation for the big night

BRENT SULLIVAN

NEWS BRIEFS

20

BRINGING THE THEATER TO YOU

SERVING THE THIRST

ANTICIPATION CALLS FOR PREPARATION

More than half of all Americans are now overweight from unhealthy lifestyles

68%

15

10-11

FAST FOODS FATTEN

703-642-4229

TUESDAY, MARCH 23, 2004

TINA DOUROUDIAN

VOLUME #49 ISSUE 10

4700 Medford Dr. Annandale, VA 22003

Students, families and friends roared with excitement as the 2004 Annual Heritage Night began March 8 evening in the auditorium. After the first act, a Vietnamese Dragon Dance, there was screaming and applauding from the audience. But the cheers of support didn’t stop there. They continued to reverberate in the auditorium for the next two and a half hours.

An AHS Heritage Night is a performance unlike any other show. With over 20 acts and 100 performers, this event brings much excitement every year.Acts throughout the night ranged from African and Afghan dancers to an ensemble of Korean drummers and a Korean magician.

However, it was not the performances that stole the show, it was the support and enthusiasm of the audience.As the curtain was pulled for each performance, the crowd energetically cheered and showed great encouragement. Even when the emcees walked on stage, the audience cheered loudly.

“Every body cheers for other groups,” said history and ESOL teacher Paul Watlington who was one of the many coordinators for Heritage Night. “There was so much support and enthusiasm.”

With over 720 tickets sold, there were no visible empty seats in the auditorium. “I think [this year’s show] was our best show in three years,” said senior Tamoor Ijaz who was one of the four emcees along with senior Angela Briggs and Gilda Villela and junior Sam Rabinovitz.

“Heritage” continued on pg. 5

BY CAROLINE FRIEDMAN Managing Editor

Keep flex for students Flex is a glorious institution as long as one is not forced to do work and learn new things. Many students do not bring their class supplies to flex and then the teacher expects them to learn. I say let us have flex to do work we need to do for other classes.

In other schools there are home rooms where students can finish home work or tie up other loose ends. Since we go by a block scheduling, we don’t have this home room period. Therefore, we must be given some sort of a break period or extra work time.

This time given to us must then be ours to do what we want. Teachers cannot be able to give us new work or old work to go over for that matter. It should be just a class where we are supervised by a teacher and we can do what ever we want.

—Charlie Dickinson senior

You exit through the jock lobby doors on your way to your car, just like any other day.As you approach your car in the track parking lot, you see that the window is broken. Your glove compartment is open and all of your CD’s and CD player have been stolen, as well as your wallet from under the front seat. While this seems like it could never happen to you, incidents similar to this have happened to at least five students since the beginning of the year, and they thought just that.

Mosy cars are broken into during the day. The administration patrols throughout the day and has been trying to recognize patterns in the break-ins. However, the break-ins are still occurring.

With approximately 33 acres making up the school’s property, it is virtually impossible for the five school security officers to keep watch over all parts of the school at all times. Although the local police also patrol the area during the day, the aggressors continue to strike these cars.

There are a number of solutions that can help to work towards solving this problem. They have decided on a vendor to install surveillance cameras in the parking lots and we should be getting an estimate on the cost of that project by the

end of March.

Much of the vandalism and break-ins that happen around the school are linked to gang activity in Ossian Park. This has, and continues to be, a major source of controversy in the county. The park authority sent a representative to the PTSAmeeting on Tues., March 16 to discuss a new design for Ossian. This new design includes the possibility for additional parking, a lighted plaza with benches, picnic shelters, relocation of the playground, a rectangular field and an additional entrance. The new design would also call for removal of many trees in the area so as to make it easier to see into the park.

While the park service is struggling to come up with funding for this project, it is essential that they and the school board realize that this is not only a project for park beautification; this is a matter of student safety. The representative said that school board needs to decide where the remodeling of Ossian comes on the priority list. They need to hear loud and clear that it needs to go to the top of the list, and quickly.

There are some things that the school, and the students need to do in the meantime. The school should hire an additional security officer so that more ground can be covered throughout the day. Although the current security is doing the best job that they can, they need an extra person to help patrol the school.

Students also need to be aware of suspicious behavior throughout the school day. Students who co-op and leave campus are essential to this step. If they

see suspicious behavior on their way to school or leaving then they should immediately report it.

Students also need to be fully informed of the break-ins. Signs should be posted in the parking lots reminding students not to leave valuables in view. Students should make sure that their doors are locked before they leave their cars and that their CDs and other valuables are out of sight.

Students should carry their wallets into school with them instead of leaving them in their cars.

The problems with parking and Ossian park have been going on for far too long. It is time for the school board to recognize the problem and take appropri-

ate action to stop it from continuing. The administration and school security officers are doing the best that they can with their capabilities, but they need more help and more support from higher up officials.

The missing link in this problem is Ossian Park, and the lack of maintenance and a good layout. The park is a safety hazard that needs to be dealt with and soon. If it continues to be put off then the problem will only continue to get worse. The process is long to get the park renovated and that process cannot be hindered any longer. The school board must act now, on behalf of the school, the community, and the students.

Paying the price for insubordination S. F. Mayor must be prepared to accept the consequences for his disregard of state law

In Section 300 of the California Family Code, marriage is defined as “a personal relation arising out of a civil contract between a man and When San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom a woman, to which the consent of the parties was sworn into office on January 8, 2004, he capable of making that contract is necessary.” vowed to uphold the Constitution of the State This proposition was approved by the voters of of California in its entirety. However, on Febru- California and was then made an official provision of state law. There is ary 12, Newsom re-ignited little left to argue about the the gay “marriage” controlegality of Newsom’s actions. versy by ordering the San The forthright language of Francisco County Clerk, By disregarding state law, the state constitution proves Nancy Alfaro, to begin isthe obvious, that Newsom’s suing marriage licenses to Newsom removed himself directive authorizing the issame-sex couples. In doing suance of marriage license so, Newsom demonstrated from the oath taken at his to same-sex couples is in blatant disregard of state violation of state law. The law and, hence, violated his inaugural ceremony. constitutions of other states oath of office. Unfortunately, have provisions similar to Mr. Newsom has not been Section 300 of the California alone in his defiance, as mayors in New Paltz, New York, Asbury Park, Family Code. These insubordinate city officials New Jersey, and Portland, Oregon, have followed are bound by their sworn duties to uphold these suit. However, throughout the controversy, San definitions, despite their own personal convictions.

Francisco and Gavin Newsom have remained in They aren’t the ultimate arbiters of the law in their respective states. the spotlight.

BY MATT WIEST Sports Editor

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Student wins journalist of the year

Issue 9 Corrections

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Editors in Chief: Managing Editor: News Editors: Editorial Editors: In-Depth Editors: Academics Editors:

NHL needs to put an end to excessive violence

D

So what, then, does one do with a mayor who has knowingly and intentionally subordinated state law to his personal beliefs and, hence, violated the oath that he swore to uphold at his inauguration? What must happen to an elected city official who blatantly and contemptuously defied the will of the people of his state? Simple.

By disregarding state law, Newsom removed himself from the oath taken at his inaugural ceremony. By detaching himself from this oath, he also removed himself from his right, his responsibility, and his privilege to serve as mayor of San Francisco.

If Mr. Newsom and others like him are going to act with such impropriety and deliberate noncompliance, they must be prepared to accept the consequences of their actions. With only misdemeanor criminal charges being brought against these officials, it would appear as though they are getting off easy. But there is liability that comes with office, and Newsom should certainly think twice next time he plans on putting his own agenda before the law of the state and the will of the people.

A BLAST

MAking the GrAde — In the page 12 story “Student mends athletic injuries,” Melissa Sielaty was wrongly classsified as an athletic trainer. Sielaty is actually an athletic training student aide.

Mar. 23, 2003

Step up security at Ossian

Ossian Park is problematic. Safety issue needs recognition

Letter to the editor:

the

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY REBECCA KRAUSHAAR

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A BLAST

EDITORIALS

Health Editors: People Editors:

Atomic Articles Editor: Atomic Athletics Editor: Business Manager: Ad Manager: Copy Editor: Photography Editors: Writing Coach: Staff Writers/Photographers:

Cultures Editors: Sports Editors: Arts Editors: Entertainment Editors:

School to start early for 12 days

F

Weekend Editors: Sports “Xtra”:

Videographers: Web Design: Adviser:

Public transportation vulnerable to attack

F

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 individualʼs right to privacy. Unsigned editorials represent the staff opinions which solely represent the opinion of the newspaper staff. The A-Blast is an independent, open forum for discussion which is printed at the Springfield Plant of The Washington Post. Signed letters to the editor of 250 words or less may be submitted to room 229 or mailed to the school. The A-Blast reserves the right to refuse advertisements. All submissions become property of The A-Blast Copyright, 2004.

EDITORIALS

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March 23, 2004

Americans pack the pounds escape the massive ad campaigns used by the fast food adults—trailing only smoking. Being overweight increase their chances for getting diabetes, having high industry.

As a result, fast food has become a staple in most cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

Changing your eating habits does not require a American’s lifestyles. Some people enjoy the traditional McDonald’s breakfast, while others eat it for dinner. In massive change, and the benefits of healthy living are either case, the repercussions on the consumer’s health immeasurable. Eating right can add years to your life. So are evident. More than 60% ofAmericans are overweight, the next time you are about the sit down in front of the TV

BY JOHN BERNHARDT with your cheeseburger and french fries, think twice. and this number is growing.

Editorials Editor Americans have spent a record amount of money The United States is a world leader in many aspects: on health equipment (including memberships to health military superiority, economic strength, technological ad- clubs). Fitness equipment such as the Bowflex and vancements, and of course, having the fattest citizens.

AbSlide rake in millions of dollars. Despite this Who or what is to blame for the ever-expanding waist increase in fitness spending, mostAmericans sizes of Americans? Is it the food we eat? Or is it sheer spend far more time in front of the tube laziness and lack of exercise that plagues us? In fact, it than on a bike. The averageAmerican is a combination of these two factors that has led to the spends about five hours each day in large percentage of overweight Americans. front of a screen.

First, when Americans eat, they really eat. The A recent documentary entitled amount of food consumed by Americans compared to Super Size Me touches upon the other countries is phenomenal. Portions in America are effects of fast food on the human much bigger than portions in other countries. This is body. Director Morgan Spurlock clearly evident in the “Hungry ate nothing but Man” commercials in which McDonald’s one pound portions are offered for an entire to consumers. Eating a pound of month. Before Obesity has become a disease food in one sitting is not normal. his month long Portions are constantly growing that plagues the United experiment, in the U.S. All-you-can eat bufSpurlock was fets offer exactly what their States. . .is the second largest a healthy 185 — It is estimated that kids get up to 40% of their name implies. The strategy pounds, with meals from fast-food chains, convenience stores and when going to these places: stuff killer of American adults—trailing cholesterol of 168. restaurants. yourself until you leave feeling When doctors only smoking sick and bloated. The motto for examined Spurlock — There are fast-food franchise outlets in 13% of these places are “Hey, you paid a month later, they the nationʼs schools. for it, so you might as well get were shocked by your money’s worth.” At 7-11, Super Big Gulps contain what they found. He now weighed — Approximately 65% of people are overweight.

64 ounces of soda-that is more than 5 cans of soda. How- 210 pounds (a gain of 25 pounds in one ever, the American consumer can only be held partially month) and his cholesterol had shot up to — The average American eats about 30 pounds of responsible for such irresponsible eating habits.

230. Doctors were amazed by the poor confrench fries each year Ads for unhealthy foods constantly bombards consum- dition his heart and liver were in, after only ers. There are never ads for vegetables or fruits-they are one month of fast food.Admittedly, this is an — There are more than 300,000 fast food always for soda, candy bars or fast food. Grease-filled extreme case. However, manyAmericans do restaurants in the U.S. happy meals are designed to catch the eyes of young eat fast food multiple times per week. children. Additionally, fast food companies spend more Obesity has become a disease that plagues than $3 billion annually on television ads alone. Ameri- the United States. Recent studies show that cans of all ages-especially children and teenagers-can’t it is the second largest killer of American WWW.CLICKWALLA.COM/ARTICLE.PHP?CID=19&AID=402

Food consumption habits in the U.S. has led to record number of obese Americans

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3 Do you think ‘negative campaigning’ is a good tactic used by politicians?

“No, it is too negative. It doesn’t make me what to vote for the [candidate].”

—Lauren Brick freshman

“It is wrong because it’s immoral and it’s like cheating the other person out.

It’s two faced.”

Fast Food Fast Facts

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—Carlos Viera freshman “I think it is fair enough since that is how politicians express their opinions and their views.

This is evident between Kerry and Bush.”

—AnooshAwan sophomore “I think it’s bad, because if you talk about others people won’t get to know you. ”

Drug companies get bad wrap

—Asha Hashi sophmore

U.S. companies are leaders in research, which forces them to price higher I recently came across a Nike commercial in between segments of a 60 Minutes piece on the greed of the pharmaceutical industry. The particular ad (part of a new promotional campaign with professional athletes playing the wrong sports) ends with world-class bicyclist Lance Armstrong raising his arms in victory, after throwing a onetwo punch to win a boxing match.

How ironic; the pharmaceutical industry is the sole reason why Armstrong is still six feet tall and not six feet deep. 60 Minutes highlighted fearful speculations that drug manufacturers are manipulating costs to produce greater profits. There is little question that the pharmaceutical

industry is one of the most profitable of any in the U.S. economy and that drug costs in the U.S. are substantially higher than those produced in foreign nations.

This leaves many people unsettled, wondering why there is no price regulation as in nearly all other westernized nations?

Such regulation teeters towards the edge of fascism. American drug manufacturers are the some of the sole developers of the world’s prescription drugs, and thus have powerful leverage over the world’s medical status. While there are companies that abuse the situation to propel their wealth, there are more who provide their indispensable service, legitimately, without government control. Lance Armstrong’s survival is a tribute to such.

The toughest obstacle Armstrong encountered in life did not involve biking. A seemingly super human, he had to face

an all too mortal problem: terminal cancer. The grim diagnosis threatened to take his life at the pinnacle of his success, but somehow he endured and went on to win his fifth Tour De France.

It was not on the grace of God, but the miracle of medical science—provided by companies with no government price regulation.

Pricing drugs is delicate (to say the least). Cost coverage is vast, funding research and development, marketing, manufacturing and the one aspect any business is tethered: profit. That’s where the debate of economic fundamentals and philosophy comes in. How much profit should companies make off medical needs?

Drug prices are higher in the U.S. due to the greater R&D effort, which drastically increases costs. Foreign companies piggyback off U.S. research and manufacture drugs once their patents have expired, and are able to do so for cheaper.

To fund their developing products U.S. manufacturers are forced to raise costs.

To the public, however, the increase blurs with profit margins.

Fundamentals clash with reality.

With all intentions of remaining lassizefare, how can a steady rate of R&D be maintained, while still ensuring profit?

To do so the government must walk a fine line of regulation, and eliminate foreign variables. If foreign products are removed

and generic products are maintained at a minimal cost (by the industry), the government could remain hands-off, unless otherwise needed as a last resort.

The current situation bares striking resemblance to that of the oil industry at the turn of the 20th century, resulting in the Sherman Antitrust Act (1890).

By no means are pharmaceutical companies monopolies, but it is possible that a strong demand for limited products has created a situation where costs have exceeded a logical point.

Greed is an all too prominent human trait; however, it is one that can be managed without a controlling power. In many cases industry standards rise naturally and there is nothing to prove that this won’t be the case for drug manufacturers. If problems continue to progress in an uncontrollable quagmire, than government regulation would is just.

The advancement of medical science is dependent on U.S. R&D. Without the support of consumers medicine could reach a point of arrested development.

Yankees: Big Business or Evil Empire?

Steinbrenner should not be criticized for buying success when he has the available resources

BY JARED SMITH Sports Editor When the New York Yankees signed Cuban defector pitcher Jose Contreras last March, the hated Boston Red Sox, who also coveted Contreras, along with their General Manager Theo Epstein responded by calling theYankees an “Evil Empire,” a name which still is in place today. With the recent trade for infielder Alex Rodriguez, along with the other off-season signings of Gary Sheffield, Kenny Lofton, Kevin Brown and Javier Vazquez, major league owners are screaming two words, salary cap.

The Yankees payroll this year is $180 million, $55 million higher then the Red Sox, who have the second highest payroll at $125 million. How can “The Boss” afford such a lofty payroll? The equation is simple. When George Steinbrenner, owner of New York’s baseball team bought the Yanks from CBS in 1972, he only had

to spend $10 million. Since ’72 the worth of the Yankees attendance of 17,000. When the Yankees made their six has increased 100 fold, as they are valued over $1 billion visits to Comerica Park, the average attendance more today in total assets. This means that Steinbrenner can than doubled at 35,000. Bottom line, every time Steinafford to have players likeAlex Rodriguez, Jason Giambi, brenner swallows up another all-star onto his roster the Derek Jeter, and Mariano Rivera, who are all paid over sport of baseball benefits. The “Evil Empire” is good for $15 million per year, and that doesn’t even guarantee baseball and Steinbrenner should not be criticized for tryanother title being added to “The Boss’” mantle. How can ing to buy success. If you can afford the best players in the game, you should be able to obtain any baseball fan argue that for the the best players in the game. past 30 years theYankees, because of When theYankees make their their off the charts productivity, have first trip to play the Texas Rangsingle handedly renewed America’s If you can afford the best ers, A-Rod’s former team, on May interest in the sport by providing 21, the entire world will be watchcountless classic playoff players in the game, you ing. If this trade never happened series against some of it would be just a normal three the best teams in should be able to obtain the game series between two basebaseball. ball teams. About as exciting as So how can you best players in the game watching paint dry. punish a team So as opening day is less than for making solid one month away, all eyes are on investment and the Bronx and their newest acquibusiness decisions? Has the U.S. Government forced sitions. To put it in perspective, mediocrity is the sum of Microsoft to cut back on the amount of all fears in the sporting world. Without the Yankees, the software they produce? If the Yankees sport of baseball would be wallowing in mediocrity for all were forced to downsize, the sport eternity. Every time you turn your head the Yankees are of baseball would go into a massive causing some kind of controversy, which adds more pocket economic downward spiral. The league’s worst change to Commissioner Bud Selig’s wallet. team last year, the Detroit Tigers, had an average home

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“I think it is wrong and candidates shouldn’t do it becuase it is unfair to the other candidate.”

—Ahmad Hotaki junior

“They’re a lot more convincing if they can express their own positive attributes rather than putting down the other candidates.”

—Emily Miller senior

“It is to a degree.

Personally, I like it when people spend time talking about what they have to offer instead of putting people down.”

—Dick Adams Assistant Athletic Director

4 NEWS BRIEFS

A BLAST

NEWS

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March 23, 2004

Band, orchestra play at districts their performance, and a I on their sight reading. Although One of their II’s was “leaning towards a I,” they received a II overall, which was disappointing, but still The AHS Bands and Orchestras excellent. “I am proud of all of them,” reached the end of their winter season by said Director Roger McKay. “They did performing their selections that they have the best I could have expected, and they been practicing since last Christmas at all performed very well,” he said. They the Virginia Band & Orchestra Directors performed Irish Tune from County Derry Association (VBODA) Festival. The Band

by Percy Grainger, Concerto Grosso in A Festival was held on March 5 and 6, and the Minor Op. 3 No. 8 by Antonio Vivaldi, Orchestra Festival was on March 12 and and Symphony No. 4 (1st Mvt) by Robert 13, both at West Potomac High School.

Schumann and arranged by Robert McIn the Festival, which is often compared Cashin. to the SOL tests for the Band and OrchesAlso, the Symphonic Orchestra tra, the musical groups perform in front of earned straight II’s, showing their strong an audience as well as three adjudicators, effort even through their lower placement who judge their presentation and give as an orchestra. “More importantly [than them a score from 1 (I)-5 (V), with I being the ranking] is how they are doing now the best score and V being the worst. All compared to how they used [to play]” said AHS groups did well, but one stood out as McKay. The Symphonic Orchestra pera clearly “superior” group.

The Symphonic Band earned straight Three bassists perform at the district festival. The Chamber Orchestra recieved a rating of formed Allegro in C Major by Mozart and arranged by Merle Isaac, When Summer’s ones, the highest possible rating. “I think two II’s and a I on their performance, and a I on their sight reading, while the Symphonic in the Meadow by Robert Longfield, and that they’re a very fine band,” said adjudica- Orchestra earned straight II’s.

Pagodas by Richard Meyer. tor Chuck Smith. This qualifies them for the The Gold band also performed, but chose not to receive “I think we did good, but the ratings did Virginia Honor Band Award for the ninth time, which is given every year by VBODA to any band a rating, but opted for “Comments Only,” because not not really reflect that,” said freshman Brenden Richardthat earns a “superior” rating both in the State March- all members of the Band were present on the day of the son, a member of the Concert Orchestra. They earned ing Band Festival in October and this Festival. They Festival. They played Normandy Beach March by John 2 III’s and a IV on their performance, but still got a I on performed The Dam Busters by Eric Coates and arranged Edmonson, Cobb County Festival by John O’Reilly, and their sight reading. They performed Partita by George Telemann and arranged by Fritz, Water Music Suite by

by William C. Schoenfeld, Liturgical Dances by David r. Into the Storm by Robert W. Smith.

The Orchestras also positively represented the school George Handel and arranged by Etting, and Concertino Holsinger, and The Roman Carnival Overture by Hector at the Festival, narrowly missing the mark of perfection. for String Orchestra by Samuel Adler.

Berlioz and arranged by Dan Godfrey.

The Chamber Orchestra received two II’s and a I on

ROTC and Military Academy Information Night

Tonight, at 7:30 in the Lecture Hall, all Military academies, ROTC and a representative from Congressman Tom Davis’ will be available to give students and parents information on programs at the academies and the application and nomination process.

DECA members qualify for conderence

DECA returns from the Virginia DECA State Leadership Conference with numerous awards. As a chapter, the club was named a Preferred Chapter due to the membership and activites.Also the following studenst have qualified to compete at the International Career Development Conference in Nashville, Tennessee in May. KhalidAbul-Hawa - Full Service Re stuarant Management Sam Boyd - E-Commerce Team Decision-Making

MEGAN BERRY

BY JOE WILBUR Staff Writer

Two FBLA members go to states

Jason Bracken - E-Commerce Team Decision-Making Cory Daise - Sports and Entertainment Marketing Team Decision Making Yodit Gebreyes - Sports and Entertainment Marketing Team Decision-Making Ashley Miller - Food Marketing, Management Level

SARAH SOZIO

Michelle Perez - Food Marketing, Management Level

Of the following students.Abul-Hawa, Bracken, Perez, and Tran will be attending international competition for the second year in a row.

Dance team victorious at competition

The varsity dance squad took home five awards in the Brooke Point High School dance competition on March 1.

The awards included first in jazz dancing, second in team leaders, third in hip hop/funk, and two extra awards technical excellance and showmanship. The numerous recognitions make this the most successful competition in team history. “We came together really well throughout the year,” said senior Justine Bui. “I’m glad we can say that we were the best ever.”

The 16-person team, led by five seniors, is coached by 2000 AHS grad Michael Uriarte.

Career and Job Fair

During both flex periods (R7/W6) on March 31, the career and job fair will be held in the upstairs gym. This fair will have summer job opportunities and Career and Vocational training.

Although this is targeted at undecided seniors, teachers are encouraged to bring any interested students. The following is a list of participants in the fair.

Applied Career Training - healthcare careers Baltimore International College - culinary arts, hospitality, business ITT Technical Institute - computers Lincoln Tech - automotive, HVAC Stratford University - culinary, business, computers Northern Virginia Community College TESST Technology Institute Virginia Employment Commission Air Force Marines Navy Army Coast Guard

The concert choir performs to the direction of Carleen Dixon. “I thought it went really well, all groups did well. I was very impressed with the singers from Poe and Holmes,” said Dixon.

Choral pyramid concert held

BY CRISTIAN HERNANDEZ Staff Writer Anxiety fills sophomore Eric Simmon’s body as he changes for his performance with the Men’s Chorale and theAnnandale singers.

His nerves start to further increase as he warms up with the rest of the singers. His hands begin to sweat as the moment he has been waiting for approaches. Simmon’s nerves turn to an adrenaline rush as he walks up the stage up to his spot. The light shines and his faces widens as he belts out the first note.

Simmons was not the only one feeling the pressure on the March 11, singers from the choral department as well as singers from Poe Middle School and Holmes Middle School performed at the Choral pyramid to a packed audience. The singers from the middle schools brought out their best material and performed in front of relatives and fellow singers from AHS and Holmes.

The concert consisted of performances by Poe Treble Singers, Poe Singers, and Holmes Treble Chorus. Holmes Concert Choir, Annandale Concert Choir, Men’s

Chorale, Woman’s Ensemble and the Annandale singers. The finale came when all of the choirs joined together on the stage to sing All he can be. “I loved the last song, I like it how it came down,” said 8th grader Helen Jang.

The concert gave middle school students a chance to see a choral performance at a high school level.

It let take a peek at their possible feature as singers. “It was good to see that the Annandale Singers are a lot better than us,” said Christin Phathana, an eighth grader from Holmes.

All of the singers had to prepare for the concert months in advance.

“We’ve been talking about the concert since the beginning of the year, we have been practicing for like two months,” said 8th grader Emily Dallas.

“We’ve been practicing this music for a month or two” said AHS Choral Director Carleen Dixon.

As the concert came to a conclusion the audience as well as performance had their favorites.

“My favorite part was singing with the Annandale Singers because I was in the group,” said Jamison

BY SOHAIB KHAN Staff Writer

Foreman.

TheAnnandale singers were one of the highlights of the night. They came out in their medieval attire and impressed the crowd. “My favorite part is always the Annandale Singers, they are by far the better singers,” said senior John Kilgor.

“I loved the Annandale singers because they are very powerful,” said sophomore Cara Talliy.

Choral directors were very pleased with the performances.

“I thought it went really well, all groups did good. I was very impressed with the singers from Poe and Holmes,” said choral director Carleen Dixon. Poe’s Choral director was also enthusiastic about the effort put out by the students.

“I was really pleased, they worked hard and paid very close attention to direction, I was also happy to see my old students,” said PMS’s Choral director Pat Pion.

The concert was a chance for middle school students to show off their talent. “I think the concert went really well. It was an over all great performance,” said sophomore Sam Rabinovitz.

Student sexually assaulted “Assault” from pg. 1 This assault, being so close to a major road such as Little River Turnpike, comes as a surprise to many. “Living so close to a crime like this is scary,” said senior Cassie Holcomb, who lives less than 1,000 feet from the assault. “I hope security is increased in the area, but it comes as a shock. The neighborhood is usually quiet.”

Senior Pat McMurry, who lives approximately 2 miles from the incident, also views it as a threat.

“I’ve golfed at there [Pinecrest Golf Course] before, and to think that some pedophile is there is unsettling.,” said McMurry.

COURTESY OF YAHOO.COM

Renee Tran - Fashion Merchandising Plan

SOHAIB KHAN

Yonas Tewodros - Full Service Restaurant Management

The assault occured at the 4500 block of Highland Green Court, just 3 miles from AHS. It involved a 15-year-old student and a 190 pound, grey haired white male.

The March 4th Future Busines Leaders ofAmerica (FBLA) regional awards ceremony brought home prizes for the competitors. Held at Falls Church High School, the ceremony included schools from all over Fairfax, Loudoun, and Arlington County and from the city of Alexandria.

Thirty-seven AHS students participated in the different categories, and eight came home as award winners. Students won prizes for the Business Plan Project, ComputerApplications, Computer Concepts, International Business, a Future Business Leader interview, and Public Speaking.

“I am very proud of the students who won. They worked very hard to prepare for the competition. I am also very pleased that we had winners in performance events which are much more difficult,” said business teacher Helen Silberminz. “The best part is that we have a very active chapter where lots of students competed and attended the award ceremony.”

The testing was held in business classrooms at AHS on Feb. 11. There was a multiple-choice test in which students were selected based on the scores they earned. Participants in the public speaking contest gave their speeches on Feb. 23 along with the Future Business Leader interview.

Hadi Elias, who placed first in Computer Applications, made a spreadsheet, database and used his skills working with Microsoft word processing. “I was well prepared because I had books at home, and my teacher helped me out a lot,” said Elias.

“EnterpriseZ” was a business plan established

by Rahila Zikria, Tahir Zeb and Chris Schubert. It consisted of office furniture that they sold to large government corporations. “We made it seem like it was a genuine business plan that was carried out in real life,” said Tahir Zeb. “First, I was just interested in receiving points in class, but after working on it I realized, it was a regional competition that had to be represented by the Z enterprise,” said Zikria, a junior.

Senior Sherabeel Khan represented AHS in the public speaking contest. He delivered a five-minute speech in front of an audience and a panel of judges, and he came third in the competition.

“I was nervous before the interview was conducted. I thought I did not belong there as everything seemed so professional but as I carried out the interview I was confident,” said senior Atiqa Raja.

Atiqa achieved third in the regional award ceremony. She participated in the “Future Business Leader” competition as an FBLA officer. She took an online test and wrote and an application letter and a resume for her interview.

Students who won 1st and 2nd prizes are eligible to participate in the state competitions. Linda Tran was one of the students who were placed 2nd in an International Business online test. Tran will be heading into the state competition held in April. “These experiences help students in their future careers by giving them the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence,” said Silberminz.

“We received a lot of help from the FBLA as it got us started thinking as real life business people,” said Schubert.

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March 22, 2004

Company improvises play Company Day presented two different plots from the same theme on March 12 and March 15 during the classes. Both plays used improvisation to demonstrate Commedia dell’Arte. One of the features in Commedia dell’ Arte that they used was where everyone except the lovers wore a mask.

“Theatre is like a battlefield, when things go wrong it’s a good idea to keep your head down and when things go right, you make sure you get credit,” said senior Will Akridge.

The audience was definitely like a battlefield, when the crowd was stating what they should do better next time. Good comments came from one direction, while helpful tips and negative comments came from another. “The magician part was too long and got boring,” said one student, while another student claimed that the magician part was funny.

The first play, took place on March 12, contained a plot of two guys named Gregorio and Capitano (Andrew Nicholas and Noah Crowley) who loved a girl named Talula (Kate Bagnulo). Gregorio and Capitano both fought for her love, but first had to impress her parents. “It was very funny; it made me laugh,” said junior Jessica Gray.

Gray was not the only person who enjoyed the play, as sophomoreAndy Gomez said, “As far as improvisation goes, they did really good.”

The first play, directed by senior Tony Sanchez,

used comedy to grab the audience’s attention. One scene included Nicholas trying to act in stealth to get into the house. This play also included two alternate endings. “Every expectation I set for them they met and broke,” said Sanchez.

The second play, took place on March 15, was about two twins who were separated at birth and were forced to marry each other. One twin (WillAkridge) was born stupid and the other twin (Coury Shadyac) was born smelly. However, they did not know that they were twins and had lovers of their own. This play’s way of grabbing the crowd’s attention was by using volunteers from the audience. In one part of the play, directed by seniorAubrey Welch, they used a volunteer to conduct a magic trick and another three volunteers were used to dance to the Macarena.

“It’s always really fun because it changes with improvisation,” said senior Coury Shadyac.

Although both plays showed Commedia dell’Arte, comparison was drawn up by both of the plays. “I liked the first one better, but the dumb guy was good; he should’ve been in the first one,” said Gomez.

Thirty students participated in this event, which had two different casts, two different directors, and two different stories. The students were introduced to it in December and were rehearsing since January.

This was the first time that the students participated in a Commedia dell’Arte event like this.

“I thought some things went extremely well, but I would like to see some changes made the next time I give them the assignment,” said Vicki Farish.

PTSA holds breakfast

On March 5, during R1 flex, the PTSA provided an Honors Breakfast in the cafeteria for all students on the A or A/B Honor Roll 2nd quarter.

Annual blood drive to be held

Senior Coury Shaydac tries to convince her parents to not make her marry Will Akridge. Akridge turns out to be her twin brother in the end.

Chorus sends seven Dance canceled states to states Seven students were selected for All-State Chorus. The seven students selected are junior Danielle Larmett, senior Kelly Harbison, senior Ashley Lippolis, junior Emily Dean, senior Donald Martin, senior Colin Agnew and senior Moses Choi. Furthermore, there are four alternates; first alternates include junior Molly Jepson and Christine Cox while second alternates consist of senior Elizabeth Netten and senior Marty Covington.

BY MOLLY STERLACCI Staff Writer A select few choral members will be traveling to Richmond April 22nd through April 24th to participate in the all-state choral concert. The seven students that will be partaking in this event include junior Danielle Larmett, senior Kelly Harbison, senior Ashley Lippolis, junior Emily Dean, senior Donald Martin, senior Colin Agnew and senior Moses Choi. Furthermore, there are four alternates; first alternates include junior Molly Jepson and Christine Cox while second alternates consist of senior Elizabeth Netten and senior Marty Covington.

The concert will be held at Miles Godwin High school in Richmond for the three consecutive days. The agenda for the first two days will mainly consist of intensive rehearsing and preparation for the big event while the third day will be the actual

concert. Open to the public, the concert will last about an hour, in which a total of seven pieces will be sung from both the women’s and mixed choirs. Additionally, a recording of the concert will be made.

All in all there are around 240 mixed choir students (soprano, alto, tenor, and bass) as well as roughly 120 women’s choir students statewide that will be present for the event, so it is no small performance. It accumulates to be one giant all-state choir of all the diverse choir students from around the state.

The state of Virginia is broken up into 16 districts, and twenty choral members come from each district, so it is a great honor to participate in the all-state chorus concert. As such, it is quite competitive and is recognized as a very big deal in the chorus field. There are an exceptionally large number of students that will come from Annandale, as it is the most from the entire dis-

NEWS BRIEF

VAL GRAVES

BY STUART DUNBAR Staff Writer

5

trict. In many unfortunate but actual cases, high schools do not get anybody into the event, so as a school, we are privileged to be able to send students to participate in the event at all.

“It’s always a wonderful experience to go to the all-state choral concert and it’s exciting to see my kids get this experience in high level music making. I know it will be a great experience for them, said choral director Ms. Dixon.”

To qualify for the all-state chorus concert, you must either be a junior or senior and have the aptitude and talent to go far with your voice.

Choral director Ms. Dixon said “You can’t get chosen for allstate chorus unless you’re a good singer. They are an outstanding group of students and I’m sure they’ll do a wonderful job. I’m very proud of them because they’ve worked very hard to get at this level and I’m proud to be their director”

Cultures celebrated at Heritage Night Heritage Night sells out for the third year in a row as different cultures perform “Heritage” from pg. 1 “I liked how everyone was very supportive of every culture represented [at Heritage Night],” said junior BlenAfework. “It was nice to see cultures come together as one.”

The annual Heritage Night began with the Vietnamese Dragon dance and continued with other performances during the night, which included African dances. One in particular that receive strong applause was West

Senior Colin Agnew and Eleni Liagouris perform their Peruvian Traditional Dance entitled Marinera Nortena. Both dancers have performed nationally in locations such as Miami, New York, and California. They have been performing together for four years and thrilled the crowd at Heritage Night.

again

BY BRIDGETTE KIM Staff Writer The only sound that stirred in the cafeteria on Saturday night was probably the humming of the freezers and buzzing of the heat vents.

The Winter Dance: Fantasy, which was originally planned to be held on Jan. 24, was postponed till March 13 due to a four-day weekend, and the lack of ticket sales.

The twice postponed Winter Dance is now officially canceled. The long weekend ordeal could not be used as an excuse this time, the cause of the cancellation is clearly just the lack of participation in ticket sales.

While initial reports revealed 300 tickets to be sold, only a mere 32 tickets were sold out of a school population of 2500.

One of the 32, junior Christyna Kay was upset about the dance being canceled. “When I bought a ticket for Homecoming back in the beginning of the year I was excited and thought to buy another one for the Winter Dance, because I wanted to spend time with my friends,” said Kay. “I was disappointed, because it has been canceled twice, and they should plan better accordingly and explain why it continues to be canceled.”

Senior Class officer Mandy Brackett said that lack of participation of the dance was bad advertising. “Traditionally seniors are the one that sponsor the Winter Dance, but we’re busy with college and prom and is difficult to advertise a dance well,” said Brackett.

The money would have gone towards the Senior Prom, but with the dance gone as one of their fundraising elements Brackett says that alternative fundraising options are to host more Fuddruckers Nights. The dance would have been utilized to lower prom ticket prices but because of the cancellation there maybe an increase on how much seniors have to pay to have access to their own prom. As a result from the dance the class lost $150 down payment on the D.J that was reserved for the Fantasy Dance. The twice canceled dance may discourage future sales according to Kay. “If they keep on doing this [cancellations] I don’t want to buy tickets in the future.”

Sponsored by the SGA leadership class, the annual blood drive at AHS is asking students and faculty of at least 110 pounds and over the age of 17 to donate blood. The desperate call for donors began March 1 and ended on March 19. Students can sign up in the cafeteria or see Jennifer Hendrickson for more information. In return for their appreciated donations. Donors will receive Blood Tour t-shirt.

The INOVA Blood Donor Services will be collecting blood for needy patients; those with cancer, trauma injuries, or in need of surgery. “We’re expecting to get a good amount of blood this year to help patients that are in need of blood transfusions,” said Hendrickson. On March 25 from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m, INOVA nurses will conduct the blood donating procedure in the Clausen Hall. Photo ID’s are required.

Hispanic Parent Council

The Potluck Dinner will take place on March 29 at 6 p.m. at the Clausen Hall.

The social event will mark the beginning of the Hispanic Parent Council.

The main objective of the meeting is to create a solid organization and share ideas to improve the future of children.

For additional questions, contact Ana Maria Dillon at 703-247-8728.

Sutton Foster to come to ArtSpeak

The award winning ArtSpeak! program returns on March 24. While held at Poe Middle School, the program is targeted at AHS students. The guest will be Sutton Foster.

Foster originated the role of Millie on Broadway in “Thoroughly Modern Millie” for which she won the 2002 Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. Foster has also appeared on Broadway as Eponine in Les Mis and Sandy in Grease.

Sutton Foster

Awards Banquet at NVCC

The Annandale Chamber of Commerce will be holding their annual Awards Banquet and Silent auction at NVCC on April 29 at 6 p.m. The AHS Jazz band will be performing, as two AHS student athletes will receive recognition as the Top Female Athelete with Highest GPA and the Top Male Athelete with Highest GPA .

Both of these athletes have been identified by Dick Adams and Angelo Hilios.

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March 23, 2004

SARAH SOZIO

NEWS BRIEFS

Model U.N. holds in-school conferences On Thursday and Friday, March 11 and 12, the Model U.N. took part in an in-school conference. The conference took place in the Media Center and the Lecture Hall, with a total of about 50 students taking part.

In order to be a part of this conference, students had to write position papers and turn them in to Model U.N. sponsor and history teacher Jonathan York. In this conference, there were two committees each debating a different issue in the world today. The Model U.N. president, senior John Carpenter, led the first committee, which debated the Northern Ireland issue. This committee held their conference in the media center, where they were at times, videotaped. The other committee was held in the lecture hall and led by junior Carter Koppelman and senior Coury Shadyac. This committee debated issues including North Korea, illegal drug trafficking, and violence against women.

Many of the students had taken time before the conference to make videos of kidnappings, assassinations, and other things that would be relevant to the debates that would later take place. The students also often times used role-playing as a tool, where they would dress up and act out the parts of people relevant to the debate; anyone from a witness to a U.S. government official.

The students were also able to listen to three guest speakers who came to the school to speak. The first of these speakers was a lawyer from NGO, a non-government organization, named Jenny Grabman. She spoke to the committee in the lecture hall, on women’s health issues and United Nations treaties regarding women’s health. Grabman spoke on Thursday morning. The second speaker, Joe Raid, came on Thursday afternoon. Raid has a doctorate degree from Georgetown on cyber terrorism and international law.

He spoke for over an hour, and the format of this speech was question and answer.

Students were able to ask questions that Mr. Raid would answer. The third speaker, Meredith Parish, is a teacher atAHS. Parish spoke to the students about the Peace Corps, and the students all showed great enthusiasm in this. According to York, about 12 students showed great interest in joining the Peace Corps, which is referred to as “the toughest job you’ll ever love.”

The conference as a whole was a success, as many students participated and were able to get more experience in real-life situations in the world today.

“Each year, the conference has gotten better and better. The quality of the students is constantly improving.” York said.

InApril, Thomas Jefferson High School will hold their Model U.N. conference. All students interested in Model U.N., as well as new members, are encouraged to take part in this conference. This conference will allow students to get the experience necessary in order to travel to the out-oftown conferences later in the year and in the coming years.

“Triathalon” from pg. 1 first few minutes of the game protests were heard through the crowd as senior Billy Purdon, also a basketball player, subbed in for senior Lindsay Miller.

Though many thought this should be considered cheating, the judges allowed it and play continued. The seniors and juniors then faced off for a second round.

In this round, the game got rough and senior Michael Perucci was thrown out of the game. Though it was a rough game, the juniors ended up beating the seniors, led by junior Diana Hollingsworth.

“I was a little bit upset because teams were very lopsided. I didn’t feel that each class got to play the players that would best represent our class,” said sophomore Dan Kim, a Triathlon attendee.

The final event was in the category of spirit. The freshmen took the stage in the middle of the gym floor and performed a cheer to attempt to get their class to show the most spirit. Following them were the sophomore, however, due to dis-

tractions from the crowd, they exceeded their ten-second limit to begin and were disqualified. The antics displayed by the sophomore section included crowd-surfing by some students.

“While the kids were crowd surfing, I saw some administrators and they all looked really mad. I thought the people were going to get in trouble,” said Kim. Regardless of whether or not the crowd surfing went a little too far, the students loved it. “Even though the administrators were being really strict, it was still a lot of fun, and I hope it happens next year again,” said Kim. The classes were graded on spirit for how much they participated throughout the events throughout and the seniors won this event as well. The senior class had “Super Senior,” their mascot, who was Purdon dressed in a cape and mask.

They also threw candy bars into the crowd to spark class participation and cheers from their peers.

When all of the points had been tal-

lied, the seniors came out on top, followed by the juniors, then the freshmen, and at the bottom the sophomores, due to their disqualification. Even though there were some controversial decisions made in the Triathlon, the students seemed to really enjoy it, while others’ thought that the outcome what unjust.

“It was fun, except for the fact that the seniors cheated,” said junior Brian Blasser, who expressed his disapproval for the way that the games were run.

Overall, students really enjoyed the Triathlon. “It was a great time to cheer on my class, show support, and to talk to my friends,” said sophomore Kim. “If they were to plan the same event for next year, I would definitely support it because it’s a great break from the day and it shows school spirit,” said sophomore Rob Olson. At the end of the Triathlon, the students showed their approval for it to be held again next school year.

BRENT SULLIVAN

Seniors supreme in class competition

Junior Mike Krzywicki cheers on his fellow juniors during the basketball portion of the competition

Ossian Park plans Seniors prepare for to improve safety graduation with pictures New park plan (Right) is the proposed plan for Ossian Park. Trees will be removed to enchance sight lines and the increase in lighting.

The addition of more fields and a skateboard park are also planned.

“Ossian” from pg. 1 structure on the campus of the high school.

With the removal of trees to enhance sight lines and the increase in lighting, the master plan would target loiterers with increased invisibility. Also, the addition of more fields and the skateboard park will, in the hopes of the task force, draw more people to the park, thus discouraging illegal activity there. According to McCormack, the plan will create a park where “people don’t go to hide, but where people can have fun.” McCormack described the task force as “very enthusiastic” about the plan.

However, not everyone is as enthusiastic. Junior Diana Hollingsworth lives just two blocks away from Ossian Hall Park. She disagrees with the way the proposed plan changes the natural state of the

area and fears that all these efforts may still be ineffective with dealing with gang activity in the park. “Its a park; parks have trees.And if you cut them down it’s just a field and I highly doubt someone is going to be sitting there watching every movement for signs of gang activity or loitering,” said Hollingsworth.

Tonight, the Fairfax County Park Authority will hold a public hearing concerning the group’s plan for renovation. The meeting will be held at 7 p.m. at Annandale Terrace Elementary.

“Everybody who supports Annandale, should support this plan [at the hearing]. . . We represent the neighborhood. We need all the support we can get,” said McCormack who fears “vociferous” detractors of the master plan.

“Seniors” from pg. 1 posted outside of room 229.

“I’m excited [about graduating] and counting down the days, like most of us are,” said senior Angela Briggs. “I can’t wait. It’s nice to be fulfilling things that we’ve been expecting and heard last year’s seniors talk about. Each event [brings] new relief; we’re one step closer.”

Prom is one thing that people look forward to throughout their high school career.

However, there are a few things that will be taking place prior to prom. On March 29, when underclassmen will be voting for next year’s SGAofficers, the senior class will have a prom fashion show, showcasing tuxedos from Master’s Tuxedo. During class elections for underclassmen, which will occur on April 28, senior class sponsor Gregory Reed is looking to get a presentation from a local chapter of MADD, Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

These many preparatory activities will lead up to the big event. Prom will take place on Friday, May 14, 2004, at the Waterford at Fair Oaks, from 9 pm to 1 am. Tickets will be on sale from April 26 to May 7, and will cost $35 each. Only cash will be accepted for these tickets.

With graduation getting closer and closer, all seniors are faced with the perennial problem of senior slump. As college acceptance letters start coming in, many students lose their drive to do well in high school. This epidemic isn’t catching all students though.

“In the time I have left in my high school career, I’m definitely fighting the senior slump, but I’m making sure I finish strong just like coaches say to do in sports,” said senior Oheneba Boateng. “Day by day, in every class, in everything I do, I’m giving it 110% to make sure I finish strong.”

Each day of fighting the slump brings

make a Date Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

22

5:30 p.m. JV Boys soccer v.

Wednesday

Flex W8/R3 23

Edison (H)

v. Centrerville (H)

JV Girls Soccer v. Edison

6:00 p.m. JV Girls

(A)

lacrosse v. Centreville (A)

Thursday

24

5:30 p.m. JV Boys Lacrosse

2:15 p.m. DECA Meeting (Clausen Hall)

7:15 p.m. V .Boys Lacrosse

Edison (H)

v. Centreville (H)

4:00 p.m. Boys Tennis v.

T.C. (H)

SARAH SOZIO

Flex R1/W6 29 5:30 p.m. JV Boys Lacrosse v.

Oakton (A) 7:15 p.m. V. Boys Lacrosse v.

Oakton (A) 6:00 p.m. JV GIrls Lacrosse v.

Oakton (H)

5:00 p.m. Track & Field v.

Lake Braddock & Hayfield (H)

V. Girls Lacrosse v.

30

Flex W8/R3 31

4:00 p.m. Boyʼs Tennis v.

Hayfield ( H)

26

(Clausen Hall)

Springfield (A)

JV Girls soccer v. Yorktown (H) 7:00 p.m. Guitar Club Concert

Fairfax (H) 7:15 p.m. V. Boys Lacrosse v.

(Auditorium)

Fairfax (A)

V. Boys soccer v. Yorktown (A)

v. Girls Lacrosse (H)

V. Girls soccer v. Yorktown (H)

1

5:30 p.m. JV Boys Soccer (A)

3

2

Flex R5/R7

JV Girls Soccer v. W & L ( H)

9:00 a.m. Track & Field v. Seahawk Invitationals Tournament (South Lakes)

field (H) JV. Softball v. W. Springfield (H) V. Baseball v. W. Springfield (A)

V. Baseball v. T.C. (H) V. Softball v. T.C. (H)

27

5:30 p.m. JV Boys soccer v. Yorktown (A)

6:00 p.m. JV Baseball v. W. Spring-

Career & Job Fair (Both Flexes) Upstairs Gym

6:00 p.m. JV Baseball v.

T.C. (A) JV Softball v. T.C. (A)

Saturday

4:00 p.m. Boys Tennis v W.

Fairfax (A)

V. Softball v. W. Springfield (A) 7:00 p.m. V. Boys Soccer v. W & L (A)

7:15 p.m. V. Girls Lacrosse

4

ing to recognize that their almost done with high school.”

Each event that happens for seniors brings them a step closer to graduation, but there are still 55 school days until graduation. Until then, seniors have to keep fighting the slump and finishing strong.

“All this stuff keeps happening, and it’s like we’re so close to graduation, but there’s still three months left,” said senior Emily Miller. “I’m not really less motivated, but I know that I’ve gotten into college next year, which is like the light at the end of the tunnel.”

Flex W8/R3 25

Blood Drive All Day

6:00 p.m. JV Girls Lacrosse v.

Centreville (A) Pictures All Day (Clausen Hall)

28

”

—NancyGrim English teacher

Friday

5:30 JV Boys Lacrosse v.

7:00 p.m. v. Boys soccer v.

v. Girls soccer v. Edison (A) Cap & Gown

“

The seniors are more than ready to leave, some more than others

February/March

by Julie Wolf

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graduation day a little closer. Graduation will take place on Tuesday, June 15, 2004 at 7 pm at DAR Constitution Hall. The speaker will be Chairman Michael Powell of the FCC. As a tribute to the fiftieth anniversary of Annandale the senior class officers have decided to invite all ofAnnandale’s past principals, all of whom have accepted, said graduation coordinator Nancy Grim.

“The seniors are more than ready to leave, some more than others,” said Grim, who teaches senior English. “They’re start-

V. Girls Soccer v. W & L (H)

8

7

6

5

9

10

16

17

Daylight Savings Time Begins Palm Sunday

Spring Break 4/5-9 11

Easter Day

Flex R5/W8 12

13 5:00-10:00 p.m. Musical Tech

Flex R7/W2

14

15

2-7 p.m. Music Dress Rehearsal 5:30 p.m. JV Boys Soccer v.

Flex R7/W2

4:00 p.m. Boys Tennis v. Robinson (A)

4th Grading Period Begins

Rehearsal (Auditorium)

2:15 p.m. College Partnership Program

4:00 p.m. Boys Tennis v. W.

5:30 p.m. JV Boys Lacrosse v.

Meeting (Clausen Hall)

Potomac (A)

T.C . (A)

4:00 p.m. B oys Tennis v. Braddock

5:00-10:00 p.m. Musical Tech

6:00 p.m. JV Girls Lacrosse v.

5:00 p.m Track & Field v. W. Springfield

T.C. (A)

Springfield (A)

Rehearsal (Auditorium)

T.C. (H)

& L. Braddock (W. Springfield)

V. Girls Soccer v. T.C. (H)

7:15 p.m. V. Boys Lacrosse v. W.

7:00 p.m. Athletic Boosters

7:15 p.m. V. Boys Lacrosse v.

6:00 p.m. JV Baseball v. Hayfield ( A)

7:30 p.m. Musical Performance

Springfield (H)

Meeting

T.C. (A)

JV Softball v. Hayfield (A)

(Auditorium)

(Principalʼs Conf. Room)

V. Girls Lacrosse v. T.C. (H)

V. Baseball (H)

T.C. ( A)

5:30 p.m. JV Boys Lacrosse v. W.

JV Girls Soccer v. T.C. (H)

Springfield ( H)

7:00 p.m. V. Boys Soccer v.

6:00 p.m. JV Girls Lacrosse v. W.

V. Girls Lacrosse v. W. Springfield (A)

9:00 a.m. Track and Field v. Allen Johnson Invitational ( Lake Braddock) 7:30 p.m. Musical Performance (Auditorium)

Hispanic Dancing and Music Salsa

Salsa, one of the most popular forms of dancing in Latin America, is also one of the most well-known in the world. It came about as a result of the African influence during the colonization of the Caribbean, especially in Cuba.

It involves six steps taken in eight counts of music, but turns are actively incorporated. The instruments utilized include drums, trumpets, and claves, which are two round sticks struck together to create a distinct clap.

The late Celia Cruz has most likely had the biggest impact in revolutionizing salsa.

Her music, which spans over 50 years, has become the quintiessence for beats and instruments utilized in this form of dance.

Flamenco Flamenco dancing is the result of the gypsy and Spanish-Arab influence in Spain. In the dance, the handclapping is vital, which today takes the form of castanets. The music comes from a variety of influences, including India, Jewish synagogue chants, west-Africa and Islam. The feet are also important, as they act not only as a means of expressing one’s emotions but as percussion instruments too, as the female dancer stomps to give the music and dance a powerful meaning.

Cumbia Today, Cumbia is a form of dance and music very much a part of the Colombian culture. It originates from the African population within the region and the percussion instruments they utilized.

Cumbia is a dance between couples, in which the man dresses in all white except for the red kerchief arond his neck. The women wear long, flowing skirts which they use to fan the lit candle they hold.

Ganadores de los Premios lo Nuestro Pop

Álbum del año - Santo Pecado, Ricardo Arjona Artista masculino: Juanes Artista femenina: Shakira Grupo o dúo del año: Mariposa traicionera, Maná Revelación del año: David Visbal

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March 23, 2004

Latinos move to the beat

For Latinos, their variety of music is important in their traditions and keeping together

dancing her whole life and naturally moves rhythmically to the music; however, others have learned by observation and through family members. Mendoza Meringue, Reggatone, Salsa; these are just a few said, “I learned how to dance from my aunt, she different styles of dances that are expressed in the use to dance at the Carnival, it’s like a Spanish Spanish culture. Music and dancing are integral fac- Marti Gras, and I just learned by watching tors in the Spanish culture; in fact, it’s an equivalent her.” Delgadillo said “My families had a lot of to a language for them. Many students describe parties when I was little and I just learned how to dance there.” Perez said, dancing as a way to express them“I learned from my sister, selves and their particular Spancousins and friends.” ish culture. Sophomore Carolina The unique way HisDelgadillo describes what dancing panics move their body in means to her and said, “It is a way [Dancing] represents our sync with the music has to represent what each country impressed and caught the does, because everyone’s culture culture and allows us to eye of many students at is different.” Freshman Mariana express ourselves Annandale. When asked Mendoza said,“Dancing is fun what on their thoughts and it is a way to express the way about how Hispanics we are. I’m half-Brazilian, and —AlexandraVidaurre dance many had similar Brazilian women love to dance senior responses. Junior Caroand show it off.” Another freshline Cherney said “I think man Eder Perez says, “Dancing it’s funky but it’s cool.” is important because it expresses Sophohow I feel and shows my emotions through dancing. Also, it’s a time to enjoy with fami- more Brittany Nelson said “I like it because there’s no other lies and friends.”

Spanish dancing and especially has grown on dance like it, and they move many of us here atAnnandale. Often at dances there their bodies really well.” is a popular demand of Spanish reggae that many Sophomore Monique Huynh students enjoy dancing to.Although Spanish Reggae said “I think it’s cool, because is the most common type of Spanish music that we it’s different and not a lot of hear, the Spanish have many different types of music people can dance like that.” incorporated in their culture. Delgadillo said “I like Others were very blunt about to dance to bachata, meringue and reggatone.” Perez their thoughts like Sophomores explained the variety of Spanish music he enjoys and Charlie Mallory and Giang Phan said “I like Meringue, Kumbia, Salsa, Reggae, and and said “It’s tasty,” and “It’s sexy.”

Dancing is not only a form of Te Jan.” The dominant minority atAnnandale is Hispanic. entertainment for young people but is Their influence has led to the creation of the Latin also emphasized greatly in the Spanish Girls Dance Club. The club is comprised of about ten curriculum at Annandale. Spanish teacher Hispanic girls and they are preparing several dances Noel Kofi is taking his class to learn about to put on for Heritage Night. One of the clubs veteran Flamenco dance. Flamenco includes language, food, dancers, senior, Alexandra Vidaurre, says dancing music and—of course—dancing. He said, “Flamenco is so significant to the Spanish culture “because is a part of the Spanish culture and it experiences it represents our culture, and allows us to express different cultural aspects [sic]. It’s a reinforcement ourselves.” The girls’ performance will contain me- of the culture.” ringue reggae and salsa dancing. Vidaurre has been

BY BRIDGETTE KIM Staff Writer

“

”

KATHY IBARRA

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CULTURES

Flamenco dancing is a famous form of dance traditionally performed in Spain.

Popular award-winning latin artists and their latest, chart-topping albums

Juanes - ‘Un Día Normalʼ

The Colombian artist Juan Esteban, known as Juanes, has become a pop sensation worldwide. He won the Premio lo Nuestro awards for best male pop artist and tied for best video of the year for “Fotografia.” His sophomore multiplatinum album, Un Día Normal, won the Latin Grammy for Album of the Year, with upbeat songs such as “Fotografia,” and “Mala Gente.”

Sample Grab: “Que mis ojos se despierten con la luz de tu mirada yo a Dios le pido.” (That my eyes awaken from the light of your look, I’m asking God.)

Paulina Rubio - ‘Paulatinaʼ

In Paulina Rubio’s latest album, she fuses the traditional with the untraditional, utilizing flamenco guitars with club beats. Tracks on the album include “My Friend, Mi Amigo,” “Amor Secreto,” and “Dame Otro Tequila.”

Sample Grab: “Si tú sientes que a tu lado hay una vibra negativa levántate y prende la radio que todo se arregla bailando” (If you feel that at your side there’s a negative vibe get up and turn on the radio because everything solves itself by dancing.)

Ricardo Arjona ‘Santo Pecadoʼ

Recently the recipient of the Premio Lo Nuestro award for best pop album, Ricardo Arjona of Guatemala has continued to combine rhyme with rhythm in his songs. His most famous track, “El Problema,” is a favorite upbeat romantic song . Other songs include “Minutos,” “Me Dejaste,” y “Duele Verte.”

Sample Grab: “Y cómo desharcerme de ti si no te tengo cómo alejarme de ti si estás tan lejos y es que el problema no es cambiarte, el problema es no quiero.”

Alejandro Sanz ‘No Es Lo Mismoʼ

Already an accomplished songwriter (he wrote tracks for Ricky Martin and Alexander Pires), Alejandro Sanz coproduced “No Es Lo Mismo” with Cuban musician Lulo Perez. The new collaboration gives much of the album a crisp, fresh sound while maintaining the lush rhythms of flamenco.

Sample Grab: Eres mi fuerza, mi respiración. Eres mi gran obseción. (You are my force, my breath. You are my great obsession.)

Rock

Álbum del año: Libertad, La Ley Interpretación del año: Jaguares Revelación del año: Alessandra

Álbum del año: A Puro Fuego, Olga Tañón Artista masculino: Marc Anthony Artista femenina: Celia Cruz Grupo o dúo del año: Bacilos Canción del año: Bacro a La deriva, Marc Anthony Mejor interpretación merengue del año: Olga Tañón Mejor interpretación salsa del año: Marc Anthony Mejor interpretación tradicional del año: Monchy y Alexandra Revelación del año: Son de Cali

Regional Mexicana

Álbum del año: Tu amor o tu desprecio, Marco A. Solís Artista masculino: Marco A. Solís Artista femenina: Jennifer Peña Grupo o dúo del año: Kumbia Kings/ Juan Gabriel/ El Gran silencio Canción del año: No tengo dinero, Kumbia Kings Mejor interpretación banda del año: Joan Sebastian Mejor interpretación grupera del año: Los Temerarios Mejor interpretación norteña del año: Intocable Mejor interpretación tejana del año: La Onda

Urbana

Álbum del año: De fiesta, El General Revelación del año: Bonito, Jarabe de Palo

Video del año (Empate) Bonito, Jarabe de Palo Fotografía, Juanes

COURTESY OF VALERIE ROSAS

Tropical

Latinos bailan a su música de variedades ESCRITO POR CRISTIAN HERNANDEZ Escritora Desde que somos niños los hispanos siempre hemos estado alrededor de la música y el baile. En reuniones familiares la música caribeña es un elemento esencial.

No importa de que parte de Latinoamérica vengas, tu país tiene una forma de música típica tropical. Ciertas clases de baile y música se han convertido famosas y son conocidas por toda la comunidad hispana. La música y el baile son parte de nuestra manera de ser. “Me gusta la música latina porque siempre la puedes sentir,” dijo la senior Susan Caicedo.

Merengue es uno de los estilos de baile que es muy popular entre la gente de habla hispana. Es popular entre gente de todas las edades. En fiestas, un buen merengue nunca falta.

Este baile tuvo origen en la Republica Dominicana. Muchos dicen que el merengue fue creado por esclavos en las islas caribeñas. Hoy día, hay muchas variedades de merengue, y es muy conocido. “Me gusta el merengue porque es una música muy divertida, me gusta la música caribeña,” dijo la júnior Ana Hernández.

El estilo incorpora elementos de La salsa es otro divertido rap también. “Me gusta el reggae baile que los hispanos disfrutan. en español porque puedo sentir La salsa es conocida mundila música,” dijo la senior Susan almente. “Es divertido bailar Caicedo. salsa,” dijo la júnior Fernanda Fiestas familiares y fiestas roPacheco. La salsa es originaria sas dan una oportunidad para que de Cuba, y fue hecha popular en los jóvenes se expresen bailando. los barrios puertorriqueños de Otros jóvenes encuentran grupos Nueva York. Algunos prefieren y eventos culturales para explorar salsa al merengue. “Me gusta Niños en Bolivia celebran su día de indepensu herencia Latinoamericana. En la salsa porque es mas fácil que decia en su baile. nuestra escuela existen las “Latín el merengue,” dijo la sophomore Sophia Dillon. “Nosotros siempre bailamos en fiestas Girls,” ellas bailan en eventos como Heritage Night.

Además, ellas también bailarán para el equipo de fútbol familiares, y también en los quinces,” dijo Dillon.

Otro tipo de baile popular es la bachata. El origen de en la temporada de primavera.

No es ningún misterio que a los latinos les gusta movla bachata viene de la República Dominicana. La bachata es parecida al bolero, sus orígenes llegan de los 1930s. “A erse. Naturalmente tienen ritmo. Bailar es innato para mi me gusta la bachata, es mas suave que los otros bailes un latino. Casi todos hemos crecido escuchando música, y también es mas complicada,” dijo la sophomore Abby y observado a nuestros padres bailarla.

Gente de otros orígenes nota el amor de los hispanos Pereira. La bachata fue popularizada por el cantante y compositor Juan Luis Guerra del grupo musical 440. Este por la música tropical y el baile. “A mi me gusta bailar es uno de los bailes más populares en las fiestas rosas la música latina porque siempre tiene un buen ritmo para bailar. Esta música lo pone a uno de buen humor, (fiestas para quinceañeras).

Recientemente ha surgido un nuevo género de nunca hay un momento aburrido,” dijo la sophomore música y baile. El reggae en español se ha convertido Alexis Pak. extremamente popular entre los jóvenes latinos. El reggae en español es música de Jamaica con letra en español.

5 ways to ask someone to prom

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Are you ready for prom? The details are endless: the dress, the shoes, the hair, the flowers, the limo, dinner, tickets... all culminating in one night of fun, friends and dancing. Although times have changed since AHS’ first prom in 1954, many traditions still remain the same, and seniors are still just as pumped.

This works if: you don’t really know the object of your affection that well. Ask for his/her screenname nonchalantly—it’s not as symbolic as asking for their phone number, and it’s a casual way to bring up the subject of prom.

This will not work if: you and your date have a romantic history, or you’re looking for some love post-prom. Try something a little more meaningful.

This works if: you’re not shy. Use this method if you already know the person and are willing to see them outside of school. Asking for someone’s digits can either mean you like them and want to talk to them more, or you’re going to ask them out. Yes, prom counts as going out.

This will not work if: you call them everyday, let it ring once, and hang up. Stalkers are not great prom dates—and most cell phones have caller ID.

3. A romantic note

5. Get creative

This works if: your date can appreciate something kooky and romantic. Recommended methods: making a picture of you two at prom together and giving it to him/her, showing up at the doorstep with a flower and a question, making a cake and writing the question on top, playing a song about going to prom together. Anything goes.

This does not work if: they’d never consider going with you, or they’re into tradition. most people love someone going out of their way to do something special, but if it’s overkill or this is a person who doesn’t like practical jokes, just walk up and ask (nicely).

Ways not to ask — “Nice shoes. Wanna go to prom?”

— “I already asked some other girls/ guys and they said no, so do you want to come with me?”

— “Yo.” — “So I heard no one’s asked you...”

— “I’m doing this on a dare, so just say yes.”

— “My friend wanted me to ask your friend if they wanted to go to prom with my other friend.”

— “I’ll go to prom with you if you pay.”

— “Will you go to prom with me if I pay?”

— “I just got dumped, so I need a date for prom, but if we get back together we’ll need to cancel. Is that okay?”

— “I heard you just got dumped. Can I have your ex’s number?”

Pre-prom restaurant ideas Mike’s American Grill 6210 Backlick Road Springfield, VA 22150 (703) 644-7100 Serves classic American fare in a casual, but stylish setting. Prices for entrees range from $9-$30.

The Charthouse One Cameron Street Alexandria, VA 22314 (703) 684-5080 Specializes in steak and seafood and located on the pier in Old Town Alexandria. Prices for dinner are expensive.

Clyde’s 8332 Leesburg Pike Vienna, VA 22182 There are many locations in the area. Prices for entrees range from $7-$20 Citronelle 3000 M Street Northwest Washington, D.C. 20007 (202) 625-2150 The menu you features lighter, East Coast fare. Prices for entrees are expensive.

Sweet Water Tavern 3066 Gatehouse Plaza Falls Church, VA 22041 (703) 645-8100 Serves traditional American fare. Prices for entrees range from $9-$30.

Hair Cuttery 6920 Bradlick Shopping Center Annandale, VA 22003 703-941-9702

Beauty Boutique of Olde Town 605 Franklin St. Alexandria, VA 22314 703-549-2662

Hair Cuttery Little River Center 7404 Little River Turnpike Annandale, VA 22003 703-813-9829

Beauty Box Nails 6703 Springfield Mall Springfield, VA 22150 703-971-7336

Super Cuts 354 Maple Ave. Vienna, VA 22180 703-255-0677

Fairfax Nails 11202 Lee Highway Fairfax, VA 22030 703-385-4640 Hollywood Nails 11211 Lee Highway Fairfax, VA 22030 703-359-0284

Circle Salon and Spa 123 North Washington St. Alexandria, VA 22314

Modern Nails 5197 Leesburg Pike Falls Church, VA 703-578-3357

Nordine & Day Salon and Spa 12233 Fair Lakes Promenade Dr. Fairfax, VA 22003 703-278-8232

Nail a la Mode 8950 Burke Lake Rd Springfield, VA 22151 703-978-7888

Bazzak Hair and Spa

822 King St. Alexandria, VA 703-548-5159

Oh Nails 6356 Springfield Mall Springfield, VA 22150 703-644-6480

Full Service Salon 826 North Fairfax Street Alexandria, VA 22314 703-836-8367

Total Beauty Nails 7540 Little River Turnpike Annandale, VA 22003 03-750-9061

Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salon and Spa

Total Concept 9659 Lee Highway Fairfax, VA 22031 703-750-9061

8075 Leesburg Pike Vienna, VA 22182 703-448-8388

Faculty remembers proms past Edwards didn’t have much to do with the prom. She says, “I was a slacker, I think I had some say for the restaurant that we went to, but I didn’t do much of anything else. I just showed up.” She With prom season approaching, members of the faculty also remembers the prom being really loud. “Someone would remember their own proms. Debbie Estes, a Spanish teacher try to talk to you and you just couldn’t hear what they were saying... but it was a fun night. I remember and graduate ofAHS, remembers her prom thinking to myself this is one of the last nights in the May of 1980 saying, “Prom wasn’t as that I’m going to be with my whole class... I big a deal as it is these days, we didn’t go went to school with those people for such a in a limo...and it wasn’t a huge expense. I long time and noticed that I didn’t really know didn’t get to get my hair done, or my nails a lot of them and made me wish that I had done. We just went out and had a really made friends with more people.” good time.” Differing from the traditional After eating at Sequoia’s in the District, dinner out with friends before the dance, student teacher for photography, Meredith Estes went to dinner with her parents and Buzzell attended her prom in May of 1999 her date Wade Brummett, because it was at the Reston Sheraton. She went with her her parent’s anniversary. During the dance friend, commenting that the, “atmosphere she met up with her friends and had a good was really nice and lighthearted ...people were time with her date. She mentioned that a really excited to finally be at their prom.” The lot of people did dance, and the song of the Marketing teacher Jack Hiatt with class of 99’s song was “Don’t Wanna Miss A night was, “Comes A Time,” by Neil Dia- his prom date and future wife, Cathy at AHS senior Prom of 1974.

Thing” by Aerosmith, however there was a mond. Normally after prom many people go Hiatt The Class of ‘74 had their prom at out to breakfast, while some go to parties, Tysonʼs Corner Mall and their gradua- wide variety of music throughout the night.

She remembers going to a friend’s house however Estes and her date ventured into tion at Wolftrap. afterwards and just hanging out after an D.C. where they then proceeded to get lost.

However after their excursion they ended their eventful night overall fun night.

Although every prom is different many members of our facwith dinner at Denny’s.

Elizabeth Edwards, a graduate of Robinson High School, ulty have fond memories of their proms and remember what it remembers her prom in 1981. Unlike most teenage girls today, was like to search for a dress, get the limo, and wish for the best

BY ASHLEY JONES Photographer

Hair and Nail Salons in the area

Great Clips Bailey’s Crossroads 3544 South Jefferson St. Bailey’s Crossroads, VA 22041 703-820-5500

“Being a guy, of course I would be paying for it all, but I don’t mind all that much because I know it’s going to be for a good cause because I’m going to have a fun time,” said senior Matthew Komara.

Students also feel this is an event memorable and worthy enough to spend some dough. “You only have one prom that is actually your prom, so I think that it’s ok to go a little overboard and spend some cash on making that day meaningful,” said senior Jason Bracken.

Not only is a lot of money spent by the individuals attending prom, but it is also an extremely large endeavor for the class as a whole. “I’d say we’re pretty well off with our money,” said senior class secretary Yama Nadi. “We’ve made our down payment [to the Waterford] for prom, but we still have other expenses to take care of.”

“We had a lot of money coming into this year, but we had also been moving at a very fast pace junior and sophomore year, continually making a lot of money,” said senior class treasurer Lindsey Miller. “I think the important thing is that people realize we need to keep that pace up.”

The seniors are continuing fundraising to pay for the remaining expenses, and will look to their classmates to keep the cash flow coming. “Class participation is key,” said Miller. “We only have 6,000 dollars left and we still have to pay for a DJ, favors and decorations, so to make this happen we’re going to need everyone’s help.” Fundraisers will be held in the following weeks for seniors, including a Fuddrucker’s night on Wed., March 24.

Class officers are working hard to maintain some tradition in the prom process; however, some things will be different in hopes of adding a new twist to the evening. “The color scheme will be gold this year for the Atomversary,” said Nadi. “This is also the first year for a long time that we’ll have a prom court.”

Once all is said and done, prom is sure to be a night to remember. Whether it will be the best night of high school life is debatable, but it will be memorable, regardless.

“I’m just looking forward to getting dressed up, having a great time with great friends, and shakin’ it like a salt shaker,” said Purdon.

SGA members remain dedicated to class

committee, but that is just SGA members.

Miranda Brackett- Senior Class Vice President What fundraisers have helped you raise What is your class’ status as far as prom right money for prom? now?

The brick sale definitely got us a lot of money. We’ve We were really worried about the [winter] dance, so now that the dance is cancelled we’re definitely focusing done Fuddruckers night, we did some car washes, we on prom. Its kind of hard because our class doesn’t re- won some floats. We’re probably going to do some more Fuddruckers nights in the next few weeks. ally do anything. For example, we have four Those usually attract a lot of people. people on average who go to meetings and What advice would you give to they’re all in the SGA. Nobody that’s not in younger classes? the SGA goes. Hopefully we’ll get more class Definitely try to get money before senior participation in the next few weeks. We still year. Work really hard to get money freshneed to get a DJ and figure out all the favors man, sophomore, and junior years. You and small details like that. really want to try and get money early beHow are you splitting the work? cause by the time it gets to your senior year, We set up committees. Each committee nobody wants to do anything. You only have is represented by someone in th SGA. We’re Brackett like 3 or 4 key people who are in charge of going to have a class meeting where anybody doing everything so its much better to have who is interested in helping for prom can come and join a committee and discuss with the representa- money before then.

How is information about prom being relayed tives what they want for the DJ, favors, etc. Then, the representatives will report that back to the main SGA to the students?

There’s a newsletter that gets sent out to parents. people and we’ll talk about the decisions based on what We’re also making posters that we’ll put up around was said. school. Also, we’re thinking of putting flyers on all the What are the different committees?

We have music and entertainment, which basically seniors lockers.

What do you think about the location of decides the DJ. That may just end up being some of us representatives because that needs to be decided within prom?

It’s really nice. It’s not a hotel, but we have the whole the next two weeks. That, and then we have the favors committee and that is decorations, favors and prom area to ourselves. We don’t have to worry about any queen court details. We also have a finance committee visitors or anything like that. It’s our own area for the which is in charge of tickets and last we have a student night. It’s going to be really pretty.

The 411 What: Senior Class of 2004 Prom Who: All seniors, their dates, teacher chaperones When: Friday, May 14, 2004. 9pm1am.

Where: Waterford at Fair Oaks 12025 Lee Jackson Memorial Highway Fairfax, Virginia Waterford floor plan Cost: $35 for single, $70 for couple Directions: (from school) Go west on Four Year Run toward Heritage Dr. Turn right onto Heritage Dr. Turn left onto Little River Turnpike. Merge onto I-495 North. Merge onto I-66 W via exit number 49C. Merge onto Lee Jackson Memorial Highway via exit number 57B. Merge onto Ox Rd. Merge onto Lee Jackson Memorial Highway/ Rt. 50 E toward I-66. End at 12025 Lee Jackson Memorial Highway.

What was memorable about your prom experience?

“Our [AHS class of ‘72] prom was unique. It was in the middle of Tyson’s Corner Mall. It was at 9 so the mall was entirely empty except for us.”

—Jack Hiatt marketing teacher “Our prom theme was Misty by Johnny Mathis.

I was a class officer so I helped plan it. I was also on the prom court. It’s great memories when you look back.”

—Catherine Collins history teacher “My prom date made my suit to go with her dress.

The suit was gray pinstripe with pink buttons and a pink shirt underneath. I had gray alligator shoes.”

“At my prom, the girl I went with was my first date and I was hers.

She spent most of the time in the bathroom consoling her friends that were being treated badly by their dates.”

—Leonard Bumbaca math teacher

“I went to prom all four years because I had a different boyfriend each year; but, I had to be home by midnight each year, no matter what. ”

—Jaqueline Foote english teacher “My friends and I [AHS class of ‘94] went to D.C. and saw the sights.

Prom is a time to relax with your friends and get dressed up. ”

Boutonniere from Pink Posey Florist

Beauty treatments at Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salon and Spa:

$20

Hair: $42 Manicure: $40 Pedicure: $65 Make-up: $55

—Christiaan Seagaar special-ed teacher

Corsage from Pink Posey Florist

Dress from Tysonʼs Corner Mall

11

—KW Williams administrator

The price of prom

COURTESY OF CATHY HIATT

This works if: your prom date is your significant other, your best friend or someone you feel comfortable with. Walk up to them, look them in the eye and say, “Go to prom with me.” They’ll love how bold you are (it means less pressure on them) and you get the painful part over with quickly.

This doesn’t work if: they say, “No.” Don’t do it if you’re afraid of rejection. Judge your target wisely; if they’re the type that are scared off easily, they’ll panic and run away from you. Also, check if they have their eye on somebody else.

manicure and nice hairstyle since you don’t get a lot of chances to do that.”

Senior Carrie Horton said that it is too early to have The night to end all nights, or just another day of her dress, but she has an idea of what she wants. “I the week? For students at AHS, the opinion differs on want a pink dress, but if I can’t find one, I’ll get either the importance of prom. Some students have looked red or black,” said Horton. According to the Seventeen forward to this magical night their whole lives, while magazine prom issue, latest prom styles include details like bows, ribbons and corsets, and bright colors with others have barely put any thought into it.

For those who choose to attend, prom is a night full lots of detailing.

Many girls like to stick to the traditional dress colof month-long plans and high school students’monthslong dreams. It is a night to bring closure to many high ors while others prefer to be bold and stand out. The most important thing school memories. A lot of is that they have shoes time and effort goes into to perfectly match their making sure the night colorful dress. is an absolute success.

“There is no hassle in Although it is only passed getting ready, it’s all part the Ides of March, prom of the fun, the glam,” said seems to be just around senior Chelsea Duffy. “You the corner. and all your girls get to feel “I’m definitely going to and look beautiful for one prom, it’s just too early to of the last nights you are have any kind of plans,” truly together.” said senior Nick Veizaga.

Many believe that Veizaga is one of many stugirls have the more difdents who plan to attend ficult role, but guys must prom, but is not quite sure The ballroom at the Waterford, where the DJ and the come up with a tuxedo, a of all the details. corsage, and often money Like Veizaga, senior dancing will be.

Ashley Lippolis’ plans have yet to be set in stone. “I for food and transportation. Some choose to rent a tuxknow I’m going. Some people are really freaking out edo, while others go all out and buy one. “I’m doing that and are way too excited. I’m a lot more relaxed,” said fashion show for the class meeting, so maybe I’ll get a Lippolis. “I know who I’m going with and the group, tux from Master’s,” said senior Bill Purdon. “Otherwise I was thinking of looking at some stores in Tyson’s.” but it’s still all tentative.”

Apathetic feelings strike a number of the seniors Contrarily, some students have their plans laid out to the very last step. Senior Sam Tedessa and 15 of his regarding the whole prom experience. For those friends plan to attend a fancy dinner in D.C. Follow- people, prom will just be another Friday night. “Prom ing dinner, they will arrive at the dance around 9:45, is overrated. It puts a lot of pressure on the girl,” said fashionably late of course. For these males, prom is a senior Sara Murphy. These feelings of apathy will special night that they plan on spending surrounded cause some seniors to delay their decision about prom until the date nears. “I don’t even know if I’m going,” by friends.

The pre-prom process greatly differs for males and said senior Holly Counihan. “I haven’t thought about females. For girls there is the dress, the shoes, the hair, it that much yet.”

Aportion of the reason many students choose not to the makeup, the boutonniere, and the date. There are many things for the girl to consider before she is ready attend prom is because of the cost. In addition to tickets, the outfit, transportation and meals as well as many to be picked up by her prince.

“For dances I actually have the most fun getting other miscellaneous expenses are often called for. Some ready,” said senior Janet Partlow. “It’s a nice chance couples choose to split the costs while others choose the to get dressed up and sort of pamper yourself with a more traditional approach where the guy pays.

BY KAITY BURDETTE AND ERIN O’BRIEN Staff Writer and In-Depth Editor

2. Cell phone

4. Face to face

IN-DEPTH

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March 23, 2004

I hope you’ve had the time of your life...

1. AOL Instant Messenger

This works if: there’s a good chance the feeling is mutual. Although notes may be considered juvenile, one that’s written more like a letter and not folded more than twice will get your point across. This is good if you want to turn a casual relationship into something more, and also if you’re too scared to actually talk to them. Plus, notes are great mementos.

This does not work if: you have really messy handwriting, or your note will only consist of “Will you go to prom with me?

Circle yes/no.” Also, be very clear as to who this note was from. There’s nothing worse than finding out that your date a. doesn’t know who you are and b. doesn’t want to.

March 23, 2004

HTTP://WATERFORDATFAIROAKS.COM

10

IN-DEPTH

$35

Tux Rental from Masters Tuxedo:

$119

$200

“When I was a senior, I decided to ask a girl [Amy Longsen] who was a friend of mine. We were buddies, it wasn’t a girlfriend/ boyfriend thing.

I asked her a month before prom, but then two weeks before, I found out Andrea Glasby, the all-world girl of our school wanted to go with me. Being the insecure jerk I was, I call Andrea and asked her. Now I have two dates from prom. I call my nice friend, who has already bought her dress and everything and tell her I can’t go. The next day at school no one would talk to me. On top of that, one of Andrea’s friends found out and told her so she meets me at lunch and goes off on me, with all the expletives nicely laced in. I tried apologizing to Amy, whose mom called my mom and I was grounded for a month. It was a mess, my friends didn’t talk to me for a week. Amy still wanted to be friends and we still went together. She didn’t really have fun and was totally insecure. I learned a life lesson about how to treat people. ”

—Dave Tremaine administrator

Cadillac stretch limo rental from Big Time Limos, Inc.:

$75 per hour

Shoes from Tysonʼs Corner Mall

$80

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION OF SENIORS CYNTHIA HORNING AND MUHAMMAD SIDDIKI BY KATIE STANTON

12 Alem Mezemir

Andrew Nounennady

Bridget Adjei

Kristi Johnson

Hadi Elias

Wahid Hashime

the

March 23, 2004

Jamie Foreman: “A triple threat�

From A-Z, 25 juniors were randomly selected to be profiled by AP Journalism students. The pupose of the assignment was to get the in-depth story of the assigned student’s life. Here is the one profile about the life of a dancer, actor and singer.

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MAGGIE OWNER APJ Student

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ANDREW MENEGAT

Khalimatu Bangura

A BLAST

PEOPLE

Sarah Yousif

Rahila Zikria

Renee Tran

Tim Spicer

MAGGIE OWNER

Monica Dinh

Barry Andrade

Alana Welch

Tatiana Chandee

Andrea Tardio

Enwei Liber

Kelly Lanes

Miguel Castro Maritza Torres Andrew Gisch

Kelly Vililla

Stephanie Bui

March 23, 2004

PHOTO

A

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c o f f e l i k e r e? do u o u y w o o y H

13 Late Lingo: How to effectively order a drink in a modern coffeehouse Single Shot— A one fluid ounce serving of straight espresso, served alone or with steamed milk in an espresso beverage. The standard for most short and tall espresso drinks.

Double Shot— Two one fluid ounce servings of straight espresso. This is the standard for Grande and Venti beverages but can be used in Tall drinks to add that extra kick.

Short— An eight fluid ounce beverage.

Tall— A 12 fluid ounce beverage.

Grande— A 16 fluid ounce beverage. When you need an extra boost.

Dry— More foam than milk. For those who like their Cappuccino’s light and airy, dry is the way to go.

With room— Short for “Leave some extra space for some extra cream.”

Whip— Short for “whipped cream.”

Want to save a few calories in your café Mocha? Specify “no whip.”

SEAN SULLIVAN

Crema— The tan-colored foam that forms on top of an espresso shot. The crema is composed of tiny air bubbles that seal the shot of expresso.

With coffee based beverages still up in demand, so are their prices. However the majority of customers gladly relinquish a few extra dollars for their favorite hot or chilled coffee beverages. Waiting there to greet the customers and to take their order is senior Alex Andrade.

Cake in a Cup— Double cream, double sugar, double the calories, double the flavor.

Cher Sugar— Instead of adding regular sugar, this beverage is served with Equal.

Drip:— A regular coffee

SEAN SULLIVAN

Half-Caf— A beverage made with half regular coffee and half decaffeinated coffee.

Harmless— If you want a decaf espresso, just say you want it “harmless.”

Shot in the Dark—Aregular coffee with a shot of espresso in it.

Due to the never ending rush of costumers and the complexity of some special order drinks, coffeehouses such as Starbucks have created a routine of marking the specifications of the drink directly on the customers cup. Senior Ana Johnston quickly jots down the order as the cashier shouts it out to her. During rush periods, this process allows Johnson and the other Starbucks workers to line up a row of drinks and fill the orders as they go.

Skinny— If you want a beverage made with nonfat or skim milk, just say you want it “skinny.”

On a Leash— To go

Although she has been working at the Starbucks in Pinecrest shopping center for only a few months, senior Yodit Gebreyes understands the importance of communication in the workplace. Despite her relative inexperience in a coffeehouse, she still understands the complexities of the workforce. When she comes across a drink order that she does not the recipe to, she can always rely on her more experienced co-workers for advice and guidance.

SEAN SULLIVAN

SEAN SULLIVAN

—Information provided by Starbucks.com and Callihan.com

With the multitude of drink variations, there is a “pump” to satisfy every palette.

Senior Ana Johnston proceeds in filling a customers order with a triple pump of mocha. These syrups add the additional flavor to the coffee beverages and gives each drink its own distinctive taste. From mocha to vanilla, these syrups sweeten the bitter taste of plain coffee.

Popular Drink Recipes Café Late- Add steamed milk to a freshly drawn shot of espresso. Finish with a quarter inch of foamed milk.

Pour slowly into the center of the cup.

If desired, sprinkle with chocolate or cinnamon

Café Mocha- Start with a long pour of mocha syrup and follow with a shot of espresso and then add steamed milk.

Crown with a generous scoop of whipped cream and lightly sprinkle with sweet ground cocoa.

Separating the newly whipped foam from the milk, senior Yodit Gebreyes adds the final touch to a costumerʼs cafe late. Being a key ingredient in the majority of coffee based drinks, separating foam is one of the more repetitive tasks associated with working in a coffeehouse.

SEAN SULLIVAN

SEAN SULLIVAN

Mocha Frappacino- Blend together 3 or 4 cups of ice, 2 shots of cappuccino, 3 and a half shots of Hershey’s chocolate syrup and a half cup of 2% whole milk

On his day off, senior Alex Andrade enjoys a quick coffee break and chatting with one of the regular customers. Regular customers have grown accustomed to the friendly atmosphere in the coffeehouse and enjoy shooting the breeze with employees on their days off and when their is a break in the flow of customers.

Iced Moccachino- Fill a glass with ice, then add steamed milk.

Now mix espresso with up to four shots of syrup and pour gently down the side of the glass. Top with whipped cream and caramel.

14 Question Corner with Augustine Twyman

A BLAST

ACADEMICS

the

March 23, 2004

Getting AVID

BY JOSEPH BURKE Staff Writer

Q: What is AVID? A: AVID is a study skills program It was founded about twenty years ago in California to help students who have a lot of potential, but don’t necessarily have the support at home to pursue higher education. It’s designed to get students on a track that will get them into a 4-year college.

Q: Which students are qualified for AVID? A: In order to get into AVID, the student must have a 2.0, preferably a 2.5 G.P.A. overall. The student has to have at least one higher level honors class and the student can have no other support services such as basic education, basic services, or ESOL. Also, AVID focuses on students who would be the first to attend college.

Q: Which grade levels are AVID open to?

A: We have had ninth through tenth grade only. Next year we’ll be expanding to grade eleven.

Q: What doesAVID include in its criteria?

A: It’s a study skills program, so we talk about ways to be more effective with your study [and] how to use your time effectively. We do a lot of SAT prep, focusing on the verbal component. We do actual SAT questions [and] practice strategies for how to take a test.

Q: How long have you been involved in AVID? A: I’ve been the AVID coordinator and teacher just this year, but I’ve had AVID students in my classroom for as long as I can remember.

Q: How did you get involved with AVID? A: I was asked to give it a try and I have an interest in helping students achieve. My primary purpose is to find a way for our Pre-IB students to have a sort of safety net rather than getting out of IB or honors altogether if they are struggling. I saw AVID as a perfect avenue for them to be able to have that little leg up, that little assistance to help them stay in the honors program Q: What satisfaction do you get out of AVID? A: The best satisfaction is seeing kids coming in at the beginning of the year, especially ninth graders, who are just bewildered [and] not sure if they can make it, and then to see those C students become A and B students as the year progresses.

Q: How might any student benefit from such a program, given that you cover a wide range of college bound topics?

A: Every student in my class should be college bound these days. We’re in the 21st century, so everything that AVID has applies to every student. In fact. one of the AVID goals is to “AVIDize” the school.

We share, our tutors, myself, the site team members, and tips from the AVID classroom with other teachers here in the school so every student can benefit from the techniques thatAVID uses. We especially stress organization, such as organizing your binders, and note taking skills.

Q: Do you get close with the students and do they stay in touch with you outside of AVID? A: Yes, when you’re in the AVID classroom, you really become more than just a teacher. You’re an advocate for the students. Therefore, I see not only their academic progress, but I see their personal progress as well.

You get to know what’s going on in their lives outside of school and you become sort of a combination teacher, counselor and guidance person. It’s a good thing.

—Interview conducted by Staff Writer Amy Mathis

Here at AHS, students go to National Honors Society meetings, hear announcements from the Parent Teacher Student Association, think about joining the College Partnership Program, all before heading off the JV sports practices.

AVID is an elective class that coaches its students to their very best academic abilities. However,AVID means a lot more than just initials to its 29 students that take the class and their families.

Achievement Via Individual Discipline, (AVID) is open to ninth and tenth graders with a C+ grade point average or better who are taking a foreign language class, a math class and are enrolled in at least one Pre-IB course. It is targeted toward students that already have above average grades, but can benefit from more help and instruction about academic skills.

Students in AVID strive to improve their achievement in school through skills such as test-taking, note-taking, and time management. All of these abilities are especially vital in Pre-IB and IB classes.

AVID students learn these skills in several different ways in the class. They work in small groups or individually with a tutor or the teacher. There are also semi-

Freshmen Brian Rubio, Eduardo Ferrer, Jeff Adgate, and Michael Wu work on a group project together during their R1 AVID class.

by the school administration because she expressed an interest in providing a safety net for Pre-IB students.

After county officials opened up admission to honors level classes to all students, a necessity to help students to succeed arose.

“This class is for students who are capable but have not gotten the preparation they need, said Twyman”

Freshman Pape Diop enrolled inAVID and is very satisified with the class. “Before I took the class, my grades were pretty good. AVID gave me a push to do even better,” said Diop.

College bound student gives all

BY ALEX WAHL Staff Writer Sophomore Helina Tekeste wants to get into a goodcollege and one way she is preparing herself is to become a better learner by learning better study skills and test taking techniques. She decided to do this by takingAVID, Advancement Via Individual Discipline.

Tekeste first found out about AVID in middle school.

Her counselor at Poe Middle School recommended that she take AVID when she was an eighth grader. Ever since she found about it, Tekeste has been an active member of AVID. Every R3 class period, students congregate with their teacher, Augustine Twyman for their AVID class where they learn more study skills and receive preparation for the SATs and college.

“We go into class and we look up SAT words. Right now we are doing college preparation and we are researching different types of colleges,” said Tekeste.

SARAH SOZIO

Twyman

nars presented to the whole class. These different methods are used to provide instruction from every different angle.

These vital skills are necessary to realize the ultimate goal of the program which is gaining acceptance into a fouryear college or university.

New this year to the program is family involvement. Parents will receive updates and a newsletter to keep them informed about what is happening in class. There are also quarterly workshops that parents can attend to learn about college entrance requirements, the financial aid situation at various schools, and ways to augment the class’s academic contributions at home.

AVID is a nationwide program that has more than a twenty-year history.

Founded by a California English teacher in 1980, it has spread to more than 300 schools across the country.

The AVID program in Fairfax County is fully supported by the county. Nearly two dozen schools, including AHS’ feeder schools, Poe Middle School and Holmes Middle School, have AVID programs.

AVID teacher and coordinator Augustine Twyman is new to the program this year, taking over for Debbie Estes, who taught the class for six years. Twyman said she was invited to the teach the class

SARAH SOZIO

Although college is two or three years away for the underclassmen, it is still right around the corner. These AVID students start off on the right track, getting the college “know-how” before the application process comes into full swing.

Sophomore Helina Tekeste works on her AVID assignments for her R3 class.

The class is for all ninth and tenth graders who have at least a C+ average. Most of the students in AVID are enrolled in at least one Pre-IB course. Although Tekeste does not have any Pre-IB courses in her schedule, she is still able to take AVID. Tekeste said, “ They encourage you to take one, [PreIB course] but not everyone will take one.”

The most important thing for Tekeste is to get into a good college and AVID is helping her to achieve her goal by providing her with study tools that make for more organized and efficient learning. AVID’s advice to enhance learning abilities in students help Tekeste to study better and her grades to improve.

“I’ve built up my study skills and my grades have been improving since I joined the class,” said Tekeste.

The whole AVID experience has greatly contributed to Tekeste’s development as a student and attributed to the improved many of her scholarly skills. [AVID] is making me more mature and it shows me what I want to do in my life,” she said.

One important skill that Tekeste has picked up while participating inAVID is Cornell note taking. It is a method in which Tekeste divides her paper in half, writes questions dealing with the topic she is about to learn on one side of her paper, and then answer her questions through her note taking on the other side of her paper.

The Cornell method is meant to make studying much easier. When studying, Tekeste folds over her paper to the question side and tries to remember the notes that are connected with it.

“We are basically analyzing the notes that we take in class,” said Tekeste.

Not everyone can be a successful AVID student.

Students in AVID, or those looking to join, need to have

“

certain characteristics: they need to be motivated enough, and be willing to work hard to improve their grades and their learning skills in order to enjoy the class.

“You have to have good study skills, you have to be open-minded, willing to learn, and you have to want to go to college,” said Tekeste.

Tekeste believes that the desire to move on to a higher level of education is a very important part of wanting to join the class, seeing as AVID’s primary goal is to help students score well on their SATs and assist them in applying and getting into the colleges of their choice.

She has also learned several other skills that will prepare her for college and academic success such as how to organize her thoughts, to manage her time and to improve her note- and testtaking skills.

All the work that she is putting into her studies right now is meant to help her significantly for getting into a good college and recieving high SAT scores—important for her future in college. By getting better grades in high school and scoring high on her SATs, her chances at getting into a good college —HelinaTekeste will increase. sophmore Tekeste also looks to use good resources to help her learn and offers advice and suggestions to contribute that the entire class.

The library and the internet contribute to enhancing her learning skills and to find information about colleges that she is interested in applying to next year.

Twyman praises the hard work Tekeste is putting in during class and the qualities that she brings to the program.

“She is one of the best AVID students we have, [with a] good attitude and [commitment] to getting good grades and she is eager to get into a good college. [She is] a perfect AVID student,” said Twyman.

You have to have good study skills, be willing to learn... you have to want to go to college,

”

A BLAST

the

March 23, 2004

SPORTS XTRA

March Madness

Turtle time has surpassed the tournament

BY AMANDA SHEAFFER Sports Xtra Editor “I couldn’t believe they did it, said senior Lauren Sherman in regards to the Maryland upset victory over No. 1 seed, Duke March. 15, for theACC Championship game.

Sherman has been a Maryland fan since she was born.

“My mom went to Maryland, and so it was grilled into my head as a young girl, but only a couple years ago did I realize how awesome they really are,” said Sherman.

Last week, when Maryland played Duke, it was considered one of the most exciting games in the tournament so far. Maryland pulled through with an 97-85 victory, and had to play through overtime for the honor of being the champions of the ACC Tournament. “The best thing that has happened to me so far as a Maryland fan was when they won the National Championship. It was awesome, I mean so many people were talking badly about Maryland, but then they beat Duke, and now I’ll have the last laugh,” said Sherman.

“I am consistently wearing my Maryland sweatshirt and sweatpants on game days, but then when the games starts, I wear my red Maryland shirt,” said Sherman.

Among clothing rituals, Sherman always watches the games with seniors Matt Wiest, Kyle Smeallie and Cassie Holcomb at her house.

“So far, my favorite season was last year when Nick Caner-Medley joined the team, because he is the best player. He’s from Maine, so he brings in upper state fans to the team,” said Sherman. “He’s going to be the next Larry Bird, mark my word.”

The Maryland team is coached by Garry Williams, who in Sherman’s opinion is entertaining to watch, and as opposed to Duke, he brings in players mainly from Maryland, and makes each of them into incredible players. Meanwhile, Duke’s coach, Mike Krzyzewski, brings players from all over the country, so doesn’t have as good of an advantage of making each player a dedicated player,” said Sherman.

“My Maryland attire includes, sweatpants, a sweatshirt, a shirt from the Sweet Sixteen tournament last year when Maryland was in it, also an ACC Championship t-shirt which Matt Wiest brought me when I had my wisdom teeth taken out,” said Sherman.

“Probably my favorite Maryland memory was when I was watching Maryland versus Wake Forest, on March 12, when Maryland won, because I was watching it with Matt Wiest, and he loves Wake Forest. Well, needless to say, he was very angry, so he expressed his anger by taking off his Wake Forest hat, threw it down, and stomped on it, and then took off his shirt, and did the same,” said Sherman. He then, handed over $5 unwillingly. Collectively, Sherman made $30 that week.

After every game, Sherman’s dad calls her and they recall the recent game they just watched, such as who played the best, the worst and the best play. The day after a game, Sherman looks through numerous newspapers looking and searching for pictures of Nick CanerMedley. Sherman’s favorite picture she has of Medley is him towering over a Wake Forest player from their recent victory.

Unfortunately, due to the recent events, [Maryland losing to Syracuse in the second round of the NCAA tournament] Maryland is now out of the NCAA tournament, and Sherman is devastated. “Even before the game, I felt like they were going to lose because I was having a bad day, so, it would just conclude my bad day,” said Sherman. After the game, Sherman left Wiest’s house because she wanted to be alone. “My prediction for the tournament before it started, was that since they did so well in the ACC, that they would have the same success in the NCAA tournament, I guess I was wrong,” said Sherman.

Sherman feels that Maryland still had a very prosperous season, and really all that matters to her is that they beat Duke in the ACC Championship game.

Underdogs take tournament Listed below are the eleven upsets of the NCAA Tournament heading into the Sweet 16

1st Round St. Louis #10 Nevada beats #7 Michigan State #9 UAB over #8 Washington #12 Pacific over #5 Providence East Rutherford #12 Manhattan over #5 Florida 2nd Round St. Louis #9 UAB over #1 Kentucky #10 Nevada over #2 Gonzaga Atlanta #5 Illinois over #4 Cincinnati #7 Xavier over #2 Miss. State Phoenix #8 Alabama over #1 Stanford #5 Syracuse over #4 Maryland #6 Vanderbilt over #3 NCSU

15

Who will win the NCAA Championship on April 5?

“I think Alabama is probably my favorite team, but I don’t know if they will win, I just really like their mascot, the elephant.”

—Allie Bagot freshman “Oklahoma State is going to beat UConn, because Emeka Okafor is injured, and they will play in the championship, and that’s what will happen.”

—Naomi Updegrove sophomore “Kansas will win, because most of the team plays like me.”

—Abraham Asmieron junior

“I say Kentucky, because the team has lots of depth, and they can put a lot together as a team and well, they have a winning tradition.”

Lauren Sherman shows off a few of her pieces of Maryland paraphenalia including her UMD sweatpants, t-shirts, newspaper clippings and a ticket to the BB&T Classic.

Shadyac bleeds blue and white

—Johnny Eklund senior “Duke, because my son went there and I’ve been rooting for them. Isn’t that how you’re supposed to choose a team? If Reddick keeps putting up those 3’sthen they’ll go all the way.”

—Jackie Foote English teacher

BY ALEX SILANO AND JILL GUERIN Academic Editor and Photographer As the last seconds of overtime ticked away, the No. 1 Duke Blue Devils fell 85-97 to the sixth seeded Maryland Terrapins, marking the first time this century that Duke had failed to win anACC championship. The upset delivered a devastating blow to “Cameron Crazies” around the country, one senior Coury Shadyac in particular.

Shadyac has been an avid Duke fan for as long as she can remember, and has followed their basketball team since she first got into the sport in the sixth grade.

Her room is decorated with posters of her favorite players and her wardrobe would not be complete without an array of Duke attire. One shirt that is particularly clever displayed the Duke Coury Shadyac logo with a “greater than” symbol, followed with their cross-town rival UNC’s logo and reads: Basic Math, Duke > UNC. “It’s actually pretty random considering my dad likes Maryland and my brother likes UNC,” said Shadyac who just fell into this obsession on her own, “No one in my family even went to Duke.”

Shadyac’s favorite players include senior point guard Chris Duhon, sophomore shooting guard J.J. Reddick, and sophomore center Sheldon Williams. Duhon is the team’s rally man, and the only player left from their 2000 National Championship team. Reddick ignites his team with last second buzzer-beaters and several key shots. Williams has taken the place of the now NBAstar Carlos Boozer.Although Williams has big shoes to fill, he has stepped up this year and provided to be an excellent big man for the 2004 squad. Shadyac believes that without these player’s leadership skills, the team would lack the depth needed to be a consistent championship contender.

“Duke is really team oriented. They focus on fundamentals and always work hard while showing leadership qualities,” said Shadyac.

One place that any Duke fan can call home is the coveted Cameron Indoor Stadium in the heart of campus. “I have been [to Cameron] more times than I can count and every time I go, I love catching a glimpse of my favorite players,” said Shadyac.

Her all time favorite Duke game took place three years ago in December of 2001 at Cole Field House in Maryland. Duke was ranked at the time and were down by 10 points with . What has become known as the “Miracle minute,” Duke made one of the greatest comebacks in NCAAhistory beating the Terrapins by 3 after sending the game into overtime.

Shadyac’s ultimate goal as a Duke fan is to visit Cameron stadium with all of her Duke merchandise and be a “Cameron Crazy” for the day. “I think it would be so cool!” said Shadyac.

Her enthusiasm and passion for Duke will stay with her through college. Although she will be attending the College of William and Mary next Fall, she plans on going to Duke for graduate school.

Local teams in the NCCA tournament

University of Maryland was seeded fourth in the Phoenix bracket, and beat University of Texas at El Paso on Thursday, March 18th, at the Pepsi Center in Denver. Unfortunately, Maryland played Syracuse for a placement in the Sweet 16 brackets, and lost by 72-70.

University of Richmond is ranked eleventh in the East Rutherford bracket, and is playing Wisconsin, who is a sixth seed, and they will be playing on Thursday as well at the Bradley Center in Milwaukee. Unfortunately, Richmond was unable to pull through, and lost to Wisconsin in the first round of the NCAA tournament.

In one week, on March 30, the MLB season will get underway as the defending AL champion New York Yankees will travel to Japan for a two-game opening series against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays.

The games will be shown live at 5 a.m.

Eastern time and will mark the second time since 2000 that two major league teams have opened the season in Japan.

Four years ago, the Mets and Cubs battled in Osaka which marked the first regular season game played in Japan in MLB history.

Hoyas fire Esherick

On March 15, the Georgetown Hoyas fired Head Coach Craig Esherik after a sub-par 13-15 season, the third straight without an NCAATourney berth. Esherik took over for John Thompson in 1999 and finished with a 103-74 record in his five years as the Hoyas head man.

AHS tennis in full swing

The boys tennis team played three pre-season tournaments last week, opening the season for the team prior to their first match against T.C. Williams next Wednesday.

The team played at home Monday against Westfield and lost 1-8. On Thursday they played at Wakefield, leaving the meet at 4-4 due to inclement weather. The final doubles match, played by the team of David Vollrath and Mike Wiest, will be completed later in the season.

The Atoms played the final match against J.E.B. Stuart on Friday, winning 7-2. Coach Albert Steppe listed Braxton Koppleman, Matt Kishiyama, Jim Brouse and Mike Wiest as key players for their performances.

The next game will be played at home against T.C. Williams on Wednesday.

Boys fall to O’Connell A 7-4 defeat at the hands of the O’Connell Knights provides ample motivation for the Atoms regional matchup with Centreville tonight at 7:30 p.m.

BY JARED SMITH Sports Editor The Atoms kicked off the 2004 season with a 7-4 defeat at the hands of the O’Connell Knights on March 17. This loss marked the second consecutive season in which the Atoms fell to the private school prep team, losing 14-9 last year.

“I thought it was a better O’Connell team then we’ve seen in the past,” said Head Coach Bill Maglisceau. “But I was pleased with our defensive effort overall.

It was sloppy conditions, and to be able to keep our feet and play good defense was key.”

The game was played in a driving snow storm, which made the play on the offensive end sluggish, which showed by the sub-par scoring output.

“I thought it was tougher on groundballs,” said Maglisceau. “It’s harder for our guys to scoop anyways because we’re not there yet on getting possessions on all the loose balls, and it’s even harder when it’s slick. I mean the coaches from the sidelines couldn’t even see the ball.”

The two bright spots for the Atoms in the O’Connell defeat was the defense, anchored by senior goalie Chris Gobel and senior defenders Pat McMurry and Billy

Steinbuchler, who held the high scoring Knights to only seven goals. The standout on offense was senior attacker John Bernhardt who scored three goals while playing a tough physical game on both sides of the ball.

“We’d like for him [Bernhardt] to continue that and become a premier scorer,” said Maglisceau. The Atoms are missing their two top scorers from last season as Ryan Teichler and Chris Rauer, responsible for much of last season’s offensive output both departed the team due to graduation.

The Atoms have a big week upcoming as they will take on the Centreville Wildcats tonight and the Fairfax Rebels on March 25 in their first two Northern Regional match-ups of the season.

“I’d be surprised if there are a lot of teams in the region that are as good as O’Connell was,” said Maglisceau. “So I think going into the Centreville and Fairfax games we will know the level of play needed in order to win.”

The Atoms defeated the Centreville Wildcats last year 13-5 and are hungry to pick up their first win of the year against the regional rival.

“Clearing the ball will be important,” said senior defender captain Pat McMur-

BY STACY MARIN Staff Writer

Baseball

3/24 - vs. Thomas Jefferson 5:30 p.m.

3/30 - vs. T.C. Williams 6 p.m.

4/1 - @ West Springfield 6 p.m.

4/14 - vs. Hayfield 6 p.m.

4/20 - @ West Potomac 6 p.m.

4/23 - vs. Lake Braddock 7 p.m.

4/26 - @ Robinson 6 p.m.

4/28 - @ T.C. Williams 6 p.m.

4/30 - vs. West Springfield 6 p.m.

Softball

With the start of this year’s baseball season, the Atoms look to defend last year’s Patriot District championship and make it to the regional tournament for the third consecutive year. After finishing last year with a 5-13 record, 2-10 in the district, the Atoms look to finish this year with a winning record and a

“

Everyone has to contribue, or it is not going to happen.

”

—MattCaudle head coach

3/24 - @ Woodson TBA 3/26 - vs. George Mason 6 p.m.

3/30 - vs. T.C. Williams 6 p.m.

4/1 - @ West Springfield 6 p.m.

4/14 - vs. Hayfield 6 p.m.

4/20 - @ West Potomac 6 p.m.

4/23 - vs. Lake Braddock 7 p.m.

4/26 - @ Robinson 6 p.m.

4/28 - @ T.C. Williams 6 p.m.

4/30 - vs. West Springfield 6 p.m.

Boys Soccer

3/26 - @ Yorktown 7 p.m.

4/1 - @ W&L 7 p.m.

4/15 - @ T.C. Williams 7 p.m.

4/19 - vs. West Springfield 7 p.m.

4/23 - @ Hayfield 7 p.m.

4/29 - vs. West Potomac 7 p.m.

Girls Soccer

3/26 - vs. Yorktown 7 p.m.

3/30 - @ Fairfax 7 p.m.

4/1 - vs. W&L 7 p.m.

4/15 - vs. T.C. Williams 7 p.m.

4/19 - @ West Springfield 7 p.m.

second consecutive title.

After being rained out on March 16, against Edison, the Atoms started their season at home on March 19 with a 6-2 win over JEB Stuart. Senior pitcher Ted Gibson came away with the win, and senior pitcher Nick Norwood rounded out the game with the save. Senior outfielder Chip Brandt led the team defensively, going 2-4 with a single and a double and two RBIs, as well as being playing well defensively. Brandt noted teamwork and

Addition by subtraction: Lee moves to Patriot District as Robinson departs

BY JARED SMITH Sports Editor

4/29 - @ West Potomac 7 p.m.

3/23 - vs. Centreville 7:15 p.m.

3/25 - @ Fairfax 7:15 p.m.

3/31 - @ Madison 7:15 p.m.

4/13 - @ T.C. Williams 5 p.m.

4/16 - vs. West Springfield 7:15 p.m.

4/20 - @ Hayfield 7:15 p.m.

4/26 - vs. West Potomac 7:15 p.m.

4/30 - @ Lake Braddock 7:15 p.m.

Girls Lacrosse

3/23 - @ Centreville 7:15 p.m.

3/25 - vs. Fairfax 7:15 p.m.

3/31 - vs. Oakton 7:15 p.m.

4/13 - @ T.C. Williams 5 p.m.

4/16 - vs. West Springfield 7:15 p.m.

4/20 - @ Hayfield 7:15 p.m.

4/26 - vs. West Potomac 7:15 p.m.

4/30 - @ Lake Braddock 7:15 p.m.

ry. “We definitely have room to improve but Gobel and Bernhardt are playing incredible, and if we get groundballs and possess the ball we should play well.”

The motto for this season seems to be paying solid defense, and taking each game one at a time and not looking to far ahead into the season.

“Getting the first win under your belt is what we need to start our season,” said Bernhardt. “I am definitely looking for a win, and the whole team is psyched up to

solidarity as a team as the most important factor to the victory.

The Atoms main goal for this year is to defend the district crown. Head coach Matt Caudle cites teamwork as the most important contributing factor to achieving this goal.

“Everybody has to contribute, or it’s not going to happen,” Caudle said.

Last year the Atoms defeated Hayfield in the district championship, but fell toYorktown in the second round of regionals. Despite losing several key players to graduation last year, most notably pitcher and third baseman Travis Johnson, the Atoms have three returning varsity players on this year’s team. Moreover, the Atoms look to this year’s seven seniors for leadership and guidance this year. However, without the contributions of the younger players as well, the Atoms won’t be able to succeed as a team.

“All of our younger players need to contribute,” said Caudle. “We need all thirteen [players] playing, or we’re in trouble.”

TheAtoms will travel to Edison tomorrow, at 6 p.m. This game is the make-up for the March 16 game against the Eagles, which was rained out. Their next home game will be on Thursday against Thomas Jefferson.

“If we continue to work as a team, we can wind up having a good year with the potential to repeat our district championship,” Brandt said.

get that first win.”

The first district game for the Atoms will be against T.C. Williams on April 13 as they will look to repeat on last year’s second place regular season finish in the district.

“I would imagine that Robinson and Lake Braddock will be the most competitive teams. If we can knock those guys off and come in as a No. 1 or No. 2 seed for the district tournament, I think we will be in great shape,” said Maglisceau.

Senior pitcher Ted Gibson practice his motion in the bullpen. Gibson was on the mound and picked up the win as the Atoms defeated the J.E.B. Stuart Raiders 6-2 on March 19. The Atoms will put their 1-0 record to the test tomorrow as they will face Edison high school for a 6 p.m. non-district game.

District realignment

4/23 - vs. Hayfield 7 p.m.

Boys Lacrosse

In a driving snowstorm, senior midfielder Brent Sullivan (left), offensive assistant coach Warren Danzerbaker (center), and head coach Bill Maglisceau (right) watch on as the Atoms and the OʼConnell Knights are tied at one in the first quarter. In a tough, physical, slippery matchup, the Knights prevailed 7-4 dropping the Atoms to an 0-1 record.

Stuart goes down as title defense begins

by Chris Sopher

Upcoming Schedule

SARAH SOZIO

Get ready for the real thing

March 23, 2004

TINA DOUROUDIAN

Sports News

the

For over a decade, the Annandale Atoms and the Robinson Rams have had one of the most storied rivalries in Virginia high school athletics, although Robinson often gets the better end of the score. Being an athlete at AHS, I myself have personally witnessed many defeats and victories in these heart-pounding athletic matchups. Last year, the AHS JV baseball team went into Robinson and pulled out a miraculous 10-6 defeat, the first win at Robinson for the baseball program since the ’99-’00 season. In 1999, the football team went into Robinson and faced the undefeated Rams on their homecoming night.

Head Coach Dick Adams, along with his underdog Atoms, pulled off one of the most incredible victories in AHS sports history, demolishing the Rams 47-27 and cementing the Robinson rivalry

You Make the Call Sports opinion

By Jared Smith

for many years to come. For the sake of time and flat out hatred, I’m not going to waste time in listing the defeats.

This rivalry though, will come to an end starting in the 2005-06, as the VirginiaAAANorthern Region Council voted on March 3 to realign the region’s four districts, moving all the Division 6 teams to the Patriot and Concorde Districts, and all the Division 5 teams to the Liberty and Na-

tional Districts. More importantly for AHS, the Robinson Rams will leave the Patriot District and the Lee Lancers, formerly of the Liberty District, will join. This move was made to make all 28 Northern Region teams align evenly throughout the four districts with seven teams in each.

Basically every oxy-moron can be used to describe this change, fortunate-tragedy, positivedisaster, or an encouraging-calamity. Although the tradition and rivalry and storied history the Rams bring to the Patriot District in particular to the match-up with AHS will be sorely missed, the removal of Robinson from the yearly athletic schedule will bring more success to AHS. Basically, Robinson is the pinnacle of high school sports, not only with talent but with funding and community support that exceeds basically every other team in the Patriot District. I can speak for theAHS football team in saying they would have been Patriot District champions if it were not for a 21-7 week 10 defeat at the hands of Robinson, which left the Atoms in second place in the district, and one game short of a playoff berth.

In addition, losing Robinson will add balance to the district. In almost every sport, Robinson is the top. With them gone, there will be much more competition for the district crown every year especially in sports such as volleyball, track, football, swimming, lacrosse, and softball, where the Rams are currently the defending champs.

So as for change, bring it on, the new balanced Patriot District will create new rivalries, new storylines, and new powerhouses will emerge. Most AHS athletes will be glad to see Robinson go just for the sake of confidence, a trait AHS has been lacking on the athletic field as of late. With the Rams gone, it should give the Atoms, along with the rest of the district ,the belief that they can win, instead of walking on the field just hoping they can win. Just maybe, this departure will allow the Patriot District to crawl out from under the shadow of the Rams.

Track undergoes youth movement

BY JARED SMITH Sports Editor The track season is officially underway as the team participated in the first competition of the season, a scrimmage on Sat. March 20. McLean, Langley, Edison, Oakton and Falls Church all took part in the event as the Atoms were happy to start their competitive year.

“We were able to get an assessment of the talent we have,” said assistant head coach Bob Sykes. “We’ve been running against ourselves for a month, it is nice to run against someone else for a change.”

Official results were not kept because it was only a scrimmage, but it was clear to the coaches who the standouts for this year would be.

In the shotput, winter season district champion Julio Vilatoro will be key, along with junior Nate Williams in discus, sophomores Ricky Logan and Keith Watson in the 100m sprint, senior Elizabeth Gil on pole vault, and senior long distance runner Lauren Edwards, who has qualified for the regional tournament both track seasons thus far this year.

Although the hopes are high, the team is also gearing for the future, with only nine seniors on the entire team this year, the AHS track program is surely preparing for seasons to come.

JARED SMITH

16

A BLAST

SPORTS

Sophomore sprinter Marcus Williams practices his 100m sprint on the track. Because the Atoms only have nine seniors on this yearʼs team, underclassmen like Williams and sprinter Keith Watson have become key contributors.

“Our team is progessing well, considering we are very young and have only had one meet,” said Watson.

The Atoms will look to build and gain experience as they will travel to Liberty University for the Liberty Invitational March 27. thirty teams from all over the state will participate in this annual event.

“We look to improve and keep getting better,” said Sykes. “The team is very young, hopefully they will come along successfully.”

A BLAST

SPORTS

the

March 23, 2004

Girls take two in tourney

BY ERIN O’BRIEN In-Depth Editor The Lady Atoms finished 4th in the Annandale Spring Invitational last weekend, going 2-3, bringing their overall record to 2-4.

“Annandale had an excellent tournament experience,” said Head Coach Cindy Hook. “We learned and improved with each game and began establishing great team work.”

The Atoms opened the tournament with a hard fought 11-6 loss to the Oakton Cougars. Although AHS worked hard on both offense and defense, Oakton’s experience allowed them to pull ahead with the victory.

“Playing them was a challenge and it made us work hard,” said sophomore Suzanne Van der Eijk.

The Atoms closed Friday night with a significant 20-2 victory over Hylton. Though the girls were able to win fairly easily, they had an opportunity to work on different aspects of their game that they cannot practice against more competitive teams.

“Against Hylton we were able to take more chances and risks,” said Hook. “Defensively, we began to discover how effective double teaming can be. To use [double teams] consistently on the field is a challenge,

it makes us much more aggressive.”

The sliding and communication helped the Atoms defense hold the Bulldogs to just 2 goals.

The Sat. March 20 morning game against Albemarle was AHS’ best complete performance of the weekend. The defense, transition and attack all worked together, earning the Atoms a 12-7 victory.

Unfortunately, the Atoms fell to Albemarle 11-10 Sat. afternoon after a back and forth game. “[The second game] was a game that certainly either team could have won,” said Hook. “They just had the lead when the clock ran out.”

“They would be up on us for a while and then we would catch up, then they would be up on us and we would catch up,” said senior Julie Stone. “We were all tired by that game and no one was really dominating.”

Between Albemarle games, the girls fell 11-6 to O’Connell who finished second overall in the tournament, behind Oakton. “Our O’Connell game was very disjointed,” said senior Katie Haines. “We just weren’t together.”

Despite the fact that the Atoms finished fourth, the team learned a lot from their games that will help them for the remainder of the season. “We got to play competitive teams from around the area that we

“I think that our team needs to improve and if we do, I think we will end this season well,” said freshman Bryan Krzywicki.

Senior captain Lindsay Miller shoots the ball past the Albemarle goalie.

Miller scored on the play capping off a 12-7 Atoms win over the Patriots.

This game was one of two wins for AHS as they hosted a tournament over the weekend of March 19-20. The Atoms split two games with Albemarle, defeated C.D. Hylton, and lost to OʼConnell and Oakton.

would not get to play otherwise,” said Stone.

“Being at a tournament and playing five games takes a lot of focus,” said Hook. “I was very impressed with our athleticism and our ability to play strong at this point in the season, our strength

and stamina held out quite well.”

The Atoms will take on Centreville tonight at 7:30. “Centreville is always a very strong team in the Concorde district so I expect a very strong battle,” said Hook. “They are usually a team with a lot of speed and good transition, so we will have

Girls tee it up versus Woodson tomorrow

After two rain-outs the boys soccer team finally took the field last night in a make-up game against non-district foe Edison

SEAN SULLIVAN

Coming off a successful 9-8 record last season, the boys soccer team has set a goal of improving on last year.

“With our upcoming season, I expect to have a better record then last year,” said senior forward Johnny Eklund. “I think we have a shot to win district and then we’ll see what happens from there.”

Although recent inclement weather has kept the team practicing inside for the entire week, Head Coach Chris Segaar is confident the team will respond well to the lack of outdoor practice in their first regular season game of the year last night vs. Edison, results of which were too late for press time.

So far the Atoms only outdoor competition has come in the form of two scrimmages, against J.E.B. Stuart on March 16 and Garfield on March 12.

The Atoms defeated Stuart 6-4 with key goals by Johnny Eklund, Mike Perucci, Bobsin Conteh, and two goals by honorable mention all-met junior Mike Torbert.

The Garfield scrimmage was hardfought, but ended in a 3-2 AHS defeat.

The team played well but unfortunately couldn’t pull together a victory.

“We look good and we have lots of returning talent,” said Segaar. “Diversity is sometimes a problem, but we just need to find the right combination like we did last year in the regional tournament.”

Topping last year ‘s post-season per-

Senior Chris Terapane boots the ball up field in the Atomsʼ scrimmage vs. Garfield on March 12. Because of rainouts, the Atoms have only played two scrimmages thus far, as their opnener last night vs. Lee was too late for press time.

formance will be a hard feat to overcome as the Atoms advanced to the Patriot District semifinals losing to West Springfield 2-0, then winning in the first round of the regional tournament as they upset Langley 2-1, before finally falling to top ranked Herndon 2-0 in the second round of the tourney.

The Atoms first district game will be on April 15 at T.C. Williams. Segaar along with the rest of the team is confident they will finish in the top half of this tough Patriot District.

The Washington Post agreed with Segaar as they predicted West Springfield as the no. 1 team in the district, followed

by Hayfield and Lake Braddock, andAHS in the fourth spot.

“We have one of the hardest districts in the area,” said Segaar. “I think we will surprise a lot of people and make another regional run again this year.”

“So far I think we are working really well together as a team, and if we continue to add determination, we will have a successful season,” said Hallie Hubble.

Coach: Kelly Allen Record: no record available Last game: no games as of yet Next game: 3/23/04 vs. Centreville at 6 p.m.

Key Players: Hallie Hubble, Mary Reed, Emily Vincent

Coach: Terry Hiebert Record: no record available Last game: no games as of yet Next game: 3/24/04 @ Thomas Jeffeson at 6 p.m.

Key Players: Nicholas Twomey, Will Wade

Junior catcher Megan Johnson awaits the pitch in the Atomsʼ scrimmage vs. Lee on March 15. Even though they suffered an 11-8 defeat the team starters played strong and were ready for the season opener against Mount Vernon at home last night, results were too late for press time.

BY TED GIBSON Staff Writer

BY AMANDA SHEAFFER Sports X-tra Editor

JV Girls Lacrosse

“If we continue to work hard we will be competitive. It will be a good season,” said freshman Nicholas Twomey.

Girls travel to Lee tonight, Wildcats await

Boys hit the field

Coach: Lam Ung Record: 0-1 Last game: 12-2 Loss on March 17 vs. OʼConnell Next game: 3/23/04 @ Centreville at 5:30 p.m.

Key Players: David Merrill, Addison Orr, and Bryan Krzywicki

JV Baseball

SEAN SULLIVAN

The softball team had their second scrimmage of the season on March 16 as the Atoms came up short in an 11-8 defeat. However, there were still many positive aspects of their performance, as they found themselves in front with a solid 8-1 lead while this season’s probable starters were on the mound.

The first scrimmage of the year took place on March 13 as the girls went to bat against Parkdale High School of Prince George’s County. In a 5-2 victory for AHS, the girls made a strong showing and demonstrated an ability to function as a team even in their first test.

After two scrimmages, the Atoms have displayed their potential as a team this season. Coach Rick Neave has been pleased with the team’s efforts thus far.

“We’re doing real well. We’ve been learning a lot,” said Neave. “Like last year, we need to progress through District play and peak at the right time…Anyone can beat anyone this year, it’s very evenly matched, we just need to take it one game at a time.”

Despite the early success, this year’s squad still has big shoes to fill with the absence of last year’s seniors, Lindsey Grant, Courtney Thieberger, Megan Ogletree, and, perhaps most importantly, first team All-District pitcher Dorsa Hassas.

“They were enormous contributors,” said Neave,

“but we filled all our holes except for Dorsa at pitcher.”

In order to make up for the absence of Dorsa Hassas, they plan on using a three-girl rotation consisting of senior Ashley Jones, senior Amanda Roth, and freshman Kelsey Grant. With the hard, fast pitching of Amanda Roth interrupting the slower pitching of Jones and Grant, the opposing team is forced to adjust to the variance in the Atoms’ pitching.

Key players for theAtoms this year include senior Erin O’Brien, junior Meghan Johnson, and senior Neila Darvish. With the loss of Hassas, Jones, Roth, and Grant join the list of players that occupy crucial spots in the lineup, as they will constitute the pitching rotation every game. Consistency and avoiding injury become ever more important for this year’s pitchers.

“We’re really coming together as a team,” said senior Amanda Green. “I think we’ll do well in the district.”

While hitting is adequate, the Atoms are relying on their strong defense to carry them through the season. “We have good defense this year,” said Johnson, “we didn’t have many errors in our scrimmages.” With a defensively strong team this year, the girls hope to do a repeat of last year’s run to the district finals.

The result of last night’s game against Mount Vernon was not available to be published in this issue. They play tomorrow night at W. T. Woodson in their second regular season game.

After an unpredictable week of cancelled games and indoor practices, the Atoms opened up regular season play last night against the Edison Eagles.

The results of which were too late for press time.

Tonight, the Atoms will travel to Lee High School to face off against the Lancers. Tomorrow the team will play Centreville away before hosting Yorktown Friday night.

“This is a really tough week for our girls,” said Head Coach Mark Bogar. “Its truly going to be a test of their endurance, but it will be a good experience against top non-district teams before we take on the dominant teams in the Patriot District,” “It’s been really hard to work together as a team since we haven’t had much of a chance to get out on the field. There’s only so much you can accomplish in a gym, especially in an hour,” said junior Julia Bizer.

Despite the soggy playing conditions that led to a lengthy string of inclement

weather days, the Atoms managed to squeeze in a pair of back-to-back scrimmages against non-district opponents.

On March 11, AHS suffered a heartbreaking loss to a tough McLean team in a close 1-0 shut out. The Highlanders were kept scoreless by an experienced Atoms defense until the very end, when the winning goal was scored on a penalty kick during the final 30 seconds of the second half.

“We really played our hearts out,” said senior Kate Bagnulo. “We managed to hold our own against a really talented team. Even though it was just a scrimmage and was a learning experience for some of our younger players, it was pretty hard to swallow.”

The next day, the Atoms were shut out again in the scrimmage against the Garfield Indians.

After the next two week stretch in which the Atoms will play five games in 11 days, the schedule will intensify, as thePatriot District opener will be played on April 15 vs. T.C. Williams.

Girls soccer Head Coach Mark Bogar talks to his team before their game vs. Edison last night. Results of this game were too late for press time.

SEAN SULLIVAN

BY MATT WIEST Sports Editor

Atomic Athletics Boys JV Lacrosse

TED GIBSON

The girls lacrosse team posted their most convincing win of the season beating C.D. Hylton 20-2 on March 19.

17

JV Softball

“Softball is enjoyable and our team has really good communication and sportsmanship,” said sophomore Olivia Standifer.

Coach: Mike Gifford Record: no record available Last game: no games as of yet Next game: 3/26/04 vs. George Mason at 6 p.m.

Key Players: Olivia Standifer and Taylor Hobson

JV Boys Soccer

“I think so far this season is going well. We are working well as a team.

Hopefully we will do well this season as past J.V. teams have done,” said freshman Scott Prosch.

Coach: Eddie Latore Record: no record available Last game: no games as of yet Next game: 3/23/04 @ Lee at 5:30 p.m.

Key Players: Scott Prosch, Graham Prosch, and Hadi Elias

JV Girls Soccer

“The season is going good so far and we are working well as a team.

I think we will do good if we can communicate on the field,” said freshman Margaret Crowley.

Coach: Jessica Doll Record: no record available Last game: no games as of yet Next game: 3/23/04 vs. Lee at 5:30 p.m.

Key Players: Margaret Crowley and Jenny Jacobs

18

Box Office Top 5 3/12-3/14

ENTERTAINMENT

Mar. 23, 2004

Pocket-tech generation formerly reserved to the household can now be performed on the way to school, after school, and sometimes when free time arises during school hours. Students can Every morning when class is about listen to music on the bus, make phone to begin, a strange phenomenon occurs calls before and after school, and organize throughout AHS’ classrooms. It is at this their schedules electronically on their point that several students realize that PDAs in between classes. Some people they have come to school without some even install games on the calculators that basic accessory, like a pen or notebook are required for their math classes. paper. Speaking in hushed voices due Junior Max Tholeanaar Maples is to the intrinsic embarrassment that achappy with this opportunity to take his companies this experience, they electronics on the go. He enjoys listenwill urgently ask their neighbors PHOTO ILLISTRATION BY BEN BERGLUND AND CHRIS SOPHER ing to his favorite tunes for aid in their situation. on his CD Yes, everyday player in people arrive the bus, to at school lacking and from the most essential school. He school instruments, said “It’s fun to but it is difficult to kick back and find someone who came listen to music. to school forgetting their Otherwise the cell phone, iPod, CD player bus would be pretty or other personal electronic boring.” device.

The most common Before, electronics used for personal electronic deentertainment were restricted vice brought to school primarily to the home. Sure, by students is probably for decades one could listen to the A cell phone from Nokia, iPod from the cellular phone. They radio in his car, but things like were long banned by the mp3 players and PDAs and Apple and Visor from Handspring - just some of the gadgets students use.

Students Rights and Recell phones would have been unheard of to people of another age.

Not that technological entertainment has entirely left the domain of the home. Students often spend their free time, when they can get away from their homework and other responsibilities, watching television or a video, listening to their CDs or chatting online with their friends via AOL Instant Messenger.

With the increased prevalence of personal electronics, though, activities

BY JOSEPH BURKE Staff Writer

1. PASSION Starring James Caviezel, Mattia Sbragia, Sergio Rubini and Claudia Genini, Passion is still first on the top-5 list after 4 weeks. It chronicles the last night of Jesus’ life, focusing on his cruxifiction and death. Directed by Mel Gibson.

(R, 126 mins). Cumulative gross: $264,510,209.

A

t

sponsibilities book of Fairfax County, but after the September 11th tragedy, many families called for a better way to get in touch with each other. In the fall of 2001, the county allowed for students to bring cell phones into the school building as long they were not used during school hours.

Maggie Purdon is a junior without a cell phone. She is excited because her parents are planning to buy her a phone soon. She said “I’m glad I am finally getting a cell phone because it’s a necessity now. I’m sick of bringing 50 cents wherever I go or having to use my friends’ all the time.”

Some disagree and feel cell phones are entirely unnecessarily. History teacher Jonathon York is perhaps the most vocal member of this party. He said “Cellular phones are the bane of society. I don’t want to hear your personal conversations. Cell phones are the downfall of society as we know it.”

Opinions about the use of technology by students can range from the hostility ofYork to the enthusiasm of Purdon. Like it or not, no one can deny the popularity of these devices amongst the student body.

This ain’t your daddy’s Gaiden 2. SECRET WINDOW Starring Johnny Depp, Charles S. Dutton, Timothy Hutton and John Turturo, Secret Window tells the story of an author who is in a state of depression resulting from a troublesome divorce. When a mysterious man comes to his door claiming that a story of his, Secret Window, was plagiarized, the trouble begins. Directed

by David Koepp. (PG-13, 97 mins). Cumulative Gross: $18,237,568.

3. STARSKY & HUTCH Starring Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Vince Vaugn and Snoop Dogg, Starsky and Hutch is a comedy about a mismatched police partnership between ruler-straight Starsky and bad-boy Hutch. After being assigned to partnership, the two must stop the biggest cocaine deal in history.

Directed by Todd Phillips. (PG-13, 101 mins). Cumulative Gross: $51,500,921.

an crushing offensive and an effective defense. The game’s bosses are probably the most unfair. You’ll die numerous times, usually just because you’re too far away from a potion vendor to backtrack.

Fortunately, every boss has a weakness you can exploit in one way or another.

Ninja Gaiden’s flagship features are its mind-boggling visuals. Experiencing this game is nothing short of awe-inspiring, from the lifelike animations to the ultra smooth frame rate. It flows like the Nile river.

Dear Abby, I have a friend that is having a lot of emotional problems and has lost a lot of weight lately. I’m afraid that she is anorexic. She seems to be depressed and talks about how fat she is all the time. Who should I talk to? Maybe I’m wrong, but I looked up anorexia on the internet and it sounds as if the earlier you do something about it the better.

—Concerned about my friend

close friends gently tell her that you are concerned about her.

“Some of her friends should sit down with her and say, ‘you just seem more down then usual to us. What’s going on? We love you.’ Or say ‘we’ve noticed you seem really preoccupied with your body. We just want to let you know that we love you no matter what and if it is a problem for you then let us know’,” said Payne. Your friend might be angry at first or try to push you away because she does not want to feel the pain. This is where the guidance counselor at the school comes in to help.

These are professionals that can guide her on the help she needs. Also, on April 13, 14 and 15. AHS will be offering free and voluntary depression screenings. For more information contact your guidance counselor. Remember that it is easy to just walk away from the issue, saying that it is not your problem and takes courage to talk to a friend about this type of situation.

Dear Abby was originally written by Pauline Phillips and is written in The A-Blast by senior Abby Segall. To contact Abby with your questions e-mail her at Abbyiss527@aol.com or drop your question off in the Publications Lab, room 233.

A

5. AGENT CODY BANKS 2: DESTINATION LONDON Starring Daniel Roebuck, Cynthia Stevenson, Frankie Muniz and Anthony Anderson, Destination London is about agent Cody Banks having to stop an evil plot to control the worlds rulers via mind control chips implanted into their molars.

Directed by Kevin Allen. (PG, 93 mins).

Cumulative Gross: $8,014,005.

Ryu adds insult to injury in one of Ninja Gaidenʼs numerous fight scenes.

Dear Abby Advice Column

By Abby Segall

It is very good that you have noticed the problem with your friend and asked for help. Depression and anorexia are serious problems that do need to be dealt with as soon as possible. “The earlier you make a diagnosis, the better because it will have less time to cause damage,” said specialist in psychiatric medicine, Renee Payne M.D. “If anorexia is not diagnosed for a few years then it can be very hard to correct because it will get so fixed in their mind that they have to be thin and it is hard to change that.” Your friend might be in denial and does not see the pain that you might be seeing in terms of her depression. One of the ways to help her get through this is to have an intervention where you and some of her other

4. Hidalgo Starring Malcom McDowell, Viggo Mortensen and Omar Sharif, Hidalgo is about a horse race across the Sahara desert for $100,000. (PG-13, 135 mins).

Directed by Joe Johnston. Cumulative Gross: $35,635,388.

Accompanying the flawless visuals are some delightful sounds. The option for Japanese or English voice overs is a nice touch, and the soundtrack is superb sounding and fits in nicely with the context of the game.

Ninja Gaiden is another saving-grace title for the decidedly unpopular Xbox. It’s easily reason enough to buy one at this point, and with the promise of downloadable content in the future, Ninja Gaiden won’t just collect dust on your shelf after you’ve beaten it.

The games sub-par plot is only a minor letdown when compared the to games unbelievable gameplay. Everything about Since its incarnation the Ninja Gaiden Ninja Gaiden stands out with unwaverseries has been revered as one of the best ing detail. The game’s action resembles 2D action series of all time. However, a that of Prince of Persia both in concept 10 year departure left many wondering and execution. Ryu can perform an if Team Ninja could capture the essence unbelievable amount of acrobatic tricks of the originals while still updating it and combat maneuvers, so many in fact that most of the time you enough for this generation can only remember a few of gamers. Thankfully Game Review effective moves of the someNinja Gaiden for the Xbox Ninja Gaiden times overly-complicated personifies what an action library of moves. The fight game should be. It’s hands sequences themselves are down the best game in the fluid, beautiful, and intense. series, and arguably the For revolutionary graphThis is due in large part best game to come out for a ics and ultra-smooth to Ryu’s overall feel. He is console in a long while. gameplay. surprisingly mobile and his You play as Ryu Hayaarsenal of movements crebusa, a master ninja who ates a much needed ninja must avenge his village that feel. The action is broken up was attacked by nameless villains. Of course this would be a pretty nicely by adventures and quests that you thin plot without the villains also steal- must complete in order to maximize the ing a sacred evil sword from its legendary effectiveness of Ryu. The games A.I. definitely forces you to resting place. Luckily this also happens to be the case and further structures the plot be on your toes constantly. They gang up to be slightly more convincing than just a in unfair numbers and constantly attack.

The trick is to strike a balance between revenge story.

BY CHRIS KALLANDER Staff Writer

A BLAST

the

March 23, 2004

ENTERTAINMENT

strike back actors is Steve Van Zandt, who plays Silvio Dante.

Van Zandt is better known by some for his position as lead guitarist in the E Street Band,

BY JOHN REISS alongside Bruce Entertainment Editor Springsteen.

In Asbury Park, New Jersey, Tony Soprano (James “Steve Van Gandolfini) rules supreme. However, Tony Soprano does Zandt makes the not rule everywhere, including his own home. After tak- show,” said senior ing a season off, HBO’s critically acclaimed The Sopranos John Olson. “The returned for its fifth season on March 7 without losing mob story is cera beat. tainly cool, but not A la´ such mob-movie classics as The Godfather se- often do you get to ries and Goodfellas, The Sopranos is based on an Italian see one of the best family of mobsters trying to make a dishonest living in guitarists around an honest world. Under the guise of being in the waste do so well on telemanagement business, Anthony “Tony” Soprano is the vision, too.” acting head of the DiMeo family, the most powerful This season’s criminal organization in New Jersey. first show, “Two Over the last five seasons, Tony has not only had to Tony’s,” took a deal with the Feds and various “jobs,” but also with being break from the a family man. The new season starts right where the last show’s crime In The Sopranos season premiere, mob boss Tony Soprano confessed his feelings for his psystopped: Tony and his wife Carmela have separated and aspect and conchiatrist, Jennifer Melfi, after he seperated from his wife Carmela at the end of last season. he has moved out, his college-bound daughter Meadow centrates more on is estranged from him, and his younger son Anthony Jr. Tony’s emotional is becoming more physically and mentally destructive. dilemmas. SepaAnd now it seems to Tony that the price of power may rated from Carmela, Tony confesses his feelings for his be too much to pay. psychiatrist, Dr. Jennifer Melfi.

However, Tony Soprano is not the only focus of the “’Forget the way Tony Soprano makes his way in show; we see the emotional and professional dilemmas the world. That’s to feed his children. There’s two Tony Tony Soprano— Chief of the Soprano of other family members such as Paulie Walnuts (Tony Sopranos...you’ve never seen that other one...That’s the family. Mixes business and pleasure Sirico), Christopher Moltisanti (Michael Imperioli), one I want to show you,’ said Tony,” Melfi refutes his as he tries to mend family ties and estabAdriana La Cerva (Dread de Matteo), etc. While this lish his status. advances, not able to ignore his criminal past. season, Adriana Opposite of the premier though, the season’s secis still fighting ond episode, introduces Steve Buscemi, as Tony’s herself over the cousin, Tony Blundetto. The rest of the episode fact that she is covers the evolving efforts of the FBI to pin down Silvio Dante— Owns the Bada Bing, the Soprano place of busi...I can eventually become ness in Asbury Park. Tony’s adviser on most matters, he is the an informant for Tony and the DeMio family. the FBI (similar the fat guy of The Sopranos.

The Sopranos does not only draw viewers to most even tempered member of the family. to the late Big it though, it has even created hardcore followings Christopher Moltisani— Tony’s That’s my goal.

Pussy), her of dedicated fans. fiancé Christo“My ritual for watching the show when I watch nephew and a rising member of the pher, is having it on the Home Box Office is that I make a huge Soprano organization. He acts as the —Bill Brock trouble dealing vat of popcorn. Smother it in artery busting, heart middle man for many of Tony’s comEmg;lish teacher with his status clogging, golden flavored butter so I can eventually mands. as a made man, become the fat guy of The Sopranos,” said Brock. Paulie Walnuts— Once a highly valand at the same “That’s my goal.” ued member of the crew, after almost switching allegiances to a time receiving little no respect from his peers.

While The Sopranos has entered its second-to-last New York mob, Paulie has had to work to regain Tony’s trust.

Part of the reason The Sopranos is so successful is season, the show has shown no signs of wear or tear, and due to its variety of characters and the actors that play guarantees to deliver the same illegitimate business Bobby Bacala— In charge of the Soprano’s loan shark busithem. Many of the cast members have a background in sense that viewers can only dream about. ness, he is Tony’s reliable strong man. mob-movies, and not just family members, such as Lorraine Bracco (Dr. Jennifer Melfi), who was in Goodfellas or Tony Blundetto— Tony’s cousin and the closest thing he has Dominic Chianese (Junior Soprano) who made his mark to a brother. Recently released from prison, he shuns Tony’s in The Godfather part II. Another of the show’s unique attempts to get him back with the Mob and is pursuing a

As The Sopranos enter its 5th season, the family comes together

The Soprano “family”

“

19 In bed with the mob Match the name with the picture by using the description as clues.

1. Janice Soprano 2. Paulie Walnuts 3. Dr. Jennifer Melfi 4. Carmine Lupertazzi 5. Adriana La Cerva 6. Junior Soprano

A. The head mobster of New York City. He also starred in Donnie Brasco and Goodfellas.

B. Tony Soprano’s psychiatrist and current love interest.

She starred in Goodellas and Riding in Cars with Boys.

C. Tony’s uncle and the oldest living member of the family. He also starred in Godfather part II.

”

legitimate life.

Starsky and Hutch: two cops and their car that made their previous ventures, like Zoolander, successful. The starring duo is backed by Vince Vaughn as Feldman, There was not a single silent moment who brings the ‘70s bad guy feel to the in the theater for the entirety of the great role, making the recreation even more film that is Starsky & Hutch. This greatly amusing. The plot is also guided by anticipated action-comedy details the hi- underground informer Huggy Bear, larious adventures of two mismatched played by an impeccably dressed and Bay City cops: David Starsky (Ben Stiller), very believable Snoop Dogg. Huggy a true man of the law, and Ken “Hutch” gives the police duo valuable guidance Hutchinson (Owen Wilson), a laid-back and information, helping them to find the culprit, though Starsky is at first skepslacker with underground connections.

The plot follows the conspicuous duo as tical of Hutch’s connections. They are they attempt to stop the sale of cocaine by not helped, however, by the unforgiving suave drug lord Reese Feldman, who has Captain Dobey (Fred Williamson), who is invented a new version of the drug unde- continually upset by the duo’s antics.

The cast would not be tectable by police drug dogs, complete, however, withdisguised as small bags of Movie Review out the token women of artificial sweetener.

Starsky and Hutch the ‘70s TV era. Amy The token cast member, Smart and Carmen though, is not a person.

Electra are well-cast as It’s a car. Starsky drives professional cheerleada classic red-with-whiteers Holly and Staci, who stripe 1974 Ford Grand Satirical comedy, which does “help” Starsky and Hutch Torino with expert style, justice to its 1970s spinoff. on their hunt for the eluin keeping with Starsky sive drug lord, in several & Hutch tradition. The different ways. retro ‘70s muscle car plays The acting from the a large part in the story’s humor, from the many car chases to the entire cast is superb, and all appeared Ben Stiller and Owen Wilsonʼs take on the 1970ʼs hit Starsky and Hutch delivers a comedic climatic moment when it makes a grav- well-prepared for the tongue-in-cheek parody which exemplifies the two actorsʼ on-screen chemistry. ity-defying jump from a pier to catch the style of the film. The inter-cast chemistry is amazing, and keeps the audience escaping bad guy. to most movie-goers, save those who are of this ‘70 s hit is simply well-scripted, wellAn expert cast works well to portray entertained throughout. It seems that the comical characters, making Starsky & the entire production is genuinely well- not amused by tongue-in-cheek styles and acted, and hilarious. Starsky & Hutch is Hutch the best of the recent flood of movies done, including the excellent script, which humor. Well-organized, perfectly executed a great film, and everything a day at the recycled from ‘60s and ‘70s hit TV shows. manages to be funny and satirical without and endowed with a unique touch, it sits a movies should be. step above Todd Phillips’ previous works, Stiller and Wilson star as Starsky and being overdone.

Starsky & Hutch should have appeal Road Trip and Old School. The recreation Hutch, presenting the same chemistry

D. Tony’s older sister and is maried to Bobby Bacala. She has also starred in Mickey Blue Eyes and Deep Blue Sea.

BY CHRIS SOPHER Ad Manager

B+

Seven ways to scream their name

BY JOHN REISS Entertainment Editor It has been a long time since a meaningful band came out of Britain. Beginning with the Beatles in the 1960s, there was a phenomenon of British bands such as the Rolling Stones and Sting. Now exploding out of England, Funeral for a Friend is breaking into the States, and while they may not be the next Beatles, they won’t be going quietly.

Funeral for a Friend’s U.S. release Seven Ways to Scream Your Name has come a long way from their first release in the UK, Between Order and Models. Evolving from a generic, radio-friendly metal band, Funeral

for a Friend now presents itself as the perfect breed of hardcore, melodic punk, and metal.

The band’s standout vocals are boosted by successfully implementing a synthesis of screaming and melodic vocals.

Each of Seven Ways to Scream Your Name’s tracks holds a unique aspect to itself, and progress from start to end. 10:45 Amsterdam Conversation opens with explosive beat that drives the listener into the CD. However, as the CD progresses through such songs as ‘The Year’s Most Open Heartbreak’ and ‘Escape Artists Never Die’ bring out the band’s more melodic and attractive side.

Breakdowns full of catchy guitar chords and impeccable drums, demand the listeners’ears throughout every song

on the CD. After being listed on Alternative Press Magazine’s list of bands to look out for in 2004, Funeral for a Friend is currently doing a headlining tour in the UK and will begin a supporting tour with Coheed and Cambria in the spring.

The one downfall of the CD is really its length. With only six songs on the EP, Funeral for a Friend does not get to expand their full potential, and therefore sounds repetitive at times.

While Funeral for a Friend’s sound is reminiscent of bands such as Jimmy Eat World and Boy Sets Fire, they still manage to make a name for themselves on Seven Ways to Scream Your Name.

E. Along with Christopher Moltisani, he is Tony’s right-hand man. He has starred in Copland and Goodfellas.

F. Chris-

topher Moltisani’s fiancé and an informant for the FBI on the Sopranos’ movements.

She has also starred in Swordfish.

Answers: 1. d 2. e 3. b 4. a 5. f 6. c

20 Where do you go to rent movies?

Why? “Hollywood Video, because it’s closest.”

—Sam Updike freshman

“Hollywood because I think that [the movies] are cheaper.”

—Latavia Willis sophomore

WEEKEND

A BLAST

the

March 23, 2004

Bring the movies home Renting movies provides an inexpensive and more relaxed alternative to movie theatres Hollywood is easier to get to from my house.”

The store has an online website, which offers movies and games for rental and purchase. It also offers gift cards and special deals.

It’s a typical Friday night, you and a group of your closAnother less well-known yet equally excelest friends are sitting on the same worn, navy blue couch. lent rental store is Potomac Video. It is located It’s been a long week, and everyone is in a lazy mood, so in Twinbrooke Shopping Center, and can be the obvious choice is to stay put on the couch. But when reached at (703) 764-3456. The store houses an it comes down to it, where do you venture off to rent your extensive variety of foreign films from countries cinematic entertainment for the night? all over the world, giving it a unique difference The names Blockbuster and Hollywood come to mind, from the more mainstream stores. Potomac and they are certainly viable options which provide a prides itself on excellent customer service, a wide selection of movie of many categories, but there is huge movie selection, and lots of copies of the an alternative to these prominent stores, such as other hottest new movies at reasonable rates. small movie rental stores, and pay-per-view.

But even if you do not feel like going out to Blockbuster Video is easily one of the most recogniza rental store, there are other alternatives. able locations to rent movies, especially the newest reFirst is NetFlix, the No. I online DVD rental leases. For popular new releases, Blockbuster promises service with over one million members. In that it will have it in stock, or else they will give you a this service, you select movies online from coupon for a free rental of the movie. Blockbuster runs a selection of roughly 18,000 titles, and many stores, and an online store to purchase movarrange them in the order you wish to ies (video and DVD), video games and gift cards. receive them. The first three come in the The online store also offers pre-viewed movies mail without the hassle of shipping fees, and pre-viewed games for sale. In addition, you and can be kept without any set due can even check online to see if a movie you want to date or late fees. Movies only have to be see is available at any specific Blockbuster location. returned in order to receive the next three Attracting more than three million visitors on each on your list. With NetFlix, you can rent as average day, company-operated stores are open 365 many DVDs as you want for $20 a month. days a year from 10 a.m. to midnight. Merchandise For those avid movie lovers who often preselection, quantity and formats are customized at fer to view films in the comfort of their own the store level to meet the needs and preferences of homes, this is a great way to eliminate the local customers. hassle of due dates and late fees.

Within the Annandale region, Blockbuster is Another stay-at-home option is Pay easily the most convenient rental store as there is $4.29 — New releases both DVD $4.53 — New releases both DVD and VHS for 2 days, due back on Per-View. Most cable and satellite provida location in the Little River Shopping Center close and VHS for 5 days, if you return ers offer this service for an average price of to the Safeway and Rite Aid, receiving a plethora of it the next day you get $1 off next the 3rd day by noon. about $4 per movie. With this program, all customers from the immediate area. This store can purchase. you have to do is pick out a movie or event be reached at (703) 941-6614. from up to 55 choices, which vary from day “I go to Blockbuster because it’s the most conve$3.47 — Regular titles both to day. These movies can be ordered online, nient because it’s close,” said sophomore Brittany $4.29 — Regular titles both DVD and VHS for 5 days, due or through your remote or telephone.

Nelson. “Also, the workers are really helpful and DVD and VHS for 5 days, has the back on the 6th day by noon Whether you’re in the mood for a drama, they’ll try hard to look for the movie you want. My same deal as the new releases. comedy, or a good adventure. these various favorite part about Blockbuster is looking at the movie rental services definitely have their movies that they sell to keep.”

The other leading video rental store is Hollywood perks, but also their drawbacks.

Sophomore Luz Penarete chooses Blockbuster All of these sources for movies and games can transbecause of its convenience as well. “I go wherever is closer, Video. Hollywood Video is open every day of the year, form ordinary nights into fun filled evenings of endless which is Blockbuster about one or two times a month,” from 10 a.m. to midnight.

The closest location is on Little River Turnpike in entertainment in the comfort of your own home. said Penarete.

“My favorite type of movie to get there is comedy. Alexandria, right by the Whole Foods, and across the —Additional reporting by Laura Johnson and To me, convenience, quality and service are all equally street from Home Depot. This Hollywood Video can be Elizabeth Nowrouz important. Going to a rental place close is easiest, but reached at (703) 914-0600.

Junior Michael Krzywicki said, “I think the staff is it’s also good if a store has great customer service,” said more helpful at Hollywood and the selection is better. Plus Penarete.

BY MOLLY STERLACCI Staff Writer

Comparative Guide

“Hollywood Video because Khalid Abdulhawa works there, and he’s my buddy.”

—Angela Briggs senior

“Blockbuster because it’s close to my house.”

—Justin Hambrick psychology teacher

Upcoming Concerts MARCH 23 Saves the Day with Grandaddy, The Fire Theft, Dios @ 930 Club starting at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $25.

MARCH 25-26 Chris Rock @ Constitution Hall starting at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets are $39.

MARCH 27 Josh Groban @ Constitution Hall starting at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $42.

APRIL 3 Ben Kweller with Death Cab for Cutie and Aveo @ 930 Club starting at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets are $25.

APRIL 4 Liz Phair with Wheat and Rachael Yamagata @ 930 Club starting at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $25.

APRIL 7 Beyonce, Missy Elliot, and Alicia Keys @ MCI Center starting at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $67.50.

Video Vault provides a plethora of videos

BY LAURA JOHNSON AND ELIZABETH NOWROUZ Weekend Editors Taking a stroll down the streets of Old Town, you wouldn’t normally venture off on a side street and walk down a dark alley. However, the avid movie watcher knows a local hot spot for one of the largest selection of videos in the area. Video Vault, preaches that they are “your alternative video store,” and indeed they are.

The drama section on the third floor of Video The exterior resembles the rest of Vault illustrates the smorgasbord of qualities the townhouses surrounding it, and found only in this Old Town rowhouse. the small, simple blue and red triangular classic movie posters. sign is its only advertisement. It is easy When you enter through the alley to miss the store, with the exception of the plastic Alfred Hitchcock, displayed in directly left of the store, you are greeted the front bay window, along with many by an arrangement of movie posters and

advertisements. New releases are in the room to the right, and if you continue walking straight from the entrance, you will reach the lists of the employee’s favorite videos and the stairs to the upper levels. The check-out counter is located left of the entrance, and the back room contains the classic movie selections. If you haven’t found what you need in the new releases or classics, take a journey up the stairs into the three upper levels filled with comedy, drama, and action movies. The walls are decorated with framed movie posters, and cardboard movie displays.

The originality of Video Vault is shown in their Pulp Fiction arrangement, where Bruce Willis’ head was torn off, and replaced with a different head from one of his later flicks, Armageddon.

The selection of movies makes Video Vault a great resource for those who want to rent movies which have been long gone from the shelves of Blockbuster and Hollywood.

To rent videos, you need to be a member of Video Vault, and yearly membership is $10. A new release video or DVD rental is $3 for two nights. All titles are $2 per night. It is openfrom Monday through Thursday, 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Their hours on Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Video Vault is located in Alexandria, on 323 S. Washington Street, right off Duke Street, and can be reached at (703) 549-8848. Their website is www.videovault.com

A colossal taste of Greece cooked into Angies N O V A Nibbles Restaurant guide

By Elizabeth Nowrouz and Laura Johnson Even standing in the parking lot of Twinbrooke Shopping Center, the smell of Greek food permeates through the air, creating an intoxicating aroma that draws you in.

The location of Angies family restaurant is very modest, and tends to be overshadowed by the Outback Steakhouse just a few doors down.

But you know that when you are looking for quality Greek cuisine, no chain store can hold a candle toAngies.

But their menu is extremely broad, ranging in anything from fish and chips to authentic Greek Pizza to chicken tenders.

The menu is a testament to their variety, divided into sections with titles such as “Angies Greek Corner” and “Angies Italian Corner.” Appetizers include authentic Greek dishes such as “Domades,” stuffed grape leaves.

The dining area carries an air of simplicity, with posters depicting popular scenes and buildings of Greece.

Each table is adorned with several paper placemats, which gives a map, quick facts, and a short description of the culture and history of this famous country.

Angies is a casual restaurant, perfect for lunch with a couple friends. It advertises themselves as a family restaurant, and has a larger dining room in the back, which can accommodate larger families or groups.

We traveled to Angie’s on a weekday afternoon, so there was no waiting for a table and our waitress was prompt and courteous.

As an appetizer, we ordered a small Greek salad, which is made with fresh greens, tomatoes, onions, olives, peppers, feta cheese and served with homemade dressing and pita bread. We chose to have gyro meat included for about $3 extra. It was crisp and delicious, albeit a little heavy on the onions. The small Greek salad with gyro meat runs for $8.95, with a large for $10.25.

For our main course, we split a Gyros Sandwich, which was plenty of food for two. For those who are inexperienced in Greek cuisine, a gyro contains most ingredients of a Greek salad, stuffed with beef and lamb on a rolled pita.

All sandwiches are served with chips and a pickle, but french fries can be substituted for $1 extra. The Gyros Sandwich was $5.50, so we Angies brings a true feeling of Greece to Northern Virginia, through the ethnic managed to get a lunch for two for food and Greek atmosphere. about $15. Also served with each meal is authentic tzatzaki sauce, well-prepared and tasty Greek meal. a zesty dipping sauce for pita bread and gyros. The sauce Angies offers a carry-out menu as well as eat-in. Its is made fresh in the restaurant. hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Monday to Thursday, Angies also provides a breakfast menu offering om- 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. elets, breakfast sandwiches and pancakes. Breakfast is on Sunday. It is located at 9569 Braddock Road in the served on the weekends only from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Twinbrooke Shopping Center. Its phone number is (703) Angie’s has been at their location in Fairfax for over 30 978-6324. years, run and managed byAngie herself, who was there during our meal. According to her, the main frequents of Angies are families, but it has wide variety of customers, ranging from teenagers to senior citizens who enjoy a LAURA JOHNSON

—Andrew Hawkins junior

PAUL GLEASON

“I go to Blockbuster because it’s close and I’m more familiar with it.”